Guyana Times Monday, August 31, 2020

Aspiring lawyer P14 Shykah Persaud has a passion for painting Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana Issue No. 4394

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THE BEACON OF TRUTH MONDAY, AUGUST 31, 2020

Speaker, Deputy to be chosen when Parliament convenes on Tuesday

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WHAT'S INSIDE:

4 new COVID-19 deaths, 50 new cases recorded

P16

Page 3

ECD businessman robbed at P16 gunpoint

– GECOM proposes $4.9B budgetary allocation – constitutional agencies pitch $11.2B in budgetary proposals

President Ali hosts outreach in Tiger Bay

Bandits beat, rob Mon Repos pensioner P2 – made off with $1M in cash, quantity of jewellery

Page 9

– distributes COVID-19 relief to residents, listens to concerns

Father of 2 Infectious Hospital ready to chopped treat isolated to death COVID-19 patients …permanent water, electricity during argument challenges being addressed Belladrum residents protest for Mingo's release

Govt in talks with RUSAL to recommence operations P14 — Minister Hamilton tells fired workers

Page 12

Page 11

Page 13

– Police reiterate Mingo’s detention is lawful

Judiciary to implement P15 Sentencing Guidelines

…absence of such is a disservice to trial Judges, CCJ

2 NEWS of murdered salesman praise Bandits beat, rob Mon Repos pensioner Parents Police for capturing son’s killer A MONDAY, AUGUST 31, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

– made off with $1M in cash, quantity of jewellery 78-year-old woman is now left traumatised after she was beaten and robbed by three armed men who broke into her home on Saturday.

Based on information received, on the day in question at about 10:30h, Budhnie, popularly known as “Aunty Finey”, of Lot 39 Mon Repos Pasture, East Coast Demerara (ECD), was sitting on her verandah, when a black car bearing registration number PGG 5961 pulled up and a man exited.

The man then scaled the fence and ran towards the elderly woman and demanded money.

A granddaughter of the elderly woman told Guyana

Injured: Dwayne Castello

The female pensioner’s house

lery or else we will kill you.”

Fearful for her life, the pensioner showed the men where the money was. The bandits subsequently took the money which amounted to $1 million

The house was ransacked

Times that the suspect who scaled the fence immediately began beating the woman, causing her to fall to the floor.

As Budhnie collapsed, two other men exited the car and barged into her house.

“They run up and tell her pass the money and the jewel-

and made their way to the lower flat of the wooden structure, where her “handicap” daughter was staying.

“They went downstairs… the daughter is not telling us what happened between her and them, but they took a flat-

screen TV… and a quantity of jewellery”, she explained.

Guyana Times understands that the car used to execute the robbery made several stops to other family members, before making its final stop at the pensioner’s home.

“The car stopped at the first house, that is where her sister was living, and they were calling for inside, but the sister just peep through and told her sister-in-law this look like thief so she didn’t come out. She then went back inside and pick up the phone and called my mom. They then saw the car drive out, and come in back.”

“After that, they went to the other sister… but that one doesn’t really see good...”

Meanwhile, shortly after the robbery, the pensioner managed to raise an alarm and persons in the area went to her rescue. Several calls were made to the police, by the woman’s granddaughter said the ranks turned up on the scene the following day.

T

he parents of Navindra Samaroo, who was shot dead at Middle Road, La Penitence, Georgetown, moments after conducting transactions for his company, praised the Guyana Police Force (GPF) for apprehending one the suspects involved in their son’s murder.

Public Hospital.

Based on reports received, policemen were on patrol duty and based on information gathered, they proceeded to Genip Lane, East Ruimveldt, where they saw the suspect.

Castello, also known as “Top Cat”, upon seeing the cops, attempted to mount a motorcycle.

The officers had disembarked the vehicle when Castello pulled out a firearm and discharged several rounds in their direction.

As a result, the ranks took evasive action and one rank returned fire, hitting the wanted man on his left foot below his knee.

He was arrested and a .9mm pistol with six live matching rounds in the mag-

The 9mm pistol with six live matching rounds in the magazine The suspect was arrested and is being questioned in connection with the murder of the 23-year-old marketing representative.

The suspect was identified as Dwayne Castello, 27, of East Ruimveldt, Georgetown.

He is currently being treated for his gunshot injury under guard at the Georgetown

azine was found at the scene.

When Guyana Times contacted Samaroo’s family on Friday, Sugrim Samaroo, father to the now dead man said: “I feel good that he has been arrested, I also think persons that he committed other crimes on would be glad.”

“For me personally I am glad that he has been arrest-

Dead: Navindra Samaroo ed so that I can get my justice after that. My mind is now at ease. The guy Top Cat is one of the guys that was riding the motorbike, he is involved in killing my son”, he explained.

On July 23, Samaroo was shot and killed at Middle Road, La Penitence.

Reports are, Samaroo had visited a city bank and the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) to conduct the company’s business, after which, he went home to collect his lunch.

However, on his way back to work, he was intercepted, robbed, shot and killed.

Following the young man’s death, one person was arrested twice and released. That same person was being accused of being the mastermind behind the robbery and the man’s death.

Guyana Times understands that the suspect was a close family friend and was in possession of information that Samaroo would have been transporting a large amount of cash on the day he was killed, but this was not the case.

NEWS

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MONDAY, AUGUST 31, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE BRIDGE OPENINGS OPENINGS The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Monday, August 31 – 03:30h – 05:00h and 14:30h – 16:00h and Tuesday, September 1 – 04:30h – 06:00h and 14:30h – 16:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Monday, August 31 – 15:30h – 17:00h and Tuesday, September 1 – 16:10h – 17:40h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

Light cloud and sunny intervals will prevail during the day. There will be clear skies and cloudy conditions at night. Temperatures should range between 21 degrees Celsius and 31 degrees Celsius.

Winds: South South-Westerly to Southerly to South South-Easterly to East South-Easterly to Easterly to East North-Easterly to Easterly to South-Easterly to Southerly between 1.34 metres and 3.12 metres.

High Tide: 15:40h reaching maximum a height of 2.4 metres.

Low Tide: 09:15h and 21:28h reaching minimum heights of 0.76 metre and 0.81 metre.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 29, 2020

LOTTERY NUMBERS O

08 10 11

24 26 28

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FREE TICKET

Bonus Ball

DAILY MILLIONS

SATURDAY, AUGUST 29, 2020

05 07 16 20 25 LUCKY 3

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FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2020

7

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DRAW DE LINE

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09

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 26, 2020

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PAY DAY

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

COMMODITIES Indicators

US$

Change %

Crude Oil

$45.05/barrel

-0.09

Rough Rice

$221.85/ton

+0.34

London Sugar

$359.70/ton

-0.64

Live Spot Gold

USD Per Ounce

Bid/Ask

$1967.50

$1968.50

Low/High

$1964.30

$1977.40

+3.20

+0.16%

Change

Speaker, Deputy to be chosen when Parliament convenes on Tuesday

– GECOM proposes $4.9B budgetary allocation – constitutional agencies pitch $11.2B in budgetary proposals

W

ith the convening of the 12th Parliament tomorrow (September 1), a number of matters are expected to be addressed.

These include the election of a Speaker and Deputy Speaker and the presentation of the budget proposals from 22 constitutional agencies.

This is according to the order paper for the sitting of the session, which takes place at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC), rather than the usual Parliament Building, owing to COVID-19 and the need to socially distance.

Collectively, the constitutional agencies have pitched $11.2 billion in budgetary proposals, which will have to be examined and either revised or approved untouched. The largest proposal for money comes from the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), which has requested $4.943 billion for both its current and capital estimates up to December 31, 2020.

Also submitting its proposal is the Supreme Court of Judicature, which has proposed a total of $2.443 billion for its current and capital expenses. The third largest proposal was from the Parliament Office itself, which requested $1.799 billion.

Meanwhile, the Office of the Auditor General presented a proposal for its current and capital expenses of $908.6 million. When it comes to constitutional agencies and their budgets, the Audit Office has previously had a struggle getting the funds it requested from the former A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC).

In 2018, the last time a budget was passed, the former Government cut millions from the Audit Office’s requested $894.2 million.

Considering the fact that the Audit Office performs the vital tasks of auditing the Government and documenting financial malfeasance, the then Government’s act of cutting its financial proposal was strongly condemned.

Over the course of the year, there are projects enacted by the previous government which were shrouded in mystery and which are likely to be audited. They include the Ocean View Hotel turned COVID-19 sanatorium, for which an audit has already started.

Proposals also came from the Public and Police Service Commissions ($150.6 million); Teaching

The Arthur Chung Conference Centre will house the 12th Parliament

Service Commission ($117 million); Ethnic Relations Commission ($220.8 million); and the Judicial Service Commission ($10 million for current estimates).

Other commissions that submitted proposals were the Public Procurement Commission ($206.4 million); Women and Gender Equality Commission ($58.3 million); Rights of the Child Commission ($46 million); Human Rights Commission ($25.9 million) and Indigenous People’s Commission ($24.3 million).

Speakers

Meanwhile, the order paper also sets out that a Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly will be elected.

In fact, it is listed as the first order of business, after the roll call of Members of Parliament (MPs) is completed.

The process for electing a

Speaker entails first a nomination and then a vote. With 33 seats in the National Assembly, it is likely that whoever the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) nominates will be elected Speaker, as was the case with the Speaker of the 11th Parliament, Dr Barton Scotland, who A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) nominated in 2015.

There has been no Parliament since May 23, 2019 on account of the successful passage of a no-confidence motion against the APNU/AFC Administration on December 21, 2018. But although the motion was passed, the APNU/AFC Government refused to demit office and brought a slew of legal challenges on the validity of the motion.

The Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) later affirmed the no-confidence motion.

During that time, only

members on the governing side attended parliamentary sittings. Members of the then Opposition PPP/C had committed to not attending sittings until after elections were held, as the successful passage of the motion required that elections be held three months thereafter on March 21, 2019.

But GECOM failed to hold General and Regional Elections within the constitutionally mandated period, mainly because it was not prepared for the snap elections. Parliament was later dissolved on December 30, 2019, paving the way for the March 2, 2020 elections.

The elections results are as follow: PPP/C will hold a majority in the National Assembly with 33 seats; the APNU/AFC coalition has 31 seats, while the joinder parties – A New and United Guyana (ANUG); Liberty and Justice Party (LJP), and The New Movement (TNM) – will have one seat.

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guyanatimesgy.com

MONDAY, AUGUST 31, 2020

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

Industrial Baseline Study

I

n our editorial in yesterday’s edition, “Local Content; Local Inertia”, we wrote briefly about the strategic importance of an “Industrial Baseline Study” (IBS) to inform our “Local Content Policy”. The IBS analyses the existing business landscape in the country and while addressing the present upstream needs of the unfolding oil sector, most germanely connects them to the strategic development plans of the nation. Instead, the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Government allowed Exxon in 2017 to develop a “Center for Local Business Development”, which focuses solely on the needs of its upstream activities.

While this entity is at least a start, in that it provides a registration portal for interested businesses and promises “to be a reliable resource for information on safety, technical standards, procurement opportunities and project-specific information”.

However, it is both rather passive and inevitably inward looking as it promised to “focus primarily on developing local vendors that serve key sectors of the oil and gas industry, including areas such as safety equipment, marine operations, offshore supply and civil construction. It will also provide mentoring, coaching and access to financial support.”

In contrast, anticipating a deep-sea oil strike in their adjoining oil blocks after our success, Suriname commissioned an IBS back in 2018, which has provided them with a roadmap for governmental development of their business readiness and also appropriate industrial training in their school system, not just for oil, but for the development plans that will become viable with the flow of oil revenues. For instance, several hundred businesses were evaluated along the metrics of “Business Capacity; Business Inputs: Cost and Prices; Market Experience; Workplace Safety; Quality Standards; Timeliness; Workforce Skills; and Financial Standing.” On a scale of 0 to 6, for instance, the performances ranged from 2.5 for “timeliness” to 6 in “Financial Standing”.

But the IBS looked backwards to examine the educational institutions to determine their readiness to train the workers that would be needed both in the oil sector and in the wider developmental thrust. These institutions were assessed on four criteria: Curriculum, Instructors, Finance & Organisation, and Infrastructure. It was found that the curriculum in most programmes did not follow a Competency Based Training (CBT) mode; most schools did not have return-to-industry schemes to ensure instructors have up-to- date industry knowledge; public institutions were underfunded and had limited capacity to invest in updated equipment or curriculum design, and workshops and labs often had malfunctioning equipment so students missed out on practical training.

The State Oil Company and the Oil Operators were mandated to coordinate resources and pool funding to develop a highimpact initiative to support the enhancement TVET education through a combination of interventions that include curriculum development support, equipment, apprenticeship programmes and teacher training. In Guyana, not only did the APNU/ AFC Government not conduct such an analysis and suggest intervention involving the Oil Operators, but actually shuttered the GuySuCo Apprenticeship Training School in Port Mourant that should have been upgraded since 2015, when oil was first struck.

The goals of the Suriname LCP were threefold: to “guide investments and operations over the next 5-10 years; leverage local content as a catalyst for economic development and emphasise capacity building and skill upgrading of the Private Sector. Their strategy aims to achieve these goals by focusing on transferable capabilities to ensure maximum spill-over into other industries of the economy such as manufacturing, agriculture, tourism, and logistics.”

The strategy envisaged a phased implementation, strong emphasis on supplier development; emphasis on transferability of supply chain capabilities that have application to other sectors of the economy; balance between targeted and broad-based development and finally, industry coordination to pool resources, dilute risk, and increase economies of scale. While they also plan on a supplier registration portal, the State institutions would be much more proactive to ensure local companies were made aware of opportunities and needed qualifications.

It is our hope that the Local Content Panel will embark on an IBS before more spinning of wheels.

Double Diamond is a Texel sheep that broke the world record for price sold. The sheep was sold for about US$490,000 at an auction in Scotland last week. The previous record for one sheep was US$307,000 for a sheep named Deveronvale Perfection in 2009

APNU/AFC party is the Pied Piper to certain disaster and wrongdoing

Dear Editor, As the fourth perspiring week for the busy and tireless PPP/C comes to an end since wrenching power after a protracted delay from the stubborn and obstinate APNU/AFC party, the heat is turning up in Guyana as more political fireworks are exploding with removals, replacements, resignations, scandals and exposed malfeasance. On the bright side, it is reassuring to see the police asserting the law and being proactive in the forefront, embellishing their image, especially with the Mingo/Lawrence/Lowenfield and GECOM staff affair and the alleged Ponzi scheme.

Their involvement is anticipation for a smooth flow in justice, unlike an undulating past exercised under the discriminative previous Administration.

The harsh reality of COVID-19 continues to pose a major obstacle and challenge for the PPP/C Government as the 12th sitting of Parliament is scheduled for Tuesday at the ACCC. More cases are rapidly being recorded, the death rate is dangerously climbing and positive confirmations are alarmingly revealed as country-wide testing continues. Taking over from a careless and uncaring COVID-19 Task Force Committee led by Joseph Harmon, this new Health Ministry is tasked and heavily overburdened with prioritising testing, distribution of the pandemic kits, curbing and slowing its spread, preventing its growth,

strengthening its facilities, educating Guyanese, implementing the protocols and enforcing the rules and regulations.

Acknowledging that this team is in unchartered water, it needs all the help it can acquire, both domestically and internationally. Guyana is deemed the epicentre for the Caribbean and as such, it has to implement a professional and fast-moving programme to stem the flow and flatten the curve, bearing in mind that time is against them and they are deep above their knee in this inherited pandemic mess.

The President, Dr Irfaan Ali, was quoted by the Ministry of Presidency’s Public Information and Press Services Unit as saying, “The balance requires very strong protocols and I think, therein lies the trick to this pandemic; the protocols and enforcing the protocols. Now, we can move to reopening once we have strong protocols that can be enforced and once we have the institutional mechanism to support those protocols.” But there is no trick or shortcut as an answer to this problem. Only a disciplined nation committed to the rigid rules and regulations, respecting and implementing all the protocols may contribute to any degree of success in harnessing this virus. Masks, sanitising, washing, social distancing and citrus fruits intake are good attributes along with virtual gatherings versus physical conferencing. Guyanese need to

be serious and not carefree with their behaviour in order to save lives.

The callousness and recklessness of the APNU/ AFC Party continue as they deliberately endanger the entire Guyana with their horrendous and unscrupulous call for Guyanese to come out in large gathering to support their mischievous and selfish agenda. As reported in the news media, from Joseph Harmon’s Facebook, his message of “Message from DG Joseph Harmon, Good afternoon Comrades, the petition will be filed on Monday 31st August, 10 a.m., Supreme Court Building. We are asked to mobilize in numbers to lend support to our party. We want a big manifestation against this persecution that is going on.” How heartless and irresponsible can the former Head of the COVID-19 Task Force be?

This appeal confirms that he and his cabal did not have the interest of the Guyanese people at heart during their reign and again, they were only drawing down large sums of money for not doing the job they were appointed to do and the poor taxpayers’ money was again being squandered. Will their supporters not wake up and see how they are being used and abused perpetually and allowing the APNU/AFC party to put their lives at risk?

What do the people in the street hope to achieve from any participation? Petty bribes and then potential death?

The police will again

come into the limelight in dealing with any illegal gathering and the confrontation of devious political leaders. Here is transparent and unambiguous living proof of the leader of a group, orchestrating disobedience of the COVID-19 regulations, inciting and instigating the illegal gathering of a mob that is potentially dangerous and fatal to the entire nation. How can such a character hope to be a leader for an opposition party, setting all the wrong and unethical examples, hoping to muster command and guide the rest of the flock?

Over a cliff, yes, to another dungeon where immorality pervades and lies and deceits continue to corrupt the minds of the innocent young people. Where are the voices from the churches to condemn this type of unforgiving and ruthless behaviour?

The APNU/AFC party in any form or shape can never represent their supporters to teach, guide or have them indulge in the practice of any manifestation of truth, honesty, integrity and dignity that will honour any concept of a religious principle.

Wake up Guyana, do not allow the APNU/AFC party to be the Pied Piper to attract and lead you again to certain disaster and wrongdoing! Is this what you really and truly want? Please, do your soul searching, listen to your conscience and do not answer their illogical call.

Respectfully, Jai Lall

guyanatimesgy.com

MONDAY, AUGUST 31, 2020

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

Keep your day jobs APNU/AFC cannot continue to challenge the PPP/C’s electoral victory

Dear Editor, Guyana’s political crisis in the aftermath of the 2020 General and Regional Elections put our country in the international spotlight, and all local and international stakeholders that participated in Guyana’s recent elections witnessed the effects of the country’s political divisions.

As a result, when these stakeholders congratulated President Ali on his inauguration, they simultaneously stressed the need for reconciliation among Guyana’s political parties and its people. These statements did not come solely from Western countries. Guyana’s smaller political parties and invested groups like the Caribbean Community (Caricom), the Commonwealth of Nations, the Organisation of American States, and The Carter Center also called for national reconciliation.

In similar ways, these stakeholders argued that if political divisions in Guyana are not addressed quickly, the country could experience a repeat of the 2020 election fiasco, putting the future of Guyanese cit-

izens at risk. However, beyond international support, the Guyanese people themselves and all political parties must be proactive in addressing this situation over the country’s political divisions.

This means that both the PPP/C and the APNU/ AFC coalition need to not only extend offerings to work with each other, but they must also incorporate the smaller parties and civil society actors to take part in the process of fostering a national dialogue.

This will be instrumental in producing policies that are beneficial for all Guyanese because although the PPP/C secured 33 parliamentary seats and 236,928 votes, the APNU/ AFC coalition was not far behind as it received 31 seats and 229,481 votes, with the remaining seat shared between a coalition of three smaller political parties.

Therefore, the PPP/C cannot assume that their policies will proportionately serve all of Guyana if all of Guyana is not involved.

To keep Guyana’s democracy healthy, they need to

If you commit the crime, prepare to do the time Dear Editor, I humbly seek a space in your publication to make a few points about what is maybe the most topical issue in Guyana’s political circle, the blatant attempts between March 2, 2020, and August 2, 2020, to rig an election in full view of the world.

Editor, I see a lot of folks are trying to sell the narrative that the arrest of Region Four Returning Officer, Clairmont Mingo and the subsequent charges laid against in him are politically and racially-motivated.

Maybe those who are working to sell this misplaced narrative should mull the following; Did Mingo deviate from the SoPs? Did Mingo attempt to declare inaccurate results at Ashmins building?

Did Mingo deny political parties to examine the SoPs to ensure they are accurate at the GECOM Headquarters?

Did Mingo commit electoral fraud?

Did Mingo collude with others to undermine democracy and derail the electoral process?

Was Mingo given a chance to right the wrong he committed?

There are many other similar questions that could

be asked.

But, taking into consideration the above questions and the fact that the people of Guyana suffered for 5 months as a result of his actions, the probe by the police and the subsequent charges are all the making of Mingo and no one else.

He got himself into this when he attempted what I consider an electoral coup, knowing there are serious consequences for such actions.

With that said, Mingo has another chance to make this right. He must say who are the intellectual authors of this crime. He must say what led to him deviating from the established process. He must say why he deviated.

The ball is now in Mingo’s court. He can choose to expose the intellectual authors behind the attempted rigging or condition his mind to face the consequences of that dastardly act of attempting to steal the will of the people. Whichever way it goes, justice will and must be served.

Guyanese are smart people and will not be fooled by the cries of racism and political persecution.

If you do the crime, prepare to do the time.

Respectfully, Eddy Layne

welcome the APNU/AFC, smaller parties, and civil society in a way that shows that these partners have an active role in shaping the country’s future.

If not, Guyana’s next elections will become another bitter battle focused more on securing power rather than the betterment of the country. With the advantage of incumbency, it is on the PPP/C to take the moral high ground and display leadership and magnanimity in the pursuit of national reconciliation and healing.

One step in this direction should involve initiating an overhaul of the country’s politicised and outdated electoral system and setting national consultations toward constitutional reform. In addition, an inclusive approach to appointments to state Boards and merit-based public service would go a long way toward overcoming tribal instincts, mutual suspicion, and building trust.

However, the PPP/C must be aware that even before constitutional and electoral reform can occur, constructive and public discussions must take place between the country’s stakeholders.

National reconciliation cannot only happen within Government and behind closed doors. For Guyana’s democracy to prosper, it must be truly democratic—meaning it has to be participatory for all stakeholders in the country. At the same time, the opposition parties, especially the APNU/AFC coalition,

cannot continue to challenge the PPP/C’s electoral victory or remain passive and only object to the new Government’s policies.

Although it is the opposition’s constitutional right to submit an election petition challenging the outcome, former President David Granger needs to weigh the cost. The international community and local stakeholders’ views on which party won the most valid votes have not changed.

Therefore, the election petition has a high chance of being unsuccessful, at which point it would only delay a potential national dialogue with PPP/C officials. Filing the petition would also give the coalition’s supporters false hope, keeping them from embracing any PPP/C efforts to create constructive conversations.

Instead, it would be in Guyana’s best interest for Granger to put the election petition aside and rebuild the reputation of the APNU/ AFC coalition. This could go a long way toward showing the new Government that the coalition is ready to reconcile.

Thus, the international community and civil society groups in Guyana must hold both the PPP/C and the APNU/AFC coalition accountable if national reconciliation mechanisms are initiated. Anything less would see the Guyanese people lose out on what could be a prosperous future.

Sincerely, David Adams

Dear Editor, there has, quite recently, been an apparition of advertisements seeking to lure persons into “educational platforms” which would enable attendees to become rich. These advertisements are all extremely similar. A typical advertisement usually begs one provocative question: “Do you own a computer or smart phone and want to make money from your home?”

This question is both rhetorical and clever, since the ads appear almost solely on Facebook and other social media, and virtually all humans want more money. In addition, these advertisements depict an overly simplified three- step plan: LEARN, TRADE, EARN. The major issue with this three-step plan lies within step three; the desired outcome is, for the most part, never achieved by actual day trading, but by recruiting others to the institution. For example, with IM Academy, recruiters are paid US$150 for recruiting 3 persons, US$600 for recruiting 12 persons, and larger sums for more recruits.

The conclusions of the author are grounded in the facts unearthed in a 2020 comprehensive study titled “Day Trading for a living?” by Fernando Chague, Rodrigo De-Losso and Bruno Giovannetti, which can be found with a simple Google search. Essentially, the study evaluated the profitability of day traders in Brazil. Moreover, the study assessed all individuals who day traded mini-Ibovespa futures contracts which are the preferred assets by day trad-

ers in the country being the third most traded equity index futures and options contracts in the world, ahead of the E-mini S&P 500 Futures and S&P 500 Index Options, for example.

It was found that a mere 1% of day traders earned more than the Brazilian minimum wage, which is pegged at US$16 per day. This 1% of day traders, in real terms, amount to just 17 persons.

Further, it was revealed that half of that 1% earned more than the starting salary of a bank teller ($54 per day).

There is also a misconception that the study helps to deal with. There is a thought that “the longer you do it, the better you get at it”, then the more money will be made. However, it was unearthed that the probability of an individual returning a positive profit monotonically decreases with the number of days he/she trades.

“We show that it is virtually impossible for an individual to day trade for a living, contrary to what brokerage specialists and course providers often claim.

The previous literature was not so clear about this.”

This is the concluding paragraph of the study. Suffice it to say that the only earners from the three-step process are the so-called “educational platforms”, which require payments of between US$150 and US$250 per month.

In subsequent letters, I will inform of legitimate, less risky, and worthy investment options; but until then, keep your day jobs.

Yours respectfully, John Edghill

SEE ADDITIONAL LETTER ON PAGE 17

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MONDAY, AUGUST 31, 2020

Page

Foundation

SUMMER OF LEARNING

◄

Æsop’s Fables

T

o subtract fractions with like denominators, look at the numerators. Place the difference over the like denominator.

Example: Subtract 3/5 - 2/5

Step 1: Subtract 3 - 2 = 1 Step 2: Place the difference over the like denominator. 1/5 Remember: When adding or subtracting fractions with like denominators, just work with the numerators. You can ignore the like denominators while adding or subtracting.

However, do not forget to put your total or difference over the like denominator when you have finished your calculations.

FOR CHILDREN Exercises: Subtract fractions 1) 5/3- 1/3 4) 6/12 -3/12 2) 7/9 - 7/9

5) 5/7 - 3/7

3) 3/4- 1/4

6) 27/3- 18/3

By Jackie Currie, Happy Hooligans

T

oday we’re creating a miniature Zen garden for children to enjoy as a calming form of sensory play.

A traditional zen garden is commonly known as a Japanese garden or rock garden. It is a man-made, miniature landscape designed to represent the essence of nature. It’s generally composed of rocks, shrubs, moss, small trees and water features. The landscape is set in a base of sand or gravel which is raked to imitate ripples on water. The true purpose of a zen garden is to serve as a gazing point while meditating. The purpose of our tiny zen garden is to provide children with a small world that

encourages the exploration of a variety of natural materials through relaxing, quiet play.

To create our zen garden, you’ll need: shallow tray sand polished rocks seashells small pieces of tree bark (found on the ground, never

removed from a living tree) small twigs (which can serve as rakes) craft sticks (for smoothing the sand) Assembling our zen garden: Begin by pouring white beach sand into a small wooden tray.

Explore the soft fine sand,

run your hands through it and sift the tiny grains with your fingers.

Then use craft sticks to smooth the sand into an even layer, and start arranging the natural elements. Arrange elements in distinct groupings, or create designs and patterns with the pieces.

You can make tracks in the sand with your fingers and can trace paths around the shells and stones with the twigs.

Playing with items from nature can be so soothing.

The neutral colours of the stones, shells and bark are easy on the eye, and the sound of the polished rocks and shells clicking together are so relaxing. (Adapted from cbc. ca)

O

ne bright morning as the fox was following his sharp nose through the wood in search of a bite to eat, he saw a crow on the limb of a tree overhead. This was by no means the first crow the fox had ever seen. What caught his attention this time and made him stop for a second look, was that the lucky crow held a bit of cheese in her beak.

“No need to search any farther,” thought sly Master Fox. “Here is a dainty bite for my breakfast.”

Up he trotted to the foot of the tree in which the crow was sitting, and looking up admiringly, he cried, “Good Morning, beautiful creature!”

The crow, her head cocked on one side, watched the fox suspiciously. But she kept her beak tightly closed on the cheese and did not return his greeting.

“What a charming creature she is!” said the fox. “How her feathers shine! What a beautiful form and what splendid wings! Such a wonderful bird should have a very lovely voice, since everything else about her is so perfect.

Could she sing just one song, I know I should hail her Queen of Birds.”

Listening to these flattering words, the crow forgot all her suspicion, and also her breakfast. She wanted very much to be called Queen of Birds. So she opened her beak wide to utter her loudest caw, and down fell the cheese straight into the fox’s open mouth.

“Thank you,” said Master Fox sweetly, as he walked off.

“Though it is cracked, you have a voice sure enough. But where are your wits?”

WORD SEARCH

NEWS

7

MONDAY, AUGUST 31, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Electoral fraud

AG maintains nothing illegal about Mingo’s detention – urges APNU/AFC to be responsible, stop inciting protests in spite of COVID

M

aintaining that there is nothing illegal about the Guyana Police Force’s detention of Region Four Returning Officer Clairmont Mingo, Attorney General Anil Nandlall has urged persons in A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) to be responsible and stop fanning the flames of civil disobedience.

Nandlall made this statement on Sunday, on the heels of protests at Belladrum, West Coast Berbice, which saw APNU/ AFC supporters braving the risk of COVID-19 to light tires and protest for Mingo’s release. But according to Nandlall, Mingo has at all times been in the lawful custody of the police.

“Mr Mingo was held pursuant to an investigation being conducted by the police into allegations of fraud committed at GECOM, from March 2 and the events thereafter. The whole world saw that. It was transmitted on national television,” Nandlall explained.

“The international and local community demand that a probe be held and this matter be investigated fully. The State’s apparatus was activated and the police, being the investigative arm of the State, commenced their investigation.”

The Attorney General reminded that when Mingo

Attorney General Anil Nandlall

was arrested, his attorney-at-law, Darren Wade, challenged his detention by filing habeas corpus proceedings, that is proceedings seeking to free Mingo un the basis that his detention was unlawful.

However, Wade was eventually forced to withdraw his case on the advice of acting Chief Justice Rishi Persaud.

“The application for habeas corpus was premature and misconceived. The lawyer recognised that and they withdrew from the proceedings. Then there was an application for an extension of time of that 72 hours. And that was granted to a period of 24 hours. That 24 hours expired yesterday, but before the expiration of that 24 hours, four new charges were filed against Mingo by the police,” Nandlall explained.

Nandlall recalled that another habeas corpus challenge was filed by Mingo’s lawyer, heard by the constitutional court and dismissed. The AG pointed out that when the court heard the new challenge, it was made clear that Mingo was being kept in custody in relation to the new charges. Nandlall, therefore, slammed incoming Opposition Leader Joseph Harmon for encouraging the protests by his claims that Mingo is being unlawfully detained.

“There was nothing unlawful and there is nothing unlawful with the police keeping him in custody until he is taken to a Magistrate tomorrow (today), where those charges will be read and where he will be put before the jurisdiction of the Magistrates' Court,” he said.

“Mr Harmon is a lawyer.

One would expect he would know these basic elementary principles of law. So, Mr Harmon’s contention that Mr Mingo is being unlawfully detained is completely preposterous and must be rejected out of hand.”

Interference

In a subsequent statement, Nandlall questioned the lengths Harmon and APNU/AFC was going to interfere in the delivery of justice. The AG pointed out that both GECOM and the Guyana Police Force

Nandlall asserted that APNU/AFC’s agitation is inspired by a fear of Mingo giving up the intellectual authors of the attempts to defraud the country.

Prosecution

Incoming Opposition Leader Joseph Harmon (second right) outside the Sparendaam Police Station after visiting Region Four RO Clairmont Mingo

were independent agencies, which should be allowed to function free from the intimidatory tactics of APNU/ AFC. “GECOM is independent. Mr Harmon et al have absolutely no business in interfering with one independent constitutional agency (GECOM) being investigated by another independent constitutional agency (GPF).

However, this reaction by Mr Harmon presents the platform for all to draw relevant inferences and arrive at likely conclusions, in relation to the interest that

Mr Harmon et al may have in the investigations.”

“That Mr Mingo’s lawyers happen to be two APNU candidates and that known APNU candidates and activists are mobilizing persons to block the road at Belladrum – all lend to the thickening of the conspiracy,” Nandlall also said in his statement.

According to Nandlall, the assertions of APNU/ AFC that Mingo’s constitutional rights are being violated expose the fact that they “have no real cards left in the pack to play.”

Mingo and several other election officials were taken into custody over the past week as Police investigate allegations of electoral fraud. He is accused of attempting to alter the results of the election in favour of the APNU/AFC coalition by using concocted figures during the tabulation of votes for Region Four – the country’s largest voting district.

Since Mingo’s arrest on Tuesday, at least four other GECOM employees have also been taken into custody to assist with the investigation. These include Carolyn Duncan, Sheffern February and Michelle Miller – all registration officers as well as IT technician Enrique Livan.

Only Friday, investigators secured a 24-hour extension from the High Court to keep the embattled RO, who was arrested on Tuesday, in custody. He was scheduled to be released at 14:30h on Saturday.

TURN TO PAGE 10

8 NEWS

MONDAY, AUGUST 31, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Miner jailed for $1.9M robbery, accomplices granted bail

Harmon the utensil...

T

E

Eon Ward

on Ward, 29, also known as “Killa” was on Friday sentenced to four years’ imprisonment by Magistrate Wanda Fortune after he was found guilty of armed robbery.

The court heard that Ward, a miner of Lot 27 South Amelia’s Ward, Mackenzie, Linden, robbed Collin Gomes of six ounces and three pennyweights of raw gold worth $1.9 million at the KD&J Supermarket

Kim Giddings

at Amelia’s Ward on July 14, 2020.

In addition, Kim Giddings, Renard Caesar and Kellon Daniels were also charged for the offence.

Giddings and Caesar pleaded not guilty and were both granted bail in the sum of $400,000 each and are scheduled to return to court on September 11 for statements.

The other accused, Kellon Daniels, is yet to be appre-

hended by Police.

However, Ward was slapped with another robbery under arms charge allegedly committed against Sheneca Benjamin at Amelia’s Ward on the same date.

Renard Caesar Benjamin was relieved of her mobile phone and an undisclosed sum of cash.

Ward, nevertheless, pleaded not guilty to the charge and was remanded to prison until September 11 in relation to this matter.

Wife killer challenges death sentence

Linden man slapped with armed robbery charge

T

wenty-year-old Matthew Jules of Lot 283 One Mile, Wismar, Linden, was on Friday remanded to prison by Magistrate Wanda Fortune after he was arraigned for the armed robbery committed on a car wash attendant.

Jules appeared at the Linden Magistrate’s Court and was not required to plead to the offence of robbery under arms committed on Alicia Allen, at Stone Wall Wash Bay at Prosville, Wismar, Linden, on Saturday, August 22.

During the ordeal, Allen was robbed of a cell phone

A

Robbery accused: Matthew Jules

and cash which amounted to $275,000.

Meanwhile, Jules was remanded to prison until September 21, 2020.

Sentenced: Rupert Brown

Murdered: Seema Singh

fter being sentenced to death by hanging on October 17, 2014, for the murder of his reputed wife, Rupert Brown also known as “Bird Man” has now moved to the Court of Appeal (COA) to challenge his sentence and conviction.

High Court Judge, Justice Brassington Reynolds had imposed the death sentence on Brown after a 12-member jury found him guilty of murdering his wife, Seema Singh.

The mother of two was brutally murdered at Helena Number One Village, Mahaica, East Coast Demerara (ECD).

According to reports, Singh, who hailed from Richmond, Essequibo Coast, Region Two (PomeroonSupernaam), was stabbed

multiple times about her body.

It was reported that Brown became enraged after the woman left their Mahaica residence to visit her children in Essequibo.

The woman had promised to return within a certain time, but when she did not, Brown went in search of her.

The man eventually caught up with his wife at a relative’s house in Mahaica, where she had sought refuge. Brown, in a fit of rage, stabbed her several times.

The injured woman was rushed to the Mahaicony Cottage Hospital but was subsequently transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), where she succumbed.

...and Mingo he charade’s been long over about who were behind the elections’ heist at Ashmins – they’d revealed themselves long before we found out who were paying the legal fees to defend the results emanating from the said heist. Take for instance, Lil Joe Harmon who’s pretending he’s no longer the “utensil” the late Owen Arthur called him when he dared insult Ralph Gonsalves, PM of St Vincent, for condemning the PNC rigging. “In this matter, Joe Harmon is a mere utensil and he’s out of order to be speaking to Caribbean leaders in the way in which he is,” Arthur has said tersely!!

By then, Harmon had revealed he had more than a partisan interest in the rig...he had serious skin in the game!! Why else would a clerk from GECOM call him – as he said at the time – to complain about “harassment” during the turmoil over the delayed tabulation of SoPs by Mingo? Who was he in the GECOM chain of command?? Heck...by then he wasn’t even in the OP, but in charge of the COVID Task Force!! Harmon was always Granger’s utensil to do the dirty while the latter kept his sanctimonious smirk on his face!!

Well, now that he’s been anointed by David (Granger) – the man who’d be King merely on his aloofness alone!!

– as the heir apparent, Harmon’s taking a much more active role in defending Mingo – the man who actually did the dirty. Even though he had to’ve known that he was wanted by the Police for questioning in his rigging role – along with Volda Lawrence, Mingo remained locked away at his home in Belladrum, WCB. He didn’t show up when Volda appeared to face the music at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts. As a result, the Police had to arrest him, bring him to Georgetown and then charge him for committing a “misdemeanour in public office”. Some who suffered through the five months thought it should’ve been for treason!

Anyway, according to the law, “When a person is charged with a crime and held in Police custody, they must be brought to the first available court for the court to decide whether they should continue to be held (remanded) in custody.” But it seems that even though he’s a lawyer, neither he nor Roysdale Forde, SC, knew that!! They were up in arms with other residents of Belladrum demanding that Mingo be released – even though the Police explained he’d have to be charged in Court today!!

In the meantime, encouraged by Harmon’s braggadocio, the residents of Belladrum have taken to clocking the Public Road and burning tyres!!

Shouldn’t the utensil be charged for incitement?? ...and Volda We know that Harmon’s playing favourites, since he hadn’t showed up to defend Volda’s honour last Monday when she showed up to face the music for her (fisherwoman’s) role at Ashmin’s, after Mingo’s sleightof-hand with the tabulation. This proves that Harmon’s not too smart. Could you imagine how he would’ve disarmed Volda’s Amazonian Brigade if he’d appeared at her side?? But as your Eyewitness reported, he’s decided to divide and conquer the old guard in the PNC to become the Opposition Leader: he chose to co-opt Aubrey Norton.

There’s no love lost between Norton and Volda, of course, after the latter trounced the former in the PNC elections to be the Georgetown head honcho in 2009.

But then Norton has more in common with Harmon the Utensil since he’d been dubbed by Hoyte as his “creature”, and when a Caribbean man of Arthur’s vintage uses the word “utensil”, he means “posey” or ‘tensil’!!

So, Dear Reader, we can expect Harmon to be fighting on two fronts: Against the PPP and also Volda. ...and Granger Does Harmon really believe he’s anything but a ‘tensil to Granger, the Brigadier under whom he served?

As a country boy, does he remember the distinction between “big bottles” and “small bottles” in the rum shops??

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

NEWS

9

MONDAY, AUGUST 31, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

President Ali hosts outreach in Tiger Bay – distributes COVID-19 relief to residents, listens to concerns

P

resident Dr Irfaan Ali on Sunday received a warm reception as he visited the community of Tiger Bay to lend an ear to concerns of residents and deliver hampers to households.

Accompanying the Head of State was First Lady, Arya Ali; National Security Advisor, Gerry Gouveia and several members of the Private Sector.

The team would have engaged youths and other sections of the community to address issues and provide solutions, especially in the form of employment.

The Private Sector and Non-Governmental Organisation distributed a large quantity of items to residents and children.

Residents came out in their

numbers to throw support behind the new President, lauding him for taking on such an initiative.

Speaking with the me-

Listening to concerns of the elderly

dia on the sidelines of the activity, President Ali said he intends to fulfil his role throughout the next five years in ensuring that all cross-sections of the country are assisted and supported

to develop their communities.

“I have a responsibility as President to be in ev-

ery single community, to listen to people, to understand the challenges on the ground and part of the role as Government is to develop a wide and encompassing programme that looks at community empowerment, at-risk communities, communities that are considered depressed and to find innovative solutions,” Dr Ali shared.

He said this can be done through partnership with the Private Sector and strategic investments by Government.

According to the President, interacting with people brings a stronger understanding of their needs and what should be done to provide relief. It also bridges the gap between the people and the incumbent Government.

“People must be able to see the Government. They must be able to feel the

Government. They must be able to have the comfort, knowing that the Government is ready to listen to their problems and to associate with their problems. When you come out, interact with people and understand the ground, it gives you a more superior understanding of the problem itself.”

For the community of Tiger Bay, youths were assured that they would be trained in a trade and given opportunities to work.

Creating a livelihood will ensure that their conditions improve.

The President has committed to rolling out such programmes across the country, whereby visits will

Hampers were distributed to residents (Office of the President photos)

the 50,000 house lots project.

“You will be seeing the Government in every community interacting…We have a very elaborate housing programme – not only the

President Irfaan Ali engaging the youths of Tiger Bay

be made to engage villagers.

As it relates to housing, he mentioned the extensive programme which will support

50,000 house lots but a programme to see how we can help poor people own their own homes also. We have to

find ways in which financing can be provided. We have to have a revolving fund and we have to be able to help them in the initial phase,” he contended.

This week, the Housing Minister will make a visit to the Tiger Bay area along with a representative of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport - creating a broadened Government representation.

With an emergency budget slated for Tuesday, Dr Ali said they are seeking to have programmes and a proactive approach to addressing youth development. This is despite the fact that the former Granger-led Government left the country with over $20 billion in liabilities – which will take up a large chunk of the coffer’s money.

10 NEWS

MONDAY, AUGUST 31, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Medical stalwart Dr Chatterdeo passes on

Dr Seepersaud Chatterdeo

C

ondolences have been pouring following news of the sudden passing of Dr Seepersaud Chatterdeo – renowned paediatrician and Head of the Paediatrics Department of the Georgetown Public Hospital.

The doctor, who died on Sunday morning, was regarded as a leading paediatrician in the country. In rec-

ognising his work, Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony noted that Chatterdeo was a teacher to several medical students and interns. He also dedicated his life to the profession.

“He dedicated his young life to ensuring his students had all his attention and benefited from his knowledge and experience. He treated his students as his sisters and brothers. Dr Chatterdeo also contributed immensely to the continuing medical education programme for practising physicians in Guyana,” the Minister said.

Dr Anthony contended that Guyana has lost a valuable citizen, who would be difficult to replace. “He passed at a time when his services were highly needed,” the Minister added.

“Just as families spoke of their great admiration for his professionalism and expertise, they also spoke of

Attorney General Anil Nandlall

his gentleness, generosity and kindness. The families that he served over the years attest to his caring predisposition and even though they might have come from far distances to see him, he made them all feel like family…The Ministry asked that

our prayers and support be extended to his family at this most difficult time in their lives.”

Also extending condolences was Attorney General Anil Nandlall, who attended Queen’s College with Dr Chatterdeo. In highlighting his qualities, Nandlall said, “In school, unlike me, he was always quiet, reserved and studious. He later pursued studies in medicine and unsurprisingly, quickly, became one of Guyana’s leading paediatrician. In his uniquely quiet fashion, he delivered top-quality medical services to our country’s most valuable asset – our children.”

The AG went on to say that the medical professional’s departure was untimely and he had much more to

Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony

contribute.

“The medical profession has lost a stalwart. Our children have lost a great medical provider. Our nation has lost a great son. To his wife, children and other relatives, I extend my deepest and

AG maintains nothing...

Prior to his expected release, however, the Guyana Police Force instituted four charges of misconduct in office against Mingo, in relation to attempts to rig the March 2, 2020 General and Regional Elections.

Back in March, Ramson Jr had filed private criminal charges against Mingo and Chairperson of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) – the leading party

of the APNU fraction of the coalition – Volda Lawrence, in relation to the unverified declaration of results for Region Four.

The declaration made

by Mingo, which was subsequently set aside by Chief Justice Roxane George, was signed by Lawrence – the lone representation of the political parties that contested the elections.

The other parties had ob-

most sincere condolences.

May his soul rest in peace,” Nandlall shared.

Dr Chatterdeo started his career as a pharmacist and later pursued medicine at the University of Guyana.

He later pursued a Master of Medicine, specialising in paediatrics, at university, also serving as a tutor and assistant professor.

The University’s Medical Council also paid tribute, where one of the fourthyear students wrote, “Dr Chatterdeo was brilliant, gifted and prolific yet still, pure and humble. Each student taught by him can attest to the fact that he was gentle, inspiring and always ready to impart knowledge in a manner that never made students feel belittled or inadequate.”

FROM PAGE 7

jected to the declaration after the verification process was not fully complied to by the RO. The election observation missions, local and international, had also rejected the declaration, saying that the results lacked credibility and transparency.

A subsequent 33-day National Recount had shown that Mingo inflated APNU/AFC votes and de-

flated votes from other parties, to give the incumbent a win. Chief Elections Officer Keith Lowenfield, who attempted on several occasions to force GECOM to use these discredited results, is also before the courts. The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) is expected to make a decision soon on the way forward regarding the charges Lowenfield is facing.

NEWS

11

MONDAY, AUGUST 31, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Infectious Hospital ready to treat isolated COVID-19 patients …permanent water, electricity challenges being addressed

T

his week, the Infectious Hospital at Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown will house its first set of patients as part of the Phase One plan to treat isolated patients who have contracted COVID-19.

On Sunday, Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony facilitated a media tour of the building to get a firsthand view of the works which are currently ongoing to complete the facility.

Phase Two, which will tackle intensive care patients, will materialise at a later date when the necessary medical equipment is installed.

For now, those who do not require intensive care will be transferred. There is also room for persons who are awaiting test results.

The new COVID-19 specialised centre is equipped with a control room, infirmary, isolation and intensive care rooms, laundry area and other facilities to effectively tackle all aspects of treatment. The new Government has sought to equip the building in recent weeks with beds and other equipment so that it can function.

While giving an update, the Minister said that they were seeking to have patients transferred to the facility today. These are persons who can self-isolate

Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony

and do not need extensive treatment.

Each room is self-contained and equipped with key necessities that are needed by patients.

Dr Anthony said they remained hopeful that persons could be admitted by today.

“This facility has 197 beds. While we will have the isolation section, we’re also looking at persons who are awaiting their tests, which is the section on the eastern side…We’re preparing the place and I’m very optimistic that by tomorrow (Monday), we can now have the first set of patients utilising this facility,” he indicated.

Dr Anthony pointed at some challenges which they

faced to ensure that amenities were secured. One of the tasks was ensuring that there was stable electricity and through collaboration with the Guyana Power and Light (GPL), two generating systems were installed.

“Our biggest challenge as of yesterday was ensuring that we have stable electricity into the building…

We have GPL on the ground, looking for a solution to this…They have come up with a technical solution to assist us and I’m extremely pleased that as of this morning, they started putting in those transformers and they have assured us that very shortly that they will be powering the building. We now have electricity in place,” Dr Anthony said.

Minister within the Public Works Ministry, Deodat Indar and Chief Executive Officer of GPL, Albert Gordon were onsite to ensure that the works were completed in an efficient manner.

Meanwhile, the Health Minister pointed to water as another challenge, but highlighted that they were assisted by a team from the Guyana Water Inc (GWI) to address the setbacks to be encountered when patients are admitted. Water will be taken every day to the facility until a permanent solution is completed.

“The next challenge that we had was water. While we were working to resolve, we had a team from GWI was also here. To connect to the public system, there are some technical challenges that we have to overcome, but they have agreed in the interim, once we have patients here they will be bringing water to the facility to ensure that we have adequate water supply…It will probably take a week to resolve those technical issues with the water,” he explained An inspection on Saturday also found that the existing sewage system is condemned. As such, officials are working to install a new mechanism. On Sunday, different teams were busy, working on various facets of the facility to have it ready on time.

Speaking with the media, Director of Medical and Professional Services of the Georgetown Public Hospital

Inside the facility where beds were installed

Corporation (GPHC), Dr Faucett Jeffrey informed that the first phase catered for a total of 97 beds. He said from the numbers at the Georgetown Hospital, they have already planned to transfer over 30 patients.

He noted that this would help to relieve GPHC, so that it could address the non-coronavirus sicknesses of the public. At present, he said the Hospital is ‘compressed’ to accommodate the COVID-19 patients.

“We will almost be occupying the area downstairs

from east to west completely. The Georgetown Public Hospital has to continue its normal work also, because it’s not only COVID-19 that’s bothering us. The regular person who comes to the hospital [and] needs medical attention has to be attended to,” the Director noted.

As it relates to staffing, the Ministry has sent 17 doctors to GPHC, but Dr Jeffrey contended that the number of nurses remained a challenge. The Cuban medical brigade has also lent assistance.

12 NEWS

MONDAY, AUGUST 31, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Health Minister commits to improving Maternal

Unit at WDRH

…as US$25,000 in equipment handed over

H

ealth Minister, Dr Frank Anthony on Saturday visited the West Demerara Regional Hospital, where he pledged to address issues that have been facing the Maternal and Child Health Department in delivering services to the nation.

The new Minister would have handed over a number of medical equipment to enhance operations of the Maternal Unit, where he led an inspection of the wing.

There, concerns were raised that the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) has not been functioning for some years due to an infestation of fungus and mould.

Babies were removed from the section as a result and placed in another area.

As such, Dr Anthony said

the Ministry will seek to refurbish the area so that it can be occupied by newborns.

“We understand that there was a problem with fungus and mould that was affecting that area. Because of that, they had to remove the babies from there. We believe that we can have that area refurbished, remove those material that has been infested with the fungus and mould; and perhaps be able to sort that whole area out,” he explained.

There is also the problem of unstable electricity, which he said will be addressed in collaboration with the Region Three administration. This, he noted, is crucial for new medical equipment function effectively.

“In some sections, you have a little bit of unsta-

ble electricity. We will work with the region to be able to fix that so when the new equipment come, they would not be affected. These equipment cost a lot of money and we don’t want that after we bring them, after a day or two they stop working because the electricity is unstable.”

This project was aimed at enhancing the obstetrics department across Regions Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), Four (Demerara-Mahaica) and Nine (Upper DemeraraBerbice).

This supply of beds, cots, trolleys and lamps is pegged at US$25,000. Dr Anthony said another contribution of cardiac monitors and essential pieces of medical equipment will be brought over

Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony and staffers with some of the donated items

shortly since the hospital has an immediate need for such equipment. While it is being delivered, the electrical issues will be stabilised.

“Maternal and child health is one of the priorities of the Government and we would want to ensure that

our mothers and babies are safe. This project was conceived to ensure that three of our regions have the adequate facilities that they need to have safe deliveries and enhance the environment where mothers are kept,” the new Minister said.

He added, “The assessments that were done pointed out to the needs of the regions. This is just the first part of what we’re doing.

We’re happy that not only did the beds come but that they would have started to utilise them.”

Father of 2 chopped to death during argument

By Lawanda McAllister

A

29-year-old father of two was on Saturday evening chopped to death by a vendor during an argument at Craig, East Bank Demerara (EBD).

The dead man has been identified as Kishan Persaud, a seaman, of Lot 298 Buzz Bee Dam, Craig, EBD. Based on reports received, he was chopped to his neck by the 36-year old suspect, who lives in the same area.

Guyana Times understands that at around 21:30h on the night in question, Persaud was driving motor car PKK 8911 through a

street next to where he lives, but could not enter his yard because the suspect had parked his cart, blocking his passageway.

Persaud reportedly exited his vehicle and asked the suspect to remove his cart, thus giving him clearance to enter his yard, but the suspect refused.

As a result, an argument ensued between the two men during which the suspect reportedly whipped out a cutlass and chopped the father of twice to his neck after which he fled the scene.

When Guyana Times visited the home of the now dead man, his wife Theon Imran

Dead: Kishan Persaud

recalled what happened. “ I heard a noise outside and when I run outside, I see the man that they does call “Uncle” cart blocking my husband car….then they were arguing…Uncle didn’t want move the cart, and when my husband tried to move the cart, he pull out a cutlass and chop he.”

“He run and jump in the car and drive out the street… one of his friends run out the old road and get another friend, and they jump in a bus. While they were going down, they saw him by Tank Street in Grove. The car was parked on the other side of the road, and he was lying

unconscious”, she explained.

Imran said Persaud’s friends moved him over to the back seat, and took him to the Diamond Diagnostic Centre for emergency treatment. However, while he was receiving medical attention, he succumbed to his injury.

His body is presently at that hospital’s mortuary where it awaits a post-mortem examination (PME).

Meanwhile, the suspect was arrested, and is presently in Police custody, assisting with investigations.

Persaud’s wife added that her three-year-old son is left traumatised, since he witnessed his father being

chopped.

“My son saw what happened, and he keep saying that he see the man chopped his daddy and his daddy gone to the hospital and his daddy is dead. I don’t know what to tell him, when he gets big I don’t know what I’m gonna say to him…”, she said.

Imran said her husband had so much life left in him, and was in the process of building his house for his family. She said it is quite unfortunate that he was not able to accomplish his dream.

Persaud leaves to mourn his two sons, aged seven and three, his wife, parents and other family members.

NEWS

13

MONDAY, AUGUST 31, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Belladrum residents protest for Mingo's release – Police reiterate Mingo’s detention is lawful

T

housands of commuters were severely affected on Sunday as residents of Belladrum, West Coast Berbice, Region Five (MahaicaBerbice), continued their

the flow of traffic.

“Free Mingo,” they chanted as the shell of an old car was also dragged onto the road which was already filled with other debris including discarded re-

protest, demanding that Region Four (DemeraraMahaica) Returning Officer, Clairmont Mingo be released from Police custody.

Mingo is accused of attempting to alter the results of the elections in favour of the APNU/AFC coalition by using concocted figures during the tabulation of votes for Region Four – the country’s largest voting district.

He was slapped with four charges and is expected to make his appearance today at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

Mingo, who is said to be from the village of Belladrum, was arrested by the police on Tuesday last at his Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara (ECD) home and escorted to the CID Headquarters where he was being questioned. He was later transferred to the Sparendaam Police Station where he is being held.

However, on Saturday, residents took to the streets on the East Coast of Berbice, demanding that Police release Mingo.

The protest intensified on Sunday where protesters lifted an old building which

frigerators, chairs, tables and logs.

There were also smaller blockages at El Dorado and Foulis. At El Dorado, vehicle tires were placed on the roadway and burnt to prevent vehicles from travers-

was once used as a shop and placed in in the middle of the road, thus obstructing

name, suggested that Mingo should not go unpunished if found of committing elector-

ing.

“They eye pass black people, they got fo kill we,” one of the protesters was heard saying while another, without mentioning any

al fraud.

“Worst than this people do when he get lock up.”

The police kept a high presence in the area with the intention to maintain law and order but the vulgar be-

haviours dominated the day.

“We want Mingo. Bring Mongo,” other protesters shouted. Many of the residents had armed themselves with sticks and other similar weapons.

Meanwhile, traffic

stretched for miles, forcing people to turn away. Police after some time were able to clear a section of the road, allowing the slow flow of traffic.

Meanwhile, in a release, the police stated that the protest was unlawful and such behaviour can only cause harm to the well-being of innocent citizens.

Mingo, the release noted, is a part of an ongoing investigation into electoral fraud following the elections on March 2.

Additionally, the police stated that the protest constitutes a denial of the rights and freedoms of tens of thousands of citizens who need to use the public roadway in the exercise of their constitutional freedom of movement.

Moreover, the gathering of protesters and the miles-long build-up of traffic on both sides of the road at Belladrum are a clear violation of the COVID-19 guidelines which are currently in place as part of

Government's efforts to mitigate the effects and spread of the global pandemic in Guyana, thereby endangering the lives of tens of thousands of Guyanese.

The police advised that persons desist from continuing in these activities that will only serve to disrupt the normal lives of the residents of the village of Belladrum in particular and the entire country in general.

“The Police Force maintains that the detention of Mr Mingo in custody is lawful as ruled upon by the High Court in an application filed by Mr Mingo's Attorney Darren Wade for Habeas Corpus Ad Subjiciendum,” the police stated.

The police also took the opportunity to inform the protesters that it will use all lawful means necessary to clear the public roadway at Belladrum of all unlawful obstructions in order to make it safe for use by the citizens of Guyana.

Meanwhile, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) Executive Joseph Harmon in a statement on Saturday said four other Afro-Guyanese GECOM employees, including three females, have also been held without bail or

charge and as such called for mass protest aimed at causing chaos in Guyana.

The court had ordered the police to release Mingo by 14:30h on Saturday but instead the investigative ranks instituted the charges in relation to electoral fraud.

In an APNU/AFC statement on Saturday evening,

transformed the peaceful West Coast Berbice village of Belladrum into a virtual war zone.”

Specifically, Harmon called on Commander Cooper, Deputy Commander Mandal and Sergeant Mc Donald and all other officers and ranks who have occupied the village to stand

Harmon slammed the actions of the police and demanded that they cease and desist from inciting and intimidating Belladrum residents.

The statement added that “The Guyana Police Force has this evening

down with immediate effect.

Reports from the village are that heavily armed police in full riot gear have taken up positions at virtually every corner of the village and residents are frightened and fearful of their alarming and sudden presence.

14 NEWS

MONDAY, AUGUST 31, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Govt in talks with RUSAL to recommence operations — Minister Hamilton tells fired workers

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inister of Labour Joseph Hamilton met with former employees who were laid off by the RUSAL Bauxite Company earlier this year, as the fate of hundreds of work-

has signalled its intention to remain in Guyana.

Hamilton said he will be looking at the labour issues which are of importance. He explained that a joint technical team will be established

pen again”, the Minister said.

A former employee, Keith Velloza, told the Minister that the company is no longer in operation and he along with his colleagues are eager to know what is happening.

Some of the fired RUSAL workers ers remains in limbo.

The meeting was held at the Watooka Complex in Linden where the aggrieved employees levelled several complaints against the company.

This meeting came in the wake of a meeting between the Ministry and the bauxite company during which it was found that the company made excuses regarding economical and technical issues as it relates to recommencing operations.

He noted that RUSAL was urged to document these concerns and submit a document to the Government as it

to review all of the issues from the standpoints of the company and Government.

“I don’t want to act or formulate any policy based on my perception...I want to hear from you... I said to RUSAL this would not be a merry-go-round, also document issues with a timeline to them for resolution...

I plan to keep abreast with the Union. I know that there are several burning issues but the only thing, going forward that I can is plan for the present and we will think about the future... we have to ensure that whatever happened in the past, don’t hap-

He stressed that they have been on the breadline since January, which affects their livelihood.

"We need employment, we need jobs, we need to put foods on our tables. We need some word of comfort financially", Velloza said as he enquired about the position of laid-off employees.

Minister Hamilton said the absence of a budget presents some difficulties but pointed out that Government is in the process of preparing an emergency budget which can ultimately address issues such as these.

In the meantime, he not-

ed that systems will be put in place to allocate resources to frontline workers. The Minister said Government and RUSAL now have to examine the feasibility of recommencing the operations.

A former crane operator stated "We want work but we don't want to work under these conditions... RUSAL problem is they don't want to pay, they don’t want workers to join the Union...we are not going to sit here and work under these conditions”, the former employee said.

In response, the Minister stated that these issues are not allowed to reoccur in the future. He said once Government is sure that the company wants to stay, a new agreement can be put in place.

In the interest of the workers, the company will be given another opportunity.

“We will be engaging them and we'll see how it plays out”, Minister Hamilton said as he noted that the fundamental rights of the workers are important and as such, should not be taken advantage of. He also urged the former workers to document their concerns.

Another former employee, Lester Junor, accused the company of flouting all of the laws of Guyana, including workers’ rights.

“They are here as investors and they need to adhere to the rules here”, he said.

The former employee said the company operated freely and he hopes this will change. He stressed that they must commit to adhere by rules and la-

Labour Minister Joseph Hamilton

bour laws of the country in moving forward as he noted that the workers are intimidated.

According to the employees, the river was blocked as a “method” used by the company to lay off workers as they alleged that it disregarded the Department of Labour.

One man claimed that there was never a shortage of fuel but the excuse was one that was used to lay off workers. He alleged that the company wants workers to work in “slavery-like” conditions.

The former employee said the company needs to abide by the laws and reinstate all employees if they want to stay.

On that note, the Minister noted that in the future, there will be local labour officers to police the company as well as Occupational Safety and Health officers.

Hamilton explained that he has an open-door policy and pointed out that he has received a lot of reports from

employees across the country over the past few weeks.

He said Government has zero tolerance for employers who believe that they can take advantage of employees.

Also speaking at the meeting, Trade Unionist Lincoln Lewis said he wants to give an opportunity to the present Government to correct the “transgressions” affecting the employees as he noted that their rights and the rule of law take precedence in a civilised society.

Moving forward, he urged the bauxite workers to give the Minister an opportunity to correct those “wrongs”.

With the re-establishment of the Ministry, Lewis noted that the task is to ensure that the Labour Ministry is properly tooled to represent the interest of workers and their rights.

The Minister and team also visited Kwakwani, Ituni, Hururu and other communities to listen to workers’ concerns.

Aspiring lawyer Shykah Persaud has a passion for painting

Shykah Persaud

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very little girl always has a dream to soar high in a profession they love. For 18-year-old Shykah Persaud, who has an undying love for painting, her calling is to join the legal profession. She hopes to one day become an attorney-at-law, and play her part in ensuring checks and balances in society.

But for now, she enjoys painting and has even sold a few pieces of her work.

Currently, Persaud has a fulltime job, but whenever her paintbrush comes in contact with a piece of canvas, she

makes the most of it.

During an interview with Guyana Times, the outgoing teenager confessed, “I love to paint. It makes me feel alive and kicking. I’d rather wake up every morning knowing that I’m doing something I love daily. This way, I’d actually have the motivation to get up and get stuff done. My friends and family are supportive of my art. And they make it known that they’re proud of me. This contributes to me having the motivation to do stuff.”

According to the teenager, although she has no formal education in the art form, if given the opportunity to pursue studies in this regard, she would make the most of it since art is something, she has always been very passionate about.

She explained that while growing up she was not priv-

ileged to own a smartphone and other fancy gadgets, so instead, she used paint and brushes to keep her company.

She confessed that she eventually fell in love with how the colours looked after blending.

“I get inspiration from everything. My emotions, my friends, their emotions, the

environment, sometimes I would dream about things and jump up and sketch it out, so I don’t forget. Also, Pinterest is a big help!”

She revealed that she rare-

ly plans what she would paint because when she does, it can become very chaotic, especially if it drifts far away from the set plan.

But despite her accomplishments, Persaud remains humbled and open-minded.

“I’m open-minded too. I have a

started looking at TV shows, and I love to look at documentaries and whatnot. And it spiked my interest, and I just wanted to know more,” the teenager added.

In the meantime, Persaud, who spent most of her years at Kitty in Georgetown and

Don’t rush; let the brush control you. No painting is perfect. All art is art. Don’t throw away your scraps. (They come in handy). Watercolours and acrylic when mixed is just beautiful! You’re amazing at what you do. Always be confident in your work.” Persaud

plan, but at the same time, I’m going with the flow. This eases so much unnecessary pressure. Why a career in law? I didn’t choose it. It chose me. I

Parika, East Bank Essequibo, has lent some advice to those who wish to follow in her footsteps.

“Just go with the flow.

usually displays her paintings on her Facebook page @ Shykah R. Persaud. Some of them are on sale at very affordable prices.

NEWS

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MONDAY, AUGUST 31, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Judiciary to implement Sentencing Guidelines …absence of such is a disservice to trial Judges, CCJ

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n an effort to maintain public confidence in the transparency and consistency of judicial approaches, the Judiciary will soon be implementing Sentencing Guidelines in order to guide sentencing courts in the approach they should take.

This disclosure was made

by Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall during a recent interview with Guyana Times.

His comments come three months after the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) in a landmark judgement stressed the need for Sentencing Guidelines to be developed and published by the Judiciary of Guyana.

Disservice

“A disservice is done to trial Judges when there are no guidelines to aid the exercise of their vast sentencing discretion.” The foregoing was noted in the judgement delivered by the regional court.

The judgement was delivered in the case of a 50-yearold father of 12, Linton Pompey vs the Director of Public Prosecutions. Pompey was convicted on September 21, 2015, of three sexual offences committed on a 14-year-old girl – two counts of rape and one count of sexual assault.

The trial Judge sentenced him to 15 and 17 years in prison, respectively, for the first and second rape charge. A prison sentence of five years was given on the sexual activity charge. The three sentences were ordered to run consecutively, effectively giving Pompey a 37-year jail sentence. He appealed to the CCJ after the Court of Appeal of Guyana affirmed his conviction, but only granted him leave to

Attorney General Anil Nandlall

appeal against the sentence.

At the CCJ, Prominent Attorneys-at-Law Nigel Hughes and Ronald Daniels represented Pompey, and argued that the sentence imposed on their client by the trial Judge was excessive.

In its majority ruling, the regional court reduced his sentence to 17 years on the basis that among other things, the trial Judge erred when she failed to sufficiently consider that the resulting combined sentences “would be excessively high”. In reducing the convict’s sentence, the CCJ affirmed the sentences of the trial Judge; the court, however, ordered that the prison terms run concurrently, instead of consecutively.

“This appeal underscores the urgent need for the Judiciary of Guyana to publish Sentencing Guidelines. The publication of Sentencing Guidelines would undoubtedly play a key role in building public trust and confidence in the Judiciary of Guyana and in promoting the rule of law,” noted CCJ Judge Maureen Rajnauth-Lee. The CCJ’s panel of sev-

en Judges agreed that Guyana’s trial Judges would be better served if they were guided by appropriate guidelines that suggest various sentencing ranges for the most prevalent crimes.

The apex court noted that the Model Guidelines for Sexual Offences cases recognised that several jurisdictions in the Englishspeaking Caribbean had not published sentencing guidelines.

However, the CCJ further noted that included in the Model Guidelines, therefore, were Guidelines for Sentencing which sought to provide guidance to trial Judges to assist in the determination of the appropriate sentence in sexual offence cases. Several States throughout the Caribbean Community have established such guidelines including Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago.

No consistency

However, Nandlall explained that there is no statute or regulation in Guyana guiding Judges and Magistrates in imposing sentence on a person found guilty of an offence. In light of the foregoing, he noted that in the absence of such guidelines, a sentence is largely discretionary.

“As a result, you find that there is no uniformity and consistency in the sentences imposed. The law offers general principles only in relation to sentences. For example, the statute may impose the number of years as a custodial sentence; let us say between two to five years. General law outlines the principles that guides Magistrates and Judges.”

These, he explained, includes a convict’s character and antecedents, prevalence

Full support

Bar Association President Teni Housty

and serious nature of the offence, manner in which the offence was committed as well as aggravating and mitigating factors.

Notwithstanding the above-named principles, Nandlall noted that countries have promulgated guidelines to guide Judges and Magistrates to achieve uniformity and consistency when imposing sentence.

In this regard, he disclosed that Sentencing Guidelines which were developed a decade ago by the justice improvement project, but were never implemented, will be reviewed, updated and sent for consultation.

Once agreed upon, they will be implemented.

“I have advised that those sentencing guidelines done 10 years ago be reviewed and updated. This will save time and money.

Once updated it will be sent to the relevant parties for consultations.” These would include the Chancellor of the Judiciary, the Director of Public Prosecutions and the Bar Association of Guyana.

Collaborative, focus-driven approach needed to tackle child abuse – Minister Persaud

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inister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr Vindhya Persaud during a meeting with Directors of ChildLink stated that a centralised database would be established to obtain reliable data for the development and implementation of policies and actions for the prevention and response to violence, exploitation, and abuse of children.

The Minister acknowledged the strides made by child advocacy groups, law enforcement, and international donor agencies in protecting children, and underscored the need for a “more collaborative, focused, driven” approach in addressing child abuse with “monitoring and evaluation” being standardised.

During her interaction with the ChildLink team, Persaud was “deeply moved” by the “horrific acts” children endure at the hands of perpetrators, and was “trou-

Dr Vindhya Persaud discussed a number of child care and protection initiatives with ChildLink Managing Director Omattie Madray (left) and Director Dr Shanti Singh-Anthony

bled” that family members or neighbours are hesitant in reporting cases or suspected cases of abuse.

To this end, the Ministry will be stepping up its efforts, through educational campaigns, to encourage parents and communities to become more involved in reporting incidents of child abuse.

Meanwhile, the ChildLink team highlighted

the challenges faced by the NGO, which included funding, shortage of human resources and the inadequate services of child psychologists.

Minister Persaud advised the NGO’s team to submit a report with prioritised areas of focus and indicated any support given would be done through phased and system-based approaches “where clear roles will be de-

fined to ensure continuity of projects.”

The Minister was briefed on the operations of ChildLink by Managing Director Omattie Madray, and Director Dr Shanti Singh-Anthony.

ChildLink is a non-Governmental Organisation that works towards the protection of children against abuse and exploitation.

Meanwhile, President of the Guyana Bar Association, Attorney-at-Law Teni Housty in an invited comment said that the Bar welcomes the move to bring Sentencing Guidelines on stream after the necessary consultation as it is something Guyana urgently needs. In fact, he revealed that the matter is of utmost priority for the Bar Association which has implemented a sub-committee to examine the proposed guidelines.

“We [Bar Association] have a criminal sub-committee of the Bar Association examining it, that is part of their mandate. We welcome the guidelines. They are definitely needed and we hope to play a part in the development of them. And we hope that when they are developed that they are implemented. But what should not be lost in using Sentencing Guidelines is what has been developed in some countries—Maximum Sentence Indicators,” Housty related.

Hughes on Sunday expressed that he welcomes the effort by the Attorney General to have Sentencing Guidelines implemented.

He emphasised that for far too long there have been too many anomalies in sen-

Attorney-at-Law Nigel Hughes

tencing patterns across the board.

According to Hughes, “[the issue of sentencing] has been a source of considerable anguish among people who have been convicted of offences by the High Court. The lack of uniformity and predictable in the possible range of the sentence continues to be problematic.”

Hughes made reference to the aforementioned judgement. The lawyer recalled that in that judgement, too, the CCJ made “very strong” recommendations to the Court of Appeal in relation to adopting Sentencing Guidelines.

Gouveia unavailable to serve 2nd term as PSC Chair

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aptain Gerry Gouveia on Sunday announced that he will be unavailable to serve a second term in the position of Chairman of the Private Sector Commission (PSC) due to his recent substantial role as Advisor on National Security to His Excellency President Dr Irfaan Ali. The Private Sector Commission is scheduled to have its Annual General Meeting (AGM) today and Executive members are usually elected at the first council meeting following the AGM. The Private Sector Commission wishes to thank Capt Gerry Gouveia for his astute leadership during his recently concluded tenure in office. His service to Guyana during this historical time was noteworthy and he will certainly be remembered as a Champion of democracy in Guyana. The PSC wishes Capt Gouveia success in his new role as Advisor to the President.

In a statement issued

by Gouveia, he stated that it is public knowledge that he has been appointed as Advisor to His Excellency President Dr Irfaan Ali on National Security.

“This is a role which requires a substantial amount of my attention and will not permit me the time required to continue serving you as Chairman of the PSC. In this regard, I announce to you that I will be unavail-

Captain Gerry Gouveia

able for consideration to be elected for a second term as your Chairman subsequent to our AGM on August 31, 2020.”

He added “I was humbled to have been elected your leader and I was proud to serve you and advance your interest as members of the business community for the last 15 months. Our biggest challenge in the last year was to preserve the bedrock of our democracy by ensuring free and fair elections in Guyana and with your support we were successful.”

As such, he took the opportunity to thank all of the Executives, members and friends of the Private Sector Commission for their ardent support during his tenure as Chairman.

Finally, he also extended his support to the next Chairman and Executives as they take up the mantle of expanding the interest of the Private Sector in the new dispensation.

16 NEWS

MONDAY, AUGUST 31, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

4 new COVID-19 deaths, 50 new cases recorded

Natural Resources Act to be reviewed – Natural Resources Minister

– bill did not benefit from bipartisan examination before being passed

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s of August 30, 2020, the Public Health Ministry has recorded three COVID-19 deaths and 50 new COVID-19 cases in 24 hours.

With the 50 new cases, the total has now crept up to 1234 while the death toll now stands at 38.

The latest visit who died at about 17:00h on Sunday at the Geprgetown Public Hosptial is a 31-year-old of Region Six. Earlier in the day, a 53-year-old woman from the East Coast of Demerara (ECD), also died

at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) at around 13:00h on Sunday.

In addition, the Ministry reported the 37th COVID-19 death, which is a 78-year-old woman of Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo).

Late Saturday evening, an 80-year-old man, also of Region Four (DemeraraMahaica), succumbed while being treated at the GPHC. From August 16 to date, the Ministry has now recorded a whopping 15

COVID-19-related deaths.

The Ministry’s dashboard, as of August 30, 2020, only included 36 deaths, but a statement explained that the two deaths recorded on Sunday were not included. This is due to a decision that was taken to publish the data at 16:30h daily, with information from the previous day.

Meanwhile, of the active cases, 13 persons remain in the designated Intensive Care Unit – an increase of four from Saturday.

Eighty-seven persons are in institutional isolation, 124 in institutional quarantine, and 411 on home isolation. The total recovered cases stand at 687– an increase of 51.

A breakdown shows that there were five new cases from Region One (Barima-Waini); one from Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam); seven from Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara); 24 from Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica); two from Region Five (MahaicaBerbice); one from Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne); three from Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni) and seven from Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo).

The number of cases in Regions Eight (PotaroSiparuni) and 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) remain the same, as 15 and 75, respectively.

he Natural Resources bill passed by the former A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) has to be reviewed by the new Government, in order to ensure that the legislation is in line with the People’s Progressive Party’s (PPP) policies for the oil and gas sector.

The bill was literally the only piece of legislation passed by the former Government to deal with the oil and gas sector, during their time in office. In an interview with this publication, Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat pointed out that the bill did not benefit from a comprehensive, bipartisan review in the National Assembly prior to its passing.

“We have to relook at the Natural Resource Fund legislation. That bill was passed after the NoConfidence Motion. So, we didn’t have a chance to examine that bill before it was passed. We weren’t a part of those debates.”

Bharrat pointed out that the Act contains a number of things that were not set up by the former Government, including the investment and MacroEconomic Committee and the Public and Oversight Committee.

“The bill speaks to a lot of things that were not implemented by the previous Administration. We’ll relook at the Natural Resource legislation so that it can be in line with our policies and programmes.”

The former APNU/

Natural Resources Vickram Bharrat

Minister

AFC Government had released the draft Natural Resources Fund bill of 2018 and passed it in January of 2019. Former President David Granger assented to the bill the next month.

Among other things was a 22-member Public Accountability and Oversight Committee that would oversee the management of the Fund and provide checks and balances.

This was never implemented.

Also proposed in the Act was the establishment of an Investment Committee and a Macro-Economic Committee. The investment Committee is supposed to advise the Minister on investment opportunities and help in overseeing the management of the fund’s investment portfolio.

Meanwhile, the MacroEconomic Committee has the responsibility of advising the Minister on how much money can be withdrawn from the fund in an economically feasible and sustainable way.

Guyana’s oil and gas sec-

tor is in urgent need of attention. Guyana became an oil-producing nation in 2019 with a number of key pieces of policy and legislation missing. In fact, in five years, only a single piece of legislation related to the sector was passed by the Government - namely the Natural Resources Fund bill, which was signed into law by former President David Granger last year.

The bill to create a Petroleum Commission is yet to pass in the House despite being on the order paper in the 12th Parliament and the Local Content Policy released last year has been criticised for its lack of teeth and its confidentiality clauses.

When it comes to local content, President Dr Irfaan Ali assembled a high-level team of experts only days ago to advise his Government on the formulation of a strong Local Content Policy that will ensure all citizens benefit from the country’s lucrative oil and gas sector.

The Local Content Advisory Panel will be chaired by President of the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) Shyam Nokta and will include former Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge, former Energy Minister of Trinidad and Tobago Kevin Ramnarine, and former Chairman of the Public Service Commission Carvil Duncan. Also sitting on the panel are financial expert Floyd Hayne and energy expert Dr Anthony Paul

2 injured following 2-vehicle collision at Houston

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pillion rider and a motorcyclist are now patients at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) following a collision in the vicinity of Rahaman’s Park, Houston, Greater Georgetown, on Saturday evening.

The accident occurred at about 21:10h.

Based on reports received, the motorcycle bearing registration number CJ 4120 and a motor car with license plate PMM 4476 were proceeding in the same direction along the Houston Public Road when the car swerved into the path of the motorcycle which was negotiating a turn at the time.

As a result, the front of the motorcycle came into contact with the right-side portion of the car, thus causing the motorcyclist and pillion rider to fall onto the roadway. They sustained injuries and were

picked up in a conscious state by emergency crews, and taken to Georgetown Hospital, where they were treated and admitted.

They are said to be

in a stable condition.

Meanwhile, the driver of the car was arrested and remains in Police custody assisting with the investigation.

ECD businessman robbed at gunpoint

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un-toting bandits executed a brazen daylight robbery on a 42-year-old businessman at Melanie, East Coast Demerara (ECD). The men reportedly escaped with a number of cellphones, cash and other valuables belonging to Andrew Jacobs, proprietor of Andy’s Variety Store at Linden Drive, Melanie, ECD. Based on reports received, the businessman was awaiting the arrival of a taxi to head home when he was accosted by the two gunmen. At the time, he was

inside the shop.

The traumatised man reportedly told Police that he was held at gunpoint by one of the men while the other carried out the robbery.

Fearful for his life, the businessman handed over a black plastic bag to the bandits that contained $300,000 in cash, a Samsung A50 cellular phone worth $100,000 and a Digicel cellular phone that cost $5000. The men later made good their escape.

Investigations into the armed robbery are ongoing.

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Gandhi, COVID-19, Namaste

The Prince of Wales uses a Namaste gesture (Yui Mok/PA)

By Ramnarine Sahadeo

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ctober 2 is approaching and the world would be celebrating the birth of the greatest example of how one can change from an ordinary child to a Mahatma. Many still question his relevancy and youths today know little or nothing about him, a concern that adults, educators, spiritual and world leaders should address.

Promenade Gardens may have a usual turnout of special admirers of Gandhi but much more has to be done to teach the current generation how they too can make a difference in this world by following at the universal principles that he practiced and perfected. One of them is the Sanskrit greeting Namaste.

COVID-19 is unfortunately also a global concern and as dangerous as any pandemic before it.

As of August 28, it is has taken over 832 thousand lives worldwide. In Guyana, the confirmed cases is 1140 and the death toll 32. It has taught us many lessons, among them is that everyone is a potential target as the virus does not favour anyone based on wealth, class, creed, gender, race or religion.

Uncertainty, fear and anxiety are also related health issues.

People are asked to stay home, wear a mask, and practice social distancing. All the customary forms of greeting are now looked upon as an agent of transmission.

Hugging, kissing, nose-rubbing, fistpumping, touching or shaking the feet and even the most widely practice of shaking hands are all suspects in spreading the coronavirus. Namaste, the most ancient form of greeting has become the norm and recommended by world leaders. French, English, Americans, pastors are all resorting to it.

Breaking old habits is not easy. Even Prince Charles attempted to hold out his hand to his host but quickly pulled in back and put his palms together with a slight bow. Indian Prime Minister Modi has called on his people to resort to the old habit. Even though the practice originated in India and is connected with the ancient texts and the universal practice of Yoga, the manners taught by the colonial master was at one time more widely accepted. It appears as if we have not learnt any lesson when the SARS epidemic ravaged the world as recently as 2003.

The virus should be an indelible reminder that certain accepted habits are harmful to health. Regretfully, even among some Hindus, practicing this ancient form of greeting has been, and will continue to be a challenge.

Those who limit this form of greeting

as merely a religious practice may now have to heed it as sound medical advice.

There is also the scientific and spiritual significance to consider. It is a display of humility, removing all egos as one bows to the creator in others. Scientifically, it acts as a healing agent when various pressure points in the palms and fingers are put together.

Namaste is a complete sentence made up of two words, namas and te.

It means “I honour the place in you in which the entire universe dwells, the place in you which is of truth, of light and of peace”.

However “you” refers not to the physical person but the inner being.

Thus the deeper meaning is “the divinity in me greets the divinity in you”. This greeting transcends race, religion or nationality, can be used day or night, in all circumstances, in any place, to stranger or friend of any gender, age, or social status.

Namaste is also the most hygienic way of conveying respect, discipline and culture. Because the parties do not physically contact each other, there is no fear of passing on infections like flu as you may in shaking hands, hugging or kissing. The words are usually accompanied by a slight bow made with hands pressed together, palms touching and fingers pointed upwards, in front of the chest. In so doing you share a sense of grace, humility and peace. It was used in India for thousands of years and is now universally recognised as the most dignified means by which two souls can demonstrate mutual respect and love.

It was a distinctive characteristic of Mahatma Gandhi who made humility and simple truth more powerful than empires and he practiced it to his last words.

It was January 30, 1948, and Gandhi was late for his prayer meeting. The assailant bowed to him and said “Namaste Gandhiji”. The saintly man replied “Namaste” before three bullets entered his chest and abdomen. He fell on the ground, palms still joined as he said his last words “Hey Ram”, his final act of Ahimsa. It was 5:17 pm and the rest is history.

Note: Namaste is not a magic cure for the virus; it is just one of the ways of preventing it from spreading. Please continue other methods as instructed like regular washing of hands.

The book Mohandas K. Gandhi, Thoughts, Words, Deeds, has many universal concepts like Namaste, the Golden rule in 20 different religions, the Sermon on the Mount, and the Universal Declaration of Human rights.

COVID-19 plan – Control spread by tracing & isolation Dear Editor, We receive statistics every day about how many new positive cases we have of the COVID-19 virus. As a nation, we are all alarmed and terrified of what will happen next. We are waiting for the hammer to fall on our collective heads.

From all the comments by officials in various public interviews and comments, it appears that is exactly what will happen. Instead of implementing systems to take control of the spreaders or potential spreaders, by contact tracing and isolation, the powers that be want to implement coercive and punitive measures against the people. In other words, their intention is to victimise the victims.

Yesterday I took a drive to Bushy Park Beach at Parika.

My family wanted to go for a drive to take a break from being home all week. When I arrived there, I was greeted by 2 police who advised me that the beach was closed as a result of COVID-19 regulations. My family was disappointed. However, there is no choice here; I promptly turned around and returned home.

The beach is an open and windy space where people gather in family groups usually masked and social distancing. However, I am not going to argue the merits of closing the beach except to say that choice is being removed. This assumes that the people are not responsible. Now they will dictate how you must behave. This is not healthy for a democracy.

The next thing I hear is that they will have the police monitor public access places such as small businesses and charge patrons for not wearing a mask and also owners/ operators. Now the operator of a business has complied with all the protocols. He provides facilities for handwashing or sanitising and

also checks your temperature before allowing entry.

He makes sure you enter with a mask or he makes one available to you.

Now, why would you charge the business owner?

This is not right.

You have no reason to charge him because there is nothing to indicate that he is capable of spreading the virus or is infected by the virus. You should also not be charging the citizen because he has rights and choice is one of those rights.

Now let us take the case of a person who was in contact with a positive case. He can either be infected which you can determine by symptoms or has the potential of becoming infected because he was in contact with a COVID-19 positive case. It is these people who will be new spreaders or potential spreaders. And these people can be identified through contact tracing.

Now these are the people Government and Police should be focusing on. Not the innocent.

We have no evidence that the Government with all its power and resources is focusing on this. It would be helpful if on a daily basis the Government issues statistics for the following: 1. Number of COVID-19 positive cases.

2. Number of persons contact traced.

- Number with no symptoms who are being isolated - Number with symptoms who are quarantined and under treatment 3. Number of persons released from isolation after having developed no symptoms after 7 to 10 days.

4. Number of persons who recovered after treatment and number of persons transferred to ICU in hospital.

Setting up opportunities for the police to charge the people and bring them before

the courts will not stop the spread of the virus.

Sometimes I wonder what happens when politicians get power. It’s as if they suddenly left the real world and now live in an alternate universe.

They immediately forget what happens when Police have any reason to interact with the people and can exercise the discretion to charge or not charge. How many outcomes can you have?

The COVID-19 virus is bringing out some serious defects in our thinking. All medical personal who are required to treat patients with the virus should be properly attired with PPE (personal protective equipment). So if a person comes in with a heart attack and could also be COVID-19 positive, they should be provided with seamless service. Why would the possibility of being COVID-19 positive prevent a heart attack patient from receiving timely treatment?

I am very concerned that the Government has not recognised that it would be more efficient and effective to control the spread of the virus by taking control of all persons who have come into contact with COVID-19 positive cases. If you control the spreaders or the potential spreaders, you will get it under control.

Until such time as the Government take to get the spreaders under control, masks and social distancing will be helpful since no one will know who could be a spreader. But once you know who are the spreaders and you have them under control, the need for masks and social distancing becomes redundant.

It will be interesting to see how the PSC, GMSA and the Chambers will respond after police start to charge innocent business owners.

Respectfully, Sase Shewnarain

18

guyanatimesgy.com

MONDAY, AUGUST 31, 2020

Regional

T&T PM to bring stranded 8 still missing in Haiti after Laura passes citizens back home H “G

od is hearing our cries.”

This was the reaction from one of approximately 2000 T&T nationals stranded abroad since that country’s borders closed on March 22.

The citizen was responding to Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley’s plans to meet with the National Security Ministry last week to discuss the repatriation of citizens. He was speaking at a press conference at the Diplomatic Centre in St Ann’s on Saturday.

The PM, however, warned that while exemptions will be granted, transport home is another issue.

“We are going to maximise the amount of exemptions granted; the transportation system is another story, because borders are closed and there is no scheduled transport, but given where we are at now and with the use of home quarantine, our case to keep people outside has been considerably reduced and we will grant the exemptions in a much more liberal way,” Rowley said.

Prime Minister, Dr Keith Rowley

Just two weeks ago, on August 15, after this country recorded a huge spike in COVID-19 cases, National Security Minister Stuart Young announced that the Government would be stepping back from its repatriation efforts.

The PM, announcing the decision to maximise exemptions, said this “chapter” needed to be closed and those who live in T&T, but were stuck abroad when the borders were closed on March 22 would be the first

priority.

He said the Government would try to assist with repatriation flights as it did for returning university students.

“After eight months we really need to close this chapter in a more effective way to those persons who have been on the outside, [they]… have been very patient, we need to bring them home as quickly as we can but we do have transportation issues.” (Excerpt from Trinidad Guardian)

Mapping environmental crime seen as key to slowing Amazon forest losses

A

share of the cattle supplied to Brazil’s markets are fattened on illegally deforested Amazon land. To conceal that fact from buyers, the animals often are passed through many hands and holdings before being sold, Brazilian researchers said.

That process of “regularising” beef makes it hard for buyers to ensure their supply chains are deforestation-free – one reason widespread forest loss continues, researchers said in a study looking at how environmental crimes in the Amazon basin are often inter-related.

To disrupt the activities of such networks, and prevent illegally sourced products flooding global markets, making the connections clear is vital, said Ilona Szabó, executive director of the Igarapé Institute, a Brazilian think-think that published the study this week.

“This includes shining a light not just on crime groups and shady business, but also the corrupt government officials – including Police, notary clerks, customs officials, and politicians – who facilitate the business,” Szabó said in an interview with the Thomson Reuters Foundation.

To track the regional and national networks that drive environmental crime across the Amazon, researchers have teamed up with Interpol, InSight Crime – a non-profit journalism and investigation organisation – and other partners, Szabó said.

The effort looked first at Brazil, Colombia and Peru, and was later extended to Bolivia, Ecuador, Guyana, Suriname and Venezuela, the study noted.

What researchers found is that illegal activities in the Amazon basin often interact in problematic ways and can have multiple en-

vironmental impacts.

Small-scale gold mining, for instance, can drive deforestation, contamination of soils and waterways, land tenure violations and violence.

As part of the effort to better track and respond to such illegal activity in the Amazon, researchers are creating a live digital map of incidents, to try to better identify patterns and overlaps.

The tool, which will rely on remote sensing as well as field visits, should be ready next July, they said.

“The end goal is to create a publicly available tool that can shine a light on crime in the supply chain, targeting asset managers, investment banks, ESG (environmental, social and corporate governance) investors, pensions funds, and consumers who are demanding action,” Szabó said. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Brazil reports 566 coronavirus deaths on Sunday

B

razil registered 566 additional coronavirus deaths over the past 24 hours and 16,158 new cases, the Health Ministry said on Sunday

evening.

The nation has now registered 120,828 deaths attributed to the novel coronavirus and 3,862,311 confirmed cases.

Sundays tend to have relatively low coronavirus numbers in Brazil because of delays in testing by the nation’s state governments.

(Reuters)

aiti raised the death toll from the passage of Tropical Storm Laura last weekend to 31 and said that eight people were still missing and presumed dead.

The Ministry of the Interior and the Economic and Social Assistance Fund have been providing urgent assistance including mattresses, materials for repairing homes as well as food kits to more than 800 families in Cité Soleil, Gressier and Tabarre in the Western Departments as well to those affected in the SouthEastern Departments of Anse-in-Pitres and CayesJacmel.

Earlier this week, the Directorate of Civil Protection (DPC) had put the death toll at 20 with at least five others reported missing. The DPC in a partial report said that the deaths occurred in the south-east, west and south departments.

But in its latest report, it said 31 people were dead, eight missing and eight oth-

Cleaning up in Haiti after the passage of Tropical Storm Laura (Reuters)

ers injured. It said a total of 2320 houses were damaged, 6272 were flooded and 243 others destroyed Civil Protection volunteers continue to clear and clean public spaces, including streets blocked by trees that fell during the storm and the authorities said that a reconnaissance flight, coordinated by the National Emergency Operations Centre, revealed the extent of the damage in the West and South-East.

“In the field, in-depth as-

sessments, primarily in the agricultural sector, are continuing in these two departments but also in the South, with the support of several national and international partners,” the DPC said, extending its sympathies to the families affected by the storm., It said it also wanted to remind the population of the need to maintain caution, “especially since we are only in the middle of the hurricane season”. (Excerpt from CMC)

Dengue increases in St Vincent

H

ealth authorities in St Vincent have warned against a possible outbreak of the dengue fever and urged the population to take all preventative measures to eradicate the breeding grounds of the Aedes Aegypti mosquito.

In a statement, the Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment said there has been an “above normal’ increase in dengue cases” and that it was “taking all necessary steps to prevent a severe outbreak of dengue fever in St Vincent and the Grenadines”.

It said that the island on July 25 recorded 48 laboratory confirmed cases of den-

gue and that as of August 25, the cases had increased to 74.

“This increase is not typical for this period and Vincentians are urged to take the requisite precautions to prevent further spread of the illness,” the ministry said, noting that laboratory confirmed dengue cases for January to August 2020 “have not been confined to any particular health district.

“However, the majority of cases have been reported in the Pembroke Health District which includes communities between Campden Park and Barrouallie.

Laboratory confirmed cases

recorded to date are between the ages of six months and 86 years old”.

It said 46 of these cases have resulted in hospitalisation.

Dengue is a flu-like illness spread by the Aedes Aegypti mosquito.

Symptoms of dengue usually begin four to 10 days after infection, and include a high fever, headache, vomiting, muscle and joint pains, and a skin rash.

Persistent fever, vomiting, and abdominal pain or tenderness, or bleeding, are warning signs which suggest that dengue fever disease is taking a more severe course. (Excerpt from CMC)

Spencer refuses knighthood

Former Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, Baldwin Spencer (file photo)

F

ormer Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer has reportedly turned down an offer of a knighthood that would have been awarded on November 1 during this year’s independence cele-

brations.

A statement issued after the weekly Cabinet meeting said that Prime Minister Gaston Browne, commenced discussions within the Cabinet to award the “erstwhile representative from the St John’s Rural West Constituency, Mr Baldwin Spencer, a knighthood during the Independence Celebrations on November 1, 2020”.

Spencer, who was first elected to Parliament in 1989 and was re-elected during five consecutive elections thereafter or up until 2018, when he retired from elective politics, served as Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014.

Information Minister Melford Nicholas told reporters that the discus-

sions, which are taking place through the Office of the Attorney General, have already started and “once we have concluded those, the official nomination will be consideration, and hopefully it could be as soon as this year’s independence celebrations”.

But Spencer, 71, who buried his mother on Thursday, told the Observer Media group that he would not be accepting the award.

Spencer, the third Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda and the first political leader of the main Opposition United People’s Progressive (UPP), said that he was in the process of communicating his position officially to the government. (CMC)

guyanatimesgy.com

MONDAY, AUGUST 31, 2020

19

Around the World

OILNEWS OIL NEWS US Gulf of Mexico oil output remains lower in wake of storm, data shows

U

S Gulf of Mexico crude oil output remained down 70 per cent, or 1.29 million barrels per day, according to data released on Sunday by the Department of Interior, as companies continued to return crews to offshore facilities that were evacuated ahead of Hurricane Laura.

A total of 139 platforms or drilling rigs in the US Gulf of Mexico were unmanned at midday on Sunday, the Department reported, down from the 310 that had been evacuated on Wednesday.

The Port of Houston, the nation’s largest energy export port, was operating normally on Sunday. The Ports of Texas City, Galveston, Freeport, and the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway from West Port Arthur Bridge east to High Island Bridge, also resumed normal operations, the Coast Guard said.

Closer to the storm’s landfall, the ports of Lake Charles and Cameron and the Calcasieu Waterway, all in Louisiana, remained without power and were closed. The port of Port Arthur, Texas, was open with restrictions, the Coast Guard said.

The region’s offshore natural gas production remained down 50 per cent, with 1.35 billion cubic feet per day shut in on Sunday, as energy producers began to restore output that was halted ahead of Laura.

Offshore Gulf of Mexico wells account for 17 per cent of total US crude oil production and 5 per cent of total US natural gas production.

In addition to the well shut-ins, the storm prompted energy firms to suspend processing at six coastal refineries last week.

Those six account for about 12 per cent of US oil processing capacity. Refineries without significant damage also began taking steps to restart operations. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Portland clashes: Fatal shooting as rival groups protest

Statue of Canada's 1st Prime Minister toppled by protesters demanding Police defunding

A

statue of Canada’s first Prime Minister Sir John Macdonald was toppled in downtown Montreal by protesters marching in support of defunding Police, Government officials said.

The incident occurred at the end of a peaceful march on Saturday when a group of people climbed the monument and pulled down the statue, causing the head to fly off, according to video posted on social media.

Calls to defund the police have been growing across the United States and Canada, after a spate of violent incidents involving Police. The death of George Floyd, a Black man, while in the custody of Minneapolis Police in May sparked global protests about racial inequality and police brutality, and renewed pledges from some to fight racism.

In June, a video showing a

Statue of John MacDonald is seen on the ground after it was pulled down during a protest against racial inequality, in Montreal, Quebec, Canada August 29, 2020 in this picture obtained from social media

forceful arrest of a Canadian Indigenous leader by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police raised questions about the use of force by the police.

The statue of Macdonald has been the site of repeated acts of graffiti in recent years, and it has often been covered in red paint.

Saturday’s incident drew quick condemnation from political leaders.

“Whatever one might think of John A. Macdonald, destroying a monument in this way is unacceptable,” Quebec Premier François Legault said in a tweet. “We must fight racism, but destroying parts of our history is not the solution.”

Newly elected leader of Canada’s main opposition Conservative Party, Erin O’Toole, said, “We will not build a better future by defacing our past.” (Excerpt from Reuters)

India’s single-day tally of 78,761 new coronavirus infections on Sunday exceeded the one-day increase of 77,299 reported by the United States in mid-July.

The south Asian country’s surge took the global caseload to 25,074,751.

The official number of global coronavirus cases is now at least five times the number of severe influenza illnesses recorded annually, according to World

Health Organisation data.

Around the world, there have been more than 840,000 deaths, considered a lagging indicator given the two-week incubation period of the virus. That has exceeded the upper range of 290,000 to 650,000 annual deaths linked to influenza.

India, the world’s second-most populous country, is third behind, the United States and Brazil, in total

caseload, but has consistently outpaced both in new daily cases since Aug 7, according to the Reuters tally.

Despite the surging case numbers, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been pushing for a return to normalcy to lessen the economic pain of the pandemic, having imposed a strict early lockdown of the country’s 1.3 billion people in March.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

massive explosion that killed at least 190 people and damaged large parts of the capital earlier this month.

The group of four former Prime Ministers represents the largest number of Sunni Muslim MPs in Lebanon's Parliament, including the Future Movement bloc of former Prime Minister Saad Hariri. Their support is seen as essential for the success of the Prime Minister, who under Lebanon's sectarian power-sharing pact must always be Sunni.

On Monday morning, President Michel Aoun is due to hold binding consultations with MPs to go through the formal motions of picking the next Prime Minister, who must then form a Government - a process which in the past has taken many months.

The consultations will begin with three of the four former Prime Ministers and Hariri's Future Movement bloc, all of whom are set to nominate Adib, Lebanon's ambassador to Germany.

Most other major blocs, in-

Mustapha Adib, Lebanon's Ambassador to Germany

cluding Hezbollah, the Amal Movement and the Free Patriotic Movement, have indicated they will follow suit, easily giving Adib the largest share of votes. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

his residence, according to a photo published by Russia’s RIA news agency.

Lukashenko, who turned 66 on Sunday, is struggling to contain weeks of protests and strikes since winning an Aug 9 election his opponents say was rigged. He denies electoral fraud and has said the protesters, whom he previously called “rats”, are backed from abroad.

Russian President Vladimir Putin used a birthday phone call to invite Lukashenko to visit Moscow,

a sign of the Kremlin’s willingness to back Lukashenko as he grapples with the unrest and the threat of new Western sanctions.

Tens of thousands of protesters streamed into central Minsk, carrying balloons, flowers and flags, in the afternoon. Belarus had a white-red-white flag for a brief period in the early 1990s and it has become a symbol of its anti-Government protests.

Protesters then converged on Lukashenko’s residence,

which was guarded by a wall of security forces carrying shields. A column of armoured military vehicles was seen driving towards the city centre.

Police made sporadic detentions throughout the day, bundling people into prisoner vans. At least 140 people were detained, the Interior Ministry said, according to RIA. Some protesters resisted arrest by what appeared to be plain-clothes officers, an eyewitness said. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Global coronavirus cases surpass 25 million – Reuters tally

G

lobal coronavirus cases surged past 25 million on Sunday, according to a Reuters tally, as India marked a worldwide record for daily new cases in the COVID-19 pandemic.

The data showed steady global growth as the disease’s epicentre shifts again, with India taking centre stage from the United States and Latin America.

Mustapha Adib on course to be designated Lebanon PM

A

The day began with a caravan of Trump supporters converging on Portland

A

man has been shot dead in Oregon as a large procession of supporters of President Trump clashed with Black Lives Matter protesters in Portland.

Images from the scene showed medics trying to save the man, who appeared to be white.

Police have not given an identity or specified whether the shooting was directly linked to the clashes which broke out in a downtown area.

Portland's streets have been the scene of frequent protests in recent weeks.

The city has become a focus for demonstrations against Police brutality and racism since the police killing of African-American George Floyd in Minneapolis on May 25 triggered a wave of national and international outrage.

Federal forces were sent

by President Trump to Portland in July in what

was described as a move to prevent violence but later withdrawn.

Acting homeland security chief Chad Wolf refused to rule out sending them back when pressed on ABC's This Week.

The latest pro-Trump rally was on the third Saturday in a row.

Oregon Live reported that "camouflage gear" with "thin blue line patches" was seen next to the body - a common sign of support for the police.

Tension rose after a convoy of some 600 vehicles flying flags and carrying an estimated 1000 Trump backers gathered at a mall in Clackamas county on the outskirts before entering Portland's downtown.

Video showed some people firing what local media described as pepper spray and pellets at BLM groups who had tried to prevent them from entering the city by blocking streets. (Excerpt from BBC News)

n influential group of former Lebanese Prime Ministers has picked little-known diplomat Mustapha Adib to head the country's next Government, all but ensuring his appointment at a nomination process today.

Fouad Siniora, speaking on behalf of the group which met on Sunday, said Adib should rapidly form a Government capable of implementing long-overdue reforms and overseeing Beirut's reconstruction following a

Protesters crowd Minsk as Belarus leader gets birthday call from Putin

B

elarusians chanting “Happy Birthday, you rat” and flying redand-white opposition flags gathered near President Alexander Lukashenko’s residence on Sunday as protesters kept up pressure on the veteran leader to resign, before dispersing peacefully.

The President, in office for 26 years, has shown no inclination to step down. For the second weekend in a row, he appeared in a black cap and carrying an automatic rifle while walking around

20

MONDAY, AUGUST 31, 2020

guyanatimesgy.com

ARCHIE

ARIES (March 21April 19)

Take your time, dig deep, get the facts and make decisions based on verified information, not what someone leads you to believe.

Separate your business and personal lives to avoid confusion and interference.

Stick to your plan, regardTAURUS less of what others do. Use (April 20your knowledge, experience May 20) and skills to get ahead. A physical change will boost your morale and attract compliments.

DILBERT

GEMINI (May 21June 20)

CANCER (June 21July 22)

PEANUTS LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22)

CALVIN AND HOBBES

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22)

SUDOKU

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23Dec. 21)

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22Jan. 19)

LAST PUBLSIHED WORD - SUPERBLY

SOLUTION FOR LAST PUBLISHED PUZZLE AQUARIUS (Jan. 20Feb. 19)

PISCES (Feb. 20March 20)

Look for the positive in every situation you face, and you'll find a way to take care of your responsibilities and have time left to enjoy doing something that makes you happy.

You may not like change, but it's time to make adjustments that will encourage you to keep up with technology and economic trends. Don't fight the inevitable; go with the flow, and be happy with the results.

Keep moving forward.

Looking back will cause confusion and uncertainty. Focus on what you can do, and live in the moment. Refuse to let anyone compromise your health and well-being. Focus will be key.

Take a break from your schedule. The change will spark your imagination and encourage you to make lifestyle adjustments. Focus on what makes you happy and how to make your routine memorable.

Personal improvement is favored. Refuse to let anyone bully you into something you don't want to do. Call the shots and make your thoughts and needs known.

Do what's best for you.

Stick to your plans, regardless of the backlash you get from others. You are responsible for your happiness, so do whatever it takes to pursue your best interests. Romance is in the stars.

Live and learn. Take on a physical challenge that will encourage you to get involved in something you find rewarding. If you learn from your mistakes, and you will find a rewarding path.

Pay less attention to what's already happened and more attention to the best way to move forward.

Concentrate on making home improvements, lowering your overhead and saving money.

Refuse to let your emotions take the reins. Look at situations from a logical perspective to better understand them. You can't change others, but you can improve your own circumstances.

Lend a helping hand, and you will make new connections. An unusual partnership will turn out to be helpful as well as entertaining.

Love and romance are in the stars. A change of pace looms.

MONDAY, AUGUST 31, 2020

21

Lewis Hamilton wins Belgian Grand Prix to secure 89th victory of career M

ercedes driver Lewis Hamilton dominated the Belgian Grand Prix to take his fifth victory in seven races this year and the 89th of his career.

Hamilton headed team-mate Valtteri Bottas to a Mercedes one-two, from Red Bull's Max Verstappen.

The victory puts Hamilton 47 points –- almost two clear wins – ahead of Verstappen in the championship. The Briton is two victories away from Michael Schumacher's all-time record and is set to equal his seven titles. Hamilton paid tribute to actor Chadwick Boseman, star of the superhero movie “Black Panther”, who has passed away from cancer aged 43.

Total domination

It was another imperious performance from Hamilton, his fifth win in the last six races. He took pole position from Bottas by more than half a second on Saturday, held on in front on the first lap, always a challenge at Spa with the long run from the La Source hairpin up the hill to Les Combes, and never looked back.

He is turning the season into one of total domination and looks unbeatable as he seeks to make Formula 1 history. It was a staid race at the front, Hamilton too quick

Lewis Hamilton is level with British driver Jim Clark and Alfa Romeo's Kimi Raikkonen with four victories at Spa

for Bottas and the Finn with enough to hold off Verstappen, as all three measured their pace to ensure their tyres held on for a long final stint after being forced into an early pit stop because of a safety car.

That was triggered on lap 10 when Antonio Giovinazzi lost control of his Alfa Romeo at the exit of the Fagnes chicane and bounced back onto the track, a stray front wheel from his car also wiping out George Russell's Williams. It was the second Belgian Grand Prix in succession in which the Italian has crashed out on his own.

That meant a stop for all the

leaders, and as the race ticked on, Hamilton began to express his concerns about his right front tyre, his mind on the blow-out on the final lap that almost cost him victory at Silverstone last month. In the end, though, he had everything under control, as he seems to have for the season as a whole.

Behind the top three

Daniel Ricciardo drove an excellent race in the Renault to turn his fourth place on the grid into the same result, well clear of the rest of the field, headed in the end by his team-mate Esteban Ocon, who took

fifth place from Red Bull's Alexander Albon on the final lap.

Albon managed to hold off McLaren's Lando Norris, who made it a three-way battle between them in the closing laps.

Alpha Tauri's Pierre Gasly and the Racing Points of Lance Stroll and Sergio Perez completed the top 10, Gasly and Perez using off-set strategies and not stopping under the safety car, but fighting back through the field after later stops with fresher tyres. Ferrari had another miserable race day with Vettel and Leclerc unable to score points It was a dire race for Ferrari, who started 13th and 14th and finished in the same positions, with Sebastian Vettel ahead of Charles Leclerc, both cars beaten by the Ferrari-engined Alfa Romeo of Kimi Raikkonen.

Leclerc made a great start to move upon to eighth place on the first lap from 13th on the grid, but the car's lack of straight-line speed meant he dropped back down the field, cars picking him off on consecutive laps. Ferrari switched him to a two-stop strategy, which dropped him to the back, but even so he took several laps to pass Romain Grosjean's Ferrari-powered Haas in the closing stages. Ricciardo had an outstanding performance all week-

end in the Renault. The fans' vote went to Gasly, who was also excellent all afternoon

What happens next?

Another weekend, another race – in Italy at historic Monza. Hamilton is on a roll, and Ferrari could even be in worse shape there than they were at Spa.

What they said

Lewis Hamilton: "It wasn't the easiest of races. I had a lock-up into Turn 5 which started to give a bit of vibration and the tyre temps were slowly dropping. I am 35 going towards 36, but I feel better than ever.

That is a positive and I am really grateful to the team." Valtteri Bottas: "Of course, at the start it would have been a good opportunity, but Lewis played it well and I couldn't really get momentum. I think Lewis was faultless today and yesterday he was quick. It was a clean weekend for me. I'm just happy there's an opportunity again next weekend."

Max Verstappen: "It was pretty boring. Not much to do. I couldn't keep up with them when they started pushing. The last eight laps I was just backing it out and saving the tyres. It was not really enjoyable out there today. It was a bit lonely."

(BBC Sport)

NBA play-offs: Los Angeles Matt Doherty: Tottenham sign Lakers & Milwaukee Bucks defender from Wolves T through to 2nd round

T

he Los Angeles Lakers and the Milwaukee Bucks both reached the second round of the NBA play-offs after games resumed on Saturday.

The Lakers beat the Portland Trail Blazers 131-122 to win their Western Conference best-of-seven series 4-1. The Bucks also secured a 4-1 series win in the

Eastern Conference by beating the Orlando Magic 118-104 in game five.

Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Bucks will play the Miami Heat in the second round of the play-offs after the latter swept the Indiana Pacers 4-0.

The games were rescheduled after they were postponed in protest following the shooting of Jacob Blake.

An agreement to resume the playoffs came after a "candid, impassioned and productive conversation" between NBA officials, players, Coaches and

staff. LeBron James, who scored 36 points, 10 assists and 10 rebounds against Portland for his 25th career play-off triple-double and now has a perfect 14-0 record in the first round of the play-offs, said the Lakers wanted to "get better as the series went on".

"And we did. We have an opportunity to decompress just a little bit and wait for our next opponent," added James, after his side brushed past the Trail Blazers, who were badly missing injured star player Damian Lillard. The Lakers will play either the Houston Rockets or the Oklahoma City Thunder in the West's second round, while the Bucks will play fifth seeds the Miami Heat in the East.

The Rockets, led by James Harden's 31 points, thrashed the Thunder in game five of their series to lead 3-2 going into this evening's game six. (BBC Sport)

ottenham Hotspur have signed defender Matt Doherty from Premier League rivals Wolverhampton Wanderers for an undisclosed fee.

The Republic of Ireland right-back, 28, has signed a four-year deal with Spurs.

Doherty made over 300 appearances for Wolves after joining from League of Ireland side Bohemians in 2010. He becomes Spurs' third signing of the summer following the arrivals of midfielder Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg and goalkeeper Joe Hart. "I'm very proud to be joining such a big club," said Doherty. "[They have] the best stadium in the world and possibly the best training ground in the world. "Once I knew there was interest, it was a no-brainer for me.

"My time at Wolves was fantastic – I haven't got a bad word to say about the whole club at all. I just feel like coming here is going to take my game and my career to the next level."

Doherty played in every

Matt Doherty's final game for Wolves was against Sevilla in the Europa League quarter-finals

Premier League game of Wolves' 2018-19 campaign and helped Nuno Espirito Santo's side to back-toback seventh-place finishes since promotion from the Championship. They made the quarter-finals of last season's Europa League, but missed out on European football for 2020-21. Spurs finished sixth in the top flight last term – ahead of Wolves on goal difference – and reached the last 16 of the Champions League.

Doherty's move is also a

welcome financial boost to Bohemians, who had put a 10 per cent sell-on clause into the deal that took him to Wolves. On Thursday, the Dublin club missed out on a cash bonus after they lost on penalties to Hungarian side Fehervar in the Europa League.

Bohemians' Chief Operating Officer, Daniel Lambert, posted on social media on Sunday describing the news of Doherty's transfer as "fairly seismic".

(BBC Sport)

22

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

MONDAY, AUGUST 31, 2020

Zouks shellshock Tridents to make history

Roston Chase is bowled all ends up

The St Lucia Zouks smashed the record for the lowest total ever defended in the Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL), as Kesrick Williams and the spinners strangled an anxious Barbados Tridents batting line-up to leave Jason Holder’s men reeling.

The Tridents, and in particular Hayden Walsh, were outstanding with the ball to skittle the Zouks, but manage to lose despite not even being bowled out.

Joshua Bishop came in for his second senior T20 game, replacing the injured Mitchell Santner, and just as he had in his first match, last year against the same opposition, he dismissed Rakheem Cornwall in the first over. Andre Fletcher’s innings was dramatic but

eight balls the Zouks were 12-2.

Bishop bowled an impressive second over, beating both Leniko Boucher and Roston Chase and having Chase dropped at point.

Holder showed faith in Walsh after his mauling at the hands of Kieron Pollard Saturday, and Walsh should have dismissed Boucher, but Shai Hope missed a simple stumping.

Rashid Khan was as accurate as ever, and the Zouks reached the Powerplay at 35-2.

Boucher was frenetic before Walsh bowled him with a quicker ball. Chase was able to free his arms and sweep Ashley Nurse for four, but Walsh was visibly growing in confidence and beat Chase in the flight

nings, and the Afghan pair went boundary-less. The Zouks reached halfway at 58-4.

Nabi, for once, failed, skying a flighted Walsh googly to the captain at long-off, and with him gone Rashid returned and troubled both Najibullah Zadran and Captain Daren Sammy. Bishop’s return over was also accurate, and a frantic Sammy ran himself out to leave his team 65-6 in the 13th. Javelle Glen though started in style with a gigantic Hero Maximum that landed on the roof.

Najibullah late-cut Rashid with just enough pace to find the boundary, but the rest of the over went scoreless. Nurse got a third over with two left-handers at the crease and picked up Glen, albeit it was a full toss whipped straight to Walsh at deep mid-wicket.

Holder went to his seamers Nyeem Young and Raymon Reifer, and a restless Najibullah fell to the latter thanks to a good low catch by Bishop at deep square leg. Reifer got a second thanks to Walsh expertly judging a mistimed Scott Kuggeleijn pull to juggle and hold near the rope.

Rashid was, predictably, too good for the tail and finished his spell with the wicket of his countryman Zahir Khan. Young with a tight over of 0-3 was the only one of the Tridents bowlers not to take a wicket, and they hadn’t even needed all 20 overs.

Hope and Johnson Charles started cautiously.

The first aerial shot didn’t come until the fourth over, Charles almost holing out

Williams, but the Tridents reached the Powerplay at a steady 34-1.

That became 37-2 when Zahir bowled Kyle Mayers with a beauty that turned from middle to take offstump, the number three again struggling against wrist-spin. Williams and Zahir snuck through a few tight overs, and even Charles’s third boundary w a s a controlled leg glance.

Williams wasn’t giving up, beating

Hayden Walsh had good returns

brief – he smashed Holder for six first ball, but the Tridents Captain trapped him lbw second – and after

with a slower googly to bowl him. Nurse continued, Rashid again held back for the second part of the in-

to mid-on, but a smattering of fours saw the Tridents score at a run a ball. Hope fell lbw to a good ball from

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SCOREBOARD Zouks Innings RRS Cornwall c Walsh b Bishop 6 ADS Fletcher † lbw b Holder 6 LS Boucher b Walsh 18 RL Chase b Walsh 14 Najibullah Zadran c Bishop b Reifer 22 Mohammad Nabi c Charles b Walsh 2 DJG Sammy (c) run out (Mayers/†Hope) 2 J Glen c Walsh b Nurse 8 SC Kuggeleijn c Walsh b Reifer 7 KOK Williams not out 1 Zahir Khan b Rashid Khan 2 Extras (lb 1, w 3) 4

BARBADOS TRIDENTS INNINGS (TARGET: 93 RUNS FROM 20 OVERS) J Charles c Williams b Glen SD Hope † lbw b Williams KR Mayers b Zahir Khan JO Holder (c) lbw b Williams CJ Anderson b Mohammad Nabi AR Nurse c Najibullah Zadran b Chase Rashid Khan c Mohammad Nabi b Glen RA Reifer not out NRJ Young not out Extras (b 1, lb 2, w 1)

TOTAL (18 Ov, RR: 5.11)

TOTAL (20 Ov, RR: 4.45) 89/7 Did not bat: HR Walsh, J Bishop

92

Fall of wickets: 1-6 (Rahkeem Cornwall, 0.4 ov), 2-12 (Andre Fletcher, 1.2 ov), 3-42 (Leniko Boucher, 6.5 ov), 4-50 (Roston Chase, 8.2 ov), 5-58 (Mohammad Nabi, 10.2 ov), 6-65 (Daren Sammy, 12.4 ov), 7-77 (Javelle Glen, 14.2 ov), 8-86 (Najibullah Zadran, 16.4 ov), 9-88 (Scott Kuggeleijn, 16.6 ov), 10-92 (Zahir Khan, 17.6 ov)

Daren Sammy and his Zouks continued their dream season

Holder’s waft to pick up a second lbw, but at the drinks break the Tridents were 48-3 and needed barely over four an over.

The Tridents though continued to bat nervously – Chase and Glen, the latter bowling for the first time in senior T20 cricket, were tidy, and the leg-spinning Glen got his first wicket when Charles sliced to long-on where Williams took a good catch.

The Tridents suddenly found themselves 67-4 off 14, and Zahir, Nabi and Chase bowled tidily against a nervy Nurse and Corey Anderson. When Nabi beat Anderson in the flight and bowled him, the Tridents found themselves suddenly five down and needing over a run a ball. Sammy gave Glen the nod for the 19th, and Rashid fell clubbing the leg-spinner to Nabi, leaving Chase nine to defend off the last over.

Nurse fell to a good catch from Najibullah, but most importantly, Chase started with three dot balls.

Reifer missed a full toss and only managed three off two balls, leaving Young needing to hit his first-ever ball in Hero CPL over the ropes to seal a win that seemed a formality at almost every stage. He couldn’t do it, and while the Zouks bowlers deserve huge credit, for the second day in a row the Tridents found themselves wondering how on earth they had lost. (CPL T20)

CLASSIFIED ADS

BOWLING J Bishop JO Holder HR Walsh Rashid Khan AR Nurse NRJ Young RA Reifer

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39 14 2 1

223-7230-1 (Ext 55)

NOW!

11 12 2 2 2 4

Fall of wickets: 1-32 (Shai Hope, 5.2 ov), 2-37 (Kyle Mayers, 6.5 ov), 3-48 (Jason Holder, 9.1 ov), 4-63 (Johnson Charles, 13.1 ov), 5-78 (Corey Anderson, 17.2 ov), 6-83 (Rashid Khan, 18.5 ov), 7-84 (Ashley Nurse, 19.2 ov) BOWLING Mohammad Nabi SC Kuggeleijn Zahir Khan KOK Williams RL Chase J Glen

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223-7230-1 (Ext 55)

MONDAY, AUGUST 31, 2020

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

23

Powerful Pooran hits century as Warriors brush Patriots

By Brandon Corlette

N

icholas Pooran took matters into his own hands, sealing the match with three sixes, scoring a scorching unbeaten 100 to lead the Guyana Amazon Warriors (GAW) to a seven-wicket win against the St Kitts and Nevis Patriots in Match 20 of the 2020 Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL).

Chasing Patriots' 151, Pooran combined with anchorman Ross Taylor to score the first century partnership this season by any team as Warriors registered their third win of the sea-

Rising star Joshua Da Silva and veteran keeper Denesh Ramdin joined forces and played with grit and determination. Sinclair, who bowled all four overs on the trot, ended with figures of 1-9 in his four overs, including 17 dots, the second most economical in the tournament, after Imran Khan's 1-7. Da Silva began to open his arms, especially against the impressive Nedd, his former West Indies Emerging Player team mate. Ramdin, on the other end, played the supportive role.

Da Silva reached his maiden half-century in T20 cricket after playing some

yorker.

T h e right-handed batsman faced 46 balls for his gritty 59, which was decorated with five fours and two sixes, ending a 68-run partnership with Ramdin.

Wicket-keeper Ramdin, who played a watchful innings throughout, began to power the Patriots in the latter part. After Sohail Tanvir was run out, Ramdin hit some boundaries as Patriots ended on 150-5 in 20 overs.

Green had 2-31 in his four overs while Sinclair and Shepherd had one wicket each.

Kevin Sinclair doing his trademark celebration

Nicholas Pooran scores his maiden century

Pooran, Taylor in elusive century stand In a chase which meant Warriors would have to score their highest team score this season, a new-look open-

Romario Shepherd removes Da Silva

Joshua Da Silva en route to his maiden fifty

son ending on 153-3 in 17.3 overs.

The coming of rising stars In a do-or-die situation for both teams, Captain Chris Green won the toss and asked the Patriots to bat first on the slow Queen’s Park Oval pitch. Warriors left out Sherfane Rutherford and Chandrapaul Hemraj and welcomed emerging duo Kevin Sinclair and Ashmead Nedd.

Green took the ball into his own hands and removed Kieran Powell on the sixth delivery of the first over at 7-1. Sinclair on debut displayed great maturity and control with his off-spin and he got into the act quickly, displaying his back-flip celebration soon enough.

As Evin Lewis began to branch out and take it to Green with boundaries, Sinclair, bowling at the other end, cleaned up the danger man for 15 as Patriots were reduced to 22-2. Ben Dunk came and went for a 23-ball 19; he became Green's second victim at 51-3.

Denesh Ramdin played a supporting role

sweetly-timed shots. Imran Tahir, who is the leading wicket-taker for the Warriors this season, was struck to the fence by Da Silva. It was not until the 18th over, Da Silva was undone by a Romario Shepherd

ing pair took centre stage in the form of Sinclair and Brandon King. Patriots hit the contain button, and scoring easily seemed uphill for King and Sinclair. The leggie Khan bowled a maiden to Sinclair and that pressure

paid off in the next over, as King departed for a run-aball 14 at 20-1 in 4.2 overs, when he was struck up by an Alzarri Joseph bouncer.

Sinclair hit one back to Jon Russ Jaggesar and ended his 13-ball knock of five.

In the same over, the inconsistent Shimron Hetmyer was caught behind for one as Warriors were in trouble at 25-3 in 5.4 overs. The talented Nicholas Pooran and Ross Taylor came to wicket and battled some good Patriots bowling.

Pooran, after the drinks interval, stepped on the gas and demolished the impressive Jaggesar, hitting sixes to get Warriors on track.

Pooran reached his fifty in 25 balls while anchorman Taylor supported well on the other end.

Pooran blasted away, tearing apart Ish Sodhi to reach his maiden T20 century slamming three sixes in as many balls to seal the match for the Warriors.

Pooran’s innings was laced with 10 sixes and four boundaries in 45 balls.

Taylor ended on 25 from 27

balls, playing the best supporting role. Warriors will play Barbados Tridents on

Tuesday, September 1 at 17:30h at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy.

SCOREBOARD PATRIOTS INNINGS E Lewis b Sinclair KOA Powell b Green J Da Silva b Shepherd BR Dunk b Green D Ramdin † not out Sohail Tanvir run out (Paul) AS Joseph not out Extras (b 1, lb 7, w 6)

15 2 59 19 37 1 3 14

TOTAL (20 Ov, RR: 7.5) 150/5 Yet to bat: RR Emrit (c), IS Sodhi, I Khan, JL Jaggesar Fall of wickets: 1-7 (Kieran Powell, 0.6 ov), 2-22 (Evin Lewis, 3.2 ov), 3-51 (Ben Dunk, 9.4 ov), 4-119 (Joshua Da Silva, 17.2 ov), 5-133 (Sohail Tanvir, 18.3 ov) BOWLING CJ Green K Sinclair Imran Tahir AR Nedd KMA Paul Naveen-ul-Haq R Shepherd

4-0-31-2 4-0-9-1 4-0-21-0 3-0-26-0 2-0-28-0 1-0-14-0 2-0-13-1

WARRIORS INNINGS BA King c †Ramdin b Joseph 14 K Sinclair c & b Jaggesar 5 SO Hetmyer c †Ramdin b Jaggesar 1 N Pooran † not out 100 LRPL Taylor not out 25 Extras (b 2, lb 3, w 3) 8 TOTAL (17.3 Ov, RR: 8.74) 153/3 Did not bat: KMA Paul, CJ Green (c), R Shepherd, Naveen-ulHaq, Imran Tahir, AR Nedd Fall of wickets: 1-20 (Brandon King, 4.2 ov), 2-24 (Kevin Sinclair, 5.2 ov), 3-25 (Shimron Hetmyer, 5.4 ov) BOWLING Sohail Tanvir AS Joseph I Khan JL Jaggesar RR Emrit IS Sodhi

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MONDAY, AUGUST 31, 2020

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Powerful Pooran hits century as Warriors brush Patriots Pg 22

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