Guyana Times Monday March 9, 2020

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

Issue No. 4220

THE BEACON OF TRUTH MONDAY, MARCH 9, 2020

Chief Justice denies GECOM’s bid to prevent ‘elections challenge’ …says court has jurisdiction to decide if RO's Region 4 declaration valid See story on page 3 …notes that court cannot shirk its duties

GECOM awaits court decision before taking next step – Singh to Jagdeo

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WHAT'S INSIDE:

P13 Business plummets due to political climate – PSC says situation is worrying

P11 Berbice motorcyclist killed in suspected hit and run

Pages 7 & 14

…as Timothy Jonas questions security of unverified SoPs

Family slams Police for slothful investigation into motorcyclist’s P8 death …file to be sent to DPP for advice – Commander Simon

As Guyana observes Holi today, the burning of the Holika was done last evening at various mandirs across the country which symbolises the triumph of good over evil. In this photo, the Holika is being burnt at the Cornelia Ida Mandir on the West Coast of Demerara

Hindus call APC Thomas was off Holi acting in accordance celebrations with the law – Attorney Page 12

Page 15

...in protest over …only RO can order removal Granger's “power grab" of persons from building

Prison escapee still at large – Prisons Director

P8

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MONDAY, MARCH 9, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

NEWS

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MONDAY, MARCH 9, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

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

Monday, March 9 – 05:00h – 06:30h and, Tuesday, March 10 – 05:00h – 06:30h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Monday, March 9 – 16:10h – 17:40h and Tuesday, March 10 – 16:45h – 18:15h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

Chief Justice denies GECOM’s bid to prevent ‘elections challenge’ …says court has jurisdiction to decide if RO's Region 4 declaration valid …notes that court cannot shirk its duties

T

he Guyana Elections C o m m i s s i o n (GECOM) on Sunday lost its bid to prevent Chief Justice (ag) Roxane George from hearing an application which states that the

The Chief Justice, in prefacing her ruling, recounted arguments made by GECOM through Attorneyat-Law Neil Boston, SC, on behalf of the Elections Commission and Senior

WEATHER TODAY 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: East North-Easterly to North-Easterly between 1.78 metres and 4.47 metres.

High Tide: 16:45h reaching a maximum height of 2.89 metres.

Low Tide: 10:18h and 22:42h reaching minimum heights of 0.41 metre and 0.32 metre.

Senior Counsel Douglas Mendes and Attorney Anil Nandlall on Sunday

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Prima facie

Having found that there was prima facie evidence to support the court having jurisdiction to hear the matter, she ruled in favour of the application and held that the injunctions against GECOM be maintained as absolute, until a final determination of the matter.

Attorneys for GECOM have since been given until Tuesday morning to file an affidavit in response, after which the litigation will continue.

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Returning Officer (RO) for Region Four (DemeraraMahaica) violated the statutes when he declared results for that district in violation of the process prescribed under Section 84 of the Representation of the People Act. The Chief Justice gave her ruling at about 14:30h amidst a packed courtroom including representatives of political parties, local and international observers and several members of the legal fraternity among others.

The Chief Justice was adamant that cognisant of certain restrictions, there is a precedent where the court’s supervisory jurisdiction can be invoked to ensure the smooth operation of elections proceedings or process and “a court cannot shirk its duty in this regard.”

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Counsel, Douglas Mendes.

Attorneys Anil Nandlall and Norman Robin Hunte also appeared on behalf of— Holladar—the applicant, while attorney Roysdale Forde, an APNU/AFC candidate, while not formally entered for the proceedings, appeared alongside Boston.

Prior to her ruling, the Chief Justice firstly admonished litigants to respect the ruling of the court since at the end of the day one of the parties would not be in agreement.

Boston in his arguments on Saturday had contended that the application should have had to wait until the completion the entire process and await the declaration of the overall final results before making a challenge by way of an elections petition.

He contended that the law did not provide for a "two-stage attack" against the elections process.

Attorneys for the application have, however, argued that the matter of an election petition was not relevant since that speaks to a challenge of the election result when what is being called for in the application is that the RO complies with the process as set out in the law.

The Chief Justice. in handing down her ruling, said that some of the orders being sought by the application would be better dealt with through an election petition but that the court has jurisdiction to determine whether the Returning Officer (RO) had complied with Section 84 of the Representation of People Act. In handing down her rul-

Chief Justice George

(ag)

Roxane

Elections Officer.

That case had dealt with the compliance of the very Article under contention— compliance with Section 84 of the Representation of People Act. Chief Justice Bernard had at that time found that the validity of the results can only be challenged by way of the elections petition and Justice George noted that in that case, the applicant’s claim did not speak to the validity of the election but rather the process.

She said that “The situation is no different,” and the case clearly contemplated judicial review during the process.

Chief Justice George further noted that there were several case law precedents where the supervisory jurisdiction of the court can be invoked prior to the declaration of the results.

Blatant violation

GECOM’s Boston

Attorney,

Neil

ing, the Chief Justice relied heavily on a previous ruling by the then Chief Justice Desiree Bernard in the case of Joseph Hamilton vs Chief

Senior Counsel Mendes, prior to the adjournment of the matter, raised a concern over the absence of the Chief Elections Officer (CEO), Keith Lowenfield—named as a respondent in the case.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 8

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guyanatimesgy.com

MONDAY, MARCH 9, 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

The context of Phagwah

T

oday is the commemoration of the Hindu festival of Phagwah, or Holi. It is a festival that has taken hold in Guyana and spread beyond the Hindu community to a point where most Guyanese participate in its celebration in one way or another. The dousing of water and smearing of red powder by roving bands of young people in urban areas, not noted for Hindu residents, has become an annual feature that is much anticipated.

However, along the way from its origins in India, there has been a gradual attenuation of the understanding of the rationale for the festival by both the descendants of the original immigrants and, not surprisingly, also in the wider Guyana populace. It has now become the excuse for a Guyanese “sport”. But this is quite unfortunate, since Hindu Festivals especially are each supposed to not only remind the participants of a historical event that might be associated with that festival, but through them to impart values that are relevant to a more harmonious functioning of society.

With Phagwah, as with almost all Hindu festivals, it is all about the “triumph of good over evil”, but that term has become such a cliché that one Minister of Education actually mixed up Phagwah with the festival of Diwali.

While the maxim might be platitudinous, it does remind us that there is an existential struggle between two forces, symbolised by light and darkness; good and bad; right and wrong. While some may use the word “evil” as above, in Hindu axiology, unlike in Christianity, there is no “evil” or “bad” outside of the individual.

In the struggle between good and evil then, one cannot get away with the statement, “The Devil made me do it”.

We are all responsible for our actions, and as a corollary, if “bad” is being done in our family, village or society, then one has a duty to confront it. The festival of Holi, like all the Hindu festivals, is associated with several narratives that are not only supposed to bring home the message, but to exemplify how we should act in our individual capacity.

The most popular Holi narrative is about the King Hiranyakashipu and his son, Prahalad. In summary, the king was a tyrant, and ran roughshod over his subjects with increasing fervour. Finally, he demanded that he be worshipped as the supreme power. While everyone grumbled and sulked, they went along with his megalomania – excepting for his son Prahalad. He opposed the king’s arrogance, and finally the latter was destroyed by a greater power, who had been supplicated by the son at great risk to his life and limb.

Unlike some other narratives, the story behind Holi does not need any gloss, it is as clear as the instruction in our laws about what the Returning Officer has to do when he receives the SOPs from his region: tabulate them in front of the designated stakeholders. If there is a ruler, the story advises us, who is exceeding their designated powers to the people’s detriment and the rule of law, it is the duty of everyone, even those who may be related to him by blood, to oppose him.

In Guyana, we are witnessing a naked grab for power by the incumbent APNU/AFC government through their influence over the putatively autonomous GECOM. As mentioned above, the Representation of the Peoples Act, Sec 84 lucidly spells out the process for determining the overall distribution of votes in the regions. The procedure was used in nine regions with no dispute; but, in Reg 4, the RO has refused to conduct the count in a transparent manner in front of the assembled stakeholders. Yet, the RO announced a tabulation that was accepted by the GECOM CEO. It is clear that Granger intends to rig himself back into power. In such a scenario, the message of Holi reminds us that we have a duty to resist the move. There can be no celebration unless the move is blocked and the rule of law restored.

People dressed as Smurfs attend a world record gathering of Smurfs in Landerneau, western France (AFP photo)

Political leaders must elevate national interest above that of their party Dear Editor, The descent into sporadic but geographically widespread violence following last Monday’s General and Regional Elections is a most regrettable and dangerous development in this country.

Our political leaders must elevate the national interest above that of their party. This requires empathy, understanding and courage in order to protect our country’s hard won but still developing democracy.

Those participating in such violence, no matter the cause of their actions or the depth of their emotions, must realise that violence begets violence. Our society and communities are too integrated for such violence not to have catastrophic consequences for themselves and the country.

It is widely acknowledged that the voting pro-

cess across the country, including in Region 4, was efficiently executed, fair and near flawless. In all but Region 4, the accounting, recording, tabulation and transmission of the results were timely and proper. It is hard to understand why the Region, which includes our capital city, the National Assembly, and the headquarters of the Elections Commission, could be the subject of such confusion.

I have spoken individually with a number of colleagues from the legal, accounting and business communities who took an active part in the incomplete verification process.

Arising from those conversations, I strongly believe that the PPP/C won a clear majority in these elections.

It should not be difficult to establish whether this is so or not by following the stat-

utory process. That should be done without delay, and ought not to have brought the Courts into the matter.

Whoever emerges as the winner from this election will only enjoy credibility and confidence if so verified and determined according to the Constitution and other laws of the country.

To the winner, the result should signal the sharpness of our division and the need to act decisively to ameliorate this. To the loser, they simply cannot ignore the reality of the results or get a makeover.

For Guyana to change Governments twice in five years should be welcome as democracy in operation and confirmation that democracy is taking root in Guyana.

It did in 2015, and if protected, will do so again in 2025.

In my view, both President Granger and

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo could and should have acted more responsibly following the elections.

Had they done so, the escalating problems could have been avoided. But it is not too late, and they must show statesmanship, maturity and leadership to avoid further loss of life, limb and property. They both must control their supporters, not encourage and mislead them.

As important in this process is the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM). The Constitution imposes on GECOM a power and a duty to exercise general direction and supervision over the conduct of elections, and to issue such instructions and take such action as necessary to ensure impartiality, fairness, and compliance with the provisions of the Constitution.

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Oh! My Guyana! Please, let us save Guyana Dear Editor, Since the 1950s, Guyana has suffered from racial insecurities. By the time of independence, the two major races had gathered around their own political party.

After 54 years of independence and 50 years of the republic, here we are today using violence against each other, racial slurs and threats.

Oh, People of Guyana, we need to stop this madness. Oh, leaders of the people in Guyana, it’s time for you to demonstrate your worth as leaders.

I, as many Guyanese, strongly condemn the violence, intimidation, racial slurs and threats by supporters of the two major political parties. It is wrong and hateful for school children, villagers and the security forces to be attacked.

I call on the leaders of APNU/AFC and PPP/C to go to the locations and stop them immediately when they occur. I call on church leaders and other local leaders to advocate for peace and calm in our villages and towns.

I call on the political

leaders that whoever wins this election to reach out to the other urgently to reform the bi-partisan GECOM and make the necessary constitutional reform that both the PPP/C and APNU/ AFC promised but never fulfilled.

Guyana needs to move with urgency from “winner take all” in the elections. At this time, we need a negotiated national Government to save this country.

I call on all Guyanese to work assiduously to save Guyana.

I call on civil society

and religious bodies that regardless of your political preferences to take our Constitution and our GECOM system into our hands and really make them work for all of us and the people of Guyana. Why not? We own both.

After 50+ years as a nation, we need to grow up.

Let’s take wise and meaningful action.

Sincerely, Wazir Baksh Social worker and religious leader

guyanatimesgy.com

MONDAY, MARCH 9, 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

Imbroglio surrounding 2020 elections is starkly revealing Dear Editor, It is revealing the naked grab for power by the APNU/ AFC based on the promise of black gold, gushing forth from the Atlantic. It is also revealing the weaknesses of the WPA in its role as an insignificant political entity in the Government.

The WPA is politically weak, since it has failed to garner significant electoral support since the return to “free and fair elections” in 1992. “Free and fair elections” in the Guyana context meant a return to racial voting blocks, a historical legacy and reality mirroring the social development of Guyana with the entry of black slaves and Indian indentured servants. There is no escaping that history, and despite being products of it, we should not remain prisoners of it. The anomaly is that the Indigenous Indian population is discarded in the process, being relevant only at elections, to facilitate

the rule of Indians or Blacks, against their self-interest, or for marginal gains, if any.

In order to survive in a polarised multi-racial environment that leaves very little room for survival, the WPA has had to align itself with the PPP or the PNC, arguing that its choice was dependent upon the best interest of the nation. In effect, it was claiming to be the conscience of the nation, a very troubled conscience, with elements of paranoia and schizophrenia at critical junctures, especially at election times.

There is no doubt whatsoever that the oil dollars would play a significant role in the 2020 elections, with its promise of untold wealth flowing into the pockets of those who would hold governmental power, presiding over the stewardship of billions of dollars.

Similar to the promise of independence, that of the creation of a new class of rul-

ers, the immense fortune of oil dollars makes real the actual creation of a new class or breed of persons in control of the fabled El Dorado made real. The genie that would come out of the Alladin lamp would serve its master extremely well, fully armed to enforce its master’s commands. Guyana’s historical development would ensure that.

One bizarre reality of the oil dollars is that it would minimise the dependency to maintain a productive economy in terms of labour, giving the Government a free hand in terms of the need to provide employment for a large section of the labour force.

In the face of racial discrimination, there would be a tendency for migration for the disempowered sector, more so if discrimination is blatant. Like the Trump Administration in the USA, it would become official policy with the solid

Political leaders must...

In a highly partisan and evenly divided GECOM, Chairperson Justice Claudette Singh must conduct herself with courage and wisdom, not only to protect and comply with the Constitution, but also the interest and future of this country. She, probably more than the major political parties, must recognise the danger of a return to communal strife, the prospects of sanctions by the interna-

tional community, and the squandering of the windfall from petroleum revenues. She is wise enough to know that the premature announcement of the results of the elections can lead to Guyana being isolated and ostracized by the international community, even as it faces an existential threat from neighbouring Venezuela.

Justice Singh must ensure that the remainder of

FROM PAGE 4

the declaration of results leading to the swearing in of the President is strictly complied with. This is without doubt the most important judicious decision she would have ever had to make. The future of our Republic will be determined

by Justice Singh’s decision to honour and comply with the process.

Sincerely, Christopher Ram

support of one political/racial group against the other. In Guyana, it would not have the shroud of ideology and class, but would be outright racial.

Guyana has to face its historical legacy. There is oil dollars enough for all.

Spilling blood over oil is not a good choice. We will run out of blood, long before we run out of oil. We have spilt blood at critical times, and it has left a bitter legacy. It

still runs in our blood.

As Eusi Kwayana has said, “This confounded nonsense must stop.”

The WPA must not allow itself to become a prisoner of history, but must continue to lead the way forward. It must ensure that the integrity of the electoral process is not compromised. It must come out with a statement that ensures that the independence of the Elections Commission is not compro-

mised. It must do so in the midst of swirling rumours that there are attempts to swear in a President without the certification of the Elections Commission that the votes have been counted and the results are representative of the will of the people.

Dear Editor, No Government installed based on an electoral result that includes the unverified district 4 tabulations will be recognised as legitimate.

Even to the dense, this much must be clear. There will be ever-increasing sanctions, both personal and national from the major players in the affairs of nations, the US, the UK, and the EU. Two questions arise, who would be willing to endure such sanctions and why?

The Executive is more than the President; David Granger seems willing to face whatever comes his way in his quest to retain the crown, do the others who will be asked to serve with him fully understand the calamity he is bringing down on their heads?

Do those now clearly identified as complicit within the GECOM machinery think they are safe from sanction? Personal sanctions once applied, leave a stain that is never lifted, much

like a criminal conviction, it haunts well past redemption.

One can live with travel bans and without a bank account but a life without respect from your peers, your countrymen and any new acquaintance is debilitating to the soul. No one will do business with Guyana or in Guyana for fear of being caught in the sanctions net; businessmen do not flock to sanctioned shores.

Which brings us to the why; why would anyone willingly become an international pariah? I do not buy the ‘oil’ theories, I know the first oil monies were not deposited in the New York Federal Reserve and that may have been a move in anticipation of sanctions as the USA is well known for freezing assets, but how would Guyana receive future oil revenues?

Talk by APNU/AFC loyalists of nationalising the oil fields and hiring Chinese companies to manage them is utter nonsense and better

suited to the rum shops from whence they emanated.

Which brings me to the subject of Messrs Ramjattan and Nagamootoo, both of whom have strong familial ties to the United States.

Have they considered the consequence to those family members and their financial well being? I am a great admirer of President Trump and one of the reasons is that he is not known for half-measures.

Editor, it would seem some persons have decided it has to be Granger APNU/ AFC or bust, my caution to them is to explore fully what ‘bust’ entails, for the actions that are taken now have consequences for the rest of their life. At this point, national sanctions or embargoes are too much for me to contemplate as I believe the situation is still salvageable should persons involved find reason.

Yours truly, Rohit Kanhai A member of the Overseas WPA group

Personal consequences

Respectfully, Robin Singh

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MONDAY, MARCH 9, 2020

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Foundation 1

By Ashleigh Blatt, podcaster, writer, curator, relentless mama bear

Y

ou rock!

Don’t believe me? Well, I believe in you— and I know you kick butt!

It can be tough to get all in touch with your inner Beyoncé (or T-Swizz or whatever celeb-with-confidence floats your boat).

We’ve all heard girls “should be” humble. Women “should be” softer, quieter, less confident, less bold. Then as moms, wives and girlfriends, we’re often trying to put others’ needs before our own, juggle stuff (as we aim for rhythm, not that awful word “balance”), and do it ALL. It’s easy to forget how much we rock.

Plus, when you think about walkin’ around as a strong, confident woman, you may worry you’ll come off as a witch with a capitol “B” or like a cold, tough Devil Wears Prada type. (You won’t.)

So, stop worrying – it’s time to put on your big girl panties (or your cutest non-nude bra) and go for it! Strong and confident are rooted in a positive attitude and a growth mindset.

Embracing your confidence will only make you more dynamic, more fun to be around, and MORE butt-kicking than ever.

Confidence breeds more confidence, just like positivity breeds positivity. It can be tough to make that switch, especially if you’ve been feeling stressed, overwhelmed, etc, etc, etc.! But hey, adopt a fake-it-‘til-you-make-it attitude and girl, try on some swagger. Wear that outfit you feel awesome in (even if it’s just to run errands). When you look good, you feel good.

Your confidence and positivity are infectious. You’ll draw others in to you. You don’t have to be faux-positive (no one wants that) – it’s just that little shift in focus to find your silver lining and realise the learning opportunity in every struggle.

Tell yourself you’re great, awesome, amazing…. because YOU ARE!

How to be a strong, confident young woman:

1. Realise you have one less rib and you’re still doing better than your counterpart

Women are pretty amazing. We’re creators. By our very nature, we’re creators and nurturers – and thus, we’re creative. We give life (to ideas, to children, to our homes). That.

Is. Amazing.

Women can do it ALL. No offence to the guys out there, but ladies are amazingly versatile. One minute you’re wiping a nose, tying a shoe, cooking dinner, and letting the dog out (all simultaneously); the next you’re running a business, making decisions, and planning budgets. Guys are single-task focused and women are natural multitaskers (because let’s face it, we have to be).

There’s a lot of pressure on men to be MEN. I’d much rather be told to woman up than to have to man up. Women don’t have to “be women,” they just are.

You know what I’m talking about.

When you make a mistake, when you have baggage, you have to sort through and deal with—so girl, own it! Take accountability. So often we try to make excuses when things go wrong. We shift blame and we think it’s unfair. Well, life can be very unfair. But it’s also what you make of it, so own up to your stuff. Own your garbage and your junk. Only you can change things for yourself.

those around you, it’s an emotional roller coaster. If someone’s a jerk to you, does that make you feel bad? Even if it’s not your fault at all? Of course, you should care about other people’s feelings, but you also can’t take them on. Your friends should match your values. Everyone goes through a hard time, but avoid the constant downers. If someone’s upset, listen, care, apologise (if you contributed), but don’t let someone’s bad mood or the turn out of the universe impact how YOU feel about YOU. Sports psychologists use positive visualisation to help athletes at all levels. It might sound hokey, but it’s proven to work well – like OLYMPIAN-level well. Believing you can do something psyches you up and gets you ready to do it. On the flip side, telling yourself you can’t do something or focusing on the negative aspects of it does the same thing, but in the reverse. Literally, if you say, “This is too hard. I can’t handle this”— it WILL be and you won’t be able to. So cut the negative self-talk. You’ve got this! You deserve this!

Okay, here we are talking about how YOU can do the things—but now I’m telling you to ask for help!? What gives? Here’s the deal: asking for help is actually a sign of confidence, not weakness. Confidence comes from knowing yourself, your abilities, and your challenges. Asking for help is actually a sign that you know how to reason and use good thinking. Asking for help when you need it is a sign of selflove and bravery! (Adapted from thriveglobal.com, originally published at ashleighblatt.com)

Diversify what makes you happy

There are only a certain number of skills one lady can learn. If your confidence is based only on the things you do well, then you’ll only feel good about yourself when you’re doing that activity. For example, workaholics: they may love their work, but maybe they only feel best about themselves when they work. So, they continue to work to continue to feel good about themselves. Find MANY ways to gain satisfaction through work, your family, your hobbies, your LIFE. Remember, you don’t have to be the best at everything to enjoy it!

When your goals and your good mood are dependent on

I

n If I Built a Car, Jack uses his imagination to create a car that is out of this world, because he thinks his own red, wood-paneled station wagon is just okay and ordinary.

What about your car? Write an observation about your car or a car you have ridden in recently.

When you write an observation, you use your senses to describe it.

Try to make the person reading your observation feel like they are in the car with you by including how your car smells, looks, sounds and feels as it travels down the road. (startwithabook.org)

NEWS

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MONDAY, MARCH 9, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

GECOM awaits court decision before taking next step – Singh to Jagdeo

C

hairperson of the Guyana Elections C o m m i s s i o n (GECOM) retired Justice Claudette Singh has written to the Leader of the political Opposition, Bharrat Jagdeo, to inform him that the electoral body will not be taking any further steps with regards the announcement of the 2020 General and Regional Elections, until the determination of the ongoing court hearing.

The position was communicated by way of a letter to the Opposition Leader, following a correspondence

by Jagdeo, outlining formally, concerns over the declarations of the Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica) electoral results.

Jagdeo, in a letter to the Chairperson on Saturday, noted that under the guidelines in Section 83 of the Representation of the People Act, the ballots had been counted and Statements of Poll (SOPs) generated, each of which was carbon copied

Opposition Jagdeo

Leader

Bharrat

to political parties.

He was adamant that based on those SOPs, the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) had won the elections by a margin of more than 15,000 votes.

According to Jagdeo, in relation to district/Region Four, the verification process catered for under Section 84 (1) of the statute, did not run smoothly and was interrupted inter-

mittently for various reasons including illness, exhaustion or unavailability of elections officials.

He noted too that on one occasion, the process had been stopped by the need to locate about 20 SOPs, in relation to votes which had been recorded on a spreadsheet by the Chief Elections Officer (CEO), Clairmont Mingo, for Region Four.

According to Jagdeo, “those votes purported to represent the votes recorded in the corresponding Statement of Polls but they were far different from the carbon copies of Statement of Polls which the counting agents had in their possession.”

Formally lodging his complaint with the election’s authority, the PPP’s General Secretary and Opposition Leader noted that by this time only 421 of the 879 ballot boxes had been verified using the stipulated process provided for in the Representation of the

People Act. According to Jagdeo, the RO—Mingo—subsequently announced that he had a declaration despite the fact that the verification process in accordance with the laws had not been resumed and this led to an uproar at the RO’s Office at the Ashmins building.

Jagdeo in his missive called on the Chairperson to resume the verification process in accordance with the provisions of the law, voluntarily and without prejudice to the pending proceedings.

Justice (retd) Singh responded by saying, howev-

Retired Singh

Justice

Claudette

er, that the matter in light of the court proceedings is ‘sub judice’ and that the

Commission will have to await the outcome of the litigation before taking its next step.

Jagdeo had charged too that a request for a recount has been submitted to the RO and that should the Commission not find favour with resuming the verification process then it should proceed with an immediate recount, without prejudice to the pending court case.

The Opposition Leader also demanded of the GECOM Chair that Mingo and the Commission preserve the original SOPs for Region Four.

8 NEWS

MONDAY, MARCH 9, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Family slams Police for slothful investigation into motorcyclist’s death …file to be sent to DPP for advice – Commander Simon

I

t has been over a month since 29-yearold Everton Bradford Charles of Lot 282 Earls Avenue Subryanville, Georgetown, was killed in a vehicular accident and the police are yet to institute charges against the errant driver. This occurrence has angered the relatives of the dead man who are asking for swift action to be taken in the matter.

Brandford lost his life on February 3, 2020, when a truck collided with him while riding his motorcycle CJ 5283 along the Providence, East Bank Demerara Highway. After the accident, the driver re-

Brother of the deceased, Elson Charles

portedly fled the scene but was arrested along the Soesdyke-Linden Highway.

Chief Justice...

This is in addition to bringing to the attention of the court, a missive by Lowenfield to GECOM Chairperson, retired Justice Claudette Singh, where he indicated that a report had been completed and is ready to be gazetted and requested a meeting of the Commission.

He told the court that the missive appears to imply that the CEO was in blatant violation of the court orders via the injunction and asked that the situation not be countenanced by the court especially since the matter was ongoing.

He told the court the applicant’s team was concerned that Lowenfield might have acted unlawfully and in contempt of the court and further that the final report completed would contain information that he was prohibited from using.

GECOM’s attorney pointed out a response from the Chair, however, which was circulated by the entity’s Public Relations Officer, Yolanda Ward.

That communication, according to Boston, indicated that the Chairperson had no intention of failing to comply with any of the court orders and that no meeting for the Commission would be held.

The CJ sidestepped the is-

FROM PAGE 3

sue of Lowenfield’s contempt of the court for compiling a “final” elections report.

Boston subsequently told media operatives that as it relates to the declaration of the 2020 General and Regional Elections, “everything has been put on hold.”

Asked about the impact of the litigation with regards to the 15-day deadline imposed on GECOM to provide completed results, Boston told media operatives he was confident a ruling would be handed down before that time.

Nandlall, another of the attorneys appearing on behalf of Holladar, the applicant, in his brief to the local media corps pointed to the fact that the court managed to extract from Boston, an undertaking that the CEO would not undertake to proceed to do anything with the report he has compiled and called for the Commission to approve.

“That report was prepared in violation of one of the injunctions,” which restrained Lowenfield and RO, Clairmont Mingo, from proceeding to prepare any final results, unless and until the Section 84 of the Representation of the People Act had been complied with, according to Nandlall.

In an interview with Guyana Times, the deceased brother, Elson Charles stated this brother’s demise was a huge loss to the family and while it is an unfortunate incident, they are trying to come to grips with reality.

The aggrieved brother expressed his frustration with the slothfulness of the police investigations into the fatal accident and believes that there might be attempts to cover up the story.

“Two days ago, I went to the Deputy Traffic Chief and I sat and I spoke with him about what is going on since we haven’t heard anything from the police. We haven’t heard the driver’s name, age,” Elson said.

He further explained that “we haven’t heard the court date. We called the station at Providence and the Sergeant said that the file hasn’t reached the station as yet and it has been a month. We are not pleased in the way the investigation is going because the police is not speaking and telling us nothing as yet.”

Contact was made with Commander of Region Four (B), Kurleigh Simon, who stated that Everton’s file will be sent to the Office of

Everton Bradford Charles

the Director of Prosecutions (DPP) for legal advice to determine the way forward.

“We are on the verge of wrapping up that investigation and then for advice hopefully in the new week,” Simon stated.

He added that the only witness to the accident was the driver of the truck and as such, investigative ranks had to conduct a thorough probe.

“So, the driver told his story and we had to go and explore the driver’s story.

We had to go and get independent witnesses or additional evidence.”

Prison escapee still at large – Prisons Director

Still on the run: prison escapee Christopher Punch

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ne week after Mazaruni prisoner Christopher Punch escaped from the facility, members of the Joint Services are unable to recapture him but Prisons Director Gladwin Samuels said that every effort is being made to arrest the robbery convict.

In a telephone interview on Sunday, Samuels briefly told Guyana Times that efforts to apprehend the escapee for the past week were unsuccessful.

“He’s still at large, efforts to recapture him has not yet been successful.”

Samuels, in a previous statement to the media, stated that at about 14:00h on that Saturday, 29-yearold Punch of El Dorado Village, West Coast Berbice (WCB), was in the prison

compound along with others attending to livestock when he escaped.

In fact, it was at about 16:00h, while the supervising prisoner was assembling the inmates to return to their respective cells that it was discovered that Punch was missing.

Upon this realisation, an alarm was raised and the Guyana Police Force was summoned. Punch was serving four two-year sentences that are expected to run concurrently.

In April of 2019, Punch was sentenced to eight years’ imprisonment after he was found guilty of four counts of robbery. These charges detailed that the convicted man stole several motorcycles in Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice).

Action…

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…and sussing-out reaction ow that the Court’s dealing with the injunction to prevent the RO from declaring his concocted Reg 4 results as “official”, your Eyewitness has noticed a curious feature in a wide swathe of columnists and commentators, who insist they’re not “partisan”.

They’re the ones who regularly “virtue signal” their evenhandedness by dancing between the raindrops – even as they tango with the PNC!! Like Fred Astaire!!

Not a single one of them has commented on the sordid drama that played out at the RO’s office, in front of the entire world, via the Observers’ Groups and the media. Nothing about the RO’s mysterious “illness” which prevented the tabulation of the SOPs in front of the designated stakeholders. Nothing about his remarkable recovery to yell his concocted “results” from the ramparts in the building. Nothing about the GECOM Chair being held incommunicado in a room of the same building and having to call her driver to get medical intervention. And rescue??

Nope, that was all of no consequence!! What they waxed lyrically about was the “riotous” behaviour of the PPP supporters!! Lacking the background described above about the naked grab for power by Granger, they make it seem as if those “PPP supporters” suddenly got a brain wave to riot!! And, of course, they now took the opportunity to virtue signal once again, as they pleaded unctuously for “peace and harmony”!! The stoning of the David G children’s school bus was rightfully excoriated – but silence descended on them when it came to the marauding mobs who ran through “PPP” villages creating havoc and terror. What they did do was complain that these worthies were being described as “thugs”!!

In politics, very few things are black and white – even in the US south!! But let’s call a spade a spade: what could be more clear-cut than the requirement in the law that the SOPs had to be counted in front of the parties’ agents, etc. Hell, wasn’t this what was done in the other nine Regions – even in the Pakaraimas of Region 7?!! So, this is where your Eyewitness is gonna draw a line – a “line of respect”. Anyone who claims that what unfolded in the Reg 4 counting is kosher will now be in his (black) book as a certified lowlife, locked in the primeval ooze of blind partisanship.

What is certain is that all the talk about “power sharing” from some quarters – including the ones above – are now off the books. We’ve jumped to a new plateau of polarisation that’ll guarantee the ethnic chasms widen.

Expect the PNC to expel their “moderates” – and certainly those from the AFC. They’re all now seen as closet Charrandases!! …in the Courts Granger claims to be following in his idol Burnham’s footprint. But even though Burnham rigged elections, turned loose thugs on his political opponents, killed a few of them, and such like, he was much more observant of the forms of the law – while he gutted the substance. Granger, on the other hand, is much more heavy-handed about legal forms.

Take the instant case on the Reg 4 RO’s abdication of his statutory responsibilities. His assertion is as clueless on the law as it was on the “33 not greater than 32” claim they took to the CCJ. Unlike Burnham back in the day, Granger ends up looking like he’s just “trying a thing”. Looks like he belongs to the WC Fields school of thought that believes if you can’t dazzle them with brilliance, baffle them with bullshit!! And Granger, we know, is full of the latter!!

Like JOF Haynes did to Burnham when he overreached in the Timal case, Your Eyewitness believes Justice George’s gonna teach Granger a lesson.

Judicial judgements aren’t just “perceptions”!! …on women On “International Women’s Day”, your Eyewitness salute the women who played such a visible role in the just-completed elections campaign.

Looks like we’re gonna have more than 50 per cent female MPs on the PPP Government’s benches!!

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

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NEWS

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MONDAY, MARCH 9, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Motorcyclist killed in suspected hit and run in Berbice

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25-year-old motorcyclist was killed in a suspected hit-and-run accident along the Letter Kenny Public Road, Corentyne, Berbice, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), on Wednesday evening.

The deceased has been identified as Shawn Smith of Lot 17 Fingal Street, Rose Hall Town, Corentyne, Berbice.

Based on reports received, on the night in question, at about 22:35h, Smith was found in an

unconscious state with injuries to his face and other parts of his body. He was picked up and taken to the Port Mourant Public Hospital for emergency medical attention where he succumbed while receiving medical attention.

His motorcycle, bearing registration number CK 2517, was found next to the injured man with some damage. The motorcycle is lodged at the Whim Police Station.

It is suspected that Smith

Dead: Shawn Smith

was proceeding along the roadway when a vehicle slammed into his motorcycle from behind, thus causing him to fall onto the roadway.

The police have launched an investigation into the accident.

Just two weeks ago, 35-yearold Suresh Arjune, an employee of Banks DIH Limited’s Airy Hall branch in Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam) was struck down and killed along the Adventure Public Road, Essequibo Coast.

It was reported that the driver of the motor car was under the influence of alcohol when he slammed into the motorcycle Arjune was riding at the time.

As a result of the impact, he fell to the roadway and sustained severe injuries to his head and other parts of his body.

Arjune was picked up in an unconscious state and rushed to the Suddie Public Hospital, Essequibo Coast, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

12 NEWS

MONDAY, MARCH 9, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

APC Thomas was acting in accordance with law – Attorney – only RO can order removal of persons from building

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egardless of which senior police officer instructed Assistant Police Commissioner (APC) Edgar Thomas to remove the local and international observers along with accredited individuals from the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) command centre, it would have been unlawful for him to do so.

This is according to prominent Attorney-at-Law and former Speaker of the House, Ralph Ramkarran, who on Saturday told GuyanaTimes that the only authorised person that could have given that order was GECOM’s Returning Officer, Clairmont Mingo.

He explained that according to the Representation of the People Act, Section 84 (1), it is the Returning

Attorney-at-Law and former Speaker of the House, Ralph Ramkarran

Officer who has the authority to have persons present during the period of tabulating and verifying of votes.

“Certain people are

statutorily required to be present like the counting agents of the parties and so on but the Returning Officer has the discretion to allow anyone else who in his opinion ought to be present. So, therefore, the only person who has the authority to instruct the police to remove people is the Returning Officer. Any instruction coming from a source that is not the Returning Officer has no authority to give and the Police Officer [Thomas] was correct in saying that whoever instructed him has no such authority because it is the Returning Officer who must instruct him.”

Only a few days ago, APC Thomas, was removed from his Commanding Officer post for Region Four (DemeraraMahaica) Sub-division A

with immediate effect after he reportedly refused to execute an order from one of his superiors.

A source close to the Commander said that on Thursday night, an order was given by a Deputy Commissioner of Police to remove both international and local observers along with GECOM People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) appointed Commissioner from the Region Four Returning Officer’s (RO) office at Hadfield and High Streets, Georgetown.

According to a source in the top brass of the Guyana Police Force (GPF), after the instruction was handed down, the Commander related that such a move would be unlawful while pointing

out that to execute such an order would also escalate the already high tension at the location.

“Thomas and at least one Deputy Police Commissioner discussed whether it was legal for him to do that and he stated to his superiors that in his opinion and in the level of professionalism, he didn’t have the authority to remove them. He did communicate it to his seniors but the order was given for him to be permanently removed as Commander immediately after he expressed his opinion,” the source said.

Further, this publication was told that after the APC assessed the situation on the ground on Thursday night, he opined that the persons should not have been removed and made a “judgement call” not to carry out the order.

“The order was that they be removed immediately without observing and ensuring the integrity of the documents there. He made the right choice to ensure democracy and transparency and also he felt, in all his years of experience, that it would have been unlawful at

Assistant Police Commissioner, Edgar Thomas, who was relieved of his Commanding Officer position in Region Four A, after refusing to unlawfully execute an order

that point,” the source added.

Following APC Thomas’ refusal to carry out the orders, a rank junior to him was sent to clear the building, while he was relieved of his duties as Commander.

Just months ago, APC Thomas was placed in the Division after Assistant Commissioner of Police Marlon Chapman went into retirement. He was promoted to that position based on his exemplar and stellar performance in the GPF over the years.

NEWS

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MONDAY, MARCH 9, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Business plummets due to political climate – PSC says situation is worrying

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he political climate in Guyana has no doubt affected businesses across the country with major financial loses recorded.

On Saturday a few business owners in Georgetown expressed their dissatisfaction with the credibility of the 2020 Elections which has caused an unwarranted political atmosphere that affects their daily revenues.

One stall owner explained that she cannot wait for this season to pass over since she has her family to feed.

“To tell you the truth, I just want this thing to be over with. Let GECOM do the verification and if the people win give it to them.

The election was free and fair and we all saw it. This whole pull and thug affect-

PSC Chairman, Captain Gerry Gouveia

ing people’s bread. I have my children to send to school and this thing not putting money in our pockets, we are suffering loss.”

A statement released by Imam Bacchus and Sons Ltd

stated: “We believe that the only valid and legal election results are those tabulated from verified statements of polls. Therefore, we view with gravest concern attempt by GECOM to declare results for district 4 without following procedures.

Our freedom must never be compromised. We urge the leadership of GECOM to listen to the laws and the will of the people – and return to the process of determining the results in the fairest and most transparent way. The right way”.

Just a day before Guyanese headed to the polls, the capital city and most commercial zones across the country were on lockdown.

These businesses would have secured their proper-

Scotiabank Guyana barricaded with plyboards around the building

ties using plyboards and iron bars, to gear up for any eventuality during the elections process.

In an interview with Guyana Times, Chairman of the Private Sector Commission (PSC) Gerry Gouveia stated that the Private Sector is waiting on the court ruling since it be-

Republic Bank Guyana barricaded with plyboards around the building

lieves that the Region Four count has not been completed.

“We are expecting the court and hoping that the court will rule in compliance with basically states that Region Four tabulation system need to be done in a transparent and creditable manner. We are expecting

that to happen and our observing status is very concerning to us,” Gouveia stated.

In fact, he further noted that it is “very worrying” given the fact that many businesses are closing their doors which will ultimately result in loss of revenues.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 16

14 NEWS

MONDAY, MARCH 9, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Jonas questions security of unverified SoPs

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imothy Jonas, Chairman of A New and United Guyana (ANUG), one of the small parties which contested last Monday’s elections, has raised concerns over the security of the Statements of Poll (SoPs) that were left behind at the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) Command Centre, which also housed the Office of the Region Four Returning Officer (RO).

Last Thursday, after the RO, Clairmont Mingo, went ahead and declared the results for Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica) without completing the ongoing verification process of the SoPs, agents and representatives from the various political parties as well as electoral observers, both local and international, remained in the building to ensure that the unverified SoPs were secured.

However, later that night, they were ousted from the Command Centre by armed ranks from the Guyana Police Force (GPF).

According to Jonas, who

was also in the building at the time, they are unsure what happened to those critical documents after they were evicted from the building.

“Your guess is as good as mine as to what happened to those SoPS. I hope that GECOM … continues to keep them safe,” he told reporters on Sunday at the High Court, where acting Chief Justice Roxane George ruled that the court has jurisdiction to hear the applications filed by the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) to block the declaration of unverified results for Region Four as well as the announcement of final elections results from polling day.

Recounting the events of that day, the ANUG Chair recalled that persons who were entitled to be in the room were there on Thursday morning awaiting the continuation of the verification process, which had been halted several times the day before. At the time, the unverified SoPs were also there in the room, but were never touched by the RO, who then

ANUG Chairman Timothy Jonas speaking with media operatives at the High Court on Sunday

went ahead and declared the region’s results.

“Mr Mingo did not ascertain from the Statements of Poll and tabulate the count at the time he made those declarations, because those Statements of Poll that GECOM had, that should be ascertained by Mr Mingo, remained untouched for the most part at the time

he made the declaration,” Jonas, an Attorney-at-Law, contended.

He went on to say that after the declaration was made, those in the room with the SoPs became suspicious and were more vigilant, so they insisted on staying in the room with the documents.

“Unfortunately, after the

declaration was made, we nailed the bull. We know we couldn’t leave them,” he stated.

Despite their stance, the ANUG Chairman noted that there were several interruptions and attempts to get them to leave the building, including a bomb scare.

“The A New and United Guyana representative, and every other representative, responded and say we will sit in this building and take the risk of being blown up in a bomb because we have to look at those Statements of Poll that Mr Mingo has to ascertain… After the bomb scare, we milled about, we sat down and watch the Statements of Poll. Mr Mingo made his announcement without touching the SoPs, we could do nothing but we had to watch the Statements of Poll.

Eventually between 7:30pm and 8 o’clock, the Police came in and cleared the building,” he recounted.

In a letter, dated March 7, 2020 and addressed to the GECOM Chair, Retired Justice Claudette Singh, General Secretary of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), Bharrat Jagdeo demanded, among other things, that the Commission as well as the RO and Chief Elections Officer Keith Lowenfield, “individually and collectively preserve the originals of the Statements of Poll for District 4 (Region Four).”

The GECOM Chair responded to Jagdeo’s letter on Sunday, indicating that the “issues highlighted…are duly noted”.

Nevertheless, regarding the events that played out last Thursday, Jonas on Sunday called for investigations into the bomb scare as well as who gave the orders for the Police to remove the parties’ agents as well as observers from the building.

“Now I hope at some point, there is an investigation as who instructed the Police that they were authorised to go and remove accredited observers and party representatives from that building so that it was no longer possible to keep visual contact of the SoPs…,” he contended.

Following Thursday’s events, Assistant Police Commissioner Edgar Thomas was removed from his commanding officer post in Region Four Sub-Division A (Georgetown) with immediate effect after refusing to execute a decision, which he opined was unlawful.

Guyana Times understands that an order was passed down from a Deputy Commissioner of Police to remove both international and local observers along with PPP/C-nominated GECOM Commissioners from the RO’s office but Commander Thomas related that such a move would be unlawful and pointed out that executing such an order would also escalate the already high tensions at the location.

Subsequently, an order was given for Thomas to be permanently removed as Commander and a junior rank was sent to clear the building.

A senior official of the Police Force had told this newspaper that persons in the building had asked Thomas to stay in the building to see that the unverified SoPs were secured properly before leaving, but they were told to immediately leave when the other set of officers arrived.

A video shared on social media by one of the party agents who were ousted from the building show persons pleading with the Police to allow them to see that the room in which the SoPs were in was secured.

Plaisance Masjid caretaker disappears

– family appeals to public to help locate elderly man

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n 83-year-old caretaker of a Masjid at Plaisance, East Coast Demerara (ECD), has been reported missing for the past six days and his relatives are now fearing the worst.

The man, identified as Nadir Hussain, commonly referred to as “Shaukat” was last seen by his relatives and members of the Masjid on Wednesday last.

Hussain’s niece, Sadiyya Hassan, told GuyanaTimes that a missing person’s report was officially made at the Sparendaam Police Station, ECD. She stated that her uncle has been the caretaker of the Masjid for some time now and that he would usually be in touch with either his daughter or other relatives every week.

However, persons who attend that Masjid told his family that the man had not been seen since Wednesday, which has raised some con-

Missing: Eighty-three-year-old caretaker Nadir Hussain

cerns.

She noted that he was not suffering from any illnesses.

Several checks were repeatedly made at the homes of various relatives but no one had seen or heard from Hussain for days.

Hassan is appealing to members of the public to assist her family in locating the elderly gentleman. If anyone knows the whereabouts of Hussain they are being asked to contact his relatives on 647-4476, 642-4817 or contact the nearest police station.

NEWS

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MONDAY, MARCH 9, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Family calls for justice in Hindus call off Phagwah celebrations Corentyne businessman’s murder

...in protest over Granger’s “power grab”

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Burning of holika at CI Mandir

majority of the Hindu organisations throughout the country have called off their Annual Holi celebrations in light of the present political atmosphere which preceded the March 2 Regional and National elections.

The Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha took to its Facebook page on Sunday to inform persons that its annual Holi Utsav which was planned for Phagwah celebrations today at the Everest Ground has been cancelled.

When contacted, President of the Dharmic Sabha, Dr Vindhya Persaud further elaborated that her organisation has decided to cancel this event due to the tension in the country post-elections.

But according to her, even though these public events have been cancelled, persons should still partake in the Holi festivities because of its significance to Hindus and its strides made in unifying Guyanese.

“It is unfortunate that with the current climate that it cannot be celebrated in this way but we’re very conscious of what is happening now across the country and in specific areas, so we’ve taken that decision as an organisation…we want as much as possible that our people do not feel as if the festival has been removed from them so they will be able to play Phagwah but we ask that they do it in the right spirit,” she posited.

Dr Persaud referenced a statement posted on the organisation’s Facebook page, which reminded of the holiday’s true meaning. This she reiterated to Hindus and other religions who participate in the celebrations.

Similar views were expressed by founder of Inspired Inc and member of the Arya Samaj, Jog Mahadeo when he spoke to Guyana Times on Sunday.

Mahadeo pointed out that these cancellations are in the best interest of everyone’s safety especially for those who travel from across Guyana to celebrate the religious holiday.

“We’re concerned that persons would come to the event and that they going home, traffic would build up on the road and we have been calling on people to stay home and be safe and don’t

come out on the street…So we felt that in the interest of everyone’s safety maybe we should postpone or cancel the festival.”

Phagwah or Holi signifies the triumph of good over evil, and should be celebrated with the right spirit. However, with the intense hatred vented on social media and physically between the supporters of the two major political parties, Mahadeo expressed concern while noting that this too affects Holi celebrations.

“I’m very concerned that there’s so much hate ongoing, I don’t care what is the current leaning for anybody whichever political party you wanna back please back but we do not need to hate each other, so I’m concerned that the hate can also affect our celebration. Phagwah is not about hate, it’s about overcoming hate,” he stated.

In addition, Pujya Swami Aksharanandaji of the Saraswati Vidya Niketan on the West Coast of Demerara has confirmed that over 108 mandirs across the country will not be celebrating the festival on Monday while several organisations including the Pandits Council have also cancelled their celebrations.

Pandit Ravi Persaud of Viraat Sabha stated that Hindus and other well-wishers will participate in the occasion as a symbol of victory.

“Phagwah signifies the conquering of (adharma) unrighteousness. The story of dictator Hiranyakashipu and Bhakta Prahalaad must not be ignored. Our memories are refreshed by the recent assault on democracy by the deceitful GECOM and associates,” he added.

He further stated that democracy is lying on a bed of arrows that is dying rapidly and very little is being done to resuscitate it.

“The Viraat Sabha Guyana is calling on the Hindu community to pay more attention to what is transpiring in our country and act accordingly. Hindus and other supporters of dharma should use the occasion to pray and reflect.”

Further, Persaud noted that the Sabha is calling on Hindu families to avoid joyful celebration until adharma is defeated and democracy is restored.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 16

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he wife and mother of a Corentyne businessman whose bound and battered body was found on a plot of land a short distance from his Portuguese Quarters home on February 27, 2020, are calling on the police to bring the perpetrators to justice.

On the day in question, the body of 49-yearold Lomenzo Johnny called “Sham” of Lot 11 Portuguese Quarters, Corentyne, was discovered in a yard at Rose Hall Town with his feet bound with a shoelace.

The sweater he was seen wearing on the evening before the discovery was found several feet away from the body.

A pair of scissors and a piece of wood were also close to the body. There was a wound to the back, bruises to his hand and his head and face were swollen. Blood was flowing from his nose when the body was discovered.

His mother, Juleet Johnny told Guyana Times

Dead: Lomenzo Johnny, called “Sham”

that since she returned to the country, she has not heard from the police.

“The police have not given us any information. I have not seen the police since I came home,” she said.

Referring to her son as being a good person, she said she needs justice for him.

“He helped a lot of people in this community. The people who did it, I want them to be found and penalised for it.

I am not giving in. They did not only kill him; they came and ransacked his house.

They took his clothes, his

safe, all his savings; are they people or animals? How do you bound a man and hit him and then throw him in the corner?” he has family,” she explained.

Johnny has been living alone as his wife and three children were overseas.

The dead man’s wife, Nariessa Baichan explained that the police had informed her that the investigation was ongoing but related that the family is not satisfied with the manner in which the police are handling the incident.

“We need [asking] for the police to get them. They can’t just kill him like that. It was a gruesome murder. They beat him and did all kind of stuff to him.”

She questioned the reason for the robbers wanting to kill the businessman since she knew that they were after the money safe.

According to the mother of three, persons in the community have provided the family with information which they

believe can lead to the arrest of the killers.

Following the discovery of the man’s body, investigators arrested several persons but they were subsequently released.

Two years ago, Johnny came under the attack of robbers who held him at gunpoint while taking cash and other valuables from the store. On that occasion, the grocery store was open and customers were conducting business as normal when the bandits carried out the brazen attack.

According to the businessman’s wife, back then, she asked him if he knew the perpetrators.

“He said even if he knows who it is it does not matter because he is alone and if he says anything they might want to come and kill him.

That is what he told me.”

The businessman had refused to participate in an identification parade after Police had arrested a few men.

16 NEWS Joint political parties urge peace pending outcome of court proceedings S MONDAY, MARCH 9, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

everal of the political parties that contested the March 2 General and Regional Elections have taken a joint stance against the declaration of unverified results from Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica) and are calling on Guyanese to maintain peace pending the outcome of ongoing court proceedings.

The People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) has obtained injunctions from the High Court to block the declaration of unverified results from Region Four as well as overall results from Monday’s polls. Chief Justice Roxane George on Sunday ruled that the High Court has jurisdiction to hear the matter and set Tuesday for the hearing of the application.

As such, in a joint statement on Sunday, the PPP/C along with Change Guyana (CG), Liberty and Justice Party (LJP), The New Movement (TNM) and the United Republican Party (URP) welcomed the court’s ruling.

“The parties call on all citizens of Guyana to remain calm and peaceful as these matters continue to engage

the attention of the courts, and as we continue to work with the local and international community in ensuring that GECOM (Guyana Elections Commission) follows the specific provisions of the relevant election laws and operate within a framework of respected democratic norms,” the missive stated.

According to the parties, they have accessed copies of Statements of Poll (SOPs) from district four, which they have gathered independently and these documents will be used in the legally required verification process, which was abandoned by the RO who went ahead and declared the unverified results for Region Four.

“As various statements from diverse members of the international community reiterated, the votes of district #4 must be verified and tabulated in the manner required by the relevant elections legislation. It is only after such a legal process is completed that the results for district #4 should be publicly declared,” the parties contended.

They went on to demand that GECOM desists from taking any unlawful or il-

Hindus call off...

Holi, the Festival of Colours, which symbolises the triumph of good over evil is celebrated to usher in spring.

On Thursday thousands of persons gathered at Lusignan to join the countrywide protest against the unlawful act by the Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica) Returning Officer to de-

legal action which will constitute a breach of the relevant legislation and extant Orders of the Court.

“We call on all [of] Guyana to understand that the political parties outside of APNU/AFC are working for a peaceful and legal resolution to this situation and we remain committed to respecting the results emanating from district #4, pursuant to a process conducted in accordance with Section 84 (1) of the Representation of the People’s Act, Chapter 1:03,” the missive on Sunday added.

Meanwhile, the parties welcomed the commitment and pronouncements of international observers, lo-

FROM PAGE 15

clare unverified results for the district.

However, things took a turn for the worse as shots of rubber pellets rang out while pro-democracy protesters were voicing their concerns. Some seven persons were shot while some were arrested, resulting in mass chaos.

Roads along the East

Coast of Demerara were blocked with burning tires as glass bottles were hurled into the air. Ranks of the Guyana Police Force bolstered themselves in the middle of the roadway, using force to get people into their homes as the methods of maintaining order and peace failed.

cal observer groups, several Governments, international and local organisations that support the preservation of democracy in Guyana.

“The parties take note

of the important threats of sanctions from the international community in general and the ABCE countries in particular, which can include personal sanctions

against all those who participated in the process to undermine democracy by acting outside of the rule of law.

The parties further noted that they strongly support the statement from the US Department of State which emphasised that, "The people of Guyana deserve a credible election and transfer of power that reflects their will… Vote tabulation irregularities marred Guyana’s March 2 elections.

Our Ambassador and many observers saw flawed tabulation. Irrespective of today’s legal proceedings, any Government sworn in on the basis of that result would not be legitimate."

El Salvador bans visitors from Germany, France over coronavirus

E

l Salvador has banned visitors from Germany and France due to coronavirus, after previously barring visitors from Italy, South Korea and Iran, the countries with the largest outbreaks outside China.

Salvadorans and diplomats arriving from the two countries may enter, but must spend 30 days in quarantine, President Nayib Bukele said on Twitter late on Saturday.

Bukele also called for stepping up checks on travellers arriving from any coun-

try that has coronavirus and for stricter sanitation measures.

“From here on out, a total cleaning of the airport and customs must be done every day,” he said.

There are now more than 106,000 coronavirus cases and more than 3600 deaths across the world, according to a Reuters tally of government announcements.

France has the fifth-highest number of coronavirus cases outside China, while Germany ranks sixth.

El Salvador has no re-

ported cases of coronavirus, even as other nearby countries begin grappling with the disease.

On Saturday, Mexico reported seven instances of coronavirus, up from six.

Costa Rica said its number of cases rose to five from one, including an American couple.

Elsewhere in the region, a patient diagnosed with coronavirus in Argentina died on Saturday, the first death related to the virus in Latin America. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Business plummets...

“It is actually concerning to the Private Sector Commission, the current state of what is happening and, in fact, that businesses leaders and business people and their employees are choosing to close their business.”

He further pointed out that “it is a very worrying thing because we have seen across the country and especially the urban areas that kind of action being taken and it going take a toll on the economy and it is going take a toll on the workers.

So, it is very concerning to us.”

With the unrest unfolding throughout the country, Republic Bank Guyana along with Scotiabank Guyana and other businesses took precautionary measures by installing plyboards around their building to protect their establishment in case of any drama unfolding within the city Meanwhile, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) strongly condemns the actions of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) to corrode the integrity of the electoral process by circumventing established procedures prescribed in the laws of Guyana during the tabulation process for Region Four.

In a release issued by the GCCI, it was present at the office of the Returning Officer (RO) for Region Four when the tabulation process was halted without sound justification in several instances.

“The GCCI was also present during the attempted declaration and publication of results for Region 4 which was made by the RO despite an incomplete tabulation process. The GCCI views the actions of GECOM as a direct assault to the democratic processes of this country as the refusal to conduct the tabulation process in accordance with the law has disenfranchised all Guyanese who would have casted their votes in Region 4.”

As such, the body calls for the Guyana Elections Commission, including the Chairperson and the Chief Elections Officer, to ensure that the results of these elections are credible by returning to the established tabulation process for Region Four as is laid out in the Constitution of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana.

“The GCCI urges GECOM to ensure that a credible count on the basis of Statements of Polls (SOPs) occurs. This will ensure that the results delivered to the Guyanese elec-

FROM PAGE 13

torate are a reflection of the accurate will of the people and a President’s election to office is credible. We take this opportunity to urge all Guyanese to remain calm and peaceful until the final verified results are declared

by GECOM in the presence of all political parties and accredited observers.”

Four days after the election, large groups gathered throughout the country to protest a decision taken by the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) to declare unverified results for the largest electoral district, Region Four (DemeraraMahaica).

The international community including members of the diplomatic corps and foreign observers have labelled the process as lacking transparency and credibility.

Meanwhile, on Saturday there was the hearing of the injunction preventing the Region Four Returning Officer from making a unilateral declaration on the results of the tabulation of the SOPs. On Sunday Chief Justice Roxane George ruled that the court has the jurisdiction to hear the matter and as such, scheduled Tuesday, March 10 for the commencement of the hearing.

guyanatimesgy.com

OILNEWS Saudi Arabia, in move aimed at Russia, cuts oil prices and may raise production

S

audi Arabia slashed its export oil prices over the weekend in what is likely to be the start of a price war aimed at Russia but with potentially devastating repercussions for Russia’s ally Venezuela, Saudi Arabia’s enemy Iran and even American oil companies.

The Saudi decision to cut prices by nearly 10 per cent on Saturday was a dramatic move in retaliation for Russia’s refusal on Friday to join the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries in a large production cut as the coronavirus continues to slow the global economy and, with it, demand for oil.

The break in a three-year alliance between the Saudi-led oil cartel and Russia to support prices may be temporary. The moves over the weekend may well have been part of a negotiating chess game, and the Saudis and Russians can still reach a compromise.

But if the collapse is lasting, oil executives say there is nothing to stop oil prices from tumbling to the lowest levels in at least five years.

A major drop in oil prices would hurt producers around the world, particularly Venezuela and Iran, whose oil-based economies are already under pressure from American sanctions. Export earnings of both countries have already been reduced to a trickle, and a further decline would stretch their abilities to pay for vital services and security.

The one bright spot may be at the gas pump. The average price of a gallon of regular gasoline in the United States, according to the AAA Motor Club, has already fallen five cents in the last week, to US$2.40 from US$2.45, and prices could easily drop below US$2 a gallon in some states in the coming weeks. Lower-income drivers, who typically own older, less fuel-efficient vehicles and spend a higher percentage of their wages on energy, stand to gain the most.

But a prolonged price collapse would add to financial pressure on highly indebted American oil companies, dozens of which have gone out of business in recent years, with a decline in American oil production likely to follow. Oil companies have been laying off workers in Texas and other oil-producing states.

Canadian oil sands development, already lagging because of environmental concerns and costs, stands to be hit hard by a price war. And developing countries that depend on oil, like Nigeria, Angola and Brazil, may suffer significant economic slowdowns.

The first big impact was felt by Saudi Arabia itself. Shares of Saudi Aramco, the Saudi national oil company, plummeted by more than 9 per cent on Sunday, falling below its December initial public offering price of 32 riyals for the first time.

The Riyadh stock exchange fell more than 8 per cent. On the Kuwaiti exchange, trading on a major index was halted after it tumbled 10 per cent.

As they cut prices, Saudi officials are now preparing to ramp up the kingdom’s oil output to compensate for the lost revenue caused by lower prices. China, the biggest oil importer, has historically bought oil at cheap prices to stockpile for future use when prices rise.

Low oil prices, now about US$45 a barrel for Brent crude, the international benchmark, and US$41 for West Texas Intermediate, the US marker, could also stoke public discontent with Governments, including Saudi Arabia’s, as falling revenues mean less money for social and other programmes used by Governments to bolster support.

Saudi Arabia is the world’s largest oil exporter and has been producing about 9.7 million barrels a day, well under its roughly 12 million-barrel-a-day capacity.

The prospect of more oil on the market could accelerate the collapse in prices, which have fallen about a third this year.

Both Russia and Saudi Arabia appear to be acting for shortterm advantage with risky strategies. Russia has gained significant political clout in the Middle East by aligning with OPEC. Helping to support oil prices in concert with Saudi Arabia and other Persian Gulf states has helped the Government of President Nicolás Maduro survive in Venezuela. Now, the Russians have chosen to go it alone, refusing to coordinate with OPEC in proposed production cuts perhaps in the hope of undercutting American oil producers.

For Saudi Arabia, cooperation with Russia had reinforced OPEC’s clout at a time it is being threatened by the recent surge in American oil production that has turned the United States into a major crude exporter for the first time in decades.

But their success is far from certain.

The last time Saudi Arabia and other OPEC members allowed global supplies to rise in the face of increasing volumes of oil from shale producers in the United States was in late 2014, and prices plummeted to below US$30 a barrel. Two years later, Russia joined with OPEC in a production pact that has helped prop up prices for the last three years by coordinating cuts in output.

But OPEC’s intention in 2014 of undercutting American and other producers backfired and reduced its share of the market.

American oil companies managed to increase production anyway, as they became more efficient at drilling through shale and investors continued to pour money into their enterprises. This time may be different, though, because Wall Street has grown tired of sluggish oil investment returns and the high debts of many small and medium-sized companies. (Excerpt from The New York Times)

MONDAY, MARCH 9, 2020

17

Around the World

Avalanches in Austrian Alps kill at least 6

A

t least six people have died in two separate avalanches in the Austrian Alps, Police said.

Five people, believed to be Czech nationals, were killed in the mountainous Dachstein region, about 80km (50 miles) south-east of Salzburg.

They were caught while on a snowshoeing trip when the avalanche hit about 2800m (9200ft) up, Police said.

In a separate incident, a 33-year-old police officer died in an avalanche in the southern Carinthia region.

In response to the avalanche in the Dachstein mountain range, seven heli-

A large avalanche struck in the mountainous Dachstein region of the Austrian Alps on Sunday

copters were used to transport some 100 rescuers to the site to help search for those missing, the head of operations for the local mountain rescue team, Heribert Eisl, said.

"The avalanche happened on the northern side of the Dachstein, just under the entry point Rankluft," Eisl said.

"We mobilised all our staff, but unfortunately

there was no happy ending," he added.

Separately, the police officer killed in the Carinthia region was reportedly taking part in a training exercise.

In January 2019, 60 hotel guests escaped injury when their building was hit by an avalanche overnight in Ramsau am Dachstein.

That avalanche was strong enough to throw vehicles out of its path and burst through windows.

More than 40,000 people were trapped in one of Austria's largest ski resorts at the time because of the avalanche risk. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Italy locks down millions as its coronavirus deaths jump

I

taly ordered a virtual lockdown across much of its wealthy north, including the financial capital Milan, in a drastic new attempt to try to contain an outbreak of coronavirus that saw the number of deaths leap again sharply on Sunday.

The unprecedented restrictions, which aim to limit gatherings and curb movement, will impact some 16 million people and stay in force until April 3. They were signed into law overnight

by Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte.

The new measures say people should not enter or leave Lombardy, Italy’s richest region, as well as 14 provinces in four other regions, including the cities of Venice, Modena, Parma, Piacenza, Reggio Emilia and Rimini.

Only people with prov-

A priest celebrates Mass in the open air, after Italy's bishops ordered Masses not be held in churches in order to contain the coronavirus outbreak, in Rome, Italy, March 8, 2020

en, work-related reasons, or health problems will be able to move in and out of the exclusion zones. Leave has been cancelled for health workers.

The number of coronavirus cases jumped 25 per cent in a 24-hour period to 7375, while deaths climbed 57 per cent to 366 deaths. It was the largest daily increase for

both readings since the contagion came to light on Feb 21.

Antonio Pesenti, head of the Lombardy regional crisis response unit, told the Corriere della Sera newspaper the health system in Lombardy was “a step away from collapse” as intensive care facilities came under growing strain from the new cases.

The World Health Organisation said it fully supported the actions taken

by Italy, which were in line with its guidelines for containing the spread of the virus.

But with the Italian economy already on the edge of recession, some local politicians pushed back against the measures, which leaked out before the regions were consulted. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Taliban say parallel presidential ceremonies threaten progress on peace talks

T

he Taliban militant group said peace talks with the Afghan Government next week were unlikely to take place because rivals for the presidency were both holding swearing-in ceremonies on Monday, and urged them instead to focus on an end to the war.

The United States is trying to push the Government toward talks with the Taliban, due to start on begin on Tuesday, under an agreement signed in Doha last month.

In February, Afghanistan’s Electoral Commission announced incumbent Ashraf Ghani as the winner of September’s presidential election, but his bitter rival Abdullah Abdullah said he and his allies had won and insisted that he would form a Government.

Afghanistan's President Ashraf Ghani speaks during a news conference in Kabul, Afghanistan, March 1, 2020

Both Abdullah and Ghani, have issued invitations to parallel swearing-in ceremonies today.

Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid added that another major factor

was that no practical steps had been taken to implement a condition as a part of the US-Taliban agreement that the Government release 5000 prisoners, a demand that Ghani has rejected.

Nevertheless, meetings between prison officials from both sides took place in Doha on Saturday and Sunday, Mujahid said, the first known contact between Afghan Government officials and the Taliban since the Taliban signed the troop withdrawal agreement with the United States on Feb 29.

While insisting they were not formal intra-Afghan talks, Mujahid said the meetings covered technical aspects of the prisoner release, such as preparing a list of detainees and their identifying details.

U.S. Special Envoy Zalmay Khalilzad has been holding talks with both Abullah and Ghani’s camps over the weekend to try and broker a solution to the impasse, diplomatic and political sources have said.

(Reuters)

18

guyanatimesgy.com

MONDAY, MARCH 9, 2020

ARCHIE

ARIES (March 21April 19)

TAURUS

DILBERT

(April 20May 20)

GEMINI (May 21June 20)

CANCER (June 21July 22)

PEANUTS

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

CALVIN AND HOBBES

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22)

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

SUDOKU

SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22)

Be conscientious and add detail and depth to whatever you do. The little extras will count. If you present yourself and your intentions with precision, you will come across as intelligent and efficient.

Observe a certain situation and prepare to make changes. Discuss your intentions with someone knowledgeable. Take the plunge and explore your options.

Nothing ventured, nothing gained. A romantic encounter will boost your morale.

Do things at a speed that feels comfortable. If you rush to do something that you feel uncertain about, you’ll fall short. An emotional issue will spin out of control if you let it.

Do things your way.

Share your thoughts and put a group together that will help you achieve your goal. Changes at home will be advantageous. Don’t fight the inevitable.

Do your research before you commit. A change of heart will be telling. When someone challenges you, stand tall and don’t budge.

Talk to someone with experience. A neighbor or good friend will shed light on a situation you face. A good idea can turn into a profitable arrangement.

Think about the past.

Remember why it’s so important to take a break and to nurture what’s important to you. Consider your motives and follow through with your plans.

If you step outside your comfort zone, you’ll discover something that not only intrigues you, but helps you choose a path that offers personal and spiritual growth.

Romance is on the rise.

SAGITTARIUS Refrain from making a (Nov. 23snap decision. Back away Dec. 21) from anyone pressuring you to commit. Getting angry won’t help matters. Chill out somewhere you feel safe.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22Jan. 19)

LAST PUBLISHED WORD ꟷ

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

PISCES (Feb. 20March 20)

Make a decision or move that will bring things to a head. Address joint finances and changes that aren’t working. A work-related matter will turn into a new opportunity.

A change is worth considering. Don’t let your emotions get in the way of doing what’s right. A partnership will take an unexpected turn. Make a change to your living arrangements.

Spend more time with people you can count on to give you good advice. Run your ideas by experts, as well as by those who will be affected by the choices you make.

MONDAY, MARCH 9, 2020

19

NBA round-up: Cavs top Nuggets again, complete season sweep K

evin Love scored 27 points, Collin Sexton had 25 and the host Cleveland Cavaliers stunned the Denver Nuggets 104-102 on Saturday night.

Cedi Osman added 20 points, Tristan Thompson had nine points and 13 rebounds, and Matthew Dellavedova had seven points and 14 assists for Cleveland, which swept the season series against the Nuggets and ended a four-game skid.

Will Barton scored 22 points, Gary Harris had 18 and Jamal Murray added 17 for Denver. Nikola Jokic had just eight points but added eight rebounds and eight assists.

The Cavaliers led by five early in the fourth but went cold for nearly five minutes, allowing Denver to go up 93-90.

Sexton ended the drought with a pair of free throws with 5:50 left, and that started a 10-0 run that put Cleveland ahead for good.

Charlotte Hornets 108Houston Rockets 99

The Hornets scored the game’s first 20 points, Terry Rozier scored all 24 of his points in the first three quarters, and Charlotte topped host Houston.

Devonte’ Graham added 23 points, PJ Washington contributed 22 points, Cody Zeller had 13 points and Miles Bridges was good for 10 points for Charlotte, which closed a four-game homestand with its only victory during that stretch.

James Harden scored 30 points for the Rockets, but he was charged with 10 of the team’s 20 turnovers. Harden also had 10 rebounds and 14 assists. Houston played without guard Russell Westbrook (rest).

Sacramento Kings 123-Portland Trail Blazers 111

Bogdan Bogdanovic matched his career high of seven 3-pointers and recorded 27

points and eight assists, as Sacramento halted a 12-game losing streak in Portland with a dominant victory.

Buddy Hield scored 22 points, and Harrison Barnes added 20 as the Kings won in Portland for the first time since Dec. 8, 2012. They also equaled the franchise record of 21 3-pointers (in 39 attempts), with Hield knocking down six and Barnes making five.

De’Aaron Fox recorded 14 points and 11 assists for the Kings, who have won seven of their last nine games. Sacramento stands 3 1/2 games behind the eighth-place Memphis Grizzlies for the final playoff spot in the Western Conference.

Utah Jazz 111-Detroit Pistons 105

Bojan Bogdanovic scored 32 points and Utah stretched its winning streak to five games with a win in Detroit.

The Jazz, who were closing out a fourgame road trip, have won the last eight meetings between the clubs. They were playing the second end of a back-to-back after winning in Boston on Friday.

Donovan Mitchell supplied 25 points, Jordan Clarkson contributed 14 points off the bench, and Mike Conley added 12. Christian Wood led the Pistons with a career-high 30 points and 11 rebounds.

Langston Galloway and Jordan McRae had 14 points apiece off the bench.

Memphis Grizzlies 118-Atlanta Hawks 101

Jonas Valanciunas scored 12 of his 27 points in the first quarter to help Memphis get off to a quick start and allow them to cruise past the visiting Atlanta Hawks.

Valanciunas had 17 rebounds for his 32nd double-double of the season. It was the second time in a week that the Grizzlies have

Denver Nuggets guard Gary Harris (14) drives to the basket against Cleveland Cavaliers guard Collin Sexton (2) during the first half (USA TODAY Sports)

thumped the Hawks. Memphis won 127-88 in Atlanta on Monday.

Atlanta got leading scorer Trae Young back in the lineup after he missed Friday’s game with flu-like symptoms. Young, however, wasn’t at full strength, played only 29 minutes, and was limited to 16 points — 13 fewer than his season average — and four assists.

Golden State Warriors 118Philadelphia Warriors 114

Villanova product Eric Paschall capped a 23-point performance with a pair of go-ahead free throws with 51.7 seconds remaining as

Golden State edged Philadelphia in San Francisco, in a nationally televised game that featured more star power on the sidelines than on the court.

The Warriors learned during the day that Stephen Curry would be joining fellow former All-Star teammates Klay Thompson and Draymond Green out of action because of an illness. Curry had returned from a 58game absence because of a broken left hand on Thursday.

Tobias Harris scored a team-high 24 points for the 76ers, who likewise were without three injured starters — Joel Embiid, Ben Simmons and Josh Richardson. (Reuters)

20

MONDAY, MARCH 9, 2020

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Healy, Mooney, Jonassen hand clinical Australia 5th T20 World Cup title

“W

Australia celebrate the wicket of Harmanpreet Kaur during the final (AP Photo)

e haven’t played our best game of cricket yet and that’s still out there somewhere and hopefully it happens tomorrow,” Meg Lanning said on Saturday.

Her team delivered in magnificent fashion, riding on the coattails of an audacious innings from Alyssa Healy, to claim a fifth T20 World Cup title with a crushing 85run win in front of an MCG crowd of 86,174, just marginally short of a new world record for a women’s sports event. .

There were so many bigger-picture narratives about the day, but there was only one thing in the minds of the two teams for the few hours on the field. It was Australia’s day from the moment Lanning won the toss.

They set the tone with the first over of both innings.

Healy was dropped in an over that went for 14, making a similar statement that her husband, Mitchell Starc, who was among the thousands watching, did against New Zealand in 2015 men’s World Cup final. In the field,

Megan Schutt got the better of Shafali Verma who had previously won their headto-head hands down.

It had not just been about Healy with the bat.

Beth Mooney, who was also dropped on 8, finished as the leading run-scorer of the tournament with 259 at 64.75 after an expertly-paced 78 of 54 balls to ensure the opening stand was built on even if India clawed things back somewhat in the final five overs.

That was the only period where the contest was even close. After Verma’s early departure things quickly got worse for India when Taniya Bhatia was forced to retire hurt after a blow on the neck (and was later subbed out with concussion) and before the end of the fourth over both Jemimah Rodrigues and Smriti Mandana had picked out mid-on against left-arm spin. All that was left was for Australia to finish the job.

Powerplay statement

Against the first ball of the final Healy came down

the pitch against Deepti Sharma and swung a boundary through midwicket. The same could easily have happened the next two deliveries as well as Sharma took until her fourth delivery to pitch the ball. Then came a moment India will rue for a long time when Healy drilled a chance to cover where Verma shelled it. Another boundary, driven beautifully through the covers, signed off the first over which cost 14 runs. Even that early in the match it felt like a huge swing towards Australia.

After two overs Healy had five boundaries and though she only added one more in the next four, by the end of the powerplay Australia had a firm grip at 49 for 0.

Healy’s awesome striking

Immediately after the fielding restrictions were relaxed, India turned to their trump card on Poonam Yadav. Her first delivery was a perfectly decent googly that was nudged into the off side by Mooney. It might sound like a very small moment, but that was

the delivery that caused so many problems in the opening match at the Sydney Showground.

Australia’s strong start meant they could also sit on her somewhat, especially when the carnage continued at the other end. Healy was taking things to a new level. Two consecutive sixes straight down the ground off Rajeshwari Gayakwad the first 83 metres - powered her towards a 30-ball fifty, the fastest by a male or female in any ICC global limited-overs final. Even better was to follow, though, when she launched three consecutive sixes off Shikha Pandey, the third of them a drive over cover that was eye-poppingly brilliant.

Mooney’s innings summed up so much about her career: overshadowed, for a large period, by a teammate but when you look she has top-scored with a defining innings. She was the perfect foil for Healy’s early onslaught, feeding the strike to her partner as often as she could although not without some eye-catching shots of her own. When Healy fell, picking out long-on trying for a sixth six, Mooney went to a 41-ball half-century and followed it with a pristine inside-out cover drive off Radha Yadav. To India’s credit, they did not completely fall apart. Sharma struck twice in her last over to exact a modicum of revenge by claiming Lanning and Ash Gardner. Having started the last five overs with nine wickets in hand they only brought 42 runs.

Schutt fires back, India fold

Schutt’s first over the tournament, against India, went for 16 as Verma took

hold of her. “Clearly, I don’t think I’m the best matchup to those two in the powerplay, they find me easy to play,” she said after the semi-final. It was a very different story this time.

Verma laid down the gauntlet with a wonderful lofted drive first ball, only for it to plug in the outfield, but two balls later edged a back-ofa-length delivery with Healy following her runs with a superb catch up to the stumps.

The first three bowlers used by Australia - Schutt, Jess Jonassen and Sophie Molineux - all struck in their opening overs. It was complete dominance.

Finishing touches

Harmanpreet Kaur has done some magnificent things against Australia, but this has not been a great tournament for her and it ended with a slog-sweep that found deep midwicket to leave India 30 for 4. It was another wicket for Jonassen who, like Mooney, is such a key part of the team but does not always get the airtime of others. Australia could easily have drifted through the closing overs, but their fielding and catching was a final statement of how they peaked when it mattered.

Mission accomplished.

SCOREBOARD Australia Women Innings (20 overs maximum) AJ Healy † c Krishnamurthy b Yadav 75 BL Mooney not out 78 MM Lanning (c) c Pandey b Sharma 16 A Gardner st †Bhatia b Sharma 2 RL Haynes b Poonam Yadav 4 NJ Carey not out 5 Extras (b 1, nb 1, w 2) 4 TOTAL (20 Overs, RR: 9.2) 184-4 Did not bat: S Molineux, JL Jonassen, G Wareham, DM Kimmince, M Schutt Fall of wickets: 1-115 (Alyssa Healy, 11.4 ov), 2-154 (Meg Lanning, 16.2 ov), 3-156 (Ashleigh Gardner, 16.5 ov), 4-176 (Rachael Haynes, 18.5 ov) BOWLING DB Sharma S Pandey RS Gayakwad Poonam Yadav RP Yadav

(4-0-38-2) (4-0-52-0) (4-0-29-0) (4-0-30-1) (4-0-34-1)

India Women Innings (target: 185 runs from 20 overs) Shafali Verma c †Healy b Schutt 2 S Mandhana c Carey b Molineux 11

T Bhatia † retired hurt 2 JI Rodrigues c Carey b Jonassen 0 H Kaur (c) c Gardner b Jonassen 4 DB Sharma c Mooney b Carey 33 V Krishnamurthy c Jonassen b Kimmince 19 RM Ghosh c Carey b Schutt 18 S Pandey c Mooney b Schutt 2 RP Yadav c Mooney b Jonassen 1 Poonam Yadav c Gardner b Schutt 1 RS Gayakwad not out 1 Extras (w 5) 5 TOTAL (19.1 Overs, RR: 5.16) 99 all out Fall of wickets: 1-2 (Shafali Verma, 0.3 ov), 1-5* (Taniya Bhatia, retired not out ), 2-8 (Jemimah Rodrigues, 1.6 ov), 3-18 (Smriti Mandhana, 3.1 ov), 4-30 (Harmanpreet Kaur, 5.4 ov), 5-58 (Veda Krishnamurthy, 11.3 ov), 6-88 (Deepti Sharma, 16.1 ov), 7-92 (Shikha Pandey, 17.1 ov), 8-96 (Richa Ghosh, 17.3 ov), 9-97 (Radha Yadav, 18.1 ov), 1099 (Poonam Yadav, 19.1 ov) BOWLING M Schutt (3.1-0-18-4) JL Jonassen (4-0-20-3) S Molineux (4-0-21-1) DM Kimmince (4-0-17-1) NJ Carey (4-0-23-1)

Cricket World Cup Over-50s…

South Africa stretch West Indies in warm-up match C

ape Town, South Africa - The West Indies Over-50s had their first knock in Cape Town ahead of the Over-50s Cricket World Cup when they took on hosts South Africa yesterday, Sunday March 8, in their first official warm-up match.

Prior to the start of the 35-over-per-side match, the teams had agreed to treat the game as a true warm-up match, with both sides batting their full quota of overs despite the quantity of runs scored and the number of wickets taken.

The match was played at the picturesque Rondebosch Oval in Cape Town, on a pitch with true bounce and a slow outfield.

West Indies Over-50s batted first and got to 150-7 from their 35 overs, while South Africa replied with 159-4.

West Indies O-50s Itinerary

Wednesday March 11 vs New Zealand Friday March 13 vs Australia Sunday March 15 vs Canada Monday March 16 vs Zimbabwe Wednesday March 18 vs Sri Lanka Friday March 20 Semi-final Tuesday March 24 Final

Scores:

WI O-50s: 150-7 (35), Mark Audain 36, Rajendra

Sadeo 34, Ishwar Maraj 28, Warne Rippon 3-0-14-2, Alan Dawson 5-0-10-1, South Africa O-50s: 159-4 (35), Louis

Koen 52 retired, Warne Rippon 3 5 retired, Zamin Amin 7-1-191, Kenny Girdharry 6-0-30-1

West Indies O-50 will take on fellow debutants India on Monday, March 9, in their second warm-up match be-

fore officially opening the tournament two days later against New Zealand O-50s in a ‘Group A’ match.

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

MONDAY, MARCH 9, 2020

Premier League: Chelsea overpower Everton to remain in top 4

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ASTROLOGY & SPIRITUALITY

December, during which time they h a v e picked up 18 points.

But this was a desperately disappointing day for the Italian on his return to the club where he won the league and FA Cup double in 2009-10.

The result meant Everton remain 12th, eight points behind fifth-placed Manchester United, while Chelsea stay fourth, three points ahead of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's men.

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Man Utd shutdown Man City

Anthony Martial is the first United player to score in both derbies in a Premier League season since Cristiano Ronaldo in 2006-07 (Getty Images)

C

arlo Ancelotti endured a miserable return to Stamford Bridge as Chelsea thrashed his Everton side to boost their top-four Premier League hopes.

Helped by the inclusion of 18-year-old Billy Gilmour, who made his full Premier League debut, Chelsea started the game with a far greater tempo and went ahead after 14 minutes when Mason Mount ended an 18-game goal drought by firing past Jordan Pickford at his near post.

Pedro then latched on to a superb through ball by Ross Barkley to score his first league goal of the season as Frank Lampard's side took control.

Everton had a chance to strike back five minutes later but top scorer Dominic Calvert-Lewin duffed a shot with only Kepa Arrizabalaga to beat.

Two goals in the space of three minutes shortly after the break ended the game as a contest as Willian found the bottom corner with a low shot and Olivier Giroud continued his renaissance with a tap-in from a short corner.

Everton have been in form since Ancelotti's first game in charge on 26

Kieron Pollard sidelined from PSL 2020 with niggle

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K

ieron Pollard, the most experienced player in T20 cricket, has been ruled out of his PSL stint with Peshawar Zalmi due to a niggle in his right thigh.

The West Indies captain, who recently reached 10,000 runs in his 500th game in the shortest format, was initially slated to join the Peshawar squad after his international commitments. However, he has now been sidelined, having experienced "tightness" in his right quad.

Fellow West Indies allrounder Carlos Brathwaite had been named as Pollard's temporary replacement, and has already played two matches this season. In the wake of Pollard's injury, Brathwaite will now stay with Peshawar's squad for the rest of the PSL. "I'm sorry I can't be there in person this year but the

team has some inspirational characters leading the charge and I'm sure can give Daren [Sammy] his first trophy as a head coach," Pollard said in a statement released by the PSL. England allrounder Lewis Gregory can also be a like-forlike replacement for Pollard in the XI. He had made a splash on his PSL debut, taking 4 for 24 in a Man-of-the-Match performance against Lahore Qalandars.

In all, Pollard has featured in 13 matches for Peshawar, scoring 284 runs and taking five wickets. Earlier this week, Daren Sammy had stepped down from captaincy and took over a new role as head coachcum-player for Peshawar.

Peshawar are currently placed second on the points table, behind table-toppers Multan, with four wins in eight games. (ESPN Cricinfo)

Manchester United completed the Premier League double over derby rivals Manchester City for the first time in a decade as Anthony Martial's first-half goal and an injury time strike from Scott McTominay gave them victory at Old Trafford.

This thunderous encounter was a personal nightmare for Manchester City's normally reliable Brazilian goalkeeper Ederson, who gifted Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side both goals in sharply contrasting fashion.

He allowed Martial's routine shot to squirm under his body from a quick Bruno Fernandes free-kick on the half-hour and then, with seconds left, threw a clearance straight to McTominay, who showed great technique to send a long-range finish, struck first time, into the net in front of a delirious Stretford End. It is a win that leaves Liverpool - who now have a 25-point lead at the top of the table - requiring only two more wins to secure their first league title for 30 years and Manchester United only three points behind fourth-placed Chelsea, after their first derby league double since Sir Alex Ferguson's retirement.

City hotly contested the free-kick, given by referee Mike Dean for a foul by Ilkay Gundogan on Fernandes, that led to Martial's goal - although United also felt they were denied a penalty when Fred was booked for diving after tangling with Nicolas Otamendi.

Sergio Aguero had a goal ruled out for offside by VAR and even though City enjoyed the greater share of possession, United sealed a crucial win with McTominay's strike to take their unbeaten run to 10 games in all competitions. (BBC Sport)

UFC 248: Adesanya beats Romero to retain middleweight title

I

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srael Adesanya defended his middleweight title with a unanimous decision win over Olympic wrestling medallist Yoel Romero at UFC 248 in Las Vegas.

In a cagey, tactical contest that lacked the excitement many fans anticipated, Nigeria-born New Zealander Adesanya, 30, peppered the 42-year-old Cuban with powerful leg kicks to take victory on the scorecards.

The bout started almost at a complete standstill, with Romero static in the middle of the octagon, holding a high guard.

The Sydney 2000 freestyle wrestling silver medallist's bizarre style clearly puzzled Adesanya, who struggled to find any openings through the first two rounds.

Adesanya found more rhythm in the second half of the fight, however, scoring consistently with powerful kicks to Romero's lead leg.

Romero's attacks were few and far between, and the judges' scorecards read 48-47, 48-47, 49-46 as Adesanya negotiated his first title defence since winning the belt against Australian Robert Whittaker in Melbourne last year.

His performance did little to satisfy the crowd, who booed for long spells of the fight.

With fans jeering his post-fight interview, Adesanya said: "It was a hard fight but, cliche, I did what I had to do. I picked him apart. The legs don't lie.

"He plays the game in lulls. He tries to get you into a false sense of security. My coaches said I need 25 minutes of sharpness, but it's hard to engage with someone who doesn't want to dance. I touched him up. And still."

Asked whether he had any concerns about the judges potentially scoring the fight for Romero, Adesanya said: "As long as they didn't listen to the crowd, I was fine."

A frustrated Romero was cheered by the crowd after the fight and, pointing to the fans, claimed "this is my victory" before criticising Adesanya for not engaging with him during the fight.

"He was running and running and running.

That's not a champion," Romero said.

"The people pay because they want to see a good fight. Not this. You need to respect the people. They pay for a fight, not for running."

Weili retains title in a fight for the ages In the night's co-main event, China's Zhang Weili retained the women's strawweight title with a thrilling points win over with former champion Joanna Jedrzejczyk.

In a fight contested at an incredible pace from start to finish, 30-year-old Weili started slightly faster, but the five-round experience of former champion Jedrzejczyk, 32, helped her come on strong in the third and fourth.

They threw everything at each other in a blistering fifth round. A huge left hook from Weili appeared to break Jedrzejczyk's nose, while a big shot from the Pole seemed to briefly wobble Weili.

One judge scored the contest 48-47 to Jedrzejczyk, but the other two scored it 48-47 for Weili, who cemented her spot as the world's top 115lb female fighter after a bout that will live long in the memory. (BBC Sport)

22

MONDAY, MARCH 9, 2020

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

GCB/Superbet Senior Female Inter-County Tournament…

Gajnabi, Millington lead Berbice to championship win ꟷ Essequibo register 4-wicket win over U-19s

35 and recording their major score. Player of the match, Nathaly Chaitram, bagged 4-6 in four overs.

In reply, Essequibo ended on 61-6 made in 21.5 overs.

Despite Nivena Ramnauth's 4-14, Essequibo ended the match as victors, with Khemwattie Tulshi scoring an unbeaten 13 and extras contributing 25 to their victory. At the presentation ceremony done at GCC Bourda, GCB Secretary

W

est Indies female player and Berbice captain, Shabika Gajnabi, together with ‘player of the match’ Plaffiana Millington, led Berbice to a championship win in the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB)/ Superbet Senior Female Inter-County Tournament.

Watched by a fair-sized crowd that included West Indies players Shemaine Campbelle and Cherry-Ann Fraser, Berbice cruised to a seven-wicket win over Demerara at GCC, Bourda.

Demerara won the toss and batted first. They were restricted to 104 all out in 41.4 overs, as Latoya Smith, with 49, was the only one who registered double figures for Demerara.

Millington grabbed 4-14 in 7.4 brilliant overs, which included three maidens. Leftarm spinner Dian Prahalad, who had taken five in the previous round, claimed 2-28 in this encounter. Veteran seamers Erva Giddings (2-19) and Tremayne Smartt (1-30) completed a collective bowling effort.

Responding, the Berbice first round double-centurion Shabika Gajnabi produced another batting masterclass when she recorded an unbeaten 52 that included three

Shabika Gajnabi

fours and one six. The righthander was supported by Smartt with an unbeaten 24 as Berbice ended victorious on 105-3 in 21 overs.

Kaysia Schultz, Mandy Mangru and Akaze Thompson each took one

wicket for Demerara.

In the other fixture at Enmore, Essequibo registered a four-wicket win against the Guyana Select U-19 team. Batting first, the Select U-19 were bowled out for 60 in 20.4 overs, with ex-

Player of the Match Plaffianna Millington bowls during her 4-wicket haul (Brandon Corlette photo)

tras contributing a whopping

WICB Regional 4-Day Championships…

Red Force, Hurricanes record wins T

rinidad and Tobago Red Force and the Windward Islands Hurricanes were the only two teams to record wins in the latest round of the West Indies Cricket Board’s Regional 4-Day Championships which concluded on Sunday.

The host side, Red Force, won a match against tournament leaders Barbados Pride by a commanding 148 runs in Tarouba, while Hurricanes squeezed past the improving Jamaica Scorpions by two wickets in Grenada.

Red Force batted first and posting 239 in their first innings, to which the Pride replied with 260. With a deficit of 21 runs, the Red Force posted a massive 350 all out in the second innings to set the Pride a target of 330 for victory.

And a disciplined bowling effort by the home side restricted the Pride to 182 on the final day, to enable Red Force to claim victory.

Red Force’s 1st innings was powered by Joshua Da Silva’s 77 and a resistant knock of 40 from Kyle Mayers at the top of the order; while Chemar Holder led with 4–68 and got support from Mayers (3-39) and Kevin Stoute (3–30) for the Pride.

Shane Dowrich and Ashley Nurse were the main contributors to Pride’s first innings lead. Dowrich narrowly missed out on a century when he was dismissed for 96, while Nurse made a

fighting 81 batting down the order.

Force’s Anderson Phillip claimed 6–59, while Uthman Muhammad, Bryan Charles and Imran Khan supported with a wicket each.

Hope and Jason Mohammed then took control of the match on the penultimate day. Hope applied a bit more focus in the second innings, and got to 67 as he featured in a partnership with Mohammed, who scored an unbeaten 115.

Akeal Hosein stuck around with Mohammed to ensure he reached the landmark. Hosein struck 55 runs from 52 deliveries to help solidify his team’s chances of a triumph. Nurse then led the bowling for Barbados with 4–72.

Muhammad and Hosein returned to wreck the Pride’s plans on the final day. Muhammed claimed 4–28, while Hosein bagged 3–44, and Khan supported with 2–46. Kraigg Brathwaite (36), Mayers (40), Stoute (33) and Holder (34 not out) all tried valiantly, but the task was too huge.

Hurricanes snatch victory from the Scorpions

In another shocking turn of events, Hurricanes put on a sterling performance to turn the tide on the Scorpions.

Scorpions posted a dominant first

innings score of 381, compliments of centuries from Nkrumah Bonner (135), and Paul Palmer who was left unbeaten on 114, and a resistant innings of 68 from Jermaine Blackwood.

These three batsmen stood firm as Preston McSween claimed 6–64.

In reply, Devon Smith (72) and Keron Cottoy (48 not out) led the way, but Hurricanes only reached 217, which meant they trailed by 164 runs going into the other half of the showdown. Marquino Mindley had 4–48 and Jamie Merchant bagged 3–36 for the Jamaicans.

Then, in one of the biggest batting collapses of the season, Jamaica were bowled out for 60, which tallied with their lead, to accumulate 224.

McSween had 3–23, Ryan John had 4–26 and Kenneth Dember claimed 3–9.

Needing 225 for victory, Hurricanes’ middle order played well to shepherd the squad over the line by two wickets on the final day.

Andre Fletcher top scored with a watchful 71, while Sunil Ambris supported with 56. Scores of 24, 22 and 21 came from Cottoy, Emmanuel Stewart and Kaveem Hodge respectively.

The next round commences on Thursday, March 12, as Guyana Jaguars host the Pride, Red Force host the Hurricanes, and Volcanoes tackle the Scorpions.

Anand Sanasie and Superbet Marketing Assistant Nickoli Primo expressed delight with the show put on by the ladies.

Superbet will be branding the Regional team that would play in the tournament later this month in Guyana. The Guyana Senior Team will be announced shortly, and West Indies Women's Assistant Coach Rayon Griffith is set to take charge. (Brandon Corlette)

We are profoundly disgusted at this decision Dear Sir, We at the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) would like to register our profound disgust over the stopping of our two West Indies female players from playing in the Superbet Female Inter-County Tournament.

Last Saturday, we submitted the names of our fourteen-member squad to the GCB, and also clearly stated that the two players -- Shemaine Campbelle and Sheneta Grimmond -- would join the team once they return from playing for the West Indies in the World Cup. This was done on the advice of a senior employee of the GCB after I had personally sought clarification on the eligibility of the players. The advice was that the players were on West Indies duties, and the policy, over the decades, was that they could play.

The BCB was in regular contact with the players, who indicated their willingness to play, as they were totally dedicated to Berbice Cricket.

To our great shock, our manager, Ms Angela Haniff, on the eve of the match, received a phone call from an employee of the board (GCB), informing her that the two West Indies players cannot play. No reason was given for this strange decision.

The BCB is shocked that the GCB would stop two of Guyana’s best female players from playing in the only tournament that it

hosts for females. Surely, Campbelle and Grimmond would improve the standard of the tournament, and also attract more spectators to the venue.

We also find it very alarming that the GCB employee who conveyed the shocking message is a player/ manager of the Demerara team, our opponents in the crucial final match. It is the view of the BCB that the players were stopped from playing to prevent us from winning the title.

The girls were not on a personal vacation, nor were they having fun; they were representing the West Indies at the highest level. Surely, the Guyana Cricket Board would not refuse to consider the selection of Romario Shepherd and Shimron Hetmyer after they return home from West Indies duties.

We would also like to know if the presence of our best players, once they are available, would not be a boost for the tournament and the sponsor. I would be very surprised if any sponsor would object to the presence of two West Indies players in their tournament.

As a matter of concern, we would be copying this letter to the President of Cricket West Indies; WIPA; members of the media; and to the sponsor, Superbet.

Respectfully, Hilbert Foster, MS President - BCB

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

MONDAY, MARCH 9, 2020

23

CWI/PCL Regional 4-Day Championships…

Bramble, Johnson hit halfcenturies to resist Volcanoes

Story and Photos by Brandon Corlette

T

he Guyana Jaguars and the Leeward Islands Volcanoes played to a draw on the fourth and final day of their seventh-round clash in the CWI/PCL Regional 4-Day Championships at the Guyana National Stadium at Providence.

Anthony Bramble (69) and Leon Johnson (63) each scored a half-century to see the Jaguars declaring on 228-8 after posting a

Captain Marvel, Leon Johnson reaches his 50, which means he has 460 runs this season

110-run lead. Hurricanes were then required to post 111 from 12 overs for the victory, but the match ended with the visitors on 33-1 when the overs expired.

Hurricanes had earlier resumed play on the final day on 3557, with a 94-run lead. Raymon Reifer got the first breakthrough of the morning when he removed Jeremiah Louis for 11 with the score at 264-8.

Sheeno Berridge was sidelined with an injury, which meant

SCOREBOARD Jaguars 1st Innings 261 all out Hurricanes 1st Innings 378-9 Montcin Hodge c Bramble b Reifer 98 Kieran Powell b Permaul 13 Ross Powell lbw b Sinclair 6 Amir Jangoo lbw b Permaul 90 Kacey Carty c Johnson b Reifer 22 Jahmar Hamilton b Permaul 67 Terance Ward c Bramble b Moti-Kanhai 21 Rahkeem Cornwall not out 19 Jeremiah Louis c MotiKanhai b Reifer 11 Kian Pemberton (LHB) lbw b Permaul 0 Sheeno Berridge (RHB) injured Total (9 wickets, 149.0) (31 extras) 378 FOW: 26/1 (12.6) Kieran Powell 40/2 (19.1) Ross Powell 211/3 (104.4) Amir Jangoo 244/4 (109.6) Kacey Carty 262/5 (115.3) Montcin Hodge 346/6 (139.2) Jahmar Hamilton 349/7 (140.1) Terance Ward 364/8 (145.2) Jeremiah Louis 378/9 (148.6) Kian Pemberton Bowling Nial Smith (22-8-43-0) Raymon Reifer (26-6-83-3) Veerasammy Permaul (45-16-98-4) Kevin Sinclair (24-3-63-1) Gudakesh Motie (24-5-56-1) Christopher Barnwell (8-0-24-0) Jaguars 2nd Innings 228-8 dec Tagenarine Chanderpaul lbw

b Cornwall 4 Tevin Imlach c b Cornwall 0 Vishaul Singh lbw b Cornwall 17 Leon Johnson c Hamilton b Carty 63 Christopher Barnwell c Hamilton b Pemberton 40 Anthony Bramble c Ward b Carty 69 Raymon Reifer not out 13 Kevin Sinclair b Ward 8 Veerasammy Permaul c Ward b Louis 2 Total (8 wickets, 76.1) (12 extras) 228 FOW: 1/1 (0.4) Tevin Imlach 23/2 (10.6) Tagenarine Chanderpaul 24/3 (12.2) Vishaul Singh 97/4 (33.2) Christopher Barnwell 194/5 (59.3) Anthony Bramble 207/6 (67.1) 225/7 (74.5) Kevin Sinclair 228/8 (75.5) Veerasammy Permaul Bowling Rahkeem Cornwall (32.2-3-99-3) Jeremiah Louis (7.5-1-24-1) Kian Pemberton (10-0-32-1) Terance Ward (15-1-43-1) Kacey Carty (11-1-28-2) Hurricanes 2nd Innings Hodge lbw Smith 10 K Powell R Powell Total FOW: 25-1 Hodge Bowling Reifer Smith

Jaguars required just nine wickets to close the innings. Veerasammy Permaul capped off the innings with his fourth wicket when he trapped Kian Pemberton for a duck.

The Hurricanes unit had a lead of 117 runs, and Permaul ended with 4-98 while Reifer had 3-83. Gudakesh Motie, who picked up his 100th first class wicket on day three, ended with 1-63.

In reply, Rahkeem Cornwall took matters into his own hands by removing the first three Jaguars batsmen. He bowled Tevin Imlach for a second time in the match, this time for a golden duck; and it quickly became 21-2 when Tagenarine Chanderpaul failed again, scoring just four from 40 balls before being trapped by his nemesis Cornwall. Vishaul Singh, another legbefore victim, fell to the same bowler for 17, with the score at 243. Senior batsmen Leon Johnson and Christopher Barnwell joined forces and took the score to 72-3 at lunch without further hiccups.

But after the lunch interval, the pugnacious Barnwell was caught behind for 40 off Pemberton, ending a 73-run partnership with the close of his innings, which had spanned 79 minutes and lasted for 61 balls.

Anthony Bramble and Johnson then played some delightful shots, with Bramble in particular being brutal in his batting. The duo took advantage of the below-par Hurricanes’ fielding to see the Jaguars reach tea at 181-4.

Johnson reached his fifty in 110 balls after batting for 147 minutes, but looking set for a big score, he was removed for an eye-catching 63 from 141 balls, which included ten fours. Johnson’s

run-tally this season now stands at 460.

Bramble reached his milestone half-century with back-toback boundaries after facing 68 deliveries over the course of 82 minutes, and departed with Jaguars on 207-6. The wicket-keeper/ batsman’s 111-ball 69 included eight fours.

Kevin Sinclair, who continued a poor run of form with the bat at this level, made eight runs, while Reifer remained unbeaten on 11.

Permaul's wicket was taken with the score at 228-8 in 75.5 overs, after which the Jaguars declared with a lead of 110.

Bowling for Hurricanes in the second innings, Cornwall ended with 3-99 in 32 overs, while medium-pacer Keacy Carty had 2-28 in his 11 overs.

The Jaguars’ declaration meant the Hurricanes required 111 from the final 12 overs; but as the Jaguars, with their seamers, sought to make inroads into the Hurricanes’ batting lineup with the intention to score extra points, Hurricanes openers Montcin Hodge and Kieran Powell stood their ground in firm defiance of the figurative felines.

That was until Nial Smith got the breakthrough. He trapped Hodge at the crease for 10, with the score at 25-1. Kieran was not out on 12, while Ross Powell ended on five.

Jaguars will play their next match against Barbados Pride, who suffered a 148-run defeat against Red Force. The Pride/ Jaguars clash will be a day/night encounter that commences each day at 14:00h over the period March 12-15 at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence.

MONDAY, MARCH 9, 2020

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GCB/Superbet Senior Female Inter-County Tournament…

Gajnabi, Millington lead Berbice to championship win Page 22

ꟷ Essequibo register 4-wicket win over U-19s

Page 20

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