Issuu

FRIDAY 18th June, 2021

' No.106395

Miners affected by floods to get much-needed assistance

Shameful, reckless and selfish

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SEE PAGE 03

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali

Opposition Leader, Joseph Harmon

–– President Ali ‘shuts down’ Harmon’s call to suspend Sputnik V –– Harmon admits to taking both doses of vaccine ––– his suspension call comes days after party comrade died from COVID-19 –– Health Minister says Harmon’s call could endanger the lives of thousands

–– reaffirms roll out of Sputnik V vaccines will continue

Region One 04 councilwoman dies in accident PAGE

Dead: Juanita Sobers

Parolees honoured Garraway for Father’s Day 16 gets life 09 imprisonment for raping girl, five PAGE

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Alex Garraway

10 undocumented Haitians found at Berbice hotel

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 18, 2021

Roll out of Sputnik V vaccines will continue –– Dr. Anthony says, rubbishes Harmon’s 'fake vaccine' claims

MINISTER of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, has assured the nation that all of the COVID-19 vaccines being imported are safe, and that the Opposition Leader’s claims of “fake vaccines” entering the country

are unfounded. As a result, the administration will continue its roll out of national vaccination which is critical for Guyana to exit the ongoing pandemic. On Thursday morning,

Minister Anthony reminded that the Opposition Leader’s call for suspension were issued after he himself would’ve been fully vaccinated

the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC)’s Joseph Harmon hosted a press conference, calling on the government to suspend its administering of the Sputnik V vaccine from Russia, claiming that it could be fake. Several government officials and members of the private sector have since called out Harmon for his claims, which they believe have been politically motivated. “He hasn’t produced any evidence that the vaccine is not safe; [he] hasn’t produced any evidence that the vaccine is not working, but proceeded to make a conclusion that the vaccine is fake,” Dr. Anthony highlighted. The minister, who is also a medical doctor, has reminded that the Sputnik V vaccine is one of the highest rated in the world, recording an efficacy rate of more than 97 per cent. Dr, Anthony believes that it was reckless of Harmon, who is not a doctor, to pronounce on such matters. “Since he hasn’t produced any evidence and there is nothing to go by and he is not a medical person, why should we bother with him,” the minister surmised. He noted however, that because Harmon is the leader of a political party that has a large support base, it was important to set the record straight, especially since the lives of thousands of Guyanese may depend on it. Dr. Anthony said that he found it to be quite unfortunate that a person who claims to be a leader would “deliberately endanger” the lives of citizens, just to gain

political points. Similar sentiments were also shared by Minister within the Office of the Prime Minister, Kwame McCoy, who moderated a virtual press conference hosted on the National Communications Network (NCN). Also speaking at the forum was Minister of Labour, Joseph Hamilton, who heavily criticised Harmon for jeopardising the outcome of the vaccination programme. Hamilton pointed to the fact that the opposition’s “concerns” went from being the price of the vaccines, then the method of acquisition, and now, its efficacy. “This is straight destructive politics,” Hamilton contended. APPROVALS ARE IN ORDER Meanwhile, the Government Analyst - Food and Drug Department (GAFDD) issued a statement on Thursday night, highlighting the administration’s approval protocol for all imported vaccines. “The importation and use of all COVID-19 vaccines followed all established emergency authorisation protocols for use during a pandemic,” the agency said. The statement, signed by the GA-FDD’s head, Marlon Cole, indicated that the department would have assessed all vaccines using the guidelines set out by the World Health Organisation (WHO), and that the methods of verification were reliant on Emergency Use Authorisation (EVA) issued by several

Health Minister, Dr. Frank Anthony serious reference authorities. These, he noted, include the United States Food and Drugs Administration (USFDA), the United Kingdom Medicine and Health Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), as well as the WHO Emergency Use listing. “In addition, the department relied on the Caribbean Public Health Agency’s (CARPHA-CRS) reference countries such as Brazil and Argentina for the approval of vaccines that were not approved by the other reference authorities,” the statement noted. It said too that Emergency Use Authorisations (EUA) were granted upon request as per protocol, and that it details the information of the vaccines that were intended to be imported; this includes the name and address of the manufacturer and supplier. “Thereafter, the department would have issued a EUL or waiver for impor-

tation, in addition to the issuance of an import permit with the name of specific manufacturer, the name of the supplier, the quantity and the name of the vaccine,” the GA-FDD said. It stated specifically that all approvals were issued in accordance with the Laws of Guyana Food and Drug Act Cap 34:03 and its supporting Regulations 1977 - Regulation 86. Minister Anthony reminded that so far, Guyana’s vaccination programme has not had any adverse outcome, and that no person who has been vaccinated has died. Dr. Anthony called on all Guyanese to reject Harmon’s claims, and to get vaccinated as a means of safeguarding themselves and their families. Minister Anthony also pointed to the fact that Harmon’s complaints and calls for suspension have been issued after he himself would have been fully vaccinated.

Shameful, reckless and selfish GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 18, 2021

-- President Ali shuts down Harmon’s call to suspend Sputnik V -- Harmon admits to taking both doses of vaccine -- his suspension call comes days after party comrade died from COVID-19

By Rehana Ahamad EVEN after becoming fully immunised against the deadly coronavirus, Opposition Leader, Joseph Harmon, has called for a suspension in the administering of the Sputnik V vaccine from Russia. Without evidence, the Member of Parliament on Thursday hosted a press conference to express his belief that the drug could be fake and proceeded to encourage Guyanese not to take it. Harmon’s call has since attracted a myriad of criticisms from various sections of society, including respected doctors and leading private sector groups. More prominently, however, the Opposition Leader’s utterances received a stern response from President, Dr. Irfaan Ali. In a special broadcast message issued on Thursday evening, the Head of State described Harmon’s move as “shamefully reckless, selfish, and against the interest of Guyana and Guyanese”. As the world continues to grapple with the devastating effects of the deadly coronavirus, almost every country has been working overtime to acquire the lifesaving vaccines; fortunately, Guyana is one of the few nations that have been able to acquire enough vaccines to sufficiently immunise its entire adult population. This has been hailed as a major win for the 10-month-old People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Government, and President Ali speared no efforts in reprimanding Harmon for playing with people’s lives, and for using the country’s efficient vaccination efforts as a political football. “Countries are fighting desperately to get these vaccines; these vaccines are not easily procured; we have tried every single measure, and for Mr. Harmon to discredit those efforts; for Mr. Harmon to try to dissuade Guyanese at this important public health juncture of our country is reckless and shameful,” President Ali

even before the WHO had given its approved. “All the scientific literature tells you how important vaccination is,” the President reminded. HAS TO COMPLY FULLY Responding directly to Harmon’s assertions that the vaccines could possible be fake, Dr. Ali stated that “Every single shipment of Sputnik (V vaccines) comes with batch numbers and serial numbers. Before it is administered, it has to comply fully, with the local regulatory approval system that can be matched to the manufacturers’ data.” President Ali further criticised Harmon for urging Guyanese not to become vaccinated, especially given the fact that his party has al-

efforts, and condemning Harmon’s call for a suspension. The private sector agency sees Harmon’s call as being “utterly reprehensible, callous and irresponsible” and geared at scoring cheap political points. “The GCCI would like to put on public record that it finds the statements regarding ‘fake vaccines’ made by the Leader of the Opposition, Joseph Harmon, to be unwarranted, reckless and not based in fact – especially in light of the current public health situation of Guyana,” the reputable body noted. It also cautioned the government to remain transparent and accountable in all dealings with the ongoing vaccination drive, reiterating its willingness to provide whatever support it can, as a means of ensuring that all

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali

posited, as he proceeded to highlight the irony of Harmon’s call. “[He] himself took the sputnik vaccine,” Dr. Ali highlighted. He added, “There’s a limit to which one’s selfishness can go; in this case, the limit must be to issue a statement that put the lives of Guyanese families and communities at risk. That is what Mr. Harmon has done.” Initially, the majority A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) Opposition utilised a recent sitting of the National Assembly to raise questions as to why the government procured vaccines at US$22 per dose when they could have possibly gotten it

at US$10 per dose. NO RESPONSE Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony had then invited Harmon to point the government in the direction of cheaper vaccines, but no response was given. An increased price for the vaccines has been widely attributed to global shortages, and the fact that all countries have been scouring to secure enough jabs for their people. President Ali pointed to the fact that his government had approached every single vaccine developer, manufacturer and country, before it was finally able to procure the lifesaving injections. “[There is] no cost to protecting the lives of Guyanese;

that is my only interest,” Dr. Ali asserted. In relation to persons questioning the effectiveness of the Sputnik V vaccines, the Head of State reminded that the drug is being used in more than 74 countries worldwide, and that it carries an efficacy rate that is beyond 97 per cent. “This government is going to ensure that we exhaust all avenues for vaccines; that position would not change,” President Ali noted. As it relates to criticisms of Sputnik V still awaiting approval from the World Health Organisation (WHO), Dr. Ali reminded that most of the countries across the world had begun to use almost all of the other vaccines

The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry described the Opposition Leader’s call as being “utterly reprehensible, callous, irresponsible” and geared at scoring cheap political points

ready lost one of its members to the virus. “I call on Guyanese to heed the calls of the Ministry of Health and the call of scientists and doctors, and get vaccinated,” President Ali urged. Meanwhile, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce & Industry (GCCI) issued a statement commending the government’s vaccination

Guyanese are protected by way of vaccination from the novel coronavirus. Notwithstanding the Opposition’s criticisms, President Ali said that the government will continue its roll out of the Sputnik V and other vaccines, as they become available. “Vaccination is essential to flight COVID,” the Head of State maintained.

Support local businesses 4

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 18, 2021

-- that want to capitalise on offshore opportunities

THE Maritime Administration Department (MARAD) of the Ministry of Public Works has joined forces with the Guyana Oil and Gas Energy Chamber to encourage and support the efforts of local businesses that want to capitalise on the many offshore opportunities that are being created within the rapidly emerging oil and gas sector. On Thursday, the Chamber’s President, Manniram Prashad and Director-General of MARAD, Stephen Thomas, inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to further solidify the partnership. In accordance with the MoU, the chamber’s is responsible for ensuring that “there are equal opportunities for all the operators and potential operators within the oil and gas industry and promote trade, investment and knowledge

transfer within the energy sector to all members and stakeholders.” As for MARAD, the agency would be tasked with “providing the maritime industry with the necessary support services, and infrastructure necessary to ensure safety of navigation in Guyana waters”. Speaking briefly with the Guyana Chronicle, MARAD’s Director-General, Stephan Thomas said that the MoU can be seen as a clear indication that the agency is willing, able and eager to support local companies that are seeking a place, and a means of capitalising on the opportunities that continue to emerge from offshore. “Our main aim is to let persons know that we are supportive of the efforts of the private sector to develop the offshore oil and gas industry,” Thomas related.

A THIRTY-nine-year-old woman of Central Baramita Village, in the North West District, died tragically around 17:30hrs on Wednesday evening following a vehicular accident on the village’s main access road. The woman has been identi-

fied as Juanita Sobers, Secretary of the Baramita Village Council. According to reports, at the time of the accident, the minibus (#BPP9730) in which Sobers was travelling was proceeding west along the southern side of the road with its five passengers, including the deceased,

He said that the MoU also reiterated the role of MARAD in monitoring, regulating, and coordinating maritime activities throughout Guyana. “That’s paramount in anything that we do,” Thomas told this newspaper. He is hopeful that the signing of the MoU would enable local companies to “feel free to communicate” and partner with MARAD in taking Guyana forward. “We are not only to regulate, but we are also here to facilitate,” Thomas posited. The MARD was established by the Guyana Shipping Act (Act No.7 of 1998) with its office located on Battery Road, Georgetown, Guyana, while the Guyana Oil and Gas Energy Chamber (GOGEC) is a private grouping established in 2017 when Guy-

Director-General of MARAD, Stephen Thomas (left) and President of the Guyana Oil and Gas Energy Chamber, Manniram Prashad ana’s lucrative oil and gas sector the local players of the industry was blossoming as an important to ensure that they all speak with player in the Guyanese economy. a collective voice to address any The organisation, with a anomalies that may arise in the membership of 20, seeks to unify industry.

Dead: Juanita Sobers and descending a hill at about 30 to 40km/hr. The minibus was reportedly

being driven by 23-year-old Deonarine Kumar, of Citrus Grove, Port Kaituma, also in the North West District of Region One (Barima-Waini). According to the driver, he was driving along without incident when suddenly the vehicle started to travel in a left-to-right motion, and try as he might to apply brakes, he couldn’t avoid running into a “baranka” on the northern edge of the road. As a result of the collision, everyone was thrown out of the vehicle, and Sobers, who was

“Our intention is to ensure that we educate all Guyanese about this new industry by hosting several seminars, trade missions, and expositions throughout the entire country. We also planned to conduct regional and international symposiums to attract investors to fill the gap in those areas where there are opportunities,” the chamber’s website indicated. The organisation has also been vocal in its push for a healthy Local Content Policy for the petroleum industry. So far, the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) government has committed to ensuring that Guyanese remain critical players of the oil and gas sector. As it is, a number of specific sectors have been reserved for just Guyanese. It is hoped that the aforementioned MoU would motivate more local companies to seek investments in the ongoing offshore activities.

Reg. One councilwoman dies in Baramita accident

At the scene of the accident late Wednesday seated in the front passenger seat, was reportedly found lying motionless underneath it. She and the driver, both of whom seemingly fared the worst, were taken by public-spirited citizens to the Baramita Health Centre. Unfortunately, Sobers was pro-

nounced dead on arrival by a doctor on duty, while the driver was admitted a patient at the institution. The Guyana Police Force has since indicated that a “Notice of intended prosecution” has been served on the driver of the minibus.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 18, 2021

Plan to be in place to better manage City’s drainage structures -- ministers urge M&CC not to play politics when executing responsibilities

THE Ministers of Agriculture, Local Government and Public Works have said that a plan will be put in place to ensure the City’s drainage structures are managed effectively following a meeting with the Mayor, Deputy Mayor and City Engineer of Georgetown on Wednesday. Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha, speaking after the meeting, emphasised that government cannot assume those responsibilities without due process being followed. He also said that the City’s drainage system is the responsibility of the Council and that government will be exploring all avenues to ensure that the Council is accountable and executes its responsibilities. Minister Mustapha said that the meeting with the senior M&CC officials was to get firsthand answers for the flooding in several parts of Georgetown following government’s recent investments to improve the City’s drainage capacity. “For the last two occasions that we experienced heavy rainfall in the City, we’ve had flash floods in some areas, while in other areas, we’ve had extensive flooding. Over the last month, the President and other ministers have been visiting a number of pumps and sluices in Georgetown to ensure these pieces of equipment that were provided to the City Council were being utilised. To our dismay, we’ve seen that the supervision of these structures left much to be desired. It is clear that the City Council is not supervising these sluice and pump operators,” Minister Mustapha said. Minister Mustapha further stated that when questions were posed to the Mayor about the supervision of the structures, he responded and said that the technical officers attached to the M&CC were responsible for the monitoring and supervision of the structures. That response, Minister Mustapha added, was unacceptable and not fitting of a leader since the management of the City’s drainage is ultimately the responsibility of the Mayor.

VERY STRANGE “The Mayor basically said if the technical people cannot supervise then he cannot do much about that. I find that very strange because the responsibility stops at the Mayor’s desk and he has to ensure that the town and these critical structures are manned properly and that all systems are in place, because this is our Capital City, and, as a government, we’ve been making the resources available to the City Council in terms of getting the D&I system in action. During the latter part of 2020, we would’ve increased the drainage capacity of Georgetown by installing three additional pumps. Georgetown now has 12 pumps installed. We also have approximately 10 sluices,” Minister Mustapha said. The subject minister went on to say that the M&CC is supposed to inform the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) if a pump or sluice becomes inoperable but recently, that has not been the case. The minister also said that, following an assessment of the pumps in Georgetown, technical officers from the NDIA discovered three pumps

hoped that the Georgetown M&CC would have engaged in the sustainable management of the facilities that were put in place. The minister also said, moving forward, disciplinary action should be taken against those found neglecting their responsibilities as it relates to effectively managing the City’s drainage structures. Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat

Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha

were down and that two of those pumps have been fixed after the NDIA intervened. Minister Mustapha said that government was very concerned about the flooding in Georgetown and other regions of the country. He maintained that Georgetown would not have experienced that level of flooding had all the structures been operable. UNFORTUNATE Minister Mustapha also told media operatives that the initial plan was for the officials from the M&CC to engage the media following their meeting. He said it was unfortunate that

Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Nigel Dharamlall

the Mayor and Deputy Mayor opted not to engage the media which reflected poorly on the integrity of the Mayor and Deputy Mayor. Meanwhile, Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Nigel Dharamlall, said that since taking office, the PPP/C Government has been doing the “heavy lifting” in Georgetown. He added that government had

Indar, said that the City Council was failing. “The management of the City, rather than being serious with the problem and call a spade a spade, is flouting the responsibility and throwing it back to the various ministries,” Minister Indar said. Minister Indar also said that government will continue to work in the best interest of the citizens of Georgetown.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 18, 2021

Accountability and value for money PRESIDENT Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali has ordered a review of all maintenance contracts for drainage structures and urged the activation of penalty clauses whenever those are found applicable. He further instructed that such clauses should be inserted where excluded from existing contracts. Consistent with that directive, the Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, has been instructed 'to immediately review all service and maintenance contracts within the sphere of the Government of Guyana and the entire state structure, in relation to drainage pumps, sluices, kokers and drainage and irrigation generally'. That directive from the

President could not have come at a better time. The current flood situation in the country has unearthed a number of structural and management deficiencies on the part of those responsible, thereby causing an unnecessary and avoidable rise in water levels. Nowhere is this more apparent than in our capital city of Georgetown, where large parts of the city become inundated during periods of heavy downpours. Streets become impassable to commuters who are unable to access public services or to transact important business due to flooded streets and elevated water levels. The inconvenience apart, the losses incurred by the business community are substantial. Many stores in the city are forced to

take measures to prevent water from entering their business premises or to close shop altogether until the water level falls. Floodwaters also pose a serious health hazard, especially regarding the spread of waterborne diseases. This is why it cannot be 'business as usual' when it comes to the management of our drainage systems, not only in the city, but in the country as a whole. In the case of Georgetown, the Mayor and City Council cannot escape responsibility for the floods in many parts of the city which has now becoming routine. There is evidence to suggest negligence and ineptitude on the part of those responsible, prompting one senior government official to wonder whether

there may not be a case of sabotage. How else can one explain the failure to have drainage pumps operable during periods of heavy rainfall and the failure to activate pumps, even when such pumps are in full operational mode? There are instances where pump operators were found literally sleeping on the job, totally unmindful of the potential inconvenience and losses to the wider citizenry. Contractors whose job is to ensure that pumps, drainage systems and other infrastructure are fully maintained and serviced must be held accountable. They are paid out of taxpayers' dollars to do a job and they are expected to do their job to the full extent of their contractual obligation and job specification. There are instances where

responsible officials are deliberately turning a blind eye to substandard quality of work by contractors with the expectation of some form of reward. These are not only unethical, but also speak to financial improprieties and a breach of the Financial Management and Accountability Act. The Office of the Auditor General has been dong audits of the public finances by the relevant agencies. In addition, it has also been doing value-for-money audits to ensure that monies spent on capital works executed by public agencies measure up to the intended specifications and scope of work. It is important that such audits be broadened to include projects executed by the City Council. We are all poorer as a society when such lapses

and aberrations take place by those in positions of authority and responsibility. In the final analysis, it is the taxpayers who have to bear the burden of the losses caused by sloppy works and failure on the part of the relevant officials to ensure that quality work is done in keeping with the required standard. In this regard, the directive by President Ali is both timely and necessary. The convergence of the COVID-19 pandemic and the flood situation has increased the level of stress in the society and poses new and unexpected challenges to us as a society. It is the duty and responsibility of us all to rise to these challenges and play our part to mitigate the pain and sufferings of the Guyanese people.

A tribute to theatre icon Clairmont Taitt Dear Editor,

LONG before I worked with Clairmont Taitt in a production, I knew of the famed Woodbine House or Taitt House (now Cara Lodge) on Quamina Street and its contribution to nurturing and producing many artistic talents in Guyana. Many, not with us anymore and a few are still around to share their memories. Ken Corsbie is with us, one of the old crowd. In 1989, the then Unites States Information Services (formerly JFK Library) in Guyana sponsored the

staging of the play, ‘Long Days Journey into Night’ by Eugene O’Neil in honour of the notable American playwright’s 100th birth anniversary. It was produced by The Theatre Company, directed by Ron Robinson. The cast was Clairmont Taitt, Margaret Lawrence, Gordon Marshall, Jasper Adams and Maya Trotz. It opened at the Theatre Guild on Thursday, May 18th, 1989, with a gala performance in aid of The Theatre Renovation Fund and ran for five nights. Clairmont was a quiet and reserved actor whose presence was hardly notice-

able except when he was on stage. His sterling performance in this production earned him the Best Actor award by the Theatre Arts Award. That was his last production in Guyana. In 2006, the Michael Gilkes production “Last of the Redmen” produced by GEMS Theatre Productions and starring Michael Gilkes, was staged in the Ballet Room of Cara Lodge, then taken on tour to St. Lucia, Trinidad and Barbados. The production in Barbados had a combination of Gilkes on stage, Ken Corsbie as set designer and Clairmont

Taitt as Music Director. I experienced another facet of his talent of this son of the soil. Needless to say, those were memorable days of the theatre industry. An era gone by… is it recoverable! Farewell Clairmont from all those who had the opportunity of working with you on or off stage. Yours sincerely, Gem Madhoo-Nascimento of Gems Theatre Productions And Co-Founder /Director of The Theatre Company Ltd (1981-2001)

Margaret Lawrence and Clairmont Taitt (Photo by Ed Roday and Pat Pierre)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 18, 2021

Justice is finally served Dear Editor,

JUSTICE was finally served on Wednesday in the High Court in Demerara, when Abishai Caesar from Tuschen was convicted of murdering Jennifer Persaud and her two sons from Anna Catherina, when he was sentenced to death by Justice Sandil Kissoon. Murderers have been on a rampage in Guyana, taking innocent lives, having no regard or respect for the value of a human life and they have continued recklessly, carelessly and mercilessly. There have been numerous calls from various sources for the implementation of the death penalty in order to curb the crime situation. After a long time, finally answering the call, one such positive initiative emerged from the brave Justice Kissoon to use the tool that has been always readily available, but was reluctantly overlooked. The honourable judge addressed the court before reading the riot act and exclaimed, “This crime com-

mitted by Abishai Caesar is a despicable unparalleled act of cold-blooded, ruthless savagery, where an entire family was meticulously and methodically brutally executed by Caesar, while these three persons were in the security of their home.” The judge certainly did not mince words and his description is befitting of the rest of murderers still in the streets or safely behind bars, having escaped similar punishment, unfortunately. The learned judge then told Caesar, saying, “You have treated life and death as meaningless. It is only right, it is only proper, and it is only just, in view of your horrific crimes having regard to the exceptional and specific circumstances, that you be sentenced to death.” Again, his choice of words justifies his action. The father and grandfather of the victims said, “I’m happy with the verdict; justice has been served. My daughter and grandsons can finally rest in peace.” This conclusion airs the opinion of society and reflects an answer to a call that has been echoed perpetu-

ally to help dissuade so many tragedies occurring in Guyana. The only regret being that this applaudable pronouncement came nine years late, because of the slow justice process in Guyana. The last execution took place in August 1997 when Michael Archer and Peter Adams were hanged for murder. It must be noted that the law makes provision for this verdict. Inclusive are: the death penalty for terrorist acts, murder, treason and armed robbery, piracy, drug trafficking and terrorist offences resulting in death. While the constitution states that the death penalty is not mandatory punishment, many provisions of the criminal code suggests that the death penalty may be mandatory for these crimes as no alternatives to such sentence of death is found under any law (2004 Annual Report – Amnesty International). There has been an outcry for Parliament to institutionalise the death penalty as mandatory, because of the callous crime situation in Guyana. Tough times call for tough

measures and the innocent citizens of the state need protection. The crime-prevention unit is under armed to deal with this situation and it needs to be strengthened by employing more tactical, technical and modern measures. It needs the support of all the law-enforcement agencies, the courts, the government, the politicians, Parliament, people, private and public entities, the labour unions and all social organisations. Justice delayed is justice denied. Currently, there are dozens of convicts sitting on death row, pending hypocritical bureaucracy and all the painstaking red tapes. Currently, there is a Court of Appeal hearing challenging the death penalty imposed, by four murderers, three of them being members of the GDF. For the past week, this disdainful and despicable behaviour from ruthless and demonical individuals continued. Last Tuesday, a miner was stabbed to death. On Sunday morning at 1:00am, a man was shot at a party in Plaisance Squatting Area, ECD. Over the

weekend, a neighbour was chopped after a drunken brawl at Tasawini Village in Region One. At 3:00am last Saturday morning, a farmer was stabbed by a drunk relative at Cotton Field, Essequibo Coast. On the roads, criminal negligence continues with traffic fatalities. One woman was killed in a mini-bus accident in the hinterland. Three people met their death in an accident last Monday at 4:30am at Fort Wellington, WCB. The driver was speeding in a torrential downpour. In the street, the menace dominates the scene, pouncing on innocent bystanders. On Wednesday, a 17-year-girl was robbed at gunpoint at Diamond, EBD. Last Tuesday, four people were arrested for an attempted robbery on a businessman, thanks to the quick work of the police force. Last Saturday, a salesman was arrested along with two accomplices for staging a robbery around Stabroek Market. Crime is certainly one of the key areas to which the government needs to pay special attention in order

to safeguard the people of this nation. Visitors need to feel safe and protected. People need to walk the streets freely. Citizens need to sleep soundly. Society must be guaranteed security from all criminal elements and this disease needs to be eradicated as quickly as possible. There should be no excuse to be accepted for these rogue elements to survive. The enemies of society must be dealt with severely and expeditiously with the maximum penalty applied in every case. Guyana needs to rid itself of this cancerous disease. Judge Kissoon must be applauded for his decision and to send a message that the crime situation is intolerable and the court will not hesitate in using the death penalty when applicable. Hopefully, the rest of the bench will sit up and take notice and follow suit. Guyanese need a break. It’s time for a change and this approach is most welcoming. Yours sincerely, Jai Lall

Throwing taxpayers’ money at the City Council is like throwing raw meat at a ravenous lion Dear Editor,

I HAVE followed in the press with considerable interest and gratification, the very supporting role that central government through the Ministry of Local Government has been playing to help the Mayor and Councillors of the City of Georgetown to stay afloat. After all, Georgetown is our capital and it houses the embassies, major businesses, government offices, etc. And with major transformation expected soon through oil and gas and the impending big projects on the horizon, there will be a greater need for strengthened collaboration between central government and the M&CC. I have observed with delight the presentation of a $30 million subvention recently in aid of the completion of construction of their new administrative building in the City Hall compound. This is in addition to $75 million initially presented to the M&CC for the first phase of construction on the four-storey building. Beyond that our Head-ofState has committed to an advance payment of taxes to City Hall to the tune of $100M, in an effort to assist the always cash-strapped Mayor& City Council (M&CC) to offset its expenses and commence the rehabilitation of the dilapidated City Hall building. This shows that the government is committed to ensuring that the city is transformed. However, as they say, ‘A word to the wise is sufficient’ and so I would just like to caution about the history of ingloriousness of the Georgetown

municipality since Guyana got its independence. Throwing taxpayers’ money at the City Council is like throwing raw meat at a ravenous lion. It will be quickly consumed and they will be immediately hungry again. They just simply cannot continue to plough money into the Council without accountability. The Council has for decades ignored the laws governing the city, which requires the Council to prepare accounts yearly and submit these for auditing no later than four months after the end of the year. How could the Georgetown City Council earn over $12B in four years, but still be cash-strapped? There needs to be a forensic audit done of the Council before any more money is doled out to them. Additionally, duplicity, dishonesty and misconduct must be weeded out before trust can be restored. Persons in positions of influence must not be allowed to derive personal benefits from actions or decisions made in their official capacity or on their behalf. A clear example of this is where councillors are being allowed to rent their trucks to the very Council on which they sit for inflated sums. A clear conflict of interest. And they must not be allowed to waste the rates earned from property owners on worthless and profligate projects such as the Presidential Park on Church Street. There are too many urgent needs within the city that need to be addressed. Yours sincerely, Jermain Johnson

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 18, 2021

‘First-dose’ figure on the rise --as gov’t steams ahead to get nation fully immunised against the dreaded COVID-19 disease

IN keeping with the government’s intensified efforts to combat the COVID-19 pandemic here, some 224,853 persons, the equivalent of 46.2% of the country’s adult population, have received their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine to date. And according to Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, of that number, about 94,243 of them, some 19.4%, have received both doses of the vaccine and are now fully vaccinated. Making the foregoing disclosure during his daily COVID-19 update on Thursday, Dr. Anthony said that Region One (Barima-Waini) is leading the vaccination drive, as 55.9% of its adult population have received the first dose, with Region Six coming a close second at 54%. As to how the other administrative regions rate in the first-dose race, from all accounts, Regions Four (Demerara-Mahaica) and Five Mahaica-Berbice) have not been doing too badly, after all, at 47.8% and 49.36 % respectively, as have Regions Three (Essequibo Islands-West De-

merara) and Seven (CuyuniMazaruni), which have both had a 45% success at getting their people vaccinated. Meanwhile, Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) seems to be slowly getting there at 43.5%, as is Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) at 42.4%, leaving Regions Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) and Ten (Upper Demerara-Berbice) woefully behind at 28.6% and 14% respectively. Minister Anthony was quick to note that though the recent floods across the country have tended to slow things down somewhat, the government will be forging ahead with its drive with much the same fervor as it is expending on addressing the flooding issue. “It is certainly challenging in some of the communities, especially those that are affected by flooding, and in some cases like in Region Eight. And, added to that, because of the mountains and so on, it’s difficult to reach some of those communities,” Dr. Anthony said, adding: “Nevertheless, the team there

Minister of Health Dr. Frank Anthony

has been trying, and despite all the challenges, they have been working to get people vaccinated. We have seen a decline in the numbers that we are reaching, but we are still persisting.” CONSISTENCY He noted that despite the widespread flooding in Region One, there has been a consistent response from the residents there to get vaccinated at all costs, and that the teams in that region are equally committed to administering the COVID-19 vaccines to

those residents who are desirous of receiving their doses. Minister Anthony further disclosed that the medical teams stationed in Region Seven have launched a massive house-to-house vaccination drive in Bartica to facilitate those persons who may not be able to reach a vaccination site due to the severe flooding there, or those persons who may feel more comfortable receiving their vaccines at home. “In Region Seven, they had embarked on a house-tohouse campaign within the

Bartica area, in the hope of getting more people vaccinated,” Dr. Anthony said, adding: “And, in the Upper and Middle Mazaruni, it is quite flooded, and so the teams are having challenges. They are doing more observation for water-borne diseases, but they also have teams there for if people are willing to get their vaccines, they would be able to administer it.” With the recent success of the COVID-19 drive through vaccination sites in

Region Four, the Ministry of Health intends to have similar initiatives extended to the other administrative regions, beginning with Regions Two, Three and Six. Dr. Anthony noted that the ministry is currently in the assessment stage to identify possible areas for the execution of such an initiative. He also indicated that a ‘drive thru’ vaccination campaign is on the cards for this weekend in Region Two.

A young Guyanese woman receiving the COVID-19 vaccine during a recent Ministry of Health outreach (Ministry of Health Photo)

10 undocumented Haitians found at Berbice hotel TEN persons who did not possess any passport or any form of identification and claiming to be Haitian nationals were found at the Swiss Hotel, Skeldon, Corentyne, Berbice, Region Six on Thursday. According to a Government of Guyana release, five of these persons are females and five are males and when questioned by the police, one in the group who speaks English explained that they were brought from Suriname by speedboat and left at the hotel since Monday. The release noted that the person who brought them reportedly took away their passports, documents, money and other personal belongings. “It has long been suspected that there is a huge trafficking in persons and human smuggling ring, including children, taking place in the region and Guyana is being used as a transit point in this racket, which includes Cubans, Nigerians and Haitians, among others. This is the latest manifestation of this nefarious racket at work which seems to be operating on a daily basis,” the release noted.

The Brazilian Government has already expressed concern about the situation. The Surinamese Government has also shared intelligence which suggests that the racket extends to that neighbouring republic.

a continuous influx of these persons at both Cheddi Jagan International Airport and the Eugene Correia International Airport at Ogle. “In the circumstances, the Government of Guyana feels compelled to inform

The Government has already engaged the Cuban Ambassador to Guyana on this issue. It is believed that these persons, including children, are being trafficked to various parts of the world. Only last Wednesday, the police arrested a number of Haitians, Nigerians and Cubans in close vicinity to Lethem, Region Nine. Some of these persons did not have entry stamps in their passports in relation to Guyana. The government observed that this is taking place when all neighbouring borders with Guyana are currently closed and there is

the relevant international agencies dealing with human trafficking and smuggling of persons, including children. In this regard, we will engage the United Nations Human Rights Council, the International Organisation for Migration and INTERPOL and request their urgent intervention and assistance. The Government of Guyana will also immediately review its immigration protocols and impose such lawful restrictions and conditions that it considers necessary in the circumstances,” the Government of Guyana release concluded.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 18, 2021

National Emergency Operations Centre activated

WITH the flooding officially declared a level two national disaster, and five regions now reaching level three state of emergency, the Civil Defence Commission (CDC), on Wednesday, activated the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC), which comprises multi-sectoral coordination between government, private sector and civil society. The NEOC, which includes the multi-stakeholder National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC), became fully operational to ensure an enhanced, coordinated response to the

flooding in order to prevent duplication, maximise resources and work collectively as one team.

The NEOC comprises representative from several key government ministries and agencies including the

Ministries of Health, Local Government, Agriculture, Public Works, Foreign Affairs, Finance, Amerindian

Affairs and Human Services and Social Security as well as from the Private Sector Commission, the Guyana Police Force, the Guyana Defence Force and the Guyana Red Cross Society. The NEOC had partially been in operation since last month when the CDC initiated response efforts to flooding; however, the centre has now become fully operational following the elevation of the situation to a level two state of emergency, and the declaration of the flooding as a national disaster by President Irfaan Ali. “NEOC is the main

saulting the child by touching her buttocks. Due to Garraway absconding from the court, Justice Reynolds had issued a warrant for his arrest. During the sentencing hearing on Thursday, a probation report was read in court by Remesia Lewis, a social worker. Lewis told the court that persons in Garraway’s community described him as “a good youth”. The social worker further told the court that whenever he imbibed, he would be involved in frequent fights. Also, Garraway reportedly smoked marijuana. According to Lewis, Garraway should have been the protector and guardian

of the child, but instead, he violated her and betrayed her trust which may cause her to suffer from the psychological effects of this incident for many years and affect her general wellbeing. “It is believed that children should be allowed to live a normal life with the guidance, supervision and support of every adult member of the family, community and by extension, the society,” the social worker said, as she recommended that a strong message be sent as a reminder that children should be protected at all times for them to develop into well-adjusted individuals. Despite Garraway’s absence, his attorney Ravindra

Mohabir made a plea of mitigation on his behalf, telling the court that his client can be rehabilitated. Meanwhile, State Prosecutor, Nafeeza Baig pleaded with the court to consider the prevalence of such crimes in today’s society, along with the nature and gravity of the crimes. Before imposing the sentence, Justice Reynolds considered the nature and circumstances under which the offence was committed and the need to protect

“little defenceless girls” in society. In imposing the life sentence on Garraway, Justice Reynolds ordered that 20 years be spent in jail before he is eligible for parole. The prosecution’s case was that Garraway is known to the child’s family. During the periods mentioned in the charges, Garraway would come into the child’s bedroom at night and rape her while she was staying with relatives in Sophia. The child subsequently

Stakeholders at the NEOC meeting on Wednesday

Garraway gets life imprisonment for raping girl, five IN his absence, Alex Garraway, called “Uncle Alex” was, on Thursday, sentenced to life imprisonment with the possibility of parole after 20 years for the rape and sexual assault committed on a five-yearold girl. Garraway, 22, of Cummings Park, ‘E’ Field Sophia, was sentenced by Justice Brassington Reynolds in the Sexual Offences Court of the Demerara High Court. In May, the absentee was convicted by a jury for engaging in sexual penetration with the victim between November 1, 2018, and April 30, 2019, in the county of Demerara. He was also convicted for sexually as-

decision making body during disaster response. It is where all information and data will be shared, analysed, prioritised and decisions made. Where decisions can’t be made it would be further sent up to the Prime Minister, President or Cabinet,” CDC Director, Colonel, Kester Craig explained. “We are hoping with this fully activated body we will be able to have an enhanced coordinated mechanism so that we can prevent any form of duplication, and maximise resources and work collectively as one team.”

Alex Garraway confided in her relatives and the matter was reported to the police. Garraway was later arrested and charged.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 18, 2021

Newly developed national flood forecasting system being tested

AS Guyana experiences countrywide flooding as a result of heavy rainfall, a National Flood Forecasting System (NFFS) was developed and is currently being operationally tested by the Guyana Hydrometeorological (Hydromet) Service. During a virtual meeting on Wednesday, Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha, whose ministry has oversight for the service, noted that the current flooding has highlighted the importance and relevance of developing a forecasting system to predict such extreme conditions. “The current floods have devastated significant portions of farmlands, killed livestock, damaged private and public infrastructure, and is likely to have severe social and public health impacts that are still to be fully assessed,” he said. The project, which is being implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP),

Flooded houses in Region Seven (RDC photo) and funded by the Japanese before extensive damage Resident Representative, Government, is designed can take place. Jairo Valverde, during and calibrated for the pre“Recovering from this brief remarks, expressed diction of extreme flood event will no doubt require his pleasure with the comevents that are caused by government and the Min- pletion of the project and is the overflow of rivers, us- istry of Agriculture to re- eagerly looking forward to ing meteorological and a direct resources to address its trial phase, shortly. nationwide hydrological the challenges posed by the “I am pleased to anmodel. Flooding caused by current situation affecting nounce the completion of a overtopping of man-made planned interventions. It National Flood Forecasting drainage canals along the is in this context that the System which is an importcoast of Guyana is, howev- development of a National ant element of a national er, not captured under this Flood Early Warning Sys- flood early warning system system. tem becomes extremely for Guyana. This flood foreMinister Mustapha re- relevant to the development casting system developed iterated that the NFFS will of Guyana,” he said. by UNOSAT, in collaboraassist in managing disasters Meanwhile, UNDP’s tion with CIMA Research

Foundation, is currently being operationally tested by the MoA, Hydrometeorological Service over the period of this current rainy season, all towards enhancing the capacity of the MoA Hydrometeorological Service to forecast extreme flood events on a national scale,” he said. The NFFS will see a two-dimensional hydraulic model piloted in four vulnerable flood-prone communities: Paruima in Region Seven, Chenapau in Region Eight, Lethem in Region Nine and Kwakwani in Region Ten. Through this project, the development of flood maps for these communities will be possible for extreme flood events only. However, the NFFS is designed to allow for further development to capture areas that are not included under the current project. Additionally, along with the technical set up of the flood forecasting platform, capacity development activ-

ities were also implemented to ensure the sustainability of the NFFS, as well as to enhance the technical skills and knowledge of key national stakeholders in the use of Geospatial Information Technology (GIT) for Flood Risk Management (FRM). After the testing period, the NFFS will be fully operational and will provide support for timely warnings for extreme flooding events. This would be beneficial to vulnerable communities, especially those currently experiencing severe flooding. In closing, Chief Hydrometeorological Officer, Dr Garvin Cummings, thanked the UNDP, UNOSAT and the Government of Japan for their continued support to the Hydrometeorological Service and reiterated the Government of Guyana’s commitment to the sustainability and continued advancement of the NFFS.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 18, 2021

Miners affected by floods to get much-needed assistance WITH the aim of providing a coordinated approach to getting aid to miners affected by the floods, representatives of the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) met with the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) and the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA) on Wednesday. Coming out of the meeting was the decision for the initial hampers to the miners to include mosquito nets, supplies of food products, hygiene and cleaning products, as well as medical supplies to aid in the prevention and protection against water-borne diseases. Present at the meeting was CDC Director-General, Colonel, Kester Craig; Deputy Director General, Loring Benons; and Preparedness and Response Manager, Salim October. Present from the GGMC were Commissioner, Newell Denisson; Chairman, Jimmy Reece; Managing Director, Krishna Ramdas; and Chief Mines Officer, Bheemraj Ramkellan. Representing the GGDMA was Technical Services Manager, Vasquez Ramdeen. During the meeting, October explained that the CDC had done some initial assessments in Region Seven and Region Eight and had some idea of the needs, but wanted the input of the GGMC for a wider picture across the mining regions “Based on our quick snap look at Regions Seven and Eight, we believe those conditions are replicated in the other communities. In terms of figures, we will need to rely on you for figures. So what we need at this time are the estimates and dynamics of that broken down, according to each mining district,” Salim explained. Craig noted that assessments of the various regions will soon be bolstered by support from

the Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA), which will be sending a team to Guyana to do a “Detailed Damage Sector Assessment”. At the end of the meeting it was decided that the GGMC would put together a report of where the miners are located, how many miners are at

exercise will also include input and collaboration from the Regional Democratic Councils (RDCs) and local government organs, as well as the Ministry of Health. October explained that the MoH is currently carrying out a number of health exercises in the various regions and there-

the respective locations and the different means by which the aid can be delivered to the miners at the respective locations. The two sides also discussed how best they could collaborate to overcome the many logistical issues to ensure that aid gets to the affected miners in the hinterland regions, where many of the communities are remote and difficult to access. The two sides also agreed on the need for the identification of central locations from which the aid could be distributed.

fore can be collaborated with to deliver supplies. “The Ministry of Health has been out in some areas and delivered some malaria treatment and screening, along with treatment for skin rashes and COVID-19 vaccination. So if you are going to be doing this then maybe we do a joint package with Ministry of Health. You know logistics of backdams, so your resources augmented with the Ministry of Health resources would facilitate greater access,” October said. The meeting is part of a multi-sectoral collaborations being coordinated by the CDC in Guyana’s flood response, and followed a meeting earlier on Wednesday, where the multi-stakeholder National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) was officially operationalised. The GGMC meeting was the first a series of discussions that the CDC and GGMC hope to hold with all stakeholders involved in the mining sector, with meetings with the Guyana Women Miners Association (GWMA)

WORK TOGETHER “The intent is to see how best we can work together to provide relief as far as is possible. We need data on where they are, how they are affected, and to decide collectively how we can help. When it comes to the mining sector we don’t have information so we don’t know how to provide support if we don’t know where they are. So we need logistics,” Craig explained during the meeting. October noted that the

and the National Mining Syndicate (NMS) expected to follow. EVERY MEANS NECESSARY Ramdas, from the GGDMA, noted the importance of using every means necessary to ensure that the miners are made aware that aid has been made available, and are properly informed on when and where they need to be when it is being distributed. Ramdas committed that the GGMDA will use its various communication platforms to con-

tact as many miners as possible. The GWMA and NMS will also be contacted to do same and get word out to as many miners as is possible. Ramdas also commended the CDC for reaching out to the affected miners and communities, particularly given that this is the first time during a natural disaster that miners are being considered for aid. He also applauded the collaborative effort being developed between all of the various ministries and agencies to ensure multi-faceted support and aid is given to the miners.

Chairman Reece also emphasised the need for better sensitisation of the miners and residents in these areas on the risks that the flooding bring with it. “Education is something you cannot overemphasise. You have children on the landing playing in the water,” Reece noted. During the meeting, Craig also emphasised the need for the miners and residents in the communities to be informed on the projections of continued rainfall, so that they can take the necessary precaution.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 18, 2021

Farmsup supports flood-relief efforts

Marketing Coordinator of Genequip, Monique Tiwari, presented a cheque for $500,000 to Captain Michael Andrews of the CDC to support the flood relief efforts, countrywide

Monique Tiwari, Marketing Coordinator of Farmsup has presented one JMC Motor Lorry and a cheque for $500,000 to Captain Michael Andrews of the CDC

MONIQUE Tiwari, Marketing Coordinator of Farmsup, has presented one JMC Motor Lorry and a cheque for $500,000 to Captain Michael Andrews of the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) to support the countrywide flood relief efforts. According to a release, Tiwari said the company was happy to give back to those in need. “Farmsup is moved by

the devastating effects of the flooding caused across Guyana. We are happy as always to contribute and help make a difference by lending support to the communities in need,” she said. The company said the donation last Friday will aid the national flood relief efforts being coordinated by the CDC. Also last Friday, during a simple handing over at the Office of General

Equipment Guyana Limited, S15 Plantation Houston, Georgetown, Tiwari, Marketing Coordinator of Genequip presented a cheque for $500,000 to Captain Michael Andrews of the CDC to support the flood relief efforts, countrywide. The company’s donation of $500,000 will also aid the national flood relief efforts being coordinated by the CDC.

25 support GNBS blood drive

THE Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS), on Wednesday, hosted a blood drive in collaboration with the National Blood Transfusion Services (NBTS) in observance of World Blood Donor Day 2021. According to a release, the drive was held in the Quality Hall of the GNBS. Head of the Marketing Department at the GNBS, Syeid Ibrahim, stated that the drive was hosted as part of the bureau’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. “We want to give back to the community, not just through our mandate or services that we provide but also to help save lives and make a difference to those in need. We also encourage others to get onboard and donate blood,” Ibrahim said. World Blood Donor Day was held on Monday, June 14, 2021 under the theme “Give blood and keep the world beating.” Registered nurse at the NBTS, Elaine Nurse-Moonsammy, expressed gratitude to the GNBS for facilitating the blood drive and commended the 25 persons who showed up to donate. The donors included staff of the GNBS, the Guyana Tourism

Registered nurse, Elaine Nurse-Moonsammy prepares GNBS Inspector Lorenzo Gill to commence the process Authority (GTA), the Competition and Consumer Affairs Commission (CCAC) and the National Exhibition Committee (NEC). All of these agencies are located in the compound of the National Exhibition Site, Sophia, Georgetown. According to Nurse Moonsammy, “every day we are in need of blood so having these blood drives is very important to us because we will be able to acquire sufficient quantities and types of blood for those in need.” She encouraged more persons to visit the blood bank to donate, and added that donation helps the donor to lower

his/her high blood pressure and cholesterol, and reduces chances of heart or liver issues. World Blood Donor Day 2021 aims to raise awareness of the importance of donating blood and to provide lifesaving blood products, such as plasma, red cells and platelets to people who need them. It is also a time to thank the countless volunteers and donors across the globe — especially those who continued their efforts amidst the COVID-19 pandemic— and to remind folks to donate blood to ensure there is a safe supply ready for emergencies, the release said.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 18, 2021

Sheriff Medical Centre offering ambulance services

SHERIFF Medical Centre has launched its Ambulance Services with the aim of providing the general public with swift and easy access to an ambulance in times of emergencies,

while enhancing the healthcare sector. According to a release, the state-ofthe-art ambulances are staffed with a number of emergency doctors, Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs), regis-

Duo in gunpoint robbery remanded NIZAM Benny and Enreco Joseph, who were accused of robbing a man of over $10M worth in gold, appeared in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court, on Thursday, and were not required to plead to the charge. The accused were remanded to prison by Chief Magistrate, Ann McLennan, and were required to make their next appearance on Thursday, June 24, 2021. The charge states that Benny also known as “Kong” and Joseph also called “Lester, Reco or Innis”, on Monday, April 19, 2021, at Anira Street, Queenstown, Georgetown, while being armed with a gun, robbed Mohammed Khan of 34.5 ounces of raw gold valued, $10.7M, property of Milton Seenarine. According to the prosecution, Seenarine is the owner of a dredge located in Port Kaituma. As he yields gold from his dredge he would package the raw gold and have it transported via plane to the Ogle Airport. Seenarine, being friends with Khan, gave Khan the authorisation to collect the packaged gold and to conduct other business transactions of his. On the day the incident occurred, about 08:45 hours, Seenarine contacted Khan, instructing him to proceed to Ogle Airport to receive a package from the deliverer. Approximately 10:30 hours, Khan ventured on his quest to receive the package and deliver it to Seenarine’s home. Khan secured the package under the mutt near the driver’s seat. Upon his arrival at his destination,

Seenarine’s daughter, who was in the house at the time, had seen Khan’s vehicle and as such, she indicated that she would have been going to meet him to collect the package. As she was still in the house preparing to go out to the gate to receive the package, two males wearing face masks approached Khan’s car on a motorcycle. The pillion rider dismounted the motorcycle and opened Khan’s car door on the driver’s side. The suspect placed a gun to Khan’s belly and threatened to shoot him. The suspect then proceeded to push his hand under the mutt and remove the package before mounting the motorcycle, making good their escape. Khan reported the matter and the accused were arrested. It is alleged that video interviews were done with the accused in which they both admitted to being participants in the robbery. As a result, they were charged for the offence.

tered nurses, dispatchers and drivers, and are available daily at an affordable cost. “There was an incident where we had a patient, who needed further treatment from a City hospital, and we made numerous calls to get that patient an ambulance, but we never did. As a result, we had to transport that patient in a taxi to a City hospital,” Shemar Alleyne, the company’s Marketing Manager, said. “If now that patient needed oxygen – the taxi wouldn’t have been able to provide this, and the situation could have been worse. Thankfully that was not the case.” He added that the company’s Chief Executive Officer, Shareef Ahmad, de-

cided to take up the mantle of offering this service so that another family does not have to go through a similar situation. “Our state-of-the-art ambulances are well-equipped and on par with the ambulance being provided in Cuba, the United States, and other developed countries,” he said while adding that, “this service is not only available to patients of SMC, but anyone who needs a transportation or have an emergency can call us on 2262000 and have an ambulance.” The Marketing Manager disclosed that the company is working to ensure that there are about two ambulances in every region throughout Guyana.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 18, 2021

GWI provides treated water to flooded Pomeroon communities

GUYANA Water Incorporated (GWI) in collaboration with the Region Two Democratic Council, on Wednesday, provided treated water to three upper Pomeroon communities which are severely affected by the prevailing floods. According to a release, the company’s Region Two Manager, Brionne Gangaram, and several staff members along with RDC Superintendent of works, Sarwan Kumar, made the intervention in the communities of Kabakaburi, St. Monica and Satellite village Karawab. In the community of Kabakaburi, which has approximately 150 households, an existing 450-gallon water tank was filled with the treated water sourced from the Lima Water Treatment plant, while an additional filled tank was provided. The team then visited the community of St. Monica which has approximately 138 households and were met with eager residents equipped with buckets. Two filled water tanks were provided and residents hurriedly filled their buckets. In the satellite village of Karawab, which has approximately 160 households, the team stopped at two locations. The first was ‘Long House’ where residents who are misplaced due to the floods are being housed. An existing water tank was filled

at this location. At the second location in that village, the Karawab Mission, one tank was also filled. Additionally, three tanks were provided for residents to utilise for the purpose of rainwater harvesting. This additional storage will be of significant benefit, since residents from neighbouring communities such as Bat Creek and further up Pomeroon River can access water there on a short term basis. Residents in the three communities were very appreciative of the intervention by the utility company and the regional administration. Prior to the flooding, residents in both Kabakaburi and St. Monica utilised water from the Pomeroon River. Existing GWI infrastructure facilitated the pumping of the water from the river to a storage tank then it was gravity fed to residents. Rainwater harvesting is the primary source of water in all of the communities which were visited, the release said. GWI will, in the coming days, continue to work closely with the RDC to determine steps to provide further relief to those communities as well as others facing difficulties accessing potable water during this period. On a long-term basis, the company will be drilling a

Water being offloaded at Karawab

number of new wells in the upper and lower Pomeroon in early 2022. A PAT drilling rig for riverain well drilling has been ordered from Thailand and is expected to arrive in Guyana by September/October of this year, GWI said.

The tanks filled with water being transported to the communities

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 18, 2021

Parolees honoured for Father’s Day –– ‘This is an opportunity to get your life back on track,’ says Minister Persaud

MINISTER of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, on Wednesday, attended a simple event organised by the Ministry’s Probation Department and Guyana Prison to honour a number of parolees in observance of Father’s Day this Sunday. The activity, at the Ministry’s Cornhill Street location, was hosted under the theme, “Revealing Our Fathers – Eliminating Stigma and Discrimination.” The parolees were offered words of encouragement, along with Father’s Day care packages. Minister Vindhya Persaud, in addressing the parolees, made it a point to stress that they should use this new lease on life to reach out to young peo-

ple and others who may be involved in questionable activities, using their own experiences to influence them to desist from lives of crime. She urged them to be a force for good in the lives of youths and to encourage them to turn their lives around. She reminded them that many children live with “absentee father culture” and their own children had to suffer their absence because they did not think of their families when they engaged in unlawful acts. Minister Persaud did not dismiss the wrongs that the parolees engaged in, but she admonished them not to go back down the same road. She also directed the parolees to training that is available to them, and urged that they find themselves

in stable working environments. The participants were taken from Regions Two, Three, Four, Five, and Six. Officers at the prison have observed that due to the absence of fathers in the home, single parenting is a reality in Guyana, which causes many homes to become dysfunctional as a result of parental involvement with the criminal justice system. It is in this regard that the Prison’s After Care and Reintegration Services Section decided to host the activity. The section has pledged to continue to make positive impacts on the lives of the parolees, who will in turn make a positive impact on their families, children and society.

A number of parolees were honoured in observance of Father’s Day this Sunday

Minister Persaud offers words of encouragement to parolees on Wednesday

Human Services Minister, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, and Director of Social Services, Wentworth Tanner, at the event

Minister Persaud presents a care package to one of the parolees

Care packages organised by the Prison’s After Care and Reintegration Services Section

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 18, 2021

Focus on land restoration, sustainable use for post COVID-19 recovery –– as Desertification and Drought Day 2021 is observed

ON June 17, the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) observes Desertification and Drought Day 2021 with focus on land restoration as a means that can bring economic resilience, create jobs, raise income, increase food security and lessen the impact of climate change. The UNCCD also promotes land restoration as a cost-effective approach to start a green economic recovery post COVID-19. This idea encourages careful consideration for sustainable management and use of land to rebuild from the pandemic. The UNCCD identifies land use change as a driver for emerging infectious diseases, and notes that the rate of land conversion is accelerating. Adopted on June 17, 1994 in Paris and entered into force on December 26, 1996, the UNCCD is a globally recognised legally binding agreement to address land degradation, focused on people. Some 195 countries including Guyana are committed to the UNCCD. Guyana ratified the Convention on June 26, 1997, and joined the global community on Sep-

tember 24, 1997 in recognising desertification/ degradation as a major economic, social and environmental problem. GLSC – NATIONAL FOCAL POINT AGENCY The Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission (GLSC) is the National Focal Point Agency to the UNCCD, and has led various actions and initiatives enabling Guyana to combine international obligations with national development agenda and sectoral planning. While this allows the country to meet global commitments, it provides a national response to economic, social and environmental effects of degradation on land use, livelihood and human G target entionom aded radation rate, but rather ey functions of GLSC and contribute to SLM. date. ects e environment by OSken idevelopment. According to Guyana’s National Land Degradation Neutrality (LDN) Target Setting Programme Report (2017-2030), land degradation in Guyana is caused by natural resource utilisation and natural disasters in sporadic areas. It also rec-

ognises that the country’s coastline is prone to erosion, along with saltwater intrusion and flooding, and losses of arable land due to floods and droughts. Further, it is acknowledged that human activities which result in pollution, removal of mangroves, urbanisation and sea-level rise associated with climate change have all contributed in some way to coastal degradation. Against this background, Guyana’s National Action Plan (NAP), originally prepared in 2006, and led by the GLSC, guides implementation of local actions against desertification/land degradation and promotes sustainable land management. The Aligned NAP aims to ensure agricultural, pasture, mining, forest, coastal and other land uses and resources are managed as sustainable, productive systems that maintain ecosystem productivity and ecological functions while contributing directly to environmental protection, economic growth and social livelihoods. The Aligned NAP seeks to improve institutional capacity and collaboration between state agencies especially those administer-

Backfilling as part of land restoration (GGMC photo)

ing land and natural resources use; training in remote sensing, Geographic Information System (GIS) and information management systems/information technology among others; mainstreaming Desertification, Land Degradation and Drought (DLDD) into relevant national policies, strategies and plans; and finalisation of National Land Policy. Additional targets include mainstreaming Sustainable Land Management (SLM) within educational establishments and enhancing knowledge and capacity of miners/land users to perform ecologically appropriate land restoration. DROUGHT PREPAREDNESS AND RESTORATION The NAP is one of two main UNCCD obligations. The other requires periodic UNCCD reporting, an activity also guided by the GLSC. Guyana has to date prepared eight national UNCCD reports – in 2000, 2002, 2006, 2009, 2010, 2012, 2014 and 2018. Additionally, Guyana developed a National Drought Mitigation and Adaptation Plan that caters for proactive, coordinated and effective planning, preparedness, mitigation, adaptation and recovery activities in response to drought risks and impacts. This included development of a Drought Early Warning System Protocol for Guyana. Further, Guyana implemented the LDN Target Setting Programme and voluntarily set targets and measures focused on avoidance rehabilitation, restoration and sustainable land management and use. Areas of attention include enabling sustainable agriculture, preservation of biodiversity through expansion of protected areas; improved

Land restoration activities in Guyana (GGMC photo) management of irrigation, drainage and flooding; coastal protection through mangrove restoration and rehabilitation of degraded area. SLDM PROJECT AND SUPPORT FOR UNCCD Meanwhile, as the national executing agency and a main beneficiary of Guyana’s Sustainable Land Development and Management (SLDM) Project, GLSC and the country is being supported to meet UNCCD commitments. This is being done through a series of investments and activities to improve GLSC’s functions by building its technical and institutional capacity. The Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) is the implementing agency for the

SLDM project working in close collaboration with the GLSC. A key state institution, GLSC’s functions include responsibility for advising government on land policies, management of state lands, issuance of land titles and leases, provision of support for land use development, collection of land rents and land management related fees. The SLDM project, as a comprehensive initiative aimed at supporting Guyana in developing a coordinated and cohesive system for sustainable land management and development, includes activities that would enhance GLSC’s functions in areas of land administration, surveying, mapping, business processes, monitoring and assessment and restoration of degraded lands, GIS among others.

Tampering with embankment intensifies flooding in Letter Kenny, Whim –– Agri. Minister urges persons to desist from such acts

FLOODING is said to have intensified in agricultural areas in Letter Kenny and Whim on the Corentyne Coast, Region Six. Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha, on Wednesday, after receiving reports that the flood control embankment in the Letter Kenny backland had experienced severe damage resulting in exacerbated flooding in most of the agricultural areas, called for an immediate investigation to be launched. Residents of the already embattled villages reached out to the minister and other senior officials of the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA), claiming that persons had tempered with the structure. This eventually resulted in the development of severe breaches in sections of the structure, which later collapsed, resulting in floodwaters from the savannahs invading several agricultural areas. The Agriculture Minister condemned the act and called on persons in

the area to desist from interfering with those critical structures. “Today, I received calls from several residents and farmers from Whim and Letter Kenny who informed me that persons had tampered with the embankment. I told NDIA to carry out an investigation and those reports were later confirmed. I’ve seen videos of the devastation now being faced as a result of what appears to be a deliberate act. These are critical structures that were built to restrict the intrusion of floodwaters into residential and farming communities. If government is working and allocating resources to reduce flooding and a few persons take it upon themselves to disrupt that, hundreds of farmers and residents will suffer, so I am urging persons to desist from tampering with these critical structures,” Minister Mustapha said. NDIA has since moved to have the structure repaired and will continue to monitor the situation in the affected areas.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 18, 2021

GTT donates $3M to CDC to assist with flood relief efforts

TELECOMMUNICATIONS company, GTT, on Thursday, handed over a cheque for GYD$3 million to the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) to help with the flood relief efforts in Guyana. According to a release, the money will go towards buying the much-needed supplies and support the homes of many persons in Regions Two, Five, Six, Seven, Eight, Nine and 10 that are severely impacted by the flood. GTT’s Marketing Communications Manager, Nicola Balram, said the company is delighted to give the needed support that will help touch the lives of many homes across Guyana. “One of our corporate promises is to strengthen our community. Over the past weeks, we have witnessed how the flood has affected the lives of thousands in our country. So, we hope this support will bring some comfort to those affected,” Balram said. “It was only earlier this week that GTT’s CEO, Damian Blackburn, and

other members of the GTT leadership team visited Regions Five and Six to speak with GTT partners, vendors and customers on some of the new changes coming to the company,” Balram added. She also commended the CDC for its prompt national response over the past month. CDC’s Director-General, Lieutenant Colonel Kester Craig, who received the cheque, thanked GTT for its donation, while noting that the agency welcomes all donations to support its flood relief efforts that have increased due to the unprecedented rainfall. To support the national response effort, the CDC encourages more public-private partnership to help meet the needs of thousands across Guyana. Over the past month, a number of public and private companies have lent support to the CDC though monetary donations and supplies, as increased rainfall and flooding sweeps the country.

Lieutenant Col. Kester Craig, Director-General of the CDC, receives the cheque from Nicola Balram, Marketing Communications Manager for GTT

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 18, 2021

A Guyanese creative with a passion for the arts DILLON Mohamed, known by his stage name Raphael Eurus, is a Guyanese music creative who is very passionate about the arts and uses his music as a way of escaping certain tough realities of life. “I love music because it’s a part of me; it’s in my blood. It’s my escape from the harsh realities of life. Sometimes I experience horrible days and a bit of depression and I just get on my keyboard and start playing and singing and everything just

Dillon Mohamed, known as Raphael Eurus

feels better,” Raphael told the Buzz in an interview this week. The 28-year-old musician feels that he had a calling for music because his mom was a great musician before she died. She played the piano, guitar, harp and a host of other musical instruments. “She died when I was just seven years old, but my dad would tell me stories of how she used to play the cello most of the time when she was pregnant with me. And I find that growing up and up to this day, I love music with strings. S o i t ’s kind of inherited,” Raphael ex-

pressed. With the main music influence gone from his life, Raphael got new motivation when he started to sing in church, and when he started attending Queen’s College and doing the music subject. “During that time in school, I not only learned the theory but took some time outside of the class during breaks to learn to play instruments. I took it upon myself to start learning to play the piano and guitar on my own,” he recalled. At just 17 years old, he became the music director in the church and later the worship director; he remained such for 12 years. Today, Raphael writes, plays and records music with the CFanatik music studio in Sophia. “My genres are pretty diverse. I love cultural, ethnic music, especially being

mixed race. I love to do cultural blends of music, soul, R&B, alternative, rock and classical music.” In his music career so far, Raphael has performed several times at the National Music Festival, and at many art events. While he’s been around music all his life, he’s only been on the scene professionally for a short time. He released his first music video “One” last February. “The song was written by me and the vocals and music were all done by me,” he said. It is available on Spotify, iTunes and Amazon. He will be starting his second video shoot in July for his new song called “Fly.” This one, he said, is about surviving and overcoming depression and becoming the best version of oneself. Continued on page 21

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 18, 2021

A Guyanese creative ... From page 20 Raphael has had his share of negativity to deal with in the industry, where he was told unkind things about his music career, but he’s never allowed it to keep him down. “It did hurt but I felt even more driven to chase my

passion.” The journey has not been easy also on account of the finances and other resources needed to get things done. But because of his love for creating music, he’s able to continue. “I am a composer so I love to create musical ar-

rangements and put instruments together the same way I did for the song ‘One’.” Raphael has his heart set on becoming an international artiste and wants to tour the world and sing in various languages so that he can really be able to reach his audiences. “I don’t want my

Raphael loves cultural, ethnic music

Raphael has performed several times at the National Music Festival, and at many art events

music to just be entertaining but it must make an impact on persons listening.” The lack of copyright in Guyana is one of the major challenges faced by Raphael and he would love for a day to come when he can adequately be compensated for his talent.

Raphael on the final day of his video shoot for his song, ‘One’

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 18, 2021

Kross Kolor Records working to highlight the presence of young local artistes

KROSS Kolor Records, a company in the entertainment industry that has come to develop a track record of success over many years, is currently placing a focus on helping young local artistes to hone their skills and better their talent. At the moment, Director Burchmore Simon, a local music teacher and producer with more than 30 years in the industry, is working with seven young artistes whom he wants to put on stage soon. These are Jovinski Thorne (Two Times Junior Calypso & Soca Winner), Akeem Alexander (3rd Place Winner, Junior Calypso & Soca 2021), Osei Clarke (Reigning Junior Calypso & Soca Monarch 2021), Theodora Dehnert,

recalled being sent a video clip of Gavin Mendonca performing four years ago. Even though the rock musician was performing as part of a group, Simon was able to identify that he’s someone he wants to work with.

Reigning Junior Calypso & Soca Monarch 2021 Osei Clarke is from the Kross Kolor ‘camp’

One of the most promising artistes working with Kross Kolor Records, Akeem Alexander

Ulex Henry (2nd Place Winner, Junior Calypso 2021), Juneann Hutson and Jeremiah Alexander (Arranger/ Engineer). “We’re working with a new set of talents and we’re trying to highlight the presence of young artistes whom we want to put on stage and have them enjoy some of the benefits that come through working with Kross Kolor,” Simon said in an interview with Buzz this week. This set of young people, he noted, are bright academically, hence it’s easy to mould them and communicate with them. They also write their own songs and are a pleasure to work along with, Simon commented. With the amount of experience he’s managed to acquire, Simon just needs to hear someone’s voice once to decide if he wants to work with them. “I have a way of hearing voices and that’s where I begin. Your chances are slim if you don’t have a great voice unless you have exceptional performance talent,” he related. His training programme is quite rigorous and Simon will not work with just about anyone. You’d really have to impress him with your talent before he starts to work with you. he

“We’re serious about teaching artistes how to be civil, respectful, humble, how to save money, interact with people; we aim to develop them in the most rounded way. That’s one of the major differences with us and the other labels; we groom people for the industry,” he pointed out. “I focus on your singing ability. Once you have a great voice, it just has to be crafted and developed,” he added. And that’s what he did in the case of Tennicia DeFreitas. She didn’t place in the GT&T competition, but because he liked her voice, he worked with her afterwards and groomed her towards winning the Junior C a lypso Monarch twice and other

Eight-time Road March Queen Melissa ‘Vanilla’ Roberts

awards. Ever since the company was established in 1997, Kross Kolor has been a “staple” in the local music industry and has come to be widely known not just by the Guyana media, but those overseas as well. Apart from those mentioned so far, Simon has worked with several big names in the industry and has created some of the well-loved on-stage personalities like Adrian Dutchin (7 Times Road March King and 3 Times Soca Monarch King) and Jumo ‘Rubber Waist’ Primo. Other big names that passed through Kross Kolor Records include Melissa ‘Vanilla’ Roberts (eight-time Road March Queen), Tennicia DeFreitas, B52, Gavin Mendonca, Bonesman, Big Red, and Malo.

Director of Kross Kolor Records, Burchmore Simon

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 18, 2021

Sarwan and KI teaming up for Father’s Day show special tonight

POPULAR cricketer Ramnaresh Sarwan will be joined by Trinidadian music sensation Kris Veeshal Persad, known in the entertainment industry as ‘KI’, to light up the ‘Get Real with Shameeza’ show tonight. The duo was specially invited to the show to talk about life in their respective worlds – sports and entertainment – that host Shameeza Ally believes will particularly appeal to dads everywhere as they get ready to celebrate Father’s Day this Sunday. “It’s our Father’s Day special. I wanted to celebrate dads in a special way and I came up with cricket and music,” Ally told the Buzz this week, adding, “We will have a roundtable discussion on cricket which will be by former players from the West Indies/Guyana.” Some of these players are Gajanand Singh, Dillon Heyliger and Abdool Samad; Ally will also be joined by sports journalist Frederick Halley. “These players are incredi-

Cricketer Ramnaresh Sarwan

ble and to have them on my show is truly an honour,” Ally expressed about the live two-hour special. Her co-host for the evening will be Canadian former under 19 and senior national player and Level 2 ICC coach Aftab Shamsudeen. As she was readying herself to launch the show, Ally had promised to feature influential and inspiring stories and people and to have a platform for various talents. “I feel this show will

bring the complete package. Viewers can expect to be entertained and be enlightened. I hope these guests on my show can empower young people to keep dreaming and believing in themselves,” she said. Ally has noted that since the show’s official launch last month, viewership has been expanding and she is thankful to persons like Verman Bedessee who has been sponsoring weekly prizes, along with other supporters of the show like Ridwan Khan from the Discount store (Guyana), Musician Ranjeev Ramdeen, and previous guest and writer Sarah Khalil. ‘Get Real with Shameeza’ is a New Yorkbased show hosted by Ally, a Guyanese who hails from Uitvlugt, West Coast Demerara via Live Facebook, Instagram, and Youtube streaming at 20:00 every Friday. Ally, a financial advisor who has also been very active in her community and a mother of four

Trinidad musician Kris Veeshal ‘KI’ Persad

girls, left Guyana in 2001 and has been working in finance for the past 16 years. This has allowed her the opportunity to connect with her community on a personal and professional level and as such, she has been looking for ways to give back. “I saw a need to

connect the people and bring them something that will enlighten them and give them a platform to voice their opinion,” she told the Buzz in a previous interview. She is hoping that the show will allow for open discussions on the roles of women in society, will allow them to express their struggles, and will suggest ways how they can be supported and uplifted. Her goal is to have both men and women open up about the struggles that prevent them from living their best life. Her plan includes arranging women-focused groups in the community a few times a month where persons can have discussions and find ways to help and support each other. The show will also give a voice to inspiring people and businesses.

Host Shameeza Ally

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 18, 2021

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 18, 2021

Kohli, Williamson play down hype ahead of WTC final BOTH Virat Kohli and Kane Williamson tried to play down the hype around the World Test Championship final, but the importance of this game is not lost on the two captains. Apart from being two of the finest batsmen of their era, they have been very successful captains too, but neither has a world title to show for it. This final presents them with the perfect opportunity to add the big Cup to their cabinet and stamp their legacy as leaders who became world champions. For Williamson, the extra motivation will be to help his players make up for the heartbreak of the 2019 World Cup final when they lost more to bad luck than anything on the field. For Kohli, it is similar being favourites at the 2019 event and going out after an hour of bad cricket in the semifinals against New Zealand. He had experienced the same frustration in the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy final

when they were routed by Pakistan. The inability to land an ICC Trophy remains the only blip in captain Kohli’s tenure, which has otherwise seen him inspire his side to play an exhilarating brand of cricket in all conditions. When asked if it was the “biggest game” of his career, Kohli said, “No, for me this is another Test match that has to be played. “If you are talking about Test cricket and deciding the best Test team in the world, (based) on one game over a period of five days, that’s not the reality,” he said. “It’s not gonna reflect anything for people who understand the game and who know what has gone on in the last four or five years. It is an occasion which has to be enjoyed from our point of view, but it is no different for us from the first Test match we played as a young group of players when we were trying to come up the ranks.”

On the field, the two teams will bring two different attitudes - reflection of the personalities of their leaders. Kohli, who thrives on in-your-face aggression and the seemingly imperturbable Williamson. “We do play a certain brand of cricket,” Kohli said. “For us, it is a team that we are playing against, an opposition that we will be squaring up against, which has a lot of quality players. The other stuff which is off the field doesn’t filter on the field.” Williamson agreed on the point. “Yeah, I mean, both teams have their own style and brand of cricket I suppose they’ll look to commit to, and both teams will be pretty keen on winning it. I’ve got no doubt about that,” said the NZ captain. New Zealand have not named their playing XI, but India will go into the match with perhaps the most potent five-man bowling attack they

Brathwaite confident ‘hurt’ Windies can rebound against pacey South Africa THE second and final Test between West Indies and South Africa starts today in St Lucia and once again the attention will be on the hosts’ batting prowess against what is expected to be another hostile output from the visitors. Shot out for just 97 on the first day in the first Test, captain Kraigg Brathwaite said the abysmal performance certainly hurt but he is backing his batsmen to step up to the challenge. At the virtual media briefing on the eve of the second Test, the skipper stated, “That first-innings really hurt us as a team. We are always on the back-foot and the batsmen know what they have to do. We got to be better in both innings but more so in the first innings in terms of setting up the game. We know as batters what we have to do and we look forward to the challenge.” In hindsight, the skipper felt they could have left more balls and find a better balance to attack and defence. However, he shrugged off any notion they are vulnerable to shortpitched bowling. “I don’t think that is the case, South Africa bowled well and I thought as I said, we didn’t bat well in the first innings. We could have left some of the deliveries. We got to be tough in any Test team. As a batsman you got be tough whether it is pacers or spinners you are facing, and I think the

batsmen are in good space but I wouldn’t say it is the pace and bounce.” He added, “Obviously, South Africa have a very good bowling attack but I know our batters are fully capable of doing well.” West Indies selectors recalled batsman Darren Bravo and experienced pacer Shannon Gabriel to the 13-man squad. They replaced Alzarri Joseph and Nkrumah Bonner, who continues to recover from his concussion. Brathwaite indicated the playing XI have not been confirmed as yet and he is unable to say if Bravo would be included but said he is a “valuable player to West Indies cricket.” BACKING HOPE TO FIRE Shai Hope started his Test career as an opener, in May 2015 against England in Bridgetown and coincidently. Brathwaite was his partner. Hope made five and nine in that Test and his red-ball career has not catapulted to the heights of his One-Day output. Now, he is back opening and made just 15 and then 12 at number three. However, the numbers suggest he is best suited at number five where he averages 50 - a vast difference from a career average of 25.87 - and has a Test-best of 147 in England. Recently, in the role of an opener, Hope produced scores

of 68 (for President’s XI versus Sri Lanka in March), followed by 79 and 106 in the ‘Best v Best’ Four-Day match, which merited his return to the Test squad. “Having conversations with him, just like any batsman, to know where his mind is and how he is feeling. He is feeling good at the top and I back him in whichever position he may bat, whether opening or number five, I know he could do a good job; he is a guy that is always up for the challenge and he is pretty up for the challenge for any position,” the skipper expressed. Brathwaite said it is about finding the right balance which will dictate the combination they select, based on the prevailing conditions. Some former players have called for the return of Bravo in the XI and an additional pacer at the expense of spinner Rahkeem Cornwall given Roston Chase’s capabilities. The second Betway Test match bowls off today at the Darren Sammy Cricket Ground from 10:00hrs. West Indies Test squad: Kraigg Brathwaite (captain), Jermaine Blackwood (vice-captain), Darren Bravo, Roston Chase, Rahkeem Cornwall, Joshua Da Silva, Shannon Gabriel, Jason Holder, Shai Hope, Kyle Mayers, Kieran Powell, Kemar Roach and Jayden Seales.

have ever fielded in an away Test - Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Shami, Ishant Sharma, R Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja despite not picking even one of the bowlers from the attack that won India a historic Test at the Gabba earlier this year. “We know how strong the Indian seam bowling attack is,” Williamson said.

“The quality of their spin and clearly their batting is world class. For us, there are some similar strengths and we will turn up on the day.” India XI: Virat Kohli (c), Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Rishabh Pant, Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, Mohammad Shami, Jasprit

Bumrah, Ishant Sharma. New Zealand squad: Kane Williamson (c), Tom Blundell, Trent Boult, Devon Conway, Colin de Grandhomme, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Tom Latham, Henry Nicholls, Ajaz Patel, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor, Neil Wagner, BJ Watling, Will Young. (Hindustani Times)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 18, 2021

Atlanta Hawks, LA Clippers earn wins to take semi-final leads

THE Atlanta Hawks overhauled a 26-point deficit to beat Philadelphia 76ers 109-106 and take a 3-2 lead in their Eastern Conference play-off semi-final. Trae Young scored 39 points for the Hawks and put them in the lead for the first time when he made three free throws late in the fourth quarter. In the Western Conference, Los Angeles Clippers went 3-2 up after a 119-111 win over Utah Jazz. The next games in both best-of-seven ties are on today. The Sixers had a 70-44 lead in the third quarter but Hawks outscored them 40-19 in the final period on the way to securing a stunning comeback win. Philadelphia’s Joel Embiid finished with 37 points but, as his side trailed 107-104 with 10.2 seconds remaining, he missed two free throws in a dramatic finale. “We just kept fighting,” said Young. “We have confidence in each other. We’re

a great group, good to be around. “We all love each other’s company and it shows on the court and we never stopped believing until the final buzzer.”

George also grabbed 16 rebounds, a career-high for him in the play-offs, and provided a team-high of five assists. Clippers had been 2-0 down in the series but have

point attempts in the first half but only led 65-60 before Clippers impressed in the third quarter to take a 92-83 lead into the final period. Utah closed the gap

… The former world number 1 said it was not “an easy decision” but it was “the right decision”

Trae Young’s (centre right) 39-point tally was the most he has scored in a play-off tie

Clippers were without the injured Kawhi Leonard and had 37 points from Paul George to thank for their win over Utah.

reeled off three straight wins to lead against Jazz, who have been without the injured Mike Conley. Jazz hit 17 of 30 three-

to three points during the fourth quarter but Clippers kept them at bay on the way to securing victory. (BBC Sport)

Belgium into last 16 with thrilling 2-1 win over Denmark KEVINn de Bruyne inspired Belgium to a come-back win against Denmark, who secured their place in the last 16 of Euro 2020 as fans and players paid tribute to Danish midfielder Christian Eriksen, who is recovering after suffering cardiac arrest.

during the game, with play stopped in the 10th minute as players, officials and supporters joined together for a minute’s applause. That came after Yussuf Poulsen gave the hosts a dream start just one minute 39 seconds into the game, slotting in after a mistake in the Belgium defence.

before superbly finding Thorgan Hazard to fire home, and then drove in the winner with 20 minutes remaining after a brilliant move started by Lukaku. Martin Braithwaite went close to a late equaliser for Denmark but his header skimmed the top of the bar.

Fans showed support for Eriksen with huge banners in the stands

Eriksen is in hospital after he collapsed on the pitch at the Parken Stadium during Saturday’s game against Finland. Tr i b u t e s w e r e p a i d to Denmark’s talismanic number 10 before and

de Bruyne was sent on at the start of the second half and the Manchester City midfielder changed the game. He played a part in the equaliser, receiving a pass from Romelu Lukaku

Victory means Belgium are top of Group B with six points from two games while Denmark are bottom of the standings with zero points. Denmark were making their return to the Parken

Stadium for the first time since those shocking scenes of Eriksen collapsing on the pitch at the weekend. Both sets of fans showed their support for the player with messages to him on banners in the stands, while the conclusion of the Danish national anthem was greeted with a huge roar, one that was surpassed barely two minutes later when Denmark took the lead after an error in Belgian defence A poor clearance by Jason Denayer was pounced upon by Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, who quickly found Poulsen and the Denmark forward slotted home. Belgium, who had brushed aside Russia 3-0 in their group opener, just could not get going as the occasion seemed to overwhelm them. But the introduction of de Bruyne for the start of the second half changed all that as he provided a brilliant cameo performance. The midfielder has recently recovered from a fractured nose and eye socket but his return and performance from off the bench will give the Belgians a real boost heading into the knockout rounds. (BBC Sport)

The 20-time grand slam winner Rafael Nadal RAFAEL Nadal has said champion was seen to be he will not be taking part struggling physically toin Wimbledon or Tokyo wards the end of his loss Olympics this year. to Novak Djokovic in the The 35-year-old an- semi-finals at Roland Garnounced the move on social ros media, saying it was not “an Nadal won gold in sineasy decision” but “after gles in Beijing Olympics in listening to my body” and 2008 and in doubles with discussing it with his team Marc Lopez in Rio in 2016, he said it was “the right de- when he also carried Spain’s cision”. flag in the opening ceremony. The Spaniard continued: The 20-time grand slam “The goal is to prolong my tennis champion said, “I career and continue to do want to send a special meswhat makes me happy, that sage to my fans around the is to compete at the highest world, to those in the United level and keep fighting for Kingdom and Japan in parthose professional and per- ticular. sonal goals at the maximum “The Olympic Games level of competition. always meant a lot and they “The fact that there were always a priority as a has only been two weeks sports person. I found the between RG (French Open) spirit that every sports person and Wimbledon, didn’t in the world wants to live. make it easier on my body “I personally had the to recuperate after the al- chance to live three of ways demanding clay court them and had the honour season. to be the flag-bearer for my “They have been two country.” months of great effort and the Rafael Nadal will be decision I take is focussed replaced as third seed at looking at the mid- and long- Wimbledon by Greek tenterm.” nis player Stefanos TsitsipThe double Olympic as. (Sky Sports)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 18, 2021

Women’s super-featherweight boxing tournament announced

U.S. Open tennis to be held with full capacity crowds

Participants in the super-featherweight tournament have not yet been named but Britain’s Natasha Jonas (left) and Terri Harper compete at the weight

AAG gets sponsorship boost for Senior National Championships

THE World Boxing Super Series will stage a first women’s tournament when it commences its third season. The Super Series - a tournament featuring eight fighters played out over several months - has been popular with fans since its inception in 2017. Tournaments have been won by the likes of Oleksandr Usyk at cruiserweight, Callum Smith at super-middleweight and Josh Taylor at light-welterweight. The new season will feature female fighters at super-featherweight. “(Women’s boxing) is in an amazing place - competition is

hotter than ever,” said World Boxing Super Series chief boxing officer Kalle Sauerland. “The super-featherweights we feel is a division that has such depth and also allows those in the divisions around it to take part.” Participants in the tournament have not yet been announced but previous editions have included world champions, with Usyk notably winning all four world titles on his way to lifting the cruiserweight trophy in 2018. Britain’s Terri Harper is currently WBC world champion at super-featherweight, while her compatriot Natasha Jonas has spent much of her career at the weight. (BBC Sport)

Japan to set 10,000-spectator cap ahead of Olympics TOKYO, Japan (AFP) Japan is planning to set a cap of 10 000 fans at sports events ahead of the Olympics, a Cabinet minister said yesterday, as organisers weigh how many domestic spectators can attend the Games. The proposed measure would come into force after a COVID-19 state of emergency in Tokyo and other parts of the country ends on June 20, and would last until the end of August, said Yasutoshi Nishimura, the minister in charge of virus measures. It would limit spectators to 50 per cent of a venue’s capacity or 10 000 people, whichever is smaller, he said. The plan is expected to become official later this week. “It is important that we maintain thorough anti-infection measures to prevent a rebound in cases, especially as we foresee a spread of the Delta variant,” Nishimura told a

government advisory panel, which endorsed the plan. The move could set the boundaries for a decision by Olympic organisers on how many domestic fans -

harsh lockdowns. But, its vaccination programme has moved slower than many other developed nations, with just over five per cent of the population

if any - can attend Games events when Tokyo 2020 kicks off on July 23. Overseas spectators have already been banned. Japan has seen a comparatively small virus outbreak, with slightly more than 14 000 deaths, despite avoiding

fully inoculated so far. The decision on Olympic spectators is expected only after the virus emergency in Tokyo ends on June 20 and the Government confirms what restrictions will replace it. Recent reports have said

“quasi-emergency” measures could be introduced, including curbs on the sale of alcohol or limited opening hours for bars and restaurants. Experts and officials have expressed concerns that huge crowds attending the virus-postponed Games could accelerate the spread of the novel coronavirus after the emergency measures have ended. Takaji Wakita, head of the advisory panel, warned of possible surges of infection in the near future as people start to go out more in some regions, including Tokyo. “When the Government lifts the state of emergency, it’s important that restrictions are lifted gradually,” he told reporters yesterday after the panel met. Under the current state of emergency, spectators are capped at 5 000 people or 50 per cent of a venue’s capacity, whichever is smaller.

(REUTERS) - The U.S. Open will be at full capacity throughout its two-week duration in 2021, the United States Tennis Association (USTA) announced yesterday, making it the first Grand Slam to be played at 100% capacity amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The tournament was held without spectators in 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic and will be the first Grand Slam to have full attendance since the Australian Open last year. “We are extremely excited to be able to welcome our incredible fans back to the U.S. Open this year,” USTA chief executive Mike Dowse said in a statement “While we were proud that we were able to hold the event in 2020, we missed having our fans on-site, because we know that they are a large part of what makes the U.S. Open experience unlike any other. “Our sport surged in the toughest of times, and this year’s U.S. Open promises to be an unforgettable celebration of the game, those who play it, and those who revel in it.” Organisers of the Cincinnati Masters, the tune-up tournament for the Grand Slam, announced last month that they also plan to operate the August tournament in the city at full capacity. The USTA said tickets for the August 30-September 12 Grand Slam are set to go on sale from July 13. This year’s Wimbledon men’s and women’s singles finals will be played with capacity crowds in attendance on Centre Court.

…Action starts at 17:00hrs today THE Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) yesterday benefitted from sponsorship from the National Sports Commission (NSC) ahead of the start of today’s National Senior National Championships. The event will get underway from 17:00hrs today and conclude on Sunday. During the short and simple handing-over ceremony, president of the AAG, Aubrey Hutson, was applauded for guiding the development of athletics over the years. The ceremony was held in the boardroom of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport in Main Street. In what can be one of the most competitive Senior National Track and Field Championships, the AAG will see some of the country’s top athletes at this weekend’s event at the National Track and Field Centre. For many athletes with the aspiration of qualify-

ing for the Tokyo Olympic Games, it can very-well be their last chance to book a ticket to Japan. Aliyah Abrams (400m), who also competed at the 2016 Games in Rio, is the only Guyanese track and field athlete to qualify. Aliyah and her sister, Jasmine Abrams, who copped bronze in the 100m at the Senior South American Championship last month, are both in Guyana and will hit the ‘blocks’ at Leonora. Arinze Chance, Jeremy Bascom and National Long Jump record holder, Emanuel Archibald, are also in Guyana for the event. Aubrey Huston, president of the AAG, said more overseas-based athletes are expected, both Guyanese and non-nationals. Hutson indicated that there is a triple jumper from Suriname, along with an athlete from Belize that would’ve registered.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 18, 2021

Eight teams confirmed for Final Round of CONCACAF WCQ

MIAMI, Florida – With the results of the second round of CONCACAF World Cup Qualifying for Qatar 2022 completed, the eight teams for the final round of CONCACAF WCQ are now confirmed. Mexico, United States, Costa Rica, Honduras, Jamaica, Panama, Canada and El Salvador will begin the final round of WCQ in early September, starting a schedule of 14 match-days that will conclude on March 22. The top three teams in the standings at the conclusion of the final round will qualify directly for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, while the fourth-place team will advance to a two-leg Inter-Confederation Playoff series in June 2022. Panama, Canada and El Salvador all advanced to the final round after finishing first in their group in the first round of CWCQ, before winning their respective two-leg, second round series. On aggregate scores, Panama edged Curacao 2-1, Can-

El Salvador, Panama and Canada all advanced to the final round after finishing first in their group in the first round of CWCQ, before winning their respective two-leg second-round series

ada downed Haiti 4-0 and El Salvador defeated Saint Kitts and Nevis 6-0 in the second round. Canada will be participating in the final round of CWCQ for the first time

since France 1998, while El Salvador make their first appearance in the final round of CWCQ since South Africa 2010. Jamaica are also back in the final round of CWCQ

Tendulkar wants World Cup format for Test Championship

(REUTERS) - On the eve of the inaugural World Test Championship final, batting great Sachin Tendulkar says the event should only be held every four years, on the lines of the ODI World Cup. India and New Zealand will contest cricket’s first five-day WTC final in Southampton from today for Test cricket’s biggest honour, along with a winner’s cheque of $1.6M (A$2M). The WTC was launched in 2019 after several aborted attempts and with a complicated points system to account for varying lengths of Test series, with the top nine Test-playing nations competing in a league format across two years to decide the finalists.

interview. “We need to decide … the countries where you can host the Test championship. And, within possibly those two months, you just play the Test championship.” Tests played between two countries over the past two years counted towards an overall points table under the WTC to determine the teams for the final. “You need to shorten that window and compress the whole thing,” Tendulkar added. “All teams go and play wherever it is held and that is when the final will have more significance than what it is at this moment. “When a 50-over World Cup happens, it goes on for nearly two months and nowhere in the world there is any other format being

for the first time since Brazil 2014. Mexico, U.S., Costa Rica, Honduras and Panama all took part in the final round of CWCQ for Russia 2018.

One-off Test in Bristol …

India suffer dramatic late collapse after superb 96 from Verma INDIA suffered a dramatic late collapse as England fought back after an audacious 96 from teenage debutant Shafali Verma lit up the second day of the one-off Test in Bristol. The tourists had been cruising at 167-0 before Verma was caught chasing the boundary that would have brought her a century. From then, India folded, losing 5-16 to end the day on 187-5, trailing the hosts by 209 runs. England had earlier declared on 396-9, led by an unbeaten 74 from Sophia Dunkley. Verma, 17, hit 13 fours and two sixes as she produced the highest score by an Indian

woman on Test debut to frustrate England’s bowlers. She and fellow opener Smriti Mandhana, who made a classy 76, looked to have batted England out of contention but after Verma had hoisted Kate

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Cross to mid-on, the match swung in the hosts’ favour. India looked scrambled, with England skipper Heather Knight taking 2-1 off six overs to put her team in prime position in this Test which has Shafali Verma (96) missed out on what could have been a superb century on Test debut (Twitter/ @ICC)

two days left to run. MOMENTUM SHIFTS AFTER SHAFALI SHOW Despite having never played a Test together - Verma was just 10 when India last played a red-ball match - the India openers combined gloriously in Bristol. Verma, the top-ranked T20 batter in the world, played the way she knows how: hard. A seaming delivery from Nat Sciver was flayed effortlessly for six, while premier bowler Katherine Brunt saw a full delivery clattered back over her head. Accompanied by Mandhana, a classical player with a

stunning cover drive, she flayed England’s attack around the ground. Verma celebrated her half-century with an abashed wave of the bat, preferring to let her shot-making tell the story. Her only emotion came when she toe-ended Cross to mid-on, with the opener throwing back her head in anguish as she left. “This partnership could be huge for women’s cricket in India,” said former India seamer Snehal Pradhan on Test Match Special. “I’ve already seen a lot of people on my social media who don’t normally talk about women’s cricket, calling for others to turn on the television to watch these two wonderful players.” England were visibly lifted by Verma’s dismissal. Mandhana began to struggle to rotate the strike before lofting Sciver to mid-off, Shikha Pandey chipped a catch back to Knight while captain Mithali Raj was pinned lbw on review by Sophie Ecclestone. The fielders crowded around the bat and turned up the noise as Poonam Raut fell lbw. England almost claimed another wicket, with Harmanpreet Kaur given out lbw to Ecclestone, but a review showed a clear inside edge. It was a frenetic end to another absorbing day’s play. (BBC Sport)

The World Test Championship should be a tournament-style event held in one host nation every four years, says batting great Sachin Tendulkar

The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic threw plans for teams to play six bilateral Test series in the two-year cycle into disarray, and a new points system ranking teams on the percentage of points earned was introduced. Nevertheless, the two top-ranked teams, led by Kane Williamson and Virat Kohli, will meet in the final, to be screened on Fox Sports and Kayo from 20:00hrs AEST today. Tendulkar, 48, the most prolific run-scorer in both Test and ODI cricket, has urged the International Cricket Council (ICC) to schedule future Test championships in a dedicated two-three months’ window like the World Cups. “Maybe to generate even more interest, it could become like a World Cup. A World Cup is not played all across the globe. World Cup is played in just one or two countries,” Tendulkar told Reuters in a telephone

played during those two months. “But along with the WTC final, (currently) there are multiple teams playing in different parts of the world in different formats. To get more eyeballs and get more focus, more engagement, we need to have just one tournament.” India coach Ravi Shastri has said a best-of-three final would have been an ideal way to determine the winner at the end of the WTC’s two-year cycle. Tendulkar agreed with his former India teammate. “India played all four Tests in Australia, and four Test matches against England at home,” Tendulkar, who retired from international cricket in 2013, explained. “So we have been playing full series to get here and suddenly you get to the final and you just have one match. So it should have been a WTC final series, best of three.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, June 18, 2021

Arinze Chance is Power PowerAde Ade Brand Ambassador By Rawle Toney

THE country’s National Indoor 400 metres record-holder, Arinze Chance, is now the PowerAde sport drink Brand Ambassador, after inking his contract yesterday for an undisclosed sum at Banks DIH’s Thirst Park. Arinze will fancy his chances of qualifying for the Tokyo Olympic Games this weekend at the AAG’s Senior National Championships. “It’s just surreal to be in this position. It’s something that I would have dreamed about since I started track and field in 2004,” an elated Chance said after placing his ‘John Hancock’ to make his one-year partnership (so far) with Banks DIH official. “I just want to say thanks to all the parties involved. It’s definitely going to be a relationship that will be beneficial to both myself and Banks DIH, by extension PowerAde and the Coca Cola Company,” Chance said. Chance was a stand-

out locally at the various age groups in the National Schools Athletics Championship. He attended Bishops’ High, Queen’s College, the University of Trinidad and Tobago/University of South Carolina. While at the University of South Carolina, Chance was named in 2019 Indoor FirstTeam All-American (4x400m Relay), 2019 Outdoor FirstTeam All-American (4x400m Relay) and 2019 Indoor Second-Team All-American (400m). Chance said his “athletic hopes would definitely be to go further than any athlete in Track and Field would’ve gone in Guyana’s history, but in doing that, I would need support. Banks DIH realised what I’ve done thus far, which is breaking the National Indoor 400m record and they’ve decided to partner with me and I’m much appreciative of that.” He added that “all this time the support really has

been coming from family and close friends and now having corporate sponsorship makes it easy to get through daily activities.” The former University of South Carolina 400m student-athlete said the signing with Banks DIH/PowerAde should delight the “teachers, especially from Bishops’ High School, I know they would be proud to see that not only did I excel in my academic pursuits, but also in my athletic pursuits; I’ve been doing both my entire life and I’m happy to be in a position where I can say that it’s definitely possible to do athletics or any sport, and peruse your academics.” Competing and being one of the best NCAA Division One 400m athletes off the track in the classrooms, Chance racked up an impressive resumé as well, becoming a 2019 Google Cloud Academic All-American and was on his University’s 2019 SEC Academic Honour Roll. He also made the 2017-18 SEC First-Year Academic Honour

New PowerAde Brand Ambassador, Arinze Chance, following his signing with the sport drink that’s distributed by Banks DIH (Rawle Toney photo)

Roll. Chance is the 2019 Aliann Pompey Invitational Champion 400m champion. Meanwhile, Jennifer Khan, Coca-Cola Brand Executive, hailed Chance as the “perfect signing” stating “he has a positive reputation with both the local and international target audiences, who are very interested in his career and his ambitions, his studies but more so his career as a sportsman”. “He cares about his image and he’s always transmitting positive vibes … he’s just the type of person that we want on this brand and I’m happy that we have finally concluded this long process,” Khan said. In 1988, PowerAde became the official sports drink of the Olympics, alongside Aquarius, another sports drink made by Coca-Cola. In July 2001, the Coca-Cola Company launched a new formula for PowerAde including vitamins B3, B6 and B12, which play a role in energy metabolism.

Regal Legends, GFSCA confirm participation in NYSCL Independence Cup By Frederick Halley REGAL Legends and Guyana Floodlight Softball Cricket Association (GFSCA) are among the 20 teams that have already confirmed their participation in the New York Softball Cricket League (NYSCL) annual Independence Cup tournament, set for July 2-4 in New York. Like most outdoor sports, the tournament which normally features teams from the hosts, Guyana, Canada and Florida, failed to get off the ground last year because of the COVID-19 pandemic. With border restrictions still in place, no representative teams from Canada are listed to participate this year. However, the NYSCL organising committee is confident of a bumper tournament despite facing a few hiccups. According to a release from NYSCL, it is expecting 24 teams, comprising eight each in the All Stars, Masters Over-45 and Legends Over-50 to take the fields in the Independence holiday weekend extravaganza. As per registration, both All Stars and Legends categories have already been

filled, with four spots still remaining in the Masters Over-45 section. Based on the registration, the only team in contention to retain championship honours are NYSCL Masters in the Over-45 category with All Stars defending champions SVC and Canada’s Toronto Blizzards in the Over-50 opting out after carting off their respective categories in 2019. NYSCL Masters upstaged favourites Regal Masters in the 2019 final, played at Baisley Pond, winning by 22 runs. The NYSCL release also pointed out that further updates will be provided as the tournament approaches, while managers or captains are advised to submit their 15 players for the respective divisions. Teams will be allowed to make updates to their roster before the evening of the draw on Thursday, July 1. The release also said that teams are reminded about the cut-off dates for the players in the Over-45 and Over-50 categories and that these will be strictly enforced by the organisers. The eight All Stars teams are NYSCL All Stars, Orlando Softball Cricket League (OSCL). World

2019 Masters Over-45 winners NYSCL. president Eric Ferrier is far right (front row)

Boss All Stars, Kingsmen, Rising Stars, NY Muslim League, Young Blood and Dynasty. Masters Over-45 – NYSCL Masters, OSCL Masters, Corriverton Masters and Doctors XI. Legends Over-50. NYSCL Legends, OSCL Legends, Williamsburg Legends, Rockaway Legends, Regal Legends, GFSCA, Marine Masters and New York Hustlers.

Kohli, play down hype ahead of WTC final SEE PAGE 27

The winners of the World Test Championship final will receive £1.M in prize money and the losers £570 000

AAG gets sponsorship boost for Senior National Championships

.…Action starts at 17:00hrs today

SEE PAGE 29

Brathwaite confident ‘hurt’ Windies can rebound against pacey South Africa SEE PAGE 27

Kraigg Brathwaite hopes his fellow batsmen can step up and battle the South African pacers Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport Charles Ramson Jr hands over the cheque to Hutson (second from right). Looking on are Director of Sport Steve Ninvalle (second from left), NSC Chairman Kashif Muhammad (right) and NSC Commissioner Dellon Davidson

SEE PAGE 31

Arinze Chance is PowerAde Brand Ambassador PowerAde

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FRIDAY, JUNE 18, 2021