Guyana Times Wednesday April 8, 2020

P16

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

Issue No. 4250

US seeking permission for another flight to take stranded citizens from Guyana

THE BEACON OF TRUTH WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2020

GECOM, APNU/AFC destruction of democracy: Day 37

US Govt recommits to ensuring “transparent, credible” recounting process Guyana records 2 more COVID-19 cases Page 7

Page 3 …figures now stand at 33 cases, 5 deaths …men from Mahdia, Linden with symptoms rushed to GPHC Page 9

PRICE

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WHAT'S INSIDE:

GECOM must work to regain trust – Int'l Center for Democracy

…joins call for televised recount; exclusion of tainted staff P10

Berbice man dies after fight with employee P13

COVID-19

PPP/C continues countrywide distribution of face masks

COVID-19 outbreak

Coomacka villagers forced to construct security barrier at community’s P12 entrance …as persons flock beaches

Private VAT removed labs in T&T from electricity, to start testing water for 3 months … as FITUG calls for suspension for COVID-19 …Guyana yet to move in of electricity, water, Internet this direction

Page 8

bills for 6 months

See stories on pages 10 & 14

Uncertainty, threats of sanctions P13 worrying business community – Linden Chamber …wants to preserve observer status for elections recount

Full Court upholds decision not to release quarantined P16 student

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WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

NEWS

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WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Wednesday, April 8 – 05:00h – 06:30h and Thursday, April 9 – 05:00h – 06:30h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Wednesday, April 8 – 16:40h – 18:10h and Thursday, April 9 – 05:05h – 06:35h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY Expect sunny intervals and light cloud during the day. There will be partly cloudy conditions at night. Temperatures should range between 22 degrees Celsius and 31 degrees Celsius.

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

High Tide: 17:06h reaching a maximum height of 2.93 metres.

Low Tide: 10:39h and 22:57h reaching minimum heights of 0.24 metre and 0.33 metre.

SATURDAY, APRIL 4, 2020

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COMMODITIES Indicators

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Guyana records 2 more COVID-19 cases

…figures now stand at 33 cases, 5 deaths …men from Mahdia, Linden with symptoms rushed to GPHC

T

he number of COVID-19 cases in Guyana continues to rise with two more new cases recorded on Tuesday, bringing the country’s total number up to 33 cases.

This was revealed by caretaker Public Health Minister Volda Lawrence during the Ministry’s daily update on Tuesday. She noted too that there were currently four patients in the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU), where one of them was critical.

While the number of confirmed cases has increased, the number of COVID-19 deaths in Guyana remains at five.

Deryck Jaisingh, called “Mad Dog”, a drag racer of Land of Canaan, East Bank Demerara (EBD), was the latest victim to succumb to the deadly virus. He died on Monday evening at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC).

Jaisingh had recently returned from neighbouring Brazil and was counted as an imported COVID-19 case. His wife, son and brother are currently quarantined.

Guyana recorded its first case of coronavirus on March 11 following the death of a 52-year-old woman who had returned to Guyana from New York. She was considered an imported case and is referred to as ‘patient zero’.

The other three deaths were recorded within two days last week.

Jaisingh’s death is the fifth recorded from the deadly virus in the country.

Meanwhile, the total number of persons tested thus far is 133, with 33 positive (inclusive of the five deaths) and 99 negative.

Lawrence went on to reveal that the number of persons in isolation has risen to 24 with one from Region One (Barima-Waini); four in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara); 17 from Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica), and one each from Regions Five (Mahaica-Berbice) and Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni).

There are now 38 persons in quarantine, including: two from Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam); 10 from Region Three; 22 from Region Four; three from Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) and one from Region Eight (PotaroSiparuni).

It was reported on Monday that eight of the persons who had tested positive for the novel coronavirus have since recovered after a period of isolation and medical treatment. Followup tests came back negative.

Moreover, there are two suspected cases which have been referred to the Georgetown Public Hospital.

According to reports, a 60-year-old miner, of B Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown, who operates at North Fork Backdam, Konawaruk, Region Eight, turned up at the Mahdia Public Hospital on Monday with persistent coughing and difficulty breathing.

According to Region

tered.

While dealing with the patient, the Hospital ensured that all measures were taken to protect the attending staff. In fact, acting Medical Superintendent of the Hospital, Dr Joseph London, who met with several of the staff, said that the Hospital has taken a more aggressive role in addressing several issues and concerns that staff and members of the public have regarding the infectious dis-

Eight Police Commander Ramesh Ashram, on Tuesday morning, the man was awaiting medevac to Georgetown.

Meanwhile, another patient also visited the Linden Hospital Complex in Mackenzie, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) on Monday, with several respiratory symptoms. After his condition worsened and several tests were conducted on him, the Hospital decided to have the patient transferred to Georgetown where a higher level of care would be urgently adminis-

ease.

He said that the Hospital’s management was cognisant that persons were tense and/or fearful and as such, they continued to reassure staff about their well-being, while ensuring that all standard operating procedures were followed.

He urged members of the public to stay away from rumours, warning that they have the potential to create undue panic. “I am urging persons, including healthcare professionals, to stay away from disseminating and/or sharing rumours as

Men rushed to GPHC

it will not work in the best interest of all. We are in a major medical period where people will panic at anything and we must remain responsible in how we share and/or disseminate information,” Dr London urged.

Adhere to guidelines

With the number of both confirmed cases and deaths rising in Guyana, Lawrence, during her update on Tuesday, pleaded with Guyanese to adhere to the various advice and guidelines released by the Ministry in order to stop the spread of the deadly virus.

“We can stop the transmission and reduce the deaths if you follow the guidelines that we continue to provide daily.

I wish also to repeat that you will not escape the coronavirus disease if you continue to operate as if you don’t care. COVID-19 is real, Friends, and it’s a killer, so help us to help you stay alive. If you don’t adhere, it is very likely that you will contract this disease and you may probably die,” she cautioned.

Nevertheless, the Minister pointed out that the 12-hour curfew will remain in effect until May 4, 2020.

But this, she warned, would be based on how Guyanese respond now to the pandemic, which has been devastating countries and major cities around the world.

If the situation in Guyana worsens, it is likely that the curfew would be extended.

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guyanatimesgy.com

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 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

A televised recount

T

here now are mounting calls coming from various stakeholders in Guyana for the Guyana Elections Commission (GCOM) to put in place systems that would allow for the elections recount to be televised, so that everyone would be able to see for themselves how the process is unfolding.

Like many of these stakeholders, we support such calls, considering all the confusion and what some say were blatant attempts before the watchful eyes of the world to manipulate the results for District Four, which everyone knows were fraudulent. These questionable results would have led to the swearing in of a Government that would have had a cloud hanging over its legitimacy had the Opposition not moved to the Court with haste to challenge the declaration.

It could be recalled that, following the relatively smooth voting process in nine of the 10 regions, the nation waited with bated breath on Region Four Returning Officer Clairmont Mingo’s declaration. Mingo’s declaration was imperative to determining which of the two major political parties – the PPP/C or APNU/AFC -- would take the presidency.

There was much drama at the GECOM Command Centre, with strange things happening, and this was all played out on live television to the embarrassment of all Guyanese. As the tabulation of the SoPs got underway, Mingo complained of feeling unwell, and he was then rushed to the hospital. His staff, a deputy RO, could have continued the exercise, but blatantly refused to do so for various reasons. A GECOM staffer was then seen being whisked away by Police after going into a room with a flash-drive and computer, and eventually the count was suspended. Sometime after, Mingo returned with a piece of paper, and declared results in spite of the objections of all the party agents and international observers present.

That declaration was subsequently declared unlawful by the High Court, but in clear defiance of the court’s ruling, Mingo later returned to make another controversial declaration, this time at GECOM’s office in Kingston. Prior to his second declaration, agents at the GECOM office had complained of being impeded from observing the counting process. Mingo’s refusal to show agents the original SoPs is reported to have hampered the transparency of the process.

What occurred later were deliberate attempts to use the court again by APNU/AFC to block the elections’ recount.

Now that the Appellate Court has paved the way for the recounting of the votes to proceed, with GECOM itself being in charge of the process, all systems must be put in place to allow for the entire process to be well-supervised, and to be carried out in a transparent and fair manner to the satisfaction of all stakeholders. Live-streaming the recount, we all know, would provide the greatest degree of transparency, and that would instill public confidence in the process and the results of the elections.

In addition to the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), the Liberty and Justice Party (LJP) and the Private Sector Commission (PSC) have also made strong calls for the elections recount to be streamed live on television. In a letter to the GECOM Chair, Retired Justice Claudette Singh, Shuman recommended that the Commission adopt a policy that would allow the media to be present and provide live broadcast of the recount.

In addition to COVID-19, the political instability is taking a heavy toll on almost every aspect of national life in the country. It is the ordinary citizens and small and medium–scale businesses that are feeling the squeeze, especially at a time when the authorities have imposed a lockdown with no relief support mechanisms in place. The country would be able to progress only if the political crisis is brought to an end, and this means concluding the electoral process in a credible and transparent manner.

GECOM, and Guyana as a whole, cannot afford to treat the recount exercise lightly. The international community seems to be losing patience with all the events post-March 2; and from their many statements issued so far, they are eager to see the electoral process come to an end and the duly elected government sworn in. Citizens are also becoming fed up, and would like to see the country move ahead and confront the deadly coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic head-on. Guyana cannot move ahead and effectively confront the challenges of fighting this pandemic in this present political crisis.

Guyanese have had enough of APNU/AFC sham, treachery

Dear Editor, Now that the die has been cast; the General and Regional Elections are long over, the electorate exercised their will on March 2, 2020, and it is only a matter of time before the President-elect Dr Irfaan Ali is sworn in and the PPP/C forms the next Government of Guyana. It was smooth sailing for nine regions where the Ros’ declaration are widely accepted as being fair and transparent but not so for Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica), the seat of power, the trust in GECOM to deliver credible elections results was decimated. The questionable RO Mr Clairmont Mingo made not only once but two false declarations, triggering a succession of unrelenting court proceedings (legal mischief) and by such actions enabling an orchestrated plan by the APNU/AFC’s rigging cabal to illegally remain in the Government offices. The PPP/C, the smaller contesting parties and the international observer missions have all condemned in

its strongest terms the declarations as being fraudulent and not consistent with the numbers on the SoPs. Only the coalition APNU/ AFC found favour with the blatant insertion of inaccurate numbers on a spreadsheet used by RO Mingo.

Obviously prepared on the instructions of APNU/AFC by their rigging accomplices at the compromised GECOM. Forty per cent of the coalition, the power-hungry political freebooters that constitute the leadership of the AFC, has now resorted to blackmailing the PPP/C and smaller parties, doing the biddings for their partners in crime, the APNU 60 per cent of the coalition, hyping their inclusive governance mantra hoping that they can hoodwink the PPP/C given prevailing impasse of the final declaration of results for the March 2, 2020 General and Regional Elections. All Guyanese have had enough of their sham and treachery, they have consistently

held this nation to ransom, spreading lies and deception, raping the national treasury even in their caretaker status, misusing their vulnerable supporters, creating mayhem and destruction in the streets of Georgetown and elsewhere.

Enough! Let them die a natural death, destined to the dustbin of history as inflicted by the electorate at the General and Regional Elections of March 2, 2020.

The APNU/AFC coalition is fully aware that they have lost the General and Regional Elections of March 2, 2020, by quite a margin and their touting of inclusive governance and executive power-sharing is tantamount to an admission of that fact. The continued charade of their Commissioners of stalling the work of the GECOM and their frivolous court actions are all intended to buy time and obstruct the final declaration hoping to wear away the patience of the PPP/C, the other contesting parties and so many peace-loving Guyanese en-

gaged in the collective effort of sacrificing the comfort of their homes day and night to guard and protect the trustworthiness of the containers at the GECOM compound containing the ballot boxes for a speedy recount. The demands of the international community for an immediate recount and credible tabulation of the vote count are well known. President Granger, the APNU/AFC coalition and all the other destructive elements give it up now! Let there be a prompt recount.

The PPP/C, the other contesting parties and so may peace-loving Guyanese must not allow the sacrifices of the past month go in vain, let the voices of democracy stand strong, respect the rights of the people enshrined in the Constitution.

The mood of the vast majority of Guyanese is positive.

Resist and denounce all attempts to thwart the will of the electorate by blackmail.

Dear Editor, I am seized with curiosity about the contents of the elections report submitted by Keith Lowenfield, the Chief Election Officer to Chairman Claudette Singh.

A section of the media in its editorial of April 6 noted that delivery has been made for some time now. At present, only two persons know the contents of the March 14 report. I would ask that this report be tabled for examination by the Commission for the following reasons.

Firstly, this would make the report part of a public record and shed light on subjects of dark speculation. Whilst given the events of the past few

weeks there is little danger of Lowenfield’s report being accepted by either side as definitive, it would still serve to give direction to the Commission on the modalities needed for a credible result obtained via an honest and transparent process.

The recount decision has already been taken by the GECOM Commission; the report can point us to the best way forward.

Secondly, the contents of the report can incriminate or vindicate Mr Lowenfield; unlike others, I have not assumed the contents and cannot, therefore, say if Lowenfield is implicated in Mr Mingo’s fraud. For all we know, the CEO has delivered a report that viti-

ates Mingo’s declaration and recommends a re-tabulation of SoPs. Alternately, Lowenfield has implicated himself in fraud by asserting that Mingo’s numbers match those on his (Lowenfield’s) SoPs. It is my considered opinion that Keith Lowenfield would never take the latter option.

Thirdly, by tabling the report of March 14, 2020, we can save endless speculation that the report could/would have been destroyed, altered or switched to match the outcome of any re-tabulation of SoPs or recount of votes and of course, we would be safeguarding the reputation of Madame Justice (retd) Claudette Singh and CEO Keith Lowenfield at the

same time.

Alternatively, should there be a failure to agree on tabling the report, placing it in escrow with a suitable entity of international repute for a post-election examination should be given serious consideration for many of the reasons above.

Time is of the essence as Guyana needs to have a legitimate and recognised Government in place urgently as we battle the COVID-19 pandemic.

Further delays will not only have economic implications, but it may also cost us precious lives. The time for fiddling has passed.

Dear Editor, Guyanese are being asked to treat in a civilised manner, the criminals who are actively robbing us of our democracy. It will not work. APNU/AFC in collaboration with GECOM and the police are on a path of no redemption.

Lowenfield, Meyers, Mingo and others are far too committed to change course.

Claudette Singh is playing the slothful good cop under duress routine. I believe

she was able to convince the Carter Center. I gave up on her since the HTH exercise.

She is not going to stand up even if observers are propping her up. Like Mingo, I expect she still has great theatre in store for us.

We know that if APNU/ AFC cannot rig the elections they will try to destroy evidence of the PPP/C victory, as David Hinds has already proposed. In the meanwhile, they will continue to stall and derail. This will even-

tually morph into a null and void proposition. GECOM incompetence or negligence will be among the main reasons and the elections body will, of course, play along given that it is one and the same as the APNU/AFC. If the Americans do not act now, Guyana is headed for total chaos. We will become another Venezuela overnight.

Remember, GECOM is at the centre of the problem and if APNU/ AFC stays in power, even

in a caretaker capacity, that organisation will remain corrupt and that will automatically render the next election a fraud.

Being patient with APNU/AFC and GECOM is like negotiating with terrorists. The more time they have the more demanding they become. The time for talking is over. It is time for that metaphorical headshot.

Respectfully, Parasram Persaud

Time for fiddling has passed

Respectfully, Robin Singh

Americans need to be proactive

Sincerely, Ravi Ram

guyanatimesgy.com

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2020

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

Provide seeds, local goods Any mask is better than none in COVID-19 food hampers Dear Editor, Let me start this letter by first applauding all those entities that have begun distributing food hampers and other aid to vulnerable persons and communities in need in Guyana during this time of crisis. It is heartening to see this demonstration of care and concern for each other and the actions being undertaken are indeed commendable. I would like to make a few suggestions, however, which have the potential to greatly increase the positive impact of these initiatives. First – it would be wonderful if fresh fruits and vegetables could be purchased directly from Guyanese farmers for distribution in these hampers, not simply processed items from the large supermarkets.

Things like citrus, ground provisions, and other fruits are essential to good health and bountiful in Guyana.

Given that an enormous component of good health depends on ‘eating healthy’, including items like these is of paramount importance now more than ever. With the current restrictions on municipal vending, many farmers now have a huge problem finding markets for their produce and face the prospect of massive wastage and loss of income. This does not need to be. The New Guyana Marketing Corporation (New GMC) has, in recent years, purported to establish relationships with many farmers and local agro-producers; it should be easy therefore to tap into this knowledge and networks and turn a challenging situation into a winwin for all concerned. We have also seen an explosion of agro-processing in recent years and there are many quality local goods available such as coconut oil, peanut

A GECOM-supervised recount done under “international standards” Dear Editor, Amidst the twists and turns of a seemingly never-ending saga of an election, there finally is talk of a recount. From all indications, we have come to the point where we are going to have that long- awaited recount to ascertain the true winner of the March 2 Election.

Now, as much as we anticipate that recount, we must not forget that we had come to the point of declaring a winner twice before, but had to abort it due to a party’s brazen attempts to rig these elections right before our very eyes; so, this time we have to get it right.

Again, I say all of this stems from the known fact that Granger is on a door-die campaign to rig this election, and in that regard, we must do what is necessary to thwart his efforts to accomplish it. Knowing his sinister motives, we have to be cognizant of the avenues he might be tempted to explore, which in this case goes to the heart of the Election Commission itself.

Granger, through his minions at GECOM -- and Claudette Singh is very much a part of it -- hopes to pull off yet another brazen stunt at rigging.

Led by Vincent Alexander, the rigging apparatus is about to be set in motion, so pay keen attention to the actions of this commissioner. He asserts that if there is a recount, only CARICOM should be there to observe it; mean-

ing, no other independent foreign eyes should be around.

Well, that has a twofold meaning. For starters, Alexander knows that with a smaller group of scrutineers, they could still strong-arm their way with that rigging stunt and get away with it. However, with a larger, more international observer grouping, there would be zero opportunity at rigging, for which Alexander is fearful.

Well, let me allay his fears by adding to it. I must tell Alexander that there could be no verification of the recount if the international observers are not present, period. End of discussion!

The international observers must be there to legitimize the process, there is no other option. The more eyes the better, because, up until this time, GECOM has embraced too many illegal intrusions for us to trust them, so we must have international input every step of the way.

Yes, we agree that GECOM is an autonomous body, but its members must understand that that local body must conduct its affairs under international standards: free, fair and transparent. Anything short of such standards would be deemed fraudulent, and would bear the crippling curse of sanctions.

Respectfully, Neil Adams

butter from the Rupununi, dried fish of all kind, ‘bush teas’, spices, etc, which make up part of a healthy diet. Sourcing these items from local producers would reduce our dependency on imported goods, and also help keep these small businesses - many of which provide employment to other Guyanese and contribute to the economy via taxes etc afloat in these trying times.

In that vein, it would be excellent if seeds, seedlings, garden soil, and manure could be freely distributed to Guyanese as well, in addition to packaged and processed foodstuff. While not everybody will be able to grow much of their food, there are many items which can be easily grown in containers if land/yard space is limited. This crisis has revealed the vital importance of food security and it is imperative, in my opinion, that the Ministry of Agriculture demonstrate more leadership on this front at this time. On a financial level any amount of vegetables, fruit, and seasonings that a household is able to grow for themselves increases their self-sufficiency, reduces their food spending and dependency on others for assistance, and leaves

more money available for the purchase of other essential items which cannot easily be produced at home.

Gardening has also been shown to have many physical and mental health benefits - from providing exercise to persons (for free - no need to pay for a gym membership!), as well as helping to relieve stress, anxiety, and depression and increasing feelings of self-sufficiency and control. These are critical components of good health and important now more than ever before.

There is indeed a serious crisis facing us right now, something which is disrupting life as we know it and creating great uncertainty and stress. However, the situation can also be viewed as an opportunity to build more sustainable and healthy systems. Let us not simply react fearfully and in ways that maintain inequity and dependence but seize this chance to reflect and think more creatively, and to make the changes necessary for improved individual and societal health and wellbeing in the long term.

Sincerely, Sherlina Nageer, MPH

Dear Editor, Permit me a space in your daily newspaper. As our numbers have climbed with regards to the coronavirus (COVID-19), we have seen a few initiatives to combat this virus as a nation. I would like to highlight the initiative led by Dr Irfaan Ali and his team to distribute fabric masks across Guyana.

This initiative is a stellar one compared to all other initiatives that took place since the outbreak came to our shores. Many have also taken to social media to condemn this act of humanity, because the masks are not N95 or surgical masks.

Let me make it clear that any type of mask is definitely better than none! The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website says, “CDC recommends wearing cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain (eg, grocery stores and pharmacies), especially in areas of significant community-based transmission.

CDC also advises the use of simple cloth face coverings to slow the spread of the virus and help people who may have the virus and do not know it from transmitting it to others. Cloth face coverings fashioned from household items or made at home from common materials at low cost can be used as an additional, vol-

untary public health measure.” https://www.cdc.gov/ coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/diy-clothface-coverings.html As you can see, the CDC clearly recommends the use of this mask. As citizens, we must accept and applaud Dr Ali for his bold and quite clever initiative, I saw pictures of him actually distributing these masks and each mask that is packaged has instructions for those who are in receipt of these masks. I condemn the vile comments against this initiative, and we must understand that preferences to the N95 and surgical masks should be given to those in the health sector. I will definitely say any mask is better than none! I must also acknowledge the imposed curfew that was set in place, I do think that a curfew is good, however, our citizens were not prepared for said curfew. Let us not forget the CDC for their contributions as well, I do hope the initiative by the CDC is a continuous one and it will indeed help all Guyanese throughout our land.

May we all be safe during this dire time, may we all understand the seriousness at hand and may we all ensure to be thankful for whatever little mercies we may be given.

Sincerely, Katrina Niamatali

Guyana must signal political stability, return to normal

Dear Editor, The latest ruling from the Guyana Court of Appeal clears the way for final resolution of our electoral uncertainty, and not a moment too soon. GECOM and the responsible officials must put aside the temptation to fall into petty disputes and proceed to the recount with all haste. It is of the utmost importance that Guyana has its new, legitimate Administration in place regardless of who the victor is.

Why? Because Guyana is being buffeted by unprecedented forces of global instability. The coronavirus is plodding unrelentingly through our communities. Far worse is to come. Two things will be vital for Guyana to minimise the brutal impact of the virus: a legitimate functioning Government and the support of international aid. At the moment, we have neither.

The experience of other nations, most far wealthier and organised than Guyana, shows clearly that a strong Government is needed to make and enforce the rules for halting the virus’ spread.

After a month without a clear resolution to our electoral squabbles, Guyana is losing valuable time and energy that could be directed towards preparing for the virus.

We are also losing opportuni-

ties to redirect our new State resources (ie our oil revenues) to meet these ends.

Many countries are also having necessary funding, supplies and medical equipment furnished by international aid. Yet Guyana did not make the cut for the World Bank’s first round of aid operations. I suspect that this snub may well be because of our highly-publicised political troubles. While other nations have advanced preparation and asked for support, we appear to outsiders to be a troubled child in the international political community – little wonder we lost our place in the queue.

A speedy resolution to our elections and the formation of a new Government is therefore critical. The new Administration should look to quickly enact clear directives such as the testing and social distancing measures seen in other nations. It must also look to international aid for some of the medical equipment and supplies that will be needed to care for Guyana’s sick as infection rates start to soar. Getting that aid should be easier once Guyana’s reputation is improved.

A new Government can also begin to utilise our secret weapon: oil revenues. I have been surprised by the lack of discussion around this point.

Many nations are scrambling for funding in order to prop up businesses, households and healthcare systems. Guyana recently received over US$50 million from our first lift of oil alone, with more on the way! Those revenues can and should be redirected via emergency decrees to provide relief for citizens, buy medical equipment such as masks

and ventilators and fund care for infected Guyanese.

This political battle could not have come at a worse time. Now we have been caught out by the onset of a global pandemic. Let us put the elections to rest.

Yours respectfully, Gregory Lynch

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WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2020

Page

Foundation

Guyana Times is pleased to publish the Education Ministry’s National Grade Six Assessment Past Papers.

This is the first part of English Language Paper 1, 2011.

MINISTRY OF EDUCATION

NATIONAL GRADE SIX ASSESSMENT

ENGLISH LANGUAGE

TIME: 1 hour 10 minutes READ THESE INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY BEFORE YOU ATTEMPT TO ANSWER THE QUESTIONS.

1. WRITE YOUR CANDIDATE NUMBER ON THE ANSWER SHEET AND UNDERLINE THE SUBJECT. 2. This test contains 40 questions. You are required to answer ALL questions. Four responses are given for each question.

The responses are A, B, C and D. Only ONE response is correct.

3. If you are not sure of the answer to a question, then choose the one which you think is BEST. On your answer sheet, draw a heavy black line through the letter you have chosen.

4. BE SURE THAT THE QUESTION NUMBER IN THE BOOKLET IS THE SAME AS THE ONE YOU HAVE USED ON YOUR ANSWER SHEET.

In questions 1 and 2, choose the correct spelling of the word to complete each sentence.

1. The teacher showed us the roots that were (A) edible.

(B) edeble.

(C) edable.

(D) edieble.

2. Next Sunday, Michael will______his birthday.

(A) cellebrate (B) celibrate (C) celabrate (D) celebrate

In questions 3 to 5, choose the best word to complete each sentence.

3. At the doctor's office, I paid______ the consultation fee to the (A) operator. (B) receptionist.

(C) salesman. (D) clerk.

4. The cricketer violated a rule so the______sent him off the field.

(A) referee (B) coach (C) umpire (D) judge 5. Do you know that our principal is the______ of this book?

(A) creator (B) author (C) composer (D) founder

Choose the word that is similar in meaning to the underlined word in each sentence.

6. In my village , pineapples are abundant.

(A) scarce (B) plentiful (C) juicy (D) rare 7. It is quite natural for someone to shud-

Here is an example done for you: 1. The opposite of interior is ANSWER SHEET A B C D (A) inside (B) outside (C) below (D) above A heavy black line has been drawn through the letter B on the answer sheet because Georgetown, the correct answer, is next to B. 5. If you make a mistake, erase the line cleanly,

der when walking in the rain.

(A) faint (B) tremble (C) stumble (D) collapse 8. He made a profit of one hundred dollars.

(A) margin (B ) loss (C) bargain (D) gain In questions 9 to 12, what is the function of the word underlined in each sentence?

9. Saudia spoke to her mother quietly.

(A) verb (B) adverb (C) adjective (D) preposition 10. The fruits were ripe so we picked them.

(A) conjunction (B) pronoun (C) adverb (D) noun 11. He leaned his bicycle against the post.

(A) adjective (B) conjunction (B) preposition (D) pronoun 12. The children collected the books and gave them to the teacher.

(A) pronoun (B) adverb (C) conjunction (D) noun In questions 13 and 14, choose the word that is opposite in meaning to the word underlined.

13. The class teacher praised the pupils of Grade 6.

(A) blamed (B) thanked (C) honoured (D) blessed 14. All the materials on the shelf are transparent.

(A) clear (B) fragile

then draw a heavy black line through the letter next to the answer you have now chosen.

6. REMEMBER, each answer MUST only be shown by a heavy black line on your Answer Sheet 7. Remember only one answer must be provided for each question.

DO NOT TURN OVER THIS PAGE UNTIL YOU ARE TOLD TO DO SO

(C) opaque (D) bright In questions 15 and 16, identify the sentence in which a punctuation markor a capital letter is left out.

15. (A) Have you seen Mr. Lam? (B) The title of the story is shipwrecked.

(C) Sally wore a dazzling evening gown.

(D) "I have given the book to Joy," said the teacher.

16. (A) Many children play games in the National Park.

(B) "Stop" shouted the policeman.

(C) I bought story books, toys and stationery from the store.

(D) Do you have the key for the door?

In questions 17 to 20, identify the sentence that is correctly written.

17. (A) Today we are learn a new song in class.

(B) Today we learning a new song in class.

(C) Today we learnt a new song in class.

(D) Today we will learning a new song in class.

18. (A) Neither the teacher nor the parent attended the Prize Giving Ceremony.

(B) Either the teacher and the parent attended the Prize Giving Ceremony.

(C) Neither the teacher and the parent attended the Prize Giving Ceremony.

(D) Either the teacher nor the parent attended the Prize Giving Ceremony.

19. (A) Between you and me, we will share the cookies.

(B) Between you and she, we will share the cookies.

(C) Between you and he, we will share the cookies.

(D) Between you and I, we will share the cookies.

20. (A) I did not enjoy my holidays because I did not gone nowhere of interest.

(B) I did not enjoy my holiday because I did not go anywhere of interest.

(C) I did not enjoy my holiday because I did not go somewhere of interest.

(D) I did not enjoy my holiday because I did not going anywhere of interest.

In questions 21 and 22, choose the underlined word which should have an apostrophe.

21. The childrens departments had A B a wide variety of socks and dresses.

C D 22. Flowers and fruits were on A B display at the Mens Guild Exhibition.

C D In questions 23 to 25, choose the meaning of the underlined phrase.

23. The old woman tried to make both ends meet.

(A) live within her means (B) spend all her money (C) measure the cloth (D) stitch both ends together 24. At the school party, David blew his own trumpet.

(A) played his own music (B) danced by himself (C) took care of himself (D) boasted about himself 25. Sue and Sally decided to bury the hatchet.

(A) get new friends (B) make peace (C) make mischief (D) fight with each other

NEWS

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WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

General and Regional Elections

US Govt recommits to ensuring “transparent, credible” recounting process

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ith preparations ongoing for a national recount, the United States has reiterated its commitment to ensuring that the process is transparent and credible.

This is according to Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, during a press conference on Tuesday morning.

He commended the courts in Guyana for paving the way for the recount of all the votes cast at the General and Regional Elections over a month ago on March 2, 2020.

“I also like to commend Guyana’s High Court for clearing the way for a nationwide recount of that country’s recent national elections... We look forward to working with their Elections Commission and the international observer community to ensure that that process is free, fair,

transparent and credible,” Pompeo stated.

His comment comes in light of a recent decision by the Appeal Court to uphold the Full Court’s ruling

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo

that the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) is entitled to conduct a recount to ensure the transparency and credibility of the elections results.

APNU/AFC candidate, Ulita Moore, had obtained an injunction from the High Court to block

GECOM from conducting the Caribbean Community (Caricom) brokered recount last month.

However, the Full Court dismissed the in-

junction that was granted by High Court Judge, Justice Franklyn Holder, noting that any challenges to GECOM’s decisions will have to be brought via an elections petition, which can only be filed after the declaration of elections results.

Moore and her lawyers subsequently moved to the Appeals Court to set aside the Full Court’s ruling, but was unsuccessful, thus paving the way for the Elections Commission to go ahead with the recount.

In fact, Chairperson of GECOM, (ret’d) Justice Claudette Singh, had already decided last week to go ahead with the national recount of all votes cast on March 2, and the Chief Elections Officer (CEO) Keith Lowenfield has been tasked with coming up with a work plan on how the recount will be conducted. He is expected to present that plan when the seven-member Commission meets today at 11:00h.

The US has been at the fore of international pressure, calling for a recount to be done to accurately reflect the will of Guyanese, who exercised their franchise over a month ago and are yet to get “credible” results.

The North American powerhouse had even warned of serious consequences and sanctions if a new Government is swornin based on flawed elections results.

In fact, Secretary Pompeo had previously cautioned, “…it’s important to note that the individuals who seek to benefit from electoral fraud and form il-

legitimate Governments, regimes will be subject to a variety of serious consequences from the United States.”

After an almost “smooth” voting day, the declaration of results for nine of the electoral districts were completed but the tabulation of the Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica) results was mired in controversy and “credible allegations” of fraud by most of the political parties that contested the March 2 elections – and even by both the local and foreign observers that had monitored the contentious process. They had all called for a recount.

This resulted in the intervention of the Caricom Chairperson, Barbadian Prime Minister Mia

GECOM Chair, Retired Justice Claudette Singh

Mottley, who fielded a five-member independent team to supervise a national recount that was requested by caretaker

President David Granger and agreed to Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo.

However, the regional team was forced to withdraw their services after the Moore injunction was filed, blocking GECOM from conducting the recount.

With GECOM now preparing for the vote recount, it is likely that the Commission will reach out to Caricom to have either the same team return or another team fielded to observe the recounting process.

In fact, GECOM Commissioner Vincent Alexander told reporters on Monday that they are looking to have the regional bloc involved in the process to bring credibility and validation to the recount.

8 NEWS Private labs in T&T to start testing for COVID-19 WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

…Guyana yet to move in this direction CARPHA. Deyalsingh said these private lab tests may result in a rise in the number of confirmed cases, the Trinidad Express reported.

Trinidad’s Health Ministry had held the position that private labs could not perform the tests, since they were not certified by CARPHA. The new regulations that came into effect require that

Why it’s…

Dr Anthony is one of the key stakeholders in the National COVID-19 Response Forum that was established by the Opposition People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) to aid in the fight against the spread of the novel coronavirus.

The Public Health Ministry had recently stated that efforts were being made to have the necessary lab equipment available in or-

T

T&T Health Minister Terrence Deyalsingh

Dr Frank Anthony

rivate medical laboratories across Trinidad and Tobago are now being encouraged to begin performing tests for the coronavirus (disease COVID-19), but Guyana, with positive cases and deaths rising daily, is yet to move in this direction.

At a press conference in Port of Spain on Tuesday, that country’s Health Minister, Terrence Deyalsingh, said that once the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) certified labs were equipped with the PCR (polymerase chain reaction) machines, they could proceed, once validated by

currently, if any of these private health institutions need a test conducted, they first would have to seek permission from the Public Health Ministry, and some of these requests have been denied.

Dr Anthony had stressed that these private hospitals must be able to get testing for the deadly virus done immediately, since delays with this could endanger the lives of not just the patients but the medical professionals as well.

According to Dr Anthony, in both the public and private health sectors, people are not getting access to COVID-19 testing readily.

P

the private labs, certified by CARPHA, report the findings of the test, to the Chief Medical Officer and not the individual.

Guyana’s former shadow Public Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony, a few days ago, called on the Government here to tap the resources of the private health sector to boost testing capacity for COVID-19.

der to increase the number of tests being done.

However, Dr Anthony explained that many of the private hospitals and laboratories in Guyana have the human capacity as well as the equipment readily available; as such, they just need to get the supplies in order to conduct COVID-19 tests themselves.

According to Dr Anthony,

…déjà vu all over again he PNC are in a bind. Their modus operandi after losing the election was to rile up their lumpen elements in Georgetown to put a good beating on “PPP supporters”, meaning any and every Indian-Guyanese they could get their hands on. And what happens to those Indian-Guyanese who may’ve voted for them?? Well, back in 2000, one PNC candidate advised them to turn themselves in to Congress Place, where they’d be given protection!!

The beatings – and burning any number of stores in Georgetown, thrown in for good measure - were intended to bludgeon the PPP into recognizing that while they could win elections, by golly, they wouldn’t be ALLOWED to govern. The template was created in 1998 after the PNC lost the December 1997 elections. The beatings, arson, kidnappings and mayhem drove the PPP to the negotiating table – even after a Caricom-conducted forensic audit of the votes showed the PPP had won fair and square.

A Caricom team then negotiated from the PPP concessions that made a mockery of the premises of democratic elections. The PPP conceded that the Guyanese electorate was by and large split along ethnic lines, and that the losers may feel left out from governance much stronger than in more homogenous polities. So, what did they do?? They accepted PNC-demanded changes that would share governance powers with the PNC in Parliament!! Plus, they introduced a host of amendments to the Constitution, which, among other things, would make the Executive President far less powerful.

And as the topping on the concessions cake, they lopped off two years from their five-year term, and scheduled elections so the PNC would have another shot at getting themselves elected democratically. Thing was, rather than accepting they’d lost because they needed to attract crossover votes beyond their African-Guyanese constituency, the PNC openly supported criminal attacks on the IndianGuyanese community! Their leader Desmond Hoyte even went to the funeral of the most notorious bandit, Blackie London, and draped a Guyana flag over his coffin!!

And after they lost the 2001 elections – no surprise there! - the violence escalated, this time to justify “power sharing” in the Executive. Seems the power sharing in Parliament wasn’t enough!! Does this sound familiar? Déjà vu? But having been in power for the last five years, the PNC have a dilemma: Knowing they’ve lost these elections, they can’t very well start beating Indian-Guyanese to have the PPP negotiate away power!!

The PPP have no power, just the legitimacy conferred by the international community!! Hence the call to scrap elections; burn the ballots cast; let Granger keep the presidency while the “PPP person” gets Nagamootoo’s neutered Prime Ministership!!

And the PPP should be grateful their supporters weren’t brutalised. …time for the stick!

The attacks on the US from the PNC camp’s followers have intensified for “daring” to insist that if the PNC enters elections on the principle of “one man, one vote”, they can’t just burn the ballots when they’re losing! Yes…for “daring”!! You’d think that Guyana was a superpower even greater than China, which wouldn’t even think of spitting in the US’ face, as these PNC gnats are doing right now!!

Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, just made another pointed comment on the latest turn on our long and winding election road that’s sure to get the PNC gnats all a-buzzing! The Secty noted the Courts acknowledged GECOM’s authority to conduct a recount, and said, “We look forward to working with (Guyana’s) Elections Commission and the international observer community to ensure that that process is free, fair, transparent and credible.”

The PNC, of course, have insisted that only Caricom can come in to “look on” while GECOM “Mingoes” the recount.

The US, has just called their bluff!! Let’s see who’ll blink!! …(Irfaan’s) action vs (Granger’s) talk!

During their campaign, the PNC emphasised Granger’s image. They had to…what accomplishment could they point to!?! Compare his disappearance during this COVID crisis with Irfaan’s activism and innovativeness.

There are talkers versus doers!! Irfaan’s the man.

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

NEWS

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WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2020| GUYANATIMESGY.COM

COVID-19

PPP/C continues countrywide distribution of face masks

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The team distributing face masks

he National COVID-19 Multi-stakeholders’ Response Forum, which was activated by Presidential Candidate of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic, Dr Irfaan Ali, saw the distribution of face masks throughout the length and breadth of Guyana with the aim of stopping the spread of the deadly virus.

On Monday scores of sugar workers protested and called on the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) to put measures in place to protect them from the virus.

On Tuesday however, Dr Ali donated over 420 masks

to assist the frontline workers. This initiative is apart of the Forum’s ‘everyone wears a mask’ campaign as one of the measures to protect Guyanese from the virus.

The Forum has since established an online presence, with doctors offering advice and answering questions of concerned citizens.

On Sunday Dr Ali had cautioned Guyanese that the next two weeks will be critical in determining if the country comes out unscathed.

During a live address to the nation on social media, Ali urged Guyanese to stay

to GuySuCo to be distributed to the sugar workers.

Further, a team led by Dr Ali continued its countrywide distribution exercise at the Mahaica Market and its environs.

The team is appealing to all citizens to wear the masks so as to protect themselves and others against the virus.

According to the Presidental Candidate, it is more important now than ever that all Guyanese, regardless of their race, religion or political affiliation, come together and fight the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I think we can help each other and save each other by at least wearing these masks, observing the social distancing, ensuring that we wash our hands regularly and sanitise. Let us do [this] together, we have to protect each other,” he posited.

The PPP/C Presidential Candidate noted that the public needs to do their part

protected at home and desist from venturing outside.

“I’ve spoken to a num-

223-7230-1 (Ext 55)

ber of health professionals and those who are on the front line, working on this issue and they are all of the opinion that the next two weeks are critical weeks for us. The next two weeks are important to us, if we are to flatten the curve or if we allow COVID-19 to get the better of us,” he posited.

Ali furthered that this

should not be seen as a scare, but a reality of what should roll out in the upcoming weeks as prevention, with input from all sections of society.

“This is just a discourse on the reality. The reality that confronts us. The reality that we must deal with and the reality that each one of us possesses the ability to

help in confronting. We have to work together. We have to ensure that all of us come out on top of this in the next two weeks.”

Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha

The Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha has also been distributing masks throughout Guyana. The Sabha said the masks are

made of 100 per cent cotton and are distributed with instructions on care and how to wear the masks.

Masks are distributed for free in communities and many have already been distributed in Central Corentyne, East Coast Demerara, Georgetown, Upper Corentyne and West Coast Berbice.

“We are humbled to see the love and care that Guyanese have shown for each other during this process and that spirit must continue in this difficult period in our country when health and life are at risk.

We salute all those who have answered this need whether individually and from many different groups, as correct masking along with social distancing and handwashing may save lives.”

To this end, the religious organisation is calling on everyone to remain at home in an effort to contain the spread of the deadly virus.

10 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

COVID-19 impacts

GECOM must work to regain FITUG calls for suspension of electricity, trust – Int'l Center for Democracy water, Internet bills for 6 months

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he Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG) is calling for the suspension of electricity, water, and Internet bills over the next six months as Guyanese feel the brunt of the implications of a partial national lockdown as part of the country’s efforts to combat the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

The union representative body on Tuesday lambasted the authorities over their response to the pandemic and its economic impacts, saying the response thus far was substantially lacking.

As such, FITUG in a public statement reiterated its call for a comprehensive social and economic package to be formulated and implemented at this time.

Among the measures being proposed by the union body is a wage guarantee so that no worker suffers any loss of pay, and the Government should lead by example as well as work with private employers to ensure that employees do not unduly suffer.

FITUG, in its proposal, called for support to the self-employed and the jobless to ensure they were able to sustain their obligations and maintain their families.

This was in addition to a complete waiver of the income tax and Value Added

Tax (VAT) for at least six months to cushion the hike in the cost of living.

FITUG also demanded that Government work out arrangements with companies offering hire purchase, commercial banks and other lending institutions for a suspension of payments for six months as well as rescheduling debt obligations of workers and writing off the indebtedness of the unemployed.

According to FITUG, its call comes on the heels of the fact that the authorities – without even a hint of forewarning – imposed a curfew on the evening of April 3, 2020.

The union representative body said “while we accept there may be good reason and rationale for such a decision, the order appears to be rushed and devoid of some important considerations…Our contention in this regard has been borne out by the necessity to offer several clarifications and to make amendments in the subsequent hours”.

According to FITUG, “It causes us to be concerned whether every and all ele-

…joins call for televised recount; exclusion of tainted staff

ments are taken into consideration when making decisions in this crucial period. It’s hard not to wonder whether seat-of-the-pants decision-making is, seemingly, being employed. If this really is the case, as it seems to be, this can only bring about more harm.”

Wide-scale testing needed

Additionally, FITUG used the occasion to call on the authorities to institute widescale COVID-19 testing, starting with the most likely to be exposed, saying “we see this as a means to get a better handle of the situation and thus be able to overcome the crisis in a shorter period”.

The Federation said, “This approach, we are aware, has been pursued elsewhere with great success and should be an essential component of our national response…We also urge too that the tests’ results be known to medical professionals as soon as they are available…This, we believe, will prevent a lag in treatment which could be critical in saving lives.”

T

GECOM DCEO Roxanne Myers

he International Center for Democracy (ICD) has become the latest to call for the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) to take unprecedented steps to ensure that the recount it is expected to do is transparent and credible, including televising it and excluding certain personalities.

According to the ICD in a statement on Tuesday, GECOM by its conveniently timed actions, and lack thereof, has eroded the trust placed in it by the population. They made it clear that nothing but GECOM going the extra mile to restore that trust will suffice.

"It has been almost six weeks after the March 2, 2020 Elections – Guyanese are still in limbo not knowing the results and whether or not their constitutional voting rights have been executed in a free, fair and transparent manner to choose their next President and Government," they pointed out.

"The tabulation process in the declaration of Region Four has been openly condemned by the ICD, ABCE countries, Caricom, international and local observer groups/organisations as not being free, fair and transparent. There have been several judicial interventions for the courts to determine and provide guidance regarding the recounting of the ballots."

The New York-based organisation also pointed out that the courts have thus far ruled that GECOM has the constitutional rights and power to act as an independent body to move forward the process. And with the Court of Appeal ruling on Sunday, there is no question that GECOM can do a national recount of all the ballots and make a final declaration.

"GECOM has made the decision to proceed in doing a recount of the ballots.

Despite the Judiciary interventions and GECOM taking the next step to move the process forward, the issue of trust in GECOM is

Region Four RO Clairmont Mingo

still a lingering concern," ICD said.

"Individuals within GECOM that were an integral part of the tabulation process knowingly and deliberately made decisions that were biased and not transparent that compromised the validity of the election results – those individuals should be excluded from the recount process."

They pointed out that in order for GECOM to regain the trust of the people, the various contesting political parties, the ABCE countries, the Caribbean Community (Caricom) and international and local observer groups, the body must be willing to do a recount that is trustworthy, free and fair. In this regard, they urged the Chairperson, Retired Justice Claudette Singh, to step up.

"There is a lingering perception that the Chairwoman of GECOM did not perform her duties that were free, fair and without bias. The ICD demands that the Chairwoman for GECOM, take charge of the recount process and do not allow any of the political parties and staff within GECOM to influence her decision – the ICD will be paying close attention to this."

The ICD also demanded that GECOM start the recount process as soon as possible without any further delay. “The recount process should be free, fair and transparent and for it to be it must be done in the presence of representatives from all competing political parties, Caricom, international and local observer groups."

It was noted by the ICD that should GECOM televise the recount and tabulation process for the general public to view, this would help in rebuilding confidence in the process, the outcome and GECOM itself. Persons have posited that televising the process may serve as a deterrent for those seeking to derail the process.

"Democracy in Guyana must be restored and the people of Guyana must have a President and Government

that is democratically elected in a free, fair and transparent manner," the organisation said.

It has been over a month of controversies and a credible winner for the 2020 General and Regional Elections is yet to be declared. After two declarations from Region Four’s (Demerara-Mahaica) Returning Officer Clairmont Mingo, which lacked transparency, Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo and caretaker President David Granger had agreed to have Caricom oversee the recount in a deal brokered by Caricom Chair, Barbadian Prime Minister Mia Mottley.

That agreement was derailed when A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) candidate, Ulita Moore, moved to the courts and secured an injunction against the exercise. That injunction was discharged by the Full Court and on Sunday, the Full Court's decision was upheld by the Appeals Court.

However, Appeal Court Judges Rishi Persaud, Dawn Gregory and Brassington Reynolds ruled that Caricom’s supervision of GECOM's recount would be unlawful. Their grounds for this reasoning was that GECOM would be ceding its responsibilities.

Former Attorney General Anil Nandlall, one of the lawyers for Jagdeo, and Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley, have both called this a misinterpretation of the agreement. In the meantime, GECOM has taken a decision to recall Caricom to supervise the recount.

There is still no word on whether Mingo (who made an unlawful declaration and was slapped with contempt of court papers) and Deputy Chief Elections Officer Roxanne Myers (who has been accused of impeding party agents observing the process), will be excluded. However, there have been multiple calls for them to be excluded.

NEWS

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WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

ExxonMobil likely to delay 3rd Guyana project amid low prices, spending cuts …Stabroek Block oil operation unaffected

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hief Executive Officer (CEO) of US oil major ExxonMobil, Darren Woods has confirmed that the Integrated Oil Company (IOC) will this year slash its capital spending by US$10 billion but its Guyana operations will remain unaffected, with the exception of a delayed start to the third oil field development at the Payara discovery in the Stabroek Block.

The spending cuts, according to Woods, are as a result of too low oil and commodity prices, resulting from a global oversupply and demand weakness from the COVID-19 pandemic.

The company made the announcement on Tuesday, saying it now plans to spend about $23 billion this year, down from the previously announced $33 billion.

According to Woods, however, the biggest impact to the company’s worldwide operations as a result of the cuts would be in the Permian—Texas, USA. “The largest share of the capital spending reduc-

ExxonMobil CEO Darren Woods

tion will be in the Permian Basin, where short-cycle investments can be more readily adjusted to respond to market conditions, while preserving value over the long term.”

Speaking to its Guyana operations in the Stabroek Block, ExxonMobil said “developing the numerous world-class deep-water discoveries offshore Guyana, remains an integral part of ExxonMobil’s long-term growth plans.”

According to Woods, “our objective is to continue investing in industry-advantaged projects to create value, preserve cash for the dividend and make appropriate and prudent use of our balance sheet.”

He said, the current operations onboard the Liza Destiny production vessel in the Stabroek Block are unaffected, and that startup of the second phase of field de-

ferred, creating a potential delay in production startup of six to 12 months.

Speaking to the company’s decision to slash new expenditure by US$10 billion, Woods said, “after a thorough evaluation of the impacts of the pandemic and market conditions, we have worked closely with business partners to plan and execute capital adjustments that preserve long-term value, maximise cost efficiency, and put us in the strongest position when market conditions improve,” According to Woods, “The long-term fundamentals that underpin the company’s business plans have not changed -- population and energy demand will grow, and the economy will rebound” and capital allocation priorities remain unchanged.

He said ExxonMobil continues to monitor market

developments and can exercise additional reduction options if required.

“As market conditions evolve, the company will continue evaluating the impacts of decreased demand on its 2020 production levels as well as longer-term production impacts.”

COVID-19

velopment remains on target for 2022.

The Liza Unity— Floating Production, Storage and Offloading Vessel—is currently under construction, he said.

The IOC’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) noted, however, that as the company waits for Government approval to proceed with a third production vessel for the Payara development, some 2020 activities are now being de-

The company also noted that it is ramping up production of isopropyl alcohol, used to make hand sanitisers.

It will also be increasing production of materials used in the manufacture of protective gowns, masks and wipes. It is also supporting efforts to redesign and produce reusable face masks and shields.

“The company is maximising production of products critical to the global

The Liza Unity under construction

response, including isopropyl alcohol, which is used to manufacture hand sanitiser, and polypropylene, which is used to make protective masks, gowns and wipes. ExxonMobil is also supporting efforts to redesign and accelerate production of reusable face masks and shields to help alleviate the shortage for medical workers and first responders.”

“To minimise risks presented by COVID-19

and maintain operations, ExxonMobil has implemented enhanced cleaning procedures and modified work practices at sites around the world,” the company also related.

Guyana became an oil-producing nation in December 2019, with ExxonMobil so far making 16 oil finds in the Stabroek Block. Last year, the company made five discoveries. These discoveries have pushed the total estimat-

ed recoverable barrels of oil equivalent to over six billion.

In addition, Exxon has its Liza phase two project, which will contain approximately 30 wells and which has already received the requisite approval from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Payara, meanwhile, is expected to have 45 wells that include production wells, water and gas injection wells.

12 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

COVID-19 outbreak

Coomacka villagers forced to construct security barrier at community’s entrance …as persons flock beaches

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he failure of persons to adhere to social distancing guidelines in the wake of the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) in Guyana has led to a de-

cision by officials and residents to construct a security barrier at the entrance of Coomacka in Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice).

According to officials and

residents from the community, persons from outside the area have been flocking the beach in the community in large numbers, against protocols established by

health officials to avoid social gatherings. It was noted that following an emergency meeting by community executives and residents on Monday, a decision was taken to construct an entrance barrier into the community.

Chairman of the Coomacka Community Development Council (CDC), Dexter Harding noted that the construction of the barrier commenced on Tuesday.

“We will start to control the influx of people coming into the community. We build a gate at the entrance of the community; we’re closing off the beach area.

So those are measures that we’re putting in place. It’s the concern of folks because it get a curfew... and folks coming up at the beach late at night, partying like if it’s a regular thing. So, the residents in the community asking that we put measures in place to control persons coming to the community,” he explained.

Harding also reminded that the 06:00h to 18:00h curfew also extends to Coomacka. He also urged persons to make use of the sanitisation block recently set up at the entrance to the community.

“We have a sanitary area

A resident washing her hands before entering the community

at the entrance of the community so the gate is before that area. So, anybody come we ask them to wash their boots, hands or whatever and then they can enter into the community,” he urged.

According to a resident in the area, residents plan to work in shifts in guarding the barrier to ensure that the rules of sanitising are followed and that anyone

entering into Coomacka has a legitimate reason to do so.

“Also we’re seeing at the sanitising block, not much people stopping and using it. Residents, strangers and so, they’re not stopping to wash their hands and their vehicles and so when they’re coming into the community. Just a few persons doing it but not the majority,” the resident stated.

NEWS

13

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2020| GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Berbice man dies after fight with employee

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olice are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a man who died after being bitten during a fight with one of his employees on Tuesday.

Dead is 43-year-old Mahindra Mangru. also called “Papo”, a Land Administration Consultant of Port Mourant, Corentyne.

He celebrated his birthday on Sunday last.

Based on reports received, Mangru and one of his employees were involved in a scuffle after the worker had gone to his boss’s house to uplift his payment.

Minutes later, Mangru was picked up in an unconscious condition and taken to the Port Mourant Hospital where he died while receiving medical attention. The incident occurred shortly after 07:00h.

A neighbour told Guyana

Dead: Mahindra Mangru

Times that as she stepped out of her kitchen, she saw Mangru and another man engaged in a scuffle and as such, she alerted her husband.

Soon after, the man walked away from the scene

and Mangru was seen lying on the ground in front of his gate in a motionless state.

“I went to him and took a bit of alcohol and put it to his nose to revive him and he took one breath and that was it... I called a neighbour and he put him in his car and took him over to the Hospital,” the neighbour stated.

The dead man’s nephew, Krisna Persaud told this publication that he was at home when he received information that his uncle was taken to the Port Mourant Hospital. He rushed to the medical facility only to be told that his uncle had died.

Investigations revealed that 56-year-old Latchman Looknauth, called “Latcho”, a labourer of Haswel, Port Mourant, who worked with Mangru, told Police that he visited his boss’s home to collect his salary, but

All post offices to be closed from Thursday – GPOC

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he Guyana Post Office Corporation (GPOC) on Tuesday announced that all post offices will be closed from Thursday until further notice.

However, arrangements are being made with the Social Protection Ministry for pensioners to collect their pensions.

The temporary closure of the post offices is due to the COVID-19 emergency measures.

However, GPOC said while the offices will be closed, “bulk mail will be accepted on April 16 & 17, 2020”. Notices on this will be publicised and sent to various entities.

“Treasury pensions will be paid on April 22 & 23, 2020, at all Post Offices from 09:00 hrs. to 15:00 hrs.

(Treasury pensions do not include old age pensions)”, the notice from GPOC stated.

It also noted that old age and NIS pensions vouchers can be cashed on April 16, 17, 22, 23, 29 and 30, 2020, at all post offices from 09:00h to 15:00h. Regular mail service will be suspended until further notice, the

Guyana Post Office Corporation Head Office, Georgetown

entity noted.

GPOC stated that further updates will be provided on its website and social media pages.

On March 24, GPOC had encouraged senior citizens to refrain from visiting the post offices during the first two days of the month unless it is necessary since vouchers can be cashed throughout the month.

But notwithstanding this, thousands of senior citizens congregate at the various post offices to access their pension payment.

Only recently, GPOC stated that it will be temporarily suspending all international mail delivery.

This is in the wake of the rise in the numbers of coronavirus (COVID-19) cases around the world. The Corporation further encouraged that its customers await the reopening of the borders in these jurisdictions for the resumption of mail delivery.

In March, Guyana closed its ports of entry to prevent the spread of the deadly virus as five cases were recorded locally.

Since Guyana began its fight against the deadly virus, schools and businesses have closed their doors to protect persons from contracting the disease.

Mangru’s house, where the scuffle took place

Mangru refused to pay him.

This resulted in an ar-

gument between the two men. Mangru reportedly be-

came annoyed, and armed himself with a cutlass and fired a chop at Looknauth, wounding him in the head.

In retaliation, Looknauth reportedly pushed Mangru to the ground and bit him.

After the altercation, Looknauth visited the Port Mourant Hospital to seek medical attention, but was advised to make a report to Whim Police Station.

At the Whim Police Station Looknauth was arrested. He is currently assisting with the investigations. Meanwhile, the only mark seen on Mangru’s body was a bite from a human on his right hand.

Uncertainty, threats of sanctions worrying business community – Linden Chamber …wants to preserve observer status for elections recount

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resident of the Linden Chamber of Industry Commerce and Development (LCICD), Victor Fernandes said the Region 10 (Upper DemeraraBerbice) business community is concerned over the uncertainty that hangs over Guyana, along with threats of sanctions from the international community, a result of the discredited results of Region Four (DemeraraMahaica) in the March 2, General and Regional Elections.

Fernandes on Tuesday reiterated that the Chamber maintains its observer status as part of the electoral process.

Adumbrating the Chamber’s position,

Fernandes reminded that GECOM is the legally bound body to govern elections in the country, however, “we must accept that GECOM like any other Commission or agency in Guyana exhibits some deficiencies in carrying out its mandate.”

The business representative body has since called on the Commission to “focus on the urgent completion to the 2020 General and Regional Elections.”

The Commission is scheduled to meet today at 11:00h at which time Commissioners are expected to be presented with a draft plan for a national recount by the entity’s Chief Elections Officer, Keith Lowenfield.

That decision was taken on Monday last when the Commission met to discuss the modalities of the recount.

Speaking to the matter of observers for the recount, People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Commissioner Sase Gunraj at the time told media operatives “I have no doubt in short order an approach will be made to the Caricom Secretary General with a view of re-engaging that team.”

Government-nominated Commissioner Vincent Alexander had reminded that the idea is to have the bloc of nations involved in the process since they can give credibility and validation to the process being set about by GECOM.

14 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2020| GUYANATIMESGY.COM

COVID-19 impacts

VAT removed from electricity, water for 3 months

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ollowing a clamour of calls from civil society and members of the public, the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) has removed Value Added Tax (VAT) on a number of items, a reversal of the Government’s policy.

According to the GRA in a statement on Tuesday, VAT will not be charged on water and electricity from April 1 to June 30, 2020.

This is to support “businesses and individuals who have been socially and economically disadvantaged by

the threat of the coronavirus.”

The authority also announced the “removal of VAT on Domestic Air Travel with effect from April 8, 2020, to June 30, 2020. There is also an extension of the April 30 deadline for the filing of tax returns to June 30, 2020.”

“However, estimated remaining taxes using “management financial statements”, for the Year of Income 2019 (Year of Assessment 2020) must be paid by April 30, 2020.”

When A Partnership for

National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) took office in 2015, they inherited a system from the then

People’s Progressive Party Government where VAT was not charged on essential items like water and elec-

tricity. This was for the very same reason of easing the tax burden on consumers.

Over the course of their term in office, the APNU/ AFC Government reduced VAT by a mere two per cent, then spread it on a number of new items including these essential commodities.

This policy was met with determined opposition from sections of society and the People’s Progressive Party (PPP).

While increased tax collection amounts to money for the State coffers, the parliamentary Opposition has long argued that from an economic sense, tax collection without corresponding growth in the economy is a bad combination.

The permanent reversal of these taxes formed a major plank in the party’s political campaign in the lead up to the March 2 General and Regional Elections.

Other measures

GRA also announced that it will expedite the processing of VAT refunds for businesses and Pay As You Earn (PAYE) refunds for employees. It also explained that while its employees are working from home, the Authority continues to provide essential services to taxpayers.

It noted that it is also collecting revenue necessary for services to be provided to the people of Guyana. This comes at a time, however, when many businesses are seeking economic relief and are sending home employees as the cash crunch from COVID hits hard.

In addition, GRA explained that it is also fast-tracking its e-services, including the submission of documents and payments.

Among the steps it is taking to protect its employees are rotating working employees on a weekly basis and weekly fumigation.

“The GRA also continues to provide the essen-

tial services needed to clear all items, both by air and sea, and also to expedite exports,” the tax body said, adding that these new measures complement the existing ones.

Previous measures

It was previously announced that there will be a waiver of Value-Added Tax (VAT) and duties on medical supplies associated with the testing, prevention and treatment of the disease, and the suspension of a series of licensing transactions until April 30, 2020.

In addition, tax deductions were granted for all donations made by local businesses to staff and health institutions for the treatment of the virus.

GRA had also announced the deferral of advance corporate and individual advance taxes for the year of assessment 2021, which deals with the 2020 year of income, and PAYE for affected businesses until June 30, 2020.

The Private Sector Commission had recently proposed a number of economic relief measures which could be implemented by the caretaker Government to cushion the impact of the coronavirus as the crisis deepens.

A correspondence was sent to Head of the National COVID-19 Task Force, caretaker Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo, highlighting key areas in which measures can be taken to relieve Guyanese, especially through tax waivers and suspension of financial household commitments.

In the list of noteworthy recommendations made to the caretaker Administration was the removal of mortgage interests and payments during this time, and to immediately raise the threshold to accommodate no taxation for employees earning $65,000 to $100,000 who were sent off the job.

Police foil robbery at Campbellville

...1 in custody after shootout with Police

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olice on Tuesday evening managed to thwart a robbery at Seaforth Street, Campbellville, Georgetown.

Reports indicate that two bandits attempted to rob a house and officers responded.

Subsequently, the perpetrators opened fire on the cops, causing them to return fire. In the process, one suspect was injured. He has since been arrested.

Up to 21:30h, Police were still combing the area for the other suspect who

managed to escape.

Acting Regional Commander Phillip Azore, when contacted, confirmed that the incident took place, but at the time, he could not provide much information as the situation was still “unfolding”.

However, he noted that it seemed criminals were attempting to take advantage of the current situation, but he warned that officers were on high alert and ready to respond to any situation.

15 Ramsammy’s Ruminations Businesses, NGOs join Recount must fight against COVID-19 be transparent NEWS

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

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here is an old adage with lots of wisdom: “do not put cat to watch milk”. There is another one: “do not put thieves to watch the bank”. The recount of the ballots cast in the March 2, 2020 General and Regional Elections in Guyana has become an imperative because a group of people were intent on thieving the election, and they did so for the whole world to see.

It looks like that longoverdue recount is going to happen. APNU+AFC and its collaborators at GECOM might have run and hide as far as they could; they now are face-to-face with the truth: “you can run and run and run, but you can’t hide forever”. GECOM itself -- the commission, that is -- agreed the recount must be proceeded with. But Chief Elections Officer Dr Leslie Ramsammy Keith Lowenfield, who himself at every stage of the March 2,2020 elections has erected roadblocks for free and fair elections, decided he needed a full 48 hours to formulate the logistics for the recount, although those logistics were already worked out since March 15, when the recount was supposed to have started with the CARICOM high-level team assembled by Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley. One would have thought that the logistics would have needed just a few minutes for review, given the passage of time; yet, he was given 48 hours.

For almost a month now, APNU+AFC and their sycophants have played games and used the courts to prevent the real results from being declared. Each day, more and more prominent people within the ranks of APNU+AFC have come out and declared they do not accept Mingo’s numbers. Two of these persons have served as Cabinet members: Dominic Gaskin was a senior Cabinet member and is the son-in-law of David Granger, and Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine was a Cabinet member because he was considered co-leader of the WPA. Besides them, Sir Sonny Ramphal, who once served as Guyana’s Foreign Affairs Minister and also as Attorney General under a Burnham government, questioned Mingo’s numbers and called for a recount; and the Justice for All Party, the WPA, and ACDA have also called for a recount. Many others have been embarrassed into urging a recount, and the world has joined them in demanding a recount. The courts have ordered the recount.

Some, in conceding implicitly or explicitly that the Clairmont Mingo numbers were fabricated, have twisted themselves more than an American pretzel into justifying the attempted rigging.

Nigel Hughes insists the “corn must be distributed” not according to the will of the people, but to the hijacking demands of a small group of people. David Hinds even suggested destroying the ballot boxes and baptizing the present David-Granger APNU+AFC government.

Others have deemed the rigging justifiable, because it could force a “national unity” government.

In all of this, these charlatans have thrown aside the rights of the majority of Guyanese people; have thrown into the dustbin the principles of free and fair elections; have dismissed the foundation of democracy as the only way to create long-lasting harmony.

Guyana must continue to work for national unity, and for harmonious religious, ethnic, and racial and cultural relationships.

But for this to ever become reality, free and fair elections remain the foundation of building a democratic society. If Guyana cannot sustain democracy, no “national unity” government will ever bring harmony.

So now the recount journey appears to have reached a destination, where the recount will begin. But this has been a tortuous journey, and outside of the roadblocks Lowenfield will bring with his logistics proposals today, there is the “threat” from Moses Nagamootoo that GECOM must acquire the “executive” permission, because of COVID-19 Public Health Ordinance provisions.

Many are highly suspicious Lowenfield will use Nagamootoo’s threat and the COVID-19 crisis to limit transparency for the recount.

Already, the three Commissioners within GECOM have indicated observers will be limited to CARICOM. All the observers who were accredited for the elections, who witnessed the shenanigans and wickedness during the Region 4 tabulation, must have the same right to observe. The March 2, 2020 elections have not been completed. They will not be completed until the tabulation is finished and the actual winner declared.

Political parties, civil society organizations, and a majority of Guyanese have concerns that GECOM will continue to use and involve persons who tainted themselves; who openly, brazenly, barefacedly, arrogantly, tried to thief the elections. They did so in front of the world. These persons cannot be in charge of, and must not be near, the recount. Should one or more of the people involved be near the process, the world must be able to watch them, and the only way to do so is by allowing the cameras to record every move.

Guyanese must take a stance. This is about freedom and democracy. This is about Guyana’s future. If we allow them to rig this election, then Guyana will see another era of dictatorship, another era of underdevelopment, and the oil panacea that many people envisaged will blow up in our faces.

The Civil Defence Commission (CDC) on Tuesday received 70 bags of 30kg rice worth $208,250 from Saj Rice Group

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ocal businesses and nongovernmental organisations have joined forces to aid in the national fight against the deadly coronavirus, which has already claimed the lives of five persons in Guyana.

The Food For The Poor organisation on Tuesday donated several folding beds, blankets, pillows, cleaning supplies and other essential items to the Ministry of Public Health.

Additionally, Saj Rice Group Incorporated donated 70 bags of 30kg rice worth $208,205 while David Persaud Investments Limited handed over a cheque valuing $200,000.

Popular businessman, Jagmohan has also contributed $500,000 to the cause.

FoodMaxx Supermarket – which falls under the Giftland Group of Companies – handed over 2880 pairs of gloves to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC).

Twins Manufacturing Chemists has also donated 14 gallons of sanitising and disinfecting products to the West Demerara Regional Hospital.

Moreover, Dr Suzette Reynolds, Head of the Public Health Department at the Mayor and City Council, donated infrared thermometers to help in the fight.

Infrared thermometers are thermometers that infer temperature from a portion of the thermal radiation.

They are temperature guns that can measure temperature from a distance.

F u r t h e r m o r e , Wortmanville Vanguard’s Secretary Towanda Clarke and Public Relations Officer (PRO) Mondale Smith, provided over 65 grocery packages. Some of the other sponsors include BK Group of Companies, Signature Moov, among others.

Beverage giant, Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL), has donated 12 drums of Environ, an alcohol-based sanitising cleaner with 70 per cent alcohol and an additional 254 five-gallon bottles.

Even the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) is contributing significantly to the cause with its nationwide distribution of free masks to citizens.

The Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha has also

Twins Manufacturing Chemists donating sanitisers and disinfecting products to the West Demerara Regional Hospital

FoodMaxx Supermarket donating gloves to the GPHC

rolled out a mask distribution initiative.

Meanwhile, the Civil Defence Commission’s (CDC) food hamper distribution drive has been boosted by donations from members of the Private Sector.

The CDC said that it welcomes all donations and reminded citizens who wish to contribute that they can do so at its Head Office at Thomas Lands between 09:00h and 15:00h daily while cash and cheques can be deposited to its Republic Bank Account 96356519938.

16 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

US seeking permission for another flight to take stranded citizens from Guyana

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he US Embassy in Guyana is seeking special permission from local authorities to have another commercial relief flight next week to take its citizens stranded here in Guyana home.

Days after recording its first imported case of the COVID-19, Guyana closed its borders including the two major airports to incoming commercial flights until May 1, 2020.

However, the US Embassy has been successful in securing special permission from the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) to operate service for four commercial relief flights to transport Americans and their families home.

In a social media post on Tuesday morning, the Embassy said it is aware of the hardship the land and airspace border closures have created for US citizens who need to return to the United States, assuring that it is exploring all options to address the current travel disruptions.

“We are requesting special permission for another commercial relief flight operated by Eastern Airlines to offer service between Georgetown and Miami early next week,” the foreign mission stated.

As such, the US Embassy is encouraging its citizens as

Kingdom have also been taking steps to repatriate their citizens from Guyana in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. The two foreign missions have been capitalising on the Eastern Airlines

flights, urging its citizens to catch the flight to the US and then take a connecting flight home.

Meanwhile, only Saturday last the Canadian High Commission facilitat-

ed the repatriation of 28 citizens on two chartered Trans Guyana Airways flights to Barbados, from where they connected to Canada via an Air Canada flight.

Full Court upholds decision not to release quarantined student

well as legal permanent residents currently in Guyana who wish to depart to consider taking this flight or otherwise prepare to shelter in place in Guyana. The Embassy said it will not be able to offer this service indefinitely.

Those interested in next week’s flight are asked to complete an online form (the link is available on the Embassy’s Facebook page and its website). Once the flight is confirmed, persons will be informed so that they can book their flights.

Meanwhile, the Embassy committed to continuing to post updated health, security and travel information through this travel alert system and on the US Embassy’s Facebook page, as soon as it has further information.

Persons encountering issues completing the online form can also send an email to guyanaevac@state.gov

with the subject line “Return Travel to the United States.”

If emailing, persons must include the necessary information for each US citizen or US legal permanent resident guardian accompanying minor children in your family or group.

The Embassy can also be reached at email box acsgeorge@state.gov to request assistance with emergency passports or at guyanaevac@state.gov if you have special financial concerns with the cost of repatriation.

Already, the US Embassy has facilitated some 800 citizens here to return home last month.

The last batch to leave Guyana was on March 28 via a chartered flight provided by Eastern Airlines, which has a capacity for 200 passengers per flight.

The flight, Georgetown to Miami, was available via a first-come, first-serve basis.

Canada and the United

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he Full Court on Tuesday upheld the decision by Justice Brassington Reynolds, who last week struck out an application by Khalid Gobin, a Guyanese student, who has been quarantined at a facility along the Soesdyke-Linden Highway.

Gobin, a student of York University in Canada, through his lawyer, Sanjeev Datadin, had approached the Full Court seeking an order for him to be released from the facility, arguing that not only is he being wrongfully detained, he is also being held in deplorable conditions.

But the Full Court upheld the Justice Reynolds’ decision and Gobin will remain in quarantine.

Justice Reynolds had thrown out the application on the grounds of the Public Health Ordinance, signed by caretaker President David Granger after conferring with Volda Lawrence, giving her new ministerial powers in order to confront the coro-

Khalid Gobin

navirus pandemic while noting that it establishes the required facilities.

Further, Justice Reynolds has ruled on the fact that he is satisfied that the measures invoked under the Public Health Ordinance were not arbitrary, and the facility in which the young man is being kept meets international standards.

But Datadin stated that he is not challenging the Public Health Ordinance but the condition in which his client is being held. He added that the condition is a threat to his client’s health and that of others, as should anyone

test positive, everyone else will contract the deadly disease.

Gobin was among several passengers who arrived in Guyana from Barbados via a Trans Guyana flight last month and was immediately taken into quarantine although being told that he would be tested for COVID-19 at the Eugene F Correira Airport and allowed to go home to self-quarantine.

According to Gobin, he was never informed that he would be quarantined at the said location. Further, he contends that the order for quarantine only applies to those who have tested positive for COVID-19 and stated that he was not tested.

However, according to the affidavit Gobin filed, he is being kept in unsanitary and deplorable conditions and is concerned about the safety of his health as the facility does not meet international standards outlined by the World Health Organisation (WHO).

CORONAVIRUS HOW TO HANDWASH? (COVID-19) WASH HANDS OR USE HAND SANITISERS

INFORMATION AND GUIDELINES

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF?

People who think they may be affected by coronavirus need to call the Public Health Ministry hotline 227-4986/624-3067 for further advice.

They should not go to their GP, A&E, pharmacy or hospital.

If you have come into contact with somebody who may be infected, you may be told to self-isolate. People needing to do so should take "common-sense" steps to avoid close contact with other people.

(Adapted from BBC News)

guyanatimesgy.com

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2020

17

Regional

Ecuador’s ex-President Correa Belize records 1st jailed in absentia for corruption death from COVID-19 A B top court in Ecuador has sentenced the country's former left-wing President Rafael Correa to eight years in jail in absentia for corruption.

Correa was in power for 10 years until 2017, when he went into exile in Belgium.

He denies any wrongdoing.

The court found him and 19 other defendants guilty of accepting US$7.5 million in bribes from private firms in exchange for State contracts.

Those convicted were also banned from any political role for 25 years.

Among them is his former Vice President Jorge Glas, who is already serving a six-year jail term for accepting a bribe from Brazilian construction giant Odebrecht.

Correa tweeted a scornful response to the national court of justice ruling, which can still be appealed.

elize, over the weekend, recorded the death of a 54-year-old man who tested positive for COVID-19 last Friday.

Prime Minister Dean Barrow, in a message late Monday, in extending sympathies to the family of Hubert Pipersburgh, said that he died on Sunday in an isolation unit at the Karl

Former left-wing President Rafael Correa

"Well, this was what they were looking for: manipulating justice to get what they could never get via the ballot box.

"I'm fine. I'm concerned about my colleagues. For sure we'll win at international level, because all this

is ridiculous, but it takes years," he said.

Correa's rule was characterised by large-scale social welfare spending and infrastructure projects, as well as defaulting on foreign loans and tensions with the US. (BBC News)

63 positive COVID-19 cases in Jamaica, as well as Barbados

J

amaican Health and Wellness Minister, Dr Christopher Tufton on Tuesday announced four additional positive cases of COVID-19 in Jamaica. This brings the total of positive cases to 63.

The new positive cases are: a 48-year-old female who is a contact of a confirmed positive case; a 26-year-old female who is a contact of a confirmed positive case; a 26-year-old male who is a contact of a confirmed positive case and a 48-year-old female who is a contact of a con-

firmed positive case.

Meanwhile, Barbados on Tuesday recorded its third death from COVID-19, with the passing of a 95-year-old man.

This was revealed by Head of Infectious Diseases at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Dr Corey Forde.

This follows the passing of an 81-year- old on Sunday and a 74-year-old on Monday.

According to Forde, the total number of cases has also increased to 63.

Forde said there were three people currently on ventilators at the Enmore

facility, who are critically ill.

These comprise two women, ages 78 and 56, and one male, 52, who is extremely ill and has diabetes.

“The majority of our people which we have found so far have been linked to Barbadians, for the most part, who have travelled overseas in that period from March 15 to present, until we put the provisions in place for quarantine when people arrived,” Forde explained.

(Excerpt from Jamaica Observer and CMC)

Jamaican Opposition Leader recovering from surgery for colon cancer

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ealth evaluations of the Leader of the Opposition and President of the People's National Party (PNP), Dr Peter Phillips, completed on Monday, have resulted in a diagnosis of stage 3 curable colon cancer reports a just-released statement from the PNP. The release further stated: Dr Phillips underwent complete and successful surgical removal of the cancer on March 23 and is now recovering comfortably at home.

Pathological examination of the specimen as well as staging procedures have resulted in this curable/stage 3 diagnosis. Dr Phillips will need further preventative treatment in the form of che-

Opposition Leader, Dr Peter Phillips

motherapy over the next few months, as an outpatient, as he continues his public duties.

Dr Phillips' medical and surgical teams are optimistic of complete remission based

on the worldwide experience of managing this stage.

The Leader of the Opposition will remain on leave for the next two weeks.

(Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

Heusner Memorial Hospital.

Following his isolation, Pipersburgh's health began to deteriorate quickly as he suffered from respiratory distress and pneumonia.

Meanwhile, over 400 people have been picked up and charged since April 2, when a nationwide state of emergency was declared.

A curfew between 20:00h

and 05:00h (local time) was instituted that gave the police department the power to charge those who are caught on the streets between those hours without a pass signed by the National Security Minister.

The draconian measure was put in place to help with preventing the spread of COVID-19. (CMC)

Brazil says China will help ensure medical supplies for coronavirus

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razilian Health Minister Luiz Henrique Mandetta said he spoke to China’s Ambassador to Brazil on Tuesday and the Embassy would help ensure fulfilment of Chinese medical supplies to fight coronavirus.

Mandetta told reporters that Brazil faced a “serious problem” when it comes to availability of ventilators as confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus rose to 13,717 in the country, with deaths rising to 667, the first time fatalities have exceeded 100 in 24 hours.

He said last week that China had cancelled some

Brazilian Health Minister Luiz Henrique Mandetta attends a news conference amid the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak, in Brasilia, Brazil, April 7, 2020

Brazilian equipment orders when the US Government sent more than 20 cargo

planes to the country to buy the same products.(Excerpt from Reuters)

Trinidad: Threat made to Sauce Doubles over restaurant closures

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elly Hosein-Richards, owner of the Curepe branch of D’Original Sauce Doubles, in a social media post complained of personal threats to her safety made hours after the Prime Minister ordered the closure of all restaurants, including popular fast-food chains, to fight the COVID-19 pandemic.

She said someone had blamed her for the full shutdown, while she said she had only been seeking equality of treatment.

The Government had initially shut down street vending by doubles vendors, with the Police then stopping Hosein-Richards' efforts to set up a takeaway service on Saturday, but had let fast food outlets run a take-out service but not in-house dining. The doubles operator sought legal counsel, after which Dr Rowley announced a full clampdown on all takeaway services at his briefing on Monday at the Diplomatic Centre, St Ann's.

Hours later, HoseinRichards bitterly complained of threats from an irate restaurant patron.

“You all are threatening my safety for standing up for the right thing," she lamented. "I never meant for all restaurants to be closed, but to give us the same opportunity as others.”

Earlier, Hosein-Richards told Newsday that while it

was not her intention, she was pleased with Government’s decision to close all restaurants until April 30 amid COVID-19.

Police shut down her business’s curbside pick-up service on Saturday. She believed that move was “discrimination”, as she was following the Health Ministry’s guidelines.

This sparked online de-

bates, with many people questioning why other food establishments, such as KFC, Subway and Royal Castle, were allowed to open and operate in a similar manner.

Others said the preparation and distribution of street foods like doubles was not as sanitary as those of other types of food. (Excerpt from Trinidad Newsday)

18

guyanatimesgy.com

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2020

Around the World

France is 4th country to pass 10,000 coronavirus deaths F

rance has officially registered more than 10,000 deaths from coronavirus infections, making it the fourth country to cross that threshold after Italy, Spain and the United States.

The rate of increase in the number of fatalities also rose on Tuesday for the second consecutive day, official figures showed.

Jerome Salomon, head of the public health authority, told a news conference the pandemic was still expanding in France, which is now in the fourth week of a national lockdown to try to curb its spread.

But he said the number of serious coronavirus cases being treated in intensive care units had risen by only

A patient suffering from coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is treated at the Intensive Care Unit at the Institut Mutualiste Montsouris (IMM) Hospital in Paris, France, April 6, 2020

0.8 per cent in the previous 24 hours - the eighth consecutive day that this rate has decelerated.

“The need to find new (ICU) places is less urgent.

But the balance of addition-

al patients needing care remains positive, which means the pandemic is still expanding”, Salomon said.

Earlier on Tuesday, Italy, the country with the highest coronavirus death

toll at 17,127, reported a fourth consecutive daily decline in the number of people in intensive care.

France closely monitors its neighbour, which introduced a national lockdown on March 9, to evaluate the efficiency of its own measures.

Authorities tightened their lockdown measures in Paris, banning outdoor sports activity between 10 am and 7 pm.

Salomon said the number of people who have died in French hospitals after contracting the coronavirus had risen to a cumulative total of 7091. But if partial data on deaths in nursing homes is included, the death toll from the disease is now 10,328, he said. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Coronavirus: New York reports highest single-day virus death toll

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crutiny over New York's COVID-19 response has deepened after Governor Andrew Cuomo announced that the state recorded its highest single-day increase in virus deaths on Tuesday.

The 731 deaths reported brought the total to 5489 deaths and 138,836 infections.

Authorities faced questions over their actions for at-risk people after an infected inmate at Rikers jail died.

As of Monday, 286 inmates and 331 staffers in New York City's jails have tested positive for the coro-

navirus.

The outbreak in New York City's jail system is one of the worst at correctional facilities throughout the US, just as New York state leads the country in both total COVID-19 cases and deaths since the virus reached the US. The Governor disclosed that New York, which has been the epicentre of the coronavirus outbreak in the US, saw its highest number of fatalities in a 24 hour period between Monday and Tuesday.

However, the Governor said the three day average for cases had fallen.

Governor Andrew Cuomo faced questions over New York's response to the vulnerable prison population

Cuomo has so far ordered the release of at least 1100 prisoners. Responding to questions on Tuesday, an aide to the Governor said the state was "continuing to evaluate" the situation in New York's jails in relation to the virus.

Several jurisdictions have released prisoners due to COVID-19 risk, but the application has been uneven.

Attorney General William Barr has also directed the US Bureau of Prisons to expand the group of federal inmates eligible for early release. (Excerpt from BBC News)

UK PM Johnson, battling coronavirus, set for 2nd night in intensive care

B

ritish Prime Minister Boris Johnson was set to spend a second night in intensive care on Tuesday to help his fight against a coronavirus infection, as his designated deputy said he would pull through because “he’s a fighter”.

Johnson is receiving oxygen support but is stable, in good spirits and breathing without assistance, said Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab, who is standing in for

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson

Johnson, adding that he had not needed mechanical ventilation.

“I’m confident he’ll pull through because if there’s one thing I know about this prime minister, he’s a fighter, and he’ll be back at the helm leading us through this crisis in short order,” Raab told a daily news conference.

Johnson’s personal battle with the virus has shaken the Government just as the

United Kingdom, now in its third week of lockdown, enters what scientists say will be the deadliest phase of its coronavirus epidemic, which has already killed at least 6159 people.

Johnson, 55, was admitted to St Thomas’ Hospital, across the River Thames from Parliament, late on Sunday after suffering symptoms including a fever and a cough for more than 10 days.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

about inadequate screening of people for coronavirus symptoms across the country.

The doctors have also raised concerns over the scarcity of quarantine and isolation facilities, which they say are only found in the capital Harare and the country's second-largest city, Bulawayo.

On Sunday, a lawsuit was filed by the doctors in court to compel the Government to

step up coronavirus protection for public hospitals and healthcare workers.

Last month, doctors and nurses staged a walkout in protest over the lack of protective clothing to care for coronavirus patients.

Zimbabwe has recorded 10 cases of infection, including one death. The country has only one COVID-19 test centre, situated at a Government

hospital in Harare.

The outbreak of coronavirus has deepened the country's public healthcare crisis.

Medicines are in short supply and depleted state coffers mean that the Government is unable to purchase sufficient supplies for state-run medical facilities. Access to running water is also a major problem.

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

“Dire shortage” of equipment to fight coronavirus in Zimbabwe

M

edics in Zimbabwe have warned there is a "dire shortage" of ventilators, oxygen tanks, biohazard suits and N95 face masks for healthcare professionals fighting the coronavirus pandemic.

In a statement on Tuesday, the Zimbabwe Association of Doctors for Human Rights complained

OILNEWS Oil prices reverse sharply lower ahead of OPEC meeting; Exxon slashes capital spending

C

rude oil prices reversed sharply lower Tuesday even as OPEC gets set to discuss an output cut Thursday and Exxon Mobil slashed its capital spending by 30 per cent.

The US Energy Information Administration cut 2020 and 2021 domestic crude oil production estimates.

Meanwhile, some analysts say proposed OPEC+ cuts may be far too small to offset plunging demand.

Exxon sees 2020 capex of US$23 billion, down from an earlier estimate of US$33 billion, with the largest of the capital spending cuts in the Permian Basin. The Dow Jones oil major also sees a 15 per cent decline in cash operating expenses as the company looks to "increase efficiencies and reduce costs."

"Our objective is to continue investing in industryadvantaged projects to create value, preserve cash for the dividend and make appropriate and prudent use of our balance sheet," Exxon Mobil CEO Darren Woods said in a statement.

Exxon will continue to monitor market developments and "can exercise additional reduction options if required."

Maintaining the Exxon stock dividend is a priority, but "will be a function of how long this plays out," Woods told CNBC. "If we haven't seen a recovery next year, you know it will be a different environment that we're in."

US shale producers are also reducing spending further after a round of cuts in March.

Continental Resources said it would cut April and May's production by roughly 30 per cent and suspended its quarterly dividend, due to weakened demand and lower oil prices amid the coronavirus pandemic. Last month, the US shale producer said it would cut its 2020 capital spending by 55 per cent vs 2019 and expected production to fall by 5 per cent.

Exxon shares climbed 1.9 per cent on the stock market on Tuesday, closing well off intraday highs.

Continental Resources stock rose 10%.

The spending cuts in the US come as OPEC and Russia are expected to meet via video call Thursday to discuss an output reduction to help support oil prices.

The G-20 is scheduled to meet Friday to discuss the energy markets.

The last OPEC meeting in March shocked oil markets as Russia and Saudi Arabia failed to agree to extend or deepen the production cuts in place.

US crude oil prices closed down 9.4 per cent to US$23.63 per barrel. Brent futures fell sharply as well.

Representatives from the US, Canada, UK, Brazil, Norway, Argentina, Columbia, Egypt, Indonesia, Chat and Trinidad and Tobago are invited to the virtual OPEC meeting, Russian state-run media outlet TASS reported.

However, the report wasn't confirmed by OPEC. Canada and Norway have suggested they could be willing to cut production as oil prices plunge. But the US is unlikely to join. An earlier virtual meeting for Monday was delayed as Russia and Saudi Arabia pushed for a production cut agreement by US producers.

President Donald Trump issued a warning earlier that the US would consider using tariffs if Russia and Saudi Arabia can't reach an agreement to cut oil production.

He expects a 10 million to 15 million barrels per day cut.

"I would use tariffs, if I had to. I don't think I'm going to have to," President Trump said at a White House briefing on the coronavirus Saturday.

But US producers want the market to decide prices. Exxon's Woods said he supports "free trade, low tariffs."

The Energy Information Administration on Tuesday expects US crude oil production to average 11.76 million bpd through December, vs its prior target of 12.99 million barrels. The EIA cut its 2021 target to just over 11 million daily barrels.

The EIA also cut crude oil price targets. (Excerpt from Investor’s Business Daily)

19

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Court of Appeal affirms its ruling The Court of Appeal on Tuesday affirmed its orders given on Sunday last with respect to the challenge to the Full Court decision that Justice Franklyn Holder had no jurisdiction to hear a case filed to block a national recount of votes cast on March 2, 202 National and Regional Elections.

See full order below:

20

guyanatimesgy.com

WEDNESDAY APRIL 8, 2020

ARCHIE

ARIES

(March 21April 19)

TAURUS (April 20May 20)

DILBERT

GEMINI (May 21June 20)

CANCER (June 21July 22)

PEANUTS

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22)

CALVIN AND HOBBES

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22)

SUDOKU

Think before you act.

Handle an emotional situation with intelligence and honesty, not with a temper tantrum. Busy yourself with projects that require little interaction with others in order to accomplish the most.

Treat yourself to something that will encourage you to look at your options. An opportunity will arise if you can get firsthand information regarding something you want to pursue.

Hard work, discipline and understanding will help you overcome any obstacles.

Set aside time to relax with someone who brings out the best in you.

Don’t make a change more difficult. Go with the flow instead of fighting the inevitable. An open mind will encourage you to see the benefits, not the detriments, of whatever situation you face.

Your outgoing personality will inspire confidence in others. Events that require physical and mental stability are favored. Step into the limelight and show what you have to offer.

Establish friendships with people who care about the same things as you. Your leadership ability will give you the edge when faced with competition. Broaden your scope and reach for the stars.

Don’t let anyone slow you down. Follow your heart and stick to whatever will bring you peace of mind. Keep life simple, stay within budget and say no to demanding individuals.

Your memory won’t let you down. Deal with the past so you can feel at ease moving forward. A change is overdue, and a new beginning will set you free.

Put greater emphasis on SAGITTARIUS solid relationships. Refuse (Nov. 23to let an outsider interfere Dec. 21) with your plans. A commitment will enhance your stability. Romance is in the stars.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22Jan. 19)

Do whatever it takes to make your environment less stressful. You don’t have to go into debt to impress someone. A positive attitude will result in a cost-efficient change.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20Feb. 19)

Don’t let work interfere with personal plans. If you made a promise to someone you love, be sure to follow through. A last-minute change of plans will prompt an argument.

SOLUTION FOR LAST PUBLISHED PUZZLE

PISCES (Feb. 20March 20)

Stick to your budget, regardless of how tempting an offer might be. Trust your intuition, not someone who appears to have ulterior motives. Be a leader, not a follower.

21

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2020

T

he organisers of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar have strongly denied allegations from the U.S. Department of Justice that bribes were paid to secure votes for the hosting rights to the tournament.

Suspicion and rumours have long surrounded both the 2010 vote by FIFA’s executive to hand the 2018 World Cup to Russia and the 2022 tournament to Qatar.

Yet on Monday, for the first time, prosecutors set direct, formal allegations regarding both tournaments down in an indictment.

According to the prosecutors, representatives working for Russia and Qatar bribed FIFA executive committee officials to swing votes in the crucial hosting decisions of world football’s governing body.

Qatar’s Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy (SC), rejected the charges.

“They are part of a long-standing case, the subject of which is not the 2018/2022 FIFA World Cup bidding process.

“Despite years of false claims, evidence has never been produced to demonstrate that Qatar won the rights to host the FIFA World Cup 2022 unethically or by means that contravened FIFA’s strict bidding rules.

“The SC maintains that it strictly adhered to all rules and regulations for the 2018/2022 FIFA World Cup bidding process and any claim to the contrary is baseless and will be fiercely contested.”

FIFA said in a statement it supported all investigations into “alleged acts of criminal wrongdoing” and noted it had been accorded victim status in the U.S. criminal proceed-

ings.

“The FIFA Ethics Committee has already imposed sanctions, including life bans, on football officials mentioned in this process,”

nament, which is scheduled for November and December of 2022.

The indictment states that the three South American members of FIFA’s 2010 executive - Brazil’s Ricardo Teixeira, the late Nicolas Leoz of Paraguay and an unnamed co-conspirator - took bribes to vote for Qatar to host the 2022 tournament.

“Ricardo Teixeira, Nicolas Leoz and co-conspirator #1 were offered and received bribe payments in exchange for their votes in favour of Qatar to host the 2022 World Cup,” reads the indictment.

Teixeira, the former son-in-law of long-time FIFA boss Joao Havelange and ex-head of the Workers walk towards the construction site of the Lusail stadium which Brazilian soccer fedwill be built for the upcoming 2022 Fifa soccer World Cup during a stadium eration (CBF), was not immediately reachtour in Doha, Qatar (Reuters) able for comment. said a FIFA spokesman.

Warner allegations “So far as FIFA is concerned, should any The DOJ also alleges that then FIFA acts of criminal wrongdoing by football officials be established, the individuals in ques- vice-president Jack Warner was paid $5 million through various shell companies to vote tion should be subject to penal sanctions.

“As the respective criminal cases are on- for Russia to host the 2018 World Cup. Warner has been accused of a number of going we are not in a position to comment crimes in the long-running U.S probe and further for the time being.”

Although FIFA has reacted to previous is fighting extradition from his homeland of media allegations about the Qatar bid pro- Trinidad & Tobago. Warner, who was not cess by insisting the tournament will be un- immediately reachable for comment, has alaffected, the U.S allegations will lead to ways denied any wrongdoing.

Alexei Sorokin, CEO of the local organisfurther questions over the hosting of the tour-

ing committee for Russia’s 2018 World Cup, told the Interfax news agency: “This is only the opinion of lawyers. We have repeatedly said that our bid was transparent.

“At the time we answered all questions, including from the investigation branch of FIFA and from the media, we handed over all needed documents. We have nothing to add to this and we will not respond to attempts to cast a shadow on our bid.”

Asked if the Kremlin was aware of the U.S. indictment, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said: “We read the media reports. We don’t understand what they refer to.

“Russia received the right to host the World Cup completely legally. It is in no way linked to any bribes. We reject this. And Russia hosted the best soccer World Cup in history, which we are proud of.”

The Qatar World Cup organisers have been fending off allegations of corruption ever since the tiny Gulf state was awarded the 2022 tournament.

In 2014, FIFA, then under the control of former President Sepp Blatter, cleared Russia and Qatar of wrongdoing in their bids to host the World Cup after an investigation.

Blatter was banned from football by FIFA along with scores of other officials following internal ethics investigations, promoted by the arrests of seven FIFA officials on U.S corruption charges in Zurich in May 2015.

Warner and Teixeira have been banned for life from football by FIFA while Leoz died last year under house arrest in his native Paraguay where he had been fighting extradition to the United States to face corruption charges.(Reuters)

Latest development in golf…

A

s at April 6, there were 31 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Guyana, and there was much consternation and uncertainty in the nation.

The COVID-19 pandemic has taken the world by storm, wreaking havoc on healthcare systems and precipitating death and serious sickness in several countries.

In a quest to edify the general public on ways to fight the COVID-19 virus and take better care of themselves, <<Guyana Times Sport>> had a little discussion with Emmerson Campbell, one considered fit and proper to give advice in this regard.

Campbell is a Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) and National Sports Commission (NSC) Sports Journalist of the Year. Besides, he is a Certified Personal Trainer and Nutritionist; a CAC silver and bronze medalist (Dominican Republic and Mexico); four times Mr. Guyana Men’s Physique Champion; three times Stage of Champions Men’s Physique Champion; and Darcy Beckles Silver Medalist (Barbados).

Asked what he thinks persons should do to keep safe during the pandemic, Campbell said, “In my opinion, besides social distancing (and) keeping yourself and surroundings clean, the best form of defense is a strong immune system. A strong immune system will help ward off illnesses and viruses. Some vitamins that can boost your immune system include Vitamin C, fish oil and B Complex tabs.

“Consuming fruits and vegetables, eating healthy, hydrating adequately, and (engaging in) some form of cardiovascular exercise are all means to boost your immune system. Adequate rest and not stressing are also recommended during

this pandemic era,” he explained.

Campbell added that certain supplements can be used to boost a person’s immune system even as they exercise during this quarantine period.

He noted that he had studied this in

Emmerson Campbell

depth and had discovered that the following supplements are among those that can be used: GLUTAMINE - Most people who use glutamine do so for its recovery-boosting effect. It’s also useful for decreasing postexercise muscle soreness, increasing protein metabolism, and speeding up the burning of body fat.

Glutamine is also good for boosting gut health, and that is crucial for a properly functioning immune system.

BRANCH CHAIN AMINO ACID (BCAA) - BCAAs contain electrolytes, which are minerals commonly lost during sweating and urination. Fat-free and sugar-free,

BCAAs help ensure that fluids consumed end up in the right places in your body: inside of cells. They also contain vitamins and minerals that can help boost energy and immunity. They taste pretty good, too, he explained.

Campbell recommends that BCAAs should be consumed several times a day in place of sugar-laden sodas and juices.

PROTEIN POWDER - Your immune system needs an adequate amount of protein to function correctly. While you can get protein from foods like eggs, meat, fish, poultry, nuts, pulses, and some grains, cooking these foods is not always practical. The good news is that you can use protein powders to provide your body with the protein it needs to stay healthy, he explained.

He reiterated that while none of the products listed is a cure for COVID-19, each will have a significant effect on your mental and physical wellbeing. Taking all the recommended precautions, eating as healthily as you can, exercising where practical and safe to do so, and using some well-chosen supplements should help make this worldwide health crisis a little easier to weather, he declared.

After all, even a small increase in immunity and wellbeing is important during this challenging period, he explained.

Campbell had these parting words for us: “Body weight exercises like pushups, pull ups, body weight squats, lunges, crunches, skips and so forth are recommended. Exercises are important, as they also boost the immune system.”

(Timothy Jaikarran)

T

he NexGen Golf Academy was officially launched on Friday, April 3rd, 2020. The executive committee of this academy is as follows: President – Aleem Hussain, Vice President – Ragindra Persaud, Secretary – Nadia Kalika, Treasurer – Sudama Ramalingum, Asst. Secretary/ Treasurer – Paul Jiwanram, Public Relations Officer – Bishop Guy Griffith, Board Advisor – Kenny Attai, and Legal Advisor – Mayo Robertson.

Headed by Aleem Hussain and Rudy Ramalingum, this entity plans to provide the best in entertainment golf (both beginners and established golfers can win prizes), while affording players opportunity to enjoy a unique atmosphere of music, food and drinks, and offering students of all ages training in this sporting discipline.

Declaring that they intend to expend effort to ensure that golf is portrayed in a more fun light and made more accessible to students and new players, these pioneers of this golfing academy explained that, for many years, the idea of golf in schools has been tossed around, but now it will become a reality as the sport can be taught as a CAPE/ CXC subject.

"We intend to have 300 students under instruction by end of 2020, and hope that we can provide golf as an entertainment alternative to thousands of people in Guyana,"

Ramalingum has said.

Students will be able to take the theoretical course in classrooms, and then come to the fields for their practical work. A top coach who has been identified to become the technical advisor to the programme will be visiting from Trinidad on a regular basis until the local coaches are certified, he explained.

The entertainment model, which would be similar to the branded Top Golf that has revolutionized the sport in the USA, is designed to create a welcoming atmosphere for all levels of golfers (from those who have never touched a club to the well-versed players).

Two locations in the heart of Georgetown have been identified for placement of the Academy, and there are plans for a grand opening of the Academy within three weeks from today. Top notch food, drinks, and lots of challenges under the lights will ensure that lots of persons become interested in the sport, they explained.

Several major companies have indicated their intention to partner with the Academy in order to provide exposure of the sport and of their products to the players. A marketing campaign will be rolled out in time for the launch.

For more information about the Academy, persons are invited to make contact on telephone numbers 644-3118 or 645-0944.

22

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2020

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T

he Canadian Grand Prix has become the latest Formula 1 race to be postponed as a result of the coronavirus crisis.

The Montreal event is the ninth race to be affected so far this season.

It was due to be held on 14 June, but organisers had to make a decision now because of the length of time required to set up the track.

Attempts will be made to find a slot for the popular race on the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve at the earliest opportunity in the summer.

Canadian Grand Prix president Francois Dumontier said: "I am proud to see how such wonderful initiatives and technical advancements stemming from Formula 1 are being applied in a time of crisis.

"At the moment it is crucial that all of our energies be put together to overcome Covid-19. We will welcome you with open arms at Circuit Gilles Villeneuve as soon as it is safe to do so."

F1 is beholden to the climatological conditions in race locations as it seeks to reconstitute a calendar that contains at least the eight events required for the season to be classified as a World Championship.

The summers are warm in Montreal, but the Quebec city has bitterly cold and long winters.

The Canadian Grand Prix was held in early October when Montreal

Lewis Hamilton won the 2019 Canadian Grand Prix (Getty Images)

first held the race in 1978, and then on the last weekend in September in the subsequent three years, but the weather was often cold and by 1982 it was moved to its now-traditional June date.

The postponement means the first scheduled race not to be either postponed or cancelled is the French Grand Prix on 26 June, but the social distancing policies in place around much of the world make it uncertain when the season can finally get under way.

The next scheduled race after that is the Austrian Grand Prix on 5 July. Austria appears to be

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on course to be the first European country to gradually ease lockdown restrictions, although public events remain suspended until the end of June.

The British Grand Prix is next on the calendar on 19 July, and Silverstone has said it has until the end of April before it has to make a decision whether to postpone that date.

Silverstone has been in talks with F1 and is being considered as a likely starting point for the season in July or August, not least because seven of the 10 teams are based nearby in the south-east of England.

There have also been discussions about running two grands prix at Silverstone, the official British Grand Prix and a second event with a different title.

F1 is considering all options as it seeks to kick off the season, including holding races behind closed doors.

The sport has been taking major steps as it seeks to mitigate the effects of the coronavirus crisis, which significantly threatens F1's three main income streams - race-hosting fees, broadcast rights and sponsorship.

A substantial regulation change planned for 2021 has been postponed by a year, teams will have to use their 2020 cars again in 2021 and there are ongoing talks about lowering the new budget cap, which is set to be introduced at $175m (£142m) in 2021.

The McLaren, Williams and Racing Point teams have put a significant proportion of staff on furlough and their drivers have taken pay cuts, and F1 has done the same, with senior executives taking a salary drop of at least 20%. (BBC Sport)

Postponement of World Chess Olympiad 2020…

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orld Athletics has suspended the qualification period for the postponed Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games until December 1.

The coronavirus pandemic last month forced the International Olympics Committee (IOC) to postpone the Games until July 23, 2021.

In line with that decision, World Athletics has decided – in consultation with its Athletes' Commission, area

competition opportunities across the globe for athletes given the challenges of international travel and government border restrictions."

The organisation also confirmed as of Tuesday, 50 per cent of their "HQ staff" have been furloughed.

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presidents and Council – to alter the qualification period, meaning any results between April 6 and November 30 will not count towards Tokyo 2020 entry standards or world rankings.

Although qualification status cannot be achieved or boosted in this time, results shall continue to be recorded for statistical purposes, and athletes who had already met entry standards before April 6 will remain qualified.

Should the global situation improve, qualification will resume on December 1 and run through to new deadlines, which are no later than June 29, 2021.

World Athletics president Sebastian Coe said: "I am grateful for the detailed work and feedback from our Athletes' Commission and Council, who believe suspending Olympic qualification during this period gives more certainty for athlete planning and preparation, and is the best way to address fairness in what is expected to be the uneven delivery of

The government of Monaco will contribute 70 per cent of the wages of those staff in question, with World Athletics topping up the rest to ensure employees are paid their salary in full.

Coe added: "This decision, made possible by the Monaco government, means we will focus only on businesscritical activities for the short-term, which will help us manage our cashflow effectively and protect jobs in the longterm.

"All World Athletics HQ staff will remain on their full salaries during this period with the organisation topping up the Monaco government's contribution.

"We have taken care to ensure the support and services we provide to our member federations, areas, partners, stakeholders, athletes and the wider athletics community remain in place with a reduced team." (Sportsmax)

L

ike many other international sporting events, the eagerly anticipated World Chess Olympiad was put on hold in the face of the global COVID-19 pandemic, in an effort to allow these dire times to pass.

The World Chess Olympiad is a biennial event, the 43rd staging of which was held in Batumi, Georgia during the period September-October 2018, when nine Guyanese who are among the finest players in the country participated.

One person who did not make that trip to Batumi in 2018 was Candidate Master and second-ranked national instructor Wendell Meusa.

His intention, however, was to participate in the 2020 Olympiad which was scheduled for staging in Moscow, Russia during the period August 5th to August 17th, and he was avidly preparing for his grand return to international competition when his plans were put on hold by the onset of the coronavirus pandemic that has taken the world by storm.

Hoping for timely resolution, the World Chess Federation made the decision last month to postpone the Olympiad by one year to the summer of 2021 in the same host country. The only factor that may change is the time of the competition, which might need to be

tweaked.

Having an additional year to prepare at his leisure, Meusa had mixed emotions about the postponement, and expressed his reasons therefor to Guyana Times Sport.

“I’m not relieved, but rather disappointed.

I’m still awaiting my opportunity to officially play for Guyana. I was really looking forward to playing for Guyana at the (2020) Olympiad,” Meusa stated.

However, being an optimist, Meusa shared that the 365 days of extra time would allow the eventual members of the Guyanese team to work on their game play.

Asked how the extra time would benefit him and his colleagues, Meusa replied: “Well, the extra time means more training for us, and the Guyana Chess Federation will be able to better organize the Olympiad team. Personally, I am always training, especially now that we are stuck indoors.”

Probed about the specific aspects of his game that he would be looking to strengthen, Meusa noted that focus on his all-round performance would be paramount.

“I’ll be working on every area: opening, middle game, and my endgame. I routinely work on that; however, lately I've being working on my in-depth calculation and

analyzing,” he shared.

Asked whether extra preparation time would allow him to do better at the Olympiad, Meusa remained humble in his answer, noting that the possibility exists that it would better his chances at excelling.

“Extra time means more training, but that does not mean I WILL win; it means I am improving my chances to win. However, (playing) actual over-theboard games is totally different from training,” he explained.

Given that ‘it takes two to tango’ on the chess board, the Candidate Master was questioned about any difficulty he has had with training/ practice during this time, with COVID-19 restrictions calling for social distancing, lockdowns and curfews.

“It’s hard not doing your regular group training,” he explained, “but it’s brought us to the point where we’re doing more online training, especially against some of the world's best on AI Chess Engines.”

The World Chess Federation (FIDE) is yet to announce the new dates for the Olympiad being held in Russia, but when the time comes, Meusa and his Guyanese colleagues would hopefully be adequately prepared to make their mark in the international world of chess.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2020

W

hen the West Indies were knocked off their perch by Australia at Sabina Park in 1995, the team’s performances, at first, gradually declined and then from about 2000, it plummeted to the point where the Windies have been wallowing in a quagmire of mediocrity.

Since 2010, the West Indies have won

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

nine Test series. They lost 20 over the same period. Counting the ODI losses would make the numbers even worse, so I won’t even get into that.

What we have seen during that period are batsmen who lack the required technique to last an hour at the crease and toothless bowling because the bowlers are

incapable of maintaining the required line and length and in many cases, seem to be bowling in the absence of a clear strategy.

What I see are fundamental weaknesses in batting, bowling and fielding technique that leads me to believe that grassroots programmes are woefully inadequate.

When I watch local U15 cricket in Jamaica’s high schools, I see kids wafting their bats as if hoping to make a connection with a ball that is more often than not, off-target.

Like football, mastery of the fundamentals is essential. Back when the West Indies were kings, kids played cricket in the streets and through trial and error learned how to d e - fend. They learned how the play the ball of their legs. They learned how to keep a bouncing ball down.

Kids don’t play cricket in the street anymore so ways have to be found to get them playing in a format that aids development while still allowing them to have fun.

I don’t think Kiddies cricket is the answer even though there is some merit to the pursuit.

What is needed in the West Indies are programmes in each of the territories, similar to those that obtain in India. Coming out of these programmes are scores of eight, nine and 10-year-old players who have already mastered the fundamentals.

Their style of play is already set, which

L

F

awyers representing the ousted executive of the Trinidad and Tobago Football Association have filed papers before the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) seeking to set aside FIFA’s decision to appoint a normalization committee to oversee the running of the

ormer West Indies middle-order batsman, Ramnaresh Sarwan, has lauded Cricket West Indies President Ricky Skerritt for the work he has done since coming to the post a year ago.

According to Sarwan, Skerritt has had to make ‘hard decisions’ and he has made them.

Skerritt’s tenure as CWI president has been under scrutiny because of the stunning manner in which he ousted three-term incumbent Dave Cameron in March of 2019. “He has been doing a good job and has had to make hard decisions, and it’s good to see when you have to make harsh decisions, you make them in the right way,” said Sarwan in an interview with Kaieteur News.

According to Sarwan, Skerritt’s tenure so far has not been without its challenges but those were to be expected given the state of the CWI when he took the reins.

“When he came in it was a difficult time, not only the financial challenges they had to deal with but, so far,

m e a n s relatively little honing is done, while getting them to play at the very highest level. By the time they get to the under-19 level, they tend to be better than what we see in the Caribbean.

There are those who will argue that the West Indies u19 teams have done well in recent World Cups. My response to that is if you look at the next lot of players just outside the World Cup-playing batch, do you find players who are anywhere near as good and could form a second XI, performing at the same level at a World Cup? From where I sit, the answer is no.

Each individual territory needs to be looking at how they can improve coaching levels at prep and high school under a template that defines the West Indian way. By the time they get to the u-19 or West Indies ‘B’ level, they should be ready to kick the door in, not just stare and hope someone opens it for them. (Sportsmax)

policies and internal controls in place, such as procurement, the delegation of financial authorities, financial planning and budgeting, effective oversight of funding and management reporting, which are necessary to meet the TTFA’s objectives.

FIFA also said there is

you got to give him the props where someone deserves props,” he

scoring 15 centuries five in the 50-over version. (Sportsmax)

said.

Sarwan, who played 87 Tests, 181 ODIs and 18 T20Is for the West Indies between 2000 and 2013, was one of the former players asked by the Skerritt administration to act as consultant to the West Indies ahead of their tour to Ireland last May. The batsman averaged 40.01 and 42.67 in Tests and ODI’s respectively, in the longest format of the game and

Former TTFA President William Wallace

association.

Attorneys Dr Emir Crowne and Matthew Gayle of New City Chambers filed the appeal on Monday night on behalf of the William Wallace executive that was ousted on March 17, four months after they were elected on November 24, 2019.

According to FIFA in the March 17 letter: “There are currently no formal internal

23

a lack of documented policies and procedures, financial planning and management of statutory liabilities adding that there no short or longterm plan to address the “urgent” situation.

However, according to the filing, the lawyers representing the TTFA executive maintained that the move by FIFA is in breach of the constitution of the TTFA and

claim that FIFA’s purported appointment of a normalisation committee was either ultra vires, procedurally unfair, unreasonable and/or fueled by oblique motives.

In their filing, they outlined that “On March 17th, 2020, the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA), without any advance notice and by way of a written letter, informed the Trinidad & Tobago Football Association (the “TTFA”) that it would be removing the duly appointed executives named in this matter and replacing them with a normalisation committee.”

The letter from FIFA also indicated that before the normalisation committee is operational the TTFA administration's management would be supervised by Mr Tyril Patrick, who will directly report to FIFA. “The TTFA administration - in its entirety - will, therefore, report to Mr Patrick until the normalisation committee has been put in place,” the letter said.

However, Patrick, in a letter to the TTFA’s lawyers, said he informed FIFA that he would not be supervising the management of the TTFA. Notwithstanding Patrick’s decision, FIFA in a letter dated March 26, 2020, proceeded to appoint a normalization committee comprised of Mr Robert Hadad (Chairperson), Mrs Judy Daniel (Deputy chairperson); and Mr Nigel. L Romano (member).

“The FIFA administration, in consultation with Concacaf, will appoint two (2) more members in the following days,” the letter from FIFA said. (Sportsmax)

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8, 2020

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Postponement of World Chess Olympiad 2020…

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Page 22 Candidate Master Wendell Meusa also doubles as a Chess Instructor

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Page 23 Former TTFA President William Wallace

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