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Party Leader, Mr. Aubrey C. Norton, MP, with members of the PNCRToronto West End Group during a Town Hall Meeting and Brunch on Sunday 25th September, at the Mozia Business Center in Toronto.

Party Leader, Mr. Aubrey C. Norton, MP, with Mr. Artie Ricknauth, former Chairman of the Toronto West End PNCRGRoup at the Town Hall Meeting.

Excerpt from NEW YEAR'S SPEECH by PNCR Leader Aubrey C. Norton (1st January 2022)

We are committed to tackling the burning issues of the day, such as corruption, discrimination, poverty, crime, unemployment, especially youth unemployment and the non-support of small and micro businesses. In this regard:

1. We demand the resolute upholding of our Constitution especially in respect of the three branches of Government. Recent racist and unwarranted attacks on two female African Guyanese judges of the Appeal Court show a frightening descent into anarchy and political interference into the judiciary, and if allowed to continue or to go unpunished will result in the further erosion of the independence of the judiciary.

2. We demand the proper functioning and strengthening of the guardrails of our withering democracy, including the Public Procurement Commission, National Procurement and Tender Administration Board, and the Integrity Commission, inter alia

3. We demand a more effective Parliament. Its current functioning is at the behest of the Government. It meets infrequently, with most of its sittings targeted at financial matters. We need action to shift the Parliament away from being the rubber stamper of government's decisions.

Analysis and Opinions

Indigenous Heritage month 2022 is over and Indigenous and Hinterland Villages once again face their realities

to and will kill the economy of Kumaka which from the inception of its existence has been the business capital of the sub-region. The move will relocate the business centre to Hosororo. The voting pattern at national and regional election informs that Kumaka voted almost exclusively APNU+AFC while Hosororo voted mostly PPP. Readers can draw their own conclusions.

As September comes to an end and the celebrations wind down across the Indigenous Villages and hinterland communities of Guyana, there is a certain sobering process which ushers in a swift, if not rude awakening to the realities which were conveniently but temporarily set aside. The situations vary in levels of severity from Village to Village.

In Region One for instance, there are serious issues which range from socioeconomic to allegations of corruption. Indigenous peoples and other residents of this region believe that, absolutely no attention is being paid to their troubles.

In the MATARKAI Sub-region there are major allegations of inequalities regarding a number of issues, not least of which is the distribution of cash grants.

Reports in this regard have all fallen on deaf ears. The levels of prostitution, primarily among the Venezuelan immigrant population presents both health and other societal challenges. Families are shattered, young teenage boys leave school to work in the 'backdams' to raise money to enjoy the pleasures of life made available by the 'service providers'. There is need for vigilance and awareness in the area of health and counselling for broken families and sexually exploited youths, both male and female. The authorities are numb to the realities. Even the police appear to forget that prostitution is an offense.

In the Mabaruma Sub-region, the treatment of migrant Indigenous Warrau people leaves a lot to be desired. There is also the issue of jobs and its attendant scheme of rewards. Foreigners who accept less than fair rates of pay are preferred to Guyanese who demand a fair wage.

Over at Moruca, There is much disquiet regarding the Santa Rosa Village Council with respect to issues of accountability. Information received suggests that there could be a major shady operation taking place at that Village and residents are peeved. They contend that the Minister of Amerindian Affairs is aware of the situation but refuses to act.

The Santa Rosa Robusta Coffee Project was established and financed by the Coalition while in government. Reports say that, the sum of 9.5 million dollars was deposited in the Village Council's account with Republic Bank (Essequibo Coast Branch). It was reported that, the Santa Rosa Village Council was given total control of the funds. The Village Council is charged under the law, to manage the assets of the Village in the best interest of its residents.

In the month of April 2022, the sum of two million, two hundred thousand dollars was withdrawn. At a recently convened Village General Meeting (VGM) the Toshao, Stavros Stanley and treasurer Phillip Bess were called upon to account for the coffee project fund. The report was that ALL of the Santa Rosa Village funds had been withdrawn from the account. Villagers are alarmed. There was no consultation with the coffee farmers regarding withdrawal or use of funds. Further, farmers have not benefited from the funds withdrawn. There are allegations that a particular Village official since having been elected has purchased at least one motor vehicle among other assets. Residents are calling for a thorough criminal investigation and demand that the elected official be caused to prove the source of funds used for purchasing assets after being elected.

Given the political affiliation of those allegedly involved in this suspected financial impropriety, residents feel that an investigation may never happen.

4

. We demand the establishment of a National Consultative body on Oil and Gas to inform decision making and promote and protect the interest of the Guyanese people.

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. We demand inclusive, transparent, and accountable governance and oversight of the Natural Resource Fund and a programme to transfer some of the oil wealth to the marginalized, poverty-stricken segments of the population of all ethnic groups, including activation of the Buxton Proposal or a similar initiative, infrastructural renewal and expansion in disadvantaged communities.

The issue of the construction of a new wharf in the Mabaruma Sub-region brings with it more of the Rosignol tale of economic destruction of persons in a particular geographic space. Although this falls within a municipality (Mabaruma) and not an Indigenous Village, it is worthy of mention since it will affect a number of Villages. The government has decided, reportedly without adequate consultation, to construct a wharf at Independence Road, a few miles up-river from the current site of the T&HD wharf at Kumaka. They cited flimsy excuses which many business persons at Kumaka have rejected. The move is intended

There are a number of allegations of financial irregularities in many Villages. However, in the not so distant past, the focus of the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs was the establishment of Investigating Committees on missions to remove elected officials believed or known to be supportive of the APNU+AFC while ignoring the blatant indiscretions of others who are known supporters of the PPP.

Fuelling inequality and the discriminatory treatment of citizens appear to be hall-marks of the PPP's One Guyana policy.

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. We demand that the government must work with the labour unions on labour-related issues, including the return of collective bargaining, the fight for a decent wage and better working conditions, especially in view of the burgeoning oil sector, the Dutch disease and the differential wages paid to Guyanese and foreign workers for the same jobs.

These demands are being made at a time when the Irfaan Ali regime is very dictatorial and there is need for good governance and respect for the Rule of Law. Fellow Guyanese, you can expect the practice of good governance and respect for the rule of law from the APNU+AFC, of which the PNCR is a major actor. As you are aware the People's National Congress Reform is committed to the peaceful development of Guyana but will oppose injustice, discrimination, marginalisation, domination and control. We believe in freedom.

Our approach to our responsibility of holding the installed Irfaan Ali government accountable, and eventually removing them from office and working to make our lives as Guyanese better will be characterized by our philosophy of democracy, economic freedom and the rule of law. This disposition will be obvious in the way in which we do things and, in the support, and defense that we will offer the people of Guyana against the dictatorial practices of the Irfaan Ali regime.

I invite you to join me as we seek to represent,

The Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), which up to recently was media shy, has seemingly assumed a new disposition to the media and has taken to issuing press releases. That is a welcomed development. One is, however, left to wonder, if this new approach has been influenced by the presence of a new face on the Commission. However, of greater concern is the falsehoods and partisan nature of the recent releases emanating from GECOM. Notably, they do not reflect a consensus or unanimity of the Commission, as I will demonstrate.

Quite recently, I had to draw attention to the erroneous nature of a GECOM release and a release from

the three PPP/C appointed commissioners, both of which purported that I had accused the Chairperson of taking a decision not to extend the period for Claims, when in fact a publisher of my letter attributed a headline to the letter that did not reflect its content. The Editors normally coin the headline/title for letters to the Editor. Yet GECOM, and the three commissioners erroneously, out of carelessness or propagandistic mal-intent attributed to me, and dwelt on what was in, the headline, while ignoring the content of my letter, which did not accuse the Chairperson of the purported decision: not to extent the period for Claims.

One such occurrence may be forgiven as an error or oversight. However, any reoccurrence can only be construed as intentional and unethical, at least. This is undoubtedly the case with GECOM`s most recent Press Release.

GECOM`s most recent release sought to convey the impression that the Opposition appointed commissioners were insisting that GECOM conduct an investigation into electoral malfeasance, in defiance of the Chairperson`s "Ruling" that such investigations are the sole purview of the High Court.

poor, the vulnerable, the disadvantaged, the elderly, single parents and small and micro businesses that are being stifled and deprived of resources to develop by the Ali regime.

protect, and promote the interest of the

As a government in waiting, we promise you that our policies, programmes, and projects will be targeted to improve the quality of life of all the people of Guyana. We promise you to challenge PPP/C incompetence, corruption, divisiveness, and dictatorial behaviour.

Representing our people, promoting a high qquality of life for all Guyanese

PPP’s disrimination is obvious, real and on the increase

The People’s Progressive Party’s actions are confirming that the Party is racist, and they are seeking to destroy the AfroGuyanese community and Indian and Indigenous peoples whom they perceive to be supporters of the APNU+AFC.

The list of actions that are clearly racist in nature is long. Their attempt to take away the lands from Caring for Others, Guyana Inc. - a humanitarian organisation owned by an African Guyanese, Mrs. Eslene Richmond-Shockley, is a clear indication that the PPP is seeking to impoverish African Guyanese. This organisation works to alleviate poverty in Guyana and brings relief to poor people.

The foregoing must be taken against the backdrop of the PPP taking legal action

against the Afro-Guyanese who got lands and property at Wales and Enmore. It is important to note that the government lost these cases and are seeking to appeal.

The PPP’s intention to regularize squatting at Pigeon Island, while at the same time threatening the African Guyanese squatters in Mocha to bulldoze their property, is another indication of their racist policies.

The action to take away lands from the African Guyanese at Kuru Kuru Co-op to give to PPP supporters is another case in question. The PPP’s action to take away lands from the Co-op on the Essequibo Coast clearly manifests that the PPP is seeking to build Two Guyanas, one in which the PPP elite

friends and family are extremely rich and the mass of African, Indian and Indigenous Guyanese are marginalized and poor.

A recent visit to Baracara revealed a similar pattern of discrimination. The residents of Baracara contend that the Ministry of Agriculture visited their community, assessed their losses which included many heads of cattle, among other livestock and crops and promised relief. The residents noted that similar losses on the Corentyne resulted in farmers obtaining millions of dollars as relief. The residents further contended that when it came to their community, they were given $50,000 regardless of the fact that they lost far more than that. The residents believe that it is a clear

case of discrimination.

The action by the PPP to ensure that most of the contracts awarded in Region 10 go to their elite friends and family is also a clear indication that the PPP is seeking to dominate and control communities that voted for the APNU+AFC. In addition, their actions aimed at preventing Lindeners from owning land along the Wismar/Rockstone Road is another indication that the government is hell bent on marginalizing and destroying the economic base of the people of Region 10. This is just a sample of the discrimination against the African Guyanese community and Indian and Indigenous Guyanese who they perceived to support the APNU+AFC.

Response to recent comments by Irfaan Ali on Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo’s involvement in Su-Gate

The good people of Guyana would have read with ire, in Monday 19th September Stabroek News, recent comments by President Irfaan Ali on Sugate. President Ali seemed mostly to be trying to convince himself that the allegations of bribery and abuse of office surrounding Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo did not damage the international reputation of our country. The entire episode, the President is reported as postulating, was a failed plot by western countries to discredit the leader of a Third World nation and to tarnish the image of developing countries that are populated with “brown faces”. Were the matter not so serious, one would have been tempted to laugh at the President’s utterances.

If indeed the international reputation of the country suffered no harm, as President Ali believes, then it could only

mean that the rampant high-level corruption in the PPP government is already widely known and has already wreaked havoc on the country’s image.

It could only mean that Su-gate was therefore merely another drop in the ocean of PPP corruption. That the President himself is defending VP Jagdeo it is clear that he is complicit in corruption.

Whatever the case, the President needs to man-up and instruct Bharrat Jagdeo to demit office with immediate effect.

The bribery allegations against the VP are not only a matter of international image; they have direct and deep implications for the public’s trust in the PPP government. Who can sensibly deny that the Su-gate bribery scandal has further entrenched the public perception that every deal involving the VP or a PPP minister requires investors to pay

so-called consultation or processing fees - that is corruption!

We repeat our call for a credible inter-

Party

national investigation into the allegations of bribery and corruption leveled against Vice President Jagdeo.

The APNU+AFC have noted the Independence Boulevard Project currently underway in the La Penitence/Albouystown area.

We have also noted the concerns of the residents who have been identified for removal by the Ministry of Public Works, to facilitate the project. The residents have publicly expressed their displeasure at the high-handed and disrespectful manner in which the Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill who is carrying out the mandate of the PPP government has approached the matter of their relocation.

On Friday, September 16th, 2022, a team of Opposition Members of Parliament visited the area and interacted with persons on the ground. The residents are adamant that they are not against the development.

The APNU+AFC recalls that the PPP/C Government in its previous iteration, when it had removed the squatters from the Lamaha Railway Embankment provided those squatters with a free house lot, building

materials and transportation to move their possessions and building materials to their new location. The people of Albouystown are demanding the same and deserve the same.

We are concerned as well that the Government is failing to adopt a holistic approach to the development of the area. A cursory examination of the roads and drainage infrastructure in the community would reveal that these are in a most deplorable state and in urgent need of repair. One would think that repairing and upgrading the primary infrastructure within the community would have been the obvious priority.

The APNU+AFC therefore call on the government to stop disrespecting the residents of Albouystown and provide the necessary support in order to facilitate their relocation. Clearly the PPP has no vision for the development of communities including Albouystown and are taking a piecemeal approach to development rather than having a clear vision backed by a comprehensive plan.

On Sunday 25th September 2022, Chairman of the PNCR and Region #2 MP, Mr. Shurwayne Holder attended the 181st Anniversary Celebration of Queenstown Village, Essequibo Coast, one of the first villages to be bought by freed Africans.

Chairman Holder remarked that the village was built on a solid foundation of strong family bonds, hard work, education, and the Church. He stated that while the resources of the country are

Mr. Shurwayne Holder, MP PNCRChairman

being doled out to selected groups and areas, Queenstown was being neglected, even though it is one of the most populated villages in Region #2. It is extremely difficult, for example, to find a villager who was given a small business grant.

He therefore implored the villagers to stand up and demand their rightful share and not allow the government to relegate them to second or third-class citizens in the land of their birth.

Government’s continued assault and mistreatment of citizens and communities

Party Leader's visit to Toronto, Canada a success

Leader of the People's National Congress and the Opposition, Mr. Aubrey Norton, MP, wrapped up a short but successful visit to Toronto, Canada from 23rd - 25th September 2022.

While in Toronto the Leader met with Party members and supporters, participated in a one-hour interview on a callin program on Shabnam Radio and delivered the feature address on Sunday, September, 25, 2022 at a wellattended Brunch and Town Hall meeting organized by the Toronto West End PNCR Group. The Leader was also interviewed by the Caribbean Camera, a Toronto Caribbean community weekly newspaper.

Party members of the two chapters and supporters at the Brunch and Town Hall meeting expressed appreciation for the Leader's willingness to answer tough questions and mingle easily with the crowd of close to 300 including some who travelled from Ottawa, Canada's Capital City, four hours away by car.

Many expressed the view after hearing from the Leader and interacting with him that the Party was in good hands. Several expressed an interest in signing up for membership and wanted to know how they can support the Party, including financially, from the Diaspora.

The Leader also spent time updating the audience on a wide range of issues

including the discriminatory policies and conduct by the PPP government in the allocation of resources that affect the Afro-Guyanese and Indigenous communities and those Indo-Guyanese who support the People's National Congress Reform (PNCR).

In response to a question about his refusal to shake the hand of the President, the Leader defended his position explaining that he will continue to do so until the government decides to discontinue its discriminatory and oppressive actions directed at Guyanese who fall outside the PPP's circle of friends and family.

He was clear in his message that the PNCR under his leadership is pursuing

a "people-centered approach" that puts all Guyanese at the centre of its focus to benefit from the nation's resources as against the government's policy of enriching select members of the society. He also told the eager crowd that he is also focused on rebuilding the Party from the grassroots with a regional approach.

The Leader left Toronto for New York City where he will engage with members and supporters there before returning to Guyana on Saturday 1st October 2022. Asked to assess his first visit to Toronto as Leader, Cde Norton said it was a successful trip and he intends to return next year for a longer stay.

Party Leader having dinner with Executive Members of the PNCR Toronto West End Group at the KEG Steakhouse in Mississauga, Ontario, 23-09-2022.

Party Leader meeting with Guyanese residents at Pam Court Restaurant in Toronto on Friday evening, 23rd September 2022.

Party Leader, Mr. Aubrey Norton, MP, during a one-hour interview with Mr. Richard Azizz of Shabnam Radio in Toronto on Saturday 24th September 2022. The Leader was also interviewed by the Caribbean Camera, a Toronto Caribbean community weekly newspaper.

Mr. John O’Dell (left), Chairman of the Toronto West End PNCRGroup and Mr. Carwyn Holland, former Mayor of Region No. 10 at the Town Hall Meeting on Sunday 25th September 2022.

DISTRICT CONFERENCE

Annual Conference of the Georgetown District of the PNCR

The Georgetown District of the PNCRheld its Annual Conference on Sunday 2nd October 2022 at Congress Place, Sophia. Several persons contested for the leadership of the Georgetown District. Those elected to serve at the executive level are from left, Mr. Troy Garaway aka “Shaka” as Chairman; Deputy Mayor of Georgetown, Mr. Alfred Mentore as Vice Chairman, Mr. Paul Clarke as Secretary and Economist, Mr. Elson Low as Treasurer. Three Committee Members

PNCRTeam attends final Heritage Month activities in Region #9

Over the weekend of 30th September2nd October, the Chairman of the PNCR, Mr. Shurwayne Holder, MP, led a team including Ms. Dawn HastingsWilliams, MP, and PNCR members Joan-Ann Romascindo and Renita Williams to the Rupununi where they attended the final two Heritage month activities in the region in the villages of Surama and Aranaputa.

In Surama, the team was welcomed by former Vice-President and Minister of Indigenous Affairs, Mr. Sydney Allicock. Both MP Holder and MP Hastings-Williams participated in archery and other village activities. That same evening MP Hastings presented the prize to the winner of the Surama Heritage Pageant.

In Aranaputa, the team was a part of

the ceremonial parade into the heritage square and got a chance to greet the villagers and part-take in the many activities available.

The MPs and team also used the opportunity to visit other villages in the region and listen to the concerns of the villagers, many of whom complained about the state of affairs in the region and the discrimination by the PPP and their activists in the region.

The MPs vowed to take these matters to the Parliament and continue giving the people of Region #9 the representation they deserve.

The team was well assisted by the many Party activists on the ground in Region #9 and extended many thanks to them for their assistance over the weekend.

At the Georgetown District Conference on Sunday 2nd October at Congress Place, Sophia, the former Chairperson, Mrs. Volda Lawrence, MP and former Vice Chairperon, Ms. Hazel Pinder took the opportunity to thank Ms. Monica Thomas for her service as Manager at the Georgetown District Office for the last twelve years.

Mr. Sydney Allicock (center) is seen here with Ms. Renita Williams (left) and MP Dawn Hastings-Williams, MP at the Surama heritage celebrations.

Mrs. Volda Lawrence, MP presenting Ms. Monica Thomas with a token for her service to the Georgetown District.

Ms. Hazel Pinder (right) presenting Ms. Monica Thomas with a gift for her service to the Georgetown District.

MP Shurwayne Holder (center) with villagers at the heritage celebrations at Aranaputa.

SOCIETY

Georgetown District annual NGSA award ceremony

On Saturday 24th September, the Georgetown District of the PNCR successfully held its annual National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) Award Ceremony at the North Ruimveldt Multilateral School.

The event catered for 108 children who

received Backpacks, Bicycles and Tablets. Children were drawn from South and North Ruimveldt, East and West Ruimveldt, Albouystown, Agricola, Alberttown and Bourda, Kitty, Campbellville and Sophia. The children were also served with snacks and drinks.

Recovery support for residents of Dazzell and Bare Root, ECD

The PNCR on, Friday 23rd September, distributed a number of household items which included chair sets, beds, among others donated by a Party member to residents of Dazzell Housing Scheme whose homes were affected and destroyed by a storm a few weeks ago. Monetary donations

were also given out to the residents.

Backpacks with school items were distributed to students in Bare Root whose homes were also affected.

Central Executive member, Mrs. Hazel Pyle-Lewis made the distribution on behalf of the Party.

Visit to Eteringbang, Cuyuni River by RDCChairman

A recent visit to the bordering community of Eteringbang, Cuyuni River, Region #7, was made by the Chairman of the RDC of Region #7, Mr. Kenneth Williams.

The visit was to discuss with residents community empowerment and development and to mainly assist them in creating a representative group. A group of seven persons.was identified by the peo-

ple to represent the interests of Eteringbang.

This community has it's challenges but the Chairman was quick to remind them that they are stronger together and unity is paramount if they wish realize their potential.

Eteringbang is a uniquely positioned community in this Region and the RDC is committed to its orderly development.

APNU+AFC proposal: Electricity Bill Relief for low-income households

Senior Minister responsible for Finance Dr. Ashni Singh announced a reduction of gasoline and diesel prices at the staterun Guyana Oil Company Ltd (GUYOIL). This half-hearted attempt will likely bring little relief to those families who are most in need of cost-of-living support. What it does demonstrate is that when, earlier this year, the government said nothing more could be done about high prices at the pump, the government was clearly lying to the nation. In June this year, the APNU+AFC recommended that “The government should ensure gas prices do not increase above a determined level by compensating suppliers for any price increases where the excise tax reductions have already been exhausted. This will help to bring prices down across a wide basket of goods, thereby easing the cost-of-living crisis.” This measure found support in many quarters of our society except the PPP government.

Though the PPP’s cuts in gas and diesel prices in no way approach the large scale of our idea, the government could have offered this relief much earlier, given the persistently elevated international oil prices. In fact, the Bank of Guyana mid-year report indicates that because of the high oil price, Guyana earned almost a third more revenue than expected. Yet the PPP refused to budge and has only now, with understandable shame, meekly announced these cuts through its minister in the Office of the President responsible for finance.

We fully agree with the advice of the IMF in its September 2022 report on its Article IV Consultation with Guyana. The IMF advises that Guyana should ease the burden of prices on the most

vulnerable groups of society by gradually unwinding untargeted measures and instead further develop and strengthen a well-targeted social safety net.

Against that background, we call on the government to urgently introduce ELECTRICITY BILL RELIEF FOR LOW INCOME HOUSEHOLDS. In this scheme, households whose total monthly light bill is less than a specified dollar amount (a cap) will not be required to pay GPL. Instead, the GoG will stand the costs and compensate GPL for the total amount forgone. The cap must be chosen to cover as many low-income households as possible. Those whose light bills are above the cap will continue to pay GPL as per norm for now.

The advantages of this proposed subsidy are (i) it effectively targets those who are most in need of assistance, (ii) it exploits the fact that monthly energy consumption is a reliable and consistent proxy measure of household income, (iii) as the scheme will use the existing GPL billing system, administrative costs to delivery benefits will be minimal for the government, and participation costs non-existent for beneficiaries, (iv) the use of a cap can incentivize households to become more energy conscious in using electricity, and (v) benefits are predictable and continuous (not oneoff).

Now that President Ali and his ministers have hopefully settled down from their overindulgences in national fetes, the APNU+AFC here reminds them of the serious pressures and hardships still faced by the Guyanese people. As the next government, we have crafted and will implement these and other measures to guarantee every Guyanese a high quality of life.

Gross incompetence in Education

Leader of the Opposition attends World Literacy Day event

On Thursday, September 8, 2022, Leader of the Opposition and the PNCR , Mr. Aubrey C. Norton, MP visited the New Campbellville Secondary School and read to the students in observance of World Literacy Day, under the theme, "Drop Everything & Read.”

The APNU+AFC notes that at the beginning of the school year, 2022-2023 the inhumane way our teachers and students are treated because of the unpreparedness by the Ministry of Education to adequately accommodate them in school to deliver the curriculum as mandated.

The PPP’s incompetence, negligence and the lack of careful planning have resulted in this unfortunate situation. It has also made manifest the extent to which the physical infrastructure of our schools has deteriorated.

This incompetence has manifested itself in the form of inadequate furniture, overcrowding, non-functioning sanitary blocks for teachers and students, insufficient classroom space, lack of printed pedagogical materials for teachers and insufficient funds for classroom aid.

To compound an already unacceptable situation, students are being placed in tents that are grossly inadequate in lighting and ventilation. This is being done in extremely hot conditions, a clear violation of the Non-academic Standards of the Ministry of Education.

The APNU+AFC also notes that the Minister of Education has taken to social media to blame the parents for the choice of tents in the schools by saying that the choice to accommodate the pupils as of September 2022 was that of rotation or tents and that the Parent Teachers Association chose the tents.

To take such a position is a demonstration of the incompetence of the Minister to lead. There is no reason why appropriate buildings could not have been rented and utilized. To place children in tents is unconscionable and inhumane. Clearly, the Minister and Ministry do not care.

We have underscored that preliminary numbers have indicated that there is an increase in population growth in our country and that the influx of children from neighbouring countries may have also contributed to the issue of overcrowding in some of our schools. However, we wish to state that the Ministry has received in the year 2020 $52B, in 2021 $60B and in 2022, $74.4B. Over a period of twenty-four months the Ministry received more than $186B. With such resources at the disposal of the ministry, only lack of vision, lack of a plan, corruption and incompetence can explain this unfortunate situation. Clearly, the Ministry of Education is poorly managed and reflects the ineptitude of the Minister.

We demand that the Academic and Non-Academic Standards be implemented in keeping with Goal #4 of the Sustainable Development Goals and that as a nation we utilize the resources available to ensure inclusiveness, and equitable and quality education for all.

Our Teachers and Students deserve better!

A section of the gathering at the meeting with the RDC Chairman of Region #7, Mr. Kenneth Williams.

The group of seven persons.that was identified by the people to represent the interests of Eteringbang.

APNU+AFC condemns the PPP’s continued attempts to harass and intimidate Rickford Burke

a campaign to silence him through acts of harassment, intimidation, and character assassination.

This current Wanted Bulletin concerns an incident in which Mr. Burke’s role, from our review of the evidence provided, is one of conciliator and conflict resolver. Instead, the PPP, in a desperate act of revenge against Mr. Burke, has used the incident to frame him by criminalizing his well-meaning intentions and actions.

We note that Mr. Burke intends to file legal action and has vowed to continue to expose wrongdoings by senior police officers and Ministers of the government.

Party Vice Chairperson visit to the US

Vice Chairperson of the PNCR, Mrs. Elizabeth Williams-Niles met with various groups in the United States during the week, 24th-30th September 2022. She made a courtesy call on Senator Roxanne Persaud where she attended a dinner meeting with her.

The Vice Chairperson also met with Executives of the North American Region (NAR) and various PNCR groups including the Queens PNCR group and Mr. Rickford Burke, President of the Caribbean Guyana Institute for Democracy (CGID).

The Vice Chairperson along with the Party Leader, Mr. Aubrey C. Norton, MP, was also part of the Town Hall meeting which was held Friday evening, 30th September 2022 at the Woodbine Banquet Hall in Brooklyn, New York.

The APNU+AFC has taken note of the malicious Wanted Bulletin issued on September 29th by the Guyana Police Force for Mr. Rickford Burke. Mr. Burke, a US-based Guyanese political activist, is President of the US based Caribbean Guyana Institute for Democracy (CGID). He is well-known as a relentless campaigner against racial discrimination, high-level corruption, human rights and general lawlessness on the part of the PPP government. The PPP, therefore, is waging

The PPP continues to underestimate the will and fortitude of the Guyanese people at home and abroad to rescue their beloved country from its executive lawlessness, victimization, suppression, and corruption. Guyanese want a country in which the government serves the people, not unnerves the people; in which the government provides, not divides; in which the government respects and not rejects freedoms and human rights.

Clearly, this current action by the PPP and the GPF involves transcending Guyana’s borders and being involved in repression of a Guyanese in another jurisdiction. It deserves to be investigated as a crime of transnational repression and the abuse of the Cybercrime laws to suppress free speech and political dissent. We, therefore, call on the US government to investigate this violation of the law and human rights.

Legal case involving the Guyana Public Service Cooperative Credit Union Limited: Justice has prevailed

APNU+AFC welcomes the High Court decision on Friday, 30th September that foiled the PPP’s attempts to hijack the Guyana Public Service Cooperative Credit Union Limited (GPSCCU) from its members and democratically elected leaders.

Justice has therefore prevailed. Efforts at political domination by the PPP have been resisted.

At our Press Conference on 30th August, we had stated that: “The GPSCCU is one of the country’s largest and most prosperous coop societies, with several hundreds of millions of dollars in assets. It has long been a reliable and accessible source of credit for public servants. It is also apposite to note that it is a public-service based organization on which Afro-Guyanese workers are the persons who mostly depend on and benefit from the ser-

vices of this credit union.”

It is therefore more than likely that the PPP will appeal the High Court’s ruling and employ every other ploy to pursue its agenda of discrimination and domination. This offers Prime Minister Mark Phillips an opportunity to demonstrate how genuine he is when he declared just over a week ago that: “as an Afro-Guyanese…, I am proud to be part of the PPP/C administration where all Guyanese, inclusive of AfroGuyanese, have equal access to opportunities and where national policies and programmes are never influenced by race.”

Let him get the PPP to respect the laws of Guyana and the legitimate and democratic will of the members of the credit union. Let him show that he has the courage to do what’s right and that his voice is respected with the PPP.

PNCR Vice Chairperson, Mrs. Elizabeth Williams-Niles (right) with Senator Roxanne Persaud (left) at a dinner meeting.

From left are Mr. Vincent Adams, PNCR Vice Chairperson, Mrs. Elizabeth Williams-Niles, PNCRLeader, Mr. Aubrey C. Norton, MP and NARChairman, Mr. Errol Lewis at a Town Hall Meeting at the Woodbine Baquet Hall in Brooklyn, NY, on Friday 30th September.

A section of the gathering at the Town Hall Meeting at the Woodbine Baquet Hall in Brooklyn, NY, on Friday 30th September.

Mr. Rickford Burke

Stereotyping Norton misses his broad vision on National Development

To navigate the complex world, our minds of necessity are wired to simplify and to prevent information overload. Of necessity, therefore, we stereotype or pigeonhole persons and groups. Dr. Tara Singh, in his letter to SN on 27/09/22 (“Norton must transcend his own party’s boundaries and reach out to all segments of society”) stereotypes the new Leader of the Opposition (LOO). As a result, Dr Singh ignores evidence that contradicts or falsifies many of his conclusions.

Of passing interest, Dr Singh approvingly quotes Norman Browne, a political activist who often attacks Mr Norton for being too moderate and for not unleashing hordes of protesters on the streets as the PNCR’s SOP.

That said, to respond to Dr Singh’s letter point for point will require much space. Let me instead approach matters by first presenting my take of what LOO Norton is fighting AGAINST and, secondly, what he is fighting FOR. Hopefully, we can then view Mr Norton’s leadership through wider and fairer lenses.

On the AGAINST side of the ledger, editorials and commentaries have focused much on the Opposition’s fight against racial discrimination, giving it a BLM slant. Without dwelling much here, let me just say that the call for evidence of discrimination (which does exist) tries to compress this complicated issue into a box for which it is too big. As such, critical issues such as ethnic anxiety and insecurity, ethnic identity and pride, government’s arbitrary and discretionary powers, weak oversight of government actions, and PPP’s controlfreakism are too often ignored.

But LOO Norton and the coalition have also been waging war against top-level corruption. With investors having to pay so-called “transaction fees”, with the dubious awarding of multi-million-dollar contracts, and with the untold level of embezzlement of cash transfers (that even VP Jagdeo, of all people, complained about) who benefits when the LOO “combatively” fights on this front? Answer: the entire nation. Persons of all races, not just Afro-Guyanese. I, for one, have not noticed editorials and letter writers crediting Norton and the Opposition for their campaign against rising government corruption.

Just as critical, Aubrey Norton and the

coalition have been waging war against the PPP’s pathological obsession with controlling and dominating all decisionmaking spaces. Should Dr Tara Singh request evidence of this obsession, he can start by reading the several SN editorials in 2022 alone that have bellyached about this. Its Editorial of 23rd April, for instance, observed that "One Guyana, the apparent new national motto … sounds more like "One Party Rule"." Again, this is a campaign the Opposition pursues on behalf of all Guyanese.

On the FOR side of the ledger, Mr Norton in his New Year’s speech (his first since becoming the PNCR Leader) unveiled a national development vision that is both people-centred and peoplefirst. Over the months, one senses his growing impatience where, despite massive oil wealth, poverty and inequality, and uncertainty and despair, are all escalating among the masses. He and his party have proposed ideas to end poverty and to lift and expand the middle-class; ideas to mitigate the current rising cost-of living; ideas to build a caring society with a comprehensive social protection system (in sync with the World Bank’s recent urging); and ideas on democracy and good governance. These are not Afro-centric concerns only. This is a multi-ethnic “leave no Guyanese behind” vision.

These broad all-inclusive positions embraced by Mr Norton do not fit well with the efforts to stereotype him. My own advice to Mr Norton is to continue to use all legitimate political tools to protect the rights and entitlements of all Guyanese, be they of African, Indian, Indigenous, Mixed or other origin. Dr Singh, Ravi Dev and others must realize that a political party will often have to fight for the rights of one group or another while it fights for all.

As regards Dr Singh’s advice for Mr Norton to “defuse his confrontational approach and replace it with rapprochement” I remarked in a previous letter (in SN 15/08/22) “that Mr Norton and the coalition have to fight the fight the PPP is bringing to them... And if the PPP would stop at nothing in its cravings for total domination (including its lone resistance to a clean voters list), the country cannot then expect all smiles and handshakes from the Opposition.”

The PPP is delusional to believe a bloating list can become an accepted norm in Guyana Politics

In his letter of 23rd September in SN and KN, Clement J. Rohee fully exposed that he has no response to the fact that the PPP supported a new list and biometrics all the way up to the NCM in 2018; no response to the fact that the major election observers separately called for new registration; and no response to the fact that the Chief Immigration officer has verified that votes were cast for many persons who were not in Guyana on Election Day 2020.

Instead, Rohee advanced for our reflection the principle a party should adopt to determine whether or not a new list is warranted. The Rohee principle states that if a party wins an election, that party has no case or no need to ever question the list. Hence, he argued: "Has Mr. Lowe conveniently forgotten that it is the same list that he and his party complain so ashamedly about being ‘bloated’ that gave his coalition combined majorities in the National Assembly of the 9th and 10th parliament respectively?"

Let me swipe the legs from under this argument so that it does not resurface. No, Mr Rohee, the list today in 2022 is not the same list in the 2011 and 2015 elections. Recall that the last H2H registration was in 2008. The National Register of Registrants was therefore three years old in 2011 and seven years

old in 2015. Today, it is fourteen years old! It has lost its purity, shape and soul. It is not the same animal.

As I pointed out in my first response to Mr Rohee, the PPP had agreed within GECOM to a 7-year cycle for new registration--which meant 2015 was the next due date. Accordingly, the Coalition government provided GECOM the required funding. But in 2018, the PPP double-crossed the nation--and we are where we are today.

We have ended up with the PPP/Rohee principle where the quality of the voters register is not determined by technical and democratic standards such as its accuracy and cleanliness, nor by its capacity to reflect the true will of the people, nor by its ability to win public trust.

None of the above. The PPP/Rohee principle is all about what is convenient or advantageous at any given time for Freedom House.

Rohee and his party are delusional to believe that a massively-bloated voters list (soon to surpass the total population) can somehow become a settled and accepted norm in Guyana's politics. Come on! It will not. Sooner or later, the situation will compel a clean voters list. The PPP must come to its senses to make that sooner rather than later.

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The first observation to be made in that regard, is that the Court does not investigate, it adjudicates hence an investigation does necessarily not fly in the face of the constitutional provisions in relation to the jurisdiction of the High Court.

However, let's assume that I am wrong in my aforementioned contention, that does not relieve GECOM and the PPP/C appointed commissioners of their notoriety.

The fact of the matter is that the call of the Opposition appointed commissioners is for a review of GECOM`s operations to determine whether there are discernible weaknesses in its system that need to be addressed if GECOM is to improve on its system in pursuit of the constitutional requirement for GECOM to "ensure impartiality, fairness and compliance" in the conduct of elections.

It's grossly misleading for GECOM to equate: (1). the call, by the Opposition appointed commission-

ers, for GECOM to conduct 'an independent review to gain a better understanding of the bases for allegations and occurrences and to consider if there are existing or potential weaknesses in the processes employed by GECOM for the conduct of elections'; and (2). that "recommendations be sought in an effort to improve on the methods employed in the electoral system and to remove the bases for the possible reoccurrence of the maladies, procedural or otherwise, that occurred or may occur under the current electoral process" to a "call for GECOM to conduct internal investigations into allegations of electoral fraud that were reported to have occurred during the 2nd March, 2020 General and Regional Elections."(author`s emphasis)

GECOM is not only misleading the public on what is being called for by the Opposition appointed commissioners, it is guilty of dereliction, in so far as it is unprepared to review/evaluate its own performance as a basis for enhancing its systems and its operations.

GECOM has embarked upon a campaign that is designed to justify its intentional omissions, such as a review of its operations and the introduction of biometric (finger-print) identification at the place of poll.

Monkey Pox Emerging Benefits and Uses of Papaya Leaf

What is monkeypox?

Monkeypox is an illness caused by the monkeypox virus. It is a viral zoonotic infection, meaning that it can spread from animals to humans. It can also spread from humans to other humans and from the environment to humans.

What are the symptoms of monkeypox?

Monkeypox can cause a range of signs and symptoms. While some people have less severe symptoms, others may develop more serious illness and need care in a health facility. Those typically at higher risk include people who are pregnant, children and persons that are immunocompromised.

The most common symptoms of monkeypox identified during the 2022 outbreak include fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, low energy and swollen lymph nodes, followed or accompanied by the development of a rash which may last for two to three weeks. The rash can affect the face, palms of the hands, soles of the feet, groin, genital and/or anal regions. It may also be found in the mouth, throat, anus or vagina, or on the eyes. The number of sores can range from one to several thousand. Sores on the skin begin flat, then fill with liquid before they crust over, dry up and fall off, with a fresh layer of skin forming underneath.

Symptoms usually go away on their own or with supportive care, such as medication for pain or fever. People remain infectious until all of the sores have crusted over, the scabs have fallen off and a new layer of skin has formed underneath.

Can people get seriously ill or die from monkeypox?

In most cases, the symptoms of monkeypox go away on their own within a few weeks. However, in some people, an infection can lead to medical complications and even death. Based on what we know from previous monkeypox outbreaks, new-born babies, children and people with underlying immune deficiencies may be at higher risk of more serious symptoms and death from monkeypox.

Complications from monkeypox include secondary skin infections, pneumonia, confusion, and eye problems. More recent complications include proctitis (sores and swelling inside the rectum that cause pain) and pain or difficulty when urinating. In the past, between 1% to 10% of people with monkeypox have died. It is important to note that death rates in different settings may differ due to a number of factors, such as access to health care. These figures may be an overestimate because surveillance for monkeypox has generally been limited in the past.

How does monkeypox spread from person to person?

Monkeypox spreads from person-to-person through close contact with someone who has a monkeypox rash. Close contact can mean being face-to-face (such as talking, breathing or singing close to one another which can generate droplets or short-range aerosols); skin-to-skin (such as touching or vaginal/anal sex); mouth-to-mouth (such as kissing); or mouth-to-skin contact (such as oral sex or kissing the skin). Possible mechanisms of transmission through the air for monkeypox are not yet well understood and studies are underway to learn more.

We are still learning about how long people with monkeypox are infectious for, but generally they are considered infectious until all of their sores have crusted over, the scabs have fallen off and a new layer of skin has formed underneath, and all the sores on the eyes and in the body (in the mouth, throat, eyes, vagina and anus) have healed too.

Environments can become contaminated with the monkeypox virus: for example, when an infectious person touches clothing, bedding, towels, objects, electronics and surfaces. Someone else who touches these items may become infected if they have any cuts or abrasions or they accidentally touch their eyes, nose mouth or other mucous membranes. This is known as fomite transmission.

Carica papaya — also simply known as papaya or pawpaw — is a type of tropical, fruit-bearing tree native to Mexico and northern regions of South America.

Today, papaya is one of the most widely cultivated crops in the world. Its fruit, seeds, and leaves are frequently utilized in a variety of culinary and folk medicine practices.

Papaya leaf contains unique plant compounds that have demonstrated broad pharmacological potential in test-tube and animal studies.

Although human research is lacking, many papaya leaf preparations, such as teas, extracts, tablets, and juices, are often used to treat illnesses and promote health in numerous ways.

Here are 7 emerging benefits and uses of papaya leaf.

1. May treat symptoms related to dengue fever

One of the most prominent medicinal benefits of papaya leaf is its potential to treat certain symptoms associated with dengue fever. Dengue is a mosquito-borne virus that can be transmitted to humans and cause flu-like symptoms, such as fever, fatigue, headaches, nausea, vomiting, and skin rashes.

Severe cases can also result in reduced platelet levels in the blood. Low platelet levels can contribute to an increased risk of bleeding and are potentially fatal if left untreated.

While there’s currently no cure for dengue, several treatments are available for managing its symptoms — one of which is papaya leaf. Three human studies that included several hundred people with dengue found that papaya leaf extract significantly increased blood platelet levels.

What’s more, the papaya leaf therapy had very few associated side effects and was found to be much more cost effective than conventional treatments.

2. May promote balanced blood sugar

Papaya leaf is often used in Mexican folk medicine as a natural therapy for treating diabetes and improving blood sugar control.

Studies in mice with diabetes have found papaya leaf extract to have potent antioxidant and bloodsugar-lowering effects. This is attributed to papaya leaf’s ability to protect insulin-producing cells in the pancreas from damage and premature death.

Still, no scientific evidence indicates that the same or similar effects may occur in humans. More research is needed to determine whether papaya leaf can be used to help manage high blood sugar levels in humans.

3. May support digestive function

Papaya leaf teas and extracts are often used as an alternative therapy to alleviate uncomfortable digestive symptoms, such as gas, bloating, and heartburn.

Papaya leaf contains fiber — a nutrient that supports healthy

digestive function — and a unique compound called papain.

Papain is well known for its ability to break down large proteins into smaller, easier-to-digest proteins and amino acids. It’s even used as a meat tenderizer in culinary practices.

One study found that the supplemental use of a papain powder sourced from papaya fruit reduced negative digestive symptoms, including constipation and heartburn, in people with irritable bowel syndrome.

No scientific studies have specifically evaluated papaya leaf’s ability to treat similar types of digestive disturbances.

Most of the evidence favoring its use for this purpose is limited to anecdotal reports, and there’s no guarantee it’ll improve your digestive function in any way.

4. May have anti-inflammatory effects

Various papaya leaf preparations are frequently used to remedy a broad range of internal and external inflammatory conditions, including skin rashes, muscle aches, and joint pain.

Papaya leaf contains various nutrients and plant compounds with potential anti-inflammatory benefits, such as papain, flavonoids, and vitamin E.

One study found that papaya leaf extract significantly reduced inflammation and swelling in the paws of rats with arthritis. Yet, no human studies have confirmed these results.

Thus, at this point, scientific evidence is insufficient to determine whether papaya leaf can treat acute or chronic inflammation in humans.

5. May support hair growth

Topical applications of papaya leaf masks and juices are often used to improve hair growth and scalp health, but evidence to support its efficacy for these purposes is extremely limited.

Some research suggests that high levels of oxidative stress in the body may contribute to hair loss. Eating antioxidant-rich foods may help alleviate oxidative stress and subsequently improve hair growth.

Papaya leaf contains several compounds with antioxidant properties, such as flavonoids and vitamin E.

Proponents of using papaya leaf to improve hair growth often cite its rich supply of antioxidants.

However, there’s no significant evidence that the topical application of papaya leaves can benefit the hair growth process.

Certain types of dandruff are caused by an overgrowth of a fungus called Malassezia, which can impede hair growth.

Papaya leaf has demonstrated antifungal properties in test-tube studies, so it’s often thought to support hair and scalp health by inhibiting the growth of dandruff-causing fungus.

However, papaya leaf has not been specifically tested against Malassezia, so there’s no guarantee it’ll have beneficial effects.

6. May promote healthy skin

Papaya leaf is frequently consumed orally or applied topically as a way to maintain soft, clear, and youthful-looking skin.

A protein-dissolving enzyme in papaya leaf called papain can be used topically as an exfoliant to remove dead skin cells and potentially reduce the occurrence of clogged pores, ingrown hairs, and acne.

Moreover, papaya leaf enzymes have been used to promote wound healing, and one study found they minimized the appearance of scar tissue in rabbits.

7. May have anticancer properties

Papaya leaf has been used in traditional medicine practices to prevent and treat certain types of cancer, but modern research is still lacking. Papaya leaf extract has demonstrated a powerful ability to inhibit the growth of prostate and breast cancer cells in test-tube studies, but neither animal nor human experiments have replicated these results. Although consuming papaya leaves and other antioxidant-rich foods may play a role in cancer prevention, they have not been proven to have any curative abilities.

Dosage

There’s currently not enough evidence to make precise dosage recommendations for each of the possible uses of papaya leaf.

However, taking three doses of up to 1 ounce (30 mL) of papaya leaf extract per day is considered safe and effective for the treatment of dengue fever.

If you’re unsure how much papaya leaf you should consume, consult a qualified healthcare provider.

Remunueration packages for GECOM Commissioners

Stabroek News’ report dated Sunday, 25th September, 2022 that the official computation of the remuneration packages for the 2020 Elections Commission of Inquiry (COI) Commissioners have not been finalised as yet, and that the necessary financial papers will be going to the National Assembly for approval of public money to pay the Commissioners and support staff, is disturbing.

There is reason to think Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs

Anil Nandlall, S.C., M.P. apparently is the one who made the statement. If, however, the media report is accurate, then all Guyanese should now be extremely worried.

The Commissioners were sworn-in a while now and to date there is no Terms of Reference nor are their remuneration packages finalised. Does this make

sense?

Is the government saying to Guyanese they hired people but the people don’t know the specifics of their jobs nor do they know what they will be paid? Does that make any sense?

What will happen should the already sworn-in commissioners say that the government’s offer is too small? Will there be a negotiation? Can the government negotiate given that the Commissioners were already sworn-in?

Where on this earth are people offered a job without knowing what are the specifics of the job and what is the salary for the job? The answer is only in Guyana under a PPP/C government.

Notwithstanding the above, I believe the PPP Government has indeed agreed to $700M for the five (5) people over a six-month period and is now being dis-

GECOMChair continues to mislead the public

The APNU+AFC notes that Chairman of GECOM Claudette Singh on Wednesday (28th September) informed the Election Commissioners that she submitted to the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Commissioner of Police the additional lists of names provided by the Coalition of persons who were either dead or absent from Guyana on voting day, but for whom votes were cast.

As we had previously stated, APNU+AFC had dispatched a letter on 20th September 2022 to the GECOM Chair, in which we requested that the commission should:

(i) forward to the GPF and the GRO for verification all the information it received from the APNU+AFC in relation to voter impersonation; (ii) publicly and promptly release the first set of verified reports already in its possession; (iii) restart and complete the internal probe, which it aborted in 2020, and publicly release its own findings; (iv) address the implications of its findings of that probe; and (v) publicly communicate the corrective actions it proposes and intends to take to prevent any attempts of voter impersonation in future elections.

In the letter, we added that the commission must treat this matter with the greatest possible urgency because of its

critical nature to the integrity of elections.

The APNU+AFC hereby also puts the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Commissioner of Police on notice that should they fail to treat the matter with the required urgency and allow the PPP to commandeer and corrupt the process, we will expose and respond accordingly to such attempts.

Furthermore, we note that the GECOM Chair continues to insist that the commission cannot conduct an internal investigation and that “the onus was on the APNU+AFC to file an election petition to determine the validity of the allegations of unlawful acts such as voter impersonation.”

In so insisting, the GECOM Chair continues to mislead the public (deliberately, in our view) over the difference between the objectives of an election petition and the objectives of a systems and operations review. A petition is a judicial process to determine breaches of the law. Its only focus is on legality. On the other hand, systems and operations review are administrative exercises to detect and remove shortfalls in organizational effectiveness. Its only focus is on functionality.

Additional press statements from GECOM and more rubbish from the PPP will not change those basic facts.

ADDENDUM TO PRESS STATEMENT of 20th September 2022

Letter to GECOM requesting release of verified documents on voter impersonation and internal investigation.

Dear Justice (ret’d ) Claudette Singh,

During the national recount in 2020, the APNU+AFC submitted to the commission several lists of persons for whom votes were cast but who were either dead or not in Guyana on Election Day. We are aware that only a small number of our submission was forwarded to the Guyana Police Force (the Immigration Office) for verification. We are also aware that the GPF has returned to GECOM its findings.

Those findings clearly provide evidence of significant voter impersonation. Despite the far-reaching implications of this evidence, GECOM has failed in its constitutional duty to complete the verification exercise and to complete its own investigation of the matter. Against this background, we hereby request of GECOM that:

a) It forwards to the GPF and the

GRO for verification all of the information it received from the APNU+AFC in relation to voter impersonation; b) It publicly and promptly releases the first set of verified reports already in its possession; c) It restarts the internal probe into the matter, which it aborted in 2020, and publicly release its own findings; d) It addresses the implications of its findings of that probe; and e) It publicly communicates the corrective actions it proposes and intends to take to prevent any attempts of voter impersonation in future elections.

Given the importance of the issue to (i) GECOM’s constitutional function of conducting elections that reflect the true will of the Guyanese electorate; (ii) building public confidence in elections and in GECOM itself; (iii) advancing democracy in Guyana; and (iv) enhancing political stability and social cohesion in the country, we urge the commission to treat this matter with the greatest possible urgency because of its critical nature to the integrity of elections.

Sincerely, Carol Smith-Joseph Chief Scrutineer, APNU+AFC

20th September 2022 Justice (ret’d) Claudette Singh Chairman Guyana Elections Commission 41 High & Cowan Streets Kingston Georgetown Guyana

NEWNATION

Obituaries

Condolences on the passing of Queen Elizabeth II

The People’s National Congress Reform is deeply saddened by the passing of Queen Elizabeth II who died on Thursday 8th September 2022. We extend our deepest condolences to her immediate family, to the UK government, and to the people of Great Britain. Britain has lost one of its great national icons. She touched the lives of many in the UK and the wider world. She will be greatly missed by many across seas and

oceans.

Though Guyana became independent from Britain in 1966 and a Republic in 1970, many Guyanese still followed with interest her life as Queen of Great Britain and as Head of the Commonwealth.

Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and the people of Great Britain over their colossal and irreplaceable loss.

Ann Pamela Forde: Born 22nd September 1952; Died 23rd September 2022.

The People's National Congress Reform announced the passing of Ann Pamela Forde of Fitzburg, Port Kaituma who died on Friday 23rd September 2022. Ms. Forde was a staunched member of the Party since the days of the Young Socialist Movement (YSM). As a long-standing member of the Party, she was also a member of the National Congress of Women (NCW) and served on the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) of Region #1.

Ms. Forde will be sadly missed for her diligence, hard work and commitment to the Party. The PNCR extends its deepest condolences to her husband, Mr. Joseph Forde, her children Rian, Kwesi, Joel, Dacia, Althea and Brian and to all her other relatives and friends.

May her soul be at Eternal Rest!

Alvin Jason Leitch aka “Pepper/Spanish Boss” - Born 5th January 1991; Died 17th September 2022: The People’s National Congress Reform is saddened at the passing of Alvin “Pepper” Leitch who died on Saturday 17th September 2022, tragically. The Party wishes to express its deepest sympathy to his mother, siblings, other relatives and friends. May his soul be at Eternal Peace!

Commemorating the 2nd death anniversary of the Henry Boys

On Tuesday evening, 6th September 2022, the APNU+AFC and WPA joined with the Henry family, supporters and friends in commemorating the second death anniversary of the Henry Boys who were brutally murdered on 6th September 2020, in the backlands of Cotton Tree, West Coast Berbice.

The commemoration programme started with a motorcade from Belladrum Bridge, West Coast Berbice, to No. 5 Village, WCB, in Region #5. In this community, a ceremony was held.

Speaking at the ceremony were

Aubrey C. Norton, Leader of the Opposition and the PNCR; Pastor Paul Shultz; Rhonda Johnson, relative and godmother of Isaiah Henry; Viceroy Jordan, MP and ViceChairman of the PNCR; Kidackie Amsterdam, Executive Member of the WPA; and Attorney-at-Law Nigel Hughes. The main theme of the speakers was the call for Justice for the Henry Boys.

A monument in honor of the two cousins, Joel and Isaiah Henry, is currently under construction in #5 Village, WCB.

Family and relatives of the late Joel and Isaiah Henry with the PNCR Leader, Mr. Aubrey C. Norton, MP at the site for the proposed memorial.