Guyana Times - Thursday June 17, 2021

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

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Issue No. 4681

THURSDAY, JUNE 17, 2021

President orders review of all D&I contracts, to impose penalties for breaches See story on page 3

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WHAT'S INSIDE:

New city along Linden-Soesdyke Highway important in P19 climate change fight – Ali WCD triple murder

“This crime is P8 a despicable, unparalleled act of cold-blooded, ruthless savagery” – Judge …killer gets death sentence

…as over 36,000 households affected by floods

Police Service Commissioners suspended

...USAID injects US$30,000 into Guyana’s flood relief efforts

See story on page 19

Paul Slowe

US$1M received from Japan P7 to boost Early Flood Warning System

Clinton Conway

Army, Govt slam Region 1 woman APNU/AFC for latest COVID-19 fearmongering, death, 128 new harmful misinformation cases …reject concocted claim of resurrected “death squad” “Have some patience”, EBD traffic management is very difficult – Commander to commuters

Judge recalls $20M award in default libel judgement P20 against Jagdeo …but upholds libel decision

Page 17

See story on page 18

…2nd doses Sputnik V to arrive shortly – Dr Anthony

See story on page 16

Woman killed in Baramita accident P20

Police worried about increase in rape cases P17 on EBD

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THURSDAY, JUNE 17, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

NEWS

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THURSDAY, JUNE 17, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS OPENINGS BRIDGE

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

Thursday, June 17 – 10:00h-11:30h and Friday, June 18 – 00:30h-02:00h and 11:00h-12:30h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

President orders review of all D&I contracts, to impose penalties for breaches …as over 36,000 households affected by floods

Thursday, June 17 – 08:40h-10:10h and Friday, June 18 – 09:45h-11:15h.

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

WEATHER TODAY There will be light rain showers and thundery showers during the day and night. Temperatures should range between 22 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius.

Sections of Georgetown were under inches of water after intense rainfall on Tuesday and Wednesday

Winds: Northerly to South South-Easterly between 1.78 metres and 3.57 metres.

High Tide: 09:27h and 22:08h reaching maximum heights of 2.36 metres and 2.31 metres.

Low Tide: 15:34h reaching a minimum height of 0.84 metre.

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President Dr Irfaan Ali

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 16, 2021

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COMMODITIES Indicators

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resident Dr Irfaan Ali on Wednesday disclosed that Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall has been asked to review all contracts relating to drainage and irrigation (D&I) services, including maintenance of pumps, sluices and kokers with the aim of imposing penalties against contractors who are in breach of their obligations.

“I have instructed the Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, the Honourable Mohabir Anil Nandlall, SC, MP, to immediately review all service and maintenance contracts within the sphere of the Government of Guyana and the entire State structure, in relation to drainage pumps, sluices, kokers and drainage and irrigation, generally, and to enforce any penalty clause against contractors who are in breach of their obligations under these contracts,” President Ali said in a brief statement.

According to the Head of State, he further told the Attorney General to also review all these contracts to ensure that there were penalty clauses.

“I have also instructed the Attorney General that where such penalty clauses are absent, that these contracts be renegotiated for the purpose of inserting penalty clauses, which can be activated when contractors fail to discharge their duties under such contracts,” the President disclosed.

This move by President Ali comes on the heels of him two weeks ago embarking on spontaneous visits to several kokers and sluices in and outside Georgetown during which he found one pump attendant sleeping, the koker doors closed and the pumps off.

This discovery was made during a late-night inspection on May 30, almost 24 hours after heavy rainfall had left many parts of the city flooded.

The Head of State discovered that the pumps at Riverview were off, the koker doors were closed, and the worker was

asleep. At Lombard Street, the pump there was also not on.

Guyana is currently experiencing torrential rainfall resulting in all 10 administrative regions in the country facing varying levels of unprecedented floods.

According to the local Civil Defence Commission (CDC), some 36,083 households are currently being impacted by flooding in more than 300 communities across the country where water is entering homes, affecting livestock and domestic animals as well as leaving farmlands inundated.

In fact, while hinterland and farming regions are the most heavily impacted, persistent rain periodically over the past few weeks has also resulted in sections of the capital city being repeatedly under water. The Hydromet Office has indicated that the inclement weather saw nearly inches of rain in Georgetown on Tuesday, which was compounded by another 2.5 inches of rainfall Wednesday morning.

Drainage structures and pumps

As such, the Agriculture

One of the flooded houses at Ankerville, Port Mourant

Ministry had informed that all sluices were opened at noon on Wednesday to facilitate the drainage of flooded areas. The Ministry noted that the drainage pumps would be in operation during the

closure of the sluices during high tides. Further, residents in Georgetown are urged to take the necessary precautions as water levels are currently high in low-lying parts of the city.

TURN TO PAGE 5

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guyanatimesgy.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 17, 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

Support for floodaffected persons

O

ver the past three weeks, there has been tremendous funding and donation towards the Government’s flood relief support through the Civil Defence Commission as thousands of persons countrywide are affected by floodwaters.

Guyana has been experiencing unprecedented rainfall that has led to massive flooding. The response by businesses – both local and international, organizations, diplomatic community and donor countries have been tremendous.

Guyanese in all ten administrative regions have been battling intense rainfall coupled with high tides, which have been causing major flooding in their communities. The livelihoods of many cattle, livestock and cash crop farmers have been threatened, and many have had to deal with tremendous losses. In many flooded areas along Guyana’s coast, improper disposal of garbage is the source of clogged drains and canals.

Like had obtained in the 2005 floods, our vulnerability has been exposed, causing us to wake up to the reality that we must treat the environment differently.

There is, no doubt, need for more effective public education campaigns on climate change, and to highlight the effects of poor environmental practices. That said, there is also need for more green projects to be implemented at the local level, to encourage communities to work towards achieving a cleaner and healthier environment.

Another issue that must come to the fore is recycling. As this newspaper has said over and over again, scientific research has suggested that, due to lifestyle patterns of citizens, the earth’s natural resources are being depleted too quickly to sustain a healthy balance. The earth’s natural resources are being consumed at a rate that reinforces the idea that we are living for today, and future generations would be paying for the consequences that result from our lifestyle choices.

For years now, calls on local citizens to dispose of their waste in a responsible manner have fallen on deaf ears, and the build-up of garbage in and around the city continues to be repeated.

Governments and businesses all over the world are realising how serious the problem is, and are taking steps towards putting policy mechanisms in place to ensure the environment is protected from various forms of pollution. Recycling, along with reducing consumption, has proven to be an effective way to counter the damage we have been inflicting on the earth for centuries.

A major part of recycling relates to how best we can recycle much of what we use, instead of turning it into unusable waste. For the sake of emphasis, recycling is important as a means of reducing poisonous emissions into the atmosphere, and also to postpone depletion of our natural resources.

Guyana has indeed taken some time to get “on board”, while many companies and individuals in other parts of the world are improving their recycling habits by coming up with more ways to reduce and reuse what they use. In essence, while there has been much talk about the need to recycle certain products to save our environment from further damage, in a practical sense, the concept has not as yet taken much root here. Only a handful of companies have shown that they are really serious about moving in this direction. For example, in a bid to support efforts to sustain and maintain a clean and healthy environment through the provision of proper disposal mechanisms and technology, one local company had launched a line of biodegradable products, called Eco Pak. The Eco Pak products consist of biodegradable table wares, including bowls, boxes and cups, which are all environmentally-friendly products because of the materials used and the process utilised to manufacture them.

The PPP Government had, in the past, made an offer of tax-free concessions to individuals and businesses that are willing to invest and set up recycling plants for plastics and Styrofoam. This was viewed as a good start, and from all indications, a few companies had expressed an interest in taking up the offer. However, we are not certain how far ahead those companies have gone with actual implementation of the project ideas.

That being said, if we are serious about maintaining a healthy and clean environment, consumers must demand that businesses engage in practices that are more eco-friendly. For example, consumers must be encouraged to purchase from companies that manufacture more ecofriendly products.

As part of efforts to spread the message of recycling, a comprehensive education and public awareness campaign would need to be carried out, using every available means. Following this, the authorities should explore setting up recycling centres across the country, since it makes no sense to preach about recycling if the necessary infrastructural support system is not present.

In addition to its positive impacts on the environment, recycling brings in a lot of money for many countries. Companies make huge sums from basically utilising materials that would otherwise have been thrown away.

As this publication had previously said, we believe there is need for lifestyle changes among our citizens, and it would be very helpful if the schools, religious organisations, and local Neighbourhood Democratic Councils and municipalities in every region start the conversation with citizens about recycling. This should be done with direct involvement of the decision-makers.

Members of the Guyana Police Force during petrol-bomb training by Colour Sergeant Peter- Paul Taylor of the Royal Bermuda Regiment as Exercise Tradewinds 2021 (TW21) gains momentum at military bases across the country (GDF photo)

Heroism of Enmore Martyrs

Dear Editor, Paying tribute to the Enmore Martyrs holds a special place in the yearly calendar of events of the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU). Sugar workers Rambarran, Lall known as Pooran, Lallabagee Kissoon, Surujballi and Harry were cut down mercilessly by the Colonial State’s agents in a struggle to improve their working conditions and better their lives. Their killing is another reminder of the colonial repression of those who stood up against injustices to bring some relief to their exploitation by the foreign owners of the plantations.

This history-making struggle which took place seventy-three (73) years ago is another major landmark in a list of several major struggles in the sugar industry, whose workers were violently suppressed. Such is the sordid history of foreign colonial ownership in the industry, whose primary concern was profits made by the labourers, who lived a life of misery and had to face merciless brutality in their many-sided struggles.

Though the Enmore workers were specific, it cannot be delinked from the workers’ need for deep-seated changes to their abominable working conditions; their poor wages; their cramped,

inhuman living quarters; and the miserable environmental conditions that were prevalent in those days.

The brutal killing of the Enmore Martyrs stirred indignation among many patriotic Guyanese. The incident inspired young Cheddi Jagan and others to form the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) out of the Political Affairs Committee (PAC) which was established in 1946. Dr Jagan himself, deeply moved by the massacre that took place, pledged that he would dedicate his entire life to the cause of the struggle of the Guyanese people against bondage and exploitation.

We mark, with deep reverence, the Enmore Martyrs and that significant workers’ struggle, so that we are ever reminded that every achievement was the result of workers’ struggles, and have not come from charitable offerings by the foreign owners. Indeed, the days of the rule of the plantocracy are gone, but our vigilance must remain, as new challenges and threats are today before us.

As we pay tribute to the Martyrs, we cannot fail to reflect on the sugar industry, which has now received a new lease of life. Following the change of Government, we have seen focused attention and support directed to reversing the fortunes of the

beleaguered. The new administration has remained true to its commitment, and is extending serious efforts to reopen the shuttered Skeldon, Rose Hall and Enmore estates.

Indeed, it is a significant task, given the damage that was inflicted. However, we believe it is well worth the effort.

The recently released ILO socio-economic study on the closed estates confirmed the social and economic hardships which greeted the thousands who were affected by closure.

We recognise that the efforts of the Government are not without detractors.

Several who pushed the industry to the precipice are making what we consider wild and irresponsible statements as they push their warped narratives. We remain at a loss at their vigorous opposition to the success of the industry. It appears they have some deep-seated vengeance against the industry and Guyanese associated with it. In our view, it certainly speaks to their character as national leaders.

More recently, the Enmore estate has been in the news. Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, according to media reports, has indicated that Enmore will be transformed into a hub of employment along the East

Coast of Demerara. While this appears exciting, we believe such plans should benefit from full and proper consideration to ensure that, most importantly, the people are safeguarded. Indeed, Enmore, as is recognised, holds a special place in the sugar industry. Moreover, the estate’s packaging facility enhances its viability.

These are important considerations.

We are once again reminded that the brutal repression of 1948 did not daunt the workers nor dampen their spirits. Indeed, militancy in the industry grew, and political awareness and activities expanded. Sugar workers’ right to be represented by a Union of their choice was won in 1976.

Sugar workers under the aegis of GAWU have taken part, along with other working people, in the struggles for political independence.

They championed the nationalisation of the sugar industry. They stood up and fought for the restoration of democratic elections. These struggles took place side by side with other struggles to improve wages and working conditions throughout the industry, and for other workers.

Sincerely, Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU)

GHK Lall should inform himself before seeking to edify others Dear Editor, The Laws of Guyana clearly state that the Chair of the Public Accounts Committee must come from the Opposition benches of Parliament; therefore, it is beyond surprising to see the former Chair of the Guyana

Gold Board, Gabriel Lall, positing that the removal of David Patterson is an attempt by the PPP/C to wrest control of the said committee.

Lall proceeds to belay this straw man of his with dark words and graphic phras-

es but, unfortunately, GHK Lall has no factual leg to stand on with this and other cases he has tried to build since his beloved APNU/AFC were voted out of office.

In his opinion piece (Demerara Waves 16.6.21) Lall pointedly refused to

examine the reasons for Patterson’s removal from the PAC. No doubt, GHK is uncomfortable with the excesses and personal expenses incurred by Patterson, as they may have parallel and precedence in the Gold Board.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

guyanatimesgy.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 17, 2021

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

Many urgent needs within Georgetown must be addressed Dear Editor, I have followed in the press, with considerable interest and gratification,

the very supporting role that Central Government, through the Ministry of Local Government, has been play-

ing to help the Mayor and Councillors of the City of Georgetown (M&CC) to stay afloat. After all, Georgetown

is our capital, and it houses the embassies, major businesses, Government offices, etc. And with major trans-

Dear Editor, The recent letter in the press defending the WPA as not being responsible for the closure of the sugar estates during the last administration is ludicrous. The then Chairman of the Board of GuySuCo clearly stated that he made the decision to close Wales. Clearly, this is an attempt to rewrite history. However, it will not matter how consistent the lie is, a lie is a lie.

We have all lived through the reality of what happened during the last administration. Decades of misinformation will not change what we know happened. The Chairman of GuySuCo and the Minister of Agriculture at the time are clearly responsible for what took place.

An announcement was also

made by the Minister, and a white paper was presented to Parliament on the future of the industry during the first half of 2017, which speaks to the closure of Rose Hall, Enmore and the future of Skeldon.

The Chairman of GuySuCo had not changed at that time.

For a senior leader within the WPA to show such blatant disregard for the facts brings into question the credibility of the WPA, and once again raises questions as to the true circumstances surrounding the death of Walter Rodney. How are we to now continue believing what this party leadership says?

Without integrity and honesty within the leadership of the WPA, no one will take that party seriously. Very

disappointing indeed!

If the contention of the WPA is that it was a shared responsibility between them and other coalition members of the previous Administration, then that is a different discussion. But to say that their party leader was not Chairman of the Board of GuySuCo at the time the decision was made, and to insinuate that another party leader with responsibility over the sector was merely following directions, brings into question whether the WPA leaders view themselves as leaders who did add value in key positions during the last Administration, or as mere yes men under stronger coalition leadership. Clearly, the WPA held key roles during the last Administration, due to perceived intellectual ca-

pacity. This new position being taken by their leaders to skirt their responsibility in the closure of the sugar estates is nothing but a political ploy and an attempt to rewrite history.

If the party was willing to walk away from the coalition because of intentions to rig the elections, then the leadership should have been willing to clearly object to the closure of the sugar estates if they were not in agreement. Obviously, the WPA agreed with the decisions that made the lives of thousands of Indian families and communities extremely difficult. They forgot that the W in WPA stands for Workers, regardless of race.

WPA is trying to rewrite history

Best regards, Jamil Changlee

GHK Lall should inform himself...

To be clear, the next Chair of the Public Accounts Committee will come from the Opposition benches of Parliament, as the PPP/C is a law-abiding party and has no history of self-serving interpretations of the clear language of the Laws of Guyana.

Editor, two weeks ago, GHK used the termination of the services of Messrs Hilbert Knight and Thomas Nestor at the Gold Board as ‘evidentiary racial discrim-

ination’. Following my debunking, Lall doubled down on his claims, which forces me to reveal further details of my research. Knight and Nestor were hired post-2015 by the Granger administration. A position was created for Knight (who claimed to be a senior Alliance for Change official, and his training took weeks longer than normal, for he was a teacher and unfamiliar with accounting and management. Nestor was hired at

the age of 68, a retiree with connections to the PNC leadership. How GHK Lall can characterise these men as ‘senior employees’ and not admit that they are political appointees speaks volumes to his judgment, or lack of thereof.

Hilbert Knight was not terminated, as he was allowed to finish his period of contracted work despite acting beyond his remit and authorising the purchase of gold from a miner without there being log-

President orders review of all...

Meanwhile, Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha on Wednesday, conducted an assessment of several drainage structures and pumps in Georgetown. He says the Government will continue to do its best to ensure those critical structures remain operable after complaining about the lackadaisical approach by some pump attendants and the Georgetown Mayor and City Council’s failure to ensure systems are in place to prevent flooding in the city.

“I spoke to the Town Clerk [Wednesday] morning and told her in no uncertain terms that they have to have a mechanism to check [on the drainage systems]. We are not getting the cooperation from the City Council, so we from the NDIA (National Drainage and Irrigation Authority) have to have our engineers out to check these pumps and to check and ensure the sluices are working,” Mustapha told reporters.

Severely impacted

Meanwhile, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) is one of the farming regions that have been severely impacted by the current flood crisis. Speaking with report-

book evidence of production in Guyana. This purchase is still reverberating within the industry, and Guyana’s gold industry is under threat of being blacklisted internationally.

Given the lack of factual bases for GHK Lall’s opinions recently, I would suggest that Lall inform himself before seeking to edify others.

Faithfully, Robin Singh

FROM PAGE 3

A tractor-operated pump draining floodwater out of the residential area at Babu Jaan

ers on Wednesday, Regional Chairman David Armogan indicated that the floodwaters were beginning to recede.

However, he explained that there were two areas of concern in the region – Babu Jaan and Ankerville – both in Port Mourant. In fact, at Ankerville, some residents have been forced to evacuate their homes as several inches of water have remained in their houses for days now, leaving a strong stench.

Three tractor-operated pumps are being used to remove the floodwaters – one at Babu Jaan and two at Ankerville.

Armogan said that the housing areas have all been

FROM PAGE 4

empoldered. They are also trying to prevent water from flowing from the backlands into the residential areas.

“But what we have found is that because of the soft mud that we are using to empolder these areas, sometimes we get some breaches,” he pointed out.

However, the Chairman disclosed that within two days, they were able to get the water drained at Mara on the East Bank of Berbice and now in the lower East Bank Berbice between Lansdale and Khotbradt, machines are working to assist in getting the excess water out of the cultivation area.

On this note, Chairman

Armogan explained that despite the heavy rainfall which the region experienced earlier this month, there was no flooding of Crabwood Creek. But he posited that the situation in Region Six was not settled since many cultivation areas on the Corentyne, East and West Canje and East Bank still have water on the land.

Meanwhile, in further response to the flood crisis in Guyana, which was upgraded to a Level Two Disaster last week, the National Emergency Operating Centre (NEOC) was activated to better coordinate and respond to the ongoing countrywide flooding. This was done by Prime Minister, Retired Brigadier Mark Phillips, who said that the NEOC will document and consolidate all response actions to date, to determine immediate and medium term needs to maximise the use of resources of all agencies.

To date, the CDC has distributed some 21,284 cleaning hampers and 26,045 food hampers across the country as a form of emergency relief.

Additionally, a total of 216 persons are currently being housed in nine shelters activated in Regions Two, Five, Nine, and 10. (G8)

formation expected soon through oil and gas and the impending big projects on the horizon, there will be a greater need for strengthened collaboration between Central Government and the M&CC. I have observed with delight the presentation of a $30 million subvention recently in aid of the completion of the M&CC’s new administrative building in the City Hall Compound. This is in addition to $75 million initially presented to the M&CC for the first phase of construction of the four-storey building.

Beyond that, our Head-ofState has committed to an advance payment of taxes to City Hall to the tune of $100M, in an effort to assist the always cash-strapped Mayor & City Council (M&CC) to offset its expenses, and commence the rehabilitation of the dilapidated City Hall building.

This shows that the Government is committed to ensuring that the city is transformed. However, as they say, “A word to the wise is sufficient”, and so I would just like to caution His Excellency the President and the Honourable Minister of Local Government, both of whom mean very well but who may be too young to know or fully appreciate the history of ingloriousness of the Georgetown Municipality since Guyana got its Independence.

Throwing taxpayers’ money at the City Council is like throwing raw meat at a rav-

enous lion. It would be quickly consumed and the lion would immediately be hungry again. Money just simply cannot continue to be ploughed into the Council without accountability. The Council has, for decades, ignored the laws governing the City, which require the Council to prepare accounts yearly, and submit these for auditing no later than four months after the end of the year. How could the Georgetown City Council earn over $12B in four years but still be cash-strapped?

There needs to be done a forensic audit of the Council before any more money is doled out to them. Additionally, duplicity, dishonesty and misconduct must be weeded out before trust can be restored.

Persons in positions of influence must not be allowed to derive personal benefits from actions or decisions made in their official capacity or on their behalf. A clear example of this is where, for inflated sums, Councillors are being allowed to rent their trucks to the very Council on which they sit. This is a clear conflict of interest.

And they must not be allowed to waste the rates earned from property owners on worthless and profligate projects like the Presidential Park on Church Street. There are too many urgent needs within the city that need to be addressed.

Sincerely, Jermain Johnson

Another transgression Dear Editor, It is alleged in an online news report that the request by the Chair to the electoral fraud trio to show cause why they should not be dismissed went unanswered and unresponded to, (INews June 16).

This is another transgression in the long list of infractions, insubordination

and disrespect meted out to the Chair by the head of the Secretariat and accomplices.

In a related matter, how come the third commissioner did not attend the funeral? Or is it a case that he is not a member of the majority arm of the umbrella?

Sincerely, Shamshun Mohamed

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THURSDAY, JUNE 17, 2021

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Foundation ◄

Question 1

Wednesday’s answers

By Lord Byron (George Gordon)

WORD SEARCH

Human activity is kicking global warming into overdrive! Find out how you can help slow down climate change and get our planet off the hot seat. Write a short note to your aunt describing how you will help slow down climate change.

Dear Doctor, I have read your play, Which is a good one in its way, Purges the eyes, and moves the bowels, And drenches handkerchiefs like towels With tears that, in a flux of grief, Afford hysterical relief To shatter'd nerves and quicken'd pulses, Which your catastrophe convulses.

I like your moral and machinery; Your plot, too, has such scope for scenery!

Your dialogue is apt and smart; The play's concoction full of art; Your hero raves, your heroine cries, All stab, and everybody dies; In short, your tragedy would be The very thing to hear and see; And for a piece of publication, If I decline on this occasion, It is not that I am not sensible To merits in themselves ostensible, But—and I grieve to speak it—plays Are drugs—mere drugs, Sir, nowadays.

I had a heavy loss by Manuel — Too lucky if it prove not annual— And Sotheby, with his damn'd Orestes (Which, by the way, the old bore's best is), Has lain so very long on hand That I despair of all demand; I've advertis'd—but see my books, Or only watch my shopman's looks; Still Ivan, Ina and such lumber My back-shop glut, my shelves encumber.

There's Byron too, who once did better, Has sent me—folded in a letter— A sort of—it's no more a drama Than Darnley, Ivan or Kehama: So alter'd since last year his pen is, I think he's lost his wits at Venice, Or drain'd his brains away as stallion To some dark-eyed and warm Italian; In short, Sir, what with one and t'other, I dare not venture on another.

I write in haste; excuse each blunder; The coaches through the street so thunder!

My room's so full; we've Gifford here Reading MSS with Hookham Frere, Pronouncing on the nouns and particles Of some of our forthcoming articles, The Quarterly—ah, Sir, if you Had but the genius to review!

A smart critique upon St. Helena, Or if you only would but tell in a Short compass what—but, to resume; As I was saying, Sir, the room— The room's so full of wits and bards, Crabbes, Campbells, Crokers, Freres and Wards, And others, neither bards nor wits— My humble tenement admits All persons in the dress of Gent., From Mr. Hammond to Dog Dent.

A party dines with me today, All clever men who make their way: Crabbe, Malcolm, Hamilton and Chantrey Are all partakers of my pantry.

They're at this moment in discussion On poor De Staël's late dissolution.

Her book, they say, was in advance— Pray Heaven she tell the truth of France!

'Tis said she certainly was married To Rocca, and had twice miscarried, No—not miscarried, I opine— But brought to bed at forty nine.

Some say she died a Papist; some Are of opinion that's a hum; I don't know that—the fellow, Schlegel, Was very likely to inveigle A dying person in compunction To try the extremity of unction.

But peace be with her! for a woman Her talents surely were uncommon.

Her publisher (and public too) The hour of her demise may rue, For never more within his shop he— Pray—was she not interr'd at Coppet?

Thus run our time and tongues away; But, to return, Sir, to your play; Sorry, Sir, but I cannot deal, Unless 'twere acted by O'Neill.

My hands are full—my head so busy, I'm almost dead—and always dizzy; And so, with endless truth and hurry, Dear Doctor, I am yours,

NEWS

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THURSDAY, JUNE 17, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

US$1M received from Japan to boost Early Flood Warning System …USAID injects US$30,000 into Guyana’s flood relief efforts

A

s Guyana continues to grapple with an unprecedented flood crisis, the country has received separate financial support from United States and Japan to go towards flood relief and prevention efforts nationwide.

During a press conference on Wednesday, United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Representative for the Caribbean region, Clinton White, disclosed that the agency is injecting in excess of $6.2 million to support the ongoing flood relief efforts across Guyana.

“In response to the flooding, the United States Government, through the USAID, is providing an immediate US$30,000 in humanitarian assistance – US$15,000 is going to the Guyana Red Cross for the local purchase and transportation of relief hampers, including cleaning and personal hygiene kits. An additional US$15,000 is going to the CDC (Civil Defence Commission in Guyana) in the transportation of relief items to priority regions,” Added to this, the USAID Representative noted that the Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance would continue to engage and monitor the flood situation with the CDC and other key stakeholders.

White noted that President Dr Irfaan Ali’s recent declaration of the floods as a national disaster underscores the importance of a concerted effort to tackle climate change immediately.

The USAID Regional Head is currently in Guyana to advance the U.S. Government’s collaboration with Caribbean states on a variety of topics, including climate change. Currently, the USAID, in collaboration with the Caribbean Community (Caricom), is conducting a 3-week climate change symposium in Guyana.

Meanwhile, U.S. Ambassador to Guyana, Sarah-Ann Lynch, said during Wednesday’s press conference that this visit by the USAID Representative comes on the heels of the agency celebrating 60 years of partnership with Guyana to build capacity both at the governmental and civil society levels.

“In my time here, I have seen the profound impact (of) the US-Guyana partnership in areas as diverse as health, governance, environment, and economic growth as making a sustainable difference in Guyana’s development. And with all that is ahead for Guyana’s bright future, a focus on private sector-led growth is

USAID Regional Representative Clinton White

something I know will make an even bigger impact in the coming months and the coming years,” Ambassador Lynch posited.

Further, she lauded the CDC and other Government agencies for their response to the flooding, as well as the Private Sector for organising relief hampers and other materials to mitigate the effects of the current crisis.

“I, like many of you, look forward to the consistent and professional updates from Lieutenant Colonel Kester Craig and his team at the CDC. Providing this kind of data and staying in constant communication with stakeholders are truly best practices when it comes to disaster management,” she asserted.

This response from the U.S. comes on the heels of

Guyana last week declaring this current unprecedent flood situation as a Level Two disaster; that is, the national capacity to respond is not overwhelmed, but some external assistance is required.

Since then, assistance has been received from Guyana’s partners in the region and around the world. In fact, on Tuesday the Chinese Embassy in Georgetown donated flood relief items to the CDC. Chargé d'Affaires of the Embassy of the People's Republic of China, Chen Xilai, handed over a batch of flood relief items to Deputy CDC Director Major Benons.

However, even as the country continues to tackle flooding in all 10 Administrative Regions, assistance has also been pour-

ing in to put various systems in place to prevent such severe flooding from recurring in the future.

The Guyana Government on Wednesday received almost US$1 million to boost the National Flood Early Warning System.

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha, during the virtual handing over ceremony, said the current flooding in the country has highlighted the need for a well-developed and effective National Flood Early Warning System.

“The handing over of this National Flood Early Warning System comes as a critical point for Guyana…

Such a System would provide opportunities for climate change adaptation and resilience benefits, while at the same time improving disaster preparedness and reducing the costs associated with response/relief and reconstruction,” the Minister noted in a DPI article.

Mustapha pointed out that recovering from this flood crisis would require the Agriculture Ministry, and by extension the Government, to redirect resources to address the challenges, which would also affect planned interventions.

“Early Warning Systems are an important component of a country’s disaster risk management strategy.

Going beyond flood forecasting, which assesses flood risks, Flood Early Warning Systems allow authorities (in this case the Hydromet Service) to issue warnings when a flood is imminent or already occurring,” Minister Mustapha said.

Furthermore, Minister Mustapha emphasised that in order to develop a fullfledged Flood Early Warning System, significant human, technical and capital investments are required.

“The Government of Guyana recognises that today’s handing over does not represent the development and launch of a full-fledged Flood Early Warning System for every corner of Guyana. There is still a long road ahead that would require significant human, technical and capital investments to ensure that we have a truly comprehensive system in place…[but] We believe that it sets a strong foundation upon which a comprehensive system can be built,” the Agriculture Ministry noted.

Already, the Guyana Government has secured the approval of the National Assembly for $10 billion emergency funding for flood relief interventions, including repairs to infrastructure and supporting recovery in the productive and household sectors.

8 NEWS

THURSDAY, JUNE 17, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

WCD triple murder

“This crime is a despicable, unparalleled act of cold-blooded, ruthless savagery” – Judge

…killer gets death sentence

A

fter hearing a probation report and victim impact statement, High Court Judge Sandil Kissoon sentenced 36-yearold Abishai Caesar to death for the 2012 murder of Anna Catherina, West Coast Demerara (WCD) businesswoman Jennifer Persaud and her two sons.

Following a trial at the High Court in Demerara, a 12-member jury found that between September 21 and 22, 2012, at Anna Catherina, WCD, Caesar murdered 41-year-old Persaud and her sons: Afridi Bacchus, six; and 18-month-old Jadon Ernest.

State Prosecutor Lisa Cave had told the jury that during September 2012, Caesar resided with his reputed wife Zoey Phillips at Anna Catherina, and were Persaud’s neighbours.

According to the prosecutor,

Creating a better…

Y

between September 21 and 22, 2012, Caesar told his reputed wife that he was going over to the woman’s house because he wanted money, and that he would return after getting it.

When he returned home, the prosecutor said, Caesar told his reputed wife what he had done to Persaud and her

two children. The next day, the lifeless bodies of Persaud and her two sons were discovered by her father in their home, the prosecutor added.

According to Cave, the Police conducted investigations, and on April 22, 2016, Phillips went to the Police station and reported what Caesar had done to Persaud

and her children. He was subsequently charged with the murders.

The media reported that Phillips told detectives a short while after Caesar had gone over to the woman’s house, she had heard screams.

Phillips informed the Police that Caesar had gone to steal the woman’s money,

Sentenced to death: Abishai Caesar

but whilst doing so, she woke up and saw him. Because Persaud would be able to identify him, Phillips said, Caesar told her that he was forced to kill Persaud and her sons. Their throats were slit.

Ruthless savagery

“This crime that was committed by Abishai Caesar is a despicable, unparalleled act of cold-blooded ruthless savagery, where an entire family…was meticulously and methodically brutally executed while [they] were in the security of their home,” Justice Kissoon said as he described the killings during a sentencing hearing on Wednesday.

The Judge told Caesar that he treated life and death as meaningless.

Considering this, the Judge said to Caesar, “It is only right, it is only proper, and it is only just, in view of your horrific crimes, having regard to the exceptional and specific circumstances, that…you be sentenced to death.”

The Judge, in imposing the capital punishment, considered that it was a crime of extreme violence, as the victims' major organs sustained knife-inflicted injuries. According to him, their lives were snuffed out, and a mother was slaughtered and deprived of her children.

TURN TO PAGE 18

…Guyana esterday was “Enmore Martyrs’ Day”. With all the rains and floods piling on top of the COVID-19 woes - as the number of deaths stubbornly refuses to come down maybe the powers-that-be can be excused for not making much ado about it this year? Your Eyewitness doesn’t think so. Cause one of the reasons we’re in such deep doo-doo in this country politically is because we don’t resonate to a common narrative about what this country is all about.

And what we’re all about has to do with “labour” … exploited labour. The Indigenous Peoples weren’t “spared”, as some would have it; they defended themselves against exploitation by the Dutch, but still saw their land unilaterally expropriated by superior force. The enslaved Africans had to provide free labour for the plantations, and we have the 1763 Monument to acknowledge and pay tribute to their seminal role in the creation of our country. Even though at that time there were three separate COUNTRIES - Berbice, Essequibo and Demerara.

In like manner, the Enmore Martyrs’ Monument symbolises the role played by the labour of the Indentured Indians, Portuguese and Chinese to continue to make the country, which had been united in 1831, a viable proposition.

These Indentured labourers tripled the amount of land cultivated, as well as the volume of sugar produced, to push Guyana to become the largest sugar producer in the British West Indies. Sugar was the raison d’etre of the colonies - and imported labour made it so.

The 5 Enmore Martyrs of 1948 were only the last in a long, brutal campaign to squeeze blood out of the labourers, and in which the “leaden argument” was made with deadly regularity - starting as early as in 1872 at Devonshire Castle.

Those who talk of these indentureds as being “pampered” are committing a standing libel on them. Whatever gains they made were paid for with their blood, and redounded to the benefit of the entire country.

The Enmore killings had been preceded by the Leonora killings of Feb 1939 - just when the Moyne Commission was in Guyana taking evidence on labour discontent throughout the West Indies. The killings brought home to the Commission the need for radical action during the Great Depression, which hit the sugar islands worse than anywhere else.

It was the Moyne Commission which recommended an opening up of the franchise, and it was the Venn Commission which investigated the Enmore killings that recommended the universal franchise. As such, those who forget or downplay Enmore Martyrs’ Day are blinding themselves to the sacrifices of these forbears who bought our freedom with their blood.

It's truly said that “those who forget the lessons of history are doomed to repeat them.”

Doomed.

…world?

During the Cold War between the USSR and the USA, the combatants tried to “win the hearts and minds” of the nations that were emerging from colonial rule. The latter then tried to play them off against each other to get goodies like loans for infrastructure and social needs. But the Cold War ended in 1989, and it wasn’t coincidental that development in poorer countries has lagged since then.

But it looks like happy days might be here again! China is now flexing its muscles after being poised to replace the US as the largest economy in the world. Using the THREE TRILLION DOLLARS it accumulated from being the “factory of the US”, it’s buying friends and influencing them with its massive “Belt and Road Initiative (B&RI) that’s financing and building massive infrastructure worldwide.

Enter the US and G7 last weekend with their version - Build Back Better World (B3W) Initiative. They’re going to focus on infrastructure in climate, health and health security, digital technology, and gender equity and equality.

Competition’s good, no?

…anti-drug surveillance For the second time, a plane containing massive amounts of cocaine en route to Suriname crash-landed in Berbice.

Imagine how many didn’t!

Whatever happened to the 5 “hi-tech” surveillance drones Ramjattan acquired for $180 million?

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

9 THURSDAY, JUNE 17, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

The 6 best first Father’s Day gifts for new dads

By Lauren Levy, Shop TODAY

H

onour new and expecting dads with thoughtful and useful Father’s Day gifts like loungewear, diaper backpacks, and more.

Ice cream

For the new dad with a sweet tooth, surprise him with the gift of quality ice cream.

Cozy Earth Bamboo loungewear

Whether it’s for him to wear during the hospital stay or for time spent while bonding

at home and adjusting to life as a new parent, Cozy Earth’s Bamboo loungewear might just be the most comfortable thing he owns, thanks to you. Made from brushed viscose from bamboo-based fabric, these loungewear pieces aren’t just insanely soft — they’re also temperature regulating and come in a range of styles including a hoodie, pullover crew, tee, jogger pants and shorts. TURN TO PAGE 12

10

THURSDAY, JUNE 17, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

11 THURSDAY, JUNE 17, 2021| GUYANATIMESGY.COM

12

THURSDAY, JUNE 17, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

The 6 best first Father’s Day gifts...

FROM PAGE 9

Stainless steel watch

Honour this sentimental time in a man’s life with something that captures how precious every second is as well as how quickly it all goes by: a new watch.

Glyph Whiskey

Cheers to dad and his new addition with Glyph, Endless West’s spirit-inspired whiskey. This unique molecular whiskey uses 90 per cent less water and land compared to traditional whiskey production, according to the brand, in order to be made from resource-efficient natural sources. Glyph has three offerings — Original, Spice and Royal — depending on dad’s palate and if he tends to prefer more of an American bourbon or aged Scotch.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 13

13

THURSDAY, JUNE 17, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

The 6 best first Father’s Day gifts... ed on a family hike, this versatile backpack can hold everything he needs throughout the baby and toddler years to come.

Photo art gift

Turn a cherished photo into a modern piece of framed art to mark this special Father’s Day. Whether it’s a sonogram, baby bump picture or one of his favourite snapshots from the year, you can design a custom gift for dad printed on premium matte paper with gold foil detail and completed with your choice of frame. (Adapted from NBC News)

GLYPH WHISKEY

Obersee Diaper Bag Backpack

Get dad ready for the adventure that is life as a new parent with this sporty diaper bag that doesn’t actually look like a diaper bag. Not only does this gender-neutral option come with a padded changing mat, convenient pockets and a surprising amount of storage, but it also features a detachable cooler that can fit three bottles. Whether he’s running an errand or head-

FROM PAGE 12

14

THURSDAY, JUNE 17, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

NEWS

15

THURSDAY, JUNE 17, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Police intensify campaign against vehicles with coloured lights

T

he Guyana Police Force (GPF) has intensified its campaign against vehicles with coloured lights.

Recently, four persons in Regional Division Number Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) were charged for failing to comply with the prescribed conditions attached to fitness – the section under which drivers using red and blue lights are charged.

Commanders of Region Four Divisions B and C have addressed the issue within

Pensioner’s home gutted by fire

A

67-year-old pensioner has lost his two-storey wooden home to a fire at Canterbury Walk, Beterverwagting, East Coast Demerara (ECD).

Reports are that John Boucher and his family had secured the home at about 22:00h before retiring to bed. Boucher’s son was, however, awakened at about 00:45h on Wednesday morning and he smelling smoke. Upon checking, he saw smoke billowing from the lower flat of the building, and he raised an alarm.

The Guyana Fire Service were summoned, but their efforts to save the building were futile, since the flames

The house on fire at BV, East Coast Demerara

had completely consumed the structure. However, no

one was injured, as the family had made it to safety. (G9)

their respective divisions during separate appearances on the weekly “Police and You” programme.

On June 8, Commander of the East Coast Demerara (ECD) Division, Khali Pareshram said vehicles affixed with coloured lights were considered unfit and warned that defaulting drivers would be prosecuted.

“We do have special operations to target those defaulters, especially in the nights across the division. Once they are found culpable, their certificate of fitness will be revoked,” the Commander said, noting that defaulting drivers could face the courts for this offence.

Meanwhile, Commander of East Bank Demerara (EBD), Mahendra Siwnarine also noted that ranks in his division were conducting similar operations.

“Well, as we know, it’s illegal and I can say at the moment for my division, my traffic officers have started a campaign to actually deal with those lights…It’s an offence, so persons are being charged for carrying those lights,” he affirmed.

“If the vehicles came with those lights…. after a period of time, you go in for fitness…so once you have (coloured lights), then you will not be given a fitness and

once you are caught on the roadways with those lights, you are arrested and placed before the court,” the Commander made clear.

There has been an apparent increase in the number of vehicles affixed with coloured lights, which pose a danger to other road users. These lights can be blinding and distracting to other road users, and can lead to major accidents.

In April 2019, the GPF had issued a statement on the issue, warning that Regulation 34 (1) (a) of the Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic Act, Chapter 51:02 states: “Every motor vehicle, the width of which does not exceed seven feet, other than a two-wheeled motorcycle not having a side car attached thereto and an invalid carriage, on any road, during the hours of darkness shall carry two lamps, each showing to the front a white light visible from a reasonable distance”.

16 NEWS

THUSDAY, JUNE 17, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

“Have some patience”, EBD traffic management is very difficult – Commander to commuters C

ommander of Region Four ‘B’ (East Bank Demerara), Senior Superintendent Mahendra Siwnarine, is urging persons to exercise patience when travelling along the East Bank Demerara corridor, noting that traffic management along this corridor is very challenging.

“Traffic management on the East Bank corridor is very difficult,” the Commander said during this week’s “Police & You” programme.

He noted that traffic management is a collaborative effort between Region Four ‘A’ (Georgetown), Region Four ‘B’ (East Bank), and Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara).

“I can tell you that my ranks, they work very hard.

They’re on that road from 5am, and they do not leave that road until that traffic is cleared. There is only so much they can do. We have implemented a number of strategies to actually assist persons that are traversing. The most I could beg of persons who are inconvenienced is to have patience,” the Commander stated.

He expressed hopes that with the new infrastructural projects being developed by the Government, traffic congestion would ease.

“We do know that a secondary road has been com-

Traffic on the East Bank Demerara Highway [GINA Photo]

pleted, and some minor works are being done currently, and we are hoping that it can assist a bit,” he said in making reference to the Diamond to Eccles bypass road, which would connect to the Eccles to Mandela highway, which is also under construction.

It is also hoped that, with a new bridge over the Demerara River, traffic congestion would be greatly reduced.

The Commander has also addressed the issue of the reckless behaviour of road users, especially on the Linden-Soesdyke Highway.

There have been several fatal accidents along that highway in recent weeks,

and those have claimed the lives of five persons, including an eight-year-old girl.

On May 23, eight-yearold Akese Jerome, her grandmother Anthonia Henry and her aunt Melina Emmanuel were killed when a speeding motorcar driven by a fireman crashed into them as they were sitting at the curbside along the Kairuni Public Road on the Linden-Soesdyke Highway.

On June 6, newspaper vendor Mark Anthony Ault of Republic Drive, Beterverwagting, East Coast Demerara (ECD) tragically lost his life as he was driving a minibus along the highway, when

a hire car which was proceeding in the opposition direction and was allegedly speeding ended up in the path of his bus.

On June 7, 48-year-old Kumar Persaud died after the bicycle he was riding collided with a pickup on the Linden-Soesdyke Highway in the vicinity of Loo Creek.

“The highway itself, at some points, have holes, bumps, and persons who (are) not familiar (with the terrain), especially in the night, often drive in a manner as if they’re driving on roads they’re familiar with, and they end up in those accidents,” the Commander said.

The Commander has urged pedestrians who are using the roads during dark hours to wear illuminating clothing. He is also encouraging all road users to exercise caution.

“I would urge road users, especially in the night, the highway has turns, bumps…you get some surprises when travelling on that highway in the night.

It’s for you to be cautious.

Take your time, you’re in no rush to get anywhere. At the end of the day, you’re saving your life, the lives of persons in your vehicle, and the lives of the person that would be traversing at that time,” the Commander has said.

Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne), who was the subordinate officer in charge of the Balirmont Police Station, was placed under close arrest after he shot his partner of four years.

It was reported that the sergeant had moved out from the home after his partner had ended their relationship. However, he went back to the house armed with a hand gun, and discharged

a round in the woman’s direction. She was shot in the process.

Following the incident, he picked up the woman, took her to the Fort Wellington Public Hospital in his motorcar, dropped her off at the hospital’s gate, and drove away.

He was later arrested, but has since denied the allegations. The case is still ongoing. (G9)

Cop under close arrest for domestic violence

A

Police Constable has been placed under close arrest after a report of domestic violence was made against him by his partner.

Reports indicate that the rank was arrested in Regional Division Three, (Essequibo Islands- West Demerara) at about 00:29h over the weekend.

While details are still sketchy, Guyana Times understands that the cop’s partner went to a Police Station and lodged a formal complaint of domestic violence that led to his colleagues arresting him.

He remains in custody pending investigations.

Earlier this year, a Police Sergeant of Auchlyne Estate Corentyne, Berbice,

17 Region 1 woman is latest COVID-19 death, 128 new cases NEWS

THURSDAY, JUNE 17, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

…2nd doses of Sputnik V to arrive shortly – Dr Anthony

T

he novel coronavirus (COVID-19) death toll in Guyana has increased to 438 as another female has succumbed from complications caused by the deadly virus, according to the Health Ministry on Wednesday.

It was noted that the 54-year-old female, from Region One (BarimaWaini), had tested positive for COVID-19, and died on Tuesday while receiving care at a medical facility.

With this latest fatality, the total number of deaths from the pandemic so far in the month of June has increased to 40. May became the deadliest month with 99 fatalities since the outbreak of the novel coronavirus here last year, after surpassing April’s 66 COVID-19 death toll.

New cases The Health Ministry also reported on Wednesday that another 128 persons have tested positive for COVID-19 from some 1421 tests conducted in the last 24 hours.

According to the updated COVID-19 dashboard, the total number of confirmed cases in Guyana is now 18,658 – 9141 males and 9517 females.

However, only 1643 of these are currently active cases.

This includes 21 patients in the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and 1622 persons in isolation; that is, 113 in institutional isolation and 1509 in home isolation.

Some 16,577 persons

GUYANA COVID-19 DASHBOARD JUNE 15 UPDATE

NUMBER OF NEW CASES

128

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN INSTITUTIONAL ISOLATION

113

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN HOME ISOLATION

1509

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN COVID-19 ICU

21

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN INSTITUTIONAL QUARANTINE

0

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES BY GENDER (FEMALES)

9517

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES BY GENDER (MALES)

9141

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES IN GUYANA SINCE 2020

18,658

NUMBER OF RECOVERED CASES

16,557

TOTAL 1st DOSE VACCINATED FULLY IMMUNISED

223,653 92,157

TOTAL NUMBER OF DEATHS

438

REGION 1

1164

REGION 2

518

REGION 3

2162

REGION 4

8723

REGION 5

639

REGION 6

1371

REGION 7

1235

REGION 8

379

REGION 9

1142

REGION 10

1325

HERE IS HOW YOU CAN BE SAFE DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC Wear a face mask.

Keep a physical distance of at least 6 feet.

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

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

have thus far recovered from the life-threatening virus – 176 more recoveries than the figure reported the previous day.

To date, 172,667 persons have been tested for the novel coronavirus in Guyana.

Of the 128 new cases detect-

ed on Wednesday, two were from Region One (BarimaWaini), five were from Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam), eight were from Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), a whopping 43 were from Region Four (Demerara-

Police worried about increase in rape cases on EBD

P

olice statistics have confirmed that sexual offences reported in Division 4 ‘B’, East Bank Demerara (EBD), are on the increase, continuing a trend that has lasted over a number of years.

In a recent episode of “Police and You”, Regional Commander Senior Superintendent Mahendra Siwnarine confirmed that these incidents have almost tripled the number recorded last year. The statistics reveal increases in rape in the division to eight this year, compared to three in 2020. The Commander said this has been a major concern for his ranks, and they are implementing various strategies to curb this act.

“Most of those rapes are on the Linden-Soesdyke highway. Some are statutory [rape] and we have been trying our best to curb that also,” the Commander said.

Commander Siwnarine also stated that he and his ranks have been having educational talks with persons in communities that they find have the largest number of cases. The divisional head also stated in a separate interview with Guyana Times that the

DISTRIBUTION OF TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES SINCE MARCH 2020

Senior Superintendent Mahendra Siwnarine

most recent report of rape was reported to his ranks sometime last week. That report is currently being investigated by his ranks.

He said they are also looking to have closer collaboration with several communities, so that they can help to resolve situations in a very swift manner.

“So far, the response from the communities has been great… With regards to concerns, we are encouraging persons to air all their concerns. We know that persons might not be comfortable coming to the station, so we are taking po-

licing to the people”, he explained.

Only last week, Senior Superintendent Khali Pareshram, Commander of Police Division 4 ‘C’, on an episode of “Police and You”, expressed similar concerns of rape in the Division he heads. The Commander did not state if there has been an increase in the number of sexual offence cases in his division this year, but he did state that they have seen cases of statutory rape and a few cases of forced rape.

“There are more of the statutory rape offences… in these cases, with these youths we need to work with, and we have been working with them”.

In the case of both statutory and forced rape incidents, the Police have said there are several hotlines that persons can call to report such cases. They can call the 914 hotline, which is the Human Services Ministry, and their calls would be deferred to the Guyana Police Force.

It has also been advised that persons can call the Childcare and Protection Agency (CPA) to make reports of rape incidents. (G9)

Mahaica) 10 were from Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne), one was from Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni), 35 were from Region Nine (Upper TakutuEssequibo) and the other 24 were from Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice).

No new cases were recorded in Regions Five (Mahaica-Berbice) and Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) in the last 24 hours, according to Wednesday’s dashboard.

Vaccine campaign The Guyana Government launched its COVID-19 vaccination exercise back in February, and is aggressively rolling it out in the various regions across Guyana in order to achieve herd im-

munity. Only last week, the vaccination campaign reached the milestone of immunising some 200,000 persons with their first dose of the COVID-19 jab.

So far, some 223,659 persons have received their first dose of the vaccine, accounting for 45.9 per cent of the adult population. Of these, however, 92,157 persons are currently fully vaccinated, which is approximately 18.9 per cent of the population 18 years and older.

During his Wednesday update on the COVID-19 situation in Guyana, Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony disclosed that the country is yet to receive additional batches of the second dose of the Sputnik V vaccine, but he assured that the consignment would arrive shortly.

“We don’t have [second doses of the Sputnik V vaccines] in country right now, but we are making the arrangements to make sure we can get it in as soon as possible. And because I know that a lot of people have been eagerly awaiting for the second dose to come in, as soon as we get it in, we’ll announce it, so that across the country, people can go and get their second dose Sputnik V,” Dr Anthony stated.

On May 27, the Health Ministry had announced that no second doses were available for Russia’s Sputnik V COVID-19 vaccine following a delay in supplies. Last week, Health Minister Dr Anthony had announced that the vaccines were expected at some time this week. He explained on Wednesday that the first doses of the Russian-made Sputnik V vaccines are available. Unlike the other jabs Guyana has acquired and is currently administering, the first and second doses of the Sputnik V vaccine are made up of two different components.

Initially, it was said that the second dose of the Sputnik V should be tak-

en after four weeks of taking the first shot. However, Dr Anthony has pointed out that new information from the Russian manufacturer has indicated that the second dose can now be taken within four to 12 weeks.

Hence there should be not worries with the delays.

Meanwhile, there are both first and second doses of the Chinese-made Sinopharm and the Oxford/ Astra Zeneca vaccine available. Since both of these jabs have the same components for two doses, half of the amount, upon their arrival, were set aside to be administered as the second shot for persons who have taken the first dose.

With Sinopharm, the return date is four weeks after taking the first shot, while AstraZeneca is also between four and 12 weeks.

Dr Anthony used the opportunity to implore persons who have received their first dose of these two vaccines to return for their second shot.

The Health Minister went on to reiterate that, to date, authorities have received no report of persons who are fully immunised becoming hospitalised from COVID-19. He added, too, that there is no report of any person who is fully immunised dying from the virus.

Meanwhile, as more people continue to get vaccinated, authorities are urging the public to continue observing all COVID-19 preventative measures, particularly masking in public, social distancing, and frequent hand washing and sanitising. The measures also include a 22:30h (10:30pm) to 04:00h (4 am) national curfew.

If anyone is displaying any of the symptoms associated with COVID-19, or needs any additional information, contact the COVID-19 Hotline: 2311166, 226-7480 or 624-6674 immediately, or visit www. health.gov.gy.

FARMSUP gifts CDC vehicle, money in flood relief efforts

F

arm Supplies Limited (FARMSUP) has aided the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) in its mission to help flood-affected persons countrywide.

During a simple handing-over ceremony, FARMSUP Marketing Coordinator Monique Tiwari, presented one JMC Motor Lorry and a cheque of $500,000 to Captain Michael Andrews of the CDC to support the flood relief efforts, countrywide.

A brief statement from FARMSUPS’ representative indicated that “the company as a whole is moved by the devastating effects of the flooding caused across Guyana, and will always be happy to contribute in helping to

FARMSUP Marketing Coordinator Monique Tiwari presenting the vehicle and a cheque for $500,000 to CDC representative Captain Michael Andrews

make a difference by lending support to communities in need.”

The company added

that it hoped that the donation would aid the national flood relief efforts being coordinated by the CDC.

18 NEWS

THURSDAY, JUNE 17, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Army, Govt slam APNU/AFC for fearmongering, harmful misinformation …reject concocted claim of resurrected “death squad”

A

s the Opposition – A Partnership for National Unity/ Alliance For Change (APNU/ AFC) – has started rumours that the Government’s creation of a Regional Joint Support Team that will contain members of both the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) is the “death squad”, Government has rejected this notion.

On Wednesday, Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn slammed the mischievous claim which appeared on the social media page of Opposition Member of Parliament (MP), Annette Ferguson. According to Benn, an article headlined “PPP secures $250 million budget to resuscitation Black Clothes Death Squad” was also appended to her post.

“It is apt to note that none of the deliberately malicious and incendiary statements were made during the consideration of the matter of the establishment of Regional Joint Support teams, either in presentations or even heckling from the benches,” Benn said in a statement on Wednesday.

“I wish to condemn in the strongest possible terms,

Parliamentary Affairs and Governance Minister Gail Teixeira

the malicious, deliberate, incendiary and delusional attempts to: bring the security forces into disrepute; to target individuals in those services; and to foment mischief and misrepresentations with respect to the policies and programmes of the PPP/C [People’s Progressive Party/ Civic] Government in its efforts to improve safety and security throughout Guyana.”

During Monday’s sitting of the National Assembly ,where a supplemental paper was interrogated, Opposition Leader Joseph Harmon had enquired into the allocation of monies to the Regional Joint Support Team. Responding to the

questions was Parliamentary Affairs and Governance Minister Gail Teixeira, who had said that the Team was only being set up to support the ongoing crime-fighting work.

“The Regional Joint Support Team is a new initiative that was decided on by the Defence Board in April of this year. And it will be an initiative involving the GDF and the Police Force, to develop operational capacity in crime-fighting. So, this is a brand-new initiative to be implemented and the budgetary allocation is to be able to provide resources they would need to be established and to function.”

“It is now being set up. The budgetary allocation cannot accommodate the new initiative and, therefore, the funds being requested is to cover and allow them to get set up.

So, we cannot name the places where the buildings are, because we do not have a list of those places,” she said.

Countrywide

She had explained that the Team would be operating in all 10 administrative regions, from multiple bases. Teixeira

Opposition Leader Joseph Harmon

had further explained that Government buildings would be used wherever possible.

In cases where there are no Government buildings and private facilities have to be used, those would be rented.

She added that the teams

that the unit would not usurp the authority of the Guyana Police Force, noting that both the Police Force and Defence Force operate under statutes and the Constitution.

According to her, both GDF personnel and Police Officers will be in the teams, assisting the authorities in fighting crimes, including narcotics trafficking.

“Therefore, this is not to become a hysterical thing.

These are two properly functioning bodies that will work in collaboration with each other, in a newer and different structure. There would be no interference in the powers of the Police.”

“This is about enhancing coordination between the two forces. And to have a quick response. The structure is clear.

The Commissioner of Police,

“I wish to condemn in the strongest possible terms, the malicious, deliberate, incendiary and delusional attempts to: bring the security forces into disrepute; to target individuals in those services; and to foment mischief and misrepresentations with respect to the policies and programmes of the PPP/C Government in its efforts to improve safety and security throughout Guyana” – Robeson Benn would need equipment, among other things, to be able to function. “The $84 million can put that team in different regions, to have the capacity to know what is going on, to be able to fight crime. It’s about being able to work in the communities and have information.”

Teixeira was adamant

the Chief of Staff, the Defence Board, the Commander in Chief…. These are high-level regional support teams that will include persons of officer ranks,” she had said.

Under further questioning from the Opposition, Teixeira had said that the team would be based at Eve Leary where $2.5 million in rehabilitation

Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn

works will be undertaken, with a another building being constructed at Eteringbang in Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni) for $22.9 million.

According to Teixeira, 32 vehicles will also be acquired for the unit, including pick-ups, All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) and a car.

JSSC

Meanwhile, the Joint Services Coordinating Council (JSCC) also denounced the harmful misinformation coming from the Opposition camp.

According to them, such commentary could have a damaging effect on society.

“The Council has noted a circulating document which services to implicate members of the Joint Services in illegal activities and wishes to make it clear that operational troops remain under the command and administration of the Joint Services.”

They also noted that claims that a senior officer in the GDF would head this squad were outrageous. The Council urged persons to be responsible and avoid creating public mischief.

“This crime is a...

The High Court Judge also considered that the family was killed during a home invasion, while noting the convicted killer’s lack of remorse.

In the end, Justice Kissoon informed the killer that he would be taken into prison to suffer death in a manner authorised by law.

Justice has been served The businesswoman’s father, Kumar Persaud, who had earlier testified to finding the lifeless bodies of his daughter and grandsons, said, “I’m happy with the verdict…Justice has been served.

My daughter and grandsons can finally rest in peace”.

Abusive A probation report revealed that Caesar, who was once a teacher, was also enlisted in the Guyana Defence Force (GDF). It was noted therein that he served three months’ imprisonment for assaulting his reputed wife.

Meanwhile, Caesar received favourable reports from the prison. Prison officials told the probation officer that Caesar was helpful, and would assist other inmates with their studies. The killer is currently enrolled in anger management and barbering classes.

“Had to kill” During her testimony at Caesar’s retrial, Phillips, who is now 25, told the court that during September 2021, both she and her spouse were unemployed.

She said Persaud and her children lived next door to them, and on the night of September 21, 2012, she and Caesar were in their bedroom before he went over to Persaud’s home to get money because he was “broke”.

She recalled that when Caesar left their home, he was clad in three-quarter pants. She recalled that he was carrying a small wooden-handle knife and a pair of gloves.

Phillips recounted that her ex-lover gained entry into the woman’s yard through an opening in a zinc fence. She said she went back into their bedroom, and about a minute after, she looked through the bedroom window and saw Caesar climbing up the stairs and into Persaud’s home.

Phillips told the court that she fell asleep and was awakened by a knocking on the back door. It was Caesar, she added, carrying a cardboard box containing several $20 and $100 notes which amounted to $3000. When Caesar entered their home,

FROM PAGE 8

Phillips said, he told her he “had to kill Jennifer” because she knew him very well, and that she woke up and saw him in her home.

Phillips said her then reputed husband also told her that he had to kill the children, because “they wudda wake up and cry”. The woman told the jury that when Caesar returned home, the knife and his pants were covered in blood. Phillips recalled that Caesar took her to the seawall, where he threw the knife into the ocean.

According to her, he disposed of the gloves and pants in some nearby bushes.

Phillips said she finally informed the Police that it was her spouse who had committed the crime. The woman said that on April 22, 2016, she went to the Tuschen Police Outpost, where she made a report and requested a restraining order against Caesar.

The now-convicted killer was arrested, she said, adding that during a confrontation between them at the Police station, she reminded him that he killed the family, but he told her that she was lying.

Asked why she had kept quiet for so long, Phillips said she was fearful of Caesar because he was abusive. (G1)

NEWS

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THURSDAY, JUNE 17, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

New city along Linden-Soesdyke Highway important in climate change fight – Ali

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resident Dr Irfaan Ali has made it clear that the Silica City concept of a new city along the Soesdyke-Linden Highway is in development, and will be important in mitigating climate change and rising sea levels.

President Ali, who was at the time delivering the keynote address for the University of GuyanaCaribbean Urban Forum webinar, spoke of Silica City, a development the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Government had initiated talks on prior to leaving office in 2015, but which was never continued under the succeeding A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) coalition Government.

“In Guyana, we have a vision of a modernised city with a vibrant waterfront. A new, non-coastal, urban development. Like the planned Silica City along the Soesdyke/ Linden highway. Silica City is not only going to be a new urban centre,” the Head of State, who has a University

of the West Indies (UWI) PhD in urban and regional planning, said on Wednesday.

He was at the time delivering the feature address at the Annual Urban Planning seminar, which was hosted virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“But it’s an important support to Georgetown, because of the challenges climate change and rising sea levels pose to us. This is an area that should be of great interest to planners all across the region,” he said, adding that the development is currently being laid out.

The President further acknowledged that urbanisation is a challenge for Guyana, despite the fact that the Caribbean region as a whole has one of the fastest regional urbanisation rates in the world. According to him, many of the solutions exist right in the region.

He noted that in terms of Guyana, the degree of urbanisation has reduced continuously over the years.

“Urban transformation requires visionary and trans-

President Dr Irfaan Ali speaking at the Annual Urban Planning seminar on Wednesday

formational leadership.

That’s what the Government under my leadership as President is all about. That is what the governments of many of our Caribbean countries are pursuing. A new vision, bold initiative, transformational thinking.”

Transformation of rural areas into new urban goal centres through the attraction of investments and aided by a facility like the Wales Development Authority,” the President further explained to the forum. The President meanwhile also issued a call

for both UG and institutions like the University of the West Indies to be a part of Guyana’s urban transformation journey.

“I would like also to see the University of the West Indies and University of Guyana engaged to be part of this transformational agenda in these areas I am highlighting. The development of hinterland urban centres, improving infrastructure in newly emerging urban settlements like Parika and the Diamond/ Grove settlements, and improving efficiency in urban

transport corridors,” the President said.

Last year, President Ali had revealed that Government had begun discussions on Silica as a secondary city.

He had explained that the Government is looking at an area on the Linden-Soesdyke Highway that would be connected to the new four-lane bypass road.

“We have initiated discussions on having a new area – a secondary city – developed. We are exploring this opportunity along the new four-lane highway, because we are already seeing the pressure on the city itself,” the President had said at the time.

He further noted that as development and expansion continue, there will be more occupation on the outskirts of Georgetown, and the country must be prepared for it. As a result, Government will be putting plans in place to ensure that such growth and development will be facilitated.

President Ali had also explained that the idea is not

new, but was in the pipeline since he was Minister of Housing and Water years ago, when the concept of Silica City was introduced at a Building Expo.

“Now we have to think about the future, think about the floodplain, think about a natural expansion of the city, the industrialisation that will take place,” he said, adding that, in terms of funding, a mix of public-private partnership would be used.

The President’s reference to Silica comes even as many parts of Georgetown are inundated by floodwaters. This has led the President to order a review of all service and maintenance contracts within the sphere of the Government of Guyana and the entire State structure in relation to drainage pumps, sluices, kokers, and drainage and irrigation generally.

Additionally, he has charged Attorney General Anil Nandlall to enforce any penalty clause against contractors who are in breach of their obligations under these contracts.

Prime Minister Brig General (ret’d) Mark Phillips

they show cause why the charges levelled against them should not merit their removal from the Police Service Commission.

Meanwhile, Slowe’s lawyer, Canada-based Guyanese Attorney-at-Law Selwyn Pieters, has released a short statement from his social media account on Wednesday evening, announcing that they would not be responding publicly to the President’s move until later. (G3)

Police Service Commissioners suspended

P

resident Dr Irfaan Ali has ordered the suspension of Police Service Commission (PSC) Chairman Paul Slowe and fellow Commissioner Clinton Conway, both of whom are retired Assistant Commissioners of Police who have been embroiled in controversy.

This came to light in letters addressed to the duo, in which the President informed them that, based on advice from Prime Minister Brigadier General (retired) Mark Phillips, and in accordance with Article 225 of the Constitution of Guyana, they would be suspended pending the findings of a tribunal to be established.

In a correspondence seen by this publication, the President stated, “Please be informed that by letters dated the 15th June 2021, (Prime Minister Phillips) the prescribed authority under the provisions of Article 225 of the Constitution of Guyana, has advised me that the question of your removal as a member of the Police Service Commission ought to be investigated, and that you ought to be suspended from performing the functions of that office with immediate effect pending those investigations.”

He noted in the correspondence, “I have accepted the aforementioned advice, and shall establish a tribunal in the manner prescribed by Article 225, which shall inquire into the matter and report on the facts thereof to me, and recommend whether you ought to be removed from office. In the circumstances, you are hereby suspended with immediate effect from performing the functions of member of the Police

Orders of the Guyana Police Force were completely revised by civilian Police analysts that work at the Strategic Planning Unit of the Guyana Police Force between July 2018 and March 2019. However, Slowe and others were paid to do the same revision when it was already done,” a missive from the Force stated.

In wake of the charges, Prime Minister Phillips recently wrote to Slowe and Conway, demanding that

PSC Chairman, Asst Police Commissioner (ret’d) Paul Slowe

PSC member, Asst Police Commissioner (ret’d) Clinton Conway

Service Commission pending the establishment of the tribunal.”

Article 225 (2) of the Constitution of Guyana states that “The officer may be removed from office only for inability to discharge the functions of his office (whether arising from infirmity of body or mind or any other cause whatsoever) or for misbehaviour.”

Meanwhile, Article 225 (3) says that “The officer shall be removed from office by the President if the question of his removal from office has been referred to a tribunal appointed under this article and the tribunal has recommended to the President that the officer ought to be removed from office for inability as aforesaid or for misbehaviour.”

conducted by the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU).

Slowe has also been accused of sexually assaulting a female officer, something he has denied.

It is alleged that Paul Slowe, Clinton Conway, Claude Whittaker, George Fraser, Mark Gilbert, Royston Andries-Junor, Marcelene Washington, Michael Sutton and Marion Kellman, between March 1, 2019 and July 7, 2020, conspired together to defraud the Guyana Police Force (GPF) of $10M. Reports are that money was paid to revise the entire raft of the Police Force’s Standing Orders, but Slowe and the others have so far failed to present the Force with a raft of completed revised Standing Orders.

The raft of Police Force’s Standing Orders comprises 104 Standing Orders, but these were already revised at the time that the men implicated in the fraud reportedly undertook to conduct a revision.

“The entire 104 Standing

Charges

Conway and Slowe, in addition to several other retired senior Police officers, are presently facing charges of conspiracy to defraud the Guyana Police Force of $10 million. The fraud was unearthed during a probe

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guyanatimesgy.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 17, 2021

News

Judge recalls $20M award in default libel judgement against Jagdeo …but upholds libel decision …appeal to be filed – lawyer

A

judgment for libel against Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo has been upheld by Justice Sandra Kurtzious, but on Wednesday she recalled her previous award of $20 million in damages to former APNU/ AFC Government Minister Annette Ferguson, who had filed the proceedings.

This is in relation to the default libel judgement against Jagdeo for failure to file a defence in the case brought by Ferguson.

The Judge has since invited the parties to file submissions ahead of a hearing for assessment on damages by July 7, which will be followed by a ruling on July 28. On March 11, Justice Kurtzious rendered the default judgment after Jagdeo’s lawyers at the time failed to file a defence within the time prescribed under Art 12:01 (2) (d) of the Civil Procedure Rules (CPR).

Shortly after the judgment was rendered, Jagdeo, through his lawyer Devindra Kissoon, moved to have it set aside, and, among other things, contended that his failure to file a defence can be justified, that Ferguson did not meet the require-

Justice Sandra Kurtzious

ments for such a judgement, and that he has real prospects in defending the claim.

Hoping to have the judgement set aside, Kissoon said the lawyer who had represented his client, Anil Nandlall, SC, the current Attorney General, had drafted a defence before January 27, 2020, but owing to several reasons, it was not filed.

Kissoon submitted that Nandlall was preoccupied, having been responsible for a large part of the PPP/C’s campaign for the March 2020 national election, and being extensively and exclusively engaged in matters

relating to elections, including acting as lead counsel for Jagdeo in election-related litigation, as well as matters involving a recount of votes.

“These tasks resulted in Mr. Nandlall inadvertently failing to file the defence, though drafted. This inadvertence was not due to neglect, but rather a combination of unusual and exceptional circumstances which caused counsel to simply be unable to comply with the time limits established by the rules,” Kissoon had said.

Although the reasons for the non-filing of a defence proffered by Jagdeo were numerous, Justice Kurtzious held, “They left the court unconvinced as to their accuracy and reasonableness.” According to her, the time for the filing of a defence began to run from January 2020, and one year later, in January 2021, no steps had been taken to cure the default.

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

ExxonMobil donates $20.9M to VYC for online STEM programme

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olunteer Youth Corps Inc (VYC) has received a contribution of $20.9 million from ExxonMobil Guyana to support the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education afterschool programme in Guyana.

On Wednesday, VYC said this new commitment would ensure the improvement and continuity of online afterschool academic classes for 700 students at 15 high schools in Regions

Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara) and Four (Demerara-Mahaica).

According to VYC, initially, the programme was geared to assist students from grades 9 to 11. However, for the first time, VYC will additionally cater for students and teachers in grades seven and eight.

Commenting on the donation, Chief Executive Officer Goldie Scott said VYC was able to rise to the task of connecting students in the face of seemingly insurmount-

able challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We have been able to support students and teachers during this difficult time by connecting them via ZOOM and other platforms, as well as providing laptops, tablets and other devices,” she added.

This year, in an effort to encourage academic growth, VYC would loan 150 tablets to disadvantaged students under the programme, to ensure they are able to participate in the online classes, as well as sustain or improve their performances. Students would also be able to view recorded class sessions via VYC’s social media platforms.

Meanwhile, VYC has awarded Deandre Serieux, a former student of Central High School and beneficiary of the programme, one HP laptop. Deandre gained 10 grade ones and a grade two in his 2016 CSEC examinations. VYC has congratulated Deandre on his outstanding performance.

The STEM afterschool programme has been implemented under the funding of ExxonMobil Guyana since 2012, contributing nearly $100 million to date. The programme is also supported by the Education Ministry.

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo

did not discover that the defence, though drafted, was not filed.

Addressing this, Justice Kurtzious said, “[Jagdeo’s] claim that his counsel’s chambers were shuttered cannot be a true representation of the situation that existed when other explanations are examined.” The Judge asked, “How could his [Nandlall’s] office be shuttered for several months when, as stated by [Jagdeo], counsel was constantly in court representing [his] interest in [his] capacity as Leader of the Opposition?”

According to the High Court Judge, Jagdeo’s claim that his failure to file a defence was as a result of the courts not sitting for most of 2020 “is incorrect, to say the least.” She added, “The court was never closed totally to the public…” In doing so, she outlined the COVID-19 practice directions issued by the Judiciary that were decimated by the Bar Association.

Ferguson had filed the lawsuit in January 2020, and

claimed therein that Jagdeo, who was at the time Leader of the Opposition, made defamatory statements in which he questioned her acquisition of a house lot and the construction of her home at Eccles on the East Bank of Demerara.

Ferguson, in her proceedings, had complained that the unjustified statements have tarnished her reputation.

In his application seeking to overturn the default judgement, Jagdeo had also filed a defence, in which he argued that he had a real prospect of defending the lawsuit since the statements he made about the former APNU/AFC Government Minister were not defamatory.

Jagdeo’s lawyer submitted that the defence of justification, fair comment, qualified privilege, and the provisions of the Defamation Act apply in this case. As such, the lawyer submitted that his client acted reasonably and responsibly as a constitutional office holder.

Having examined the statements made about Ferguson, Justice Kurtzious held that they were very serious allegations, as they suggested she was corrupt and involved in misappropriation. The Judge said the defences relied on by Jagdeo could not stand. “[Jagdeo] must have bourne the seriousness of the allegations when he compounded his utterance (for) he dared [Ferguson] to sue him. His utterances, therefore, do not meet the threshold of public concern. They were uttered in the face of materials that ought to have

Former APNU/AFC Government Minister Annette Ferguson

put him on notice that his utterances were not accurate. [Jagdeo] also failed to disclose the source of the information he disseminated,” Justice Kurtzious said.

She said Jagdeo’s submission that at the time of making the statement he was “only wondering” reflects “[his] lack of knowledge of the events, if any, to which he referred.”

Moreover, there is also no evidence that he sought to verify the information he sought to disseminate,” she added.

As such, the High Court Judge concluded that Jagdeo has no real prospects of defending the claim. In the circumstances, his application to have the judgement set aside was dismissed, with the court ordering him to pay costs in the sum of $75,000 to Ferguson.

Contacted on Wednesday evening for a comment, Jagdeo’s lawyer said, “I have been instructed by my client to file an appeal.” (G1)

Woman killed in Baramita accident

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woman was on Wednesday killed in an accident at Baramita, Region One (Barima-Waini).

The dead woman has been identified as Wanita Sobers of Baramita. She was a passenger in a minibus which was involved in a fatal crash.

When contacted, Commander Khalid Mandall confirmed that a woman died in the accident, but could not give any other details since ranks were on scene gathering information.

Based on reports, the minibus was the only vehicle involved in the accident.

Initial reports reaching Guyana Times indicate that the driver of the vehicle has been hospitalised.

Dead: Wanita Sobers

Premier Insurance supports flood-affected persons

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lmost 100 households received food hampers, which were donated by Premier Insurance.

In committing to provide flood relief to support the country, Premier General Manager Anil Singh said that the entity, assisted

by Region Five (MahaicaBerbice) Chairman Vickchand Ramphal, went to the Mahaica River Area, where they conducted their outreach programme.

This initiative forms part of Premier’s Corporate Social Responsibility, which entails bringing relief to

communities negatively affected by the recent heavy rainfall. Premier, Singh said, will continue its effort to lend support to other areas that are seriously affected and is proud to be a part of a broader group of businesses that have come forward to assist.

guyanatimesgy.com

THURSDAY, JUNE 17, 2021

21

ARCHIE

ARIES (March 21April 19)

TAURUS

DILBERT

(April 20May 20)

GEMINI (May 21June 20)

PEANUTS

CALVIN AND HOBBES

SUDOKU

Update the way you live and how you spend your spare time. Focus on physical exercise that will help build strength. Go on a nature walk to ease stress and find peace of mind.

A change will help you regenerate and give you a sense of purpose. Put a plan in place that will encourage stability and tranquility.

Now's the time to get things done.

Don't believe everything you hear. Look at the fine print before you agree to something that can disrupt your life. Discipline and hard work will bring you the highest returns.

CANCER (June 21July 22)

Make your home a place of love, tranquility and happiness. Share feelings with loved ones, and make adjustments that will bring you peace of mind. Celebrate with loved ones.

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

Be observant and seek the truth. Share only information you can verify. Walk away from controversy that serves no purpose. Focus on personal growth and on getting things done.

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22)

Question anything that sounds too good to be valid. Get what you want in writing to avoid disappointment. Be honest with yourself about your feelings, and make changes with your happiness in mind.

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

An open mind will help you gather valuable information.

Show restraint when dealing with people who are incapable of change and reluctant to compromise. Go about your business and do things your way.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22)

Offer assistance, and something good will transpire. Someone you connect with will offer valuable information. Take a unique route, and you'll find peace of mind.

Be careful when dealing SAGITTARIUS with partners, colleagues or (Nov. 23anyone who doesn't share Dec. 21) your opinion. Keep your head down and work diligently to accomplish your goals.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22Jan. 19)

SOLUTION FOR LAST PUBLISHED PUZZLE

Stretch your legs, go for a hike, take in the scenery and mull over what you want to pursue. Unique ideas will encourage you to try something new and to get involved with like-minded people.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20Feb. 19)

Be careful what you share with whom. Someone will give you a false impression. Take the initiative to do your research, and cultivate your ideas to suit your needs.

Trust in your abilities.

PISCES

Don't rush to criticize someone. Truth matters, and being able to rely on those closest to you will be a must.

Ask questions and offer straight answers, and you'll know what to do next.

(Feb. 20March 20)

22

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

THURSDAY, JUNE 17, 2021

Atlantis CC steamroll Suburbia SC in Busta Lawrence Premier League fixture

I

n a Clement Busta Lawrence Premier League (2021) match played over the weekend at the Roy Wilkins Park in Queens, NY, Atlantis Cricket Club brushed aside Suburbia Sports Club in a one-sided affair.

Atlantis CC won the toss and elected to bat. The side featured players of Guyanese heritage such as Randall Wilson and the much-known Guyanese players Winston Forrester and Ronaldo Ali Mohammad, who all starred in the action-packed fixture.

The 40-over fixture got

find their line and length.

Forrester in particular was looking good. He scored an 18-ball 23 which included 2 boundaries and 1 maximum before he was dismissed.

His opening partner Wilson continued to keep

balls, inclusive of 8 boundaries and 9 maximums.

The show was far from over, as Mohammad then came and finished things off with a brilliant 41 off 22 balls, which included 2 boundaries and 3 maximums, to have the Atlantis side post 345-4

Winston Forrester chipped in with a quickfire 23

off to a cracking start, as Forrester and Wilson opened the batting. The pair found the boundary with ease as the Suburbia side failed to

Ronaldo Ali Mohammad chipped in with 41* and 2-14

Skipper Randall Wilson driving to reach his first century of the 2021 season for Atlantis

things going as he showed a touch of class and aggression in every aspect of the game.

Wilson continued to find the boundary, and was ably supported by Dimitri Adams.

When Adams departed for 97, Wilson continued to do his thing, in the end scoring a brilliant 151 off 127

Guyanese Archer Devin Permaul hunts Olympic qualification in Paris

in their allotted overs.

Suburbia SC were faced with a massive target of 346 for victory, but the pressure was on and the entire team failed to live up to their expectations. They were bowled out for 82 in 21.2 overs, with no batsman passing the 15run mark.

The chief wicket-takers were Dillon Bourne, with 4-36; Sumantro Das, with 3-15; Ali Mohammad, with 2-14; and Greg Robinson,

A

s Guyanese Archer Devin Permaul presses on in his bid to reach the Tokyo Summer Olympics, he will now head to Paris for another shot at qualification for the World event.

The final qualification tournament for Tokyo was initially scheduled to be held in Berlin in June 2020, but following the one-year delay of the Games, the venue has been replaced by Paris.

This Olympic qualification tournament in Paris is designated as the final qualification tournament, and it is the last chance for our Guyanese Archer Devin Permaul to obtain his ticket to the Tokyo Games.

The tournament will take place at the Stade

Charléty in Paris from June 19th to 21st, 2021.

During his most recent showing in Canada, Permaul kept the Golden Arrowhead flying high amidst a fierce field of competitors, where he scored 639 and 651 from a possible 720 in his first and second rounds respectively.

Aside from that competition, Permaul has continued training assiduously.

There are three quota places in these Paris Championships which are reserved for countries in the Americas, and those can be won only by countries which have not already secured a place. Each nation can collect a maximum of only one quota place per gender. As such, the pressure on the Guyanese Archer and coun-

tryman is high, and the battle for these quota places would be intense.

In the midst of all this excitement, Devin, when asked how he is feeling about his upcoming engagement, responded: “I feel confident about Paris, and shooting in the 650s has put my confidence at an all-time high.”

Following the qualification tournament, Paris would also host the 2021 Archery World Cup from June 21st to 28th, at which Guyana would also be represented.

The Board of Directors of Archery Guyana wishes Devin Permaul all the best, and urges all of Guyana to rally around him and send positive energy from all across the miles for Guyana.

with 1-16.

In their time playing abroad, all three Guyanese players have lived up to the expectations of many.

Forrester has played 11 matches to date, scoring runs at an average of 39.30 and having a strike rate of 117.31, with 393 runs and 4 wickets to his tally.

Wilson, who is much more seasoned, has scored

1,260 runs at an average of 48.46 and a strike rate of 105.56. He has 2 wickets to his name, while Ali Mohammad, who has just started his journey, has scored 122 runs from his two matches at an average of 122.00 and a strike rate of 190.62.

The Atlantis CC are 2nd on the points table with a perfect record of 4 wins.

Holder tells how it feels to be on top of the world of all-rounders

T

Devin Permaul in action at the recent PanAm Championships in Mexico

Randall Wilson top scored with 151

he latest International Cricket Council (ICC) Test match rankings tell the story. Jason Holder stands supreme as the number 1 all-rounder in Test cricket – a spot he has held for over a year.

The 29-year-old sat down with us recently at the team hotel in the idyllic surroundings at Gros Islet in Saint Lucia and gave some insight into his vision on the game.

The ICC’s communique following the first Betway Test listed Holder at 423 rating points – 40 points ahead of Ravindra Jadeja, the dynamic left-hander from India, and England talisman Ben Stokes (385). Holder is also in the top 10 among bowlers, at number 8 with 755 points – making him the leading West Indies bowler.

In the first Betway Test, he took four wickets and held two sharp catches in the slip cordon.

So how did this larger-than-life figure decide that being an all-rounder was his thing.

“I felt at a young age I wanted to give myself every opportunity to be successful.

I wanted to be involved in everything on the field, whether it was batting, bowling, keeping

wicket… everything…keep myself active and involved in the game,” he said.

Holder’s foundation was built at The St Michael School in Barbados, where he honed his skills under the guidance of the late Ezra Moseley, himself a former West Indies all-rounder. Holder moved on to the historic Wanderers Cricket Club, where he joined a team with former West Indies players Ian Bradshaw and Pedro Collins. Later, Kraigg Brathwaite, Raymon Reifer and Shayne Moseley joined the Wanderers ranks as t h e y formed a strong t e a m along-

side Holder in the local club competitions.

“My Test cricket has gone really, really well.

One-Day cricket, I really enjoy that, and in T20 I’m truly now getting back into it. It can be hard going from limited overs into Test cricket. If you start with Test cricket that helps you to get in-tuned and phase into the white-ball formats,” he said.

Holder has had some major successes in his game.

His finest hour was the monumental double-century at Kensington Oval against England in 2019, which gave the West Indies a 1-0 lead in the Wisden Trophy Test Series. West Indies went on to win the series 2-1. He has also reaped success in T20s as a member of the squad which won the ICC T20 World Cup in 2016; and was the captain when the Barbados Tridents lifted the Caribbean Premier League Trophy back in 2019. (Windies Cricket)

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23 Over 300 athletes register for National Seniors THURSDAY, JUNE 17, 2021

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

…Event will be used as a Test case for CARIFTA Games

A

n exhilarating weekend packed with track and field action is expected as the Senior Athletics Championships gets underway this Friday.

In excess of 300 athletes are said to be registered for the National Seniors (June 18 to 20), a three-day meet that would be used to test the water for future international events, and President of the Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG), Aubrey Hutson, is impressed with the large turnout.

Leeron Brumell

making a lot of noise about wanting to put their athletes in,” Hutson shared.

On the topic of crowd control, Hutson shared how the numbers would be

The National Seniors promises some exciting action this weekend (Jemima Holmes Photo)

“This event is packed!

Even though we would have limited it to three athletes per club in an event, we still have clubs

Approved by the National COVID-19 Task Force, the event would, however, be missing its boisterous athletics fans.

managed.

He divulged, “What we’ve been advising the clubs is to allow only the athletes who are compet-

G

their biosecure bubbles, the only way to get through it is by mak-

ing new friends and bonding with them.

“All you can do is just keep a smile on your face and try to enjoy being around people,” the West Indian cricketer said. He added that West Indian cricketers are no different, as they also enjoy themselves in the field while playing.

Hetmyer had indicated he was taking the remainder of the PSL in Abu Dhabi as an opportunity to learn and to acclimatise for the T20 World Cup, which is likely to be played in UAE. “In every practice session, I'm trying as much as possible to gain as much experience in terms of knowing the bowlers and knowing the guys more, so I could probably go back at home and just work on my game,” Hetmyer said.

He also agreed that the bio-secure bubble could take a toll on players’ mental health, but said there is nothing much one can do, as this has become a new norm, at least in the cricket world, and it is being done to protect the health of people involved.

Hetmyer has represented West Indies in 16 Tests, 45 ODIs, and 27 T20Is. (Brandon Corlette)

uyana and West Indies batsman Shimron Hetmyer has left Abu Dhabi, and is set to return to the Caribbean after playing only two matches for the Multan Sultans in the Pakistan Super League (PSL).

Hetmyer scored seven in his PSL debut, and did not bat in his second match.

The left-hander is in the West Indies provisional T20 squad that would play T20 series against South Africa, Australia and Pakistan. West Indies would play the first T20 against South Africa on June 26 in Grenada, and the players are expected to begin camp shortly.

On his social media platform, Hetmyer said: "It's really sad that I only had the opportunity to be around the guys at Multan Sultans for just two games, but friendships were made, and I was very honoured to be part of such a wonderful group of guys. All the best for the rest of the tournament, guys."

Prior to the start of the second half of the PSL, Hetmyer had said he was determined to learn something new. The 24-year-old has said that during times when people are confined to

ing in that session to come to the venue, because the COVID-19 (Task Force) has given us clear guidelines on how many people you should have at any given point (in) time.”

Huston revealed that the AAG are working out any technical issues to pull off a successful meet.

“The technical meeting should be on Thursday (today). We’re going to really and truly sanctify the technical meet programme in terms of athletes being placed in their respective lanes. A preliminary list is already out, and we have as (many)as four heats in the 100M. So, the technical delegate is looking back at that to see if we’ll have to do preliminary semifinals and finals. That’s going to be worked out between now and tomorrow afternoon,” the AAG President explained.

Aside from providing athletes with the opportunity to collect points in hope of Olympic qualification, the National Seniors would serve as an opportunity for CARIFTA’s Local Organizing Committee to test some plans.

Media Manager Leeron

AAG President Aubrey Hutson

Brumell explained some of the AAG’s motives.

“A number of systems will be done, so at the end of the three days that we have here, we’ll sit down, assess what we started with, our strengths and our weaknesses, and then of course evaluating that to make it better, and fine tune it for CARIFTA,” Brumell noted.

“We are constantly meeting with NACAC officials in our weekly meetings, and updating them on our plan. At this stage we are ahead, according to NACAC officials, with our planning on paper,” the LOC member boasted.

The Local Organising Committee would also be looking to scout accommodation, create a warm- up

track, and relocate the long-jump area; all suggestions that NACAC have made upon their inspection of the Leonora Track and Field Facility.

However, not all of those plans would be instituted as soon as this weekend.

Several foreign-based Guyanese athletes are suiting up for the National Seniors, such as Chantoba Bright, Aliyah and Jasmine Abrams, Arinze Chance and Jeremy Bascom. Athletes finishing first to third place would receive monetary prizes and medals, with the exception of student athletes or those aspiring (scholarship athletes are not given monetary prizes by the AAG). (Jemima Holmes)

THURSDAY, JUNE 17, 2021

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

Page 23

Over 300 athletes register for National Seniors …Event will be used as a Test case for CARIFTA Games Page 22

NBA playoffs 2021…

Durant’s 49-point triple-double sinks Bucks

J

– as Nets reclaim series’ lead

ames Harden stole the headlines pregame, but it was Kevin Durant who dazzled with a monster triple-double to inspire the Brooklyn Nets to a 114-108 win over the Milwaukee Bucks in the NBA playoffs.

Harden was cleared to return for Game 5 of the Eastern Conference semi-finals, which was deadlocked at 2-2 upon the former MVP’s comeback from a hamstring injury on Tuesday.

However, Harden struggled badly as teammate Durant stole the show with 49 points, 17 rebounds and 10 assists – almost singlehandedly reclaiming Brooklyn’s series lead following back-to-back losses.

Durant did not miss a minute of the clash at Barclays Center, where the second-seeded Nets withstood Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Bucks to move ahead 3-2, after being outscored 29-15 in the open-

ing period.

According to Stats Perform, Durant became the first player to post 48-plus points while playing all 48 minutes in a regulation playoff game since Kobe Bryant in 2001.

Durant – a former MVP and two-time NBA champion – is the first player in NBA history with a 45/15/10 postseason game, after moving the Nets within a win of the Conference Finals.

Back in the line-up, Harden played all but

two minutes; however, he was one-for-10 shooting for five points as Jeff Green (27) and Blake Griffin (17) were the only other Brooklyn players to finish with double-digit points.

Antetokounmpo put up a 34-point, 12-rebound double-double, but it was not enough for the visiting Bucks.

Khris Middleton contributed 25 points for the third-seeded Bucks, who led 59-43 at halftime, before the Nets rallied. (Sportsmax)

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