Issuu

MONDAY 8th March, 2021

' No.106294

AG moves to recover lands from owner of Car Care

…lands were sold weeks after elections

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India ‘injects’ Guyana with 80,000 COVID-19 shots

SEE PAGE 03

Prime Minister of Guyana, Brigadier (ret’d) Mark Phillips (second left), receives the ‘Covishield’ Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccines, donated by the Government of India, from the High Commissioner of India to Guyana, Dr. K. J. Srinivasa (second right). Also in the photo are Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony (left) and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hugh Todd (right) [Elvin Croker photo]

Women use ‘We Lift’ expo to network and encourage SEE PAGE 05

Owner of Garden Land and Suellee’s Kitchen, Peggy Chin, displays her products at the ‘We Lift: Women Empowerment, Leading, Innovating, Flourishing Together’ exhibition at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre

Caterer and owner of ‘Ann’s Country Style’, Simone Peters, displays some of the food she had on sale last weekend at the exhibition (Elvin Croker photos)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, March 8, 2021

Sol says compliant with ‘duty’ obligations –– refutes claims that tax exemptions were abused

ONE day after being listed among local oil-importing companies which have abused duty exemptions, Sol Guyana Inc. has said that it has in place robust procedures to ensure that they remain compliant with their duty obligations and other legal and corporate social responsibilities. It was reported on Sunday that the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), following a reconciliation of exempt-

ed fuel against acquitted fuel, has found that several major oil importers, namely Sol, Rubis and GuyOil, were utilising exemption letters to clear fuel without regard for whom the fuel was destined. The Law Enforcement and Investigation Division (LEID) and the Customs, Excise and Trade Operations (CE&TO) arms of GRA, following reconciliation exercises in 2017 and again in 2020, found that in each case

a trend was observed whereby some of the major oil importers had imported and entered the fuel at duty-free rate, using the beneficiaries’ tax-exemption letters, but failed to deliver the full quantities to the beneficiaries as required. The reconciliation exercises involved major beneficiaries, namely Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA), Bosai, AGM, Rusal, and in late

2020, ExxonMobil. In the case of ExxonMobil, evidence has so far revealed that since 2015, the system was being abused by Sol Guyana Inc. It was found that the exemption letters were being utilised by Sol to clear fuel, but the full quantity was not being delivered to the beneficiary. Also, for the period January 1, 2020 to September 30, 2020, a total quantity of 34,554,080 litres of gas

oil was imported and duly entered by Sol Guyana Inc., using both Bosai companies’ tax exemption letters. Of this quantity, Commissioner-General of GRA, Godfrey Statia, said that certified records submitted by Sol Guyana Inc. and both Bosai companies revealed that only the accumulated quantity of 20,691,379 litres was delivered to the beneficiaries. This meant that the remaining 13,862,701 litres had stayed in Sol’s possession. In responding to the claims of abuse, Sol, in a statement on Sunday, said those allegations are “highly misleading” and “damaging.” “Sol’s core values of integrity, respect, safety and community are at the centre of its operations. We have worked collaboratively with the Guyana Revenue Authority (the “GRA”) and want to assure our customers, partners, and the people of Guyana that we have robust procedures in place to ensure that we remain in compliance with our duty obligations, as well as our other legal and corporate social responsibilities,” the General Manager, Earl Carribon, said in the statement. As part of its assurance process, Carribon said that Sol Inc. has enlisted an independent third party to conduct verification and reconciliation of its duty position, which confirms that the company is current and compliant with duty-exempt

importation regulations. Statia had said, however, that based on the incontrovertible evidence obtained, the revenue authority demanded the forgone excise tax, in the sum $606,978,363 on the 13,862,701 litres of gas oil, which was imported and entered free of excise tax, but was not delivered to both Bosai companies to be utilised for the intended purpose. According to the GRA, in an email dated November 27, 2020, Sol Guyana Inc. accepted the liability, but alleged that in past periods, notably during 2018-2019, it had supplied in excess of 24 million litres of duty-paid diesel at duty-free prices to both Bosai companies without exemption letters. When this quantity was reconciled, the GRA found that only 20.3 million litres was supplied, clear evidence that Sol Inc. does not keep adequate records of acquittals. The GRA officers are still examining Bosai’s exemption records to see whether the company acquitted fuel from other importers in 2018 and 2019, since they were in receipt of exemptions during the period claimed. Considering the extent of abuse uncovered by the authority, Statia has recommended that GRA should find a way to prosecute the company, and recover duties and interest applicable based on the abuse.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, March 8, 2021

India ‘injects’ Guyana with 80,000 COVID-19 shots –– PM Phillips urges Guyanese to get vaccinated and prevent deaths By Vishani Ragobeer

AMID Guyana’s efforts to intensify its COVID-19 vaccination programme and immunise a significant portion of the population by year end, the country received 80,000 doses of the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine from India on Sunday at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), Timehri, East Bank Demerara. The aircraft that transported the vaccine arrived at 07:19 hrs. The doses of

nating thousands of doses of the COVID-19 vaccine to countries around the world. Dr. Srinivasa related that India’s Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, has committed to leveraging India’s production and delivery capacity to help the entire world combat the novel coronavirus and the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. India’s donation to Guyana is part of the wider donation of 570,000 doses of this vaccine earmarked for the Caribbean region. Barbados, Dominica, Anti-

vishield’ in that country. The vaccine is given in two doses and has the efficacy of about 82.4 per cent, once the second dose is given after about eight to twelve weeks. Since the vaccine is given in two doses, the 80,000 doses donated means that 40,000 persons can be vaccinated from this tranche of vaccines. And, as per the local vaccination schedule, frontline, healthcare workers will be offered the vaccines first. Subsequently, the elderly, other frontline workers and teachers will be offered the

High Commissioner of India to Guyana, Dr. K. J. Srinivasa (standing) makes a point during the short press conference held after the arrival of the COVID-19 vaccines. Also in the photo are Prime Minister, Brigadier (ret’d) Mark Phillips (second right); Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony (left) and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hugh Todd (right) Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine doses from the portion it received from India. With enough vaccines to immunise a substantial portion of the population, the Prime Minister called on persons to come forward and take the vaccine, since vaccines are an effective tool of helping to prevent the dreaded disease. “The vaccination will help us in a substantial way as we continue in the recently started phase two of dealing with COVID-19,”

a primary analysis of Phase III clinical trials. Recently, President of Guyana, Dr. Irfaan Ali, announced that the government will strive to ensure that Guyana achieves herd immunity by the end of this year. Herd immunity will occur once about 80 per cent of the population is immune to the disease, and vaccination is a way of ensuring immunisation. As such, the Health Minister, Dr Anthony, highlighted that Guyana is exploring all opportunities

clinical trials, Dr. Anthony noted that the vaccine showed efficacy of 81 per cent. Trials have also been conducted with children, which could dictate whether the vaccines could eventually be used on children. “(Covaxin) is certainly one that we are looking at… and we are satisfied with the safety profile,” Dr. Anthony related. Currently, it is not mandatory for anyone to take the COVID-19 vaccines in Guyana. However, the Health Minister has con-

The vaccines being transported by staff of the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (Elvin Croker photos) vaccine were presented to the Prime Minister, Brigadier (ret’d) Mark Phillips by the High Commissioner of India to Guyana, Dr. K.J.Srinivasa, in the presence of Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hugh Todd and Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony. At a short press conference afterwards at the airport, the High Commissioner highlighted, “These 80,000 doses signify the depth of our friendly relations with Guyana and it also shows our commitment to the world as a first responder.” The vaccine donations from the South Asian country were made in keeping with the country’s ‘vaccine maitri’ or ‘vaccine friendship’ initiative, whereby the country has been do-

gua and Barbuda, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Suriname all received vaccines from India already. Importantly, the Indian High Commissioner emphasised that India did not donate the vaccines with the expectations of any favours in return. “I want to stress here that India donates these vaccines with nothing in demand (from) the country. We do not ask for any quid pro quos. India is donating the vaccines in a spirit of collaboration, in a spirit of friendship, and in a spirit of helping our friends to acquire these vaccines across the world,” the diplomat assured. This Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine is manufactured by the Serum Institute of India and it is called ‘Co-

vaccines. “By delivering this Covishield vaccine, India has demonstrated its willingness and ability to work with its friends across the world, especially developing countries through global south to south cooperation,” the High Commissioner said. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Phillips expressed gratitude to the Government and People of India on behalf of the Government and People of Guyana. STRONG APPEAL With this donation, Guyana would have received 103,000 doses of COVID-19 vaccines so far. China donated 20,000 of its Sinopharm vaccine, while Barbados sent 3,000

The vaccines from India being offloaded from the aircraft at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) the Prime Minister said, highlighting that the vaccine is effective in preventing COVID-19 deaths. Research has found that the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine offers 100 per cent protection against the severe form of COVID-19, hospitalisation and death in

to procure more vaccines. As part of those efforts, he noted that the government continues to engage the Government of India for additional vaccines. One of India’s indigenous vaccines, Covaxin, has been on Guyana’s radar. Following the completion of Phase III

tinuously emphasised that vaccines are effective tools to help countries exit the COVID-19 pandemic. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has also issued Emergency Use Authorisation (EUA) for this Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, March 8, 2021

AG moves to recover lands from owner of Car Care …lands were sold weeks after elections

LEGAL proceedings have been initiated to recover a prime piece of property sold at an undervalued sum, weeks after the March 2, 2020 elections, by former Commissioner of the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission (GL&SC), Trevor Benn to popular businessman, Wilfred Brandford. The defendants to the matter are listed as Wilfred Brandford, proprietor of Car Care Enterprise; Trevor Benn, former Commissioner/ Chief Executive Officer of GL&SC; Julian Barrington, Chief Valuation Officer (ag), Valuation Division, Ministry of Finance and the Registrar

of Lands. In his application to the court to recover the property, Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, S.C, is contending negligence, misfeasance, fraud and conspiracy to injure the state by unlawful means through the execution of the transaction. The property in contention is situated at Parcels 4725 and 4805, Block XXX, Plantation Ruimveldt, East Bank Demerara. Brandford, a board member of the GL&SC under the former A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) administration, was issued a Certificate of

Monday March 8, 2021 –– 01:00& 12:30hrs

Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, S.C

Title No. 2020/11 dated April 15, 2020 for the property. This was pursuant to an Agreement of Sale and Purchase executed with the Government of Guyana, represented by the GL&SC through then Commissioner dated March 23, 2020. The property was sold to Brandford for a mere $13.5 million. However, a review of the transaction and similar transactions revealed that similar-sized parcels of land in the same vicinity were

Wilfred Brandford, proprietor of Car Care Enterprise

sold by the Government of Guyana for as much as $150 million. A Certificate of Value dated January 13, 2020 in relation to the property, was obtained by Benn from Barrington, which was reportedly prepared on the instructions of Benn and stated the current market value of the property in the sum of $60.8 million. Two months later, a second valuation dated March 18, 2020, was obtained by Benn from Barrington for

the same property, which was again requested by Benn and stated the value of the property as $13.5 million. Nandlall submitted to the court that Benn, in breach of his fiduciary duties, unlawfully and conspiratorially entered into the Agreement of Sale to sell the property for the sum of $13.5 million. The AG is also contending that Benn deliberately failed and/or neglected to consider the first valuation which was a significantly higher price and proceeded with the sale at the lower value. “This act by the Second Named Defendant [Benn] was reckless, negligent, unlawful, in breach of fiduciary duty and constituted a fraud causing the State of Guyana to suffer loss and damage,” the court document states. The Attorney-General, in his application to the court, explained that the power to sell State Lands is vested in the President by virtue of Section 3(1) of the State Lands Act, Cap 62:01. He noted that this function was never delegated to Benn. Nandlall, in his application, also explained that Benn sought no input from any other person or department within the GL&SC, nor from the President to effect the sale and he abandoned all internal processes with respect to the sale of State Lands. Further, Nandlall is contending that Brandford entered into the Agreement of Sale and Purchase with full knowledge of the true and current market value of the properties and that the said agreement will be disadvantageous to the State and beneficial to him. “The First Named Defendant [Brandford] relied upon his relationship with the Second Named Defendant and the position of influence he held on the Board of the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission to secure a favourable transaction to him,” the court document states.

A s s u c h , t h e A t t o rney-General contended that Benn, in collusion with, and in conspiracy with, Brandford and Barrington, acted in a reckless and negligent manner, in gross dereliction of his duty as Commissioner of GL&SC and his fiduciary and statutory duty to the State and the people of Guyana. In February, 2021, Nandlall had written to Brandford asking him to relinquish the said lands; he had informed Brandford that the issuing of the title to him constitutes a clear and egregious fraud and there is enough evidence to prove so, and to set aside the title on those grounds. In his letter, the AG noted that Brandford will be afforded no protection in these circumstances under the Land Registry Act, Chapter 5:02 and the state is willing to set aside legal proceedings if the lands are relinquished. The state is claiming for a declaration that the sale of the property is illegal, unlawful, null, void, repugnant and contrary to public policy; a declaration that the title to the property was obtained unlawfully, illegally and by fraud and an order directing the Registrar of Lands to set aside the title on those grounds. The state is also seeking a declaration that Brandford has been unjustly enriched in the sum of approximately $150M; an order for Restitution to the State of the said property; an order of disgorgement of any sums paid by Brandford to the State and an order that Brandford deliver possession of the property. In excess of $500M is also being sought for loss and damages suffered as a result negligence and/or breach of the duty of care owed to the State.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, March 8, 2021

Women use ‘We Lift’ Expo to network and encourage

Dr. Amelia Nandkumar of the ‘Dental Clinic and Laboratory- Venus’ was very excited to be a part of the exhibition (Elvin Croker photo)

Dr. Anna Collins (right), is owner of ‘Couture Smile’ and is among the few orthodontists in Guyana (Elvin Croker photo)

By Tamica Garnett THE Ministry of Human Services and Social Security (MoHSSS) “We Lift: Women Empowerment, Leading, Innovating, Flourishing Together” exhibition was a source of upliftment and encouragement for the many female business owners who took part in the event, which was held last weekend at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre. Over 50 female-owned businesses capitalised on the opportunity to showcase their products and services, at the two-day women’s expo which was held in celebration of International Women’s Day that is being observed today. Businesses on display ranged from food and wellness, to make-up, craft, and beauty products, and included longstanding businesses such as the 25-year-old “Garden Land” owned by Peggy Chin, to more recent businesses like “Couture

Smile”, an orthodontist clinic launched one month ago by Dr. Anna Collins. Speaking with the Guyana Chronicle at her booth, Chin said that while there still remains a lot of challenges to women being a part of the private business sector, events such as “We Lift” provide them with more opportunities to be valued. “Being a part of the women expo is so uplifting because you meet other women from all walks of life and it’s showcasing what we as women can do to earn a living. The business world is dominated by men, so we have to fight harder to get our voices heard and we’re still fighting a lot,” Chin commented. Chin’s popular plant store is located on Brickdam in the city. Chin’s store “Garden Land” specialises in retailing a wide variety of plants, and came about from Chin’s love for plants. Aside from “Garden Land”, Chin also recently deviated and established

‘Suellee’s Kitchen” which specialises in providing made-to-order authentic Chinese pastries, along with other Guyanese pastries. Just over in the booth next to Chin’s was passionate businesswoman, Simone Peters, who travelled all the way from Crane on the West Coast of Demerara (WCD) to be a part of the event. Peters runs “Ann’s Country Style”, a catering business. “I always gravitate towards opportunities to put myself and my business out there. Coming here was an opportunity for Ann’s to go out there, and it enables me to network and meet other people,” the mother of two shared. Peters noted that being a female business owner in the food industry just came naturally to her, because she just wasn’t fit for life in an office. “In my late teens, I wanted to experience working in an office, so I tried it but it didn’t cut it for me. Then I realise, I have to go back to what I know, to my roots,

Selected quote from Dr Cheddi Jagan "From this day forward we shall need the goodwill and hard work of all our people so that we may proceed to make our country a fit and proper home for heroes in the struggle for political and economic independence. Let there be an end to sectional racial quarrels and suspicions so that national unity may be restored." 1961

and this is what I know. I always say to people if you are doing something that you love doing, keep doing it because that is where you will get the best results,” she suggests. Dr. Anna Collins was another businesswoman at the expo, who was passionate about what she does. She opened her business to use her service to help others. After struggling with an

“open bite” as a child, which affected her confidence, Dr. Collins said she was just a teenager when she knew that she wanted to be an orthodontist. An orthodontist is a dentist who specialises in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. “I was a thumb sucker so I had an open bite and my incisors protruded. My

mom realised it was affecting my confidence so she said we have to fix this. After the treatment I smiled more, was more outspoken, whereas before I didn’t want persons to see my smile. So, I said this is what I want to do,” she shared. Also involved in the same industry was dental surgeon, Dr. Amelia Nandkumar, who travelled all the way from Berbice to showcase her business “Dental Clinic and Labaratory - Venus”. She was encouraged to get into the dental field by admiring her father, who is also a dentist. “Our aim here today is not only to promote us, but to support women and to show that nothing is impossible for a willing heart. Fly as far as you can but never forget where you came from. I am striving, and little by little, it’s going and it can be hard sometimes but it is not impossible,” Dr. Nandkumar offered.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, March 8, 2021

Embracing the Guyana story PRESIDENT, Dr Irfaan Ali’s One Guyana vision encompasses a refreshing breathing space for this nation to roll out the proper story of Guyana, the fine mosaic of the national narrative, without scapegoating any side, without exacerbating the schism that has for so long afflicted the body politic. Guyanese across every corner of this land should be able to appreciate the visionary, unique contribution of Dr Cheddi Jagan to the new global order, without feeling left out of the equation, and for this to happen, the entire country must also give a nod to the positive side of Forbes Burnham’s role in this country, and to the Caribbean and the international community. Whatever the political persuasion of any particular citizen, the nation under the One Guyana banner must join hands, heads and hearts to celebrate Guyana’s national figures, even the ones who appear controversial and who many may not agree with or support. This is the concrete expression of the One Guyana goal, seeing the positive side of things, rather than exercising the scapegoating phenomenon and remembering only the bad side of anybody. One wants to realistically deal with history and learn from mistakes, but in the grand scheme of things, the One Guyana stance is one of embracing and inclusion, rather than demonising. Guyanese celebrate some outstanding international figures, and although some of them may be controversial in some quarters

in the homeland, their contributions to the global community underlines an admirable trait in this quality of being Guyanese, an intelligent people of world-class character. Apart from the scores of outstanding migrated Guyanese across the world today, performing great feats in every endeavour, including some modern stars of international excellence, the history of this country is replete with brilliant souls emerging from this land to grace the world stage. People like Eddie Grant, Shakira Baksh, cricketers Clive Lloyd, Shivnarine Chanderpaul, Ramnareah Sarwan and Carl Hooper, Sir Shridath Ramphal, and scores and scores of others come to mind. Out of this shining roll call, as this nation’s future unfolds, the thinking and writings of Dr Cheddi Jagan would more and more mark this humble man as Guyana’s most distinguished son of the soil on the world stage. Without discounting the positive side of Burnham’s role in national affairs, because Burnham did a decent job with leadership within CARICOM and did try to implement a vision for national development, despite his failures on the democracy front, Guyanese must know of the tremendous role Dr Jagan played in making the world what it is today. In fact, it is instructive that Burnham and Dr Jagan were friends, even in spite of the state of the body politic, with their children forming bonds. So while recognising the role of Burnham, and acknowledging his support base within

this nation, Guyanese stand proud and tall on the world stage because of Dr Jagan’s vision for a New Global Human Order, a thesis that he presented to the United Nations, which adopted it as a blueprint for an equitable, humane, workable world community. Today, much of what the UN aims for in the Sustainable Development Goals, and in fact even the Great Reset of the World Economic Forum and the goals of the Climate Summit coming up next November, much of those goals and the socioeconomic philosophy underlying them, emanate out of ideas embedded in Dr Jagan’s New Global Human Order thesis. In other words, Dr Jagan in his own humble way made a significant contribution to the international community with his visionary writings. He had spent his life in the trenches here at home, in a Mandelaesque 28 years of long suffering and tremendous self-control to maintain a peaceful Guyana, to ensure that democracy became the foundation for Guyanese governance. With so much experience and wisdom gleaned from his habit as a deep reader, and his practical experience talking to ordinary people across the country, feeling their heartbeats, their concerns, their humanness, Dr Jagan cultivated in his mind a profound understanding of human society. He focused on the human condition, not on ideology or a particular ethnicity or a small corner of the globe. He zeroed his mind in to the common human needs of the entire human family, and started

seeing the underlying social and economic foundation of how human beings could better their standards of living. It is fitting that the country maintains Dr Jagan’s writings at the Red House library and research centre, because here was a Guyanese leader who saw way beyond the view of his peers, his probing worldview gazing with care and compassion and kindness into the depths of the human heart, surveying the entire gamut of the global village, rather than a parochial little corner of his own field of vision. Dr Jagan grew up in Port Mourant in Berbice, and witnessed the impact of colonial plantation culture on Berbicians. He walked the streets of Port Mourant with those two sections, Bound Yard and Free Yard, telling a brutal story of colonialism’s division of society into socioeconomic classes. Dr Jagan spent his entire life working to solve this class-division problem, and in the process widened his mission to the entire global village. Today, with the One Guyana goal, President Ali’s government will eradicate that class division, forever freeing Guyana of lines of division, and in doing so, achieve the greatest vision of Dr Jagan: equality, justice, and fairness for every human being who walks this earth. The Guyana story, through Dr Jagan’s luminary brilliance in shining a light of clarity for a more humane global order, is a narrative worthy of the celebration and embrace of every Guyanese.

APNU+AFC trying to stay relevant through fabrication Dear Editor, REGION 10 (Upper Demerara-Upper Berbice) is once again making the limelight. This time, with Mr. Joseph Harmon’s fantasy for fabrication, the APNU+AFC coalition is trying to undermine the patriotic people of this important region by propagating false information so as to discredit the PPP/C government’s commitment towards nation building with national and impartial inclusivity. A well-deserved and detailed rebuttal towards this clumsy accusation was painstakingly documented in a Mr. Alvin Hamilton’s reply, in the Kaieteur newspaper’s letter column. There is no need for any elaborate reiteration. The reinstallation of the CEO for the Linden Hospital Complex is an inferno with the GPSU after he issued an apology over controversial comments. Region 10 is a subjected arena where miscreants creamed off millions of taxpayers’ sweat, funnelled through the convenience of the Sustainable Livelihood and Entrepreneurial Development (SLED) programme in 2019 for community development projects. This luxury was enjoyed by the financial comfort offered to accommodate 13 groups registered as co-operative societies before funds were released. A visit in January 2020 by the Labour Minis-

ter, Mr. Joseph Hamilton, uncovered what he claimed to be “fraud” and “criminality,” for most of the projects were never established while others were incomplete and in one case, an individual received financing for chicken rearing and, he migrated to the US. The Auditor General’s 2019 report confirmed that the sum of $250 million was disbursed to various regions for the SLED programme, claiming that, “it was difficult to ascertain the reasons for granting approval to the respective beneficiaries.” Many collected money without being registered. Last August, former Sports Director Christopher Jones was arrested and released on $100,000 station bail for simple larceny in relation to several barbershop chairs and other items found in his home. The minister is now reviewing the status of all the co-ops listed and is visiting and assessing those societies registered as far back as 2017. The SLED initiative was established by the former APNU+AFC coalition government in 2015 and was aimed at creating business and jobs in communities across the country. It would be interesting to know the individuals who have benefitted from this programme. Former President, David Granger, last August addressed a question on the importance of cooperative societies in African culture, while delivering remarks at a virtual Emancipation eve event organised by the international

Decade for People of African Descent assembly-Guyana. He said, “Cooperativism was the salvation of village organisations, especially for small and micro enterprises, cooperatives are ideal.” But he also confessed that, “I know that in some co-ops people borrowed money to live, to pay light bills and pay taxes and rent. But that isn’t the purpose of [a] co-operative society.” Now the President knew about the mishandling and mismanagement of funds, so, why did he not take the necessary substantial remedial action to recover or secure taxpayers’ money? The conclusion is obvious and the truth hurts. This is yet another reason why Granger and party were so determined to retain power at all cost! Despite Region 10 being a hot seat for corruption, President, Dr. Irfaan Ali visited the area earlier this year and announced a plethora of plans, including the construction of 1,000 houses and an “investment zone” to be identified in the region ‘agri’ master plan. The PPP/C remains unbiased and true to bipartisanship while living up to the ideals of equality for all ethnicities and living up to the expectation of making no distinction between class and creed. He said, “I assure you that this government is ready to work with every single Guyanese. I do not concern myself with the politics of any community; I

concern myself with the welfare of the people of the communities.” Cooperativism was set up in 1970 by the dictator LFSB and serviced a particular need, directed and dedicated to the affluence of influential favouritism and patronised by the dictates of politics and the dynamics of friendliness for preferred participants, in its original structure. Lack of accountability and transparency created a doomed and dim future, accompanied by the folding up of many societies and many of them were written off without full disclosure, leaving a trail of gross uncertainties and much speculation. GNCB was sold off in 2002 and GAIBANK was closed in the 1990s. Guyana was once referred to as the Co-operative Republic of Guyana, but partially dropped silently and is simply now called Guyana! The 33 years of the PNC dictatorial administration is certainly castigated with the riddles of moral decomposition, the decline of virtuous accolades and the shameful degradation of honour. Is the cooperative sector being fuelled as an engine of growth for all and sundry, with the new government, while still ambushed by masquerades? Respectfully, Jai Lall

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, March 8, 2021

Bal Naipaul contributed to struggle for fair elections Dear Editor, IT is with deep sadness that I join with others to pay tribute to a friend and journalist/writer colleague, Balkrishna Naipaul, cousin of the iconic novelists VS and brother SS Naipaul. BK Naipaul was very supportive of Guyanese and ‘Trinis’ in North America, the Caribbean, and global causes, especially humanitarian issues and democracy. He fought alongside others for free and fair elections in Guyana. My relationship with BK Naipaul began in the early 1980s through an introduction by Guyanese patriot Ramesh Kalicharran in Queens. We participated in several academic conferences, including the one I co-organised for the 150th anniversary of indentureship to Trinidad in 1995 and same for 150th to Guyana in 1988. We also presented papers at various conferences in Trinidad, New York, and India. He was greatly admired for his formidable writing skills. He has published several books on various subjects. Bal and I worked together on several projects related to Guyana, Indo-Caribbeans, Indians in the diaspora, and on the print and electronic media. BK Naipaul was editor of a global publication besides working for the Canadian government and the United Nations. Throughout his decades-long tenure in public and community service, he had a very unique and visible presence immersed in community affairs, rare among public servants and scholars. He made himself accessible to the public, appearing on many platforms. He was willing to lend a helping hand on anything that would benefit the public and or promote democracy or cross-cultural understanding. He participated in several India Day parades and joined Guyanese in celebrations in NY. And he spent a considerable amount of time in India. Although a Trini, BK Naipaul might as well be called Guyanese, because he spent a considerable amount of time among Guyanese in Canada and New York since the 1980s, patronising and participating in their events. And he stayed at the home of Guyanese “brother” Kali whenever he was in New

York, including when he was posted at the UN; all of this time in NY he was among Guyanese who were involved in the Guyana struggle or Indo-Caribbean cultural activities. He visited Guyana a few times, including during the period of the dictatorship and after the restoration of democracy. He played a significant role in championing democracy for Guyana and was an ardent supporter of Dr. Cheddi Jagan. He promoted Jagan’s New World Economic Order at the UN, as well as in his writings and travels overseas. Naipaul’s was an unmistakable voice in advocating for a strong United Nations and the interests of poor developing countries. He, like Jagan, championed a more just and peaceful world. Although he was not credentialled like me with a PhD in International Relations, he was far ahead in terms of practicum and experience. Clearly, he was an intellectual, a man who was well read. He was a very strong advocate of the UN. He advanced UN interests on issues ranging from peace and security and conflict resolution to protection of religious sites, refugees, human rights, and humanitarian issues. No matter what its shortcomings and problems, he was supportive of the UN and affiliated bodies such as UNESCO, UNDP, ICC, ICJ, the World Court, and other institutions to which the world turns for solutions to some of the most intractable problems. Wherever he spoke and or worked, he did so with enormous graciousness‚ integrity and distinction, excelling in all undertakings, leaving in his trail most pleasant memories of those who interacted with or listened to him. Those who know him will tell you he had a permanent smile. And they all remember that trademark smile and his laugh, wit, and wisdom. He was reserved on the one hand, but charming on the other. He handled discussions calmly and studiously, the hallmarks of a great diplomat. He was called in several times to resolve conflicts in NY among warring groups in various organisations, and he performed adeptly. Bal was not only admired, but also was much loved with glowing tributes pouring in. Dr. Tara Singh, President of the Guyana Democracy Proj-

ect, described him as an “outstanding human being.” He commented: “Bal’s passing is a devastating loss to the Indo-Caribbean community. I learn so much from him about faith and other subjects.” Yash Pal Soi, another Guyana freedom fighter, referred to Bal as “a giant literary writer who did so much to champion democracy in democracy and getting Jagan elected.” Yash recalls Bal’s role and presence in the institutionalisation of the Phagwah Parade in New York that began in 1990. Indian Diaspora Council International President Ashook Ramsaran, stat-

ed: “Bal was a renowned historian and writer with a unique and revealing insight on ‘our journeys’, a deeply motivated thinker who was deliberate and thoughtful in his speeches, essays and writings. He was a meticulous researcher-historian.” Deo Gosine, who also contributed to the struggle for the restoration of democracy in Guyana, among other causes, stated: “The passing of our friend and literary giant, Bal Naipaul, leaves a large void in our Caribbean lineup of great writers. Bal was a gentle and towering person, be it in the literature circle or just good, constructive conversation

in Ramesh (Kali) Kallicharan office in Queens, on community issues. He was a fixture in many of our international conferences, be it in India, New York or Trinidad. The passing of Bal will leave one fewer bright light in the Lion House’. I will miss him dearly.” Bhanu Dwarika, another supporter of the struggle for democracy in Guyana, and a community TV personality, recall Bal’s role in elevating the quality of her work in the media. “He involved me in the launch of Global Times. It was a rich, meaningful experience. He opened so many doors for me in the

media, including meeting Who Is Who in the Indian community and at the UN. I give him credit for so much that occurred in the Indo-Caribbean community in NY. He planted ideas and helped nurtured them within the Indian diaspora. His outstanding writing skills guided mine in terms of mass media, inclusive of radio and TV scripts.” My heartfelt sympathies to his wife and family members. He will be sorely missed. His legacy will live through his writings. Rest in peace my dear old friend. Yours truly, Vishnu Bisram

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, March 8, 2021

Guyana testing for COVID-19 variants with NY School of Medicine

By Vishani Ragobeer

WHILE Guyana has not yet been able to detect the presence of variants of SARSCoV-2 (the virus which causes COVID-19), the country will be able to test more positive COVID-19 samples through an arrangement brokered with the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York. In an invited comment recently, Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, indicated that the local health authorities have been attempting to intensify surveillance efforts to detect whether these variants are present in the country. A strategy has been to obtain all positive samples detected in the border communities and send those samples to Icahn School of Medicine, so that the genetic analysis can be conducted. Over the past few months, three variants or strains of the novel coronavirus have emerged.

The Icahn School of Medicine in New York, in the United States

These are the B.1.1.7 or the United Kingdom (UK) variant, the B.1.351 or the South Africa variant and the P2 or Brazil variant. It has been found that the variants are more transmissible, which means that they are more readily spread from person-to-person. Due to concerns over the importation of the Brazil variant, given the porous border between Guyana and Brazil, samples from those border communities in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo), in particular, will be on the radar of the local authorities.

“With the sequencing, we would then be able to determine what strains of the virus we are dealing with,” Dr. Anthony related. In the Caribbean, only the UK variant has been detected in a few countries thus far. The variant was discovered after a type of genetic analysis, called genomic sequencing, was conducted to determine whether COVID-19 samples are the ‘normal’ strain of SARS-CoV-2 or variants. Guyana and several other Caribbean countries have been able to benefit from the genetic analysis

through Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA). In January, Guyana sent 10 samples to be analysed. However, these samples were not any of the variants of concern but it cannot be definitively said that Guyana does not have any of the variants circulating. Through the arrangement with the Icahn School, Dr. Anthony highlighted that some of the samples will be analysed for free while the rest, Guyana will be required to pay for. It is not yet clear how many samples Guyana can send to the New York school. Meanwhile, Executive Director of CARPHA, Dr. Joy St John, emphasised that there are some changes in the transmission of the disease that can alert local health authorities to the possible presence of the variants. During a recent interview with the Guyana Chronicle, Dr. St. John noted that surveillance of COVID-19 within the countries’ populations would indicate whether there are changes in the transmission of the disease or the rate of transmission. These could be possible signs of the variants. “All of those are indications that something has changed, and it might be varying,” the public health official said, adding: “We recommended to the member states that their index of suspicion for changes in the pattern of spread of the virus should include the possibility of importation of the variants,” Dr St. John told this newspaper.

35 new cases of COVID-19 recorded THE Ministry of Health has reported that 35 additional persons were discovered as infected with the virus, COVID-19, after a total of 609 tests were conducted on March 6, 2021. The number of deaths remains at 201. With the addition of these new cases, the total number of persons infected with COVID-19 in Guyana since March last year is now 8,807. An additional eight persons have recovered, however, taking the total number of persons who recovered after being infected to 8,114. The new cases were distributed across Region Three (four cases), Region Four (24 cases), Region Five (one case), Region Six (three cases) and Region Nine (three cases). Males accounted for 20 of the new cases, while the remaining 15 were women. Meanwhile, there are 505 active cases of COVID-19. Active cases are those persons

who are infected with COVID-19 but have not yet recovered. There are eight persons in the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU), 40 persons in institutional isolation, 13 in institutional quarantine and 444 persons in home isolation. All Guyanese are urged to observe the protocols of the COVID-19 emergency measures, which emphasise the need for correct and consistent use of a face mask when leaving home, the importance of maintaining the six-feet physical distance from others, and the need for good hand-hygiene to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. If anyone you know is displaying any of the symptoms associated with COVID-19, or need any additional information, kindly contact the COVID-19 Hotline 231-1166, 226-7480 or 624-6674 immediately or visit the Ministry of Health at www.health.gov. gy.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, March 8, 2021

Elections Petition fails to establish grounds to vitiate March elections with the Representation of the People Act 1964 (ROPA). In his comprehensive submission, Nandlall sought to establish that Order 60 is not ultra vires and that a combination of Article 162 (1)(b) and Section 22 of the ELAA aggregate to confer power upon GECOM to depart from the ROPA, and even amend the ROPA in certain instances.

By Richard Bhainie THERE is the absence of material facts, and no foundation is laid in the Elections Petition, 88 of 2020, to establish any grounds upon which the March 2, 2020, Elections can be vitiated, and, in that regard, the petition is destined to fail. This was submitted and expounded upon by Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, S.C, in his submissions to the High Court of the Supreme Court of Judicature in the matter of the Elections Petition, 88 of 2020. Petitioners Claudette Thorne and Heston Bostwick, in their submissions in the matter, contended that Section 22 of the Election Laws (Amendment) Act 2000 is unconstitutional and Order 60 of 2020 which authorised the recount process, is invalid, null, void and of no effect. They are also contending that the Returning Officers’ Electoral District Declarations could not have been set aside and the Guyana Elections Commission’s (GECOM) actions were unlawful and encroached upon the High Court Jurisdiction under Article 163 of the Constitution. Order 60 was created by virtue of Article 162(1) of the Constitution and Section 22 of the Election Laws Amendment Act 2000 in order to resolve irregularities, anomalies and discrepancies before declaring the results of the elections. “As I apprehend it,

Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, S.C

Learned Counsel posits that Parliament, in enacting Section 22, so far as it confers law-making powers on GECOM, it offends Article 65 and Article 170 of the Constitution,” Nandlall submitted to the court. WITHOUT BASIS The Attorney-General listed a plethora of legal precedents and authorities to explain that, in enacting Section 22, the Guyana Parliament exercised a long-established legislative power and the contention that it violated the separation of powers doctrine is untenable and without basis. “The Petitioners contend that Section 22 of the Election Laws (Amendment) Act offends the doctrine of separation of powers because it conflicts with Article 170 (1) and (2) of the Constitution,” Nandlall submitted. The Attorney-General went on to explain that Article 170 (1) stipulates that Parliament is to make laws by bills, which are to be

assented to by the President. Article 170(6) dictates that a bill shall not become law unless it has been duly passed and assented to. He noted, however, that Section 22 of the Election Laws (Amendment) Act speaks to an order, which is not, in practice or law, established by bills. Further, they do not require the assent of the President before becoming law. “It is therefore submitted, that the Parliament of Guyana, when acting within the limits of the Constitution, has, and was intended to have, plenary legislative powers, which permits it to, when it decides, to authorise public authorities to amend primary legislation by Order,” Nandlall submitted. In addressing the issue whether the Returning Officers’ Electoral District Declarations could have been set aside, the Attorney-General noted that this issue is premised on a supposition that Order 60 is ultra vires and that Order 60 cannot collide

Four survive after barge crashes into boat FOUR persons are lucky to be alive after a barge crashed into their wooden vessel on the Corentyne River - four miles from Orealla - in the wee hours of Friday. The Sunday Chronicle was informed that 45-year-old Gordon Herman, a farmer of Anora Point, Orealla, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), along with his father, 74-year-old Kelvin Herman, who was the captain and two others, were in a 22feet wooden boat powered by a 15HP outboard engine and were heading to Corriverton when the accident occurred. The captain told police he saw a light heading in his direc-

The vessel which was involved in the accident

tion and so, he signalled his light to indicate to the captain of the barge but within minutes, the barge collided with the vessel and the occupants were thrown overboard. The four men managed to safely swim to shore. The incident was reported to the police on Saturday and an investigation is underway.

SIMPLY AND MANIFESTLY WRONG He further noted that to construe Order 60 as trespassing on the exclusive jurisdiction of the High Court to determine whether an election has been lawfully conducted, or affected by any unlawful act or omission as provided for by Article 163 of the Constitution, is simply and manifestly wrong. Article 163 (1) of the Constitution speaks to the jurisdiction of the High Court to determine questions re-

lating to membership of the National Assembly and elections. Citing the case of ‘Esther Perreira v Chief Elections Officer et al 1998 No.36-P’ Nandlall noted that in the case Justice Singh (ret’d) formulated that there is a two- pronged approach in determining whether an election should vitiated. In the case, Justice Singh (ret’d) explained that a distinction must be made between the unlawful conduct of an election and an unlawful act or omission which has affected or may have affected the result of the election. “It cannot be disputed that the conduct of the March 2nd, 2020, Election is not being challenged by this Petition. This Petition, therefore, falls within the second category of challenge … That unlawful act, is Order 60 and the re-count process which flowed therefrom,” Nandlall submitted.

He explained that the petition failed to establish any satisfactory evidence that Order 60 and the re-count process affected the result of the elections as all that the re-count did was to re-count ballots casted on voting day. “There is no evidence before this court impugning those ballots so as to discount them from being re-counted. There is no evidence of any variation between the first count which took place at the end of poll and the count which took place under Order 60,” Nandlall submitted. “Indeed, even if it is found that the re-count and Order 60 are unlawful there is still no evidence that either or both of them materially affected the results of the elections,” he added.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, March 8, 2021

Wayward SOMETIMES even the most even-tempered and understanding parents can have a wayward son or daughter; A child who clearly defies the morals and guidance set by parents and followed by their siblings and family members. Wayward children can easily become involved in criminal activities. They are indifferent to lawful au-

thority, preferring, usually, to bear the consequences of their actions after being left to their own devices. One woman said: “My daughter ran away from home when she was 14 years old. I never saw it coming. We have our ups and downs but I don’t beat her, or call her any bad names or nothing. I treat her the same as her sisters. I allowed her to

go to a party with her friend and they didn’t come home. “At first, I was sick with worry, you know, like any mother. I thought someone gone with her and I imagine all kinds of things. I made a report at the police station and gave them all the details, but they didn’t seem half as concerned as me. I couldn’t sleep, I couldn’t eat. I kept wondering whether she was

alive or dead. Was my child staying away from me because she was kidnapped? I did not believe she would deliberately put me through such a horrible ordeal. “After a few days or so, I received reports from people who had seen her here and there. The relief I felt in knowing that she was alive was mixed with anger. Why was she doing this to

me? Surely, she knew I’d be worried for her safety. About eight days after she’d left home, the police called me to say they had picked her up and they had her at the station. “It’s hard to describe the gamut of emotions I was experiencing as I made my way to collect her. I was about to be reunited with my daughter and yet, it felt like a stranger. It was not the daughter I knew two weeks ago. Something had changed; something was happening in her life that I was unaware of, and it had taken her away from me. “Arriving at the station, I told the officer at the desk who I was and why I was there. He wrote in his book and asked me again, as if he hadn’t heard correctly, ‘You are her mother?’ I said yes. Maybe he was expecting a big, loud, enraged person who was ready to give her daughter two good slaps and a thump for ‘running away with man’ as seems to be the reason why so many young girls take off. “My daughter was brought to me by a female officer. She was wearing different clothes to the ones I last saw her in, and she had a defiant and smug look on her face. It was as if she was saying, ’Nothing that happens to me from now on is going to affect me, they can say and do as they like; I don’t care’. “My fears were confirmed when her father, who does not live with us, came around to say his piece. They’ve never had a good bond, so I wasn’t expecting miracles. But she listened and looked at him with the same smug attitude and my heart grew heavy with more pain. “My consolation and only comfort was the fact that I knew in my heart that I did everything within my power to raise my daughter the right way. She had chosen a wayward route at a young age and I was devastated. It took some getting used to when she eventually opted to go into a children’s home. It was either that or she would be on the streets mixing with the wrong crowd and I would be sick with worry. “Thankfully, she never

got into criminal activity and today she is a grown, working woman of whom I am proud. Over the years, she has expressed her adolescent emotions, and explanations for the decisions she made. We have an understanding relationship but I still wonder, what I missed and where I went wrong? I believe I shared my love equally between my children. “Sometimes adolescents abandon the morals and values they grew with to go their own way and do their own thing. This behaviour can be related to undetected sexual abuse within a family or by a relative, or it can be a period of rebellion by the child. Growing children question many of the things they accepted and took for granted when young; and in some cases, they need to be apart from their family. “This may cause heartache and anxiety for the parents, but they are not the first nor will they be the last parents who spawn a wayward child/adolescent. When one child goes astray it is easy to neglect the others at home, who need care and attention, so parents must stay focused. They should not blame themselves or feel shame or guilt for the choices their unruly children make. “If the child wishes to return home, it should be with the understanding that ground rules and boundaries are acknowledged. However, the adult/child relationship will never be the same. “Some young people take advice, and proceed with caution while others dive in the deep end and hopefully learn from their mistakes. Love your child regardless of their personality”. If you are concerned about the welfare of a child, call the CPA hotline on 227 0979 or write to us at childcaregy@gmail.com A MESSAGE FROM THE CHILDCARE AND PROTECTION AGENCY, MINISTRY OF HUMAN SERVICES AND SOCIAL SECURITY

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, March 8, 2021

Policy framework needed to address challenges affecting women –– says President Ali –– commits to building economic, political, social and cultural platform “We need a national framework,” the President posited, noting that Guyanese women are strong, driven and committed, so more needs to be done to not only promote their interests, but to give them opportunities to progress. The platform, he said, has

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali and Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, share a moment with some of the persons who participated in the WE LIFT women empowerment expo (Delano Williams photo)

A section of the audience, including government officials and diplomats, at the launch of the WE LIFT women empowerment expo

By Navendra Seoraj SOCIETAL constraints, some of which date back to ancient days, continue to hinder the progress of women, and although they have been breaking the glass ceiling in almost every sphere of society, there is need, locally, for a national approach which mainstreams issues and challenges of women into a policy framework. Gone are the days of mere rhetoric, as women are taking it on their own to fight for their rights and revolutionise the way society views their roles in not just family life, but development at every level. But, with some opportunities and policies still being skewed negatively in their favour, it is important for there to be a multifaceted approach to development, which includes both men and women, and a national strategy. Greater participation, empowerment, enhanced livelihood options, a more secure environment, stronger families and better institu-

tions are all components of a national framework, which would address, in a holistic manner, the challenges of women, President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, has said. “The new generation of women, many of whom we saw earlier are starting at a far superior level than those before them. They are starting on a far better platform, but they cannot relax. That is why I think from a government perspective, from a societal perspective, we have to look at a national approach in which we mainstream issues and challenges of women into the policy framework of the country itself,” President Ali reasoned during the launch of the “WE LIFT” Women’s Empowerment Expo at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, on Saturday. At the launch of the twoday event, which was organised to commemorate International Women’s Day, celebrated globally today, President Ali said that it is time to move the national agenda forward.

to be built on an economic, political, social and cultural basis, to support ‘even’ development. Building such a platform would, however, require the nation to relook at the existing framework, so that the outlined objectives could be achieved. One particular impediment which

a revised framework would have to address is the difficulties women, particularly single-parent mothers, face in accessing loans from commercial banks. “In order to break this cycle, we have to sit with the banking sector to develop an incentive regime for women

to get loans and start their own businesses,” President Ali said. Dismantling this roadblock would be a step towards the overarching goals of empowering women and reducing any remnant of power gaps, gender bias and other disparities which may exist. TURN TO PAGE

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, March 8, 2021

Four Guyanese convicts deported from Suriname FOUR Guyanese, who were imprisoned in neighbouring Suriname for various offences, were deported on Sunday after completing their prison sentences. The Guyana Police Force (GPF,) in a statement, noted that the convicts were handed over at around 13:00hrs by Senior Superintendent of Nickerie Police Department, Bryan Isaacs, to Inspector Marlon Odonghue, Detective Sergeant #18065 Benjamin and a party of ranks from the GPF. They men were processed and are presently in custody, pending release. The four Guyanese nationals are: Andre Ragmangal, 39, of Fifth Avenue, Bartica, Who served one month in prison for overstaying in Suriname; Govinda Dhanraj,

31, of Non Pariel, East Coast Demerara, who was imprisoned for two months for domestic violence; Shanandeen Bacchus, 47, of Corentyne Berbice, who served two years imprisonment for trafficking in narcotics; and Nazim Shaw, 58, of Parika, East Bank Essequibo, who was imprisoned for two years for the offence of wounding. The police statement noted that they men will be sent to the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) for “profiling” to see whether they are wanted locally for any other crimes, before they are released.

The deportees from L-R: Andre Ragmangal, Nazim Shaw, Govinda Dhanraj, Shanandeen Bacchus (Photos released by the Guyana Police Force)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, March 8, 2021

‘Innov8 HER’ tackles gender equality with innovation, empowerment –– as two-day conference in observance of IWD kicks off today THE two-day virtual ‘Innov8 HER’ Summit, which gets underway today, aims to provide an avenue for women to immerse themselves in a culture of innovation and empower each other as part of wider efforts to mitigate the pervasive challenges of gender inequality. In a recent interview, Founder of Innov8 HER and local entrepreneur, Samantha Sheoprashad, told this newspaper that this summit is primarily focused on innovative ways of advancing gender equality and empowerment for women within the ecosystem. “A lot of women are in relationships because they can’t provide for themselves, and so they would rely on someone else and that tends to give that kind of challenge in many, many instances and

as such, one of our focuses is to cultivate economic prosperity for our women through technological innovation and entrepreneurship,” Sheoprashad noted. She acknowledged that there are structural barriers that prevent the achievement of gender equality and that leads to disenfranchisement of women. Sheoprashad, however, opined that encouraging women to immerse themselves in a culture of innovation and supporting women in their endeavours would add to the efforts of achieving gender equality. She also noted, “The trends indicate that women are underrepresented in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and design, and this prevents us from influencing gender responsive innovation FROM PAGE

Policy framework ... “I don’t have the capability to understand the level of challenges that a woman would go through in her life cycle… but women have in them the potential to do anything,” the Head-of-State said, noting that not only are women designed stronger than men, but they also exhibit an “inner soul” which is transformational and essential in any society and in any country. And, although women have been resilient in the face of many adversities, Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, said the world is still a “dark and dangerous” place for women and girls, and this is justified by the many reported cases of rape and domestic violence. “We need to put ourselves in the position of women who feel threatened and violated… it is incumbent on us as persons, who have the ability to do so, to rally around women and girls and speak out… the network cannot be women alone, it must comprise men who are ready to walk with us,” Minister Persaud said. In paying tribute to all the women who have defied the odds and surmount the adversities, she said it is time the women of today and people the world over, challenge all the different elements that confront women. “We are moving towards equality in every sense. We

are seeking to see more women lift their voice in advocacy, we are looking to see the participation of more women at national levels and in leadership positions, whether in the home, in the community or wider country,” Dr. Persaud said, noting: “Equality does not mean women replacing men, it means we are able to see each other’s perspective and work together to achieve common goals.” President Ali said too that there needs to be national change, noting: “We cannot change this country community by community, unless we develop a family, unless we sit as families. We change the way families think. And when you combine that change you get community change, then you get national change. The value of more empowered families is important in advancement of women. Also, stronger families are critical in supporting women.” Important too in moving forward with stronger families, is establishing mechanisms to protect women from domestic violence. One such mechanism, a Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Service Guide App, was launched at the WE LIFT expo. The app gives the average Guyanese woman resources at her fingertips, to learn more about the resources available to counter domestic violence.

and facilitates technological change.” Resultantly, the summit also aims to provide a space for women to network and leverage the experience, skills and connections they each possess. This summit has also been organised in observance of International Women’s Day (IWD), which is being observed globally, today. The virtual forum gets underway at

10:00 hrs today and features several discussions, including: economic and financial inclusion programme for women; the need for small business policy improvement, the importance of harnessing innovative and creative skills for women within the ecosystem for social and economic development, among others. Interested persons c a n r e g i s t e r b y v i s i ting: https://innov8her. splashthat.com The forum will also be livestreamed on Facebook.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, March 8, 2021

Germany to fund construction of PAC office in Lethem THE Government of Guyana, via the Protected Areas Commission (PAC), has issued an invitation for persons to bid for the construction of an office building in Lethem, Region Nine (Upper Takutu -Upper Essequibo). The 3,300 square feet single-storey structure is expected to be mounted at Lot CB 56, Lethem Commercial Block, as part of a 4.8 million euros Project Financing Agreement signed between

the Government of Guyana and the German Development Bank (KfW Entwicklungsbank) in 2019. The agreement specifically caters for the implementation of the Guyana Protected Areas System Phase III (GPAS III) which focuses on supporting the development of infrastructure in three protected areas in Guyana; community resource use (including livelihood related projects) and capacity building for effective management

of the protected areas. In addition to the construction of the actual building, the contract also encompasses the execution of several “external” works, such as the construction of a perimeter fence, an access bridge, a water trestle and a septic tank. According to the public Invitation For Bids (IFB) issued earlier in the month, “Bidding will be conducted by means of the National Competitive Bidding Procedures, with qualifications as

specified in the KfW Guidelines for the Procurement of Goods, Works, and associated Services in Financial Cooperation with Partner Countries.” The IFB specified that once awarded, the contract has a stipulated eight months time frame. A press statement issued in 2019 by the Office of the President, formerly known as the Ministry of the Presidency (MoTP), specified that in addition to the PAC office in Lethem, the aforementioned agreement The PAC office in Lethem, Region Nine is expected to improve monitoring and management of several stunning Protected Areas in that region, including the breathtaking Kanuku Mountains (Visit Guyana photo)

also caters for a new Guest House at the Kaieteur National Park; the erection of ranger stations and outposts at the Shell Beach Protected Area, Kanuku Mountains Protected Area and the Kaieteur National Park as well as the construction of an office at Barima-Waini, Region One. “With the continued support and cooperation between the KfW, the MoTP and the PAC, Guyana will move closer towards the Commission’s vision of a world class protected areas system that protects nature and improves lives,” the statement indicated, adding that Guyana has already benefitted from technical and financial support for the development of the NPAS under two phases of the project which are expected to be completed by 2022. It was only recently that the PAC wrapped up its strategic plan for the period 2015-2020. The work of formulating the plan began in December of 2014, and, since then, the comprehensive document has served as a guide or a road map for the PAC to carry out its mission of effectively managing Guyana’s National Protected Areas while ensuring that the sites continue to add value to the lives of present and future generations. The plan also serves as a tool for the PAC to achieve its ambitious vision of crafting a world class National Protected Areas System in Guyana, while contributing towards the conservation of Guyana’s natural heritage. “This plan, which has guided the work of the PAC over the past six years, is due to be reviewed and updated in keeping with more recent developments and any new national policies developed, but will continue to guide PAC’s work until it is replaced,” the Commission said in August 2020. It explained that the current strategic plan sets out the four key strategic areas

of work: administration and management; finances; stakeholder involvement and benefits; awareness, education and outreach. It said too that conducting research and ecological monitoring are key to informing PAC’s management on issues affecting protected areas, as well as likely solutions. “Ecological monitoring programmes have been developed for all of the hinterland protected areas. Planning and adaptive management is also important and related to this is developing various plans such as tourism and infrastructure plans as well as monitoring the effectiveness of National Protected Areas System management activities,” the PAC stated. The establishment of infrastructure and the procurement of equipment are all necessary for effective management of the Protected Areas System. Human resources is also a major area highlighted in the strategic plan and PAC said that it has fully undertaken this task; hiring and training staff, improving administration systems through updating human resource policies, improving planning and reporting systems and improving staff working conditions, motivating staff and building morale. The commission also emphasised the importance of partnerships, such as the one with Germany, in successfully achieving its mandate and vision. “Awareness, education and outreach is another important area of PAC’s strategy and work. Public education efforts have been ongoing with nature camps, school tours, the development of awareness and education material such as brochures and posters,” the commission surmised in a column published in the Guyana Chronicle in August 2020.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, March 8, 2021

National Geographic funding Rupununi project to protect Red Siskins By Telesha Ramnarine THE National Geographic Society (NGS) has agreed to fund a two-year project by the South Rupununi Conservation Society (SRCS) that will help to mitigate threats to the Red Siskin and aid the increase of their population. Last October, President of the SRCS, Leroy Ignacio, applied to National Geographic, a world-renowned and highly esteemed scientific and educational organisation, with a proposal under the ‘Species Recovery Grant.’ The proposal cited a project by SRCS called, “Implementing a Community Based Conservation Management Zone to protect the Red Siskin in the South Rupununi, Guyana.” With approval now granted, the funding will go towards monitoring a community zone that will aid in protection of the Red Siskin. With a decreasing population globally, the Red Siskin is listed as ‘Endangered’ and has already made its way on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List. The project, being rolled out by the SRCS, will see the boundaries and rules of the zone being designed and selected by the local communities found in the Red Siskin range, which are the Shulinab, Potarinau, Sand Creek, Rupunau, Katoonarib and Sawariwau Villages.

The zone will then be monitored by SRCS rangers from the same villages, who will be trained how to properly monitor the region involved, resolve conflicts and communicate with the communities. “We are really happy. SRCS was officially founded in 2002 and after two decades, we are glad to again be taking a positive step to protect the Red Siskin,” Ignacio told the Sunday Chronicle, adding, “The NGS is an incredible and globally well-known organization, so we are delighted to be able to receive funding from them. It is also great for the Red Siskin as although we have been working to protect the species for the past 20 years, the bird is still under threat from trapping and habitat destruction.” The SRCS is hoping that the Community Conservation Zone will be the starting point for the protection of other threatened species, including the Giant Anteater, Giant Armadillo and others. Along the way, such projects would allow for the professional development of the SRCS rangers. “We also hope that the project will bring even more international attention to the Red Siskin and continue to act as a tourist attraction for Guyana,” Ignacio commented. The SRCS wants to be able to successfully complete this project so that it

President of SRCS, Leroy Ignacio

The endangered Red Siskin

Senior Ranger from Rupunau Village, Henry Kaitan shows off a Red Siskin

The Red Siskin has a decreasing global population

may be able to secure more opportunities with National Geographic in the future. “I am delighted that I can now officially call myself a ‘National Geographic Explorer.’ National Geographic

is perhaps the most famous wildlife organisation in the world, so it is a real privilege to receive funding from them,” Ignacio expressed. While he will be the principal investigator for the

project, other team members include Programme Coordinator, Neal Millar; Technical Adviser from the USA, Brian O’Shea; Eian Gray and Erin Earl. There is also the team of more

than 20 Red Siskin rangers from the six communities. The Sustainable Wildlife Management - Programme Guyana will also be supporting the project.

Husband shocked over death of young mother in Essequibo accident THE husband and other relatives of a young woman who was killed in an accident on the Essequibo Coast on Saturday remain in a state of shock, as they try to come to grips with her death. Twenty-eight-year-old Simona Manrai had two children – ages 10 and 7; she died on the Hibernia Public Road, Essequibo Coast at around 13:30h on Saturday after the car she was in crashed into a parked vehicle. The driver of the car is alleged to be her lover; he was identified as Terry Samuels, 23, a Police Constable. Samuels escaped unhurt. This newspaper reported that the policeman was allegedly speeding when he and Simona had a heated argument, and she held onto the steering wheel resulting in his losing control and slamming into the

Dead: Simona Manraj

parked car. Samuels told reporters that he and Simona were heading to Supenaam; he

The car in which the cop and Simona were travelling when the fatal accident occurred

claimed that the argument started after she accused him of being unfaithful. The Constable alleged that Williams

pulled the steering to the left, and that it was while pulling it back to the right that he lost control and crashed into mo-

torcar PPP 4196, which was parked on the eastern parapet. Simona resided with her husband and two children at Windsor Forest, West Coast Demerara, but after her husband, who is a mechanic, left for work in the interior, she moved to her mother’s place at Good Hope, Supenaam; the couple also shared a house behind her mother’s residence in Supenaam. The mother, Yonette Williams, during an interview with this newspaper, said she was shocked to discover that her daughter was having an affair with a policeman. According to Williams, on the day of the accident, Simona left home and her two children under the pretext that she was going to a pharmacy at Anna Regina. “I am quite disturbed over her death. She (Simona) just woke up and was hustling her work when she just left with-

out telling me that she was leaving for Anna Regina,” the distraught mother said. Meanwhile, Simona’s husband, who only identified himself as Manraj, said he last spoke with her around 13:00h on Saturday and she claimed she was heading home. “Is just the other day I was telling her it’s one year since we didn’t have an argument and misunderstanding. I am very loyal to my wife and we have two children. I send $350,000 for her monthly; I can’t believe what I am hearing,” Manraj told this newspaper. They have been married since 2009. Simona’s body is at the Suddie Mortuary awaiting a post mortem examination while Samuels remain under close arrest at the Suddie Police Station.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, March 8, 2021

AMERICAN RACING TIPS Mahoning Valley Race 1 Side Car Race 2 Deniro’Srunforun Race 3 Ku;lp Race 4 Jedi Temple Race 5 South Beach Girl Race 6 Stay Home Race 7 Carmen Ohio SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS Fairview 08:05 hrs Arion Express 08:40 hrs Flying Thunder 09:15 hrs Norfolk Pine 09:50 hrs Fly My Flag 10:30 hrs Ikebana IRISH RACING TIPS Leopardstown 09:20 hrs Gee Rex 09:50 hrs Don Diablo 10:20 hrs Eurotiep 10:55 hrs One Cool Poet 11:30 hrs Hoke Colburn 12:00 hrs Breaken 12:30 hrs It’s Only A Number 13:00 hrs Grand Jury ENGLISH RACING TIPS Southwell 08:30 hrs Faustinovick 10:00 hrs Rockstar Ronnie 10:35 hrs Drakes Well 11:05 hrs Mr Chua 11:40 hrs Opine WETHERBY 08:10 hrs Barrichello 10:45 hrs Dexite 11:15 hrs Hunny Moon 11:50 hrs Oscar Robertson 12:20 hrs Shantou Express 12:50 hrs Eaton Miller 13:20 hrs Del La Mar Rocket WOLVERHAMPTON 12:40 hrs The Hulk 13:10 hrs Seeking Perfection 13:40 hrs Turanga Leela 14:10 hrs Lucky’s Dream 14:40 hrs Jean’s Mate 15:10 hrs Unforgiving Minute 15:40 hrs Channel Packet

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, March 8, 2021

All-round Windies clinch T20 series with easy 3 wicket win WEST Indies romped to an easy 3 wicket win over Sri Lanka but more importantly, clinching the T20 series 2-1, as they shift gears to the next format. Sri Lanka batting first just managed to scrape to 131-4 in their 20 allotted overs. Denish Chandimal rescued and also steadied the ship with 54 off 46 balls after his team endured a horrid start. Support came from Ashen Bandara who’s 35-ball cameo of 44 with 3 fours and a pair of sixes, kept hope alive. West Indies bowling was effective as spinner Kevin Sinclair continued to impress on debut with 1-19 while match MVP Fabian Allen grabbed 1-13 with a wicket each for the seamers Obed Mccoy and Jason Holder. Chasing a low target for victory, the host’s ended on 134-7 thanks to a string of contributions. Openers Lendl Simmons and Evin Lewis hit 26 and 21 respectively to help set the tone. Nicholas Pooran (23) and Allen who finished the game with 21, were the other primary scorers. Spinner Lakshan Sandakan was the pick of the lot for Sri Lanka with 3-29 as pacer Dushmanatha Chameera and P DaSilva claimed 2 wickets apiece in a good but losing effort. Earlier, Chandimal dug his team out of a big hole after having their top 4 removed with the score under

Kevin Sinclair celebrates a wicket, West Indies vs Sri Lanka, 3rd T20I, Coolidge, March 7, 2021 50.

The left-hander and Bandara then launched a counterattack, piling on an unbroken 85-run partner-

ship which further negated any falling of wickets and inevitably took their team to a decent total. (Clifton Ross)

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Monday March 08, 2021) COMPLIMENTS OF XTRA ENERGY DRINK – STABROEK BAZAAR (Tel: 683-9500) CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD- 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Chris Gayle-298 ODI matches (2) Mahela Jayawardene-443 ODI matches

Today’s Quiz:

(1) What was the result of the recent WI/SL T20 International series? (2) Who was voted Man of Series?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, March 8, 2021

President Ali disappointed with lack of COVID-19 safeguards at President’s Cup PRESIDENT Irfaan Ali expressed his disappointment with the organisation and execution of the President’s Cup Softball T20 final which took place yesterday at the Everest Cricket Club ground. The Head of State, who was expected to have made the presentation to the various winners of the competition, left shortly after arriving due to the amount of spectators at the venue and their lackadaisical approach to wearing masks. The President had agreed to be patron of the event, with the assurance that the organisers would adhere to the national COVID-19 guidelines. In total, the President spent approximately 15 minutes at the venue, not before giving the organisers a mouthful about the need to follow protocols. He then made a passionate plea to spectators to follow the required safety guidelines. “I am very disappointed in the way in which we are handling our responsibilities for each other. We all know how difficult it is during this pandemic. When I look around here I must say that I am disappointed with the organisers for allowing the situation where you are exposing each other to this dangerous pandemic. As your President, I love you and I care about you. I cannot be in an environment like this and see you expose yourself in this manner and allow you to do it.” During his speech, the Head of State also told the organisers that they have a responsibility to follow the rules that are in place or to face the consequences of their action. Before departing the venue, the President asked the spectators to think about their communities, their families and themselves during these times. “Please correct the situation by wearing a mask and following the COVID-19 guidelines.” After the President left, organisers decided to call off the run chase of the Open final and to declare Speedboat and Regal All Star as joint winners. Earlier Regal and won the Over40 and the Over50 divisions.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, March 8, 2021

Smith; Reifer among those named in WI Best v Best squads –– Guyanese Smith, Permaul among selectees

SEVERAL of the outstanding performers in the recent series triumph in Bangladesh will be back in action as the West Indies prepare for their Test series versus the Sri Lankans. The occasion will be the “Best v Best” fourday match at the Coolidge Cricket Ground, starting on today at 10:00h (9am Jamaica Time). The match will be played under the Test match regulations with a minimum of 90 overs per day as West Indies look to finetune their preparations for the two-Test series against the visiting Sri Lankans. Kraigg Brathwaite, who led the team expertly in the two wins in Chattogram and Dhaka, and Rahkeem Cornwall, who bowled immaculately in both matches, are eager to continue the good work, and get even better. The upcoming Tests will be played at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, which for Cornwall will be a childhood dream come true. “We had a great series in Bangladesh and I’m

Guyana Jaguars All-rounder Raymon Reifer in the nets as cousin Floyd Reifer watches on from the background looking forward to this upcoming series against Sri Lanka. To beat then on their home turf was great. We worked really hard to get those two wins. It’s a great feeling when you win! Test cricket is hard and you feel a great deal of satisfaction and enjoyment when you get the best results,” Cornwall said. “We have been putting in a lot of work in the nets as part of the preparation and this match, starting Monday with the ‘best v best’ will be the ideal kind of start we need. I have

been looking forward to it for a very long time.” Brathwaite was the mastermind behind the great wins. The first was a miraculous triumph by three wickets, followed 10 days later by an equally magnificent display as they won by 17 runs. Now, he is looking ahead to the home series with great expectations. The West Indies last Test series at home was against India in August to September, 2019. “Going forward to the Sri Lanka series, it’s key or us to keep that same

attitude we have in Bangladesh. That attitude started from the training and caried over into the games on the field. I thought how we got to the result was the keep, we have to maintain that discipline and that mindset. This ‘Best v Best’ game is something I’m really looking forward to. A number of the payers will be looking to get some good performances. It’s the right kind of preparations going into a Test series,” Brathwaite said. Squad “A”: Kraigg Brathwite (captain), Shamarh Brooks, Rahkeem Cornwall, Joshua Da Silva, Derval Green, Keon Harding, Shimron Hetmyer, Kavem Hodge, Paul Palmer jr, Veerasammy Permaul, Kieran Powell, Preston McSween, Jayden Seales. Squad “B”: Roston Chase (captain), Sunil Ambris, Nkrumah Bonner, Jermaine Blackwood, John Campbell, Jahmar Hamilton, Chemar Holder, Imran Khan, Marquino Mindley, Shayne Moseley, Raymon Reifer, Nial Smith, Jomel Warrican. Umpires: Patrick Gustard, Carl Tuckett

Golf creates great impact with Schools Pilot Programme THE pandemic effect caused every sport in the world to be put on pause and while some have found a way back under restrictions of COVID-19, some have not had the chance to recommence regular activities. Locally, there have been more dormant sporting disciplines than active ones because the risk of spreading the virus remains too menacing. However, Golf has found its way back with regular tournaments and has even made a bold step to integrate the sport into schools. With the elder classes in high school being resumed, Golf has safely made its way into extra-curricular activities for several schools across the country and has had a tremendous welcome by the both male and female student athletes. As such, the first ever Inter-Schools

Golf championships got off to an impressive start this week with five secondary schools participating from Berbice, Linden, Essequibo, East Coast Demerara and West Coast Demerara. The joint project between the Ministry of Education Allied Arts Unit and the Guyana Golf Association has seen amazing results in a short time as hundreds of students have been given a chance to play a sport that was only seen on television. Corporate sponsors who have thrown their support behind the development of Golf in Guyana include Assuria General Insurance, Copa Airlines, Trophy Stall, AR Printery and Nexgen Global Marketing. This pilot program that is intended to train students who wish to write Golf as a sport elective in CSEC/CAPE, is set to expand to as many as 90 secondary schools

by end of 2021 and has seen tremendous progress in Linden where a full training program is scheduled for March 10. During the past week, over 200 new and dedicated players, tried out for the school teams resulting in teams of 10 (boys and girls) earning the right to represent their respective schools. Some even had to endure tough playoffs for a spot on the rooster. Leading the way was Berbice Educational Institute which produced the two highest individual scores with Subrina Balgobin and Delton Cassiano outscoring all players to take the top honors for boys and girls in the qualifiers. Friday saw the teams compete under covid-19 guidelines in their own areas under strict monitoring, with results being sent to Allied Arts Unit where totals were tallied and the winners determined for currently,

Guyana’s fastest growing school sports programme. Those results will be released shortly. According to the Physical Education teachers, the interest level for Golf is so high that this is the first time that they have not had to recruit students for a new sport programme but have been bombarded with requests to participate. Osafa Dos Santos of Berbice Educational Institute said, “What is unexpected is that the girls are dominating and that makes the guys so mad that they try harder. It’s a lot of fun and excitement every time we get together.” Similar reactions were seen in Anna Regina Multilateral, Leonora Secondary, Wismar Secondary and President’s College as they launched their programme over the past few months.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, March 8, 2021

President’s T20 League…

COVID-19 breaches force anti-climax end –– Regal Masters and Legends claims title

By Rajiv Bisnauth THE Georgetown Softball Cricket League (GSCL) Incorporated, President’s T20 Softball three-day League ended in an anti-climactic fashion, after organisers were forced to called off the Open final, due to spectators failing to adhere to the COVID-19 guidelines. Regal All Stars were 17 were 10-2, chasing 117 for victory over Speedboat in the open final when the tournament was called off. Organizers later decided that both Regal All-Stars and Speedboat would be joint- champions; both teams receiving $600,000. Meanwhile, Regal’s resounding victories in the Masters’ and Legends’ categories, not only suggested a quantum leap in performance, but they have stamp their authority undoubtedly as the best two softball teams locally. The two teams, Masters’ and Legends’, enhanced their reputation as the major force in softball cricket after they found glorious realisation yes-

terday, winning the two titles when the two finals concluded just before 13:00hrs. In the Masters final, led by a stroke-filled unbeaten half-century from Richard Latif and Ejaz Mohammed, Regal Masters easily disposed of Wellman Masters by nine wickets and 5.3 overs to spear. The duo shared an unbroken second-wicket stand of 148. Latif struck seven fours and similar amount of sixes in his unbeaten 84, while Mohammed hit five sixes and a four in his unbeaten 54,

as Regal Masters chased done the winning target of 147 with ease. Earlier, a completed bowling effort from the winners ensured they restricted their opponents to 146-6. Greg Defranca made 61. Mohamed Ayume had 2-39, as Regal Masters collected $500,000. In the Legends final, Regal beat Parika Defenders by eight wickets. Parika Defenders reached 66-8 in their 20 overs. In the run chase Regal Legends reached 69-2 in 13.1 overs.

Regal maters

Fabian Allen leaps in joy, West Indies vs Sri Lanka, 3rd T20I, Coolidge, March 7, 2021

President Ali disappointed with lack of COVID-19 safeguards at President’s Cup See story on page 22

All-round Windies clinch T20 series with See story easy 3 wicket win on page 20

President Irfaan Ali addressing the crowd at the final.

President’s T20 League…

COVID-19 breaches force anti-climax end –– Regal Masters and Legends claims title See story on page 23

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SUNDAY, MARCH 8, 2021