FRIDAY 10th July, 2020
' No.106056
GECOM can’t direct CEO on what to put in report …AG says as GECOM’s Chair orders Lowenfield to submit report based on recount …sees breach of Constitution with directive
‘Fresh elections best solution’
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…Commissioner Alexander proposes in new report to GECOM …claims voter impersonation occurred since 2006; calls for new list of electors
GECOM Commissioner Vincent Alexander
Chairman of GECOM, Justice Claudette Singh and Chief Elections officer, Keith Lowenfield (Adrian Narine photo)
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 10, 2020
‘Fresh elections best solution’ …Commissioner Alexander proposes in new report to GECOM
…claims voter impersonation occurred since 2006; calls for new list of electors By Svetlana Marshall EVEN as the Chief Elections Officer (CEO), Keith Lowenfield has been ordered to submit an Elections Report at 14:00hrs today, Elections Commissioner Vincent Alexander has made another case for a nondeclaration of General and Regional Elections. Alexander, the country’s longest-serving Elections Commissioner, had made a case in June for the nullification of the March 2, 2020 General and Regional Elections, given the enormous amount of irregularities and cases of voter impersonation that had been unearthed during the National Recount. But the Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), Justice (Ret’d) Claudette Singh, had said
that the Commission does not have the powers of a Court to examine and reexamine witnesses, or to procure official documents to determine the truth of the allegations. Alexander has said, however, in a booklet that the position taken by the GECOM’s Chair is flawed. He explained that the Chief Registration Officer, by virtue of Regulation 40 of the National Registration Act, is entitled to the periodic receipt of information on citizens departing from and returning to Guyana. Further to that, he said GECOM routinely receives reports on deaths for the purpose of deleting the dead from its Register. Alexander submitted that none of the circumstances require individuals to appear before the Commission, since the procedures are
the current situation.
GECOM Commissioner Vincent Alexander
administrative and routinely authorised. As such, he said there would be no issue of GECOM usurping the powers of the Court. Further, Alexander said that while it has been argued that irregularities arising from the recount process can only be remedied by the High Court, in keeping with Article 163 (1) of the Constitution, careful perusal of the Article would reveal that it could only be activated following the conclusion of the electoral process. “Election 2020 has not been concluded, thus Article 162 of the Constitution and Section 22 of the Election Law (Amendment) Act were invoked to overcome the difficulties that had arisen during the course of the elections. All that is contained in Order 60 of 2020, which originated from the invocation of the
Constitution, and the Election Law (Amendment) Act, is therefore what GECOM has been empowered to do to remove the difficulties,” he reasoned. While conceding that Article 162 does not confer the specific power of annulment, Alexander argued that it does empower GECOM “to take such action as appear necessary or expedient to ensure impartiality and fairness”. In support of his position, he referenced the case of Gladys Petrie v. Attorney- General (1968), which addresses the issue of illegalities or omissions affecting the election and or the result. Similarly, he said, the National Assembly (Validity of Election) Act could only be invoked at the conclusion of the electoral process, and as such it is not applicable to
A LUDICROUS ASSUMPTION According to him, it is “ludicrous” to think that Article 163 supersedes and ousters Article 162, when Article 163 could only be invoked within 28 days of the declaration of the Elections result. “All that we are left with is the adherence to the Order in a purposeful manner, by returning to Section 96 of the Representation of the People Act by adherence to Clause 14 of the Order: ‘Determine whether it should request that the Chief Elections Officer to use data compiled in accordance with Paragraph 11 as the basis for the submission of a report under section 96 of the representation of the People Act Cap 1:03,’” Alexander said. On that basis, he made a case for a Non-Declaration. He submitted that the degree of corruption unearthed during the National Recount is so grave that it is “impossible” for the Commission to declare a result. “I posited then that only a new election could ensure the enfranchisement of the eligible voters, and the determination of the result based on the value of the individual eligible votes cast,” Alexander said. “Since then, many pundits, home and abroad, have expressed their views on the need for a Declaration; and what should be declared etc. I am therefore, herein, rearticulating my pre, peri
and post- elections positions, in an effort to separate myself from the ‘wannabe knowledgeables’, since my articulation would be factsbased and dismissive of the contentions of many of the pundits,” he wrote in his booklet. In doing so, he pointed to five primary facts: That the Official List of Electors is significantly bloated, having a voting population of 660,998 persons when the country’s population is 750,000; the bloated list is as a result of the thousands of Guyanese who died or migrated but were not removed from the National Register of Registrants Database (NRRDB); and the National Recount confirmed that unscrupulous people voted in the place dead and persons who were out of the jurisdiction. “In 2006, impersonation was detected at Strathspey, on the East Coast of Demerara. It was reported to the Chief Election Officer, who undertook to investigate the matter but never did. In 2011, at a Polling Station at the school on Eccles Old Road, impersonation was detected, and again in 2020 at a Polling Station at Line Path, Skeldon impersonation was detected,” the Elections Commissioner pointed out. Further, he said that notwithstanding plans by GECOM to cleanse the NRRDB, the country went into the 2020 Elections with the bloated list, and on Elections Day, a large number of persons were voting, using the Oath of Identity rather than an Identification Card or Passport. “This, for me, was a red flag. GECOM had done everything possible to make Identification Cards available to registered voters,” Alexander posited. On the issue of the recount, Alexander said that while it has been argued that it was numerical in nature, the Order which triggered it provides for much more than “rudimentary things”. On the basis of his initial position that no voter should be disenfranchised, and only valid votes should be counted, Alexander said the solution to the challenges currently before the Commission is for a non-declaration, and a for a new process to be initiated that reaffirms the enfranchisement of all, and negates the impact of fraudulent votes.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 10, 2020
GECOM can’t direct CEO on what to put in report …AG sees breach of constitution with GECOM directive to Chief Elections Officer By Svetlana Marshall CHAIRMAN of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), Justice (Ret’d) Claudette Singh, has ordered the Chief Elections Officer (CEO), Keith Lowenfield to prepare and submit a fresh Elections Report in accordance with the Certificates of Recount generated during the 33day National Recount. But the Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Basil Williams, is challenging the GECOM Chair’s authority to dictate the compilation of the CEO’s report. Justice Singh’s instruction came one day after the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) set aside the order of the Court of Appeal and invalidated the Elections Report, which was submitted by Lowenfield on June 23. Approximately 115, 000 votes had been excluded from that report on the basis that they were compromised due to a string of irregularities and cases of voter impersonation. The Court of Appeal had ordered that a President ought to be elected on the basis of “valid votes,” and it was on that basis the Chief Elections Officer compiled and submitted his initial report. But the CCJ ruled that the Court of Appeal’s decision was flawed, and had resulted in the unlawful invalidation of votes by the Chief Elections Officer. In her letter dated Thursday, July 9, 2020, the Chair of the Elections Commission told Chief Elections Officer that Section 18 of the Election Law (Amendment) Act stipulates that he is subject to the direction and control of the Commission. “In accordance with this section and pursuant to Article 177 (2) (b) of the Constitution, and Section 96 of the Representation of the People Act Cap 1:03, you are hereby requested to prepare and submit your report on the March 2, 2020 General and Regional Elections by 2pm on 10th July, 2020,
using the valid votes counted in the National Recount as per Certificates of Recount generated therefrom,” Justice Singh wrote in her letter to the Chief Elections Officer. The 10 Certificates of Recount, generated during the National Recount, showed a win for the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) but the accompanying Observation Reports, which were mandated by Order 60 – the legal cover used to facilitate the recount – pointed to massive irregularities and close to 5,000 cases of voter impersonation – dead and migrant voters. Justice Singh had initially ordered the CEO to prepare an Elections Report, in accordance with the National Recount, on June 16. In arriving at that point, she had explained that while allegations detailed in the Observation Reports are “serious,” the Commission did not have the powers of a Court of Law to examine and re-examine witnesses or to procure official documents to determine the truth of the allegations contained therein. According to her, the allegations are matters to be addressed in an Elections Petition in accordance with Article 163 (1) (b) of the Constitution, which confers on the High Court exclusive jurisdiction to determine the validity of an election. A CONSTITUTIONAL BREACH But the Attorney General, in a statement on Thursday, said the action of the Chair of GECOM amounts to a constitutional breach, noting that neither the Chair nor the Elections Commission could direct the Chief Elections Officer on what to include in his report under Article 177(2) (b) of the Constitution and Section 96 of the Representation of the People Act (ROPA) Cap 1:03. “If the Chairman of GECOM advises the CEO as to what to put in his advice to the Commission, it would amount to a breach of the Constitution, since the Chairman of GECOM
Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Basil Williams
Chief Elections Officer (CEO), Keith Lowenfield
would be acting on her own advice and not acting only in accordance with the advice of the CEO, after such advice has been tendered to the Commission,” the Attorney General explained. He reasoned that the framers of the Constitution and legislature envisaged that the CEO would independently prepare his advice under Article 177 (2) (b), and his report under Section 96 (2) of the Representation of the People Act, which has been constitutionalized by Article 162 (1) (b) of the Constitution. Williams said it is for the Chair and the Elections Commission to receive the advice and report of the Chief Elections Officer at a duly constituted meeting, and act on them. “GECOM cannot rely on Section 18 of the Election Law (Amendment) Act No.
Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), Justice (Ret’d) Claudette Singh
15 of 2000 which provides that the CEO is subject to the direction and control of the Commission, because it would be in conflict with provisions of Article 177 (2) (b) aforesaid and section 96 of ROPA (Representation of the People Act), which has been constitutionalized as aforesaid,” the Attorney General reasoned. In support of his position, Williams alluded to Article 8 of the Constitution, which states that: “The Constitution is the supreme law of Guyana, and if any other law is inconsistent with it, that other law shall, to the extent of the inconsistency, be void.” Further, the Attorney General pointed to Justice of Appeal Fraser in the case of Collymore v. The Attorney General of Trinidad and Tobago, in which, it was said that “No one not even
Parliament can disobey the Constitution with impunity.” A MEETING OF THE COMMISSION The Elections Commission, nonetheless, is scheduled to meet today (July 10) to discuss the revised Elections Report, and the ruling of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) with a view to bringing an end to elongated electoral process. The seven-member Elections Commission was expected to meet on Thursday (July 9) at 13:30hrs. However, the meeting was postponed to allow the Commissioners to study the written judgement of the Court. The postponement of Thursday’s meeting did not sit well with some of the key players. The Citizenship Initiative (TCI), one of the nine political parties
that contested the General and Regional Elections, in a statement, said it was concerned that the electoral process is being further delayed. The small political party, while pointing to the pronouncements of the CCJ, said it was necessary for the electoral impasse to be brought to a swift end. “It has been four months since the Elections were held and the country has been without a Parliament for well over a year. No one in Guyana would regard this as a satisfactory state of affairs. We express the fervent hope that there would quickly be a peaceable restoration of normalcy. Now, the Law must run its course,” TCI said while quoting the President of the CCJ, Justice Adrian Saunders. Guyana, it said, is longing for the results of the Elections, held since March 2, 2020, to be declared – a move that would trigger the formation of a new Government and Parliament. “Now that the apex court of Guyana has definitively ruled on the way forward, it is quite clear what needs to be done. GECOM, and the people of Guyana, have bent over backward enough. GECOM needs to now act decisively to bring our election process to a swift conclusion,” TCI said. The party said the time has come for all Guyanese to work together to take the country forward. This can only be achieved, it said, if there is respect for the laws governing the country. “We respectfully request Madame Chair, Justice (ret’d) Claudette Singh, to do everything in her power to bring the election to its swift conclusion. TCI calls on Madam Chair to allow Guyana to breathe,” TCI urged. It has been more than four months since elections were held in Guyana and no result has been declared.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 10, 2020
Guyana records two new cases of COVID-19 – Region One overtakes Region Four as region with most active cases –– Survey finds that fear of contracting COVID-19 dropped to 53.5%
GUYANA continues to record a consistent rise in the number of Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) cases, with the latest statistics showing that health authorities found two new cases after testing several persons, on Thursday. Health authorities have so far tested 3,087 persons, and the results of those tests showed
2,801 persons were negative and 286 were positive. Of the positive cases, 125 persons have recovered and 16 persons have died, but authorities are still monitoring 145 active cases, of which six are being treated in the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Majority of those active cases are from Region One (Barima-Waini), said Deputy Chief
Friday, July 10, 09:00hrs - 10:30hrs
Medical Officer (DCMO), Dr. Karen Boyle, during a virtual COVID-19 update, on Thursday. According to Dr. Boyle, 69 per cent/approximately 100 of the active cases are from Region One, a hinterland region found at the tip of the map of Guyana. This region has overtaken Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica), as the region with the most active cases. It was reported that, according to the existing statistics, Regions One, Four and Seven (CuyuniMazaruni) continue to have most of the cases. Dr. Boyle had said Regions One and Seven, in particular, have recorded a rapid increase in the number of cases recorded. “I am pleading with you, to stop and spare a thought, not only for your safety, but that of your family, neighbours and residents in the communities,” said the DCMO. She advised persons to co-operate with the compliance division of the Ministry of Natural Resources, the Civil Defence Commission, the army and the
police, who will be working collaboratively with the Ministry of Public Health to contain the spread of this deadly disease in hinterland communities. “We are calling on all the residents to cooperate with the health officials as we work to contain the spread of the disease in your communities,” she advised. Health authorities have found that a large number of positive cases, in these regions, have no signs and symptoms, so they are asymptomatic. These persons can transmit this disease and the infected persons will not even know that they are sick because there is no sign. In that case, Toshaos and village councillors, operations owners all have a role to play in this pandemic. Chief Medical Officer (CMO), Dr. Shamdeo Persaud, had also called on them to impress upon villagers and workers the importance of what is being said. All of the evidence points to the fact that if the guidelines are followed, the dis-
ease will be contained. DROP IN FEAR Despite the prevailing conditions and situation, a nationwide survey conducted by the Ministry of Public Health and The United Nations International Children’s Fund (UNICEF), found that fear of becoming infected by COVID-19 has decreased from 81.6 per cent to 53.6 per cent, in four weeks. Dr. Boyle, in citing information from the survey, said 30 per cent of the respondents reported that they were unwilling to give up their daily practice and adhere to guidelines provided. But, on a brighter note, over 70 per cent of the respondents indicated that they wear a mask when being out in public. Additionally, 58 per cent of the respondents indicated that they observe the “six feet” social distancing guideline and 76 per cent said they wash or sanitise their hands frequently. “The information indicates that most persons are aware of
what is needed to prevent the spread of COVID-19, therefore it begs this question: what is preventing you from acting on your knowledge?” she asked. Her conclusion is that the reduction in fear suggests that there may be fatigue when it comes to the public’s response to the messages concerning COVID-19. It is, however, important that persons understand that, despite the six per cent death rate, there is no prediction as to who will have a fatal case or a mild one. “Thirty per cent of you are unwilling to give up your freedoms in order to adhere to the guidelines that could save your life. At the same time, 70 per cent of us have made the sacrifice for ourselves and fellow man. Guys, get with the programme!! Where is your regard for the lives of others?” she asked. The majority of the respondents are indeed observing the protocols and so it is just for the few “stragglers” to join the bandwagon. As the popular saying goes, “prevention is better than cure” and it is still applicable, and, more so, in the case of COVID-19 where there is no cure and the virus is mutating. “We continue to witness the misuse of the facemask and wish to advise that wearing your mask only because it is a requirement to enter some public spaces is not the principal reason for its inclusion in our guidelines,” said Dr. Boyle, adding that the mask is needed for protection. Masks help to prevent tiny droplets from infecting persons and those around them. Further, it does not work in isolation; it must be supported with practising physical distancing and handwashing. Health authorities have been doing their part to fight the disease, and this includes screening and testing for the disease, especially in endemic regions “As you traverse our dear land, you will encounter many checkpoints, especially at the locations considered as the entrance to the regions and some communities, so please use them. We wish to thank the healthcare workers and volunteers who show up every day to complete this activity recognising the risk but demonstrating courage and understanding that they are needed under these circumstances,” Dr. Boyle advised. COVID-19 remains a serious issue not just here in Guyana, but globally as well, and, according to global statistics, there are 11.6 million cases of COVID-19, with over 539,000 deaths. And, with no approved treatment or cure, there is no assurance that persons will survive after contracting the disease. In the absence of approved medications, governments and authorities across the world have employed a number of preventive measures to contain the spread of the disease.
GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 10, 2020
CAN GECOM DIRECT THE CEO WHAT TO PUT IN HIS REPORT? By Attorney General, Mr. Basil Williams SC The question is whether the Chairman of the Guyana Election Commission (GECOM) or the Commission could direct the Chief Election Officer (CEO) on what to include in his report under Article 177(2) (b) and section 96 of the Representation of the People Act (ROPA) Cap 1:03. If the Chairman of GECOM advises the CEO as to what to put in his advice to the Commission, it would amount to a breach of the Constitution, since the Chairman of GECOM would be acting on her own advice and not acting only in accordance with the advice of the CEO, after such advice has been tendered to the Commission. The framers and legislature envisaged that the CEO would independently prepare his advice under Article 177 (2) (b) of the Constitution and his report under section 96 (2) of ROPA, which has been constitutionalized by Article 162 (1) (b) of the Constitution and certainly without directions from GECOM or the Chairman, who must receive both at a duly constituted meeting and shall act on them. GECOM cannot rely on section 18 of the Election Law (Amendment) Act No. 15 of 2000 which provides that the CEO is subject to the direction and control of the Commission, because it would be in conflict with provisions of Article 177 (2) (b) aforesaid and section 96 of ROPA, which has been constitutionalized as aforesaid. Article 8 of the Constitution provides that “The Constitution is the supreme law of Guyana, and if any other law is inconsistent with it, that other law shall, to the extent of the inconsistency, be void”. Justice of Appeal Fraser in the case of Collymore v. The Attorney General of Trinidad and Tobago, 12 WIR pp.35-36, enunciated the classic supremacy of the Constitution thus: “No one not even Parliament can disobey the Constitution with impunity”.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 10, 2020
Making Article 13 work
THE purpose of our political system, as written in Article 13 of the Guyana Constitution, outlines that “the principal objective of the system of the State is to establish an inclusionary democracy by providing increasing opportunities for the participation of citizens and their organisations in the management and decision-making processes of the State, with particular emphasis on those areas of decision-making that directly affect their well-being.” This article came out of the 1999 constitutional reform exercise which resulted from the then Opposition People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR), under the leadership of Mr. Hugh Desmond Hoyte, signing The St. Lucia Statement with then President, Janet Jagan, on 2nd July 1998. It was felt, among other things, that “measures and arrangements for the improvement of race relations in Guyana include the contribution which equal opportunities’ legislation and concepts drawn from the CARICOM Charter of Civil Society can contribute to the cause of justice, equity and progress in
Guyana.” The St. Lucia Statement has its genesis in the dissatisfaction at the outcome of the elections’ results expressed by the PNCR; and, more importantly, the fear and/or frustration of a significant segment of the population in regard to living under the administration of a party they had not supported to form the Government. This fear and/or frustration has/have its concerns rooted in persons’ opinions that they felt excluded from political decision-making, and that it has impacted their lives. There is no intent to argue the merits or demerits, validity or invalidity of these views; save to say that civility requires that if those fears, real or perceived, were expressed, they were deserving of being addressed. For years, the society has been told -- and some have come to accept -- that ours is a winner-takeall politics, where the party which has not secured the Executive, and its supporters, are denied. Again, our purpose here is not to argue any merit or demerit of this claim, but to examine the article before us and see how
we can make it work in our common good in the here and now, even as conversations continue about constitutional reform. Careful examination of Article 13 shows that it speaks to a solution to the discontent of 1997. It lays the platform, via the nation’s supreme law, to establish and foster a political solution built on the involvement of all, irrespective of our diversity but inclusive of the political party supported. In that this article was assented to by the then President, Bharrat Jagdeo, it was not unreasonable to harbour expectation that he would have chartered a new course, consistent with its objective. This notwithstanding, it does not mean that the article cannot be activated in its fullest, and add fillip to the enveloping nationalism. The preference, harboured in certain quarters, to foster a politics of dissent or of “our time” does not negate, or should not obscure, the overwhelming desire of the ordinary man and woman to proceed along the road of inclusion. Whichever way it is looked at, a diverse nation stands to gain more when all feel that their voices are heard, their
opinions and inputs valued, their choice of representative respected, and their taxes invested in them, irrespective of political or apolitical interests. Few, if any, relish living in a nation constantly racked with silly divisions, whose laws work for some and not all, whose citizens oppose only for the sake of opposing; a nation comprised of feeble men acting as though they are omnipotent, and engaging in endless back and forth, with none wanting to concede anything or listen to the other; all being more bent on talking past each other, and everyone out to prove they are right and the other is wrong. That is not a healthy relationship for any people to cultivate, be it in the home or in public life. Guyanese, having gone past the stage of saying ‘enough is enough’, many continue to register disapproval and discontent with their feet. Those who have stayed, or desire to return, are pleading with their leaders to give development for all a chance to work. The best place to start is at Article 13, given that it aims to ensure a society wherein all can have equal opportunity to realise their God-given potential.
China’s legitimate right to safeguard national security in Hong Kong should be respected Dear Editor, On June 30, the Law of the People’s Republic of China on Safeguarding National Security in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) was passed by China’s top legislature, the Standing Committee of National People’s Congress (NPC), added to the list of national laws in Annex III to the Basic Law of the HKSAR, and applied locally by the Chief Executive of the HKSAR. This is China’s internal affairs and to safeguard national security is China’s legitimate right. However, my good friend H.E. Greg Quinn, British High Commissioner, published the UK position stating that “UK will not duck its historic responsibilities to the people of Hong Kong”. The fact is, there’s no responsibility for the UK in Hong Kong affairs. To facilitate the readers’ further
understanding the national security law for HKSAR comprehensively, objectively, and accurately, I would like to share the following facts in addition to my previous letter on June 17. 1. The national security legislation in HKSAR answers the call of Hong Kong people. Maintaining national security complies with the “One Country, Two Systems” policy created by China’s previous leader Deng Xiaoping, and is the prerequisite and basis for Hong Kong to maintain prosperity and stability. Without national security, how can the “One Country, Two Systems” policy be comprehensively and accurately implemented in Hong Kong? Since China resumed exercise of sovereignty over Hong Kong 23 years ago, due to the obstruction of anti-China forces, the HKSAR has failed to complete the national security legislation as required by the basic
law, causing Hong Kong to remain in an “defenseless” situation. A number of HK residents (some are foreign nationals) openly clamored for “Hong Kong’s independence” and “self-determination”, smashed and robbed stores, violently attacked the police, assaulted the Hong Kong Legislative Council and even cried for “waging armed revolution to gain independence”. These violent actions severely trampled the rule of law in Hong Kong, undermined social stability, hit the economy hard, and put national security at serious risk. Hong Kong people are heartbroken and desperately hope that chaos would be ended quickly, order would be restored, and Hong Kong would walk out of the desperation. In this context, the NPC decided to act in accordance with the Chinese Constitution and Hong Kong Basic Law, and established and improved the legal system
and enforcement mechanisms for Hong Kong. Through multi-mode, multi-channel, NPC sought the views of HKSAR government and people from different walks of life, and obtained the signature of support of nearly three million Hong Kong people (including many employees of foreign-funded enterprises in Hong Kong) in eight days. This fully demonstrates that the national security legislation in HKSAR is in line with mainstream opinion. 2. The national security law for HKSAR will not undermine Hong Kong’s high degree of autonomy. In fact, the law fully integrates the comprehensive jurisdiction of the central government and HKSAR’s high degree of autonomy. It does not affect the SAR’s administrative, legislative or independent judicial power, including that of final adjudication. The law clearly stipulates that the HKSAR shall respect and
protect human rights while safeguarding national security, and protect the rights and freedoms of speech, of press, of publication, of association, of assembly and of demonstration that the Hong Kong residents have never enjoyed under the British colonial rule, in accordance with the Basic Law and the relevant provisions of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), and the International Covenant on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights as applied to Hong Kong. But the rights does not mean that there are no restrictions. The ICCPR clearly stipulates that the exercise of these rights must not undermine national security and public order. The national security law for HKSAR includes four types of offences: secession, subversion, organisation and perpetration of terrorist activities, collusion with a foreign coun-
try or with external elements to endanger national security. It only punishes a very small number of criminals, and protects the vast majority of law-abiding citizens. 3. China does not fail to fulfill its international obligations by enacting the national security law for HKSAR. I must reiterate, the basic policies regarding Hong Kong declared in the 1984 Sino-British Joint Declaration is China’s unilateral policy statement, not its international obligations to the UK. The British side confused the Joint Declaration with China’s “One Country, Two Systems” policy and falsely accused China of failing to fulfill its international obligations. The Chinese government governs Hong Kong in accordance with China’s Constitution and the Hong Kong Basic Law, not the See page 7
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 10, 2020
Fraudulent votes will produce Illegitimate government Dear Editor, IT was 56 years ago on July 6 that someone loaded explosives in the Son Chapman vessel, killing many Afro-Guyanese who were returning from Georgetown to their homes in Linden. That incident, which some believe was instigated by foreign meddling, triggered the worst ethnic conflict in Guyana’s history. The wounds from that period never fully healed, and today another generation of Guyanese wonder whether foreign meddling in the Guyana 2020 elections will trigger a renewed ethnic conflict, inflicting new wounds and causing old wounds to start bleeding all over again. Guyana’s election cy-
cles have always included traces of ethnic tensions, but certainly not to the levels that we see today. Evidence show clearly that dishonest person or persons committed a massive and sophisticated electoral fraud during the March 2 elections. The fraud is massive because more than 400 of the 2200 ballot boxes were affected. The fraud design was sophisticated because it employed within a larger strategic plan, several smaller tactics, including voter impersonation, fake ballots, and the destruction of audit documents. And it is because of that attempted electoral fraud, planned before election day, and apparently with help from foreigners, that Guyanese are must now endure this period of
China’s legitimate right to safeguard ... From page 6 Joint Declaration. The British side has made irresponsible remarks on Hong Kong affairs after Hong Kong’s return, and now intends to break its promise of not conferring the right of abode to those holding British National (Overseas) Passports (BNO), claiming that it “will provide them with a route to British citizenship”. This is a blunt interference in China’s internal affairs and a flagrant violation of the basic norms of international relations. China expresses strong dissatisfaction and firm opposition to it, and has made solemn representations to the British side. 4. Hong Kong affairs are purely China’s internal affairs, and external forces have no right to interfere. Sovereign equality and non-interference in internal affairs are the basic norms of international law and international relations. China has never interfered in the internal affairs of other countries, and has resolutely opposed to foreign interference in China’s internal affairs. On July 1, 1997, China resumed the exercise of sovereignty over Hong Kong. Hong Kong has become a special administrative region of China and is no longer under British colonial rule. Not a single word or paragraph in the Joint Declaration gives the UK any responsibility over Hong Kong after its return. Some British politicians should give up their outdated colonial mindset. With the implementation of the Hong Kong National Security Law, Hong Kong society is changing from disorder to governance and is expected to restore stability. The freedoms and rights of Hong Kong residents can also be better protected. Hong Kong is an international finance, trade, and shipping hub. Hong Kong’s prosperity and stability are in the interest of investors from all countries, including the UK. The UK and China have agreed to commit to building a global comprehensive strategic partnership for the 21st century. This requires the two sides to move towards each other. As State Councillor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi spoke on the phone with Dominic Raab, the First Secretary of State and Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs of the UK, “the Chinese side hopes that the UK will respect the Constitution of the People’s Republic of China and the Basic Law enacted in accordance with the Constitution, respect China’s legitimate right to safeguard national security on its territory, and respect the Chinese central government’s administration of Hong Kong under the principle of ‘One country, Two systems.’” Regards H.E. Cui Jianchun Chinese Ambassador to Guyana
heightened ethnic tensions. Undoubtedly, without the evidence of fraud, the election results would have been declared and accepted a long time ago – irrespective of the winner. The national recount of votes was expected to provide assurances that the election results would reflect the will of the people, and bring an early, peaceful conclusion to the elections held over five months ago. That recount exercise did the exact opposite. It exposed the carefully planned and executed attempt to steal the elections, and has angered APNU+AFC supporters, confirming their views that the PPP/C leaders cannot be
trusted. But more significantly, the fraud so clearly exposed during the recount is now being overlooked, downplayed, or ignored by the opposition parties and foreign commentators. The willingness of the opposition parties to accept fraudulent results is understandable, but not so with those foreign observers who paradoxically insist on using fraudulent votes to produce credible results. Ignoring the fraud does not make it go away, and any government elected using those fraudulent votes cannot be considered legitimate. Because of the extent of the fraud, the Guyana Elections Commission
(GECOM) now finds itself in a conundrum. It cannot nullify the elections because it lacks legal authority to do so. It can decide to count the fraudulent votes to declare a winner and try to force an illegitimate Government onto the Guyanese people. Or it can exclude the tainted ballots from the results, thereby disenfranchising many Guyanese. Either decision will most likely anger approximately one half of the nation. One decision will facilitate fraud, the other will disenfranchise thousands. There is also a third option. Both major parties can seek to use this opportunity to build a national
unity government to serve until the electoral system can be revamped to allow truly fair and transparent elections. This third option would save the nation from what can easily become the world’s newest oil-fuelled conflict – like the one which lead to the division of Sudan. Unfortunately, many Guyanese political and business leaders seem more willing to pander to foreign interests than to the interest of the nation. But that can change. There is no better time for these leaders to put Guyana first. Respectfully Max Mohamed
Abusers are really good at ‘gaslighting’ the witnesses of their abuse Dear Editor, Gaslighting is a psychological weapon used by abusers to maintain power. The term was coined from a 1944 movie, ‘Gaslight’, where a man manipulates his wife to the point where she starts to question her own sanity. The husband does a number of things such as hiding her belongings, moving things around the home, dimming the gas light...and then denies that these things are actually occurring. He convinces her that it is all in her head. He then isolates her from the world for her “own safety”. Women who have been, or are in, abusive/toxic relationships, will find all of this very familiar. Abuse is not only the physical. Typically before the violence gets physical, women endure systematic emotional and psychological abuse, her abuser then denying the harmful behaviours, and begging for forgiveness, it is important to note that not all abusers seek forgiveness. Some women experience a ‘honeymoon’ period before the cycle starts again. Importantly, the denial of the abuse causes many women to question their own judgement, to blame themselves, and to remain silent; deepening the cycle of abuse, leading to experiences of depression, PTSD, lowered self-esteem and self-harm. Some of the phrases that too many women have heard include; “I didn’t really push you” “You’re crazy” “Why are you so emotional?” “Be rational. Stop acting crazy” “You obviously can’t remember clearly. I didn’t shout at you” “No one will believe a crazy woman like you” “Everyone knows you are unstable” “You’re just stressed out” “You are making me act this way” “I’m the only one that can help you” The recent disclosure of Ruel Johnson’s toxic behaviour provides some clear examples of psychological and emotional abuse, examples which are not only provided by the survivors, but by Johnson’s own words. The constant references to his accusers’ mental state and well-being is hallmark manipulation. His efforts to discredit his accusers, while at the same time, framing the story as if he will hold
himself accountable, not only gaslights the survivors, but is a manipulative attempt to gaslight the public. Unfortunately, living in a toxic, patriarchal society like Guyana, members of the public are quick to lap up these types of insincere platitudes. Essentially, our society is more concerned about maintaining the reputation of men and giving men multiple chances, than offering protection and justice to women and girls. I recognise the cognitive dissonance that this matter has created. For years, Ruel Johnson has carefully positioned himself as a man of principle, reason, enlightened intellect and accountability. He has quite publicly lent his voice and energies to calling out all sorts of abusers, so how can someone seemingly so principled, have these dirty skeletons in his closet? I would argue that nothing was really hidden in the closet, but people preferred to focus on the attributes that confirm an existing perception shaped by patriarchal norms. Abusers are also careful to ensure their public lives paint a picture that keeps the abuse hidden. These men are not monsters waiting to pounce from a dark alleyway. They can be charismatic, helpful, and funny. For many women, they are further silenced, because they fear not being believed. How can you convince people that the guy that seems great, terrorises you behind closed doors? If we do not change how we perceive and address abuse (who gets abused and who perpetrates abuse), we will maintain a culture of violence that largely affects all women and girls. Furthermore, we risk silencing survivors when a man accused of abuse, uses such accusations to further propel himself as righteous. There is something deeply perverse about our society if we allow a woman’s pain to be used as a road for redemption for the man that caused that pain. Let us do better in recognising the harmful behaviours our society has come to normalise. Let us commit to breaking the cycles of dysfunction. We can start by lending our support to survivors. Women have not been silent really...we have not been listening enough. Let’s stop giving men that use toxic power, the continued platforms to maintain that power. If you or someone you know is experiencing some form of violence, please see the following resources: You can also contact your nearest police station or Ministry of Social Protection: 640-1011, 225 4186. Regards Salima Hinds
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 10, 2020
Lethem man gets 30 years for rape
NICK SKEETE, called ‘Jason Blair’ and ‘Shatta’ was sentenced to 30 years in prison for raping a 20-year-old woman back in 2016; however, 3 years, 10 months and four days would be deducted from his sentence for the time spent on remand. The 31-year-old man, who hails from Lethem, was sentenced on Thursday (July 9) by High Court Judge, JoAnn Barlow in the Sexual Offences Court at the Demerara High Court, almost four months after he was found guilty, by a 12-member jury, of raping the young woman. According to the records of the Court, between July 8 and July 9, 2016, in Lethem, Skeete had sexual intercourse with the woman without her consent. He was, allegedly, a part of a gang of four that committed the act. Before the heinous crime was committed, the accused had attempted to restrain the victim at a place of entertainment but was unsuccessful. However, later that night, while the victim was awaiting transportation, the accused, along with a number of other persons, forcibly took her to a house. There, Skeete, while smoking a substance, blew the smoke into face of the 20-year-old victim. Then, he reportedly took her into a room, and raped her. That violation was then compounded when Skeete, according to Court records, called on those who were present to participate in the vicious act against the victim. After being sexually violated for hours, the victim was reportedly sent to have a bath, and it was while in the
begging for leniency. Skeete reminded the Court that he is a father of two children – ages six and eight – who need his support. He noted that his aunt is offering support to his family but his children need him. According to him, he is an industrious individual. “I don’t hold any malice against anyone for what I am going through. I see it as a systematic something, though it is not going the way I thought it would have gone…But I am totally innocent,” Skeete said as he begged the Court for mercy.
NICK SKEETE, called ‘Jason Blair’ and ‘Shatta’ being escorted by the police along the corridor of the High Court bathroom that she heard the accused and others plotting to keep her as a “sex slave.” The victim managed to flee the house during the wee hours of the morning, and was rescued and taken to the police station, and subsequently the hospital, where she was hospitalized. Before handing down the sentence, Justice Barlow admitted into evidence the Probation Report, the Victim Impact Report and the Prison Report, but ruled that information contained in the Probation and Victim Impact Reports that are irrelevant to the case will be set aside. PLEA IN MITIGATION Skeete’s Attorney, Ravindra Mohabir, in his
plea in mitigation, asked the Court to be lenient in its sentencing. In doing so, Mohabir, during his virtual appearance, told the Sexual Offences Court that Skeete is a 31-year-old father of two, both of whom are minors. He noted that Skeete had no antecedents or pending matter, and in his childhood years, had been neglected by his father. “This accused, Mr. Nick Skeete, during his childhood, his father left him, left his mother and went to Canada. During that time, Mr Skeete was left unsupervised during his early childhood when a father figure is absolutely necessary for the nurturing and disciplining of children,”
Mohabir told the Court. Given his age, he said, the convicted rapist still has a life ahead of him, and once reformed, could contribute meaningfully to society. “There is still an opportunity for him to be reformed and reintegrated into society and to provide meaningfully to his family, [and] members of his community,” the Attorney said while asking Justice Barlow for the least possible sentence. Skeete, for his part, told the Court that he was sorry for what had happened to the victim. “I am very, very sorry,” the 31-year-old man told Justice Barlow even as he maintained his innocence. “I am speaking from my heart, I am totally innocent of this charge,” he added while
THE SENTENCE Justice Barlow, in handing down the jail time, said the barbarity of the events that took place leaves the Court in no doubt that the imposition of a Custodial Sentence was necessary and appropriate. It was noted that the maximum term of imprisonment as provided in the Sexual Offences Act, Chapter 8:03 is a term of life imprisonment. The Judge said the Court considered not only the seriousness of the offence but also the role played by Skeete. “A sentencing court is ultimately guided by the circumstances of the particular case. A sentencing court must be presumed to have its finger on the pulse of society and must lend its voice through its sentence to not only deter other would-be offenders but to also express society’s deep repulsion at certain acts,” the Judge said. When the facts of the matter were considered, the Court set the starting point for the sentence at 27 years
and then added three more years for the aggravating factors. It was made clear, that in arriving at the sentence, the Court considered only the actions of Skeete on the basis that he must be held accountable. Justice Barlow said the plea in mitigation and Skeete’s plea for mercy were not sufficient to persuade the Court. “Taking all of these circumstances into account, the Court finds that the accused was the first offender and has never been convicted. The Court also found from the material before it that there is nothing currently engaging the attention of the police against Nick Skeete other than this matter. While the Court finds that these are mitigating circumstances, the court was not moved to make any deductions from the sentence for mitigating circumstances because the Court formed the view that the aggravating factors of this case are so grave and weighty that they outweighed any mitigating circumstances,” Justice Barlow explained. However, the Judge noted that because Skeete was on remand for a period of three years, 10 months and four days as he awaited the completion of his trial, the Court, in accordance with the law, was required to make the full deduction. As such, the time spent on remand was deducted from the 30-year sentence. Further, the Court ordered that Skeete receive counselling while in prison. The judge said if the need arises and the circumstances allow, counselling should also be continued for the victim. The state was represented by Teriq Mohammed, who was also present.
Dust pollution in D’Aguiars Park unbearable
Dear Editor,
From the residents of D’Aguiars Park, we wish you good health and strength as we face the challenges of the global pandemic as well as the current political impasse. As the head of the Guyana Police Force (GPF), we are confident that with your guidance and leadership the force will grow from strength to strength. We are residents of the very peaceful residential area called D’Aguiars Park. An area where property values carry a premium price being a gated community etc. Many of us have been there from the inception and have never considered any other area as our home. Of recent we have been suffering tremendously from noise, dust, among other polluting elements emanating from the John Fernandes Container Terminal and now extended, chemical storage. The volume of dust particularly during the dry season has become virtually unbearable, we can just complete wiping our countertops and within minutes you can feel and hear the sounds of dust when an object is placed on it. One can
only image the health impact this has and more so if one is asthmatic or has other respiratory illnesses. Many of these containers stored there are a threat to the community, some of which contains hazmat and other dangerous goods which, many times, are handled very poorly. You can hear the banging of one container against the other during stacking/moving process. Complete disregard to the contents as well as the surrounding environment and community. The impact on the environment is compounded by the fact that these units move from the port (traffic congestions, environmental impact, etc.) to the container yard, from the container yard to the consignee, from consignee to the container yard and then from the container yard to the port for re-export, the impact of the multiplier effect. Not to mention damage to the infrastructure which as taxpayers have to contribute to. It is time that the City Council impose penalties for transshipment of containers for secondary storage due to the impact on the city roadways or suspend such transfers until immediate measures are implemented to address the concerns outlined. The level of noise these trucks make when
transporting these units is becoming increasingly unbearable; the driver operates these haulers with total disregard to equipment, contents, environment, lives, communities etc. At times one will believe that they are racing or they may have specific number of trips that they would have to make per day. It is worth mentioning that they will work until around midnight or some days 24 hours. Many trucks/trailers have no working lights; one wonders how they are given vehicle fitness to operate. Many times you will see the drivers ‘jumping’ the red lights, or stopped in the intersection etc. with police officers nearby doing nothing. The speed limits of these haulers/trucks are never complied with, despite the police on the roadways carrying out speeding checks etc. Over the holidays, we have seen the level of congestion our city of Georgetown was exposed to, mostly contributed by these transfer of containers from the port to secondary storage (container terminal). With the influx of vehicles (due to the strong economicc conditions) on our already limited roadways, doing nothing will see a worsen situation. Imagine one of these
dangerous goods unit/container was to overturn, leaked, caught fire, etc will see lives at risk, damage to the environment, etc. One can make reference to the recent incident at GNIC port, accidents as well as lives lost. Mr. Commissioner of recent there has been extension to the storage area which is being used to store radioactive piles which is of grave concern to the community and residents. The noise level is so intense that many days it is unbearable, despite the engagement with the owners, noting has been done to mitigate the impact. In our community we have CEO’s, senior executives, doctors, judge, ambassador, etc. whom are all looking for your support in addressing our concern of noise nuisance among other challenges. We thank you for taking time from your busy schedule to look into our concerns. We are very optimistic that your approach will be amicable to the concerns we have raised. Regards Residents of D’Aguiars Park
GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 10, 2020
Delay in elections resolution could cost Guyana financially AMIDST the legal and political battles precluding an end to Guyana’s fourmonth-long elections, international business experts have cautioned that further delay in conclusion will likely result in financial losses to the country. This concern was relayed in a written commentary on Thursday, by Vice president of Manchester Trade Ltd., an international business advisory firm in Washington, Dr. David Lewis and a Senior Associate of the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) in Washington, D.C., Dr. Anthony Bryan. The men noted that, despite the COVID-19 pandemic, International Monetary Fund (IMF) has pinned Guyana as perhaps the only country in the Americas which will experience double digit economic growth due to its massive oil finds and recent achievement as an oilproducing nation. However, the experts, like many others worldwide, have taken note of Guyana’s elections situation which has led to a delay in the swearingin of a new President and Government and therefore a delay in the advancement of key projects when coupled with the pandemic. “Amidst the chaos, Guyana could face serious setbacks, risking previous economic projections and potentially reducing a recent flood of investments into Guyana. Even as oil wealth
starts to flow into government accounts, key policies and projects remain unfinished and the country has not yet made firm decisions about how to spend the oil wealth.
Indeed, as reported by the Guyana Chronicle in June, due to the COVID-19 pandemic and pending governmental and regulatory approval, advancements on
Senior Associate of the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) in Washington, D.C., Dr. Anthony Bryan
Approvals for the next stage of Guyana’s oil development have also been delayed for months by the political uncertainty and regulators seem reluctant to act without knowing who might be in charge when the dust settles. Keeping development moving, unfortunately, seems to have become one more political playing card in an already-chaotic situation,” they stated.
ExxonMobil’s third and fourth development projects have stalled. The said projects are the Payara Development Project with outstanding approval for its Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and Field Development Plan, and the Hammerhead Development Project for which Exxon has paused its provision of the required EIA. Another case for example
includes the deadline for Guyana’s second Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) report which has been postponed to March 2021 due to restrictions
this amount must come from Parliament. Guyana’s Eleventh Parliament was dissolved on December 30, 2019 to cater for the March 2,
Vice president of Manchester Trade Ltd., Dr. David Lewis
associated with the pandemic and the delayed completion of Guyana’s electoral process. For Guyana to complete its second report, it is necessary that an independent administrator be hired but the contract for the hiring cannot be signed by the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) as the proposed fee is above G$15M and permission to sign for above
2020, General and Regional Elections which has not yet concluded. “Delays are likely to be costly. The country has taken in nearly US $100 million since production started earlier this year, with billions more on the horizon if development proceeds as planned. That’s revenue the government will desperately need to jumpstart the postCOVID-19 recovery.,” Lewis and Bryan stated.
However, they noted that the millions spent to develop the local service industry and to train thousands of Guyanese for jobs offshore will be put at risk if workers and companies cannot count on steady development moving forward. The men said: “Guyana still has a golden opportunity on the hook. The country has taken the advice of the World Bank, Commonwealth Secretariat and others and has set up a Sovereign Wealth Fund and taken other steps to ensure that revenues are saved for the future. Whatever government is in power will be looking at annual oil revenues that easily exceed Guyana’s entire current gross domestic product in just a few years. But a steady and transparent regulatory process will still be a critical signal that current and future investors will be looking at to decide if Guyana will be a stable and trustworthy partner.” They explained that while political chaos is “inevitably corrosive” to a country’s economic goals, insulating Guyana’s burgeoning oil industry from politics would go a long way towards ensuring that the country becomes a poster child for development and not a cautionary tale.
Guyana to benefit from €6.85 million EU-funded PAHO programme …as PAHO kicks off EU-funded regional health and climate change programme
THE Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) office officially kicked off the new €6.85 million European Union-funded initiative on climate change and health with the first Regional Partner Dialogue. This virtual session, held on June 29th, brought together representatives from five regional organisations to facilitate discussions on the critical first steps towards implementation of the project across all CARIFORUM member countries. The Caribbean Institute for Meteorology and Hydrology (CIMH), the University of the West Indies (UWI), the Caribbean Public
Health Agency (CARPHA), the Caribbean Climate Community Change Centre (CCCCC) and the CARICOM Secretariat will collaborate with PAHO and lend their technical expertise to the programme with a focus on strengthening climate resilience in regional health systems. During the session, Team Leader, Green Economy and Resilience Support at the European Union, Bogdan Stefanescu, expressed the EU’s satisfaction at the strengthening of this multidisciplinary partnership between the EU and the Caribbean in the face of the common threat posed by climate change. He also noted
the programme’s alignment with the European Green Deal, the EU Health Strategy, and the EU Strategy on Adaptation to Climate Change. Initial actions under the programme include the establishment of a Climate Change and Health Leaders’ Fellowship Programme, development and piloting of project proposals on Climate Change and Health and preparatory work on early warning systems and climate and health surveillance systems. The EU/CARIFORUM project represents a regional push towards improved understanding of the current impacts of climate change on health and the need for effective
planning in the sector for future climate variation. Programme Manager, Sustainable Development at the CARICOM Secretariat, Amrikha Singh, highlighted that the project will allow CARICOM to continue to advocate at the international level for global action to address climate change as a developmental issue. Sub regional Program Coordinator, Caribbean, PAHO/WHO, Jessie Schutt-Aine, outlined that over the five years, the grant will allow partners to fund and facilitate bold projects to strengthen public health systems, adapt and prioritize country plans, foster leaders, and increase capabilities
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for decision making. Actions to support community engagement for the development of small-scale initiatives to raise awareness in target populations will also be implemented. Sixteen countries are expected to benefit from this programme. They are Antigua and Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Cuba, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 10, 2020
CCJ decision Invites lasting consequences
-- Glasford, Hinds, Norton WITH the fate of the country on the line, some lawyers and political analysts believe that the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) should have treated with Guyana elections matter in a more meticulous manner and its failure to do so will likely
explanation as to why the CCJ assumed jurisdiction on the matter was “glossed over” and lacked clarity. “There should have been two separate hearings, one on the point of jurisdiction and the second hearing on the substantive legal issues. What
Attorney-at-Law, Brenden Glasford
result in far-reaching consequences. On Wednesday, in assuming jurisdiction to hear an application filed by People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C), the CCJ set aside the decision of the Court of Appeal on the interpretation of the Constitution and invalidated the Elections Report submitted by the Chief Elections Officer (CEO), Keith Lowenfield. The CCJ’s decision places the electoral process back into the hands of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) and the CEO must now submit a report in accordance with the June 16 directive, to submit his report based on the results of the recount. Appearing as guests on Thursday on the St. Vincent and the Grenadines programme, ‘Early in the Morning with Jerry S. George’, were Attorney-atLaw, Brenden Glasford and Political Scientists, Dr. David Hinds and Aubrey Norton. Giving his position, Glasford said that he believed that the entire matter was rushed while the legal
we’ve seen from the hearing is that everything was rather rushed and jurisdiction kind of got lost in translation and I still do not think, having read the written judgement, that it was properly addressed,” he said. “It should have been a more hotly contested issue both by the lawyers and the judges…the Court should have spent some time, distinguishing how one of its previous decisions is not applicable to the present case.” Some of the other actions that Glasford took issue with was the Court’s failure to speak to the Patrick Hill v Sagicor Life Inc. [2018] CCJ case of Barbados which was raised by Trinidad and Tobago Attorney, Senior Counsel (SC), John Jeremy. According to the lawyer: “A case was actually brought up, Hill v Sagicor, a case from Barbados which was decided in 2018 which I have yet to see the CCJ address. Maybe they thought it wasn’t relevant but I personally thought that, having read it…it dealt with an identical provision in the Barbados law that had a similar finality clause. I think, without addressing that case,
it is possible that the decision of the Caribbean Court of Justice could be seen as per incuriam, that is, made without considering all the authorities.” Meanwhile, Dr. Hinds said that even before the Court made its ruling, based on the way in which the questions of
could not be a legal action,” Dr. Hinds stated, adding: “I think it was reckless behavior on the part of the Court.” Norton agreed with the aforementioned positions. He pointed to remarks he had made prior to the Court’s ruling that should it assume jurisdiction on the said matter, it would be plunging itself into a future “credibility crisis”. He said while one would
the law. “While I understand their perspective, I don’t think it is correct to say it is a political decision. It is a legal decision with grave political implications, especially the tone in which the decision was given,” he contended. However, Norton maintained that, in his deduction, the matter became political when the Court
Political Scientist, Dr. David Hinds
the judges were posed during the hearing, it was clear to him that a narrow reading would be taken of Article 177 (4) of the Constitution to somehow allow for the assumption of jurisdiction. “I think they responded to a question that was frontally put by Ralph Ramkarran’s Senior Counsel from Guyana who argued that this thing has been going on too long, we might even have to come back before you, so the Court should act…and I think the Court responded to that. You could have heard from their questioning during the hearing that they were looking for jurisdiction.” In his opinion, the CCJ’s decision to assume jurisdiction on the said matter will have negative ripple effects across the Caribbean and on those who hold the Court as their apex Court. “I think there was massive legislation from the Bench that has a political effect since it was clear that the Court had no jurisdiction under [Article] 177 (4) from the Guyana Constitution and [Section] 4:3 from the CCJ Act. Any action by the Court, in my estimation,
have preferred to view the Court’s ruling as impartial, there were clear cases, as mentioned by Glasford, in which the CCJ selectively omitted key information. “One of the elements that point clearly that it was political, was the way they were selective in using Order No. 60 of 2020. Here they were on the one hand insinuating, ‘use the tabulation’, but on the other hand, they weren’t prepared to discuss the actual [Order] in its entirety because to do that would have established that they needed to have reconciliation and verification before the declaration of valid votes. It is at that point, it became obvious to me that it was a political ruling than a legal ruling,” he said. However, on the other hand, Glasford disagrees with Dr.Hinds and Norton that the CCJ made a “political decision”, noting that the Court quoted supporting points of law at each aspect of its decisions. As a lawyer, he said that he is more concerned about whether the correct decision was made based on
doing, they’ve pulled the rug from under the feet of any tabulation, any declaration that has to do with the recount. My own view, is that they’re walking back everything and, by this morning, I think we’re back to the 10 declarations that are theoretically still sitting there in the hands of Mr. Lowenfield,” he said. Likewise, Norton said that
Political Scientist, Aubrey Norton
decided to use Order No. 60 selectively and not in its entirety. “When you have those inconsistencies, it is not people that are imputing anything to the CCJ, it’s the Court system imputing it to itself,” he said. As it relates to the Court’s treatment of Order No. 60, Glasford has observed that the procedural provisions were dealt with and not the recitals, both of which he said the Court had a duty to address. “It comes back to the extreme speed with which they heard the matter. I don’t think that they had the time to consider all the finer points in the matter that has such grave consequences; it is their duty to do so.” Meanwhile, Dr. Hinds said that the CCJ, by setting aside the Chief Elections Officer’s report, which was based on the stipulations of Order No. 60, the Court has not provided Guyana any more clarity than it previously had. “They set out to pull the rug from under the feet of those who are arguing that you should use the recount observation Order but, in so
while he does not believe that it was the Court’s intention to place Guyana “right where it started”, such was the reality of the assumption of jurisdiction and the subsequent ruling. With the CCJ being Guyana’s apex court, Glasford put into perspective: “Having that decision from the CCJ, another Court in Guyana is not going to touch that interpretation again and whatever has to happen in the future, a decision has to be made in the context of what was said and they have left little room for doubt about what they see the law in Guyana to say in relation to valid votes and in relation to the recount. He said that what the CCJ did, in effect, was to “sever parts of the recount Order” to state that whatever aspect is not in line with the Representation of the People’s Act is not applicable. He believes that there could be upcoming judicial review cases coming to the Court, depending on what the Elections Commission does next.
MCC to implement pile-driving policy in capital THE Mayor and Councillors of the City of Georgetown announced, on Thursday, that the council will be implementing a pile-driving policy in the City of Georgetown. The council’s Public Relation Officer, Debris Lewis, in a statement, disclosed that formulating a policy of this nature has become necessary, since, for quite some
time, city dwellers have spoken out against the damage to their properties caused by the driving of piles in the central business district. The council further stated that the proposed policy will seek to address several important issues, including the transportation of piles in the city, the route to be taken in the transportation process,
the days and times when piles can be driven and the assessments of the adjacent buildings, roads, and drains to determine current structural status before construction commences. “The Council seeks the full cooperation of all of its citizens as it seeks to promote order and alleviate the inconvenience that citizens of Georgetown have experienced,
while buildings are being constructed,” the council stated. The council further stated that citizens must understand that the implementation of policies and bylaws are to promote good governance, stewardship and accountability, and “The Council must govern in the interest of all citizens.”
GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 10, 2020
COVID-19 screening and testing unit set up at Aranka/ Arangoy Landing PERSONS living and working on the Aranka/ Arangoy Landing, up the Cuyuni River in Region Seven, can now easily access COVID-19 screening and testing at a medical unit established by the National COVID-19 Task Force in the area. A team, inclusive of members of the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH), Civil Defence Commission (CDC), Guyana Police Force (GPF), Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) and Corps of Wardens from the Ministry of Natural Resources, will be in the area for approximately one month to conduct screening and testing. The decision to implement the checkpoint in the area came following reports of three persons testing positive for
a solid epidemiological link with the positive cases in the Aranka/ Arangoy Landing and the Moruca district. So, we decided that if there is going to be an increase of cases in Moruca, there is going to be an increase of cases in Aranka, and the numbers would have shown then that determination was true” Dr. Payne explained. He added that compliance to established guidelines such as social distancing and wearing face masks at Aranka/Arangoy remained a challenge. “We were not satisfied with the response we were getting from residents in the community, and the number of cases was beginning to rise.” Further, Dr. Payne added that after realising that the (spread) of the virus was limited to a specific demographic-migrant population and
the arrival of more medical supplies, the medical team would take over and begin work. The Guyana Geology and Mines Commission and Corps of Wardens will assist in locating camps within the area, while the special team of police officers accompanying the team would provide enforcement wherever necessary. “So we engaged the GPF and the Corps of Wardens to assist us in this regard because they would be very essential in securing the strategic checkpoints and screening points that we would have established in the environs of the Aranka/ Arangoy district, and also to secure our mobile quarantine/ isolation unit that we would set up,” Dr. Payne related. We must have their support to also assist in getting the message across
Members of the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) setting up one of the pre-fabricated units that will serve as the COVID-19 screening and testing checkpoint
COVID-19. “The Aranka/ Arangoy landing was considered a place of utmost importance and interest to the Ministry of Public Health because, prior to our arrival here, a team was already in there because we had three public servants-- one from the Guyana Police Force and two from the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission, who tested positive for the virus.” Dr. Leston Payne, Deputy Director, Health Emergency Operations Centre (HEOC) told the DPI. Dr. Payne said an initial team was sent into the area to do evidence-based surveillance, to ascertain the extent of the spread of infection in that area.” He said during that first visit, seven other positive cases were discovered through contracting. “But what was interesting to note is that we established
miners-- it was decided that another team would return to the area. “So, when we went back to the table we evaluated all the variables surrounding these areas, we thought it pertinent to implement what we are calling an enhanced containment mitigation method to control the spread of the infection and reduce the cluster area and epicentres.” On Sunday last, the team comprising officers of the CDC and Guyana Police Force, wardens, mining officers and medical personnel arrived at the Aranka/ Arangoy Landing. The following days - Monday and Tuesday - despite the inclement weather, the CDC team constructed the ‘pre-fab’ units donated by the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR). After this was completed, and pending
that we are serious,” he emphasised. Meanwhile, resident Wilbur Wade, told DPI that he welcomed the establishment of the checkpoint. “I think it’s a very good initiative because a lot of people in this backdam not taking it seriously,” he noted. Wade added that despite the COVID-19 reports reaching the area, persons were still not taking the matter seriously. “You are seeing people not wearing masks and these kinds of things. Of course, we hear what going on in the news, how much people test positive and so on.” Wade, whose father and uncles began mining in the area some 50 years ago, and has his own operation in the area, committed to having his workers screened and tested where necessary. The
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Members of the National COVID-19 Task Force at Aranka/ Arangoy Landing; CDC officers, GPF officers and medical personnel standing in front of one of the completed pre-fab units
Aranka/ Arangoy Landing, situated up the Cuyuni River in the Aranka Creek can be reached by air, land and sea. Aranka is a transit
point for miners who work in and around the area. It boasts small wooden grocery shops, food and internet café and bars, a
Guyana Geology and Mines Commission office and a police outpost. There is no health post in the area.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 10, 2020
Blossom Inc opens centre in Kwakwani
Chairman of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), Dr. Ralph Gonsalves
CARICOM chair calls for swift conclusion of elections CHAIRMAN of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, in his first message on the Guyana elections situation, since his assumption as Chair, has called on political stakeholders to respect the recent ruling of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) and to conclude the elections “without further delay”. In a release, on Thursday evening, the Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines said that the Court’s ruling should lead to a declaration by the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) of the results of the elections as awaited since March 2, 2020. “The Caribbean Community welcomes the progress towards the finalisation of the electoral process in Guyana following the ruling of the Caribbean Court of Justice on Wednesday 8 July. The Community calls on all stakeholders to respect the ruling of the CCJ, Guyana’s final Court of Appeal,” he said. He pointed to the summary judgement of the CCJ which he said aptly stated: “It has been four months since the elections were held and the country has been without a Parliament for well over a year. No one in Guyana would regard this to be a satisfactory state of affairs. We express the fervent hope that there would quickly be a peaceable restoration of normalcy.” Furthermore, Gonsalves, who was amongst the five CARICOM Prime Ministers who visited Guyana back in March 2 to help broker a peaceful end to the elections, commended Guyanese for their patience and urged the country’s leaders to respect the rule of law. He said: “Accordingly, the Court’s ruling should lead to a declaration by the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) of the results of the General and Regional Elections held on 2 March 2020, without further delay. CARICOM commends the continuing patience and calm of the people of Guyana and calls on all stakeholders to respect the rule of law.”
CHILDREN, in Kwakwani, Region 10, who are victims of child abuse, will no longer have to travel miles to access therapeutic services, thanks to Blossom Inc., a children’s charity focused on transforming the lives of children and families through therapeutic interventions. Determined to respond to, and prevent, child sexual abuse, a Child Advocacy Centre was recently commissioned in Kwakwani by Blossom Inc in collaboration with the Child Care and Protection Agency, the United Nations International Children's Fund and the Regional Democratic Council, Region 10. The ‘One Stop’ centre gives
children, who are victims of sexual abuse, an opportunity to tell their story only once. The victims do so in the presence of welfare officers, counsellors, investigators, and prosecutors. According to Founder and Managing Director of Blossom Inc, MsAyo Dalgety.Dean, the ‘One Stop’ centre is designed to deliver programmes to children and families affected by trauma due to sexual abuse by conducting forensic interviews, therapeutic counselling, victim and court support in an easy accessible, safe, neutral, child-friendly environment. “The centre would be operated by qualified and confidential
Section of the Child Advocacy Centre
Members of Blossom Inc. at the commissioning of Kwakwani’s Child Advocacy Centre
staff and it is important for the community to know that whatever happens at the centre remains at the centre. In order to maximize the services, all partners and members of communities, including faith-based organisations, are urged to play a more vibrant role in protecting children from abuse,” Dean noted. Additionally, the Director said that the centre will provide a hub for professional training in an attempt to extend the concept of the Child Advocacy Centre to other communities. According to Dean, as of June 2020, there has been over 200 reported cases of child sexual abuse and access to services is critical. She noted that the possible increase rate of child sexual abuse may be due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Coordinator of Blossom Inc., Melissa Chapman, told this newspaper that, for a long time, the organisation has been receiving a large number of reports of child sexual and physical abuse cases from the Kwakwani community. However, prior to the
newly-commissioned centre, victims and their families had to travel to Linden to access therapeutic services, and such was costly to do. Chapman stated that victims from Kwakwani’s surrounding riverine communities will also benefit from the centre. She noted, “It is very costly for clients to have to travel from Kwakwani, Ituni, Arima, Ebini and all of the other river areas that are located in the Upper Demerara- Berbice Region. So we decided that it would be best to have this Child Advocacy Centre at a strategic location where it is easily accessible to the clients and it is also beneficial to their pockets.” The organisation has six branches which are located in Regions One, Two, Four, Seven and 10. If you know of a child who is being abused, you are advised to contact the Child Care and Protection Agency’s hotline on telephone number 2270979.
Vendors, shoppers adhering to COVID-19 measures VENDORS and shoppers alike have been taking heed of the COVID-19 guidelines set out by the National Task Force, in an effort to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus. This was disclosed on Thursday, when the Mayor of the Georgetown, Ubraj Narine, along with the Town Clerk, City Engineer, Solid Waste Director, Chief Constable and Councillors
of City Hall, conducted a field visit and inspection of Bourda Market, to ensure that vendors and shoppers were adhering to the implemented COVID-19 guidelines. Mayor Narine, in an invited comment with the Guyana Chronicle, stated that he was extremely pleased to see that vendors were adhering to the necessary guidelines in an attempt
to slow the virus. He noted that the field visit was a follow-up after the receipt of several complaints of expired goods and poor sanitation. However, during the exercise, he noted that the environment was clean and both vendors and shoppers alike were clad in their mask and maintaining their social distance. Nevertheless, he added that the
Mayor and City Council has been conducting random field checks to the various municipal markets to ensure that the various precautionary measures were being observed. He added that the Mayor and City Council was committed to ensuring that the city and its people were safe, especially now, more than ever, in the current health crisis.
Republic Bank donates portable ventilators to MoPH
REPUBLIC Bank, last Thursday, donated eight portable ventilators to the Ministry of Public Health, to aid in the country’s fight against the deadly COVID-19 pandemic, which has since been responsible for 16 deaths in Guyana. In receiving the items, Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence, shared that the lack of equipment at times has limited healthcare workers from effectively carrying out their functions, and at times negatively affect the workers when they see patients suffer as result of the deficiency in equipment. “Healthcare workers bear a lot of emotional and mental stress due to their inability to provide the necessary services for patients. Many persons do not understand the impact it has on healthcare workers when they have someone’s life in their hands and do not have the necessary equipment which will help in saving those lives,” the minister is quoted in a statement as saying. Since the first case was discovered back in March, Guyana has recorded
Republic Bank Representative, Denise Hobbs (right) hands over the bank’s donation of portable ventilators to Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence
286 cases of the COVID-19 virus. In addition to helping in the fight against COVID-19, the ventilators are expected benefit many other patients who may also suffer other ailments that would see them requiring the use of the ventilators. Handing over the medical equipment on behalf of Republic Bank was Representative, Denise Hobbs, who noted that financial institution is committed to help their customers and giving back to society during this period of uncertainty. “We feel strongly about our corporate social responsibility [which is] often demonstrated through our power to ‘Make A Difference Programme’, [which] provides assistance to the people and communities we serve”, Hobbs noted, according to the statement. She further added that: “Republic Bank understands the social challenges facing the nation and its corps of dedicated healthcare workers who continue to wrestle the effects of the deadly viral disease sweeping the globe.”
GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 10, 2020
‘Sorry not enough’ …women rights activists pillory Ruel over abuse claims …says he must suffer consequences of sexual exploitation
By Gabriella Chapman WOMEN rights activists continue to criticise sub-editor of the Kaieteur News, Ruel Johnson, over allegations that he abused his former girlfriends. Since youth activist, Akola Thompson, broke her silence on the matter, another of Johnson’s ex-girlfriend came out with damning allegations against him. He has since been expelled from the political party he helped form- The Citizenship Initiative (TCI) party, but women activists are calling for stiffer penalties. Johnson, on Wednesday, attempted to apologise to his victims through a Facebook post, but Women and Gender Specialist and former UG lecturer, Wanda Chesney, said that she worries for Thompson and other victims, and Johnson’s ‘sorry’ was not enough. In fact, she said she personally supported him when he rallied for justice of Coen Johnson’s victims, and she saw him as a hero. “I agonised for a while, all week after I read Akola Thompson's post, thinking how to treat with this issue. It was so graphic, so gut wrenching! It cut like a dull knife, long, painful, brutal! It was not so long ago when I was culled into the fray of your outcry and onslaught of Coen Jackson. In fact, I was riding your bandwagon Ruel Johnson, ensuring that the issue was kept alive and intensifying social media pressure to get Coen Jackson to pay for his crime of grooming, raping, abusing and then discarding these young girls like yesterday's news. You were so convincing, so deliberate and intentional in your efforts that you were looking for other young ladies who were victims of this predatory behaviour,” Chesney expressed. She recalled when Johnson was seeking out other victims of sexual predation high and low to bring
to justice Jackson, and it never occurred to her that this was his tactic to prey on young girls. In fact, Chesney pointed out that it is one of Jackson’s alleged victims that Johnson later wed. “I was so proud
Sub-Editor at Kaieteur News, Ruel Johnson
of you then as a black man who spoke out on behalf of these young women that I never stopped to think for one moment that you could have been part of this organised network of sadistic, misogynistic predators who preyed on hapless young ladies, selling them dreams and stealing their futures. How did I miss that? How did we ignore the obvious evidence before us to think that you were decent and had good intentions and that you were not exploiting that situation to cover your own tracks? You appeared then like the hero, the knight in shining armour seeking to restore that which was so callously taken from the victim at that time who was too traumatised to confront her abuser so you became her voice and then, her husband. These beautiful young ladies have become emotionally scarred for life because they will judge the other men who
might have honourable intentions through these broken lenses. By your heinous, duplicitous actions you have destroyed their trust, their self-esteem, their innocence and their belief in good, caring men and loving relationships. So no, Sorry is not Enough! Sorry does not cut it when your pattern of behaviour is to wield your power and control to abuse defenseless young women who idiolise you. You have abused your position of trust and authority to wreak havoc in their lives,” Chesney made clear. She said that like Coen Jackson, Harvey Weinstein and all the other predators in society, Johnson must now suffer the consequences of his actions, to bring justice to all his victims and to safeguard future victims. Meanwhile, a Gender Analysis and Psychology graduate, Salima Hinds, wrote a detailed psychological study on women and violence. She said that the recent disclosure of Ruel Johnson’s toxic behaviour provides some clear examples of psychological and emotional abuse, examples which are not only provided by the survivors, but by Johnson’s own words. “The constant references to his accusers’ mental state and wellbeing is hallmark manipulation. His efforts to discredit his accusers, while at the same time, framing the story as if he will hold himself accountable, not only gaslights the survivors, but is a manipulative attempt to gaslight the public. Unfortunately, living in a toxic, patriarchal society like Guyana, members of the public are quick to lap up these types of insincere platitudes. Essentially, our society is more concerned about maintaining the reputation of men and giving men multiple chances, than offering protection and justice to women and girls,” Hinds highlighted. She further recognised that there was a cognitive dissonance that this
matter has created. “For years, Ruel Johnson has carefully positioned himself as a man of principle, reason, enlightened intellect and accountability. He has quite publicly lent his voice and energies to calling out all sorts of abusers, so how can someone seemingly so principled, have these dirty skeletons in his closet? I would argue that nothing was really hidden in the closet, but people preferred to focus on the attributes that confirm an existing perception shaped by patriarchal norms. Abusers are also careful to ensure their public lives paint a picture that keeps the abuse hidden. These men are monsters waiting to pounce from a dark alleyway. They can be charismatic, helpful, and funny. For many women, they are further silenced, because they fear not being believed. How can you convince people that the guy that seems great, terrorises you behind closed doors? If we do not change how we perceive and address abuse (who gets abused and who perpetrates abuse), we will maintain a culture of violence that largely affects all women and girls,” she posited. Hinds said that it is high time for society to do better in recognising the harmful behaviours that seem to now be normalised. She pointed out too that it is time to commit to breaking the cycles of dysfunction. “We can start by lending our support to survivors. Women have not been silent really, we have not been listening enough. Let’s stop giving men that use toxic power, the continued platforms to maintain that power. If you or someone you know is experiencing some form of violence, please see the following resources: You can also contact your nearest police station or Ministry of Social Protection: 640-1011, 225 4186,” she advised.
High St. skeleton that of ‘dog face’ ...famed for disrupting NA court proceedings THE skeletal remains discovered in an unoccupied house at High and Princes Street, Georgetown early last month have been confirmed as that of New Amsterdam resident David Williams, called ‘Dog Face’ or ‘Dew Fish’. The confirmation was made possible through DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) testing, after samples were extracted from relatives of his. Following the confirmation, the body was handed over to his mother, Linda Bagot, and a funeral service was held on Wednesday afternoon at the Lyken’s Funeral Home in Georgetown. Williams, of Plantation Mount Sinai, commonly referred to as Angoy’s Avenue, New Amsterdam, was not seen or heard from since
June 1. According to his sister, Tonica Williams, he had telephoned once saying he was going to drop by for “a pants and a shirt”, but never did. The 39-year-old repeated offender, whose criminal career started since he was a juvenile, was famed in his hometown New Amsterdam for disrupting court proceedings and threatening police officers. Back in 2011, a Magistrate had to flee to her chambers, as Williams created such ruckus in the New Amsterdam Court that she didn’t feel safe being in the same room as he. Although he was charged and imprisoned for offences ranging from robbery-under-arms, larcenyfrom-the person, larceny and robbery, Williams never pleaded guilty to any of the charges, preferring to argue that
David Williams, known as ‘Dog Face’ or ‘Dew Fish’
they were all ‘trumped up’ against him. On June 3, at about 07:30 hrs, Charles Cornelius, a Security Guard on duty at the Infinity Gas Station on High and Princes Street, Georgetown reported smelling an obnoxious scent
coming from the building across the road. As a result, ranks along with a team from the Crime Lab, at Eve Leary, Georgetown visited the location where they observed a twostorey wooden and concrete structure. On entering the building, they saw the skeletal remains of a human, and took them to the Lyken Funeral Home on John and Norton Streets, Newburg. Williams’ relatives had initially claimed that the remains were his, based on a necklace and wristband he was wearing at the time, and information gleaned from his associates. At the time, however, police spokesperson, Senior Superintendent Jairam Ramlakhan had denied any knowledge of an identity.
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Local business entrepreneur suggests strategies to address COVID-19 downtime WHILE some may still be perplexed as to how to utilise this downtime beneficially, one business entrepreneur says that business owners can maximise the opportunity available to garner more revenue and attract more clients to their businesses. In an interview with the Guyana Chronicle, proprietor of the Dover Waterproofing Technologies Incorporated, Kathy Smith, made it clear that one can use one’s idea and establish a partnership with a view to attracting clients. “The situation is external not internal. Take stock of what is happening and re-examine your mission and business purpose”. She added. Smith urged businesses to reach out to their clients and let them know of their continuing service and their COVID-19 emergency plan. Smith also emphasised that it was a good opportunity for the business person to connect with persons via social media platforms such as Facebook and promote new products. She felt that diversification was an important strategy that would contribute to the availability of new products and services. The Entrepreneur noted that it might be expensive to launch a new product for one‘s business, but some arrangement can be worked out with clients to have products delivered. Such will encourage them to give support. The Entrepreneur cited examples of major corporations, both locally and internationally, which were prime examples of business diversification. Mention was made of Ford and Tesla which are now making ventilators for hospitals which are caring for COVID-19 patients. “You as an individual can use your hidden talents, become an authority in what you are doing and speak on it via social media platforms. Reach out to other business owners in your industry and enquire of the possibility of establishing a partnership.” Small businesses in Guyana have begun receiving grants, as part of the government’s Small Business Relief Grants and Services Initiative. The relief is intended to strengthen and sustain small businesses. Training is expected to be engaged in with the relief received. Partnerships can certainly be considered by the owners of small businesses. Such will contribute to the retention of employees. Earlier this year, Guyana Revenue Authority, in an effort to support businesses and individuals who have been socially and economically disadvantaged by COVID -19, approved tax relief measures.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 10, 2020
Sixteen to vie for Miss Guyana Teen Scholarship Pageant
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IXTEEN of 41 candidates who signed up for the Miss Guyana Teen Scholarship Pageant (MGTSP) have been shortlisted to participate in the first stage of the competition which is a new online initiative in the form of a digital University. The initiative was designed to re-work the pageant’s scholarship programme into a digital platform owing to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The pageant which was founded by the Imperial House organisation saw a weeklong selection process which involved screening applications from five administrative regions with a representation of 24 schools and institutions including the Guyana School of Agriculture, the Bertram Collins School of the Public Service, and the University of Guyana. The intense selection process will see 16 brilliant and talented teen girls- some of
Devya Singh crowned by Miss Guyana Talented Teen 2016, Aliya Wong (Photo credit Fidal Bassier) whom are national athletes, dancers, artists, writers, runway models, singers and musicians, community leaders, poets, educators, spiritualists, aspiring doctors, entrepreneurs, humanitarians, businesswomen, philanthropists, chefs, and engineers- vying for the crown as well as a paid scholarship. The classes commenced on Monday and saw candidates participating in several webinars featuring Self-awareness and Value, Professionalism and Etiquette, and Human Rights and Social Development. Candidates will be able to interact and engage in these sessions via Google suite services such as Google Drive and Google Classroom, as well as WhatsApp, Facebook and Zoom. Each session will be accessed through online interviews, oral reports, assignments, or essays. The candidate to obtain the highest grade will be awarded $75,000 of which 20 percent of the said monetary prize will go to a charity or special programme of the winning candidate’s choice; preferably one that supports the health response to the COVID-19 pandemic, food and essential supplies for vulnerable groups, or education support for children. The awardee will also be tasked with spearheading her own activity owing to the current health crisis. The candidates who perform exceptionally well in the online programme will automatically secure a spot in the quarter-finals
for the Miss Guyana Teen Scholarship 2021 Pageant where they will have the opportunity to vie for the Miss Guyana Teen Scholar Crown, along with a $400,000 scholarship award. Last year of September, Devya Singh won the first Miss Guyana Teen Scholarship title. This year to mark the end of her reign, Devya along with runners-up Naheeryah Newland and Christel Mangra will collectively coordinate activities, humanitarian work, and public engagements when Guyana and the world can return to normal. This year, the MGTSP was expected to commence in June and end with the coronation on September 12. However, due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in Guyana and the rest of the world at large, the organisation was forced to cancel its live pageant. In 2019, the Imperial House returned to pageantry with a new venture, which is now the Miss teen Guyana Scholarship pageant. The Imperial House is a registered organisation working towards creating and implementing social programmes for the advancement of youths, especially young women through pageantry and theatrical arts. The organisation’s mandate is to support social investments through youth empowerment, community service, entrepreneurship and education.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 10, 2020
Overseas-based Guyanese making moves in international music industry G UYANESE-American music executive Ron Telford has been making good use of the Zoom App to continue his work in the face of the coronavirus pandemic and has found that “surprisingly” his company can put in much more work. “Recording and writing sessions have been conducted virtually through Zoom,” he told the Buzz on Thursday. In fact, some “powerful” songs are being released during this period, he said. Ron’s company, Creative Titans (CT), is based in the United States of America, and its goal is to find talent from all across the world, including Guyana, and hone such talent to the point that the individual may be able to secure a record or publishing deal. Just recently, Spirit Music Group, a leading global independent music publishing
Ron’s client, R&B singer/songwriter David Lyn recently signed a worldwide publishing deal with a reputable music company
Guyanese-American music executive Ron Telford
The Creative Titans team company, signed a publishing deal with Ron’s client, R&B singer/songwriter David Lyn, a Jamaican-American Miami native. “With this deal, it brings a new partnership between CT and Spirit that allows us to highlight David’s talent. It also expands our copyright share to a new network of talent worldwide,” Ron expressed. He has started a group called ‘No Boundary’ with persons of Guyanese origin who are successful in the music business. These individuals include Kerwin Bollers, Michael Brun, Ian Holder, SAINt JHn, GabSoul, and Kevon Jaundoo. “We will start by creating panels and educational platforms to educate the government and musicians about the benefits of having a performing rights organization and more,” Ron explained about the group. He added: “Hopefully we can travel to Guyana soon, but Kerwin has helped us spread the word from the ground by doing weekly interviews on HJ 94 to introduce listeners to us and our initiatives.”
Ron has had various roles across the music industry since 2008 and the team has been emphasising finding and
procuring talent from Guyana, the Caribbean, Africa, Latin America and territories outside of North America. “Our mission is to go after Guyanese talent, and we do have our eyes set on a few persons, but we will have to first sit down with them,” Ron had told this publication in a previous interview. His company can sign an artist upward of US$5M. “With this capacity, we can go after writers, producers, artists, from all across the world,” Ron noted. He played a key role in putting together Vybz Kartel “Watch Over Us”, Koffee “Toast”, Jorja Smith
“Be Honest”, Koffee feat Gunna “W” and Ludmilla “Verdinh.” Apart from finding Guyanese singers and songwriters, Ron has his eyes set on creating a performing rights organization in Guyana. He said because Guyana has no such organisation, it makes it difficult for major companies across the world to come and do business here. It also hinders local artists from being adequately compensated for their work. “We’re taking slow, baby steps to ensure that this becomes a reality. This will enable artists to access the worldwide markets.”
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 10, 2020
Guyanese/American rapper SAINt JHN hits top four in the billboard top 100 charts
Guyanese/American rapper, songwriter and producer, Carlos St. John, popularly known by his stylised artist name ‘SAINt JHN’
- Says he hopes to inspire young Guyanese with his story
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UYANESE/American rapper, songwriter and producer, Carlos St. John, popularly known by his stylised artist name ‘SAINt JHN’, has hit the number four spot on the Billboard Top 100 charts last week, with his record ‘Roses’. Just last year, SAINt JHN was featured in Beyonce’s sensational hit ‘Brown Skin Girl’ and continued making waves on the international music scene. The artist was interviewed on local radio station, 94.1 Boom FM, which was also streamed live on Hits and Jams Radio Facebook page, a few weeks ago while he was at the number 10 spot on the billboard charts. In the interview, he boasted about his years in Guyana, and how it played a major part of his life story and who he is today. He said that during his younger years he was bouncing between Brooklyn, New York and Dennis Street, Campbellville in Georgetown, having much exposure to two different worlds. The 33-year-old artist said that Guyana helped him get to where he is. “This is part of my story. If I was a kid, and I was 12 years old, I wouldn’t have known that it was possible. But I promise you, the next 12-year-old kid, now they know it is possible. Now they know they have a personal example of how it could happen,” the artist said during the interview. He said that to find the path to success is a really long book and you have to read every page of it. “But I can give you a really short version. Your hope will take you further than your feet. So the sheer belief that it is possible- that you can get out, gives you purpose and intention and it helps you figure out how to get out,” SAINt JHN said. Because of his growing experience, the artist said that he takes his platform and uses it to do good, for the purpose of doing the right thing. On that note, he shared that following the receipt of a large sum of money which was donated for him to do a music
video for his new hit, he bumped the donation up to US$125,000 and divided it between a bailout organisation for activists arrested during ongoing U.S. demonstrations following the death of George Floyd, and black-owned businesses affected by these events. “I’m an artist and I make use of it and I express my opinion in that way and I’m telling my story in that way. So I got money to shoot a video, that means I got money to help… I just redirected what I got, whatever my resources are, I’m putting it towards that, doing the very least that I could to spread the Black Lives Matter movement,” SAINt JHN said. In relation to Guyana, he said that he had returned in 2016 with hopes of signing Juke Ross to his label, but later left it to his friend ‘KJ’, since he believed ‘KJ’ better knew what to do. However, SAINt JHN mentioned that he to be that person who would knock on a young person’s door and give them the opportunities they deserve. As such he is looking to return to Guyana at some point to give that opportunity. In the interim, he said that persons can use his story as an example that anything is possible.
GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 10, 2020
Jackie Jaxx, Artiste and Visual Artist
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Jackie Jaxx, Artist
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UYANESE are known to be multi-talented and extremely expressive. This is epitomised through the life of one of our Local Musical Artistes known as ‘Jackie Jaxx’. Born Jackie Hanover, Jackie Jaxx became a household name for her powerhouse vocals sometime in 2011 when she made her debut on “GT&T’s Jingle and song Competition” and she hasn’t stopped accelerating in her music career since. One of her more popular songs is the song “Guyana” in which she serenades our beautiful land and evokes patriotic pride in the hearts of all Guyanese. One surprising detail about her that many of her fans do not know, however, is that Jaxx not only possesses power vocals but also has other remarkable artistic abilities. The Pepperpot Magazine reached out to the songstress after finding her Instagram page ‘itsjaxxart’ where the artist posts several pieces of her custom drawings and paintings. She explained that this ‘hidden talent’ has always been a part of who she is since she was a child adding that throughout high school she followed her talent and love for visual art and even went on to pursue it as a subject for the CXC examination. “I always had a talent for the arts, so that’s drawing, painting, poetry, singing, I kind of did it all, because I was in love with it. I was in love with the idea that I could have a way to express myself and my feelings without always having to use words. So from a very young age, I was always sketching stuff. At one point, I even ended up making my own sketch pad because sometimes we couldn’t always afford to buy art supplies, but I loved doing it so I kept at it and I made a way,” Jackie said. She noted, however, that her greater love was to be a musical artist and in light of that fact, she focused more on perfecting that art form more
Painted Fashion masks which are available for sale at Hair Studio Barbershop on the Top Floor of the City Mall than her visual art. She said that although she paid more focus to her musical artistry, she never lost the love she had for visual arts. Jackie stated that she now has balance in her musical career and has started making the time to enhance her other artistic abilities. She stated that added to that fact, the COVID-19 pandemic has allowed her a little more free time to be able to follow her
craft and has even influenced her to share her art through her social media platform ‘itsjaxxart’. The artist said that she uses her skill and artistry as a way of expressing herself and as a way to bring awareness to how she feels on several social issues, especially the ones that are being widely discussed today such as abuse and trauma, the Black Lives Matter movement, and
one of Jackie Jaxx’s artistic sketches treatment of women. She through her drawings and stated that she would nev- paintings. er shy away from bringing “I’m a very expressive awareness to these topics person. I’ve always liked through her music and even to express myself. I was
even big into writing poetry so yes, visual art also gave me another channel through which I could actually express my emotions and my feelings,” she said. “I feel there are so many things I want to say, about what is happening in the world, what is happening to women, and what is happening to afro-centric people, and I can’t always bring myself to say it because there so many emotions behind it. Sometimes I can’t find the right words to say, so painting and drawing is a way of expressing myself, a way for me to get my feelings out.” Further, Jackie said that she encourages anyone to get involved in the arts, stating “It’s not all about being super talent or gifted, art isn’t always about being able to show someone something nice or pleasant, sometimes it’s about expressing your true self, what you feel in the moment, and I believe that everyone should have the chance to experience that freedom.”
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 10, 2020
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GUYANA CHRONICLE FridAY, July 10, 2020
Holder’s career-best haul puts Windies in... CONTINUED FROM BACKPAGE
five-wicket haul in Tests. The 28-year-old shared the four wickets to fall in the first session with Gabriel as England, resuming the morning on 35 or one, were never allowed to find their composure. Burns, unbeaten on 20 at the start, along with Joe Denly on 14, extended their second wicket stand to 48 to keep West Indies without success for the first half hour before Gabriel made the breakthrough. Whipped to the square leg boundary off the previous delivery, Gabriel brought the next ball back to beat Denly’s defense and remove the righthander’s off-stump at 48 for two. With just three runs added, Gabriel accounted for Burns in his next over, hitting the lefthander on leg stump and gaining an lbw verdict courtesy DRS. The left-hander faced 85 balls in a shade over two hours and counted four fours. Zak Crawley tried to repair the damage in concert with Stokes and had added 20 for the fourth wicket when Holder, introduced on stroke of the first hour, trapped him lbw for 10 also on review, in the fourth over following the
SCOREBOARD
ENGLAND 1st Innings (overnight 35 for one) R Burns lbw b Gabriel 30 D Sibley b Gabriel 0 J Denly b Gabriel 18 Z Crawley lbw b Holder 10 *B Stokes c wkp Dowrich b Holder 43 O Pope c wkp Dowrich b Holder 12 +J Buttler c wkp Dowrich b Holder 35 D Bess not out 31 J Archer lbw b Holder 0 M Wood c Hope b Holder 5 J Anderson b Gabriel 10 Extras (lb6, w2, nb2) 10 TOTAL (all out, 67.3 overs) 204 Fall of wickets: 1-0 (Sibley), 2-48 (Denly), 3-51 (Burns), 4-71 (Crawley), 5-87 (Pope), 6-154 (Stokes), 7-157 (Buttler), 8-157 (Archer), 9-174 (Wood), 10-204 (Anderson).
resumption. Exploiting a nagging length and finding shape in seamer-friendly conditions, Holder then ripped apart the remainder of England’s innings with a spell that was as surgical as it was devastating. When he missed his length in successive deliveries, Ollie Pope (12) indulged with delightful boundaries on either side of the wicket but Holder exacted his revenge in his next over, taking one away from the right-hander who featured an edge through to wicketkeeper Shane Dowrich for the first of his three catches. Rocking on 87 for five, England could have been in deeper trouble 10 minutes before lunch but Kemar Roach put down Stokes on 14 off a difficult low diving catch at long leg off pacer Alzarri Joseph. Stokes reached the interval on 21 and then survived another chance on 30 when Shamarh Brooks dropped a straightforward chance at short cover off Roach in the third over following the resumption. He and Buttler then counter-attacked in a 67run, sixth wicket stand as England fought back
Bowling: Roach 19-6-41-0, Gabriel 15.3-3-62-4 (w1, nb1), Joseph 13-4-53-0 (w1); Holder 20-6-42-6 (nb1). WEST INDIES 1st Innings K Brathwaite not out 20 J Campbell lbw b Anderson 28 S Hope not out 3 Extras (lb6) 6 TOTAL (1 wkt, 19.3 overs) 57 To bat: S Brooks, R Chase, J Blackwood, *J Holder, +S Dowrich, A Joseph, K Roach, S Gabriel. Fall of wickets: 1-43 (Campbell) Bowling: Anderson 8-4-17-1, Archer 6-0-20-0, Wood 3.3-1-80, Stokes 2-1-6-0. Position: West Indies trail by 147 runs with nine first innings wickets intact.
to be 154 for five at one stage. While the left-handed Stokes faced 97 balls in just over two hours and struck seven fours, the right-handed Buttler punched six fours off 47 deliveries. However, Holder bought himself back and was rewarded in his second over with the prized wicket of Stokes, caught at the wicket trying to clip a full length delivery that swung. His dismissal opened the floodgates again for West Indies as Holder removed Buttler in his very next over with three runs added at 157 for seven, brilliantly caught one-handed by Dowrich diving low to his right. Holder, the top-ranked all-rounder in Tests, then completed his five-wicket haul in his next over when he gained an lbw decision against Barbados-born Jofra Archer (0) after taking recourse to DRS. For Holder, it was his sixth five-wicket haul in his last 10 Tests, further enhancing his status as one of Test cricket’s elite bowlers. His sixth wicket arrived when Shai Hope pouched Mark Wood (5) at gully and Gabriel ended the innings by bowling Anderson for 10.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 10, 2020
Boxing could face ‘serious decisions’ for big fights to happen- Frank Warren By Luke Reddy PROMOTER Frank Warren says boxing may need to make “serious decisions” on a way forward as the sport gears up for its return in the UK today. A first show since the coronavirus shutdown will take place behind closed doors at BT Sport Studio, with fighters isolating for up to four days before. Warren says the safety measures present challenges in staging a show.”We will lose money but it’s important the sport remains relevant and is seen,” Warren told BBC Sport. “There is nothing normal about this new reality.” Warren - now in his 40th year in professional boxing - has never faced the kind of safety, hygiene and logistical challenges that must be overcome for the sport to return successfully in the UK.
Fighters and those working at the event must be rigorously tested, a hotel must be provided for individuals to isolate and on fight night, referees must shower between bouts while the ring is cleaned by a specialist company. Each safety protocol as well as the payment of the 10 fighters on the card - must be delivered against a backdrop of no pay-perview or ticket sale revenue. And Warren is concerned the sport may soon have to find a way for highly-paid, big-name fighters to compete behind closed doors if they are not to risk a year or more out of the ring. “We have rescheduled Daniel Dubois against Joe Joyce for October and we hope we can get it done hopefully in front of a live crowd,” says Warren. “If we can’t, the likes of Tyson Fury will want to
fight. He cannot be out for a year. A boxer’s career is short. They have to capitalise when they are young. I feel we will have to make some serious decisions.” Without a live gate, Warren says boxing will need to address its financial model. Some promoters have raised the prospect of cutting the purses earned by fighters. The only other ways to generate revenue would be through more pay-per-view fight nights or by using host venues that pay a substantial fee to stage a fight, as has previously been the case in places like Saudi Arabia and Las Vegas. Asked if marquee names like Fury could compete behind closed doors, Warren said: “It’s very challenging and difficult but it may come to a stage where that needs to be. “We generate probably
Frank Warren (left) wants to find a way for fighters like WBC heavyweight champion Tyson Fury to return to action in a viable manner.
30 to 40% from gate revenue so it’s how we compensate for that. Fingers crossed it doesn’t get to that.” ‘I don’t want sterile’ what to expect British super-bantamweight champion Brad Foster, 22, tops the bill on Friday. The supermarket worker knows a win over James Beech Jnr will ensure he gets to keep the Lord Lonsdale belt for good. Both fighters were tested for coronavirus in recent weeks and will be tested
twice during fight week, where they must stay in the hotel Warren has booked out. On fight night, the five bouts will be overseen by two referees, who will each shower between bouts and wear face masks during the action. The ring announcer will conduct his duties from outside the ring. Warren admits to being “excited” and “apprehensive” about live boxing returning to television screens. “Most sports react to a live audience and there won’t be one,” he adds. “There’s no
home fighter with a crowd so no one is going into somebody else’s back yard. “I don’t want it to be sterile. Some of the early football matches after the lockdown could not hold my attention, it was like watching training. “We know boxers will give their all. It’s a fantastic opportunity for the guys to make a name for themselves. They would be on an undercard and they are getting the chance to get exposure and I expect some to grasp it with both hands.” (BBC Sport)
England name nine uncapped players in 24-man training group
Paul Collingwood is set to be put in charge of England’s planned one-day series against Ireland.
ENGLAND have named nine uncapped players in a 24-man training group for their three-match one-day series against Ireland in Southampton. Paul Collingwood will be in charge for the series with head coach Chris Silverwood focusing on Test cricket. England will play two intra-group warm-up matches before announcing their final squad for the series, which begins on 30 July. Only eight of England’s 15-man World Cup winning squad are in the group. England’s three-Test series against Pakistan starts on 5 August, the day after the final one-day international, meaning players like Joe Root, Ben Stokes and Jos Buttler were not considered. England training group: Eoin Morgan (Middlesex) captain, Moeen Ali (Worcestershire), Jonny Bairstow (Yorkshire), Tom Banton (Somerset), Sam Billings (Kent), Henry Brookes
(Warwickshire), Brydon Carse (Durham), Tom Curran (Surrey), Liam Dawson (Hampshire), Ben Duckett (Nottinghamshire), Laurie Evans (Sussex), Richard Gleeson (Lancashire), Lewis Gregory (Somerset), Sam Hain (Warwickshire), Tom Helm (Middlesex), Liam Livingstone (Lancashire), Saqib Mahmood (Lancashire), Matthew Parkinson (Lancashire), Adil Rashid (Yorkshire), Jason Roy (Surrey), Phil Salt (Sussex), Reece Topley (Surrey), James Vince (Hampshire), David Willey (Yorkshire). Seven of the uncapped players - Warwickshire bowler Henry Brookes and batter Sam Hain, Sussex batters Laurie Evans and Phil Salt, Durham bowler Brydon Carse, Lancashire quick Richard Gleeson and Middlesex bowler Tom Helm - have not played in any format for England while Somerset all-rounder Lewis Gregory and Lancashire batter Liam Livingstone have only featured in Twenty20 cricket.
There is also a return for left-arm seamer David Willey, who has not featured for England since he was left out of the World Cup squad last summer. Worcestershire’s Pat Brown, Sussex’s Chris Jordan and Yorkshire’s Dawid Malan were not considered for selection due to injury. “Even with several multi-format players unavailable for the Ireland ODIs due to their Test commitments, there is real depth to England’s white-ball playing talent,” said national selector Ed Smith. Collingwood will be supported by Marcus Trescothick as batting coach, while England Young Lions coach Jon Lewis will be the pace bowling coach alongside Durham’s Neil Killeen. Former South Africa left-arm spinner Claude Henderson has been appointed spin bowling coach and ex-Essex wicketkeeper James Foster will take responsibility for the wicketkeepers.(BBC Sport)
India’s cricket boss Ganguly opposes four-day Test plan
INDIA’s cricket chief Sourav Ganguly has come out against playing four-day Tests, proposed by the world governing body as a way to squeeze more cricket into a packed calendar. The International Cricket Council (ICC) has floated the idea of reducing matches in the World Test Championship by one day from 2023, but Ganguly said officials should not “tinker” with what he calls the best form of cricket. Four-day Tests have been tried in one-off games between South Africa
and Zimbabwe and England against Ireland, but the Board of Control for Cricket in India is among a growing list of critics. “I am not a big fan of four-day cricket because I feel lot of Test matches will not finish,” Ganguly, who turned 48 on Wednesday, said in an online chat hosted by the BCCI. “When you have four days the approach is different,” he said. “I really feel that there is no need to tinker with those five-day Test matches.
And for me Test matches are the toughest and the best form of cricket.” Ganguly, who is rumoured to be in the running for the post of ICC chairman, backs other innovations, however, including day-night Tests. India, who refused to play a Test under floodlights in Australia in 2018, joined the pink ball party against Bangladesh in Kolkata last year. The final Test of a two-match series attracted packed crowds at Eden
Gardens despite the Test lasting less than three whole days. India won the series 2-0. “Day-night cricket, one Test a series is important, because cricket needs everyone back,” said the former India captain. “We played that pink Test in Kolkata, I don’t think if it was a normal India-Bangladesh Test match we would have one tenth of the people,” he said, noting that 150,000 people attended over three days played. (AFP)
BCCI president Sourav Ganguly
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GUYANA CHRONICLE FridAY, July 10, 2020
‘Unbelievable Greenwood is the best I’ve seen’ Foden …in awe of Man Utd attacker’s finishing ability MANCHESTER City midfielder Phil Foden says Manchester United teenager Mason Greenwood is the best finisher he has ever seen. The 18-year-old has played a vital role in the Red Devils’ latest victories against Brighton and Bournemouth, scoring three goals and registering an assist over the two matches. The attacker has netted 15 times in 41 appearances in all competitions this term, leading to him being tipped to become a club legend by team-mate Luke Shaw, while former United striker Andy Cole praised his “freakish” ability to
find the net. Even his side’s city rivals are in awe of the England Under-21 international, as Foden has been thoroughly impressed by his prowess in the box. “Mason Greenwood, the best I’ve seen finishing wise. He’s both footed. In and around the box, he’s always going to score,” he told Premier League Uncut. “High up finishing wise [compared to Sergio Aguero]. For his age, he’s unbelievable. I don’t know how he does it, to be honest. “Just the right type of shot, you know what I mean. He knows when to
finesse or lace it and he shoots quick, the keeper is never stable or set.” Greenwood is not the only player to earn Foden’s praises, as he singled out Chelsea winger Callum Hudson-Odoi for his dribbling skills and his Blues team-mate Reece James. “He’s rapid. I’ve played with him before. He’s a talented player and he’s quick off the mark. He uses it well,” he added. “Callum is very good at dribbling, to be honest. One vs ones, out wide in those areas, he’s unbelievable. “I like Reece James
Manchester United teenager Mason Greenwood
for physical. I think he’s powerful. When I’ve seen him play he’s done really well. He can defend and go forward, which I like to see. He’s so strong.” The 20-year-old also praised Leicester midfielder James Maddison for his passing ability, saying: “Even the little passes in between the gaps, it’s always with the right weight. He just kills the defence and breaks the lines, it just makes it easier for the people up front, they know they’re going to be found. “I’ve been really impressed with him.”(Goal. com)
Canada T20 Niagara Fest returns July 16 TORONTO, Canada – With the Global T20 Canada unlikely to play this year, several Canadian national players are expected to participate in the Canada T20 Niagara Fest which makes a welcome return on July 16. According to ANI/ PRNewswire), cricket-hungry fans across Canada and around the world will witness what is expected to be a spectacular tournament as it bowls off the at Niagara Cricket Centre. Spread over seven days, the T20 tournament will host
12 league matches for six days followed by one qualifier semi-final on July 22. The grand finale will be played on the same day from 13.00 hours. The league matches will be scheduled at 9.30 hours and 13.00 hours on July 16, 17, 18, 19, 20 and 21. Among the icon players slated to be in action are Rizwan Cheema, Bhupindar Singh,Harmandeep Singh,Navneet Dhaliwal, Ravindrapal Singh and Cecil Pervez. Four teams Vancouver Stars, Moncton Heroes, To-
ronto Tigers, and Niagara Wonders would be participating in the tournament with the winners guaranteed $50 000 (Can). The tournament has been given the green light from the Cricket Council of Ontario and is being organised by Niagara Cricket Club and Virsa Foundation. The objective of the event is to bring cricket back for the fans, boost local talent and the cricket of Canada. The event is one of the most anticipated sports events as it is expected to light the
Rizwan Cheema
flame of hope and happiness amongst everyone across the world and is seen as a kickstart to sports events that had taken a hit because of the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic. Canada T20 Fest is slated to be the first official big cricket tournament to resume post the lockdown and fans will be given the opportunity to witness Canada T20 Niagara Fest live on One Sports, the channel partner. The print partners for the event are Midday and Gujarati Mid-day. (Frederick Halley)
Woods ready to return, commits to Memorial Tournament (REUTERS) - Tiger Woods announced on Thursday that he will compete at next week’s Memorial Tournament in Dublin, Ohio, the 15-times major champion’s first PGA Tour event in five months. “I’m looking forward to playing in the @MemorialGolf next week,” Woods said on his Twitter account. “I’ve missed going out and competing with the guys and can’t wait to get back out there.” Woods last competed on the PGA Tour in mid-February when he laboured through a final-round 77 at the Genesis Invitational where he finished last among players who
made the cut. The 44-year-old reigning Masters champion then skipped a number of events with back issues prior to the PGA Tour’s three-month COVID-19 hiatus that began in mid-March and opted to sit out the circuit’s first five events since the break. Woods, who is one win shy of a record-breaking 83 PGA Tour victories, did play a May 24 charity match with Phil Mickelson and Super Bowl-winning quarterbacks Tom Brady and Peyton Manning. The Memorial Tournament at Muirfield Village is one of the most
high-profile, non-major events on the PGA Tour and Woods has triumphed there a record five times, most recently in 2012. Woods will be part of a loaded field that also includes world number one Rory McIlroy, five-times major champion Phil Mickelson, 2018 Memorial champion Bryson DeChambeau and major winners Dustin Johnson and Sergio Garcia. The July 16-19 tournament was originally supposed to have a limited number of spectators but earlier this week the PGA Tour scrapped plans to let fans attend due to COVID-19.
Tiger Woods is the reigning Masters champion
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 10, 2020
Curtly in the cold - legend desperate for chance to help West Indies cricket
WEST Indies fast bowling legend Curtly Ambrose has bemoaned the lack of an opportunity to be a part of the current Cricket West Indies (CWI) set-up in any type of capacity. The 56-year-old Ambrose, one of the most revered bowlers in world cricket, previously served as the bowling consultant for the senior team. He was, however, replaced by Roderick Estwick in 2016 and has not been involved with the programme since. According to the legendary pace bowler, however, it isn’t for a lack of trying. Ambrose has
since added to his coaching credentials, becoming one of 25 officials from the Caribbean and North America to attain Level Three coaching certification from a program organised by Cricket West Indies (CWI) and the England and Wales Cricket Board in 2018. “Since I was sacked from the senior team back in 2016, I have done a few bits and pieces in-between, in terms of some coaching stints with a few fast bowlers, but not on a consistent basis,” Ambrose said in a recent interview on Antigua’s Good Morning Jojo radio show.
Former West Indies bowling legend Curtly Ambrose
Coaching is, however, not the only job the former player has applied
for. He recently also threw his hat in the ring for a position on the se-
lection panel. “I figured whether it is coaching, being a selec-
tor, or whatever I could do to help West Indies Cricket go forward, I am always ready and willing to do so. There was nothing to do to in terms of the coaching part of it, so I decided to put in for being a selector because I thought that I could help, because I am a very fair-minded person and I just want to see West Indies cricket get better,” Ambrose said. “They interviewed me, Jimmy Adams and the vice president (Dr. Kishore Shallow), for about an hour, and I didn’t quite make it.”(Sportsmax).
Rio shelves plan to allow fans into soccer matches RIO DE JANEIRO (Reuters) The mayor of Rio de Janeiro has shelved a plan to allow fans back into professional soccer matches and warned residents of the resort city on Thursday they are courting trouble by continuing to frequent its famous beaches. Sunbathing and swimming in the sea are officially prohibited in Rio
but many locals and tourists have ignored the ban and flocked to world famous beaches such as Copacabana and Ipanema. Mayor Marcelo Crivella appealed for caution and said beaches filled with maskless visitors could jeopardise “everything we’ve done so far”. His comments came amid
widespread criticism over last week’s easing of lockdown rules which led to bars and restaurants in the city being packed. Almost 11,000 people have died from COVID-19 in Rio de Janeiro state and over 126,000 are confirmed as having contracted the virus. Overall, 67,694 people have died from COVID-19 in Brazil,
according to Health Ministry figures, more than any other country outside the United States. Crivella last month floated the idea of allowing clubs to use up to a third of their stadium capacity starting this weekend. However, he rejected that proposal on Thursday, saying the spread of the virus had not been sufficiently
contained. The Rio state football championship was the first of Brazil’s regional leagues to restart on June 18 and the Sao Paulo state championship, the country’s biggest, is rescheduled to begin again on July 22. The national league is due to resume on Aug. 9.
Australia must tour England for ‘health’ of the game, Langer says MELBOURNE (Reuters) Australia must tour England
for the “health of world cricket” and let its top play-
CRICKET QUIZ CORNER
(FRIDAY JULY 10, 2020)COMPLIMENTS OF XTRA ENERGY DRINK STABROEK BAZAAR (Tel: 6839500) &CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz (1)Charles Langeveldt (vs WI, Barbados, 2005) (2)Shiv Chanderpaul-39 matches Today’s Quiz: (1) Which SA wicketkeeper has effected most dismissals against the WI in ODIs to date? (2)Which WI wicketkeeper has effected most dismissals against SA in ODIs to date? Answers in tomorrow’s issue
ers compete in this year’s Indian Premier League (IPL) if it goes ahead, coach Justin Langer has said. Australia are slated to tour England for limited overs series in September despite the logistical challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. “I think we have to go to England. There’s lots of challenges, of course, but we have to find solutions to make sure that can happen if possible,” Langer said in comments published by the Daily Telegraph on Thursday. “That’s my view. I think for the health of world cricket. “If things out of control happen and we can’t end up going, at least we can say we’ve done everything in our power to make it happen.”
After a 117-day hiatus, international cricket returned on Wednesday as England and West Indies played a rain-hit opening day in Southampton in the first of three tests. However, much of the global schedule remains up in the air due to COVID-19 including the Twenty20 World Cup, due to start in Australia in October, and the IPL, which has been delayed for months. The T20 World Cup is expected to be postponed due to the challenges of hosting 16 international teams amid the pandemic, and the Indian board hopes to use that window for the IPL. With India having committed to touring for a fourtest series in the Australian summer, Langer said Aus-
Australia head coach Justin Langer
tralia should allow its top players like Steve Smith and Pat Cummins to play in the IPL, even if it means they might miss the start of the domestic season. “I think we have to.
Talking frankly,” Langer said. “I’ll always look for winwin situations and hopefully we do that when we get some clarity on what’s happening with the schedule.”
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 10, 2020
Holding makes impassioned statement against racism By Leighton Levy WEST Indies fast bowler turned respected commentator, Michael Holding, has over the years developed a reputation for being outspoken. He just tells it like it is. On Wednesday, prior to the start of the #RaiseYourBat Series between the West Indies and England, he was at his best delivering a powerful message against racism. The fast-bowling great, speaking on SkySports was asked his views on the #BlackLivesMatter campaign, delivered a poignant lesson on how education and religion helped brainwash the world against people of colour. “Education is important, unless we just want to continue living the life that we are living and continue having demonstrations every now and then and a few people saying a few things,” Holding said. “When I say education I say going
back in history. What people need to understand is that these things stem from a long time ago, hundreds of years ago. The dehumanisation of the black race is where it started. People will tell you that ‘oh it’s a long time ago, get over it’. No, you don’t get over things like that.” He mentioned another recent incident in the United States that brought into stark focus, just how ingrained racism has become. “That lady in central park in New York (Amy Cooper). If she did not have in her DNA the thought process that she is white and this man is black and ‘if I call a police officer, nine times out of 10 he is going to be white and I will be considered right immediately. The black guy will have to prove that he is not guilty and by the time he has to prove that he might be dead,” Holding remarked. “She had that in her mind from
day one and that is why she said and did what she did. How do you get rid of that in society? By educating both black and white.” Highlighting that he was not much of a religious person, Holding said that religion has brainwashed much of the world against people of colour. “As a young man I didn’t understand what brainwashing is; now I do. We have been brainwashed. Even white people have been brainwashed,” Holding said. “I go back many years, think about religion. You and I both are Christians. Look at Jesus Christ. The image that they give of Jesus Christ, pale skin, blonde hair, blue eyes. Where Jesus came from, who in that part of the world looks that way? Again, that is brainwashing, this is to show, ‘look this is what perfection is, this is what the image of perfection is.’ “If you look at the plays of those days. Judas, who betrayed Jesus, is a
West Indies bowling legend Michael Holding black man. Again brainwashing people to think, ‘oh he is a black man, he is the bad man’.”
He also spoke about how those recording history have deliberately ignored achievements by people of African heritage. “We all know who invented the light bulb. Thomas Edison invented it. Edison invented the light bulb with a paper filament; it burnt out in no time at all. Can you tell me who invented the filament that makes these lights shine throughout? Nobody knows because he was a black man and it was not taught in schools. Lewis Howard Latimer invented the carbon filament because of which lights continuously shine, who knows that?” he asked. “Everything should be taught. When I go back I remember my school days, I was never taught anything good about black people. And you cannot have a society that is brought up like that, both whites and blacks, which is only taught what is convenient to the teacher.” (Sportsmax)
Asia Cup postponed due to COVID-19, Sri Lanka swap hosting rights with Pakistan
(REUTERS) - This year’s Asia Cup tournament, originally scheduled for September, has been postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) said on Thursday. Pakistan, who were set to host the tournament this year in the United Arab Emirates, have exchanged hosting rights with Sri Lanka, who will stage next year’s
event, while the Pakistan Cricket Board will host the 2022 edition. The ACC said in a statement it is hoping to stage the Twenty20 competition, which will feature six countries including India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka, in June next year. “From the onset the ACC was keen on organising the tournament as per the original schedule. However, travel restrictions, country-specific quarantine re-
quirements... have posed substantial challenges to the holding of the Asia Cup,” the ACC said. “Above all, the risks related to health and safety of participating players, support staff, commercial partners, fans and the cricketing community were deemed to be significant. “Accordingly, the Board, after careful consideration of all the above factors, has determined that
the Asia Cup 2020 be postponed.” The PCB had been granted the rights to host this year’s tournament but India were unwilling to travel to Pakistan amid political tension between the two countries, prompting the PCB to swap hosting rights with Sri Lanka. International cricket was suspended in March due to the pan-
demic but Pakistan will be the first Asian team to return to action when they take on England in three tests and three T20 internationals behind closed doors in August-September. Domestic cricket in Sri Lanka will resume on Tuesday without spectators. India are the defending Asia Cup champions, having defeated Bangladesh by three wickets in the 2018 final.
United cruise to another win at struggling Villa GOA and GBA officials donate blood BIRMINGHAM, England (Reuters) - Manchester United kept up their chase for a top-four spot with a comfortable 3-0 win at relegation-threatened Aston Villa in the Premier League on Thursday. The victory means United, who are now unbeaten in 17 matches in all competitions, became the first team since the formation of the Premier League to win four consecutive matches by a margin of three or more goals. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side are fifth in the table, one point behind fourth-placed Leicester City and two adrift of Chelsea in third with four games left. United went ahead in the 27th minute after a debatable penalty award when referee Jon Moss
Birmingham, Britain - Manchester United’s Bruno Fernandes scores their first goal from the penalty spot, as play resumes behind closed doors following the outbreak of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) Oli Scarff/Pool via REUTERS
ruled that Ezri Konsa had brought down Bruno Fernandes just inside the box. The Portugal international rose to convert the spotkick.
Villa keeper Pepe Reina was kept busy, dealing with efforts from Anthony Martial and Mason Greenwood while Fernandes missed a great chance when he headed
over when unmarked with the goal at his mercy. There was no dispute about United’s second goal, though, just before the break, a thundering drive from the talented Greenwood after good work from Martial. Paul Pogba wrapped up the win against a Villa side who looked demoralised when Fernandes played a clever corner deep to the Frenchman outside the box and the World Cup winner placed the ball in the bottom corner past a motionless Reina. Martial blasted against the bar as United threatened to run riot against Dean Smith’s side who are next to bottom on 27 points, four behind 17thplaced Watford.
Here Yassin (left) and Ninvalle relax while donating the precious fluid. THE Guyana Olympic Association president K. Juman Yassin SC, AA and president of the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA), Steve Ninvalle on Tuesday each donated blood to the Blood Bank as part of Olympic Day activities.
The two officials were the first to donate in support of the activity which was organiesd by the GOA as part of a series of activities scheduled by the body in observance of World Olympic Day that was observed on June 23 last
SOUTHAMPTON, England, (CMC) – Fast bowler Jason Holder produced the best figures by a West Indies captain against England with a career-best six-wicket haul here Thursday, flattening the hosts and handing the Caribbean side the initiative on the second day of the opening Test. In a magical spell which started in the first session and continued after lunch, the 28-year-old claimed six for 42 as England were dismissed for a hugely disappointing 204 in their first innings on the stroke of tea at the Ageas Bowl. Speedster Shannon Gabriel bowled with pace to pick up four for 62, combining with Holder to ensure England never recovered after stumbling to lunch on 106 for five. Captain Ben Stokes top-scored with 43, vice-captain Jos Buttler got 35 while number eight Dom Bess resisted with an unbeaten 31 from 44 deliveries at number eight and opener Rory Burns grafted for 30, but England’s batsmen had little answer to Holder’s guile and Gabriel’s sustained pace. Faced with a daunting final session, West Indies battled confidently to 57 for one before bad light eventually halted play with 27 overs still scheduled, and will head into Friday’s day three 147 runs in arrears. Left-hander John Campbell was the sole wicket to fall, lbw to veteran seamer Jimmy Anderson after striking a fluent 28 from 36 balls with three fours, in a 43-run opening stand with vice-captain Kraigg Brathwaite (20 not out). He lived a charmed life, however, twice saved by DRS after being given out lbw to Anderson on 12 and then 24. Brathwaite and Shai Hope, not out on three, then combined to deny England any further success. After rain allowed only 82 minutes on Wednesday, an inspired West Indies dominated the first two sessions, with Holder leading by example with his seventh
West Indies captain Jason Holder celebrates dismissing Ben Stokes on day two of the opening Test at the Ageas Bowl (Getty Images)
Holder’s career-best haul puts Windies in control at Ageas Bowl ..captain claims 6 for 42 to roll England for 204
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FIFA wants uniform global use of VAR, says refs chief Collina By Simon Evans MANCHESTER, England (Reuters) - FIFA wants VAR video reviews to be applied in the same way across all competitions, as they take over direct responsibility for the system. Issues concerning VAR have been handled primarily by IFAB, the game’s law-making body, during the system’s two-year experimental phase and its introduction as part of the laws of the game. Soccer’s global governing body FIFA, however, took over the role of supporting competition organisers with the implementation of VAR from July 1. Pierluigi Collina, the Italian former World Cup referee and chairman of FIFA’s Referees’ Committee, told Reuters the move was a “natural transition”. “IFAB as an organisation has the duty to govern the laws of football, including VAR and the protocol and regulations. Once the laws of the game are set, IFAB’s job is over,” he said. “It is then FIFA that deals with referees’ education around the world supporting all the member associations.” Issues concerning VAR have been handled primarily by IFAB, the game’s law-making body, during the system’s two-year experimental phase and its introduction as part of the laws of the game. Soccer’s global governing body FIFA, however, took over the role of supporting competition organisers with the implementation of VAR from July 1. Pierluigi Collina, the Italian former World Cup referee and chairman of FIFA’s Referees’ Committee, told Reuters the move was a “natural transition”. “IFAB as an organisation has the duty to govern the laws of football, including VAR and the protocol and regulations. Once the laws of the game are set, IFAB’s job is over,” he said. “It is then FIFA that deals with referees’ education around the
world supporting all the member associations.” There have been some variations in the use of VAR in different competitions and national leagues, but Collina said there should be a uniform approach. “Another responsibility of FIFA’s is to have the laws of the game implemented all over the world in the same way, there cannot be different implementation of the laws of the game in different continents or different countries. Our responsibility is to ensure that football is played in the same way all over the world. “Can you imagine in international competition played by teams who are used to having different interpretations of the laws of the game in their domestic competition? Saying that VAR should be used in the same way all over the world is something obvious. “Of course there can be some small differences, but the general implementation should be the same. “It is FIFA and IFAB’s responsibility to have the game played the same way across the world, for the benefit of those who are playing,” he said. The Premier League has not used VAR to check for encroachment off the line by goalkeepers during penalty kicks despite that element being part of the protocol. Speaking generally, Collina said FIFA wanted to avoid situations where players in an international tournament faced surprise decisions. “If something is written in the laws of the game, it has to be implemented everywhere, otherwise can you imagine the surprise of someone who is penalised for something in an international game that he is not penalised for at home? “Maybe they would not be aware of what they can do? If something in the laws of the game doesn’t work, then it is discussed and eventually changed by IFAB,” he said.
FILE PHOTO: Former Italian referee Pierluigi Collina addresses the audience while participating in a meeting about the implementation of the VAR (Video Assistant Referee) on the Fifa World Cup of Russia 2018 at the Conmebol head quarters in Luque, Paraguay September 8, 2018. REUTERS/Jorge Adorno
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FRIDAY,JULY 10, 2020