Guyana Times - Tuesday, February 23, 2021

India pledges to be reliable partner with Guyana in collective COVID-19 fight Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana guyanatimesgy.com

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THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Issue No. 4568

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2021

PRICE

As Guyana celebrates 51st Republic Anniversary

Embrace unity and One Guyana – President Ali tells Guyanese Page 3

$80 VAT INCLUDED

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Govt working to reduce P17 transportation costs for Region 8 – President …says flurry of investments underway

Cheap power P14 brings opportunities, investments – Vickram Bharrat

…as energy conference places spotlight on energy, partnerships

Guyana's P18 COVID-19 death toll now 190 …over 1800 persons receive 1st dose of vaccine As Guyana ushered in its 51st Republic Anniversary, President Dr Irfaan Ali and Prime Minister, Retired Brigadier Mark Phillips receive the salute from the Guard of Honour at the Public Building, Stabroek, Georgetown on Monday evening. In this composite photo, ranks of the Guyana Defence Force raise the Golden Arrowhead as the nation celebrates Mashramani 2021

US looking forward to closer ties with Guyana – President Biden Page 5

…in areas of security, economic growth, development

48 GDF officers promoted

Page 19

…Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan promoted to Colonel

Housing sector Fisherman dies fell apart under after throat APNU/AFC – Rodrigues slashed by cousin at …provides evidence showing house lot birthday celebration allocations nosedived after 2015

Body in septic tank

Housemate P8 confesses, murder stemmed from infidelity accusations

Cellphones, P7 improvised weapons found during prison raids

Page 16

Page 7

Father remanded for harbouring son, other prison escapees Page 15

Man set on fire P9 following scuffle Saharan dust haze increasing over Guyana P17 …could be hazardous – Hydromet warns

NEWS

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TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS OPENINGS BRIDGE

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Tuesday, February 23 – 02:30h – 04:00h and 13:00h – 14:30h and Wednesday, February 24 – 03:00h – 04:30h and 13:30h – 15:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Tuesday, February 23 – 13:15h – 14:45h and Wednesday, February 24 – 14:05h – 15:35h.

As Guyana celebrates 51st Republic Anniversary

Embrace unity and One Guyana – President Ali tells Guyanese

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY Expect sunshine during the day. There will be partly cloudy skies at night. Temperatures should range between 22 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius.

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High Tide: 13:53h reaching a maximum height of 2.23 metres.

Low Tide: 07:24h and 20:02h reaching minimum heights of 1.12 metre and 0.91 metre.

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President Irfaan Ali

s Guyana celebrates its 51st Republic Anniversary, President Dr Irfaan Ali has urged the populace to embrace the concept of unity and one Guyana, which are important if the country is to move forward and live up to its full potential.

In his Republic Day message, Dr Ali noted that Guyana’s Independence and Republic Day anniversaries herald Guyana’s struggles to exist as a nation of the free and working to develop its patrimony.

“Our country’s national motto, “One people, One nation, One destiny”, is the tripod upon which our independent and republican statehood rests. The elements of our national motto commit us to the pursuit of unity; it affirms our sovereignty and shapes our ambitions,” he said.

According to President Ali, “One people” is a nod to Guyana’s ethnic diversity, while “One nation” signals unity in the face of external threats. According to the President, “One destiny” asserts the country’s shared aspiration of living in a just and prosperous society.

“The ‘One Guyana’ project, which I recently launched, celebrates our oneness as enunciated in our national motto. It is aimed at excising the vices of ethnic rancour, hatred and divisiveness; breaking down barriers of mistrust, suspicion, and stereotypes; and fostering greater tolerance and understanding. The One Guyana Project will encourage respect for the immeasurable worth of every citizen regardless of his or her race, religious belief or class.”

“The establishment of a One Guyana Commission attests to the inclusive approach which is necessary to realise the ambitions which we set ourselves both at Independence and upon becoming a Republic. As I alluded in my address to the National Assembly, the One Guyana Commission will be given legislative effect,” President Ali said.

According to him, the One Guyana Commission will be empowered to take

the practical steps necessary to bring the country together and closer to a general respect for diversity.

Moreover, he noted that the Commission will pay homage to Guyana’s ancestral heritage and celebrate multiculturism.

“The festival of Mashramani is a celebration of our multiethnic identity. Unfortunately, this year’s observances, including today’s flag-raising ceremony, have had to be moderated because of the coronavirus pandemic. We rest assured that the pall of this pandemic will disappear, and with it will come the return to the radiance, colour and liveliness of our Republic celebrations.”

“In the meantime, let us continue to celebrate our republican anniversary in the best possible way – by working and living together in peace and harmony. May God bless our Republic! May God bless each of our citizens and our efforts at fashioning a One Guyana!” he concluded his speech.

Opposition

Meanwhile, the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) released a statement that extended greetings to all Guyanese but expressed regret that the customary celebration of Mashramani has been deferred due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Mashramani is an occasion when we celebrate, reflect, analyse and showcase the state of our na-

tion. As future generations of Guyanese look back at national and international events and how they were honoured or celebrated during this COVID-19 pandemic it should be evident to all that we, as Guyanese, redoubled our efforts to cope with crime, disease, ignorance and poverty during this period.”

“As we reflect, our efforts must be defined in how we strengthened national unity, expanded national infrastructure, fortified national institutions, improved national health care, ensured national security, encouraged arts and entrainment and extended public services to all of Guyana,” the opposition party said.

The APNU/AFC, therefore, urged Guyanese to recommit to the ideal of unity for a prosperous Guyana, where Guyanese can show resilience in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic. They also took the opportunity to remind Guyanese to social distance, wash their hands and wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) in public.

Opposition Leader Joseph Harmon

Meanwhile, the customary flag-raising ceremony, inclusive of cultural presentations, was hosted at Parliament Buildings at Brickdam, Georgetown, on Monday evening. In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, however, social distancing was in effect and thus, the observance did not have the usual crowd.

Earlier in the day, the Guyana Defence Force and the Guyana Police Force conducted elaborate drills.

And as night fell, a number of colourful cultural presentations that reflected Guyana’s multiculturalism were broadcast. (G3)

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guyanatimesgy.com

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2021

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Celebrating our Republican status

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uyana’s attainment of its Republican status from Great Britain on February 23, 1970 remains an indelible part of this country’s history, and each year, colourful celebrations and the ceremonial hoisting of the Golden Arrowhead are undertaken to remind everyone of its struggle to become an independent nation.

In the past, we have had spectacular children’s costume competitions, float parades, masquerade bands, and dancing in the streets to the accompaniment of steel pan music. This is in addition to the many calypso and chutney competitions that were held across the country. However, unfortunately, this year as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, none of this was hosted.

Nonetheless, all Guyanese should be excited and proud that our nation is celebrating 51 years as a Republic.

As expected, many citizens are engaged in debates and discussions about the level of progress we have made as a country. No doubt, we would all agree that our development could have been further accelerated had it not been for delays under the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Government. However, this should not cause us to lose sight of the many important achievements that were made over the past couple of decades or so.

Guyana is still a relatively young nation, and there is evidence that we have come a far way. Many of the developed countries took hundreds of years to achieve the level of development that they boast about, but this should not be an excuse for our leaders not to work hard enough to help our citizens achieve their dreams and aspirations.

For example, while there remain many challenges, over the past couple of decades or so, there have been significant improvements in the delivery of education and health care, among other social services. The housing boom, which started and picked up pace under the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government, is regarded as a model in the Caricom region. At the time, owning a home was just a dream for many Guyanese, today this has become reality, as quite a few new housing schemes were opened up and existing ones were expanded and upgraded. In essence, home ownership was made much easier.

As was stated earlier, there is still a far way to go, as quite a number of Guyanese are still living below the poverty line.

Continued efforts must, therefore, be made by our political leaders and other development partners in ensuring that more persons are provided with the opportunities to raise their standard of living. In this regard, the PPP/C Government must be commended for its renewed efforts at generating wealth and creating jobs for citizens. As this publication stated a few weeks ago, with oil revenues to provide financing and natural gas to supply cheap electricity for the next three decades, Guyana is poised through the strategic developmental choices of the PPP to finally move “From Third World to First”. Therefore, our leaders from all sides of the political divide must know that our children’s future cannot be realised if they walk separately and in different directions. This year’s celebrations, despite being celebrated virtually because of the COVID-19 pandemic, should remind us that Mashramani is the symbolism of our oneness. It represents the desire of people of all races to cooperate; to sing, dance and revel together.

When we became a Republic, our aspiration was to crown our Independence with the status of full and complete nationhood, and to make our people sovereign. Republicanism must, therefore, be viewed as a historic continuity of all that our ancestors stood for, struggled against, and hoped to achieve. It is hoped that every Guyanese, especially our leaders, would continue to pool their resources and talents and work harder to further develop our communities and country as a whole.

Dancers display the colours of Guyana’s national flag on their costumes during the entertaining and cultural programme hosted at the Public Building, Stabroek, Georgetown on Monday evening to usher in Guyana’s 51st Republic Anniversary

Guyana on renewed path to prosperity, transformation through modernisation – PPP

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s our nation celebrates its 51st anniversary as a Republic, the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) takes this opportunity to express best wishes to all Guyanese, both at home and in the Diaspora.

Mashramani represents our history of struggles and pride in self-governance and builds on celebration after hard work.

As a nation, we must reflect on where we came from and celebrate our efforts that have led to Guyana becoming a country known for its rich diversity and resilience.

The Party is cognisant that due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the much- anticipated annual vibrant Costume and Float Parade on Mash Day and other related activities across the country prior to and on February 23rd would not be held.

These celebrations have become fundamental in reflecting our revelry after

hard work and Guyana’s rich diversity which defines our multi-ethnic, multi-religious and multi-cultural composition.

While the characteristic splendour of the multitude of colours splashed to the pulsating beat of music will be absent and missed this year, it will not diminish the true significance of what Mashramani means to us as a nation, which 51 years ago saw the end of the final aspect of colonial rule by achieving Republic status.

This 51st anniversary comes at a time when our dear country is on a renewed path to prosperity and transformation through modernisation. This path may not have been traversed had Guyanese not stood up through relentless struggles for democracy to prevail following the constitutional transgressions of the then APNU/AFC regime and its blatant attempts to subvert the will of the Guyanese

people following the March 2, 2020, elections.

That five-month period tested us as a nation and as a people. In the end, not only were our democracy and image restored, but our resolve strengthened and our commitment to safeguard our democratic processes, fortified.

All Guyanese won from this and all will benefit from the country’s current developmental trajectory.

As we observe this occasion, our Party reiterates that, with a proven record of unprecedented and sustained development, it remains committed to continue working in the best interest of Guyana and Guyanese to enhance the welfare of all.

The symbols of our nationhood, including our National Flag and the Constitution, must be respected by all Guyanese in demonstration of our patriotism. Our fortitude and passion for the further development of our nation should be

prioritised even in the face of adversity.

As we are faced with the reality of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is important that we remain focused on our health and well-being. As such, despite not being able to revel in the same manner as before, we should remain mindful that we have struggled as a nation but that our efforts have not gone in vain. That in itself is worthy of celebration.

It is the Party’s fervent hope that all will reflect on Guyana’s journey since attaining its status as a Republic, and continue to be imbued with patriotism and pride as we celebrate the occasion of Mashramani 2021 in a safe and responsible way.

Let us commit to working together towards a united and stronger Guyana and to the important task of nation-building.

Happy Mashramani to all Guyanese.

Guyana celebrates 51st Republic Anniversary

India pledges to be reliable partner with Guyana in collective COVID-19 fight

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n behalf of the Government and the people of India and on my own behalf, I extend warm greetings and felicitations to your Excellency, the Government and people of Guyana on the occasion of your Republic Day. India attaches immense importance to our ties with Guyana.

Our two countries share warm and friendly relations with growing engagements in the political, economic, commercial and cultural fields. I am confident that our partnership will be further strengthened in the years to come.

India’s gesture of solidarity by

Indian President Ram Nath Kovind

way of extending medical supplies and protective gear last year, to assist the Government and friendly people of Guyana in their fight against the COVID-19 pandemic is symbolic of our close relations. India will continue to be a reliable partner of Guyana in the collective fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.

I convey my best wishes to Your Excellency’s good health and well-being and continued progress and prosperity of the friendly people of Guyana.

Please accept, Excellency, the assurances of my highest consideration.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2021

guyanatimesgy.com

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News

Guyana’s 51st Republic Anniversary

US looking forward to closer ties with Guyana – President Biden …in areas of security, economic growth, development

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nited States (US) President Joseph Biden, in extending Republic Anniversary wishes to Guyana on Monday, said that the US is looking forward to working with Guyana on issues that include security threats to their shared interests and economic development.

In his message on the occasion of Guyana’s 51st anniversary as a republic, the recently inaugurated US President congratulated Guyana and described the country as having a strong democracy.

Looking forward, the US President expressed optimism on working with Guyana to address issues such as security concerns “that threaten our shared interest”. This statement comes in the wake of recent acts of aggression by Venezuela against Guyana, as the Spanish-speaking country sought to reinforce its illegal claim on Essequibo and the maritime space.

“Guyana is a strong de-

US President Joseph Biden

mocracy, and I look forward to strengthening our bilateral relationship based on shared principles of good governance, prosperity, and security. The challenges of COVID-19 affect all of us and make clear that we must advance our partnership to face the global pandemic, together,” President Biden said.

He noted that in the year ahead, he looks forward to

bilateral teams addressing the issues and security concerns that threaten shared interests, while building on Guyana’s economic growth and development.

“I wish you and all the people of Guyana a joyous and safe Mashramani,” the US President’s message concluded.

Biden’s Republic Anniversary wishes for closer ties with Guyana comes on the heels of the current People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Government’s building of a stronger than ever bilateral relationship with the US. This included the visit last year of former US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to Guyana.

Pompeo is the highest-ranking US Government official to have ever visited Guyana. He had played a prominent role in pushing for democracy and the will of the people to be respected in Guyana during the tumultuous five months following the March 2, 2020 General and Regional Elections.

During that period, Pompeo and other State Department officials issued several statements urging then President David Granger to respect the results of the elections and allow for a smooth transition of Government to the duly-elected PPP/C Government. Pompeo even announced visa sanctions against members of the then regime.

Last year, Guyana also signed a shiprider agreement with the US which has since been operationalised with joint patrols in Guyana’s waters that currently focus on illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing. Guyana’s Coast Guard has also been working in collaboration with the US Coast Guard Cutter Stone, which is currently in the region for a multi-country tour.

In January of this year, the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) also entered into an agreement with the US Department of Defense that

President Irfaan Ali

can see Guyana benefitting from logistics support from the US, as well as supplies and equipment that will include military vehicles and ammunition.

The signing was done at State House, between GDF Chief of Staff, Brigadier General Godfrey Bess and US Admiral Craig S Faller.

Admiral Faller, a decorated war veteran who heads the US Southern Command,

was at the time on a threeday visit to Guyana.

In his remarks after the signing, Faller had explained that the visit and consequential agreement had been in the works for some time and builds on the increased collaboration between the US and Guyana.

A perusal of the agreement, which was seen by this publication, showed that the scope of this support includes oil and lubricants, clothing, medical services, spare parts and ammunition, as well as the use of facilities, ports and training services.

Meanwhile, Article III (2) of the agreement says that the provision of this logistical support from one military to another can be done in exchange for “Monetary Reimbursement, Replacement-In-Kind, or Equal-Value-Exchange of Logistic Support, Supplies, and Services to the military forces of the Supplying Party.” (G3)

CAD$90M pledged for improvement of Canada-Caricom relations

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anada on Monday pledged CAD$90 million for the improvement of its relations with the Caribbean Community (Caricom).

The pledge was made during the first meeting of the Canada-Caricom Foreign Ministers’ Group.

Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Marc Garneau co-chaired the meeting with Belize’s

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade and Immigration Eamon Courtenay. Courtenay is also the incoming Chair of the Council for Foreign and Community Relations of the Caribbean Community (Caricom).

The Canada-Caricom Foreign Ministers’ Group serves as a platform for Canada and Caribbean partners to discuss shared prior-

ities and opportunities for coordinated action.

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During the meeting, the Ministers exchanged views on their countries’ coordinated response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, identified shared priorities in achieving inclusive economic growth in the region and discussed areas of collaboration on climate resilience to support an inclusive and sustainable recovery.

Garneau affirmed Canada’s strong support for the COVAX facility, and Canada’s commitment to

f you tell your son, when you are actually at home, to reply on the phone saying ‘father is not at home’, you are sowing a poisonous seed, which will become a huge tree.

Parents set bad examples uttering falsehood, scandalising others, gambling, drinking, behaving violently, inflicting injury, becoming addicted to night-clubs, movies and drinking parties, and quarrelling at home after arriving home past midnight. How can children, used to such low sights and sounds, learn to become bright, fresh fragrant flowers of the Sanatana Garden of India? Many such parents do not allow their children to join the Bal Vikas Classes, or to attend bhajans and satsangs. They say that religion and God are only for idlers or old senile people, and that the path will lead them on to sanyas (mendicancy), which is a calamity to be avoided! They reverse the very values of life. Parents must correct themselves before they try to correct their children.

(Divine Discourse, Jan 6, 1975)

Shri Sathya Sai Baba Organisation

continue encouraging others to provide the additional support needed by this key multilateral partnership to ensure equitable access to vaccines globally.

“Minister Garneau also announced the following initiatives to deepen the Canada-Caricom partnership – an $81.41 million pledge for the replenishment of the Caribbean Development Bank’s Special Development Fund; a com-

mitment of $9 million to the World Food Programme to support logistics and tackle food insecurity,” Canada said in a statement.

Canada and Caribbean countries share deep and long-standing friendships based on people-to-people ties, shared political values, dynamic trade relations and a commitment to inclusive economic growth and climate resilience.

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TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2021

Saudi Arabia’s King, Crown Prince Brightened extend Republic Day greetings to Guyana opportunities as Guyana

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he Custodian of the two Holy Mosques, His Royal Highness King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud in a congratulatory message to His Excellency; Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, President of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana, on the occasion of the anniversary of the Republic Day of his country expressed his sincere congratulations and best wishes for the health and happiness of His Excellency, the Government and the friendly people of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana and for

His Royal Highness King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud (Economic Times photo)

Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud

their continued progress and prosperity.

His Royal Highness

Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince,

Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Defence sent a similar congratulatory message to His Excellency; Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, President of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana on this occasion.

His Highness, the Crown Prince; expressed his warmest congratulations and sincere wishes for good health and happiness of His Excellency, the Government and the friendly people of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana and wished them continued progress and development as a nation.

Republican status represented a substantive fulfilment – PNC

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he People’s National Congress extends greetings to the Guyanese nation on the occasion of the 51st anniversary of the Republic. The PNC was empowered by the Guyanese people to bring the nation to Independence in 1966 and to Republican status in 1970. It was honoured to have been returned

to office, again, to celebrate the 50th anniversaries of both events in 2016 and 2020. These auspicious celebrations not only evoked emotions of patriotism and pride but, also, of satisfaction with its stewardship to the people while it was in office.

The PNC, this year, as part of A Partnership for

National Unity, is not in office. The party, thoughtfully, had the vision to draft a blueprint for national development by launching the concept plan for the “Decade of Development: 2020-2029” during which Guyanese should expect to enjoy a higher quality of life beyond 2030.

The PNC commits to continuing to work during the coming decade to improve the livelihood of all citizens in all sectors. The party, most particularly, will work with our parliamentary group and our political arms and agencies to enhance public health especially during this pandemic, public education, public security, economic growth; energy security; environmental security; regional development; social cohe-

sion; social protection; and the defence of our territorial integrity.

Republican status represented a substantive fulfilment of our people’s aspirations to chart their own destiny by refashioning our economic and social relations, introducing new national institutions, affirming sovereignty and advancing towards the goal of self-reliance.

It is fitting that we recall the transformative changes which have taken place during the party’s stewardship in and out of office.

Our vision for Guyana’s future is bright. The celebration of this 51st anniversary of becoming a Republic is an occasion of national pride.

Happy Anniversary!

on verge of major economic boom – GAWU

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he Republican Anniversary holds a special place of pride in the eyes and minds of all Guyanese.

The attainment of republicanism broke us away completely from Great Britain and severed the remaining links of colonialism. It allowed us to chart our own destiny as one people and nation.

Indeed, republicanism further asserted our independence and our own desire to build our nation in our terms and within our context. It represented a significant achievement as we were firmly in control of our future.

The lofty ideals of republicanism today remain inherent and ever-present. Today, fifty-one (51) years down the road, as a nation we have a great deal to be proud about.

Charting our own path has not been easy as we had to face up to many challenges. Though testing and requiring the struggles of our people we have defeated undemocratic rule and more recently, attempts to re-impose dictatorship. We have scaled several economic fences and have built a strong economic foundation that poises us for takeoff. And, we have fought back those who have sought to covet our territory and continue to face up to such threats no matter the perceived disadvantages.

Indeed, our years as a Republic have not been a smooth road, but a path fraught with dangerous bends and twists but through it all, the Guyanese people and nation persevered and conquered.

As we go forward there are still several challenges in our way. Too many of our men and women face

difficulties in meeting the expectations of life and impoverishment continues to be an unfortunate feature in our society. Gaps in infrastructure hold back development and the need to protect our workers adequately still eludes us. These are some of the many challenges that confront us. We see too brightened opportunities as the country is on the verge of a major economic boom. While gladdened by this, the fruits of development must be shared with all our people equally. All boats must rise and rise quickly for us to unlock Guyana’s potential and take us further along the road of prosperity.

It is against that background, that we of the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) greet the nation and all Guyanese on this our 51st Republic Anniversary. This year’s celebrations are unlike those of the past. The COVID-19 continues to rage on and though we have made efforts to staunch the pandemic, as a people we must play our role. We use this opportunity to once again recognise our frontline workers who continue to play an important role in keeping our nation safe. On this Republic Day, we urge all Guyanese to stay safe and observe all protocols.

We are hopeful that 2021 will see the turnaround from the darkness that gripped the country over the past five (5) years.

Indeed, the Guyanese people are more than deserving and our republicanism would be an ideal starting point.

A happy Republic Day to all Guyanese!

NEWS

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TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Housing sector fell apart under APNU/AFC – Rodrigues …provides evidence showing house lot allocations nosedived after 2015

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he former A Partnership for National Unity/ Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Government was on Monday put on the spot by Minister within the Ministry of Housing Susan Rodrigues, who came armed with data to contend that the housing sector fell apart under their tenure.

Among the data she presented during Day One of the 2021 Budget Debates was the budget allocations for the housing sector under the pre2015 People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Government and APNU/AFC. “The PPP Government’s housing budget in 2013, was $3.2 billion. In 2014, it was $4.4 billion. In stark contrast, Mr Speaker, APNU/AFC’s housing budget in 2015 was reduced to $1.9 billion,” the Minister explained.

“Let us not forget, there was no Ministry of Housing and Water, there was no clear housing policy. There was no clear vision or housing drive.

They changed Ministers like they change clothes. And hence, the Housing Ministry and sector fell apart!”

Minister Rodrigues acknowledged that in 2016, $5.8 billion was allocated by the former APNU/AFC Government to the housing sector. However, she also referenced news reports showing that for that year, the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) woefully underutilised those monies.

“Mr Speaker, the story of that year would be comical if it wasn’t so tragic… CH&PA spent only 12 per cent of budgeted $5.8 billion in 2016. If this isn’t incompetence, then I don’t know what is. And the Housing Minister at the time, Valarie Patterson, said she was definitely not happy. So, if she wasn’t happy, I don’t know about the people.”

Rodrigues’ immediate predecessor Annette Ferguson

According to Rodrigues, at the time the former Government had blamed CH&PA and human resource challenges for the shortfall in expenditure. But the Minister pointed out that since the PPP Government entered office, the agency’s technical staff have remained largely untouched. Which therefore begs the question, why was the agency underperforming under the former Government?

“It is the same staff who were there in 2016, who are there today, we didn’t fire anybody. We didn’t fire the technical staff. It’s the same people there today, executing our mandate. It is the same technical people who designed and are bringing to fruition, the Eccles to Diamond bypass road. And have already designed and begun procurement for the four-lane highway linking Mandela to Eccles.”

“It is the same technical people who worked to allocate lands and 3600 house lots in our first four months in office. The only difference is now we have a competent Government in place.

Vision, competence and leadership, is what was missing, but it has returned!” Minister Rodrigues informed the

Housing Minister under the APNU/AFC Valarie PattersonYearwood

House.

Track record

She further pointed out that in 2017, the former Government decided to not make any budgetary allocations for CH&PA, telling the agency to fund its own housing programme.

According to the Minister, the housing drives of the two Governments are incomparable.

“They simply had no vision for the housing sector and so they wouldn’t be able to spend the money even if it was allocated. The PPP Government allocated over 22,000 house lots in our last four years in office. Contrast that with the 7000 they allocated in their five years in office!”

Since coming to office, the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Government has made it clear that it intends to fulfil its manifesto promise of distributing 50,000 house lots over the next five years, with the first 10,000 by this year.

Among the initiatives the Government had announced were being considered is the establishment of a Diaspora Housing Fund. President Dr Irfaan Ali had also revealed that Government is looking

at other areas of securing financing for the housing sector. This includes efforts to raise some US$250 million for housing projects.

Additionally, the Ministry of Housing will also be working with the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL); the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission (GLSC) and the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) to pursue land acquisition for housing developments.

And last year, the Government published invitations for Expressions of Interest (EoIs) from interested parties to finance housing development. This publication had reported that there

Minister within the Housing and Water Ministry Susan Rodrigues

is local and foreign interest in funding the Government’s housing drive, thus resulting in Government creating

a shortlist out of these investors vying for investment opportunities in the housing sector. (G3)

Cellphones, improvised weapons found during prison raids

S

everal mobile phones, improvised weapons and other gadgets were on Monday found in the holding bay and compound of the Georgetown Prison during a search.

Based on reports received, the search, which was conducted by Police and members of the Guyana Prison The prohibited items found during the raid at Mazaruni Prison

phones, one cellphone battery, four cellphone chargers, 10 cigarette lighters, five improvised weapons and one The contraband items found at the knife were Camp Street penitentiary unearthed.

Service, started at 06:30h In addition, a search and ended at about 11:00h. was also conducted at the During the raid, nine cell- Mazaruni Prison on Monday

by members of the Guyana Police Force and prison officials.

The search which lasted about five hours unearthed 34 used razor blades, 21 improvised weapons, three knives, one pair of scissors, one mobile phone, 18 cigarette lighters, seven bottles of fermented wine, three makeshift chargers, eight packs of playing cards, a quantity of cement mix with sand, a container of cream paint and four cigarettes.

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TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Body in septic tank

Housemate confesses, murder stemmed from infidelity accusations

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ours after he was arrested for questioning in relation to the murder of Colin Anthony King, whose body was found in a septic tank at Belle West, West Bank Demerara (WBD), Fazal Mohamed Ibrahim has confessed to the heinous crime.

wife.

The suspect reportedly told investigators that on February 16, after the birthday celebrations, King went home and an argument erupted over the accusation.

The suspect further stated that a scuffle ensued between him and King during which

Murdered: Colin Anthony King

Murder suspect: Fazal Mohamed Ibrahim

The septic tank in which King’s partially decomposed body was found

This was confirmed

by Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum on Monday, who stated that the suspect had accused the now dead man of having a relationship with his

he armed himself with a piece of steel and dealt King several blows to the head. King reportedly collapsed and after realising that he was dead, the suspect took the body and

dumped it in the septic tank aback the house.

Ibrahim then left the house with the now dead man’s motorcycle which he later pawned for $40,000.

However, Blanhum stated that while a confession statement was given by the suspect, the file is being prepared to be sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for legal advice.

In addition, Guyana Times understands that the person who would have collect-

ed the motorcycle and handed over the $40,000 is also being questioned by the Police.

Nevertheless, the suspect is expected to make his court appearance shortly.

It was reported that Anthony, also called “Harry” or “Pablo”, was discovered on Saturday with chop wounds to his head in a septic tank at Second Street Belle West, WBD. He would have celebrated his 33rd birthday just a few days before the gruesome discovery. The now dead man would have moved in with Ibrahim less than two weeks prior.

TURN TO PAGE 14

Guyanese...

W

...and Republic Day ell, here we are...we made it to another Republic Day. Number 51 and still surviving as a nation! Now, this isn’t just simply looking for a silver lining behind the dark clouds that hover perpetually over our precarious existence, but just emphasising it’s something we shouldn’t take for granted. Look at Cyprus... they split back in 1974 into Greek and Turkish enclaves and, like Humpty Dumpty, have never been put back together again. Ditto Yugoslavia, which had been presented as an actual model for ethnic groups living together. We won’t mention all those fissioning in Africa.

And when you consider all we’ve been forced to put up with, just surviving as a nation hasn’t been easy. We have to remember it was one of the founders of the PNC – then called Sydney King – who proposed as far back as 1962 that if we couldn’t get along, then we should partition the country. Even Burnham thought that was extreme and expelled King from the PNC. As Eusi Kwayana, however, he was one of the fervent PNC supporters during the ethnic riots that amounted to a full-scale civil war. But we survived intact.

Most of the credit for that feat was due to the fortitude of the PPP under the leadership of Cheddi Jagan. How many times did he not eat humble pie for the sake of our unity following Burnham’s rigging of the elections in 1968, 1973, and 1980 to hold on to power illegally? He was constantly hounded by his supporters – who were being crushed by the jackboots of the Burnhamite dictatorship – to “do something”. But he always demurred saying that the bloodbath wasn’t worth it.

The price paid by those supporters was unbelievable after the depredations of kick-down-the-door bandits and several goon squads like the House of Israel. And starvation. Hundreds of thousands of them fled to whichever country would have them – the USA, Canada, Suriname, Venezuela, TT and all the other Caribbean islands. Unlike some other despots – like Duvalier in Haiti Burnham didn’t mind the PPP supporters fleeing. It was a safety valve to Revolution and possibly “splitting”.

The PPP has never been given enough credit for the sacrifices it and its supporters made for the survival of this nation called Guyana. After the latest rigging attempt by new PNC strongman Granger (who boasts about being a protege of Burnham), he callously unleashed ethnic violence in West Berbice. If this had been met with counter violence, what would’ve been the result? It is very clear that the PNC and its camp followers don’t give a damn about our survival.

Didn’t one of them call for “partition” the other day?

Traitors to the Guyanese nation! ...and politics Even though we’ve been a nation for 51 years, some people complain that we don’t have enough commonalities as a people to call ourselves “a nation”. Your Eyewitness has some problems with that claim. And he’s not just talking about the foods we eat –- roti, metemge, pepperpot, lowmein and garlic pork – or the songs we sing – Soca and Chutney – but about our obsession with politics.

Even before we got independence, it was said that we Guyanese were “precocious” politically. That means that we were “fo’ce-ripe” when it came to politics! One of the problems, however, is that we don’t talk enough politics TO EACH OTHER to discover our commonalities there!

Most of the talk used to be done under “bottom houses” and of course this meant – with our segregated pattern of residence – we were talking to “our own”. With the communications revolution and everyone having a smart phone, this has now been transmuted to only talking to “our friends”.

How about those long-promised “national conversations”? ...and Mash For the second time since 1972 when “Fat Boy” Burnham brought Mashramani from Linden to Georgetown (the first was after the disastrous floods of 2005), folks won’t be celebrating in the streets.

This will certainly disappoint those who have revelled in the transformation from “tramping” to “back balling”!

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

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TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Man set on fire following scuffle

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he body of an unidentified man was on Monday morning found lying motionlessly on the premises of a Chinese supermarket at Enmore, East Coast Demerara (ECD).

Reports are that the man’s body was severely torched and found near the fence of the Huaxin Supermarket located at Lot 371 Beezie Enmore, ECD. His burnt body was discovered at about 08:16h by a painter. An alarm was

raised and the Police were summoned to the scene.

The body was removed and taken to Lyken’s Funeral Home where it awaits identification and post-mortem.

Police have since said that a review of the CCTV system installed at the supermarket and buildings in the surrounding area was conducted. This review revealed that at about 02:46h on Monday morning the deceased and an identifiable male had an argument af-

ter which the male was seen holding onto the deceased and pushing him to the northern side of the fence.

The male was then seen picking up some empty cardboard boxes and going to the said area where he pushed the deceased.

At about 03:12h, a fire was seen in the same area where the deceased was lying. The male then picked up a bicycle and rode away in a western direction, Police said.

Police have since launched a search for the suspect. (G10)

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TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Drug bust at Ogle Airport

Woman excretes 25 cocaine-filled pellets

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he 23-year-old woman who was on Saturday busted with a quantity of cocaine in a condom in her vagina and also admitted to having swallowed 73 pellets, has since excreted 25 cocaine-filled pellets.

The condom filled with cocaine This was confirmed

by Deputy Director of Communications of the Guyana Police Force, Stan Gouveia on Monday.

Gouveia explained that the woman had excreted 20 over the weekend and another five on Monday morning. She, nevertheless, remains a patient at the Georgetown Public Hospital under guard.

It was reported that the woman was an outgoing passenger at the Eugene F Correia International Airport where she was intercepted with an undisclosed amount of cocaine in her vagina. She was destined for Barbados on BW 215 Flight.

However, upon approaching the check-in counter, the woman was seen acting in a suspicious manner, prompting airport security to carry out a search on her luggage. Nothing illegal was found but the Police then requested to conduct a search on her person.

During the search, a bulky package was found concealed in her vagina. The suspected cocaine was wrapped in condoms. It was then that she admitted that she had also swallowed 73 cocaine pellets.

After all the pellets are excreted, the woman will be charged for possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking. Over the past years, persons have attempted to smuggle the illegal drug out of the country in the most innovate means.

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TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Cheap power brings opportunities, investments – Vickram Bharrat …as energy conference places spotlight on energy, partnerships

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tepping into the role of an oil-producing nation will have its towering benefits but there is also the need for development across the other sectors and addressing challenges in the current operation.

The launch of the Guyana Energy Conference and Exhibition 2021 on Monday at Pegasus Hotel brought focus on these gaps and provided a wider conversation on the need for public-private partnerships, local content, reliable energy and other factors that will essentially put Guyana on the cusp of greater success.

Speaking during the opening ceremony, Chief Executive Officer of GO-Invest, Dr Peter Ramsaroop said Government is continuously preparing to ensure that Guyanese benefit from the windfall of oil resources. While he found that collaboration can influence profitability, Ramsaroop noted that the conditions should be welcoming for investors to expand into other industries.

“When you consider our President’s vision for Guyana, this transformative and economic agenda that he has proposed, Government’s involve-

ment with the Private Sector is a partnership. Partnership is what will make the next step in Guyana profitable…We want to ensure that our current foreign direct investors in Guyana are treated well and we look forward for them to get out and expand more into energy, agriculture and that’s why some of Government’s initiatives in expanding the infrastructure is a convergence,” the GO-Invest CEO highlighted.

Coupled with this, the conference is seeking to attract a wider discourse on how sustainable and reliable energy

Housemate confesses, murder...

However, after the now dead man’s birthday bash, other friends recalled leaving the party late that evening and not seeing King since.

As such, a search party was launched to look for him but after several hours of search in the community and surrounding areas, they came up empty-handed.

On the morning the body was discovered, neighbours had reported a stench emanating from the septic tank area. Upon checking, the gruesome discovery was made. Also, at that time, persons realised that Ibrahim had also disappeared.

The Police were called in and based on investigations and information received, an arrest warrant was issued for Ibrahim for questioning in relation to the murder of King.

Hours after the wanted bulletin was issued, the murder suspect was intercepted in a minibus at Timehri, East Bank Demerara (EBD).

Ibrahim, also called “Scottie”, who resided

FROM PAGE 8

The motorcycle that was pawned for $40,000 by the suspect

at Lot 38 Belle West, Canal No 2 Polder, WBD, had given his address as Herstelling, EBD, upon his arrest.

He was subsequently handed over to agents of the Criminal Investigative Department (CID) and during interrogation, he made the confession. (G10)

can become reality. President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Nicholas Boyer said this is especially important for persons in the agro-processing department.

“The word energy is not just a buzz word being this. It’s meant to be a wider conversation. It’s not just about how can we provide logistic services to the upstream companies. It is about how do we get reliable and stable supply of energy to the agro-processor start-ups.

What happens when you have coconuts in a freezing room and you run out of power? It’s also meant to be a discussion on some of the gaps like renewables.”

While acknowledging the challenges in establishing infrastructure throughout Guyana’s vast lands, he spoke on the need to “harness upstream oil and gas”, since it will create a “new wave of industrialisation” in the country and push development in other sectors.

“Too long have Guyanese businesses been limited by the cost of energy and that really results from both developmental and administrative challenges. In Guyana, we’re taking a population of less than a million that is spread over acreages that could encompass most of the Caribbean islands and we have to provide infrastructure. That’s no easy task,” Boyer added.

Development

Natural Resources Minister

From left: ExxonMobil President Allistair Routledge, Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat, GO-Invest CEO Peter Ramsaroop and GCCI President Nicholas Boyer during the launch of GECX

Vickram Bharrat in his feature address identified that the country has always suffered from the cost of power generation – a great hindrance to development. He said Budget 2021 lays the foundation to alleviate such matters.

He told the gathering, “Our Government would have recognised that and we need to address it and address it as early as possible. With cheap power comes so many opportunities and investments that will come to our shores in Guyana and which we are preparing for presently…The next five years is an exciting period in the history of our country where every single Guyanese will benefit from our developmental project.”

He said the PPP/C Administration has no apologies for incentivising the Private Sector because it is a partner that will allow for expansion of the traditional sectors.

“The Government cannot develop the country alone. The Government cannot employ every single Guyanese. We need the Private Sector. We need the foreign investors to come to our

shores and we will continue to partner with the foreign investors and local Private Sector to ensure that we move all of our sectors forward…We are not only focusing on our new and dynamic sector, which is oil and gas. We’re also focusing a lot on our traditional productive sectors.”

Meanwhile, ExxonMobil (Guyana) President Alistair Routledge lauded the unprecedented progress which Guyana has made in local content development within a short period of time. He pointed towards increasing competitiveness as the cornerstone in creating a sustainable economy.

“This will [provide] a wonderful opportunity to bring people together to collaborate from Government, from industries, Private Sector organisations and very importantly, education and training. That is something that will ultimately make Guyana competitive. The world is a competitive place so building the competitiveness of Guyana overall and local businesses individually is really about what will make the local economy sustainable,” Routledge said. (G12)

NEWS

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TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Father remanded for harbouring son, other prison escapees 2241, 226-4585, 225-2700, 225-3650, or 911, should they see the escapees.

L-R: Imran Ramsaywack, Kenrick Lyte, Samuel Gouveia, and Rayon Jones

Remanded: Ralph Jones

A

60-year-old father of six and boat captain of Lot 114 Fourth Avenue, Bartica, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), was on Monday remanded to prison on four charges relating to the harbouring of four convicts, including his son, who escaped from the high-security Mazaruni Prison.

Ralph Jones, who was represented by Attorneyat-Law Adrian Thompson, was not required to plead to the indictable charges, which were read to him by Magistrate Crystal Lambert at the Vreed-enHoop Magistrate’s Courts.

The charges stated that on February 16, at his Fourth Avenue, Bartica home, he received, harboured, comforted, and maintained his son, Rayon Jones, along with Imran Ramsaywack, Kenrick Lyte, Samuel Gouveia, knowing that they were convicted prisoners, who had escaped from the Mazaruni Prison.

Reports from the Guyana Prison Service are that at about 07:15h on February 16, during the unlocking of the Solitary Division which was supervised by four prison officers, it was observed that the padlock to the entrance gate was tampered with and checks revealed that two bars within the cell had been cut. It was then that prison officials realised that the four prisoners had escaped.

During a bail application, Thompson told the court that his client harboured the escapees because he was fearful for his life. According to the lawyer, at around 03:00h on February 16, his client’s son and the other escapees showed up at his home demanding clothing, food, and money.

He said that while Ralph Jones was aware that his son was incarcerated, he

did not know that the other men were also serving time for varying offences.

The lawyer added, “This is not a voluntary act. He [Ralph Jones] was scared when they showed up at his house. His son turned up with criminals for help.

There is nothing he could have done. His actions were under duress.”

The Police Prosecutor, however, made serious objections to bail. In doing so, he cited the serious nature and penalty attached to the offence. The prosecutor also noted that there is a possibility the accused might not return for trial if he is granted his pre-trial liberty. Having considered the submissions, Magistrate Lambert refused to grant bail and ordered that Ralph Jones be remanded to prison. The case will continue on March 5.

The Guyana Police Force in a statement last Thursday said that the senior Jones admitted to harbouring the prison escapees.

The elderly Jones reportedly told investigators that after escaping from the Mazaruni Prison, his son contacted him by telephone and informed him of his actions.

Police said that Ralph Jones further admitted that sometime after 01:00h the following day, all four of the escapees showed up at his house, where he provided them with a change of clothing. He collected the clothes that they were wearing and dumped them in an alleyway aback his house.

Police said that ranks went to the location where they found a white salt bag that contained several items suspected to be belongings of the escapees. They included clothing, footwear, deodorant, toques, pillow, and pillowcases, along with a bottle of Red Star rub, a toothbrush, and a food bowl.

Ramsaywack and Lyte were on death row, while Gouveia and Jones were convicted for manslaughter.

Up to press time, the escapees were still at large.

The Guyana Police Force, in its efforts to recapture the inmates, is appealing to members of the public, relatives, and friends to give any relevant information as to the whereabouts of these escapees so that they can be captured and returned to the prison.

The Joint Services is encouraging all law-abiding citizens to report to the nearest Police station or call 455-2238, 455-2222, 455-

All information will be treated with strict confidence. Also, an appeal is be-

ing made to the escapees to surrender to the Police or relevant authority to avoid

any serious confrontation that is likely to result in the use of force. (G1)

16 NEWS

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Fisherman dies after throat slashed by cousin at birthday celebration

A

25-year-old fisherman is now dead after his throat was slit

by his cousin during a birthday celebration on Sunday at D’Edward Village, West

Bank Berbice (WBB).

Dead is Reaz Mohamed called “Boye”, a father of two

of Lot 1 Section A D’Edward Village, WBB. Police said that the in-

cident occurred at about 18:30h.

Investigations have so far revealed that the family was celebrating a birthday on Saturday and continued the party on Sunday.

Mohamed reportedly became disorderly when the music was shut off and started breaking drinking glasses.

His father, Farook Mohamed, attempted to calm him but it is alleged that the dead man instead directed his anger at his father. His uncle then intervened and they attempted to restrain the younger Mohamed.

At that point, he continued his unruly behaviour, resulting in his cousin whipping out a knife and slitting his throat.

The dead man’s sister explained that the suspect was not pleased by the fact that the celebrations were coming to an end.

According to her, the celebrations were held at her house, which doesn’t have electricity connected.

As such, she ran a drop cord from a neighbour’s house in order to get electricity. The woman explained that after all visitors had left, her cousin remained and was dancing.

When she passed the instruction for the drop cord to

Dead: Reaz Mohamed called “Boye”

be unplugged, the younger Mohamed objected and she allowed him to have the music for a bit longer.

The woman related that after some time elapsed, she finally ordered that the drop cord be unplugged and again this did not go down well with her now dead brother.

It was then that he began to behave disorderly, which led to the confrontation.

The Police were summoned and they took the man to the Fort Wellington Public Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

Police have since said that the suspect is on the run and as they continue their search for him. (G4)

Sparendaam man charged for simple larceny

A

45-year-old labourer of Sparendaam, East Coast Demerara (ECD), appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on Monday on a charge of simple larceny.

The charge read by Magistrate Sherdell Isaacs detailed that on February 10 at Camp Street, Abrahams stole a quantity of clothing valued $20,000; property of Jai Long.

The Police prosecutor explained that when Abrahams was arrested, he claimed to have no fixed place of abode.

Nevertheless, the defendant told Magistrate Isaacs

that he resides on his own in Sparendaam.

The Police prosecutor further added that CCTV footage recovered shows Abrahams stealing the items from the Chinese-owned store and placing them into a bag filled with purchases from a previous store.

Abrahams pleaded not guilty and was released on $10,000 bail. As a condition for bail, he was ordered to report to the Brickdam Police Station on the last Friday of every month until his trial concludes.

The matter has been adjourned to March 8.

NEWS

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TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Govt working to reduce transportation costs for Region 8 – President

…says flurry of investments underway

a coordinated and efficient mechanism to deal with climate and environment-related issues.

Earlier this year, the Head of State explained to US-based Guyanese Broadcaster, Farook Juman, that opportunities will not be centralised to the city, but rather expanded to all regions. Development will first be concentrated at the community level, to ensure that citizens have improved access to basic services, this will then be connected to a wider regional and national plan—a three-tier system.

Plans surround special emphasis on community needs and ensure that it creates “growth opportunities, or growth hubs within a cluster of communities that can generate employment, create sustainable development at tier one”.

He had said too that regional developmental infrastructure will be linked to national transformative infrastructure. (G12) President Ali with new Region Eight Chairman Headley Pio and Vice Chairwoman Claris Francisco

P

resident Dr Irfaan Ali on Monday revealed that there are many investments in the pipeline for Region Eight (PotaroSiparuni), geared at sustainability, improved services and fostering economic drive.

He made this announcement during a simple ceremony as the Oath of Office was administered to the Chairman and Vice Chairman of Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) – the final officials that were awaiting their official instruments.

The newly-elected Chairman is Headley Pio while Claris Francisco will serve as his Vice Chairperson at the regional organ. They were not sworn in last year with the other nine regions, owing to challenges from the COVID-19 pandemic.

President Ali took the opportunity to note that investments will follow in the various sectors to improve the lives of residents, as well as sustainable efforts to sustain the vast natural resources and promote food security.

“This region will see tremendous investment and improvement in healthcare, education, social services but importantly, we will be working closely to ensure that we build sustainable communities through sustainable livelihood programmes and sustainable employment opportunities.

We also want to engage the region in the diversification of its localised economy, with particular attention to

food security and agriculture.”

One inhibitor of economic development in the region has always been the air travel expenses to leave and enter the area. President Ali said this is another issue which Government is looking to alleviate.

Dr Ali recognised, “Access to many of the communities within this region is very expensive, it requires air travel and as such, the cost of transportation is an inhibitive factor in terms of regional development. We’re also working to bring ease in the transportation network and ultimately to reduce the costs of transport within the region itself.”

He shared that while the region has the lowest population, it is blessed with an abundance of natural resources that positively impacts the ecosystem, biodiversity and most importantly, the Low Carbon Development Strategy.

“This region, therefore, plays an important part. It is a centrepiece in our national development. I have already announced that our developmental trajectory would be based on an expanded Low Carbon Development Strategy. Therefore, Region Eight will continue to play a critical role in the advancement of this strategy and as a core component of national development,” the Head of State positioned.

The intention has been to expand the LCDS in the areas of biodiversity, water management and other sectors as Government creates

18 NEWS

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Guyana’s COVID-19 death toll now 190 …over 1800 persons receive 1st dose of vaccine

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he Health Ministry on Monday informed of another death from the coronavirus, taking the death toll to 190.

On Sunday, a 63-yearold man from Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica), who had tested positive for COVID-19, succumbed while receiving treatment at a medical facility.

Last Tuesday, a 69-yearold female from Region Four was reported as the 189th death from COVID-19 after she died while seeking care.

Also, on Monday, there were seven new cases in one day after 633 samples were sent for analysis.

According to the Ministry’s dashboard, the total number of confirmed cases recorded in Guyana is now 8427 – 4362 males and 4065 females. The data showed that 7774 patients have recovered with 465 active cases. Eight persons are in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), 415 in home isolation and 41 in institutional isolation.

Another eight persons are

also in institutional quarantine. To date, 60,727 persons have been tested.

New cases

From the new cases, one was detected in Region Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara), 3 in Region Four and three in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni).

The breakdown of cases which were detected in Regions One (BarimaWaini), Two (PomeroonSupenaam), Five (DemeraraMahaica) and Six (East

Berbice-Corentyne), Eight (Potaro-Siparuni), Nine (Upper TakutuUpper Essequibo) and 10 (Upper DemeraraBerbice) remained at 1019; 234; 226; 462; 245; 415 and 646.

Vaccine administration

It has been over one week since frontline workers started receiving their vaccines and Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony said on Monday they are yet to exhaust these resources. This batch from the Barbadian Government was set aside to vaccinate 1400 healthcare workers.

Thus far, over 1800 persons have been administered their first dose from all regions with the exception of Regions Eight and Nine. A team will visit these areas this week.

“What we have been trying to do as much as possible is to identify those patients who are working directly with COVID-19 patients and to be able to give those persons the first preference. As of today, we have given out 1852 vaccines to different persons…We will be able to cover all the regions with healthcare workers that are directly working with COVID-19 patients.”

The subject Minister addressed an instance where a vaccine was administered to a person who is not a frontline worker, noting that an investigation is in full swing to take action and prevent any such breach in the future.

He asserted, “There had been some leakages of our vaccine and we have investigation that is ongoing to find out that how it is that that person who came in and got a vaccine, who is not a frontline worker. That is a total breach of the protocols because the first set of people that we want to get vaccines are those that are most at risk.”

The entire tranche will be used as a first dose and the incoming AstraZeneca vaccines from another batch will be used to supply the second shot. This is since

the interval between the two jabs is roughly 12 weeks, allowing enough time until more vaccines arrive. It was stated that a number of strategies were undertaken to acquire vaccines for Guyana. Presently, vaccines are expected from multiple sources and this can be realised in another week.

“We have been talking to the COVAX facility and we’re expecting now that the WHO has approved the AstraZeneca vaccine, that very shortly we will be able to get vaccines from COVAX. We have also been in conversations with some other countries and those discussions are getting close to the end so once we have concluded those talks, we will start seeing vaccines coming out of those discussions or negotiations,” he informed. (G12)

Counsellor, cosmetologist, vendor charged for assault

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hree persons who were involved in separate assault matters all appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on Monday to answer to the charge.

Yvonne Charles, a 39-year-old counsellor of Charlotte Street, Georgetown, denied the charge read to her

by Magistrate Sherdell Isaacs which stated that on February 7 at Camp and Hadfield Streets, Georgetown, she unlawfully assaulted Clive Atwell.

She was granted $5000 bail and the case will continue on April 12.

Also appearing before Magistrate Sherdell Isaacs to answer to an assault charge was a 34-yearold cosmetologist, Latoya Clarke.

Clarke also pleaded not guilty and was released on $5000 bail.

The charge read to her stated that on February 17 at West Front Road, Georgetown, she unlawfully assaulted Mowella Forde.

The matter has since been adjourned to April 9.

Meanwhile, Andre Nedd, a 31-year-old vendor who hails from Mabaruma, Region One (BarimaWaini), was granted $10,000 bail by Magistrate Isaacs on a similar charge.

The charge stated that on February 13 at Lombard Street, Nedd unlawfully assaulted Carl Duncan so as to cause him bodily harm.

Nedd pleaded not guilty to the charge and the case will continue on April 9.

(G15)

NEWS

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TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

slapped with attempted murder 48 GDF officers promoted Cop …Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan promoted to Colonel charge after shooting reputed wife P H ead of State and Commander-inChief Dr Irfaan Ali in accordance with Part III Section 16 of the Defence Act 15:01 of 1977 has approved the promotion of forty-eight (48) officers with effect from January 1, 2021.

The announcement was made on Monday evening, the eve of Guyana’s 51st

Acting Colonel and Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan was made substantive in her rank

Republic Anniversary, by Chief of Staff (ag) Brigadier Godfrey Bess.

Heading the list of promoted Officers is acting Colonel and Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan, who was made substantive in her rank.

In a statement, the Guyana Defence Force stated that eight Substantive Majors have also been promoted to the rank of Substantive Lieutenant Colonel. Those Substantive Majors are Mohinder Ramjag, Anson Weekes, Matthew Chichester, Andy Pompey, Dale De Mendonca, Kennard Liverpool, Earl Edghill and Miguel Benjamin.

Fourteen Substantive Captains are newly promoted Majors.

Those Substantive Captains are Troy Cordis, Kirk Marlock, Esan Reid, Bernard Cunjie,

Cleon Coppin, Daryl Britton, Mirza Wahid, Dawn Singh, Denolle Sankar, Jermaine Newton, Sven Douglas, Oral Thom, Dwighton Bess and Paul Castello.

The appointed Substantive Lieutenants are Samuel Klien, Steffon Cameron, Teffurn James, Pete Da Silva, Trevon Poole, Rohan Marshall, Obitre Hytmiah, Dishon Harris, Steffhon Branche, Curtlan Melville, Shaheed Zaiboon, Neil Asregadoo, Lawrence King, and Keevin Salaru have been promoted to the rank of Substantive Captain.

Leading the list of promoted Coast Guard Officers is Lieutenant Coast Guard Wayne Richmond, who was promoted to the rank of Substantive Lieutenant Commander. Additionally, Sub Lieutenant Carlos Moore is promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Coast

Guard.

Meanwhile, Substantive Majors Michael Charles, Sean Welcome and Bhageshwar Murli, who serve in the Guyana People’s Militia (GPM) Reserve, have also been promoted to the rank of Substantive Lieutenant Colonel.

Substantive Captains Salim October, Lancelot Khan, Mahendra Carpen and Marlon Daniels have been promoted to the rank of Substantive Major.

Substantive Lieutenants Lakshman Persaud and Patrice Jacobs have been promoted to the rank of Substantive Captain.

“Brigadier Godfrey Bess and the entire leadership of the force, warrant officers, senior non-commissioned officers and other ranks extend congratulations to the newly promoted officers,” the statement from the GDF stated.

olice Sergeant Colin Whyte on Monday appeared before Magistrate Peter Hugh at the Blairmont Magistrate’s Court to answer the charge of attempted murder.

The charge read that on February 12 at Onderneeming, West Coast Berbice (WCB), he attempted to commit murder, contrary to Section 103 (C) of the Criminal Law (Offences) Act Chapter 8:01, on Shonetta James.

He was not required to plead to the charge and was remanded to prison. The case will continue on March 2.

Whyte allegedly shot James to the neck during a row.

James, a Special Constable, shared a fouryear relationship with Whyte and they have two children together. She un-

Police Sergeant Colin Whyte and Shonetta James

derwent surgery for her injuries.

Reports are that on the day in question, the policeman went to the woman’s home at Onderneeming where they had an argument. Reports are that the woman had allegedly told the cop that their relation-

ship was over.

During their argument, the cop reportedly whipped out a handgun and discharged a round in her direction, hitting her to the neck. He then took the woman to the Fort Wellington Hospital and left her there.

Region 10 Farmers’ Market deemed a success

Saharan dust haze increasing over Guyana F

Some of the products that were sold at the farmers’ market in Linden

…could be hazardous – Hydromet warns

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he large plume of Saharan dust that is shrouding over Guyana and the Caribbean region is increasing and will continue to hover.

The Hydromet Office on Monday warned that this will cause low visibility and poor air quality. In addition to the already dry atmosphere, the Saharan dusthaze is forecast to reduce visibility between four and six kilometres and can become progressively thicker.

“The dust can be hazardous due to lower visibility, while dust particles can exacerbate the symptoms of respiratory illnesses and allergies. The dust can cause eye, nose and throat irritation,” a statement indicated.

In light of these conditions, residents, visitors, and marine users are asked to exercise caution and be prepared to take mitigative action if necessary. Persons with respiratory issues or allergies should ensure that they travel with or have all prescribed medications in close reach.

Marine users should monitor the situation closely, along with the forecast for any further deterioration.

The Sahara is said to be Earth’s major source of mineral dust and can be lifted by convection over hot desert areas, reaching high altitudes. Thereafter, it can be transported thousands of kilometres away from the source by winds.

Combined with the extremely dry air of the Sahara Desert, the dust forms an atmospheric layer called the Saharan Air Layer which has significant effects on tropical weather.

It also interferes with the development of hurricanes.

NASA Earth Observatory noted a few days ago that more than 180 million tons of dust blow out from North Africa, lifted out of the Sahara Desert by strong seasonal winds each year.

“Perhaps most familiar are the huge, showy plumes that advance across the tropical Atlantic Ocean toward the Americas. But the

dust goes elsewhere, too— settling back down in other parts of Africa or drifting north toward Europe.”

Last June, several Caribbean countries were severely affected by a similar occurrence. According to the BBC, islands of Guadeloupe and Martinique were suffering their worst haze for at least a decade while Cuba was warned of respiratory problems.

“Usually, the dust sparkles thousands of feet above Earth’s surface. But this plume is not only much bigger than usual; it’s much lower, too. By the time the plume made it to land near the Caribbean and southern US last week, that dust-rain was closer than it usually is to where people live and breathe,” the geography entity detailed.

If anyone requires additional information, they can visit www.hydromet.gov.gy or call the Duty Forecaster, National Weather Watch Centre 261-3065/ 4489/ 2284/ 2216.

armers and agro-processors from across Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) came together on Friday for a farmers’ market initiative which was hosted at the Wismar Market Square in Linden.

The farmers’ market, which showcased a wide array of local products including food, craft, livestock, agricultural and value-added products, was hosted by the Regional Democratic Council’s (RDC) Agricultural Department.

The event was hosted under the theme, “Grow Local, Buy Local, Consume Local”.

Farmers and agro-processors, who participated hailed the event as a successful one and made calls for it to be hosted more often. The event was hosted a few times under the previous Council, however, there are plans for it to be hosted once a month.

Local food manufacturer, Diane Plowell told this publication that she was out at the farmers’ market since 06:00h. Plowell, who markets her products under the “Pleasurable Flavours” brand, said she took products such as relish, seven different flavours of

pepper, green seasoning, all-purpose sauce, achar, cake fruits, tamarind balls among others which were all mostly sold out.

“The support was really good...Lindeners are supporting. I sold a lot because I came out early. I think they should have it (the event) more often. I’m totally in agreement with it,” Plowell said.

She noted, however, that more farmers should have been out to sell and showcase their products.

“I think more farmers should have been involved because Linden have lots more farmers than this and lots more products. The ducks, everything that the persons bring sell out fast. A lot of persons bring out other stuff and it sell fast, poultry and other stuff, these things are selling out. The support in the sales is good, but I think more farmers - persons that selling the sweet peppers and stuff, we should get to know them more so we could liaison with them and benefit from the market,” she continued.

Plowell added that while hosting the event once a month is fine, it would be better to do so once a week,

as is customary with some other regions.

“I’m applauding them for the once a month, but let’s see where that goes...don’t stay there. Come down to less than once a month because you can see that it’s needed, from the support that we got. And we’re on the ground, we’re hearing the comments,” she said.

She further urged the RDC to be consistent and teach farmers and agro-processors how to better market their products.

Local manufacturer Ruth Esbrand also brought with her, local vegetables and fruits. She said it was quite surprising that some of the local fruits and vegetables were sold out.

“I’m surprised to know that Linden people ‘starving’ for stuff,” she said.

Esbrand said she would even have requests from persons out of town for vegetables like eddoe leaf, which is one of the main products that she sells.

She also has her own line of soaps, body butter, body scrubs and scented candles which are all made from local, natural ingredients which are marketed under the “Esbees” brand.

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guyanatimesgy.com

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2021

Around the World

Italian ambassador to DR Congo dies after WFP convoy attacked

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taly’s ambassador to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), an Italian policeman and their Congolese driver have been killed in an ambush on a United Nations convoy in eastern DRC. The ambush on Monday occurred as the convoy carrying Ambassador Luca Attanasio was travelling from the city of Goma to visit a World Food Programme (WFP) school feeding project in Rutshuru, according to the United Nations agency.

It said several other passengers travelling with the delegation sustained injuries during the attack.

North Kivu Governor

Luca Attanasio, 43, represented Italy in Kinshasa since 2017

Carly Nzanzu told Al Jazeera the seven-member convoy was not escorted by any security forces when the incident happened.

The WFP said it was seeking information from local authorities as the ambush occurred on a road that

had previously been cleared for travel without security escorts.

There was no immediate claim of responsibility for the attack, which took place at about 10:15 am (08:15 GMT).

Italian Foreign Minister Luigi Di Maio expressed his “great dismay and immense sorrow” over the attack and left a meeting in Brussels with European Union counterparts to make an early return to Rome.

Nzanzu, the North Kivu Governor, said local security forces had not been informed of the delegation’s presence in the area.

“The rebels stopped the

WFP convoy with bullets, before bringing down the passengers on board including the ambassador.

According to survivors, the rebels wanted money from the ambassador,” Nzanzu told Al Jazeera.

Nzanzu said Attanasio was hit by bullets fired by the attackers during an exchange of fire between the rebels and Virunga park rangers supported by the DRC’s armed forces who were alerted to the attack.

The DRC’s army said troops were searching the area in the Virunga National Park for the assailants. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

WHO agrees compensation fund for serious COVAX vaccine side effects

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he World Health Organisation has agreed a no-fault compensation plan for claims of serious side effects in people in 92 poorer countries due to get COVID-19 vaccines via the COVAX sharing scheme, resolving a big concern among recipient governments.

The programme, which the WHO said was the first and only vaccine injury compensation mechanism operating on an international scale, will offer eligible people “a fast, fair, robust and transparent process”, the WHO said in a statement.

“By providing a no-fault lump-sum compensation in full and final settlement of any claims, the COVAX pro-

A small bottle labelled with a "Coronavirus COVID-19 Vaccine" sticker in this illustration

gramme aims to significantly reduce the need for recourse to the law courts, a potentially lengthy and costly process,” the statement said.

Questions of how compensation claims would be handled in the event of any

serious COVID-19 vaccine side effects, which are likely to be very rare, had been a worry for countries due to get COVID-19 shots via the COVAX plan.

Countries funding their own COVID-19 vaccine procurement also plan their

own liability programmes.

The WHO-agreed plan, which has been under discussion for several months, is designed to cover serious side effects linked to any COVAX-distributed vaccines until June 30, 2022, to COVAX’s Advance Market Commitment-eligible economies - a group of 92 poorer states which includes most African and Southeast Asian countries.

Seth Berkley, chief executive of the GAVI vaccine alliance which co-leads COVAX, said the agreement on the compensation fund was “a massive boost” for COVAX, which aims to secure equitable global access to COVID-19 vaccines.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

OILNEWS OIL NEWS Oil jumps almost 4% as output slow to recover from Texas storms

O

il prices rose nearly 4 per cent on Monday, boosted by the expected slow return of US crude output after last week’s deep freeze in Texas shut in production.

US producers shut anywhere from 2 million to 4 million barrels per day of oil output due to cold weather in Texas and other oil-producing states, and the unusually cold conditions may have damaged installations that could keep output offline longer than expected.

Brent crude settled at US$65.24 a barrel, rising US$2.33, or 3.7 per cent, while US oil settled at US$61.49 a barrel, jumping US$2.25, or 3.8 per cent. The US benchmark crude contract for March delivery expires on Monday, and the more widely-traded April contract was up US$2.44, or 4.1 per cent, at US$61.70 a barrel.

Shale oil producers in the region could take at least two weeks to fully restart normal output, sources said, as damage assessments and power disruptions slow their recovery.

“The significant loss of both crude and gasoline production suggests more upside and likelihood of new highs possibly within a one-week time frame,” said Jim Ritterbusch of consultancy Ritterbusch and Associates. But he cautioned that with limited refining capacity, the price could come under pressure if refiners take weeks to return to normal.

“The market is behaving as if the refiners are going to come online quicker than the headlines would lead you to believe,” said Yawger. Gasoline crackspreads, an indicator of refiners’ margins have dropped by 5 per cent.

For the first time since November, US drilling companies cut the number of oil rigs operating due to the cold and snow enveloping Texas, New Mexico and other energy-producing centres, signalling even tighter supplies ahead.

OPEC+ oil producers are set to meet on March 4, with sources saying the group is likely to ease curbs on supply after April given a recovery in prices, although any increase in output will likely be modest given lingering uncertainty over the pandemic.

“Saudi Arabia is eager to pursue yet higher prices in order to cover its social break-even expenses at around $80 a barrel while Russia is strongly focused on unwinding current cuts and getting back to normal production,” said SEB chief commodity analyst Bjarne Schieldrop. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Petrobras shares drop Wife of Mexico drug cartel EU imposes sanctions as Brazil’s Bolsonaro chief "El Chapo" is arrested on 19 officials slams pricing policy in Virginia – US Justice Dept in Venezuela

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etrobras shares plunged 21 per cent on Monday, wiping out 70 billion reais (US$12.6 billion) in market value, as Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro again slammed the State-controlled oil company’s pricing policies after he replaced its market-friendly Chief Executive Officer (CEO) with a retired Army General.

The selloff, following a series of analyst downgrades, deepened after Bolsonaro said the company’s fuel policy was only pleasing to financial markets and select groups in Brazil and should be changed as part of an effort to lower gasoline and diesel prices.

Overall, the last few days have marked a dramatic about-face for Bolsonaro, a right-wing populist whose interventionist instincts until now had been largely contained by economically

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conservative allies.

Shares in State electricity company Eletrobras also plunged on Monday after Bolsonaro said it would be the next sector in which the Government would “stick its finger”.

In comments to Brazil’s Radio Bandeirantes on Monday, Joaquim Silva e Luna, the General tapped

by Bolsonaro on Friday to take the reins from Petrobras CEO Roberto Castello Branco, floated the idea of a Government fund, or “cushion”, to lessen the effects of fluctuating fuel prices on consumers.

Bolsonaro doubled down on his criticism of Castello Branco, mocking his decision to social distance since the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic, the severity of which the President has repeatedly played down. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

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Emma Coronel Aispuro, the wife of Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman

he wife of Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman, the imprisoned former leader of Mexico’s Sinaloa drug cartel, was arrested on Monday over her alleged involvement in international drug trafficking, the US Department of Justice said.

Emma Coronel Aispuro, 31, a regular attendee at her husband’s trial two years ago, was arrested at Dulles International Airport in northern Virginia, and is expected to appear in a federal court in Washington today.

Coronel was charged in

a one-count complaint with conspiring to distribute heroin, cocaine, marijuana and methamphetamines for unlawful importation into the United States, the Justice Department said.

A lawyer for Coronel could not immediately be identified.

Guzman was convicted in February 2019 of trafficking tonnes of drugs and engaging in multiple murder conspiracies as a top leader of the Sinaloa Cartel, one of Mexico’s largest, most violent drug trafficking organisations. (Reuters)

he Council of the European Union (EU) on Monday imposed sanctions on 19 leading Venezuelan officials, including Generals, politicians and Judges from President Nicolás Maduro’s regime, whom it accused of undermining democracy in Caracas.

“The individuals added to the list are responsible, notably, for undermining the Opposition’s electoral rights and the democratic functioning of the National Assembly, and for serious violations of human rights and restrictions of fundamental freedoms,” the Council said in a statement.

The individuals include the Governor of oil-producing Zulia state, Oman Prieto; top military commander Remigio Ceballos; and members of the “non-democratically elected National Assembly”,

Jose Brito and Jose Bernabe Gutierrez.

The total number of Venezuelan officials subject to sanctions – which include an embargo on arms and on equipment for internal repression, and the imposition of travel bans and asset freezes on listed individuals – now stands at 55.

The Council of the EU said its targeted measures were not designed to have adverse humanitarian effects or unintended consequences for the Venezuelan population, and could be reversed.

“The EU will continue to engage and work with all stakeholders in Venezuela to promote peaceful dialogue and a democratic and sustainable solution to the crises in the country,” it said.

The EU introduced restrictive measures on Venezuela in November 2017. (CMC)

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2021

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

LGC hosts successful Agro ServicesAmazon Planx Golf Tournament

– Mahendra Harry carts off top prize

The winners with their trophies and fresh vegetable hampers from Agro Services

By Timothy Jaikarran

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gro Services and Amazon Planx generously sponsored the second golf tournament for the year in which several prizes and trophies were awarded.

LGC Secretary Chet Bowling

The tournament, which was held on Sunday, February 21, saw a turnout of 32 players who observed the COVID-19 guidelines throughout the day.

The competition was played under the medal play format. Coming in first was Mahendra Harry with a gross 78 Hc (Handicap) 14 net 64, while in second Anand Persaud had a gross 92 Hc 26 net 66, third Rakesh Harry with gross 84 Hc 13

Winner of the Longest Drive prize, Tom Watkins

bers. What’s next for us is that next Saturday we will be hosting a tournament sponsored by Suresh JagMohan Construction Services. The COVID situation is still a concern, but we see things moving forward, the executive is actively discussing the Guyana Open, which usually sees a lot of overseas players – from the USA, Suriname and other Caribbean countries.”

LGC President Patanjilee Persaud also thanked the sponsors and players for their continued support. He noted that the sponsors were striving for excellence, and showered them with praise for their prizes of high quality to the winners.

Amazon Planx is a complete wood-processing facility, whose products range from logs to moulded items such as base boards, tongueand-groove, lap-edge crown mouldings, deck boards, and

Winner of the tournament, Mahendra Harry

net 71 and fourth Guillermo Escaraga gross 88 Hc 17 net 71. The lowest gross prize went to Harry, the Nearest to Pin, Mike Mangal and the Longest Drive, Tom Watkins.

Sharing his sentiments at the end of the competition was Lusignan Golf Club (LGC) Secretary Chet Bowling, who said, “Well, in terms of what it feels like to host another tournament, I feel excited. We see more companies coming forward and we are actively looking to engage various business associations to partner with, to bring golf to their mem-

a wide variety of lumber, as it also has facilities for kilndried lumber.

Agro Services Inc is one of Guyana’s leading quality suppliers of bulk whole and processed fresh fruits and vegetables. It was recently acknowledged by the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) for “Emerging Entrepreneurship” with products of a consistent quality. Agro Services Inc also specialises in a number of agricultural development specialisations.

The LGC again expressed thanks to Agro Services and Amazon Planx for their contribution to the development of golf in Guyana.

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GUYANATIMESGY.COM

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2021

Grave: Super50 tournament key to WI preparation for Sri Lanka series

Cricket West Indies chief executive Johnny Grave

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ricket West Indies (CWI) chief executive Johnny Grave says the successful staging of the Super50 Cup in Antigua will have positive repercussions for the West Indies team, especially being hosted just prior to the three-match One-Day series against Sri Lanka next month.

The Super50, which bowled off on February 7 and concludes on Saturday, is the first domestic regional tournament to be staged

by CWI since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in the Caribbean last March.

“The Super50 Cup is a really important tournament for us. It will lead in nicely to the One-Day International series against Sri Lanka which obviously forms part of the World Cup qualifiers for 2023,” Grave explained.

“So it’s really important for the players that they’ve been given this opportunity to play some cricket for the selectors to get to see them up close and personal.

“Hopefully, we can take those matches as preparation into the ODI series, because it’s really important on the back of losing all three in Bangladesh that we can bounce back and get up that Super League table, so that we don’t have to go through the qualification for the next World Cup.”

The First-Class championship was the last tournament to be staged by CWI and that was aborted last March with two rounds remaining, due to the threat of the coronavirus.

And while the Caribbean Premier League went ahead in August and September in Trinidad, the Super50 Cup remained off the table .

This year, the tournament has attracted a plethora of senior West Indies players with the likes of Test Captain Jason Holder, white-ball skipper Kieron Pollard, along with Shai Hope, Nicholas Pooran, and Shimron Hetmyer all available for their respective franchises.

And Grave said the presence of these elite players had given the tournament an added dimension, and also strengthened the cricket culture.

“We always said we wanted to create a strong and vibrant domestic game and that involves having established, experienced players available and wanting to play, either for their regional team or West Indies, as well as having that crop of youngsters coming through creating that pressure for places,” the Englishman pointed out.

“And I think the Super50 embodies that and it’s great to see all the teams here and some of the best and biggest names in West Indies cricket wanting to win games, and that’s exactly the environment and culture we wanted to re-establish in West Indies cricket.”

The Super50 Cup has been played mainly at the Coolidge Cricket Ground, with 13 matches including the semi-finals and final carded for the venue, and the remaining fixtures staged at

the Vivian Richards Cricket Stadium in North Sound.

Formerly the Stanford Cricket Ground, CWI recently acquired the facility as part of its development strategy, and Grave said plans were in the pipeline to fully commercialise it.

“We’re not just trying to

establish it as a world-class cricket venue, but also to have commercial activities which would help to fund and maintain those facilities,” Grave said.

“We’ve completed the acquisition of this fantastic facility – 16 acres right next to the airport with already, as

we can see, great First-Class facilities.

“We want to take those to the next level and we’ve got really ambitious plans to invest millions of dollars and to create a genuinely worldclass cricket facility for our best players and our future stars.” (CMC)

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Harden leads Nets to 6th straight win, Pelicans complete largest comeback in franchise history

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he high-flying Brooklyn Nets made it six straight wins in the NBA with a 112-108 victory over the Los Angeles Clippers.

Brooklyn were missing star Kevin Durant (hamstring) once again, but James Harden (37 points, 11 rebounds and seven assists) and Kyrie Irving (28 points and eight assists) stepped up in his absence.

The Nets held a 10-point lead at the final break, but roared on by billionaire owner Steve

Ballmer in the front row, the Clippers pushed hard in the last.

With the Nets leading 110-108 with 10 seconds to play, Clippers star Kawhi Leonard (29 points and 13 rebounds) was called for a tough offensive foul on former MVP Harden, spurning their final chance at victory.

The Nets have beaten all five Pacific Division teams on the road over their last five games.

According to Stats Perform, Brooklyn are the first NBA team to

beat an entire division on the road in consecutive games, since the Milwaukee Bucks did so against the Pacific Division over their last five games of the 1972-73 season.

Brooklyn wrapped up a 5-0 road trip – their longest undefeated single trip in franchise history.

The Nets improved to 20-12 in the Eastern Conference – a halfgame adrift of leaders the Philadelphia 76ers, while the Clippers slipped to 2210. (Sportsmax)

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TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2021

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Transport, Transport Youths bag wins over the weekend

Akeem Redman also led the charge with a quick-fire 67

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ollowing strict COVID-19 protocols, Transport Sports Club (TSC) battled Queen’s College in a one-sided affair on Saturday at the Queen’s College Ground.

The result from this warm-up match favoured Transport, who were able to win by a whopping 146 runs

Ewert Samuels remained unbeaten on 67 and brought up his 50 in 15 balls

thanks to the batting efforts of Ewert Samuels and Akeem Redman and the bowling class of Kevin Ross. Then, on Sunday, the team comprising Transport youths and two seniors beat Diplomats in a friendly 25- over fixture played at Transport Ground.

chipped in with quick-fire cameos. Samuel's innings was the one that set the tone for the encounter as he blasted his fifty in just 15 balls as he smoked bowlers to every part of the ground. Redman also did his part, as he played his natural game and tormented his opponents.

Samuels and Redman contributed a total of 14 sixes between them. Bowling for QC were Nathan Sukhanandan 3-50 and Nasire 2-70.

In reply, QC's batting failed them as they were bundled out for 110 all out in 20.5 overs. The only player to score big for them was Brandon Jaikaran with 57 (2x6 6x4). QC struggled to

Kevin Ross bagged 5-32

read the line and length of the bowling. Ross and Singh were able to tangle them in their webs, resulting in the small total. Bowling for TSC were Kevin Ross 5-32 and Rafael Singh 3-15 in sterling contributions to TSC's mammoth win.

While on Sunday after overnight rain and early-morning showers coupled

John Persaud (left) and Nehemiah Hohenkirk (right)

In Saturday’s encounter, TSC won the toss and chose to bat as they looked to post a mammoth total in their 35 overs. In the end, they were able to rack up 256-7 in 35 overs. Top-scoring were Samuels with 67 not out (8x6 2x4), while Redman made 67 (6x6 4x4) and Lorrex Evans 39 not out (1x6 6x4) and Rafael Singh 37 (2x6 3x4)

with the Saharan dust and hazy sunshine, Transport won the toss and asked Diplomats to bat on a pitch with some moisture.

Diplomats got off to a flying start with Jeffrey Blair hitting 4 fours and a six in a quick-fire 37; he was removed by the lively fast bowler Nehemiah Hoenkirk, who ended with figures of 4-16

and got support from John Persaud 4-17 while Stephon Sankar, the off-spinner, picked up 2 for 14 to bowl out Diplomats for 100 in 19.4 overs.

In reply, Transport were cruising at 47 for 1 in the ninth over when the elegant Jerimiah Hoenkirk (26) and the sound and compact Ryan Latif (14) held the innings to-

gether with a partnership of 44 runs. Gabriel Rookhum chipped in with a quick 17 while Wayne Yansen and John Persaud helped to get Transport over the line in

the 24th over. Bowling his left-arm spin for Diplomats, Michael (one name only) ended with 4-4 as he brought the game to an exciting nail-biting finish.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2021

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

Joseph 4 for 24, Hetmyer smashes 67 as Guyana cruise to victory

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complete all-round performance from Guyana Jaguars with bat and ball propelled them to a comfortable victory over the Windward Islands Volcanoes in the final group game of CG Insurance Super50 Cup. With this result, the two teams will now meet in the second semi-final on Thursday at Coolidge Cricket Ground.

Guyana Jaguars were always in complete control of this encounter after CG Insurance Man of the Match Keon Joseph took two wickets in the first over as the

Windwards were routed for 153 in 45 overs. The strongly-built fast bowler, operating from the Sir Curtly Ambrose end, produced a fantastic spell of 8-2-24-4.

This was a career best for List A in just his fifth game at this level, after making his debut back in 2009.

Shimron Hetmyer’s unbeaten 67, his second half-century of the competition and ninth in the List A format, led the charge towards a comfortable victory. He featured in an unbroken 93-run second-wicket alliance with opener Tevin Imlach (37 not out), as the

Jaguars reached their target in the 29th over. The innings started in rollicking fashion when left-hander Chandrapaul Hemraj smashed 41 off 32 balls, before he was slow bowled by Alick Athanaze.

Reacting to the win as Guyana Jaguars continue their quest to win their first regional 50-over title since 2005 when the tournament was called the KFC Cup, Captain Leon Johnson said: “Yes, we are (thinking of title). We have a couple of days before that game.

It’s good to get a victory

against the Windwards, which will be the same opposition that we will be playing on Thursday. We were very convincing in our victory and at least won the psychological battle going into that game.”

The 29-year-old Joseph said: “I’ve been around the team a while, so I know when I get the ball the team is looking for me to produce. The camp is good (ahead of semi-finals), we just have to tick all our boxes, keep consistent, win the semi-final and potentially get to the final.”

SCOREBOARD Windward Islands Batting Andre Fletcher (RHB) c Imlach b Joseph 0 Alick Athanaze (LHB) b Joseph 7 Sunil Ambris (RHB) c Savory b Joseph 2 Kevin Stoute (RHB) c Hemraj b Moti-Kanhai 41 Roland Cato (RHB) c Hetmyer b Joseph 0 Emmanuel Stewart (RHB) run out 46 Keron Cottoy (LHB) lbw b Lewis 27 Ryan John (RHB) c Savory b Barnwell 15 Kenneth Dember (RHB) c Johnson b Hemraj 5 Larry Edward (LHB) 0 Obed McCoy (LHB) b Hemraj 4 Total (10 wickets, 45.0) (6 extras) 153

Bowler O-M-R-W Keon Joseph 8.0-2-24-4 Kevin Sinclair 10.0-2-30-0 Gudakesh Motie 10.0-0-37-1 Ramaal Lewis 10.0-0-40-1 C Hemraj 5.0-0-11-2 C Barnwell 2.0-0-11-1 Guyana Batting Chanderpaul Hemraj (LHB) b Athanaze 41 Tevin Imlach (RHB) not out 37 Shimron Hetmyer (LHB) not out 67 Total (1 wickets, 28.4) (10 extras) 155 Bowler O-M-R-W Ryan John 5.0-0-27-0 Kenneth Dember 6.0-0-27-0 Obed McCoy 2.0-0-13-0 Alick Athanaze 7.0-0-30-1 Larry Edward 5.0-0-31-0 Keron Cottoy 3.4-0-23-0

Suriname’s John billed to race

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…tickets for in-person attendance on sale from Thursday

he Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC) announced two sets of really good news for motor racing fans and competitors alike.

The first announcement is that arch-rivals Suriname will be represented in this Sunday’s first round of the National Drag Championship with former 13-second champion Raymond John and his Toyota Chaser expected to show up at the South Dakota Circuit Drag Strip to challenge the local speedsters in the thrilling 1320 showdown.

This has become possible since the announcement of the resumption of the GuyanaSuriname ferry service on Sunday last.

The other good news is that the Club has been granted approval to host a limited number of spectators at the Timehri venue. Head of the

GMR&SC, Rameez Mohamed has shared with the media that since the number of tickets are limited, the Club would be allocating them on a first-come, first-served basis.

The tickets cost just $2000 for adults and $500 for young children and will go on sale this Thursday at the GMR&SC office on Albert Street from 09:00h. For persons interested in VIP, those tickets will cost $8000, inclusive of entrance fee.

Mohamed further revealed that there would be strict COVID-19 measures in place, with everyone required to wear a mask and have their temperature checked before entering. In addition, persons will be asked to not cluster in parking and maintain social distancing.

And for those who will miss out on purchasing tickets, the event will not only be live-

streamed via the Club’s Facebook page but also on cable provider E-Networks, which is also a major sponsor of the event.

E1, SKAR TV (Channel 102) as well as Tarzee TV in Bartica are the channels that will be broadcasting the action.

Other sponsors include AR Jiwanram Printery, Associated Construction Services, BM SOAT Auto Sales, Cyril’s Transportation Services, Homeline Furnishing, Imran Auto Works, KFC, KGM Security, Land Star Drilling Company, MMD Hollow Blocks and Pavers, Mohamed’s Enterprise, Motor Trend Service Centre, Modern Building Solutions, Panko Steel Fabrication, Power Tech Sound Company, Prem’s Electrical, Ready Mix Concrete, Rush Energy Drink, Samaroo Investments Inc, Secure Innovations & Concepts Inc, STAG Beer, Trans Pacific

Raymond John’s Toyota chaser

Motor Spares & Auto Sales, Truck Master, UNICOM – United

Commodities, West Coast Customs Washbay, Windjammer,

First Class Auto Sales & Spares, Castrol Oil, and NAFICO.

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