Issuu

WEDNESDAY 1st April, 2020

' No.105957

Second COVID–19 death recorded SEE PAGE 03

Global Summary Global cases more than 800,000, with 38,000 dead; 170,000 have recovered US death toll - 3,415 - now larger than China's Spain records highest number of fatalities in a single day - 849 A 13-year-old boy has died in the UK after contracting Covid-19 American Airlines, one of the world's richest carriers, to apply for $12bn (£9.7bn) in government aid

Man who died from COVID-19 was EMT

Trump on social distancing rules: "Challenging times are ahead for the next 30 days." US Navy captain pleads for help over outbreak on aircraft carrier Ismail Mohamed Abdulwahab, from Brixton in south London, died in hospital early on Monday

SEE PAGE 05

Jermaine Ifill

GTT closes all 18 stores to keep staff, customers safe PAGE

…friends, family say it’s a wakeup call for all Guyanese

‘No jurisdiction’ 11 PAGE

High Court throws out PPP challenge to Mingo declaration …Justice Holder says court has no jurisdiction to hear case

Int’l travel ban extended to May 1

PAGE

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, April 1, 2020

Second death from COVID-19 …as Guyana records four new cases; 43 persons now in institutional quarantine -systems to be established to reduce risk of infection for immuno-compromised patients

By Navendra Seoraj ANOTHER person has succumbed because of complications caused by the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19), which has so far infected four more persons in Guyana, taking the total number of infected persons to 12. In an update provided by the Ministry of Public Health, on Tuesday, Deputy Chief Medical Officer (DCMO), Dr Karen Boyle, said figures moved from 8 to 12 confirmed cases, with one probable case. She said an additional death has also been recorded. The individual is said to be an emergency medical technician who was one of two persons hospitalised in the Coronavirus Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Guyana had confirmed its first imported case of COVID-19 in Georgetown on Wednesday, March 11, 2020. That patient, a 52-yearold Guyanese woman who had travelled from the United States of America to Guyana on March 5, 2020, was presented to the public health system on March 10. She died at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation on March 11. Since then, four of the woman’s relatives and seven others have tested positive for the virus. The cases were from three regions, with Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica) having ten cases and one probable case; and Regions Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) and Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) having one each. Dr Boyle said that of the total number of confirmed cases, four cases have been

imported while eight are locally-transmitted cases. The DCMO said the ministry has so far tested 52 persons and the results revealed that 12 were positive, 38 were negative and one case was inconclusive. Director of Disease Control, Dr. Nadia Liu, had explained that an inconclusive case means that the person tested neither negative nor positive. It, however, means that the person can go on to manifest signs and symptoms of the virus and then test positive. In such cases, health officials will continue to monitor the patient(s). Dr. Boyle said 43 persons are now in institutional quarantine, and of the 11 persons in isolation, one remains hospitalised in the COVID-19 ICU. Over 100 persons are currently being monitored for COVID-19 and this includes persons under institutional quarantine, home quarantine and institutional isolation. Dr. Boyle had said some persons, who are quarantined, will be finishing the14-day monitoring period, but as persons come off quarantine, persons are going in based on the ministry’s hotline. And calls to the COVID-19 hotline have so far moved from 998 calls to 1,065; these calls were received from seven of the ten administrative regions. According to Dr. Boyle, hotline reports from persons, who were in contact with infected persons, are coming from communities along the coastland, including Enmore and Good Hope on the East Coast of Demerara (ECD) to Prashad Nagar, Straboek and South Ruimveldt in Georgetown. There have also

Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Karen Boyle

been calls from Diamond on the East Bank of Demerara (ECD) and Vreed-en-Hoop on the West Coast of Demerara (WCD). The COVID-19 pandemic has had a devastating impact globally. As of March 31, the number of confirmed cases in 210 countries and territories stood at 693,224 with the number of deaths at 33,106. In the region of the Americas, the total number of confirmed cases has increased from 120,798 to 142,081. The number of deaths in this region has also moved from 1,973 to 2,457. While Guyana has not been hit as hard as some of the other countries in the Americas, the public health ministry, using the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO)’s model, determined that the number of projected cases for Guyana stands at 1,400. “Of that number we will be preparing for 100 persons requiring ICU attention, 300

isolation beds and building capacity for 730 beds for institutional quarantine,” said Dr. Boyle. Considering the projected cases, the public health ministry, in an effort to contain and reduce the spread of COVID-19, will be strengthening community and hospital surveillance, as well as strengthening the capacity of the ministry’s rapid response surveillance team. Resident PAHO/WHO Representative, Dr. Williams Adu-Krow, in speaking about projections, had said, while some institutions have advised countries to plan for 4080 per cent of its population being infected, the true figure depends on that country’s response. “Despite what these analysts are saying, the number we will truly get is dependent on our response, if it is bad we will have more cases and if it is good we will have less cases,” said Dr. Adu-Krow.

IMMUNOCOMPROMISED As part of strengthening the systems in place and reducing the spread of the virus, Dr. Boyle said alternative arrangements will be created for patients, who are immuno-compromised, to collect their medication without putting themselves at further risk. These patients include persons who have Cancer, HIV, Tuberculosis, Sickle Cell and so forth. They were also advised to take extra precautions in order to safeguard themselves. Despite the current situation, health officials said persons are not taking the virus seriously but they hope that good sense will prevail. On Saturday, President David Granger said a “cavalier approach” in the face of COVID-19 pandemic could ‘seriously’ impair government’s efforts to combat the virus, especially now that the cases have moved from five to eight persons. Such an approach from the public could result in consequences which will be devastating for the entire population, said the president. “Guyanese, I urge you to continue to support all medical professionals: doctors, nurses, and other caregivers. I urge you also to practise social distancing in public places and to avoid crowds, ceremonies including funerals and large gatherings,” said President Granger. He also advised persons to remain calm and implement all guidelines relating to personal hygiene and infection prevention and control. Based on consultations, President Granger had issued directions under the Public

Health Ordinance (Cap.145) and international standard to prevent and control the spread of this disease. Speaking about those instructions, the President said: “I authorised the Minister of Public Health to take all measures considered necessary to restrain, segregate and isolate persons suffering from the disease and, or who may be likely to be suffering from the disease.” He believes that the public ‘must’ adhere to infection prevention and control measures, as personal conduct is the single most important element in preventing the spread of this deadly disease. WHO said most people infected with the COVID-19 virus will experience mild to moderate respiratory illness and recover without requiring special treatment. Older persons and those with underlying medical problems like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic respiratory disease, and cancer are more likely to develop serious illness. WHO believes that the best way to prevent and slow down transmission is to be well-informed about the COVID-19 virus, the disease it causes and how it spreads. “Protect yourself and others from infection by washing your hands or using an alcohol-based rub frequently and not touching your face. The COVID-19 virus spreads primarily through droplets of saliva or discharge from the nose when an infected person coughs or sneezes, so it’s important that you also practise respiratory etiquette (for example, by coughing into a flexed elbow),” WHO advised.

Ministry of Communities to install foot-operated taps to reduce the spread of COVID-19 THE Ministry of Communities will be installing foot-operated taps at public places to reduce the spread of the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic in Guyana. This was revealed by Permanent Secretary, Emil McGarrell, during a COVID-19 press briefing on Monday. McGarrell explained that this move will not only decrease the spread of the disease, since persons will not be using their hands to turn on the pipes,

but it will also help to conserve the water. Several local businesses and agencies have already installed handwashing facilities at the entrances of those places of business. In this regard, McGarrell said that the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) which falls under the auspices of the Ministry of Communities, has recognised the need for a more reliable supply across the country. He added that “GWI has en-

sured that they maintain the integrity of the network and production has gone up, the water company is also ensuring they maintain the quality of the water provided.” The Ministry’s participation in the work of the Health Emergency Operations Committee (HEOC) in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, is one to facilitate the work of the Public Health Ministry as it relates to the Regional Democratic Council (RDC), Municipalities and Neighbourhood Democrat-

ic Council (NDC). McGarrell announced that, similar to the HEOC, the Regional Health Emergency Committee was activated in all ten administrative regions and begin following the guidelines outlined by the Public Health Ministry to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Additionally, some of the municipalities, to ensure their residents practise social distancing have taken some proactive steps. Linden and New

Amsterdam have gone further and implemented curfews. According to McGarrell, as part of their efforts to be prepared, each region has also activated a Rapid Response Team to go out into communities to conduct assessments of suspected cases. Once a case has been determined then the medical team will take over. Measures are also being taken to reduce the time the market is opened across the regions. (DPI)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, April 1, 2020

Bartica Town Council enforces mandatory ‘Stay Home’ regulations –– waives market fees for two months IN response to recent developments here in light of the outbreak of the Coronavirus this side of the world, the Bartica Mayor and Town Council has implemented a menu of strict ‘Stay Home’ regulations to help stem the spread of the disease. The regulation, which took effect last Saturday evening and will run until April 10, 2020, has to do with the closure of all public venues whether they’re used for sports or other recreational purposes. Such venues include the Bartica Community Sports Complex, the Mongrippa Playfield and all Parks. Additionally, all taxi and bus parks, as well as what are called “taxi catchment points” have also been ordered closed, ostensibly until such time as the virus is brought under control. The Council has proposed that all travel arrangements by way of taxi be made by telephone with the respective services, and that the owners of those services must ensure that their drivers do not congregate either at the base or any one point, but rather put systems in place so that they may work from home on call. Minibuses, on the other hand, are allowed to work, but only on a rotation basis, since assembling at their designated parks is now prohibited. Also prohibited are gatherings at bars, restaurants, gambling establishments, game shops, barber shops and salons. The proprietors of those establishments are asked, where possible, to consider offering either delivery or pick-up services, or by appointment, as in

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, April 1, 2020

EMT was expecting a second child …friends, family say it’s a wakeup call for all Guyanese

By Naomi Parris The emergency medical technician (EMT)- who was one of two persons hospitalised in the Coronavirus Intensive Care Unit (ICU), on Tuesday morning, succumbed to the dreaded Covid-19 virus. The 38-year-old man was a father of a one-year-old and was expecting another child. He was one of the two patients who were admitted to the Ministry’s Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at the Georgetown Public Hospital. The man’s death came as a shock to his co-workers and a wakeup call to the general public as the country continues to grapple with the pandemic. In a Facebook post made by one of his co-workers, a very distraught man, stated that he hoped that Guyanese will

take the virus seriously now that more persons were dying from the worldwide pandemic. “Rip bro…hope these [people] in Guyana take this coronavirus very serious cause up to now they not showing that they’re serious…still going in them mini bus four in a seat still partying,” the post read. Meanwhile the man’s niece in a post to her social media account stated, “ Lord no, this can’t be happening, this a dream, God why…in just a couple of weeks you were supposed to celebrate your wedding anniversary, how can you leave your wife, your one year old son and a baby on the way.” On March 11, Guyana recorded its first imported case of the dreaded coronavirus. A 52-year-old woman who had travel history to the

has been recorded in Region Six. Dr Boyle said that of the total number of confirmed cases, 4 cases have been imported while 8 are locally transmitted cases. She added that the total

Jermaine Ifill

United States reported to the Georgetown Public Hospital, after complaining of feeling ill. Hours after she was admitted she passed away. Deputy Chief Medical Officer (DCMO), Dr Karen

20-year-old remanded for allegedly killing drinking partner A 20-year-old labourer was on Monday remanded to prison for allegedly killing his drinking partner during an argument. Fabian Abraham appeared before Magistrate Allan Wilson at the Lethem Magistrate’s Court and was not required to plead to the charge which alleged that on March 25,2020, at Kanuku Drive, Lethem, he murdered 49-year-old Leron Ault, called “Junior.”

Fabian Abraham

According to reports, Abrahams and Ault were imbibing alcohol at Kanuku

Drive, Lethem, when an argument ‘erupted’ between them. Abraham armed himself with a piece of wood and struck Ault to his head and chest. Ault was taken to the Lethem Regional Hospital where he succumbed to his injuries while receiving medical attention. A post-mortem listed his cause of death as haemorrhaging from the head due to blunt trauma.

Boyle in a regional breakdown of the global pandemic, said that in Region Three, 1 case had been recorded, in Region Four, 10 cases have been recorded with 1 being inconclusive. She said 1 case

number of persons tested had moved from 46 to 52, with 12 positives, 1 probable and 39 negatives. She said 43 persons are now in institutional quarantine. Dr Boyle said that of the 11 persons in isolation, 1 is hospitalised in the COVID-19 ICU. She said that the Pan-American Health Or-

ganisation’s (PAHO’s) model of projected cases in Guyana stands at 1400, and of that number the authorities will be preparing for 100 persons requiring ICU treatment, 300 isolation beds nationwide and capacity for 730 beds for institutional quarantine. She said that, in an effort to contain and mitigate further spread of the virus, the ministry will be strengthening community and hospital surveillance as well as the rapid response surveillance team. According to the Johns Hopkins University Interactive Map there are over 823,000 confirmed cases of the coronavirus globally, with the United States being the epicenter of the virus with over 175,000 confirmed cases.

Man found dead with stab wounds at Pouderoyen DETECTIVES are investigating the death of 44-year-old fish vendor Hanuman Jadunauth called ‘Anil’ or ‘Baccoo,’ whose lifeless body was discovered with stab wounds a few doors away from his Swan Street residence in Pouderoyen, West Bank Demerara. The discovery was made by persons in the area around 05:00hrs on Tuesday, March Hanuman ‘Anil’ Jadunauth

31, 2020. He was last seen the previous day around 17:00hrs by persons in the area. Jadunauth’s body was discovered with marks of violence around his body along with two stab wounds, which led detectives to suspect that he might have been murdered. His body is currently at the West Demerara Regional Hospital mortuary.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, April 1, 2020

First profits and the oil curse IN February, Guyana lifted her first million barrels of profit oil, as part of our five million barrels of oil entitlement for 2020, according to Director of the Department of Energy, Dr. Mark Bynoe. “I am happy to say that Guyana is entitled to approximately five million barrels of oil in 2020 alone, plus the two per cent royalty, plus withholding taxes, plus the direct and indirect benefits through employment creation and other revenue-generated income,” Dr. Bynoe said at the time. Shell Western Supply and Trading Ltd was nominated as the buyer for the government’s first three cargoes, and it was confirmed by Minister of Finance Winston Jordan, who said that the US$55M for the first million barrels of crude had been deposited into the Natural Resources Fund (NRF), as mandated by law. The minister confirmed that the funds would not be available to the current government, but would be available to the successive government. According to projections, the oil revenues from this venture will generate approximately US$300M in this first year alone, a figure that is set to triple over the next five years. Astute political commentators and well-versed citizens would be aware of the connection between the current electoral

impasse and the proverbial battle for control of this most valuable natural resource. Nonetheless, on the occasion of the first monies being deposited into the NRF, and in the midst of the current electoral standoff, it would be wise to revisit the conversation surrounding the management of natural resources, such as oil, in less economically developed nations like Guyana. The infamous ‘oil curse’ is a complex structural phenomenon influenced by political and economic circumstances, and characterised by poor management or investment of oil revenues by oil- producing nations. In most cases, the ‘oil curse’ affects less economically-developed nations with traditionally weak systems of governance. However, it could be argued that the curse affects all oil-producing nations to varying degrees. The manifestations of the ‘oil curse’ are complex and multi-fold, however, key indicators are acute governmental corruption, and the outright misappropriation of oil revenues by officials; the creation of conditions which fuel conflict and civil war; the decline of other primary export sectors such as agriculture and manufacturing, and widespread poverty. The case of Nigeria is a cautionary tale, and one which should stand as an

example to Guyana and those who proclaim to have her best interests at heart. In 1956, major oil reserves were discovered in Nigeria, and should have guaranteed Nigeria’s long-term economic growth and prosperity. However, owing to political struggles for power and allegations of corruption, the first of many violent and bloody coups ensued in 1963. In 1977, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company was established, but instead of creating economic independence, the company ushered in a further period of economic contraction, more corruption, and increasing levels on instability and insecurity. In recent years, Nigeria’s economy and oil sector have become less volatile. However, even though the country has made over US$1 trillion in the years since it began extracting oil, the majority of Nigerians continue to live below the poverty line, according to the World Bank. Guyana is no stranger to contested elections; however, at this juncture in the nation’s socio-economic development, we cannot afford to ignore the importance of ensuring that the Constitution of Guyana is respected, and that local election laws are adhered to. Therefore, the finalisation of the results of the March 2, 2020

Regional and General Elections is even more important, if we consider the manner in which future governments must lead Guyana forward, particularly when we consider the effects of ‘the oil curse’. We must have clean hands responsible for the management of this resource; anything less would almost guarantee Guyana’s descent to ‘a Failed State’. Guyanese must be unified in our call for a credible and transparent conclusion to the recent elections, so that we might be able to continue the process of nation building and safeguarding our nation’s wealth for future generations. The wealth deriving from oil revenues is expected to directly benefit every single Guyanese, through investment into important and longstanding sectors such as agriculture and manufacturing. It is also expected to drive development in key emerging sectors such as the energy and the tourism sectors. With the correct leadership, Guyanese will be guaranteed a higher standard of living, which will be realised through increased wages, job opportunities and improved social and educational services. We cannot falter in selecting our leadership; the cost would be too much for Guyana to bear.

Respect our rights as a sovereign nation

Dear Editor,

AS the world watches, waits and hopes to see if Guyana, and by extension the government which has won the elections, will cower, buckle and give up its victory to satisfy the interests of the “international community” comprising only of the ABCE countries, of allowing the defeated PPP/C to become the illegitimate government under the pretext of preservation of democracy and respect for the will of the people; irony at its best! The people have spoken, but their will is being denied by too much shenanigans that’s preventing GECOM from completing its work. The government of Guyana, comprising of a six-party coalition administration led by arguably the best President of Guyana in the 21st Century, stands resolute in its free and fair victory at the polls. Mr. Editor, my pontificating must be put in context to give effect to my reasoning. President David Granger has done what no other President in this country or Prime Minister in the region was able to do. He has been able to lead a coalition of six political parties with different ideologies, philosophies, identities and leadership styles. Parties that were once bitter rivals on the political landscape that came together for the benefit of Guyana formed and sustained a government that has begun to rescue and restore this nation which was on the brink of destruction. Guyana, before 2015, was considered a narco-state by the United States government, where extra-judicial killings were constant, freedom of the press was consistently under threat, outspoken opposition and political activists, including a former Minister of the

Government and his family members, were beaten, jailed and assassinated. Innocent protesters, true defenders of democracy, were beaten, jailed and shot dead. Democracy was on the verge of collapse, just like the country’s economy. The former American Ambassador Brent Hardt, God bless his soul, received a first- class cuss-out, or to put it mildly “a feral blast” from a former Minister of the PPP/C administration “Satire Girl” for suggesting to the then government that they allow democracy to be reinstated with the holding of constitutionally-due local government elections, which they ignored until the new government came and restored local democracy. The government of the day had no respect for workers nor their unions; that was the Guyana David Granger and his ‘Coalition Government’ inherited, with a task to fix it, and that they did. The Granger Administration embarked on the restoration of Law and Order. The government collaborated in partnership with the Americans and established a DEA office that was refused by the then PPP/C Administration which resulted in the drugs and piracy situation coming under control, extra-judicial killings ceasing, and freedom and respect for the press being restored. Real respect for the Separation of Power was re-established with the executive, the legislative and judiciary. The real legal economy began to grow, to the point where old-age pension was increased significantly, as well as all public servants salaries. Infrastructural works improved and extended to the hinterland communities, and a more serious approach was given to the nation’s education sector, etc. Mr. Editor, coupled with all of the Opposition challenges and sabotaging of the

Government’s efforts, a renewed sense of national pride and nationhood resonated with our people, both here at home and in the diaspora; they were now a proud people. Guyana was on the rise, and with the announcement of the ExxonMobil Liza discovery, everything was moving upwards in the right direction. But who would have thought our assumed ‘Big Brother’ and their friends would, from all appearances, conspire with the Opposition and attempt to bully a democratically-elected Government out of office? Mr. Editor, it was the famous Henry Alfred Kissinger, an American politician, diplomat, and geopolitical consultant who served as United States Secretary of State and National Security Advisor under the Presidential administrations of Richard Nixon and Gerald Ford, who posits these iconic words that holds real truth to our present political situation: “America has no permanent friends or enemies, only interests.” Mr. Editor, I say this unashamedly and resolutely as a proud Guyanese, that this is an “independent” Cooperative Republic of Guyana, and we as Guyanese must put our interests above all other foreign interest. Our people must come first; we are not a colony. And during those horrific times, we have overpaid with our blood, sweat and tears, when we were slaves in their colony. And I daresay, reparations are still due to us by our former inhumane colonisers. Additionally, Mr. Editor, it must be made known, unequivocally, that we are not subjects to imperialist ambitions to be dominated and exploited by foreign nations of our natural resources due to their military might and threats of economic embargoes and sanctions via tweets or other forms of communication.

We are a full-fledged functioning democracy, where we live peacefully and abide by “our” Constitution and Laws, and have the utmost respect for our Judiciary. All of which are sacrosanct principles of modern democratic societies. Mr. Editor, it is therefore incumbent upon all conscious and right-thinking Guyanese to emphatically reject the camouflage and cunning invasion and intrusion of our homeland by the so-called “international community”, comprising mostly of western powers that threaten our sovereignty of nationhood and democratic processes. The creeping interest into our internal affairs as an independent State by foreign interests must not only be investigated, but must also be emphatically rejected and refused by all, for it has the potential to set a dangerous precedence by those with interests that don’t coincide with ours. Mr. Editor, the outright brazen intrusion into our affairs as an independent State by the ABCE representatives has blatantly breached accepted international diplomatic relations. It is without question, Mr. Editor, that Guyana or any other country’s representatives/ ambassadors would not and will not ever be allowed to act and function in the unscrupulous manner in which those foreign countries have, moreover in their elections processes. Mr. Editor, could you abuse your mind to envisage our ambassador to Canada, the United States, Great Britain or the EU manoeuvering like their counterparts here in their country’s election, or in the US’s upcoming elections in November 2020, where the ‘tweeting’ senators will be contesting? Would our ambassadors even be offered observer status, or are they too “small and See page 7

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, April 1, 2020

Coronavirus and your mental health Dear Editor, PANIC, fear, uncertainty, anxiety, stress, depression, hopelessness, helplessness, cabin fever, frustration, disconnection, isolation, obsessive-compulsive behaviors, mood swings, inability to relax, feeling overwhelmed, loneliness, are among mental health issues related to the novel coronavirus pandemic. So how can we protect our mental health? NEWS DIET Long periods away from news websites and social media helps to manage anxiety. For social media, turn off notifications, set message boxes to ignore, hide, mute or unfollowing accounts and posts. For news, stick to trusted sources such as government and reputable health websites like the US based Center for Diseases Control (CDC), World Health Organization (WHO) and Pan American Health Organization (PAHO). Share only reliable information. PROTECTIVE MEASURES Without being obsessive, wash your hands, as often as necessary, with soap and water for 20 seconds. Make sure the washing is through – the entire palms, back of the hands, in between fingers and the wrists. Use 60 per cent or greater alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Avoid touching your face. Cough into your elbow or

disposable tissue. Put clothing in a laundry bag or other container. Do not shake them before washing. Wash them in detergent and hot water. Change and wash clothing once you return home from outside. Leave containers, packages, envelopes in a designated corner of the kitchen or inside a cabinet for three days if you don’t have time to disinfect them. Sanitize the containers with takeout food before opening them but the safest measure is to not order take out. Since the coronavirus could survive on rubber, leather and PVC-based soles for five days or more, some experts suggest that individuals wear shoes that are machine-washable. In any case take shoes off before entering the home. If possible leave them outside for six days before wearing again or sanitize them after each wear. Use masks and gloves once you head outside the home. Practice social/safe distancing – three feet minimum, six feet recommended. Do not hug. Do not shake hands; clasp hands, Hindu style or bow, if you prefer. Sanitize any space you share with others as well as personal items such as wallets and cell phones. Wash all surfaces with alcohol-based products. The coronavirus could be detected up to three hours once in the air, up to four hours on copper, up to 24 hours on cardboard and up to two to three days on plastic and stainless steel, so use this as a guide to determine what and when you wash/sanitize.

Make sure the vulnerable are taken care of: the elderly, children, those with mental health issues, anyone who has pre-existing medical conditions - diabetes, heart conditions, asthma, kidney diseases, chronic diseases and weakened immune systems - as they are more vulnerable. Display empathy, use appropriate language when speaking about COVID-19 and be frank about social distancing. Reassure them. Protective measures help ease anxiety and panic and eliminate helplessness and hopelessness. MANAGE QUARANTINE Fear of contracting the virus can cause some people to become socially withdrawn, but maintaining relationships and social support are vital when combating anxiety. Thus if you are self-isolating or in mandatory quarantine, keep up social interaction as much as possible using the various mediums such as Whatsapp, Skype, phone calls, text messages, Messenger, Facetime, Google Hangout and the like. Work through your todo list, engage in projects around the house, read a book or watch a movie. Play games. Engage in writing, art, singing or music. Involve family as much as possible. All of this eliminates boredom and loneliness. FOCUS ON HEALTH Exercise provides a healthier mental and physical state, no matter what’s

Respect our rights ... From page 6

poor” to be engaged in the affairs of the high and mighty, all-powerful rulers of the universe? Mr. Editor, as long as the concept of sovereignty exists as prerogatives of independent nations and people are, as a right of all people, we will not accept the exclusion of our nation and its people; that right our independence promises. Mr. Editor, we may not have been fortunate, as a nation, to benefit from and amass unimaginable wealth for the most heinous crimes to humanity, slavery or the genocide of thousands of Indigenous people, nor have we benefited from the mass exploitation of natural resources of foreign lands once colonized, or from the ravages and spoils of wars that brought no peace. But let it be known that we are a peaceful people, who have been struggling in our struggle for far too long; we are an intelligent people, who are quite capable of managing our own affairs as civilised people who

adhere to “our” laws of “our” independent country. We deserve, as a people, to play a defining and pivotal role in the managing of our nation’s resources, and ensuring that our Guyanese people benefit handsomely from its patrimony. We do welcome partners, and encourage partnerships with friendly States, because we live in an interconnected world that needs each other to coexist. Mr. Editor, we as a God-blessed country require of the “international community”, including the entire African continent, South America, Asia, Central and Latin America, CARICOM the Islamic States, China, Japan, Russia and all other countries of this interconnected world to respect all other independent and sovereign States as they require for themselves. Regards, Jermaine Figueira

going on around you. It’s calming and helps to boost the immune system. So take a walk outside with the family. Stretch, practice yoga or some other indoor routine. Take a nice, relaxing bath or just sleep. Adequate rest helps build immune systems. Take more alkaline foods such as lemon, limes, grapefruits, oranges, tangerines, avocados, garlic, mangoes, pineapples, ginger. Stay hydrated. Manage your sugar and salt intake. Before cooking, clean the kitchen– every surface, area, and utensil. Wash fruits and vegetables with soap and water. Sanitize packages enclosing food before opening Stress can sometimes turn people to drugs or alcohol. Get rid of these substances if you have them in the house and reach out to family members, neighbors and/or friends to help keep you grounded. Knowing that all necessary measures are being taken to protect yourself and your loved ones helps to ease stress and anxiety and boosts mental health on the whole. SEEK HELP; HELP YOURSELF! If you are struggling to cope with the anxiety or panic, seek help from your general practitioner or mental health specialist.

If you are worried about going to the clinic, request for virtual (Skype, Zoom etc) sessions. Or reach out to government help lines/hotlines and NGOs that may offer free or low cost counseling. If you think you have coronavirus symptoms (fever, breathing difficulties, tiredness, symptoms of flu and cold) call your doctor for advice. Do the same if you experience loss of sense of smell, and diminished sense of taste. If you are quarantined at home, designate yourself a “sick room” and use a separate set of dishes, cups, cutlery, bedding and towels. Wash them regularly. Let someone who is not sick sanitize common areas and frequently-touched surfaces (the remote control, doorknobs, light fixtures) while you tend to your “sick room.” As well, helping others can give you a sense of purpose and control. Do you have an elderly or sick neighbor you can offer your services to? “The idea is to get out of the helpless zone. If you can get out of that then be an agent,” says Dr Ken Duckworth, medical director of National Alliance on Mental Illness (UK). COPING WITH MENTAL HEALTH FALLOUT

Dr. Cacioppo, the director of the Brain Dynamics Laboratory at the University of Chicago’s Pritzker School of Medicine, studies the effects of loneliness in the brain. “The first thing we need to do is to think about right now and not let our mind wander to the future,” she said. “Right now you can control your environment” the food you decide to eat, the clothing you decide to wear. “That gives you a sense of stability.” In other words practice mindfulness. Also, while panic and anxiety are understandable, do remember that neither actually helps the situation; they simply negatively affect you. If needs be, take a few minutes each day to pray, meditate and/or practice this simple but effective breathing exercise: bring your attention to your breath and your body. Focus all of your attention on the here and now: noticing the sights, sounds, and smells around you and what you’re feeling in your body. Continue to breath slowly in and out—gently bringing your mind back to your body and breath every time it drifts—until you feel calmer. Regards, Annan Boodram Caribbean Voice

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, April 1, 2020

Try thinking outside the box, PPP, and not always in the cup Dear Editor, I AM really saddened to witness people trampling each other over in a desperate, if not jocular, attempt to get their forked tongues on that ‘green’ foliage. The process is as simple as ABC. They are taught keys words like rigged, electoral fraud, and democracy. Every time these folks speak these keys words, they are rewarded with a chlorophyll-rich diet; the epitome of positive reinforcement as described by the American psychologist B. F. Skinner. Unfortunately, most of these ruminants are from the legal fraternity. The occasional doctor may be found in the mix, but they are mostly at the level of the ‘bush doctors’ that ‘fit and proppa’ doctors frown upon. So while I browsed the Kaieteur News recently, I saw the photo of Guyana’s most arrogant lawyer, who rightfully occupies the lowest level of the legal profession. This lawyer was once a part of ANUG, but of recent has been seen grazing and ruminating in PPP pastures. He was in the company of an ever-so-slightly more competent legal mind, whose girth testifies to an overindulgence in highly-fertilised grass. In his case, PPP pastures have been forever his home. The former is the lawyer, Timothy Jonas, who has the special gift of identifying APNU-AFC supporters. Just one sniff of the corner that the suspect passed and he will, with glorious certainty, establish if they are of APNU+AFC genre. One journalist doubted him, and he did not take questioning of his talents lightly. The latter is the lawyer, Sanjeev Datadin, an overinflated young man who lists the inhalation of noxious gases as being among

his hobbies and frequently flouts same on the corridors of the courts in total contempt of their No Smoking policy. But the painful reality is that he is a walking time bomb for Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS). He is a heavy smoker, has bad lungs, and is severely obese. He may wish to consider my pro bono advice since Coronavirus is roaming our streets. As alluded to earlier, I saw the article titled, “Worst harm that can happen to a country is electoral fraud”. The contributors, as mentioned earlier, were Datadin and Jonas, whose limited intellectual legal minds summated would be less than one-tenth that of LFS Burnham. They were proposed and paraphrased extracts of Sir Paul Collier’s book, and were invited to analyse same with a view to having an intellectual commentary. The paraphrased snippet reads, “The Plundered Planet, economist Sir Paul Collier tells us that the corruption of an electoral process leads to worse economic policies. Interestingly, the Professor of Economics and Public Policy says that this is far more likely to happen in a society with an abundance of natural assets.” Just perusing this Kaieteur News article, the first thing that struck me was the two lawyers’ lack of understanding of two basic concepts of law, namely, allegation and culpability in a civil case. I shall remind them, out of concern that they may repeat it in the future, to their detriment. The Oxford dictionary defines allegation as, “a claim or assertion that someone has done something illegal or wrong, typically one made without proof.” Culpability, on the other hand, is “responsibility for a fault or wrong; blame.” In civil cases, the legal burden is lower

than that in criminal cases. Essentially, they are based on probability. Another important concept is prima facie, which is essentially, “based on the first impression; accepted as correct until proved otherwise.” I will now proceed to analyse the professional contributions of these two lawyers. The first legal ‘mindless’ to offer his take was Timothy Jonas. Without hesitation, he simply heard illegal elections and immediately rushed to LFS Burnham to state that he was involved in electoral fraud from 1970 to 1985, and Guyana having to live through the consequences of them. I proceeded to forensically peruse the article in a desperate attempt to find evidence to support his apparent statement of fact. There was none. No court of law has ever ruled that any of the elections from 1970-1985 was fraudulent. Jonas has not provided any evidence of electoral fraud, from 1970-1985. The fact is, there is zero evidence. LFS Burnham may have been involved in electoral fraud, but the burden of proof was not on him; it was on those who made the allegations. The fact is that 1970 was long before many of us were born. The fact is that PPP held power illegally from 1997-2002. The fact is that that election was illegal. That was established in a Court of Law by Justice Claudette Singh. So why did Timothy skip over that and rushed to allegations from 1970? The answer is obvious: He is a ruminating cow that was fed good-quality grass by the PPP. Therefore, as a consequence of such an asinine utterance, Timothy has been relegated to the back of the class, where he must place his finger on his lips and try to come up with good reason to convince me why he should not be made to repay his par-

ents his law-school fees. By the way, what you have described about LFS Burnham are allegations. For the record, similar allegations were made against the PPP from 1995-2015. Sanjeev Datadin was the next legal ‘mindless’ to take the podium. This was Datadin’s input: “Basically, you get surrounded by ‘Yes men’; you don’t get capable and educated people coming there, because you have no incentive to pursue that. Echo-chambers are dangerous because, essentially, an entire nation will become subjected to the limitations of the most powerful in the echo-chamber, which would usually be the leader.” Sanjeev, I trust that you have had a few reads of your comments. Please try to convince me that you have not made a prima facie case in describing Bharrat Jagdeo and the entire PPP cabal in this comment? In conclusion, the article was introduced with a paraphrase from Sir Paul Collier. The paraphrase snippet read, “The Plundered Planet economist, Sir Paul Collier tells us that the corruption of an electoral process leads to worse economic policies. Interestingly, the Professor of Economics and Public Policy says that this is far more likely to happen in a society with an abundance of natural assets.” Timothy and Sanjeev had to explore this snippet, and commented on it as it pertains to Guyana. The two simpletons, in my opinion, had the ideal opportunity to demonstrate their intellectual prowess. Sadly, their cerebrally- tetraplegic and superficial thinking was highlighted in the simplistic view they took to such a complex matter. I would have thought that they would have initiated their argumentation by first examining context and argue the case akin

to an academic, positing for and against the conclusion proposed by Sir Collier. Having made that argument, I would have thought that in exploring the body of the statement, they would have tried to determine its applicability to Guyana’s unique politics and economics, where many do vote on race and not on issues. In my humble opinion, Sir Collier’s argument was based on a society that votes on issues, where the best party should ultimately wins, but they are denied on account of electoral fraud. Guyana’s politics is unique, where the best party may be denied a vote, simply because of race. I would have expected them to think out of the box and not in the cup, by providing limitations of such a position by highlighting international examples. It is well established that in some societies where there is an absence of democracy, economic issues are not their greatest tragedies. For example, Iraq under Saddam Hussein had bucket-loads of oil. There was no democracy, but economic development was not Iraq’s biggest problem; their biggest problem was the daily extra-judicial killings. Also China has no democracy, but economically, they are doing well. The populace’s greatest problem is freedom of expression. Russia is a similar story. The fact is that economics is not a true science; it is a science based on theories and not established scientific facts that can be tested in a lab. As a result, when making pronouncements on economic concepts, it is important to understand the context and the limitations. Unfortunately, these two clueless lawyers just saw “electoral fraud and economics”, and they rushed in like fools to try to relate it

to Guyana without an understanding of the concept. Their only concern was their reward of a bale of good- quality grass from the PPP. Finally, democracy does not start and end with voting. Democracy is a living process that requires nourishing after the elections. Under the PPP, there was a ‘Phantom Squad’ that murdered hundreds. There were sworn testimonies in a Court of law in support of this. There was discrimination and victimisation under the PPP, so much so that they refused to provide the data to the UNDP team which was investigating such allegations. There was massive corruption, based on Transparency International’s assessment. All these are necessary nourishment for a true democracy. I say this to educate those who call themselves ‘Guardians of Democracy’, and Roy Beepat, who has suddenly developed an epiphany to speak up for democracy, like if it dies at the end of the electoral process. Such characters are the reason why Guyana cannot make progress as a country, since they struggle to see beyond race and politics. A hundred years from now, if they are alive, they will forever view Burnham’s 1970 acts as the cause of Guyana problems. For Roy Beepat of Giftland Mall, who spends his entire day speaking of dictatorship, I would challenge him to step out of that PPP bubble and do some reading on elective dictatorship, and tell me why he does not think that is applicable from 19922011? I seriously cannot spend my day educating men who are old enough to be my father, yet speak at a level of that of a toddler. Regards, Dr. Mark Devonish

COVID-19 and the nonsense of the businesses Dear editor, PLEASE allow me to express my opinion on observations I have made pertaining to the Coronavirus and the businesses. I have noticed very long queue outside most of the popular business places. I figured the reason for that is social distancing that they are trying to promote. I must say they are trying, but are these businesses really thinking or are they just putting measures in place that makes no sort of sense, in my opinion. Let me explain what I mean when I say “makes no sort of sense”. You said, you are promoting social

distancing and yet you have clusters and clusters of people outside your business, where is the social distancing? All these businesses are doing is having people wait in the sun, what is the difference whether they are waiting outside the business or inside? After you have waited in the queue for hours, as in the case with a certain business, almost pasted to each other, you sanitizse your hand and then enter the building. Sanitising and so, fair enough but what is stopping you from contracting the virus outside in the queue while you wait, and passing it to the employees or other persons in the building?

You still have on the same clothes you wore while in the line; after sanitising, you hold your clothes while waiting inside or looking around. When it is finally your turn, you hold the money which the employee collects. Not to mention you hold other items while looking for your desired item, therefore leaving the virus on the item. Tell me, businesses, does that make any sort of sense to you? How is that protecting your employees or other customers? I do give businesses credit for staying open and trying to stop the spread, but in my opinion, they are just followers and not thinkers. I expected more out of these

businesses. However, there are businesses that do put measures in place to avoid the line, both inside and outside, and I must commend them for that. One such business is GBTI on Regent Street. Congrats! You guys are thinkers, and I hope you continue to lead. Those who have visited this branch know what I am talking about. I would greatly appreciate if maybe someone who sees the logic behind this madness to enlightening me. Hope to see an improvement in the near future. Regards, Tom H. Jones

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, April 1, 2020

Democracy will prevail Dear Editor, FROM its inception, electoral democracy has always been based upon the will of the majority. So it has been for centuries and so it will be for eons. Societies in which this system obtains, have always accepted this reality. Today, they constitute what is now regarded as the free world. Democracy is the name of the game. The will of the majority is its most quintessential rule. Those who subscribe to the game are bound by and always bind themselves to that rule. In some countries, the political systems have been altered to suit the needs and peculiarities of those societies. As a result, there

are occasions when a majority vote does not yield Government. For example, five Presidents of the United States of America were elected and allowed to govern, though not winning the popular vote. However, those are the rules by which they agreed to play. When the results come, they do not and cannot quarrel with those rules. In such an instance, it means more people did not vote for the Government than those who voted for the government. Yet, you not once hear about “half the country being left behind”. Political parties from all over the world have drawn their core support from particular constituencies that constitute formidable segments of the demography in

those societies, be it class, religion, sects, tribe, caste, ethnicity, race, ideology, etc. So, every time one political party wins an election, its constituency wins and the other constituencies that do not win must accept defeat. These are the rules of the game. However, not for one moment, does this mean that a government so elected, must focus only on its own constituency. It must govern for all. Sagacious politicians, who lose, would normally begin to work to win the next elections. These are also the rules of the game. What is absolutely prohibited is when one party loses, that party fraudulently uses the state apparatus and public funds to project false results, in order not to give

up government and worse yet, refuses to give up government, when those fraudulent results attempts are subverted by clamouring to “share the government” with the winner, on the basis that their constituency would be left behind. If this is ever allowed to prevail, then it will be the end of modern electoral democracy as we know it. If President Donald Trump loses the next election, he will refuse to give up power and will demand that the Democrats share government with him because if not, the Republicans, constituting half of the population of the United States, would be “left behind”. Just imagine for one moment this horrendous occurrence repli-

cating itself across the globe. It will sound the death knell of democracy and the birth and glory of tyranny. This is the tragic narrative of those who have lost the 2nd March 2020 elections in Guyana. The free world will never countenance it. The PPP lost the 2015 elections by just over 4,000 votes. The APNU+AFC lost the 2020 elections by over 15,000 votes, by nearly four times more votes than the PPP lost by in 2015. The PPP, in the traditions of democracy, gave up government. The PPP, from its birth, have always commanded the electoral support of over 50% of the population. That reality has not changed. To those who

speak about Indian domination, I say that, currently, the Indians constitute a mere 39% of the population and the Africans extremely close behind. Therefore, it is not about Indians and Africans. It is about leadership, policies and programmes. Those are the foundation pillars Dr. Cheddi Jagan built and left in the PPP. Nothing stops the other political parties from emulating the Father of the Nation. Their narratives will never succeed. The quicker they understand that, the better. Regards Mohabir Anil Nandlall, Attorney-at-Law

My side, your side and the truth Dear Editor, AS the world pivots on a pandemic that has befuddled sophisticated medical communities worldwide, rendered governments including the US, the UK, Canada, and the fractured European Union woefully underprepared, and ground much of the world to a halt, Guyana’s health is further compromised not by its government response to the Coronavirus but by a seemingly malignant flaw in its race-based DNA. And in a morbid juxtaposition, while the world count their dead from the lethal virus, Guyana is poised to yet recount the votes cast in a

free and fair election held in the South American republic almost a month ago. Curiously though as the aforementioned nations struggle to get some semblance of control of the deadly Covid 19 virus which has impacted even personnel of the US Congress and Senate, as well as the British royal family and its Prime Minister, while playing havoc with their economies, it has not proven to be enough of a diversion as to prevent their home governments from focusing on the unresolved electoral machinations of this tiny newly oil-rich nation. Clearly in the lingo of nowadays occasioned by the coronavirus of -‘social distancing’ does

not apply to their political contact, indeed interference in the affairs of this sovereign nation. Leading the charge for the United States is Asst. Secretary of State at the Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs Michael Kozak, who in a show of imperial arrogance summoned Guyana Ambassador to Washington Riyad Insanally to the State Department to warn against what in their view would be illegal installation of a government in Guyana, should they not accept GECOM’s official tally. Meanwhile speaking for Canada, Asst. Deputy Minister of Americas at Global Affairs Michael Grant placing another thumb on the scale

of justice, firmly stated that “We’re monitoring closely the legal proceedings related to Guyana’s elections. We believe a recount of ballots is necessary to ensure every vote is counted.” Not surprisingly providing the underpinning for the opposition conspiracy theory PPP leader Bharat Jagdeo firmly stated that “court ruling or no court ruling the results are fraudulent”. For good measure, Stabroek News, bereft of any semblance of balance in their coverage of the electoral process and all issues political, in a recent editorial stated, ‘there is clearly a conspiracy at GECOM to hand the election to the incumbent APNU/AFC without an accurate count of

the largest voting district – Demerara/Mahaica – region 4.” Growing up in Guyana my father, Cleveland Wycliffe Hamilton, in arbitrating disputes among his children would often suggest that ‘every story has 3 sides – my side, your side, and the truth’. In the case now pending on the basis of my Dad’s theory, GECOM holds the true story of Region 4, as well as the rest of the country. As we await the final decision fully one month after the election another of my late father’s theory on the pace of progress in Guyana as he chronicled the life and times of his beloved homeland with humor and ardent wit wrote that ‘Guyana has

3 speeds – Slow, dead slow, and turnback.’ As our beloved nation takes its next deliberate step, the hope is that it does not take its marching orders from those who seek to ignore the nation’s sovereignty and the constitution, bearing in mind that Guyana is merely a Republic …not a banana republic. And shame on those including eminent jurists, inveterate diplomats, military mavens, and others who suggest that Guyana, a nation of laws, is teetering on the brink of failed statehood. Regards, Cosmo Hamilton

Racism in post-independence Guyana is a creation of Guyanese politicians Dear Editor, THE deep socio-political and ethnic divide that has reached the surface once again in Guyana is the making of a handful of politicians who continue use racism and fear to galvanise their main support bases. Make no mistake about it, the root cause of racism in Post-Independent Guyana

is not the colonial legacy of racism in Guyana, it is a tactic used by several Guyanese politicians seeking political power and the socioeconomic privileges that political power in Guyana has come to symbolize. It is no longer about service to the people; the current political system is an exclusionary system used by these very politicians to enrich themselves, strategic al-

lies in the private sector, inter alia, at the expense of working-class Guyanese, the vast majority of the electorate whom said colonial-minded politicians depend on for votes. Read another way, we working-class Guyanese support the very system and people we complain about daily and say need to change to be more inclusive, responsive to the public and less violent. Still yet, read

another way, we foolishly create and recreate the main political problems (removing the Westminster model, elected constituency-based Parliamentarians instead of selecting them from a list, reform of our Constitution to enshrine more inclusive governance at the Cabinet level in particular, removal of the executive empowers of the Presidency etc.) we complain about every five

years in-between electoral cycles. We know that in Guyana, functional literacy, domestic violence, violence against women, bullyism and a largely unskilled workforce are all pressing matters that require urgent strategic and long-term programming. But we Guyanese invest more time in supporting the programmes of political parties more than we invest time and

resources supportive of less violent and racist society, improved road safety and compliance with traffic laws, depletion of the very natural resources (gold, forest/trees etc.) we depend on for sustenance and income. Guyanese, fix your priorities and you will fix the country! Regards, R. Small

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, April 1, 2020

Full court discharges injunction against recount …rules that court has no jurisdiction to hear Ulita Moore’s Case

By Svetlana Marshall OVERRULING a decision by High Court Judge Franklin Holder, the Full Court, in a unanimous decision, ruled that the Court has no jurisdiction to hear the case brought by Ulita Moore challenging the decision of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) to facilitate a National Recount of all the votes cast at the March 2 Elections on the grounds that the issues raised could only be dealt with by way of an Elections Petition. Last Friday (March 27), Justice Holder ruled that the High Court had jurisdiction to review the actions of GECOM in light of allegations that it may have acted outside of its constitutional powers when it opted to facilitate a national recount under the supervision of a high-level team from the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) based on an agreement brokered by President David Granger and Leader of the Opposition, Bharrat Jagdeo. Justice Holder’s decision was challenged by Jagdeo, and an appeal was made to the Full Court. When the Full Court, which comprised of Chief Justice Roxane George-Wiltshire and Justice Nareshwar Harnanan, handed down its decision on Tuesday (March 31), it ruled that any challenge to decisions made by the Elections Commission could only be done by way of an Elections Petition, and not Judicial Review, as provided for in the Constitution and Electoral Laws. As such, the order issued by Justice Holder establishing jurisdiction to hear the case of Ulita Moore v The Guyana Elections Commission, the Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission and the Chief Elections Officer and others was vacated. “As a further consequence, for the avoidance of doubt, the interim injunctions granted by Justice Holder would then stand discharged. It follows that the substantive Fixed Date Application would stand dismissed on the ground that the High Court had no jurisdiction to entertain it,” the Chief Justice further ruled. INJUNCTION Moore had secured four interim injunctions from Justice Holder; chief among them was an interim order restraining the Elections Commission from setting aside, varying or substituting the declarations of the Returning Officers of the 10 Electoral Districts with any other document until the hearing and determination of the judicial review application. The interim injunction

had also tied the hands of the Chief Elections Officer from facilitating a recount. However, with the orders being vacated and the substantive application dismissed, it is now up to GECOM to decide whether it will declare the

mandated in Article 162. Importantly, she said, Section 22 permits GECOM to address any difficulty encountered during the execution of its mandate. Section 22 states: “If any difficulty arises in connection

Chief Justice Roxane George-Wiltshire

results of the March 2 General and Regional Elections or facilitate a national recount. COURT’S ANALYSIS In arriving at the decision, the Full Court considered Articles 162 and 163 (1) of the Constitution, Sections 22 and 23 of the Elections Law (Amendment) Act of 2000, Section 140 of the Representation of the People Act and Section 3 of the National Assembly (Validity of Elections) Act. The Chief Justice, in offering the Full Court’s analysis, said the evidence placed before the Court indicates that all is not well with the administration of the elections. Based on the evidence, provided through affidavits, difficulties arose during and after the declarations of the results by the Returning Officer, as well as with the applications for and refusal of applications for recounts. It was noted that approximately one month after the conduct of General and Regional Elections were held, the official results remain unknown. “It is within this context, one would expect GECOM to step in and take charge of the situation. Article 162 (1) (b)…gives wide powers to GECOM to ensure an impartial and fair elections process. Section 22 of Act No. 15 of 2000 merely supplements or provides one of many mechanisms for ensuring that there is compliance with Article 162 in this regard,” Justice George-Wiltshire reasoned. The Chief Justice said it is the view of the Full Court that Section 22 of the Elections Law (Amendment) Act is one of the provisions that operationalizes the powers and functions of GECOM as

with the application of this Act, the Representation of the People Act or the National Registration Act or any relevant subsidiary legislation, the Commission shall, by order, make any provision, including the amendment of the said legislation, that appears to the Commission to be necessary or expedient for removing the difficulty; and any such order may modify any of the said legislation in respect of any particular matter or occasion so far as may appear to the Commission to be necessary or expedient for removing the difficulty.” GECOM CHAIR'S COMMITMENT Further to that, the Full Count took into account the statement of the Chair of GECOM, Justice (Ret’d) Claudette Singh, in which it was indicated that there was an attempt to address the difficulties which arose during the electoral process. In her statement, the GECOM Chair gave an undertaking to facilitate a recount. Her decision, she said, was bolstered by the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) initiative – in which it was agreed by President David Granger and Leader of the Opposition Bharrat Jagdeo for a high-level CARICOM team to oversee a national recount of all the votes cast at the March 2 Elections. “It was clear from this statement that this CARICOM initiative, for recount, was a mechanism for a recount over which GECOM had controlled,” the Chief Justice said. Turning her attention to the Affidavit tendered by the Chief Elections Officer (CEO) Keith Lowenfield, Justice George-Wiltshire said

the CEO, in that document, indicated that he submitted his report on the elections to the Chair of GECOM, while drawing attention to the fact that the Commission has not met to deliberate on the report. “Be that as it may, it can-

that apart from the factual matrix being different, there were no provisions, such as Section 140, that applied to the statutory function of the Returning Officer. In that case brought by Holladar, the High Court found that there was

Justice Nareshwar Harnanan

not be within the jurisdiction of the High Court to prevent GECOM from meeting to discuss the report and whatever else may be deemed to be relevant to ensure the Article 162 provision for an impartial and fair conduct of elections is carried out. Nor can the Court direct GECOM to convene a meeting for a specific purpose as claimed in the relief sought. To do so, would be to overreach or to trespass on the functions of the Commission pursuant to Article 162…” Justice George-Wiltshire made clear. In further addressing the issue of whether the High Court has supervisory jurisdiction over the Elections Commission as sought by Moore in her application, the Chief Justice pointed to the fact that Section 140 (1) of the Representation of the People Act precludes the Court from intervening in the decision making of GECOM except by way of an Elections Petition. In support of the Full Court’s decision, she further referenced to Section 140 (2). That subsection states: “No evidence of any deliberations of the Elections Commission or communications between members of the Commission regarding its business shall be admissible in any court.” As such, she said any meeting of GECOM, as a whole, or deliberations among the Commissioners fall within the parameter of Section 140. It was made known that the case brought by Moore differs from the case of Reeaz Holladar v the Returning Officer, Clairmont Mingo and others, in which, the High Court, on March 11, established jurisdiction to adjudicate over that matter. Justice George-Wiltshire explained

substantial non-compliance with Section 84 (1) of the Representation of the People Act when Mingo tabulated the Statements of Poll for the votes cast in District 4. Additionally, she said it was not an issue that was based on the results of the elections but rather compliance with Section 84. In his judgment, Justice Holder had found that Section 140 of the Representation of the People Act does not ouster the jurisdiction of the Court, in its ordinary jurisdiction, for Judicial Review where GECOM intends to do or alleged to have done something for which it has no jurisdiction. However, the Full Court ruled that Justice Holder erred in his analysis. “We are of the view that Justice Holder would have erred when he failed to fully take into consideration and or apply the distinction between complete ouster clauses… and partial ouster clauses,” the Chief Justice said as she maintained the Full Court’s position that Section 140 ousters the Court’s jurisdiction to treat with the issues raised in Moore’s application at this stage. It was explained that the Section 140 (1) of the Representation of the People Act allocates jurisdiction of the High Court, however, by a special procedure – that is, by an Elections Petition, which ought to be brought within 28 days of the official declarations of the Elections results by GECOM. “The jurisdiction of the High Court is therefore not ouster at all but Section 140 (1) merely requires the particular issue to be dealt with by a particular procedure; that is to say, by Elections Petition,” the Chief Justice further ex-

plained. Moore in her application had contended that the Chair of GECOM and the Elections Commission, as a whole, had failed to execute their functions when they declined to declare the results of the Elections, though provided with the report by the Chief Elections Officer, and had opted for a recount. The Chief Justice iterated that the issues raised in Moore’s application are covered in Article 163 of the Constitution, and as such, could only be questioned in an Elections Petition. “In this context, whether GECOM has performed its functions at all would speak to both acts and omissions, whether or not validly done, and would be subject to review by an Elections Petition. In this regard, any decision or functions of GECOM, in determining a result of an election would fall under Article 163 (1) (b) (i) (ii) and Rule 3, which speaks not only to an inquiry into acts of commission but also omissions,” the Chief Justice ruled. In response to the ruling, Attorney-at-Law Mayo Robertson, one of the attorneys representing Moore, requested leave from the Court to file an appeal at the level of the Court of Appeal but that too was refused by the Full Court. “In relation to the application for leave to appeal, the court is unanimous in refusing this application on the basis that this court, whilst acknowledging this is a serious issue by the parties, finds there is no real prospect of success of an appeal,” Justice Harnanan said as he, on behalf of the Full Court, also refused the application for a stay. Robertson appeared in association with Grenadian Queens Counsel, Dr. Francis Alexis, and Attorneys-at-Law John Jeremie S.C., Keith Scotland out of Trinidad and Tobago, and Guyana’s Senior Counsel Roysdale Forde. Jagdeo was represented by Trinidad’s Senior Counsel Douglas Mendes and Attorneys-at-Law Anil Nandlall and Davindra Kissoon, while the Chair of GECOM was represented by Attorney-at-Law Kim Kyte-Thomas. The Chief Elections Officer was represented by Senior Counsel Neil Boston, while Attorney-at-Law Timothy Jonas appeared on behalf of A New and United Guyana (ANUG), the Liberty and Justice Party (LJP) and The New Movement (TNM) – all added respondents in the matter.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, April 1, 2020

‘No jurisdiction’

High Court throws out PPP’s challenge to Mingo’s declaration …Justice Holder says court has no jurisdiction to hear case By Svetlana Marshall HIGH Court Judge Franklin Holder on Tuesday ruled that the Court has no jurisdiction to hear an application filed by Leader of the Opposition Bharrat Jagdeo and Reeaz Holladar to set aside the second declaration made by Region Four Returning Officer Clairmont Mingo. In his declaration on March 13, Mingo announced that the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) secured 136, 057 votes in District 4 (Demerara-Mahaica) in the General Elections, while the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) secured 77, 231 votes. Jagdeo and Holladar, in their application, contended that, based on Statements of Poll (SOPs) in their possession, the declaration made by the Region 4 Returning Officer was flawed. However, Chief Elections Officer Keith Lowenfield, one of the respondents in the matter, challenged the Court’s jurisdiction to hear the application. Justice Holder, in handing down his decision, said the core issues raised in the application touch on matters provided for in Article 163 (1) of the Constitution, and as such, ought to be dealt with by way of an Elections Petition pursuant to Section 3 of the National Assembly (Validity of Elections) Act. According to Article 163 (1) (b) (i), the High Court has exclusive jurisdiction to determine any question on whether, “either generally or in any particular place, an election has been lawfully conducted or the result thereof has been, or may have been, affected by any unlawful act or omission.” However, Justice Holder noted that Judicial Review could occur in restrictive matters, as in the case of Reeaz Holladar v the Region Four Returning Officer Clairmont

Mingo, in which the High Court established jurisdiction, and subsequently ruled, on March 11, that the Returning Officer had failed to comply with Section 84 (1) of the Rep-

those grounds, he ruled that the court had no jurisdiction to entertain the case, and that the challenge must be brought by way of an Elections Petition after the declaration of the results by GECOM. Outside of the High Court, Senior Counsel Neil Boston, the attorney representing Chief Elections Officer (CEO) Keith Lowenfield told reporters that he was satisfied with the decision of the High Court. “It is an issue for an Elections Petition, because there is a dispute as

Justice Franklin Holder

Senior Counsel Neil Boston

resentation of the People Act when he tabulated the votes for his Electoral District. IN NON-COMPLIANCE In the lead-up to his first declaration, on March 5, Mingo had failed to tabulate the SOPs in the presence of persons entitled to be there, and as such was found to be in non-compliance with Section 84 of the Representation of the People Act. In turning his attention to the case brought by Jagdeo and Holladar, Justice Holder said that based on documents tendered before the Court, Mingo subsequently took the necessary steps to comply with the ruling of the Court, and more importantly Section 84. He said that as of Tuesday, March 31, 2020, there was no evidence before the Court stating that the Region Four Returning Officer breached the High Court Order handed down by Chief Justice Roxane George-Wiltshire. As such, he maintained that the challenge to the validity of the declaration made by Mingo on March 13 is a matter for an Elections Petition. On

Elections Officer, or facilitate the National Recount of all the votes cast at the March 2, 2020 Elections, as agreed by President Granger and the Leader of the Opposition.

Attorney-at-Law Anil Nandlall

to whether Jagdeo’s figure of 114,000-plus for APNU, and 80,000-plus for PPP conflicts with that of Mingo’s 136,057 [for APNU+AFC], and that could only be resolved by an Elections Court when an Elections Petition is filed,” Boston said. He said that based on Mingo’s declaration, which was the last of 10 declarations made, the APNU+AFC has won the General Elections. However, given the ruling of the Full Court earlier that day that the Court has no jurisdiction at this stage to set aside a decision of the Elections Commission to facilitate a recount, Boston said GECOM will now have to determine whether it will declare the results of the Elections, based on the report submitted by the Chief

‘A VERY STRANGE DECISION’ Jagdeo and Holladar’s attorney, Anil Nandlall, expressed dissatisfaction with the ruling. “It is a very strange decision because, first of all, Justice Holder, in an identical Judicial Review proceedings, gave himself jurisdiction and granted three injunctions; that is what he did in the Ulita Moore matter, and suddenly he lost jurisdiction, so that part I don’t understand,” Nandlall told reporters. Nandlall said his client has not yet decided whether he will appeal the case. “We don’t need to if the recount will be done in accordance with the Chairperson [of GECOM]’s commitment… We don’t want to keep the matter in the court, when the solution to this issue lies outside of the court,” he said. It is likely that the Elections Commission will meet today to determine the way forward. FROM PAGE

Bartica Town Council enforces mandatory ...

the case of barbers and salons, so as not to encourage gathering of more than five persons at a location for long durations. Conversely, those businesses deemed “essential” will be allowed to remain open to the public, on condition that their proprietors take the necessary precaution to ensure the management of; number of persons allowed into the building to access services at a time; utilisation

of sanitisation stations for persons entering and leaving; regular sanitisation of facility. As Mayor of the township, Gifford Marshall was at pains to explain, what the Council proposes doing is neither a “lockdown” nor a curfew; that all they’re doing is ensuring that residents stay off the roadways, and only come out to run essential errands or get to and from work.

Said he, by way of a video update, “We pleading with our residents to desist from leaving their homes, and only do so for essential services. We do not have the resources in terms of medical professionals, nor do we have the resources in terms of facilities for such an outbreak. So we have to work together and comply, to ensure that this virus stays away.” As he went on to say, “We are cognizant of the

implications these measures will have, and after careful deliberation, the Council wishes to advise that all vendors holding stalls in our marketplaces will be granted a waiver of all monthly fees due for the months of April and May 2020. We will continue to monitor the response to these measures and update the residents of the town on any changes as may be necessary.”

Police working shifts to ensure Suriname ‘backtrack’ remains closed amid COVID-19 –– enforcing curfew in New Amsterdam THE Guyana Police Force, in Region Six, has stepped up measures to ensure the backtrack route that leads to neighbouring Suriname remains closed, as efforts continue to stop the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) Commander for Region Six, Senior Superintendent Calvin Brutus, told DPI, "we have policemen working there on shifts and, based on information we receive, if we learn that they are dropping off at other points, we will shift to checking along those lines with the patrol." He disclosed that patrols are stationed at the Berbice Bridge checkpoint on the lookout for foreigners. Ranks are checking vehicles that are known to ply the backtrack route scouting for foreigners looking to get back to Suriname. "If we realise that there are foreigners who came through the backtrack, they are then escorted to relevant officials to be screened and of course immigration has their part to play," Brutus said. So far 12 foreigners from Bangladesh and Sri Lanka - were intercepted but could not have been deported because Suriname had closed its border and refused to accept them at the time, the commander explained.

The Region Six division is working with the National COVID-19 task Force to help stop the spread of the virus. The division recently joined with the New Amsterdam Town Council to enforce a curfew. The town council has initially mandated that all dining outlets are to be closed at 18:00 hours; supermarkets and grocery shops to be closed at 19:00 hours and all pharmacies were given a 20:00 hours curfew. There was subsequent amendment. At 16:30 hours supermarkets and grocery stores are to be closed and restaurants are only allowed to offer delivery services until 16:00 hours. Pharmacies are to be closed at 18:00 hours instead of the previously announced time of 20:00 hours. "People are cooperating but for a few days, we had to go to ensure they were closed and make double checks. Some persons were still defiant so I had to call in those owners and have a talk with them at the office and they are now complying," the Commander stated. Brutus also highlighted that all the stations in the Region are following all precautionary measures such as washing of hands regularly and practising social distancing. (DPI)

New Amsterdam Mayor implores business owners to comply with restrictions MAYOR of New Amsterdam, Ms Winifred Haywood, led her team across the main business areas of the township to ensure her citizens were safeguarded against the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). As the disease looms over the country, a high level meeting with regional health officials, along with Mayor Haywood and Councilors, was held on Sunday, and, thereafter, a proclamation, of “Cease Operations” with immediate effect, was made for Superbet outlets, Bars, and Beauty Parlours within the township. Pitt Street, the main shopping thoroughfare, was also ordered closed in preparation for sanitization today. Fish shops and hangout spots were also to be closed, along with Churches, Mandirs and Mosques and other religious places of worship, in an attempt to significantly reduce large gatherings. During a walk about on Monday, Mayor Haywood told business owners, “We are concerned about your welfare. We would like you to adhere to the guidelines, such as constant washing of hands, social distancing and

eating foods which will boost your immune system. When this is over, we need to see each other.” Meanwhile, the Mayor, along with her Deputy, Wainwright McIntosh, Town Clerk Sharon Alexander, Councilors Sheannta Lambert and Quacy Isaacs, observed that many businesses had complied with the order, but those which were opened claimed they were not aware of the curfew, as they did not have access to the internet. Nevertheless, they agreed with the decision and offered their support. Meanwhile, the municipal market was closed just after the midday schedule. Essential services vendors now have to adjust to the new working hours as attempts are being made to allow non-essential workers to stay home, in an effort to reduce the spread of COVID -19 locally. Region Six (East Berbice / Corentyne) has recorded its first imported case. Nationally, twelve persons, inclusive of a child, have been tested positive for the coronavirus. The global pandemic has resulted in the death of thousands.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, April 1, 2020

No suspected case of Coronavirus in Region 10 -Coomacka residents install sanitary station

REGIONAL officials, who are members of the Regional Health Emergency Committee, as well as health personnel attached to the Linden Hospital Complex, have confirmed that, contrary to rumours circulating in the mining town, there is no suspected case of coronavirus in the town or the region, thus far. This newspaper was also told that officials have not received any calls from persons experiencing symptoms, particularly over the weekend, on the various hotline numbers. Notwithstanding, officials are still urging residents to be cautious, adhere to the

mandatory curfew, practice social distancing and cleanliness. They have commended residents and business owners for playing their part thus far and for setting the trend for others to follow, around the country. One of those communities, despite being outlying, is Coomacka Mines. The Community Development Council has taken the initiative to install a sanitary block at the community’s entrance, to ensure residents and visitors are sanitized during ingress and egress. Community leader, Dexter Harding, said that the residents were the ones who came up with the idea and the CDC quickly

followed. He said permission was sought at the level of the RDC, LMTC and the Region 10 Police Division and permission was granted. The residents pooled their resources together to source the materials and items, which include a sink and apparatus and a water tank, along with detergent and hand soap. “Residents saw what is going on around the world and we are concerned, we just want to take precautions and to protect ourselves,” Harding said. Being a mining community and being located in an area where loggers and others frequent when travelling from Linden to other com-

munities in Region 10, such as Ituni and Kwakwani, residents also thought it wise to establish the sanitary block. Coomacka residents have also been adhering to the mandatory curfew that was instituted by the Regional Health Emergency Committee. In a statement from the Committee, the mandatory regional curfew that commenced on Saturday was deemed highly successful. Particularly making these commendations were Regional Chairman, Renis Morian; Mayor, Waneka Arrindell; and Regional Executive Officer, Orrin Gordon. While most of the businesses adhered to the curfew, a few were cautioned by the police and they quickly complied. “This was one of the most incident-free initiative being implemented in Region 10 with the residents offering absolutely no resistance,” RC Morian said. Mayor Arrindell posited that the response of the residents and the proactive approach by the police have resulted in both sides winning. “We can only protect the residents if they allow us to protect them and, by this, they must adhere to the measures that we have implemented. We are confident that we will get over this but for now, these are all urgent measures needed. The leaders of Region 10 have come together to make this work and for that, I commend the residents,” she said. Arrindell also commended the Linden Chamber of Commerce as the members,

A resident of Coomacka utilising the newly installed sanitary block

too, stressed to business owners the urgency of the curfew. Region 10 Commander, Hugh Winter, was also praised for taking to the streets with his ranks to ensure the curfew was adhered to. Not only were businesses taking a stand, but religious organizations as well by cancelling all services. Regional Executive Officer, Orrin Gordon, said that the RDC is pleased and impressed with the cooperation of residents. He said that this demonstrates their willingness to cooperate and band together in times when they are expected to. “I was very impressed with the level of cooperation we got from the residents on both nights and it demonstrates that with public education and effective systems being

implemented, you would get the response that is needed,” he said. Meanwhile, Regional Commander Winter said that he is pleased with the cooperation given to him and his ranks by both businesses and residents. He noted that his ranks have been doing an excellent job and he would like to thank them thus far; warning that the curfew has only begun and he would like to see consistency. “I am thankful to the residents for recognizing that the police’s role in all of this is to ensure enforcement. We are seeking to help them do what is right and safe now. I am urging that they continue to recognize that being consistent and cooperative with their actions is very important in ensuring continued success,” he said.

Business thrives on political stability -- GSMA reminds, urges transparent, credible conclusion of elections THE Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) has expressed grave concern on the negative effects being experienced as a consequence of the delayed 2020 National Election results. In this vain the GMSA is forcefully directing its voice to the major political stakeholders, in seeking a democratic and timely resolution to the present impasse. “We support a transparent process of verification of votes cast, in all regions, in a manner that sustains confidence in our electoral process, and that establishes mature governance of our country for present and future generations. This will redound to a good business climate, and secure livelihoods,” the GSMA said in a release. It noted that business thrives on political stability, and the current impasse was very disruptive and threatens to erode gains made through the support of regional and international partners and widens ethnic divisions. Failure to settle the election issues in a timely manner, currently compounded by the global coronavirus pandemic, is creating hardships for the entire community, inclu-

sive of both employers and employees, the GSMA said, noting that layoffs have already commenced at some companies and may be expanding. “We recognise the specific roles ascribed to political parties, civil society, and Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), as outlined in our Constitution, in consort with the neutral presence of both local and international observers. Nevertheless, we call on the political parties and GECOM to put the interest of Guyanese citizens first in all decisions and actions,” the manufacturers’ representative body said. The verification of all votes, based on established transparent procedures and processes in accordance with the relevant laws, remains a prudent course of action, for all regions and districts, the GSMA reminds. “As responsible members of Guyanese society, with a primary focus on industrial and social development, we wish to make a special plea to GECOM for appropriate action, as recommended, to be taken to defuse the present dangerous and volatile environment,” the release concluded.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, April 1, 2020

Essequibians concerned over sudden fare increases -- workers forced to pay double

The Anna Regina Car Park

Buses parked at Anna Regina Car Park

By Indrawattie Natram COMMUTERS utilising the transportation service in Region Two have raised several concerns pertaining to the sudden increase in fares. Many of them, especially workers, are forced to pay double the fare to reach their workplaces. Those who are predominantly affected include nurses and supermarket workers. Stringent measures were taken by the Regional Health Emergency Committee to safeguard against the coronavirus pandemic. One such measure was for a taxi to take only two passengers and for minibuses to take half of the registered number of passengers. The operators were also advised to sanitise their cars and buses after each journey. After these announcements were made publicly, drivers started to honour same but have increased their fares and many persons are feeling the burden from this move. A supermarket worker from Aurora said her transportation cost per day used to be $800 now it has increased to $1600. “It really hard, we know the seriousness of the virus but we still have to work and then we have family to maintain, with the increase then we won’t have nothing to save,” another worker related. Other commuters have echoed similar sentiments about the increased fares. When contact was made with chairman of the Essequibo Minibus and Hire Car Association, Mohamed Nazemul, he said no new fare structure has been introduced, nor does he have knowledge of any increase. However, he is calling on drivers to be lenient with passengers at this time. He said drivers were also asked by the ‘G’ Division Traffic Department of the Guyana Police Force to be lenient and to observe all necessary precautions against the virus. Nazemul is calling on fellow drivers to be a little more caring and not to exploit passengers.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, April 1, 2020

PSC pledges support to fight against Coronavirus …NCTF lauds efforts by private sector, civil society The National COVID-19 Task Force (NCTF) commends all private sector businesses for the initiatives taken in advancing Guyana’s fight against the spread of COVID-19. The NCTF notes the decision taken by the Guyana Association of Bankers (GAB) to restrict business hours to four hours per day and commends the banks for taking this laudable action. Numerous businesses have implemented measures to foster social distancing and restrict human interaction. Some non-essential businesses have restricted or closed their operations while continuing to pay staff. The NCTF commends them all. The NCTF further thanks the Private Sector Commission (PSC) for its acceptance of the invitation to contribute to the work of the task force. Chairman of the NCTF, Prime

Minister Moses Nagamootoo had telephone conversations with the PSC representative who was advised of the structure of the NCTF. For clarity the NCTF is a ministerial task force but there is a full national structure in place in Guyana’s fight against the spread of COVID-19. The PSC and numerous civil society organizations are engaged at the level of the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) which forms an integral part of the national structure. Director General of the Civil Defence Commission, Lt. Col. Kester Craig, today held a very productive meeting with several stakeholders. Another meeting is scheduled for tomorrow, with multiple representatives, including from the PSC, Guyana Manufacturers and Services Association (GMSA) and the Georgetown Chamber

of Commerce and Industry (GCCI). The NCTF has received a report that both private sector organizations and civil society representatives have commendably pledged to meet regularly to support the critical work of the NEOC. The NEOC provides resource mobilisation and financial and economic support towards which the PSC and civil society have worked productively with Prime Minister Nagamootoo in the past, specifically during hurricane relief efforts for sister Caribbean states. In this pandemic crisis, the efforts of all private sector and civic society bodies are welcomed and indeed necessary. Meanwhile, the Private Sector Commission in an earlier release had said that it had endeavoured to contribute to the Task Force by submitting

on 27th March, 2020, to the Secretariat, detailed recommendations with regard, specifically, to: The management of public information; • National capacity for laboratory testing; • The urgent need for increased testing; • The inadequacy of response to hotline calls; • The preparation and coordination of public, regional and private hospitals; • The urgent need to expand the provision of personal protection equipment and the

supply of respirators. Additionally, the PSC said it also submitted to the Secretariat of the National Task Force, copied to the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Business, comprehensive recommendations for economic measures to relieve the financial impact on the country and, in particular, economic measures to cushion the impact on vulnerable individual citizens. These measures include tax relief, emergency funding, deferment of payment for public utility

services and rescheduling of loans and mortgages. The Private Sector Commission has, to date, received no acknowledgement of these proposals from the Secretariat. “The Private Sector Commission will continue with its efforts to remain fully engaged with what we hope will be a functioning National Task Force and to place whatever resources we can at its disposal,” the release ended.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, April 1, 2020

GTT closes all stores to keep staff, customers safe THE Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GTT) said it will close all its stores in Guyana from today as part of its continuing efforts to ensure the health and safety of customers and staff, amidst the growing threat from the Covid-19 pandemic. Chief Executive Office, Justin Nedd, said measures were being put in place to ensure that staff would be retained during the closure, and every effort would be made to accommodate customers through alternative bill payment and customer service options, including the use of the company’s Mobile Money Guyana (MMG) app. Nedd said, according to a release by the company, that the decision to temporarily close all GTT stores had been taken, in support of the social distancing protocol recommended by global health authorities, as the best way to slow the spread and protect

people from Covid-19. “GTT’s responsibility, and our commitment to customers and staff, mandate us to take this threat very seriously, and to take every action to protect our customers and staff, and Guyana as a whole. Our closure supports the global call for social distancing, and we are encouraging customers to make use of the digital and online options for transactions. There are 220 MMG agents located nationwide; access the one nearest to you as need be, to limit movement,” Nedd said. “Given the increased human traffic which our stores experience during bill payment and other peak times and as much as we have been sanitizing and staggering the number of persons entering the stores, we feel that it is our responsibility to take firmer action to our collective benefit at this time, as the pandemic evolves locally,” Nedd stated.

CEO of GTT, Justin Nedd

Nedd said safeguarding the jobs of GTT staff, while ensuring a continued high level of service to customers was a key aspect of the Company’s strategic Covid-19 response. “GTT’s approach to Covid-19 is that we are in this together. We will there-

fore support our staff through repurposing or redeployment as needed, and we want to ensure that our customers are protected, and not overly inconvenienced by these measures,” he said. Customers are encouraged to visit https://mmg. gtt.co.gy/agents for a comprehensive list of agents and https://www.gtt.co.gy/ notices for more information and updates. A printed, detailed listing would also be made available through the media. Nedd notes also that this month, GTT’s billing will be paperless. The company’s dedicated printer has closed until mid-April as a result of its own COVID-19 measures. Customers are asked to register via https://www. gtt.co.gy/webform/bill-delivery-change-request to receive bills through email.

GPF intercepts boat with ‘ganja’ in Canje Creek

The suspected cannabis

DURING an intelligence-led operation, ranks of the Guyana Police Force on Monday intercepted a wooden vessel in the Canje Creek with over 103 pounds of cannabis. According to the police, the ‘bust’ was made around 21:45hrs on the day in question and unearthed 24 parcels

of suspected cannabis. Two males, both residents of Sand Hills, Berbice River, were arrested and are currently assisting the police with their investigation. The suspected narcotic was weighed in their presence and amounted to 46,980 grammes.

Restaurants, bars, liquor stores should close at 19:00hrs -- says GCCI –urges business to implement measures to fight COVID-19 THE Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) is urging the business community to voluntarily practise social distancing, establish measures for hand sanitising, and for restaurants, bars and liquor stores to close at 19:00hrs. The Mayor and City Council (M&CC) on Monday said it does not have the authority to enforce the closure of businesses. The GCCI in a release said it recognises that this is not a normal situation and thus, abnormal solutions are required until the authorities can gain control of the spread of the disease. The chamber said it remains willing as ever to work with the authorities to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. The GCCI thanked the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) for its COVID-19 updates, as well as the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) of Georgetown for working in conjunction with the GCCI. The chamber has observed a number of articles

and interviews discussing the rate of spread of COVID-19 and the measures that the population can take to slow the spread, or, “flatten the curve.” To that end, the GCCI said it would like to share some pertinent information with the public. According to “The Math Behind Social Distancing”, both the method and the timeline of the intervention taken can make a huge difference. The article makes reference to a graph from BMC Public Health 9, 117 (2009) which shows that the potential outcomes range between seven per cent and 60 per cent. The difference between the two is that 60 per cent of the population will be infected if nothing is done. In contrast, it was noted that only seven per cent of the population will get infected if all possible measures are taken within a one-week delay of the start of the outbreak. It is important to note that the 60 per cent bound is related to an assumption that for a virus such as the

coronavirus, which has a reproduction rate of around 2.5, it would require 60 per cent of the population to be infected in order to achieve herd immunity. “Essentially, this means that 60 per cent of 750,000 people, or, 450,000 people would have to be infected to achieve herd immunity. It must also be noted that it can be expected that two per cent of the infected persons will die,” the GCCI noted. For more information on the topic of herd immunity, refer to the article written in the MIT Technology Review: “What is Herd Immunity and Can it Stop the Coronavirus?” by Antonio Regalado2. Based on the studies conducted, it is increasingly clear that Guyanese should practise social distancing and practise it early, the chamber said, noting that social distancing can reduce the spread of COVID-19 significantly.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, April 1, 2020

‘Time is of the essence’ –– PAHO urges countries of the Americas to act now to slow the spread of COVID-19

With many countries of the Americas now reporting community transmission of COVID-19, there is still a short window of time for governments to slow the spread of the virus, reduce the impact on health systems and save lives, said the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) Director, Carissa F. Etienne, during a media briefing on Tuesday. As of 31 March 2020, three months after the first case of COVID-19 was reported in China, there have been 188,949 confirmed cases in the Americas and 3,561 people have lost their lives. As has been seen in other regions of the world, cases are expected to escalate in the Region of the Americas. Countries must take urgent action to prepare hospitals and health facilities for what is coming: an influx of COVID-19 patients that will need hospital space, beds, health professionals and medical equipment. “This virus has not and will not be stopped by borders drawn on maps,” said Dr. Etienne. Dr. Etienne highlighted that countries must also protect their

health personnel as never before. This includes training on how to avoid infections and access to adequate supplies of protective equipment. “It is our duty to protect them and care for them, as they will be on the frontlines of this battle,” she said. It is also vital that countries decide what social distancing measures need to be implemented and for how long. These are the only way to prevent hospitals from being overwhelmed by too many sick people in too short a time. Based on the experience of countries in other regions, Dr. Etienne highlighted that “it seems prudent to plan for the implementation of measures for, at least, two to three months.” Without solid evidence on effective treatments and no available vaccine at hand, social distancing and other aggressive preventative measures remain our best bet to prevent the most severe consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic in our region. Dr. Etienne suggested that “This moment demands bold and compassionate leadership.” “It will not be easy, and we know we will be asking people to adapt to an extraor-

dinary situation that is impacting everything in their lives. But let me emphasize: this pandemic is serious, and we need to do everything in our power to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 on our people,” said Dr. Etienne. The PAHO Director highlighted the solidarity of the region and the need to continue sharing resources, expertise and joint decisions to accelerate access to health services, research and innovation. She also emphasized that PAHO will continue to facilitate exchange between countries, and to work intensively with Member States, particularly those with the weakest health systems, to strengthen surveillance and early detection of cases and on ensuring health service preparedness. Dr. Etienne stated, “solidarity in our region has never had deeper meaning than it does today. The only way out of this situation will be if everyone does his/her part, while supporting others.”

Miner succumbs COVID-19 - North following shooting Pakaraima villages at Siparuni Backdam A 50-year-old miner of Paramakatoi, North Pakarimas, succumbed to gunshot injuries he sustained following a shooting incident at Siparuni Backdam on Monday. Dead is Jonathan John. Reports are that, around 14:00hrs on Monday, March 30, 2020, John and two others, inclusive of the suspect, who is said to be the man's son, were imbibing at their camp, when an argument ensued. The suspect allegedly shot his father in the stomach with a handgun and fled the scene. The victim was pronounced dead on arrival at the Linden Hospital Complex. Police are searching for the suspect.

restrict visits by non-residents

In a move aimed at protecting residents from the global pandemic, the North Pakaraima’s District Council (NPDC) has enforced a restriction on all vehicle owners and non-residents from entering the villages in the area. In a notice published on social media, the council said that restrictions to enter or pass through any one of the villages are now in effect and the NPDC is seeking the full cooperation of all concerned. The restrictions are in response to the COVID-19 outbreak and the NPDC is seeking to protect the residents from this deadly disease, the council said. Guyana has recorded 12 cases of the virus. Two persons have died as a result of complications attributed to the virus and over 40 persons are in institutional quarantine.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, April 1, 2020

Guyanese engineers install first subsea field

A TEAM of Guyanese engineers, working as Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) pilots/technicians for Offshore Innovators (Guyana) Inc., have successfully supported the installation of their home nation’s first-ever subsea field, making first oil possible at ExxonMobil’s Liza Destiny FPSO.

Warapoka Village, East Bank Demerara, East Coast Demerara, and Georgetown, operated the two Forum Perry Slingsby XLX ROV systems successfully installing several subsea production assets including flowline jumpers, steel tube flying leads and electrical flying leads. This achievement rep-

the company’s successful local content development programme implemented in Trinidad over the last decade. This programme has stewarded subsea personnel career development from ROV trainees to ROV supervisors, superintendents and offshore client representatives for the major contractors and operators in the Region. Through the support of Team Trident USA, Offshore Innovators joint venture partner, the Guyanese personnel were afforded the opportunity to access this successful onthe-job (OJT) training experience offshore. The OJT experience was enhanced by the Offshore Innovators mentorship pro-

gramme where the trainees were paired with Trinidadian supervisors to help them navigate the competence development and assessment scheme. Offshore Innovators continue to contribute to Guyana’s technology transfer process, having recently supported the execution of the Liza Unity Subsea Tie-Back Survey Campaign, in preparation for Saipem’s phase two operations. Internationally, one of OIG’s Guyanese engineers have been working in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico supporting DOF Subsea’s operations while gaining valuable experience to be applied at home in the future. “We are excited that

Ryan Troubleshooting our Team of Guyanese ROV personnel have played a vital role in the

Ryan Launching ROV The world-class team, who had recently crosstrained in Subsea Robotics and Offshore Safety, worked onboard the DOF Subsea Skandi Neptune vessel in support of Saipem’s Subsea Tie-Back Campaign. The OIG Team, who hails from

resents a major milestone in the transfer of subsea technology to Guyana and paves the way for greater participation in technical roles by Guyanese. Offshore Innovators subsea personnel development programme for Guyana is modelled after

Offshore Innovators Guyana Crew

first subsea development in Guyana. Our commitment to this group of talented engineers has been met with very positive feedback from the industry. We were able to leverage the competence of our existing subsea team in the development of their Guyanese counterparts,” said Dylan Galt, Operations Manager, Offshore Innovators Ltd. He added: “Our Guyanese and Trinidadian ROV Personnel are in a great position to support the current offshore operations of subsea contractors offshore Guyana, which are facing challenges due to COVID-19 quarantine and travel logistics issues.”

Int’l travel ban extended to May 1 GUYANA’S ban on international travel has been extended to May 1, 2020 to prevent against imported cases of the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19). The ban first took effect on March 18, 2020 for 14 days and has been extended for an additional 30 days based on the recommendation of the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA). Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson made this public on Tuesday confirming that the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) would be closed until the end of the period. Speaking with the Guyana Chronicle earlier on Tuesday, Director General of GCAA Lt. Col. (ret’d) Egbert Field said that the extension is recommended by the GCAA as it continues to protect Guyana from visitors from countries where cases of the virus have soared. Guyana recorded its first imported case of the virus on March 11, 2020 from a 52-year-old Guyanese female who had travelled from the United States of America and who has since passed. To slow the spread of COVID-19 in the country, the country closed its airports to all international flights for two weeks beginning at midnight on Wednesday, March 18, 2020. When the decision was announced,

Field stated that based on consultation with Guyana’s Ministerial Task Force, if deemed necessary, the period could be extended. EXCEPTIONS BEING APPROVED With the ban, exception has been given to outgoing flights; cargo flights; medevac flight; technical stops by airplanes for fuel and special authorised flights. Field said that over the two-week period these exceptions were utilised and were approved by the Task Force based on requests submitted. “These are cargo flights which continued; we had outgoing flights and I noted that [through] the US Ambassador over 800 persons were taken out by Eastern Airlines and that is because we opened the door for them to come in but the arriving flights did not bring passengers; it was only on outbound flights we took passengers,” he updated. On March 23, 2020, the US Embassy in Guyana, taking to its Facebook page, had put out a survey of six questions seeking to determine the number of US nationals interested in departing Guyana. “If you are an American citizen having difficulty departing Guyana, please complete the survey so that we can better track how many Americans may need help.

We are trying to keep up with high numbers of calls and emails from American citizens. There are no flights departing Guyana today. We will keep you informed when we learn of possible flight options,” the short message encouraged. Field told the newspaper that the aforementioned assistance is still ongoing as another flight has been approved for today [Wednesday] which has also been approved by the Task Force. Similar provisions have been made for nationals of the United Kingdom (UK). THE SECTOR WILL SURVIVE Prior to the international ban, many persons were still eager to travel having convinced themselves that they would remain careful. The GCAA Director-General said that the decision by Guyana was a strategic one and only expected in the time of such a deadly pandemic. “The restriction on travel was very significant and an important item when it comes to restricting the spread of the disease. You cannot [protect] your house and you still have a window which is likely opened,” he explained. “You have to close your windows and clean your house and I think that is what the authorities are doing here. Putting the

restrictions really prevented infected persons from arriving in Guyana from known [COVID-19] destinations.” The GCAA Head reminded that the highest number of visitors who come to Guyana are from the United States and from the port of New York which is now the epicenter of the virus. As of March 31, 2020, New York State recorded its highest daily increases in coronavirus deaths and cases surpassing the total reported in China’s Hubei province, where the pandemic began. Almost 10,000 new cases were added to the state’s new toll of 75,795. Field stated: “It was very important for us to put down this restriction bearing in mind that the restriction really helped our Public Health Services that they didn’t have to deal with any new cases from overseas.” Based on his expertise in the field, he is confident that the aviation sector --- particularly airlines which travel to Guyana --- will be able to get back on their feet after the global effects of the virus have subsided. “I strongly believe they will be able to bounce back,” he said positively. “They suffered a loss and that is understandable because no flights are being executed but I’m positive they will be able to come back.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, April 1, 2020

Commentary: China's accelerated resumption of production injects stability, confidence into world economy BEIJING, March 31 (Xinhua) -- As the coronavirus pandemic fanned panic about a global economic recession, production in all walks of society in China is springing back to life, buying time for the world economy to avert a crisis. Chinese President Xi Jinping is in an inspection tour in eastern China's Zhejiang Province on the resumption of work and production. It highlights the importance of economic and ecological development as the country has generally contained the coronavirus outbreak within its territory. Xi visited an industrial park and met with representatives of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) returning to work, and toured a mountainous village where he put forward the concept that "lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets." Fifteen years ago, when he was the Party chief of Zhejiang. Xi's inspection tour pro-

motes high-quality, inclusive and coordinated development, which projects stability into a vulnerable global economy when confidence is in urgent need. Gloomy prospects surrounded the world economy in 2020 amid the pandemic. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) projected a contraction of global output in 2020. Many observers warned of a world-wide recession unseen in decades. China is ahead of the rest of the world in terms of being impacted, responding to and containing the coronavirus. Now it is leading the world in stepping up production. Compared with many advanced economies that are faced with risks of negative interest rates and running out of ammunition, China has more ample room for policy adjustment on monetary and fiscal fronts. The People's Bank of China pumped liquidity into the market through seven-day reverse repos while cutting

Staff make masks at the mask producing workshop of Foxconn in Shenzhen, south China's Guangdong Province, March 17, 2020.Â Shenzhen has seen more than 97 percent of the industrial enterprises above designated size and the key projects resume operation. (Xinhua/Liang Xu)

its interest rate by 20 basis points on Monday to support the economy. China still has ample monetary policy space and tools at disposal since it remains the only major economy that keeps a normal monetary policy. In addi-

tion, a substantial amount of financial resources will be unleashed if the government raises the fiscal deficit ratio further. An important part of the work of boosting the economy is to help the most vulner-

able such as SMEs. China has rolled out supportive policies in fiscal, credit, employment and logistics for the SMEs. Xi signaled more targeted measures to help those hit by the epidemic restart production and further develop. Ecological protection and green development are also on the agenda. As Xi has put it during his tour in Zhejiang, the ecological environment itself is the economy. All the ecological protection efforts will be rewarded. Besides, the government is harnessing synergies of the policies related to employment, industries, investment, consumption and regional development. Different from past experiences featuring flood-like stimulus, China has shifted to a more nuanced, precise and targeted approach to bolster the economy. Positive changes have emerged. The purchasing managers' index (PMI) for China's non-manufacturing sector came in at 52.3 in

March, up from 29.6 in February, the National Bureau of Statistics said on Tuesday. A reading above 50 indicates expansion. The restart of the "World's Factory" will not only help China put its economic and social development back on track, but also relieve pressure on the world economy and safeguard the common interests of the global community. It is an urgent task for the international community to make concerted efforts in fighting the pandemic and provide support and convenience for the steady growth of international trade and economic growth. While China must slacken no efforts to contain imported cases of infections, the resumption of work and production brooks no delay. Step by step, the strong resilience of the Chinese economy will be released, boding well for global growth.

China's help to boost nations fighting virus March 31 (China Daily) -Medical assistance and information sharing will deepen the mutual trust, experts say. The medical assistance and information sharing by China will not only help shore up confidence of other countries in effectively fighting against novel coronavirus, but deepen mutual trust and friendship in a community of shared public health, according to analysts from international organizations and research institutes. "Considering that China is still going through a very rough period, donations to Thailand in the form of various kinds of masks and other related apparatus are truly felt in the hearts of every Thai," said Korn Dabbaransi, president of the Thai-Chinese Friendship Association and former deputy prime minister of Thailand. The association was among the first in Thailand to donate medical materials to China weeks ago. With the coordination of the Chinese embassy in Thailand, China's Jack Ma Foundation and Alibaba Foundation have donated medical supplies to Thailand. The supplies reached Bangkok on March

25, according to the embassy. The mutual assistance over the past three months has only confirmed the cultural beliefs of Thai people as they have always regarded China as their deep-rooted relative all along, said Dabbaransi. So far, China has provided assistance to 89 countries and four international organizations to fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the China International Development Cooperation Agency. Apart from professional medical groups to several countries, large groups of Chinese doctors are also sharing front-line experience with overseas doctors online. In Asia, medical supplies and medical workers from China have been sent to 28 countries. "I appreciate China's gesture in sending assistance in terms of medical kits and other things in these challenging times," said Abdul Majid Ahmad Khan, president of the Malaysia-China Friendship Association. On March 26, the association received medical supplies from a group of Chinese organizations and companies.

"I think China is showing the right way toward global cooperation," said the former Malaysian ambassador

Indonesia. "China has made lot of efforts in the fight against COVID-19, and now it is help-

Chinese medical experts visit a quarantine center in Sihanoukville city in Preah Sihanouk province, Cambodia, on Saturday. The medical team landed in Phnom Penh, capital of Cambodia, on March 23 to help combat the epidemic. (CHEN DUNCAI/XINHUA)

to China. He said this is "clearly manifested in the last week or so when China has extended assistance to almost all countries (affected by COVID-19), not just in Southeast Asia, but also in Europe". Medical supplies arrived in Jakarta on March 28, according to the Chinese embassy in

ing the people in other countries to better know and deal with the virus," said Jondras Kasrian, honorary president of the Chinese Indonesian Association. "People in the world should say thank you to China." Besides helping with medical supplies and equipment, Indonesia needs to learn from

China how to counter the disease, said Veronika S Saraswati, head of China Study Unit at Jakarta-based think tank Centre for Strategic and International Studies. "China has showed the effectiveness of its methods, and it is important for these methods to be shared," she added. In the Republic of Korea, after the first consignment of masks donated by China arrived on March 11, Chinese companies and organizations have continued to donate various medical supplies to the country. China and the Republic of Korea have truly realized people-to-people connectivity with deepened mutual understanding, as seen from the mutual assistance from governments and society during the fight against COVID-19, said Yu Wanying, senior researcher at Sungkyun Institute of China Studies at Sungkyunkwan University in Seoul. Yu said the assistance provided by China will help to convey the value of building a community with a shared future. Countries have become so close and deeply related that

when lives are facing challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, the only choice for the world is to jointly fight against it, said Yu. The assistance from China to the international community has showcased its virtue to repay goodwill with greater kindness and the country's responsibility as a big country, said Yu. The Chinese embassy in Pakistan said eight Chinese medical experts arrived in Islamabad, Pakistan's capital, on March 28, together with medical supplies, including masks, protective clothing, ventilators, defibrillator monitors and drugs for treating COVID-19. This followed the first consignment of nearly 2 tons of medical supplies from China on March 27. Previously, China had sent medical experts to virus-hit countries such as Iran, Iraq, Serbia, Cambodia, Italy and Spain, according to the Chinese foreign ministry.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, April 1, 2020

Coe congratulates Raynor over top post (CMC) – World Athletics president Lord Coe has written to congratulate Bermuda’s athletics chief Donna Raynor after she was confirmed as a member of a leading international group under his purview. Raynor, president of the Bermuda National Athletics Association

(BNAA), has been appointed to the World Athletics Development Commission, beating out more than 150 other applicants, according to the Royal Gazette newspaper. “This is exciting and a great step for little Bermuda being appointed to the World Athletics Commis-

sion,” said Raynor of her new appointment, adding that she had received a congratulatory message from Coe, the 63-year-old London-born former middle-distance runner. As Sebastien Coe, he won four Olympic gold medals. Lord Coe told Raynor:

“We know you will add considerable value and insight to the commission over this period and look forward to your input and contributions as we collectively aim to further grow and develop the sport.” Raynor said her international post will involve advising how to increase

Bermuda’s athletics chief Donna Raynor participation levels from grassroots to elite, monitoring and evaluating programmes and activities delivered by or on behalf of World Athletics and the promotion and protection of the values of athletics. “This shows that they are appreciating and respecting how we are running the sport of athletics in Bermuda,” she added. Raynor said the selection process started last October after she applied for positions on three commissions – competition, development and governance – and was endorsed by Mia Bean, a member of the BNAA board. “I felt my area of expertise was more suitable

to the Development Commission. I was so pleased and excited when I received the email on March 16 stating that I was successful in my application.” She said preparation for the CARIFTA Games, the annual regional junior athletics showpiece due to be staged in Bermuda in April but now postponed because of the coronavirus pandemic, “kind of took my mind off my application for this commission”. Raynor said: “I am sure once we get through this COVID-19, the roles, responsibilities, projects and meeting dates (of the commission) will be finalised and confirmed.”

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Answers to yesterday’s quiz:

(1) Christchurch, 1951-52 (2) Auckland, 1955-56

Today’s Quiz:

(1) Who is the first New Zealander to score a Test hundred against the WI? (2) Who is the first WI to hit a Test century against New Zealand?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, April 1, 2020

Wimbledon under threat of COVID-19 cancellation (BBC) - A series of emergency meetings is under way to decide whether Wimbledon can go ahead this year. The All England Club says a final decision is yet to be made, but the cancellation of the Championships for the first time, since World War Two, now seems inevitable. The Wimbledon Championships are due to run for two weeks from Monday June 29. The French Open has already been pushed back four months to late September because of the coronavirus pandemic. “I guess everyone’s been waiting on it,” Britain’s seven-time Grand Slam doubles champion Jamie Murray told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme. “It’s obviously the next big event in the tennis calendar that’s still on the calendar for the moment.” BBC Sport understands a decision to abandon this year’s grass court season is likely be made in conjunction with three governing bodies - the Lawn Tennis Association, the Association of Tennis Professionals and the Women’s Tennis Association - within the next 48 hours. The All England Club admitted last week that a postponement would not be “without significant risk and difficulty,” and Murray says there are many practical reasons for that.

“I think for them, it’s difficult to move the tournament back because you’re running into other tournaments that are for the moment still on the schedule,” he explained. “And also just things like daylight to host the event. Each week that passes, you get less and less light to play the tournament. And obviously they play until nine and 10 o’clock each night at Wimbledon.” The All England Club is confident it will be able to refund ticket and debenture holders through the insurance policies it has in place. But tennis will be denied its annual chance to showcase the sport in the UK, and to encourage people to take to the courts. The preceding grass court tournaments in Nottingham, Birmingham, Eastbourne and at Queen’s Club in London will also be affected. There is likely to be no professional tennis played anywhere until at least July 13, which leaves players like Murray in the same boat as everyone else. “I’m just at home, taking the necessary precautions, and trying to stay as active as I can,” the Scot continued. “It’s different. We’re used to being on the road all the time, used to being in different cities every week, and you kind of become institutionalised to that.

Several options on the table for Europe’s stricken leagues (REUTERS) - Some clarity on how soccer leagues in Europe plan to complete seasons that have been put on hold due to the coronavirus pandemic is expected this week but there is likely to be a mixed bag of solutions with countries tugging in different directions. Meetings set for the next few days will study how to resume the suspended campaigns, even though it will be difficult to come up with a definitive roadmap while the continent remains in the grip of the fast-spreading virus. UEFA will discuss this season’s Champions League today while the Premier League will hold a conference call on Friday with suggestions they are considering re-starting the season in early May to avoid losing broadcast revenue. One option on the table is resuming the season behind closed doors in order to finish by July 12, thereby avoiding millions of pounds of penalties in their television contracts. They will also want to settle promotion and relegation issues to avoid potential legal battles, like the one threatened by nonleague clubs whose season has already been curtailed. In Italy, which has been in lockdown for over three weeks and has a COVID-19 death toll approaching 12 000, there is growing sentiment that the season should be abandoned. “Let’s think about health now, we’ll talk about football later,” Fiorentina owner Rocco Commisso said. German clubs were meeting in Frankfurt yesterday with several stark options on the table. The German football league (DFL) will hear proposals to resume the Bundesliga in either mid-May or mid-June and finish the season in late July. It has also been suggested by some clubs

that a 16-day tournament be organised, with several matches each day and clubs playing every two days in order to complete the 82 remaining matches by June 30, including the German Cup semi-finals and final. “We should definitely end this season. For reasons of fairness but also to limit the economic damage,” said Bayern Munich chief executive Karl-Heinz Rummenigge. But the prospect of La Liga clubs in Spain playing every second day was a non-starter for Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu. “The scenario we are looking at now is to play a game or two before June 30 so we can end the season in July or August. We have no problems in doing that,” he said yesterday. “What we don’t want is to play games behind closed doors or every 48 hours.” Ligue 1 in France is also under pressure to return after broadcaster Canal Plus said it would not pay the next instalment of their contract after the suspension of matches. Dutch clubs were awaiting an announcement yesterday of a possible extension of the ban on gatherings past June 1. In Belgium, the league’s leadership will meet tomorrow after a call from the majority of first- and second-division clubs to call off the rest of the 2019-20 campaign. FIFA plans to allow player contracts that end on June 30 to be extended until the season is completed. Today’s UEFA video conference will involve the general secretaries of its 55 member-associations but is unlikely to make any firm decisions, insiders said. Instead it will offer various scenarios, including the possibility of completing the Champions League in July and August. No matter what is discussed or agreed this week, the only thing that remains clear is that the situation will remain fluid for the foreseeable weeks ahead.

Novak Djokovic and Simona Halep are the defending men’s and women’s singles champions from 2019 “So even when I’m at events, come Friday, Saturday, when you’re starting to play for big prizes, your mind’s kind of

like, ready to go to the next event because that’s just what you’ve been programmed to do.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, April 1, 2020

Japanese businessman at centre of French Olympic corruption probe (REUTERS) - A businessman who received millions of dollars for his work on Tokyo’s successful campaign to host the 2020 Olympics, which was postponed last week, due to the coronavirus, said he played a key role in securing the support of a former Olympics powerbroker, suspected by French prosecutors of taking bribes to help Japan’s bid. Haruyuki Takahashi, a former executive at the advertising agency Dentsu Inc., was paid $8.2M (£6.66M) by the committee that spearheaded Tokyo’s bid for the 2020 Games, according to financial records reviewed by Reuters. Takahashi told Reuters his work included lobbying International Olympic Committee (IOC) members like Lamine Diack, the ex-Olympics powerbroker, and that he gave Diack gifts, including digital cameras and a Seiko watch. “They’re cheap,” he said. The payments made Takahashi the single largest recipient of money from the Tokyo bid committee, which was mostly funded by Japanese companies. After his involvement in Tokyo’s successful campaign, Takahashi was named to the board of the Tokyo 2020 organising committee, a group tasked with running the summer Games after it was awarded to Japan. Takahashi acknowledged receiving the payments but declined to give a full accounting of how he used the money. He said he urged Diack to support the Tokyo bid and denied any impropriety in those dealings. He said it was normal to provide gifts as a way of currying good relations with important officials like Diack. He said there was nothing improper with the payments he received or with the way he used the money. “You don’t go empty-handed. That’s common sense,” Takahashi told Reuters, referring to the gifts he gave Diack. Banking records from the Tokyo 2020 bid committee, which were examined by Reuters, show it paid around $46 500 to Seiko Watch. A senior official at the bid told Reuters “good” watches were handed out at parties organised as part of Tokyo’s campaign to win the Olympics, although he did not specify the brand. (IOC regulations allowed for the giving of gifts of nominal value at the time of the 2020 bid, but didn’t stipulate a specific amount. A day before the 2013 vote on the host city, Diack informed a meeting of African Olympic representatives that he planned to support Tokyo on merit, a lawyer for the influential Senegalese sports figure told Reuters. But he didn’t instruct anyone how to vote, the lawyer said. The Tokyo bid committee also paid $1.3M to a little-known non-profit institute run by former Japanese Prime Minister

Yoshiro Mori, a powerful figure in Japanese sports and the head of the Tokyo Olympics organising committee. The payments to Takahashi’s company and Mori’s non-profit are enumerated in banking records from the Tokyo 2020 bid committee examined by Reuters. The payments were first reported by Japanese magazine Facta. French investigators have not questioned anyone about the payments to the Japanese recipients. The banking records were provided to French prosecutors by Japan’s government as part of France’s investigation into whether Tokyo’s bid committee paid $2.3M through a Singaporean consultant to win Diack’s support for Japan to host the 2020 Games. Diack, 86, has consistently denied any wrongdoing. His lawyer said Diack “denies all allegations of bribery”. The French are also investigating Diack’s son, Papa Massata Diack, on suspicion that he received the bulk of the money paid to the Singaporean consultant, and passed money on to his father to secure votes for Tokyo. Diack’s son has also denied any wrongdoing and said via email that he would “deliver my version in courts”. Mori did not respond to questions from Reuters. A representative of Mori’s non-profit said the entity was paid by the bid committee to “mainly analyse international information”. Nobumoto Higuchi, the secretary general of the bid committee, said Takahashi earned commissions on the corporate sponsorships he collected for the bid. “Takahashi has connections,” Higuchi said. “We needed someone who understands the business world.” The IOC said it would not have been made aware of payments between private parties or gifts given to IOC members. Olympic preparations have cost Japanese taxpayers some $13B, and the delay of the Games has rattled corporate sponsors, who had paid a record $3B to be affiliated with the Olympics as of June last year. Mori and Takahashi were central to Tokyo’s bid to win the Olympics, a campaign that began in 2011 and became a national priority under Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. Mori has publicly recounted how he lobbied a key IOC official ahead of the vote. Since 2015, French prosecutors have been investigating Diack, formerly the head of the international body governing track and field. Diack has also been accused of taking a separate $2M bribe to corral votes for Rio de Janeiro in that city’s successful bid to hold the Olympics in 2016. He has been under house arrest in France since charges of corruption linked to sports doping - when he headed the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) - were brought against him in 2015.

Diack’s lawyer said his client “did not receive any money from anyone relating to the Olympic Games in Tokyo or Rio de Janeiro”. Tsunekazu Takeda, who headed Tokyo’s bid committee, is also under investigation by the French on suspicion of authorising the payments from the bid committee to the Singaporean consultant whom investigators suspect acted as an intermediary to get money to Diack. Takeda resigned from both the Japanese Olympic Committee and the IOC last year and has denied wrongdoing, saying he believed the payments were for legitimate lobbying efforts. Takeda’s lawyer said he did not instruct Takahashi to lobby Diack and was unaware of any gifts given by Takahashi to Diack. “Mr Takeda has never approved such things,” the lawyer said. Abe promised full cooperation with the French investigation, which is part of a long-running probe of corruption in international sports, including the cover-up of doping cases involving Russian athletes. Privately, Renaud Van Ruymbeke, the French magistrate who led the investigation until June last year, had complained that Japanese prosecutors did not provide all the information the French investigators were seeking, according to internal transcripts related to the probe reviewed by Reuters. The magistrate, the current French judge overseeing the case, and Japan’s justice ministry all declined to comment. In response to questions from Reuters, the IOC said it supported “the French judicial authorities and needs to respect the confidentiality of the process”. It added that it was “partie civile” to the proceedings, meaning it views itself as a potential victim and could seek compensation. A 2016 investigation into the payments made by the Tokyo bid committee, which was conducted by a third-party panel convened by the Japanese Olympic Committee (JOC), found no evidence of wrongdoing. The JOC probe was criticised by an outside group of legal and compliance experts for not being thorough enough. The report that resulted from the JOC probe did not examine payments to Takahashi or the Jigoro Kano Memorial International Sport Institute, the non-profit sports institute run by Mori. The JOC said it was separate from the bid committee and had no knowledge of payments made to Takahashi’s company and Mori’s non-profit. Asked about the payments, an organising committee spokesman said the bid committee had been disbanded and the organising committee was “not in a position to know the details of the bidding activities”.

In a series of interviews with Reuters, Takahashi, 75, described how he became involved in the Tokyo bid. He said he was brought on as a consultant by bid-committee chief Takeda. Takahashi said one of his main assets was the connections he had built to Diack and other powerful figures in international sports during a career developing Dentsu’s sports marketing business. Takeda’s lawyer said he “knows nothing” about the contract between Takahashi and the bid committee, except for the fact that “a contract on marketing activities existed”. Takahashi said he was paid through his company, Commons Inc., by the Tokyo bid committee for “wining and dining” people who could further Tokyo’s bid, and for marketing and other activities related to Tokyo’s Olympic campaign. The payments were in part “a commission fee” for his role in gathering sponsors to fund Tokyo’s bid, he said. “I didn’t pay any money to anybody. This is my profit.” Takahashi said he asked Diack to support the Tokyo bid, but denied that he paid bribes or did anything wrong. He said he believed Diack wanted to vote for Tokyo because of Takahashi’s support for the IAAF when Takahashi was a Dentsu executive. The Monaco-based organisation, which governs track and field and is now called World Athletics, was run by Diack until 2015. Asked how he used the payments he received from the Tokyo bid committee, Takahashi said he was under no obligation to detail what he did with the money. “One day before I die, I will tell you,” he said. The Kano institute headed by Mori, which received $1.3M from Tokyo’s bid committee, was named after a judo master who spearheaded the ultimately scrapped effort to bring the 1940 Olympics to Tokyo. It has one staff member, Tamie Ohashi. Ohashi told Reuters the money was used by the institute to hire a U.S.-based consulting firm and two individual consultants to support the Tokyo 2020 bid. She said she didn’t know why the institute, and not the Tokyo bid committee, hired the consultants, and declined to name them. The institute’s website does not list any activities explicitly linked to the bid. Ohashi also said the institute paid for research that would help Tokyo’s campaign. Japan’s Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary, Akihiro Nishimura, said the government could not answer questions about the bid committee’s activities. He said questions about payments to Takahashi and the Kano institute should be directed to the JOC and the Tokyo metropolitan government, because they mainly led the effort. The Tokyo Metropolitan government did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, April 1, 2020

2020 Games postponement signals growing power shift from IOC to athletes (REUTERS) - Tweeting from her Toronto couch two weeks ago, six-time Olympian Hayley Wickenheiser had two words for the International Olympic Committee (IOC), which had yet to postpone the Tokyo Summer Games amid the coronavirus pandemic: “Insensitive and irresponsible”. Days later the IOC acquiesced, delaying the Olympics until July 2021 and sparking what some say could be a permanent shift in power away from the hierarchical governing body to athletes. As the coronavirus pandemic swept the globe, sponsors and broadcasters with millions of dollars on the line stayed mostly silent about the timing of the Tokyo Olympic Games, scheduled to open in July. Sports federations simply said they would take their lead from the IOC. The vast majority of nations bided their time. For exasperated Wickenheiser, 41, something had to give. “I think the IOC, insisting this will move ahead, with such conviction, is insensitive and irresponsible given the state of humanity,” she tweeted. Wickenheiser, a Canadian ice hockey gold medallist and doctor-in-training who

also competed in softball in the 2000 Sydney Summer Games, told Reuters that she could not stay silent. “(Athletes) were the first voices to really alert the world to how tone deaf the IOC was being,” she said. As a result, the IOC narrative was “turned on its head” Johannes Herber, CEO at Athleten Deutschland said. “The fact that the IOC and Japan decided to postpone has a lot to do with the fact that athletes spoke out and clearly told their stories. It somehow made it real,” he said. “Formally, nothing has changed and athletes have formally no more power than before. But the power they have through social media to form public opinion was clearly demonstrated.” Some in the IOC acknowledge athlete power was key in this unprecedented postponement, signalling a challenge to the body’s supremacy. “I know for a fact that some colleagues messaged the president urging him to postpone because they were under a lot of pressure back home both from the athletes, and in some cases governments,” one IOC member, speaking on condition of anonymity, told

Reuters. “Our athletes played a critical role in our decision to request the postponement of the 2020 Games,” said Isabelle McLemore, a spokeswoman for USA Swimming, which was among the early groups to call for a delay. Erik Kynard, a high-jumper who won a silver medal in the 2012 Olympic Games, said he had called for the postponement of the Olympics in media interviews and in his comments to the USA Track and Field board, of which he is a member. “The voices of the athletes were always there. It’s just that when you’re up on a pedestal, it’s difficult to hear,” said Kynard, whose grandfather has the virus. Michelle Carter, an Olympic gold medal-winning shot putter and member of the USA Track and Field board, said the health and safety of their sports’ officials - many of whom are older than 70 - as well as their family members and fans was a motivating factor. “We’re just now really realising the power that our voice has, that what we say matters more than what we think,” Carter said. American Emma Coburn, who took

bronze in the 3000-metre steeple at Rio, said that while there was no “war” with the IOC, the incident showed athletes’ ability “to speak up and say what they wanted”. “In my mind it wasn’t athletes versus IOC; it wasn’t pitted like that. It was, ‘as athletes, this is how we feel, we’re communicating it to you and we feel like it’s your job to not only listen to what we want but also to what is the safest choice’,” said Coburn, who hopes to compete in Tokyo next year. Rob Koehler, head of the Global Athlete movement which aims to empower athletes, told Reuters the IOC should brace itself for more pressure, and a new order of things. “In general, athletes are realising that they have the power, or can have the power,” he said. “The athletes used to be told: ‘that’s your sandbox, you go and play in it, we’ll look after the governance of sport’. “There have been some significant moments over the last four years which have led to athletes being frustrated and realise their voices aren’t being listened to.” For Wickenheiser, there is no turning back: “Athletes in the world need to continue to use their platforms to create change and realise the power they have.”

2020 Games postponement signals growing power shift from IOC to athletes See story on page 27

Hayley Wickenheiser is honoured on her induction to the Hockey Hall of Fame prior to the game between the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Boston Bruins at the Scotiabank Arena on November 15, 2019 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)

Japanese businessman at centre of French Olympic corruptionprobe See story on page 26

Haruyuki Takahashi, executive board member for the Tokyo Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games (Tokyo 2020), arrives to attend a Tokyo 2020 executive board meeting on the COVID-19 outbreak in Tokyo on March 30, 2020.

Wimbledon under threat of COVID-19 See story cancellation on page 25 Printed and Published by Guyana National Newspapers Limi ted, Lama Avenue, Bel Air Park, Georgetown. Telephone 2 2 6- 3243-9 (General); Editorial: 2 2 7- 5204, 2 2 7- 5216. Fax:2 2 7- 5208

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 1, 2020