MONDAY 27th July, 2020
’ No. 106073
‘Only valid votes’ – APNU+AFC iterates position on ‘Valid Votes’
– disappointed GECOM yet to address concerns raised during recount – PPP/C claims electoral fraud allegations unsubstantiated 10 PAGE
Minister of Communities, Ronald Bulkan, addressing APNU+AFC supporters at De Kinderen, West Coast Demerara, on Sunday. The ‘Coalition’ has embarked on a countrywide outreach to inform citizens of the current elections stalemate (Delano Williams photo)
‘Second declaration 03 10 more test positive Arsonists attack was never invalidated’ for COVID-19 08 GHRA building 11 PAGE
PAGE
–– AG makes clear amid attempts by PPP/C’s lawyers to mislead Appellate Court
– one recovery recorded
PAGE
… smash 13 windows, set fire to a tyre
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, July 27, 2020
Guyana, Brazil to set up Border Intelligence Committee By Lisa Hamilton
GUYANA and Brazil in their respective towns of Lethem and Bonfim, will be setting up a Border Intelligence Committee to respond to acts of illegal border crossings, smuggling and drug trafficking, which pose deadly consequences due to the COVID-19 epidemic. In an interview with the Guyana Chronicle on
Sunday, Region Nine Regional Poilce Commander Superintendent Keithon King and Region Nine Regional Chairman, Bryan Allicock, provided updates on the challenges faced by both towns and the plans to mitigate them. At Guyana’s end, the team includes the Guyana Defence Force (GDF); the Guyana Police Force (GPF); the Region Nine Regional Chair; the Re-
gional Executive Officer (REO) and health and port representatives. At Brazil’s end in Bonfim, they include the Military Police; the Federal Police; the Army in Bonfim; health authorities and the Mayor of Bonfim. These authorities last met on Friday, July 24, where specific strategies were discussed. On Sunday, King and Allicock painted a clear
Region Nine Regional Chairman Bryan Allicock picture of the illegalities taking place which are responsible for the COVID-19 cases in the Rupununi.
Participants of the Guyana, Brazil Border Intelligence Committee meeting (Prefeitura de Bonfim photo)
CRIMINALS USING TECHNOLOGY, BEING ASSISTED “Persons are mostly coming over [to Guyana]. The problem with the going over [to Brazil] is the smuggling of garlic from Guyana’s shore and the smuggling of the alcohol and other stuff from Brazil’s shore,” the superintendent said, noting that areas in deep South Rupununi have been pinpointed as having a high prevalence. Meanwhile, the regional chairman stated: “Even though we have
had most of the villages locked down, they have the backdoor where they are doing illegal crossing for a fee. People are taking advantage of that. We have seized boats that our people use on this side and we have thrown them in the station compound but, on the Brazilian side, they’re saying that people have boats and when they use them, they take it and hide it.” Allicock further explained that it is difficult to monitor these activities at the porous Guyana/Brazil border as the Federal Police have reported that the culprits are using “high technology” such as satellite phones, to evade law enforcement. “They know exactly when our borders are being patrolled, when the Brazillians are patrolling and, when the coast is clear, they contact each other to make their move. It’s a network that is hard to crack, because both sides are involved,” he said. At the same time, King said that while most villages have constructed gates to monitor or prevent traffic inflows, some within the very villages are working to assist individuals in their illegal activities. King detailed: “What we found is that the same
Region Nine Regional Commander Superintendent Keithon King villagers and the toshaos, they are the persons who are encouraging and transporting their people as well. So, when we get information and we go [to] those villages to query they say ‘no, nobody is really crossing,’ but they are encouraging their own villagers to come and go.” The superintendent lamented that authorities, along with the Region Nine Task Force, have visited “village after village” to educate residents about the dangers in aiding or abetting such activities, but the challenge, to some extent, still exists. A CHALLENGE FOR BOTH SIDES Unfortunately, when it comes to resources, both Bomfin and Lethem face their own challenges with limited law-enforcement members that limit intervention. “The same challenges that we have, they have it too, which is the lack of resources and manpower,” King said. Meanwhile, Allicock agreed that the GDF in the region is short of a complement of 54 persons within the region, which is why persons from the region are being encouraged to join the force. Allicock said: “We have people who know about the region, who See page 11
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, July 27, 2020
‘Second declaration was never invalidated’ –– AG makes clear amid attempts by PPP/C’s lawyers to mislead Appellate Court
AN attempt by the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) to mislead the Court of Appeal on the March 13 Declaration made by Region Four Returning Officer (RO) Clairmont Mingo was shut down by the Attorney-General, Basil Williams, who made it clear that that Declaration was never invalidated or dubbed fraudulent by the Courts, and therefore must form part of the official results of the General and Regional Elections to be declared by the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM). In his submissions before a panel of judges in the Court of Appeal on Saturday in the case, Misenga Jones v the Guyana Elections Commission and others, the PPP/C’s lead Attorney, Senior Counsel Douglas Mendes argued that it is “an undisputed fact” that Mingo’s Declaration was “fraudulent”. According to the Trinidadian Senior Counsel, there was “a full trial” into the March 13 Declaration made by the Region Four Returning Officer, and undisputed “evidence” showed that electoral fraud had been committed. “As a matter of fact, there is no dispute of fact before the Court concerning Mingo’s declaration. None!” the Attorney-General submitted. He told the Appellate Court that Mendes’ contentions are furthest from the truth surrounding the declaration made by the Region Four Returning Officer. In providing the facts,
the Attorney- General turned the Appellate Court’s attention to the case, Bharrat Jagdeo and Reaz Holladar v the Returning Officer Clairmont Mingo and others, in which an attempt was made by the PPP/C to have the High Court set aside the March 13 declaration on the grounds that it was “fraudulent.” FACTS OF THE MATTER That attempt, the Attorney-General said, failed when High Court Judge Franklin Holder ruled that the Court had no jurisdiction to hear the case brought by the Leader of the PPP/C, and that any challenge ought to come by way of an Elections Petition in accordance with Article 163 of the Constitution and the National Assembly (Validity of Elections) Act. In his declaration on March 13, Mingo announced that the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) secured 136, 057 votes in District 4 (Demerara-Mahaica) in the General Elections, while the PPP/C secured 77, 231 votes. Jagdeo and Holladar, in their application, contended that based on Statements of Poll (SOPs) in their possession, the declaration made by the Region 4 Returning Officer was flawed. Justice Holder, in handing down his decision, said the core issues raised in the application touch on matters provided for in Article 163 (1)
of the Constitution, and as such ought to be dealt with by way of an Elections Petition, pursuant to Section 3 of the National Assembly (Validity of Elections) Act. According to Article 163 (1) (b) (i), the High Court has exclusive jurisdiction to determine any question on whether, “either generally or in any particular place, an election has been lawfully conducted or the result thereof has been, or may have been, affected by any unlawful act or omission.” The Attorney-General told the Appellate Court that it is instructive to note that Justice Holder’s decision in the case brought by Jagdeo and Holladar was never challenged. “It was never appealed,” he emphasised. Mendes, in declaring Mingo’s Declaration fraudulent, argued that if the Appellate Court finds that it has jurisdiction to set aside the National Recount executed under Order Number 60, it should also assume jurisdiction to invalidate the March 13 Declaration. However, he made the proposition, notwithstanding the fact that he had conceded that any challenge to the validity of Mingo’s Declaration must be made via an Elections Petition under Article 163 (1) (b). The Attorney-General told the Appellate Judges that Mendes ought to have informed them that he, on behalf of the PPP/C, had challenged the March 13 Declaration and was unsuccessful. The Attorney-General
submitted that the High Court established that it had no jurisdiction to set aside the March 13 Declaration, and GECOM, like the High Court, cannot set aside the 10 Declarations, as only an Elections Petition Court can do that. “Those 10 Declarations have not been invalidated, and the CCJ [the Caribbean Court of Justice] said that they cannot be invalidated, except by an Elections Petition Court,” Williams argued. Aside from the case filed before Justice Holder in late March, the PPP/C had filed a contempt case, Reeaz Holladar v. Returning Officer for Region 4 Clairmont Mingo and others, on March 12, on the grounds that Mingo had not complied with the March 11 orders of Chief Justice (ag), Roxane George-Wiltshire. The Chief Justice had ruled that the first declaration of votes made by the Region 4 Returning Officer on March 5 was unlawful, on the grounds that there was substantial non-compliance with Section 84 (1) of the Representation of the People Act when the Statements of Poll (SOPs) for District 4 were tabulated. She then ordered that the verification process, which was interrupted, be resumed or restarted, and that the SOPs be tabulated and projected in the presence of persons entitled to be there under the law. On March 13, Mingo made his second declaration in accordance with the Representation of the People Act and
the Orders of the Court, according to the Chief Elections Officer, Keith Lowenfield. NOTICE OF WITHDRAWAL In June, three months after the contempt case was filed, PPP/C Attorney-at-Law Anil Nandlall filed a notice of withdrawal due to the lack of sufficient evidence. The last-minute decision, which came one day before the High Court was scheduled to hand down its ruling, did not sit well with the Chief Justice, who chided Nandlall for wasting the court’s time when he was fully aware that the application, as filed, did not meet the threshold for a contempt of court proceeding. “I am very sorry, Mr. Nandlall, this is most unacceptable,” the Chief Justice told the Attorney during the hearing of the High Court case. Though not handing down her ruling in the matter, Justice George-Wiltshire said, “The evidence is very, very deficient,” and that in effect, Nandlall would have wasted the Court’s time. Meanwhile, in rejecting Mendes’ arguments, the Attorney-General told the Appellate Court that the challenge brought by him has to do with the failure of the Chairman of the Elections Commission, Justice (Ret’d) Claudette Singh to declare the results of the elections in accordance with the Constitution and Representation of the People Act. He made it clear that his
Attorney-General Basil Williams cross-appeal has nothing to do with the validity of the elections, but rather the procedure to be followed by Justice Singh as Chairman of the Elections Commission. “This is not a case challenging the declarations; those declarations are extant… They cannot be rescinded or invalidated, except by an elections Court, as the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) [has] said,” the Attorney-General told the Appellate Court. According to him, the Chairman of the Elections Commission must, in accordance with the Chief Elections Officer’s Report, declare the Head of the APNU+AFC List President-elect. He said that the GECOM Chair having thus far failed to execute her constitutional mandate, it is now left to the Court, in its supervisory capacity, to order her to execute her constitutional functions.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, July 27, 2020
Coronavirus: Spain says outbreaks under control after UK orders quarantine
(BBC) Spain has said outbreaks of new Covid-19 cases are isolated and under control after the UK abruptly ordered people coming from the country to quarantine. Infections have risen sharply in Spain recently as restrictions were eased. Some regions have now imposed measures including making face masks mandatory. “Spain is safe for Spaniards and for tourists,” the foreign minister said. Contagion among young people, who have been gathering in larger numbers, appears to be a particular worry. France and Germany have also both seen new cases rise, as nations grapple between staving off fresh outbreaks
and reopening economies. The UK’s move to require arrivals from Spain to self-isolate for 14 days came into effect on Sunday, just hours after the change was announced, angering travellers and travel operators. The airline industry reacted with dismay, calling it a big blow. The UK’s biggest tour operator, Tui, has cancelled all mainland Spanish holidays until 9 August. British Airways is still operating flights, but said the move was “throwing thousands of Britons’ travel plans into chaos”. However, UK Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab defended the “swift” decision. Spain has more than 272,000 confirmed Covid-19 cases and some 28,400 deaths,
according to Johns Hopkins University research, and is one of the European countries worst-affected by the virus.
reported on Friday. How does Spain compare in Europe? Its rate of cases per
The National Art Museum of Barcelona. Spain has seen a surge in Covid-19 cases recently
The number of cases there has tripled in two weeks, with more than 900 new infections
100,000 people is currently at 39.4, according to the European Union’s European
Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC). This compares with the UK’s rate of 14.6. Spain is now comparable with Sweden and Portugal, but rates there are falling while Spain’s is on the rise. Romania (59.7) and Bulgaria (44.8) are considerably higher. Luxembourg is far higher, but the number there may be skewed by its small population. As seen in other countries reporting a spike in infections, the majority of new cases in Spain seem to be restricted to a few regions, including Catalonia, where Barcelona is located, and Aragon. On Sunday, Spanish Foreign Minister Arancha
González Laya said the outbreaks were “perfectly controlled” and that they had been expected once the restrictions were lifted. “Half of those who are Covid positive in Spain are asymptomatic, which gives a very clear indication of the huge efforts that all the regions in Spain are undertaking to test for Covid in its citizens,” she said. Ms González said the Canary and Balearic Islands, which are popular with tourists, have not recorded a resurgence in infections, insisting they were “very safe territories”. She added that the authorities would try to convince the UK government to exclude them from quarantine.
How a Chinese agent used LinkedIn to hunt for targets (BBC) Jun Wei Yeo, an ambitious and freshly enrolled Singaporean PhD student, was no doubt delighted when he was invited to give a presentation to Chinese academics in Beijing in 2015. His doctorate research was about Chinese foreign policy and he was about to discover firsthand how the rising superpower seeks to attain influence. After his presentation, Jun Wei, also known as Dickson, was, according to US court documents, approached by several people who said they worked for Chinese think tanks. They said they wanted to pay him to provide “political reports and information”. They would later specify exactly what they wanted: “scuttlebutt” - rumours and insider knowledge. He soon realised they were Chinese intelligence agents but remained in contact with them, a sworn statement says. He was first asked to focus on countries in South East Asia but later, their interest turned to the US government. That was how Dickson Yeo set off on a path to becoming a Chinese agent - one who would end up using the professional
MONDAY, 29 JULY, 2020 ― 10:00hrs ~ 11:30hrs
networking website LinkedIn, a fake consulting company and cover as a curious academic to lure in American targets. Five years later, on Friday, amid deep tensions between the US and China and a determined crackdown from Washington on Beijing’s spies, Yeo pleaded guilty in a US court to being an “illegal agent of a foreign power”. The 39-year-old faces up to 10 years in prison. Alumni at Singapore’s Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy (LKYSPP), which trains some of Asia’s top civil servants and government officials, were left shocked by the news that their former peer had confessed to being a Chinese agent. “He was a very active student in class. I always viewed him as a very intelligent person,” said one former postgraduate student who did not wish to be named She said he often talked about social inequality - and that his family struggled financially when he was a child. She said she found it difficult to reconcile the person she knew with his guilty plea. A former member of staff at the institution painted a dif-
ferent picture, saying Yeo seemed to have “an inflated sense of his own importance”. Yeo’s PhD supervisor had been Huang Jing, a high-profile Chinese-American professor who was expelled from Singapore in 2017 for being an “agent of influence of a foreign country” that was not identified. Huang Jing always denied those allegations. After leaving Singapore, he first worked in Washington DC, and now Beijing. According to the court documents released with Yeo’s guilty plea, the student met his Chinese handlers on dozens of occasions in different locations in China. During one meeting he was asked to specifically obtain information about the US Department of Commerce, artificial intelligence and the Sino-US trade war. Bilahari Kausikan, the former permanent secretary at Singapore’s foreign ministry, said he had “no doubt that Dickson knew he was working for the Chinese intelligence services”. He was not, he said, “an unwitting useful fool”. Yeo made his crucial contacts using LinkedIn, the job and careers networking site used by more than 700 million people. The platform was described only as a “professional networking website” in the court documents, but its use was confirmed to the Washington Post. Former government and military employees and contractors are not shy about publicly posting details of their work histories on the website in order to obtain lucrative jobs in the private sector. This presents a potential goldmine to foreign intelligence agencies. In 2018, US counter-intelligence chief William Evanina warned of “super aggressive” action by Beijing on the Microsoft-owned platform, which is one of few Western social media sites not blocked in China. Kevin Mallory, a former CIA officer jailed for 20 years last May for disclosing military secrets to a Chinese agent, was first targeted on LinkedIn. In 2017, Germany’s intelligence agency said Chinese agents had used LinkedIn to target at least 10,000 Germans. LinkedIn has not responded to a request for comment for this story but has previously said it takes a range of measures to stop nefarious activity. Some of the targets that Yeo found by trawling through LinkedIn were commissioned to write reports for his “consultancy”, which had the same name as an already prominent firm. These were then sent to his Chinese contacts. One of the individuals he contacted worked on the US Air Force’s F-35 fighter jet programme and admitted he had money problems. Another was a US army officer assigned to the Pentagon, who was paid at least $2,000 (£1,500) to write a report on how the withdrawal of US forces from Afghanistan would impact China. In finding such contacts, Yeo, who was based in Washington DC for part of 2019, was aided by an invisible ally - the LinkedIn algorithm. Each time Yeo looked at someone’s profile it would suggest a new slate of contacts with similar experience that he might be interested in. Yeo described it as “relentless”. According to the court documents, his handlers advised him to ask targets if they “were dissatisfied with work” or “were having financial troubles”.
GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, July 27, 2020
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THE DAY AFTER: RETHINKING THE FUTURE OF THE CARIBBEAN BY TAHSEEN SAYED, COUNTRY DIRECTOR, WORLD BANK CARIBBEAN
(BARBADOS ADVOCATE) The Caribbean has largely been able to contain the spread of COVID-19 thanks to early action by policymakers. But the economic consequences are severe, given the standstill in tourism and remittances. GDP is anticipated to contract between 5-9%, with job losses estimated at over a quarter of the labor force. During these challenging times, let us pause and rethink the future opportunities for economic diversification in the Caribbean. The pause in tourism is an opportunity to strengthen the sector, leveraging the Caribbean’s unique characteristics, especially its vast ocean resources. The Blue Economy can boost tourism and create jobs and economic growth through sectors like fisheries, aquaculture, and renewable energy. Fisheries already generate 4% of jobs, but there is great potential for more. Many Caribbean countries have taken important steps to protect the pristine blue oceans and banned single-use plastic –
more can be done to strengthen regulatory frameworks for the marine environment. Digital technology is a great niche area for the Caribbean and can bring transformational change. Today’s COVID-19 world has starkly demonstrated the unparalleled contribution of technology in keeping individuals, families, countries, businesses and the world connected. Moving to a digital Caribbean means making citizen-centric public services accessible, enabling a reliable e-payment system, and fostering entrepreneurship. The Caribbean can leapfrog with its educated English-speaking population and benefit from proximity to North American markets. Moreover, it can build a home-grown digital services industry that serves the broader region. Finally, reimagining the future of the Caribbean is not possible without its people. The region is rich in human resources, with a vibrant and entrepreneurial youth population eager to innovate. This is the biggest resource for the Caribbean to #RethinktheFuture in its march towards inclusion and resilience.
Tahseen Sayed, Country Director, World Bank Caribbean
Government clarifies facts on election observers issue
(TRINIDAD GUARDIAN) The Government of Trinidad and Tobago has issued an official statement, clarifying the facts surrounding the invitations extended to the Commonwealth and to CARICOM, to consider sending Election Observation Missions to this country, for the General Election carded for Monday 10 August 2020.
ELECTION OBSERVATION MISSIONS REQUESTED BY THE GOVERNMENT OF TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO The Government of Trinidad and Tobago continues its efforts to ensure the presence of Election Observers in Trinidad and Tobago prior to and during the National Parliamentary Elections scheduled
Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley
The statement comes as the Political Leader of the United National Congress (UNC), accuses the Prime Minister of misleading the population on why the Commonwealth observers would be unable to be in the country in time for quarantine and the General Election. In the statement, the Government maintains that costs associated with the Mission being housed in quarantine were one of the key considerations for the Commonwealth. The full text of the Government’s statement, follows…
for August 10, 2020. Prime Minister Dr the Hon. Keith Rowley, extended invitations on July 9, 2020 to the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the Commonwealth to consider sending Election Observation Missions to Trinidad and Tobago during the upcoming National Parliamentary Elections, scheduled for August 10, 2020 It was indicated then, that as part of our COVID-19 protocol, we were requiring that all entrants to Trinidad and Tobago agree to mandatory quarantine for fourteen (14) days prior to any mixing with the local population. As such
it was advised that selected observers should arrive in Trinidad and Tobago by July 24, 2020 in preparation for the designated exercise to take place after the mandatory quarantine. Both organizations have advised of their inability to meet the cost associated with the fourteen (14) day quarantine period required for entry into Trinidad and Tobago which is an integral part of our management of the COVID-19 pandemic. Specifically, they cited constraints due to financial strictures that disallow them from meeting this cost. To ensure the integrity of the contribution of the Missions (recommendations and the report of Observation Missions), it is deemed necessary that the host Government (Trinidad and Tobago) not cover the costs related to the quarantine of members of the Election Observation Missions. Requests have been made by Trinidad and Tobago to potential benefactors within the Commonwealth community to cover these costs. To date, no definitive positive results have been obtained and the timely arrival has expired if persons were to follow the established mandatory protocol. In the event that any alternative arrangement for travel becomes available, such requests will be subject to conditions laid down by the Chief Medical Officer in the most facilitatory and safe way. The Government of Trinidad and Tobago continues to persevere in attempt-
ing to secure the necessary resources and modalities to encourage the arrival of at
least one Election Observation Mission. At this time it appears that only a CAR-
ICOM mission might be available if health protocols can be met.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, July 27, 2020
Traffic incidents: Can Guyana afford them? HARDLY a day goes by without a news report of at least one traffic accident. In a country with a population of far fewer than a million persons, Guyana simply cannot afford to have so many traffic collisions and other types of incidents. According to statistics published by the Pan American Health Organisation and the World Health Organisation (PAHO/WHO), deaths from traffic crashes constitute one of the top ten causes of fatalities in Guyana. It is the number one cause of death among persons between the ages of five and 14, and the number two cause of death among persons aged 15 to 24. PAHO/WHO reports too, that within the Americas, traffic collisions are the leading cause of death of persons between the ages of five and 14, and the number two cause of unnatural death of those between 15 and 44 years of age. This constitutes 80 per cent of all deaths of males. And, the problem is not unique to Guyana, as, in the Americas, there are about 140,000 fatalities due to traffic accidents every year, some 70,000 of which are children under five, and over 5 million
people who suffer injuries. Interestingly, it was found that low-income countries have increasing death rates due to traffic collisions. Here in Guyana, the GPF records some 15.88 deaths per year per 100,000 persons. Traffic incidents -- as much of the developed world prefers to call them, since “accident” implies that no-one is to be blamed — occurs when a vehicle collides with another vehicle, pedestrian, animal, road debris, or other immobile obstruction or object, such as a tree, pole or building. An incident may also occur if the operator of a vehicle, for any reason, loses control and departs from the roadway, and, probably ends up in a trench, for example. The GPF had said, too, that in this country, the leading causes of traffic mishaps are speeding and driving while under the influence of alcohol. Other major causes are driving while distracted by use of a cellphone, pedestrian inattentiveness, and failure to heed traffic signs. And, President David Granger is on record as saying that road safety is a very important priority for him. His Excellency has noted that over the
last 15 years, more than 2,000 Guyanese have been killed on the roadways. The president has characterised the problem as a serious epidemic. He observed that no government should ignore the deaths of so many of its citizens in such a short period of time. “We have a road fatality rate that is four times that of Barbados. Guyana occupies the fifth place in the Western Hemisphere for road fatalities,” the president lamented. His Excellency mentioned that we have to make our roads safer, and explore means, measures and methods to reduce injuries, risks, and the deaths of persons on our roadways. His Excellency alluded to the prevalence of builders’ waste, vendors, stray animals, poor architecture of roads, poorly-lit roadways and other issues. Those factors, the president said, contribute to making our roads hazardous. He stated that the government continues to take a holistic look at the road safety problems in Guyana. Fortunately, as government works to address the problem, Guyana’s international partners are more than willing to assist us. For example,
PAHO/WHO continues to play a significant role in supporting local initiatives, including facilitating road safety consultations among stakeholders, and collaborating with government in the preparation of policy documents among other forms of backing. Another case in point is the grant in 2018 of US$1.4M to procure some 70,000 LED streetlights for Guyana’s roads. As government does its part, citizens must also do theirs. Drivers have an obligation to make a commitment to desist from operating vehicles after consuming alcohol or other drugs that may impair judgement, and to abstain from using their cellphones whilst driving. Occupants of vehicles have a duty to obey the law by using seatbelts. Motorcyclists should wear helmets, and pedestrians should remain vigilant and be careful while on the road, especially when vehicular traffic is heavy. In other words, all Guyanese have a part to play in reducing the number of traffic incidents, and we need to take that duty seriously.
I am also embarrassed by the performance of WI players Dear Editor, MY name is Winston Skerrett and I am an expat living in the United States who is disheartened by the complete mismanagement of West Indies (WI) cricket and the strategic approach taken by Cricket West Indies (CWI) to mitigate the issues facing WI cricket. I am also embarrassed by the performance of WI players, but understand the WI cricket performance is a reflection of the administrative prowess of CWI to manage WI cricket. It is now incumbent upon CWI to maintain the standard of WI cricket by selecting the correct players while constructing a sustainable development cricket plan. The onus is now on CWI to maintain WI cricket as an economic, social and political brand for all West Indians. WI cricket is a social movement that provides hope and encouragement to expats globally, while serving as reminder at home to young West Indians that anything is possible and they too can dream of one day overcoming obstacles in life. The metamorphic nature and symbolism of a strong WI
cricket deconstructs the global myths of the white supremacy doctrine so much prevalent in contemporary world politics. This symbolism is no different to the pride that comes from a strong Jamaican track team winning gold medals and triumphing over the giants of the Global North by discarded residents of the Global South. WI cricket serves a social movement similar to the sweet sounds of Calypso and Soca music coming from Trinidad & Tobago, reggae music from Jamaica and folk music of Guyana. Embedded in its lyrics are defiant messages urging the marginalised in the ghettos to hold their heads up high to fight the good fight. More importantly, WI cricket serves as an economic engine for the Caribbean by providing a vehicle for which expats and Europeans could enjoy while planning their vacations to the Region. A strong, respected WI cricket team provides investment opportunities for Foreign Direct Investment by multi-national corporations looking for opportunities in a globalised world. Globalisation has provided economic vehicles through the advancement of technology to advance the development of WI cricket, but CWI has failed to capitalise on
these developments. The failure of CWI to capitalise on globalisation is evident in the manner in which administrative decisions are made concerning WI cricket. Over the years, CWI has mismanaged the WI cricket brand built by Garfield Sobers, Rohan Kanhai, Weeks Worrell & Walcott, Clive Lloyd, Vivian Richards and Brian Charles Lara. CWI has, with impunity, taken a cavalier approach when making strategic decisions concerning the viability of WI cricket. CWI has failed to understand the conceptual frameworks of economic development, global financial markets and political forecasting to position WI cricket in a position to capitalise on the global shifts which has occurred. WI cricket has fallen low in the pecking order and is now surpassed by countries which were once considered developing nations in the game. The abundance of cricketing talent produced by WI cricket over the years, largely in part by the endogenous strength of players, has now vanished. CWI has now produced players with monster egos, inflated salaries and demonstrative buffoonish mannerisms. Players who earn
more than the average American College Basketball player and European Academy Football player. The current crop of WI cricket players’ performance is a direct reflection of CWI management of WI cricket. Long gone are the days in which the giants of WI cricket provided absolutism to WI cricket. Today’s crop of WI cricket players assume the mantle of lacklustre performances; coaches asleep at the wheel during global broadcast of games; managers mismanaging teams and failing to articulate and execute strategic game plans. WI cricket is now burdened with players capitulating when faced with adversity on the field, thereby betraying their forefathers who paved the way for their existence in a sport once dominated by colonial powers. One can only wait to see what the next 20 years of WI cricket would entail and how long will CWI remain unresponsive to the changing global cricket environment; and when would CW present a development initiative for the future of WI cricket. Regards, Winston Ivor Skerrett Maryland, U.S.A
GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, July 27, 2020
This attempt to impugn Lowenfield’s character shouldn’t be allowed to proceed Dear Editor, IT is with colossal alarm that I note the pernicious “private criminal charges” against a statutory officer of rectitude in the person of Mr. Keith Lowenfield. Such is his reward for acting in consonance with the Constitution of Guyana. Should this travesty and perversion of justice be allowed to proceed, the same would be indicative of a decadence in Guyana and send a subliminal signal to any other person of rectitude that this would be their lot should they dare to do what is just. Such an occurrence would precipitate the complete dissolution of any residual sense of decency in the Guyanese society. It is fair to conclude that the Chairperson of GECOM wilfully and venomously misled Mr. Granger to think and boldly and repeatedly make the promulgation to the world, that the four stages of the recount process would operate, then shift her position though she no doubt would have seen or heard him give such a proclamation concomitant with the requisite public assurances and call for calm and patience. She is bereft of any decency, having not made any known attempt to correct him, knowing full well that she wouldn’t act in accordance with an accord to which she is a party. It must never be assumed that this has missed the erudite Justice Singh. Her eminent junior, the current chief justice (ag), formerly taught Contract Law to a well-known comrade at the University of Guyana where, she instructed her class that in executing contractual responsibilities, the entire contract is breached if one facet of the said contract is breached. Given the aforementioned, I am absolutely stultified that we, like hapless malingerers, fail to lay a counter charge on Claudette Singh while Lowenfield is relegated to the crucible for his service to the nation. Imagine the optics; Claudette Singh reposes unmolested (which suggests innocence), while Lowenfield is baptised by fire (which assumes guilt). Where are the private criminal charges for the chairperson? This attempt to impugn Lowenfield’s character shouldn’t be allowed to proceed without a response in the way of legal proceedings against her. By the unashamed utterances of those who represent the PPP and their demonstrable, dastardly actions, we can deduce that this matter could lead to a treasonous charge on that good man if the PPP should ever come to office. The infamous cases of Mark Benschop, Oliver Hinckson and the military couple whose lives have been forever destroyed come to mind and should serve as poignant reminders. I beseech us not to be dilatory, lacklustre and forgetful. I urge, in the strongest possible terms, to do the needful and take the necessary action lest we falter again in the eyes of the electorate that is already demoralised and unmotivated. These persons have placed their confidence and future in our hands. I thank you. Most respectfully, Paul Cort, M.Mus., B.Mus., Cert. Mus. Assistant Professor of Music
Only dialogue can end Guyana’s vicious political cycle – PM Nagamootoo WHILE some see government’s call for dialogue between itself and the main opposition as cunning, Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo gave a reminder on Sunday that such calls date back as far as 1977 and its delay at this critical juncture in Guyana’s history may very well lead to the country’s downfall. In his weekly newspaper column, the prime minister said that the on-going elections, marred by a bloated voter’s list, the use of dirty money, influence-peddling and an almost-paralysed elections commission, has caused Guyana its “deepest crisis ever.” He said that the only way forward from the disagreements the two parties share, towards an outcome that benefits the Guyanese people, is dialogue. However, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), through its leaders, has stated that it will not be open to talks with the government until after the elections. Nagamootoo stated: “For the PPP to come to the table would require a tough decision by visionary leaders. They would use history as a guide and avoid impetuous responses. On August 12, 1977, then President Forbes Burnham rejected an offer made by Opposition Leader Cheddi Jagan for the PNC and the PPP to form a ‘National Front Government.’ Sadly, to this day, over 40
years later, Guyana is still bleeding from her wounds due to ethno-political division and the animosity between those two major parties.” As reported in 1977, the People’s National Congress (PNC) had rejected the offer because the party did not believe it proposed the type of unity Guyana was badly in need of. “For the PNC, the real issue is national unity. This cannot be achieved by a mere power-sharing deal by political leaders. Jagan showed no interest in promoting national cohesion on a class basis,” the PNC had stated then as its position. In his column, the prime minister pointed out that there were many other calls for dialogue and an agreement towards cooperation coming from the likes of former United States (U.S.) President Jimmy Carter in 2004, after a visit to Guyana. At the time he noted that “incompatibility and animosity” characterised the relationship between the parties and added that “instead of achieving this crucial goal of inclusive and shared governance, the Guyanese government remains divided with a winner-takes-all concept that continues to polarise many aspects of the nation’s life.” In more recent times, Nagamootoo noted the re-emergence of ‘The Guyana Renewal Project,’ through which Guyanese
intellectuals, both local and abroad, have proposed the specifics for inclusive governance. The project proposes a rotation of the presidency and the prime ministership; a Cabinet that includes representatives from the two major political parties and the joinder party; practical inclusive governance at the ministerial level; that the national budget be required to be passed by a two-thirds majority as opposed to the simple majority; the establishment of two high-level committees: an Executive Committee for Inclusive Governance and an Executive Committee for Policy and Economic and Development Planning and the re-engineering of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) to become more modernised and be less “vulnerable to interference.” In addition to this, Nagamootoo also pointed to the recent remarks of former Ambassador, Geoffrey Dasilva who, in observation of Guyana’s political stalemate and inter-ethnic rivalry, put forward that “the solution is not an elective despotism (a winner-takes-all government), not a dictatorship. Either situation would definitely widen ethnic/ class disparities with grave consequences.” The prime minister said that it is clear that many Guyanese see through the
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Prime Minister of Guyana, Moses Nagamootoo surface of the country’s political challenges to the root of the matter and have long called for a remedy in the form of dialogue and inclusive governance. Nagamootoo said that such action is needed in Guyana now more than ever as citizens on both sides are rallying for their will to be respected through the ballot and, an outcome that places one political party over the other, in a winner-takes-all fashion, will not prove beneficial to the country. “For Guyanese citizens, not versed in nuances of political opportunism or skulduggery, the call for dialogue at this time is an SOS distress signal. They see that Guyana’s ship of state is in danger and they want all hand on deck to literally save their souls, as they battle the COVID pandemic and try to cut corners for survival,” he said. “This time around the shoe is on the other foot and it is the government that holds out the olive branch to the opposition. If history were to repeat itself, yesterday’s farce would be today’s tragedy…it is in this fresh context that we should see the critical importance of dialogue. The alternative would be a vicious cycle of conflict, confrontation and non-cooperation.”
Motorcyclist dies in Mandela Avenue crash A MOTORCYCLIST met an untimely end late Sunday afternoon when he crashed into a pedal cyclist along Mandela Avenue, in the vicinity of the National Gymnasium. The dead man has been identified as Leon Wilkins of ‘B’ Field Sophia. The pedal cyclist has been identified as Seon Cooke, 31, a father of one, of Lamaha Street, Georgetown. Cooke was clinging
… pedal cyclist critical
Leon Wilkins
The bike which Wilkins was riding when he met his demise.
to his life when he was picked up by an ambulance and rushed to the Georgetown Public See page 10
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, July 27, 2020
Major focus to be placed on ‘migrant workers’ on World Day against TIP THE Counter-Trafficking in Persons Unit (C-TIP), at the Ministry of Social Protection will be placing emphasis on migrant TIP victims, during its observance of World Day Against Trafficking in Persons (July 30). Guyana continues to maintain a “Tier One” ranking in the annual US State Department’s 2020 TIP Report, by demonstrating serious and sustained efforts to address the social issue, however, with a growing immigrant population, the exploitation of migrants continues to be an issue. Victims are known to come from Dominican Republic, Haiti, and Venezuela, with many of them said to be lured to Guyana by persons under the pretence of receiving well-paid job opportunities, only to be manipulated and abused financially, physically or sexually, in many instances. In 2019, a total of 102 victims were identified,
which was a significant improvement when compared to the 156 and 131 identified in 2018 and 2017 respectively. Of the 102 victims, 95 were female, and seven male. Among the lot were 10 minors, according to the report. The government has been actively addressing the issue with the formulation of the Inter-Ministerial TIP Task Force, which has done a number of awareness activities and launched the “Guyana TIP Action Plan”. The observation of World Day against TIP will be used to further help to bring about awareness of the issue. The day is being observed under the theme “Embracing Diversity, Reducing Vulnerabilities, Promoting Safe Migration”, and will run from July 27 - 30, starting with a balloon releasing event at the Seawall on Monday; where TIP survivors and ministry officials will be releasing blue balloons symbolic of the grief of those who were trafficked, while acting as a
reminder of the cold-heartedness of individuals who exploit their fellow human beings for their own personal gains. Additionally, the C-TIP Unit will be facilitating a vox populi “TIP In the Streets” initiative on Tuesday, which will see members of the public sharing their views on TIP-related issues in Guyana. The exercise will also include an education and awareness aspect, where the C-TIP team dissemination of information and encourage persons to make reports of any suspected TIP activity. A live Facebook panel discussion on “COVID-19 and its Impact on Trafficking in Persons and the Migrant Population in Guyana,” will be held on Wednesday on the ministry’s Facebook page beginning from 10:00hrs. Panellists for the discussion will include representatives from the C-TIP Unit; the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), the Ministerial Task Force on TIP and
Department of Citizenship. There will then be a ZOOM C-TIP Virtual Discussion on July 30 from 15:00hrs, where the opportunities of expanding psychosocial support and shelter for victims in outlying regions will be discussed. The discussion, which is expected to run for 45 mins, will also be aired for the public on the ministry’s Facebook page. Members of the ZOOM panel is expected to include members from the C-TIP Unit, the TIP National Task Force and IOM. The activities will culminate on Friday, July 31, with a hamper distribution to TIP survivors. Though TIP is a growing issue in Guyana, the country continues to maintain a Tier One ranking in the annual US State Department’s 2020 TIP Report, given that the country has fully met the minimum standards for the elimination of TIP, and demonstrates serious and sustained efforts to address the social issue.
PM Mottley receives COVID-19 medical supplies on behalf of CARICOM
Prime Minister Mia Mottley, on Sunday, accepted a donation of COVID-19 essential medical supplies for CARICOM countries, from the World Health Organization WHO/Jack Ma Foundation. And, she said the surgical and N95 masks would greatly assist the governments in protecting their frontline workers. Mottley made the comments at the Grantley Adams International Airport shortly after the Canadian Armed Forces flight landed, with the supplies for the Integrated Regional Logistics Hub, which is operated in Barbados by CDEMA. Giving the background to the donation, the Prime Minister said about two months ago, she and the Director General of WHO, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, agreed they needed to speak urgently because of the market failures from which the region was suffering, just like some members of the global community.
10 more test positive for COVID-19 ―one recovery recorded ANOTHER person has recovered from COVID-19 in Guyana, bringing the total number of recoveries to 181, however 10 additional persons have tested positive for the virus, bringing the country’s total number of confirmed cases to 370, according to the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH). The number of persons on instructional quarantine remains 33, however the number of persons in institutional isolation has increased from 160 on July 25, to 169 on July 26, the Public Health Ministry said on Sunday. The number of persons in the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU) remains four, and the deaths remain at 20. The new cases were discovered after an additional 85 tests were conducted over the past 24 hours, bringing the total number of persons tested to date to 4,273, of which 3,903 tested negative. Though the Ministry indicated that there was an increase in the number of cases, it did not offer a breakdown per region. However, Regions One (Barima-Waini) and Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) continue to be the new epicenters for the disease in the country, a position once held by Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica). “Even though the numbers in Region Four are higher, you are on average 9.5 times more likely to be infected in Region One than in Region Four, and you are seven times more likely to get infected in Region Seven than in Region Four,” Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Karen Boyle had noted in a daily update earlier this week. In addition to those regions, the DCMO said Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) is also “under the radar”, as cases have been increasing consistently there over the
past two weeks. Considering the existing situation and the consistent rise in cases, Boyle said last Friday that everyone needs to remain responsible and vigilant, especially now that persons are back on the job and students will soon be returning to school. She said parents and teachers should take joint responsibility for the policing of students during school hours to ensure adherence to guidelines. With public sector employees “back on the job”, the DCMO said employers need to create measures and systems to ensure that employees remain safe while at work. Employees also have a role to play, and this includes using private transportation whenever possible. She believes employers could also aid in this area by facilitating the transporting of employees to and from work, in order to reduce the probability of exposure when using public transportation. According to Dr. Boyle, “All entrances to public and private workplaces should have screening and hygiene blocks. Screening will entail taking temperatures with the laser thermometer; hygiene blocks should comprise sinks with running water and liquid soap or hand sanitising stations. COVID-19 remains a serious issue not just here in Guyana, but globally as well, and according to global statistics, there are 15.2 million cases of COVID-19, with over 628,000 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.
“On every single occasion, we have reached out to the WHO, to PAHO, and to CARPHA, I can say once again, without fear of contradiction, that they have been there for the Caribbean community during this pandemic. I make this point because everything else in the conduct of commerce, in the strategic allocation of resources has been against small states and it has appeared as though the mighty and the strongest shall be only those who will survive. Were it not for these agencies, that would be our fate …. “In today’s world, many people repudiate multilateralism and cooperation. But we stand here today as a result of our commitment that by working together in partnership, through the institutions that have been established so to do, and also across institutions and across sovereign states, that partnership has made the difference for our ability to respond to what would come to be regarded as the most significant disruption of global society and the global economy in … probably a century,” she stated. Mottley thanked the WHO for being responsive and working on behalf of smaller states. She reminded her audience that CARICOM had benefited from the establishment of the African medical supplies platform, as a result of the WHO and members of the UN putting this region in partnership with colleague governments in Africa. (Barbados Today)
GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, July 27, 2020
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A helping hand of protection SOMETIMES parents have problems, and they need help; if help does not arrive in a sustainable and timely manner, they will attempt to get by the best way they can. This course of action can create more and maybe even different problems. Not just for them, but also their children. However, children are not here to solve adult problems. They are here to find and fulfil their purpose. When you see children, remember this, each one is on a journey to adulthood, and childhood experiences and encounters, remain indelibly in their minds. Their perception about everything that is said and done to them will help to build their adult character. Children are somewhat unaware of this phenomenon however; they keep going, growing, learning, acknowledging and experiencing different aspects of life, oblivious to how today’s events are shaping their all-important tomorrows. Olivia decided to become a Social Worker after an encounter with a child who needed help. She studied further and is now a Senior Social Services Officer. The following recalls her first encounter with the Childcare and Protection Agency (CPA). (names have been
changed to protect identity) Olivia said: From the time I moved into the area, I became concerned about this particular family because they stood out from the rest. All of the children in the yard were, fine, fine, fine and barely dressed. Walking past this yard on my way to work, gave me a grim feeling every morning. It wasn’t the best way to start the day. I didn’t want to pry, but the children seemed to need attention. Why weren’t they at school? How were they eating? What were they eating? There seemed to be no structure to their lives. There were, about five of them running around, fighting, crying, playing or either bathing at the pipe, but seldom did I see any adult supervision. However, I did hear an angry woman’s voice shouting at the children on one occasion. The eldest child was around seven years old; she carried a baby on her hip most of the time. She seemed to be in charge; I could tell from the way her siblings followed her around. I remained observant, to begin with, I didn’t go out of my way to note the comings and goings, of any adult occupants. My main concern was the welfare of the children. I knew they were fed, and they had outdoor activity because they played in
that big yard often, even in the rain. But when it came to the other aspects of their childhood, I knew they were missing out. It seemed so unfair, and yet I kept asking myself, who am I to judge? Most parents provide for their children, within their means. Why should I get involved? I saw the seven-year-old buying provisions at the corner shop on several occasions and one day I made a joke, ‘little girl’ I said ‘you sure you can manage that heavy bag?’. She smiled and answered ‘yes miss lady; I do this all the time’ then she turned and walked away. That was our first interaction. It felt good to break the ice, and I watched her small frame, leaned to one side, shuffling down the road, hustling home. One time at the shop, she was there with her siblings. After paying for their ‘Chico’, we left together. Her name is Keisha, I learnt, and she was nine years old. I realised she was undersized due to malnutrition, and that thought disturbed me, but I still didn’t want to get involved. As we stopped at the edge of the road to cross the street, I bid them, goodbye. On my way to the shop one Saturday, I saw Keisha with her shopping bag walking home. Immediately a smile met my
‘Dem ah watch meh’ singer spews political venom ―tells fans to ‘spit’ on coalition’s executive members
AS Guyana continues to grapple with the COVID-19 epidemic as well as the elections impasse, words and messages of positivity and unity are much needed to remind citizens to be respectful and stay calm amid the chaos. However, one of Guyana’s artistes, Mahendra Ramkellawan, who is famously known for his hits, ‘Dem ah watch meh’ and ‘One more for the road’ has recently had the eyes of many on him as he was seen in several videos posted to Facebook inciting his fans and viewers to render attacks on a few executive members of the coalition. Ramkellawan, who has a seemingly large number of followers on his social media platforms, has been using those platforms to create even more tension in an already tense atmosphere. In the video viewed by this publication, Ramkellawan said, “Supporters, friends anywhere you see Ramjattan and Nagamootoo spit in their face; anywhere
you see Ramjattan or Nagamootoo spit in their face or throw a bucket of water or anything you have in your hand that wouldn’t harm them; don’t touch them and nothing do with acid, but anywhere you see them sit down drinking rum or meeting, spit in their face.” Ramkellawan went on to say that he would post bail for anyone who carries out the act, “I will pay the fine, I will pay the $15,000 fine in court.” When contacted, the Chief Executive Officer of the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC), John Smith, related that he had heard of the complaint but at the time of interview was unable to say if an investigation was underway, “ I heard the name but I don’t know the status.” According to the laws of Guyana, intentionally spitting on another is an act of assault and one can be placed before the courts on criminal charges. Earlier this month the ERC amid the political season, stated that they have
received a plethora of complaints which are deemed to be racially insensitive and inciting which targeted individuals, politicians and political parties. All of which emanate from social media postings. Owing to the COVID-19 epidemic, the commission noted that given their reduced staff in keeping with the necessary protocols and restrictions, due to the virus, the commission has been working and will continue to work in assessing and investigating complaints. “The commission, being fully cognisant of the devastating impact these incidents, which incite race hate and violence, have on the further widening of division among the ethnic groups and the need for investigations to be completed swiftly, seeks the public’s indulgence for understanding. It assures of its continual efforts to work assiduously to have these matters resolved within the shortest possible time,” the commission wrote.
lips. I am always glad to see her, but then I saw something that disturbed me. Unbeknown to the child, a man, was driving slowly alongside her. Then he stopped, and she paused, smiled and spoke to him. I made a note of his face as he drove away, pass me. Approaching Keisha, I now had butterflies in my stomach, I was angry at seeing her blatant vulnerability. Without wanting to sound alarmed, I asked her discreetly, ‘Who’s that man in the car?’ ‘Oh he?’ she said, casually, ‘Duh is old man. He lives alone, and I does go help he wash and suh’. I learnt that
twice-weekly this child would visit the man’s home to ‘help’ him wash clothes, cook, and tidy, for which she would receive a ‘small piece’. All I could think of, as I looked at her innocent smiling face was the fact that she is being groomed. That fact made my mind up for me; I called the CPA hotline. I told the officer that I know a family who needs immediate help, financially and otherwise. Eventually, an investigation uncovered a partially bed-ridden mother and an absent alcoholic father. The malnourished children were missing out on an education,
health checks, a proper diet, and family love, nurturing and protection. I am glad I intervened when I did, I feel as if I prevented Keisha from being sexually abused and now she and her siblings have the chance of a new lease of life. If you are concerned about the welfare of a child call the CPA hotline on 227 0979 or write to us at childcaregy@gmail.com A MESSAGE FROM THE CHILDCARE AND PROTECTION AGENCY, MINISTRY OF SOCIAL PROTECTION
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, July 27, 2020
APNU+AFC iterates position on ‘Valid Votes’ THE APNU+AFC has stated that it will not remain silent while authorities -- local and abroad -- ignore evidence of electoral fraud in Guyana’s elections and made known its calls, once again, on Sunday, for “valid votes” only, to determine the outcome of the elections. In a press release, the coalition party said that it has written a total of 63 letters to the Chair and Secretariat of the Elections Commission requesting that these and other issues which were “parked” be dealt with. The party said that it speaks volumes that it has only received 6 responses to the 63 letters. As a major stakeholder in the elections, the party said that it finds this “totally unacceptable”. It noted GECOM’s current position that “fraudulent votes” be included in the final tabulations coming out of the 33-day recount
process but contended that all fraudulent votes must be excluded. “We recall that in our press release of June 7, 2020, APNU+AFC noted, with disappointment, the decision of GECOM to tabulate and include over 11,000 fraudulent votes found in 47 ballot boxes from the East Coast of Demerara and others revealed in the laborious recount process which have been carefully quantified and discrepancies verified from authorizing agencies,” the APNU+AFC stated. The coalition said that it entered into the recount process with the expectation that the misgivings regarding the Mingo declarations would be investigated and, even so, unlike what took place in 1997 under the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), President David Granger did not secretly have himself sworn in. The APNU stated that the President instead
suggested a recount, noting that his party has nothing to hide. What came out of the said process, the APNU+AFC stated, was “indications of massive fraud and rigging perpetrated and to the benefit of the PPP/C.” According to the party, gazetted Order No. 60 of 2020 outlined an approach and, as Appeal Court Judge Brassington Reynolds in his ruling stated, “Counsel for the second-named respondent [Chairperson of GECOM] admitted that GECOM did set as its objective, determining the final credible count of votes.” “With this in mind we find it unconscionable that the fraud found in 1,261 infected boxes, revealed under the watchful eyes and in the presence of local and international observers, members of the diplomatic community and election agents from all the political parties, received no condemnation. These groups with their continued silence on this fraud have displayed their absence of fairness and impartiality which has spawned a suspicion and lack of trust amongst the more than 236,000 APNU+AFC supporters who voted in these elections. This threatens the stability of Guyana,” the coalition put forward. It added that, coupled with the threat of COVID-19; the unfolding events in
Venezuela; and the constant threatening comments directed to GECOM, the President, Government officials and supporters when GECOM has not yet made a declaration, is a clear indication of a “carefully orchestrated plan to oust a legitimately elected government” and to implement regime change. APNU+AFC said that these developments are contrary to the democratic principles the coalition holds dear and therefore reiterated its call for results based only on votes which can be verified as credible. In response, on the same day, the PPP/C stated that the APNU+AFC has a “delusion notion of an electoral victory” contending that all allegations of fraud are unsubstantiated. The party further contended that the coalition continues to speak to matters already set aside by the Court. It went as far as to make light of the seriousness of mental illness by suggesting that the author of the press release was “schizophrenic” and “in dire need of psychiatric attention”. The PPP/C stated: “If anything at all, this statement is proof to the world that the rigging cabal has clearly lost their minds and remains a threat of danger to Guyana and its people.”
Motorcyclist dies ... From page 7
Hospital Corporation (GPHC) for treatment. He is said to be in a stable condition. He sustained head injuries as well as lacerations to his hands and parts of his torso. Wilkins, who was pronounced dead on the scene by medical officials, sustained mainly head injuries. Reports are that moments before the accident, Wilkins, who was riding an ‘R6’ -Yamaha model motorcycle, stopped to buy gas at an outlet opposite the Rubis Gas Station on Mandela Avenue, shortly before 18:00hrs. The man then sped-off and headed north along the roadway when he collided with the pedal cyclist who was crossing the roadway
The injured pedal cyclist was rushed to the GPHC for treatment. in the vicinity of the gymnasium. Eyewitnesses noted that the motorcyclist was riding at such a fast rate that the bike ended up more than 100 meters away from the point of impact. The bike was left lying in front of the gates of the National Gymnasium. The accident resulted in a build-up of traffic along the roadway while the
police attempted to maintain order as a large gathering of onlookers converged on the scene. Police are investigating the accident. Over the weekend, at least four persons died in separate accidents on the country’s roadways, with speeding cited as the main factor which contributed to the accidents.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, July 27, 2020
Former Barbados PM Owen Arthur critical FORMER Prime Minister of Barbados, Owen Arthur, is reportedly in critical condition having suffered a heart attack on July 15 and is being kept alive with a ventilator, well-placed sources told the Guyana Chronicle on Sunday. On July 15, Barbados Today reported that Arthur had been placed in the Former Prime Minister Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of Barbados Owen following the heart attack Arthur but was said to be in stable condition. Unfortunately however, over the past few days his condition worsened. He was last reported to be a patient at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital. Arthur, 71, was the country’s longest-serving prime minister and retired from public life in 1998. Earlier this year he was appointed Chairman of the financially strapped airline, LIAT. He also headed the 11-member Commonwealth Observer Mission for Guyana’s Elections in March. The mission observed pre-elections, elections and post-elections activities.
Arsonists attack GHRA building … smash 13 windows, set fire to a tyre
THE Guyana Human Rights Centre on Hadfield & Austin Place, Georgetown, sustained significant physical damage in the early hours of Sunday morning. Thirteen windows were smashed and the front door badly burnt before public-spirited neighbours were able to extinguish the fire, the organisation said in a release. Access to the building was not achieved, but whether this was intended is unclear. Neighbours were awoken by the sound of broken glass. Their shouts were sufficient for the perpetrator(s) to flee. Later, neighbours were again alerted by security guards at nearby buildings that a fire was in progress at the front door. They organised a bucket-brigade to staunch the fire which left the front door badly burnt. A tyre had been set alight to burn the front door. All that remained of the tyre were the fine metal wires used in its construction. Police officials visited the scene, took reports and photo-
The damaged murals
The front door of the GHRA building
Guyana, Brazil to set up ...
From page 2
know where these hideouts are, who know where the shortcuts are, who know the backtracking routes.” Meanwhile, the superintendent pointed out that a working relationship has already been established with the GPF in Lethem and the Federal Police in Bonfim, whereby information is shared. In the past, the two countries have also collaborated whereby GPF ranks were trained in Boa Vista to speak Portuguese to assist with communication. However, Allicock believes that the sharing of information, in light of COVID-19, must become even more persistent. “What they are [also] doing is taking some aerial patrols with drones and their helicopters. They check along the Takutu River to see if they pick up images of people crossing,” the superintendent said. The regional authorities have since requested that the photographs be sent to the GPF and other local authorities to assist with identifying the individuals. NO-REOPENING FOR NOW During the interviews, the Guyana Chronicle was made aware that the President of Brazil, Jair Bolsonaro, has plans to re-openi his country’s borders in September 2020 and this was also discussed at
the Friday meeting. There, Allicock made it clear to the Brazillian officials that when Guyana’s borders re-open at the Region Nine Lethem location is a decision not for the regional authorities, but for the government. “The Mayor of Bonfim [Joner Chagas] explained to us that even though the federal government wants to open the borders, his state government is not approving and they’re asking to prolong it for another two months. So, we’re hoping that they get through with that,” he said. Allicock described the meeting for the setting up of the Border Intelligence Committee as “fruitful” and as welcome action by the authorities in Region Nine. The meetings between the stakeholders are usually set up through the Vice Consulate of Brazil in Lethem and more of such are expected in the near future. In the meantime, the regional chair used the occasion to caution Guyanese who are encouraging illegal crossings and smuggling. He said: “I am pleading with them, everyday actually, to observe the rules and regulations…please adhere to the instructions, the regulation that is meted out by central government as well as the Village Council, be your brothers’ and sisters’ keeper.”
graphed the damage. Officers from Alberttown Fire and Police Stations visited the scene and took photographs. Investigations are on-going. The Guyana Human Rights Centre houses the offices of the Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA) which commemorated its 40th Anniversary last year. Over the past four years the centre has provided office space for Policy Forum Guyana. The building was constructed by local fund-raising efforts of the GHRA membership and was opened in 1997.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, July 27, 2020
Chengdu: US leaves consulate in China as deadline passes
AMERICAN diplomatic staff have left their consulate in the Chinese city of Chengdu, after a 72-hour deadline expired.
China ordered the closure in response to the US closing the Chinese consulate in Houston, Texas, last week. Before Mon-
day’s deadline, staff were seen leaving the building, a plaque was removed, and a US flag was lowered. China’s foreign min-
istry said Chinese staff entered the building after the deadline and “took over”. As the US consulate closed, crowds of local
Workers began to remove the diplomatic plaque from the US consulate on Sunday (EPA) residents gathered outside, with many waving Chinese flags and taking selfies. Beijing ordered the closure in response to the US closure of the Chinese consulate in Houston - over claims that it was used as a hub for spying. Tensions have been escalating between the two countries over a number of issues: US President Donald Trump’s administration has clashed repeatedly with Beijing over trade and the coronavirus pandemic [and] Washington has also condemned the imposition by China of a controversial new security law in Hong Kong. Last week, a Singaporean man pleaded guilty in a US court to working as an agent of China [and] also last week, four Chinese nations were charged in a separate case with US visa fraud for allegedly lying about serving in China’s military. Chinese state media showed pictures of
lorries leaving the US consulate, and workers removing diplomatic insignia from the building. On Monday morning, state broadcaster CCTV posted a video online of the US flag being taken down. Dozens of Chinese police were deployed outside the building, urging onlookers to move on. However, boos were heard when a bus with tinted windows left the building on Sunday, the AFP news agency reports. When Chinese diplomats left their mission in Houston last week they were jeered by protesters. The Chengdu consulate - established in 1985 - represented US interests over a vast area of south-western China, including the autonomous region of Tibet, where there has been long-running pressure for independence. The majority of the diplomatic mission’s more than 200 employees wer-e hired locally. (BBC)
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, July 27, 2020
Small…say parties stand by GECOM Chair petition for her resignation unwarranted
THE Liberty and Justice Party (LJP), The New Movement (TNM) and the United Republican Party (URP) have come out in support of Chair of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), Justice (Ret’d) Claudette Singh and against calls for her resignation. Recently, a small group of Guyanese petitioned for Singh to resign, stating that while President David Granger had placed confidence in the GECOM Chair, they are currently dissatisfied with a number of decisions taken under her watch. However, in a release to the media, the LJP said that the party reiterates its support for the Chair and expressed its “disappointment and disgust” with the petition for her resignation. “We continue to maintain and express our support for Madam Chair. That the Chair continues to con-
duct herself in line with her life-long legal training and profession and in the most objective of manners poses the obvious threat to people who intend to undermine Guyana’s democracy and who want to hijack the will of the people,” the party stated. Meanwhile, the TNM encouraged Justice Singh to remain in high spirits as the election will soon come to an end. The party said that
it finds disheartening, recent ill statements made about the Chair and wants her to know that the small group of protestors do not speak for all Guyanese. “…we are confident that they will not pierce your just heart,” iron lady.” You have shown utmost courage, bravery and patriotism over the past months and we thank you. The nation is looking up to you and we anxiously but eagerly await
the declaration of the president- elect. We encourage you to remain steadfast to the true numbers produced during the recount process which you executed and completed in a safe and efficient manner,” the TNM encouraged. In another press release of its own, the URP dubbed the Chair as “the most creditable Chairperson of GECOM.” The party said that Justice Singh is a wom-
an of high standards, moral Integrity and honesty, who should not have to face a petition for her resignation. “Ms. Singh has been fair and impartial in all of her decisions in relation to bringing an end to the current electoral Impasse. Anyone in their right mind will not call for the resignation of such an outstanding public servant who has conducted herself admirably as the GECOM Chair,” the
URP stated, adding: “Let us not forget the lengthy process that eventually placed this honourable lady in the position she now holds and executes with utmost legal tenacity and fortitude.” The petition signed by citizens for the Chair to resign had pinpointed one of the reasons as the Chair’s decision taken to terminate the house-to-house registration exercise prematurely in 2019, shortly after she was appointed to serve. The petitioners stated that the challenges currently faced are partially linked to GECOM’s failure to cleanse the National Register of Registrants Database (NRRDB) and, by extension, the Official List of Electors (OLE) which resulted in a flawed and bloated OLE, the heart of the fraud uncovered during the national recount.
Justice Corp Guyana celebrates first anniversary HUMAN RIGHTS advocacy organisation, Justice Corp (Guyana) Inc., celebrated its first anniversary on Sunday, after a year of representing the vulnerable in society faced with grave injustices. The organisation was formed with the aim of supporting individuals whose rights have been affected due to inadequate finances, non-access to the requisite authorities and those with ill-intention taking advantage of the situation. Justice Corp (Guyana) works, therefore, in representation of these individuals to place them back on the level playing field. The organisation has held numerous outreach activities and programmes resulting in interaction from various ethnic, political, religious, cultural and social groups. Along with its live call-in televised programme, titled “Real Justice”, aired weekly to audiences across Guyana, the response from the general public has been overwhelming. Earlier this year, the programme had brought to the fore the plight of a community of over 700 households,
just off the Soesdyke-Linden Highway, at Circuitville, facing a land dispute which could render them homeless. “Justice Corp (Guyana) Inc., as anticipated, is now saddled with over one thousand clients. This includes an entire village and counting from all across Guyana with complaints of being cheated out of property issues, false accusations, domestic abuse, NIS, labour, public assistance, rape, police brutality, with alleged injustices from the justice system, just to mention a few. All are being dealt with professionally, competently and most of all compassionately,” the Corp stated. With the positive response from the general public, Justice Corp (Guyana) reports that an entire vulnerable community is benefitting from a magnanimous survival livelihood initiative by stabilizing and elevating their community in its entirety. “This demonstrates that Justice Corp (Guyana) Inc. is indeed a front runner of representing the vulnerable in our society,” the organisation said in celebration of its first anniversary.
JUSTICE: Directors of Justice Corp Guyana
Despite the prolonged elections impasse and the COVID-19 pandemic, Justice Corp (Guyana) Inc. maintains an open-door policy. Though challenges were encountered during this first year, it has managed to strengthen and
encourage its membership to continue the much-needed representation. This has resulted in Justice Corp (Guyana) Inc. being positioned to pursue other meaningful tasks in accomplishing its objec-
tives, bringing to the fore, for the first time in Guyana, a local programme titled “Impact Guyana” that focuses on what positively impacts the Guyanese Society. It is a two-fold project which also presents
a COVID-19 awareness message in the form of a visual jingle titled “COVID Savvy”. It’s presently being aired on radio and television throughout the country, and also on social media.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, July 27, 2020
Lewis pulls column from Kaieteur News –– cites restrictions to freedom of speech, promotion of falsity
VETERAN Trade Unionist and columnist Lincoln Lewis has announced that his column, “Eye on Guyana”, will no longer be appearing in the Kaieteur News. He gave as the reason he’d no longer be writing for the paper its propensity of late to subvert those views that are not in consonance with its way of thinking, which to him is against the principles of free speech. In a Facebook post on Sunday, the trade unionist stated that from henceforth, his weekly column will be
published on his Facebook page for re-publishing by newspapers if they opt to do so. Lewis’ “Eye on Guyana” was first taken up by Kaieteur News in 2018. “I am no longer, in good conscience to my pride, dignity, beliefs in free speech, freedoms and love of Guyana able to continue the “Eye on Guyana” column in Kaieteur News,” Lewis stated, adding: “I find it difficult to satisfy this obligation with the censorship imposed that contradicts the principles that I have fought for all my adult
life; principles that dictate the fundamentals of right and wrong, good and bad, evil and righteous. Unfortunately, we are witnessing situations where right is wrong, and wrong is right, depending on who says what to whom, when, where and how. Laws are no longer given preeminence, and those who disagree revel in being disagreeable. The environment has become toxic, strained and too polarised.” Lewis said that making the decision was not easy, as it comes at a time when
he believes that his voice is most important to Guyana. However, he said that he has watched the Kaieteur News, in recent times, “evolve from being at the pinnacle of media diversity, to one that is more partisan- aligned with an apparent strangulation on said (diverse) views.” He stated plainly: “I can no longer be comfortable in an environment where such public acrimony is being encouraged. The principle of free speech is not only being transgressed, but being used to promote falsity, justify
linguistic dehumanisation of some by some, hate and intolerance, not to build bridges. Having dedicated my public life to the fight of upholding universally acceptable principles, Rights and the Rule Veteran Trade Unionist of Law, I cannot sacrifice the pursuit of same, even in these and columnist, Lincoln trying times when some are Lewis being rendered voiceless.” and mainstream journalistic In parting ways with standards. newspaper, Lewis wished its He also expressed apPublisher, Glen Lall, all the preciation for the working best, and expressed his hope relationship he shared with that the newspaper would staff there with whom he successfully embark on a has interacted over the pathway towards balance years.
GTT provides data SIMs to De Hoop Primary School
THE Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GTT) presented 17 data plans to pupils and teachers of the De Hoop Primary School to assist with online learning.
Since March 2020, the pupils of the school were unable to connect virtually with their teachers, due to internet access restrictions. Malini Gouridat, for-
Malini Gouridat handing over Data SIMs to Ms. Annie of De Hoop Primary on Sunday
mer pupil of the De Hoop Primary School and current GTT employee, highlighted the issue to GTT, and the company quickly addressed the challenge. According to Gouridat, she needed to help the community she grew up in, ensuring that pupils are afforded similar opportunities to succeed. Chief Executive Officer of GTT, Justin Nedd, expressed similar sentiments. He stated, “We believe that education is one of the most important tools to help shape someone’s future. These children are the future workforce; they cannot be left behind.” Deokeiee Cheddie, Teacher at De Hoop Primary, expressed how appreciative she was.
“This is the first time many of our pupils are accessing internet services – GTT made that possible... online technology will be utilised to improve teaching, especially during this current pandemic, and will help us [teachers] stay connected with our pupils to ensure they are receiving the materials necessary to learn,” Cheddie said. Grade 2-5 pupils and teachers received SIMs and data plans to assist with online teaching/ learning for the next 2 months. Youhan Devon and Vindya Maraj, beneficiaries of a data SIM from GTT, were quite happy to receive the gift from GTT. They said, “Our teacher, Ms. Annie, had to send the
Youhan Devon and Vindya Maraj, beneficiaries of the data sims donation information to us through teachers which will see our neighbour, but now teachers receiving a 25% that we have internet ac- bonus plan. cess, she can connect with Teachers interested us directly – we are really in the plan are asked to happy about this.” WhatsApp 6438569 or GTT continues to offer email outboundsales@ its Teacher’s Plan to all gtt.co.gy to register.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, July 27, 2020
Carpenter dies in Sunday afternoon accident
JUST one day after two separate accidents left one dead and two injured, a 45-year-old carpenter was struck down on Sunday afternoon, while on a pedestrian crossing, on the Mon Repos Public Road. Dead is Vickram Budhram of 24 First Street Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara, who was struck by a grey Toyota Premio, bearing registration PPP 5422, that is said to have been speeding at the time. According to eyewit- The driver of the vehicle that struck down Budhram nesses, the accident oc- (left) speaking with police at the scene of the accident curred around 14:00hrs, (Samuel Maughn photo) when the father of three had just completed crossing the air, while the car is said into custody. During a visit the northern carriageway to have further dragged to the scene this publication and was at the median wait- the body after it landed was informed that the driving to cross the southern on the roadway, leaving er alleged that Budhram carriageway, of the four Budhram’s body over 25 was not on the pedestrian feet away from the area of crossing at the time. Howlane roadway. ever, an eyewitness disputThe car that struck him initial impact. The vehicle has since ed that and marked a spot was proceeding west on the been lodged at the Beter- where he saw Budhram southern carriageway. The impact was said to verwagting Police Station standing. Also at the scene was have thrown Budhram, into and the driver was taken
CANU intercepts suspected smuggled beer near Guyana/Brazil border … suspect in custody
THE Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU), on Saturday July 25, 2020, interdicted a Guyanese man who was alleged to have been preparing to transport a quantity
of suspected smuggled beer in Lethem near to Guyana’s border with Brazil. CANU, in a press release, gave the suspect’s name as Ryan Khan, a
Some of the suspected smuggled beer
resident of Lethem. The release said that during a routine operation in Region 9, CANU ranks arrested the Lethem resident found attempting to transport suspected smuggled cases of beer believed to have emanated from Brazil. “The interdiction was made whilst the suspect was attempting to load the suspected articles onto the tray of his vehicle from its purportedly concealed location under a clump of bushes at an area near the Guyana/Brazil border,” CANU said in the release. The anti-narcotic agency gave the quantity of the suspected smuggled items as 251 cases of beer. The seized articles and the suspect have been handed over to GRA for investigation, the release said, adding, “CANU will continue to conduct surveillance operations and provide support for its fellow inter-agencies to minimise and eradicate illicit narcotic and related activities nationwide.
Budhram’s brother, Nehro Budhram who said he had spoken to his brother earlier that afternoon, before he received a call that his brother was in an accident. When he got there, he said, from the mangled state of his brother’s body, he could tell that his brother was already dead. At Budhram’s home, family members gathered to console his grieving children. Budhram’s daughter. Kareena, said she last spoke with and saw her father at 06:00hrs when he left for work. The 14-yearold said she was at home with her grandmother when someone came and conveyed the sad news that her father had been struck down on the roadway. Sunday’s accident followed two separate accidents on Saturday which left one person dead and two others injured, both accidents resulted from speeding.
Vickram Budhram (centre) pictured with his two sons
The driver of the vehicle showing police the spot where he alleges Budhram was standing when he allegedly struck him down (Samuel Maughn photo)
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, July 27, 2020
GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, July 27, 2020
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, July 27, 2020
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Quartararo
wins back to back MotoGp
Quartararo briefly lost the lead at the start of the race but quickly regained it and went on to dominate
(BBC) - Frenchman Fabio Quartararo made it backto-back wins with victory in Sunday’s Andalucia MotoGP. The Yamaha satellite rider, who claimed his maiden victory in last weekend’s season-opening Spanish MotoGP, was on form again at Jerez. He was followed home by Yamaha’s factory duo Spaniard Maverick Vinales and Italian veteran Valentino Rossi, as only 13 of the 21 starters finished. “It feels so good to make back-to-back wins,” he said. Quartararo now has a 50-point lead over the reigning champion Marc Marquez, who missed Sunday’s race as he recovered from the broken arm he sustained last week. While Quartararo started from pole and was barely troubled, behind him Vinales and Rossi had to hold off challenges from the Ducati-Pramac pair of Italian Francesco Bagnaia, who climbed to second before his engine failed, and Australian Jack Miller, who crashed. Seven-time world champion Rossi showed his delight at another podium at the age of 41 by climbing onto a barrier and punching the air in a victory dance in front of a completely empty grandstand.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, July 27, 2020
United secure Champions League spot (BBC) - Manchester United secured a place in the Champions League at the expense of Leicester City with victory at King Power Stadium. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side needed a point from this decisive final-day meeting to confirm a place in the top four - and break the hearts of the Foxes, who were in a Champions League spot for so much of the season. Leicester needed victory once Chelsea took command at home to Wolverhampton Wanderers but their dreams were dashed as Bruno Fernandes scored a 71st-minute penalty after Anthony Martial tumbled under challenge from Wes Morgan and Jonny Evans. Both sides had their chances, with Leicester City keeper Kasper Schmeichel saving well from Marcus Rashford in the first half and Jamie Vardy seeing a header glance off the frame of the goal after the break. Leicester pressed but could not break Manchester
United down and their misery was compounded when Evans was sent off against his former club for a wild, late lunge on Scott McTominay. Manchester United confirmed the formalities seconds from time when substitute Jesse Lingard robbed Schmeichel and rolled the ball into an empty net. It is a result that fulfils the usual minimum requirement of Champions League qualification for Manchester United. But while Leicester City’s fifth-placed finish is highly creditable and earns a place in the Europa League, this will undoubtedly be a huge disappointment and anti-climax after being in a position to reach the Champions League for so long. It will be scant consolation for them that striker Vardy will claim the Golden Boot, as the Premier League’s top scorer with 23 goals. Fernandes transforms Man Utd Leicester 0-2 Man Utd: Solskjaer ‘delighted’ after
Anthony Martial was brought down for the penalty from which Bruno Fernandes gave Manchester United the lead
Man Utd qualify for Champions League After Fernandes had made an impressive debut in a goalless draw at home to Wolves on 1 February, Manchester United stood 14 points adrift of Leicester City, who were third. Fast forward to his decisive role in this victory that sees United qualify for next season’s Champions League by taking that third place, and you can see the extent of his impact.
The Portuguese attacker - a mid-season signing from Sporting Lisbon in a deal that could eventually be worth around £68m - has provided the missing link for this Manchester United side. He has built a bridge between midfield and a talented attacking array of strikers
with his talent and his positive style, looking forward every time he receives possession. Fernandes was not at his best here but he was the man who unlocked Leicester’s defence as Martial won the crucial penalty, then performed his usual hop, skip and jump to send Schmeichel the wrong way and ease any lingering United nerves. It capped a remarkable recovery for Manchester United - with credit also due to manager Solskjaer for guiding his side into the top four. Leicester suffer bitter disappointment The scenes at the final whistle here showed the extent of Leicester City’s bitter disappointment at being denied the footballing and financial prize that seemed theirs for the taking for so long. Brendan Rodgers’ side had started to lose their early-sea-
son sparkle even before the campaign was halted in March by the coronavirus pandemic - yet they were still in a powerful position as the finish line approached. They have still had a fine season but there is no point glossing over this huge missed opportunity. Rodgers is left to rue moments such as the inexplicable meltdown at Bournemouth, where they led at half-time only to lose 4-1. The manager faces a big job to pick his players up and remind them of what they have achieved in returning to European football. When they go into next season’s Europa League, will they be without players such as Ben Chilwell, a target for Chelsea and reduced here to exhorting his team-mates from the directors’ box as he was absent through injury?
possessing strong and settled sides, Lampard will have been tasked with emulating his predecessor by securing Champions League football for next season. He has duly achieved that and there is the real possibility of ending the campaign with further success with the FA Cup final at Wembley still to come. A number of youth players have featured in the starting lineup this season including striker Tammy Abraham and defender Reece James - but England playmaker Mount has been the pick of the bunch. He demonstrated his class just when his side needed it in the crucial game against Wolves. There was little happening in a cagey and uneventful encounter until the sprightly midfielder curled in a glorious free-kick following Pedro Neto’s foul on Marcos Alonso. If there was still any tension in the Chelsea ranks, it surely will have disappeared just two minutes later when France World Cup winner Giroud took the ball past Rui Patricio and slid in his seventh goal in his last eight starts. New signing Timo Werner was at the game and with Hakim Ziyech also joining from Ajax as well as the prospect of Germany winger Kai Havertz also arriving, Chelsea will possess a formidable attacking armoury next term. But despite keeping a clean sheet in this game, the 54 league goals conceded this season is
only one short of their worst tally - so a centre-back is also likely to be on Lampard’s agenda, as will a goalkeeper. The confidence of Kepa Arrizabalaga, the world’s most expensive keeper, will not have improved after being dropped for the game in favour of 38-year-old Willy Caballero, whose only meaningful contribution was to claw out Leander Dendoncker’s dangerous cross. Wolves’ season continues Wolves have endured a long and arduous campaign that started one year and one day ago in the Europa League and has seen them travel nearly 30,000 miles during that period. Nuno’s men are still in the Europa League and face Olympiakos in the last 16 next month, but they will have to go all the way in that competition to seal a Champions League place - or rely on a favour from Chelsea at Wembley to compete on the continent next term. They will lament back-toback defeats against Arsenal and Sheffield United at the start of the month as the reason they missed out on a top-six place and although they held out until firsthalf injury time against Chelsea, the home side’s two quick-fire goals took the wind out of them. Wolves never really looked like getting back into the game in the second period but can be proud of a season in which they collected 59 points, their highest tally in the Premier League.
Chelsea secure UEFA Spot next season
(BBC) - Chelsea sealed fourth place in the Premier League to wrap up qualification for next season’s Champions League with a comfortable victory over Wolves. Frank Lampard’s side needed a point from the potentially nervy encounter at Stamford Bridge in order to clinch a topfour place - but they claimed all three in style. Mason Mount’s delightful 25-yard curling free-kick and Olivier Giroud’s effort from close range were just 144 seconds apart just before half-time and they settled the contest. The defeat means Nuno Espirito Santo’s men finish seventh behind Tottenham on goal difference after Jose Mourinho’s side drew 1-1 at Crystal Palace. However Wolves’ league position could still be enough to claim a Europa League place for next season, should the Blues beat Arsenal in the FA Cup final next month. Chelsea ended the season on the same points as Manchester United, who beat Leicester City 2-0, but Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side finish third on goal difference. Chelsea to push on next season? Despite winning the Europa League last season and finishing third, Chelsea replaced Italian manager Maurizio Sarri with club legend Lampard, who was in his first role in management at Derby. With champions Liverpool and runners-up Manchester City
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, July 27, 2020
Broad tightens England’s grip (ESPNCRICINFO) - You know those times - hopefully they’re rare - when someone says or does something to offend you and you walk away, seething and speechless. You play it over in your mind and then, much later, you think of the perfect comeback: “I should have said this. If only I’d said that. I wish I’d shown ‘em.” Stuart Broad had the chance few of us get to set that person we think has wronged us straight and he took it, more than once. Left out of the England side for the first Test, won by West Indies at the Ageas Bowl, Broad made it clear in an interview during the game that he wasn’t happy about it. It probably wasn’t to everyone’s liking, almost certainly not the selectors, but it was decent PR for Broad - he was hungry, driven and eloquent. But he wasn’t done there. “And another thing...” Broad may as well have said has he backed up words with action, his new-ball burst of 3 for 1 from 14 balls helping set up England’s victory in the second Test. “And another thing...” Broad may as well have said as he whacked West Indies’ bowlers round Emirates Old Trafford en route to the equal third-fastest fifty in England Test history on the second day of the deciding match of the series. His 62 from
45 balls batting at No. 9 lifted England’s first-innings total to 369 after a mini-collapse on the second morning had left the hosts 280 for 8. “And another thing...” Broad only went and took 6 for 31 to help bowl West Indies out for 197 in reply before lunch on Sunday, still 172 runs adrift. England’s batsmen rallied round their mate to ensure Broad’s retorts were rammed home, Rory Burns, Joe Root and Dom Sibley all adding their own “take thats” as they each passed 50 in guiding their side to a 398-run lead. Burns fell short of a hundred, caught sweeping for 90 to go with his first-innings 57, before England declared their second innings at 226 for 2. Burns shared a 114-run partnership with Sibley - the first for England’s openers at home since 2016 - and then another 112 with Root, who remained not out after an momentum-stealing knock of 68 off 56 balls. With England needing to win the match to reclaim the Wisden Trophy, their tactics were in part dictated by a poor forecast for Monday. It meant West Indies had to face six overs before the close, and of course it was Broad who helped England make strides towards their goal of taking ten wickets. He had opener John
Campbell caught by Root at first slip for a third-ball duck and then removed nightwatchman Kemar Roach, caught behind, to move to 499 Test wickets before stumps. Broad began the day with two wickets already, having combined well with James Anderson in favourable conditions the previous evening. But that was just the precursor to Broad’s spell of 4 for 14 from four overs which ended West Indies’ first innings. Chris Woakes and Jofra Archer opened the bowling on the third morning with Jason Holder not out 24 and Shane Dowrich on 10, their side still 33 runs from saving the follow-on. The batsmen successfully navigated a spell of shortpitched bowling and secured their first target. Dowrich did well to see off the barrage, given the fact England’s bowlers have targeted him with the short ball in this series. But when Broad came on, he struck with his third ball, removing the dangerous Holder four runs shy of his half-century with a lovely length ball that seamed in and struck the kneeroll, breaking up a partnership worth 68. Woakes thought he had Holder out for 38 four overs earlier to a brilliant diving catch by Ollie Pope at midwicket, until it was revealed he had overstepped
Juventus clinch Serie A title for ninth time
(BBC) - Juventus clinched a record-extending ninth successive Serie A title as they defeated Sampdoria in Turin. Cristiano Ronaldo scored his 31st league goal of the season from Miralem Pjanic’s short free-kick in first-half injury time and Federico Bernardeschi sealed the victory after 67 minutes. Maurizio Sarri’s side are the only team to win nine consecutive titles in one of Europe’s top five leagues. It extends their own record, which Bayern Munich had matched in June. Ronaldo missed the chance to get closer to Ciro Immobile’s tally of 34 at the top of the Serie A goal charts as he struck a penalty against the crossbar in the final minutes. Juventus had missed the chance to claim the title in what manager Sarri described as a “messy” defeat at Udinese on Thursday and began Sunday’s match with just one win in their last five games. They were far from their free-flowing best and were forced to withstand plenty of pressure in the second half but Bernardeschi’s goal from Ronaldo’s saved attempt ensured former Chelsea manager Sarri won the first league title of his managerial career. Sampdoria’s hopes of finding a way
back into the match ended as they were reduced to 10-men following a second booking for Morten Thorsby. Ronaldo’s goal sees him move to within three of leading Serie A goalscorer Immobile, who scored a hat-trick in a 5-1 win over Verona earlier on Sunday. Juventus extend record domination Juventus are one of three European teams to be on a run of nine titles in a row, alongside Celtic in Scotland and Ludogorets Razgrad of Bulgaria. The world record for consecutive league titles is thought to be Tafea, who won the Vanuatu league for 15 seasons in a row (1994 to 2009), while Gibraltar’s Lincoln Red Imps and the now dissolved Skonto of Latvia have the European record with 14 in a row. Lyon won seven French titles in a row (between 2002 and 2008), while Real Madrid have won five consecutive Spanish titles twice and Huddersfield, Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester United are the only teams to win three in a row in England. Within Europe’s ‘big five’ leagues - England, Spain, Germany, Italy and France - Juventus’ 36 titles is a record, two ahead of this season’s Spanish champions Real Madrid.
for only the second time in his 35-Test career. Holder’s eventual dismissal, just after he had reached the milestone of 2000 Test runs, left his side exposed, and Broad swooped. In his third over of the day, Broad had Rahkeem Cornwall out lbw for 10 and, three balls later, he drew Roach forward with a ball that nipped away off the seam, found an edge and was swallowed by Root at slip to claim his five-wicket haul. “And another thing...” Broad wasn’t done. He then claimed last man out Dowrich, who top-edged a pull to midon, to give Broad figures of 6 for 31 from 14 overs. Broad is now the leading wicket-taker for the series with 14, despite missing that first Test. England’s second innings started terribly for West indies when Holder had to leave the field after Burns edged a Roach delivery in his direction at second slip and the ball bounced awkwardly into his left thumb.
Shane Dowrich takes evasive action © Getty Images No sooner had Holder returned to the field after lunch, with his thumb heavily strapped, than wicketkeeper Dowrich was off nursing a swollen lip after Burns left a Shannon Gabriel short ball which deceived the keeper with some late swing, hit the top of his glove and smacked into his face. A bleeding Dowrich spent the rest of the day in the changing rooms - he was seen shortly after the incident holding a small piece of ice to his lip - as he was replaced initially by Shai Hope
before substitute Joshua Da Silva donned his gear and took over, making his first appearance of the series. In the meantime, Burns and Sibley set about extending the England lead, their union eventually broken by Holder when he had Sibley out lbw for 56, which included seven fours. As soon as Burns was out, Root joined him on the walk back to the changing rooms, where Broad was preparing to return in full flight.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, July 27, 2020
Allicock ranked #19 by AIBA; lone Guyanese in latest world ranking
By Rawle Toney
Guyana and the Caribbean’s bantamweight Champion, Keevin Allicock, has moved up to #19 in the world, according to the latest International Boxing Association (AIBA) rankings. The ranking, which Allicock told Chronicle Sport is a “blessing,” made him the only Guyanese named on the AIBA listing. “I really appreciate this because there are like over 2000 boxers in the division (bantamweight) and to know that I’m ranked in the top 20 is something special for me and my country,” Allicock said in an exclusive interview with Chronicle Sport.
Allicock, 21, won Silver at the 2017 Youth Commonwealth Games in the Bahamas. He said he’s grateful for the exposure given by the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA), which allowed him to compete at the almost every major sporting event that had warranted the representation of boxing. Delon Allicock, Keevin’s older brother, was the last Guyanese boxer to be highly-ranked by AIBA and was also coached by Sebert Blake. “It feels good following in my brother’s footsteps, which makes this feeling even more special. However, I have a long way to go. This ranking shows that we have talented boxers in Guyana
that can compete with anyone in the world. We just need the exposure and we’ll do great. I hope that next time, we’ll have more Guyanese in the rankings as well,” Allicock noted. The Current World Bantamweight Champion is Mirazizbek Mirzakhalilov of Uzbekistan. President of the Guyana Boxing Association Steve Ninvalle in a release congratulating Allicock, promised that it is only a matter of time before more local boxers emulate the current Caribbean bantamweight champion. “We are proud of his achievement and our plan and expectation is that others will follow in his footsteps when the doors of boxing are
opened again,” Ninvalle said. Ninvalle revealed that Allicock’s climb on the AIBA rankings, has much to do also, with his quarter-final placing at the Pan Am Games in Peru. In the quarter-final of the Pan Am qualifiers in Nicaragua, Allicock had loss by walkover to his Dominican Republic opponent, after the fight supervisor deemed his vest colour inappropriate for competition. It was not only after a protest filed by Ninvalle to the sport’s governing body, was Allicock able to qualify for the Pan Am Games in Lima, Peru. Allicock, along with Desmond Amsterdam, Collin Lewis and Dennis Thomas,
only returned to Guyana on Friday after being stranded in Cuba for 126 days, where they had gone to prepare for the now-postponed AMBC Olympic Qualifiers. Meanwhile, Blake said Allicock’s achievement came as no surprise and said it was “only a matter of time before he’s really recognize for what he has accomplished.” Blake noted that Allicock had done “pretty well in the Americas, even though he had some bad decisions against him. Most of the boxers that he fought went on to win medals and I think that propelled him up the ranking. It’s a great milestone for Guyanese boxing and this is a great step for Keevin as
well.” Considered as one of the finest coaches in the Caribbean, Blake said he’s in the process of completing a report to the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) and the GBA, where he will outline, based on the new AMBC requirements to train boxers using their COVID-19 measures, how Allicock and others will get back into training. Looking ahead, Allicock said he’s staying focus to qualify for the Olympics next year, where he’s also hoping to join Michael Parris. Parris, at the 1980 Olympics, won Bronze in the bantamweight division. It stands as Guyana’s only medal at the Olympic Games.
Liverpool finish with 99 points (BBC) - Champions Liverpool finished on the second-highest points total in top-flight history as they came from behind to beat Newcastle on the final day of the season. Jurgen Klopp’s Reds accumulated 99 points, one fewer than Manchester City managed two years ago, and one more than Liverpool managed in 1978-79, once the two points they got for a win back then is altered to three. They finished 18 points above Pep Guardiola’s runners-up - one short of City’s record winning margin two seasons ago. Dwight Gayle put Newcastle ahead after 25 seconds from Jonjo Shelvey’s free-kick, the fastest goal ever scored on a Premier League final day. But Liverpool, who left their vaunted front three of Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino on the bench, levelled through Virgil van Dijk’s header. Divock Origi put Liverpool ahead from 20 yards from Andrew Robertson’s pass before Senegal forward Mane curled home a late third for the visitors.
‘An incredible game, not a perfect game’ In truth it was a game with little on the line, Liverpool’s points target aside. They had looked destined to break the 100-point record before the coronavirus break, but they have dropped points four times since - compared to twice beforehand over a significantly longer period. Liverpool boss Klopp experimented with his selection in their final game of a successful season - with the star-studded front three and right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold left on the bench. Perhaps unsurprisingly, the back-up frontline of Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Takumi Minamino and Origi lacked the same threat and quality. The champions were far from their best, with Minamino’s saved effort after 28 minutes their first real chance. But from that point until the final whistle, the new champions dominated. Van Dijk equalised when he headed a looping effort into the top corner from Oxlade-Chamberlain’s cross - his fifth Premier League goal of the season. Origi then powered home
in the second half to end a 23-game goal drought that stretched back to December. Salah, Mane and Firmino all came on with 26 minutes to go and Liverpool predictably looked more fluid and dangerous. Egypt forward Salah drove a shot off the post from a tight angle while Mane cut in from the left from Firmino’s ball before adding a late third. “We played an incredible game, not a perfect game,” said Klopp. “We made so many changes after a long time of playing with similar line-ups. It’s not fair to judge (players who came in) because they need to get used to each other’s games. “We really worked in the game and got better and better and better even before the changes. But the changes helped massively. “I liked the game. It’s far away from being perfect but over the season we did not just win games when everything was perfect, we won a lot of difficult games too.” Klopp was happy to see several of his fringe players have a run-out and they are likely to play a key part in the new campaign, not least
Divock Origi’s goal was his first in 2020 - ending a 23-game run without scoring
because with the new season beginning so soon it leaves little chance for a proper break. Rotation is likely to be crucial next season if they are to become the fourth team to retain the Premier League title. “Two weeks and a couple of days and we start again,” said Klopp. “I’m not going to the office for a while.” ‘How long do we need to make that decision?’ Newcastle boss Steve Bruce’s frustrations have been clear for a long time. The Magpies have been safe from relegation for weeks but only picked up two points from their final six games. They have been in limbo because of the delayed Saudi Arabian takeover, with documents for the deal passed to the Premier League over three months ago. Newcastle have been struggling with injuries too
- and have ended the season with only one fit centre-back in Federico Fernandez. He played alongside full-backs Danny Rose and Javier Manquillo in a back three against Liverpool. “We’ve dropped like nine pins over the last few weeks,” Bruce told BBC Sport. “I’ve never known anything like it.” Their game against Liverpool peaked after 25 seconds - although Bruce was happy “we showed up and had a go”. They had a dream start when Gayle latched onto Shelvey’s opportunistic quick free-kick and slotted past Alisson, who got a touch to the ball but could not keep it out. That would be the only time they touched the ball in the Reds’ area in the first half. “We’re disappointed that we faded a bit at the death [in recent weeks],” said Bruce. “We’re disappointed not to overtake last year’s tally.
But if someone said at the start of the season ‘would you be happy to finish with seven teams below you?’ we’d have taken that. “But that’s not enough. We want to push for the top 10 on a regular basis and not look over our shoulders.” Bruce will find it hard to properly plan for the next Premier League campaign which starts in just under seven weeks - without knowing who will run the club and how big his budget will be. “It’s in the hands of the Premier League and it’s been like that for weeks,” Bruce told BBC Sport. “We need a decision and one quickly. How long do we need to make that decision? “All I want is what’s best for this great club. If new owners come in and take the club forward that’s what we all want as Newcastle fans.”
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, July 27, 2020
CSA outlines plans to tackle racisim CSA has made public its plans to tackle alleged racism in cricket in the country, its Transformation Committee announcing a sustainable response strategy project called Cricket for Social Justice and Nation Building (SJN). “The national outcry by cricket fans, the greater South African public and broad stakeholder groups could not be ignored,” CSA said in a statement while talking about the project. The Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement became a part of cricket after Daren Sammy spoke of a “degrading” nickname he had been given in the Sunrisers Hyderabad dressing room, and then moved up a notch when Lungi Ngidi, in response to a question in a press interaction, called for the cricket community in South Africa to “make a stand”. Soon after this, 36 prominent South African players and coaches of colour expressed their support for Ngidi, followed by the likes of Hashim Amla and Faf du Plessis speaking
out. It all culminated in South Africa’s elite cricketers - as well as support staffers, CSA officials, and members of the commentary team - taking a knee at Centurion’s SuperSport Park ahead of the 3TC match last Saturday. CSA will set up a Transformation Ombudsman responsible for managing complaints while also ensuring that players and fans unite. CSA aims to appoint the ombudsman by August, with Dr Eugenia Kula-Ameyaw, the independent director and transformation chair, tasked with ensuring that the process flows smoothly. “Transformation needs to happen in our lifetime and as the Board we need to fully deliver on that mandate. Having heard what our ex-players shared, my focus as the Transformation Chair was to come up with a solution, hence the Cricket SJN concept,” Kula-Ameyaw said. “I am grateful that the Board supports this initiative. The office of the Transformation Ombudsman is a solid brick that we can use as a founda-
Andile Phehlukwayo and Lungi Ngidi take a knee before the start of the 3TC match AFP via Getty Images
tion to deal with racism and discrimination in cricket.” “We are sorry that our cricket players had to endure the emotional hardships that they did; subjugated by their peers along racial lines under our new democracy that enjoined us to embrace reconciliation and inclusivi-
ty,” CSA Board chair Chris Nenzani said. “SJN is the first-of-its-kind project meant to rid cricket of apartheid racial discrimination. This is the very important project that all stakeholders must make sure it succeeds for the future sustainability of cricket.
“The fortunes of cricket, its players, stakeholders, and fans are not going to be held to ransom by the wayward few who definitely have no place within our ranks,” he added. “We are determined to pull out all stops to ensure that healing takes place for those who have been
wronged, and that perpetrators are exposed, sanctioned, and isolated.” The SJN also aims to form a Restoration Fund in order to deal with the opportunity cost due to discrimination as well as “promote and intensify” the diversity, belonging and inclusivity programme implementation. Dr Jacques Faul, the CSA’s acting chief executive, said, “It has been a very challenging time for Cricket South Africa, and we have to acknowledge that what we have heard was not easy to digest. However, I am also encouraged by our plan to address this. We will need the buy-in from all our stakeholders to ensure a racism free future at Cricket South Africa. “We commit that never again shall we be found wanting and will consolidate our efforts to assure an inclusive cricket environment, free of any discrimination, racism or any other ill that negate the gains of the democracy that we fought so hard for.”
IPL to UAE would be easier to monitor – BCCI official Taking the IPL to the UAE would be quite a task logistically for the tournament organisers, but for BCCI Anti-Corruption Unit head Ajit Singh, the move will make monitoring the event “slightly easier” as it would be restricted to just three venues. IPL 2020 is set to start in the UAE on September 19 and the final will be held on November 8 or November 10, with three venues - Dubai, Sharjah and Abu Dhabi hosting the 60 games over 51 days. “In the UAE, it will be slightly easier doing [monitoring ACU activity] as there are only three grounds compared to eight venues in India,” Singh told PTI.”That’s not an issue at all. Once the schedule comes, we will decide the workforce.” In 2014, the UAE hosted a part of the IPL because of general elections in India. Singh said currently there are
the IPL,” a senior franchise official said.” Now whether they will be a part of the bio-bubble (if created), we don’t know, but the Integrity Officer is completely their domain.” Matches held in the UAE have previously been vulnerable to the impact of bookies and fixers, but the ACU head is quite confident that they can
prevent wrongdoing. “Whoever is involved (bookies/fixers) they are all inter-connected,” he said. “If we have our sources here, they also know how these bookies operate. If they get an information of this place, they will get an information of that place also. It’s not so much of an issue.”
CRICKET QUIZ CORNER
A part of the 2014 IPL was played in the UAE because of the general elections in India BCCI
“eight ACU officers who are on BCCI payrolls”. So, will that be enough for managing the work through 60 matches as well as keeping a tab on hotels? “It’s too early to comment on measures as we need to first check what kind of bio-security measures will be created,” Singh said. “We first need to see how things are
taking shape there and we will deploy our men accordingly. In case, we need men, we will hire them.” With the ICC headquartered in Dubai, the BCCI, if need be, can take help of the global body, which has a huge team of ACU officials, according to senior a BCCI official. “If it is a private league that approaches ICC for hiring
ACU officers and they agree to cover the event, then the league organisers bear the costs,” the official said. The BCCI might need extra workforce considering that each team will have one dedicated Integrity Officer as per rules. “It is the BCCI that will designate one Integrity Officer per team during the course of
(MONDAY JULY 27, 2020) COMPLIMENTS OF XTRA ENERGY DRINK - STABROEK BAZAAR (Tel: 683-9500) &CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz (1) 62 (vs ENG, Bourda, 1994) (2) Austaralia (3); India (6) Today’s Quiz: (1) How many Test matches WI Fidel Edwards
played? How many wickets he took?
(2)How many Test runs England’s Ben Stokes has
made as captain to date?
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Broad tightens England’s grip
Jermaine Blackwood lost his middle stump in emphatic fashion © AFP
FLASH BACK! Guyana’s Keevin Allicock lands a flush right uppercut against game Trinidadian, Anthony Joseph at the Caribbean Boxing Championship. (Stabroek News/Emmerson Campbell photo)
Stuart Broad holds the ball aloft after taking a six-wicket haul © Getty Images
Allicock ranked #19 by AIBA; lone Guyanese in latest world ranking See story on page 22
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MONDAY,JULY 27, 2020