Issuu

THURSDAY 18th November, 2021

No. 106549

Oil audits will be completed -says Vice-President Jagdeo

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President Dr Irfaan Ali meeting with the visiting members of the United States National Bar Association at State House on Wednesday (Office of the President photo)

High fertiliser costs slashed in Region Two SEE PAGE

Some employees $700M hinterland faking COVID housing programme to infection to stay be rolled out in 2022 away from work SEE PAGE

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday November 18, 2021

Oil audits will be completed

-says Vice-President Jagdeo VICE-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo said the government will complete the audits of costs claimed by ExxonMobil for its operations, and assured that Guyana’s interests will be protected. His comment was in response to concerns that the accounting provisions in ExxonMobil’s Stabroek block contract stipulate a two-year deadline, and would prevent the government from recovering inflated or unreasonable costs. The Vice-President also dismissed criticisms from the political opposition on this matter as self-serving, given that the government has been transparent about why it has

not yet contracted an auditor. “We have made it clear what our intention is; to have local people involved,” the Vice-President told the Department of Public Information (DPI) on Wednesday. The government is seeking to assemble a group of Guyanese in the sector who demonstrate strong auditing capabilities in this area, and would be able to collaborate with a reputable international firm for the audit of ExxonMobil’s post-2017 costs. Government has noted that it is important for a local firm to participate in this audit, in its public calls for Expressions of Interest. The government recog-

nises that strong local-content achievement is important to the Guyanese people, and its efforts to gather capable local auditors would give effect to that in a practical way. It will also allow them access to considerable revenues from audit fees. When the PPP/C Government assumed office in 2020, it took over the shepherding of an audit of ExxonMobil’s pre-contract and other pre2017 costs. The audit was being conducted by the UK firm, IHS Markit, which was hired by the previous administration four years after oil was first discovered offshore. The Vice-President reminded that cost recovery

audits were left outstanding for years. He expressed disappointment that Guyana, under the previous administration, did not develop its capacity to conduct cost recovery audits, nor did it make haste to contract a firm to conduct those audits. In addition to setting the stage for local audit firms to benefit from involvement in cost recovery audits, the government will also build the capacity of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) to conduct its own cost audits for the oil sector. Dr. Jagdeo intends to address the issue more comprehensively in a future engagement. (DPI)

increases in many commodities across the world. “We have to look at the reasons for the increase in prices; we are seeing an increase in the cost of natural gas, which is a critical component when producing fertilisers,” he said, adding: “Globally, the cost of fertilisers has increased tremendously; in some parts of the US, the costs have doubled and tripled. Even in China, a powerhouse producer, many industries were closed because of the pandemic, which resulted in a shortage of natural gas. That is why it is important for us to build

that pipeline, so that we can be in a position to produce our own natural gas.” During a media briefing last Thursday, President Dr. Irfaan Ali noted that at the international level, his government does not intend to sit down and wait for the situation to correct itself. Referencing the rising cost of fertilisers, the President said that over the last four weeks, discussions were held with many bilateral partners to remedy the situation. The Head of State also said that the increase in the cost of production and logistics have driven prices up

Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo

High fertiliser costs slashed in Region Two Minister Mustapha engaging Region Two farmers on Wednesday

AGRICULTURE Minister Zulfikar Mustapha on Wednesday met with rice farmers from the Essequibo Coast, Region Two, to address concerns over the high price of fertilisers in the region. The farmers complained that due to the cost of the fertilisers, they are finding it hard to move forward with their cultivation, and are calling on the government to intervene in the matter. After listening to their concerns, Minister Mustapha told the farmers that the high cost of fertiliser will be reduced, and immediately contacted one of the main suppliers in the region and was able to influence him to lower the cost, a release said. “When I heard about the

cost of the fertiliser, immediately, I engaged the supplier. With our intervention, the supplier agreed to bring down the cost of the fertilizer,” Minister Mustapha was quoted as saying. He added: “The urea was reduced from $9,500 to $8,500 per bag, and the TSP from $10,000 to $8,200 per bag, and we are going beyond that. Last week, the President announced that we are in discussion with our bilateral partners to see how we can collaborate to address these cost increases. This may be burdensome, but this is a global issue, and we need farmers to recognise that.” As he hastened to explain, due to a global shortage of natural gas, many industries have been affected, which has resulted in

across the world. “We are doing this,” he said, “so that the farmers, the sugar industry, the rice producers they can all benefit. Because, if we don’t bring down the cost, we know, too, that the cost of rice will increase.” President Ali said that the current circumstances are threatened by the forecast that existing shortages and price increase will continue well into 2022. According to the Head of State, an assessment of what is happening in major economies like China shows that they are experiencing the

Some of the farmers who attended the meeting

fastest growth in increased prices since the 1990s. In the United States of America, the consumer price index for October has shown that prices rose 6.2 per cent over the last 12 months. According to President Ali, it is the highest in the last three decades. After gaining insight into the root cause of the increases, farmers expressed their satisfaction with the government’s efforts to bring down the cost of fertilisers so far, and said that they look forward to more interventions that could result in further reductions, the release said.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday November 18, 2021

US annual drug overdose deaths hit record levels More than 100,000 Americans have died of drug overdoses over a year-long period during the COVID-19 pandemic. It is the highest yearly death toll from drugs ever recorded in the US. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that overdose deaths rose 28.5 per cent in the 12 months ending this past April. Experts believe that overdoses likely spiked because of the psychological toll of the pandemic and more synthetic opioids like fentanyl in the supply. Overdoses rose in all but four of 50 US states. Using data from death certificates, the CDC estimates that 100,306 people between April 2020 and April 2021, compared to 78,056 deaths reported the year prior. Katherine Keyes, a drug abuse expert and associate professor of epidemiology at Columbia University, told the BBC that while overdose deaths have been rising "exponentially" over the last several years, the pandemic "added fuel to that fire".

"The data that is available indicates that there were more people using drugs alone, which we know is a risk factor for overdose," she explained. "There was also a decrease in access to services that might support overdose prevention, harm reduction, treatment and recovery." The number of deaths from drugs has now surpassed those from guns, car crashes and the flu. The highest increase in overdose deaths was recorded in Vermont, where the number of fatalities rose 70 per cent to 209. Vermont was followed by West Virginia (62 per cent) and Kentucky (55 per cent). Keyes said that the rise of synthetic opioids - particularly fentanyl - are "among the most central contributors" to the rise in overdose deaths. Users of other drugs, such as cocaine or methamphetamine, are increasingly testing positive for fentanyl. "It's kind of a moving epidemic that was really concentrated on people who primarily used opioids such as heroin, but now is kind of spreading out

Photo credit: The Washington Post VIA GETTY IMAGES into people who are using other drugs as well," she added. "That really accelerates the overdose deaths that we're seeing to a broader range of drug users." Shannon Monnat, the director of the Lerner Center for Public Health Promotion at Syracuse University, said that

the overdose deaths are "an American tragedy, and it is preventable". "Even after COVID is over, overdoses will likely continue to increase," she said. "We have to attack this crisis from multiple angles." Among the possible solu-

tions, she said, are fentanyl test strips and supervised consumption sites where users can be monitored and connected to recovery and healthcare services. "But beyond this, we need to recognise that the increase in drug use disorders over the past 20 to 30 years is a symptom of

much larger social and economic problems," Monnat added. "Ultimately, solutions to combat our drug overdose crisis will only be effective if they address the long-term social and economic determinants that are at the foundation of the crisis." (BBC)

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday November 18, 2021

Rare case of woman's body ridding itself of HIV

A woman from Argentina appears to have rid herself of HIV without drugs or treatment the second documented case of its kind in the world. Doctors believe the patient's immune system cleared the virus on its own. Tests on more than a billion of her cells found no viable trace of the infection, Archives of Internal Medicine reports. If this process could be harnessed, it might offer a way to wipe out or effectively cure HIV, experts say. The findings are further proof a few people are born with natural resilience to HIV. Some have genes that prevent infection. Others - including "the Esperanza patient", who wishes to remain anonymous - appear to catch but then eradicate the virus. But most people with HIV

need life-long antiretroviral therapy (ART). And if they stop taking these drugs, the dormant virus can reawaken and cause problems again. In recent years, however, there have been reports of "elite controllers" who can suppress the virus, with help but no HIV medication. Adam Castillejo, from London, was able to stop taking his daily HIV pills after receiving a donor stem-cell treatment for a cancer he also had. His HIV-infected cells were wiped out and replaced during the cancer therapy. And fortuitously, his donor was one of the one per cent of people born with genes that prevent HIV entering and infecting cells. It is unclear how long this advantage might last for Castillejo,

however.

'STERILISING CURE' But the Esperanza patient has had no detectable HIV for more than eight years. Loreen Willenberg, from San Francisco, also appears to be functionally cured of HIV by her own immune system. And this offers hope of a "sterilising cure" for other patients. Lead investigator Dr Xu Yu, from the Ragon Institute of Massachusetts General Hospital, Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard, said: "There may be an actionable path to a sterilising cure for people who are not able to do this on their own. "We are now looking toward the possibility of inducing this kind of immunity in persons on ART, through

vaccination, with the goal of educating their immune systems to be able to control the virus without ART."

'ABORTIVE INFECTION' Professor John Frater, from the University of Oxford, told BBC News while it was almost impossible to say if someone had been truly cured of HIV, the investigators had done "as much as could be asked of them with current technology" to prove it. "The key question is whether this patient has actually cured themselves or, alternatively, had some form of abortive infection, which tried to get going but the embers were snuffed out early," he said. "Her immune system clearly shows a memory of having been infected, so there

Photo credit: GETTY IMAGES seems to be no question that under development. she was. But Dr Andrew Freed"Regardless, there may man, from Cardiff Univerbe similar patients out there, sity Medical School, said offering much to learn in the current HIV drugs were search for a HIV cure." extremely effective and while Professor Sarah Fidler, looking at future treatments an expert in HIV medicine at was important, improving Imperial College London, said access to life-changing ART the work would help inform around the globe was an immune therapies currently urgent priority. (BBC)

Jamaica’s PM: Work must be done for the money

Jamaica’s Prime Minister Andrew Holness has indicated that his government plans to implement a registration system for Jamaicans engaged to do mitigation and other similar works for the State in order to ensure accountability and reduce the risk of certain types of programmes coming under scrutiny. “We are in a different era of accountability and our supporters need to understand that it is not [about] taking up cash and just giving it out — those days are gone. Work must be done for this income,” Holness said in the House of Representatives. “Presently, there are some processes where funds, having been approved, would go through a contractor, it is then broken down to a smaller level and then it is paid out. We may have to look at a process where someone who wants to benefit from a programme would have to register so we know who the

final beneficiary of the labour works are,” he explained. The Prime Minister was announcing a just over $1-billion mitigation works programme which will see the 63 constituencies each receiving $16 million for road patching, debushing, and drain-cleaning works. Holness said, however, that this paradigm shift in how government pays workers outside of the public sector could not happen overnight, as the country's banking systems have be improved to accommodate these transactions. “It may be the case that they are paid through the banking system… there are some weaknesses in the system that we have to correct… I think the country should know the thinking of the government and the direction in which we are moving and MPs [Members of Parliament] should take this as notice that in a few years' time the system will be reformed in

this nature,” he said. The Prime Minister warned that people should not expect to be paid without fulfilling their assigned tasks. “Every MP here would agree with me that there are some persons who want to get the income but not do the work, and those are the ones who will get us into trouble,” he stated. At the same time, Holness stressed that the mitigation works were not the usual Christmas work — a highly anticipated source of short-term earning for some Jamaicans. “In previous years we would have said that this is the Christmas work programme, but this is not the provision of funds for Christmas. I am sure people will see it in that light but this is a mitigation programme that happens to coincide with the Christmas season. It will generate some income, and many persons are looking forward to it, so we want to get it off the

ground very quickly,” he told the House. Outlining the disaggregation of the funds, he said each constituency will be allowed to use $7 million for road patching, but funds for that activity could not be reallocated to any other work under the programme, although a cumulative $5 million could be allocated from elsewhere within the programme to road patching. Four million dollars is to be spent on debushing, all of which can be reallocated, but funds from the other areas of the programme cannot be reallocated to it. Another $2 million is to be allocated to drain-cleaning, $1 million of which can be redirected to garbage collection; and $3 million is earmarked for garbage collection, none of which can be reallocated to other areas of the programme. (Jamaica Observer)

Jamaica’s Prime Minister Andrew Holness (Jamaica Observer photo)

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday November 18, 2021

Nursery Education NURSERY education in Guyana is fully mainstreamed in the country's public education system. The broad objective of nursery education is to assist children to learn through playing with their peers and to provide a warm and safe environment where they feel comfortable to explore. It is through exploration that a child will be able to learn. Socialisation skills and the development of sensor-motor skills are also important skills learnt at that level, in addition to the other domains of knowledge. Guyana is ahead of most countries in the region, and for that matter the entire Commonwealth, in terms of nursery enrollment rates. According to Education Minister, Priya Manickchand, Guyana currently has an enrollment rate of 85 per cent and it is the

expectation of her ministry to take that to 100 per cent. The importance of nursery education cannot be overemphasised. It encourages critical thinking, positive dispositions to learning and it prepares children for the outside world and their journey into adulthood. Countries all around the world are becoming increasingly aware of the importance of early childhood education. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has as one of its objectives "to contribute to the building of peace, the eradication of poverty, sustainable development and inter-cultural dialogue through education.” According to UNESCO, early childhood education is much more than preparing children for primary school. It aims at the holistic development of

a child's social, emotional, cognitive and physical needs in order to build a solid and broad foundation for lifelong learning and wellbeing. Nursery education is not compulsory in Guyana. The introduction of a national nursery education commenced in 1976 and was delivered in those early days in specially designed nursery sections in primary schools. Prior to that, there were several 'bottom house' nursery schools which catered for those who could afford to pay. The teachers, for the most part, were untrained and lacked basic pedagogical skills to deliver such training effectively. Sadly, whatever gains were made in terms of free education from nursery to university levels were sooner negated after the then PNC regime failed to provide the necessary funding to provide

an acceptable quality of education to the children and young people of Guyana. The education sector, at all levels, suffered tremendously, giving rise to what some described as 'fee education'. Those who could have afforded the fees sent their children to private lessons to supplement that provided by the public school system. The situation had reached ridiculous proportions with parents having to pay for private lessons for their children from as early as primary schooling! It took the return of the PPP/C Government on October 5, 1992 before the education sector began to experience significant improvements in the quality of education delivery at all levels, including nursery education. Scores of discrete child-friendly nursery schools were established all over

the country. A massive programme of teacher training took place, which, in addition to improved and a better supply of learning/teaching resources in the school system, resulted in higher levels of student attainment. The PPP/C administration must be commended for initiating and implementing several reforms to the education sector, including the end of dual education in 1961, the construction of a network of new schools throughout the country and, by no means least, the construction of the University of Guyana, which was once dubbed by the PNC 'Jagan Night School'. Today, the university remains a flagship education institution, not only in Guyana but in the entire region. As we celebrate 45 years of nursery education in Guyana, we must

commend all those who were, and are currently responsible, for nurturing our children and laying that foundation for them to become rounded individuals. Children are the future leaders of our society and it is important that we seek to create that environment that will allow for the full development of their potential. The PPP/C administration is doing a commendable job in terms of nursery education and, for that matter, education on the whole. In the words of President, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, “education remains a key element to the government's plan to ensure a better future for our children. We are not re-imagining a better future for our children. We are making it happen”.

Penalty must match the crime for elections rigging

Dear Editor, IT is an undeniable and historically authenticated fact that for too long Guyanese have suffered immensely from the rigging of General and Regional Elections on multiple occasions by one political party -- the PNC. In fact, these riggings have caused Guyanese to flee to all parts of the world in order to survive and barely eke out a living for themselves and families. The social fallouts are too numerous to mention. They fled from the harsh and inhuman dictatorial rule of the PNC under Forbes Burnham and then Desmond Hoyte, using whatever legal and illegal methods they had available. This was the era of Burnhamism characterised by the five Bs: bankruptcy, backtrack, blackmarket, banditry and beri-beri. The PNC utterly devastated the socio-economic fabric of this nation and I will say that life sentence for election riggers is the way forward. It is sad that those in the

past have gotten away with these acts which can be likened to a coup. The only difference is that with a coup the government in office is overthrown often through violent means but with electoral rigging, the rightful government is overthrown during the rigged electoral process. The result in either case is the same. Therefore, the punishment must fit the crime: ‘In national elections, successful electoral fraud on a sufficient scale can have the effect of a coup d'état’ (https://en.wikipedia. org/wiki/Electoral_fraud). On the other hand, the letter writer seems to believe that since ‘the PPP clearly has the numbers, which means life sentences for rigging would apply to only PNC operators, for all practical purposes. In view of the demographics and politics of Guyana, I would venture that there are grounds to label this a racial and racist proposal’ (GHK Lall’s letter captioned: ‘Elections rigging and life sentences’, Kaieteur News). This would suggest that it is

perfectly excusable for the PNC to attempt to rig and get off with a tap on the shoulder or else it is ‘racism’. This is high class baloney. It has always been about the PNC and its innate penchant for rigging and is not about the PPP as was suggested by the same letter writer in the media. In his letter, he further stated that, ‘the underpinnings of voter registrations, hence voting eligibility, have been subject to question and controversy. Neither of the major parties is untainted’. I cannot recall anytime that the PPP was involved in this type of skullduggery, it is well documented that from 1968 to 1985 and then in the prelude to the 2020 Elections that it was the PNC which did this in a variety of manner, and this would go back even before the voters’ registration, for example, the appointment of the Chairperson for GECOM and all the other senior appointments. Moreover, it is a fact that a huge percentage of persons who worked at

GECOM are known supporters of the PNC. It cannot be that the letter writer is unaware of these irrefutable facts. In the last General and Regional Elections, I witnessed this first hand. The PNC never wanted election observers and did all within their power to keep them out. The letter writer should realise that it was the PNC who labelled the election observers as ‘interferers and meddlers’ prior to the 1992 Elections. At one point during the Region Four vote count, the PNC attempted to lock them out and this again played out during the recount. They always wanted to steal the elections with impunity as they did before 1992 and in 2020, they did put on a ‘live show’ for the observers and the world to view and yet they denied attempts to rig. It is common knowledge even to the PNC Executive members as well as its supporters that the PNC is devoid of any strategy and all they ever did was to depend on their

rigging machinery. Blaming the Burnhamite Granger for the failure of the PNC to retain power is just an ingenious way of being the proverbial ostrich. Imagine a political party which has been around since 1957, more than 64 years, still has to depend on rigging and not their achievements as a government to win an election. I see no ‘reform’ of the PNC, even that term has been abused by the PNC. An Editorial which appeared in the media on November 7, 2021 summed up the struggle to reform our electoral laws, ‘the history of modern elections laws in Guyana is a history of either facilitating the PNC to take power or attempting to prevent them (PNC) from rigging elections to keep power’. This Editorial summarises the fact that the PNC will do whatever it takes to get into power and remain there. If we go back in history we will find that even after the most massively rigged elections in 1985, the PNC-led by Hoyte was unrelenting and not prepared to allow free and

fair elections and stubbornly refused to allow electoral reforms. It has always been a colossal struggle by the PPP and the masses in Guyana to ensure that elections are not rigged. This struggle before 1992 is well documented history. But this has always been an ongoing struggle after 1992 and up to 2020. It is time to get our electoral reforms correct so that the PNC is never allowed to rig or attempt to rig any election in the future. Guyanese must never be allowed to suffer from the fallouts of the PNC’s rigging and our laws must be reformed to ensure this. We have been given ‘life sentences’ by the PNC and some suffered death penalties in the past. This is draconian! It is time that all legal loopholes (we are wearied by numerable trips to the CCJ) are plugged and the penalties match the crime. Yours sincerely, Haseef Yusuf

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday November 18, 2021

Hopefully, Mohamed’s generosity will inspire others to give back to students in need

Dear Editor, I COMMEND Mohamed Enterprise for its kindness and generosity for the educational grant given to Parmesh Ramgobin, who was among the leading performers at last June's CSEC (GC Nov 14). In so doing, Mohamed Enterprise demonstrates a beneficence and social commitment to helping students of limited financial means. Other businesses and individuals of strong financial means should follow suit. There are many businesses that have been doing extremely well financially but hardly any of them seek to help the less fortunate in our midst and none of them offer financial

assistance to students who are in need of help to continue their education. In fact, some of them get a lot of government contracts in the hundreds of millions of dollars, but don’t help the poor. On this note, Mohamed Enterprise stands out among all large businesses. Mohamed’s grant to this youngster highlights the fact that hard work and achievement attracts rewards. The company has committed to helping Parmesh receive financial assistance to pursue his university education. He has already started the University of Guyana reading for his BSc in Biology. Parmesh Ramgobin excelled at the 2021 CSEC. He

sat 20 subjects and received 15 ones and five twos grades. The normal number of subjects is between eight and 10. A minimum of five is needed for entrance into university. The kid also happens to be among the top performers in the country and the West Indies in 2021. Parmesh's parents, Dinesh and Chandrawati Ramgobin, expressed pride in their son’s achievements and gratitude to Mohamed Enterprise for assistance. The Managing Director of Mohamed's Enterprise, Nazar Mohamed met with the young man who is Essequibo's top CSEC 2021 student and honoured him with a hefty cheque to further his education. He committed to funding

$700M hinterland housing programme to be rolled out in 2022 THE government, through the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA), will be recommencing its Hinterland Housing Programme early next year. The programme carries a value of $700M. This was announced by Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, during a community meeting at Waina village, Region One. He noted that some 100 families in communities in Regions One, Seven, Eight and Nine will benefit from the construction of homes and home improvement subsidies under the programme. “We have already decided on the villages for Mabaruma and other areas. Even if a community is not included this year, they can be included for the next go-round,” he said. Minister Croal noted that the programme will address the housing needs in hinterland communities. It forms part of the government’s policy of ensuring hinterland communities benefit from the same services as those on the coast. He, however, explained

Housing and Water Minister, Collin Croal that the programme differs from the housing construction programme being implemented on the coast, where persons are paying for the homes through the banks. “I want to clarify that the beneficiaries who come from within our system pay for those houses, so the state is not building them free. But, in the hinterland, we have the subsidy programme coming from taxpayers’ money and so, there is only so much we can do at a time,” Minister Croal said. In addition to homeownership, the programme will stimulate the local village economy since local labour and materials will be used.

Stakeholders’ engagements and participation will also be embraced throughout the project. Residents will also have an input in the design and selection of the project, Minister Croal said. The implementation of the hinterland housing project will utilise a model similar to the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB)-funded Sustainable Housing for the Hinterland Programme that was previously implemented by the CH&PA. The programme was very successful in improving the living conditions of over 500 hinterland households in Regions One and Nine. (DPI)

the young man’s education through his academic journey. I salute Mohamed for his kindness. The student’s story of struggling to fund his education is very moving and brought back memories of my own struggle to obtain an education. While I passed Common Entrance, topping my school, and won a spot at Berbice High, I opted for Chandisingh in Port Mourant because of high transportation cost of travelling to New Amsterdam that I could not afford. I too worked my way through high school and college in New York to pay tuition and habitable expenses as well as for sitting GCE. I experienced hardship like Parmesh and overcame them and went to

earn multiple doctorates and MAs through hard work and the support of others. And like him, I too studied the natural sciences for my bachelor’s degree (Bio-Chem) before pursuing the social sciences for my post graduate studies. And while not a businessman or by any means financially well off, I have endeavoured to help the less fortunate with their education with my small income earned from teaching. This grant from Mohamed will no doubt ease the financial burden of the youngster. Mohamed told reporters that he hopes that his grant will help to empower the student to continue pursuing his educational goals. Clearly, it shows that

Mohamed is generous and caring, and unselfishly give to support the educational endeavours of deserving students. Mohamed’s Enterprise stands out as a shining beacon and where other companies have failed the nation. There are so many others doing extremely well but don’t offer “a little something” to anyone. Some small businesses are known to help the less fortunate, but most big businesses have avoided their corporate social responsibility. Hopefully, Mohamed’s generosity will inspire others to give back to students in need. Yours truly, Vishnu Bisram

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday November 18, 2021

Proposed electoral amendments are not amendments to the Constitution -- Attorney-General By Richard Bhainie THE draft proposed electoral amendments which were recently put forward by the government, and are currently out for consultations are only ordinary statutory amendments, and not amendments to the Constitution of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana. This was reiterated by Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, S.C., during his weekly television programme, ‘Issues in the News’ on Tuesday evening, while responding to misunderstandings pertaining to the amendments. Attorney-at-law Ralph Ramkarran, S.C., in his weekly column, ‘the Conversation Tree’, on Sunday last purported that the draft proposed electoral amendments are “woefully inadequate”, as “much more is required, and this was the opportunity to accomplish needed reforms in other areas of the electoral system”. In making his claim, the Senior Counsel reminded of several ideas in relation to

electoral reforms he has put forward throughout the years, including but not limited to a mixed electoral system, terms of office for Commissioners of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), and changes to the National Registration Act. The Attorney-General responded by highlighting that most of the recommendations offered by Ramkarran are constitutional in nature, and would require amending the Constitution itself; however, the current proposed amendments are only to reform ordinary electoral legislation. Guyana’s Constitution is a ‘written Constitution’, whereby the fundamental laws are separated from the ‘ordinary laws’, and are codified into a single document. It is referred to as the highest law of the country that is guarded by the Supreme Court, and its provisions are entrenched. Article 164 of the Constitution of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana speaks to the procedure for altering the Constitution. It explicitly lists

a number Articles which are only to be amended through a referendum, while other provisions require a twothirds majority of votes of the National Assembly. Nandlall reminded that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) only has a simple majority in the National Assembly, and, therefore, the amendments currently being pursued are only those to ordinary electoral statutes. Constitutional reform, he said, will follow.

HAVE TO BE ADDRESSED DIFFERENTLY “Constitutional provisions which affect elections will have to be addressed differently, as we don’t have the requisite majority to effect these changes,” the AG said, adding: “The process in which we are engaged is one which is incapable of addressing the electoral system.” Nandlall also reiterated that in addition to the draft proposed amendments to the Representation of the People Act (RoPA), which are cur-

rently out for consultation, a second set of proposed amendments will follow, namely, amendments to the National Registration Act. Ramkarran also opined that with the government proposing the draft electoral amendments, it is “unlikely to divert from this already decided course, except perhaps with minor amendments”. However, Nandlall emphasised that the amendments “are not crafted in stone”, and reminded that they are currently out for consultation, so that citizens at large can scrutinise and offer recommendations, which he encourages. “We don’t pretend to have a monopoly of answers, or a monopoly of knowledge in relation to the law or what the electoral changes should be. We have put forward our proposals; it is now for other political parties, for civil society, for citizens generally to share their views as well,” Nandlall said. The Attorney-General emphasised that great care and circumspection were employed when drafting the proposed amendments to

Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, S.C. ensure that the amended sec- electoral reform, following tions are not intended or the five months of shenandesigned to give any political igans which followed the party an electoral advantage, March 2, 2020 General but only to make the electoral and Regional Elections, and saw a number of allemachinery stronger. The draft proposed gations of electoral fraud electoral amendments being made against the are in keeping with the then APNU+AFC governPPP/C’s commitment to ment and senior GECOM officials.

US National Bar Association team meets top gov’t functionaries OFFICIALS of the United States of America National Bar Association (NBA) met with several high-ranking members of government and prominent members of the local legal fraternity at a lun-

Carlos Moore; Chief Foreign Policy Advisor, Johanna Leblanc; Executive Director, Maurice Foster, Esq, and member of the South Carolina House of Representatives, Rosalyn Henderson-Myers.

President Dr. Irfaan Ali with officials of the United States of America National Bar Association on Wednesday at State House, Georgetown (Office of the President photo) cheon hosted by President, Members of the governDr. Irfaan Ali, at State ment included Prime MinisHouse, Georgetown on ter, Brigadier (retired) Mark Wednesday. Phillips; Attorney-General Members who formed and Minister of Legal Afpart of the visiting dele- fairs, Anil Nandlall; Minister gation included President of Foreign Affairs and Interof the Association, Judge national Co-operation, Hugh

Todd, and Foreign Secretary, Robert Persaud. Representing the local legal fraternity were Chancellor of the Judiciary (ag), Yonette Cummings-Edwards; Chief Justice (ag), Roxane George; Director of

provided an overview of the role of the Attorney-General Chambers and the Ministry of Legal Affairs. According to a press release from the Attorney-General chambers, Nandlall outlined that his

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali greets President of the United States of America National Bar Association, Judge Carlos Moore (Office of the President photo) Public Prosecutions (DPP), Shalimar Ali-Hack; and President of the Guyana Bar Association, Pauline Chase. The officials also met with Nandlall at his Carmicheal Street, Georgetown office, on Wednesday when he

role is separate and distinct from the DPP, and offered details pertaining to Guyana’s legal system. He also highlighted that members of the legal profession play an important role in Guyana by ensuring that

justice is upheld and that his chambers has a great working relationship with legal professionals in the United States of America. The press release stated that the visiting team has indicated that they are willing

suggested that the NBA can facilitate an expert in law reform coming to Guyana to assist the recently established Law Reform Commission. Other areas of discussion pertained to electoral reform and the im-

Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, S.C., meeting with members of the visiting delegation on Wednesday at his office (Office of the President photo) to collaborate in line with the needs of the government and is ready to assist with equipping local lawyers in the area of oil and gas expertise. The Attorney-General

portance of the rule of law. On Tuesday, the visiting delegation met with Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, Gail Teixeira, and Prime Minister Phillips at his office.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday November 18, 2021

Fisherman to stand trial for murder of reputed wife

A 29-year-old fisherman was on Tuesday committed to stand trial at the Berbice High Court for the murder of his reputed wife, Sattie Jagmohan, who he allegedly forced to ingest a poisonous substance. Ramesh Nandalall, was committed by Magistrate Peter Hugh, who presided over

the preliminary inquiry (PI) at the Blairmont Magistrate’s Court. Magistrate Hugh ruled that there was sufficient evidence for Nandlall to face a judge and jury at the next practical sitting of the Berbice Assizes. According to reports, Jagmohan, 27, of Cotton Tree,

Ramesh Nandalall and the late Sattie Jagmohan West Coast Berbice (WCB) When ranks contacted died days after her husband her, she claimed that Nandahad beaten her, held a cutlass lall physically and verbally to her neck, and forced her to abused her, consistently, and drink a poisonous substance had even threatened to kill on February 3, 2021. her many times. A police report detailed Jagmohan alleged that that officers, on February 9, on February 3, at around 2021, were told about Jag- 18:00hrs, Nandalall verbally mohan’s condition at the Fort abused her, during which he Wellington Hospital. pushed her into a wall and

kicked and cuffed her about the body. She further alleged that he then placed a cutlass to her neck, gave her a white bottle containing a liquid substance, and told her to drink it. Out of fear, Jagmohan said she drank the substance, and was then taken to the Fort Wellington

Hospital. She was subsequently transferred to the New Amsterdam Hospital, where she died on February 17. Nandlall was first charged for attempted murder, but the offence was upgraded to murder following the woman’s death.

World food prices reach new peak since July 2011 The world food price barometer surged to a new peak reaching its highest level since July 2011, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has reported. The FAO Food Price Index, which tracks monthly changes in the international prices of a basket of food commodities, averaged 133.2 points in October, up three per cent from September, rising for a third consecutive month. The FAO Cereal Price Index in October increased by 3.2 per cent from the previous month, with world wheat prices rising by five per cent amid tightening global availabilities due to reduced harvests in major exporters, including Canada, the Russian Federation and the United States of America. International prices of all other major cereals also increased month-on-month. The FAO Vegetable Oil Price Index went up 9.6 per cent in October, hitting an all-time high. The increase was driven by firmer price quotations for palm, soy, sunflower and rapeseed oils.

Palm oil prices rose for a fourth consecutive month in October, largely underpinned by persisting concerns over subdued output in Malaysia due to ongoing migrant labour shortages. The FAO Dairy Price Index rose by 2.6 points from September, influenced by generally firmer global import demand for butter, skim milk powder and whole milk powder amid buyers’ efforts to secure supplies to build stocks. By contrast, cheese prices remained largely stable, as supplies from major producing countries were adequate to meet global import demand. The FAO Meat Price Index slipped 0.7 per cent from its revised value in September, marking the third monthly decline. International quotations for pig and bovine meats fell amid reduced purchases from China of the former and a sharp decline in quotations for supplies from Brazil of the latter. By contrast, poultry and ovine meat prices rose, boosted by high global demand and low production expansion prospects. The FAO Sugar Price Index dropped by 1.8 per cent

from September, marking the first decline after six consecutive monthly increases. The decline was mainly the result of limited global import demand and prospects of large exportable supplies from India and Thailand as well as a weakening of the Brazilian Real against the US dollar. Record cereal output in 2021 but stocks set to decline Despite an expected record world cereal production in 2021, global cereal inventories are seen heading for a contraction in 2021/22, according to new forecasts in FAO’s Cereal Supply and Demand Brief, also released today. The forecast for world cereal output in 2021 is now pegged at 2 793 million tonnes, down by 6.7 million tonnes since the previous report in October, largely due to cuts to the estimates of wheat production in the Islamic Republic of Iran, Turkey and the United States of America. By contrast, global coarse grains output has been revised upwards. An upward revision to maize production was driven by better-than-previously expected yields in Brazil and India and improved prospects in

An employee shows wheat grains on a conveyor belt during its loading for storage in tanks at the Chernihiv granary, Ukraine (FAO photo) several West African countries. population, while foreseen 2021/22, but still indicating an Compared to last year, global higher feed and industrial uses overall comfortable level. cereal production is anticipated of maize should also contribute Following an upward to increase and reach a new to the expected annual increase. revision this month on record level. World cereal stocks by the stronger-than-earlier-anForecast at 2 812 million close of seasons in 2022 are ticipated global trade in tonnes, world total cereal uti- forecast to fall 0.8 per cent be- wheat and rice, world trade lization in 2021/22 is heading low their opening levels, to 819 in cereals is now forecast for a 1.7 per cent gain from the million tonnes. Consequently, to expand and reach a new 2020/21 estimated level, led by the world cereals stocks-to- record in 2021/22 at 478 an anticipated increase in glob- use ratio is forecast to decline million tonnes, up 0.3 per al food consumption of wheat, slightly, from 29.4 per cent in cent from the 2020/21 level. rising in tandem with world 2020/21 to 28.5 per cent in (FAO)

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday November 18, 2021

Kwakwani fire tender to be up and running by year end -- Fire Chief Edoo By Naomi Parris THE lone fire tender in Kwakwani, Region 10,

will soon be up and running after being inoperable for almost a year.

This is according to acting Fire Chief, Kalamodeen Edoo, who, on Wednes-

day, said that by year end, the fire tender will once again be operational and fire fighters will be fully equipped to respond to emergencies. Edoo, during a phone call interview, explained that a report was made in the past by auxiliary staff in Kwakwani, stating that the vehicle was not working and is in need of maintenance. A maintenance team was sent and it was revealed that some critical parts of the vehicle needed to be replaced. “We have a water tender there but it was not working, we had our maintenance man there sometime back; we have to get some additional parts to get it

Fire Chief, Kalamodeen Edoo “The challenge is, the auxiliary persons that we have up there, they are supposed to, on an everyday

“Residents would have complained bitterly that Kwakwani is in dire need of a fire tender, since the

The Kwakwani fire tender fixed and we are working on that right now.” However, Edoo said that there has been a delay in replacing these parts since they have to be outsourced. “We are trying to locate the parts, there are parts that we have to locate and bring in from outside because we are not finding it here,” the acting Fire Chief said. Edoo related that a weekly report is expected to be made by the auxiliary staff to update the headquarters in Georgetown; however, such reports are not made on the scheduled regular basis. This, he added, is a challenge that will soon be addressed.

basis, start this vehicle, check this vehicle and update us on a daily basis or weekly basis.” Meanwhile, in the interim, the fire service is depending on the public to render assistance in case of an emergency. “We have to depend on the public who have pumps, portable pumps to render some form of assistance in terms of firefighting.” Region 10 Councillor, Mark Goring, during a routine visit to the community earlier in the week, had voiced the concerns on behalf of the residents as it relates to the inoperable fire tender.

tender has been out of operation over a year now and most of the buildings in Kwakwani are over 50 years, and some over 100 years and they are very close together. Majority of the buildings are wood and it is a fire hazard to the community,” Goring said in a previous interview. Goring noted that while there had not been any recent tragedies of fires, having an operational fire tender in the community will put residents’ minds at ease to know that in case of an emergency or tragedy the local authorities are fully equipped to handle same.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday November 18, 2021

Seven nominated for leader of PNC/R FORMER Region 10 Regional Chairman, Sharma Solomon; former Chairman, Basil Williams and party executive, Carl Greenidge, are among seven persons nominated to vie for the leadership of the

sitions, and 18 nominations for treasurer. Additionally, there are over 700 nominations for the 15 Central Executive Committee (CEC) member spots. The nominations were submitted by the various party

and Solomon have also been nominated for the position of chairman. With the exception of Harmon, they have also been nominated for the VC position, while Lawrence has also been

Ivelaw Henry, and recently reinstated party member, Vanessa Kissoon, are among those nominated for Treasurer. Since it is common for a candidate to be nominated for and to contest in more than one

Natasha Singh-Lewis, Kirk Fraser, Randolph Critchlow, Amanza Walton-Desir, Corretta McDonald, Ronald Cox, Ronald Bulkan, Mervyn Williams, Ganesh Mahipaul, Bernita Primo, Samuel Sandy, and Jevaughn

Lowe, Vanessa Kissoon, Derrick Lawrence, Gary Best, Faaiz Mursaline, Ubraj Narine, Ronald Bulkan, Carol Smith-Joseph, Annette Ferguson, Amanza Walton-Desir, Roysdale Ford, Dr. Karen

Aubrey Norton

Joseph Harmon

Volda Lawrence

Basil Williams

Carl Greenidge

Sharma Solomon

groups at last Friday’s Nomination Day. The party groups will vote for their choices at the 22nd Biennial Congress slated for December 11. At the Congress, each party group will be given one vote per each 10 financial members in the group. “The Congress will be for delegates only, decentralised, and hybrid. It will be conducted over one day at Party Congress Houses and approved venues in the respective regions,” the party’s statement said. Granger is scheduled to make an address at the opening ceremony, following which there will be other Congress business including the election of party officers and members of the CEC. With the verification of the nominations completed, the party will now write each nominee requesting that they indicate whether or not they accept their nomination. “Failure to respond means that, should they otherwise qualify, their names would not automatically appear on the ballot for the position/s for which they were nominated,” the statement added. Some persons have been nominated for more than one position. Of those nominated for party leader Harmon, Norton, Lawrence, Van-West Charles

nominated for treasurer. Notable among the 30 nominees for Chairman are current opposition Members of Parliament (MP) Amanza Walton Desir, Roysdale Forde, Annette Ferguson, Dawn Hastings, Shurwayne Holder, Geeta Chandan-Edmond, Dawn Hastings and Chief Whip, Christopher Jones. With the exception of Chandan-Edmond, they were all also nominated for the VC position. Also nominated for Chairman are party executive Gary Best; former Minister of Communities, Ronald Bulkan; Mervyn Williams; and former minister, Simona Broomes, who, just last Friday, in a passionate social media video, decried divisions in the party and lamented the attitude of the party’s senior members while in government. Mayor of Georgetown, Ubraj Narine, received a nod for the VC positon, as did former party leader, Robert Corbin; party member Randolph Critchlow, and MPs Viceroy Jordan, Coretta McDonald, Ronald Cox, Natasha Singh-Lewis and Ganesh Mahipaul. Also nominated for this post is attorney-at-law, Darren Wade. Meanwhile, businessman Faaiz Mursaline, Region Four Regional Chairman, Daniel Seeram; Georgetown councillor,

position, the elections will be conducted in two stages with the result for each stage being declared before moving on to the next stage. The first stage will see the election of the leader, chairman, two vice chairpersons and treasurer, while the second stage will involve the election of the CEC members. The full list of nominees for the various position are as follows: Party Leader: Basil Williams, Carl Greenidge, Richard Van-West Charles, Volda Lawrence, Aubrey Norton, Joseph Harmon and Sharma Solomon. Chairman: Volda Lawrence, Gary Best, Shurwayne Holder, Amanza Walton-Desir, Roysdale Forde, Annette Ferguson, Aubrey Norton, Sharma Solomon, Ronald Bulkan, Christopher Jones, Richard Van-West Charles, Simona Broomes, Geeta Chandan, Dawn Hastings, Joseph Harmon, and Mervyn Williams. Vice-Chairman: Elizabeth Niles-Williams, Volda Lawrence, Dawn Hastings-Williams, Annette Ferguson, Vinceroy Jordan, Gregory Fraser, Aubrey Norton, Darren Wade, Gary Best, Christopher Jones, Richard Van-West Charles, Vinceroy Jordan, Shurwayne Holder, Roysdale Forde, Ubraj Narine, Sharma Solomon, Robert Corbin, Simona Broomes,

Stephens. Treasurer: Ivelaw Henry, Clayton Newman, Elson

Cummings, Volda Lawrence, Ganesh Mahipaul, Daniel Seeram, and Deron John.

Dr. Richard Van-West Charles People’s National Congress Reform (PNC/R). A press statement issued by the party on Wednesday, identified the trio along with Opposition Leader, Joseph Harmon; former General Secretary, Aubrey Norton; Chairperson Volda Lawrence, and Dr. Richard Van-West Charles, as the nominees. The current leader, former President, David Granger, has not been nominated for re-election or for any of the other positions. Of the other positions that will be contested, the party has received 16 nominations for chairman, 30 nominations for the two vice-chairman (VC) po-

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday November 18, 2021

Some employees faking COVID infection to stay away from work WITH allegations made that some employees have been faking COVID-19 reports in order to stay away from work, Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony believes employers could have verification policies to confirm the COVID-19 status of employees. “If persons are genuinely exposed to someone who is positive, they should be in quarantine and they should be tested with a PCR to determine their status,” Minister Anthony said during his daily COVID-19 update. “There is another aspect where there are reports of persons who, maybe every two weeks, they have become exposed to somebody

[with COVID-19] and if there is a pattern like that, it is obvious that employee might want days-off rather than genuinely being sick with COVID,” the Health Minister continued. He believes this might be problematic. “Different workplaces would have to get policies where they can verify these results from their employees.” The Health Emergency Operations Centre (HEOC) continues to monitor persons in quarantine, Minister Anthony added. He noted however that quarantine occurs before someone’s status is known. Once the PCR test is done and the result is positive, the patient is then

isolated. “If your status is undetermined then you are in quarantine until we can verify your status,” he added, noting that persons are also monitored if they are in isolation. Contact tracing for persons who have tested positive and have been exposed to others has some challenges. Minister Anthony explained that with the telephone system, “we are able to contact those persons to monitor and see whether or not they are experiencing signs and symptoms, the severity of those signs and symptoms, and then if it becomes very severe, you get them to the hospital.” However, in some situ-

ations, he continued, when you have large numbers, it becomes quite challenging. “If you have 2,000 active cases, for each of those cases you have to do contact tracing for five to 10 persons, and that can become very challenging very quickly.” The geographic location of the exposed persons also presents another challenge, the Health Minister continued. Persons who are in home isolation and living with family members are urged not to expose their family members. “If they do, they are going to infect the whole household,” the Health Minister cautioned. Over the last 24 hours,

Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony there have been three new hospitalisations as a result of COVID-19, Dr Anthony confirmed on Wednesday. With this, there are also 2,112 active cases with 55 of

these cases in the hospital, and 35 requiring oxygen. “We keep monitoring people to make sure they get the right levels of care,” the Health Minister said.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday November 18, 2021

Safer Christmas expected in East Coast division Pareshram said the intention of the plan is to minimise the activities of criminal elements, to reduce traffic congestion and road accidents and to foster an environment with a high degree of public confidence. He explained that there will be an increase in police presence in all business, residential, industrial and commercial shopping centres across the East Coast Demerara. Much emphasis will be placed on the

REGIONAL Police Division Four ‘C’ (Industry to Mahaica, East Coast Demerara) has commenced arrangements aimed at ensuring that

the security and safety of citizens are maintained throughout the holiday season. Divisional commander, Senior Superintendent Khali

Police ranks of Division Four ‘C’ already in action for the holiday season

Eugene Correira International Airport and the Lusignan Prison. Commander Pareshram said police within the division will be involved in fixed-point patrol, booths, mobile, bicycle and beat patrols. Ranks will also perform anti-crime, traffic and intelligence gathering. “Ranks will be around banks, recreational areas, post offices, markets and all commercial areas, not forgetting

the continuation of COVID-19 measures,” he added. Commander Pareshram is asking the general public to be on the alert for any suspicious movements while shopping or at commercial banks doing their business. “If you see any unfamiliar persons loitering around a neighbour’s yard, check their identity with your neighbours by phone or call the nearest police station or 911,” he said.

Divisional Commander, Senior Superintendent Khali Pareshram

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday November 18, 2021

Sexual violence cases remain high, President dissatisfied with outcomes

President Ali, during his Address, points to a report on national crime data for 2021 with trends for previous years By Derwayne Wills “If you look at rape, we SEXUAL violence cases had a 55 per cent increase brought to the High Courts [for 2021]. This is an issue have long been significantly we have to get tough on. higher than other cases This is one of the areas that heard during the criminal we have to see tremendous law terms. improvement”, President This has not escaped the Irfaan Ali said. attention of Guyana’s head of Last year, the Caribbestate who expressed concern an Court of Justice (CCJ) during a national address, on handed down a significant Monday last, as he compared judgement on a child rape crime data over the years for sentencing appeal in the mattrends of growth and decline. ter of Pompey v Director of

Public Prosecutions of Guyana (DPP). In that decision, the President and Justices of the CCJ noted that in 2019 there were 648 indictable sexual violence cases from Guyana set down for trial in the Magisterial District of Demerara alone. A deeper analysis of the data by the CCJ, which was provided by Guyana’s DPP office, showed that sexual violence cases constituted 54 per cent of the total number of criminal cases in Demerara for the years 2014 to 2019. In the Berbice Magisterial District, 38 per cent of all criminal cases between 2014 and 2019 were sexual offences. Meanwhile, for the Essequibo Magisterial District, 56 per cent of all criminal cases for the years 2014 to 2019 were sexual offences. In all three Magisterial Districts, sexual offences against minors, as a percentage of overall sexual offence

cases at any given period, were significantly high. “Sexual offences” is a broad category of sex-related crimes which include rape, sexual assault, statutory rape, and other crimes of a sexual nature. The Sexual Offences Act was enacted in Guyana in 2010 as model legislation for the rest of the Caribbean. In his address on Monday, President Ali said the “clear-up rate” for rape cases remains weak. This was also true for robbery with violence. “[For] those two areas, we have to ensure we have higher clear-up rates,” the President urged, adding: “We are very dissatisfied with the clear-up rate in those areas.” The ‘Clear-up Rate’ as defined by the President during his report on national crime statistics, is the rate at which matters under investigation by the law enforcement agency are brought to conclusion. Recently, Divisional Commander of Region One (Barima-Waini), Superintendent Boodnarine Persaud, appeared on the police force’s weekly radio programme “Police and You” where he echoed the President’s sentiments on climbing sexual

Police Division One commander, Superintendent Boodnarine Persaud, during the GPF’s “Police and You” programme aired Tuesday last because the survivors could violence cases. “We have a 240 per cent not properly identify the increase in rape in Region perpetrator or provide any One,” the Divisional Com- information leading to a mander confirmed. He rea- conviction. He said that over the soned that the high number of reported cases, including last three years, there were statutory rape, is largely in three reported cases in 2019 indigenous communities for his region, 14 cases in and that these reports are 2020 and 48 cases in 2021. being made because of sen- “It calls for sensitizing the sitization programmes done communities,” he further by the police themselves in added. Since the implementhese communities which has prompted more persons tation of sexual offences courts in the magisterial to report sexual violence. Commander Persaud districts, there has been an said there have been cas- increase in the conviction es that were unsuccessful rate for sexual violence during the investigation matters in Guyana.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday November 18, 2021

Engineer, handyman uplifted $25.7M for contractor

Monday’s PAC meeting dealt with financial irregularities detected in Regions One and Eight for the period 2016 AS the Parliamentary Pub- 2016, the regional engineer al’s Report flagged instancGovernment member of lic Accounts Committee and a handyman attached es where the engineer and the PAC, Sanjeev Datadin, (PAC) convened for the to the Regional Democratic handymen acted as agents was prompt in seeking clari22nd time on Monday, it Council (RDC) were in the for contractors on six proj- fication on who the contracwas tasked with scruti- habit of collecting large ects, uplifted payments to- tors were; the regional team nising the financial irreg- sums of monies on behalf talling $25.784 million on that appeared for questioning ularities that occurred in of contractors hired by the behalf of contractors for the at the PAC promised that the Region One, where it was regional administration. construction of schools and information will be submitfound that during the year The 2016 Auditor Gener- roads. ted subsequently.

Datadin, an attorney-at-law, sought further clarity on the employment of the errant officers, and was told that while the engineer is no longer under the employ of the regional administration, the handyman remains at his post. Regional Executive Officer of Region One, Peter Rambissessar, informed the committee that ever since he assumed office, strict policies were put in place to ensure transparency and accountability in the RDC’s work. More particularly, the REO said that specific instructions were given that no staff member of the RDC was permitted to collect monies on behalf of any contractor or supplier, be it at the level of the sub-treasury or at the accounting unit. Apart from a number of

overpayments for a series of projects, Datadin also questioned the REO about situations where the regional administration reportedly modified the original scope of work for various projects after the contracts were awarded. It was found that as part of the modifications, the overall cost of the contracts increased significantly, with additional works being quoted at much higher costs. There were multiple projects where the increases in costs were listed as quite substantial. Rambissessar assured the PAC that he has since put specific systems in place to ensure that these indiscretions do not reoccur. As the meeting wrapped up, the REO committed to submit to the PAC, specific details in relation to the modified projects and the companies that were awarded the contracts.

Fire Service takes control as more than half of city’s hydrants dysfunctional

AFTER an assessment of fire hydrants in George-

drants around the capital city, only 121 are fully func-

Minister within the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, Anand Persaud and Fire Chief, Kalamadeen Edoo, observe fire service ranks inspecting a city hydrant town conducted jointly between the Guyana Fire Service (GFS) and the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI), it was discovered that out of 356 fire hy-

tional. The GFS, in a media statement, said there are in fact 235 fire hydrants not currently functioning with 53 of these requiring major

repairs. Through the intervention

A second hydrant inspected by the team at the corner of Regent Road and Shiv Chanderpaul Drive. of President Irfaan Ali, the GFS is now responsible for the inspection, maintenance and operation of all fire hydrants across Georgetown,

the GFS statement noted. Minister within the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, Anand Persaud; Chief Fire Officer, Kalamadeen Edoo; and other officials, today, inspected several hydrants to assess their operability. The fire department not-

ed the important role of the hydrants in saving lives and property in the event of a fire and urged members of the public to ensure the hydrants are operable and accessible. The GFS additionally urged the public to not obstruct access to fire hydrants and to report instances where

these hydrants are vandalized. There have been a number of fires across the city over the last few months, including the burning of the century-old Brickdam Police Station which housed the headquarters for Division 4 ‘A’ of the Guyana Police Force.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday November 18, 2021

Digicel giving away more than $20M in cash, prizes this Christmas DIGICEL is delivering on its promise to ‘Do More’ throughout the holiday season, beginning today and concluding on January 8th 2022. The Digital Operator's Christmas 2021 campaign, "More Ways to Win This Christmas" promises “more prizes to be won” plus an engaging digital experience through its suite of apps, a release said. So how can one qualify? Prepaid and postpaid customers must be on an eligible Prime Bundle to participate.

Prepaid customers activating any Prime Bundle will earn an instant shake on the day of activation. Using the My Digicel app, customers can then shake for a chance to win digital prizes such as credit, data or a discount on their next Prime Bundle purchase. On Saturdays, both prepaid and postpaid customers on an eligible Prime Bundle can shake for a guaranteed win of either a digital or non-digital prize. The range of non-digital prizes includes laptops, smartphones, tablets

and cash prizes of $10,000 and $20,000. Customers can

shakes by completing daily challenges given in the suite

also increase their chances of winning throughout the promotion by earning additional

of apps: PlayGo, Sportmax, DMusic, Loop, Bip, Billo, or GoLoud. Earned shakes are

valid for 24 hours. Customers who use the My Digicel app to shake will be entered into a grand prize-drawing to win one of three fantastic prizes. “Every shake performed throughout the promotional period gives you an entry into the grand prize- drawing. One million dollars will be awarded to the first-place winner, two Copa Airline tickets to any Copa destination will be awarded to the second-place winner, and the third-place winner will receive a Sam-

sung S21 Ultra smartphone,” Digicel said. "This Christmas, we're sharing over twenty million dollars in prizes with our loyal customers," said Simone Pierre, Chief Commercial Officer, while adding, “The fun element of shaking your smartphone to win one of the many prizes in the comfort of your home. We'd also like to express our gratitude to our customers for their support throughout the year and wish their family and loved ones a happy holiday."

Ex-con accused of stealing glass windows remanded

CHIEF Magistrate Ann McLennan on Wednesday remanded a 45-year-old ‘B’ Field Sophia resident to prison for simple larceny. An unrepresented Rudolph Nurse, a labourer, was arraigned at the Georgetown Magistrates' Court, and denied that on November 15, 2021, at Akawini Street, Section ‘K’, Campbellville,

he stole seven pairs of sliding glass windows valued $450,000, property of Abdool Zaheer. The police prosecutor objected to Nurse being released on bail, given the nature of the charge. As such, he was remanded to prison until December 13. The Guyana Chronicle

was made to understand that as recently as last year, Nurse was arraigned in court for the simple larceny of a quantity of beverages and two gas bottles from a man. Back in 2013, Nurse was convicted for breakand-enter and larceny, and was sentenced to four years’ imprisonment.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday November 18, 2021

GTT customer wins one year free Internet -- company continues to push e-billing delivery GTT, on Monday, announced Chaitnarine Puran as the first grand prize winner of its E-Billing signup competition. Puran will receive one year’s free Internet service from the telephone company starting December 2021, a release from the telephone giant said. The Best Village, West Coast Demerara man upon receiving the good news said he is happy to receive the one-year free Internet service from the company. “This will be one less bill to study for one whole year and I am

happy to be the first winner,” he said. Additionally, Puran gave kudos to the company for introducing its new and improve e-billing platform. “I signed up for e-billing to receive my DSL Internet bill via email and WhatsApp, because I usually misplace the paper bill or sometimes do not get it through the mail. This way is indeed convenient because I can always go into my phone to see my outstanding balance and always pay my bill on time. There is even a reminder, so you don’t miss the due date,”

Gov’t pathologist testifies in Freeman Street murder trial GOVERNMENT Pathologist Dr. Nehaul Singh on Wednesday gave testimony about a post-mortem examination he’d performed on 58-year-old Fazal Shaheed, who was murdered in 2017. Shawn DosSantos and Stephon Howard, both of Freeman Street, East La Penitence are currently on trial before Justice Jo-Ann Barlow and a 12-member jury at the Demerara High Court. The accused have both pleaded not guilty to killing Shaheed on September 24, 2017, during an armed robbery at his Freeman Street home. During Wednesday’s hearing, Dr. Singh told the court that Shaheed had died from multiple injuries due to gunshot wounds, and had bled from his heart, liver and kidney. The doctor told the court that “a copper- coloured metal”, which appeared to be a bullet, was found in Shaheed’s abdomen, and that after retrieving it,

DEAD: Fazal Shaheed heed’s home while relatives were making final preparations for the one-year memorial service of his father. Fazal Shaheed was reportedly in the yard at around 00:40 hours when the gunmen struck, while his two brothers, sisters and mother were in the house. His brothers, Talim and Shalim, who had come in from Canada and the US respectively for the

Stephon Howard (left) and Shawn DosSantos service, were both shot about he handed it over to the police. The State is being represent- their bodies. The suspects reportedly told ed by Prosecutor Cicelia Corbin, while Attorneys-at-Law Nigel the police that the gun that was Hughes, Konyo Sandiford and used in the commission of the Associates are on record for crime was borrowed from a friend. the duo. They reportedly claimed The matter has been adthat after seeing “strange facjourned until today. At the time of the incident, es” in the street, and having the Guyana Chronicle had re- learnt that the persons were ported that on Sunday, September foreigners, they planned the 24, 2017, gunmen stormed Sha- robbery.

Puran explained. GTT’s Marketing Co-ordinator, Diangelly Singh, congratulated the winner and noted that the next set of winners will be chosen in early December. “We have two other lucky persons who will win the one-year free Internet service as the grand prize, and various handsets for the second to fourth prize winners. So, we look forward to announcing them shortly, and we look forward to more customers opting out of paper bills and into our e-billing platform as we aim to promote an

eco-friendly environment while providing convenience to customers,” Singh said. In October, GTT announced that the company will increase its digital footprint to offer all its service billing online by January 2022. With the new e-billing platform, customers will be able to view their fully detailed bills instead of a summary bill via WhatsApp or Email. The company said customers can now easily opt in to receive their bills via Whatsapp or Email via https://gtt.gy/ebillx or they

GTT’s Marketing Coordinator, Diangelly Singh, handing over E-billing competition first prize to winner, Chaitnarine Puran (GTT photo) can simply send their account bills for the month will be automatically entered to number to 627-bill. “All customers that re- win prizes,” the release ceive and download their concluded.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday November 18, 2021

American Racing Tips Aqueduct Race 1 Action Jackson Race 2 Wicked Bobby Race 3 Thorny Tale Race 4 Sidd Finch Race 5 Saratoga Chrome Race 6 Annika Gold Race 7 Phantom

Smoke Race 8 Barrage Arab Emirates Racing Tips Meydan 11:00 hrs Rich Like Me 11:30 hrs Taking Names 12:00 hrs Endifaa 12:30 hrs Rich And Famous 13:00 hrs Mnaseem 13:30 hrs Zero To A Hundred 14:00 hrs Arabil Canadian Racing Tips Woodbine Race 1 Poolside Manners Race 2 Forty Smooth Race 3 Core Race 4 Dejas Too Race 5 Erratique Race 6 Reliability South Africa Racing Tips Vaal 08:25 hrs Dawn Of A New Era 09:00 hrs Juan Carlos 09:35 hrs Grand Escape Irish Racing Tips Thurles 08:30 hrs Siberian Star 09:00 hrs Idas Boy 09:30 hrs Downtown Queen 10:00 hrs Nell’s Well 10:30 hrs Lake Chad 11:00 hrs Keepthefaithinme English Racing Tips Market Rasen 08:52 hrs World Trip 09:22 hrs Jesuitique 09:52 hrs Torigni 10:22 hrs Go As You Please 10:55 hrs Taqwaa 11:25 hrs Urban Grit Newcastle 09:07 hrs Abington Park 09:37 hrs Gun Merchant 10:07 hrs Betty Baloo 11:07 hrs Kensington Art 11:40 hrs Kingfisher Lane

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday November 18, 2021

Ford resigns as Ireland head coach (ESPNCRICINFO) - Graham Ford has stepped down as head coach of the Ireland men's team with immediate effect, with Richard Holdsworth, high-performance director for Cricket Ireland, saying that dealing with the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic "has taken its toll and he [Ford] needs a break from the game". Ireland are getting ready to tour USA in December and then the West Indies in January next year, and Cricket Ireland said in a statement: "Interim coaching plans will be put in place over the coming weeks, while a longer-term plan is developed, which will take into account any recommendations from the current T20 World Cup Review underway." In the meantime, Ford will be on leave as he observes his contractual notice period that runs until mid-December. "The last four years have been very special for me - I have enjoyed many happy days with a cricket squad made up of very special people," Ford said. "I have also enjoyed watching club cricket and experiencing the passion and club loyalty of many fine cricketing people. "When compared with the other ICC Full Member nations, Cricket Ireland has faced many handicaps and challenges. Despite this, on several occasions the team has competed impressively with some of the top teams in world cricket and it has been a privilege for me to experience first-hand the character and togetherness of the Irish players. "However, over a period of time these challenges and handicaps have taken their toll on me. After much consideration and discussion with my family, I realise that this is the right time for me to step away from Cricket Ireland. I'd

like to end by thanking all the players and the support staff for their impressive attitudes and loyal support during the four years and I look forward to watching them achieve big things in the future." Ford, a South African national, was appointed Ireland head coach in late 2017, initially on a threeyear contract that was extended by three years in 2019. He oversaw a transitional phase with the team, that included their Test debut in 2018 and, more recently, the disappointing run at the T20 World Cup. During Ford's tenure as head coach, Ireland played 101 international matches - 51 T20Is, 47 ODIs, and three Tests. He had also provided insights for the restructuring of the men's inter-provincial set-up, and the regional performance coaching hubs. Ireland captain Andy Balbirnie thanked Ford for his "consistent positivity". "Graham has been one of the best coaches I have ever worked with, and I feel very fortunate that I got to spend four years working with him, not just for the playing development side of my game, but for his incredible support during my captaincy to date," Balbirnie said. "We have had

our challenges over the last number of years as a squad, but his consistent positivity has been infectious and his determination to improve the skills of everyone in the squad has brought some of our young cricketers on leaps and bounds…" Holdsworth said he respected Ford's decision to put "his mental health, physical health and family first at this time". "It is a sad day to see Graham bid farewell to Cricket Ireland - he is a truly world-class coach who has incredible respect within the game, both for his achievements on the field and his work in developing players off the field," Holdsworth said. "It would be sugar-coating the occasion to not acknowledge the challenges that Graham has faced - in many respects, unprecedented challenges. The physical and mental impact of the pandemic has been much talked about regarding players, but the coaches and support staff are equally impacted by circumstances…Graham has been a stoic coach, mentor and support for a squad of players dealing with extremely demanding circumstances. And, as he admits himself, it has taken its toll and he needs a break from the game.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Thursday November 18, 2021)

COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) 2014 & 2016 (2) Shimron Hetmyer-127 runs Today’s Quiz: (1) What are the best bowling figures in any Men’s T20 World Cup game? (2) Which WI made his T20 International debut at the recent Men’s T20 World Cup? Answers in tomorrow’s issue

"He has barely taken a day off voluntarily in his four years here, such is his commitment, and probably hasn't had a

sustained break from the game for well over two decades. The pace, relentlessness and increasing pressures of international

cricket - compounded by the impact of the pandemic - are such that we fully understand and appreciate Graham's position."

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday November 18, 2021

200 NGSA 'B School' graduates to receive scholarships from GGA

THE Guyana Golf Association (GGA)/Nexgen Golf Academy announced they will be promoting a number of new programmes aimed at getting more Guyanese playing golf and working in golf-related roles. In 2020, Nexgen Golf launched an initiative to make golf available and accessible to players from all walks of life. Their latest programme, sponsored in part by Maraiko Bay Golf & Country Club, will offer 200 children from the recent NGSA graduating classes in Regions 4 & 5 'B Schools', complimentary membership and lessons to begin playing golf at the Academy. Chief Operations Officer (COO) of Maraiko Bay, Rudy Ramalingum, said, "We often overlook the

hard work and achievement by those children who did not top their respective schools and this is our way of letting them know that they too are worthy of recognition and respect for their dedication." The Nexgen Golf programme is centred on the creation of education, employment and leisure activities, early social agenda programmes and an access programme for disabled people and children at their soon-tobe-constructed golf facilities around the country. Leading the development of the sport in Guyana is president of the GGA/Nexgen Golf Academy, Aleem Hussain, who is also the coach/trainer for the hundreds of new players and creator of the 'Train theTrainer' programme which al-

lows for PE teachers to be certified nationwide. Hussain said: “I have been playing golf for most of my life and have been lucky enough to represent my country in Suriname and Barbados. From the first moment I picked up a club, I always wanted to be able to give back to new players. “Working as a golf coach in my current role is something I love doing, as it gives me the chance to introduce the game to dozens of Guyanese every day.” A countrywide mass participation programme is also being planned to provide men, women and children with the opportunity to learn golf through a number of events in parks and shopping malls around the country, with consumers

being invited to register their interest in taking part at a later date. A central component of the Nexgen Golf Academy plan is the continuing roll-out of the school programme which will see thousands of children given golf training as part of the physical education curriculum, with over 80 secondary schools being among the early adopters. The current programme has already achieved close to 8 000 participants. Hussain commented: “We are delighted to turn our attention to the social component of our National Expansion Strategy after our successful launch with the Ministry of Education Allied Arts Unit. “With the rollout of the School Programme, we have created an

educational framework, including the internship programme to accommodate the formulation of a skilled domestic workforce, creating the pathway for Guyanese to embark on a range of careers in and around golf, with the aim to create an abundance of new job opportunities.” According to Ms Barker-King of the Allied Arts Unit, “Alongside the introduction of the School programme, we are thrilled to be involved with the plans by Nexgen Golf Academy that will bring us one step closer to launching a full mass participation programme, which will see thousands of men, women and children being introduced to the game across the country."

Venues in Guyana to host ICC U19 WC matches GUYANA will be one of four regional host countries for the 14th edition of the ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup. The event which showcases the future stars of the game will see 16 teams travel to the Caribbean to compete in 48 matches from January 14 to February 5 across the four host countries. The 16 competing teams will see current holders Bangladesh, England, Canada and the United Arab Emirates form Group A, with debutants Uganda placed in Group B alongside India, South Africa and Ireland. Group C comprises Pakistan, Afghanistan, Zimbabwe and Papua New Guinea and Group D sees hosts West Indies, Australia and Sri Lanka. Scotland complete the tournament line-up in Group D after New Zealand withdrew due to the extensive mandatory quarantine restrictions for minors on their return home. The four host countries have been confirmed as Antigua and Barbuda, Guyana, St Kitts & Nevis and Trinidad & Tobago with 10 venues hosting matches. The format will see the top two teams from each of the four groups advance to the Super League while the remaining teams feature in the Plate across 23 days of competition. The 48-match schedule will begin with hosts West Indies taking on Australia, with Sri Lanka facing Scotland in Guyana on January 14. The group stage will take place across Guyana, St Kitts & Nevis and Trinidad & Tobago between January 14 and 22. Trinidad & Tobago will host the Plate competition between January 25 and 31, with the Super League taking place in Antigua and Barbuda from January 26. The semi-finals will be played on February 1 across two venues; the Sir Vivian Richards Cricket Ground and Coolidge Cricket Ground on February 2. The Final on February 5 will also be held at the Sir Vivian Richards Cricket Ground. Cricket West Indies (CWI) president Ricky Skerritt said: “CWI is looking forward to hosting this important global U19 cricket event, which is just around the corner, in January. In partnership with host territorial boards, cricket clubs, and ministries of sports, we have been hard at work preparing for this event over the past several months. However, amid so many COVID-related challenges, it has not been easy to finalise the venues and to work out all the related logistics. “At the same time, our U19 head coach, Floyd Reifer,

and his coaching staff have been busy preparing our team for competition, using innovative methods to keep them active even while they were restricted from travel. “West Indies has a proud Under-19 cricket history, with several bright talents blossoming into international stars over the years. We, therefore, expect our current team of Under-19 players to do us proud in the 2022 tournament. “I am also confident that our visitors will experience the best of our world-famous Caribbean culture and hospitality in Antigua & Barbuda, Guyana, St. Kitts & Nevis, and Trinidad & Tobago.” ICC Head of Events, Chris Tetley, said: “The ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup is such an exciting and special tournament, bringing together the future stars of the game and giving them an unrivalled experience of competing on the global stage. “So many of the best players have competed at the U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup including Virat Kohli, Babar Azam, Joe Root and Shimron Hetmyer and we are looking forward to the 2022 edition to see who will emerge as the future stars. “We are delighted that the West Indies will be hosting this event and we wish all the teams the very best in their preparations for the tournament and to CWI in organising the event.” The West Indies won the title once in 2016, with India being crowned champions four times, Australia three times, Pakistan twice while England, South Africa and Bangladesh have each won it once. There will be 16 warm-up matches taking place between January 9 and 12 in St Kitts & Nevis and Guyana. CC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup Groupings: Group A – Bangladesh, England, Canada, United Arab Emirates Group B – India, Ireland, South Africa, Uganda Group C – Afghanistan, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, Zimbabwe Group D – Australia, Scotland, Sri Lanka, West Indies Icc U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup Venues: St Kitts & Nevis – Warner Park Cricket Stadium, Conaree Cricket Center, (Sandy Point - Warm-up match venue only) Guyana – Guyana National Stadium, (Everest Cricket Club - Warm-up match venue only) Trinidad & Tobago – Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Queen’s Park Oval, Diego Martin Sporting Complex Antigua & Barbuda – Sir Vivian Richards Cricket Ground, Coolidge Cricket Ground

ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup Match Schedule: January 14 – West Indies v Australia, Guyana National Stadium, Guyana; Sri Lanka v Scotland, Everest Cricket Club, Guyana January 15 – Canada v UAE, Conaree Cricket Center, St Kitts and Nevis; India v South Africa, Guyana National Stadium, Guyana; Ireland v Uganda, Everest Cricket Club, Guyana; Pakistan v PNG, Queen’s Park Oval, Trinidad & Tobago January 16 – Bangladesh v England, Warner Park Cricket Stadium, St Kitts & Nevis; Afghanistan v Zimbabwe, Diego Martin Sporting Complex, Trinidad & Tobago January 17 – West Indies v Scotland, Warner Park Cricket Stadium, St Kitts & Nevis; Australia v Sri Lanka, Conaree Cricket Center, St Kitts & Nevis January 18 – England v Canada, Warner Park Cricket Stadium, St Kitts & Nevis; South Africa v Uganda, Queen’s Park Oval, Trinidad & Tobago; Afghanistan v PNG, Diego Martin Sporting Complex, Trinidad & Tobago January 19 – Australia v Scotland, Conaree Cricket Center, St Kitts & Nevis; India v Ireland, Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Trinidad & Tobago January 20 – England v UAE, Warner Park Cricket Stadium, St Kitts & Nevis; Bangladesh v Canada, Conaree Cricket Center, St Kitts & Nevis; Pakistan v Afghanistan, Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Trinidad & Tobago; Zimbabwe v PNG, Diego Martin Sporting Complex, Trinidad & Tobago January 21 – West Indies v Sri Lanka, Conaree Cricket Center, St Kitts & Nevis; South Africa v Ireland, Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Trinidad & Tobago January 22 – Bangladesh v UAE, Warner Park Cricket Stadium, St Kitts & Nevis, India v Uganda, Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Trinidad & Tobago; Pakistan v Zimbabwe, Queen’s Park Oval, Trinidad & Tobago Plate and Super League fixtures to take place between January 25 and February 4 at the Sir Vivian Richards Cricket Ground and Coolidge Cricket Ground in Antigua & Barbuda and Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Queen’s Park Oval and Diego Martin Sporting Complex in Trinidad & Tobago. February 1 – Semi-Final, Sir Vivian Richards Cricket Ground, Antigua & Barbuda February 2 – Semi-Final, Coolidge Cricket Ground, Antigua & Barbuda February 5 – Final, Sir Vivian Richards Cricket Ground, Antigua & Barbuda

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday November 18, 2021

Jamaica held despite Antonio stunner (CMC) – Jamaica had a second-half winner controversially chalked off but their West Ham star Michail Antonio netted a stunner as the hosts earned a point in a entertaining 1-1 draw against powerhouse United States here Tuesday night. Playing in front of fans at the National Stadium for the first time during the 2022 World Cup qualifiers, Jamaica went behind in the 11th minute through Timothy Weah’s strike before Antonio scored for the second time in five days with a long-range bomb in the 22nd minute, to draw his side level. The Reggae Boyz thought they had found the winner when Damion Lowe rose highest in the area to head past goalkeeper Zack Steffen in the 83rd minute but referee Juan Calderon astonishingly ruled Lowe had impeded centre back Walker Zimmerman. It meant Jamaica were forced to settle for shared honours, leaving them fifth on seven points and four behind fourthplaced Panama, with United States topping the standings on 15 points. “I wouldn’t complain about the officiating,” Whitmore said afterwards. “I think we should have gone on to win the game. (There were) numerous opportunities presented and I think we didn’t capitalise.” Jamaica suffered an early setback when Weah produced a

delicate interchange with Ricardo Pepi before, spinning past defender Javain Brown, bursting into the left-side of the box and shrugging off Bobby Reid’s timid challenge and beating goalkeeper Andre Blake at the near post. Jamaica grew into the game, however, and Antonio capitalised with a well-taken goal which sent spectators into frenzy. He collected a pass just past the half-way line, turned inside Tyler Adams before unleashing a thunderous 30-yard volley into the upper left-hand corner of the nets. For Antonio, it was his second goal following his maiden international strike last Friday away to El Salvador. Gianluca Busio shaved the crossbar in the 52nd minute to rattle Jamaica but the hosts responded almost immediately and should have scored were it not for Reid’s profligacy. With the USA defence in shambles, Lamar Walker whipped a cross into the six-yard box only for Antonee Robinson’s muffed clearance to fall to an unmarked Reid also in the goal area. However, the Fulham forward made a hash of the strike, blazing over the crossbar from point blank range. And the major turning point came seven minutes from the end when Lowe eluded his markers to find the nets only for Calderon to cancel out the goal. Jamaica will take on Mexico in their next World Cup qualifier in January at the same venue.

Michail Antonio (#18) celebrates his goal with a teammate on Tuesday

Mercedes to make case for India earn hard-fought victory against New Zealand review of Brazil GP today

(BBC) - Mercedes will make their case for a review of the decision not to penalise Max Verstappen at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix to officials today. The Red Bull driver was not punished for forcing Lewis Hamilton off the track as the seven-time champion tried to overtake. The hearing is to establish whether the criteria for a review of the decision have been met. It will take place today at 14:00hrs GMT. Mercedes must demonstrate there is "a significant and relevant new element" unavailable at the time of the decision. The new evidence is believed to include on-board camera footage of the incident from both cars. This was not released until Tuesday nearly 48 hours after the incident took place. Representatives from Red Bull have also been summoned to the meeting. If stewards decide that there is significant new evidence, a second hearing will take place to review it and revisit whether Verstappen should have been penalised. In that case, a range of potential penalties are available. Verstappen leads Hamilton in the championship by 14 points with three races remaining, starting in Qatar this weekend. Race director Michael Masi discussed the incident with stewards during the race on Sunday but they decided it did not merit an investigation. After the race, Masi was asked why this decision was made given that it seemed to be inconsistent with other similar situations earlier in the season. Among these was the decision to give McLaren's Lando Norris a five-second penalty for pushing Red Bull's Sergio Perez wide as

Max Verstappen was spared any punishment for forcing Lewis Hamilton off the track as the latter tried to overtake

they battled at the Austrian Grand Prix. Masi said: "I disagree that it's inconsistent. You judge each incident on its merits. Let's not forget we have the overall 'let them race' principles. "That philosophy was adopted. The proximity of the cars, where it is, the nature of the corner, the fact both cars went off, neither car lost position, was the general view of it." Pressed on the point that there was no argument that Hamilton had been forced off the track, Masi said: "If you keep going a little bit further, the (acceptance that there should be) give or take (when they are) side on side (is relevant)." The F1 rules say: "Manoeuvres liable to hinder other drivers, such as deliberate crowding of a car beyond the edge of the track or any other abnormal change of direction, are strictly prohibited. Any driver who appears guilty of any of the above offences will be reported to the stewards."

(ESPNCRICINFO) - Daryl Mitchell is a seam-bowling, all-rounder who usually bats in the middle order, but for New Zealand's T20 side he's now an opening batter who barely bowls at all. Venkatesh Iyer is a seam-bowling, all-rounder who opens the batting for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), but last night, making his India debut, he didn't get to bowl, and walked in at No. 6. When Venkatesh faced his first ball in international cricket, India were threatening to lose a match that had seemed unlosable less than half an hour before. With six balls left, they needed ten to win. And New Zealand, having used up all their main seam bowlers, threw the ball to Mitchell. Mitchell had earlier been out for a first-ball duck. Venkatesh had not been required at all until this point. Now they both had the chance to be the hero. Neither took that honour in the end. Venkatesh swatted the first legal ball he received for four, but was out next ball attempting a cute reverse-lap. Mitchell got that wicket, but he also sent down two big wides that reflected his rustiness as a bowler. Eventually, it came down to three off three, and Rishabh Pant, who had struggled to 13 off 16, stepped out and swiped Mitchell over mid-off to put an end to what had become an unexpectedly close contest. There had been fifties for Mark Chapman, Martin Guptill and Suryakumar Yadav, and a 48 from Rohit Sharma full of vintage strokeplay, as well as terrific bowling from Bhuvneshwar Kumar, R. Ashwin and Mitchell Santner, but the end result came down to the bit-part players.

Swing keeps New Zealand quiet After a pair of out-swingers to Guptill, Bhuvneshwar greeted Mitchell with an inswinger. Mitchell jabbed at the ball with no footwork and the ball sneaked past his inside edge to knock back middle stump.

Rishabh Pant slams the ball away for the winning hit, 1st T20I, India vs New Zealand, Jaipur, yesterday (BCCI)

That was India's only wicket in the powerplay, but the ball kept swinging for Bhuvneshwar, Deepak Chahar and Mohammed Siraj, and all three made a concerted effort to bowl within the stumps. Chapman, New Zealand's No.3, struggled to break free of this strangulation, or even get off strike. After three overs, Guptill had faced just two balls, and after five overs, he had faced just six. At that point, Chapman was on 20 off 23, and New Zealand were 26 for 1. A partnership blossoms New Zealand got going in the last powerplay over, when Chahar overused the slower short ball and conceded 15. There was only one boundary in the next four overs - shared between Ashwin and Axar Patel - but India conceded a spate of them after that, with Guptill extending his arms through a pair of lofted drives against Siraj, and Chapman putting Axar away for six and four in the 12th over and bringing up his fifty in the process. When Guptill and Chapman hit backto-back boundaries around the 14th over, New Zealand were 110 for 1, and looking on course for 177, according to ESPNcricinfo's Forecaster.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday November 18, 2021 GGA president Aleem Hussain among some of the new trainers from Region Two

200 NGSA 'B School' graduates to receive scholarships from GGA

PAGE

Venues in Guyana to host ICC U19 WC matches

A general view of the Guyana National Stadium during the ICC Women's World T20 warm-up match between Bangladesh and Ireland on November 4, 2018 at Providence, Guyana.

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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2021