Guyana Times Saturday February 22, 2020

P15

Hindus observe Maha Shivaratri Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana guyanatimesgy.com

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Issue No. 4204

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2020

PRICE

Reducing polling places

WHAT'S INSIDE:

GECOM Chair denies intent to suppress, frustrate voting

2018 piracy attacks

Hundreds of boats at sea with P16 unlicensed captains …attack originated “in a turf war over fishing grounds” – CoI report

See stories on pages 5 and 7

…Former AG provides evidence of skewed configuration by GECOM FESTIVAL CITY

FESTIVAL CITY MUNICPAL DAY CARE CENTRE

FESTIVAL CITY

WHARTON'S RESIDENCE

NORTH RUIMVELDT

HUMPHREY'S RESIDENCE

NORTH RUIMVELDT

GREENE'S RESIDENCE

NORTH RUIMVELDT

GODDARD'S RESIDENCE

NORTH RUIMVELDT

BENJAMIN'S RESIDENCE

NORTH RUIMVELDT

ROBERT WEEKES' RESIDENCE

NORTH RUIMVELDT

BRANDIS' RESIDENCE

FRANCES FRANKLIN'S RESIDENCE

NORTH RUIMVELDT

POLLY'S NURSERY SCHOOL

NANDA SINGH'S RESIDENCE

NORTH RUIMVELDT

POLLY'S NURSERY SCHOOL

GOLDEN GROVE

NEW GOLDEN GROVE PRIMARY

GOLDEN GROVE

MOLLY BOBBSEMPLE'S RESIDENCE

GOLDEN GROVE

TRACEY MATTHEW'S RESIDENCE

GOLDEN GROVE

CHRISTOPHER CAMPBELL'S RESIDENCE

GOLDEN GROVE

CHRISTOPHER CAMPBELL'S RESIDENCE

GOLDEN GROVE

GRACE PENTICOSTAL HOLINESS CHURCH

GOLDEN GROVE

GRACE PENTICOSTAL HOLINESS CHURCH

GOLDEN GROVE GOLDEN GROVE

…resolve possibly “discriminating”, “disenfranchising” decision – PSC

Stakeholders declare “smooth process” of Joint Services voting Page 3

…as PPP/C polling agent left stranded by GECOM …unable to observe Mazaruni polling process

Using State resources for campaigning “an advantage of incumbency” – Ramjattan admits Page 14

$80 VAT INCLUDED

6 Haitians, 3 Cubans P10 deported from Guyana Businesswoman found guilty of 2017 narcotrafficking P8 charge

Several roads closed for P15 flag-raising ceremony Vigilante beating

Suspected thief beaten by publicspirited P17 persons Bandits beat pensioner, P7 shotgun stolen during home invasion

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SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS

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

Saturday, February 22 – 04:00h – 05:30h and 14:30h – 16:00h and Sunday, February 23 – 05:30h – 07:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Saturday, February 22 – 16:00h – 17:30h and Sunday, February 23 – 16:35h – 18:05h.

Stakeholders declare “smooth process” of Joint Services voting …as PPP/C polling agent left stranded by GECOM …unable to observe Mazaruni polling process

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY Sunshine will prevail throughout the day. There will be partly cloudy skies at night. Temperatures should range between 22 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius.

Winds: North-Easterly to East North-Easterly between 1.34 metres and 4.47 metres.

High Tide: 03:59h and 16:12h reaching maximum heights of 2.39 metres and 2.52 metres.

Low Tide: 09:46h and 22:10h reaching minimum heights of 0.81 metre and 0.68 metre.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2020

LOTTERY NUMBERS H

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FREE TICKET

Bonus Ball

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2020

DAILY MILLIONS

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LUCKY 3

1

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5

9

Afternoon Draw

7

1

Evening Draw

DRAW DE LINE

03

04

08

10

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20

PAY DAY

SUPER PAY DAY

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2020

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

COMMODITIES Indicators

US$

Crude Oil Rough Rice London Sugar

$59.31/barrel $241.20ton $423.00/ton

Live Spot Gold Bid/Ask Low/High Change

Change %

$1643.00 $1625.30 0.00

+0.32 -0.26 0.00

USD Per Ounce $1644.00 $1650.10 0.00%

Chief-of-Staff Brigadier Patrick West

F

rom the break of dawn, thousands of security officials from across the entire country began preparations to cast their votes for political leaders they believe should govern Guyana.

Ten days ahead of the General and Regional Elections, the members of the Joint Services on Friday turned out in large numbers at their various polling stations to exercise their franchise, in what was described as a “smooth process” by many.

At the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Base Camp Ayanganna, hundreds of soldiers flocked the various polling places located in the vast compound at the open of polls at 06:00h.

Among the first to cast their ballots was Chief-of-

Staff Brigadier Patrick West, who noted that close to 3000 ranks will be voting at various camps countrywide.

“These soldiers are required to vote for the candidate of his or her choice,” Brigadier West told reporters who were on scene to observe the process.

Political appeal

According to the Army Chief, any political party can appeal for the vote of the Joint Services, but it will be up to the individual members to make their own choice.

His remarks come in light of appeals by the two main political parties which, on the eve of the Joint Services voting, pleaded their cases to this sector of electors.

“Anybody could appeal to any citizens, at the end of

Police Commissioner Leslie James

Prison Director (acting) Gladwin Samuels

the day, we are all citizens of Guyana and we will all have those choices to make, now and in the future,” the Army Chief explained.

“I don’t see anything wrong with political leaders sharing from their platforms, their own intentions about what they will do for Guyana. People will have to judge based upon the history of their own lives and the desires of themselves and their families and for a better nation and make those correct decisions,” the Chief-of-Staff added.

ing process of the Disciplined Services – a move which was criticised by a Commissioner of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM).

At his first stop, the GDF Headquarters, the A Partnership for National Unity Leader stepped out of his vehicle clad in a bright green shirt – the colour associated with his political party.

GECOM Commissioner Robeson Benn, who had also just arrived to observe the activities, remarked: “you look like you’re campaigning”.

In a subsequent interview with media operatives, President Granger was asked about his decision to wear a party colour to observe the voting of the Disciplined Services.

Political influence

Interestingly, President David Granger, who is seeking re-election at the upcoming polls, decked out in his party colour to observe the vot-

TURN TO PAGE 7

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SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 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

City Hall’s restoration

T

he nation was told earlier this week that over one billion dollars is needed to restore City Hall to make it into a modern structure. As it currently stands, the building is in a terrible state, almost to the point of being an eyesore in the centre of the city. The Georgetown Mayor and City Council (M&CC) has since officially launched its Comprehensive Restoration and Sustainable Conservation Management Plan, which, so far, was kick-started with its first donation of some five million dollars.

The restoration fund is one whereby members of the public and businesses are encouraged to donate monies towards the rehabilitation for the 19th-century building. It could be recalled that a subcommittee was established some time ago to speed up the reconstruction process of City Hall to its former glory. The committee included representatives from the Mayor and City Council, the Tourism Authority, Chambers of Commerce and other Private Sector organisations.

In 2018, the European Union had partnered with the National Trust of Guyana and hosted a two-day stakeholder’s workshop to commence talks for sustainable and comprehensive plans for the restoration of City Hall.

Stemming from the workshop, a Comprehensive Restoration and Sustainable Conservation Management Plan was presented to the Social Cohesion Minister in July 2018.

At the time of the study, the restoration of the building was slated to cost around G$400 million but to date, that amount has increased to over G$1 billion. Key findings indicated that City Hall can be restored in single or multiple phases, and that income can be generated for commercial purposes such as a gallery or museum. It was also suggested that its use, as the seat of the City Council, should be retained and a maintenance and repair programme must be implemented and adhered to.

While we are encouraged by the fact that the fund was launched and there now seems to be some serious steps in relation to ensuring that City Hall is restored, it is clear that the building was deliberately left to deteriorate to the level it now is, for years, by those who were tasked with running the affairs of the city. There is simply no excuse for allowing this historic building to deteriorate to the state it is presently, in spite of the city collecting millions in taxes.

The present Mayor is now appealing to the public for donations to help in the restoration of the building and has since given all assurances that steps will be taken to ensure that the monies are spent in an accountable and transparent manner. He also indicated that there will be strict auditing in this regard, but due to City Hall’s history in terms of managing its finances and providing accountability, it is still left to be seen if this will actually happen.

In the past, several letter-writers, commentators and politicians had called for the Government to commission a forensic audit regarding the operations of the Council in the interest of ensuring transparency and accountability. In addition to the parking meters scheme, there were several other projects which the City undertook that had caused stakeholders to ask questions.

For example, not long after the coalition government took office, the M&CC in collaboration with the APNU/AFC Government embarked on a massive city-wide clean-up campaign in Georgetown and its environs. While these efforts produced fairly good results regarding the general appearance of the city and its environs, the political Opposition and other stakeholders had raised several questions in relation to the contracts awarded to carry out the works. The perception was that friends and party supporters were the main beneficiaries.

We had stated before that there is much to be explained by past officials who were tasked with managing the affairs of the Council. To date, there are many questions which remain unanswered; this, in effect, means that the present Administration would have much work to do to rebuild credibility and trust in the work of the Council. Managing the restoration project funds and ensuring the successful implementation of the project is a good test.

Members of staff of QAII in their cultural attire on Friday in observance on Guyana’s 50th Republic Anniversary, commonly called Mashramani, which will be celebrated on Sunday

New beginnings Dear Editor, General Elections are now very near. Given the troubled history of elections and their aftermaths in Guyana, Guyanese at home and abroad may be worrying. I share their concern and I make a call for all to keep the peace. There should be a firm commitment not to resort to violence.

A number of new parties have sprung up. That can only be good for democracy, so I wish them well.

However, the trend so far has been that, come Election Day, mini-parties evaporate like drops of water on a hot ‘tawa’. Will that pattern hold? We will soon find out.

The elections might not be perfect but should be free and fair. No cheating. The will of the people must be respected. On all sides, there are good, well-meaning and patriotic people. Inevitably, one side will win and the other will lose. There will be jubilation on one side and disappointment on the other. That’s the way it is.

The coalition has support, no doubt, but, from what I can see, the PPP has the momentum and is poised to return to power.

Should there be a change of Government, all parties need to accept that graciously.

The ABC countries, Europe, the Commonwealth and the Caribbean should assist and encourage Guyana, not only with the elections but, in the event of a change, to facili-

tate a peaceful and smooth transfer of power.

There have been calls for constitutional reform. Some time ago, former Attorney General Mr Anil Nandlall, one of Guyana’s leading lawyers, stated that, given the many changes made to the Constitution, it can no longer properly be described as the 1980 Burnham Constitution. He also stated that, while there is room for further improvement, the issue is not so much constitutional reform as it is constitutional compliance – or words to that effect.

I agree. How do you legislate integrity? How do you legislate conscience and the human heart?

After a valid and successful No-Confidence Motion, the current caretaker Administration has clung to power for over a year. I know of no precedent for that. The regime, therefore, qualifies for a place in the Guinness Book of World Records.

Some advice for whoever wins. Do not discriminate. Do not witchhunt your political opponents.

Take the road less travelled; treat them with kindness.

Guyanese do not elect kings, they elect servant-presidents. It is a sacred trust.

Be humble and be honest.

Remember, “Who steals my purse steals trash…”

Governing a plural, multicultural country like Guyana requires fairness, inclusiveness, empathy, sen-

sitivity and a high level of emotional intelligence. Have a ‘Guyana First’ outlook.

From the time you form the new Government, be mindful of the next election. Do not squander the goodwill of the electorate; it is your political capital. Actions and policies which please the citizens and make their lives better increase that capital.

Actions and policies which are wrong and make their lives harder deplete that capital. Listen to the public. There is at least one big suggestion box. It is called “Letters to the Editor”. Read those and, where valid and doable, take criticisms and suggestions onboard. Freely acknowledge and give credit to the originators of ideas and suggestions, and act on them.

You can even have a public “problem, solution” programme, in which citizens would identify a problem, suggest the solution and work with the Government to solve it. In this way, there would be ‘co-governance’ with the entire electorate, including – indeed, especially – those who did not vote for you. Do not tax people to death and spend like there is no tomorrow.

Do not overburden the country with loans and do not deplete the treasury. Diversify the economy. It is good that oil revenue is on its way but Guyana is basically an agricultural country.

Use most of the oil mon-

ey to uplift the poor. Be firm on crime, even severe when warranted.

Create an Internal Security Force (ISF) with Police powers; village-based and staffed by paid professionals as well as volunteers. Domestic abuse and violence are huge and serious issues.

Build at least one women’s shelter in each county, staffed by qualified personnel and made secure by guards. Televise the first half-hour of your first Cabinet meeting. Let us hear the President laying out his vision and telling his Cabinet Ministers what he expects of them. Live stream it. So what if this has never been done in the Caribbean and further afield? Think outside the box! Keep cricket (of course!) and bring baseball to Guyana. Do not spurn the Guyanese diaspora. Welcome them.

I cannot close without mentioning a young, bright and rising star; Susan Rodrigues, host of the “Making the case” TV programme. Her parents must be so proud of her. In my opinion, she has the makings of a future President of Guyana. For now, it is Dr Ali’s turn.

We only occupy these human bodies for a short while.

While we are in them, let us do the best we can.

Yours faithfully, Sieyf Shahabuddeen

NEWS

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SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Former AG provides evidence of skewed configuration by GECOM

F

ormer Attorney General, Anil Nandlall on Friday evening reiterated that the unfair, inequitable and discriminatory allocation of polling places puts the average People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) voter at a disadvantage and creates an advantage in favour of the average APNU/AFC voter.

In providing evidence for his statement, Nandlall released photo-

graphs of skewed configuration by Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM).

Giving examples, Nandlall stated that a random extract from GECOM’s List of Polling Places showing some polling places for Samantha Point/Caneville, East Bank Demerara, an APNU stronghold, shows a number of private residences and place of worship that have been used for a relatively small community.

In a second instance, an-

other random extract from GECOM’s List of Polling Places showing some polling places for Guyhoc Park, Greater Georgetown, another APNU stronghold, also shows a number of private residences that have been used for a relatively small community.

“A random extract from GECOM’s List of Polling Places showing some polling places for Festival City and North Ruimveldt, Greater Georgetown, another APNU

idence as another polling place in such close proximity? How many voters will be accommodated at these two polling places located one street away from the other?,” the former AG questioned.

He further questioned whether GECOM is telling the nation that in all of the above locations there is such a paucity of public places that so many private residences have to be used.

“Compare all the above with Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara, a PPP stronghold

stronghold. You will note the number of private residences that have been used as polling places,” Nandlall said as he refuted GECOM Chair, retired Justice Claudette Singh’s claim that GECOM is not attempting to frustrate and suppress voters on Elections Day by reducing the number of polling places.

Nandlall added that a private residence at Duncan Street, Georgetown, and in another instance, a branch

This is preposterous

Dear Editor, He couldn’t care less that the media would be there to capture the moment where an incumbent President would turn up at the place of poll as an observer. Granger turns up at the polling station boldly decked in his party colour to do what? “Observe” the voting process.

To observe what may I ask?! This is not the time nor place for that and may I add this is not his first election. He has seen so many be-

fore this one, so why must the President of this country go to a polling place, what is he doing there? If this is not putting a seal on his dictatorship, something we commonly see in those backward, undemocratic countries, then tell me what is?

With his actions, Guyana under Granger has finally taken a turn for the worse and I hasten to say we need no more to see as to the intents of this man. He was not there as he claims as a “common observ-

er” far from it, Granger was there to try and intimidate the Joint Services men and women to vote for him. Mr Benn rightly informed him that he was out there to campaign.

This latest move by Granger was an open display of his autocratic, lowdown bullyism nature and if this behaviour is not curbed in time, then it would morph into an IDI Amin type dictatorship there is nothing stopping him from achieving that end. I am saying if nothing is done to

stop this man, the backwardness that enveloped Uganda would certainly be our portion.

Granger has to know his place, and doing so can only come through international pressure and of course through the ballot box.

I hope the international community is taking note of this and sends that strongest of condemnatory statements.

Dear Editor, As teachers, we get involved in so many issues which include parents and children, unlike any other jobs. Each day, we see a ton of behaviours we would hate to see repeating in the lives of children, including our very own children. Some parents make me wonder if parents see themselves from another’s perspective because I hope when I become one, I do better!

Teachers are not perfect, but trust me, each day, they are trying hard enough to make a difference in your children’s lives from fixing

their rude behaviours, ill manners, wrongdoings and disrespectful ways to trying to curb it from reoccurring.

If your children cannot obey teachers, do you think they obey you?

“Yes, mommy”, “Yes, daddy” does not mean your children obey you.

Why? When they disrespect others outside of the home, they have little respect for you too. Why? You disrespect others outside of the home, so why should they?

If your children come home and tell you everything that happens in school, would that mean they tell

you the truth about themselves and when they’re wrong too? Very few. Really well-trained kids.

Now, you know what puzzles me? If parents actually know that their children learn from them more than they learn from anyone else in their surroundings and this means when they behave like they’re illiterate (violent) too. Do they know?

I’m not venting. I’m wondering if parents know that their bad behaviours can impact a child’s future.

In fact, when we see big people being jailed, we feel sorry for them sometimes,

but do we know that our big people, once children, would’ve probably seen how their elders reacted in anger and now react in the same way?

Is that the aim for the future generations?

Shouldn’t we think for ourselves and stop pointing fingers at others?

Let’s become aware!

Parents are children’s biggest role models!

We are fools if we do not realise the future generation will follow in our footsteps.

Respectfully, Neil Adams

Parents are children’s biggest role models!

Sincerely, Mohanie Persaud

of the Office of the Ministry of Presidency located at Barima Avenue, Bel Air Park, less than a stone’s throw away from the private residence is being used.

“Should a Ministry of the Presidency Office be used as a polling place in the first place? If it is considered a proper public place for polling, why use a private res-

where seven thousand (7000) voters are required to vote at two (2) schools located in the same compound and where GECOM has refused to use any private residences (or places of worship), although nine (9) private residences were used in 2015, without a singular complaint,” Nandlall said.

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SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2020

Page

By Kathy McCoy, PhD CONTINUED FROM FRIDAY

Embrace the ways that you are similar

E

ven though you and your siblings may lead very different lives, being aware of the traits and opinions and tastes you do share can enhance your time together.

It may be favourite foods or old stories or family jokes. It may be shared values or beliefs.

Celebrate this longest relationship of your life

While a strong and loving marriage is a special blessing and joy in one’s life and the love for one’s child is truly life-changing, the longest relationships one is likely to have in life will be with siblings.

This longest relationship can have its challenging times — when you disagree over important family decisions or get on each other’s nerves or will a reluctant sibling to make changes you see as potentially life-enhancing.

These longest relationships may or may not be the happiest or most intimate ones in your life. But, with care, with love and respect, they can be uniquely wonderful.

A brother or sister knows, unlike anyone else, exactly what life was like for you in

Foundation your formative years. A sibling shares a history that predates by decades the life story you have built with your spouse and own children.

Though your sibling relationships may have become less intense with time and distance, t h e r e still can be that wonderful sense of picking up where you left off, a feeling of safety, a

unique camaraderie when you do get together. There may be those moments, reminiscent of childhood, with emotional pinching, tussling and teasing. But the times of understanding each other’s lifelong challenges and celebrating each other’s triumphs are truly priceless.

Remember: Be the first

to reach out. This may mean being the first to apologise (even if you feel your sibling should be the one to apologise first!) It may mean being the first to say “I would like us to be closer.”

We have no control over whether or when a sibling will reach out to us or change his or her behaviour.

So, rather than waiting until a sibling changes try initiating change in your own way and your own time.

(Excerpt from psychologytoday.com)

…a music activity for kids using music as an art prompt

A brother or sister knows, unlike anyone else, exactly what life was like for you in your formative years.

A sibling shares a history that predates by decades the life story you have built with your spouse and own children.

C

Step one: Notice sound

lose your eyes or use an eye pillow or blindfold. Once everyone is ready (sitting or lying down in a comfortable position, eyes covered, breathing deeply), listen for a full minute to your surroundings – this can feel like a LONG time, but try and stick it out. At the end of a minute, write down what sounds you heard.

Step two: Now try some intentional music listening

Now that you’ve warmed up your ears, try the same thing (focus on listening, get comfortable, breathe deeply), except this time, select a short piece of music or a few short sections (1-2 minutes) of a longer piece of music, for example a stanza of the National Anthem or any national song.

Before you start the music listening activity, set out some simple drawing or painting materials on a nearby work surface. Paper + markers, coloured pencils, crayons, pastels, watercolour paints; whatever you have available!

Now that you have your music selected and your art materials set out and ready to go, you’re ready to get listening!

How to listen

Listen one time all the way through the segment silently. Then, listen a second time and at the end of the second time, write down what you noticed.

Step Three: Respond with art!

When you’re ready to move on to the art-making component, listen one final time and respond through art while playing the music again.

Helpful questions to ask yourself: what colours the music made you think of, did it seemed smooth and flowing or short and choppy, loud or soft, and demonstrate some lines or marks that follow the flow or feel of the music.

Step Four: Wrap it up!

Share your picture and say a little about what you were thinking about or noticing while you were listening.

Happy listening and art-making! (Adapted from artfulparent.com)

NEWS

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SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Reducing polling places

GECOM Chair denies intent to suppress, frustrate voting …process must be easy not harder – Irfaan Ali …resolve possibly “discriminating”, “disenfranchising” decision – PSC

PPP/C Presidential Candidate Irfaan Ali and Chief Elections Scrutineer Zulfikar Mustapha

C

hairperson of the Guyana Elections C o m m i s s i o n (GECOM), retired Justice Claudette Singh has dismissed claims by the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) that the Commission is attempting to frustrate and suppress voters on Elections Day by reducing the number of polling places.

In a statement on Thursday, the PPP/C pointed out that the reduction in the use of private residences, which is being implemented discriminately, will result in voters not only travelling distances to vote but will create confusion on Elections Day since many of the Polling Stations are placed within polling places that are cramped together at certain locations.

The party added too that many of the polling places that were removed are from within its strongholds and supporters are being forced to travel to polling places that are located within strongholds of other political parties.

However, when asked about these concerns raised by the PPP/C, Justice Singh on Friday explained that the use of private residences was reduced in accordance with recommendations made by foreign observers following the 2015 elections. She further pointed out that there was no reason to continue using private residences when there are public buildings available.

“It’s not that the Polling Stations are removed in the area, it’s just that private residences – they’re moving away from those… Why would you use private residences when you have a public place,” she contended during an interview on the sidelines of observing Friday’s voting process by the Joint Services.

According to the GECOM Chair, the concerns raised by the PPP will be looked into. However, when asked about PPP’s claims of suppressing voters, Justice Singh dismissed the accusation.

“Well I’m not aware of that at all. I’m aware that they’re using the public buildings… I don’t think [the voters will be at any disadvantage] but if there is any problem, I think it will be dealt with. It will be raised and it will be investigated,” the GECOM Chair surmised.

Meanwhile, Chief Elections Officer, Keith Lowenfield told reporters that of the 2339 Polling Stations, about 92 of them are private residences – a reduction from the amount used at the 2015 polls.

He noted that the Elections Secretariat is satisfied with the limited use of private residences at the upcoming elections, saying that the current locations tie into the ordinary mode of transport that electors utilise on a daily basis.

“Surprising” changes

However, Chief Elections Scrutineer of the PPP/C, Zulfikar Mustapha on Friday explained that the party was initially given a draft list of all the Polling Stations that were used in 2015, which it was generally satisfied with.

But it was only on Monday that GECOM forwarded the final list with the “surprising” changes. He said that the new list was only sent after the party had requested it.

Mustapha noted that the PPP/C is very concerned about the reduction of Polling Stations. He noted that the practice has been to use private residences where there are no public buildings as polling places. However, he pointed to Chesney in Canje, Berbice, where they have removed the use of all private residences despite there being no public buildings nearby.

“In the Local Government Elections, they have used a private residence to accommodate polling. However, this time around they have moved out from the area and moved the polling place to two miles away,” he noted.

The polling place for that area will be on the

GECOM Chair Justice Claudette Singh

Corentyne Public Road at an orphanage, which is privately-owned.

The PPP Chief Elections Scrutineer further drew attention to the situation in Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara, where the two polling places are two schools – primary and nursery – which are in the same compound.

“So all those 7000-plus voters will have to be accommodated in one compound, and the logistics there will be challenging.

Chaos and confusion will rain on Elections Day… So we still have to continue to represent this issue because it will have serious consequences for Elections Day,” he stated.

According to PPP/C Presidential Candidate, Dr Irfaan Ali, GECOM is supposed to ensure that the voting process is made easier for the electorate to exercise their franchise.

“You can’t make it more difficult for the electorate to exercise their franchise.

The system should make it easy for them… You have voters now [who] have to walk two miles before they get to the Polling Station,” he asserted.

Ali contended that removing Polling Stations from out of an area and putting it further away is a form of suppressing voters’ will because it will be harder for them to exercise their franchise.

Distanced

Meanwhile, Leader of the incumbent APNU/ AFC Coalition, David Granger, commenting on the concerns raised by the Opposition party, distanced his party’s role in the matter.

However, he recalled that during previous elections under the PPP Administration, there was the same situation.

But Ali rubbished the claim by Granger, saying that it is an excuse to deflect attention from the PPP/C’s concerns.

“This is the first time I’m hearing about that. In

all the elections, we’ve never heard any complaints from the PNC (People’s National Congress Reform – the leading party in the APNU fraction of the coalition) or any other party that contested those elections. So this is just an excuse. We’ve never heard but suddenly when this issue is raised, then he goes to that as a saving clause per se.

This was never raised before, why wasn’t it raised before if it was a problem,” Ali asserted.

The PPP/C Presidential Candidate went on to point out that it was GECOM’s responsibility to identify polling places and not the then PPP Administration.

“The Polling Stations

that were agreed on in the past, the Commission agreed on those Polling Stations and the political parties would’ve gone through all those Polling Stations and never objected to those residences. So that has no bearings, it is just an excuse and a lousy one,” Ali contended.

Discriminating

Meanwhile, the PSC in a statement on Friday evening said that it is concerned that the decision by GECOM to revise the number and location of polling places has invited complaints that these changes may have the effect of discriminating against and possibly disenfranchising a

APNU/AFC Leader David Granger

significant number of persons by making it difficult for them to vote by having to travel unreasonable distances or encountering overcrowded places of poll.

The Private Sector called upon the Chairman of GECOM to examine and resolve these complaints as a matter of urgency.

Bandits beat pensioner, shotgun stolen during home invasion

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shotgun was taken from a pensioner on Friday after he was beaten during a home invasion. A domestic worker was also bound during the invasion.

Reports are that between 08:00h and 10:00h on Friday, 73-year-old William Venkatasammi of Plot 8 Co-op Scheme, Tain Settlement, Corentyne, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne), was at home when he was approached by a man, who enquired whether he wanted his yard

weeded.

Venkatasammi contracted the man and went into the yard to give him instructions. However, the man, who posed as a ‘weeder’, immediately held the pensioner, placing the cutlass to his neck while his accomplice brandished a handgun.

The duo demanded cash and jewellery.

Venkatasammi along with his maid, who was identified as 38-year-old Janet Hasnoo, was taken to the upper flat of the house where they were bound and

placed in the living room as the duo ransacked the house in search of valuables.

During the ordeal, Hasnoo was beaten about her body. The men escaped with $200,000; US$300; TT$100, a cellular phone, one flat-screen television set, an electric grinder and the licensed 12-gauge shotgun along with over 80 live rounds of matching ammunition.

Police were notified immediately after the robbery and an investigation has been launched.

Stakeholders declare...

In response, the Presidential Candidate posited, “I have a lot of green shirts”. He had also stated that “I am a duly accredited agent” who is just there to observe the process.

N o n e t h e l e s s , Commissioner Benn told reporters that it was inappropriate to wear a party colour since it can be perceived as campaigning and trying to influence the process.

“Smooth process”

Over at the Guyana Police Force’s headquarters, some 2000 ranks were slated to vote there, but countrywide, over 6000 officers exercised their franchise.

For the Guyana Prison Service, some 480 officers voted.

Those members of the Disciplined Services who did not get to vote today will be able to do so on March 2 – when the rest of the country will head to the polls.

Both Police Commissioner Leslie James and Prisons Director (ag) Gladwin Samuels, in brief interactions

with the media, informed that the voting process went smoothly, timely, and efficiently, with no reports of hiccups.

The activities throughout the day were observed by various international observer missions including the European Union and the Carter Center.

Meanwhile, President Granger informed the media that he is satisfied with the arrangements made by GECOM to facilitate the voting on D-Day. “I inquired about the process, first of all, I was told that it was opened on time, polling starting on time…there were no glitches,” he said, adding that it was a “smooth process”.

GECOM Chairperson Retired Justice Claudette Singh agreed. “We saw the opening of the polling station at the Police Officers Mess, the Training School and everything was going very smoothly,” she had told reporters during a visit at the Brickdam Police Station.

Presidential Candidate of the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) Dr Irfaan

FROM PAGE 3

Ali also expressed that the process seemed to have progressed well throughout the day.

“Things seem to be going smoothly,” he too told reporters during a visit at the Brickdam Police Station in Georgetown.

No space

However, there was one issue which the PPP/C Presidential Candidate raised. He explained that one of the party’s polling agents, who was supposed to join a flight with a GECOM team to head to Mazaruni to observe the voting process there, was turned away due to “no space” being available.

“So, we have a situation there where polling is taking place without our polling agent there after being ejected from the flight by the officials.

They were supposed to make arraignments to take the polling agents,” Ali contended.

PPP/C’s Executive Secretary and Chief Elections Scrutineer Zulfikar Mustapha said he already wrote GECOM on this matter.

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SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Businesswoman found guilty of 2017 narco-trafficking charge

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ore than two years after being slapped with a charge of cocaine trafficking, a Lodge, Georgetown businesswoman, Joy Jacqueline Caines, was on Friday found guilty

by Magistrate Dylon Bess.

The Magistrate, at the conclusion of the trial, ruled that sufficient evidence was found against the woman.

He, however, ordered a probation report be prepared and presented to the court on March 27, 2020, when sentencing will be handed down.

Caines initially pleaded not guilty to the charge

which detailed that on April 16, 2017, at Lot 232 Lockoo Street, Lodge, she had 2.092 kilograms of cocaine in her possession for the purpose of trafficking.

The prosecution had contended that on April 16, 51-year-old Bernadette

Warren was arrested at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), Timehri, with some 1.504 kilograms of cocaine in her suitcases.

The court heard that after Warren’s arrest, she identified Caines as the person who supplied her the il-

legal substance.

As such, ranks of the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) swooped down on the now-convicted woman’s house and conducted a search. During the search, an empty suitcase with false walls was found with the drugs along with $14.5 million.

Both Warren and Caines made appearances in 2017 before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan. However, Warren did not waste the court’s time, as she pleaded guilty and was sentenced to serve three years’ imprisonment.

End of…

R

…of politics? ight after the Soviet empire collapsed ignominiously like Humpty Dumpty with the Berlin Wall’s fall in 1989, an American political scientist, Fukuyama, wrote a best-seller called “The end of History”!! Now you and I might object that as long as there are people around, doing their stuff, history will continue. But what’d we know?? These academic types are guided by “theory” and if their theory tells them so, it MUST be so!!

In Fukuyama’s case, he was following one long strand of European philosophy that insisted that in the “march of history”, Liberalism will sweep everything in its path and with no ideological competition, it will be the end of any future socio-political development, much less struggle!! The end of history!! Within a couple of decades, however, the liberal state with its market fundamentalism guiding its economy, collapsed as ignominiously as did the Soviet empire…and we’re still rummaging around for an alternative paradigm!!

This rather obscure detour, Dear Reader, was prompted by a letter in the press, which insisted that the search for a “third force” is an oxymoron since one – in the form of the AFC – had been formed in 2006 and consolidated in 2011 with 10% of the vote!! It had then coalesced with the PNC/APNU, bringing “citizens freedom from fear of ethnic insecurities by political domination”!! We were now practising “post-racial politics”.

“The Third Force, that is the AFC, understood the wishes of its supporters and ensured the wishes of its supporters were enacted in creating a coalition which the people elected to run the affairs of Guyana. The Third Force is continuing to exert the mandate of the people and its supporters by being in the APNU/AFC coalition!”

(Exclamation point courtesy the letter writer, one Ronnie White!!)

It’s therefore obvious, if this fella is to be believed, that we, in our dear old mud land, have arrived at our end of politics – which is the struggle for power. Why struggle when the utopia has been delivered with the AFC joining up with the PNC??!! Unfortunately, like Fukuyama, this white fella is arguing from theoretical premises that are just not grounded in reality!! Yes…the AFC WAS a third force back in 2011. But did it really represent the block of voters – the 10% Indian segment – that made it into that force, after its coalition?? Is a “lamp” a lamp if it doesn’t give light??

Who did the AFC represent when Granger shuttered 4 sugar estates and fired 7000 workers?? Who did they represent when the remaining 10,000 workers didn’t get a raise since 2014??

What did that block signal in the 2018 LGE about the AFC??

Politics, like history, is moving inexorably to deliver a PPP victory!! …Georgetown??

So we hear about NICIL trumpeting a 700-acre plot of land at Ogle – huffed from the shuttered LBI sugar estate – as the core of a new “city”. Now, this ain’t no small suburban development since 700 acres translates to more than one square mile!! Just about the size of the original Georgetown before they added on all those villages to create “Greater Georgetown”.

With heightened awareness of rising sea levels and with our coast already 5 feet below present sea levels, there have been serious recommendations about creating a new city on higher ground. Isn’t Director Heath London au fait with these concerns or he’s only listening to the carpetbaggers looking to make a quick buck?? The challenge to building up Ogle so densely is that the drainage that was handled

by GuySuCo – because of its cane cultivation – is now no more and NDIA’s always a lost cause!!

Any ‘city’ at Ogle will demand an enormous hydraulic infrastructure to keep it from being submerged.

Will the carpetbaggers pay for it?? …the charade Now that we’re down to the stretch and the PNC’s witnessed the ennui in voters, the mask of civility’s being pulled off.

When an incumbent’s down to ad hominem attacks, it means they can’t defend their record!!

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

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SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

10 NEWS

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

6 Haitians, 3 Cubans deported from Guyana A number of foreign nationals were on Friday morning hauled before the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts, where they were ordered to be deported after pleading guilty to a charge of departing Guyana illegally.

Haitians Jean Marcellus, Lilens Sean, Ilnord Mission, Louinel Georges, Miglande Simon, Marie Lovelie Isme and Cubans Raul Rodriguez, Carlos Jimenez and Lazaro Lopez, with the assistance of an interpreter, pleaded

guilty to the charge which read that on February 19, 2020, at Takutu, Lethem, they departed Guyana illegally without presenting themselves to an immigration officer.

According to the prosecution’s case, the group of foreigners entered the country legally through the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) and were each granted six months’ stay.

However, Police in Lethem intercepted the bus in which they were travelling and discovered that the foreigners

had no documents signed by immigration officers indicating that they were leaving the country.

The defendants were arrested and taken to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), where they were cautioned and told of the offence with the assistance of an interpreter.

Magistrate Faith McGusty, who read the charge, fined each foreigner $30,000 or default three months’ imprisonment, and ordered that they be deported.

Repeat offender back in court for assaulting GDF rank

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23-year-old Agricola, Greater Georgetown resident who was slapped with a string of armed robbery charges in 2017 and 2019 is once again back in court, but this time, for assaulting a Police Officer.

The popular court character, Antonio Maraj, was on Friday placed before the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts for assaulting Police Sergeant John Mohamed on February 8, 2020, with intent to prevent the lawful apprehension of Kennedy Fraser.

An unrepresented Maraj

pleaded not guilty to the allegation when it was read

by Senior Magistrate Leron Daly.

Bail was objected by Police Prosecutor Sanj Singh based on the grounds that the defendant is no stranger to the court and the fact that he gave a different address to the court.

As such, Magistrate Daly upheld the prosecution’s submission and made no hesitation in remanding the defendant to prison.

The matter was adjourned to March 20, 2020.

Antonio Maraj

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SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

12 Scenes from Disciplined Services ranks voting countrywide SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

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SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

14 NEWS

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Using State resources for campaigning “an advantage of incumbency” – Ramjattan admits

Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan

I

n light of allegations that his Government is abusing State resources for campaigning purposes, Public Security Minister and Alliance For Change (AFC) Leader Khemraj Ramjattan indicated that this is an advantage that comes with incumbency.

“It is the norm of every other democracy that I know, even during campaign purposes. When the campaign will start as it is starting in America, the [Donald] Trump people will use the Air Force One. I believe there is nothing wrong about it,” Ramjattan told reporters during a press conference on Thursday.

He was at the time responding to questions about concerns of President David Granger’s use of a Guyana Defence Force (GDF) helicopter to attend a political rally in Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice).

The Head-of-State’s use of the State resource for campaigning purposes was heavily criticised, especially by the political Opposition.

However, Ramjattan, who is hoping to become the country’s next Prime Minister, defended the move.

“It is ridiculous to make the argument that the President of the country cannot use the State resources to get him to one end of the country …it’s so ludicrous to make even that point that he is using State resources, he is President of Guyana still, until another President is sworn-in, and if, for purposes, he would like to use the helicopter belonging to those State agencies that have helicopters, there is absolutely nothing wrong about that,” Ramjattan contended.

In fact, the Public Security Minister defended his own decision to use a Government assigned vehicle instead of his private vehicle to attend activities that have nothing to do with

President David Granger arriving at the Hopetown, Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice) political rally on Wednesday in the GDF helicopter

the State.

“I do not now have to use my private vehicle to go to wheresoever I am going. I use the vehicle that I have from the Ministry of Public Security. It is an advantage certainly, but that is the advantage of incumbency,” Ramjattan argued.

He added: “But as minister and also prime ministerial candidate, you can use, in the meantime, the vehicle that I use all the time, [the vehicle] that carries me around.”

When asked about the use of the State media, which is funded by taxpayers’ money, for the live-streaming of APNU/AFC political rallies and meetings, Ramjattan said: “I believe it is part of

the advantage of incumbency”.

According to Ramjattan,

abuse of State resources is when actual monies are being used for political purposes.

“I believe that there is a line and that is, you cannot take what is called monies to then go put for parties’ purposes from a Ministry,” he explained.

It was only on Thursday that Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo called on the international observers to pay close attention to the abuse of State resources, for campaigning, by the incumbent administration.

“We all recognise the partisan role played by NCN (National Communication Network) and the govern-

ment radio stations, and Chronicle [Newspaper] and DPI (Department of Public Information). These are all tools of APNU. Now they’re funded to the tune of hundreds of millions of dollars of taxpayers’ money but their programmes have no balance, their articles have no balance and they just blatantly, openly pedal the APNU’s propaganda.”

Jagdeo posited that “I would hope that the observers would also comment on this because this is part of their remit. I have led observer groups too before and part of our remit was to look at the state resources and how they were being used.”

PSC recommends ‘checks and balances’ procedures to boost transparency

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he Private Sector Commission (PSC) has made a series of recommendations aimed at boosting transparency and integrity of the electoral process as it relates to the tabulation of polls.

In a statement on Friday, the Commission expressed concerns over the lack of transparency and integrity with regard to the transmission of Statements of Poll (SoPs) from the Polling Stations by the Presiding Officers (POs) to the Returning Officers (ROs) of the respective 10 electoral districts, and the timing of the announcement of the vote results by ROs. After examining the methodology introduced by GECOM for the delivery of the SoPs to the Returning

Officers in the respective electoral districts, the PSC has concluded that there are several possible security risks which could result in compromising the integrity of the SoPs. The PSC further highlighted concerns over the fact that despite the law giving unambiguous authority to the respective Returning Officers to declare the results of the elections for their respective district immediately on the completion of the collation and certification of the votes, it has been the practice of the Chief Elections Officer to have the ROs delay the declaration until instructed to do so. These instructions, the Commission noted, have the undesirable effect of delaying the official declaration of

the results by the respective Returning Officers.

The PSC raised these concerns with the Chair of Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), Justice Claudette Singh (ret’d), in a letter earlier this month. In that missive, the PSC outlined a set of checks and balances procedures aimed at ensuring that the entire postpoll process is carried out in the strictest compliance with the pertinent laws and shared this procedure with the Chairman of GECOM. Among the recommended list of 11 checks and balances procedures to the GECOM Chair are to have Presiding Officers and party agents, who are involved in the count at the Polling Station, place their respective seals on the envelopes containing the Statements of Poll, as authorised by law and to have, as an administrative measure, formal documentation of the delivery/receipt of the SoPs between the Presiding Officer and the Deputy Returning Officer.

It was also recommended that party agents must be allowed to accompany the Presiding Officer in the delivery of the SoPs to the Deputy Returning Officer, as well as party agents also having access to the Office of the DRO at the time of the delivery of the SoPs by the PO to the DRO towards ensuring that the integrity of the SoPs remains uncompromised.

TURN TO PAGE 16

NEWS

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SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Hindus observe Maha Shivaratri T

hroughout the world, millions of Hindus observed the festival of Maha Shivaratri on Friday. In the Hindu calendar, Shivaratri is celebrated on the 14th day of every month but among those 12 Shivaratris, one is set aside as Maha Shivaratri— which translates into the Great Night of Lord Shiva.

Maha Shivaratri is dubbed as the most sacred festival of Shiva and usually falls sometime between February and March.

Lord Shiva in Hinduism is known as The Destroyer of all things evil. He is also revered as the God of Yoga and meditation since he is constantly in a meditative state. In observance of the auspicious occasion, devotees of Shiva stay awake the entire night chanting and offering prayers at the auspicious times. They also engage in various forms of meditation.

Hindus believe that praying to Shiva on the day of Maha Shivaratri blesses one with benevolence and prosperity as Shiva is revered as Mahadev.

Shiva is said to be the soul of everything and Maha

A devotee performs Shiva aarti

Shivaratri is an occasion to remember the eternal truth of Shivoham, meaning “I am that principle. I am Shiva. I am the truth, benevolence, eternity, beauty.”

Over the years, the Guyana Sevashram Sangh or the Cove and John Ashram, as it is referred to, has become the pilgrimage ground for many Hindus on Maha Shivaratri. Maha Shivaratri is solemn and marks a remembrance of overcoming darkness and ignorance in life and the world.

Ardent devotees would remain awake and medi-

tate on ethics and virtues such as self-restraint, honesty, non-injury to others, forgiveness, and the discovery of Shiva. They would also constantly chant “Om Namah Shivaya”, the sacred mantra of Shiva, to invoke his presence in an effort to complete their prayers.

Maha Shivaratri observances include poojas (prayers), abhisheka, fasting and staying awake at night with prayers and meditations.

Devotees observe fasting on the day before the Maha Shivaratri night. Some people have food only once, while

Several roads closed for flag-raising ceremony

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or the annual flag-raising ceremony to usher in the Republic Day celebrations, the Guyana Police Force has drafted several road closures to facilitate this activity.

Hosted at D’Urban Park, Georgetown, the historic raising of the Golden Arrowhead will be viewed by hundreds of Guyanese on the eve of February 23, many who will assemble a few hours prior.

As such, these roads will be cordoned off to vehicular traffic from 07:00h on Saturday.

In the drafted closures, there will be no entry west on Mandela Avenue and Hadfield Street, Mandela and Homestretch Avenues and no entry east on Brickdam and College Road, Hadfield Street and College Road, Haley Street and College Road, South Road and Shiv Chanderpaul Drive, South Road and Oronoque Street.

Adding to that, no entry will be facilitated north on Chappel and D’Urban Streets, D’Urban and John Streets; and no entry south on Regent and Vlissengen Road.

For the Mashramani celebrations on Sunday, strategic closures will commence from 07:00h to facilitate the free movement of the parade throughout the Georgetown route.

No entry will be allowed east on Cowan and Camp Streets, Barrack and Camp Streets, Young and High Streets, Irving and Lamaha Streets, Woolford Avenue and JB Singh Road, Anira and Irving Streets, Laluni and Irving Streets, Church and Peter Rose Streets, North Road and Shiv Chanderpaul Drive, South Road and Shiv Chanderpaul Drive, Brickdam and Old College Road; and Hadfield Street and Old College Road.

Westbound traffic will not be allowed at Woolford Avenue and Camp Streets, Dowding Street and Vlissengen Road, D’Andrade Street and Vlissengen Road, Da

Silva Street and Vlissengen Road, Garnett Street and Vlissengen Road, Baramita Avenue and Vlissengen Road, Eping Avenue and Vlissengen Road, Camp Road and Thomas Lands, Hadfield and Chapel Streets, Mandela and Homestretch Avenue and; Mandela Avenue and Homestretch Streets.

Meanwhile, there will no entry north on Camp and Lamaha Streets, Parade and Young Streets; and no southbound traffic at Camp and

Seawall Roads.

The theme for Mashramani 2020 is “Guyana Together – Reflect, Celebrate, Transform”. It is the country’s golden jubilee anniversary ever since the attainment of the republic status in 1970.

Over the past weeks, there was a calendar of events from panorama, singing and dancing competitions launched to usher in the celebrations. A fireworks display will illuminate the night’s sky at midnight at the Stabroek Market.

some follow a fruit and milk diet.

People visit Shiva temples and chant the sacred mantra ‘Om Namah Shivaya’. Some people perform the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra too. The devotees observing fast keep vigil all night, meditating or chanting prayers inside the Mandir.

According to Pandit Dhanesh Prashad, abhisheka on the Shivalingam is a major ritual on Maha Shivaratri.

Abhisheka or bathing the Shivalinga is performed using milk, honey, sugar, ghee, black or white sesame seeds, Ganga jal, etc. After this, sandalwood paste and rice are applied to Shivalinga and fresh fruits and flowers are offered.

Shiva Purana states that on Shivaratri, one should bathe Shivalinga with water, milk, honey, and bael leaves which symbolise purification of the soul. They must apply vermillion or kumkum which signifies virtue; offer fruits which signify longevity and gratification of desires; burn incense symbolising wealth; light lamps which signify the attainment of knowledge; and offer paan leaves marking sat-

A student performs aarti to Lord Shiva

isfaction with worldly pleasures.

Pandit Prashad says on Maha Shivaratri day, the planetary positions evoke the spiritual energies and help a person rise to the spiritual level. The benefits of mantras such as Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra increases and the religious penances including yoga and meditation get more effective. Devotees who strictly observe fasting and other penances are believed to get Moksha or liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

“Maha Shivaratri Vrat or fast is believed to be very

powerful which helps a person to attain control over worldly pleasures and temptations.

The material pleasures and temptations are forces that bother humans a lot. By worshipping Lord Shiva and observing Maha Shivaratri fast for the entire night, one can have control over the negative thoughts like anger, lust, greed, etc. Maha Shivaratri is the occasion in which nature pushes us towards the spiritual peak. The tradition of observing festival night-long and staying awake is to allow this flow of energy to pass through our spine,” he notes.

16 NEWS

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

2018 piracy attacks

Hundreds of boats at sea with unlicensed captains …attack originated “in a turf war over fishing grounds” – CoI report T he Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the 2018 piracy attacks has found that there are some 350 fishing vessels in the Corentyne, Berbice area with unregistered crews or an untrained and unlicensed captain.

This was revealed by Head of the CoI, Dr Rishee Thakur on Friday when he handed over the report to Minister of State, Dawn Hasting-Williams.

Dr Thakur explained the hundreds of boats operating without the requisite training and documentation does not bode well for the protection of the fisherfolk or their safety at sea. He added that the organisation of fishing has come to reflect the loose and carefree style of a “precariat with little commitment” to its institutional base or its own long-term future of secure and stable employment.

During his remarks on

Copies of the “Piracy and Death of Guyanese Fishermen off the coast of Suriname April/May 2018” CoI report that were handed over to the Government on Friday

the report, Dr Thakur said that it was determined that the piracy attack was organised, planned, systemic and executed in open confrontation that has its origins in turf wars over fishing grounds.

“And, finally, it was determined on the basis of extensive findings that the piracy was organised, planned,

and systematic in its execution, an open confrontation that has its origin in a turf war over fishing grounds,” Dr Thakur explained.

On April 27 and 28 and May 1, 2018, five fishing vessels were attacked in two separate instances. A total of 25 fishermen were pounced upon with only six surviving.

The bodies of three were re-

covered and 16 are still missing.

On November 22 last year, seven of 12 suspects of the first case against pirates in Suriname were each handed sentences of 35 years’ imprisonment, two were given sentences of 10 and five years in jail while three were acquitted. In Guyana, two of the three cases have been sent to the High Court while a third is awaiting preliminary hearings.

Both the Surinamese and Guyanese authorities are being implored to “resolve the difficulties of the fishermen” since 150 vessels at the No 66 Fishport use the mooring site which is located about a third of a mile from Guyana’s border with Suriname.

“We are unable to say what costs are involved and how this will affect the capacity of specific institutions to comply with our recommendations. In our discussions we divided our recommenda-

Regions 6, 10 record smooth voting process …95% ballots cast in Region 6

M

embers of the Joint Services in Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) came out in their numbers to exercise their voting franchise on Friday.

Regional Commander, Superintendent Hugh Winter was the second person to cast his ballot at the Mackenzie Police Station Headquarters in Linden.

Winter, earlier in the day, outlined that the process across the region was a very smooth one with no reported hiccups.

This was reiterated by the Regional Commander following the close of polls at 18:00h.

To facilitate the voting process for ranks, there were six Polling Stations set up across the region, which include the Regional Headquarters at Mackenzie, the Wismar Police Station and stations at Mabura, Ituni, Kwakwani and Aroaima.

This publication visited the two major Polling Stations at Mackenzie and Wismar and ranks were observed in lines waiting to exercise their democratic right to vote.

The Regional Commander said six ballot boxes were dispatched to the region.

A total of 249 members attached to the Joint Services in the region were expected to vote. At the close of polls, it was reported that 227 votes were cast by ranks.

At the Wismar Police Station, the Officer in Charge noted that the process was a smooth one and arrangements were put in place to allow all eligible ranks an opportunity to

vote. The same was reported by the Regional Commander at Mackenzie.

“I think we should give an A Grade in terms of professionalism for the whole process within the region.

The police turned up and everything was very organised and orderly. The same feedback I would have received from the outlying stations”, Winter told this publication following the close of polls on Friday.

Based on information received, it was noted, however, that some ranks would have abstained from the voting process due to their religious beliefs.

Overall, the process was deemed very smooth within the region.

Region Six

There were no reported instances of major hiccups at the opening of poll in Region Six, (East BerbiceCorentyne) where four polling places are located and in the neighbouring Region, Mahaica-Berbice (Region Five), the voter turnout was slightly lower.

In fact, the turnout in Region Five was 73 per cent as compared with 95 per cent in Region Six, where 787 members of the Joint Services were listed to vote.

In Region Five, 299 police officers were scheduled to vote and 221 did while in Region Six, 692 members of the Joint Services took advantage to the privilege of voting a few days before the rest of the country.

In Region Five, 33 police officers were listed to vote at Mahaicony and 32 did while at Fort Wellington, 236 police officers were listed and when the poll closed at 18:00h, 189 of them had

tions into two sets, those we believe that require immediate attention and can be instituted promptly without prohibitive costs, and those that can be engaged but may require long term design and planning,” Dr Thakur said.

He further stated that the “present language” that defines the relationship between Guyana’s and Suriname’s border needs to be upgraded to say “what is happening on the ground” and that “ambiguous euphemism” that does not say anything should be avoided.

Dr Thakur also noted that recommendations include that the work of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) in Fishing Convention 188 and accompanying Recommendation 199 should be immediately recognised.

The report indicated that a Vessel Monitoring System (VMS) as recommended by the Fisheries Act 71:08 should be instituted as well as recommended that the Inter-Agency Piracy Task Force should be transformed into a permanent statutory body.

According to the CoI

Head, findings reveal that while the “share system” of payment is attractive for the sums that it brings in, it is also severely constrained by the varied commitments it must meet, including a “drug problem”.

“It is estimated that between 60 and 70 per cent of the fishermen at the No 66 Fish Co-op are regular users of hard drugs. Moreover, the responsibility for a first cut and a waiting family adds to the anxiety of an incoming Cabin Cruiser with a poor catch.”

The CoI report was officially handed over to the Minister of State, HastingsWilliams, at her office’s boardroom located at the Ministry of the Presidency, Shiv Chanderpaul Drive, Georgetown.

Public Security Minister, Khemraj Ramjattan, who was also in attendance, was also given a copy of the document by Dr Thakur.

Minister HastingsCummings stated that after her perusal of the document, it will be shared among her Cabinet colleagues for discussions and deliberations on the way forward.

PSC recommends ‘checks...

FROM PAGE 14

Regional Commander (Region Five) Superintendent Yonette Stephens

voted.

The first to cast a ballot was Regional Commander, Superintendent Yonette Ste phens.

In Region Six, at Central Police Station in New Amsterdam, 298 police officers and 42 soldiers were listed. At the close of poll, 257 police officers and 42 soldiers had voted.

At Whim Police Station, 206 police officers were listed to vote. At the close of poll on Friday, 174 police officers had voted.

At the Springlands Police Station, 110 officers and 18 soldiers were listed to vote.

At the close of poll, 102 police office officers had voted and all 18 solders.

Meanwhile, 113 prison officers were listed to vote at the New Amsterdam Prisons. At the close of poll at the Prisons on Friday, 99 officers had voted.

Officer in charge of the New Amsterdam Prisons, Udistmir Holligan was the first to cast a ballot there.

He explained that it took them a few extra minutes to get the first batch of officers ready and he headed the

crew of prison officers.

However, after that, there was a steady flow in and out of that Polling Station and by midday, 83 persons had cast ballots.

At the Whim and Springlands Police Stations, voting went smoothly.

Deputy Commander, Superintendent Timothy Williams was the first to cast a ballot at Central Police Station.

However, several police officers complained of having to go to polling places which are not in the area where they work or live.

Regional Commander, Senior Superintendent Calvin Brutus said arrangements were put in place to take those ranks to their place of poll and get them back.

Brutus cast his ballot at Central Police Station. Meanwhile, just like in the capital city, International Observers were in the other locations to observe. The general population will vote on March 2.

(Utamu Belle and Andrew Carmichael)

Another suggestion was for party agents to further be allowed to accompany Deputy Returning Officers in the delivery of the SoPs from the Offices of DROs to the Returning Officers, and for there to be, again as an administrative measure, formal documentation of the delivery/receipt of the SoPs between the Deputy Returning Officer and the Returning Officer.

The PSC also wants to the entire movement of all SoPs from Polling Station to DRO and then to RO be done under Police escort. It noted too that it is essential that GECOM must fix a specific time for the commencement to conclusion of the collation of the votes by the respective ROs. It also called for party agents and observers to be duly informed of the time when the ROs will commence to the conclusion of their respective collation and for ROs to comply with the time fixed for such commencement to ensure the presence and involvement of the authorised agents and observers.

Finally, the PSC noted that having collated the total votes cast in favour of respective Lists of Candidates, and providing there is no request for a recount of the votes, the RO must publicly declare the votes recorded for each List of Candidates, without delay.

According to the Private Sector body, the institutionalisation and implementation of these checks and balances, will, among oth-

er things, provide greater transparency relative to the post-poll activities leading up to the declaration of the results of the elections by the Returning Officers.

It further noted too that this will also generate confidence among the contesting political parties and their respective constituencies that GECOM is committed to the delivery of credible elections, as well as ensure common acceptance by all stakeholders that the elections were conducted in a free, fair and transparent manner.

Carter Center tabulation procedures

These recommendations by the PSC come on the heels of US-based electoral observer mission, The Carter Center, also calling for GECOM to widely distribute its tabulation procedures so that stakeholders can better understand the process.

“Clear and detailed explanations of procedures – with key safeguards for transparency, including explicit provisions allowing for party scrutineers and observers at all stages – are critical. The Center encourages GECOM to publicise and distribute existing procedures as widely as possible, including to all political parties, civil society organisations, media, and electoral observers, in order to clarify any misunderstandings and avoid disputes over the process,” the Observer Mission detailed in a periodic statement on Thursday.

NEWS

17

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Authorities rescue stranded Regional tourism magazine launched sea turtle at Kitty Seawall T

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juvenile green sea turtle which was recently stranded at the Kitty Seawall has been rescued and returned to its natural habitat.

The marine creature was trapped in a fishing net but was subsequently rescued by Sean Gonsalves, an animal rights protector, according to a statement from the Protected Areas Commission (PAC).

Upon being rescued, the turtle was examined for injuries. Additionally, a measure of the carapace (shell) length was taken; it was measured at 62.23cm. The animal was then tagged for identification purposes and released approximately 2km off the Kitty Seawall, away from the fishing nets.

The agencies involved in the rescue mission are the Guyana Wildlife Conservation and Management Commission (GWCMC), the Protected Areas Commission (PAC), the WWFGuianas, Guyana Marine Conservation Society (GMCS), University of Guyana and the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Coast Guard Unit.

In a press release, the agencies expressed grati-

A juvenile green sea turtle which was recently stranded at the Kitty Seawall has been rescued and returned to its natural habitat

tude and a sense of pride that they were contacted and that the turtle was neither harmed nor killed.

“This is encouraging and certainly indicates that Guyana and Guyanese are becoming aware of the importance of guarding not only our protected areas, but the country’s wildlife resources. This incident, we hope, will be a motivation to other citizens to help us look out for our wildlife as we all aim to ensure that our national patrimony is preserved for generations to come,” the PAC said.

Moreover, the Commission said the incidence of turtles being trapped in fishing nets

will increase during this time of year, since the turtle nesting season commenced in early February until August.

Therefore, fishermen and the general public are urged to be on the lookout during this period and to report any sighting of marine turtles.

Persons encountering marine turtles are asked to kindly call the following agencies: The Protected Areas Commission: 2272265, 685-0933; Guyana Wildlife Conservation and Management Commission: 223-0940; WWF-Guianas 223-7802, 610-7182; and; Guyana Marine Conservation Society: 600-7272.

Caricom sending team to Haiti

Head of Caricom, Prime Minister Mia Mottley of Barbados, and Secretary General Irwin LaRocque at the 31st Inter-sessional summit in Barbados [Photo by Charles Pitt]

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a r i b b e a n C o m m u n i t y (Caricom) leaders have agreed to send a fact finding mission to Haiti in a bid to finding a solution to the ongoing social and political unrest in the French-speaking Caricom member country where opposition parties are demanding the removal of President Jovenel Moise.

The mission will be led by Caricom SecretaryGeneral Ambassador Irwin LaRocque and will include representatives from the Bahamas, Jamaica and Barbados.

Moise was among sever-

al Caribbean leaders who did not attend the twoday Inter-sessional summit that ended here on Wednesday.

The Opposition parties have accused Moise, who came to power in 2017, of corruption and have been staging street demonstrations in support of their demands for him to step down. Moise has denied the allegations and has been spearheading efforts for the establishment of a government of national unity.

At their last summit in St Lucia, Caricom had agreed on a prime ministerial delegation to visit the

French-speaking country but that never materialised and Dominica’s Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit said that it was important for the region to send a fact finding mission to Haiti.

“It is felt that if we do not help address the domestic issue confronting Haiti we will continue to have tremendous negative impacts on countries like the Turks and Caicos and the Bahamas who are seeing a large number of migrants coming into these countries and creating some domestic challenges for them.

“So we need to work with the various stakeholders in Haiti to find some kind of lasting solution to the current impasse,” Skerrit said.

He also warned that Caricom cannot afford to neglect is duty to Port au Prince amid the ongoing turmoil.

“We must not appear on any way to have, what has become in many parts of the world, Haiti fatigue.

We recognise that Haiti is part of the community and we have a responsibility and a duty and obligation to assist a member state in unravelling its challenges and to work with (it) towards lasting solutions,” he said. (Excerpt from CMC)

o help showcase prominent tourism destinations throughout Guyana, the first-ever 2020 edition of the “Hotspot Magazine” was launched at Cara Lodge, Georgetown.

The magazine is aimed at highlighting the destinations that would be of interest to visitors, both domestic and international.

Editor of the magazine, Donald Sinclair, who is also a director of the Tourism Department, noted that the magazine showcases regional tourism throughout the ten administrative regions of Guyana.

“Last year each administrative region formed a Regional Sub-Committee.

The whole idea behind imitative was to spread the planning of tourism to

the ten Administrative Regions. Thereby involving more persons, involving more stakeholders in tourism planning, so tourism planning would not only be a top-down thing but something that is across the board,” Sinclair added.

He further noted that the involvement of all ten regions will increase the level of tourism awareness for persons who are visiting Guyana.

President of the Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana, Mitra Ramkumar spoke to the sustainable tourism concept showcased in the magazine.

“I know most Guyanese are not even aware that these places exist for example the kissing rock in Region One. There is a lot to

be read about. I think this regional magazine also focuses a lot on domestic tourism and I believe our people should be encouraged to do domestic tourism to go out into the Regions and experience what we have as a country,” Ramkumar noted.

Publisher Oliver Insanlly in his remarks stated that the magazine raises the bar for local content development.

In 2019, Guyana garnered worldwide recognition within the tourism industry; for its leadership in sustainable destination management and development.

Guyana was also recognised as the world’s #1 “Best of Ecotourism” destination in the world among others.

Vigilante beating

Suspected thief beaten by public-spirited persons

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uick action by public-spirited persons prevented a suspected bandit from stabbing a pedal cyclist while he was attempting to steal the man’s bicycle along Regent Street, Georgetown on Friday.

Reports are that the suspected bandit had an icepick in his possession, which he reportedly used to threaten and was about to stab the pedal cyclist when public-spirited intervened.

Guyana Times understands that the suspect received a sound thrashing from persons along Regent Street, Georgetown, which resulted in him falling to the

ground. The ice-pick also fell onto the roadway in the process. The incident was videoed and was posted on social media. The video shows the suspect on the concrete pavement while public-spirited individuals prevented him from escaping.

When contacted by this publication on Friday, Police Commander of Region Four (DemeraraMahaica) Sub-division A (Georgetown), Assistant Police Commissioner Edgar Thomas stated that he was unaware of the details of the incident.

He explained that he was contacted by the media con-

cerning the matter, but after checking with the Police stations in his Division, no official report had been lodged.

According to Commander Thomas, his ranks are in the process of investigating the incident, although, presently, their only source of information is the video recording being shared on social media.

He noted that there is a possibility that persons would have reported the incident to the City Constabulary instead of visiting a Police station since the incident occurred near City Hall.

Deaf Argentine victims of clergy sexual abuse protest at Vatican

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ictims of sexual abuse by Catholic priests at a school for the deaf in Argentina staged a protest at the Vatican on Friday to bring attention to an upcoming trial of more alleged abusers.

Last November a court in the province of Mendoza convicted two priests and the former gardener at a Catholic Church-run school on 28 counts of sexual abuse and corruption of minors.

Trials for about 10 others who worked at the Antonio Provolo Institute for the deaf, including teachers and a nun, are expected to start in a few months. They are accused of abetting the abuse by the priests.

About 20 people, including several former students, held up signs reading “Zero Tolerance,” “Don’t Forget,” and “We Are Not Going Away” in front of the building housing the

Victims of abuse by Roman Catholic priests at a school for the deaf in Argentina, their advocates and lawyers, stage a protest at the Vatican, February 21, 2020 [REUTERS/Philip Pullella/File Photo]

Vatican’s Congregation for the Doctrine for the Faith, which handles abuse cases.

The victims’ lawyers and other victims of abuse were among those who joined the protest.

“Church officials in Argentina are not cooperating with civil authorities

and not cooperating with prosecutors concerning the rape and sexual abuse of dozens of deaf children in Argentina,” Peter Isely, a founder of the advocacy group Ending Clergy Abuse (ECA), told Reuters at the demonstration.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

18

guyanatimesgy.com

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2020

Around the World

OILNEWS

World must act fast to contain coronavirus – WHO’s Tedros

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he window of opportunity to contain wider international spread of the epidemic of the new coronavirus disease is closing, the World Health Organisation (WHO) warned on Friday, after cases were reported in Iran and Lebanon.

Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director General, asked whether the outbreak is at a “tipping point” after new cases and deaths in Iran from COVID-19, and cases in Lebanon and Canada, said that he still believed the virus spread could be stopped.

China has reported

Director General of the WHO Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, attends a news conference on the novel coronavirus (2019nCoV) in Geneva, Switzerland February 11, 2020

more than 75,500 cases and 2239 deaths, Tedros said.

He voiced concern about an increase in infections in the northern province of Shandong - where more than 200 cases were announced earlier in prisons and said it was seeking more information.

Twenty-six other countries have reported 1151 cases and eight deaths.

He said it was “very concerning” that Iran had reported 18 cases and four deaths in just the past two days, adding that the WHO was supplying testing kits to Tehran.

Lebanon confirmed its

first coronavirus case on Friday and said it was monitoring two other potential cases after a 45-year-old woman arriving from the holy city of Qom in Iran on Thursday tested positive, Health Minister Hamad Hassan said.

Tedros said that a WHOled team of international experts and their Chinese counterparts would visit Wuhan, the epicentre of the epidemic today. The full team, which arrived in China last weekend, includes experts from the US Centers for Disease Control (CDC).

(Excerpt from Reuters)

South Sudan President Kiir appoints former rebel leader Vice President

S

outh Sudan’s President Salva Kiir appointed former rebel leader Riek Machar as the country’s first Vice President on Friday, a day after the two men agreed to form a Government of national unity.

Oil-rich South Sudan secured independence from its northern neighbour Sudan in 2011 but plunged into civil war two years later. Fighting claimed an estimated 400,000 lives and sparked the biggest refugee crisis since the 1994 genocide in Rwanda.

The conflict was triggered

by Kiir’s sacking of his then deputy Machar, who proceeded to form a rebel faction against the Government.

On Thursday, the former rivals agreed to create a

South Sudan’s ex-Vice President and former rebel leader Riek Machar flanked by President Salva Kiir Mayardit address a news conference at the State House in Juba, South Sudan February 20, 2020

unity Government before a February 22 deadline, paving the way for today’s appointment.

A previous November 12 deadline was pushed back as

key aspects of a 2018 peace agreement, including agreements on the number of states and unification of the army, had not been met.

This led the United States

to impose sanctions on some political leaders.

But last Saturday, Kiir agreed to reduce the number of states to 10 from 32, a crucial opposition demand.

Other components of the peace agreements remain outstanding. Kiir said on Thursday that they would be finalised in the coming days.

Machar is due to be sworn into office today, alongside three other Vice Presidents appointed to their roles on Friday.

Kiir also dissolved the country’s Cabinet. He appointed a new Minister of Presidential Affairs and a national security advisor. The rest of the Cabinet is expected to be named today. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Afghanistan war: US UN warns of and Afghan Taliban ‘bloodbath’ as Syria fighting escalates start partial truce

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seven-day “reduction in violence” between the US and the Afghan Taliban has begun, officials said.

If successful, the two sides will then sign the first phase of a deal aimed at ending nearly two decades of conflict.

The agreement, which began at midnight local time, comes after more than a year of talks between American and Afghan Taliban representatives.

In a statement, Taliban negotiators said “a suitable security situation” would be created ahead of signing a deal they hoped would “lay the groundwork for peace across the country with the withdrawal of all foreign forces”.

Nato Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg welcomed the move, adding that this was “a critical test of the Taliban’s willingness and ability to reduce violence, and contribute to peace in good faith”.

The Afghan Government, which is currently grappling with a dispute over the results of the country’s presidential elections, was not part of the negotiations.

Under the terms of the partial week-long truce, it is understood that no major offensive operations will be launched against the Taliban, Afghan or international forces.

The US has spent billions of dollars since 2001 fighting the Taliban insurgency in Afghanistan.

President Donald Trump, who pledged during his 2016 presidential campaign that he would end the US war in Afghanistan, has been pushing for the withdrawal of US troops from the country.

The BBC’s Afghanistan correspondent, Secunder Kermani, says the move is seen as an opportunity for the Taliban’s leadership to show they can control their fighters on the ground. (Excerpt from BBC News)

T

he United Nations warned on Friday that escalating fighting in northwest Syria could end in a “bloodbath” as Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan phoned Russia’s leader to discuss the quickly deteriorating situation.

The Kremlin said Russian President Vladimir Putin and Erdogan agreed to intensify talks on Syria’s Idlib region to reduce tensions and implement a ceasefire.

Erdogan told Putin the solution was to return to the Sochi agreement they signed in 2018, which allowed Turkey to establish military posts across Idlib designed to prevent a Syrian Government assault. That deal has been increasingly set aside as Syrian forces advance steadily into the region.

Erdogan also asked his French and German counterparts to provide “concrete” support in ending the burgeoning humanitari-

an crisis in Syria’s Idlib region, Turkey’s presidency said. Erdogan said attacks in Idlib - where a Russiabacked Syrian Government offensive has displaced nearly one million people and brought Ankara, Moscow and Damascus to the brink of confrontation - must be stopped.

Idlib is the final stronghold of rebels fighting Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s Government during a nineyear war that has killed hundreds of thousands of people and displaced millions.

Turkey, which backs some rebel groups in Idlib, has lost 16 military personnel this month in clashes with Syrian forces. It has bolstered its positions and called for Syrian forces to pull back.

With Ankara threatening an “imminent” operation against Syrian forces, Minister of Defence Hulusi Akar inspected troops gathered at the Syrian border on Friday. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Oil slides 1% on renewed fears over toll from coronavirus

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il prices fell about 1 per cent on Friday on renewed concerns about crude demand being pinched by the economic impact of the coronavirus outbreak, while OPEC and allied producers appeared to be in no rush to curb output.

The latest signs of infections outside the Hubei province epicentre in China spurred a selloff across financial markets, as G20 policymakers travelled to Saudi Arabia for talks on the global economy.

Brent crude LCOc1 tumbled as more than 2 per cent at one point before settling down 81 cents, or 1.4 per cent, at US$58.50 a barrel. US crude futures CLc1 settled 50 cents lower, or 0.9 per cent, at US$53.38. Both benchmarks were on track for their second consecutive weekly rise, with Brent up 2 per cent and US crude rising 2.6 per cent, as fears over the virus’ impact on demand eased earlier in the week and after a smaller-than-expected US crude stock build.

“It’s safe to say that uncertainty [surrounding coronavirus] has returned with a vengeance,” said Ole Hansen, Head of Commodity Strategy, Saxo Bank.

“We have to acknowledge that we’re dealing with the biggest demand shock since the financial crisis... Until we see China getting back to work, the virus will be the main focus.”

In the latest sign of the economic hit, US business activity in the manufacturing and services sectors stalled in February.

Concerns over the virus have largely overshadowed risks to supply, including the latest blockade in Libya, said Edward Moya, senior market analyst at OANDA in New York.

The United Nations said ceasefire talks were back on track between forces fighting over Libya’s capital. Meanwhile, Yemen’s Houthis said they had struck facilities of Saudi oil giant Aramco in the Red Sea port of Yanbu. OANDA’s Moya also pointed to signs the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) was unlikely to cut supplies further.

Russian Energy Minister Alexander Novak said on Thursday that producers understood it would no longer make sense to meet before a planned gathering in March.

“Concerns the Saudis and Russians are struggling to agree on the appropriate response to the demand destruction the coronavirus has created,” were pressuring prices, Moya said.

“Markets are starting to doubt we’ll see the full 600,000 bpd in additional (OPEC+) cuts.”

In the United States, the oil rig count, an indicator of future production, rose for a third straight week. Drillers added one oil rig this week, bringing the total count to 679, the highest since the week of Dec 20, energy services firm Baker Hughes Co said. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Russia makes new proposal to Belarus for oil supply terms

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ussia has proposed new terms for future oil supplies to Belarus to partially compensate Minsk for the cost of taxes introduced last year, Moscow said on Friday, in a sign of potential progress in a two-month row between the two countries. Minsk and Moscow have been at loggerheads since January 1, when they failed to agree on oil delivery terms for 2020 and major Russian oil companies suspended pipeline oil supplies to Belarus.

Russian Energy Minister Alexander Novak said on Friday that proposals by Russian companies for a price formula mechanism for Belarus oil purchases had been sent to Minsk.

Moscow had been supplying crude oil and oil products to Minsk with no export fee under a duty-free deal between Russia, Belarus and Kazakhstan. But it amended its tax code in 2019 to halt that arrangement. The Russian tax changes cost Belarus US$330 million in 2019, Belarus said this month. The country’s state budget lost US$130 million, while Belarusian oil refineries lost US$200 million.

Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko said on Friday that his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin had proposed to compensate Minsk for US$300 million of the 2019 losses. He also said Moscow was ready to keep oil supply terms for 2020 the same as they were last year. “It was an unexpected proposal,” Lukashenko said when meeting one of Russia’s regional officials in Minsk. Russia and Belarus have not reached any firm agreement on the terms of oil supplies to Belarus, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on a conference call.

The Russian tax changes would cost Belarus US$420-430 million in 2020 if Russia supplies the country with 24 million tonnes of oil, Lukashenko said later on Friday, adding that Russian companies could refund Minsk this money.

“It is some kind of forward progress. We are going to work in this direction,” he said.

Safmar Group companies, Russneft and Neftisa, are currently the only suppliers of Russian oil to Belarus, forcing Minsk to look for crude from other countries. (Excerpt from Reuters)

guyanatimesgy.com

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2020

19

ARCHIE

ARIES (March 21April 19)

TAURUS (April 20May 20)

DILBERT

GEMINI (May 21June 20)

PEANUTS

Escapist tendencies will lead to trouble. Refuse to get involved with indulgent people or engage in questionable pastimes. Focus on health and happiness. Make peace and love priorities.

Share information with someone you find interesting.

Sign up for something that will expand your mind and boost your creativity. If you team up with someone you feel comfortable with, positive change will take place.

LEO

Stay focused on what’s important to you. Invest time, effort and money in what makes you happy. Focus on personal gain. Don’t let others interfere with your plans.

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22)

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

SUDOKU

An emotional incident can ruin your day. Stay out of trouble by recognizing when something or someone isn’t worth getting upset over.

Strive for peace, productivity and patience.

CANCER (June 21July 22)

(July 23Aug. 22)

CALVIN AND HOBBES

Keep an open mind, a stiff upper lip and a positive attitude to avoid getting into an unnecessary spat. Don’t fret over things you cannot change.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22)

You can get a lot done, but don’t run yourself ragged.

Know when to remove yourself from a situation. Call the shots and live life your way.

Get together with supportive people. You can make personal improvements if you take time for your own needs instead of trying to please everyone else. Don’t give in to demanding people.

Time is on your side.

Refuse to let someone mess with your emotions or upset you with an unexpected change. Do what’s best for you and stop worrying about others.

Delays are likely if you SAGITTARIUS travel. Getting together (Nov. 23with someone you don’t see Dec. 21) often will be confusing. Offer positive feedback, but don’t make promises or assumptions without first checking the facts.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22Jan. 19)

A personal situation will surface if you aren’t sensitive to issues someone is experiencing. Be a good listener so you can be a help, not a hindrance.

AQUARIUS

Consider your options regarding money matters.

Invest more in knowledge, skills and personal growth.

Set up a reasonable budget that will encourage building equity and security while easing stress.

LAST PUBLISHED WORD

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

PISCES (Feb. 20March 20)

Lending a helping hand will be a life-changing experience. Your perception and ability to find solutions will bring welcome results and new prospects your way. A professional choice will improve your earning potential.

20 Women’s T20 World Cup: Australia stunned by India in Sydney SCOREBOARD H GUYANATIMESGY.COM

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2020

osts Australia were stunned by India in the opening game of the Women’s T20 World Cup in Sydney.

Chasing 133, the defending champions were bundled out for 115 thanks chiefly to leg-spinner Poonam Yadav, who claimed 4-19.

India’s 132-4, anchored by 49 not out from Deepti Sharma, seemed no more than par, but they exploited the slow conditions to win by 17 runs.

England open their campaign against South Africa on Sunday.

Heather Knight’s team were runners-up to Australia two years ago, but the home side now face the prospect of having to win their final three group matches in order to reach the semi-finals.

Given Group A also includes New Zealand along with Sri Lanka and Bangladesh - it is far from certain that the favourites will make the last four.

Superb start in Sydney

This is the first time that separate T20 World Cups for men and women have been held in the same country in the same year, with the men’s version scheduled for October and November.

The women’s event is building towards a final at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on 8 March, when it is hoped the biggest crowd for any women’s sporting event will be in attendance.

That is far more likely if Australia reach the showpiece, but for the sake of the tournament as a whole, the stunning defeat of the heavy fa-

suited to her style.

She was not introduced until the 10th over, by

bowled by Poonam off a delivery that was called a no-ball for bouncing twice, yet was faced with the prospect of taking 21 from the final over.

S h e skied a

Poonam Yadav is ecstatic after taking a wicket (Getty Images)

vourites on opening night adds much greater intrigue to the two weeks that follow.

Not only that, but is a huge boost to the constantly improving India team, for whom 16-yearold opener Shafali Verma sparkled, wicketkeeper Taniya Bhatiya dazzled and leg-spinner Poonam was masterful.

After an opening ceremony that included fireworks, a DJ, dancers and popular children’s music group The Wiggles, the entertainment of the cricket would not be surpassed.

Poonam puzzles Australia

Leg-spinner Poonam has long puzzled international batters, mainly because she bowls achingly slowly. The Sydney surface was ideally

which time Australia had eased to 58-2, and proceeded to confound the hosts with the support of wicketkeeper Bhatia.

Alyssa Healy chipped a return catch after reaching 50 with a six, but it was in Poonam’s following over when the game really turned in India’s favour.

First, Rachael Haynes ran past a googly to be stumped, then Ellyse Perry was bowled by a similar delivery for a golden duck. Poonam was denied a hat-trick when the diving Bhatia could not hold on to an edge from Jess Jonassen.

With 57 required from the final eight overs, Australia’s hopes rested on Ashleigh Gardner, but the required rate could not be controlled.

Gardner survived being

catch to bowler Shikhar Pandey and, when Molly Strano was run out off the penultimate ball of the match, a famous India win was complete.

Verma shines, Sharma steadies

India opener Verma is only 16 years old and once cut her hair short in order to trick her way into playing at a boys’ academy.

She gave a glimpse of her exciting talent on Friday, flaying 29 from 15 balls as India reached 40-0 from only four overs.

Verma was the second wicket in a collapse of 3-6, after which India were squeezed by Australia’s spinners and medium-pacers. Only three boundaries were scored in the final 16 overs of the innings.

All-star match to take place post IPL 2020

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he one-off all-star match that was meant to preface IPL 2020 will now be played after the tournament. The match was originally scheduled to be played three days before the IPL, which begins on March 29, but due to operational reasons it is now set to be played after the tournament which ends on May 24. No date or venue has been finalised yet though.

IPL Governing Council chairman Brijesh Patel confirmed the development, saying the two teams for the game would be picked based on the performances of the players in the tournament. “It will be after the tournament,” Patel, a former India batsman, told ESPNcricnfo.

“We will see the performance of the players and on that basis the two teams will be selected.”

The all-star match was originally proposed by the Patel and found support from the BCCI. ESPNcricinfo understands at the last IPL

Governing Council meeting, held on January 27, it was decided to have a selection committee in place to pick the two teams. That meeting was attended by the

opener between defending champions Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings was scheduled at the Wankhede stadium on March 29.

Mujibur Rahman, Bangladesh’s founding father.

The BCCI has not yet announced who will be going, but some prominent India players are part of the list

India Women Innings (20 overs maximum) Shafali Verma c Sutherland b Perry 29 S Mandhana lbw b Jonassen 10 JI Rodrigues lbw b Kimmince 26 H Kaur (c) st †Healy b Jonassen 2 DB Sharma not out 49 V Krishnamurthy not out 9 Extras (nb 1, w 6) 7 TOTAL (20 Overs, RR: 6.6) 132-4 Did not bat: S Pandey, T Bhatia †, A Reddy, Poonam Yadav, RS Gayakwad Fall of wickets: 1-41 (Smriti Mandhana, 4.1 ov), 2-43 (Shafali Verma, 5.3 ov), 3-47 (Harmanpreet Kaur, 6.4 ov), 4-100 (Jemimah Rodrigues, 15.6 ov) BOWLING M Strano 2-0-15-0 EA Perry 3-0-15-1 M Schutt 4-0-35-0 JL Jonassen 4-0-24-2 DM Kimmince 4-0-24-1 A Gardner 3-0-19-0 Australia Women Innings (target: 133 runs from 20 overs) AJ Healy † c & b Poonam Yadav 51 BL Mooney c Gayakwad b Pandey 6 MM Lanning (c) c †Bhatia

Sharma held things together, adding 53 with Jemimah Rodrigues, but there was still the feeling that India’s lack of intent, both with their strokeplay and running between the

Subsequently, however, the BCCI realised it did not have much time to get various things in place including the availability of players as well raising a broadcast tender. The IPL begins barely 10 days after the three-match ODI series between India and South Africa, which ends on March 18 in Kolkata.

Immediately after the ODIs against South Africa, five Indian players are set to travel to Bangladesh to participate in two T20Is between an Asian XI and a World XI, organised by the Bangladesh Cricket Board to commemorate the birth centenary of Sheikh

of names approved.

One of the officials, who attended the January IPL governing council meeting, said there is ample time now to float the tender and discuss the rights for the all-star match with Star, who hold the broadcast rights for IPL till 2022. It is understood a team lead

by Patel was meant to meet up with Star to talk about the tender for the all-star match. That meeting is yet to take place. At the January 27 meeting it was also decided that the proceeds from the match will likely be used for a charitable purpose. (ESPN Cricinfo)

wickets, had left them short of a winning total.

That was to discount the wizardry of Poonam, and Australia’s surprising wilt in the pressure of the chase.

(BBC Sport)

Ethiopia’s Yeshaneh smashes Half-Marathon World record by 20 seconds

Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni greet each other (BCCI)

BCCI’s top brass including Sourav Ganguly (president), Jay Shah (secretary) and Arun Dhumal (treasurer).

I n t h a t meeti n g , t h e d a t e for the all-star m a t c h was tentatively set as March 25 while Mumbai was picked as the venue, considering the tournament

b Gayakwad 5 RL Haynes st †Bhatia b Poonam Yadav 6 A Gardner c & b Pandey 34 EA Perry b Poonam Yadav 0 JL Jonassen c †Bhatia b Poonam Yadav 2 A Sutherland st †Bhatia b Pandey 2 DM Kimmince run out (Rodrigues/Sharma) 4 M Strano run out (Rodrigues/Pandey) 2 M Schutt not out 1 Extras (lb 1, nb 1) 2 TOTAL (19.5 Overs, RR: 5.79) 115 all out Fall of wickets: 1-32 (Beth Mooney, 5.4 ov), 2-55 (Meg Lanning, 8.3 ov), 3-67 (Alyssa Healy, 9.5 ov), 4-76 (Rachael Haynes, 11.3 ov), 5-76 (Ellyse Perry, 11.4 ov), 6-82 (Jess Jonassen, 13.5 ov), 7-101 (Annabel Sutherland, 16.3 ov), 8-108 (Delissa Kimmince, 18.4 ov), 9-113 (Ashleigh Gardner, 19.2 ov), 10-115 (Molly Strano, 19.5 ov) BOWLING DB Sharma 4-0-17-0 RS Gayakwad 4-0-31-1 S Pandey 3.5-0-14-3 A Reddy 4-0-33-0 Poonam Yadav 4-0-19-4

Ababel Yeshaneh celebrates breaking the world record in a Nike Vaporfly shoes (InsideTheGame)

E

thiopia’s Ababel Yeshaneh smashed the half marathon world record by 20 seconds on Friday to win the Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) event in the United Arab Emirates on Friday.

Yeshaneh crossed the finish line in one hour, four minutes and 31 seconds at the World Athletics Gold Label road race, eclipsing the previous record of 1:04:51 set by Kenyan Joyciline Jepkosgei

in Valencia in 2017.

Marathon world record holder Brigid Kosgei finished second, and her time was also two seconds inside Jepkosgei’s mark.

Both Yeshaneh and Kosgei were wearing a version of Nike’s Vaporfly shoes, which have featured in several other track and road records in the last three years.

Some earlier models of the shoe were banned by World Athletics last month, but the latest one launched by Nike complies with the rules to limit carbon plate usage and sole thickness for elite races.

“I didn’t imagine this result,” said Yeshaneh, whose previous best of 1:05:46 had stood as the Ethiopian record for five months between 2018 and 2019.

Rosemary Wanjiru was third in a time of 1:05:34, and the next five women completed the race inside 67 minutes.

Kenya’s Kibiwott Kandie won the men’s race in 58:58, 18 seconds clear of compatriot Alexander Mutiso in second place. (Reutes)

GCB/Dave West

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

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Sterling Products’ inaugural Golf Tourney on today

I

n a simple ceremony held at the company’s headquarters at Providence, EBD, Ramsey Ali, CEO of Sterling Products Ltd, handed over to Lusignan Golf Club (LGC) Treasurer Aasrodeen Shaw a sponsorship cheque to cover staging of the inaugural Sterling Products Golf Tournament, which tees off today.

Witnessing the proceedings were Sterling Products’ Merchandising & Promotions Supervisor Dellon Lynch and the LGC PRO Guy Griffith.

Expressing delight at Sterling Products’ involvement with the LGC, Ali noted that although this is Sterling’s first tournament, plans are in the making for the company to be involved in more tournaments during

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Sterling Products’ involvement with the LGC was initiated by LGC Member Ramesh Dookhoo, and was followed up to fruition

by LGC President Aleem Hussain.

Ali noted that Sterling Products is pleased that the LGC has been taking steps to involve schools in golfing, and he committed Sterling Products to continued support of the LGC. Located at Public Road, Providence, East Bank Demerara, Sterling Products Limited has been a household name in Guyana since the inception of its operations. This company was incorporated as a public limited liability company on October 15, 1954, and commenced operations with the

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production of margarine, lard, ghee and soap.

Sterling began exporting Golden Cream margarine to

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It began producing detergent in 1967 and butter (Golden Dairy butter) in 1969, and

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“Hit It for 50” schools’ windball cricket competition…

UG, Vreed-en-Hoop, Soesdyke Secondary triumph in latest action

A

ction during the course of the week produced notable wins for Vreed-en-Hoop Secondary, the University of Guyana (UG) and Soesdyke Secondary, among others, in the male and fem a l e

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21

categories b e i n g c o n testTenisha Hoyte unbeaten 96

played

an

ed in the “Hit It for 50” schools’ windball cricket competition ongoing at the National Gymnasium.

The first match in the girls’ category involved Vreed-en-Hoop Secondary battling Brickdam Secondary.

Vreed-enHoop posted a whopping 160-2 in their allotted overs, with Denicia Singh scoring 54 and Leahna Emmanuel scoring 46.

In reply, Brickdam Secondary could post only 106-1, of which Ashanti Kennedy contributed 36 and Ske Dawson 32 as the main run-getters.

Game 2 saw East Ruimveldt Secondary and Richard Ishmael Secondary playing to a tie. Richard Ishmael Secondary posted 1410, with Akalla Rampatap again blasting a top score

of 72 runs that included eight towering sixes. She was supported by Akeilah Eastman, who played a handy knock of 45. In reply, East Ruimveldt Secondary shocked their opponents by posting 141-3. They chased down the target without any challenge, and Shania Kingston led the way with 53.

In the other girls’ games, University of Guyana made 149 -1, with Akaze Thompson scoring 61 and Keisha Fraser 40.

East Ruimveldt Secondary could post only 117-1, with Shania Kingston scoring 58.

Soesdyke Secondary posted 167-1 in a match against L’Aventure Secondary. Tenisha Hoyte contributed an unbeaten 96 (12x6). L'Aventure Secondary could muster

Anthone Allen played a handy knock of 93

only 74-1, with Abigail Corbin leading with 54.

In the boys’ game, East Ruimveldt Secondary made 129-1, with Anthone Allen not out on 93, while Richard Ishmael Secondary could post only 103-3.

The final game of the

day saw Goed Fortuin Secondary scoring 121-6, with Satyanand Persaud blasting 66 despite Zennis Woolford’s 3 wickets.

In reply, Queenstown Secondary could score only 93-0, with Ephraim Carrington leading the way with 34.

WJ Enterprise supports Petra Organisation

T

he WJ Enterprise, located at 126 Regent Road, Bourda, have thrown their support behind the Petra Organisation, declaring that they both share the same vision for sports in Guyana.

In a recent simple ceremony, the WJ Enterprise gifted the Petra Organisation a large quantity of Croxley paper, a heavy-duty printer and a filing cabinet, among other items.

Speaking on behalf of WJ Enterprise, Kavita Sukhu declared the entity pleased to be associated with Petra, because they both can aid in the development of sports in Guyana, and she promised

that WJ Enterprise would continue to support the Petra Organisation in its future endeavours.

And responding on behalf of the Petra Organisation, Jacklyn Boodie said, “This support is really going to aim our effectiveness and smoothness in our secretarial duties. We have received various stationery equipment, and I can assure you that this will definitely help us to function more effectively.”

The Petra organisation, having a vision to promote football at the grassroots level, have been responsible for several youth football tournaments being held in Guyana.

Jacklyn Boodie (right) accepts the printer and papers from Kavita Sukhu as Lawrence Griffith looks on

22

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2020

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

GCB/Dave West Indian Imports U-15 Inter-County tournament…

Titanic battle for title today between Berbice and Demerara

A

fter three rounds of intense rivalry in the Guyana Cricket Board/Dave West Indian Imports U-15 Inter-County tournament, the prospect of a spirited final to be contested by Demerara and Berbice looms large.

These cricketing leviathans are set to lock horns at the Georgetown Cricket

Club (GCC) ground at Bourda today (Saturday February 22).

Having registered three wins in three matches, Berbice are tipped as favourites heading into this round.

Berbice will be led by prolific West Indies U-15 player Rampertab Ramnauth, who has an aggregate of 142 runs, having recorded scores of 96, 27 and 19.

The other Berbice top player is Salim Khan, the off-spinner who has taken 11 wickets in three matches and is fresh from two player-of-the-

Matthew Pottaya, appealing in the Demerara clash

match performances.

Khan made an unbeaten 39 against Demerara and grabbed 3-17. He followed up that performance with 7-16 against Essequibo; and in his first match against the President’s XI, he took 1-2 in eight overs.

Besides Khan, the Berbice bowling is fortified with the likes of Matthew Pottaya and pacer Shiv Harripersaud.

The

Demerara’s Joshua Alves (Brandon Corlette photos)

batting

will

fea-

ture Ramnauth, first round half-centurion Avishkar Persaud, Raashad Gafur and Sanjay Algoo among others.

Demerara, however, have capable players to upset the powerhouse Berbice team.

It is true that Demerara have recorded two wins and suffered one defeat, which came against the same Berbice opponents. The city side will, however, be confident of their chances after registering a comprehensive

win against President’s XI. Opener Romeo Deonarine will be aiming to register a significant score. Joshua and Josh Alves, among others, have shown great promise, but will have to be at their peak in this final.

The Demerara bowling has impressed. Joshua Alves in particular was the star of the show in the President’s XI clash, bagging 6-1 in three destructive overs. (Brandon Corlette)

Windies Men and Women spring into action today

W

est Indies Men’s and Women’s teams will both be in action on Saturday as they start their bids to supremacy on two different part of the world.

Over in Australia, Stafanie Taylor’s team will play their opening encounter in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup. They face newcomers Thailand at the WACA Ground in Perth.

First ball is 3pm.

In Asia, Kieron Pollard’s side will take on Sri Lanka in the first One-Day International at the Sinhalese Sports Club in Colombo. First ball is 9:30am (12 midnight Eastern Caribbean Time/11pm Friday Jamaica Time). '

Jimmy Adams, CWI’s Director of Cricket is confident of both teams doing well on foreign soil. Looking ahead to the ICC Women’s World Cup, Adams is hopeful the team can repeat their great performances of 2016 when they beat Australia to win the title at the Eden Gardens at Kolkata in India.

On the Men’s team: “I’ll be anticipating positive results. I think we have a fairly strong squad even though they are in conditions that are not typically West Indian. Even when taking into consideration they Sri Lanka are playing at home which one always has to consider, I’ll be looking forward to positive results from the lads down there. I think we

CWI Director Jimmy Adams has a chat with West Indies Assistant Coach Roddy Estwick while Sir Curtley Ambrose engages in a training session.

have an abundance of talent in Sri Lanka at the minute. On top of talent, I think the team is coming together nicely and it’s something

we want to start making strides towards and that’s getting a really strong core group of players. On top of getting results, we want to

start identifying a strong core group of players who can represent well in the next World Cup in 2023.”

On the Women’s Team:

“There is a sense of anticipation about what is to come in the next few weeks. We have a very good team with some excellent players who have won on the international stage before. The entire Caribbean is supporting them and they have the full backing of everyone. They ran into a bit of bad weather, but they still managed to get practice games against Pakistan and India. Had to do a few more indoor sessions than they would like, due to the inclement weather, speaking to the team management they are happy with everyone’s state of mind. Yes, they would have liked to have a bit more time outdoors, but they are quite happy with the way things are at the moment.” (CWI)

Sentinel Security donates to BCB Special Projects Fund

I

n continuing its support of the activities of the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB), Sentinel Security has made a significant financial contribution to the BCB’s "Special Projects Fund".

Sentinel’s Managing Director Noreen SeubaranGaskin has said that she and her company are pleased to be part of this initiative, and will continue to help cricket development in the Ancient County whenever possible.

When the BCB had embarked on its "Balls for Second Division Teams in Berbice” project in 2018, Sentinel Security company had also come forward with support. That first project had been very successful, raising $830,000 -- an amount made possible through contributions from Brian Chunilall, Noreen Seubaran-Gaskin,

Yasin Mohamed, Two Friends of BCB, Ryan and Ian Bhagwandin, Derick and Renick Beharry, Kalvin Somrah, Raj "Rebels" Mathura, Faizal Jaffarally, Bobby and Pamela Kewlachand, Mukesh Matai, Danny Somai, Yadram Bhoj, Sharmila Muneshwar, Javed Raffik, Nazim Hussain, Allan Mangru, Owen Humphrey, Sean Devers, Vijai Dass, Bhim George, Surendra Hiralall, Jack Beharry, Latcho Mohabir, Chetram Seooppersaud and Jeffrey Samaroo.

As a result of that initiative, every cricket club in the county of Berbice had received cricket balls, while young and promising cricketers such as West Indies Under-15 pacer Isiah Thorne and National Under-19 opener Alex Algoo had also benefited.

This Special Projects Fund has now raised $325,000 from the responses of Tyler and Mia, Kalvin Somrah, Renick Beharry, Raj Mathura, Ian Bhagwandin, Tageram and family, and Sentinel Security. They had all contributed towards the first project.

Funds from this project will assist cricket clubs with balls; assist young, promising cricketers; and assist the BCB to acquire cricket pitch covers so that key matches, including semi-finals and finals, can be played without any rain interruption, as the BCB strives to spread the game across the length and breadth of the ancient county.

Besides the foregoing, the board would consider other requests as it sees fit.

Former Minister Dr Leslie Ramsammy had assisted the

BCB Public Relation Officer Simon Naidu receiving cheque from the Berbice Manager of Sentinel

BCB with US$2,000 worth of cricket balls to supplement this project.

Persons desirous of contributing to this project can contact Angela Haniff

on 333-2375, or Hilbert Foster on 337-4433 or 3374562.

23

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Golden Republic T20 Bash…

Hemraj’s 50 propels Rutherford Renegades L

plined Anthony Adams who struck timber.

Captain Sherfane Rutherford had his mini-battle with Christopher Barnwell. Rutherford struck Barnwell on the pads and the next delivery, Barnwell found the fielder at short mid-wicket and was dismissed for four. At the halfway stage, Hurricanes were 71-4. Shimron Hetmyer came with the intention to repair the innings.

As the crowd tormented the axed West Indies lefthander with the provocative words, Hetmyer displayed a bit of patience. In the 11th over bowled by Kevin Sinclair, Hetmyer took advantage of the free hit, driv-

By Brandon Corlette

ed by a brilliant 58 from Chandrapaul Hemraj, Sherfane Rutherford Renegades won by eight wickets in the Golden Republic T20 Bash at the Guyana National Stadium Providence.

Watched by a smallsized crowd, Rutherford Renegades chased down 141 posted by Shimron Hetmyer Hurricanes. Hemraj and Tevin Imlach (43) ensured the Rutherford-led team won comfortably.

Rutherford Renegades won the toss and elected to bowl first. Lendl Simmons announced himself in style, smashing Keon Joseph for a maximum over wide long-on.

Joseph came back in style hitting his lengths and removed Trevon Griffith for a first-ball duck. Griffith top-edged one that was comfortably taken

by Anthony Bramble with the score on 7-1. Then came West Indies U-19 batsman Kevlon Anderson who struggled at the inception.

At the end of the power play, Hetmyer Hurricanes were 44-2; Anderson who hit some sweet fours fell after scoring

Chandrapaul Hemraj,

19 from The pugn a -

18 balls. cious

Simmons showed his skill as a T20 batsman hitting three fours and one six but he was dismissed for 23 by a disci-

Rayad Emrit had four clean bowls

Rutherford Renegades

ing Sinclair to cover for a boundary. It was then Rayad Emrit came to the show as the Trinidadian peeled off Hetmyer's edge in the 12th over but the umpire ruled that the ball failed to carry to the keeper.

Hetmyer, after scoring 24 from 25 balls was eventually dismissed in a similar fashion, this time, Quinten Sampson found the edge.

Some scraping from the middle-lower order then took Hetmyer's Hurricanes to 140-9 when 20 overs expired.

Renaldo Ali-Mohamed made an unbeaten 19 from 16 balls while Gudakesh Motie made 13.

The restriction was perfected by Emrit who ended with 4-25 in four brilliant overs; all four of his wickets were clean bowls. In reply, Rutherford's Renegades openers had a breezy start. Tevin Imlach and Chandrapaul Hemraj added 63 runs together to set up an easy chase.

They ended on 144-2 in 17.1 overs. Hemraj innings came off 45 balls and included three fours and three sixes. Imlach made 43 from 24 balls which was decorated with six fours and two sixes. Rutherford Renegades received the 1M cash prize and the winning trophy.

Magnum Mash Cup Futsal Championship…

Action wraps up tonight

A

new champion will be crowned this evening in the 3rd annual Magnum Mash Cup Futsal Championship, as former champion Bent Street tackles Rio All-Stars at the National Gymnasium, Mandela Avenue.

The narrative of the match pits a traditional giant in Bent Street against an emerging force in Rio AllStars of Queenstown.

The numbers also portray their own story, pitting the tournaments leading attack in Bent against Rio AllStars, owners of the best rearguard.

Littered with mercurial talents such as Daniel Wilson, Colin Nelson, Akel Clarke, Sheldon Holder, Jermaine Beckles and Adrian Aaron, Bent Street has recorded a whopping 23 goals.

This resulted in wins against Mocha (round of 16 stage), Sophia (quarterfinal) and Kingston (semifinal).

In terms of their defensive quality, Bent Street has allowed six conversions.

On the other side, Rio

All-Stars despite all their attacking quality, has dominated the opposition with staunch defending. The result of such an approach has only allowed four goals, with Cecil Jackman and Solomon Austin pivotal in this area.

However they have only been breached once in the knockout round, following clean sheets against giants Back Circle (quarterfinal) and Future Stars (round of 16) as well as 3-1 win over Leopold Street (semifinal).

Offensively, 10 goals have been recorded by the likes of Jermin Junior, Kelsey Benjamin, Lennox Cort and Job Caesar.

Troy Lambert, Manager of Rio All-Stars encouraged everyone to come out and vie the finale, adding, “I expect a very competitive finale between the two teams, I expect this to be one of the best finals in the history of the event. We know of the quality of Bent Street and that they are the favorite, but we are not going to lie down easily and we are coming to win.”

Prior to the commence-

ment of the final, the third place matchup between Kingston and Leopold Street will occur. Nigel Denny, captain of Kingston, urged all the supporters of the team and members of the community to show up at the venue and show their support for the side.

He further added that the team is confident of finishing the tournament on a positive note. Also, two exhibition matches will be staged to kickoff the evening’s festivities.

Meanwhile, established sporting brand Woodpecker Trophies and Sports, officially presented the trophies yesterday to the organizers of the event at their Alberttown location.

Speaking at the simple presentation, Esan Griffith, San Sports Director and Coordinator of the tournament thanked the company for their contribution, adding, “This is the grand finale of the event and I expect keen competition and rivalry between Rio All-Stars and Bent Street.” He added that while Bent Street is an

Maria Samaroo, representative of the Woodpecker Trophies and Sport, posing alongside Tournament Chief Esan Griffith (left), Kingston Captain Nigel Denny (2nd left) and Rio All-Stars manager Troy Lambert (right) at the official trophy presentation ceremony

established force nationally, “Rio has proven themselves a force in the shorter format of the game.”

He further stated that the tournament is geared towards improving the fabric of social cohesion amongst the communities and that

the match will be a grand showdown and exhibition of talent.

Winner of the event will pocket $600,000 and the championship trophy, while the second place side will collect $400,000 and the respective accolade.

On the other hand, the third and fourth place unit will receive $200,000 and $100,000 respectively and the corresponding trophy.

Among the other sponsors of the event include the National Sports Commision and MVP Sports.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2020

Sports is no longer our game, i sports t’s our business

guyanatimesgy.com

Golden Republic T20 Bash…

Hemraj’s 50 propels Rutherford Renegades Pg 23

Windies Men and Women spring into action today

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