Guyana_Chronicle_Epaper_03_11_2021 by Guyana Chronicle

WEDNESDAY 3rd November, 2021

' No.106534

Guyana eyes 70 per cent reduction in carbon emissions by 2030 03 PAGE

–– President Ali says, reiterates call for developed world to fulfil climate financing commitments

Guyana signs pact to protect forests from destruction

$665M in contracts signed to enhance ‘agri’ sector 13 PAGE

St. George’s student excels at CSEC

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St George’s High student, Beyonce Wyatt

Guyana to seek investors for luxury-branded eco-tourism facilities

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, November 3, 2021

Scenes from President Ali’s engagements with foreign officials at COP26

EVEN as he made his official address to the 26th meeting of the Confer-

ence of Parties (COP26) to the United Nations Framework Conven-

tion on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in Scotland, President Dr. Irfaan Ali

also found time to meet with foreign officials, as he continued to cham-

pion Guyana’s expanded Low Carbon Development Strategy 2030

(LCDS 2030) which was recently launched in Guyana.

(Office of the President photos)

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali met the Prince of Wales, His Royal Highness Prince Charles, and the Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, Baroness Patricia Scotland, at the Scottish Event Campus (SEC) in Glasgow, Scotland

During discussions with the Minister of European Neighbourhood and the Americas (Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office) in the United Kingdom, Wendy Morton and her team, President Ali outlined Guyana’s plan to mitigate the effects of climate change and spoke about areas of urgent attention for the country, as well as the rest of the Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

Guyana signs pact to protect forests from destruction

Dr. Irfaan Ali was also interviewed by Cathy Newman of the UK’s Channel 4. During the interview, he spoke of Guyana’s carbon credit arrangement with Norway, the need for the international community and private sector to engage in compensation for maintaining forests, and Guyana’s confidence in Brazil for its part in the deforestation commitment

PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan Ali joined over 100 world leaders in signing a sustainable land use pact at the United Nations 26th Conference of Parties on Climate Change (COP26) in Glasgow, Scotland on Tuesday. “The COP26 World Leaders Summit, ‘Action on Forests and Land Use’, event brought together an unprecedented alliance of governments, companies, financial actors, and non-state leaders to raise ambition on forests and land-use,” said the United Kingdom in an Online policy paper. The world leaders committed to working together to halt and reverse forest loss and land degradation by 2030.

“We urge all leaders to join forces in a sustainable land use transition. This is essential to meeting the Paris Agreement goals, including reducing vulnerability to the impacts of climate change, and holding the increase in the global average temperature to well below 2°C, and pursuing efforts to limit it to 1.5°C, the supporting countries said. Science shows further acceleration of efforts is needed if the world is to collectively keep 1.5°C within reach. “Together we can succeed in fighting climate change, delivering resilient and inclusive growth, and halting and reversing forest loss and land degradation,” countries related.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, November 3, 2021

Guyana eyes 70 per cent reduction in carbon emissions by 2030 –– President Ali says, reiterates call for developed world to fulfil climate financing commitments

AS the world continues to contend with the challenges created by climate change, President Dr. Irfaan Ali has said that Guyana will work with local communities to conserve, protect and sustainably manage its forests, biodiversity and freshwater supplies, and at the same time reduce its carbon emissions by at least 70 per cent by 2030. During his address to world leaders at the 26th United Nations Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26) in Glasgow, Scotland, President Ali said that the reduction in carbon emissions will be achieved through a “cleaner” energy mix, which will include solar power, wind, ‘hydro’ and natural gas. The Guyana Head of State elucidated that Guyana is already playing its part in addressing climate change, and will continue to do so. And, in doing so, the country will maintain its diverse forest, which is almost the size of England and Scotland combined, and stores 20 gigatons of carbon. President Ali reminded that efforts to limit the earth’s temperature increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, which is enshrined in Article 2 of the

2016 Paris Climate Accord as the world’s official goal for how much it is agreed that the planet warms, are far behind. The President was adamant that world leaders could use COP26 to change the present trajectory. Climate change presents an ultimatum to world leaders to either take immediate, drastic action, or otherwise subject humanity to an infernal global disaster, so the decisions made at COP26, in President Ali’s view, will determine the fate of civilisation. Warning that indifference amongst stakeholders, or their inaction will be costly to the world at large, Dr. Ali related that the coming decade must be one of decisive action. “Climate change affects us all; rich, poor, developed and developing states, but its effects are more severe on the poorest and most vulnerable, especially small island developing states, and low-lying coastal states. For us, it is a question of survival,” he said. It is for this reason that President Ali advised that there must be immediate action on three fronts. The first, he said, is that countries must set more ambitious goals to reduce emissions, which must be honoured, with the

world’s foremost polluters playing a greater part to institute steeper emission cuts. Secondly, he charged that the pledge made in 2009 at COP15 in Copenhagen, where it was agreed that developed countries will deliver climate financing of $100 billion a year by 2020 to developing countries, must be met. On this note, President Ali warned that dishonoured pledges are a recipe for disaster. Thirdly, he said that the forest constitutes a “powerful arsenal” in the fight against climate change, and it is for this reason that forest-risk countries must be provided with incentives which are necessary to keep their forests intact, and to reduce deforestation and forest degradation. “Mindful that deforestation contributes 16 per cent to annual global emissions, and in recognition of the ecosystem and climate services provided by forests, it is imperative that we finalise the rules for carbon markets and REDD+ so as to properly value tropical forests, and the climate services which they provide,” President Ali related. Those recommendations made by the Head of State are in line with the goals of COP26.

“We are at a historic moment in our civilisation. History must not judge us as having only counted our losses; it must instead herald our efforts to confront one of our planet’s greatest threats: Climate change,” President Ali said. To see that the goals intended to combat climate change are met, Guyana is prepared to work with the international community for collective action, and support the position of a number of regional and international organisations which have a mandate to prevent actions which contribute to climate change. “We support the position of CARICOM, and are aligned with the Alliance for Small Island States (AOSIS), the Community of Latin America and Caribbean States [CELAC], the Leticia Pact, the DHAKA-Glasgow Declaration, and the Glasgow Leaders’ Declaration on Forest and Land Use among others,” Dr. Ali said. While some might argue that Guyana’s position on climate change might be conflicting, as the country is now rapidly pursuing oil exploration and production in a bid to propel the small South American nation’s development, the country has crafted a blueprint which

President Dr. Irfaan Ali delivering his address at the 26th United Nations Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26) in Glasglow, Scotland on Tuesday will allow it to pursue its system services and social economic development, and inclusion, all through the at the same time achieve its expanded Low-Carbon Declimate goals. velopment Strategy. That blueprint is an up“Though we recently graded Low-Carbon Devel- became an oil producer, opment Strategy (LCDS) we support the removal of 2030, which was released subsidies from fossil fuel on Thursday last for public production, and advocate a consultation. strong global carbon price. Dr. Ali told world leaders Let future generations say in Glasglow that Guyana will when it mattered the most, also invest in low-carbon we made a difference,” he opportunities for jobs, eco- said.

Health Ministry records decrease in COVID-19 cases, hospitalisation, deaths RECENT statistics have shown a general decrease in COVID-19 cases in Guyana, Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony reported while providing the daily COVID-19 update on Tuesday. He said the decreased number of cases are reflected in the hospitalisation rates across the country. “Because we are getting less cases, we have also noticed that in our hospitalisation rates right now, we have 60 persons in hospitals across the country, 35 of them are at Ocean View

with 14 of them in the ICU. “So, this is a drastic change from what we had a couple weeks ago when we were seeing about 100-120 cases at Ocean View, that is now down to 35. We’ve also had up to 38 persons in the ICU and that has come down to about 14,” Dr. Anthony said. Of those persons who are hospitalised, three are pregnant women who are being monitored at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC). Dr. Anthony said that those patients have to be

monitored, as there could be challenges around the time of delivery. Further, he said that the downward trend continued with less COVID-19 deaths also being recorded. “With a decrease in hospitalisation for severe cases, we are also noticing that the death rates are going down and that also is a very important sign. The mortality rate right now is 12.2 per cent, or 12 persons to every 10,000 persons in the population… hopefully, in the next couple of weeks we will see this number go

down further and that’s what we are working on right now,” Dr. Anthony said. He said, however, that there are still some ‘hot spot areas’ countrywide. “We have noticed a trend where there has been a decline in cases across the country, so right now we have 2,673 active cases and the cases vary by regions, so the regions where I really would consider hot spots are in Region Three and Region Four. We also have in Region Eight and Region 10,” the Health Minister said. He related that in Region

Three, areas like Pouderoyen, Tuschen, Partfaite Harmonie, Parika, Crane, Zeelugt, Cornelia Ida, Vreeden-Hoop and Hague, have a higher number of cases. In Region Four, communities like Diamond, Grove, Herstelling, Kitty, Sophia, Campbellville, Cummings lodge, and the East Coast communities of Enterprise, Mon Repos and Triumph, are also considered hot spots. Mahdia in Region Eight and Wismar, Amelia’s Ward and McKenzie in Region 10 have a higher number

of cases than other parts of those regions. Meanwhile, in terms of vaccination, some 383,013 persons have taken the first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, representing 74.7 per cent of the adult population, and 245.932 have taken the second dose, amounting to 47.9 per cent of the adult population. Dr. Anthony is hopeful that persons who are yet to take the second dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine do so before they expire at the end of November. (DPI)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, November 3, 2021

Vice-President: Focus is on diverse, stable energy supply

POWER outages, or ‘blackouts’ as they are commonly called by Guyanese, have somewhat become a staple throughout the country, owing to some challenges long explained by the Guyana Government and the national electricity company, the Guyana Power & Light Inc. (GPL). The Guyana Government, however, envisions that through diversifying the country’s energy supply, a more stable electricity system could meet Guyanese

in the not-too-distant future. Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo on Monday outlined renewable energy measures which are part of the government’s broader effort of reducing carbon emissions from electricity generation. “The first big decarbonising option would be gas,” VP Jagdeo said during his press conference at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre at Liliendaal. “Gas is not totally renewable, but the introduction of renewable energy is not keeping

pace with the growth of energy demand,” the VP said. “Gas reduces the [carbon] emission by 50 per cent,” he added, noting that Guyana currently utilises fuel for energy with a significantly higher output of carbon emissions. On Monday, Cabinet granted its ‘no objection’ for the Office of the Prime Minister to engage China Railway Group Limited to construct the Amaila Falls Hydropower Project (AFHP), based on a Build-Own-Operate-Transfer (BOOT) model. Under this model, the company will supply electricity to GPL at a cost not exceeding US$0.07737 per kWh. Vice-President Jagdeo lamented the stagnation of the Amaila Falls Project under the previous A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) Government, which had fiercely criticised the project while in Parlia-

mentary Opposition before 2015. Despite the criticism by the APNU+AFC, the AFHP remained a bankable project. “When APNU got into office, they asked Norway to do another study. Norway said they did this study, and Amaila Falls is still the best option for meeting baseload renewable energy for Guyana,” VP Jagdeo pointed out. The Guyana Chronicle reported previously that in 2014, Norway, under its climate partnership with Guyana, transferred some US$80M to the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) to fund the project. Some of the money in question, which was initially set aside to fund the AFHP, could, however, be repurposed to support other renewable energy projects, the Vice-President noted on Monday. “The US$80-odd million that we had parked at the IDB was money that

should have been invested,” Dr. Jagdeo expressed, noting instead that this money, which was part of a broader US$100million financing, “is going to be used for large solar farms”. These solar farms will be implemented before 2024, he added. Commenting on Guyana’s current power generation capacity, Dr. Jagdeo said, “We have a problem now with the grid; we are doing the study, so that by next year, we can have an overall improvement of the grid, so that when all of this power comes in from Amaila, it’s stable; we don’t have all these blackouts.” The Guyana Government will also explore the inclusion of ‘smart’ grid technology which, the Vice-President said, can help reduce transmission and commercial losses, and ultimately lessen the carbon footprint. “Fibre will be in all the electricity lines, that you can sit in a control

Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo room and know, without having to send a crew out and get a report, when there is a power outage [in] any part of this country,” Vice-President Jagdeo said.

‘Bowfoot’ wanted for fraudulent misappropriation GIYCHAND Basdeo, called ‘Bowfoot’ is wanted by the Guyana Police Force (GPF) for questioning in relation to fraudulent misappropriation committed on Davindra Churaman, on

Wednesday, 3 November 02:30hrs - 04:00hrs WANTED: Giychand Basdeo, called ‘Bowfoot’ October 7, 2021, at Corriverton, Berbice. Basdeo’s last known address is lot 79, Number 78 Village, Corriverton. The GPF said anyone with information that may lead to his arrest is asked to contact the police on telephone numbers: 672-1390, 227-0968, 225-8196, 911, or the nearest police station. All information will be treated with the strictest confidence.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, November 3, 2021

Guyana to seek investors for luxury-branded eco-tourism facilities –– renowned UAE company engages authorities on potential in tourism, other sectors

THE Government of Guyana will soon advertise for Expressions of Interest for luxury-branded eco-tourism facilities, as it moves to further enhance the tourism and hospitality sector. This plan was revealed by Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce Oneidge Walrond during a virtual engagement with Maan Halabi, Managing Director of the Al Habtoor Group LLC, located in Abu Dhabi, capital of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Spearheading the meeting for Guyana was Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance Dr. Ashni Singh, who was joined by Minister Walrond and representatives of the local private sector. According to a press release from the Ministry of Finance, the virtual engagement with the company was a follow-up to meetings first held in Dubai during a visit by President Dr. Irfaan Ali and a team of government ministers for the Dubai 2020 Expo. The Al Habtoor Group is one of the UAE’s most respected and successful businesses that not only provides engineering and construction services, but also operates in the hospitality, automotive, real estate, education and publishing sectors, with vast investments in tourism. During President

Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance Dr. Ashni Singh; Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce Oneidge Walrond and other local stakeholders engaging officials of the Al Habtoor Group on Tuesday Ali’s visit to Dubai, the Al Habtoor Group had expressed interest in expanding its global footprint in the tourism properties market. For this reason, the government continues to court the group into taking up available investment opportunities in the hotel and resort industry here, or partnering with local private sector investors to expand the industry. Dr. Singh said that there is great potential for the group to invest in Guyana, particularly in the tourism sector. The opportunities include investments in new flagship hotel projects, partnerships with existing investors currently developing hotel projects, and the establishment of large-scale

nature-based tourist resorts. Dr. Singh further said that the tourism sector is poised for rapid expansion in Guyana, so it is attractive to international investors like the Al Habtoor Group, which already has a global footprint of premium flagship hotels worldwide. Speaking more about the local tourism industry and the potential that exists, Minister Walrond said: “The tourism industry in Guyana, even before the COVID-19 period, had started to gain international acclaim recognition especially for eco-tourism. With the advent of the oil-and-gas sector and that attention, we also began seeing increased interest with just visitors and businesses for the oil-and-gas sector,

so one of the good problems that we have so far in Guyana is that we have the need for good quality rooms.” She further related that within a month of the government being in office, Expressions of Interest were sent out for internationally-branded hotels to be built in the country, since one of Guyana’s premier hotels, the Marriott, is currently fully booked until January 2022. Minister Walrond said that there has already been sod-turning exercises for a number of new additional hotels, with two having taken place close to the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA). The aim is to have at least 2,000 hotel rooms available for visitors. Former President of the Guyana Tourism and Hospi-

tality Association of Guyana (THAG), Mitra Ramkumar said he believes that the tourism industry in Guyana had already taken off even before the advent of oil and gas. And although this is the case, he believes that Guyana could learn much from the UAE on how its tourism industry could be a spin-off from the oil-and-gas sector, especially since Guyana has pristine rainforests, a diversity of people, beauty and nature, as well as vast lands for development and investment. It was only on Friday last that Minister Singh hosted another meeting among His Excellency Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Dubai Multi-Com-

modities Centre (DMCC) and his team, and Guyana’s Minister of Agriculture Zulfikar Mustapha; Minister of Natural Resources Vickram Bharrat, and Minister Walrond, along with other private sector key stakeholders within the agriculture, and gold and diamond mining sectors. At the meeting, the local stakeholders related to the DMCC that Guyana has the capacity for the large-scale production of many agricultural commodities such as soya bean, ginger, corn, rice, coconuts, eddoes, cassava and plantains, which could be exported to Dubai. It was emphasised that with Dubai being a major global commodity trading hub, Guyana stands to gain access to wider markets for its products. Meanwhile, other investment opportunities were noted, such as those in the forestry and mining sectors. Upon hearing about those investment opportunities, the DMCC then expressed interest in learning more about Guyana’s agricultural and mining potential for commodities such as coffee, cocoa and rare earth minerals. The Guyanese representatives from both the public and private sectors responded by saying that now is the opportune time for Guyana’s abundant resources to be transformed into wealth for the prosperity of all citizens.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, November 3, 2021

Seizing the Moment

WE are living in exciting times, one, in the words of President, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, that is full of promise and opportunities. It is for us as a government and as a people to seize the moment by working together and believing in our collective strength. Never in our history have there been such high levels of hope and optimism about the future development of Guyana. The PPP/C Government, for its part is doing an excellent job in providing a framework for sustained development. It is creating the enabling environment for development to take place. Gone are the days when the government was seen as the sole agent of economic growth. The private sector is now the main driver of economic growth and under a Private-Public-Partnership (PPP) arrangement several new mega-projects are soon to come on stream. The government, of course, has a critical role to play in ensuring that the foundation is laid to create a supportive and facilitating environment. This is why it is so necessary for the physical and social environment to be upgraded and modernised to foster a climate for business to flourish and the growth momentum to be accelerated.

This is exactly what the current PPP/C administration is doing with the implementation of several mega-projects such as the new Amalia Falls Hydro-electric power plant and the construction of a new high span, four-lane bridge across the Demerara River. According to a release from the Ministry of Finance, Cabinet has granted its no-objection for the Office of the Prime Minister to engage the China Railway Group Limited to construct the Amaila Falls project based on a Build-Own-Operate-Transfer (BOOT) model. In its current formulation, the project will require no equity contribution from government which is much more advantageous to the country when compared to the previous configuration which was based on a government contribution of US$100M. Further, the current cost structure anticipates a much lower unit cost than envisaged under the previous arrangement. Under this model, the company will supply electricity to the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) Inc at a cost not exceeding US$ 0.07 per KWH. This is much lower than current rate which is roughly US$ 0.35 per KWH which is relatively high by regional standard. The cost of electricity is likely to decrease

further with the realisation in a few years time of the gas-to-shore pipeline project which forms a major component of the PPP/C administration’s efforts to reduce the cost of energy by at least 50 per cent through an energy mix which includes the conversion of natural gas to electricity. The BOOT mechanism is seen as a preferred model, both from a financing and management standpoint. That model is now an integral component of the Public-Private-Partnership (PPP) development paradigm and is widely regarded as a creative and innovative model that could catalyse development in a financially viable manner while at the same time minimising the impact on the national debt. A BOOT arrangement will also be used in the construction of the New Demerara Harbour Bridge (NDHB). This new bridge will have a positive impact on the flow of traffic along the East and West Bank of Demerara. When completed, it will replace the current aging Demerara Harbour Bridge and will offer easy connectivity to both the existing East Bank Demerara road as well as the new Diamond to Ogle bypass on the eastern side of the river and to the existing West Bank Demerara road and the new Parika to Schoonord road on the

western side of the river. These are all forward looking and transformative projects which will have a modernising impact on the entire road infrastructure on both the East and West Banks of the Demerara River and the main corridor to the city of Georgetown which, for several years, have been problematic in terms of the ease and convenience of the travelling public. These two projects, apart from their utility value, will provide, during the construction phase, significant employment opportunities for Guyanese. The construction sector is expanding at a rapid rate and already the sector is challenged to obtain labour, especially with the required skills set. Guyana is on course to become a modern economy. The development train is picking up momentum. It is for us to seize the moment and become part of this exciting journey to a new destination where there is prosperity for all. Full credit must be given to the visionary leadership of President Ali and his PPP/C administration. Under the previous Granger administration, there was a hiatus in the growth momentum due to short-sighted and vindictive policies. All of that is now behind us and the country is once again on the road to economic growth and development.

Towards an understanding of Diwali

Dear Editor,

DIWALI is a festival that occurs on the 15 day of the Indian calendar month of Kaartik. Diwali, also called Deepavali, means rows of lighted lamps, and the celebration is often referred to as the Festival of Lights. During this time, homes are thoroughly cleaned and windows are opened to welcome the coming of new wealth. Little oil lamps, called deeyaas, are lit and placed in rows to commemorate the occasion. Gifts are exchanged and festive meals are prepared during Diwali. The celebration means as much to Hindus as Christmas does to Christians. FESTIVALS Festivals are an expressive way to cel-

ebrate our glorious heritage, our culture, and our traditions. They are meant to motivate us to rejoice on special occasions and to express emotions with our loved ones. Festivals play an important role in adding structure to our social lives and connecting us with our families and our historical background. They give us a necessary distraction from exhausting routines in our day-to-day life and inspire us to remember ethics and values that have molded us from childhood. As we observe festivals, we pass on knowledge, legends, and traditions to the next generation. The first thing to note about Diwali is that it is a festival. Festival time is characteristically different from ordinary, everyday time. Festival time is sacred time, whereas everyday time is filled with insecurity, fear,

profanity, and corruption. Festival is called Parva in Sanskrit, and by definition, Parva is that which makes us complete – it makes us sacred, courageous, and connected with our inner self. Diwali, like Phaguaa-Holi, is one festival that makes us feel complete.

DIWALI AND DARK NIGHT The second point about Diwali is that it occurs on the darkest night of the month, called Amaavasyaa. Outer atmospheric darkness is significant of inner emotional and spiritual darkness. When we kindle and place lamps on the outside, Diwali is calling upon us to kindle and place the lamp of wisdom in the temple of our heart. Additionally, the Diwali festival gives us a clarion call to seek out all human hearts that are dark with emotional turbulence. There

are millions of souls out there groping in darkness – afraid of what is yet to come. Diwali calls upon us to share the light of wisdom with such souls, and thus, lend them a sense of assurance and protection. DIWALI AND REAPING HARVEST The third point is that Diwali is a time when farmers reap bountiful harvests. Reaping crops is considered a time of amassing wealth. In Vedic/Hindu society and culture, wealth is seen as a positive notion. Vayam syaama patayo rayeenaam – Let us be masters of wealth in abundance, says the Yajur Veda. Wealth is not a corruptive contrivance used to harm others. What is corrupt is one’s attitude towards See page 7

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, November 3, 2021

Towards an understanding... From page 6

wealth. Wealth equals power and power is good, as long as it does not harm another living creature. Wealth should be used to develop oneself and the society in which one lives. It should not be a barometer to measure social prestige but should be a tool for us to rise to higher levels of magnanimity and divinity. In celebrating Diwali, we perform havan by chanting holy mantras and making offerings of newly harvested grains unto a blazing sacrificial fire and then share a portion of our accumulated wealth. Vedic tradition teaches us the concept of Prasaad. Prasaad is what remains after a portion has been offered. Is your wealth Prasaad? Have you shared your resources with someone who is hungry, or who does not have enough to make a success of life? This is another call inherent in the celebration of Diwali. We who are not farmers by profession can still feel comfortable with this sowing-reaping significance of Diwali. The question is one that targets the inner spirit: Did we sow seeds of virtuous inclinations and habits, called Sanskaars, which can germinate and grow into bearing fruits of enriched character? Is this year’s Diwali the time for us to reap such fruits? DIWALI AND RISHI DAYANANDA In addition to focusing on wealth on Diwali Day, Hindus also focus on the passing of the leonine soul of Mahaa Rishi Swami Dayananda Saraswati. On Diwali Day, October 30, in the year 1883, Rishi Dayananda breathed his last and entered into Emancipation. Approximately half of an hour before he breathed his last, many of the Rishi’s devoted followers stood in front of him, contemplating the noble figure lying prostrate before them. Sometime between 5:30 and 5:40 PM, the Rishi beckoned, giving a signal that they stand behind him. They all did, in total silence. The Rishi now signalled for all doors and windows to be opened up, and looking at the ceiling, asked: What is the day and date today? What fortnight [Paksha] is it? Reply: Swamiji, it is the end of the dark fortnight [Amavasya Krishna Paksh]. Today is Tuesday. Hearing this, he looked up at the ceiling, composed himself for contemplation, began chanting Veda Mantras, and praised God in both Sanskrit and Hindi. With deep joy on his face, he repeated the Gayatri Mantra in clear tones and was absorbed in deep trance [Yoga Samadhi] for quite a few minutes. He then opened his eyes and exclaimed, in a tone lower than normal: Merciful and Almighty God! What a wonderful life-drama You have enacted! This is Your Will! Yea! This is Your Will! Let Your Will be fulfilled! With these last words, the Rishi turned in his bed to lie sideways, took a deep in-breath, held it for a while, and then completely expelled it with one vigorous effort. The soul of India’s greatest savior in

modern times had finally passed on into the Great Beyond. It was 6:00 PM, Diwali Day, October 30, 1883. Historians ask a pertinent question: Seeing that the festival of lights started simultaneously with the exit of the Rishi’s soul, can we ask: Can it be intelligently assumed that the universal illumination of Diwali was in honour of the departed Soul? Can it be further assumed that a huge, bright, and glorious light in the form of the Rishi had kindled countless human heart-lights, saw them flickering luminously, and then departed? Those present around the Rishi’s bed on Diwali Day, 1883, would never forget that moment in history when the soul of the Rishi passed on in peace and tranquility. In their experience, it was as if a huge, tall mountain had suddenly collapsed and left them stunned and shocked. Gurudatt Vidyarthi of Lahore, Punjab, a scientist and agnostic, who was looking at the Rishi all the time, standing on one side of the room, was converted in a moment from being a skeptic to a confirmed God-believer. The moving scene of the Rishi’s calm and resigned ‘death’ forever wiped away from his mind the lingering doubts that he had entertained about the existence of God. Swamiji’s so-called death gave Gurudatt a new life and a new faith. As Swamiji’s soul flew to the Great Beyond, Gurudatt saw bright visions: one was the Rishi’s death without tears of agony, and the other was the Rishi, comparable to a huge, bright light, kindling, in Diwali style, the flickering light of hope in the hearts of humanity overcome for centuries by hate, untruth, superstition, and irrationality. Did death conquer Dayananda? Gurudatt asked himself. Reply: Oh no! It was Dayananda who conquered death. The Rishi cast off life with as little concern as an elephant casting off a garland of flowers. His life was filled with the bliss of the soul, and he made humanity drink from his hand the nectar of that bliss. And now, he passed into the reservoir of God’s Bliss. The Rishi’s followers and admiring friends may lament over his death, but in life, he stood face to face before His God, executing His command, for which he was sent into the world. DIWALI AND BROTHER-SISTER RELATIONSHIP Another practice during Diwali is Bhaiyyaa Dooj. On this day, women are given gifts by their brothers and held in the highest respect. While Rakshaa Bandhan is Sisters’ Day, Bhaiyyaa Dooj is Brothers’ Day. DIWALI – A NEW FINANCIAL YEAR In North India, Diwali is also the time to close old accounts books and open new ones, and so, it represents the commencement of a new fiscal year. Hence, many Hindus celebrate the dawn of a new year. In certain other parts of India, the celebration of Diwali lasts for five days. Each of the five days is marked with worship

and meditation. During these five days, people focus on a celebration of life, joy, and goodness. From darkness we enter into light, and light empowers us to do good deeds and bring ourselves closer to divinity.

CONCLUSION Diwali calls upon all human beings to recognise that there are many minds living in so much darkness that they see no bright future for themselves. Homes are broken, children run to the streets looking for support from drugs and crime, and generally, people are hungry.

This Diwali, as you and I chant mantras, and kindle little lamps, let us focus on our own self and the self of people in the community. Place a deeyaa in your heart, in your home, in your village community, and in the nation at large. And, finally, let’s remember the soul of Rishi Dayananda Saraswati. Happy Diwali! Satish Prakash, PhD Founder-Acharya, Maharshi Dayananda Gurukula New York, USA & Guyana, South America

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, November 3, 2021

St. George’s student excels at CSEC –– hopes to inspire others, boost school’s image

By Tamica Garnett CONSIDERED a low performing school given its less than average pass rate, it is almost never expected that students of the St. George’s High School would be successful at the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations.

This year, however, aspiring entrepreneur, Beyonce Wyatt, defied all odds when she secured good grades in the seven subjects she wrote. While her four Grade Ones, two Grade Twos and a Grade Three, is being celebrated as a “big achievement,” she hopes that her performance would encour-

age other students and boost the image of the school. “I don’t think that St George’s is deserving of the reputation that it gets. It’s a good school. Like every other school there are occasions where there may be a mishap. But we have hard working students and equally hard working teachers,” Wyatt shared, in a recent

interview with the Guyana Chronicle. She related that notwithstanding students at the school only being offered seven subjects, they put in just as much work as students at any other secondary school and deserve to be celebrated for their accomplishments. “I feel that we did something great. Me and my fellow classmates. We worked every day, working late into the night, working with our teachers, going over everything that could come in the exam,” Wyatt explained. Of the 30 students from her school who wrote the exams this year, Wyatt was the only one who got acceptable grades in Mathematics and English, subjects critical for matriculation. Notwithstanding that, Wyatt is very proud of her fellow students, many of whom she has seen develop over the years and who would have made an effort to take their education seriously. “When we got to Fifth Form [Grade 10] everyone got so serious. I saw that everyone was working hard. Sometimes they would

come to me for help and I would go to them for help. St George’s High has children who are willing to work and teachers who are willing to work with the students, and even though they might not show the interest at first, we can build and work hard,” she said. Wyatt, herself was somewhat apprehensive when the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) released the results on October 15. But then she got her results and was able to breathe a sigh of relief. “Before I got the results, I was so scared. So, when I got it, I was very relieved. I felt very proud of myself. I did better than I expected because at times I didn’t feel like I was ready for the exam. I thought it could’ve gone either way for me, so I’m just glad all my hard work paid off,” she expressed.

St George’s High student, Beyonce Wyatt

“We are elated but not surprised. She is a student that was always determined ever since she joined the school. She was always this dedicated student. We knew that she could do it,” commented Deputy Headteacher at the school, Veronica Perreira. Entering St George’s High from Grade Nine after transferring from the Three Miles Secondary when she moved to the city from Bartica, Wyatt is said to have always been a standout student. From the get-go teachers knew she would one day make them all proud. “She is an excellent team player,” the school’s Headteacher, Lavern Carryl said. “She was kind to her fellow students, respectful to her teachers and never backed down from a chalDILIGENT AND lenge. DEDICATED She was a model student. Describing Wyatt as a We have always believed in diligent and dedicated stuBeyonce’s potential to exdent, teachers at the school cel,” the proud headteacher are also happy to see that added. her hard work has paid off. For Perreira, one particular trait that stood out about Wyatt, was her insistence to inspire her peers. She noted that after Wyatt entered the school and teachers noted her potential, she was offered an opportunity to be moved into a higher performing class, but instead wanted to stay where she was and work along with her classmates. “She said no. She saw after a few weeks that she was motivating the others in the class…She would always show such leadership qualities,” Perriera said. Wyatt hopes to one day open her own series of businesses. She noted that she’s currently working on developing her own graphic design business, but also hopes to one day develop a number of other business ideas she has.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, November 3, 2021

‘Bogus’ meter readers to be charged for attempted robbery

TWO men who allegedly impersonated Guyana Power and Light (GPL) meter readers and attempted to rob a 56-yearold housewife at Covent Garden, East Bank Demerara (EBD), are expected to appear before a magistrate today. According to Police Headquarters, Jose Fraser, a 25-year-old porter of Bagotstown, EBD, and Jaleel Thomas, 20, of Cinema Street, Diamond, EBD, are expected to be arraigned before the Diamond/Grove Magistrate’s Court. Additionally, one of the suspects is being grilled in connection with another robbery. Reports are that on November 1, the woman was washing clothes in her backyard when the perpetrators approached her back gate and told her they were from GPL, and wanted to read her meter. “She allowed the perpetrators to enter her yard,” the police release said, “and told them that the meter was located at the front of the house, as she continued washing. She suddenly felt someone grab her and demanded that she hand over all her money, and began forcing her up the back stairs.” As a result, the woman began to scream and the perpetrators quickly exited

the yard. Public-spirited citizens went to her aid, and she pointed to the two men, who were walking towards the public road. Fraser was apprehended, with the assistance of an officer from the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), a police constable attached to the Providence Police

Station Traffic Department, and several public-spirited citizens. Thomas was arrested by the police while hiding in the storeroom of an apartment complex located in the area. They were both escorted to the Golden Grove Police Station, where they were placed into custody

pending further investigations. Police subsequently said that they will be charged for attempted robbery, and taken before the court.

Jaleel Thomas

Jose Fraser

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, November 3, 2021

‘Simple country girl’ admitted to the bar –– says family, Cane Grove residents are ‘part owners’ of her success By Clestine Juan

CHANDANIE Dyal from the farming community of Cane Grove, East Coast Demerara, was, on Tuesday, admitted to the local bar to practise law in Guyana by High Court Judge, Nareshwar Harnanan. Her petition was presented to the court by Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, S.C. at the Demerara High Court. Dyal attended Cane Grove Primary School and after writing the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) she secured a place at St. Stanislaus College. After graduating as valedictorian in 2013, she continued her secondary education and was able to attain her associate degree in Humanities. Dyal later went on to the University of Guyana and graduated from the Turkeyen Campus in 2019 with a Bachelor of Laws degree. Later that year, she commenced the first academic year of the two-year course

of studies, assignments, examinations and practical training for her Legal Education Certificate (LEC) at the Hugh Wooding Law School (HWLS) in Trinidad. Finally, in September 2021, Dyal was awarded her legal certification and on October 4, was awarded the Miles Greeves Fitzpatrick Prize for Legal Aid. In granting the petition, the judge advised the young attorney to always remember her oath and to uphold the ethics of the profession. He also told her to “ jealously ‘’ protect her integrity without compromise. “Stay true to the ethical principles of the profession. It is still a noble one… The sacrifice that you have made to get you this far is worth more than the cost of compromising yourself for the sake of a brief,” the judge told the young attorney. BITTERSWEET It was a bittersweet moment for Dyal when she addressed the court for the

first time as an attorney. “I’m not standing here before this honourable court by any stroke of luck. My admission to the bar today is possible by the grace of God, who has never turned a blind eye or a deaf ear to my prayer, or that of my family, friends, colleagues or well-wishers,” she said. “It is also the result of years of hard work, sacrifice and perseverance not only by myself but also by my immediate and extended family. I’m a simple country girl from the farming village Cane Grove,” she added. Reflecting on the years of her journey, the young attorney told the court that she remembered the day when she was awarded a place at St. Stanislaus College in 2008. “My parents were hesitant to send their first girl child who had never even set foot [outside] Mahaica, unaccompanied to the great capital city of Georgetown to study. It was such a grave matter for consideration that my late grandmother even took time off from her stall

From left : Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, S.C; Attorney-at-law Chandanie Dyal and Justice Nareshwar Harnanan (DPI photo) “Today I’m beyond at Bourda Market to check to the right, parliament the school and its environs,” building on the left and grateful that they were she said. the Magistrates’ Court brave enough to take that She recalled that her over the road. If she is not step. Of course, it meant an grandmother reported safe there, she can’t be hour-long bus ride to and back to her parents that safe anywhere else in the See page 11 “there is a police station country.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, November 3, 2021

‘Simple country girl’... From page 10

from school every day. It meant early hours for my mother to get up and cook lunch. It meant late hours for my dad to pick me up from school after lessons. It meant studying later into the night after an exhausting day and little family time,” she added. She explained that these “struggles” were rewarded when she was named valedictorian for the class of 2013 and the best graduating Arts student. In 2015, she placed second in the Caribbean for Law - Unit II at the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE). “When I first announced that I wanted to become an attorney-at-law, my parents promptly began finding out what was needed for me to accomplish this. The fees, though scary like Halloween night in the movie Jason Friday the 13th, and the journey, though long like the road [to] Lethem, did not dissuade them,” she emphasised. For this, the young attorney said that she cannot repay her family for the sacrifices they made so that she could fulfil her dreams and are “part owners” to everything she has achieved. In addition to her family, Dyal also thanked her neighbours and members of the Cane Grove community who, she said, always took an interest in her academic growth and assisted her in whatever manner and form they could. “The journey was indeed not an easy one. It was a path that was riddled with obstacles, potholes of fear and uncertainty and speed humps of failure. It was one that at times I was too tired to traverse, but even in the depth of my dreams, I could hear my lecturers saying ‘sleep

is for the dead for the law is a jealous mistress’,” she recalled.

PURSUING HER PASSION According to Dyal, it was a fierce battle to make the top 25 from UG’s Department of Law to gain automatic acceptance to the HWLS. During the journey, she said, “It is not uncommon for one to forget why they choose to embark on this legal journey in the first place. This is certainly true for me… At my lowest point it was my reason for starting that gave me the will to live after those 24 hours of a robust and comprehensive examination amid a pandemic, the need to excel and the strength to cross the finish line.” She recalled that a few years ago while a part of the Chancellor’s internship programme, she was questioned about why she chose to study law. “ I was slightly embarrassed to utter the real reason for my career choice at that time… it would have entail explaining circumstances that were personal to me” However, Dyal stood tall in court with pride and honour and revealed her reasons for pursuing law. “I choose law because it is a profession which requires one to know their rights; to know how to exercise them and how to seek remedies for the infringement for those rights,” she said. Dyal explained that she grew up seeing family members, who may not have been formally educated, misled or taken advantage of by persons in authority simply because they did not know their rights. The young attorney said that it was for this reason

Chandanie Dyal taking the oath as an attorney-at-law (DPI photo)

that she chose to study law to protect her family and the rights of other persons in similar situations. “I choose the law to set a different standard for the girls in my family. I wanted to show them that nothing was impossible. We [women] hold the steering wheel for the direction that our lives take. We are powerful beyond measure and when we use the power, we can accomplish anything that we put our mind to,” she said. In giving her final reason for choosing the profession, Dyal said she believed that it would enable her to “speak her truth” and speak up on behalf of the voiceless. “I aspire to be a good lawyer by… building on good practices. I will strive to be worthy of being a legal practitioner. I will abide by the oath that I took today and the code of conduct of the profession,” she said.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, November 3, 2021

500 Central Parikwarinau villagers to benefit from improved water supply

A SOON-TO-BE-COMMISSIONED water supply system is providing some 500 villagers of Central Parikwarinau with an improved quality and level of service. It will be completed in its entirety shortly, a Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) release said. Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal and GWI Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Shaik Baksh and other officials from the two entities visited the community last Sunday to assess the progress of work on the system and update community members. Toshao Brian James ex-

pressed gratitude on behalf of the community. One resident by the name of Noel Martin said he is happy to be receiving water at his home, as it has allowed him to realise his dream of farming. James explained that his intention is to provide produce for the school’s hot-meal programme. Two other women also welcomed the water system, noting that it has greatly improved their domestic livelihoods. Meanwhile, over at Shulinab, both the minister and CEO expressed great disappointment at the status of works on the water supply system there. According to a release, a contract was awarded for

the construction of a trestle equipped with storage tanks, installation of a photovoltaic (PV) system and distribution pipelines. After failing to meet his initial completion timeline, to date, only the PV system has been erected as well as the trestle. Minister Croal told the Village Toshao that the contractor’s work ethic would not be condoned, as he has been given enough of a grace period. He assured him that the contractor will be given a warning and dealt with accordingly so that they can complete the project in a timely manner.

The incomplete trestle at Shulinab

Minister Croal and CEO Baksh meeting with Parikawarinau villagers

Minister Croal sampling water from the Parikawarinau well

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, November 3, 2021

$665M in contracts signed to enhance 'agri' sector

THE Ministry of Agriculture, on Tuesday, signed seven contracts totalling $665,706,092 for a number of works to be carried out aimed at improving the agriculture sector. According to a release, the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) signed a contract with Roopan Ramoutar Investments for the construction of a pump station at Greenwich Park/Barnwell area on the East Bank of Essequibo to the tune of $597,851,578. This project, which is expected to be completed in 12 months, will see the construction of two 100 cusec module pump station units inclusive of an R.C. sump, a structural steel pump house, the supply and installation of pump units, as well as all ancillary works. The project also entails the construction of a steel sheet pile revetment and the rehabilitation of the drainage system. As part of the Rural Agricultural Infrastructure Development (RAID)

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha, along with other ministry officials and contractors during the signing exercise project, the ministry signed a contract with R Persid Construction for the construction of a processing facility at President’s College totalling $14,917,414. This project aims to provide a facility in which there is an enhanced capability to provide higher volumes and quality of chicken and vegetable products in accordance with international safety standards. “We are approaching the end of our project cycle

and I want to encourage contractors to ensure you follow all the guidelines and abide by all the clauses in your contracts so that at the end of the project, we can have quality work and complete them on time. Some of these contracts … are multi-year contracts, meaning that they will roll over to next year. Our officers will be monitoring these works closely,” Minister Mustapha said. Minister Mustapha also

disclosed that for 2021, the ministry, through the NDIA, signed contracts

for the construction of four pump stations in critical areas across the country.

This, he added, shows the emphasis that the government is placing on the drainage system. Contracts were signed for the construction of an asphaltic drying floor at Lesbeholden to the tune of $15,329,475; the construction of an access road, bridge, and fence at Garden of Eden to the tune of $22,316,418; the supply and delivery of agro-processing equipment for Region Nine to the tune of $6,508,505; and the procurement of 40 cassava mills for agro-processors in Region Nine to the tune of $2,800,000, the release said.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, November 3, 2021

Cancer survivors say support groups are their lifeline –– specialists recommend healthier lifestyle, regular screening for all women By Rabindra Rooplall

AS a 42 year-old mother who discovered in 2019 that she had ovarian cancer, Diane Fung went into a downward spiral, but it was a supportive group of peers that helped her to recover. Educating herself on the cancer has also given her much hope and well-being. Ovarian cancer is a growth of cells that forms in the ovaries. The cells multiply quickly, and can invade and destroy healthy body tissue. The treatment of ovarian cancer usually involves surgery and chemotherapy. The Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara resident is a mother of three daughters, aged 22, 20, and 16. She discovered she had ovarian cancer after experiencing a severe abdominal pain, and an ultrasound done, subsequently, revealed a 10 cm cyst on her ovary. “I was put to do an emergency surgery, and I signed a paper to remove one of my ovaries. And after the surgery, the doctor told me that there was no need to remove the other ovary, because everything seemed fine. Three months after, March 2019, I observed I was feeling the same pain again in my tummy,” Mrs. Fung told this publication. She then contacted her sister, who was her tower of strength during her many hospital visits. She said that it was her sister who advised her to seek private medical attention in order to get another perspective before returning to the public hospital. “When we go there, I did an ultrasound, and we found out that the other ovary had a cyst. We then went to various doctors to ensure we understood exactly what is taking place, and we ended up at a doctor at Medical Arts Hospital, and that doctor took me to do a CA 125 test,” she recalled. According to medical experts, a CA 125

Diane Fung

Director, Non Communicable Diseases, Dr. Lachmie Lall test measures the amount of the protein (cancer antigen 125) in your blood. The test may also be used to monitor certain cancers during and after treatment. In some cases, a CA 125 test may be used to look for early signs of ovarian cancer in people with a very high risk of the disease. “After that test, I found out I had cancer on my ovaries. I was so much in shock and trauma that I was telling myself I had this thing all the time inside of me, and I wondered why the other doctor didn’t remove the other ovary in the first place when I had my first surgery…I cried a lot,” she said. GOOD SUPPORT IS KEY Studying all of the negative consequences that raced through her mind in the aftermath of the diagnosis, Mrs. Fung said everything in her mind circulated around her demise, instead of handling the situation in a logical manner. She now understands the importance of getting a strong support system, once you are diagnosed with the disease. “It was a very rough time for me, and I was thinking about death all the time. It was very depressing, but eventually I educated myself on the Internet on how I can make myself better, and I found a few friends who also had cancer, and they gave me the courage and they were my support group,” she reflected. She said WhatsApp groups were also created to ensure that everyone was there for each other as the need arose. But breaking the news to her family, she said, was very challenging. “When it was time to tell my daughters and my husband, I sat down in front of them and started to cry, and they immediately wanted to know what was wrong. I didn’t tell them, at first, how serious the situation was, and I lied to them. I just told them I was going to be well, and my second surgery would go well after the treatment. I didn’t even mention that I had cancer to them, and the strain it was putting me through,” she said with tears in her eyes. She told the Guyana Chronicle that she continued to lie to her family for some time, because she did not want them to go through

Consultant Gynecologist at the GPHC, Dr. Raveendranath Raghuram the emotional pain and turmoil that she was experiencing. However, Mrs. Fung said she eventually explained everything to them, and she would advise anyone who is confronted with any form of cancer to educate themselves on the best method and options available to keep healthy, while finding a support group where they can feel comfortable sharing their emotions, trials and experiences. “I would tell anyone, if you are in constant pain, don’t take anything for granted; seek medical attention. Sometimes it can save your life, and give you a fighting chance if something is actually wrong with you. Keep giving yourself a medical check-up every six months if you are not well,” she advised. She is now feeling better, and has more energy again. According to her, cancer should be talked about all year long, and not just in October during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Mrs. Fung said, too, that support looks different for everyone battling cancer, and the best thing to do is ask how to best help others. HARD TO DETECT Meanwhile, Consultant Gynecologist at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), Dr. Raveendranath Raghuram said that unlike other gynaecologic cancers, there are no screening tests for ovarian cancer. He told the Guyana Chronicle that while some women diagnosed with ovarian cancer have elevated levels of the CA 125 protein, the associated blood test is not accurate enough for ovarian cancer screening, as many noncancerous conditions can increase the CA 125 level. Dr. Raghuram explained that ovarian cancer is hard to detect in its early stages, due to its vague symptoms. Women may experience constipation, bloating, early satiety after eating, and back pain. While ovarian cancer tends to occur in post-menopausal women, he said, anyone can be at risk. A number of factors, including smoking, endometriosis, polycystic ovary disease, and obesity can raise a woman’s risk for the disease.

Gynecologist and oncologist, Dr Shivani Samlall According to Dr. Raghuram, women should start pap smear screening at age 21. Between the ages of 21-29, women whose pap smears are normal only need it repeated every three years. Women aged 30 and over should have testing for the human papillomavirus (HPV) with their pap smear. HIGH MORTALITY RATE Recently, Dr. Shivani Samlall wrote a column on ovarian cancer, which was published in this newspaper. She noted that most women have an approximately one in 70 chances of being diagnosed with this type of cancer. “While the number of women that are affected by this disease is low, the mortality rate, or the number of women who die from this disease is extremely high. This is because, unlike cancers such as Breast and Cervical, Ovarian cancers do not have screening, which means that there is no test that can singlehandedly be used to diagnose this cancer in its early stages, or prevent death from this disease. This ultimately leads to late detection, and a high death rate,” she explained. Dr. Samlall said surgery is the main treatment option in both early and advanced stages of the disease, as well as for women with recurrence (cancer that comes back after treatment). The type of surgery will depend on the type of ovarian cancer, and the extent of it. “It therefore becomes necessary for women to have regular, routine, or yearly well-woman exam, where risk factors can be identified, and symptoms (while they are unspecific) can be interpreted. And once there is a high suspicion for Ovarian Cancer, patients should be managed by an Ovarian Cancer specialist,” she explained. BREAST CANCER DIAGNOSIS This publication also spoke with Nanranie Deochand, 56, of Windsor Forest, West Coast Demerara, who said her journey began in October 2020, with tests that later confirmed she had breast See page 15

Cancer survivors say support ...

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, November 3, 2021

From page 14

cancer. “There was no symptoms, in my opinion, of cancer. I firstly visited the doctors for issues with my stomach, because I felt that my food was not digesting, and I later started getting fever. Then my right side breast started discharging a dark, cream liquid, and I was then placed to do some test by the doctor,” Mrs. Deochand explained to the Guyana Chronicle. She later confirmed that all was not well, and there was something not right with her body. Mrs. Deochand, who has three children aged 36, 26, 24, said the doctor did not reveal his thoughts to her in the beginning, but advised her to do more specialised tests. Eventually, she was guided to the Oncology Unit of the GPHC, where a mammogram, a sonogram, a C-T scan, and other related tests were done. These results would confirm her worst fears, and she was transferred to the surgical clinic. After agreeing to surgery, Mrs. Deochand said that her relatives in the USA asked that she make a trip there to get a second opinion. “So, after that, my family overseas booked my ticket and looked after me to ensure that I saw a doctor. I did all my tests, and everything came back positive. And I discovered that it was not on one breast, but both

breasts; my left side breast was going at Stage Two going onto Stage Three, and my right side was Stage Three going onto Stage Four,” Mrs. Deochand said. Accepting the inevitable, she agreed to the surgery, and had both of her breasts removed. “I did both surgeries in the US, and it lasted about four-and-a-half hours. It was a remarkable experience; I can’t complain, because I felt no pain, and I was recovering well. And I had another surgery before Mother’s Day in 2021. And when I finished, I returned to Guyana,” she reflected. After returning home, she later commenced chemotherapy, which she described as the worst feeling in her life. “It was hard; very hard. I felt like it was the end of the world. But after I stopped the chemotherapy, I felt much better, and I am now only using certain medications to cope with the pain and my body,” she noted. What shocked her the most, she said, was the lack of support from her immediate family. “No one cared to ask me what I was going through, how I am coping, or what is my situation. And this is something that could have killed me,” Mrs. Deochand lamented, while noting that she now lives alone, and had to seek employment to look after her bills. But the silver lining

Nanranie Deochand

behind her dark clouds came in the form of a support group that she is a part of, as her journey as a cancer patient continues. TACKLING CANCER According to the Cancer Institute of Guyana, the four stages of breast cancer-related treatment includes: The diagnosis, chemotherapy, surgery, and radiotherapy, which can all be done at the institute. According to Director, Non Communicable Diseases (NCDs), Dr. Lachmie Lall, Guyana has recorded 2,479 cases of premature death due to NCDs, of which 13.8 per cent were caused by cancers. She explained that Guyana has been seeing a steady rise in cancers such as Breast Cancer, with 170 cases being recorded in 2018. There have also been cases of Lung Cancer, Colon Cancer, Prostate Cancer and Childhood Cancers. For 2020, thirty cases of cancer affecting children aged 0 to 14 years have been recorded, with leukemia being the leading cause of death.

Dr. Lall noted that this year, the Health Ministry has embarked on a number of activities to continue raising awareness on cancers, the continued promotion of healthy lifestyles, and increasing the capacity of local healthcare workers to recognise early signs of cancer. “The MoH has continued to work with our international partners, the IAEA, International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), and the PAHO/ WHO as well as our local stakeholders in developing our first National Cancer Control Plan (NCCP), which we aim to have finalised by the end of 2021, and begin implementing in early 2022,” she disclosed. This strategic public health document, she noted, serves as a roadmap for cancer prevention and control nationally, and will be a holistic approach to tackling cancers, encompassing all aspects, from promotion, prevention, early diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation, supportive and palliative care. “It will also focus

on bridging the gaps in cancer care between our coastland and hinterland communities, improving the capacity of our human resources across the care continuum, strengthening national systems to tackling cancers as well as improving data collection and capacity to continuously monitor and evaluate our changing health landscape,” Dr. Lall added. Meanwhile, Dr. Raghuram noted that Breast Cancer is the leading cause of death in women in Guyana. He explained that in its early stages, Breast Cancer may not cause any symptoms. In many cases, a tumor may be too small to be felt, but an abnormality can still be seen on a mammogram. Noting that this type of cancer can be divided into stages, based on the size of the tumor(s) and how much it has spread, Dr. Raghuram said two of the most important factors to consider are the type of cancer you have, and the stage of the cancer at the time you receive a diagnosis. Other factors

that may play a role include your age, gender, and race. He emphasised that to determine if your symptoms are caused by Breast Cancer or a benign breast condition, your doctor will do a thorough physical exam, in addition to a breast exam. They may also request one or more diagnostic tests to help understand what’s causing your symptoms. Dr. Raghuram advised that while there are risk factors you can’t control, following a healthy lifestyle, getting regular screenings, and taking any preventive measures your doctor recommends can help reduce your risk for developing Breast Cancer. October has been designated Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and according to the World Health Organisation (WHO), treatment can be highly effective, especially when the disease is identified early. Diane Fung and Nanranie Deochand are members of the Cancer Survivor’s Club of the Guyana Cancer Foundation.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, November 3, 2021

IDB launches plan of action to fully align operations with Paris Agreement

THE Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), on Tuesday, announced that its loans and projects will be fully aligned with the Paris climate agreement by 2023. This move will help countries throughout Latin America and the Caribbean fight climate change while also advancing steps to help those people most vulnerable with a sustainable recovery for everyone, a release from the bank said. The announcement comes as world leaders gathered at COP26, the annual United Nations climate change conference, to work on ways

to decelerate global warming and fulfil climate goals agreed to at a previous summit in Paris. Alignment requires the IDB Group’s work to be consistent with a country’s net-zero emissions and climate-resilient development goals. It must also be compatible with the Paris accord’s overall long-term decarbonisation objective. “We are also pushing past the Paris Agreement objectives to help address this truly global challenge. We know that if we prioritise smart investments today, the cornerstone of our global fight against climate change

can mutually reinforce our pandemic recovery efforts and we can speed up our responses,” said IDB President Mauricio Claver-Carone. “Aligning our work to Paris Agreement objectives furthers our commitment to limit the temperature rise to well below 2° Celsius and build climate resilience. But this alone is not enough.” Also, the IDB announced another ambitious climate target to provide $24 billion for climate and green finance over the next four years. Green finance extends beyond climate to include nature, biodiversity, pollution, and other environmental

issues. The green finance target builds on the IDB Group’s established track record of backing projects to restore and preserve natural capital, reduce pollution, improve waste management, and promote the circular economy. The IDB recognises the vital role of nature in climate mitigation, resilience and for economies and livelihoods. Because of that, between 2015 and 2020 the IDB invested in 28 projects with nature-based solutions components, with a total financing of $815 million. These projects leveraged an additional $437 million in financing from partners, amounting to nearly $1.25 billion. “We are pushing the envelope on our financing, im-

proving our internal structure to prioritize climate action, and increasing our engagements and external partnerships,” said Claver-Carone. “Our role, as the region’s leading development bank, is to help our 26 borrowing member countries mitigate and adapt to climate risks. We are ready to help seize an unprecedented opportunity to achieve a decarbonized and climate-resilient future in the region.” Advancing climate change action is a central pillar of Vision 2025, the IDB’s blueprint for powering sustainable growth and recovery in the region. Assessing the IDB’s alignment will be key to avoiding activities that could hinder the transition to net-zero emissions.

Aligning operations will also improve the management of climate-related financial exposure in the IDB Group’s portfolios. In addition to the alignment effort, the IDB is committed to assessing disaster and climate risk in 100 per cent of its moderate and high-risk operations by 2023. Tuesday’s announcement also adds to the IDB’s ongoing work to help integrate climate considerations and funding into the agendas and policies of member borrowing countries. By the end of 2021, at least 75 per cent of the bank’s regional member countries will have presented their updated Nationally Determined Contributions, in many cases with IDB support, the release said.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, November 3, 2021

Ex-cop seeks leave to appeal rape conviction, 25-year sentence

DELON Chapman, who is currently serving a 25year sentence for raping a woman at the Turkeyen Police Station in 2018, has applied to the Court of Appeal for leave to appeal his conviction and sentence. Last month, Chapman

Delon Chapman and co-accused, Leon Ashby, were sentenced by Justice Jo-Ann Barlow in the Sexual Offences Court of the Demerara High Court. A jury had found the ex-cops guilty of raping a woman on January 1, 2018, when she went to report a matter at the police station. Now, Chapman is seeking leave to appeal against the jury’s conviction and the sentence imposed by Justice Kissoon. He is claiming that his trial was unfair and the sentence imposed by the judge was excessive. According to reports, on the day in question, the victim went to the police station to file a report, and while there, she asked to use the washroom, and was taken to the facility by Chapman. It was while she was using the washroom that she was attacked by Chapman, and later joined by Ashby, who took her into a room with a mattress and raped her. The matter was reported to the other ranks on duty, and the two men were later arrested and charged.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, November 3, 2021

‘Hitman’ on death row wants to appeal

LINDEN Lewis, called ‘Bullet’ who was sentenced to death after being found guilty of the murder of a 76-yearold businessman, has signalled his desire to appeal his sentence and conviction. The 12-member had also found the businessman’s daughter, Bibi Nazeela Habiboodean guilty of murder. The elder Habiboodean was killed on February 15, 2008 at Ruby, East Bank Essequ-

ibo. Justice Sandil Kissoon, at the Demerara High Court, imposed the death sentence for both convicts and told them that they will be taken to a lawful prison to suffer death in a manner authorised by law. Lewis recently applied to the Court of Appeal for leave, seeking to have his conviction and sentence overturned. Lewis is arguing that his sentence is severe in all forms and as such, should be set aside.

It is alleged that Bibi not only hired Lewis to kill her father, but also helped him to gain access to the home on the day of the murder. Reports are that when the “hitman” entered the businessman’s home, he found the elderly businessman sitting in a chair, and proceeded to strike him repeatedly, causing him to later succumb to his injuries at a hospital. Bibi was charged, along with another man, shortly after the murder

was committed, but they were both discharged by a magistrate due to insufficient evidence. Lewis, who had fled to the “interior”, was arrested by the police two years later. Word is that the police got a breakthrough in the case after Lewis and four others were detained for the murder of Mohamed Munir, 75, and his wife Bibi Jamila Munir, 69, who were reportedly burnt to death at their Good Hope, East Bank Essequ-

ibo home in 2016. While in custody, someone tipped off investigators that Lewis had vital information about Habiboodean’s death. He allegedly confessed and told the police that he was paid by Bibi to kill her father. Shortly after, Bibi turned herself in to the police, and reportedly provided investigators with a statement that was consistent with that given by Lewis.

Linden Lewis called ‘Bullet’

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, November 3, 2021

Officers returning to persons who missed one-off $25,000 cash grant THE Ministry of Human Services and Social Security is on track with its countrywide distribution exercise – having completed the bulk of work in all of the regions – and is now arranging to assist persons who were unable to uplift the one-off $25,000 cash grant and 2022 pension booklets. According to a release, persons who were unable to make it during the nationwide distribution, officers of the ministry will now be returning to the regular locations. This means that those who missed the exercise can turn up at their usual pension distribution site to uplift the new book and voucher. The vouchers can be cashed at any post office, Sure Pay or MoneyGram, and the deadline for doing so is November 30, 2021. The ministry is also advising persons to visit their regular sites for queries regarding permanently disabled people and public assistance (both economical and medical) for the year 2021.

Subject Minister, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, has noted that the exercise was a massive undertaking that, by and large, went well with the support of the volunteers, community and regional representatives. “Our small staff complement was deployed across regions to ensure that the exercise was efficient and easily accessible. Where there were glitches in the exercise, every effort was made to rectify them. But it is remarkable that most persons would have already benefited from the voucher and 2022 book in one month,” she said. According to Dr. Persaud, for those who have not gotten theirs as yet, systems will be in place to make their experience hassle-free. “If at all there is any issue with our services, please do not hesitate to contact our Cornhill Street office. Thanks to the ministry’s teams that worked tirelessly; we will continue to do so until the conclusion of the process.” Meanwhile, pensioners who are bedridden, visually

impaired, or confined to a wheelchair, can receive their pensions through direct delivery by registering for the shut-in services. To request, they can call the following numbers: 221 2571, 221 2544 (Mahaicony); 232 0952, 232 0953 (Fort Wellington); 333 3970, 333 3318 (New Amsterdam); 337 2667 (Whim); 335 3051 (Skeldon); 771 4311 (Anna Regina); 225 6202, 223 6027 (Georgetown); 264 2690 (West Bank Demerara); 223 1746 ext. 2266/2267 (East Bank Demerara); 220 8977, 256 3635 (East Coast Demerara); 444 6330, 444 6815 (Linden); 772 2307 (Lethem); and 455 2964 (Bartica). If their coupon booklet is lost, the ministry is asking that this be reported to the nearest police station. A copy of the police report should then be uplifted and taken to the nearest probation and social services office. If there is a change in the address, contact should also be made with the probation office, the release said.

Human Services and Social Security Minister, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, visited dozens of distribution sites during the nationwide exercise

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, November 3, 2021

Actions now to feed the world and save the planet – urges FAO

POLICYMAKERS must find a way “to feed the world and save the planet at the same time,” QU Dongyu, Director-General of the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO), said at

the G20 leaders summit in Rome on Sunday. “Climate Change will compromise our ability to produce sufficient amounts of nutritious foods, and increase poverty and deepen inequalities,” Qu warned on the eve of COP climate conference in Glasgow. Qu spoke during two

sessions: One focused on climate change and the environment, and the other on sustainable development at the summit, hosted by Prime Minister Mario Draghi of Italy, and attended, mostly in person, by presidents and heads of government representing around two-thirds of the world’s population, and

an even higher share of its economic activity. He expressed his thanks to Italy for its support to the Food Coalition initiative, and for making sure that global food security was high on the agenda throughout the 2021 G20 Presidency. The Leaders Summit culminated a year with 175 events, 20 ministerial meetings, two other G20 Leaders meetings; one on Health, and one on Afghanistan, as well as dozens of working group sessions that have led, among other outcomes, to the Matera Declaration on Food Security, Nutrition and Food Systems, to which the FAO was a major contributor. Agri-food systems around the world are being threatened by a host of factors ranging from civil conflicts to biodiversity loss, and the COVID-19 pandemic has made things worse, pushing more than 800 million people into chronic hunger, while another three billion cannot afford healthy diets, the Director-General said. “We are not on track to limit global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees,” he noted. Many participants in the Rome summit are expected to attend the UN’s Climate Change Conference, known as COP26, which will run from 31 October through 12 November in Glasgow, Scotland. With just nine agricultural seasons until the 2030 target date for the Sustainable Development Goals, “the urgency for climate action is stronger than ever,” the Director-General told the G20

leaders. “Politicians need to take stronger leadership; people need to take ownership, and all society must work in coherent partnership, based on science and innovation,” Qu said. The G20 Rome Leaders Declaration culminating the summit encouraged partners and stakeholders everywhere “to collaborate with or join the Food Coalition launched by the FAO as a means to respond to the impacts of COVID-19 on food security and nutrition”. Leaders also recognised the importance of sustainable agri-food systems not only to combat hunger, but also “to make a major contribution to tackling the interlinked global challenges of climate change and biodiversity loss”.

WHAT FAO IS DOING The FAO is firmly committed to working together with members and all partners coherently on the 2030 agenda, and the SDGs, Qu emphasised. Boosting public and private investments, increasing access to convenient infrastructure and financial resources for farmers and the vulnerable, and implementing policy reforms that provide incentives for private sector actors to support agri-food systems transformation and rural development are cardinal principles of what needs to be done concretely to make agri-food systems “more efficient, more inclusive, more resilient and more sustainable,” he said.

“We must believe in science, learn science and apply science; we must innovate our business model - sci-tech and methodology are our ultimate solutions!” he said. The “4Rs”: reduce, reuse, recycle and replace – should be basic guidance for policy makers, he added. FAO has rolled out the Hand-in-Hand Initiative to catalyse strong and effective partnerships to improve the agri-food potential of countries, as well as the Green Cities Initiative to enhance urban environments. FAO created a G20 Green Garden in Rome to support its common agenda with Italy. The organisation takes a holistic approach to agrifood systems and builds on scientific evidence, big data and innovation, as well as enabling policies to ensure that agri-food systems contribute to lower greenhouse gas emissions, while increasing socio-economic and environmental benefits. Rural development must be at the top of national development priorities, the Director-General emphasised. The “5Fs” – food, feed, fiber, fuel and a friendly environment – of agri-food systems are crucial arenas to improve people’s livelihoods, and FAO’s new Strategic Framework 2022-2031 supports members craft pathways to establish the Four Betters: Better production, Better nutrition, a Better environment, and a Better life for all, leaving no one behind, Qu said. (FAO)

Virtual Diwali motorcade set for this evening

–– activity to be streamed live on various platforms from 20:00hrs EVEN as the movement and interaction of Guyanese and people the world over continue to be affected by the pervasive COVID-19 pandemic, the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha plans to sustain and preserve the local culture through a virtual Diwali motorcade, on Wednesday evening. The religious organisation will be streaming the motorcade live from 20:00hrs on E-Networks (Channel Three), the National Communications Network (Channel 11), the National Television Network (Channel 69) and Skar TV. Persons could also tune in to the Guy-

ana Hindu Dharmic Sabha’s Facebook page to follow the motorcade. According to the Dharmic Sabha, the hosting of this virtual activity was inspired by the “overwhelming” response to the virtual motorcade last year. The organisation, through the use of various virtual platforms, plans to promote, sustain and share the religious and cultural heritage in Guyana and further afield. “It brings the joy, happiness and devotion that is pervasive in Guyana for Diwali to the world virtually. We encourage persons to stay safe and get vaccinated so that next year we can return

to the traditional motorcade,” the Sabha said. During this year’s virtual motorcade, there will be performances by the Dharmic Nritya Sangh, Ben Parag, Vishale Sukhram, Suchitra Rampersaud, Aartie Sookhai- Khellawan, Rekha Ranglall, Sookrane Boodhoo, Karamchand Sugrim, Bunty and Suraj Singh and others. The Dharmic Sabha also encourages Guyanese to visit the countrywide sites of “Deep Jale” including the main site at the Kitty Seawall Roundabout with family and friends, as persons prepare to celebrate Diwali 2021 on Thursday, November 4.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, November 3, 2021

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday November 3, 2021

Approximately 800 security personnel to guard WI women in Pakistan THE West Indies women cricketers are all set to tour Pakistan for the threematch ODI series. However, ahead of the series, Security and Emergency Services Division DIG has asserted that the security and emergency services division of Karachi Police has put together a security plan for the upcoming matches. All the games of the series are scheduled to be played at the National Stadium in Karachi. The security plan was finalised in a meeting that was attended by the senior officers of police, Army, Rangers, PCB, and all stakeholders. DIG Security and Emergency Services Division, Maqsood Ahmed were in charge of the meeting which was held at the SSU headquarters. As per the ploy, at least

368 Police Special Security Unit (SSU) commandos along with 500 police and law enforcement agencies personnel will be deployed to look after the security of the West Indies Women Cricket Team tour. The forces will provide their services at the National Stadium, Karachi airport, route, hotels, and other places. A specialised command and control bus will also be made available around the stadium to look after the lawand-order situation. In order to deal with any emergency situation, a Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team including the women’s commandos will be on standby at the SSU headquarters.. The teams are staged to lock horns with each other for three ODIs. The matches will be held from November 8 to 14. The Cricket West

Indies (CWI) CEO had earlier stated that this tour will act as great preparation for the side ahead of the World Cup Qualifiers that are set to begin on November 21. “This reciprocal tour to Pakistan is an important part of our preparation plans ahead of the World Cup qualifying tournament that is scheduled to take place in Zimbabwe in mid-November. This tour to Pakistan will give the team the chance to play in different conditions, compared to the Caribbean and have more high-level competitive cricket ahead of aiming to secure one of the three qualifying spots available for the Women’s Cricket World Cup next year,” Johnny Grave, Cricket West Indies’ CEO had earlier said as quoted by ESPNcricinfo. (CricTracker)

China, Guyana strengthen... (From back page) ence of students,” the GTTA head highlighted. Education Minister Priya Manickchand, underscored that sport and academics go hand-in-hand, and the first beneficiary of these tables

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday November 3, 2021

Blatter, Platini indicted by Swiss authorities over two million Swiss francs payment ZURICH, Switzerland (Reuters) - Former FIFA president Sepp Blatter and ex-UEFA president Michel Platini have been indicted over unlawfully arranging a payment of two million Swiss francs ($2.19 million), the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) of Switzerland said yesterday. Swiss prosecutors have been probing Blatter, 85, over accusations that he arranged the payment from world soccer's governing body FIFA to Platini in February 2011. The Swiss investigation was opened in 2015 amidst the series of scandals which engulfed FIFA. The affair led to a FIFA ethics investigation which saw both men banned from the game and forced to leave their positions. The OAG accused Blatter and Platini of "fraud, in the alternative of misappropriation, in the further alternative of criminal mismanagement as well as of forgery of a document." Platini, who captained France to victory in the 1984 European Championship, was also charged as an accomplice. Blatter and Platini were both banned in 2016 from

Former FIFA president Sepp Blatter (left) and UEFA president Michel Platini (Reuters photo)

soccer for six years over the payment, made with Blatter's approval for work done a decade earlier. Both had denied any wrongdoing. "I look forward to the trial before the Federal Criminal Court with optimism and I hope that this story will come to an end and that all the facts will be dealt with properly," Blatter said in a statement yesterday. "Regarding the payment of the sum of two million francs from FIFA to Michel Platini, I can only repeat myself: It was based on an oral contract that regulated Platini's advisory activities for FIFA between 1998 and 2002," he added.

Blatter said the payment had been delayed because FIFA was not able to pay the entire amount and that Platini only made his claim for the money in 2010. The former FIFA president said that the payments had been approved by "all responsible FIFA bodies" and that Platini had paid tax on the amount "at his Swiss place of residence". Platini did not immediately respond to a request for comment but last month his Swiss lawyer Dominic Nellen said: "From the defence's point of view, it is clear that the investigation should have been discontinued long ago. There are enough witness

reports and documents in the case files that prove my client's innocence. The defence has now requested various witnesses." The OAG said its investigation revealed that Platini worked as a consultant for then FIFA president Blatter between 1998 and 2002 and that an annual compensation of 300 000 Swiss francs was agreed upon in a written contract. The OAG said Platini had invoiced the contract and had been paid in full but the 66-year-old former France international continued to demand payment. "Over eight years after the termination of his advisory activity, Platini demanded a payment in the amount of two million Swiss francs," the OAG said. "With Blatter's involvement, FIFA made a payment to Platini in said amount at the beginning of 2011. The evidence gathered by the OAG has corroborated that this payment to Platini was made without a legal basis. "This payment damaged FIFA's assets and unlawfully enriched Platini. In the view of the OAG, the accused have committed the offences listed."

South Africa beat Bangladesh to strengthen semi-final hopes By Amy Lofthouse SOUTH Africa beat Bangladesh by six wickets to strengthen their Men's T20 World Cup semi-final hopes. A dismal Bangladesh were bowled out for 84 with 10 balls to spare, having earlier stumbled to 24-3 and 45-6. Anrich Nortje claimed a devastating 3-8, with fellow fast bowler Kagiso Rabada taking 3-20 in Abu Dhabi. South Africa slipped to 33-3 to give Bangladesh hope before an unbeaten 31 from captain Temba Bavuma saw the Proteas home with 39 balls left. South Africa are second in Group 1 behind England, with the top two teams qualifying for the knockout stages. Third-placed Australia are also in contention for the semi-finals, but the Proteas have a superior net run-rate after the convincing win over Bangladesh. The defeat eliminates Bangladesh, who face Aus-

Pacer Kagiso Rabada was named player of the match for his 3-20.

tralia tomorrow, while South Africa play England in their final group game on Saturday. BANGLADESH TOIL AGAINST SA'S PACE Bangladesh went into this match knowing their semi-final hopes were all but over after losing their first three matches. They were also without all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan, who was ruled out of the rest of the tournament with a hamstring injury, for the first time

in a T20 World Cup match since 2007. They never got going with the bat, undone by the pace of first Rabada and then Nortje. Rabada claimed three wickets in five balls to dismantle the top order, including trapping Soumya Sarkar for a first-ball duck, as Bangladesh struggled through the powerplay overs. Nortje's use of the short ball paid off when captain Mahmudullah gloved a rising delivery to point, and the boundaries dried up as Bangladesh crawled to 40-5 at the halfway stage. Mahedi Hasan scored Bangladesh's first boundary for 50 deliveries when he dabbed left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj away, and he hit the sole six of the innings in the 18th over. But Nortje's two wickets in two balls to start the penultimate over ended Bangladesh's innings, and left them with a total that never felt as though it would trouble South

Africa. In such a close group, run-rate could end up being crucial, with South Africa knowing a quick victory could boost their semi-final hopes further. However, they lost Reeza Hendricks in the first over of their reply before Quinton de Kock, who had started to give the innings impetus, was bowled by Mahedi. When Aiden Markram fell for a duck, edging the excellent Taskin Ahmed to slip, South Africa had lost three wickets inside the first six overs. However, Bavuma, a level-headed batter and captain, counter-attacked. He and Rassie van der Dussen ran hard, before Bavuma launched Nasum Ahmed for a towering six over mid-wicket. With such a low total, neither player had to force the rate or play risky shots, allowing them to wrap up victory in calm fashion. (BBC Sport)

Retire? It has not crossed my mind, says Messi

Paris Saint-Germain's Argentinian forward Lionel Messi controls the ball during the French Ligue 1 football match between Paris Saint-Germain and LOSC Lille at the Parc des Princes stadium, in Paris, last Friday. (Photo: AFP)

MADRID, Spain (AFP) - Argentine football superstar Lionel Messi says he has not given any thought about retiring after next year's World Cup, adding he would love to be Barcelona sporting director when he does finally hang up his boots. The six-time Ballon D'Or winner will be 35 by the time the World Cup - a trophy that has eluded him through his stellar career - comes round in Qatar next year. Messi is tied to French Ligue 1 leaders Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) till June 2023 - with the option of an extra year - after leaving his beloved Barcelona in August. He told Monday's edition of Catalan newspaper Sport that retirement was not on his agenda. “No, truthfully, no,” he said regarding hanging up his boots. “After all that has happened to me, I just live day to day, year after year. “I do not know what is going to happen at the World Cup or after it. I am not thinking about it. What will be will be at that moment.” Messi added that leaving Barcelona after almost two decades had been a huge wrench but he will return one day to live there and even perhaps be the sporting director of the club. Xavi, his long-time teammate during the glory years at Barca - winning amongst other silverware four Champions League trophies - is the favourite to return to the club

as head coach following the sacking of Ronald Koeman last week. “We will return to live in Barcelona, our life will be there, that is for sure,” he said. “It is what both my wife and I want. “I do not know if it will be straight after the end of my contract with Paris, but we will return to live in Barcelona. “I would love to be sporting director at some point. “I do not know if it will be at Barcelona or not, or I will fill another role. “But, if there is a possibility, I would love to help the club.” Messi has, as of yet, failed to sparkle at PSG and he told Sport his and his family's greatest desire was to stay at Barca. Messi joined PSG after Barca decided not to renew the Argentinian's contract due to La Liga's strict salary limits. Barcelona president Joan Laporta said in October he hoped Messi would change his mind and play for free. Messi, though, said that had never been tabled as an option. “I did everything I could to stay there,” he said. “Never at any point did they ask me to play for free. “They asked me to reduce my salary by 50 per cent and I did that, no problem. “We were willing to help the club. “My desire and that of my family was to stay in Barcelona.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday November 3, 2021

Azharuddin criticises Kohli and Shastri’s absence in NZ presser INDIA had a terrible outing against New Zealand during their second match of the T20 World Cup 2021 as they slipped to an eight-wicket loss. As soon as India went through an embarrassing defeat, a post-match press conference followed up which was attended by pacer Jasprit Bumrah. Talking in the same line of events, former Indian skipper Mohammed Azharuddin has slammed Ravi Shastri for not showing up publicly after unwanted results. Azharuddin stated that Shastri should have come up to answer the questions posed by the media and should have taken responsibility. If Kohli doesn’t want to come that is fine but Shastri’s absence was just not acceptable, added the former skipper. He also pointed out the fact that one cannot always attend pressers after victories and that these instances should also be handled gracefully.

Former India captain Mohammed Azharuddin

“In my view, the coach should have come for the press conference. If Virat Kohli doesn’t want to attend the press conference, that’s fine. But, Ravi (Shastri) bhai should have attended the press conference. “You can’t just attend press conferences after victories, you must give an explanation for defeats too. Sending Bumrah for the press conference was not right. Ei-

Ronaldo rescues... first half. United were also second best after the break but Ronaldo, who scored a late winner in the reverse fixture and against Villarreal, delivered with a vital goal to keep United in pole position heading into the final two group games. At 2-1 down, United were sitting third in the group and facing the prospect of going out if they lost to Villarreal in their next fixture, but now a win would see them through with one game to spare. Many have questioned

the impact of Ronaldo's return to United, but the Portugal great has proved in Europe's elite club competition there is no-one better for producing when it matters. Ronaldo has scored in each of United's group games, netting crucial winners, and once again showed his desire to rescue his side with an instinctive volley that found the bottom corner in the 91st minute. United had struggled to impose themselves on the fixture but they also produced the move of the match

ther the captain or the coach should have come for the presser or someone from the coaching staff,” said Azharuddin while speaking to ABP news. The former cricketer added that there is no shame in losing a match or two but taking responsibility remains vital and one cannot expect Bumrah to answer all the questions thrown at the press conference around the team’s performance. One should be equally ready to step forward during the rough phase, concluded Azharuddin. “If you lose a game or two, there’s nothing to be ashamed of. But the captain or the coach must come and explain to the nation why the team lost. How can you expect Bumrah to answer these questions? If you are ready to face the media when the team wins then you should also step forward when your team is going through a rough phase,” he added. (CricTracker) (From page 34) for Ronaldo to grab his first, pouncing on Fernandes' deft touch to level after a first half in which Solskjaer's side had battled to keep the hosts at bay. United's victory at Tottenham on Saturday was supposed to be a pivotal moment for Solskjaer, with Spurs boss Nuno Espirito Santo losing his job and Solskjaer's tactical tweaks suggesting a far more solid and resilient Reds side existed to the one thumped 5-0 by Liverpool a week earlier.

Verry Elleegant wins Australia's biggest race VERRY Elleegant has won Australia's famous Melbourne Cup horse race ahead of favourite Incentivise and Britain's Spanish Mission. The New Zealand mare ridden by James McDonald chased down the short-priced favourite in the home straight to win by four lengths. It is the first Melbourne Cup victory for trainer Chris Waller. "I love her to bits. She's been so good to me," McDonald told local network Channel 10 after the race. "They can safely say she's a champion now. "I never thought I would ever win one, you know. I always dreamed of winning one, but, it's so hard to win." Last year's winner, Twilight Payment, trained in Ireland by Joseph O'Brien, finished 11th after heading the weights. The Melbourne Cup, known as "the race that stops a nation", is worth A$7.75M

Verry Elleegant won by four lengths

(£4.25M; $5.8M). It usually attracts a crowd of about 100 000 but only 10 000 fully vaccinated racegoers were present this year because of COVID-19 restrictions. Immediate reports suggested all runners had got through the race unscathed. Stricter checks on overseas runners were introduced

after six equine deaths associated with the race since 2013. The 2019 Derby winner Anthony Van Dyck was euthanised after suffering a broken leg in last year's race. Spanish Mission had been cleared by vets to run for Andrew Balding after being treated for swelling in one of his legs. (BBC Sport)

Vengsarkar surprised with Ashwin’s constant exclusion FORMER Indian cricketer Dilip Vengsarkar was surprised with Ravi Ashwin’s constant omission from the national playing eleven and said that it has become a “matter of investigation”. Ashwin last played for India back in June during the World Test Championship final against New Zealand at the Rose Bowl in Southampton. Since then, he’s had to warm the benches. He was a part of the squad for the tour of England, but kept being overlooked. Moreover, Ashwin is yet to get a game in the 2021 T20 World Cup despite being a part of the squad. The veteran played the two warm-up matches against England and Australia, and picked up two wickets. However, in India’s Super 12 matches against Pakistan and New Zealand, he couldn’t break into the eleven. Vengsarkar said that it’s a mystery as to why Ashwin hasn’t got a game despite being a senior member and one

Off-spinner Ravi Ashwin last played for India in June

of India’s top wicket-takers across formats. “Why is Ashwin being dropped for so long? It is a matter of investigation. Across formats he is your best spinner with more than 600 international wickets. He is your senior most spinner and you don’t pick him,” Vengsarkar was quoted as

saying in Sportskeeda. “I fail to understand. He didn’t play a single game in the England Test series also. Why do you pick him then? It is a mystery to me,” he stated. Vengsarkar was also disappointed with the “body language” of the Indian cricketers in the World Cup. “The team looked off-colour and players looked jaded. I don’t know if it is the bio-bubble fatigue or something else, I have not seen such body language in the players in a long time,” Vengsarkar added. India have had a terrible time until now in the mega event. Virat Kohli and co. are currently placed at fifth in the points table in Group 2 with a net run rate of -1.609. India will next be facing Mohammad Nabi’s Afghanistan today at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi. If India lose the game, they will officially be knocked out of the competition. (CricTracker)

Former Flying Stars president Randolph ‘Duckie’ Singh passes away FORMER president of the Flying Stars Cycle Club, Randolph ‘Duckie’ Singh passed away recently following a prolonged illness. Known for hie benevolence to athletes in all sport disciplines, Singh was the proprietor of Duckie’s General Store, Russell and Sussex Streets, Charlestown. In a Facebook post, former Guyana welterweight boxing champion, Michael Benjamin, who was a close friend of Singh, said he “was truly devastated to have learnt of the demise of my buddy friend, sage, partner, row mate and most importantly, father figure, who left to be with his Lord and Saviour. Benjamin disclosed that he was introduced to Singh by his now deceased coach, Michael Barker, in 1983 “and ever since then he's been my devoted friend.” According to Benjamin, “Our relationship spans some 37 years and I observed as my friend bravely battled life's vicissitudes. Duckie was a true warrior. He was confined to his bed but retained his faith and love for his creator. I would find quality time to venture into his bedroom, sit by his side and relive our initial days as

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Wednesday November 3, 2021)

COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Josh Hazlewood (AUST) (2) Devon Smith (WI vs SA, 2007) Today’s Quiz: (1) How many different teams the WI have contested T20 World Cup games to date? (2) Which two have never represented the WI in T20 World Cup matches? Answers in tomorrow’s issue

MPs to quiz Yorkshire chairman about report into racism allegations MEMBERS of Parliament (MPs) want to quiz Yorkshire chairman Roger Hutton about the handling of a report which found Azeem Rafiq had been a victim of "racial harassment and bullying" at the club. The Digital, Culture, Media and Sport committee says it wants "a much fuller explanation than we have had so far". Last year Rafiq, 30, claimed "institutional racism" at the club left him close to taking his own life. Seven of the 43 allegations were upheld in a report by an independent panel. Hutton apologised to Rafiq, who left Headingley in 2018, saying there was "no question" that - during his first spell at the club - he had been "the victim of racial harassment". However, the club recently said it will not take disciplinary action against any player, employee or executive over the harassment. "We are extremely concerned by recent reports

A former England youth captain, Azeem Rafiq, captained Yorkshire in a Twenty20 fixture in 2012

about the lack of action against individuals following the findings," said DCMS chair Julian Knight. "This is extremely concerning and it's clear that Yorkshire County Cricket Club has questions to answer. "We have monitored developments around the club's handling of the serious al-

legations made by Azeem Rafiq. "We want to see much greater transparency from YCCC - it is time for them to answer their critics. "We intend to call the chair of the club before the DCMS committee to give a much fuller explanation than we have had so far." A DCMS statement added: "MPs are expected to consider what actions should follow. "Senior management from the club will also be invited to attend the session." Rafiq received a heavily redacted version of the findings of the report into his allegations after Yorkshire missed the Friday, 8 October deadline by which it had been ordered to release it in full by an employment judge. The club said they have provided a copy of the report to the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and are "working with them on their investigation into the issues raised". (BBC Sport)

Ronaldo rescues Manchester United at Atalanta

Randolph ‘Duckie’ Singh

friends. He really cherished those moments.” Benjamin explained that “less than three weeks ago, Duckie’s wife was flown to the USA to perform an intricate surgery and he was deeply saddened after one of her limbs was amputated. He became vulnerable and I just knew I had to be there for him. I felt his grief but other than reassuring words and prayers there was nothing

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday November 3, 2021

more I could have done. “My tears flow and my heart aches. I have lost a close friend, confidante, father figure, guide .... I can only resign myself to the fact that God in all his wisdom and love has seen his suffering and cuddled him gently as he transcended to eternity. Sleep well Duckie. Safe journey and take care!” Former Georgetown Mayor, Patricia Chase Green in her tribute, also on Facebook, said “reading this devastating news I am deeply saddened by Duckie’s death. I was introduced to Duckie by my husband Dick Tiger sometime in the 70s. “He was a great sponsor and supporter of Tiger during his boxing career. He always made sure that while Tiger was in training, he was fully equipped with everything from sporting gear to foodstuff and ensured he attended training sessions. He was indeed a friend and I am lost for words. My condolences to the family and may his soul rest in perfect peace and rise in glory.”

Cristiano Ronaldo is the first player to score in four consecutive Champions League appearances for Manchester United since Ruud van Nistelrooy in April 2003.

CRISTIANO Ronaldo once again rescued Manchester United with a sensational late goal to earn his side a draw against Atalanta that keeps them top of Champions League Group F. The 36-year-old, who also levelled in first-half added time, volleyed in from

outside the box in added time for his second of the night to earn United a crucial point in Bergamo. Josip Ilicic opened the scoring with a low effort that squeezed under David de Gea at a vociferous Gewiss Stadium and Atalanta thought Duvan Zapata's 56th-minute

effort had won it. Ronaldo capped a wonderful move by firing beyond goalkeeper Juan Musso for his first following a delightful Bruno Fernandes back-heel, after Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side had been on the back foot for much of the (Turn to page 33)

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Wednesday November 3, 2021

Pakistan reach T20 World Cup semi-finals with 45-run win over Namibia PAKISTAN overcame a spirited Namibia by 45 runs to secure their place in the Men's T20 World Cup semi-finals. Pakistan smashed 130 from the final 10 overs to post an imposing 189-2, led by opener Mohammad Rizwan's unbeaten 79. Rizwan shared a 113-run stand with Babar Azam before Mohammad Hafeez thrashed 32 from 16 balls as Pakistan accelerated in Abu Dhabi. Namibia produced several good partnerships but could muster only 144-5 from their 20 overs. Pakistan had reached just 59-0 at the halfway stage of the innings before Rizwan and Babar, who made 70, began to hit more freely. Babar's side are top of Group 2 with four wins from four and cannot be passed,

with New Zealand, Afghanistan and India vying for second place. They face Scotland in their final group game on Sunday while Namibia, who have now been eliminated, play New Zealand on Friday. PAKISTAN CONTINUE WINNING RUN Pakistan have often got off to quick starts in the tournament but Rizwan and Babar had to pace themselves and come to grips with a slower pitch. Rizwan in particular struggled, despite overturning an lbw dismissal against him on two, and he had reached just 16 from 25 balls after 10 overs. The two batters spoke at the drinks break, discussing tactics, before Babar thrashed two fours as the next over cost

Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan shared a 113-run opening stand for Pakistan.

CGI Academy players still awaiting May-June salaries ACADEMY Players contracted by Cricket Guyana Inc. (CGI) are still owed for the months of May and June 2021. Their Academy contracts started in January 2021 and ended in June, however, until now, the salaries for the final two months of that contract are still outstanding. According to an article published by News Room on Monday, Academy players voiced their displeasure of the lengthy gap in payment. The Guyana Cricket Board’s (GCB’s) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Public Relations Officer (PRO) Claude Raphael indicated that financial constraints caused the delay and that all players will soon be paid outstanding salaries. The Academy players normally train alongside the 15 contracted Guyana Jaguars players, usually four times per week. “Yes, the Academy players have not been paid for two months,” the CEO was quoted in the article. “That is because since we took office, we have not been paid the franchise funds from the West In-

dies board, and as a consequence, we were short of funds for other business, so we decided to discuss among ourselves and try to meet the payment for the Academy players … we will complete that payment, but it is a question of funds,” he explained. Raphael further highlighted that usually, funds would go directly to CGI and not the GCB, and that is a major issue the new GCB has faced since being elected in March 2021. “The West Indies board would usually pay those funds to Cricket Guyana Inc. because those guys were contracted with Cricket Guyana Inc. and not the GCB as such. The CGI is a separate entity from the GCB,” the CEO expressed in the article. The GCB executive further revealed that since March this year there has been an ongoing issue accessing these funds from CWI. “Since March we have not had any money from the West Indies board with respect to the franchise. We pay them from the funds we had, apart from the franchise

CEO of the Guyana Cricket Board, Claude Raphael

funds, and I am trying to get the account to know how much we have for them (players) so we can clear them off and then will deal with the West Indies board in time and not to let the youngsters suffer.” CGI was set up as a commercial arm of the GCB when the CWI started its Professional Cricket League (PCL) in 2014. In January, CGI announced contracts for 14 Academy players. Those contracts are ranked A (G$100 000), B (G$75 000), and C (G$50 000).

12 runs. Rizwan then seemed to find his fluency after hitting the first six of the innings over long-on - he and Babar finding the boundary at least once an over. They became the first partnership to share five century stands in men's T20Is before Babar slapped the experienced David Wiese to deep mid-wicket. Rizwan reached his half-century in the penultimate over, hitting a towering six off Wiese to the delight of the crowd, which was vocal in their support of Pakistan. The final over was a demolition. Rizwan hit three fours and one six off the first five balls from JJ Smit, before a scrambled two took Pakistan to the second highest total of the tournament so far. Given Namibia's relative

inexperience against the big sides and the skill of Pakistan's bowlers, some may have expected them to fold quickly. Although they lost opener Michael van Lingen early to a quick, full Hasan Ali delivery, a 47-run stand between Craig Williams and Stephen Baard settled them. Williams took the attack to Pakistan, walking towards leftarm spinner Imad Wasim and flat-batting him back down the ground, before holing out to long-off. It was Wiese, a T20 veteran who previously played for South Africa, who gave Namibia some late energy with three fours and two sixes. After seeing out the final over from Shaheen Shah Afridi, the two shared a warm hug, signalling the end of a match that was played in good spirits. (BBC Sport)

Umpire Michael Gough serves six-day suspension for bubble breach MICHAEL Gough, the English umpire, had to be suspended from his duties at the ongoing T20 World Cup for a six-day period starting October 28 following "a breach of the event bio-security protocols". The sanction from the ICC came after Gough is understood to have left his hotel without permission and went outside the tournament's bio-bubble. He has already missed one game as a result, the October 31 fixture between India and New Zealand in Dubai, when South African Marais Erasmus stood in for Gough. "The bio-security advisory committee has instructed umpire Michael Gough to isolate for six days due to a breach of the event bio-security protocols," an ICC spokesperson told ESPNcricinfo. Gough was subsequently tested for signs of COVID-19 on the second, fourth and

sixth days - after October 28 - and is understood to have returned negative results on the first two days. The third test was scheduled for yesterday, November 2, and if he tests negative again, he will be allowed to return to work. Gough's next game is scheduled for November 4, between Sri Lanka and West Indies in Abu Dhabi. He had been slotted to officiate in two games during the warm-up phase prior to the tournament, two games in the first round and eight games during the Super 12s. Four of those games - Australia vs South Africa on October 23 in Abu Dhabi, Bangladesh vs Sri Lanka in Abu Dhabi on October 24, Afghanistan vs Scotland on October 25 in Sharjah, and Pakistan vs New Zealand on October 26 in Sharjah - had been completed before the breach. Gough has two more games marked against his

Michael Gough was suspended on October 28, and has returned two negative COVID-19 tests since (ICC via Getty)

name in the group phase after the November 4 assignment: Australia vs West Indies in Abu Dhabi on November 6, and Afghanistan vs New Zealand, also in Abu Dhabi, on November 7. The umpires for the knockouts - two semi-finals and one final - haven't been announced yet. (Cricinfo)

West Indies Women

Approximately 800 security personnel to guard WI women in Pakistan

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Britton stays ‘perfect’ at Ecuador Open

GUYANA’S Shemar Britton had a perfect outing on day one of the Ecuador Open, which forms part of the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) Contender Series. After disposing of Ecuador’s Paul Ignacio Cedeno (4-1) in his first match yesterday, Britton returned to the table to remove Peru’s Rodrigo Izaguirr 4-2 in their ‘best-of-seven’ encounter. Britton won the first set 11-9, but Izaguirr bounced back to take the second 9-11. But the 23-year-old former Caribbean U-21 champion rebounded to win the fol-

China, Guyana strengthen partnership with donation of another 50 tennis tables

Shemar Britton

lowing two sets 11-8, 11-6. However, not to be outdone, Izaguirr came back in the fifth set to win 7-11. Nonetheless, Britton was able to take the sixth set 11-8 to move to the next round. Britton, a former Caribbean U-21 and men’s singles champion, Caribbean championships bronze medallist men’s singles, 2019 Guyana and men’ singles Under-21 silver medallist, is the lone Guyanese at the event in Ecuador. In fact, Britton is in the South American country without his coach, Idi Lewis.

Guyana Table Tennis Association president, Godfrey Munroe (left), looks on as Ambassador Guo Haiyan (centre) and Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand, sign the agreements yesterday

THE People’s Republic of China and the Co-operative Republic of Guyana have continued to strengthen their ties in the area of sport, with the donation of 50 tennis tables through the Chinese Embassy yesterday at the National Centre of Educational Resources Development, Kingston. In 2019, 50 schools received a similar donation, and according to the new Ambassador, Guo Haiyan, the hope is that the apparatus can spark greater interest by the pupils. “I believe the equipment can inspire the students to have strong interests in table ten-

nis and table tennis can become one of their best memories in teenage years,” Ambassador Haiyan stated. Godfrey Munroe, president of the Guyana Table Tennis Association (GTTA), highlighted that the continued gesture, is just the tip of the iceberg, and the talents identified will filter into the association’s national plans. “We believe that this project is significant in the context that it provides the framework for the development of the sport grounded in the education sector because the sector has a large target audi- TURN TO PAGE 31 ►

Pakistan reach T20 World Cup semi-finals 35 with 45-run win over Namibia PAGE

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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2021