Issuu

WEDNESDAY 26th February, 2020

’ No.105922

‘No decision to go back in private residences’ 03 PAGE

… GECOM chair says CEO will address PPP’s complaints of congestion … will explore other public places, alternative sites

GECOM chair briefs International Observers International observers here for next week’s General and Regional Elections were briefed by Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) and other officials on Tuesday. Among the international observer -missions, which are in Guyana, are the Organisation of American States (OAS), the Carter Centre, European Union, and the Commonwealth, among others.

Windsor Estate to open scheme 16 at Ogle

Roger Khan GRA seizes smuggled chicken, arrested for alcohol in crackdown 09 … man suing for wrongful assaulting arrest, positively identified man 02 at ‘nite’ club

Partners and media operatives signing the banner to indicate their commitment to joining the campaign to bring awareness to road safety (Adrian Narine photo) PAGE

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… sod turning with NICIL billed for Thursday

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 26, 2020

Improved services for livestock farmers ... Animal Nutrition Laboratory commissioned

LIVESTOCK farmers can now look forward to better testing facilities, as the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA) has commissioned its new $30Million Animal Nutrition Laboratory at Mon. Repos. This facility will be used to store -among other items -- imported semen and embryos from dairy cattle, sheep and goats. It will also be used to conduct testing on animals and poultry, and specifically look at the quality of feeds, grasses and legumes that are used to feed cattle and sheep It comes at a time when there is a growing

demand for livestock products both locally and internationally. According to Minister of Agriculture, the Hon Noel Holder, increased demand of 70 percent by 2050 is expected. With this growth, the government, Minister Holder said, is doing its part to ensure the necessary facilities in Guyana are upgraded to international standards. The agriculture minister said while livestock contributes three percent to the national output, the industry has shown growth of 14 percent in the last five years. “We also expect this growth to continue in the next five years; the 14 percent growth

Hon. Noel Holder, Minister of Agriculture, commissioned the GLDA Animal Nutrition Laboratory is a direct result of our [government] investment in the industry. We are focused on maximising production and productivity, improving diversification, investing heavily in genetic improvement, management systems, and animal health,” he noted. Minister Holder was speaking at the official commissioning of the Animal Nutrition Laboratory. “The commissioning of the Animal Nutrition Laboratory is building on what we have achieved thus far. Feeding has a direct impact on the growth rate, production capacity and health status of the animal, but it is not only feeding the animal, but it is also to ensure the dietary needs of the animal are met,” Minister

Holder explained. The facility will also house an apiculture unit that will produce honey and several byproducts such as beeswax. So far, the government has contributed approximately $70M towards the construction of a state-of-the-art abattoir in Region Five, Mahaica-Berbice. That 70M is for construction of the bridge and fence along with the installation of water and electricity, as the project is being funded by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). The administration has also invested $200 Million for a pig abattoir in Region Four. (DPI)

Roger Khan arrested for assaulting man at ‘nite’ club GLDA new Animal Nutrition Laboratory

SHAHEED ‘Roger’ Khan was arrested on Tuesday and taken into custody at the Brickdam Police Station, police have confirmed without stating the reason, only noting that he was “pulled in” for questioning. According to reports, he was arrested for assaulting a man on Mash Night at a city nightclub. Khan returned to Guyana September last from the United States, and was immediately taken into police custody for questioning relating to two murders, but was released on station bail after the 72-hour detention period expired. Immediately upon his return, Khan was taken into custody and grilled for the

murders of Ronald Waddell and former boxing coach, Donald Allison. Waddell was gunned down in his car outside his seaside Subryanville, Georgetown home in January 10, 2006. Allison, on the other hand, was shot dead outside a Boxing Gym in Agricola, East Bank Demerara, on September 8, 2005. Khan was jailed in 2009 after he pleaded guilty to arms trafficking, drug trafficking, conspiracy, and witness tampering. He was arrested in neighbouring Suriname in June 2006. After serving his sentence, Khan was released from the US prison on July 8, 2019, placed in the custody of US

Shaheed ‘Roger’ Khan Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and was held at the Krome Detention Facility in Miami before his deportation. Khan was escorted to Guyana by agents of ICE September last, and was handed over to local Police upon his arrival at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, Timehri.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 26, 2020

‘No decision to go back in private residences’ … GECOM chair says CEO will address PPP’s complaints of congestion …will explore other public places, alternative sites

CHAIRMAN of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) Justice Claudette Singh has made it clear that there was no decision made to return to private residences, but rather for the Chief Elections Officer, Keith Lowenfield to address complaints of congestion and possibly find other public places or neutral venues. Speaking to the Guyana Chronicle Tuesday evening following a meeting between the People’s Progressive Party and the commission on the issue of the reduction of private residences for voting, Justice Singh said the commission was holding to its decision to reduce the use of private residences. “We never agreed to go back to private residences. The PPP made complaints about congestion at polling stations and these seem meritorious and so the CEO was tasked with addressing this…” Justice Singh told the Guyana Chronicle. She said the CEO would have to meet with his returning officers in the specific areas where the PPP had raised the concerns and addressed the issue regarding congestion. “They said for example there is one school where there are several polling stations, but only one gate…so we will be trying to relocate around 3000 people from voting at that venue to other places…” Justice Singh explained. Justice Singh also rubbished claims that the commission was discriminating against the PPP and attempting to disenfranchise its supporters. The matter of private residences as polling stations is the most recent to be taken up by political leaders as the opposition is calling for the reduction to be reversed, while the government applauds the move. It comes following a decision taken by GECOM, in principle, that private residences ought not to be used unless unavoidable. It recently received the full support of all on the commission but, mere days before elections, opposition-nominated commissioners are creating a stir about the changes. The Opposition believes that the private residences being changed to public buildings or GECOM-manned tents come primarily from their main support areas. The Carter Center, in a

outside the home of Pastor, Narine Khublall — a staunch PPP/C supporter — when reports were spread that he was storing ballot boxes on his premises. The Guyana Police Force (GPF), Guyana Defence Force (GDF) and the Guyana Fire Service (GFS) were called to the scene to calm the high emotions of electors who felt that their democratic right was being violated. GECOM Chairperson Justice (Ret’d) Claudette Singh along with the six commissioners of GECOM and Chief Elections Officer (CEO) Keith Lowenfield met with a team from the PPP/C, headed by General-Secretary of the party, Bharrat Jagdeo preliminary statement on operatives that the PPP/C Opposition-appointed May 27, 2015 and under the requested that the number of GECOM Commissioner Sase heading ‘Location of polling polling places in the afore- Gunraj also agreed that the stations’ stated: “Because mentioned communities be use of private residences of the lack of state establish- increased. “An area like Mon should be reduced, but noted ments in some areas, 166 (or Repos with about 7,000 vot- that it should not result in seven per cent) of these sta- ers has two polling places at several thousand persons vottions were located in private one location, so we said you ing in one location. “While buildings and residences. have to increase the number I agree with reduction or While the establishment of of polling places by six to 10, future elimination of private polling stations on private because it will cater for the residences as polling stations, property did not seem to almost 7,000 voters,” said logistics, efficiency and acnegatively influence public Jagdeo. cessibility by voters cannot confidence in the electoral In addition to Mon Re- be sacrificed in that regard… process, The Carter Center pos, the PPP/C requested the decision to grant the adrecommends that GECOM that four more polling sta- ditional 12 polling places was take steps in future elections tions be established at Foulis; as such made,” said Gunraj. to ensure that citizens can one at Kildonan and one at “The decision to have cast their ballots in a neutral Chesney. Jagdeo had threat- this done was unanimous environment free from intim- ened to resort to protest ac- more or less…it was not put idation.” tion if their request was not to a vote, but one could say Meanwhile, earlier in the granted, but government-ap- it is a consensus…the CEO month, Lowenfield had an- pointed GECOM Commis- has to work on the list and nounced that there would be sioner Vincent Alexander it should be out as soon as 2,352 polling stations, inclu- has since confirmed that there possible…there is no timesive of 131 private residenc- will be a review of the poll- line, but he does not have es, of which 91 of the private ing places. to come back to the comresidences are in Region Review of polling sta- mission, we just have to go Four (Demerara-Mahaica). tions ahead and do what we have However, moving towards “It doesn’t necessarily to,” said Alexander, adding the ideal, GECOM is making mean there will be additional that the commission will be a special effort to reduce the polling places, it means there meeting again today. number of private residences will be a review of the places used as polling places. The which are said to be congestNO DIFFICULTIES commission has since made ed and alternative arrangeDespite the impending the list of private-residence ments will be made, includ- adjustment, Alexander polling places available to ing the possibility of tenting believes that GECOM is political parties and they to facilitate less congested still within its deadline and have been using their own conditions,” said Alexander there are no ‘discernable’ intelligence to highlight resi- in an invited comment fol- difficulties in terms of holddences with which they may lowing GECOM’s weekly ing elections on March 2, have issues due to real or statutory meeting. 2020. perceived political affiliation. According to the It was reported that the The PPP/C, however, GECOM commissioner, reduction of private residencbelieves that the reduc- there is an existing list of es as polling places remains tion could cause conges- official polling places, but the important as Guyana has tion at some of the polling appeal was based on specific been affected in the past by stations. This concern was polling places. The CEO, he the violent retaliation of citraised by the party during a said, has since been entrusted izens on Elections Day, who meeting with Chairperson of with the responsibility of believed that a ballot box at GECOM, Justice Singh, the addressing the concern raised a private residence was being six GECOM commissioners by the opposition, keeping compromised. and the CEO, on Tuesday. in mind that GECOM is still In May 2015, following Leader of the Opposition seeking to reduce the number the close of polls, civil unrest Bharrat Jagdeo subsequent of private residences being flared in ‘C’ Field, Sophia to the meeting told media used as polling places. with the burning of vehicles

A LOT OF ABUSE Weighing in on the issue last week, President David Granger said the elections commission is responsible for the identification of polling places and polling stations. He said, in the past, the use of private residences had proven to be a challenge. “Some of them were obscure, some of them were the houses of active political advocates and many persons, not associated with the administration at that time were disenfranchised. I am very confident that it will not happen now. I am confident that the elections commission, which is in charge of elections, will make the right decision.” the Head of State told reporters. Prime ministerial candidate of the ruling coalition, Khemraj Ramjattan in an invited on Sunday told this newspaper that international observers to Guyana’s past elections, noticing the flaws within the electoral process, had encouraged GECOM to “ensure that citizens can cast their ballots in a neutral environment free from intimidation.” “That was the recommendation of a number of international bodies that it must be moved away from certain private residences that have specific political partisanship and we had indicated, as the Alliance For Change, when we were not in the coalition government, that indeed these things should be reduced,” he said. “I believe --- and this is just my opinion --- a lot of mischief was done there, especially during the PPP’s tenure where they got a number of votes as a result. We should not be disadvantaged by that and indeed the judgement call should be left exclusively on a majority decision of GECOM.”

NO MERIT He said this decision includes by how many private residences should be reduced and in which areas this can be accommodated. Ramjattan said that he strongly doubts that there is any merit to the opposition’s claims that the changes are being made in “predominantly PPP/C areas,” thereby affecting the party’s support. He believes that the party foresees a loss to the APNU+AFC and is therefore clutching at anything which would stir up its traditional support. He stated: “They want provocation; they want violence in the society, because it is only when there is provocation and violence and all of that that they get back their base support and that is what they want here.” Even so, Ramjattan maintained that the decision on the matter must come from the seven-member commission and not from the interference of the PPP/C. Meanwhile, trade unionist Lincoln Lewis, who has witnessed several of Guyana’s elections, also gave the account that skepticism regarding credible polls has been high in the past when it came to private residences. “There’s always the claim that when you do balloting at private residences, parties have been involved in shenanigans and shady business [regarding] ballot boxes,” Lewis said. “It must stop. We must move away from it. That’s as simple as it is… let us don’t go at private residences and these things; let us try as far as possible to avoid it. Efforts are being made to avoid this; to minimize it, but there are people who want to remain in that era to keep the status quo in play. You can’t have that. We have to change as we go along, we have to stop this whole process where we are encouraging agencies to continue doing the same things and getting the same results and the same criticisms.” However, the Private Sector Commission and other PPP-aligned organisations have joined the opposition championing the return to private residences. These bodies include the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce Inc and the umbrella trade union body, FITUG.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, February 25, 2020 GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 26, 2020

GPL contractor suffered electrical shock during operation in Sophia

Iran’s coronavirus death toll 'Namaste Trump': Modi holds huge rally for president's visit rises to 16 as worries deepen

AHMEDABAD, India (Reuters) - Donald Trump - Two wDUBAI a s c h e (Reuters) ered by m ore more 100,000 people infected than Indianswith at theopening new coronavirus have the of the world’s died, taking thestadium toll in Iran largest cricket on to 16, officials said on TuesMonday, promising “an day, as Iranians worried incredible trade deal” that authorities couldand be “the most feared the military underestimating scale equipment of outbreak.on the planet” at his biggest rally abroad. Iran has the highest numberIndians of deaths from coronawore cardboard virus outside China, where Trump masks and “Namaste the virus emerged in Trump” hats to welcome late the 2019.president Among at thethe infected U.S. huge wasMotera the deputy health minnew stadium in Prime ister, who tested positive for Minister Narendra Modi’s coronavirus, state media said. own political the “Among thosehomeland, who had been western cityof of the Ahmedabad. suspected virus, 35 (new cases) have been confirmed and two died of the coronavirus infection,” said Health Ministry spokesman Kianush Jahanpour. He said 95 people had been infected across Iran. Jahanpour put the death toll at 15, but later Iran’s state news agency said

Modi, a nationalist who won re-election last year and oneshifted personhisinfected the has country by firmly virus had died the city of to the right within policies that Saveh. Some unconfirmed rehis critics decry as authoriports gave a higher death toll. tarian and ethnically divisive, The outbreak in Iran has touts his relationship with coincided with mounting Trump as proof of his U.S. pressure on Iran’s own clerglobal standing. ical rulers that has hit the U.S. officials economy hard. In have 2018, dethe scribed Trump’s visit as a United States exited Tehran’s nuclear deal withChina’s major powway to counter rise ersa and reimposed sanctions as superpower. “You have on thea country. Worried that done great honor to our official numbers undercountry. We willcould remember estimate the from scale this of Iran’s you forever, day outbreak, many Iranians took onwards India will always to social media to accuse auhold a special place infacts. our thorities of concealing hearts,” Trump saidhas to thunPopular anger been high for months over the handling of a Ukrainian passenger plane crash in January, which the military took three days to admit was caused by an Iranian missile fired in error. The incident revived anti-government protests that rocked the country in No-

Tuesday, February 25, 2020 05:00hrs

vember against a hike in fuel prices, which swiftly turned political with calls for Iran’s rulers to step down, before authorities cracked down. The head of Qom’s Medical Science University, Mohammad Reza Ghadir, expressed concern over “the spread of those people infected by the virus across the city”, adding the Health Ministry had banned releasing figures linked to the coronavirus.

Qom, has yet to say how many people it has quarantined, but the semi-official Mehr news agency said 320 people had been hospitalized. The virus outbreak threatens to isolate Iran further, with several countries suspending flights after coronavirus cases in travelers from Iran were confirmed in Canada, Lebanon, the United Arab Emirates, Afghanistan and Iraq. “STAY AT HOME” Some neighboring countries Authorities ordered the closed their borders. The nationwide cancellation of embraces United Arab Emirates state U.S. President Donald Trump with Indian Prime concerts and soccer matches media said Dubai InternaMinister Narendra Modi during the "Namaste Trump" and the at closure schools Airport had suspendevent Sardarof Patel Gujarattional Stadium, in Ahmedabad, and universities in many all flights to and from India, February 24, 2020.edREUTERS/Al Drago provinces, and have urged Iran. derous applause. India is ington’s relationship has Iranians to stay home. Iran Oman’s Khasab port said onthe Monday cases is suspending one of few big900 countries become strainedthe withimport India’s were suspected, export of goods to in world wheredismissing Trump’s and foe Pakistan. claims byapproval a lawmaker from from from Feb. personal rating is and“As we Iran continue to build the holy Shi’ite city of Qom 26 because of the coronaabove 50%. It has built up our defense cooperation, the who said 50 hadStates died virus operator ties with thepeople United Unitedoutbreak, States looks forward in the city, the epicenter of Marafi said on Twitter. Six in recent years as Washto providing India with some the new coronavirus out- Arab countries reported break. their first cases, with those “It is an uninvited and infected all having links inauspicious visitor. God to Iran. Kuwait said on willing we will get through Tuesday the number of ... this virus,” said Iranian infected people there had President Hassan Rouhani risen to eight. Bahrain in a televised speech. Iran, said it had eight cases, which confirmed its first four were Saudi nationals two deaths last week in and two Bahrainis.

Wednesday, February 26, 2020 ― 05:00hrs ~06:30hrs

A Guyana Power and Light contractor sustained injuries and is presently hospitalised when the he most was using into two contact ofequipment the best and feared came The sideswith did anot power line, the company reported. military equipment on thehasmanage to hammer out a planet,” In aTrump releasesaid. GPLTrump said at 12:31hrs trade dealTuesday ahead ofprivate the visit, said the twowere countries willwithin withthe differences contractors working vicinity ofremaining the L2 sign deals on Tuesday to sell theover medical transmission line between Old agriculture, Sophia Substation military helicopters worth devices, tradetheand and the Golden Grove Substation whendigital regrettably $3 billion and that used the Unitproposed newwith tariffs. equipment being came into contact theTrump L2 ed States must become the said he was going to discuss transmission line. During this unfortunate incident, a premier defense partner of economic ties with Modi, contractor, Michael Ifill, sustained injuries and is India, whichMr. relied on Rusdescribing him as a tough presently a patient at the Public Hospital sian equipment during theGeorgetown negotiator. “We will be makCorporation (GPHC) receiving medical treatment. Cold War. Reuters reported ing very, very major, among “The Management and Staff of GPL earlier that India has cleared the biggest are everextremely made, trade saddened by of this24unfortunate andare wishinMr. the purchase helicop- incident deals. We theIfill early ters from Lockheed a speedy recovery,” Martin GPL said.stages of discussion for an (LMT.N) $2.6 of billion. Also,worth as a result the incident, the L2trade Transmission incredible agreement to Buttripped, in a sign of theanunLine causing abrupt lost barriers of power reduce of transfer investment derlying tensions(GOE) between thestation United from thepolitical Garden-of-Eden power to States the inDBIS. India,“During violentthe protests andtrip, India,” he said. 69kV time of the the parallel broke out in Delhi - where “And I am optimistic Transmission line (L4) which also stretches betweenthat Trump is due on Tuesday - working together, the prime our Sophia and Golden Grove Substations was over a new citizenship law minister and I canunderreach a going scheduled maintenance and therefore was unable that critics say discriminates fantastic deal that’s good to substitute for the abrupt of the L2 transmission against Muslims and is a loss and even great for both of line.” attempt to undermine further our countries - except that he However, restoration at 12:50 hrs the secular foundations of commenced is a very tough negotiator.” India’s withindemocracy. central Georgetown with the last area within Modi, who has built a perVehicles being were set on fire at Demerara repowered 14:30 hrs. with Within the is sonal rapport Trump, inCounty the eastern part of aDelhi, of Berbice, fault occurred on the Transmispulling out the stops for the metal barricades torn down, sion line linking Onverwagt and Canefield president althoughSubstaprospects and thick smoke billowedthe restoration of power to tions which has delayed for even a limited trade deal through the air as thousands during the visit are seen as some customers. of those who are supportslim. “There is so much that ing the new law clashed we share, shared values and with those opposing it. In his speech Trump extolled ideals ... shared opportunities India’s rise as a stable and and challenges, shared hopes prosperous democracy as and aspirations,” said Modi one of the achievements of at the rally. Trump, who faces his the century. “You have done it as a tolerant country. And own re-election campaign you have done it as a great, this year, has frequentfree country,” he said. Trump ly praised Modi for his planned to raise the issue of crowd-pulling power. Last religious freedoms in India year, Trump held a “Howdy with Modi, an administration Modi” rally with Modi in Houston, drawing 50,000 official said last week. people, mainly Indian Americans. At the time, Trump VERY BIG DEALS In Ahmedabad, Modi em- likened Modi to Elvis Presley braced Trump as he stepped as a draw for crowds. Later, Trump and his off Air Force One, along with entourage which includes his wife, Melania. Folk dancers carrying daughter Ivanka and soncolorful umbrellas danced in-law Jared Kushner alongside the red carpet as flew to Agra to see the Taj drummers, trumpeters and Mahal at sunset. Children other musicians performed lined the route cheering at the airport to welcome and waving flags as his conTrump and the U.S. dele- voy drove past. Trump and gation. Crowds lined the Melania posed for pictures route along his cavalcade, at the Taj, the 17th century many taking pictures on their monument to love. “It’s incredible,” he told reporters. phones.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 26, 2020

IMF predicts favourable prospects for St. Lucia’s near term growth WASHINGTON, Feb 24, CMC –The International Monetary Fund (IMF) Monday said the prospects for St. Lucia’s near-term growth are favourable, but warned that policy adjustments will be needed to strengthen longer-term growth. The IMF executive board in its assessment of the island’s economy, noted that the commencement of large public infrastructure projects is expected to substantially boost growth in 2020-22 but will raise public debt and weaken the external position. “However, a deeper-than-expected slowdown in major source markets for tourism, energy price shocks, disruptions to global financial markets, and loss of (correspondent banking relationship) CBR all represent downside risks” The executive board said that St. Lucia’s high vulnerability to natural disasters constitutes an ever-present risk to both growth and the fiscal outlook. It said longer-term growth continues to be impeded by the high public debt, lingering vulnerabilities in the financial system, and structural impediments to private investment. “On the other hand, there is an upside that infrastructure investment could catalyze a greater-than-expected expansion of the tourism sector and related activities. While the overall external position is assessed to be broadly consistent with the level implied by fundamentals and desirable policies, St. Lucia still has considerable competitiveness challenges, particularly in its non-tourism sector, that need to be addressed.” The IMF said that fiscal policies should be geared toward rebuilding policy space and ensuring public debt converges to the regional target of 60 per cent of gross domestic product (GDP) by 2030. The Washington-based financial institution said the debt-financed infrastructure investments, despite being on semi-concessional terms with long-run repayment largely covered by dedicated revenue streams, will move public debt further away from the regional target. “The need to invest in climate resilience and the uncertainty over future CIP revenues pose additional challenges to public finances. Without policy adjustments, debt vulnerabilities are elevated, and public debt does not stabilize over the near term.” The IMF said that the Allen Chastanet government’s near-term focus should be on revenue-enhancing measures and investments that build resilience to climate related shocks. It said in addition to limiting current spending growth – particularly the public wage

bill- additional revenues should be mobilized from the proposed hotel accommodation fee, the introduction of a carbon tax, and reducing the scope of value added tax (VAT) exemptions. “Since some of these measures will likely be regressive, they should be introduced in parallel with targeted transfers that offset the impact on poor and vulnerable households. The National Health Insurance system should also be introduced in a fiscally responsible manner. “Concerted efforts are also needed to mobilize donor grants to fund investments in climate resilience. If there is over-performance of the CIP, or of other revenue sources, it should be directed toward financing a self-insurance fund to bolster the economy’s resilience against natural disasters,” the IMF said. It said a fiscal rule would help anchor fiscal policy over the medium term and support consolidation efforts. “To be effective, the fiscal rule should encompass a comprehensive definition of fiscal activities, including the fiscal costs of natural disasters and the lumpy expenditure associated with infrastructure investment, and should be part of a broader fiscal responsibility framework that embeds appropriate institutional and governance arrangements to ensure both the appropriate degree of flexibility as well as enforceability of the fiscal rule. “The fiscal rule will also need to be carefully calibrated to strike the balance between

credibly meeting the debt target over the medium-term and providing space for much-needed spending to build resilience.” To support private sector investment, the IMF is urging that measures are needed to address constraints on financial intermediation. “There is scope to improve credit market efficiency by modernizing foreclosure and insolvency legislation, establishing a regional credit bureau and registry, and taking steps to allow for the greater use of movable property as loan collateral,’ it said. The executive board said that the emerging financial sector risks warrant a more assertive approach to regulation and supervision. The banks’ rising allocation of their assets to overseas debt securities has supported bank profitability but may also expose the sector to losses if global financial market conditions deteriorate or risk premia rise. The rapid expansion of credit unions has increased the sector’s macro-financial significance that warrants stronger oversight. The swift adoption of the Harmonized Co-operative Societies Act, combined with a strengthening of supervisory oversight of the non-bank financial sector, remain key policy priorities. In addition, continued efforts are needed to satisfy international taxation and anti-money laundering and combating the financing of terrorism (AML/CFT) standards. The IMF said efforts

are needed to further enhance resilience to climate change and natural disasters. Progress has been made in implementing recommendations of the CCPA. It said key measures to address the remaining institutional, financing and capacity gaps include the active costing of climate projects, improving public financial management of climate financing and outlays, mobilizing private investment in mitigation and adaptation and strengthening capacity in managing climate-related investments. “Decisive and targeted reforms are needed to address supply-side impediments to long-term growth. Enhancing productivity will require a better alignment of the education system with labor market needs. There is scope to improve the business environment by enhancing access to credit and reducing electricity costs, further diversifying the economy toward higher-value exports, and increasing local content in the tourism supply chain,” the IMF added.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 26, 2020

Mash is we own THE Mashramani celebrations have been hailed a tremendous success despite competing with the impending general and regional elections slated for Monday. Each year, since 1970, in the month of February, Guyana has been observing its Republic Anniversary by staging a series of countrywide cultural activities. These displays, reflecting the nation’s rich, diverse mosaic of cultural expressions, have become the embodiment of what has since been known as MASHRAMANI, an Amerindian word of Arawak origin, which, when translated, means “Celebration after work”. There is hardly a state, anywhere, that does not have what can be described as a national revelry/celebration of some kind, which represents the sum total of its history, customs and cultural traditions, and cohesiveness. Virtually every nation celebrates its national life in varied forms of art, music, and cultural expressions that reflect its existence as a people. For example, Trinidad has its carnival, which is the most significant event

on the island’s tourism and cultural calendar; for Barbados, it’s the annual Crop Over or Kadooment festival that celebrates the ending of its local cane harvest; over in Brazil, it’s the gigantic Rio Carnival which dazzles the imagination; while in Canada, it’s Caribana, depicting a potpourri of its Caribbean presence and cultural traditions. In the United Kingdom, the Notting Hill Carnival, celebrating the West Indian experience, but also being able to attract Europeans from other parts of Europe. Over time, it has become Europe’s biggest street carnival. From a very simple beginning in the mining town of Linden in 1970, when a few representations of working-class life were depicted, accompanied through its streets by Lindeners, Mashramani has evolved through the decades as Guyana’s premier national extravaganza. Markedly, it has grown from strength to strength, and has gradually evolved into a truly Guyanese affair, reflecting the dynamics of Guyanese experience. Let it be emphasised, again, that

contrary to the misleading statements that Mashramani as an important national celebration was an occasion for the particular political party and the then government; and its particular ethnic brand of supporters, has not only been erroneous, but divisive for its anti-national content. In fact, Mashramani was never conceived for any specific ethnic segment of our nation, or with any cultural-religious alignment. Given Guyana’s pluralistic cultural society and the richness of its diversity, it was meant to reflect the nation of Guyana – ALL its peoples and their combined experiences as a people. Further, it is a national celebration that is representative of this country’s social journey, depicted through the creative arts, culture and the concept of citizenship within the republic in the various costume and band creations, its calypso and chutney art forms, steel pan in the form of Pan-o-rama; it even has a segment now for persons decorating their homes and offices for the Mashramani celebration the, “Clean and Bright competition”.

In fact, as a reminder, Mashramani has been celebrated in all the regions from its inception, with the result being that more and more Guyanese of all ethnicities have been joining the individual costume bands. This fact, is further supported by the staging of Mashramani activities in Regions Two, Five, Six, and Region 10, where it was first held. It was heartwarming that Essequibo was able to have such a large float band of a reported 2,000 persons. This was a clear ‘no’ to the politics of division. This year’s celebrations has been revealing for the increased multi-ethnic participation that is pivotal to the larger vision of a united Guyana. Of course, there are challenges pertaining to the latter coveted prize. However, we can begin, all of us irrespective of race and ethnicity, to start to see this grand national celebration as a festival where all are welcome to participate in whichever activity is chosen to have fun as Guyanese, shouting with one voice, ‘Mash’ is we own.

Zero tolerance for sex crimes against children Dear Editor, I AM appalled at what seems to be a pattern of sexually and otherwise abusive behaviour by representatives and members of political parties. It appears that these vile individuals perceive that their political affiliation will protect, or worse yet, have protected them when they should have had to face the courts to answer for their actions. Worse yet, it appears that these persons somehow feel emboldened to commit sex crimes against children, youth women and LGBTQ+ persons in particular. In 2016, the APNU/AFC removed and withdrew its support for Winston Harding, who, it was alleged, was involved in sex crimes against minors. Although he was charged twice and never convicted, the APNC/AFC made a decision to remove his name from its list of candidates, and also withdrew its support for his campaign to be

a representative for Constituency 13. Since 2015, there have been at least three instances of political representatives for the PPP charged for or allegedly involved in alleged sex crimes against children and youth. Mr. Allister Charlie is one such person who is currently before the courts on a charge of rape. Mr. Charlie is a former Member of Parliament of the PPP, and a Central Committee member. I will not repeat the details of this case, however, it was widely reported in the daily press and Online media. In March of 2019, the ChildCare and Protection Agency launched an investigation into an alleged case of rape of a 22-year-old young man by PPP Region One official, Brentnol Ashley. The 22-year old young man, who was allegedly abused in this instance, has a speech impediment. He alleged that he was taken to Georgetown from Mabaruma by Ashley and lured to a hotel, where he was bullied into having

sex and later left stranded. The young man further alleged that Mr. Ashley is a family friend that would help out with finances on occasion. Mr. Ashley has denied all allegations, and is yet to be disciplined by the PPP. In fact, Mr. Ashley is still Chairman of Region One, and a candidate on the PPP’s List of Candidates for the upcoming March 2, 2020 elections. The most recent case of political representatives and candidates allegedly involved in sex crimes against youth has resulted in the death by suicide of a 13- year-old girl. According to the allegations, the suspect, Pandit Vickash Ramkissoon, sexually molested the now deceased teenager. Mr. Ramkissoon was placed on $150,000 station bail after giving statements to the police. To date, the PPP has not taken action to remove the Pandit’s name from its List of Representatives among other actions they ought to take. In yet another case of alleged

sex crimes against a minor, Mr. Allister Charlie was charged for sexually assaulting a 16-year-old boy. It was further alleged that on August 5, 2019, at Lethem, Rupununi, he attempted to pervert the course of justice. He, too, remains on the PPP’s list of candidates, was a former Member of Parliament for that party and a Central Committee member. This would mean that there are at least three representatives on the PPP list of candidates for the March 2, 2020 elections that have either been charged and/or are being investigated for sex crimes against children and youth. The time has come for our judiciary, the police and all political parties to adopt a zero tolerance policy and measures to deter and punish perpetrators of sex crimes against children especially. Sincerely, Robin Chung-A-On

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 26, 2020

PSC, Gerry Gouveia should not have been accredited as elections observers

Dear Editor,

IT IS my opinion that for one to qualify to be an observer of any elections, it is imperative that one is neutral. When that election is the Mother of All Elections and the most important election in a country, then that makes that neutrality doubly important. How would we, as a country have reacted if the Carter Center had made a public statement that they have great admiration for President Granger? How would we have reacted if the Commonwealth election observer group was to proclaim that President Granger is the best President Guyana has ever had? How the PPP would have reacted? I say this because Gerry Gouveia and the PSC he leads have been without doubt and any shame shown a bias for the PPP. Gerry Gouveia, on many of his social media postings, has expressed his admiration for Bharrat Jagdeo. Gerry Gouveia in no uncertain terms expressed the opinion that Bharrat Jagdeo is the best President Guyana has ever had. While Gerry has a right to his opinion, the fact that he expressed it publicly would create unease for a section of the electorate, precluding him from being an election observer in Guyana. Gerry believes that he is born to lead and govern Guyana from the back seat when the leadership is of a certain ethnicity. His attitude to leadership covers all strata of Guyana, with no one or no organisation exempted from his rude interference. This is evident in his social media name being “Captain Gerry Gouveia”, a reflection of his self-importance. It is either he is the only Captain among Facebook’s billions of members, or he is the only one arrogant enough to flaunt it. Suffice to say he walks around with his self-importance he inherited from a system of colourism, instructing Mayor Narine how to do his job. When the City Council was ready for parking meters, he was not ready for it. Now he is ready for parking meters, he has instructed Mayor Narine to get on with it. Arrogant and contemptuous! He walks around with his chest in the air, interpreting the complicated Constitution, something he was never been trained for. But it is cocky Gerry we are talking about. He struts up and down like an Adam Smith reincarnated, doing economic forecasts like if he is the Finance Minister. He saunters around, like King Leopold II of Belgium, trying to instruct President Granger how to do his job, knowing pretty well that the President’s intellect far outmatches his. Now he is on a campaign to instruct the London and Russell Group University-educated GECOM chairwoman, Justice Claudette Singh how to do her job. Gerry, please remind us where you were educated? He completely missed the fact that the President already, after careful consideration, considered him not fit and proper to be Chairman of GECOM. Most of the electorate also holds that view. Why the electorate holds that view of Gerry? The list is so long, so we will just focus on post-NCM events. Remember Article 106 (6) of the Constitution? Remember the term “shall resign?” Remember Gerry and Kit from the PSC in their biased hats were stating that “shall resign” means must resign now? Clearly, they were wrong. Remember when the Government was taking the NCM to the court? Remember Gerry and the entire

PSC were shouting for all to hear that the government should resign now? They went so far as to say that the government is breaching the Constitution. Remember when the government lost their case at the CCJ? Remember the PSC was demanding that the government resign now and should not use their right to appeal? The government appealed and won, and the PSC changed its line of reasoning by stating we must all obey the Constitution, respect the right of the court, but also respect the right to utilise the court. In essence, the PPP can appeal to the CCJ, something the PSC and Gerry Gouveia were trying to deny the government. The PPP won on June 18, and the PSC and Gerry found their voice again. Elections should be held by September 18, despite that was not stated in the Consequential Order. Come September 18 and they were screaming, “illegal government”. The fact is that Gerry and the PSC were screaming and shouting every time the PPP screamed and shouted in GECOM. And that was nearly every day. House-to-house, they screamed and Gerry screamed. Cleaning the bloated list, they screamed and Gerry screamed. They met GECOM to express their concerns and Gerry met GECOM to express his concerns. They ambushed the Foreign Affairs Minister and President at Pegasus, threatening to turn turtle the Foreign Affairs Minister’s SUV, and Gerry and the PSC went silent. A government minister, soon after the Pegasus event, informed her supporters to be observant on Election Day by their monitoring of ballot box, and the PPP came out screaming. Gerry and the PSC heard their screaming, and they, too, came out screaming that an election Code of Conduct is required. Now GECOM, based on Carter Center recommendations, has been minimising the use of private homes as polling stations. That sounds reasonable, since, for years, the electorate has been expressing concerns about this practice, and the fact it can be a recipe for rigging and voter intimidation. The PPP went on one of their loudest cries yet. Gerry and the PSC, like the caring dad, pacified the PPP and reassured them that daddy will take care of it. Gerry had a rant at the Carter Center and GECOM for upsetting his child. He continued his silly rant by saying that there is no recommendation in the Carter Center list of recommendations which speaks to decreasing private residence use as polling stations. Okay, garrulous Gerry, they did not explicitly say private residences should be discontinued; they said polling stations should be neutral. What do you think that means, Gerry? That means private residences and anything else that is private but may not be a residence e.g. PSC Head Office. In effect, they are covering all bases for people like you, who, when asked about Irfaan Ali’s qualifications, conveniently remembers you are a simple ‘bush’ pilot. Why not let it remain that way and allow the highly intelligent and well-respected GECOM Chairwoman Justice Singh to do her work in peace. By the way, Carter Center, Gerry is an anomaly. Guyanese are generally very smart. It is without question that I have no respect for Gerry Gouveia. Absolutely no respect. He is from a time where folks like him ran Guyana. He has not realised we have long moved past that time. Folks that look like

me are now in positions of leadership. He has not recognised that and still believe that he can run around telling folks, that look like us how to do our jobs. If I were the GECOM Chairwoman Justice Singh, Gerry and PSC would not have been observers. He could have gone crying to the international community, international criminal court, human rights organisation and that wouldn’t

change my position. All my visas could have been cancelled and still that would not have changed my position. It is time that someone stands up to a clearly prejudicial PSC. Regards, Dr. Mark Devonish

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 26, 2020

Lawless and Lewd Dear Editor, A BEHAVIOUR of lawless lewdness pervades the society. Over the years, it has become normalised and acceptable to the point where it is now a cultural phenomenon. The genesis of this behaviour may be from myriad

sources, but it is the people who have allowed for it to be entrenched as pop-culture. Nowhere and no one is free of it. All sectors of society contribute or buy into it willingly or unwittingly. Guyanese are subsumed in this culture of unadulterated bacchanalia, where music is enjoyed for how loud it is

played as opposed to how melodious it may be. Oftentimes, it is mostly disjointed noise full of vulgarity and indecent lyrics. And this excuse for music is played 24/7, with absolutely no respect for neighbours, children, the elderly, churches, mosques or mandirs. Those who speak up do so to their peril and detri-

ment. The decibels increase, the tin-sheet roofs rattle, the houses vibrate, and the inhabitants are shaken to the core. Police officers may respond. A temporary respite may be granted, with the noise lowered but subsequently ramped up to maximum. Recrimination is often meted out by violators, influencers and those within the security apparatus. Bribery in the public service is blatant and pervasive. It is a “top up” for an otherwise meagre salary. It is how many survive. For others, grafting is a means to affording a more affluent lifestyle. Having a drink or a “sport” with relatives or friends needs no special reason or event. Consumption of alcohol is as common as having tea or coffee in the morning. Over the recent years, the use of other recreational drugs has rivalled alcohol. Once inebriated, the tongue is loosened and the demons are out. Old grudges, pent up frustrations and the sudden but false sense of invincibility invariably give rise to heated expletive-laden arguments and fights. These things are like fuel-soaked rags. All that is needed is a spark. They escalate easily, and get out of control quickly. In the olden days, pickets would be pulled off fences, but the cutlass is most commonly resorted to. Broadsiding and chopping up results in horrific maiming, and in many cases death. The abundant recklessness on the roadways by all and sundry is commonplace. Observance and enforcement of laws and rules governing vehicular traffic, speed limits, pedestrian passage,

animals, parking of vehicles etc are blatantly violated and or ignored. Enforcement is laughable. Most violators take the easy way out - bribery. A few hours ago, on my way to the Mosque, a crowd was amassing at the market dam between the two villages. A school child had dashed across the road and a speeding vehicle tried to avoid hitting her. It was an unsuccessful maneuver. It struck the child on the roadway and hit two others on the parapet along with another man a further distance away. The irate father showed up and threatened to douse the vehicle with gasoline and set it blaze. Emotions are raw and locals give their own versions of what transpired even if they were not on the scene. Yesterday, a local farmer was pulled over and the papers for his tractor was demanded by the police officers. They found nothing amiss. A frivolous charge was threatened but was quickly settled with a $10,000 “top-up”. Last Tuesday, a family was attending a birthday party away from home. They had taken a designated driver along as they wanted to drink and knew that they would not be able to drive after. On their way home, the driver was pulled over. The officers stated that they smelled vodka. They had no breathalyzer and threatened to arrest the driver. The nervous driver insisted on his innocence but against his pleas, he was hauled into the police station while the occupants of the car were ordered to remain. The driver returned a few minutes later. He had offered a $3,000 “top-up” but the Officers insisted that since they were five of them, it should be $5,000. A political rally was held last evening at Golden Grove. Things got nasty very quickly. Thugs and

supporters of another party invaded the space with loud noise makers, bright lights and very colourful language, disrupting the rally. It would not be incorrect to conclude that the five police officers on hand were handcuffed. Last evening the music blared almost all night long. It is now just after 9:00pm and the music continues again tonight. It is the end of the work week. I feel it will be a music filled weekend; all night long and into the wee hours of the morning. Early this morning, I was looking at the local drainage and happened upon the carcass of a cat. What I saw was horrific and disgusting. The cat had no head, legs or tail. It quickly dawned upon me that some sadistic person(s) had committed a gruesome killing of a domesticated animal. Not even the animals are spared of the lewdness and lawlessness that grips the nation. The media is replete of reports of disrespect for educators by students. Of parents and teachers fighting; of bullying, beatings and stabbing amongst school children. This society has been losing its sense of decency, respect, manners and morals for a long while now. It is now spiralling downward into a dark abyss. And there is not much anyone can do to turn things around. It will take exceptional leadership and a future new generation to turn things around. I am reminded that God will not change the condition of a people until they change that which is within themselves. Guyanese must endeavour to first acknowledge the errors of their ways and then embark on redemption or face the reality of continued and increasing lewdness and lawlessness. Regards, Jay Mobeen

We must demand justice for the Tuschen teen girl Dear Editor, I WAS appalled, nauseated and disgusted by the reports of a pandit allegedly sexually assaulting a child. According to the media, a 13-year-old child reported to the police that a pandit operating a Mandir in Region Three had raped her. Sadly, the child died by suicide shortly afterward. One may surmise that she was so traumatised by the ordeal that she took her own life. Editor, the pandit is on the People’s Progressive Party (PPP)’s List of Candidates for election. The thing that amazes me is

the fact that the PPP’s General Secretary, who comments on everything under the sun, has said not a word about the horrible incident. And to add insult to injury, the PPP’s presidential candidate, Irfaan Ali, has also remained silent. Editor, I am distressed and in total disbelief. I simply cannot wrap my mind around the fact that such a horrific incident could occur, and the PPP leadership has said nothing. What is wrong with the PPP? Sincerely, Mark DaCosta

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 26, 2020

GRA seizes smuggled chicken, alcohol in crackdown

… man suing for wrongful arrest positively identified

LARGE quantities of smuggled chicken and alcohol were confiscated by the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) during an intelligence-led operation. An alleged smuggler, who was reportedly caught with the contraband is currently before the court, while two others are being pursued, having being positively identified – among them one who just days ago filed a multimillion-dollar lawsuit against the Revenue Authority. In a statement on Tuesday, GRA disclosed that officers from its Law Enforcement and Investigation Division (LEID) successfully detained a motor vehicle containing a large quantity of chicken and alcohol during an early-morning operation last Thursday. According to the GRA, smuggled items were found stashed in a motor lorry at Dazzell Housing Scheme, East Coast Demerara. At the time of the operation, six suspects were spotted; however, five managed to evade the law enforcers. The LEID officers, however, were able to apprehend the sixth individual, who was later identified as Fazaad Hameed. “Mr Hameed was previously apprehended in a similar operation at Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara where uncustomed goods were also confiscated,” the GRA disclosed, while noting that it has initiated court proceedings against the alleged smuggler. While five of the suspected smugglers managed to escape,

The confiscated chicken and alcohol the GRA said its LEID officers positively identified two of the men. “In the course of operations, the LEID was also able to

Medal of Service National Awardee, Somerset elated “I AM elated, I feel proud just as when I conquered that mountain. This award will further motivate me to continue to give of my best to fellow army veterans, who, due to circumstances beyond their control, depend upon me to look after their welfare. My family is also proud of my achievement,” are the sentiments of veteran soldier, Beverly Ann Somerset. Listed among the 2020 National Awardees, Somerset is one among 23 persons who have been bestowed with the Medal of Service (MS). She is a retired Staff Sergeant of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) who currently functions as the Veterans Welfare Officer, a job that is dear to her heart because some of her charges are physically challenged. When Somerset, nicknamed `Thriller’, retired from the GDF, she left a distinguished record behind, of not only being among the early set of females to venture into a traditional male arena, but has being a renowned training officer. In addition to being the longest female training officer, Somerset is known to have trained several of the females who subsequently obtained high ranking status in the army. One of her memorable feats is being the first woman soldier to conquer Mount Ayangana in 1992.The mountain is located 85 kilometres and east of Mount Roraima

Beverly Somerset – 2020 National awardee, Beverly Somerset with a height of 2,041 metres. The lone female among 11 men, the expedition to climb Mount Ayangana was part of the army’s activities to commemorate Guyana’s Republic Anniversary that year. She was part of the GDF contingent. Such is the deftness of Somerset, who wanted to prove to her male counterparts that she was no walkover as a female soldier. Somerset who hails from Beterverwagting on the East Coast of Demerara (ECD) was born on September 30, 1956.

positively identify two other known smugglers among the five escapees, both of whom were previously apprehended by the Revenue Authority for knowingly dealing with uncustomed goods and are facing charges in the courts,” the revenue body explained. It stated that legal proceedings for these offences are in keeping with the provision of the Customs Act, Chapter 82:01, with the overall objective being to curtail smuggling and similar activities that are intended to defraud the state of revenue. As it continues this “relentless” campaign, the Revenue Authority is encouraging members of the public to be forthcoming with information about persons and businesses involved, aiding or abetting these illegal activities. Information can be reported to the LEID hotline 227-6060 ext 3204, GRA noted. Earlier this month, GRA was “slapped” with a $4M lawsuit by a suspected smuggler for wrongful arrest and false imprisonment. According to the claimant, in December 2019, he was wrongfully arrested by GRA officers while in the vicinity of Mahaica Public Road, Mahaica, East Coast Demerara. He was driving his friend’s motor vehicle at the time. According to the man, though he was taken into custody, the GRA officers did not inform him of the charge or allegation levelled against him, although he had repeatedly asked.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 26, 2020

Coalition promises major transformation of education, technology sector

GUYANA’S education sector is set to see further transformation under the coalition government if is re-elected at next week’s polls. The current administration, if re-elected, intends to go into its second term of government with a rigorous plan for the sector. Through the introduction of the Public Education Transportation Service (PETS) and the Public Education Nutrition Service (PENS) inestimable relief has been brought to parents and students. According to the coalition’s 2020 Manifesto, the country will see the establishment of a first-class education system that will transform the lives of every citizen. The creation of an educated nation will also ensure that every child has the opportunity to attend school and receive a quality education. “It is through education that our young people will be better positioned to make impactful contributions in the world by being creators and innovators. Our energies and resources will be invested in the creation of an education nation, affording all children, regardless of socio-economic background and where they live, similar opportunities to attain their full potential,” the government’s plan of action states. Efforts will intensify in the drive towards an educated nation, to this end the government will: * Implement the “Right to Education” as enshrined in Article 27 of the Constitution of the Republic of Guyana, which guarantees, “free education from nursery to university” as the right of every citizen; * Ensure equitable and universal access to quality education in rural and hinterland

communities; * Establish a senior secondary (sixth form) school in the capital towns of every region; * Emphasise Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM); * Encourage students to undertake courses of study in fields which are critical to the petrochemical industry to increase local participation in the industry from the early stages and ultimately reduce dependence on foreign nationals; * Implement an expanded Public Education Nutrition Service (PENS), so that all eligible students receive three meals at school, every day and implement an expanded Public Education Transportation Service (PETS) to provide increased support for students and disadvantaged persons; * Train more teachers to improve student-teacher ratios by expanding the existing CPCE campuses and building new campuses in capital towns; * Modernise the curriculum and equip teachers with the technological tools to create workers and professionals for the future; * Increase the allocation of duty-free concessions to teachers and education administrators; * Improve national schools of Dance, Drama, Music and Art and increase support for the Critchlow Labour College and * Build an Institute of Information & Communications Technology. Meanwhile, the government’s objective for the technology sector surrounds

complementing its renewable energy programme by increasing productivity countrywide and across all sectors, through ICT to improve efficiency, security, accountability, scalability and accessibility. The administration will build on the tremendous strides made during its first term in office in advancing the “Digital State”. This will see the national broadband project completed and implemented to enhance the access to information and the quality of communications for individuals, especially persons living with disabilities (PWDs) and businesses. The rural and hinterland Internet access programme will be completed. The liberalisation of the country’s telecommunications sector will continue to ensure reduced costs for ICT services which will transform every school from nursery to university into technologically-advanced centres of learning. Teachers and students will be provided with a tablet or other electronic devices to enhance learning and promote digitisation. There will be continued targeted interventions aimed at upskilling young people in innovative technologies such as coding and STEM initiatives, robotics camps, avionics, girls in ICT and hackathons. Additional ICT centres of excellence will be established in all capital towns to benefit young and enterprising persons. An ICT review of all government processes to digitise

Minister of Public Telecommunications, Catherine Hughes, shows a young lad the steps to operate the computer at an ICT Hub in Linden public services will be conducted and the E-Government programme will be continued over the next five years. There will be a redesigning of business processes to allow for electronic operations and transactions. While major government services including business registration, tax ID, passport and other applications will be placed online to improve access. The establishment of smart classrooms, smart hospitals and healthcare to increase and improve access to education and healthcare, especially for people in remote areas will be realised. (DPI)

Cuban and Haitian Nationals fined for illegal departure from Guyana ON February 25, 2020, twenty foreigners were placed before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court, having been charged with illegal departure from Guyana. Five of those charged were Cubans, two females and three males. The charge alleged that, on February 22, 2020, at Takutu, Lethem, Rupununi, they all departed Guyana illegally without presenting themselves to an immigration officer. The Cuban nationals pleaded guilty to the charge. Information was provided by the prosecutor to the court that, on the day in question, the Cuban nationals were arrested by ranks of region 9, after they were caught accessing the Takutu Bridge at a point away from the legal checkpoint. Their passports were examined and it was observed that the defendants had no immigration stamps in their passports giving them permission to leave Guyana. As a result, the Cuban nationals were escorted to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), Eve Leary where investigations were conducted. The Central Immigration Passport Office was contacted where it was identified that the Cuban Nationals legally entered Guyana on February 21, 2020 through the Cheddi Jagan International Airport and were granted one month’s stay. When asked about their alleged act, they said that they had no knowledge that they had to present themselves to an immigration officer when departing from Guyana to go to Brazil. Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan gave the Cuban nationals an ultimatum which stated that they must each pay a fine of $20,000 or be imprisoned for eight weeks and be escorted to the nearest port of exit after paying their

fine or serving their time. Fifteen Haitians, six females and nine males, were the other foreigners who appeared before the Chief Magistrate. The charge alleged that, on February 23, 2020, at Takutu, Lethem, Rupununi, they all departed Guyana illegally, that is, ‘without presenting themselves to an immigration officer’. The Haitian nationals pleaded guilty to the charge. Information was provided by the prosecutor to the court that, on the day in question, the Haitian nationals were arrested by police ranks of region nine. They were caught crossing the Takutu Bridge in Lethem at a point away from the legal checkpoint. Their passports were examined and it was observed that the Haitian nationals had no immigration stamps in their passports giving them permission to leave Guyana. As a result, the Haitian nationals were escorted to CID Headquarters, via a bus, where investigations were carried out. Contact was made with Central Immigration Passport Office where it was verified that the Haitian nationals had legally entered Guyana on February 22, 2020, via the Cheddi Jagan International Airport and were granted six months’ stay. When asked about their alleged act, they said that they had no knowledge that they had to present themselves to an immigration officer to leave Guyana to go to Brazil and that they were sorry. Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan gave the Haitian nationals an ultimatum which stated that they were required to pay a fine of $20,000 each or have eight weeks of imprisonment and be escorted to the nearest port of exit after paying their fine or serving their time.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 26, 2020

Bagotstown man gets 29 years for businessman’s murder KEMO Tyron Evans was on Tuesday sentenced to 29 years imprisonment for the murder of businessman, Abdul Farouk Ghanie. Ghanie’s lifeless body was found lying in a pool of blood in the backyard of his Nandy Park, East Bank Demerara (EBD) home, in April 2015. Evans, 23, of Water Street, Bagotstown, EBD, was sentenced by Justice Sandil Kissoon at the Demerara High Court after he was found guilty of the gruesome crime by a 12-member jury. The charge read that Evans between April 15 and 16, 2015, at Collingswood Avenue, Nandy Park, murdered Ghanie, aka ‘Brother,’ during the course of a robbery. He was represented by attorney-at-law Dexter Todd, while the state was represented by prosecutor Tuanna Hardy, Tiffani Lyken Murdered businessman and Nafeeza Baig. Abdool Farouk Ghanie On February 03, 2020, Floyd Anthony Rammit of Kaneville, another EBD village, appeared before Justice Kissoon but opted to plead guilty to the crime. He was sentenced to 30 years behind bars. The state’s case was that Rammit used to live with Ghanie and was employed as a handyman. Rammit and his Kemo Tyron Evans accomplice Kemo Tyron Evans devised a plan to rob the businessman. It is alleged that, on April 15, 2015, Ghanie was ambushed by the two men who stabbed him (Ghanie) to his chest with a knife. The two men were seen running away from the home by two eyewitnesses. On April 15, 2015, neighbours found Ghanie’s body lying in a pool of blood. He died from a stab wound to his heart. Four months after Ghanie’s death, Rammit was arrested by the police at a location in the interior. After the unanimous guilty verdict, Evans’ attorney made a plea of mitigation and asked the court to consider that his client was just 17 years old at the time of the alleged incident. He also told the court that his client previously had a clean record and can be rehabilitated. Prosecutor Hardy asked the court to place weight on the fact that such crimes have become prevalent in today’s society, where persons cannot be safe in their own homes. In court, Ghanie’s daughter gave a statement wherein she explained that her father’s death had impacted her family. “I feel relieved because it’s only one less criminal off the road,” the woman said as she looked at Evans Justice Kissoon, after considering the nature and gravity of the crime, imposed the sentence.

Goldfields records increased production in 2019 fourth quarter

GUYANA Goldfields Inc., on Tuesday, announced that gold production for the end of 2019 was 28,300 ounces, up 28 per cent from Q3 2019 but down 28 per cent from the fourth quarter in 2018. The 2019 annual production of 124, 200 ounces, downed 17 per cent from 2018. In a release, the company said it has unaudited cash and cash equivalents of US$22.1M and no debt as of December 31, 2019. Also it said the Ore supply gap of four-six months expected in 2020, starting in the second quarter. The company said it is exploring financing and strategic alternatives to fund additional waste stripping at its open pit and for underground development. Also it said its comprehensive mine plan review continues and the results are anticipated to be released by end of March 2020. Additionally, the company said the Aurora Mine mill’s throughput averaged 7,200 tonnes per day (tpd) in the fourth quarter of 2019, up 4.3 per cent from 6,900 tpd in the third quarter of 2019 and up 1.4 per cent from 7,100 tpd in the fourth quarter of 2018. For the full year, the mill’s throughput averaged 7,300 tpd, up 4.3 per cent from 7,000 tpd in 2018. Gold production includes 1,500 ounces for the fourth quarter and 1,600 ounces produced for the full year from our underground project development which is considered pre-commercial production ounces. According to the release, the company’s optimised ‘life-of-mine’ plan announced in late April 2019 proposed ore release from the open pit concurrent with waste stripping by smoothing out waste stripping over multiple years through increased pit phases. Accordingly, during early 2019, the company implemented smaller mining benches and split pushback phases to accelerate access to the main ore body. The company said as this work progressed, the smaller operating areas resulted in reduced productivity rates from increased congestion and delays in drill-blast-load cycles. This prompted the new comprehensive review as disclosed by the company on October 30, 2019 and prompted the processing of low-grade ore stockpiles as ore release from the open pit was slower than expected. As a result of work done in its ongoing comprehensive review, the company is ending its prior strategy of

implementing smaller mining benches and a pushback in two phases, one directly above the other. In an attempt to find a mine sequence with continuous ore release while maintaining high safety standards, management reviewed a significant number of mine plans and scenarios. However, these objectives were not achievable. The company also said it has concluded that waste stripping needs to be suspended temporarily to allow ore production from the bottom of the current pit. Going forward, the company now expects that ore production from the open pit mining will be interrupted for between four and six months, starting in the second quarter of 2020 and resuming at the end of the third quarter of 2020, as we focus on waste stripping. The company expects to disclose fourth quarter and full year financial results on March 30, 2020.

ON TRACK WITH COMPREHENSIVE MINE PLAN UPDATE Meanwhile, the company said it remains on track for disclosure before the end of March 2020 of the results of its comprehensive mine, production and cost review. Roscoe Postle Associates Inc. is assisting with the review. The review, including updates of mineral reserves and mineral resources estimates, is being prepared in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (“NI 43-101”). The review is intended to supersede the previous NI 43-101 Technical Report dated March 29, 2019 and the subsequent Optimised 2019 LOM Plan disclosed on April 30, 2019. FINANCING AND STRATEGIC ALTERNATIVES According to the release, while the company previously anticipated generating sufficient working capital and cash flow to cover operating requirements through 2020, it is now clear that this objective is no longer achievable and there will be a need for additional financing for the cost of additional waste stripping for the open pit and the development of the underground mine. As such, management is actively exploring financing alternatives to provide additional balance sheet flexi-

bility. While the evaluation of financing alternatives continues, the company is concurrently conducting a review of strategic alternatives and has engaged RBC Capital Markets as its adviser for the review of strategic and financing alternatives. “Gold output has been, and will continue to be, affected by an inability to achieve the aggressive waste stripping rates originally proposed in early 2019 as a result of very narrow pushbacks constraining and leading to small, congested mining areas,” said Alan Pangbourne, who became President and CEO on January 1, 2020. “We continue to move toward the transition to underground mining, but we will need additional financing to cover a shortfall in cash flow from open pit gold production.” UNDERGROUND DEVELOPMENT UPDATE Underground exploration decline construction was advanced to 512 metres at year end, under the current construction permit issued by Guyana’s Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”). The company has submitted an updated Environmental and Social Impact Assessment to the EPA for the entire underground project as required and believes it is on target to receive the required environmental approvals from the EPA. “We have also commenced trial mining of a test stope in the Mad Kiss orebody under our construction permit and we expect to batch process this ore through the plant in the coming months. We obtained the necessary governmental approvals to blast without restrictions underground, which once implemented should allow acceleration in underground development.” Alan continued, “On behalf of Senior Management and the Board, I would like to thank our employees and contractors as well as the Government and the people of Guyana for their support as we progress toward the development of Guyana’s first underground mine.” Guyana Goldfields Inc. is a Canadian-based mid-tier gold producer primarily focused on the exploration, development and operation of gold deposits in Guyana, South America.

Police probing suspected murder-robbery at Wismar THE police are now investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of an East Indian male who was found in an unconscious state last Tuesday at Prosville squatting area, Wismar, Linden. The man who is yet to be identified was found bleeding from his nostrils and appeared to have injuries to the head. He was rushed to the Linden Hospital Complex but subsequently died in

the wee hours of Wednesday morning. According to a police press release, on Tuesday about 17:00hrs the man went to the shop of one Ashanti Higgins at Prosville, Squatting Area, Wismar, where he requested a roti which was given to him. The said male then took out three cellular phones from his pants pocket and began boasting that he has money. He was then told to pay for the roti and he left and went away.

The now deceased man was examined by ranks who discovered that the back his head was swollen. The body was then photographed with a view to having it identified and is now lying at the Linden Hospital Complex mortuary awaiting post-mortem. The cellphones which the man was said to have had were not recovered and an investigation is underway.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 26, 2020

Gov’t donates artwork to OAS Museum

GUYANA’S Permanent Representative to the Organisation of American States (OAS), Dr. Riyad Insanally, last Friday, donated two pieces of artwork to the OAS’ Art Museum. The two pieces – a painting entitled ‘Timehri Story’ and a sculpture entitled ‘Slave Stock and Whip,’ done by renowned Guyanese artists, Dudley Charles and Stanley Greaves – are the first set of Guyanese art collections donated to the Art Museum of the Americas. The donation formed part of a range of activities held to mark the observation of Guyana’s Republic Golden Jubilee celebrations, which also coincide with Guyana’s Chairmanship of the OAS Permanent Council and Inter-American Council for Integral Development (CIDI). The kind gesture was made in the pres-

ence of OAS Secretary General, Luis Almagro; Assistant Secretary-General, Nestor Mendez; current Chair of the CARICOM Caucus of Ambassadors in Washington, D.C. and Permanent Representative of Barbados to the OAS, Ambassador Noel Lynch, and Diplomatic Representatives from OAS Member States. In his remarks, Ambassador Insanally said he was very proud to donate the two works on behalf of the Government of Guyana, and was especially proud to do so in the presence of the artists themselves. The pieces of art will be displayed at the OAS Headquarters during Guyana’s chairmanship of the Permanent Council, before being permanently placed in the permanent collection at the Art Museum of the Americas.

Ambassador Insanally and OAS Secretary General, Luis Almagro, celebrate after the donation of two pieces of artwork to the OAS’s Art Museum of the Americas (AMA)

A painting by Dudley Charles entitled “Timehri Story”

A sculpture by Stanley Greaves entitled “Slave Stock and Whip”

‘Bruk-up’ convicted for love triangle murder … court awaits probation report ALMOST six years after the murder of fisherman Chetram Bharrat, who was killed during an invasion at his Haslington, East Coast Demerara (ECD) home, his killer was on Tuesday found guilty of the crime. Errol Khan, called ‘Vinode Maraj’ and ‘Bruk-up,’ was

Errol Khan found guilty of the charge by a 12-member jury. The charge read that on May 2, 2015 at Haslington, ECD, he murdered Bharrat, called ‘Toney.’ Khan was represented by attorney-at-law Ravindra Mohabir, while the state was represented by prosecutors Abigail

Gibbs and Sarah Martin. Attorney Mohabir requested that a probation report be prepared for his client before sentencing. The judge agreed and deferred sentencing until March 13, 2020. Khan is also before the court for a second indictment, which alleges that on May 2, 2015 at Haslington, ECD, he attempted to murder the deceased’s wife, Lomattie Ramdat. He is also charged with stealing $379,000. According to reports, Chetram Bharrat, 40, was brutally chopped to death while his wife Lomattie Ramdat, 36, received several chops; she was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPH) in a critical condition. Khan had admitted to the police that he shared a relationship with Ramdat, but the woman refused to leave her husband and he became jealous. During the attack, Ramdat reportedly attempted to go to her husband’s aid but was also chopped several times by Khan. After the incident, the wom-

DEAD: Chetram Bharrat an who claimed that she and her husband suffered the fate as a result of a robbery, was forced to change her story after residents who are familiar with her relationship with the accused began speaking about it and expressing the view that it was her lover who had committed the act. The police had issued a wanted bulletin for Khan and he was four months later arrested for the crime.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 26, 2020

Minister Ferguson’s libel suit …

Court dismisses bid for injunction against Jagdeo, Guyana Times HIGH Court Judge Gino Persaud on Tuesday dismissed an application filed by lawyers for Minister in the Ministry of Communities with responsibility for Housing, Annette Ferguson, for an interim injunction against Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo and the Guyana Times. The application was filed by Minister Ferguson’s at-

minister. ii. “We urge you to look at the video yourselves which depicts the size of Ferguson’s property and land and compare it to the surrounding lots. Ferguson also owns the adjoining lot, which represents the entire semi-circular section,” the party said in its statement. iii. “Ferguson insisted in July she only received a “regular lot” of ¼ acre or equivalent to 10,000 square feet; however, the photos of the minister’s residence suggested otherwise, with vast yard space on the massive plot.” The minister is also asking the court to grant an order that the three respondents publish in the Guyana Times newspaper a retraction and an apology to her, retracting the false statements impugning her character and reputation. She also slapped the news agency and its editors with a Minister in the Ministry $10M lawsuit for libel. Meanwhile, the injuncof Communities with responsibility for Housing, tion against Jagdeo was for him making untrue stateAnnette Ferguson ments regarding Minister Ferguson’s acquisition of torneys Lyndon Amsterdam land. and Latoya Roberts, and The minister also filed a listed the respondents and $50M lawsuit against Jagdeo defendants as the privately for slanderous and untrue owned Guyana Times Inc., statements he made between its editors Tusika Martin December 5 and 12, 2019, and Dwijendra Rooplall and which had caused damage to Jagdeo. the minister’s character and The applicant had sought reputation. an injunction against the The libel case is still onGuyana Times, prohibiting going. them from further publishing, In her court documents, disseminating and circulating Minister Ferguson stated that to the public by newsprint on March 8, 2014, she apand/or electronically on the plied to the Central Housing World Wide Web any sim- and Planning Authority for ilar words as those posted a piece of land and after her on Wednesday, December interview, she was told that 11, 2019, whereby they pub- she was eligible for a midlished or caused to be pub- dle-income house lot. lished the following words: Eventually she was ali. “Hours after junior located a parcel of land in Communities Minister An- Eccles, East Bank Demernette Ferguson denied that ara, and paid the sum of she was not the holder of $900,000.00 for the said three house lots, the Opposi- house lot, which she retion – People’s Progressive ceived the title for Parcel Party (PPP) – has called her 842, Block: I, Zone: E.B.D, out for lying on the issue. In Plantation Eccles and held photos and videos shared on under Certificate of Title No. social media, the minister’s 2016/3410-H. sprawling mansion sits on a In 2015, Ferguson stated huge plot of land. This also that with the aid of her husled to questions about her band, she began construction meteoric rise in wealth in of a four-bedroom, two-stojust a couple of years as a rey concrete house with the

money they had saved from various sources of income along with her husband. Nevertheless, she subsequently applied to Republic Bank (Guyana) Limited for a mortgage to complete construction of the house on the land and was granted a mortgage of $20 million. However, the building is still under construction. On December 5, 2019, the Leader of the opposition People’s Progressive Party, Bharrat Jagdeo, held a press conference at the Office of the Leader of the Opposition and which was broadcasted by audio and electronically on television, whereby he made the following statements about me:“I see they are busy sharing out letters, letters of allocation for house lots, they have not put in any infrastructure. “I see Ferguson, the one who took three lots on the

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo East Bank and wouldn’t say a word about it. ” The corrupt Ferguson, I am calling her out on this, she can sue me on this if she wants to.” Minster Ferguson in her court document, said that “After I became aware of the press conference held by Mr. Bharrat Jagdeo and what he said about me, I held a press conference at my office on the 10th December, 2019 and invited members of the media and provided the evidence that I only have one house lot by producing my Title for Parcel 842.” However, Ferguson claimed that on December

11, 2019, she observed the article in question in the Guyana Times newspaper. “Although the article quoted extracts from a press conference I held at my office, in which I refuted claims made by Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo and produced the See page 14

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 26, 2020

Annandale woman wanted by police

THE Guyana Police Force has issued a wanted bulletin on Tuesday for 33-yearold Muressa Ahmad also

known as Muressa Ali, in connection with simple larceny committed on Stanislaus McKoy.

According to police, the 33-year-old woman of Annandale, East Coast Demerara, committed the of-

fence on February 4, 2020, at Ocean Spray Hotel, Stanley Place, Kitty, Georgetown. Anyone with informa-

tion that may lead to the arrest of Muressa Ahmad called Muressa Ali is asked to contact the police on telephone numbers 261-2760, 216-0254, 2160251, 226-6978, 225-8196, 226-2870, 226-7065, 2292750, 227-1149, 226-7065, 225-6940, 226-9834, 2262417, 226-2407, 225-2694, 911 or the nearest police station.

Wanted: Muressa Ahmad

Court dismisses bid for injunction against ... From page 13

title for the parcel of land I own, yet the tenor and language in the article was written to portray me as a liar and dishonest person,” the minister said in her document. Additionally, the minister is contesting that the contents and tenor of the article also insinuated that as a minister in government she acquired unexplained wealth and wealth by dishonest means when the defendants published the words “This also led to questions about her meteoric rise in wealth in just a couple of years as a minister,” in the newspaper. She also claimed that the contents of the article were deliberately written and circulated as aforesaid by the newspaper to tarnish her reputation as a minister of government and cause right-thinking persons to think that she is engaged in corrupt practices and is also a dishonest person. Also, the newspaper attempted to bolster and support the article with a picture that tried to show that the minister owned more than one parcel of land, which is false. “That, I believe that the newspaper produced by the first-named defendant has an agenda to support the views of the members of the opposition People’s Progressive Party with a clear plan to portray myself and other government officials as being corrupt and dishonest, so as to influence the views of members of the Guyanese population to not vote for the ruling a Partnership for National Unity (APNU) Government in the upcoming General Elections to be held sometime in 2020,” Minister Ferguson said. The minister is citing that the actions of the defendants caused her to suffer irreparable harm, distress, and humiliation and caused right-thinking persons to believe that she is corrupt, dishonest, and untrustworthy and a person not fit to hold the office of a minister of the government. A similar lawsuit was filed against the Guyana Times Inc. and its Editor-in-Chief Tusika Martin by Director of the Guyana Power and Light (GPL), Kirk Hollingsworth who is claiming damages in excess of $50M for libel. In that statement of claim, Hollingsworth, through his attorneys, stated that Martin and the Guyana Times on November 11, 2019 published or caused to be published, an article titled, “Over 3000 acres of prime land allocated to GPL Director,” in which Hollingsworth was portrayed as having been awarded over 3000 acres of prime property located on the East Bank of Demerara, as a result of a seemingly corrupt and clandestine transaction. Another $50M is being claimed by Hollingsworth on the basis that the article was published on Guyana Times online platform. In this case he is also seeking a mandatory injunction compelling both Martin and the Guyana Times to permanently remove the defamatory article from the Guyana Times newspaper edition of the November 11, 2019, available at https://www.guyanatimesgy.com. In December, the High Court awarded judgement in default against Guyana Times Inc and Tusika Martin in relation to a $200M lawsuit levelled against them by Managing-Director of Ground Structure Engineering Consultants (GSEC) and his wife Ndibi Schwiers for defamation of character. The newspaper had published an article based on Jagdeo’s claims, that the couple had obtained the said lands by immoral, improper, illegal and criminal means.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 26, 2020

Guyana Mission in Geneva celebrates 50th Republic Anniversary A PHOTOGRAPHIC exhibition and a conversation on the Environment and Energy interface in Guyana were the main features of a well-attended reception held at the Guyana Mission in Geneva in celebration of the country’s 50th Anniversary of becoming a Republic. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the photo-

discussion focused on the opportunities and challenges currently before Guyana as it simultaneously takes on the development of its Petroleum Sector and Green Economy reliant on renewable energy. Ambassador of Guyana to the United Nations (UN) Geneva Institutions and Switzerland, John Deep Ford, in his address, underlined the importance of Guyana’s Re-

Guyana’s gift to the world in 1989 of almost one million acres of rainforest, the Iwokrama project, the low carbon development strategy developed in 2007, and the Green State Development Strategy 2040, completed in 2019, were highlighted as testament to Guyana’s long commitment to sustainable development and a future based on renewable energy, the Foreign Affairs

The Mission held a photographic exhibition which promoted Guyana as an eco-tourist destination and depicted scenes of Guyana’s biodiversity, flora and fauna, agriculture, historic buildings and lifestyle graphic exhibition showcased Guyana as an eco-tourist destination with focus on the country’s rich biodiversity, flora and fauna, agriculture, historic buildings and lifestyle. It was noted that the conversation on the country’s environment and energy interface included the Guyanese diaspora in Switzerland and CARICOM Missions, in addition to friends of the country. According to the Foreign Affairs Ministry, the

public Status. He indicated that the date commemorates the historic slave rebellion started in 1763 in the then colony of Berbice, led by the country’s national hero, Cuffy, against the Dutch – a critical moment in the history of Guyana’s struggle against colonialism. February 23, 1970, is the date that Guyana severed its final link with the colonial era and the symbol of foreign rule, becoming fully in charge of its destiny.

Ministry detailed. “Guyana’s new opportunity with continued exploration and recently-started production and export of oil and gas was seen as bringing a number of wonderful possibilities but also some risks. The dominant view in Guyana’s discourse was described as being one that calls for using the windfall gain to consolidate Guyana’s long-term development goals and ensuring good governance and management of all

Car discovered in hidden container –– vehicle allegedly killed teen in hit-and-run

OVER the weekend, the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) discovered a damaged silver-grey motorcar that was allegedly involved in a fatal accident on Valentine’s Day along the Farm Public Road, East Bank Essequibo (EBE). The vehicle, PYY 2003, was found hidden in a container. Reports indicate that the vehicle was the one involved in the death of 17-yearold Kwon Trotz, who was walking home around 23:00h on February 14, along the Farm Public Road, EBE, in Region Three Essequibo Islands-West Demerara). Trotz, of Lot 12 Farm, EBE, was at the time of his death employed at a car wash-bay. Based on information received, the victim was walking along the roadway when he was struck down by an alleged

speeding motorcar which fled the scene. He was picked up and taken to the Leonora Cottage Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival. Police said the CANU ranks discovered the hidden vehicle inside of a container at Da Silva Beach, EBE, while the damage to the vehicle was consistent with those from the accident scene that claimed the teen’s life. “The damages from the scene of the accident matches the vehicle, while the driver sought medical attention. We know who he is,” police said. The driver is a 21-year-old man of Parika, EBE, and the police have been hunting him since the discovery of the vehicle. “A wanted bulletin will be issued for him soon,” police said.

Guyana’s resources to stave off the well-known perils of some oil economies,” the ministry explained. The Ambassador of Norway, Dagfinn Sørli, shared lessons from Norway’s experience, emphasising the important role of the government in owning, regulating and transparently managing its energy resources. Sørli underscored the importance of taxing private operators proportionately and continuously growing the sovereign wealth fund while using only some of the interest to generate longterm wealth for a country to the benefit of its people. The Ambassador of Guyana recognised Norway’s support for Guyana’s efforts over the past decade towards reducing deforestation and working

towards sustainable development. The agreement between Guyana and Norway, signed in 2009, was cited as one of the biggest forest conservation and sustainable development deals (US$250M) ever signed up till then. It was intended to “provide the world with a working example of how partnerships between developed and developing countries can save the world’s tropical forests.” An important contribution to the evening was made by Guyanese, Romain Williams, who recently graduated with a Master’s Degree in Energy and Environmental Law from the University of Aberdeen. In her presentation, she addressed the opportunities and the tradeoffs between energy and the environment and emphasised the importance of regulations, stable institutions and

enforcement mechanisms to ensure that Guyana minimises the possibility of any environmental disasters and stays true to its commitment of pursuing sustainable development and being fully reliant on renewable energy in the future. Photo saved as Geneva 1 Caption: Members of the head table engage the audience in discussions on the environment and energy. Pictured at the head table are: Ambassador of the Kingdom of Norway to the World Trade Organisation and European Free Trade Association, His Excellency Dagfinn Sørli; Ambassador of Guyana to the United Nations Geneva Institutions and to Switzerland, His Excellency John Deep Ford; and Trade and Environment Policy Analyst, WTO, Romain Williams

POLICE TRAFFIC ADVISORY

THE Guyana Police Force wishes to notify the general public that the following roads will be closed to vehicular traffic from 06:00hrs on February 26, 2020 until further notice; this is to facilitate the operations at the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) Command Centre at High and Cowan Streets, Kingston. Ø High Street between Cowan & Barrack Streets Ø Cowan Street between High & Fort Streets Vehicle passes would be issued by GECOM to residents, employees and organizations that are likely to be affected by the closure. The Guyana Police Force wishes to apologize for any inconvenience caused.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 26, 2020

Sebai gets transportation to boost health service delivery

SEBAI, a riverine village in the Matarkai sub-district of Region One (Barima-Waini), is the latest beneficiary of a boat and engine to aid in medical emergencies within the village. The vessel was handed over to the village last Thursday by Minister of State Dawn Hastings-Williams during a recent outreach to Matarkai. It will be used to

transport patients, especially pregnant mothers, to the Port Kaituma Hospital, which is located some 30 minutes up the Port Kaituma River. Minister Hastings-Williams, who was accompanied by a team of medical personnel from within the region, spoke to the residents on the importance of having access to proper medical services. She noted that the initiative was part of the Coalition government’s strategy to improve health services delivery in hinterland communities. “It doesn’t matter if you live at the head of a creek; it doesn’t matter if you live at the foot of a mountain, you are all Guyanese, and you need proper health services,” the minister stated. The hand-over was in keeping with a promise made

to the village last year when they requested a boat and engine to facilitate the transportation of patients to health facilities. The village already has a boat and engine providing services to students in the community. The minister also handed over sports gear to Sebai. Over the last three years, villages, including Port Kaituma, Manawarin, Assakata, Waikrebi, and Kwebanna in Region One have also received boats and engines for medical purposes. Water ambulances were also provided to villages in Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) among others. Additionally, last week, Santa Mission, an Indigenous village in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) received a boat and engine valued $2.9M

Minister of State Dawn Hastings-Williams under the Ministry of Public Health’s Maternal and Child Health project. Other communities in Regions Four( Demerara-Mahaica) and Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) also benefited from transportation under this project. (DPI)

Minister Hastings-Williams handing over the boat to the village’s leaders

Windsor Estate to open scheme at Ogle … sod turning with NICIL billed for Thursday WINDSOR Estate and government’s holding company – National Industrial & Commercial Investments Ltd (NICIL) will, on Thursday, turn the sod for the opening up of a new housing scheme at Ogle, East Coast Demerara. In a media notice, NICIL said Minister within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Jaipaul Sharma, will deliver the keynote address at the ceremony. According to NICIL, Danny Sawh - Developer of Windsor Estates, is an overseas-based Guyanese investor with over twenty-four years of residential and commercial real estate as well as construction development experience. He is also the owner of Stonewall Contracting Corporation of NY. Stonewall was at one point one of the largest Caribbean-owned general construction firms on the entire Eastern seaboard of the US. Mr. Sawh is a Guyanese and very passionate about Guyana’s development, having singlehandedly spearheaded the Windsor Estate development, he is eager to showcase his

company’s project plans for the creation of sustainable attractive communities in his homeland, NICIL stated. Navigant Builders Inc., was incorporated on June 29, 2012 under the Companies Act 1991 in the Republic of Guyana. Navigant, the developers of Windsor Estates headquartered at Bel Air Park, Georgetown, is a subsidiary of Stonewall Contracting Corporation in College Point, New York. Stonewall has been in business since 1990 and has completed numerous high-profile, award-winning public and private projects ranging from US$100,000 to US$40,000,000 including new schools, courthouses, underground train stations, hospitals, theaters, playgrounds, police facilities, public housing, a multimillion-dollar high-end restaurant in Rockefeller Plaza in NYC and a US$3.5M high-end residential property in Westchester, New York. In recent weeks NICIL has turned the sod for the construction of three major hotels at Ogle.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 26, 2020

‘Coalition’ has good track record Mr. Nandlall, a former Attorney-General in the previous PPP government, was a member of that parliamentary committee which did not meet often enough to review the Bill before the National Assembly was dissolved. The Guyana Times took objection to the Prime Minister’s remarks on the amount in pensions and

–– PM Nagamootoo PRIME Minister Moses Nagamootoo has asserted that the Coalition Government has a good track record of following up on its promises. “It has done so within its first 100 days in office, and has subsequently done so over the past four-plus years,” he wrote in his hard-hitting weekly column, My Turn, which was published in this newspaper two Sundays ago. Mr. Nagamootoo noted that the Opposition PPP had promised much, but delivered little, and that it has a credibility problem. Old people, he added, have a creole saying, “seh suh is na do suh” (say so is not do so). He shared the view of President Granger that promises must be matched

by performance. “The Coalition’s performance in a single term is sufficient evidence that while the APNU+AFC manifesto plans are ambitious, with honest leadership they are attainable and achievable,” the Prime Minister declared. The column drew sharp responses from PPP’s executive Anil Nandlall and the Guyana Times. Mr. Nandlall claimed that the ‘Coalition’ did not fulfill its promise to reform the Constitution. But the Prime Minister, in his column, explained that the government had kick-started the process. “Within our first 100 days, I appointed a Steering Committee to advise on guidelines and the

Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo module for constitutional reform. From its work, a Constitutional Consultative and Reform Bill was tabled in Parliament, and it was sent to a parliamentary committee for consideration. The business of this bipartisan committee was stalled, with no government/opposition consensus on moving forward.”

CANU gets extension to hold Parika narco-traffickers THE Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) has sought an extension to keep the two suspects in custody in the aftermath of a drug bust and the seizure of a US$1M ‘gofast’ vessel on Saturday in Parika Backdam, East Bank Essequibo (EBE). The anti-narcotics body has also issued a wanted bulletin for known character, Ryan Pemberton, called ‘Sancho’ of Albertown, Georgetown after he threatened to kill CANU ranks via a cell phone call at the scene of the bust in Parika, EBE. Muneshwar Dusraj called ‘Bonny’ age 49, and Latchman Sankar, called ‘Jack’ age 35, were detained in connection with the drug bust. CANU’s Deputy Head, Leslie Ramlall, had noted that the operation was done over a two-week period and the success of the operation was as a result of the support the agency received from stakehold-

Wanted: Ryan Pemberton, called ‘Sancho’ ers. He said the operation, on Saturday, was conducted in the Parika Backlands where the quantity of narcotics along with a go-fast boat with two 250 horsepower engines, were seized. Further, a collection of strange spare parts were seized and the identity of the owner of the boat is known. “While we were on the operation after the seizure, we received a number of

threats at the site from a known drug trafficker of Alberttown; he issued a number of threats to CANU ranks while a cell phone was on speaker,” Ramlall said. He said the man, said to be Pemberton, also threatened to shoot up CANU headquarters and Ramlall noted that threats of death were also made to several ranks of the unit. But Ramlall had a message to drug traffickers. “I want to say to all traffickers out there, that that will not deter CANU’s mandate; we are here to ensure the eradication of narcotics, and Guyana remains free of the flow of narcotics and so we will be going after all the other associates who have intentions to threaten CANU ranks,” CANU’s deputy head said. He said that all the drug traffickers who want to ‘break war’ with CANU will be dealt with condignly.

perks that former president Bharrat Jagdeo had given himself and others, and accused the Coalition government of giving former prime minister Hamilton Green a big pension as well. The Prime Minister has stated that after the 2015 elections, the new government quickly “pruned the ex-

cessive benefits under the Former Presidents Law by placing a cap on the number of vehicles, guards, guns, overseas trips, duty-free concessions and other benefits that Mr. Jagdeo had given to himself (monetised at some $3M monthly), and to his two colleagues who had also served as president.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 26, 2020

Minister Adams-Yearwood honours Linden’s elderly SEVERAL nonagenarians of Linden were recently honoured by the Minister within the Ministry of Agriculture, Valerie Adams-Yearwood for their contribution to the development of the mining town over the years. The occasion saw 10

seniors who would have played a critical role in the development of their communities being visited and presented with tokens of appreciation by Minister Adams-Yearwood. Among the honourees are retired nurses, and regional councillors and staff

of the now defunct Demerara Bauxite Company Limited (DEMBA). While addressing the gathering, Minister Adams-Yearwood reflected on her encounters growing up as a young Lindener with the honourees. “I remember, as a child,

my sister and I would run into Ms. Stella (an honouree)’s yard and pick her fruits from her tree. She never knew it was us, but later she would come to mommy and say, ‘These children around here always in my yard.’ I also remember eating food from some

One of the 10 elderly persons who were honoured by Minister within the Ministry of Agriculture Valerie Adams-Yearwood of you. We lived in love, are still serving their counand respected our elders,” try while paving the way Minister Adams-Yearwood for the many generations recalled. to come. She also spoke of the Among the honourees valuable lessons taught by were Charlotte London, the elders, one of which is Clara Daniels, and Ula that money should not be Morris, all 90 years old; the only motivator in life, Doris Fraser, Inese Lewis but rather the long-term and Daisy Sampson, all 91, gains and benefits of to and Stella Goppy and Seleone’s self and community. na Joseph, both 93. The minister, while The elderly persons thanking the township’s expressed sincere gratelderly, noted that it is im- itude to the minister of portant to honour persons agriculture for the kind who would have served and gesture.

North West miner in custody for allegedly killing drinking buddy A 25-year-old miner is in police custody after he allegedly killed his drinking partner on Mash Day at 14 Miles, North West District (NWD). Dead is Joseph Calistro, 26, a miner of Port Kaituma, also in the NWD. The accused also hails from Port Kaituma. Reports indicate that the victim and suspect were imbibing at a shop when the former reportedly became intoxicated and wanted to fight. The suspect tried to avoid him and walked away, but was pursued and assaulted by Calistro, who was said to be armed with a pair of scissors. The suspect reportedly became annoyed, disarmed the victim and wounded him with the scissors. The victim received medical attention at the Arakaka Health Centre at about 01:00hrs the following day and was sent away. He returned to the said facility hours later with a breathing problem, and was receiving oxygen when he succumbed. The body, which bore a wound to the middle of the chest and another to the right arm is currently at the Port Kaituma Hospital mortuary awaiting post mortem.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 26, 2020

Economic Watch: China’s supply chain able to withstand coronavirus tempest BEIJING, Feb. 25 (Xinhua) -- The coronavirus outbreak is unlikely to shatter China’s role in the international supply chain in an increasingly interconnected world economy as the country continues to make headway in containing the virus. Although epidemic control measures have slowed production and logistics for some companies in China, the largest source of imports to 65 countries worldwide, weighing on companies like Apple and Hyundai to maintain normal capacity, analysts and industry insiders said shifting production out of China won’t be a cost-effective option. “I think in some sectors, companies are very dependent on China. There’s no such thing as shifting the supply chain,” said Nicholas Lardy, a senior fellow at the Washington D.C.-based Peterson Institute for International Economics. China is a world-leading sales and logistics services provider with full-fledged supply chain clusters, making it a go-to supplier for global enterprises, according to Yang Daqing, a researcher with the China Society of Logistics. The outbreak will not damage China’s leading role in the global supply chain, said

Lenovo CEO Yang Yuanqing, adding that the 33 Lenovo plants around the world are working to maintain stable supply. Addressing concerns over disruptions to the global auto supply chain, Mike Hawes, chief executive of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) in the United Kingdom, said it is too early for any judgment while any possible production bottleneck warrants attention given the level of complexity and integration of the supply chain. Hawes said the SMMT would keep an eye on the developments of the outbreak, while manufacturers make necessary adjustments to keep supply from hitting the brakes. The impact on China’s supply chain comes in a few stages depending on how fast the outbreak will be contained, said Xu Qiyuan, a researcher with the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences. If the epidemic is brought under control before the export order spikes in March and April, industries in China will hardly feel the pinch, while any development past that may hit export and cause deeper disruptions, said Xu. The overall tally of new cases of con-

Workers operate crane to load a container at the Jingtang port area of Tangshan Port, north China’s Hebei Province, Feb. 21, 2020. (Xinhua/Yang Shiyao)

Aerial photo taken on Feb. 19, 2020 shows a sea-rail intermodal freight train waiting for departure at the Zhengzhou terminal of China Railway Intermodal in Zhengzhou, central China’s Henan Province. (Xinhua/Li An) firmed novel coronavirus infection nation- supply chain has never been easy, said Yang wide has gradually declined, with new cases Daqing. He said the coronavirus outbreak outside Hubei Province, the epicenter of would upgrade it further to feature a better the outbreak, sinking to nine on Tuesday, contingency system against various risks. official data showed. The country may move up the global World Health Organization (WHO) value chain after the epidemic with possible Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghe- breakthroughs in sectors like Artificial Intelbreyesus said Monday that COVID-19 can ligence, industrial and civil robotics, 5G and be contained, based upon the findings by the medicare, said Fu Xiaolan, the founding diWHO-China joint mission in China. rector of Technology and Management CenChina has ratcheted up efforts to help ter for Development at Oxford University. companies resume production, arranging Epidemic-driven demand for teleworkchartered trains to ferry workers from their ing, long-distance medicare and online eduhometowns to manufacturing hubs such as cation will help boost sales for data storage Guangdong, Zhejiang and Shanghai. services, according to Lenovo’s Yang. Factories of some foreign companies “China will rebound rapidly after the like Tesla and FAW-Volkswagen Auto- novel coronavirus outbreak burns itself mobile have resumed production, while the out because we are talking about a huge American manufacturer Honeywell said 18 economy that is essential to the world’s of its 21 plants in China are working at full supply chain,” said Tan Kok Wai, the capacity. Malaysian government’s special envoy The evolution of China’s role in the to China.

COVID-19 can be contained: WHO chief GENEVA, Feb. 24 (Xinhua) -The chief of the World Health Organization (WHO) said Monday that COVID-19 can be contained, which is a clear key message based upon the findings by the WHO-China joint mission in China. At a daily briefing, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said that the WHO-China team had just concluded its mission in China and would detail on their findings on

Tuesday. “But the key message that should give all countries hope, courage and confidence is that this virus can be contained,” the WHO chief declared. He added that the team had traveled to several different provinces, including Wuhan, the epicenter of the outbreak, and had made a range of findings about the transmissibility of the virus, the severity of disease and the impact of the measures taken.

“The epidemic peaked and plateaued between the 23rd of January and the 2nd of February (in China), and has been declining steadily since then,” Tedros said, adding that the virus has had no significant change in the DNA. The fatality rate is between two percent and four percent in Wuhan, and 0.7 percent outside Wuhan, while recovery time for people with mild disease is about two weeks and those with severe

or critical disease may need three to six weeks to recover, according to the team. But the WHO chief still warned about lowering guard against the epidemic. “This is a time for all countries, communities, families and individuals to focus on preparing,” Tedros reiterated. “We must focus on containment, while doing everything we can to prepare for a potential pandemic.”

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 26, 2020

‘Thank you, Whim!’ – PM Nagamootoo

PRIME Minister Moses Nagamootoo on Monday paid a visit to his home village of Whim on the Corentyne, where he thanked residents for their support during his political life. He was accompanied by his wife, Mrs. Sita Nagamootoo. In his remarks, the Prime Minister shared his appreciation for the villagers of Whim for their loyalty and support, which is what kept him going for the close to six decades he’s been in politics. Born at Whim, a little fishing village on the Corentyne Coast, Prime Minister Nagamootoo said he was grateful to his fellow villagers for their loyalty

over the years, while his wife spoke of the public life of her husband which has spanned 59 years, having entered politics in 1961. Remarks were also made by Mr. Nand Persaud, former MP Ms. Donna Mathoo, Mr. Gobin Harbajan, and Pastor Michael Nagamootoo. The atmosphere was celebratory as villagers took to the floor in spontaneous dancing to live music, and show of appreci-

ation for the presence of the Prime Minister among them. The event was held in the yard of the Whim house where the Prime Minister was born in 1947. Postponed from December due to deaths in the family, the reception was held for the Prime Minister to say thank you to his villagers and relatives for their support during his lengthy political career.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 26, 2020

23-year-old dies after ‘Sixth Bridge’ plunge

JEROME Henry, 23, called ‘Bat’ succumbed after experiencing a series of heart

attacks, hours after his semi-conscious body was pulled from the “Sixth

Teens accused of ‘break and enter and larceny’ remanded TWO teenagers were, on Tuesday, February 25, 2020, remanded to prison by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan on a break and enter and larceny charge. Kadeen Barley, 19, a miner and Malcom Payne, 19, a miner, appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court to answer to the charge. Barley pleaded guilty, with explanation, to the charge while Payne pleaded not guilty. Particulars of the charge stated that, on February 19, 2020, at Mahdia, they broke and entered the dwelling house of Kennard De Andrade and stole a quantity of raw gold valued at $1,162,000, one gold band valued at $30,000 and $123,000 cash. “Since I start work three months with this man he never pay me, I went to he fa ma money and he sa that I have to wait, when I go back to him he sa I in get nothing to get and he go at the station and make a false report that I break in he house. Them things the police find me with is me own from the first month I wuk wit he, he pay me that,” Barley told the court. The magistrate, after hearing Barley’s explanation, entered a not guilty plea. The court heard that the defendants and De Andrade are known to each other. Police prosecutor told the court that, on the day in question, around 08:30 hours, the defendants went to De Andrade’s house where they were having a conversation. Shortly after they left and De Andrade secured his home and went to Wild Hog Backdam to transact business. The court heard that, on De Andrade’s return, he observed that his window was open. Upon making checks, he discovered that the articles mentioned in the charge were missing. A report was made at the Mahdia police station and the defendants were apprehended at the Mabura Check point. It was also reported that a search was conducted on their person and some amount of raw gold was found, along with the gold band and some amount of cash. They were arrested and later charged. Chief Magistrate, after listening to the prosecutor, remanded the defendants to prison and adjourned the matter until March 5, 2020.

Kaikan Miner charged with trafficking in narcotics 36-YEAR-OLD Kaikan Miner, Sandro DaSilva, was, on February 25, 2020, brought before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan, at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court, charged with trafficking in narcotics. The charge alleged that, on Sunday, February 23, 2020, at Shadow Creek, Kaikan Village, region 7, DaSilva was found with narcotics, that weighed 19.9 grams, for the purpose of trafficking. DaSilva pleaded not guilty. It was mentioned to the court by the prosecutor that, on Sunday, February 23, 2020, between 14:00 and 14:45 hours, police, at Kaikan, were on duty at the Shadow Creek, when they saw the defendant acting in a suspicious manner, holding a white salt bag in his hand. The police approached the defendant and searched his person where nothing of evidential value was found. The police then proceeded to search the defendant’s bag where they found a quantity of leaves, stems and seeds, suspected to be cannabis. The defendant was arrested and taken to Kaikan Police Station. The prosecutor recommended that bail be denied. DaSilva was granted $70,000 bail and was ordered by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan to report to the Kaikan Police Station every fortnight, on a Friday, at 09:00 hours until the matter is completed. This matter was adjourned until Monday, March 16, 2020.

Bridge” concrete canal, aback the Providence Estate, East Bank Berbice. On February 23, just before 15:30hrs, Henry was seen walking along the dam, which divides the canefields. Hire car driver, Raymond Etwaroo, recalled being in company with his wife and other relatives, when he stopped his vehicle, before offering Henry a ride to the famous destination, where persons would go to swim and “hang out”. After parking his car, Henry exited the vehicle before making several jokes, which caused persons to erupt in laughter. “Jerome went to the area

that has concrete and he tested the water. He said it was cold. He got out and started to walk up the dam. At that time four boys were swimming. He walked pass them. Suddenly, he took off his shirt and hat and plunged in the water. I did not see him raise up. I ran from my car. I shouted to the others saying, ‘Jerome can’t dive so long’. Persons thought he was making a trick. They believed he was in the corner waiting to laugh at us. He was a funny guy. But where Jerome jumped, he was left. That where he was found,” Etwaroo said. A mouth-tomouth resuscitation was done on Henry, and as a result, he

coughed up water, leaving persons with the belief that all would be well. The police were informed and Henry was transported to the New Amsterdam Hospital in an unconscious state. Meanwhile, according to a relative, Joy Peters, Henry was later transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation where a doctor on duty gave a grim prognosis of his condition. According to Peters, the now deceased man experienced several heart attacks at shortened intervals and was initially kept on a life-saving machine. He succumbed at 02:39hrs while receiving

Jerome Henry treatment. Henry was employed as a sales clerk at A. Ally and Sons Establishment.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 26, 2020

Johnson surges to two trophies in Forbes Burnham Memorial Table Tennis … Persaud wins ‘C’ division

ELISHABA Johnson stormed to wins in ‘B’ division and U-21 categories on the penultimate day of the Forbes Burnham Memorial Table Tennis Championships, on Monday at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall. Again he battled 13-yearold junior national champion (U-15 and U-18) Jonathan Van Lange in both finals. Several weeks ago, at the National Championships, the two players had shared victories in the events. Johnson had won the U-21 battle, while Van Lange had won the ‘B’ division. In the latest U-21 final, Johnson surged to a 4-1 win in their best-of-seven series. Johnson won 11-5, 11-4, 119, 7-11, 12-10 in his last year in the competition. Johnson had defeated Isaiah Layne 4-2 in the semi-finals (7-11, 12-10, 14-16, 11-3, 11-4, 12-10), while Van Lange had gotten the better of Colin Wong 4-2 (11-6, 11-9, 5-11, 11-6, 8-11

11-8). Both Wong and Layne had finished joint third. The ‘B’ division final was a closer match and Johnson had to battle back from a score of 1-3 to defeat his young rival. Van Lange won the opening games 12-10, 11-4, before Johnson, the son of veteran coach Linden Johnson, won the third game 11-7. Van Lange looked like he would have surged to another ‘B’ division win when he took game four at 11-9, but three testing battles saw Johnson emerging victorious at 12-10, 12-10, 11-9. In the semi-finals, Van Lange had defeated Layne 4-2, while Johnson had gotten the better of Jamal Nicholas by a similar score. The two players could have met again last evening in the semi-finals of the Open Singles. Van Lange had already qualified for the final four, while Johnson had to face Layne in a quarter-final

battle. In an upset, Orin Hickerson defeated tournament favourite and former Senior National Champion Nigel Bryan by a score of 4-1 (117, 11-9, 5-11, 11-5, 11-9) in their semi-final clash. Meanwhile, Queen’s College third-former Narren Persaud got past fellow 14-year-old Umar Percival (Isa Islamic School) in the ‘C’ division final. The match was a tense affair with Persaud battling back from two games down to win 3-2 (11-7, 5-11, 8-11, 12-10, 11-7). Earlier Percival had defeated Abdool Aleem Rahim (3-1) in the semis. Rahim had gotten the better of nineyear-old Jasmine Billingy in the quarterfinal. Persaud, on the other hand, had gotten past Mark Evans (3-1) in the other semi-final clash. Both Evans and Rahim had claimed a third-place finish.

Dover praises Guyana’s U-20 men’s team for showing at CONCACAF qualifiers HEAD coach Wayne Dover, reflecting on Guyana’s campaign at the just-concluded CONCACAF U-20 Championship Qualifiers in Nicaragua, believes that there’s much to build on going forward for the country’s football programme, while showering his praise for their astounding performance. “To me, it was a good campaign. It went down to the last game in the group to determine the winners and it was very competitive,” Dover shared upon his return from the Central American country. Guyana had a exciting run in the qualifiers – whipping Montserrat 6-0 in their opening game, then they returned to outplay St Vincent and the Grenadines 3-0, and then played to an impressive 2-0 win against the US Virgin Islands, before going down hard to Nicaragua in their final game, 0-1. “A game that started at a very high tempo with both teams battling for supremacy,” Dover said, while being nostalgic about his game against Nicaragua. “It was Guyana who created the first opening when Osafa Simpson was fed a rich pass into the penalty box. He turned and was about to shoot to goal when

he was kicked from the side straight to ankle and went down to the ground, with the referee totally ignoring the incident and waved play on,” Dover recalled. Dover pointed out that Guyana won the early tactical battle with the game plan employed - to be compact and squeeze the Nicaraguans in the midfield to prevent them time and space on the ball to play a long diagonal pass out to the wings, “which they mastered throughout the earlier group games to score eight of their 14 goals before the encounter with us.” mentor The National U-20 coach said his side was able neutralise the Nicaraguans from making the play they were most comfortable with, adding, “We took their game away. Our play in the transition was effective where we made penetration to get behind them. “It was at a moment of defending in midfield in the first half, approximately 20 minutes in, that Jemar Harrigan blocked a pass low down with his thigh and subsequently got red-carded. Guyana played 25+ minutes with 10 men. That moment swung the game in Nicaragua’s favour giving them the upper hand in numbers.” Dover said that despite the numerical disadvantage

“we continued to work hard and defended stoutly to deny them space. Eventually, the half ended 0-0”. Recalling the game’s second-half action, Dover revealed that Nicaragua came out and pushed forward relentlessly to try to break Guyana down, and the extra man provided the opportunity that the Spanish-speaking country took to score the only goal of the game. Guyana continued to fight, Dover said, “pushing higher up the field in search of a goal and during that period, we created two chances that we didn’t capitalise on to pull a draw or record a famous comeback win.” Dover thanked the GFF for affording him the opportunity to work with the talented group, while also thanking Technical Director Ian Greenwood for his support throughout the campaign. “I want to thank coach Márcio Máximo for his advice and support to merge many sessions with the seniors, which helped greatly. I want to thank all the technical staff members who worked with the team. “We were good team behind a great young team. I want to thank the players for the heart showed in all the battle they fought in this campaign,” Dover said.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 26, 2020

One-off Test Match

Dominant Bangladesh crush Zimbabwe by innings and 106 runs

DHAKA, Bangladesh (Reuters) - Bangladesh crushed Zimbabwe by an innings and 106 runs in the one-off Test yesterday to register their first victory in this five-day format in 15 months. Having bowled out Zimbabwe for 265 in their first innings, Bangladesh effectively batted the tourists out of the match when they declared on 560-6 with a handsome lead of 295 runs. Spinners Nayeem Hasan (5-82) and Taijul Islam (478) ran through the Zimba-

bwe lineup to skittle them out for 189 on the fourth day and give Mominul Haque his first victory as Test captain. Mushfiqur Rahim was adjudged man-of-the-match for his unbeaten 203 but off-spinner Nayeem, who finished with a match-haul of nine wickets, was equally impressive. “Obviously, we needed to win this match and I’m very happy the way we played,” Mominul, who scored 132, said at the presentation ceremony.

SCORECARD

ZIMBABWE 1st innings 265 BANGLADESH 1st innings 560 for 6 declared) ZIMBABWE 2nd innings Prince Masvaure b Nayeem Hasan 0 Kevin Kasuza c Mohammad Mithun b Taijul Islam 0 Donald Tiripano c Liton Das b Nayeem Hasan 0 Brendan Taylor c Taijul Islam b Nayeem Hasan ` 17 Craig Ervine run-out Mominul Haque 43 Sikandar Raza c Mushfiqur Rahim b Taijul Islam 37 Timycen Maruma c Tamim Iqbal b Nayeem Hasan 41 Regis Chakabva c Tamim Iqbal b Taijul Islam 18 Ainsley Ndlovu lbw Nayeem Hasan 4 Charlton Tshuma lbw Taijul Islam 3 Victor Nyauchi not out 7 Extras: (b-9) 9 Total: (all out, 57.3 overs) 189 Fall of wickets: 1-0, 2-0, 3-15, 4-44, 5-104, 6-121, 7-165, 8-170, 9-181. Bowling: Nayeem Hasan 24-6-82-5, Taijul Islam 24.37-78-4, Abu Jayed 4-3-4-0, Ebadat Hossain 5-1-16-0.

09:56 hrs Lady Master 10:26 hrs Smackwater Jack 10:56 hrs Commodore 11:26 hrs Across The Line

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“I try to score and help the team post a big total.” Zimbabwe captain Craig Ervine, who struck a century in the first innings, was disappointed how his team mates failed to convert their starts into big innings. “It was nice to get some runs, but it was a disappointing game that we now need to put behind us and move forward,” he said.

Spinner Nayeem Hasan celebrates a dismissal in his 5 for 82 (BCB photo)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 26, 2020

Kohli, Bairstow, Gayle named for Asia XI v World XI matches

VIRAT Kohli is likely to be available for one match for the Asia XI side that will take on a World XI in the twomatch T20I series in Dhaka next month, as part of the nationwide celebrations to mark the birth centenary of Sheikh Mujibur Rehman, often referred to as the father of the nation. Kohli is among six Indian players named in the Asia XI side, with KL Rahul also scheduled for a one-match appearance. Shikhar Dhawan, Rishabh Pant, Kuldeep Yadav and Mohammed Shami have been included for both the matches. BCB president Nazmul Hassan announced the names of the players in Dhaka yesterday, naming Faf du Plessis, Chris Gayle, Rashid Khan and Jonny Bairstow among the members of the World XI side. However, although BCB said Kohli would play one game, ESPNcricinfo understands the BCCI is still waiting for the India captain to confirm his participation. Workload management remains an issue with Kohli in particular, with India having a packed schedule. India’s second Test against

New Zealand is scheduled to end on March 4, and their threematch home ODI series against South Africa runs from March 12 to 18. The two matches in Dhaka are fixed for March 21 and 22, and the IPL starts on March 29.

Kohli will play one game each, but that hasn’t been finalised. “Players Rashid Khan and Mujeeb Ur Rahman have finalised with us, from Afghanistan. Nepal’s Sandeep Lamichhane will play while from Sri Lanka, we will have Lasith Malinga

Virat Kohli and Chris Gayle (Photo Credits: Getty Images)

Hassan also explained that the squads didn’t include any Pakistan players because they would be busy with the PSL, with the tournament final scheduled on March 22. “We have already received four names from India,” Hassan said. “We haven’t signed contracts but Rishabh Pant, Kuldeep Yadav, Shikhar Dhawan and Mohammed Shami are supposed to come. They have said KL Rahul and Virat

and Thisara Perera. From Bangladesh, we will have Tamim Iqbal, Mushfiqur Rahim, Mustafizur Rahman, Mahmudullah and Liton Das.” “I don’t remember all the names, but we will have three or four players from South Africa. Definitely, there will be the same number of players from West Indies. Australia and New Zealand will be playing but we will try to find some (players).

“Bairstow is definitely coming. Ngidi is coming. Chris Gayle is supposed to play. Faf du Plessis. We will have some of the best players around. We are uncertain about Pakistan since the PSL is will be ongoing. We will invite some of the cricketing greats.” While Hassan named all the players linked with the Asia XI, it has been learnt that the BCB is also contacting Kieron Pollard, Nicholas Pooran, Sheldon Cottrell, Brendan Taylor, Alex Hales, Andrew Tye and Mitchell McClenaghan, apart from the names mentioned already. Tentative squads Asia XI: KL Rahul, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Thisara Perera, Lasith Malinga, Rashid Khan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Mustafizur Rahman, Tamim Iqbal, Mushfiqur Rahim, Liton Das, Sandeep Lamichhane, Mahmudullah World XI: Alex Hales, Chris Gayle, Faf du Plessis, Nicholas Pooran, Brendan Taylor, Jonny Bairstow, Kieron Pollard, Sheldon Cottrell, Lungi Ngidi, Andrew Tye, Mitchell McClenaghan. (ESPN Cricinfo)

Scorpions off-spinners Campbell and Salmon suspended over illegal bowling actions ST JOHN’S, Antigua, (CMC) – Jamaica Scorpions will be without off-spinners Peat Salmon and John Campbell, for the time being, after the two were suspended because of illegal bowling actions. C r i c k e t We s t I n d i e s (CWI) confirmed Monday that as a result of Opinion Reports by independent assessors at Loughborough University, the pair have been suspended from bowling in domestic West Indies matches with immediate effect. The assessments revealed that the bowling actions of Campbell and Salmon exceeded the 15 degrees level of tolerance permitted under playing regulations. Campbell and Salmon will remain suspended until such time as their actions are found to be legal, either by an Opinion Report from Loughborough or by an independent analysis from an accredited testing centre, in accordance with the CWI Regulations for Dealing with Suspected Illegal Bowling Actions. They are to undergo remedial work supervised by

the Scorpions franchise and can apply for a reassessment after modifying their bowling actions in accordance with the Regulations. Salmon, 27, was reported for a suspect bowling action during the Regional Four-Day Championship fourth-round match between the Scorpions and Guyana Jaguars from February 6 to 9 at the Guyana National Stadium.

first-ever win over the fivetime reigning champions in the professional era of the domestic tournament. Salmon also was adjudged Player of the Match for that performance in his debut against Jaguars. Campbell, meantime, was reported for a suspect bowling action during the first-round match between the Scorpions and hosts Trinidad & Tobago Red

Jamaica Scorpions off-spinner Pat Salmon

His action was cited by match officials after he took 7 for 57 in the second innings to end with match figures of 8 for 110 during the contest, which the Scorpions won by seven runs. It was the team’s

Force from January 9 to 12 at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy. The 26-year-old West Indies Test opening batsman was cited by match officials after he captured

1 for 54 from 19 overs during the match, which ended in a draw. Jamaica Scorpions are third in the six-team championships on 57.4 points going into round six.

Warner says Australia on track for T20 World Cup success CAPE TOWN, South Africa (Reuters) - Top batsman David Warner reckons Australia’s Twenty20 team are well on course for World Cup success later in the year as they go into the last game of their threematch T20 series in South Africa today.

Australia top batsman David Warner

“ We a r e d e f i n i t e ly on track. You go back 18 months ago, even further back than that, people weren’t even rating us as a top five-ranked team. But given the schedule, it was difficult to put out our best team all the time. “But over the last 18 months we’ve established a really strong side, and we’ve consistently put out our best team every time we’ve played, and I think we’ve focussed very well on the World Cup,” he told reporters yesterday. Australia, who host the T20 World Cup from October 18 to November 15, had won eight games in a row before losing to South

Africa by 12 runs in Port Elizabeth on Sunday. That levelled the threematch series at 1-1 going into today’s final game at Newlands. “We’ve got a great balance in our team right now. There is a lot of credit due to the bowling unit, especially the two spinners (Ashton Agar and Adam Zampa) who’ve really worked well together. Finchy (captain Aaron Finch) has used the bowlers at the right time as well, so we are being led in the right direction,” he said. “Our batting speaks for itself. We have great depth there and I feel we are very experienced... We don’t rely on one or two players. We’ve got 11 match winners and that’s the exciting thing about it.” Today’s game is a first return to the ground where Warner allegedly masterminded a plot to tamper with the ball using sandpaper during a Test against South Africa two years ago, for which he and captain Steve Smith were banned for a year by Cricket Australia. Smith and Warner have received little backlash from spectators in the opening two T20 games in Johannesburg and Port Elizabeth in their first trip to South Africa since. “I didn’t cop anything out on the fence. The fans have been very respectful,” said Warner. “The past is the past. We’ve just got to focus on what is ahead of us.”

Women’s T20 World Cup

Pakistan hoping to exploit Windies’ penchant for hitting big CANBERRA, Australia (CMC) – When Pakistan go up against West Indies in their first match of this year’s Women’s T20 Cricket World Cup today, they plan to make the Caribbean side’s proclivity for hitting big work in their favour. All-rounder Nida Dar said that after watching the Windies play Thailand in their tournament opener last weekend and seeing them struggle to rotate strike against the newcomers, she believes her side can capitalise on the six-hitting bravado of the Windies Women. “West Indies want to show their skills, because they are strong, and hit a boundary from every ball,” said Nida. “They were very disturbed by the pace Thailand bowled to them. Slower balls and variations can be very helpful for us against

them as they try to hit hard every time. Maybe in our match they’ll adapt to conditions and try to rotate the strike. Asian teams are giv-

Pakistani all-rounder Nida Dar

ing tough times to everyone at the World Cup and our spinners will try to do the same.” The Bismah Maroof-led squad have an average age of 25 and fewer combined caps

than all the T20 World Cup teams, apart from Sri Lanka and Thailand. But Nida, whose Big Bash League experience with Sydney Thunder will be crucial for her side, is confident she and her teammates have what it takes. “Our youth is the best thing about our team. West Indies won’t know all of our players and some of them will be a surprise package,” said the 33-year-old. “I’m in a team of very talented players with a mix of senior and junior players. I hope they’re looking forward to playing at the World Cup. We just want to show our skills.” Pakistan play West Indies here today at Manuka Oval, starting 19:00hrs local time (04:00hrs Eastern Caribbean Time/03:00hrs Jamaica Time).

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 26, 2020

Wilder blames ring-walk costume for defeat DEONTAY Wilder has blamed his elaborate ring-walk costume for his WBC heavyweight title defeat by Tyson Fury. The American, 34, said his costume was too heavy and as a result he “didn’t have the legs” for the fight. Britain’s Fury, 31, produced a dominant display to win the title in Las Vegas on Saturday when Wilder’s corner threw in the towel in the seventh round. Wilder also told US media he will exercise his rematch clause for a third fight against Fury. “Fury didn’t hurt me at all, but the simple fact is that my uniform was way too heavy for me,” Wilder told Yahoo.

Wilder said the costume, which featured armour, a mask and a crown,

“I didn’t have no legs from the beginning of the fight - in the third

He also criticised assistant trainer Mark Breland for stopping the fight. “I am upset with Mark

throw the towel in with me because I’m a special kind. I still had five rounds left. No matter what it

Deontay Wilder said his costume was a tribute to Black History Month

weighed at least 40 pounds (18.1kg) and was a tribute to Black History Month. Fury was carried to the ring on a throne, while also wearing a crown.

round, my legs were just shot all the way through,” added Wilder. “I was only able to put it on (for the first time) the night before but I

GSSF, Orinduik Development to host 3rd annual Practical Shoot LOCAL shooters can now prepare for some upcoming action, as the 3rd annual Guyana Sport Shooting Foundation (GSSF)/Orinduik Development Inc. host their upcoming Practical Shooting match. Orinduik Development, the Guyanese-owned company currently building Guyana’s first commercial Heliport on the Lusignan

didn’t think it was going to be that heavy. “I wanted it to be good and I guess I put that be-

Coast, again threw its support behind the GSSF and continues to promote sport shooting in Guyana. During last Friday’s presentation ceremony at the company’s Barrack Street, Kingston Georgetown head office, GSSF Directors extended sincerest gratitude to Mr Brian Backer and the Board of Directors of Orinduik Development Inc. for

their kind sponsorship. Both parties acknowledged the ongoing relationship which continues to grow and also to play a role in the development of the local sport-shooting fraternity. The upcoming shoot is the second tournament hosted by the GSSF for 2020 and is open to all established practical shooters.

Tyson Fury was carried to the ring on a throne

fore anything.” Fury floored Wilder with a jab and right-hand combination in the third round before a left hand to the body sent the previously unbeaten Wilder down again in the fifth. Wilder was taken to hospital after the fight but said he did not suffer a concussion, broken ear drum or broken jaw as had been speculated, but did require stitches to close a cut in his ear.

for the simple fact that we’ve talked about this many times and it’s not emotional,” he said. “It is not an emotional thing, it’s a principle thing. We’ve talked about this situation many, many years before this even happened. “I said as a warrior, as a champion, as a leader, as a ruler, I want to go out on my shield. “So I told my team to never, ever, no matter what it may look like, to never

looked like, I was still in the fight.” “I understand he was looking out for me and trying to do what he felt was right, but this is my life and my career and he has to accept my wishes.” Wilder has 30 days to invoke the rematch clause in his contract in order to try and reclaim the title from Fury, having drawn their first encounter in December 2018. (BBC Sport)

Motie…returns to Jaguars colours for important Round 6 clash Akshay Persaud also included

Mr Brian Backer of Orinduik Development Inc. (left) hands over sponsorship cheque to Mr Andrew Phang, Assistant secretary/treasurer and Director of the GSSF, in the presence of secretary Mrs Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon

LEFT-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie was named in Guyana Jaguars 13-man squad ahead of tomorrow’s start to Round 6 of the Cricket West Indies (CWI) Regional 4-Day Tournament. The Jaguars who are currently in Jamaica, battle the number 3 positioned Scorpions in a return grudge match; having defeated the defending champions back in Round 4 at the Providence stadium Motie, a former West Indies U-19 player was recalled after not being named in the side for the first half of the tournament. With 29 1st class matches under his belt, the Berbician is just one away from 100 wickets at this level and given his phenomenal record of 4 5-wicket hauls and a career-best of 11-105, it’s possible that he could

play a huge role over the next few days. Akshay Persaud was also named in the 13 as leg-spinner Devendra Bishoo misses out this round, making Motie’s spot in the starting XI almost certain.

for the Sri Lanka T20s. Guyana Jaguars Team reads: Ta g e n a r i n e C h a n derpaul, Chandrapaul Hemraj, Leon Johnson, Christopher Barnwell, Raymon Reifer, Kevin

Gudakesh Motie is set to return to action in Round 6

After playing in the last round, West Indies batsman Shimron Hetmyer will also miss this round after passing his fitness test and being recalled to the team

Sinclair, Gudakesh Motie, Vishaul Singh, Anthony Bramble, Akshay Persaud, Niall Smith and Keon Joseph. (Clifton Ross)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 26, 2020

CWI PCL Regional 4-Day tournament Round 6

Jaguars on the prowl for revenge versus ‘Salmon-less’ Scorpions, as eventful 6th round looms By Clifton Ross STAKES for the defending champions Guyana Jaguars have never been higher as they seek retribution against the Jamaica Scorpions, minus off-spinner Peat Salmon, come tomorrow, when they clash at the Trelawny Multi-purpose Stadium, Greenfields, Jamaica. Salmon, the difference-maker last time the two sides met, bagged 8 wickets in Round 4 to condemn the defending champions to a loss on their home turf at the National Stadium; Providence, in what was a pretty low-scoring match where no team achieved the 200-run mark. At that time, Guyana were sitting in the number one spot while the Scorpions languished in last place. Following Salmon’s heroics which landed him the MVP award, Jamaica gained some momentum and took it into their match against Leeward Hurricanes whom they whipped by some 5 wickets in the last round. Fast-forward to Round 6

and Scorpions have clawed their way to the number 3 spot on the points table with 57.4 points while the champs were bumped to second place with 60.8; making this encounter statistically crucial for both teams. During the break, both teams were hit with blows which in the end will affect Scorpions more than it will Guyana. Jags skipper Leon Johnson and pacer Niall Smith were both fined for showing dissent during Round 5, following being given out by umpires. However, it’s the Jamaicans who have been dealt a stiffer blow, after the pair of Salmon and part-timer and captain John Campbell were both handed bowling suspensions which immediately prevent both off-spinners from bowling until further notice. Salmon, the lanky off-spinner who is built like a wiry type fast-bowler, was called by umpires in Guyana for suspect action, which was later confirmed. Campbell, Windies opener and part-time spin option, was reported during

Guyana Jaguars captain Leon Johnson

Round 1 versus the Trinidad &Tobago Red Force. Given Salmon’s impact versus Guyana a few matches ago, it will be interesting to see who Scorpions choose as his replacement. If anything, the Jamaicans should be worried about Jaguars batting which is hitting that danger mark which isn’t a good sign for other teams. Johnson, after a stop-start few rounds, reminded the masses why he was selected for both Tests and One Day Internationals (ODI) for the West Indies a few years ago. The left-hander stroked a majestic, career-best 189 not out to put the frosting on the champs’ batting cake; as he was the only top-order batsman to really fail to play in accordance with his talent and record at this level. Arguably, the most slept on batsman in the Jags team and possibly the competition is Chris Barnwell. Currently the leading run-getter for Guyana and 4th overall with 372 runs, the veteran all-rounder, who had been looking to make a big score, smashed a belligerent

107 to complement his captain’s return to form. Out-of-favour Windies Test batsman Jermaine Blackwood, middle-order batsman Nkrumah Bonner and skipper Campbell, who will now have more time to focus on his batting; will be the key players to watch out for. Blackwood and Bonner particularly, have been the backbone of the batting with the other batsmen mostly playing supporting roles so far. Jags and tournament-leading spinner Veerasammy Permaul will be seeking to add more victims to his current tally of 30 while speedster Smith will also be keen on taking his current tally of 19 into the 20s by the end of Round 6. The Scorpions enter the match with a psychological advantage, having beaten the Guyana Jaguars twice during the last two recent encounters - making this one an all-important bout as both teams looking to secure the number one position, with the season coming to an end shortly. Action bowls off tomorrow.

Yearwood’s half-century guides Demerara to four-wicket win Gnabry scores twice as Bayern dominate Chelsea GCB Under-17 Inter-County tournament …

SHAMAR Yearwood stroked an unbeaten half-century which, in the end, was pivotal as his team handed the Select Under-15 team a four-wicket defeat to get their campaign underway in this year’s Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) U-17 Inter-county competition. Batting first at the Everest ground, the Select U-15 team, comprising the best performers in the recently concluded U-15 Inter-county tourney, had their baptism by fire, and will be punching in a much higher division over the next few rounds. The lads were knocked over for a measly 112 in 45.2 overs with Sanjay Algoo (10), Matthew Pottaya (13) and Nityanand Mathura (14) as the only batters to reach double digits. It was a collective bowling outing by the Demerara

U-17 boys who were led by 3 wickets apiece from spinner Zachary Jodah and Chandrapaul Ramraj while Romel Datterdeen (2-22) along with

Rudranauth Kissoon (2-18), added the cherry on the cake. Demerara had a few hiccups from the start of the chase, losing their top 5 bats-

Shamar Yearwood’s 54 piloted Demerara to an easy win over the Select U-15 (Adrian Narine photo)

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ANSWERS TO YESTERDAY’S QUIZ: WI won against Thailand by 7 wickets Stefanie Taylor (WI) TODAY’S QUIZ: (1) Who has the distinction of hitting the first fifty in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2020? (2) Who took the first 4-wicket haul? (1) (2)

ANSWERS IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE

men with the total well under 40, thanks to Josh Alves (2-21) and Pottaya (2-30); who both continued their exceptional form with the ball from the U-15s. Despite the collapse, Yearwood braved the elements and launched a brutal counter-attack which was decorated with four fours and four sixes, ending on 54 not out off 71 balls. The wicketkeeper’s unbeaten knock was enough to get Demerara over the line and helped them draw first blood. The next round is set for tomorrow. (Clifton Ross)

CHELSEA’S Champions League campaign is surely over after they were brutally outclassed by Bayern Munich in the last-16 first-leg tie at Stamford Bridge. The Bundesliga leaders followed in the footsteps of closest rivals RB Leipzig, who won at Tottenham at this same stage six days previously, by coming to the capital and producing a hugely impressive display. And, as when Bayern inflicted an historic 7-2 home defeat on Spurs in October, former Arsenal star Serge Gnabry was the tormentor-in-chief as he revelled on his return to London. The 24-year-old scored f o u r a t t h e To t t e n h a m Hotspur Stadium and he delivered the end product Bayern had threatened from the kick-off when he struck clinically twice early in the second half after being set up by the outstanding Robert Lewandowski. Lewandowski surely snuffed out any lingering hopes Chelsea had of a comeback when he finished off another sweeping attack, fed by the brilliant teenager Alphonso Davies. As if this was not enough, Chelsea’s misery was compounded by defender Marcos Alonso being sent off late on, after a clash with Lewandowski, after the experienced Jorginho had been ruled out of the second leg when he received a silly yellow card for dissent. Chelsea may have actually over-stretched themselves by getting out of a group con-

taining Valencia and Ajax, key results being a win over last season’s semi-finalists in Amsterdam and a freakish 4-4 draw at Stamford Bridge, when they came from 4-1 down.

When Chelsea had half-chances they could not convert them and when dangerous balls flew across the face of goal there was no-one on the end of them. Chelsea looked a well beaten side once the deadlock was broken by Gnabry six minutes after the break, and if there is any consolation, and in truth there is not, it is that the damage could have been a lot worse, such was the gulf in class. They pulled off a miracle to win the Champions League against Bayern in their own Allianz Arena in 2012 - but there is no evidence to suggest they will come anywhere near the result they require in the second leg.

Serge Gnabry

BAYERN SHOW HIGH QUALITY When Bayern were comfortably overcome 3-1 by Liverpool in the second leg of their last-16 meeting at home last season, they looked a tired side in need of rejuvenation. And while it is hard to take an accurate measure of just how good they are, given how poor Chelsea were, this was still mightily impressive. Lewandowski is a worldclass talent completely at home at this level while Gnabry is approaching full maturity. Thomas Muller, who looked past his best, looks re-born. And in 19-year-old Alphonso Davies they have a glorious young talent who has it all, raiding from left-back with pace, composure and end product. (BBC Sport)

This, however, was a step too far. The warning signs were flashing almost from the kickoff as Bayern, looking sharper and more inventive than the side well beaten by Liverpool at this same stage last season, sliced them apart. Chelsea somehow survived the first 45 minutes intact but the threat from the likes of Gnabry, Lewandowski and Kingsley Coman was evident, Thomas Muller coming closest with a header against the bar. It was no surprise when Bayern opened up Chelsea with precision for three second-half goals and Frank Lampard’s side simply had no answer in any area of the pitch.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, February 26, 2020

Persaud, Noel and Seaton set for CARIFTA Aquatic Championships SEASONED swimmers Raekwon Noel, Leon Seaton and reigning gold medallist Aleka Persaud will represent Guyana this year at the CARIFTA Aquatic Championships, billed for Barbados over the Easter holiday weekend in April. Persaud, who stormed to wins in the 50m freestyle, 100m freestyle and 100m butterfly in the 11-12 age category at the 2019 competition, will compete in the 13-14 age division this year. Both Noel and Seaton are experienced at the regional event. Persaud and Seaton would also jump to a new age division this year. The 15-year-old will swim in the 15-17 division. Noel, on the other hand, outstanding for club team Dorado Speed Swim Club at the ASATT Invitational Championships in Trini-

dad in December, is in his last year in the 13-14 age division. According to information from the Guyana Amateur Swimming Association (GASA) Elliott Gonsalves also qualified for the meet, but would not travel this year. Meanwhile all four swimmers were outstanding at the just concluded Mashramani Swimming Championships, held from Thursday to Saturday at the National Aquatic Centre in Liliendaal. DOMINANT NOEL Noel led the charge in the pool. The 14-year-old dominated the 13-14 age division with 10 gold and 1 silver in the long-course battle. Swimming in the 1314 age division, Noel won the 1500m freestyle in 18:00.40, way ahead of

club teammates Stephen Ramkhelawan 19:32.72 and Vladimir Woodroffe 19:43.14 The youngster also won the 200m backstroke (2:27.63), the 100m freestyle (59.76s), the 200m butterfly (2:25.24), the 100m backstroke (1:08.97), the 50m butterfly (28.15), the 400m free (4:32.80), the 200m free (2:07,56), the 50m backstroke (31.31s) and the 100m butterfly (1:04.03). He also claimed a silver medal in the 50m freestyle - his time of 27.53s was bettered only by Sea Otters’ Jaleel Anderson (27.19s). Silver Sharks Aquatic Club swimmer Seaton was impressive in the 15-17 age division. He won the 100m freestyle (57.54s), the 50m butterfly (28.54s), 200m free (2:06.81); 50m backstroke (30.18s); 100m butterfly

Several of the medal winners who dominated the Mashramani Swimming Championships

Some of the female age-division winners from the three-day championships

(1:03.87) and the 50m free (25.62s) Orca Speed Swim Club’s Persaud also won each of her four races. She finished first in the 1314 200m IM in a time of 2:45.41; first in the 200m free (2:23.12); first in the 50m breaststroke (39.09s) and first in the 100m free (1:04.36). Dorado swimmer Gonsalves (13 years old) won the 200m IM 2:30.39 in the 13-14 age division; the 50m breaststroke (36.12s); the 100m breaststroke (1:20.04); the 200m breaststroke (2:55.03); while he finished second in the 200m butterfly (2:31.50); second in the 400m free (4:49.89); second in the 200m free (2:13.00); third in the 100m free (1:01.89) and third 50m back (33.35s); Sixty-two finals were held over the three days

and several other swimmers dominated their age divisions. OUTSTANDING ZARA AND LEWIS Zara Crane (Dorado) and Shareefah Lewis (Sea Otters) were the most outstanding females in the pool. Both youngsters stormed to nine gold medals each. Crane was outstanding in the 11-12 female division. She won the 200m IM (3:04.00); the 50m breaststroke (42.43s); the 100m free (1:13.53); 100m backstroke (1:27.96); 100m breaststroke (1:32.18); 200m breaststroke (3:15.62); 400m free (5:57.68); 200m free (2:41.51) and 100m butterfly (1:28:06). Lewis, swimming in the 9-10 category, won the 200m IM (3:08.78); the 50m breaststroke (45.09); 100m free (1:17.87); 100m back (1:26:22); 50m butterfly

34.75s); 200m free (2:51.31); 50m back (38:23); 100m breaststroke (1:40.82) and the 50m free (33:03). Several other swimmers finished with gold medals, including Giselle Crane, Donna Carter, Monique Watson, Fitzroy Thom, Daniel Scott, Maya Ifill, Athalcy Hunte, Heaven Belony, Aydin Jackson, Kyra Soares, Ahkiel McKoy, Jerome Sookram, Jonathan Sookram, Jessica Sookram, Nikita Peters, Andrew Skeete, Micaiah Enoe, Hashim Mohamed, Darius Williams, Leah Terborg, Michael Thompson; Safiya Foster, Darion Pereira; Stephon Ramkhelawan, Andrew Jordan, Phillip Dimitri, Deshawna Williams, Aarav Singh, Alex Bentham, Ausar Tzedeq, Ariel Rodrigues, Safiya Foster, Delia George and Kayla Hardy.

Cuba demolish Honduras in Group C Women’s U-20 battle Reggae Girlz secure spot in second

SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic (CMC) – Cuba secured a 6-1 victory against Honduras as action in Group C of the Women’s

A Giselle Guzman own goal in the 53th minute stretched the lead to 3-0, but Honduras would pull a goal back a minute later, through

opening match victors, the United States came away with a 4-0 win over the Dominican Republic. The U.S. was aided by a

Katheryn Rodríguez (wearing #9) of Cuba celebrates with her teammates after scoring against the Hondurans.

Under-20 Championship (CUW) continued on Monday at the Estadio Olimpico Felix Sanchez here. Maristania Mengana opened the scoring for the Spanish side in the 21st minute before Analia Cespedes doubled the margin in the 44th.

Maylin Menjivar. However, any thoughts of a Honduras comeback fell by the wayside as a second goal from Cespedes, followed by goals from Katheryn Rodriguez and Cecil Aldana sealed the win for the Cubans. Earlier, in a battle of the

quick start, as a pair of Mia Fishel goals in the third and twelfth minutes sandwiched a score from Rebecca Jarrett in the eighth. The four-time CUW champions then capped the day with a goal in the 65th minute from Brianna Pint.

round of U-20 Championship

SAN CRISTOBAL, Dominican Republic (CMC) – Jamaica’s Reggae Girlz have progressed to the knockout phase of the CONCACAF Women’s Under-20 Championship after a 4-1 win over El Salvador in their Group E fixture here on Monday. Jody Brown was quick out of the gates at the Estadio Panamericano, with goals in the second and 11th minutes that gave Jamaica a 2-0 lead. El Salvador fought back to make it a onegoal affair right before halftime, thanks to a score from Mara Rodriguez. But Jamaica’s class came to the fore in the second half, as goals from Lacey Murray and Chantelle paced them to the victory.

The group’s other game saw Guatemala and Canada battle to a 0-0 draw. Guatemala put on an impressive defensive display in limiting the dangerous

both Jamaica and Canada on four points, while Guatemala have two points and El Salvador have zero. A c t i o n re s u m e s i n

Jody Kimone Brown of Jamaica (right) scored two goals in the 4-1 win against El Salvador

Canadian attack, thanks also in part to the heroics of goalkeeper Ashley Avalos. The day’s results leave

Group E today with Guatemala taking on El Salvador, while Canada square off against Jamaica.

Johnson surges to two trophies in Forbes Burnham Memorial Table Tennis … Persaud wins ‘C’ division

Elishaba Johnson claimed victories in the ‘B’ and U-21 divisions

Narren Persaud (left) defeated Umar Percival in the ‘C’ division final.

CONCACAF U-20 Championship

Lady Jags through to knockout stage with 2-1 win over Puerto Rico GUYANA roared to an impressive 2–1 win over Puerto Rico yesterday in the Dominican Republic, to remain unbeaten in the CONCACAF U-20 Women’s Championship. The tournament which also serves as a qualifier for this year’s FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, saw Guyana, after playing to a scoreless first half, got their first score on the board, compliments of an own goal from Christina Rogue in the 54th minute. Dr Ivan Joseph, coach of the Lady Jags, saw his ladies getting the go-ahead in the 81st minute from Audrey Narine. Puerto Rico, who were resilient in their effort to get back into the game, saw Gabrielle Cimino find the back of the net in the 87th minute, but, it was not enough for a comeback, as Guyana defended well to hold on to victory. With the win, Guyana are already assured a place in the tournament’s knockout stage which begins on February 29, but, Lady Jags will want to end the Group-stage on a flawless note, and will look to do so tomorrow, when they face Mexico in their final Group D game. (Rawle Toney)

Dover praises Guyana’s U-20 men’s team for showing at CONCACAF 34 qualifiers

FLASHBACK! Some members of the Guyana

team celebrating their 3-0 win over St Vincent and the Grenadines

PAGE

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2020