Issuu

12th April, 2020

Happy Easter to all Guyanese No.105967

President David Granger

COVID-19 cases now at 45 ...China to donate over 30,000 masks, ventilators â€ŚPrivate institutions given go ahead to conduct test

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â€ŚPresident says Guyana getting better in fight against disease

What global recession could mean for Guyana

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Woman strangled, dumped in barrel

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PPDI signs new threeyear pact with GPL

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----new deal guarantees PPDI a 4.8% increase in fees

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, April 12, 2020

COVID-19 cases now at 45

…President says Guyana getting better in fight against disease

As of Saturday some 45 persons have been tested positive for COVID-19 with the number of deaths remaining at six, the Ministry of Public Health has said. And President David Granger said Guyana is better equipping itself to combat the deadly coronavirus disease (COVID-19), which to date has claimed the lives of over 107,000 persons globally. “We are becoming better prepared to provide proper personal protective equipment for the medical staff doing the testing and treatment tests and the materials and equipment such as beds, respirators and ventilators for those who become critically afflicted. The capacity for infrastructural and institutional accommodation is being expanded,” the Head of State announced on Saturday in an address to the nation. In its daily update, the Health Ministry revealed that to date, 193 persons were tested for COVID-19. There are currently 31 persons in institutional isolation and 13 in institutional quarantine. Meanwhile, President Granger in an address to the nation Saturday evening said Guyana is in line to receive approximately 30,000 masks, a number of ventilators and other medical equipment from the People’s Republic of China as it ups its fight against COVID-19. Added to that, the country has turned to the

Government of India for financial assistance. According to President Granger, the fight requires unprecedented expenditure and outlay of resources to enable identification and testing, isolation, protection and treatment. These added resources will complement systems already in place to suppress the spread of the virus and provide appropriate medical attention. Saturday (April 11) marked one month since COVID-19 claimed the life of the first Guyanese here. The woman – 52-year-old Ratna Baboolall -- had returned to Guyana from the United States days before she succumbed. Since then, the number of recorded cases and deaths have increased. “Six Guyanese have now died, 45 have been confirmed as having been infected, 31 are in isolation, 13 are in quarantine and eight persons have since recovered,” the President said as he took stock of the situation. The Head of State said he was pleased to have learnt of the recovery of the eight persons who had initially tested positive for the disease. “I wish the other infected persons a speedy and complete recovery,” he said. COVID-19, President Granger said, is a “pernicious” killer which has launched a vicious attack on mankind globally, regardless of race, region, religion, or economic status and Guyana has not been

President David Granger

spared. Though the government through the Ministry of Public Health is in consultation with the Pan American Health Organisation/World Health Organisation (PAHO/WHO), has initiated a number of measures to safeguard the well-being of its people, the President acknowledged that the journey ahead remains a difficult one. While persons who become ill should have access to the best care in the shortest possible time to ensure their recovery and rehabilitation, President Granger said understandably, the national focus is on those who have been infected and afflicted. As the country wages war

against the deadly disease, the Head of State said the efforts of the country’s frontline workers, in particular those within the medical field, should not go unnoticed. “I ask you, however, to think tenderly of our public health professionals and service providers, that is to say, our doctors, nurses, respiratory therapists and all other supporting staff – medical and non-medical – who are providing the required care for those in distress. Public health practitioners are on the front line of protecting those stricken by the disease. They have been working tirelessly through this very difficult situation to provide quality healthcare to

those who have been infected and afflicted. Everyone in the public health system has played a vital part in the fight against this disease,” he said. He said while the public has been instructed to ‘stay at home’, in physical isolation, the country’s health professionals are required to leave their homes and families, daily, to work in the health centres, hospitals quarantine stations and other institutions as they do their part to combat the disease. “Every day they report for duty to work in conditions that could be dangerous to their own health and safety. Let us all think about these public servants and employees in private institutions who are putting their lives on the line. We all should ponder their personal, physical, psychological and emotional needs and that, day after day, they are pressed beyond measure to deal with so much human suffering. We should not take their service for granted,” he said. The President called on all Guyanese to continue to support the country’s frontline workers as they execute their duties. “They are the sinews of our health services. We must protect and respect them. We are eternally grateful for their exertions during these trying times. Their dedication is valued,” he posited. The President was however keen on noting that the

public health system and medical staff cannot overcome this disease on their own; everyone must play their part. As such, he challenged the people of Guyana to adhere to the emergency measures which have been promulgated by the Ministry of Public Health and published by the government in the Official Gazette. “I iterate the need for all citizens, in all parts of the country, to adopt the advisories, especially: avoidance of leaving home; avoidance of gatherings of more than five persons; avoidance of visiting sick persons; avoidance of touching other persons; avoidance of coughing and sneezing in the presence of other persons; avoidance of touching parts of your own faces; and adoption of the habit of washing of hands frequently and thoroughly in water,” the President urged. He also used the platform to encourage Guyanese to join him in prayers from the comfort of their homes at this sacred Easter festival for the safety and well-being of the unsung doctors and nurses and other health workers. To the families who have lost relatives to COVID-19, the President and Government of Guyana extend sincere sympathy. Globally, there are more than 1.7M recorded cases of COVID-19.

Gov’t considering vouchers in lieu of hampers as social relief -PM says over 5,000 hampers distributed so far to vulnerable communities

By Navendra Seoraj GOVERNMENT is considering the distribution of vouchers as social relief to vulnerable persons, at a time when Guyana continues to face the effects of the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Government through the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) has so far distributed close to 5,000 hampers containing essential food supplies to vulnerable communities on the coastland and in the hinterland, but there have been recommendations to distribute vouchers instead. “There have been representations that not everybody would like a hamper or would not be able to take a hamper a far distance… as you may have noticed the hampers are bulky and heavy,” said Head of the National COVID-19 Task Force, Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo during a virtual press briefing on Saturday. As an alternative, government is considering a voucher which

will be equivalent to the total cost of one hamper. It was said that each hamper carries an estimated $30,000 worth of sanitisation materials and food supplies. “If you take the voucher to a shopping centre they would not give you a TV, they would give you what is in the scope of the voucher...so that has been proposed and it is one of the matters receiving attention, because it is easier to do cash transfers instead of fetching bulk to far distances,” said the prime minister. Despite the new recommendation, Prime Minister Nagamootoo said the hamper distribution has been going well and has reached the doors of many persons who live in vulnerable communities. The CDC has even made a request for additional supplies to continue the exercise. The current stock has not been completely depleted, but the CDC sought to make a request for more, especially now that they are conducting an impact assessment of distribution exercise to ensure that it was done

equitably. Prime Minister Nagamootoo said the persons who have benefitted are from vulnerable sections of Guyana and were identified through the Guyana Bureau of Statistics, the Ministry of Social Protection and the Ministry of Communities. The effort itself was, however, supported by the Salvation Army, the Guyana Defence Force, the business community and other stakeholders. “We are very grateful for the private citizens and companies that stepped forward and assisted with hampers. Companies donated rice, pharmaceuticals, sanitary facilities, and GWI provided water to certain institutions…these were done voluntarily and generously,” said the prime minister, adding that one company even donated an emergency vehicle, which he said will definitely improve the capacity of the health authorities. Director-General of the CDC, Lt Col Kester Craig, in a recent report, had said citizens across the

country require assistance in these challenging times. “Personnel from the CDC, the Rotary and Rotaract clubs, several other organisations and the military were mobilised to ensure that we provide relief supplies to those in need,” said Craig. Lt Col Craig further noted that focus is being first placed on the most vulnerable population and then other communities so that everyone receives his/her supplies. Craig noted that this being the first such exercise of this nature conducted in Guyana, it will be evaluated to ensure that, going forward, the distribution process will continue to flow smoothly. The CDC heads the National Emergency Operation Centre (NEOC) which was activated on March 31, 2020, and aims to ensure the highest level of collaboration among all stakeholders to further prevent the spread of the coronavirus, enhance preparation and strengthen the local response to this global pandemic. Some of the agencies working

along with the NEOC include the Ministry of Communities, Food For The Poor, the Private Sector Commission, the United Nations, the National Commission on Disabilities Guyana, the National Bureau of Statistics and the Guyana Defence Force. The director-general said the commission welcomes assistance and donations from companies or individuals who are willing to join the cause. Donations can be made in the form of food supplies, personal care and sanitation supplies and financing. Supplies can be delivered to the CDC’s headquarters, Thomas Road, Thomas Lands; cash or cheque deposits can be made to the commission’s Republic Bank account number 962356519938. Food and hygiene supplies can be dropped off at the Thomas Lands location daily between 09:00hrs and 15:00hrs.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE April 12, 2020

Easter – a symbol of hope that COVID-19 will be overcome – President Granger

Sunday, April 12, 08:00hrs - 09:30hrs

EASTER – the celebration of Jesus’ resurrection – is a symbol of hope that the people of Guyana will overcome the novel coronavirus – (COVID-19), President David Granger said, but cautioned that the disease can only be defeated if Guyanese are responsible in their actions. To date, there are more than 1.7M confirmed cases of COVID-19 globally, with the death toll surpassing 107,000. Here in Guyana, as of April 10, there were 40 confirmed cases and six COVID-19 related deaths. For President Granger, Easter brings new hope that the tides will soon turn for the better. “Easter reignites hope that the Guyanese people can, and will, overcome the COVID-19 coronavirus disease,” the Head of State said in his address to the nation in observance of Easter. However, he said that it is important for all and sundry to act responsibly in the days ahead, by complying with the public health directives which are intended to suppress the spread of the deadly virus. The measures include physical and social distancing and a total ban on social activities. Traditionally, in Guyana, Guyanese fly kites in remembrance of the resurrection of Christ, however, this time around, they are asked to remain indoors. “Easter this year, when kites should have been soaring in Guyanese skies

and when families should have been outdoors picnicking and socialising with friends, most of us will remain indoors. Except for our country’s doctors, nurses and medical personnel and police officers and those involved in essential services; most of us will remain at home and in a subdued and reflective mood because of the threat of the formidable COVID-19 coronavirus disease,” the President said as he iterated the need to adhere to the preventative measures put in place by the Ministry of Public Health. “The disease will prevail only if we lose hope and only if we fail to act responsibly. We must not submit to despair,” President Granger underscored. Meanwhile, further reflecting on the Christian observance, the Head of State reminded that Easter – a celebration of hope – is also a symbol of the triumph of Jesus’ life over death. “It reasserts the power of hope over fear and that the dawn of daylight will come at the end of the darkest night,” he posited. He added: “Easter is the most sacred Christian festival. It celebrates Jesus’s resurrection – the most important event in Christianity – which is the core of Jesus’s message, ministry and mission on earth. The Holy Gospel recounts Jesus’s betrayal, arrest, trial, suffering, crucifixion, burial and glorious resurrection. It commem-

President David Granger orates, also, the promise of the redemption of mankind through the sacrifice of his life.” President Granger noted that Jesus’ death was a source of great anguish for his disciples, who were plunged into deep despondency. “The promises of his ministry on earth seemed to be doomed; hopes were dashed; the prospects of proselytising the Gentiles were halted. Jesus’ miraculous resurrection on the third day, at Easter, dispelled the darkness of despair and doubt. It reignited hope for the devout,” the Head of State said. Noting that Easter reassures the world that hope is inextinguishable, President Granger said it underlines the importance of being each other’s keeper.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, April 12, 2020

Yes to a full recount! No to PPP’s bullyism! IT IS difficult to remain quiet in the face of attempts at rank manipulation of the Guyanese people by the PPP. Why does the PPP continue to believe that Guyanese are dumb? Why do they continue to insult our intelligence? How can you present your party as a potential government while disregarding the basic tenets of civilised political behaviour? How can you declare yourself the winner of an election, the results of which you are challenging? It is obvious now that the PPP is bent on derailing the electoral process. The recent decision by GECOM to pursue a recount, which was agreed to by the PPP, President Granger, and member parties of the ‘Coalition’ has brought this out into the open. The PPP agreed to a full recount of the votes cast, and to do so in chronological order, beginning with Region One. They told the world that they have nothing to

hide, and that a full recount would vindicate them. The GECOM chair believed them; the courts believed them. Many prominent citizens believed them. Even though the legality of the recount may not hold sway in an exhaustive judicial review, many supported it, out of a desire to put the conflict over the elections result to rest. But as soon as the court cleared the way for the recount, the PPP began to sing a different tune; it started to back-pedal on everything it agreed to. Suddenly, they only want to count the ballots in Region Four, and have asked for the boxes of the other regions to be excluded. This is nothing short of trickery. Why do they fear a full recount? One can only conclude that because the process in those regions have been so manipulated by the PPP, they fear that this would be exposed by a full and comprehensive recount. The PPP has, therefore, decided to undermine the recount. They

are trying to get GECOM to rush the process, as a means of hiding their deeds. But nothing short of a full and transparent count would suffice. If, as the PPP is claiming, democracy is at stake, then let the recount be a democratic exercise that zeroes in on every aspect of the election, from the voters list to the very end. A serious party cannot make the charge of rigging, and then turn its back on a full review of the election. The PPP is playing games with Guyanese; they want to identify a stop sign along the way, and use that to conclude that the elections were rigged. And what is their evidence? It is a set of Statements of Poll which are in their possession. Since when the SOPs of one contestant becomes the proof of a fair election? But the PPP has sold that tainted narrative to its supporters, and to the international community. We should not sit idly by and allow these people to assault our

intelligence. How can a party that cheated the Guyanese people for 23 years get to decide who are cheats? Since the PPP has put us on the path of a recount, then let’s recount everything in each box. The PPP wants to remove some GECOM officials from the process, and replace them with their friends. Such absurdity should not even be considered. Does this country and its institutions belong to the imperial PPP? Are we now a monarchy, where one group of people sit atop a throne and dictate to the rest of us? No! We broke with that 50 years ago! Let the PPP know that Guyana belongs to all its peoples, regardless of political loyalties. After GECOM’s CEO, Mr. Lowenfeild, produced the timeline to match the PPP’s commissioners’ request, they promptly disassociated themselves from it. They told the country that the CEO is a “mad-man”, who is intent on using delaying tactics to benefit the ‘Coa-

lition’. It was left to Commissioner Alexander to tell the truth to the public. Maybe all those who rushed to condemn the CEO should now apologise to him. Why do we allow the PPP to constantly manipulate us in such a ridiculous manner? This publication stands on the side of what is best for Guyana. If a recount is necessary, then it must be conducted by GECOM, without any undue interference. Our Appeal Court made it abundantly clear that GECOM’s powers cannot be outsourced or usurped. That is how it should be. The PPP is a contestant; it represents a substantial section of the electorate. But that does not mean that it holds veto powers over the rest of Guyana. As such, GECOM should not allow itself to be bullied by the PPP. Yes to a full recount! No to PPP’s bullyism and trickery!

There is no ‘Lowenfield proposal’ Dear Editor, THE reality of Good Friday and the restrictions imposed in the interest of mitigating COVID-19 have given me the latitude to pay more than usual attention to comments in the Media about GECOM, and, in this instance about Lowenfield, per se, in relation to the “Lowenfield proposal” of 156 days for the Recount. In that regard, I wish to make the following comments. 1. There is no “Lowenfield proposal”. From the very inception, the CEO, Lowenfield, was pellucid that since the Recount is to be undertaken under the authority vested in GECOM by Article 162 of the Constitution, and Section 22 of the Elections Laws (Amendment) Act, which do not specify procedures for a Recount, he would be relying on “guidance” from the Commission with regard to the manner of conduct of what he termed, “a Commission Recount”. It is in that regard that the document, which the Commission

directed the CEO to prepare, was responsive to written submissions from Commissioners, and their oral guidance, both of which were provided. In those submissions, Commissioner Benn proposed the following: i. “Two (2) paired Commissioner must initial the recount Statement of Poll.”(Sic). ii. “Two (2) paired Commissioner to sign accepted Tabulation Forms.” (Sic). It is that articulation, given that there can only be three sets of paired Commissioners, which caused the proposal to suggest the use of only three workstations. The CEO may have misunderstood Benn’s proposal, however, he should not be lambasted, as if he originated the idea of three workstations. More so, since the document was a working/draft document, and Commissioner Benn clarified the apparent misunderstanding for consideration in the furtherance of the finaliation of the document. 2. The document did not benefit from detailed discussions, since Commissioner Gunraj, almost preemptively, sought permission to prepare another version, which he

subsequently submitted as a joint document of Gunraj/Benn/Shadick, now acclaimed as a PPP/C submission. Permission was granted. It was, therefore, disingenuous and unethical for Commissioners to take to the Media, as if Lowenfield had conjured some plot to have the Recount done in 156 days. His premise was based on Benn’s submission, and on an estimation that each box would take approximately two hours to be recounted. The antagonistic Commissioners again, disingenuously, argued that it took one night to do the original count, and juxtaposed that to “Lownfield’s” 156 days. The fact is that “Lowenfield’s” 156 days is equivalent to 1560 hours of a sequential process, as opposed to the Election Night’s 2339 simultaneous counts, that would have taken 2339 hours, if one hour, on average, as is now being touted, is attributed to each count. There could be nothing short of mischief for Commissioners to cast aspersions on a 1560 hours sequential count, juxtaposed to the E-Day’s 2339 hours of simultaneous/lateral counts.

3. It should be noted that the entire Commission suggested five workstations for the CARICOM-supervised Recount, and conceded that four would have been undertaken. That, too, would have influenced the “Lowenfield proposal”, since no operational difference is envisaged, including some form of CARICOM involvement. The instigated conclusion of the public and personal ridicule of Lowefield in person are grossly mis-and-ill-informed. The Commissioners’ ridicule is at least malicious, albeit that Commissioner Gunraj grudgingly admitted that the proposal may have been influenced, in part and fundamentally, by Benn’s submission. There may be all sorts of criticisms of Lowenfield and GECOM, but the latest is unfounded, ridiculous and malicious. Yours Truly, Vincent Alexander Commissioner

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, April 12, 2020

Ingratitude is worse than witchcraft

Dear Sir,

WHEN I was growing up in ‘Packoo Dam’, aka Wortmanville, my grandmother, ‘Clar-Clar’, often told me that "ingratitude was worse than witchcraft…" She said that when you are ungrateful it shows a lack of training or as she says upbringing. It was her duty she claimed to au faith me about the ungrateful sycophants and the putty knives that patrol the conclave of politics in this land. Oh, how I wish she was alive now to see the knives, she warned me about for herself. In 1985 the best Politician ever in this country passed away. His death left a chasm in Guyana politics. Over the years he had tried and done everything to force Guyanese off their complacent asses, " TO DO FOR THEMSELVES." He was trying to extricate us from under the thumbs of the manufacturers representatives from other countries. Since we were the bi-lings of the world. Unfortunately for Guyana however, the man who succeeded him was himself destined for China as an ambassador; which will give you a good understanding of how the deceased leader had thought of the new leader's political knowledge and administrative skills. By Christmas 1985, with the Republic basking in its own food, and showing mass improvement, we were unceremoniously wrenched back into the folds of the manufacturers representatives, which of course pleased the international community and a few mercenaries right here. Yes,

would you believe, (we got grapes, ice apples and even wall nuts). The new leader opened his arms wide to a particular people, while tearing down our past achievements and stomping then to death. In 1985 Guyana had one daily newspaper (the Chronicle) that was an asset, however the leader was not astute enough to see that as an advantage in the political struggle that is Guyana. But in 1986 on Peter Rose street in Georgetown a new baby was being born, the name "Stabroek News." The HATED PNC and their leader were overjoyed to welcome the new baby. They were the wet nurses and midwives they gave it succor and pampered its growth, as it grew from strength to strength. To date the hated PNC was not even given a thank you note. In 1997 after a lady politician (during a political dispute) ignored the courts order, and to prove how bad she was with her entourage as back up, threw the order over her shoulder in full view of the Marshals of the courts; who stood with their hands between their legs. This to hell with you attitude ushered in the "slow fya,mo fya" demonstrations. During that period Stabroek views savaged the hand that gave it succor and revealed the side of the fence they preferred. Their editorial and general reporting waged and insulting war against black people that reached the max. They wrote about black people as if they had no right to be in this country. In other words, they are interlopers. The adjectives they used to describe these

people, and events were way below the pale, and they have not relented since.. It is quite obvious that the rich people meet every morning, to strategize about how the rag can angle its daily coverage to advance the PPP political agenda. Which is attack, attach, and attach again and lie, often and repeated times and it will eventually turn into the truth. In their September 19/2019 page one comment, they said, "the only person to be blamed for this is President Granger for refusing to abide by the clear outcome of the motion of no confidence against the Government on December 21 and mounting FECKLESS legal challenges." Thursday 9th March: "What it is, is a blatant and crude attempt to subvert the March 2 elections. Senior officials of GECOM began a treacherous campaign to steal the elections." Thursday 9th April: "Senior officials of GECOM began a treacherous campaign to steal the elections from the PEOPLE, by bastardizing then aborting the count of district 4." A voice out of the Corentyne said: " Justice Singh has totally abdicated her responsibilities or she does not know her job." It must be remembered that the Stabroek Views is the gift that continues giving. Some years ago on my return to Guyana, I stopped at the Stabroek and had a cordial conversation with the Editor Mr Persaud (I hope he remembers that). We spoke about writings briefly, but politics and the

running of the country was our focus. After listening to him giving A's to his neighbors ability to run the country, he gushed so much about the leader, that I got the impression that he was talking about the dude who had walked on water eons ago. After our discussion I realized it was going to be a long haul for black people. A couple of Saturdays ago (before the curfew) I attended the funeral of a colleague in Buxton. Though it was a sad affair, it was nice for me because I got to see so many villagers, who knew me and knew about father's strong relationship with Mr Jimmy Willis, a structure of Buxton. I played in uncle Jimmy's yard, drank as much of his coconut water, and listened to him, as he related the history of the village, and how it got, its name. The discussions during the repast however was about the present political impasse. As I listened I realized how much they missed "fat boy" their name for Mr Burnham. The despicable acts that accrued during the past twenty three years, would not have happen during fat boy time. The names that they ticked off that would be languishing at Sibley Hall brought gales of laughter. However to a man and woman they confessed their love for this dear land, and promised to await the President's directions. Yours Faithfully Milton Bruce.

Safeguarding ethical procedures for COVID-19

Dear Editor,

The Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA) yesterday addressed a letter to the Minister of Health setting out concerns over certain measures adopted with respect to testing, confidentiality and decision-making around the Covid-19 virus. The substance of the letter is set out below. After acknowledging its appreciation for the Minister’s response to an earlier GHRA press release, the GHRA re-iterated its awareness that “the over-all goal of keeping Guyana as safe as possible from the Covid-19 virus may entail restrictions on movements and lifestyles as well as administrative procedures which would not be acceptable in normal circumstances. Notwithstanding, we wish to bring to your attention the following concerns which were received by the GHRA in the form of complaints “ “CONFIDENTIALITY OF TESTING PROCEDURES In normal circumstances we understand that approval for medical tests lies with the examining physician or the management team of which s/he is a part. Similarly, test results are returned directly to the physician or managing team from the lab. At no point in the process is personal medical information shared with non-medical staff. This procedure has been varied in two important ways with respect to Covid-19. We understand that now the decision over whether a test should be performed no longer rests with the medical management team and, secondly, that the results of the test are sent directly to yourself, as Minister, rather than to the

physician/management team. These changes result in personal information becoming available to non-medical decision-makers and constitutes a breach of confidentiality. While you have given assurances that test results getting to the management team are not delayed as a result of the new procedure, the need for this new arrangement has not been adequately explained or justified. A related consideration is that persons presenting themselves for tests have every right to expect the confidentiality of their personal details being respected i.e. only available to relevant medical personnel.” The letter addressed the importance of maintaining clear distinctions of decision-making authority between medical staff and policy-makers. “While priorities can be set by policy-makers, decisions over the use of scarce equipment and supplies must ultimately be a medical rather than a political responsibility. Inserting a layer of political decision-making into this long-respected arrangement is a recipe for serious dislocation even in normal times. It is particularly hazardous in the midst of a crisis, when the medical community is under the unprecedented stress of Covid-19.”

QUARANTINE PROCEDURES The letter raised concerns over the implementation of quarantine procedures which the GHRA believes are not well understood. “They are perceived as authoritarian, and inclined to create panic and suspicion, an impression created by the inhumane manner in which the early cases were quarantined. It is important that such restrictions be proportionate to needs and applied evenly, reasonably and ultimately under medical rather

than security authority. The rules and procedures should also, to the extent possible, be self-evidently justified.” “Furthermore, strategies employed to confront the pandemic are not immune from the pall of suspicion and uncertainty pervading the national life over the unresolved results of national elections. The manner in which this context will impact on people’s decisions as to where and how to reveal their symptoms must be taken into account. For this reason alone it would be incumbent to ensure that medical and political decision-making paths be as transparent as possible.” The letter ends by encouraging strategies in which all people feel confident to approach health services. “The over-all goal is surely to create as conducive an atmosphere as possible, in which potential cases of Covid-19 are not discouraged from revealing their symptoms or presenting for treatment until they are seriously in need of medical care and possibly infecting others. Similarly, it is important that the medical community feel themselves validated by and enjoy the confidence of the political authorities and seen to do so by the population at large.” In concluding the letter the GHRA requested that procedures adopted for Covid-19 “continue to be informed by guidance from WHO/ PAHO while also reflecting the realities of life in Guyana at the present time.” Regards, Executive Committee Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA)

Jagdeo has been using a populist stance --to castigate American corporations such as ExxonMobil Dear Editor, ATTEMPTS are being fostered into paving the way of a digital coup d'etat in favour of the PPP. In a letter signed by Melinda Janki, Hinds, Gaskin, Goolsaran, et al, declarations have been announced that they do not recognise President David Granger as the Head of State. First, these types of letters are being used to push the PPP-Mercury narrative. Furthermore, Melinda Janki is an environmental activist who prefers to see the oil left in the sea, while the rest are either disgruntled political candidates, or PPP-aligned activists. Additionally, by the same token, prominent letter-writers have lamented that American corporations such as ExxonMobil have not assisted Guyanese in any way, with regard to the COVID-19 crisis. They are using the anti-colonial lens to claim that American companies are not doing their part to help, while scaring investors away with the PPP-Mercury propaganda. How hypocritical! Bharrat Jagdeo has been using a populist stance to castigate American corporations such as ExxonMobil; this is also evident when political candidate, Mr. Robert Badal used inflammatory Trumpian rhetoric when asked by Channel 67 of his views on the American hotel investments which were arranged with the help, patriotism and expertise of Mr. Edmund Braithwaite. However, the PPP and their supporters are on social media begging American politicians and Members of Congress to implement sanctions, and even military invasions of Guyana. This is another hypocrisy, because if one is populist, the last thing they would beg for is to have their country end up like a modern Venezuela or Syria, and end up creating a refugee crisis. This is like the racist American man disparaging Mexican immigrants while living in a gated community in Mexico. It's hypocrisy of the finest grade. In my opinion, the PPP and their supporters, including the critics have a deep-seated resentment against President David Granger. They will do anything to make him surrender his job, because they do not have reconciliation and tolerance at heart. Their eyes are set on the oil reserves that they intend to use for themselves while excluding the rest of the population. The PPP is not doing these extreme measures for democracy of any kind. This is the reason why they are on the route to self-destruction and hypocrisy when they do not get it their way. Whom the Gods wish to destroy, they first make mad. Regards, Riaz Hamid

SUNDAY CHRONICLE April 12, 2020

RESTRICTIONS AND RECOUNT OUR Guyanese people deserve a round of applause for almost faithful observance of restrictive measures, as the nation buckles down for the fight against the coronavirus. At the time of writing, 45 persons have tested positive, six of whom have died. Compared to confirmed cases in some 183 other countries, these statistics for Guyana are on the low side. However, any relaxation of the strict containment measures could see a dramatic, over-night rise in both the infection rate and the number of deaths. Our first case was imported from Queens in the Big Apple, where already close to 45 Guyanese nationals have died. Among them are two well-known tycoons in the airline industry - Billy Braithwaite and Jim Bacchus. MASS GRAVE In all, over 20,000 persons have died in the United States, out of which figure some 8,000 were from New York where a mass grave has been dug in the middle of Hartland Park. There, in make-shift boxes, would be buried the bodies of persons who have neither been identified nor claimed by their relatives. In the United States, the confirmed cases have climbed close to 600,000, of which some 160,000 are from New York. I am giving the New York situation not to scare Guyanese at home, but to show how rapidly this contagion could spread, if strict measures are not in place to contain the virus. Among these measures are simple hygiene protocols such as keeping our hands clean, wearing masks and keeping a safe distance from other persons. Unconfirmed estimates could account for over 300,000 persons of Guyanese origin living in the tri-borough New York state. All of us empathise with Guyanese who want to return home, some of whom might be legitimately

stranded whilst on vacation or on business. However, our airspace remains closed to incoming international flights until May 2. Should the restriction be lifted, as is being advocated by some, Guyana could quickly have an inflow of between 2,000 and 5,000 persons. Possibly more. Upon their return all of them have to be screened, placed in quarantine and tested. Some of them might possibly be hospitalized. Such inflow at this time would be enough to overwhelm and literally kill our health care system. STAY PUT It is with this in view that, while Guyanese are making great efforts at social distancing, and sacrificing the pleasures of fetes and flying kites on Easter today and tomorrow, that concerns are being expressed against the door being thrown wide open to persons returning from overseas locations where the coronavirus disease has been wreaking havoc. So Guyanese overseas have to stay put for a while longer, until the spread of the disease is contained in Guyana. With the spirit of Easter pervading our society, there is resurrection of hope that we would beat this devil; and that our people at home would not be locked down indefinitely; and that our Guyanese compatriots would not be locked out for much longer. But the restrictive atmosphere is due not only to the coronavirus. It is compounded by the political gridlock within which Guyana has been confined since the March 2 elections. While the virus instils fear in us, the political crisis brings uncertainty. We fight the former with health safety precautions. But the latter needs a whole bundle of legal and constitutional remedies. In an aside comment, President Granger noted that we are caught up by a set of Cs – the Constitution, the Commission and the Courts.

All three have been triggered by the problematic situation that flowed from the Count – a fourth C. ONE-SEAT WIN The initial count of ballots and the tabulation of same, as declared by Returning Officers in the ten regions of Guyana, disclosed a narrow, one-seat win for the APNU+AFC Coalition, which would be a repeat of the results in 2015. But the Opposition challenged the results, and circulated “results” of its own that showed a contrary outcome. In elementary law, the Returning Officers, as agents of the Elections Commission, were acting vicariously for their principal, GECOM. Under normal circumstances, President David Granger should have been sworn in, and any queries over the results left for adjudication by the court by way of an elections petition. That was how it had been after the contentious 1997 elections. Then, after Mrs. Janet Jagan was sworn in as President, a re-count of the ballots took place. Called a forensic audit, that process lasted some 97 days after which the court vitiated the results of the elections as having been obtained by fraud. In this case, the courts have ruled that a recount of ballots of all ten regions should be done. Initially that was the advocacy of the Opposition which had described a recount as “the Gold Standard” of fairness and transparency.

‘Hold strain!’ –– PM implores 10,000-odd Guyanese in NY wanting to come home –– but can’t immediately, as COVID-19 death toll reaches 34 By Navendra Seoraj THE dreaded Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) disease has so far claimed the lives of 34 Guyanese in New York. This is according to the Guyana Consulate in New York, which information was submitted to the government, Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo said on Saturday during a virtual press briefing. The prime minister said the list at reference is a partial one, as it does not reflect a global figure, seeing that Guyanese live and work all across the world. He however said that partial or not, the Government will continue to rely on its foreign missions to provide information on the status of Guyanese abroad. According to reports out of ‘The Big Apple’, the Guyana Consulate-General in New York has created a means for Guyanese to publicly pay tribute to loved ones lost to the deadly COVID-19 pandemic. Those tributes are reportedly being shared on a Face-

book page named, ‘Honoring Guyanese Lost to Coronavirus’, and has already received an outpouring of tributes, support and condolences to the families and friends of those being featured on it. “The Consulate-General of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana in New York joins in expressing sincere condolences to Guyanese in the diaspora who have lost loved ones to the coronavirus. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this time of sorrow,” Consul-General Barbara Atherly is quoted as saying in a message on the Page. “This page has been created for families, if you so desire, to add the name of your dearly departed, in order for us to pay tribute,” Ambassador Atherly said. Among some of the persons who lost their lives to the dreaded disease were Businessman, Jim Bacchus of Jim Bacchus Travel Service; Vishnu Baichu, called ‘Paramdeo Baichu’, and his eldest son, Vijay; Guy-

ana-born Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) bus operator, Oliver Cyrus; and William “Billy” Braithwaite of the Guyana Cultural Association of New York. WANT TO COME HOME Considering the increasing loss of lives across the globe because of the COVID-19 disease, some 12,000 Guyanese residing in New York have requested to return home to Guyana. Similar requests have been made by some 80 other Guyanese living in Miami, and close to 200 who work on international cruise ships. “We have received requests from Guyanese who want to come back, but we are on lockdown, and no flights would come in until the existing orders expire, or if it is amended…,” the PM said, adding: “We first have to look at how incidences are mounting; already we have 40 cases (now 45) and six deaths, so we need to look at this and review some

of our measures. But I cannot say any consideration regarding the requests is active.” Noting that one needs to take into account that Guyana’s first COVID-19 case was an imported one, as have other cases proven to be, Minister Nagamootoo said that while the government empathises with those Guyanese who want to come home, he would suggest that they “sit it out” a while longer. Government, he said, first needs to give itself space to deal with cases here; do proper contact tracing; reduce imported cases; and complete arrangements to have facilities to quarantine persons who come back. “They (those wanting to return) would have to subject themselves to quarantine, so we will need facilities for the thousands of Guyanese who wish to come home,” the PM said, adding: “We would want them to come back home, but they need to understand the challenges we face at home… If

But in defiance of the ruling of the court which upheld provisions of the Guyana Constitution and the supervisory functions of the Commission, the Opposition and its cronies want a partial recount of only one of the ten regions. ALL OR NONE The Opposition was in trouble when the results of Region 4 were tabulated and announced, as those showed a handsome lead for the APNU+AFC. Having failed at totally disrupting the Region 4 tabulation, the Opposition filed action in the High Court aimed at discrediting the Region 4 tabulation, and securing a recount of only Region 4 ballots. But the court would have none of that. It was either all or none. So the PPP was left with its mouth open. One would have thought that by now they would have learned from the old Guyanese proverb about where “de smart fly does end up”. The recount process could last for five months during which the country remains politically polarized and ethnically divided. Guyana is marking time in the face of its deadliest enemy – COVID-19. For this, it is my view that the Opposition would never be absolved for having chosen to enter an unholy alliance to remove by foreign interference, manipulation and electoral fraud a democratic, people’s government.

they come home right now, it will overwhelm medical and physical capacity to accommodate them and give them the treatment they deserve.” GOV’T WORKING ON IT He, however, gave the reassurance that the government is not dragging its feet when it comes to identifying and establishing quarantine, isolation and treatment facilities. The former Ocean View International Hotel has so far been identified as a dedicated facility for incubation, isolation, quarantine and medical attention for persons diagnosed with, or suspected to have, the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19). The idea to establish such a facility was put to the government by the Pan American Health Organisation/World Health Organisation (PAHO/ WHO) after a new study found that Guyana could have as many as 20,000 COVID-19 cases in a month. The Ministry of Public Health, using the PAHO/WHO method, had initially projected 1,400 cases, but a recent study done by PAHO/WHO found that with every case, another 2.5 persons will be affected within five days if there is no partial lockdown, and if persons do not exercise effective social distancing. “That 2.5, if I infect you, you infect 2.5 others and they infect another 2.5, within a month, we will get over 20,000; it’s a simple model but it makes a lot of sense,” said PAHO/WHO Resident

Representative Dr. William Adu-Krow in a recent News Room report. And should this happen, Dr. Adu-Krow said, five per cent, or 1000, of those infected would need intensive care, and Guyana simply does not have the capacity for this. On the point of building capacity and improving the local response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Adu-Krow, in an interview with the Guyana Chronicle on Friday, said: “By way of government, a lot is being done, but a lot more needs to be done… PAHO has recommended a dedicated hospital for COVID-19, so people do not have to always call and say they did not get through.” Prime Minister Nagamootoo has since confirmed that PAHO’s proposal was examined by the task force, and the Ocean View Hotel was identified as the building in which the hospital will be housed. The Ocean View facility will have 300 beds for critical patients. In addition to ‘Ocean View’, the government is also considering the possibility of converting the former Guyana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC) building on High Street into a similar COVID-19 facility. “We have identified that building, and an examination is being done to see if all or some sections can be used. We are also looking at other buildings; there are sports halls that can be converted,” the PM said, adding that the government is looking to be equipped with 1,000 beds for confirmed cases.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE April 12, 2020

Book Review …

A Review of David Granger’s The Digital State: How the Internet is changing Guyana THE global digital revolution has brought peoples, societies and states closer together through the technologies it has spawned and which has been driving their development. The Internet is the most noteworthy and transformative of these technologies. The world is much more integrated and the flow of information is more intense, today. The speed and volume of global communications have led to an exponential rise in cross-boundary transactions. These changes, made possible by the Internet, have called the traditional concepts of state sovereignty into question. States – large and small, developed and underdeveloped – have embraced the digital revolution enthusiastically. They are keen to take advantage of the emerging opportunities, locally and internationally, spawned by this revolution. The principal path through which they are attempting to do this is by the establishment of digital states. Most developing countries, however, have been unable to make the transition from aspiration to achievement. Their progress towards becoming digital states has been slow and uneven. Some have failed to articulate a comprehensive vision of a ‘digital state.’ Stand-alone national ICT strategies to propel their digital development have been limited to specific initiatives such as expanding broadband access, automating government services and increasing the digitisation of public education. The digital revolution in some states has been detoured, as a consequence. Globally, it has been been hijacked by corporate interests. Its potential for transforming the lives of ordinary people, generating jobs and improving the delivery of public services has been dominated by corporate interests. The dilemma facing small states is how to tailor tactics which would include policies relevant to development rather than to the profiteering motives of global financial interests. Small states risk becoming emasculated unless they can adapt the digital revolution to their own

developmental needs. Small states need a new framework to propel their ICT development. Such a model has been elusive; few have been able to develop a strong, endogenous focus which places people before profits. David Granger’s book, The Digital State: How the Internet is changing Guyana, emerges against the backdrop of the need by small states for a relevant ICT framework which emphasises social objectives such as education, equality, empowerment and national integration and not only pecuniary profit. The book is a refreshing addition to the literature on the ICT revolution. It offers a comprehensive vision of a ‘digital state’ and provides a pathway towards the realization of a ‘digital state’. The distinctive feature of David Granger’s adumbration of a ‘digital state’ is that it is not a stand-alone strategy. His ‘digital state’ is a lynchpin of Guyana’s transition towards becoming a ‘green’ state. There is an inconsistency in emphasis, regrettably, between the President’s ambitions for a ‘green’ state and his government’s Green State Development Strategy: Vision 2040, which acknowledges that: “… the appropriate utilisation of information and communication technologies (ICT) can improve the lives of all Guyanese…. and… has the potential to make government services more widespread, effective and responsive, as well as be a driver of new green business activity.” It fails to accord sufficient significance to policies to ensure a ‘digital state.’ It restricts itself, instead, to emphasising the need for expanded broadband access as a precursor to the development of the country’s ICT sector. The architects of the strategy seemed to have lost sight of the foundational role which the President ascribed to digital development as part of his proposals for transitioning towards a ‘green state’. The Digital State: How the Internet is

changing Guyana consists of the texts of three presentations which the President made to three different audiences at different times over the past four years. The first address, which is reproduced in this book, was delivered at the birth of his brainchild – the One Laptop Per Teacher (OLPT) initiative – symbolically at the Cyril Potter College of Education on 5th October 2016, World Teachers’ Day. The Guyanese Head of State urged teachers to be prepared for the new demands of the information age. He indicated that the OLPT initiative represented the commencement of Guyana’s ICT transformation. The second address was delivered to the Caribbean ICT Roadshow 2018. The event, which was hosted by the Caribbean Teachers’ Union in collaboration with the Ministry of Public Telecommunications, had a regional rationale. President Granger in his presentation, propounded the argument that the adoption of ICT was a prerequisite of public policy and,

therefore, had to be responsive to the spatial dimensions of development. He took the opportunity to enumerate the pillars of his country’s ICT policy. The third address was delivered at the opening of a Centre of Excellence in Information Technology (CEIT) at the University of Guyana on 2019.06.20. The President laid out a clear and practical path towards reaping the anticipated rewards of the ‘digital state’ including in agriculture, defence, employment, public education, public health and public security. The opening of the centre attested to the importance which the President attaches to the building of a capacity for the country’s transition to a ‘digital state.’ He noted that the centre will allow Guyana to become more agile in the ICT sector, which is essential for a technologically literate and digitally skilled society. The book’s main fault line, and one which has bedevilled statesmen’s best intentions everywhere, is the absence of consideration of the costs associated with the establishment of a ‘digital state’ The Cooperative Republic Guyana, despite the recent discoveries of oil and gas, remains a poor country and is not yet the ‘petroleum state’ the President wants it to be. Bridging the digital divide between Guyana and other countries in the Caribbean will incur significant investments, a necessity which the book did not address. The reader cannot but be impressed immensely, however, by the President’s lucid and refreshing vision and policies for a ‘digital state.’ He has a remarkable skill in presenting complex ideas concisely and in clear language. The book reflects that gift. This book is just the tonic which developing states need to reinvigorate their national ICT strategies. It is a beacon for guiding approaches and designing policies for a sector in which change is continuous and competition is intense.

The dangerous misapplication and politicisation of the concept of a dictatorship WORDS such as dictators, despots, totalitarians, fascists, autocrats, authoritarians and tyrants are used interchangeably to analyse or describe the acute abuse of power. Those descriptions, at the very basic level, invariably point to a circumstance where a leader or leaders usurp power in a dominant way, while ignoring the views and wishes of others. In addition, all of the abovementioned ignoble titles come along with some basic repulsive features;

jailing and the execution of opponents, stifling free speech, stacking courts with political lackeys, emasculating Parliament, wanton propaganda with the complete disappearance of independent press and above all, a thin-skinned and petulant figurehead who despises critique or dissent. I find myself consistently guided on this topic by two of my favourite books; Hannah Arendt’s, ‘The Origins of Totalitarianism’ and Simon Montefiore’s, ‘The Court of the Red Tsar’.

Anyone who has taken a cursory glance at the aforementioned works would be understandably alarmed and aghast by the description of completely democratic regimes that are the opposite of the concept of a dictatorship, for political purposes. THE DANGERS The word ‘dictator’ originates from the Latin term ‘dictare’, a judge in the Roman Republic temporarily invested with absolute power to exe-

cute a specific leadership purpose with gusto and vigour. Ever since its arrival in our modern lexicon, we have seen the worst manifestation of this concept in the most ignominious way. From Ivan ‘The Terrible’ to Kim Jong Un, the pantheon of dictators is running out of space. Be that as it may, the term has been inadvertently diluted and diminished for political purposes. While it may seem like good politics, there are dangers that lie within such a strategy.

First, the bar is being dangerously lowered by the misapplication of the term to every flimsy circumstance that may not reflect an iota of what it is supposed to represent. Second, it obfuscates and confuses and allows the real dictators to point the finger at the democratic

leader and takes attention away from the real threat. Third, the evils of that encompass this form of rule should never be taken lightly and it is double trouble when we blur this diabolic dispensation with magnanimous democratic rule.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, April 12, 2020

Private institutions given ‘green light’ to test for COVID-19 By Navendra Seoraj AS Guyana continues to grapple with the effects of the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, local authorities have started to explore new avenues for strengthening capacity to reduce the spread of this disease, with the latest move being the authorisation of private institutions to test for COVID-19. “We have given the green light for private hospitals to import testing kits so they could supplement and do rapid testing,” said Head of the National COVID-19 Task Force, Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo during a virtual press briefing on Saturday. With the new system in place, testing for the dreaded disease will be done by both state and non-state institutions in the near future. Prime Minister Nagamootoo said private institutions are key partners in the fight against the pandemic, and this move will alleviate existing concerns about government having a “monopoly” with regard to testing. “Private institutions are now brought into play and they are a key partner…they will work out conditions under which they do the testing, because in some cases persons prefer to go to private institutions instead of the public institutions, where treatment is free,” he said. The prime minister, however, believes it is “reasonable” and “feasible” for private institutions to seek

support from the state, in terms of doing tests and managing positive cases. Government has already asked hospitals to designate a space in their facility for treatment and management of persons affected by the COVID-19 disease. So far, through the public health system, over 175 persons have been tested for this disease and about 40 persons have tested positive, while over 130 have tested negative. Just last week, Managing-Director of the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI), Dr. Richard Van- West Charles, who is also an experienced medical expert, called for a review of the testing guidelines. “There are many parameters to be considered and testing cannot depend on an all-or-none principle based on the clinical fit. Medicine is a socio-psychobiological science. However, the delay in testing in our society is taking us close to the time bomb,” said Dr. Van-West Charles, in a recent post on his Facebook page. The Ministry of Public Health has been using “strict” Pan American Health Organisation/World Health Organisation (PAHO/ WHO) guidelines to test persons for COVID-19. Dr. Charles, while acknowledging the current guidelines, pointed to the fact that the PAHO/WHO has projected that Guyana could have 20,000 cases of COVID-19 in a month. The Ministry of Public Health, using the PAHO/WHO model, had initially projected 1,400 cases, but a

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo

recent study done by PAHO/WHO found that with every case, another 2.5 persons will be affected within five days if there is no partial lockdown and if persons do not exercise effective social distancing. “That 2.5, if I infect you, you infect 2.5 others and they infect another 2.5. Within a month we will get over 20,000; it a simple model but it makes a lot of sense,” said Resident PAHO/WHO Representative, Dr. William Adu-Krow, in a recent News Room report. Dr. Adu-Krow had said that if this should happen, five per cent or 1000 of those infected would need intensive care and Guyana simply does not have the capacity for this. Guyana has so far tested over 115 persons. “Think about it, if according to WHO by May we should have 20,000 cases and to date we have only tested 75 (this has moved to

over 115), the health status of our exposed cases would be deteriorating and by the time we make an intervention it is too late. “I appeal to physicians and I hope the authorisation is only in the hands of physicians and not some bureaucrat to urgently review the testing guidelines for Covid-19. Delays may contribute to more deaths,” said Dr. Charles. He believes it is better to test early and discover where the situation is, than just fail to test. His view is that this way will control transmission of the disease. Globally, there are close to 1.5 million cases of COVID-19 and over 80,000 deaths. And, with no approved treatment or cure, there is no assurance that persons will survive after contracting the disease. In the absence of approved medication, governments and authorities across the world have employed a number of preventative measures to contain the spread of the disease. “Let me take this opportunity to remind you that there are no vaccines nor medications to address the coronavirus disease; the medical personnel will treat you according to the symptoms you present,” said Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence in a recent update on the outbreak. A virtual meeting was, however, convened on Thursday to discuss alternative testing modalities, such as the use of rapid testing and to discuss the use of medications such as hydroxycholoroquine & choloro-

quine to treat COVID-19. Participants of the meeting included technical experts from the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO), Washington, representatives of private hospitals, the medical council, the private sector and members of the media, said Minister Lawrence. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by the newly discovered coronavirus. 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 such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic respiratory disease, and cancer, are more likely to develop serious illness. The WHO believes that the best way to prevent and slow down transmission is to be well informed about the virus, the disease it causes and how it is spread. “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 is spread 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),” the WHO has advised.

PPDI signs new three-year pact with GPL ----new deal guarantees PPDI a 4.8% increase in fees By Svetlana Marshall HAVING surpassed all of its performance guarantees over the past three years, Power Producers and Distributors Incorporated (PPDI) has secured another multi-billion dollar contract with the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) for the operation and maintenance of four of its power plants. The contract, which spans for another three years, was signed on Tuesday, April 7, 2020, PPDI Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Dr. Arron Fraser, disclosed during an interview with the Guyana Chronicle on Good Friday. “The contract was executed on the April 7 with an effective date of January 1, 2020 and expires on December 31, 2022,” he explained. Since 2017, PPDI – a state-owned enterprise – has been operating and maintaining the Garden of Eden (22MW), Kingston #1 (22MW), Kingston #2 (36.3MW) and the Vreeden-Hoop (26.4MW) Power Plants on behalf of GPL. Under this new agreement, PPDI will continue to manage the four plants, which were previously operated and maintained by Wartsila Operations Guyana Inc. (WOGI).

While PPDI operates and maintains these plants, GPL has sole responsibility for the transmission and distribution of electricity throughout the Demerara to Berbice Interconnected System. Dr. Fraser told the Guyana Chronicle that as part of the operations and maintenance agreement, PPDI offers performance guarantees to GPL that are based on the industry’s key performance indicators: availability, plant heat rate and lube oil consumption. According to him, for the last three years, the power producers company has surpassed the 92 per cent performance guarantee for all three indicators. Importantly, under this new contract, PPDI has secured a 4.8 per cent increase in fees. The CEO explained that under the last contract, the operations and maintenance company received $17.36 per megawatt, however, under the existing contract, it is receiving $18.16 per megawatt. “That will translate to approximately $2.6B annually,” Dr. Fraser explained. He noted, however, that an additional performance guarantee has been added – that is, to facilitate major overhauls within a specified period. It is anticipated that

PPDI’s revenues will likely increase even further going forward. Dr. Fraser noted that in addition to the increase in fees, GPL has purchased a 48 megawatt power station from Wartsila for which the operations and maintenance

PPDI CEO Dr. Arron Fraser (PPDI photo)

company will also manage. This power plant, according to the PPDI CEO, will arrive in the country later in the year and will be stationed at Garden of Eden. “The plan is for us to operate and maintain that new power plant simply because it is technology that we are very acquainted with. That should come on stream later this year and that new facility will be at Garden of Eden,” Dr. Fraser said. Once the

power plant is installed, the contract will be amended to include a fifth power station, he posited. The CEO said not only has PPDI surpassed its performance targets, it has also raked in a profit of 10 per cent for the first three years of its operations. PPDI was established in December, 2016. “We generated just about 12.8B in revenues,” he disclosed, while explaining that the operating profit stood at $803M while profit after tax was recorded at $545M. The company paid approximately $258M in taxes and $30M in dividends. Aside from GPL, PPDI has signed an agreement with the Hinterland Electrification Company Incorporated (HECI) as part of its expansion plans. Under this partnership, PPDI will provide maintenance service to seven power plants within the Hinterland. That agreement was signed in November 2019 for a period of two years. Port Kaituma, Region One is one such community that will benefit under the PPDI-HECI agreement. Last December, Port Kaituma purchased a $12M replacement engine, paving the way for it to receive 24 hours electricity to the sub-district. Dr. Fraser said PPDI is pleased

Inside the Kingston Power Plant. The Kingston Power Plant is among four power plants being operated and maintained by PPDI

to be executing its mandate. Its success story, he said, must be credited to the hard working men and women who, through their wealth of knowledge and experience, have caused the company to surpass expectations. The company has a total of 145 personnel; of them 105 are technical personnel with a wealth of experience and qualification. He said there is much, the policy makers can learn from PPDI. “The model that you see at PPDI in terms of how we were able to really have a transfer of knowledge from a multinational to a local company is something that they can emulate because at a macro level, it makes sense for the country because then you are able to employ more people, you are able to return the profit to the country, and overall

it is a development to the country as a the whole,” he explained. Notably, the company received ISO 9001 Certification in November 2018, an indication of its firm commitment to quality service and continuous improvement in its operations. Dr. Fraser had said that the ISO 9001 certification was a milestone for PPDI, since the organisation had achieved much in a short period of time. According to him, the process was “important and critical” for the company. The ISO 9000 family of quality management systems standards is designed to help organisations ensure that they meet the needs of customers and other stakeholders, while meeting statutory and regulatory requirements, related to a product or service.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, April 12, 2020

Over 30,000 masks, ventilators coming to Guyana from China Seven homeless -as Gov’t continues to reach out for support in COVID-19 fight ---attempts also being made to access India’s US$14M grant to Caribbean countries By Navendra Seoraj THE People’s Republic of China has responded to Guyana’s call for help in the fight against the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19), and has so far agreed to send about 30,000 masks, ventilators and other essential medical equipment. This was confirmed by Head of the National COVID-19 Task Force, Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo during a virtual press briefing, on Saturday. “We have approached China and I have been told that assistance is forthcoming and an estimated 30,000 masks, ventilators and other essential medical equipment are coming to Guyana,” said the prime minister. It was reported that Guyana has, so far, only received support from the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO). The organization had donated some 1,800 COVID-19 test kits to the country. Authorities here are, however, actively seeking international assistance in the form of financing, which will go towards funding measures to combat the COVID-19 disease, which has so far infected 45 persons and killed six. Speaking about the active search for financing, Prime Minister Nagamootoo said: “We are pursuing assistance from India by way of the In-

dian grant of US$14 million to Caribbean countries. “It is a low hanging fruit, and we have outlined that Guyana’s allocation will be utilized for supplies relevant to COVID-19.” The government, through the Ministry of Finance, had also requested US$5M from the World Bank. When asked about the status of this request, the prime minister said he is not aware of any specific approval so far, but he noted that Guyana has not been deemed disqualified from receiving assistance from anywhere. As government awaits a response from the World Bank, additional approaches have been made to other international financial institutions and, according to Prime Minister Nagamootoo, some are in the process of dealing with the request for assistance. “There have been approaches to international organisations for funding… specific applications have been made to certain banks to address the disease…the Ministry of Finance is active on that front, to approach the CDB, IDB, IMF or wherever, even UN funds,” said the prime minister in a past report. In talking about a proposed budget to deal with funds allocated for the local response to the disease, he had said: “It will be a budget that will run into billions of dollars…it would be a heavy

Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo

sum…it is an emergency situation, so it has to be money that will be accessible in the contingency fund. “We have a challenge, there is no Parliament, so you need to see where you have money…we are, however, preparing a consolidated shopping list which will be presented to the Ministry of Finance.” As it stands now, the prime minister said despite the political climate, government still has access to the consolidated fund. It was reported that the Board of Directors of the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) met this week and approved up to US$140 million to be used by the bank’s Borrow, to tackle the fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic and other shocks to their economies.

In addition, Trinidadian Economist, Dr. Roger Hosein, has said that Guyana’s oil revenues, held within the Natural Resources Fund (NRF), can be tapped into to boost the country’s response to the emergency situation arising out of the COVID-19 pandemic. MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS While financial assistance is being sought, public medical institutions have also requested support in the form of foreign medical professionals, who will aid in the fight against COVID-19. “I know that some requests have been made to us to have an approach to Cuba for some medical personnel, mainly nurses,” said Prime Minister Nagamootoo, adding that this matter will, however, engage the attention of the

public health ministry once the assessment shows that there is a need for personnel at this time. According to the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA), coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that cause illnesses ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome, and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV). The coronavirus outbreak reportedly originated in Wuhan, China, and has since spread to many other countries, including some in the Americas. Common signs of infection include respiratory symptoms, fever, coughs, shortness of breath and breathing difficulties. In more severe cases, infection can cause pneumonia, severe acute respiratory syndrome, kidney failure and even death. Persons who suspect that they may have the virus are advised not to visit a healthcare facility, but instead call on several provided hotlines where it can be arranged for a health team to visit. Minister Lawrence noted that additional hotline numbers have been added, and staff has been increased to facilitate efficiency. The numbers are 226-7480; 2297490; 231-1166; 227-4986; 624-6674; 624-2819; 6249355.

following Bent Street fire

SEVERAL persons are now homeless after an early-morning fire ravaged their home at Lot B-2, Bent Street, Wortmanville on Saturday. Reports are that the fire which started sometime around 02:30hrs destroyed the upper and lower flats of the building. It is suspected that the fire may have been set by persons following a disagreement. A woman and her relative lived at the bottom flat while five of their relatives lived on the top flat of the building. A Guyana Chronicle reporter who lives nearby said that he was awakened by the fire shortly after 02:30.”I saw the fire at the back of the upstairs area and then I called out to everybody, “ he said. By then the fire was already spreading through the building, and he noted that the flames engulfed the building within minutes. He said that members of the Guyana Fire Service responded to the scene and managed to contain the inferno to one building. The fire department is investigating to ascertain the cause of the fire.

Mahdia man tests negative for COVID-19 ...mayor calls on minibus operators, residents to employ health measures outlined by the authorities A 60-year old man, who was flown from the hinterland town of Mahdia to the city recently with symptoms of the Coronavirus, has tested negative for the virus. This was confirmed by medical officials and the town’s mayor in the Potaro/ Siparuni Region on Friday. Reports are that the man, who operates a business in the North Fork Backdam at Mahdia, visited the regional hospital in the town several nights ago after he complained about his health. The man told staff to avoid close contact with him initially, since he was displaying symptoms of the pandemic. Staff then changed into their PPEs (personal pro-

tective equipment) and attended to the man. Preparations were then made for him to be flown to the city the following morning. Reports are that although the man has a history of respiratory health issues, medical staff at the Mahdia Hospital were not taking any chances. Mahdia Mayor, David Adams, said the initial reports of the patient seeking treatment at the hospital created anxiety in the region and he noted that while he is happy that the result of the test is negative, he implored residents to continue observing the relevant health practices. Regional health officials at the town have been undertaking

Mayor of Mahdia, David Adams

continuous public awareness drives to educate residents of

the town and other villages in the region about the seriousness of COVID-19 as well as the requisite health precautions that should be followed. Regional officials have also visited various Indigenous villages in the region as recent as Friday to undertake the awareness campaign. In addition, broadcasters at Radio Mahdia, the National Communications Network (NCN) relay station, has been frequently appealing to residents to employ health precautions. On Friday, Mayor Adams told the Guyana Chronicle that the authorities in the town are taking all precautions to guard against the virus. He said that minibus

operators have been warned to transport only half of the quota of passengers as per normal. He said it is up to the police to enforce the requisite measures, noting that the minibuses would have to pass several check points, including at Linden and Mabura, along the route to and from the town. “They are to use half the bus load, use their masks and sanitise the buses,” he said. Adams said that while there were suggestions to completely halt their operations, such a move will affect the economic standing of the town. ”There is no stoppage of movement of passengers, there are some persons who

believe that we should cut them off but the Disaster Risk Management Committee doesn’t believe so, we cannot shut-off Mahdia like that, there are no plane arrangements and that would be too expensive and the only means of transportation to get in and out of Mahdia is by the bus,” Adams said. Adams urged residents to ensure they follow the necessary health precautions of staying indoors, washing their hands regularly, and also observe the health measures put in place by the Ministry of Public Health.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, April 12, 2020

What a global recession could mean for Guyana

By Lisa Hamilton

THE International Monetary Fund (IMF) anticipates that the COVID-19 pandemic could cause the “worst economic fallout since the Great Depression” and local Economist, Rawle Lucas, has put into perspective what such, if it becomes a reality, could mean for Guyana. Lucas, also a member of the Board of Directors at the Bank of Guyana (BOG), told the newspaper of the possible domino effect of a global economic crisis and gave his own advice on how Guyana could try to lessen the brunt. To better approximate the full extent to which the pandemic can affect the global economy, one must have an idea as to how long the pandemic will last. However, Lucas said that countries around the world are still unable to accurately predict this. Based on the predictions of international health and financial experts, the interruption in economic activity could persist. If this turns out to be true, Lucas said that it means that some form of a major recession will take place. EFFECT ON TRADE Apart from the health factor, he explained that COVID-19 has had a negative effect on global production, global consumption and capital accumulation, the root factors for a possible global financial crisis. When the idea of this trickles down from the world’s leading economies ---which have been hit the hardest by the virus --- the Economist said that it could further affect trading for Guyana. “What we need to recognise for Guyana is that COVID-19 has hit some major economies very hard. These are China, the UK, the US, Italy, Japan, Germany and Canada,” he said. “The US, Canada and the UK represent major trading partners for Guyana. The fourth major trading partner for us is CARICOM. So, we could see the importance that those countries have for both the import of our immediate goods and our exports.” Collectively, Guyana’s major

trading partners account for over 70 per cent of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). On April 8, 2020, the World Trade Organisation (WTO) stated that world trade is expected to fall by between 13 per cent and 32 per cent

Economist and member of the Board of Directors at the Bank of Guyana (BOG), Rawle Lucas

in 2020. “The wide range of possibilities for the predicted decline is explained by the unprecedented nature of this health crisis and the uncertainty around its precise economic impact. But WTO economists believe the decline will likely exceed the trade slump brought on by the global financial crisis of 2008?09,” the WTO stated. With regards to imports, Luas said: “If people are not producing enough then there wouldn’t be enough for us to buy. This immediately affects Guyana’s wholesale and retail/ distribution industry, construction industry and the import of vehicles to name a few”. THE CONNECTION The Economist explained that there is a critical connection between the negative effect on trade and production and consumption. Regarding exports, a significant drop in trade could prevent Guyana from meeting

its own production needs due to limited, no access or a hike in the price of key goods needed for production. Production in some areas is already being affected by the position of Guyana’s government --- like many others --- that the greater value to the country is its protection from the virus. The government has enacted several emergency measures which give priority to essential services only. This means that every business cannot operate as normal as the only means to ‘flatten the curve’ is through strict social distancing measures. In cases where production declines there is an effect on consumption. Added to this, with a possible increase in the number of jobs lost as a result of a halt in production or loss of profit, the Economist said that it can have a ripple effect on how the banks deal with lending. “You could see a liquidity crisis developing where the banks will be reluctant right now to lend money because clearly cashflow has slowed down; many people are losing wages because of job losses or reduced working hours and therefore you can’t expect the lending institutions to be too willing to lend under the conditions,” he explained. The International Labour Organization (ILO) has already stated that COVID-19 eliminates the equivalent of 14 million jobs in Latin America and the Caribbean. SIMILAR RESULTS, DIFFERENT CAUSE While experts are predicting that what is to come could be worse that the 2008 Global Financial Crisis which resulted in severe economic crisis worldwide, Lucas said that the current situation would be different from the possible global economic crisis as a result of COVID-19. The main difference, he said, is that the trigger mechanism of the 2008 crisis was of a financial nature and later affected physical production due to a lack of finances; in this instance, the pandemic inflicts a limitation on physical production from the very beginning. As expected, the tourism and en-

tertainment sectors would be further affected due to the ban on international travel and social distancing guidelines. Prior to the increased cases and deaths in Guyana to the virus, President of the Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG), Mitra Ramkumar, had predicted that COVID-19 would most likely cripple the tourism sector in Guyana, at least for some time. Meanwhile, Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, Gaston Browne, told the IMF and World Bank earlier this month that, as a result of the drop in tourism, the Caribbean Region has been hit with an unexpected economic decline that has already stripped it of over 20 per cent of its GDP, with possibilities of prolonged deterioration A great blow would also come to remittances as the Bank of Guyana reported in 2015 that remittances accounted for 9.3 per cent of the country’s GDP. “A substantial portion of our remittance comes from North America and to a lesser extent from Europe and the Caribbean. If families [abroad] have to hold on now to their monies to take care of their short term and long term needs because one does not know how long this crisis will last and how deep it will go, [remittances will be affected],” Lucas said. Fortunately, Guyana was not

adversely affected by 2008 Global Financial Crisis due to the rise in demand for gold as persons turned to the mineral as a means to protect their money. Lucas recounted that gold prices skyrocketed and the gold industry in Guyana became a significant contributor to Guyana’s economy and this enabled other industries to take off. “Because it was not a health crisis that affected the movement of people and the consumption behaviour of people, Guyana was able to actually benefit from that without an actual crisis,” he said. While there is much more data he could examine with more time to assess Guyana’s situation, at the time of the interview Lucas said that the advice he could give is for the country to find ways to stimulate both production and consumption. “If people don’t have money then they can’t buy anything; if people are not buying then people will not produce because they can’t sell it. So, the way in which I would look at it from a general sense is to say that we have to find a way to put money in the hands of people. But, if important input into the production process cannot be achieved then that will not be very helpful because what we will have now is too much money chasing too few goods which could cause inflation.”

The Guyana National Shipping Co. Ltd.

Woman strangled, dumped in barrel THE badly battered body of a woman was discovered in a barrel that was dumped inside of a trench at R and S Street, Belvedere, Corentyne, Berbice. The woman was strangled with a bedsheet, tied around her neck. Her face was smashed to the point that she was unrecognisable. There were several other marks of violence about her body. The discovery was made by a resident who lives next to the trench where the body was found. Harendra Yodan recalled he was eating when he began getting a pungent scent. He said the stench was unbearable and he decided to check the drain to see if the foul smell was

The blue barrel in which the woman was found

coming from there. Much to his surprise, he noticed a foot protruding from a blue plastic barrel in the trench. Yodan, who was visibly shaken, added that he noticed the strange barrel since Friday but did not pay much attention to it. “The thing start smell bad, bad, so me tek the shovel stick and meh go out there and see one cloth outside the barrel. When meh raise am, me see one foot hanging out,” he related. At that point, he raised an alarm and neighbours called the police. Police sources indicate that from all appearances, the woman was killed about three days ago. The body was swollen and her face was

partially damaged. Villager told Guyana Chronicle of a couple who moved into the neighbourhood about three months ago. They would usually engage in frequent quarrels and fights. One neighbour recalled seeing the couple on Thursday last; one of the two barrels the couple owns is missing. Guyana Chronicle also understands that the suspect the police are pursuing did not show up to his place of work since Wednesday but, instead, went to the business premises and requested some money, claiming that he was going to a village on the Upper Corentyne. The police are following a lead as investigation continues.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, April 12, 2020

Coronavirus and Easter FOR many Guyanese, Easter is about big family gatherings, picnicking at the park and beach or time spent at church. But this year, those events are off the table, as the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic bears down across the globe. There will be no church gathering, parks filled with families picnicking, nor the skies filled with a kaleidoscope of kites, due to social distancing. This Easter weekend is flagged as being incredibly important in the fight against coronavirus. Easter is a Christian holiday which celebrates the death and the resurrection of Jesus Christ, the son of God. The Protected Areas and National Parks Commissions have made a decision to close the Parks and beaches across Guyana for the Easter Weekend, in light of the presence of COVED-19 here. The zoo was also closed too. Also, the Government implemented the curfew and other emergency measures with effect from April 03 to May 03 2020 which brought a curfew from 18:00 hours to 06:00 hours, in

an effort to stem the spread of the new coronavirus. Due to this historically unprecedented change to the celebrations of Easter and Passover, churches across the country have moved their in-person mass or services online, in response to the virus, by using Skype, Zoom, Facebook live and other electronic means. Meanwhile, for meny kite makers and vendors there has been a decline in sales due to the epidemic. Trevor Smith, also known as the ‘Original Kite Man’, is now 41 years into the craft of making and selling kites and ply his trade at the intersection of Camp and Regent Streets. He explained that although the sales have declined, he is remaining optimistic. Smith stressed that regularly most of his sales are from school children, but due to the closure of school because of the virus, sales have been slow. Another vendor explained that he believes that the coronavirus has affected the trade tremendously since March; he only managed to sell one kite per day. He explained that many persons

would prefer making their own kites at home. For many, Easter was about family traditions, but 2020 will be about trying something new. " This is something different, and I'm open to it!... maybe a backyard barbeque with just my small family of four" said Rachelle Abrams. Abrams explained that every year she would picnic with her family. She recalled the open air with her two kids running around and flying their kites while her husband was busy behind them. " This year we are indoors and safe," Abrams said. Meanwhile, for the youngsters who would be out enjoying the different parties such as "EasterFest" they have taken to party online social media due to bars, and other gatherings being banned. One of the most famous group is known as " The 1K family" which sees popular DJ and persons going live and hosting parties while everyone remains in the comfort of their own home.

Smith's kites displayed on Camp Street (Photo by Delano Williams)

Region 10 health authorities team up against COVID-19

Dr. Mark declaring that the staff and personnel at Wismar Hospital will support whatever measures are being implemented to aid in saving lives

AS Region 10 medial authorities seek to increase and enhance its contingency plan to address aggressively, COVID19, a decision has been taken to have all patients in isolation stay at the Wismar Hospital. However, with this decision, some nurses and personnel at the hospital expressed concerns, which they communicated through their Medical Superintendent (MS), Dr. Steve Mark. After discussions with a team of medical officials from the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH), Dr. Mark has endorsed the efforts,

praising the decision, while declaring that he stands committed and united in the decision to use part of the Wismar Hospital for isolation of persons. He disclosed that the idea, which was first mooted by the visiting team and endorsed by MS of Mackenzie Hospital and Regional Health Officer (RHO), Dr. Pansy Armstrong, saw him having some reservations. This, he explained, was because of experience more directly with the stigma that the hospital suffered during Guyana’s peak of HIV cases. He, however, admitted that

unlike then when the entire hospital was used for HIV-related matters and services, he feels very comfortable with the approach currently being taken. Dr. Mark said with the hospital still being able to provide some of its services that it has been offering over the years and recognising that the fight against COVID-19 requires a united and concentrated approach, he stands firmly behind the decision. “I did have my reservations as some of the nurses did express concerns but listening to the team from Georgetown and my col-

leagues in the RHO and Dr. London explaining what will take place and how we will execute this, has caused me to realise that it is the best plan for the situation,” he said. Dr. Mark expressed delight with the announcement that works, which have already started, would be completed in another two to three weeks’ time. He said with the united and aggressive approach being taken by his colleagues both at the regional and national level, he foresees the country winning the COVID-19 fight. “To ensure that we remain successful, this requires the support and involvement

of everyone. We would address whatever concerns and issues along the way, but with regards to the selection of a location and the areas that were identified within the hospital, I foresee no challenges to what we have been doing and I am not worried about any potential stigma as what we have isn’t a COVID-19 hospital, but rather part of our hospital designated to isolate COVID-related patients. Frankly, there must be an area that patients can be isolated who would have come into contact with the disease, and this is certainly the best place,” he said. The RHO also said that

the nurses between both hospitals usually rotate every six months, but disclosed that based on consultations with the two MS, she would be ensuring that rotation is taking place every three months instead of the original six months. “With all the required systems being implemented and the requisite training for our nurses, we can and would be able to effectively fight this disease as the good thing is that the Ministry of Public Health and our sisters - Mackenzie and Kwakwani Hospitals - stands united and in support of us,” Dr. Mark noted.

Medical Superintendent at Wismar hospital, Dr. Steve Mark

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, April 12, 2020

COVID-19 claims lives of 34 Guyanese in New York -over 10,000 persons want to ‘come home’ but cannot return immediately ---PM says influx of persons could overwhelm local health system

By Navendra Seoraj THE dreaded Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) disease has so far claimed the lives of 34 Guyanese in New York. This information was recorded by the Guyana Consulate in New York and submitted to government, said Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo during a virtual press briefing, on Saturday. The prime minister said it is a partial list and does not reflect a global figure because Guyanese live and work all across the world. Government will, however, continue to rely on its foreign missions to provide information on the status of Guyanese abroad. It was reported that the Guyana Consulate-General in New York has created a means for Guyanese to publicly pay tribute to loved ones lost to the deadly COVID-19 pandemic. The tributes are being shared on a Facebook page named ‘Honoring Guyanese Lost to Coronavirus’, and has already received an outpouring of tributes, support and condolences to the family and friends of those highlighted. “The Consulate-General of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana in New York joins in expressing sincere condolences to Guyanese in the diaspora who have lost loved ones to the coronavirus. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this time of sorrow,” Consul-General Barbara Atherly said in a message.

“This page has been created for families, if you so desire, to add the name of your dearly departed, in order for us to pay tribute,” she added. Among some of the persons who lost their lives to the dreaded disease were Businessman, Jim Bacchus of Jim Bacchus Travel Service; Vishnu Baichu, called Paramdeo Baichu, and his eldest son, Vijay Baichu; Guyana-born Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) bus operator, Oliver Cyrus; and William “Billy” Braithwaite of the Guyana Cultural Association of New York. Considering the increasing loss of lives across the globe because of the COVID-19 disease, some 12,000 Guyanese in New York have requested to return home to Guyana. Similar requests have been made by some 80 Guyanese in Miami and close to 200 Guyanese who work on international cruise ships. “We have received requests from Guyanese who want to come back, but we are on lockdown and no flights would come in until the existing orders expire or if it is amended…we first have to look at how incidences are mounting, already we have 40 cases (now 45) and six deaths…so we need to look at this and review some of our measures, but I cannot say any consideration regarding the requests, is active,” said Prime Minister Nagamootoo, adding that it must be noted that Guyana’s first case of COVID-19 was an imported cases and other cases have also proven to be imported cases.

Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo

While he said government empathizes with those Guyanese who want to come home, the prime minister asked persons to “sit it out” a while longer. Government, he said, first needs to give itself space to deal with cases here; do proper contact tracing; reduce imported cases; and complete arrangements to have facilities to quarantine persons who come back. “They (Guyanese who return) would have to subject themselves for quarantine, so we will need facilities for the thousands of Guyanese who wish to come home. “We would want them to come back home, but they need to understand the challenges we face at

home…if they come home right now it will overwhelm medical and physical capacity to accommodate them and give them the treatment they deserve,” said the prime minister. He, however, gave the assurance that government is not dragging their feet, when it comes to identifying and establishing quarantine, isolation and treatment facilities. The former Ocean View International Hotel has so far been identified as a dedicated facility for incubation, isolation, quarantine and medical attention for persons diagnosed with, or suspected to have, the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19). The idea to establish such a facility was put to the government by the Pan American Health Organisation/World Health Organisation (PAHO/WHO) after a new study found that Guyana could have as many as 20,000 COVID-19 cases in a month. The Ministry of Public Health, using the PAHO/WHO method, had initially projected 1,400 cases, but a recent study done by PAHO/WHO found that with every case, another 2.5 persons will be affected within five days if there is no partial lockdown, and if persons do not exercise effective social distancing. “That 2.5, if I infect you, you infect 2.5 others and they infect another 2.5. Within a month we will get over 20,000; it a simple model but it makes a lot of sense,” said PAHO/WHO Resident Representative Dr. William Adu-Krow in a

recent News Room report. And should this happen, Dr. Adu-Krow said, five per cent or 1000 of those infected would need intensive care, and Guyana simply does not have the capacity for this. On the point of building capacity and improving the local response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Adu-Krow, in an interview with the Guyana Chronicle on Friday, said: “By way of government, a lot is being done, but a lot more needs to be done… PAHO has recommended a dedicated hospital for COVID-19, so people do not have to always call and say they did not get through.” Prime Minister Nagamootoo has since confirmed that PAHO’s proposal was examined by the task force, and the Ocean View Hotel was identified as the building in which the hospital will be housed. The Ocean View facility will have 300 beds for critical patients. In addition to ‘Ocean View’, the government is also considering the possibility of converting the former Guyana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC) building on High Street into a similar COVID-19 facility. “We have identified that building, and an examination is being done to see if all or some sections can be used. We are also looking at other buildings; there are sports halls that can be converted,” the PM said, adding that the government is looking to be equipped with 1,000 beds for confirmed cases.

IDB: COVID-19 could result in regional recession of more than 5 per cent of GDP … relief policy measures must target the most vulnerable; be administered transparently THE Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) says unless governments of Latin America and the Caribbean implement well focused programmes to offset the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the region may see growth reductions of up to 5.5 per cent of GDP in 2020. In a report entitled ‘Policies to Fight the Pandemic: 2020 Latin America and the Caribbean Macroeconomic Report’, the IDB gave an overview of the macro-economic circumstances of the region and outlined a number of scenarios to demonstrate the possibilities for relief for economies in various stages of development as is the case in the region. “Our region will suffer an economic shock of historic proportions,” said IDB Chief Economist Eric Parrado in an IDB press release accompanying the report. “Countries should be saving lives, by ensuring social distancing and providing their health sectors with adequate resources. Complementary and temporary economic interventions can support economies during the partial, organized shutdowns.” “We need to preserve the core of our economies intact to improve the chances of a quick rebound,” Parrado added. “Providing relief to those more vulnerable households that have lost their sources of income, helping and giving incentives to firms to reduce liquidations and avoid separation from their of employees, and extending liquidity to banks

so they be part of the solution, can all work in that direction.” The IDB said that the region’s first priority should be to “stop the spread of the virus, prevent the health sector becoming overwhelmed, ensure it has adequate resources, and save lives”. It said a second focus should be to provide relief to those “more vulnerable households” that have lost their sources of income” as a result of social distancing and other measures. “And a third should be to support firms to minimize the rise in unemployment, to try to avoid the separation between firms and their employees and costly bankruptcies and liquidations,” the report said. Quoting a study done by the Imperial College London, the IDB said that without policies to suppress the spread of the virus, there would be as many as 3.2 million deaths in Latin America and the Caribbean. However, the bank noted that countries are taking strong measures to suppress the spread of the virus. STRONG MEASURES “Most countries in the region have also established sound monetary arrangements with low inflation and relatively low interest rates. Eleven countries have established (or are in the process of adopting) inflation targeting regimes with exchange rate flexibility, banking sectors in general are strong, and most countries have built up reserve levels. Buffers and sound monetary, financial, and

fiscal frameworks will be extremely important to weather the current crisis,” the bank said. However, it noted that despite the safeguards, the coronavirus will have major impacts on fiscal balances and will place stress on currencies and other monetary and financial indicators. The report said that while most countries in the region are relatively small and open both in terms of trade and finance. China, the United States and Europe will all suffer large losses in GDP. The report noted while there are positive indications that some places are recovering, the likely external shock to demand, the fall in commodity prices and the shock to financial markets could cause the region to suffer a significant recession in 2020 and this recession is likely to exceed the one in 2009. The report pointed out that the most extreme scenario considered is one which would result in a recession of more than five per cent of GDP. The IDB said that among their recommendations is that the financial sector should be closely monitored as an additional priority to ensure financial stability and allow commercial banks to assist firms and households. The report said that advanced countries with historically low interest rates can support their economies for a long time without significant threats to their economic stability. However, many emerging economies such as

those in the region may not be in such a privileged position. “As such, it will be extremely important to prioritise measures and ensure that the greatest bang is obtained for each [dollar] of support. The total volume of fiscal packages will depend on available financing,” the IDB said. POSSIBLE POLICY INTERVENTIONS The report said that since public health services are provided largely by local governments, central government should provide local government organs with resources in a speedy manner. “Since institutions and implementation capacity is lower at this level of government, additional resources should be accompanied by technical help from federal governments for these resources to be effective,” the report pointed out. “Additionally, many people will lose their income while under lockdown at home. This makes it imperative to design subsidy programmes that are well targeted to vulnerable groups, particularly the poor and informal workers. Given past experience, it is key that these programmes be designed as temporary, with separate accounts from other structural transfer programmes, including sunset clauses. Transparency in the administration of this policy is also essential,” the report said.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, April 12, 2020

SUNDAY CHRONICLE April 12, 2020

With lockdown extension on the cards, IPL all set to be postponed indefinitely THE cash-rich Indian Premier League’s (IPL) 13th edition yesterday headed towards an indefinite postponement as the country braced for a lockdown extension to contain the COVID-19 pandemic. The BCCI has been waiting for an official announcement from the centre, but with the chief ministers of various states making it clear that another extension is on the cards, India’s richest sports body is left with no option but to postpone it further. The number of confirmed novel coronavirus cases in the country has crossed 8 000 with 259 fatalities so far. However, it remained unclear whether the board will formally announce the postponement before April 15, the date till which the event was pushed back last month. “Three states Punjab, Maharashtra and Karnataka have already said that they are extending lockdown. It is implied that IPL can’t happen for the time being. But it will certainly not be cancelled. It will be postponed indefinitely,” a BCCI official told PTI on the condition of anonymity. The IPL was originally scheduled to be held between March 29 and May 24, but was postponed initially till April 15 due to the coronavirus outbreak. “We can’t cancel IPL as it means losses to the tune of Rs 3000 crore. The BCCI will work with all stakeholders to find a solution but for that normalcy needs to return. It’s not possible for BCCI bigwigs to commit that IPL can happen at which particular slot,” he added. As of now, there are two options -- organising it in September and early October before the World T20 in Australia or hosting it at the expense of the World T20 if the ICC, Cricket Australia and other stakeholders agree. “There are lots of ifs and buts at the moment. You can only have a meaningful discussion when things normalise. Till then, nothing can be said.” (HindustaniTimes)

SUNDAY CHRONICLE April 12, 2020

Lloyd ‘Blades’ Wallace – Essequibo’s most accomplished Curator By Elroy Stephney DESPITE not having any formal training in the art of preparing cricket pitches, Lloyd Wallace became Essequibo’s most enduring and successful curator spanning over a decade. Formerly from Hampton Court on the Essequibo Coast, he lived just a few yards from the famous Kayman Sankar cricket ground. The venue then provided the opportunity for him to expose his talent as an employee of the firm where he spent over 15 years. In an exclusive interview with Chronicle Sport, the strongly built yet affable Lloyd Wallace was happy to reminisce on his sojourn as one of the best in the Caribbean as he put it. “I was rated by former International Umpire Billy Doctrove from

Dominica as being one of the best in the Region”.. “In my time, I was privileged to have prepared quality pitches for Red Stripe, Shell Shield and Inter-county matches and received quite favourable commendations from the players,” he added. “The Kayman Sankar ground became my home because I loved my task and it was done through consistently hard work, sacrifice and dedication towards a sport that I loved dearly,” emphasised the 51-year-old veteran who is one of ten brothers, five of whom represented Essequibo at the Inter-county level, namely Trenton Peters, Orin Wallace, Aubrey Wallace, Derick Wallace and Clifford Wallace. In fact, Lloyd Wallace also represented Essequibo in softball at the inter-county stage

and was among the finest behind the stumps locally. “I was nick-named Blades because I was so sharp behind the wicket,” he acknowledged with some degree of satisfaction. Back on the pitch, ‘Blades’ was a monumental figure at the ground where he would studiously and repetitively arrange his equipment to undergo a rigorous job that required intense concentration and attention. There was never a dull moment witnessing him in action and he was an expert at his trade that he mastered without tutoring. “I was never exposed to training. My instinct, on-thejob experience and constant exposure to mud, water, roller, paint and brush were all that I needed to understand my role as a groundsman,” he responded.

England playing different formats on consecutive days ‘feasible’ - Giles (REUTERS) - England could field separate test and limited-overs teams to play matches on consecutive days as part of a compressed home season due to the COVID-19 pandemic, says the ECB’s director of cricket Ashley Giles. England have suspended professional cricket until at least May 28 due to the outbreak and uncertainty also looms over their home series against West Indies, Pakistan, Australia and Ireland. Wicketkeeper-batsman Jos Buttler has said England could field two different teams on the same day at separate venues to maximise the amount of cricket in a truncated summer. “Technically it’s feasible,” former spinner Giles

ECB’s director of cricket Ashley Giles told British media. “You could put two different groups together. We haven’t really looked at that, like that, yet.” However, Giles thought it more likely that matches could take place on consecutive days. “We’ve certainly looked at playing two formats around the same

time,” he added. “You could have a Test match running and play a T20 or an ODI the day before or the day after a test match. “But it’s also working with the broadcasters on what’s best and what they want. That’s another important partnership for us. “They will be suffering at the moment and we are very much all in this together.” Giles hoped at least some cricket would be played this summer though he conceded hosting West Indies for a three-Test series in June was looking “less and less likely”. “The deadline of 28 May still stands but ... it’s looking less and less likely that we’re going to be out there in June,” he said.

He shared the following memory with a real sense of pride. “I remember preparing the pitch for the likes of Brian Lara, Curtly Ambrose, Joel Garner, Richie Richardson, Phil Simmons, Ian Bishop, Shivnarine Chanderpaul, Clayton Lambert among others and I felt honoured to be doing so for my heroes,” he boasted. “I recalled Trinidad and Tobago defeating Guyana in a Red Stripe match in the late 1990s when the great Brian Lara was Man-of-the-Match, scoring 67 runs. I was also proud of the Essequibo Under-16 team winning against Demerara in the Neville Sarjoo tournament.” “These are memories that I will forever etch in my heart as I played a role in providing an environment in which all were satisfied and much to the

delight of the fans as well.” Upon reflection, the popular ‘Blades’ would single out Rovendra Mandolall, Jermain Jones, Dinesh Joseph, Ray Reid and Delvin Austin among others whose talent he witnessed right at the ground as being promising cricketers while his brother Trenton Peters, Jaimini Singh, Orin Belfield and Mark Stephney were good during his time. He has since expressed gratitude to the Kayman Sankar Group of Companies for their tremendous support as well as Kayman and Beni Sankar who were pioneers of the game in Essequibo. Wallace who is married and has four children, now resides in La Belle Alliance. He has since become an entrepreneur and security officer, but was quick to reveal that he is willing to share his ex-

Former curator Lloyd `Blades’ Wallace perience with the Essequibo Cricket Board (ECB) and local clubs, even as he noted that the standard of preparing pitches now is very poor since much more education and guidance is needed for the art to develop and succeed. While the Hampton Court ground no longer exists and the towering figure of ‘Blades’ does not perform duties, he will be remembered as Essequibo’s most celebrated curator.

Wisden 2020 Almanack names Russell as 2019’s leading T20 cricketer IN its 2020 Almanack, Wisden has named Andre Russell as their leading Twenty20 cricketer in the world for 2019. Following an outstanding year in both franchise and international levels, Russell scored 1 080 runs in total in T20 cricket, at a strike rate of 182 and also took 46 wickets. According to Wisden, “His exploits with Kolkata Knight Riders - 510 runs and 11 wickets - won him the Most Valuable Player award. His tally of 52 sixes was 18 clear of the next (Chris Gayle), and not far off Gayle’s IPL record 59, in 2012. Yet it was Russell’s ability to overhaul seemingly impossible targets that set him apart.” Russell credited his rise to the lessons learned while serving a one-year anti-doping ban between 2017 and 2018 - the suspension triggered after he missed three tests,” Wisden said. “I changed my mentality since I got banned,” Russell said. “I was slacking off. I was big. I was lazy. I wasn’t practising hard. I came back stronger, leaner, more muscular. I’m hitting the ball effort-

Wisden has named Andre Russell as its leading Twenty20 cricketer lessly for six.” The Jamaican all-rounder competed in five domestic T20 competitions, from the Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL to the Dhaka Dynamites in the Bangladesh Premier League, making the most of every opportunity to stamp his authority as one of the best players in the world in the format. (Sportsmax)

SUNDAY CHRONICLE April 12, 2020

Curtez Kellman was outstanding in first year with Titans By Ras Wadada AFTER starting all 20 games of the 2019 season for Eastern Florida State College in the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Division 1 Soccer, the only disappointment for Guyanese Curtez Kellman Jr is not lifting the Championship. In his first season of a 2-year full scholarship Kellman, who just turned 22, has cemented his place in the Titans team at central defence though he will quickly tell you his real position is central midfield. The Pisces-born who had a belated start to the ‘Beautiful Game’ continues to flourish after only 8 years of involvement and his eyes are now set on playing professionally. Speaking to Chronicle Sport exclusively from his forced confinement in Miami due to COVID-19, Kellman recalled how he got started, “Growing up in East Ruimveldt it was easy to get involved in the sport since it was popular and almost all the youths played in the streets and were members of

Curtiz Kellman Jr

a club; but because my mom was overly protective due to the kind of negatives associated with the game, I was not allowed to participate. “I, however, was encouraged by my friends to join GFC at the age of 14 and that’s where it started, but mind you, football is in my genes as my father played in his time.” Although he was raw talent when he went to GFC his character spoke volumes

and caught the eyes of the club’s manager Faizal Khan, “His work ethics and passion for the game were very impressive and add to that his discipline and respect for everyone. For someone who started playing late he had a decent first touch and was very coachable and these are attributes any coach would embrace. “I am happy how he has developed and we at GFC are proud of his achievements, so far, and more importantly that his talents are paying for his education,” Khan expressed. His name quickly became household among his peers and age-group players and even his Mom, with pride, started to follow his games and his rise to prominence. His boundless talent was now the talk among followers of the game and soon he was recruited from St Mary’s High School and given a scholarship to attend Chase Academy. His biggest moment of surprise, however, came in November of 2017 when he was selected to represent the Guyana senior national team in an away friendly International

versus Indonesia at the age of 19. Earlier in the same year between March and May he was contracted by Antiguan side Grenades FC to play in the Caribbean Football Union’s Club Championship. “I must admit I was surprised to be called up although I was enjoying a solid and consistent Elite league season for GFC, but, yes, it was a big moment. I played at central midfield, coming on for Anthony Benfield after 14 minutes of the game that ended in a 1-2 loss for us. “I was a little nervous at first, but quickly adapted once I got onto the pitch. It was a good game ‘end to end’ and played at a good level. The atmosphere of the game on November 25 I will never forget”, a satisfied debutant Kellman recounted. The self-acclaimed, down-to-earth and jovial Kellman’s hunger to achieve more in the sport grew more intense and that led him to Florida where Guyanese educator, Albert Cappell, arranged for him to play in tryouts for the Eastern Florida State College Titans. Such

was his impressive performances in the January 2019 try-outs that English-born coach, Oliver Twelvetrees, provided Kellman Jr with a full 2-year scholarship. It was a decision that the coach never regretted as the Titans made it to the Championship game for the first time in the school’s history, losing 1-2 to Monroe College in Tyler, Texas. The mere presence of the athleticism and soccer intelligence of Kellman in the defense played a pivotal role in the Titans cenjoying a season where they only lost twice, to same Monroe College, while recording 16 wins and two draws. It was a record-breaking season for the Titans that included 13 clean sheets. ”The result in the final could have been different had we not lost two players due to red card. We were all disappointed at losing but revenge is on our minds already, so this coming season we will be determined to avenge that defeat and bring home the first title for the College,” Kellman promised. Kellman who is majoring in Business Administration

is thinking ahead of his completion at Eastern Florida State College and is seriously planning to play soccer professionally. “It has not been an easy journey so far since it is a real challenge to balance books and football, but I devised a daily routine and have stuck with it and it has worked.” “All I have achieved would not have been possible without the care and support of my parents, Mr Albert Cappell, Mr Faizal Khan as well as my aunts and uncles, and to them I am very grateful,” Kellman proclaimed. At the moment, Kellman, together with another national footballer, Jeremy Garret, is being held up in Miami due to COVID-19, but thanks to the intervention of the Director of Sport, Christopher Jones the players’ welfare is being taken care of by the Guyana Consulate in Florida until the airports here reopen. Until that time Kellman can only look forward to his return home where he knows he can enjoy his favourite meal of fried rice with baked chicken and macaroni.

Skerritt, Shallow boast of repairing broken stakeholder relationship … Legends-oriented ‘Cricket First’ advisory group to be pursued

AFTER one year in office Cricket West Indies (CWI) president Ricky Skerritt and vice-president Dr Kishore Shallow are boasting that they have made significant progress in repairing the severely broken relationships between past CWI leadership and several current and past players. Foremost among the progress was the reconciliation with world-beating coach, Phil Simmons, who was allegedly wrongfully dismissed by CWI. In their one-year review, the top CWI executives highlighted the following: designing of a new, more open selection policy and the appointment of accountable selectors to operate in a more modern and transparent selection system. “All players must be treated fairly by CWI going forward and mutual respect must prevail.” According to the review, the selection policy inherently protects the work of selectors from outside interference. The executives said they made a number of courtesy calls on Government Ministers to give reassurance, seek partnership and establish mutual respect and they intend to continue that trend. A media policy for more openness and better access to CWI leadership by all Caribbean media was established which saw access to the president, vice-president, CEO,

director of cricket and other cricket officials such as Roger Harper, Phil Simmons and Ann Browne-John, This resulted in a record number of print, radio and video interviews with Caribbean and international press since the March 24, 2019 CWI election, the review added. The period also saw extended Colonial Group International sponsorship beyond Super50 Cup to include International ODI Series, the review disclosed. UTILISATION OF REGIONAL TECHNICAL EXPERTISE Skerritt and Shallow pointed out that they agreed with the view that, over the years, CWI has under-utilised the experiences and knowledge of several past players, especially those who have achieved World Class legendary status. Subject only to the availability of financial resources, and with the cooperation of some key individuals, during the second year in office, they intend to explore the idea of establishing a Legends-oriented ‘Cricket First’ advisory group. “Such a group will make relevant and insightful recommendations on cricket specific matters, and be engaged for other constructive purposes such as fund-raising, sponsor appearances, and player mentoring. For example, with the use

of scarce sponsorship resources, CWI engaged five West Indies ‘Legends’ to do ambassadorial type work in the UK during the 2019 ICC CWC (Sir Clive Lloyd, Sir Andy Roberts, Joel Garner, Deryck Murray, and Colin Croft were engaged on these specific assignments). More specifically, during the past year, the review disclosed an established ‘West Indies First Policy’ which was approved by the CWI Board four months ago in December 2019. “This is the first time ever for such a CWI policy. It established clearly that priority must be given to individuals and businesses of West Indian origin, for the procurement of goods and services and the recruitment of expertise. It also speaks to the need to develop local capacity wherever skills or experience may be in short supply.” Referring to the promotion of West Indies ‘A’ Team coach Floyd Reifer to the Men’s interim head coach position, the review claimed, “The experience gained by coach Reifer during the seven months in which he held the interim position has already begun to be of tremendous long-term value to West Indies cricket.” Experienced international coach and past West Indian player, Phil Simmons, was subsequently appointed as permanent men’s team head coach

after being recruited from a competitive field of West Indians-only applicants and has been tasked with systematically preparing the squad up to and including the next ICC ODI CWC in 2023. The duo also boasted on expanding the use of past players and other qualified West Indian professionals as coaches and team specialists, including Courtney Walsh, Gus Logie and Kenny Benjamin and also utilising the experience of fast-bowling legend Joel Garner and two former captains and batting stars, Brian Lara and Ramnaresh Sarwan, through short-term consultancies in pre-tour preparation camps. They also saw the appointment of former West Indian wicketkeeper and former Chairman of Selectors, Michael Findlay, as an Independent CWI director and appointed an Antigua-based accounting and consulting firm (PKF) to carry out a much needed ‘CWI Financial Review’. A power-point version of this unprecedented Financial Assessment report was presented to the Board, in December 2019, under the co-ordination of PKF senior partner, Wilbur Harrigan. It featured a long list of fundamental, vital and strategic recommendations for change. During the one-year period, the pair said it strengthened

CWI’s long-standing relations with the Government of Antigua & Barbuda, who have been a generous co-host of the headquarters for West Indies cricket for more than two decades. “The CEO and his team have been mandated to reach out to and integrate more closely with local cricket and community. Select Antiguans have also been appointed to various CWI standing committees and have attended several CWI events.

Mention was also made of the appointment of Grace Kennedy Chairman and CEO, Don Wehby, to lead the new CWI Governance Review Task Force, made up of five reputable Caribbean business and professional luminaries, including past legend Deryck Murray. The Wehby Governance report is due to be presented to CWI before the end of April, 2020. (Frederick Halley)

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Sunday April 12, 2020)

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) Harbhajan Singh (vs AUST, Kolkata, 2000-01) (2) Tyrell Johnson (vs ENG, The Oval, 1939)

Today’s Quiz: (1)Which IND wicketkeeper has effected most dismissals against the WI in Tests to date? (2)Which WI wicketkeeper has effected most dismissals against IND in Tests to date?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

SUNDAY CHRONICLE April 12, 2020

No-width: how Broad tamed Warner during last year’s Ashes LONDON (Reuters) - England quick Stuart Broad reckons his total domination of Australia opener David Warner in last year’s Ashes series was down to his strategy of denying the batsman any width to play his fierce cut shots and square drives. Broad dismissed Warner seven times in 10 innings as the subdued left-hander finished the drawn series with only 95 runs. “He is such a dangerous player and one of the best third-innings opening batsmen in the world,” Broad said in a Sky Cricket podcast. “Having played against him a lot over the last eight or nine years, I found that, as I am a taller bowler, when he sat back in the crease he was cutting and square driving me a lot to the boundary.

cricket’s most prolific seam bowler, and he attributed their success to their complimentary approaches.

Pacer Stuart Broad dismissed aussie opener David Warner seven times in 10 innings “I decided I was just going to try and hit his stumps every ball. I was not going to try and swing it away from it as I felt that gave him width, I was just going to scramble the seam.” Broad said he kept attacking the stumps and did not mind the occasional straight drives.

“Once I got him at Lord’s, the third time in a row, I just got that feeling like I was getting a bit of a competitive edge over him,” said Broad, who has 485 wickets from 138 Tests. The lanky right-arm bowler has forged a formidable new-ball partnership with Jimmy Anderson, test

“I love the competitive side of cricket, the moment of winning, working a batsman out, getting a wicket,

but he just loves any sort of bowling and is at his happiest just trucking in,” Broad added.

Swiss prosecutors to drop one case against ex-FIFA chief Blatter By John Revill

iBet to host eSports FIFA20 Tournament … over $100 000 in cash, prizes up for grabs

WITH the sports world at a standstill, one of Guyana’s sports-betting companies, iBet Supreme, is looking to provide entertainment while reinforcing the necessary measures needed to fight the COVID-19 global pandemic, as part of its corporate responsibility. iBet Supreme, in collaboration with Banks DIH through its Monster Energy Drink brand, will host a FIFA20 eSports tournament. This will be played online so that participants won’t have to leave their homes thus adhering to the laws governing the current COVID-19 situation. The tournament, League of Champions, will feature 32 participants in 31 games across eight playing days spanning two weeks.

It will be open to persons above the age of 18, and the final selection will be done based on information provided during registration. The tournament will be played using the ‘win-or-go-home’ format, with the winners of the first round advancing to the round-of-6, then to the quarter-finals, semi-finals and final. The winner will pocket $50 000 and a case of Monster Energy drinks while the runner-up will receive $25 000 as well as a case of Monster Energy drink. Third place will walk away with $15 000 and the corresponding prizes. While it can be argued that this is the first venture of its kind in Guyana, eSports is a growing industry since it became mainstream around 2010, eSports is now a significant

factor in the video game industry, with many game developers actively designing and providing funding for tournaments and other events. “iBet Supreme is looking to open a pathway into this industry in Guyana with our inaugural tournament,” the company said in a release yesterday. For registration and tournament information call us on telephone number 608-7036. Registration will begin tomorrow and the first match day will be on Saturday. Supreme Ventures, a well-respected and well-regulated company, operates its Guyanese brand, iBet Supreme through Supreme Ventures Guyana Holdings Inc. (SVGH) and Supreme Ventures Enterprise Inc. (SVE).

With lockdown extension on the cards, IPL all set to be postponed indefinitely see story on page 20

ZURICH, Switzerland (Reuters) - Switzerland’s federal prosecutor is about to end its investigation into former FIFA president Sepp Blatter’s deals with the Caribbean Football Union (CFU) to sell World Cup broadcasting rights. The Office of the Attorney General (OAG) said it has informed all the parties of its intention to close the case and was seeking ways to end it. “We confirm the Office of the Attorney General of Switzerland ... considers the criminal investigation into the partial facts and allegations concerning the contractual relationship with the CFU to be complete and ready for conclusion,” it said in a statement. The OAG “intends to discontinue the proceedings”, it added, giving no reason for the decision. As a result, Blatter, who is currently serving a six-year ban from football-related activities over ethics violations, will not be prosecuted for the matter which relates to selling TV rights for World Cup tournaments too cheaply. T h e 84-year-old Swiss, who led FIFA until 2015, was Former FIFA president accused of Sepp Blatter selling TV rights to the CFU for the 2010 and 2014 World Cups for $600 000, seen as far below the market value at the time. A spokesman for Blatter said he had not heard anything officially but had no reason to doubt the media reports. In a second criminal case, Blatter is accused of having arranged a payment of two million Swiss francs ($2.06 million) to the-then UEFA president Michel Platini in February 2011. The investigation in this case is not affected by its intentions to end the first case, the OAG said. Blatter and Platini, who could not immediately be reached for comment, have maintained they did nothing wrong amid what became part of the biggest corruption scandal to shake world soccer’s ruling body, resulting in numerous prosecutions and convictions in the United States.

Mumbai Indians created history by lifting the IPL title for a record fourth time in 2019 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

SUNDAY, APRIL 12, 2020