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Berbice farmer charged for unlicensed firearm, ammo

Sixty-year-old Charan Suresh Guman of Clifton Settlement, Corentyne, Berbice, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne), was on Monday arraigned for possession of unlicensed firearm and am

Charles Leonard, 49, also called “Poon” of White Mile Port Kaituma, North West District (NWD), Region One (Barima Waini), on Monday confessed to killing his friend whom he had accused of eating his wild meat and cassava bread back in 2017.

The man admitted to committing the heinous crime when he appeared before Justice Brassington Reynolds via Zoom at the High Court. munition when he appeared at the Whim Magistrate’s Court.

Guman pleaded not guilty to the charge when

The gun and ammunition found at the farm

it was read to him by Magistrate Renita Singh. The police stated the on June

The charge had stated that between October 5 and 6, 2017, at Five Mile Port Kaituma, NWD, Leonard unlawfully killed Romel Gouveia also called “White Boy”.

The accused had appeared before Magistrate Ann McLennan on October 11, 2017, and was not required to plead to the indictable charge.

Nevertheless, upon his appearance on Monday before Justice Reynolds, he 18, 2019, at Port Mourant, Georgetown, Guman had one .38 revolver along with two live .38 rounds and four .38 spent shells without being the holder of a firearm license.

He was granted bail in the sum of $400,000 and was also ordered to lodge his passport and other travel documents until the determination of the matter.

It was reported that on the day in question, Police acted on information received and went to a farmhouse at Babu John, Port Mourant, and carried out a search during which an unlicensed revolver with matching ammunition were found on a table.

At the time of the discovery, Guman was present and had confessed to the crime and the lesser charge of manslaughter was entered on his behalf.

It was reported that the now dead man and the suspect lived in the same house and on October 5, the two men had a misunderstanding over food.

It is alleged that Leonard, who was under the influence of alcohol, saw the now dead man in the kitchen eating his food. This angered the suspect, who armed him

Charan Suresh Guman

as such, he was arrested and charged. He will make his next court appearance on

Port Kaituma miner confesses to killing friend in 2017

August 17, 2020.

Charles Leonard

self with a piece of wood and dealt one blow to the victim’s head.

After committing the act, the suspect left the scene but Gouveia’s lifeless body was later discovered by Leonard’s wife, who raised an alarm.

The man was picked up and taken to the Port Kaituma Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival. The suspect was arrested and charged a few days later.

During the trial, the State was represented by Prosecutors Teriq Mohammed and Tyra Bakker while Leonard was represented by Attorney-atLaw Siand Dhurjon.

Leonard will make his next court appearance on July 20 for sentencing pending a probation report.

Concede…

…your defeat, Granger

The CEO of the Covid-19 Task Force, Joseph Harmon, still acts as if he’s the major domo of the Presidential Ministry. While he was the Campaign Manager of the APNU/AFC coalition and General Secretary of APNU, your Eyewitness wonders what exactly is his relationship to David Granger to pronounce so authoritatively on the latter’s behalf. Some thought he was Granger’s Svengali – you know, exercising some kinda sinister controlling or “mesmeric” influence on his former army boss.

But nobody takes that seriously…Granger just likes to play the good cop, bad cop routine, and Harmon – who insists he’ll be succeeding Granger, hence his pugnacity – becomes the heavy. Remember him firing off some 11 letters to GECOM on his “irregularities” tall tales and demanding they respond – or else?? GECOM didn’t pay him no mind, and we didn’t hear a squeak from him. Anyhow, to repeated calls from every country in the free world – and some – that it’s time Granger accepts the APNU/AFC was drubbed at the elections and should concede, Harmon was livid.

“[There is] a report in the Elections Commission showing all the valid votes and still people are calling for Mr Granger to concede. Concede to what? Concede to who? What is he to concede to? It appears to me — and I’ll venture to say any right-thinking person — to be a most ridiculous and nonsensical proposition,” he insisted. The fella who (hopefully?) finally gave up his US citizenship when he was outed as a dual citizen and stripped from his Ministerial position then went on to warn that Guyana “does not take lightly interference into its sovereignty as a nation.” Irony is lost when ambition gets the better of you!! He concluded conclusively: “To those persons who are calling for Mr Granger to concede, that is not going to happen.”

“Concede to what??” How about the Constitution of this country?? After he embarrassed the nation when he made Guyana a laughing stock for having to be lectured by the CCJ as to what constituted a “majority of 65”, does he really want us to have a repeat performance on what is the meaning of “valid votes”?? “Concede to who?” Your Eyewitness will overlook Harmon’s grammatical faux pas on confusing the nominative with the objective (“who” with “whom”!) and answer quite simply – concede to the majority of the voters of Guyana who didn’t vote for his “list”.

Wasn’t he the one who said the recount would produce the “valid votes”?? Well, it did – check the SoRs and the 10 Certificates of Recount.

“What is he to concede?” The PNC still retains the loyalty of a significant segment of our citizenry.

Concede to them he’s moving on.

…that the PNC’s isolated

Used to be that the Bible for political parties was “How to win friends and influence people”, but that’s been turned on its head by the PNC after the elections. A funny thing happened to them after Mingo did his thing over at the Ashmin’s building: they’ve pretty much run out of people to cuss out!! Could you believe a political party cussing out the ambassadors of the US, UK, Canada and the EU in one breath?? Throw in the Commonwealth (54 countries with one and a half billion bodies) for good measure and you get an idea of their funk!!

The unkindest cut of all was their cussing out of a slew of Heads of Government from Caricom. Heck, does the PNC remember that Burnham was a founding member of the body, which he said was his most noteworthy accomplishment. Does the PNC realise what is the meaning of “Community”?? Heck, this means we’re family; sisters and brothers are we!!

When they run to the rock for rescue, there’ll be no rock!

…that time longer than twine

The PNC think they’re quite clever to’ve strung out the PPP for a year on the NCM, and now, almost four months on their elections defeat.

But time longer than twine…and all smart flies end on…

GECOM Chair declines to make new submissions to CCJ

…previous submissions stand

Guyana Elections C o m m i s s i o n (GECOM) Chair, Retired Justice Claudette Singh will not be making any new submissions concerning the upcoming hearing before the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ).

This was revealed in a letter that was written on Justice Claudette Singh’s behalf by her attorney-at-law. In the letter, the CCJ was informed that after considering the issue, the Chair does not wish to actively participate in the appeal.

According to the letter, they will not be making any submissions. The Chair’s reason for declining to make new submissions in the case is not clear. Efforts by this publication to contact Singh’s Attorney-at-Law Kim Kyte, were futile.

“On further consideration, we do not wish to actively participate in the Appeal. In the circumstances, we do not wish to make any submissions,” the letter, which was addressed to the Registrar of the CCJ and Attorney-at-Law Devindra Kissoon, said.

In a post on social media, however, former Attorney General Anil Nandlall sought to provide clarity on the issue. According to Nandlall, who represents the applicants in the matter, the GECOM Chair has not withdrawn from the matter. Rather, he noted that she will rely on her previous submission which is on record and render additional submissions unnecessary.

“The Chair has not withdrawn from the appeal,” the former Attorney General said in his post. “She will make no submissions. None (are) necessary. Her previous submissions are on record. No harm done.”

When APNU/AFC supporter Eslyn David had approached the Court of Appeal to block the declaration of results, Singh had submitted an affidavit. In her affidavit, she had urged the court to throw out David’s motion, noting that questions regarding the elections must be ventilated in an election petition.

Singh, in her affidavit, had argued that Article 177 (4) of the Constitution of Guyana, under which David’s application was filed, clothes the Court of Appeal with a “narrow special exclusive jurisdiction” to hear and determine any question as to the validity of an election of a President in so far as that question turns upon the qualification of any person for election or the interpretation of this Constitution.

Article 177 (4) states: The Court of Appeal shall have exclusive jurisdiction to hear and determine any question as to the validity of an election of a President in so far as that question depends upon the qualification of any person for election or the interpretation of this Constitution; and any decision of that Court under this paragraph shall be final.

“The Court of Appeal is therefore not vested with original jurisdiction to hear questions on the interpretation of the Constitution outside of this narrow special jurisdiction. It is the High Court which is so vested… Further, when one reads the entire Article 177, the Article contemplates a person already declared by GECOM as President. It is respectfully submitted that the electoral process has not reached this stage. In any event, the Order sought… [in] the Notice of Motion amounts to the interpretation of an Order and not the Constitution,” Kyte, on be

GECOM Chair, Retired Justice Claudette Singh

half of the GECOM Chair, had contended in her submission.

It is the appeal of the Court of Appeal’s subsequent decision that more votes as set out in the Constitution mean more valid votes, that is being heard at the CCJ. The applicants in the case are PPP/C Presidential Candidate, Dr Irfaan Ali and PPP General Secretary Bharrat Jagdeo.

According to the Notice of Application (NOA), filed on their behalf by Trinidadbased Senior Counsel

Former AG Anil Nandlall

Douglas Mendes, the applicants are seeking leave to appeal the Court of Appeal decision, requesting that the matter be urgently heard and that the application be treated as the hearing of the appeal.

The CCJ had obliged to the appeal, setting July 1 for the hearing of the appeal, with a case management conference held on Thursday, June 25. Further, the CCJ had granted an order that maintains the status quo and injuncts GECOM until further no

The letter sent on the GECOM Chair’s behalf to the CCJ

tice.

10 NEWS TUESDAY, JUNE 30, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

GDF gets new Chief of Staff

...as West proceeds on pre-retirement leave

Days after caretakwere sown coming to fruier President, David tion in another few years”, Granger called on he noted. members of the Guyana “I think Colonel Bess will Defence Force (GDF) to be have a very good foundation loyal to him, he has grantgoing forward,” Brigadier ed approval to Chief of Staff, West said while describing Brigadier Patrick West to his time in the military as proceed on accumulated “very good.” leave with effect from July Brigadier West is the 1, 2020. The Brigadier’s acrecipient of the Military cumulated leave will end in Service Star, Military March 2021. Efficiency Medal, and the

As a result of this deBorder Defence Medal, velopment, Colonel Godfrey among others. Bess was appointed by Meanwhile, 51-year-old Granger to function as Chief Colonel Godfrey Bess said it of Staff; Colonel Trevor Colonel Godfrey Bess was an honour to have been Bowman, Inspector General; Colonel Sherwin Anderson, Quartermaster General; and Colonel Raul Jerrick as Adjutant General with effect from July 1. In light of this being his pre-retirement leave, Granger extended best wishes to Brigadier West for his service as an officer in the Defence Force since 1985. Brigadier West, who is now 54, served as the country’s 10th Chief of Staff. He expressed gratitude to the caretaker President and the Board for both “specific and general direction” which he said has helped to shape the course of effective transformation within the Force, while at the same time developing the concept of Total National Defence. “I am certain that the momentum of the Force at this stage can see the seeds of transformation which bestowed with the privilege of serving as Chief of Staff of the Defence Force and thanked the President and the Defence Board for the opportunity to serve while Brigadier West proceeds on his accumulated leave. Colonel Bess thanked also, Brigadier West, whom he has worked with over the last three years on what he termed the consolidation and stabilisation period of the GDF.

“Brigadier West’s leadership has been admirable. I have learnt a lot from him. The vision is clear and indeed what I need to do with my team is follow the vision,” Colonel Bess said, noting that “the path is clear and I will follow that path.”

Colonel Bess, who started his military career in 1990 served in Command, Administrative, Staff and Training appointments throughout the GDF. He said his professional education was supported by the compulsory professional military education of the Guyana Defence Force which includes the Senior and Junior Command and Staff Courses and Managing Security in Wider Defence Context.

Colonel Bess has been serving as Quarter Master General since January 1, 2018, and has been responsible for ensuring that the GDF is well resourced to carry out its mandate in any terrain.

Brigadier Patrick West

He has received military training from the Colonel Ulric Pilgrim Officer Cadet School - Guyana, the United States of America Military

Remanded: Jermain Melville

Three pitmen who had confessed to beating and robbing a Brazilian businessman at Sandhill/Oku Landing, Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni), were on Monday arraigned with armed robbery.

Christopher James, 20, of Tuschen Housing Scheme, East Bank Essequibo (EBE); 19-yearold Jermain Melville, also of Tuschen Housing Scheme, and 23-year-old Dellon Benjamin of Suddie Sand Creek, Essequibo Coast, appeared before Magistrate Crystal Lambert via Zoom and were not required to plead to the charge.

The police stated that on June 26, 2020, at Sandhill/ Oku Landing, they beat and robbed 62-year-old Adam DaSilva, a gold miner of Boa Vista, Brazil.

In defending their actions, the three men told the Police School - Alabama, the Caribbean Junior Command and Staff School - Jamaica and the Shrivenham Defence College, United Kingdom.

Colonel Bess is the holder of a Bachelor of Social Science Degree in Business Management and Level Two Association of Chartered Certified Accountants.

On Thursday last, Granger demanded loyalty and obedience to superiors in the hierarchy of the Guyana Defence Force in the execution of their duties and to, among other things, support and defend the State against all enemies whomsoever in upholding the preservation of the

Employees charged for robbing, beating Brazilian boss

Constitution of Guyana.

Remanded: Christopher James

Remanded: Dellon Benjamin

Magistrate that they only committed the act after they were not paid for work done for the businessman.

Magistrate Lambert remanded the trio to prison until July 27.

It was reported that the suspects carted off with an undisclosed quantity of raw gold while DaSilva suffered a fractured leg and laceration about the body due to the beating.

Suriname moves ahead with democratic transition of new Govt

…as Guyana’s defeated Caretaker President clings to power

Ne i g h b o u r i n g year following the no-conSuriname is movfidence vote, the elections ing ahead with putwere finally held in March ting its new governance 2020. structure in place with the It is now almost four swearing-in, on Monday, months since the electorof its President-in-Office ate voted but credible reof the National Assembly, sults are yet to be declared while Guyana is still caught even though they are wideup in a fierce political batly known and certified by tle due to the incumbent all stakeholders, including Government refusing to the parties themselves and concede defeat and make local and international obway for the newly-elected servers. Administration to take its The National Recount place. Suriname’s Minister of Labour, Soewarto Mustadja, results, which constitute data generated from the 2339 Statements of Recount De facto Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo was sworn in by outgoing (SoRs), show that the former Ambassador of President Desi Bouterse as President-in-Office of the National Assembly. President Desi Bouterse swears Minister Moestadja in as acting DNA Chairman (Photo: NII) People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) won the March 2 General Election Barbados to the US and Permanent Representative to the OAS, John Beale,

The role of the Presidentand the Brotherhood and had conceded defeat for the with 233,336 votes cast expressed that Caricom in-Office is to swear in Unity in politics – togethsake of allowing his country in its favour. The APNU/ should be firm in telling and admit the newly electer will control 35 of the to move forward, but it is AFC secured 217,920 votes. Granger that he has lost ed Assembly Members 51 seats in the National the opposite for his counterFor the new parties, the the elections and should and to lead the election Assembly, while Bouterse’s part in Guyana. Embattled numbers are as follows: A spare Guyana “any further of President and ViceNDP won the remaining 16 President David Granger New and United Guyana shame” by conceding defeat. President of Parliament. seats. has tightened his grip on – 2313; Change Guyana Beale noted that the at

After these actions, the President Bouterse power even though the re–1953; Liberty and Justice tempts by the APNU/AFC work of the President-inwished the President-insults of a National Recount Party – 2657; People’s coalition to “steal the elecOffice is completed and he Office the very best and have confirmed that his rulRepublic Party – 889; The tions” have not worked, takes a seat in the hall with success in carrying out the ing party was massively deCitizenship Initiative – 680; since based on the evidence the other representatives of forthcoming acts in the feated by over 15,000 votes. The New Movement – 244; that has been presented the people. At that moment, country’s meeting room, acIt should also be noted and the United Republican so far, it is clear that the the elected President takes cording to media reports out that President Granger’s Party – 360. Opposition PPP/C has conover the leadership of the of Suriname. APNU/AFC coalition was Only a few days ago, vincingly won the March 2 Parliament. The General Elections in defeated twice – first in

The opposition parties – Suriname were held on May a no-confidence vote in Progressive Reform Party, 25, and the results were deParliament in December Algemene Bevrijdings- en clared and accepted by all 2018 and then at the March Ontwikkelingspartij, The stakeholders mere days af2 National Elections. National Party of Suriname, ter. After prolonging the and the Pertjajah Luhur, Suriname’s Bouterse elections for more than a

Caretaker President David Granger

polls.

“Granger should be told by all Caricom leaders that all attempts to steal the elections have failed and are over. He should go now, put an end to the abuse of the court system, and spare Guyana any further shame,” Beale wrote in the opinion piece published by Caribbean News Service.

Beale also warned that the “dark forces” in Guyana must not be allowed to “contaminate or disgrace” other countries in Caricom that value democracy and free and fair elections.

12 NEWS TUESDAY, JUNE 30, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Time to honour, respect the will of the people – CIOG to Granger

…calls on GECOM to declare elections results

The Central Islamic servers that the polls were Guyana’s 2020 election proOrganisation of credible, a declaration is nocess was free, fair, and credGuyana (CIOG) where in sight. ible,” the CIOG indicated. has joined mounting calls “Guyanese citizens have For this, it was asserted for the Guyana Elections demonstrated admirable rethat the will of the people Commission (GECOM) to straint and patience while should now be honoured in fulfil its constitutionally the election process and its order for the country to move mandated duty and declare results have been subjected forward, adding that in orthe winner of the March to many stages of overview der for this to be done, a decelections as soon as the and review prior to verificalaration from GECOM using Caribbean Court of Justice tion. After intense scrutiny, the recount statistics should (CCJ) delivers a ruling. the Caricom Observer Team be made. After the National

On Monday, the ordeclared that they were of Recount of votes was tallied, ganisation lauded the dethe ‘unshakeable belief that the outcome showed a win gree of patience shown by the people of Guyana exfor the Opposition People’s the Guyanese population pressed their will at the balProgressive Party/Civic. in waiting months for a lot box on March 2.’ To the The statement said, “The winner to be officially degreat credit of our nation, all Guyanese people should be clared. Despite the perspecinternational and Caricom proud of this accomplishtive from international obobservers have vouched that ment, for when democracy

Corentyne labourer burnt to death

ACorentyne labourer is now dead after receiving third-degree burns. He was seen by his wife in a ball of fire after she heard him screaming. He died a few hours after.

Dead is 34-year-old Naresh Rampersaud of Lot 81 Third Street Miss Phobie, Port Mourant, who worked as a labourer at Nand Persaud Rice Mills.

According to his wife Roopadia Durdial, the incident took place on Thursday morning. She said they went to bed and she woke up to sounds of him screaming.

“3 o’clock morning time I hear a holler and my eyes open…he is not with me on the bed and when I look on the louvres I see the fire reflection and I push the door because the door left open and I run outside. I didn’t even see him on the ground because I looking at the house thinking that the house burning and then when I look on the ground I see him and I start to scream and call for my next-door neighbour. My

Dead: Naresh Rampersaud

neighbour tell me to take clothes or something and beat the fire with it and I start to pull the clothes off the line and then my father and brothers and neighbours run over and out the fire.”

The police were called and took the injured man for medial attention but he succumbed hours later.

This newspaper was told that last November, Rampersaud became ill and began skipping workdays. In fact, over the past three weeks, he only worked seven days.

Durdial explained that her father-in-law has displayed signs of mental illness and some of those same actions she had begun to notice in Rampersaud.

“In December month he tell me that his nerves affecting him and I carried him to the doctor and I get treatment for two weeks,” the woman told this publication. She said that he was subsequently admitted to the Port Mourant Hospital.

She added that in January, he was caught with a bottle of poison in his hand. According to Durdial, she once again took Rampersaud to the psychiatric hospital and he was admitted as a patient at the National Psychiatric Hospital, where he spent two weeks.

“Then in February, he take in with this mental thing again.” Over the past week, Rampersaud had reportedly begun having difficulty sleeping and had also started burning himself with lighted cigarettes. A post-mortem is expected shortly. Police have since launched an investigation.

CIOG President Shaikh Moen-ul-Hack

wins, everyone wins. Now it is time to honour and respect the will of the people as expressed by the majority of the electorate at the polls. It is time to move forward and work unitedly for the well-being and success of the entire nation.”

The Islamic Organisation made urges to the Guyana Police Force to uphold the at Mabaruma, Region One (Barima-Waini), which was rented by the Public Health Ministry to house Cuban doctors working in the region. Reports are the fire started at about 11:15h. At the time of the blaze, no one was in the building. The large section of the two-storule of law in a responsible manner while “simultaneously monitoring and addressing any inflammatory actions in order to serve and protect all Guyanese citizens”.

These calls are compounded by recent statements from other religious organisations such as the Arya Samaj community of Guyana, the Inter-Religious Dialogue and the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha among others.

The Arya Samaj Community had contended that the current stance taken by APNU/AFC Leader David Granger does not encourage better relations among the Guyanese people, nor does it promote peace.

The organisation said to the caretaker Head of State, “By unlawfully holding on to power and misleading your loyal supporters, you are creating an atmosphere of mistrust, hate and fear. When this is over, we as Guyanese will have to live together, help one another and be there for each other…Your present posturing does not bode well for relations amongst Guyanese, for peaceful co-existence and love for each other. It is instead causing more pain especially to your loyal supporters, who are still holding on to your words as a beacon.”

Meanwhile, the IRD recognised the PPP as the “clear winner” and therefore indicated that Granger and his party should concede with dignity.

Its missive had read, “It is without a doubt that the incumbent APNU+AFC party has lost the elections, status as Government and the

Doctors’ residence razed by fire in Mabaruma A fire of unknown origin on Monday destroyed a building flames became noticeable only after it had spread to a The Mabaruma doctors’ quarters engulfed in flames Presidency.” rey wooden building. The 40; Martin Lewis, 46, and of an 81-year-old Kingston rear end of the building was their 14-year-old son teen pensioner went up in flames destroyed and the fire then son Dawall Ifill, all of E-Half after he left for work in the moved to the front, gutting Sixth Street, Cummings wee morning hours. the entire structure. Lodge, ECD. According to reports, res

This publication underOn the same day, a famidents reportedly saw smoke stands that nothing was ily of three was also left emanating from the Lot 33 saved and the belongings of homeless after a fire ravaged Barrack Street, Kingston several medical personnel their one-storey Lot 197 property sometime afwere all destroyed. Section A Field Seven South ter 07:30h and summoned

During the past few days, Sophia, Greater Georgetown the Guyana Fire Service. almost one fire has been rewooden home. Three tenders respondported every day, leaving Meanwhile, on Friday, ed to the scene shortly afnumerous persons homeless. millions of dollars in furniter and managed to contain Just last Saturday, an entire ture and equipment were the blaze from spreading to family of three was killed afdestroyed when the ND&S other neighbouring properter a fire started in their furniture store and factoties. However, nothing was Sixth Street, Cummings ry, located at Gap Road, saved. Lodge apartment complex. La Jalousie, West Coast Investigations were In that ordeal, 28 persons Demerara (WCD), went up launched by the Guyana were also left homeless. in flames. Fire Service into each inci

Dead are Beverly Miller, On Thursday, the home dent.

APNU/AFC neglected COVID-19 while focusing on politics – Mark Phillips

…as Guyana's cases rise to 235

In its quest to prove a win despite contrary results which showed their defeat at the March polls, the caretaker A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) coalition neglected the health sector at a crucial time and allowed the coronavirus pandemic to spiral out of control.

This was the position taken by PPP/C Prime Ministerial Candidate, retired Brigadier Mark Phillips during an engagement on Monday, whereby he noted that the country has adequate human resource capacity to handle COVID-19. However, it lacks direction while the coalition continues to absorb itself in politics in order to remain in power.

“I’m convinced that the expertise to deal with COVID-19 exists in Guyana. We just need some restructuring and some redirection. The reality is that the present Government is more preoccupied with the political side of remaining in office and they’re not focusing as they should on dealing with this pandemic,” the Prime Ministerial Candidate positioned.

As soon as the PPP is declared winner, Phillips noted, their governance will immediately restructure the sector and ensure that the epidemic is handled appropriately.

“If we can have the transition as is required after the elections, we are ready to go and we will restructure and redirect the resources and the Guyanese people will see almost immediately, a better approach to deal with this pandemic.”

235 cases

After 17 weeks of battling with the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), Guyana recorded 235 positive cases on Monday.

Chief Medical Officer, Dr Shamdeo Persaud provided the daily update, which showed an increase of five cases.

Over the weekend, the National Reference Laboratory, which processes samples for COVID-19 was closed for electrical works, resulting in a suspension of testing.

From the 235 cases, a total of 114 persons have recovered thus far and the number of deaths remains at 12. In the facilities, there are now 109 active cases in institutional insolation, 18 persons in institutional quarantine and one patient in the COVID-19 ICU.

Some 2552 tests were conducted with 2317 of those being negative.

“Our number of positive cases is a clear indication that we have not achieved the targeted results as expected with limiting the transmission,” Dr Persaud lamented.

He further recognised that many persons were seen congregating at the Georgetown seawall in large masses this weekend, despite repeated warnings. Despite multiple warnings, the curfew and guidelines continue to be flouted, especially in Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica).

“Over the weekend, we observed large gatherings on the seawall in Region Four after 06:00 pm despite repeated warnings to observe physical distancing, to wear a mask when out in public and to adhere to the curfew measures. It is quite obvious that all our messages are falling on deaf ears and that our young population is determined to do as they please, evidently of the opinion that COVID-19 is a hoax and that they cannot be infected.”

The CMO went on to question why the public is

continuing with their careless actions, despite seeing the dreadful effects in many countries.

“Is neighbouring Brazil’s death toll a figment of our imagination? Do we have to see our citizens dropping and dying on the road before we take COVID-19 seriously? Are we so callous that we think little of the service being done by all the frontline workers even at the risk of infecting themselves and their family? What about the statistics which show that our males are predominantly being affected and that our 20- 29 age group is most at risk? Finally, do we really care for our loved ones particularly our grandmothers and grandfathers whose lives we endanger when we go home after such gatherings?” he asked.

For those displaying this “lax behaviour”, he reminded that the coronavirus will soon “catch up” if they do not desist from such.

Once again, residents of Moruca, Region One (BarimaWaini) and Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) were asked to remain vigilant and heed warnings as these areas continue to witness heightened cases in recent weeks.

“We have indicated that a large number of positive cases in both of these regions

The flood-prone Ocean View Hotel, which is under renovation works to function as a COVID-19 hospice care facility, will soon be completed after remaining works are done.

The caretaker coalition would have expended about $1 billion to transform the facility into a specialised sanitorium for those suffering from the novel virus. Presently, patients are seeking accommodations at various makeshift units as cases continue to rise.

After a tour of the facility on Monday, Chief Medical Officer Dr Shamdeo Persaud indicated, “a facility like this have no signs and symptoms. These persons can transmit this disease and you will not even know that they are sick because there is no sign to tell you this.”

According to the World Health Organisation, the total number of cases is 10,021,401 with 495,760 deaths. Regionally, the number of cases is 4,933,972 with

COVID-19 hospital

Renovated flood-prone Ocean View Hotel to be ready soon

241,931 deaths. will take some time but hopefully it will be ready for operation very shortly.”

According to senior health officials, the facility is designed to house three categories of persons. There is also space for an operating room, kitchen, laundry, waste management, holding area for gases and other pharmaceuticals.

“The plan is to handle at least three categories of persons - those who are infected and are suffering from the signs and symptoms of the disease; those who are infected but remain asymptomatic and those who are in quarantine and waiting for their results.”

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14 NEWS TUESDAY, JUNE 30, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Journalist’s vehicle destroyed by fire in Ministry’s compound

Ablack Honda CRV owned by television journalist, Travis Chase, went up in flames in the wee hours of Monday morning. Reports are the fire started at about 02:45h in the compound of the Public Service Ministry, located at Vlissengen Road and D’Urban Street, Georgetown. Closed-circuit Television (CCTV) footage has since revealed that someone scaled the fence, after which the fire erupted. Chase said that he usually parks his vehicle in the Ministry’s compound for security purposes since he lives in close proximity.

Reports indicate that the fire began at Chase’s vehicle and quickly spread to a minibus belonging to the Ministry, an employee’s motorbike and a car that is privately owned.

The security guard stationed at the location said that she noticed the fire and alerted Chase.

“When I went and peep and see where the fire start, I scrabble the keys, and I started hollering for Travis Chase, bout fifteen time and eventually somebody in the house wakes up, and then I see Travis Chase run down

The vehicles which were burnt in the Public Service Ministry compound

with his towel around he,” the guard recalled.

She added that the vehicles could have been saved if the Fire Service had responded promptly.

“The other vehicles were not burning, you know. The footage we see

shows that somebody jump the fence and throw something and light a match, and them said this happened a little while after our supervisor left,” the guard said.

In February 2019, someone had slashed the tyres of Chase’s vehicle.

Major financial irregularities, other issues plague Hururu Village Council

Representatives of the Hururu Reservation Village Council and residents in the remote riverine area are seeking assistance from the relevant authorities regarding a number of issues that have been plaguing their community.

A representative, who requested anonymity, spoke with Guyana Times and related that the Village Council has been dealing with accountability and administrative issues over the years which has led to the replacement of a number of officials.

The representative explained that he was involved in the investigations that were conducted into the misappropriation and based on the findings, an official who was in charge of finances was demoted.

He noted that a decision was also taken by the Village Council some time ago to remove another official from his position after allegations surfaced that he was removing items without permission. He was replaced but soon after the new person was also implicated in financial irregularities.

The representative related that more recently, the Village Council decided to purchase hampers for villagers in light of the COVID-19 pandemic but it was later alleged that the items were purchased without any receipts being provided. That person was also relieved of their post.

“So that is what causing this whole problem...They say they buy 2.5 million dollars in ration with no receipt, no bills nothing”, the representative related.

He further alleged that a Community Development official from Linden, who recently hosted a COVID-19 sensitisation meeting in the community, had asked for $61,000 to offset his transportation and documents distributed to the residents.

According to the representative, this official would usually take money from the Village Council to fund his trips into the riverine community.

“That is what he come and tell the residents. That we got to pay him to get these things, to get these papers what the Minister send. We got to pay $61,000. We pay it because we ain’t know what really going on, but when we get the ‘shout’ like it’s not true. He making money off of us”, he alleged.

He also claimed that the officer had visited the village with the aim of reinstating the former officials who were relieved of their duties by the Village Council but this proposal was met by disagreement.

“We ain’t reach to no decision for these people to be reinstated...accountability is not there”, the representative stressed.

“When we asked for help, the Region (Regional Democratic Council) said they’re going to come in and investigate and to see what was happening in the village”, the representative noted.

Nevertheless, the Village Council has since opposed the visit by the RDC.

As a result, he said residents had planned a protest for Monday but decided against this following a meeting with a Ministry official.

“What they wanted to do was to shut all businesses in the village… cease all operations, no business transactions until somebody come from the Region or the Ministry. We don’t want no transaction to do during this time at all. That is what we asking for...We need help”, the representative noted.

He noted that instead, a team visited the RDC in Linden on Monday where a decision was taken to cease all money transactions until all the issues are sorted out.

He added that the Village Council was also advised to make reports to the RDC, relevant Ministry and police with regards to financial irregularities.

Armed bandits invade Moblissa family’s home

…escape with vehicles, cash

Armed bandits on Sunday evening wreaked havoc on a Mobissa family of five as they stormed their home, making off with vehicles, cash and several other valuables. The bandits who were reportedly armed with cutlasses stormed the home of 34-year-old Maxine DeNobrega at approximately 19:54h. This newspaper

Being the prime building for coronavirus-related cases, he indicated that they are working to comply with all standards to protect both patients and medical personnel on duty. As such, a few modifications were initially requested in keeping with this mindset.

“The facility is a modified facility so we’re looking to try to comply with all of the most up-to-date standards with regards to control of infectious disease. We are working closely with Ministry’s standards department but also with the engineers to ensure that everything in this facility will meet those standards,” Dr Persaud shared.

He added, “The progress of the work has been commendable, to say the least. They’ve transformed the facility from where it was to where it is now. I think the quality of the work from the initial inspection seems to be up to date. We had some suggestions about a few modifications. Like with every medical facility, we will have to cater for special services.”

The CMO also pointed out that after Guyana is free from the disease, they will use the centre to treat other respiratory viruses such as tuberculosis and influenza among others.

“COVID-19 is a respiratory disease at this point in time and along with COVID-19, there are several respiratory infections. We call them severe acute respiratory illnesses. Those come seasonally like with flu and other kinds of challenges. So, I guess there will always be a role for a facility like this, even if we were to get out of this pandemic shortly.” Shortly after works began on the facility — devoid of a formal announcement by Government, the then Director General of the Ministry of the Presidency, Joseph Harmon, had told reporters that financial arrangements were still being worked out, and that the contractors had begun working without a formally signed contract. The orders by was told that after terrorperpetrators who began asising the family, the bansaulting them and demanddits made off with a numing that they hand over ber of items including a their valuables. Guyana silver grey Fielder wagon Times was told that the motor car, PTT 4321 valued bandits ransacked the vicat $3M; a Mitsubishi short tims' home and forced them base canter truck, GWW into their bathroom and 5695 valued $2.4M; four made good their escape with Stihl 51 chainsaws valued the articles. Meanwhile, af$900,000; a Stihl 160 grass ter receiving information cutter valued $100,000; a regarding the incident, the 50 inch TCL television set woman’s brother who is a valued $68,000; a twenty security guard proceeded to pound gas cylinder valued the East Bank of Demerara $12,000; four cellphones val(EBD) where he spotted ued $207,000, a YZ grass the car PTT 4321 traveltrack motorcycle engine and ling in the opposite direcchassis; a Lenovo Laptop tion at Pearl Public road, computer valued $80,000; a EBD. He begun to follow computer and printer valued the car which was report$120,000 and $40,000. edly being driven at a fast

Reports are that the rate of speed. This caused Linden- Soesdyke Highway the driver to lose control family was making dinner of the vehicle and crashed in their kitchen when they into the curb wall opposite were pounced upon by the the Demerara Distillers

Limited (DDL) at Diamond, EBD. Two male occupants then exited the car and made good their escape in some nearby bushes. Police reported that checks were made for the suspects which proved futile. The car was then taken to Golden Grove Police Station and lodged to be processed. Meanwhile at about 21:45h, ranks attached to the highway patrol base and relatives of the victim, acting on further information made checks along a trail at Haruni village, Linden Soesdyke Highway where they found another of the family’s car parked and locked. The car was towed and taken to the highway patrol base. Police then found a chain saw and a television set in the front seat of the car. An investigation was launched.

Renovated flood-prone Ocean...

Works ongoing at the flood-prone Ocean View facility

FROM PAGE 13

Government, taking over the facility and turning it into a hospice, did not indicate any further details on the financial arrangements or a sale price. The Ocean View International Hotel was owned by coalition financier Jacob Rambarran, while works ongoing on the site are being undertaken by another known People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) supporter.

The order made by the then Minister of State Dawn Hastings for the State to take ownership of the property was also inked on the same day as the one inked by Public Health Minister, Volda Lawrence to turn the acquired property into a sanitorium, with both directives being published in the Official Gazette, giving it immediate legal effect.

APNU/AFC-controlled M&CC hikes tax rates retroactively by 10%

Both residential and commercial stakeholders will have to pay an increased 10 per cent in taxes, after the Georgetown Mayor and City Council (M&CC) made a decision to hike these rates.

In an Official Gazette document published on June 27, 2020, it was announced that with effect from January 1, 2017, residential owners would be paying 44 per cent while commercial owners would be paying 275 per cent increases.

The retroactive hike came into effect after Town Clerk, Sherry Jerrick signed off on the document.

According to the notice, “The Mayor and Councillors of the City of Georgetown is hereby informing members of the Public that Property Rates for residential and commercial have increased by 10% with effect from 1st January 2017.”

When contacted on Monday, Mayor Ubraj

Mayor Ubraj Narine

Narine claimed that he was not acquainted with this development, since he had not seen the Gazette.

“I can’t really say at this point in time…I didn’t see

Georgetown Mayor and City Council (M&CC)

the Gazette so I have to check it out,” Narine said.

Meanwhile, the Town Clerk later told Guyana Times that there was no increase in “general rates” and refused to comment further

on the matter.

This move comes as a surprise since just last Thursday, it was reported that the Council would be expanding tax relief for individuals and businesses in keeping with its response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Narine has said that the municipality also decided not to charge interest on the general rates and taxes for 2020 only, commencing from June 22 to December 2020.

This announcement also comes at a time when there is grave economic hardship due to the current COVID-19 pandemic. Apart from households, businesses have been forced to close or remain partially open. Meanwhile, others have reduced their staff capacity until the situation is brought under control.

Meanwhile, a senior member of the business community said that the Private Sector Commission and the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) will have to seek an audience with the M&CC since such a move is not only arbitrary but uncaring considering the COVID pandemic facing Guyana.

Last week, the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) announced that over 50 per cent of manufacturers are facing constraints. In December 2019, the City Council had claimed that businesses in Georgetown owe City Hall over $8 billion in rates and taxes.

16 NEWS TUESDAY, JUNE 30, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Granger plunges Guyana into more bewilderment, anguish – former AG

…promises to abide by declaration, but supports Lowenfield’s fraudulent report

Caretaker President ures certified by the Caricom dience, former Attorney the recount process was credDavid Granger on Observer Team pursuant General Anil Nandlall said ibly and transparently done, Monday evening comto Article 177 (2) (b) of the that Granger has succeedand that the results generatmitted again to abide by the Constitution and Section 96 ed in plunging a tortured naed from the process are valid elections declaration, but in of the Representation of the tion into further bewilderand credible,” he said, adding the same breath supported People Act, Chapter 1:03 to ment and anguish. He said that Granger further turned the fraudulent report submitcompile his final report. that after his usual pledge the law upside down in reted by Chief Elections Officer On a radio programme of compliance with orders of spect of the relationship be(CEO) Keith Lowenfield, with party supporter Mark the courts, and binding himtween GECOM and the Chief in which he unilateralBenschop, Granger said self to a declaration of the Election Officer. ly invalidated over 115,000 that Lowenfield was correct elections results to be made Granger, he noted, wrongvotes. This illegal action by when he included the unsubby GECOM, Granger wanly asserted that the Chief Lowenfield was in direct destantiated claims made by dered off into his own frolElections Officer’s report is fiance of directions given to A Partnership for National ic. Nandlall, in blasting binding on GECOM whatevhim by Guyana Elections Unity/Alliance For Change Granger for his disingenuer that report contains. Commission Chair, Retired (APNU/AFC) agents during ous statements, said that the “The truth is that the Justice Claudette Singh. the elections recount. truth was that Granger did CEO is subordinate and Singh had directed Meanwhile, following not want to accept the results subject to the directions of Lowenfield to use the naFormer Attorney General Granger’s sanctimonious produced by the electoral proCaretaker President GECOM. Not the reverse. tional elections recount figAnil Nandlall pledge of constitutional obecess. David Granger Therefore, the CEO can only A ssistant Deputy Minister for the Americas at Global Affairs Canada, Michael Grant on Monday evening expressed concerns that even after 119 days since Guyanese went to the polls to elect a Government there is still no elections result. Grant in a Twitter post said, “very concerned that we still do not have an election result in Guyana. As demanded by CARICOM, the OAS and the Commonwealth, the outcome should be declared based on the recount which was confirmed by the CARICOM observer team. This has gone on too long.” Grant’s tweet comes on the heels of mounting international pressure for the welcomed the Caribbean Community (Caricom) Observer Report, which was clear that the recount results represented the will of the people of Guyana when country if such an approach was allowed to stand,” the Commonwealth SG posited Baroness Scotland also expressed concerns over the fact that Guyana’s General and Regional Elections are not yet concluded almost four months since polling day. Also, acting United States Assistant Secretary for Western Hemisphere Affairs, Michael Kozak in a tweet on Twitter supported the Commonwealth statement, adding that Guyana’s electorate has spoken clearly. “Guyana’s electorate spoke clearly & respected international observers @OAS_official & @ CARICOMorg have certified the recount results as crediDeclaration should be based on confirmed Caricom recount – Michael Grant Assistant Deputy Minister for the Americas at Global Affairs Canada, Michael Grant The data generated from the 2339 Statements of Recount (SoRs) showed that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) received a total of 233,336 votes. This is 15,416 more votes than their nearest rivals, the APNU/AFC, which received 217,920 total votes. When one calculates, using the Hare formula, it means that the PPP/C has secured 33 out of 65 seats in the National Assembly, and APNU/AFC has secured 31. However according to Nandlall, Granger paints a picture of how complicated and complex Guyana’s electoral process is and offered that as the reason why foreigners may not understand it. “The Guyana electoral process has been the same since 1992. It has produced results accepted by every previous politician. The accuracy of those results may have been disputed, but the process was never. It is the same electoral process that produced victory for David Granger in 2015. So, his attempt at making the process complex and complicated is a clumsy farce,” Nandlall said. He added that Granger miraculously placed heavy reliance on the Caricom Observer Team report, quoting liberally from it. “Except that he failed to quote the part that said that the allegations made by APNU/AFC were false, fraudulent and ridiculous and that act upon the directions of GECOM. His own commissioner, Vincent Alexander, claims that in 2011, he identified a flaw in the then CEO Gocool Boodhoo’s report and the caused the Commission to reject that report and directed the then CEO to bring back a proper report. Well, the law has not changed since. GECOM reserves the power to reject any fraudulent report presented by any Chief Election Officer,” he pointed out. In light of Granger’s outrageous remarks, Nandlall added that those “who are speaking about personal sanctions should now consider whether it is not appropriate to translate their language into actions”. Man pleads guilty to killing bedridden father results emanating from the National Recount to be used they exercised their right to vote on March 2. ble. We join them in calling for a conclusion to the elecA 43-year-old man pleaded guilty to killing his 83-yearhouse with her son to get help from the neighbours. The family’s neighbour, old bedridden father, Devon Persaud, related Mohamed Sulaymon. that he was at home when Alli Mohamed was arhe heard someone shouting, raigned at the High Court “Mark! Help! Help! Alli killin Demerara before Justice ing his father.” Brassington Reynolds via As a result, Persaud Zoom on Monday. said he left his home and Initially, he was indictwent over to Mohamed’s ed for murder, however, house, where he saw him in Mohamed opted to plead the bedroom, beating his faguilty to the lesser count of ther with a piece of greenmanslaughter. He admitted heart wood while he laid in that on January 13, 2015, bed. Persaud said he called in the county of Demerara, Mohamed and took the as the basis for the final declaration of the March 2020 elections results. Only last week, The Commonwealth Secretariat condemned the move by Chief Elections Officer (CEO) Keith Lowenfield to invalidate over 115,000 votes and warned of the consequences that this could bring to Guyana’s reputation as a democratic nation. Secretary General, Baroness Patricia Scotland reminded that just last week she had As such, Baroness Scotland posited that the move by the CEO to present results to GECOM that did not reflect those certified at the end of the recount exercise would be contrary to the fundamental principles which are treasured by the Commonwealth family and are enshrined in the Commonwealth Charter. “We call on all responsible parties to consider the consequences to Guyana’s reputation as a democratic toral process in #Guyana & the announcement of a winner,” Kozak said. CEO Lowenfield on Tuesday last submitted his final elections report to the seven-member Commission in which he disenfranchised some 115,000 voters. Lowenfield’s new figures, which he said are “valid and credible votes”, have invalidated nearly 25 per cent of the votes cast at the March polls. he killed his father. The indictment against Mohamed was presented by State Prosecutors Teriq Mohammed and Tyra Bakker. The prosecution’s case contended that at the time of the incident, Sulaymon was bedridden while his son was known to have been suffering from mental illness, which resulted in him being violent at times. During January 2015, Mohamed was living with his father and sister, Shaliza Mohamed and her family at Lot 38 Parker Street, Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD). However, at about 19:20h, on January 13, 2015, Mohamed was at home with his father, sister, and her family when his sister called him to take his medication. According to her, when her brother came to her, his eyes appeared “wild,” and before she could have given him the medication, he hit her to the head. Her husband came to her rescue, and she left the Guilty: Alli Mohamed wood away from him. Police were summoned on the scene, and Mohamed was arrested. His father was rushed to the Diamond Hospital and later transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC). He died while receiving medical attention. Alli, who was represented by lawyer Ravindra Mohabir, will return to court on July 20, 2020, for the presentation of a probation report in a plea of mitigation before sentencing is handed down.

NEWS 17 TUESDAY, JUNE 30, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM Guyana needs international community – Carl Greenidge

…warns against using sovereignty for political convenience …anticipates ICJ ruling on jurisdiction before year-end

Former Foreign that they will not stand for Affairs Minister, Carl the will of the Guyanese peoGreenidge lashed out ple being subverted. against those using Guyana’s Greenidge’s comment sovereignty for political comes on the heels of convenience, warning that Caretaker Prime Minister Guyana needs the internaMoses Nagamootoo crititional community. During a cisism of the internationtelephone interview with two al community for speaking APNU/AFC supporters on a out against Chief Elections live social media programme, Officer Keith Lowenfield Greenidge said that he has fraudulent election report. seen and heard senior officials in Guyana speak inapNagamootoo has asserted that the western powers The International Court of Justice, The Hague, Netherlands propriately about the counand regional partners are controversy case before and ultimately decide the try’s sovereignty. He noted now part of a grand orchesthe International Court of question that Guyana has that one cannot on one hand trated scheme to use Guyana Justice – Arbitral Award of put before it: whether the call on the international comas a pawn in a global politOctober 3, 1899, on Monday 1899 boundary that sepamunity to have Venezuela ical game of chess aimed at said that Guyana anticipates rates the two States, is a lawrespect the rule of law intertoppling the Nicolas Maduro that the Court will issue its ful and permanent boundnationally but at the same Former Foreign Affairs Minister Government in neighbouring decision on the jurisdictional ary, such that the Essequibo time say that they have doCarl Greenidge Venezuela and are not realquestion before the end of the region is confirmed as an inmestic legislation and the international community has no right to ask questions of their actions. He noted that it is in Guyana’s interest that “people” do not do things then argue that the country is a sovereign State, adding that one must be very careful not to invoke issues that suit a specific topic because it may have implications for the country. “…for Guyana, the rule of law internationally is our only protection, this is very very important,” Greenidge pointed out. Since the March 2, 2020 General and Regional Elections, the APNU/AFC has been very confrontational with the international community which has been calling for credible elections results to be declared in Guyana. The David Grangerled Administration has accused the international community of interfering in the domestic affairs of Guyana. The unified international community including the US, United Kingdom, Canada and the European Union, has made it abundantly clear ly interested in democratic elections. Several APNU/AFC officials including former Director of Sport, Christopher Jones; AFC member Sherod Duncan; APNU General Secretary, Joseph Harmon have been berating the international community for its pro-democracy stance on the current political situation in Guyana. ICJ case Meanwhile, Greenidge, who is acting as an ‘agent’ of Guyana in the border year. Greenidge’s statement comes as Guyana prepares to appear in the ICJ today in its case against Venezuela. Today’s hearing is for the sole purpose of addressing the question of the Court’s jurisdiction. The hearing will be by video conference in a move by the Court to keep the wheels of justice turning despite the constraints of COVID-19. “Should it rule in Guyana’s favour, as we expect, it will then proceed to the next phase of the case, tegral part of Guyana’s territory for all time,” Greenidge said in a statement. He added that Guyana will continue to do everything in its power to achieve that result, and is confident that the final outcome will be what all Guyanese wish for. He pointed out that Guyana has long valued the opportunity of a judicial settlement of Venezuela’s outrageous claim to nearly three-quarters of Guyana and welcomed the decision of the Secretary General of the United Nations in 2018 (acting under the 1966 Nandlall calls out coalition lawyer over alleged conflict of interest ahead of CCJ hearing Geneva Agreement) that the International Court of Justice shall be the forum of the settlement of the controversy. T he Grenadian Queen’s Counsel, Dr Francis Alexis, who appeared in the Guyana Court of Appeal for the applicant, in the case of Eslyn David v count case is pending, on appeal, at the CCJ. Its hearing is scheduled to take place on July, 1, on Wednesday. According to Nandlall, over the centuries that Nandlall, a PPP/C Candidate, stated that not only does a conflict of interest exist in Dr Alexis’ appearance in the matter, but he has unwisely commentGuyana has maintained that the ICJ has jurisdiction to rule on the validity and permanence of that boundary but Venezuela claims that it does not. However, toChief Elections Officer et al, English Law has evolved, ed on the outcome of a live should have never been part evolving with it, have been matter, which is also a clear of the proceedings knowing certain doctrines commonly breach of the sub-judice of the likelihood of it jourcalled “conventions”. With rules. neying to the Caribbean the passage of time, they The Grenadian lawyer Court of Justice (CCJ). have graduated to assimirecently commented exten

According to former late the force of law and insively on the elections reAttorney General and deed, form an integral part count case in the StateMinister of Legal Affairs unof the body corpus of English owned Guyana Chronicle der the People’s Progressive Law. saying that the PPP/C’s apParty/ Civic (PPP/C) He outlined that these peal at the CCJ has no real Government, Anil Nandlall, conventions supplement the Grenadian Queen’s Counsel Dr prospect of success. Dr Alexis’ involvement in law to protect institutions of Francis Alexis “If Dr Alexis wishes to rethe case is “highly reprehensible and must be condemned” as it is a clear case of conflict of interest. Dr Alexis, who is a former lecturer of law at the University of the West Indies and a former Attorney General of Grenada, currently holds the position of Deputy Chairman of the Regional Judicial and Legal Services Commission. The Chairman of this body is ex officio the President of the Caribbean Court of Justice, Justice Adrian Saunders. The stated mission of the Regional Judicial and Legal Services Commission is to appoint Judges of the Caribbean Court of Justice. The Guyana elections rethe law, the legal system itself, the rule of law and cannons of fundamental justice. Nandlall explained that when the British Legal System was supplanted in Her Majesty’s colonies so were those conventions, deeply ingrained. When these colonies were granted independence, some of these conventions were codified in the independent Constitutions of these territories. However, those conventions that were not codified, still form part of the rule of law in these territories. Nandlall pointed out that Guyana and the Caribbean are among those territories whose legal systems devolved in the manner just outlined. “One of these conventions is that lawyers who sit on bodies that appoint Judges should not appear before those Judges. A logical corollary of this principle is that they should not make any public statement, adopt any posture or commit any acts which may be viewed as influencing, or intending to influence, litigation pending before Judges whom they have appointed or has a responsibility to appoint,” Nandlall argued. “Dr Alexis, in my respectful view, has egregiously violated these principles,” Nandlall said. main a respectable jurist, he must withdraw his remarks with an appropriately worded statement admitting this gross misadventure. “Not only has he made a public statement but has expressed his legal opinion on how the case should be decided, exposing himself to the obvious accusation that he is attempting to prejudice the outcome of the proceedings,” Nandlall argued. According to Nandlall, an ordinary citizen who violates the sub-judice doctrine is likely to be hauled before the courts for contempt. “Dr Alexis is not an ordinary citizen, in this regard. He has done much worse,” he posited. day only Guyana will present its arguments as Venezuela has decided to boycott the hearing.

Guyana filed its case with the World Court on March 29, 2018, seeking a final and binding judgement that the 1899 Arbitral Award which established the location of the land boundary between the then-British Guiana and Venezuela remains valid and binding, and that Guyana’s Essequibo region belongs to Guyana, and not Venezuela as is being claimed by the Spanish-speaking country. The border controversy gained new life when oil giant ExxonMobil announced in 2015 that it had found oil offshore Guyana. Venezuela had inexplicably been against oil exploration in Guyana’s Stabroek Block, where multiple oil deposits were found by ExxonMobil, and had laid claim to the Essequibo region, which represents two-thirds of Guyana’s territory.

After some two years of mediation, the UN announced back in 2018 that it had sent the matter to the ICJ after careful analysis of the good offices process.

Regional

Argentina and Brazil crops threatened by locust swarm

Brazil and Argentina are monitoring the movements of a large swarm of locusts, which has been eating its way through crops in the region.

The insects, which can cover a distance of 150 kilometres (93 miles) in a day, have already travelled from Paraguay to Argentina and it is feared Brazil and Uruguay could be next.

Brazil has told farmers to be alert to the possible arrival of the locusts.

Kenya and India are also currently fighting locust swarms.

The swarm originated in Paraguay and crossed into Argentina on May 21.

The insects have alNicolás Maduro on Monday ordered the European Union’s envoy to leave the country within 72 hours, after the EU sanctioned a group of Venezuelan officials for acting against the Oppositionrun Congress.

According to the EU Council, it on Monday added 11 leading Venezuelan officials to the list of those sub

Dominica says it will not extend the state of emergency and the curfew that had been in place as part of the efforts to curb the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) when it expires on today.

“The emergency powers come to an end on Tuesday, June 30. The Government does not intend to extend this and, therefore, in large measure we go back to quote unquote the new normal,” Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit announced.

Dominica had recorded 18 cases of the virus that Observation Mission of the Organisation of American States (OAS) for the Extraordinary General Presidential, Senatorial and Deputation Elections in the Dominican Republic arrived on Monday in Santo Domingo to begin the field observation tasks for elections on Sunday, July 5.

The mission, made up of more than 80 experts and observers from 18 nationalities, is headed by former

The locust swarm covers an area of 15 sq km, according to officials

ready moved through the Argentine provinces of Santa Fé and Formosa, where they caused damage to crops of corn, sugar cane, wheat and oats. ject to restrictive measures, because of their role in acts and decisions undermining democracy and the rule of law in Venezuela.

“The individuals added to the list are responsible notably for acting against the democratic functioning of the National Assembly, including by stripping the parliamentary immunity of several members of its members, not least its President, was first detected in China Chilean President Eduardo Frei Ruiz-Tagle, who, due to the travel restrictions imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic, is monitoring the process from Santiago de Chile using virtual platforms to dialogue with the main actors of the election.

The OAS Secretary for Strengthening Democracy, Francisco Guerrero, leads the mission on the ground.

“Given the challenges posed by the global health situation, the mission will

The swarm is currently in Corrientes province and the authorities there said that they had managed to reduce its size through fumigation. Juan Guaidó. Actions motivating the decision for listing also include initiating politically-motivated prosecutions and creating obstacles to a political and democratic solution to the crisis in Venezuela, as well as serious violations of human rights and restrictions of fundamental freedoms, such as freedom of press and speech.

“Today's decision brings last December and blamed for the deaths of 502,000 people and infecting 10.2 million others worldwide.

Health Minister Dr Irvine McIntyre said despite the decision to lift the curfew and state of emergency, citizens should continue to follow the various health guidelines put in place to stem the virus as Dominica reopens its borders sometime in July.

“You have to appreciate the fact that the chance of importing a case is real. It has happened all over the world. Dominica is no excepcombine experts and observers present in the country with some of its specialists working remotely,” the OAS said in a statement.

“The EOM will deploy a team of more than 70 people in the country, made up of OAS officials, specialists in electoral organisation and technology, and international observers residing in the Dominican Republic, who will observe the process in the different provinces of the country,” it

Corrientes borders Brazil and Uruguay and both countries are monitoring the swarm's movements closely.

A cold weather front has made the locusts lethargic, so they have moved little in the past days, officials from Argentina's food safety body Senasa said.

Nevertheless, a phytosanitary state of emergency is in effect in the two southern Brazilian states of Rio Grande do Sul and Santa Catarina.

Argentina and surrounding countries are no strangers to swarms of locusts. Most recently, there were large swarms in Argentina in 2019 and 2017. (Excerpt

Venezuela's Maduro orders EU envoy to leave the country

Venezuelan President

from BBC News) to 36 the total number of individuals under sanctions, which include a travel ban and an asset freeze. These measures target individuals and do not affect the population in general. The EU will continue working to foster a peaceful democratic solution in Venezuela, through inclusive and credible legislative elections.” (Excerpts from Reuters and consilium.euro

Dominica lifting COVID-19 curfew

Dominican Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit

pa.eu) tion. If we open the borders, chances that someone is going to slide in is real.

“So, to mitigate that, that is where we have to continue practising all the public health measures that we have been discussing all along,” he said.

He urged Dominicans “to go back to the basics…it is all about our hand hygiene, our social distancing” adding that people should also prevent as much as possible having to go to stores and other business places on a daily basis when only one

OAS electoral mission arrives in Dom Rep to observe July 5 elections

The Electoral

visit is required. (CMC) added.

The OAS electoral observer mission said specialists in women's political participation, political financing, electoral justice, and other members of the mission who carry out support tasks are working from their home countries. The specialists, it said, have initiated meetings with the different actors of the elections through virtual platforms. (Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

Facing crisis, Cuba calls on citizens to grow more of their own food

Nelson Piloto waters his garden in the courtyard of a temple belonging to the Afro Cuban Abakua brotherhood amid the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Havana, Cuba, June 26, 2020

In the courtyard of a and televised roundtable temple belonging to the discussions dedicated to the Abakua Afro-Cuban topic. religious brotherhood in “Cuba can and must deHavana, Nelson Piloto is velop its programme of mupulling up the lawn to plant nicipal self-sustainabilbell peppers and cassava in ity definitively and with the face of Cuba’s looming urgency, in the face of the food crisis. obsessive and tightened US

Piloto, 40, says he is reblockade and the food crisis sponding to the Communist COVID-19 will leave,” José Government’s call for citRamón Machado Ventura, izens to produce more of 89, deputy leader of the their own food, including in Cuban Communist Party, big cities, in whatever spacwas quoted as saying by es they can find, from backState-run media on Monday. yards to balconies. The Caribbean island

Standing across from two imports roughly two-thirds giant ceiba trees that are of the food it consumes at a considered sacred by many cost of around US$2 billion in Cuba, the temple usualannually, in addition to key ly resounds with ceremonies farming supplies like ferinvolving drumming, animal tiliser, machinery and anisacrifices and dance. But it mal feed. sits empty now due to coroBut imports have nosenavirus lockdown restricdived in recent years as aid tions on gatherings. from ally Venezuela shrank

“I’m making the most of following its economic imthe earth,” said Piloto, leanplosion and US President ing on his hoe. Donald Trump tightened the

Food security has latehalf century-old US trade ly risen to the top of the naembargo. (Excerpt from tional agenda in Cuba, with Reuters) countless news headlines

Trinidad: No alcohol for bars breaching regulations

Bars that do not comply with the COVID-19 guidelines for reopening would not be supplied with alcoholic products from Monday.

This is one of the measures announced by the Trinidad and Tobago Beverage and Alcohol Alliance (TTBAA) at a news conference on Sunday, as it seeks to stave off any reclosure of the industry.

“The TTBAA, comprised of 90 manufacturers, producers, distributors and marketers of alcohol in T&T, have taken the decision that for bars that are non-compliant as of tomorrow (Monday), the bodies that constitute the TTBA Alliance – the likes of the Caribs and Brydens and others – we are going to withhold delivery and supplies of those entities,” TTBAA chairman Dr Patrick Antoine.

The news conference followed a stern warning by the Prime Minister that the Government would close bars again if reports of breaches continued.

Videos circulated over the weekend showing bars jam-packed and there were reports of people “hiding” in bars after the 10 pm closing time.

“Where bars and bar owners continue to be non-compliant, we will support without reservation, fully, the closure of these bars by the State,” Antoine added.

He pointed out that over 75,000 people work directly or indirectly in the alcohol industry and said that they could not allow the few errant ones to affect the many who rely on the industry for their livelihoods.

The Bar Owners Association (BOA) and the Trinidad Hotels, Restaurants and Tourism Association (THRTA) were also represented at the news conference.

“We cannot endure another 90 days of a shutdown. That would entirely condemn the industry as we know it,” interim President of the BOA, Teron Mohan said. (Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

OILNEWS

Oil rises on improving economic data, but new coronavirus cases loom

Oil prices rose about US$1 a barrel on Monday, after bullish data from Asia and Europe, but investors are wary about sharp spikes in new coronavirus infections around the world.

Brent crude LCOc1 gained 69 cents, or 1.7 per cent, to settle at US$41.71 a barrel. US crude CLc1 rose US$1.21, or 3.1 per cent, to settle at US$39.70 a barrel.

The recovery of economic sentiment in the euro zone intensified in June with improvements across all sectors, European Commission data showed on Monday. Overall sentiment rose to 75.7 points in June from 67.5 in May, though still short of expectations.

In China, profits at industrial firms rose for the first time in six months in May, suggesting the country’s economic recovery is gaining traction.

US stock indexes, which broadly rose on Monday, also added support for oil prices, which at times track with equities.

But fears of a second wave of the pandemic are keeping prices from going higher. The death toll from COVID-19 surpassed half a million people on Sunday, according to a Reuters tally.

Some states in the United States have reimposed restrictions after jumps in cases. California ordered bars to close on Sunday following similar moves in Texas and Florida. Washington state and the city of San Francisco have paused their reopening plans.

“Whilst these localised measures on their own are unlikely to see any major immediate impact on demand, they do highlight the significant risk to gasoline demand,” JBC Energy said.

Brent is set to end June with a third consecutive monthly gain after the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and allies, known as OPEC+, extended its 9.7 million barrels-per-day (bpd) supply cut agreement into July.

“OPEC+ supply cuts have been helping keep the oil price afloat, and after the stellar nearly 90% compliance in May, in the next few days we will be getting data clues on June compliance,” said Louise Dickson, Rystad Energy’s oil markets analyst.

OPEC has cut oil output in June by 1.25 million bpd from May levels, according to estimates from tanker-tracking company Petro-Logistics. (Excerpt from Reuters)

US top court strikes down law limiting abortions

The US Supreme Court has ruled that a law restricting abortions in Louisiana is unconstitutional.

In a landmark decision, the Justices said a law requiring that doctors who provide abortions have the right to admit patients at a local hospital placed an undue burden on women.

Chief Justice John Roberts joined liberal Justices in the 5-4 decision in a blow to anti-abortion groups.

The court struck down a similar policy in Texas in 2016, the opinion noted.

This was the first major abortion case ruling from the Supreme Court during the Trump presidency.

The 2014 Louisiana law said that doctors must hold so-called admitting privileges at hospitals within 30 miles (48 kilometres) of their practice.

But critics said the controversial law would limit the number of providers in the state, violating a woman's right to an abortion.

June Medical Services v Russo asked the Supreme Court to rule on whether to uphold a lower court's opinion concerning the Louisiana law. (Excerpt from BBC News)

TUESDAY, JUNE 30, 2020 19 Around the World

Another flu virus with "pandemic potential" found in China A new strain of flu that has the potential to become a pandemic Sciences that measures to control the virus in pigs, and the close monitoring cine to make sure people are protected. The new flu strain that Prof Kin-Chow Chang, who works at Nottingham University in the UK, told has been identified in China of swine industry workers, has been identified in China the BBC: "Right now we are by scientists. should be swiftly impleis similar to 2009 swine flu, distracted with coronavirus

It emerged recently and is mented. A bad new strain of but with some new changes. and rightly so. But we must carried by pigs, but can ininfluenza is among the top So far, it hasn't posed a big not lose sight of potentially fect humans, they say. disease threats that experts threat, but Prof Kin-Chow dangerous new viruses."

The researchers are conare watching for, even as Chang and colleagues who While this new virus is cerned that it could mutate the world attempts to bring have been studying it, say it not an immediate problem, further so that it can spread to an end the current corois one to keep an eye on. he says: "We should not igeasily from person to pernavirus pandemic. The virus, which the renore it." son, and trigger a global The last pandemic flu searchers call G4 EA H1N1, Prof James Wood, head outbreak. the world encountered - the can grow and multiply in of the Department of

While it is not an immediswine flu outbreak of 2009 the cells that line the huVeterinary Medicine at the ate problem, they say, it has that began in Mexico - was man airways. University of Cambridge, "all the hallmarks" of being less deadly than initialThey found evidence of said the work "comes as a highly adapted to infect huly feared, largely because recent infection starting in salutary reminder" that mans and needs close monmany older people had some people who worked in abatwe are constantly at risk itoring. immunity to it, probably betoirs and the swine industry of new emergence of patho

As it's new, people could cause of its similarity to othin China. gens, and that farmed anhave little or no immunity er flu viruses that had circuCurrent flu vaccines imals, with which humans to the virus. lated years before. do not appear to protect have greater contact than

The scientists write in That virus, called A/ against it, although they with wildlife, may act as the the journal Proceedings of H1N1pdm09, is now covcould be adapted to do so if source for important panthe National Academy of ered by the annual flu vacneeded. demic viruses. (BBC News)

Coronavirus: Worst could be yet to come, WHO warns

The worst could be cases have been recorded peak until the end of July. deaths, unless we address still to come in the worldwide since coronavirus Dr Tedros told a virtuthe problems we've already COVID-19 panemerged in China late last al briefing on Monday: "We identified at WHO, the lack demic, the World Health year. all want this to be over. We of national unity and lack Organisation (WHO) has The number of patients all want to get on with our of global solidarity and the warned, six months on from who died is now above lives. But the hard reality is divided world which is acwhen the outbreak began. 500,000. Half the world's this is not even close to betually helping the virus to

WHO Head Tedros cases have been in the US ing over. spread... the worst is yet to Adhanom Ghebreyesus said and Europe but COVID-19 "Although many countries come," he said. the virus would infect many is rapidly growing in the have made some progress, "I'm sorry to say that, but more people if Governments Americas. globally the pandemic is acwith this kind of environdid not start to implement The virus is also affecttually speeding up." ment and conditions we fear the right policies. ing South Asia and Africa, "With 10 million casthe worst." (Excerpt from

More than 10 million where it is not expected to es now and half a million BBC News)

7 die as "separatist" gunmen attack Pakistan Stock Exchange A group armed with guns and grenades attacked the Pakistan Mahmood Qureshi, both said the attack was sponsored by hostile foreign eleStock Exchange in the city ments. of Karachi on Monday in a Nuclear-armed foes India bid to take hostages, killing and Pakistan often actwo guards and a policeman cuse each other of being bebefore security forces killed hind cross-border attacks. all four attackers, security Pakistan has regularly officials said. blamed India for supporting

Separatist insurgents Baloch separatists. from the troubled southwestern province of Balochistan claimed responsibility, a seAmbulances are seen parked outside Pakistan Stock Exchange building after an attack in Karachi, June 29, 2020 Delhi rejected the charge, which external affairs spokesman Anurag nior counter-terrorism ofgest city and financial hub, media. Srivastava said was an atficial, Raja Umar Khattab, Ghulam Nabi Memon, told A counter-terrorism offitempt by Pakistan to blame told Reuters. Reuters the gunmen atcial told Reuters the attackIndia for domestic problems.

The Baloch Liberation tacked with grenades and ers were carrying significant Separatists have been Army (BLA) had claimed guns after pulling up in a quantities of ammunition fighting for years in the attack on Twitter but silver Corolla car. and grenades in backpacks. Balochistan, complaining Reuters could not verify the Two guards and a policeAn aide to Pakistan’s its gas and mineral wealth account. Spokesmen for the man were killed and sevprime minister on nationis unfairly exploited by group were not available. en people were wounded, al security matters, Moeed Pakistan’s richer, more pow

The Police Chief of Deputy Inspector General Yusuf, and the country’s erful provinces. (Excerpt Karachi, Pakistan’s bigof Police Sharjil Kharal told Foreign Minister, Shah from Reuters)

UN's Michelle Bachelet says Israel's annexation plans “illegal”

Israel's aim to annex parts of the occupied West Bank is clearly "illegal", the United Nations' human rights chief said on Monday, warning that the consequences could be "disastrous".

Just days before Israel intends to kick-start plans to annex its West Bank settlements and parts of the strategic Jordan Valley, Michelle Bachelet added her voice to the chorus urging Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to drop the proposal. "Annexation is illegal. Period," the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights said in a statement. "Any annexation. Whether it is 30 per cent of the West Bank, or 5 per cent," she said, urging Israel to "listen to its own former senior officials and Generals, as well as to the multitude of voices around the world, warning it not to proceed along this dangerous path."

International condemnation of the possible Israeli annexations has mounted ahead of July 1, when Israel could take its first steps towards implementing part of a United States-proposed Middle East plan.

But Defence Minister and alternate Prime Minister Benny Gantz said Monday that any annexation of West Bank territory must be placed on hold until the coronavirus crisis has been contained.

His office later clarified that he was referring specifically to the annexation plan. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

ARCHIE

DILBERT

PEANUTS

CALVIN AND HOBBES

SUDOKU

SOLUTION FOR LAST PUBLISHED PUZZLE

ARIES (March 21- April 19)

TAURUS (April 20- May 20)

GEMINI (May 21-

June 20)

CANCER (June 21-

July 22)

LEO (July 23-

Aug. 22)

VIRGO (Aug. 23-

Sept. 22)

LIBRA (Sept. 23-

Oct. 23)

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-

Nov. 22) SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23-

Dec. 21) (Dec. 22-

Jan. 19) AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-

Feb. 19)

PISCES (Feb. 20-

March 20)

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Focus on what’s impor- tant to you. Learn new skills and research services you can offer others. Find a prac- tical way to use your attrib-

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Put a smile on someone’s face. Reaching out and do- ing your part will lead to an unexpected chance to im- prove your life. Share your ideas, offer advice and make

CAPRICORN

a difference.

Carefully examine an offer someone makes that promises to help you look and do your best. Refuse to let someone pressure you into something you don’t want to do.

Put your emotions into whatever you decide to do. Head in a direction that feels comfortable. If you plan your actions using in- telligence as well as intui- tion, you will succeed.

Make alterations at home that are conducive to helping you keep the peace. Use your space in a way that helps you add to your in- come.

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Spend more time ad- dressing your concerns and less time trying to appease others. The more you give, the more others will expect from you. Take care of your needs first.

A change to how you han- dle your money will help you avoid coming up short. Put more time and effort into maintaining good health. Make fitness, diet and rest priorities.

Mercedes to race in new black livery for 2020 F1 season

Mercedes will run a new black livery in Formula 1 in 2020 as a signal of their commitment to greater diversity and inclusion in motorsport.

Silver had been the company’s colour scheme in racing since the 1930s.

Mercedes said the Black Lives Matter movement had “shone a searching light on how much we need new measures and actions in the fight against racism”.

World champion Lewis Hamilton called it an “important statement we are willing to change and improve as a business”.

Mercedes F1 team said in a statement that “just three per cent of our workforce identify as belonging to minority ethnic groups and only 12 per cent of our employees are women.

“This lack of diversity shows that we need to find new approaches to attract talent from many areas of society we do not currently reach.”

The team will also launch a diversity and inclusion programme that will include raising awareness, analysis of their recruitment programme, collaboration with F1 stakeholders on accessibility and education initiatives.

Mercedes F1 team principal Toto Wolff said: “Racism and discrimination have no place in our society, our sport or our team: this is a core belief at Mercedes.

“But having the right beliefs and the right mindset isn’t enough if we remain silent.

“We wish to use our voice and our global platform to speak up for respect and equality, and the Silver Arrow will race in black for the entire 2020 season to show our commitment to greater diversity within our team and our sport.

“We will not shy away from our weaknesses in

this area, n o r f r o m the progress we must still make; our livery is our public pledge to take positive action.”

Six-time world champion Hamilton has announced he is setting up a commission in partnership with the Royal Academy of Engineering to promote black participation in motorsport.

He added: “It’s so important that we seize this moment a n d use it to educate ourselves, whether you are an individual,

brand, or company to make real meaningful changes when it comes to ensuring equality and inclusivity. “I have personally experienced racism in my life and seen my family and friends experience racism, and I am speaking from the

heart when I appeal for change. “When I spoke to Toto about my hopes for what we could achieve as a team, I said it was so important that we stand united.

“I would like to say a huge thank you to Toto and the Mercedes board for taking the time to listen, to talk, and to really understand my experiences and passion, and for making this important statement that we are willing to change and improve as a business.

“We want to build a legacy that goes beyond sport, and if we can be the leaders and can start building more diversity within our own business, it will send such a strong message and give others the confidence to begin a dialogue about how they can implement change.” (BBC Sport)

Epsom Derby: Aidan O’Brien has 7 entries as he seeks record

Aidan O’Brien has seven of the 17 entries as he seeks a record eighth triumph in the Derby at Epsom.

The Irish trainer has Mogul, Russian Emperor and Vatican City among his contenders to tackle home hopes English King and Kameko on Saturday.

He is set to saddle Love and Peaceful on the same day in the Oaks, where opponents include Frankly Darling.

A bumper weekend of racing action sees the return of Enable in the Coral-Eclipse Stakes at Sandown on Sunday.

Rivals could include Coronation Cup victor Ghaiyyath and Royal Ascot winner Lord North.

Frankie Dettori will ride Enable, having partnered Derby favourite English King and Oaks second favourite Frankly Darling on Saturday.

O’Brien’s Derby squad is completed by Amhran Na Bhfiann, Armory, Mythical and Serpentine, although Armory and Mythical are also entered in Sunday’s French Derby.

He has decided not to run Santiago seven days after winning the Irish Derby, while Ennistymon and Passion

complete his four-strong team in the Oaks, which has a total of 11 entries.

The Oaks and the Derby at Epsom – two of British racing’s five Classics – are taking place behind closed doors and on the same day for the first time.

Three miles of fencing are being erected around the track, where public rights of way will be suspended for the day.

But racehorse owners – two per horse initially – will be able to start attending race meetings in England from Saturday in a “safe and risk-managed way”, under plans agreed by the Racecourse Association, the Racehorse Owners Association and the British Horseracing Authority.

They will need to register before all meetings, arrive no earlier than 45 minutes before their first horse is due to run and leave the racecourse within one hour of the final race in which they have a runner.

There will be dedicated ‘owner zones’, which will separate owners from race-day workers, including trainers and jockeys, for infection control purposes, with no movement permitted between the two areas. (BBC Sport)

Christian Coleman: Lord Coe says athletes should not “minimise” whereabouts rule

No athlete should “minimise the importance of the whereabouts rule”, says World Athletics President Sebastian Coe after Christian Coleman missed three doping tests.

The world 100m champion, 24, is provisionally suspended while he disputes the third whereabouts failure.

The American claims he was Christmas shopping near his home and the tester made no effort to contact him.

“It’s not a good story [for athletics],” Lord Coe told BBC Sport.

“And it’s not a good story, because whereabouts are really a very important part of our landscape.”

Coleman said he had “never and will never use performance-enhancing supplements or drugs” after his third missed test on December 9 was revealed earlier this month.

The Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) said it did not regard Coleman’s explanation for the missing test as a defence, as it was not their policy to call an athlete if they were not at the designated address.

“It’s not really our policy to comment on unresolved cases – this is now quite properly a matter for the AIU,” said Coe.

However, he said the whereabouts rules were “absolutely a part of our landscape and the vast majority of athletes accept them and actually welcome them as being a protective mechanism for them”.

He added: “No athlete should minimise the importance of the whereabouts rule. The whereabouts rule is to protect the athletes, it’s to protect their reputations and it’s to make sure that we move as hard and as fast as we can to drug-free sport.

“It’s one hour a day – this is not arcane maritime law; this is not complicated.

“The vast majority of athletes make sure they don’t miss those tests. They have to take it seriously.”

Coleman – who won his first major title at the World Championships in Doha last year –- had previously missed a test on January 16, 2019 and experienced a filing failure on April 26, 2019.

Three whereabouts failures in a 12-month period can result in a ban of up to two years by the AIU. (BBC Sport)

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West Indies will wear a Black Lives Matter emblem on the collars of their shirts during July’s Test series against England.

Captain Jason Holder hinted in his first press conference of the tour that West Indies would look to support the movement in some way, and said in a statement on Sunday: “We believe we have a duty to show solidarity and also to help raise awareness.”

The logo used will be that worn on the shirts of all 20 Premier League football clubs since the sport’s restart earlier this month, designed by Alisha Hosannah, whose partner Troy Deeney is Watford’s Captain. Deeney was contacted by Cricket West Indies (CWI) for approval, and the International Cricket Council (ICC) gave permission for the emblem to be worn on the teams’ collars.

“This is a pivotal moment in history for sports, for the game of cricket and for the West Indies cricket team,” Holder said. “We have come to England to retain the Wisden Trophy, but we are very conscious of happenings around the world and the fight for justice and equality.

“As a group of young men, we know of the rich and diverse history of West Indies cricket and we know we are guardians of the great game for generations to come.

“We did not take our decision lightly. We know what it is for people to make judgments because of the colour of our skin, so we know what it feels like, this goes beyond the boundary. There must be equality and there must be unity. Until we get that as people, we cannot stop.

“We have to find some way to have equal rights and people must not be viewed differently because of the colour of their skin or ethnic background.”

Deeney said: “Alisha and I are immensely proud to be asked and take part in a monumental moment in world sport; this amazing decision by the West Indies cricket team to show their support for Black Lives Matter.

“Watching cricket with my grandad and seeing Brian Lara transcend from being a cricketer to a worldwide superstar shaped my childhood, so it’s great to be able to help West Indies cricket show their support in such a meaningful way.”

The shirts are expected to be worn for the first time in this week’s First-Class, fourday warm-up match at Emirates Old Trafford, which started on Monday.

The ICC had previously told ESPNcricinfo that it would operate a “common-sense approach to the implementation of regulations” regarding demonstrations of solidarity with the movement, which would be assessed on a “case-by-case basis”.

England are also expected to mark their support for the movement during the series following discussions within the squad, and may also wear blue armbands in recognition of the contribution of NHS staff during the COVID-19 pandemic. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) announced last week that players would wear the names of cricket-supporting key workers on their training shirts ahead of the first Test.

West Indies’ shirts will also be the first to feature a chest sponsor, like those seen in football since the 1970s. The ICC’s chief executives’ committee ratified a change earlier this month to allow a relaxation of rules on apparel logos for the next 12 months, seemingly to

help them maintain relations with sponsors during a difficult financial period.

Logos on the fronts of players’ shirts will not be permitted to exceed 32 square inches in size, as per the regulations for One-Day Internationals (ODI) and T20 Internationals kits. England are also expected to release a shirt with a chest sponsor in the next few days. (ESPNcricinfo)

223-7230-1 (Ext 55) NOW! TKR to ramp up CPL preparations

Trinbago Knight Riders (TKR) Manager Colin Borde said the local players will ramp up their preparations for the 2020 Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL) as the Government starts to relax COVID-19 measures.

Last Monday, contact sports and team sports were allowed to resume following an announcement by the Prime Minister at a COVID-19 media conference on June 20.

It was uncertain if the CPL would be held because of the virus, but the Government and CPL officials are in the process of making final arrangements to hold the entire tournament in Trinidad from August 18 to September 10.

It would be the first time the entire tournament would be held in one country.

“The players have been working with programmes throughout the COVID period. The month of July will see the group come together and begin outdoor training at both Tarouba (Brian Lara Cricket Academy) and Queen’s Park Cricket Club (Queen’s Park Oval).”

Borde also said plans were in place for players to participate in a few outdoor matches to prepare.

“Match fitness can only be attained through playing and so we are working in the returnto-play phase. The Coaches have decided a schedule alongside some senior players and the expectation is that July we will see a ramp-up of activities with the local players.”

TKR retained nine TT players for the tournament including Dwayne Bravo, Darren Bravo, Kieron Pollard, Sunil Narine, Lendl Simmons, Khary Pierre, Akeal Hosein, Amir Jangoo, and Tion Webster. The franchise also signed TT and West Indies Under-19 fast bowler Jayden Seales.

In terms of the overseas TKR players, Borde said, “Those out of the country have their respective programmes and plans to reach certain set targets.”

Despite Government giving the green light to resume team sports, COVID-19 guidelines must be followed such as maintaining physical distancing.

Borde said the TKR staff would ensure the players gradually get back into a more intense training programme. “It is important to be mindful of the ease into the various phases. The Coaches, technical staff, medical staff, alongside the senior players are working with all components in mind.”(TT Newsday)

Former Reggae Boy Claude Davis’ academy inks 5-year deal with Liverpool FC

Former Reggae Boy Claude Davis is a part-owner of a Florida-based football academy that recently signed a five-year deal with the 2019-2020 Premier League champions, Liverpool FC.

Davis, 41, represented Portmore United, Preston Northend, Crystal Palace, Sheffield United, and Derby County in a career spanning more than a decade. The towering defender also represented Jamaica 69 times between 2000 and 2012.

These days, Davis is part owner and technical director of the Liverpool International Academy of Central Florida and revealed the deal with the now 19-time English

champions.

“Everything that we do comes from the Liverpool Academy in England. It’s a pathway for us to try and do things the right way,” Davis told the Jamaica Observer.

“I have been working here for five years and I try to implement stuff. You know I play all my life in England and I see the ways the academies run. I try to do that here, but unfortunately, we do not have the financial backing.”

After approaching Liverpool FC with their proposal, the club responded positively, he said.

“We had a meeting with Liverpool like six, seven months ago and we explained to them, lay out the vision and the plans we have, and they came back to us as they loved it and they wanted to be a part of it. So, we signed a five-year contract with Liverpool to use the name,” he said.

“It’s not just their name, but their curriculum as well, and they will send coaches over here three times a year to work with my coaches, teach them the right way, help the coaches to deliver the training sessions, the same sessions the academy in Liverpool is working with.” (Sportsmax)

Stokes set to captain as Windies quicks worry England

England Captain Joe Root is wary of a “formidable” West Indies bowling attack in the three-Test series starting next week in Southampton.

The Windies are banking heavily on their pace attack in England to defend the Wisden Trophy they claimed 2-1 on home soil in the 2019 series.

Root said England could not afford to lower their guard against an attack which featured Captain Jason Holder, Kemar Roach and Shannon Gabriel – among the top 20 in official Test rankings.

“We are very aware of the skill West Indies have and what they will bring to this series,” Root told BBC Sport.

“One thing that stood out was how formidable their bowling attack can be. It is really important we prepare well and we are ready for all of that.”

Holder is also the topranked Test all-rounder, followed by England’s Ben Stokes, and West Indies Head Coach Phil Simmons has predicted their rivalry will light up the series.

“Jase is one of the most wellrespected guys in international cricket,” Root said.

“He took the job at a young age and we are starting to see him at the peak of his career.

“He comes across as a very good bloke. I am looking forward to chatting to him from a social distance.”

Root has said he would miss the series opener from July 8 if it clashed with the birth of his second child, with Vice Captain Stokes on standby to take the reins.

Veteran seamer Stuart Broad, 34, believes the side would still be in good hands, with Vice Captain Stokes wellequipped to take the reins.

“Stokes will be fine. The toughest part of the job is off the field, lots of extra meetings and planning, which he won’t have to get involved in,” Broad told reporters in a virtual

news conference.

“He has a great cricket brain, he has grown and matured over the last few years so captaining one game will be easy.

“There won’t be much pressure as he’s not being judged over a long period of time. I have no doubts he will be brilliant.”

The three Tests – with the second and third to be played at Manchester’s Old Trafford ground – will be played in biosecure venues without fans in attendance as part of protocols to curb the spread of COVID-19.

Broad says he has spoken to sports psychologists to learn ways of dealing with the challenges of playing in empty stadiums.

“It will be a mental test... I’ve just got to make sure to train my brain not to get into a negative mindset,” said Broad, who has claimed 485 Test wickets.

“There might be times when the minds of players drift but we need to make sure we are as engaged as possible.”

England are considering joining

The West Indies will wear a Black Lives Matter emblem on the collars of their Test shirts in the series to show solidarity with the anti-racism movement sweeping the globe.

England may yet follow suit.

Broad says it is important to educate people on matters of racial equality. “It’s been

good to open the conversation with everyone. People can admit that maybe their views were different in the past. It’s now about moving forward,” he added.

West Indies Captain Holder said he wanted racism to be treated as seriously as doping and match-fixing in cricket.

“I don’t think the penalty for doping or corruption should be any different for racism,” Holder told BBC Sport.

“If we’ve got issues within our sport,

we must deal with them equally.”

“This is a pivotal moment in history for sports, for the game of cricket, and for the West Indies cricket team,” Holder said.

“We have come to England to retain the Wisden Trophy, but we are very conscious of happenings around the world and the fight for justice and equality.

“As a group of young men, we know of the rich and diverse history of West Indies cricket and we know we are guardians of the great game f o r generation to come.

“We did not take our decision lightly. We know what it is for people to make judgments because of the colour of our skin, so we know what it feels like, this goes beyond the boundary. There must be equality and there must be unity. Until we get that as people, we cannot stop. Holder said teams should be briefed about race issues before the start of any series. “In addition to having anti-doping briefings and anticorruption briefings, maybe we should have an anti-racism feature before we start a series,” the all-rounder said.

“My message is more education needs to go around it.

“I’ve not experienced any racial abuse first-hand, but have heard or seen a few things around it. It’s something you just can’t stand for.” (BBC Sport)

Archery Guyana members continue representation at 13th stage of International Remote Archery Competition

The 13th stage of the ongoing 60X ISOL Registration for this competition series is Remote Shoot Virtual Competition done online and athletes choose which seshighlighted strong competition among sion and division they would shoot. three of Archery Guyana’s members in the Scaled- down target faces are used Recurve 30m category, on Sunday, June 28, to suit the specified distances for 2020 during the world’s ongoing lockdown those shoot- ing from home with for the COVID-19 pandemic. limited space. Equipment inspec The match ended with Samira Duncan tion is done by taking a photo of scoring 541 points while Umasankar Madray bow and arrows, as well as target faces, and Nicholas Hing scored 522 and 518 reand sent online. A QR code is then sent spectively. Sunday marked the second apfor archers to log in and send scores afpearance of all three archers in this series of ter every end along with pictures of matches. arrows in target for scoring.

The exciting match took place in rather The competition continues next wet conditions with our local archers comSunday, July 5, with stage 14, peting throughout the rain which cleared up as Archery Guyana urges its only after the event was completed. members with access to safe

Duncan’s performance was much imhome facilities to particproved over her last appearance, and she ipate. was able to find the 10 ring 10 times durAll archers are maning her 12 ends. The competition between dated to observe our naMadray and Hing was fierce, with Hing havtional health ing a 22-point lead after six ends. However, and safety reMadray produced a masterful performance quirements and in the final six ends to overtake Hing’s final the Pan American score by four points. Health Organisation/

On the previous Sunday (June 21, 2020), World Health the 12th stage of this competition had Madray Organisation competing against fellow Archery Guyana (PAHO/ W H O ) member Robert Singh. Madray performed guide- lines for well with excellent groupings, but then expepre- vention of rienced a problem with his equipment. Singh COVID-19. came in one point ahead of Madray, the final Archery Guyana scores being Singh 531 and Madray 530. wishes to thank Robert

The interest in this virtual competition Singh for his input and facontinues to grow with archers from around cilitation of this novel compethe Caribbean participating regularly along with representatives from Europe, Africa, India, Korea, Australia, and the USA. tition here in Guyana. Nicholas Hing preparing to shoot

LGC host in-house tournament …all proceeds go towards staff

The Lusignan Golf Club (LGC) hosted its first indoor tournament on Saturday following months of inactivity owing to the COVID-19 pandemic, with proceeds going towards assisting club members.

Some 29 golfers took to the greens in an effort to ensure those attached to the club and were heavily affected by the pandemic were still able to provide for their families.

As such, the local pros took the necessary precautions to ensure they abided by the social distancing guidelines while still bringing out their A-Games.

Entrance fee for the club tourney was $3000, which meant LGC staff, including caddies, club-house workers, groundsmen, were able to receive some means of financial stability while waiting for normalcy to return.

Coming in at first place was veteran golfer Deanand

“Deno” Bissessar, who ended with a Gross 83 and 61 Net.

Second, third and fourth place were also occupied by a few star players in “Pandit” Ravi, Ian Gouveia 80/64, and Shanella London 84/70.

The LGC, last month, donated a number of hampers to the Lusignan community as a means of providing COVID-19 relief to their caddies and their families as well as other residents in the neighbourhood.

Meanwhile, local golfers will continue to slowly ease back into action with occasional in-house tournaments, as they further wait out the lockdown period.

guyanatimesgy.com

West

Pg 22

Indies to wear Black Lives Matter logo on Test shirts

Archery Guyana members continue representation at 13th stage of Pg 23 International Remote Archery Competition

Pg 23

LGC host in-house tournament

…all proceeds go towards staff TKR to ramp up CPL preparations

Trinbago Knight Riders Manager Colin Borde