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Guyana open to investments in fertiliser production, technology transfer
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 28, 2020
–– says Minister Mustapha in meeting with Moroccan ambassador AGRICULTURE Minister Zulfikar Mustapha has discussed opportunities for investment in
fertiliser production and transfer of technology as well as other areas of collaboration when he
met with Ambassador M. Mostapha Mouahhidi of the Kingdom of Morocco on Friday.
“Like Guyana, Morocco’s agriculture sector employs a very large percentage of their population. As
Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha with Ambassador M. Mostapha Mouahhidi from the Kingdom of Morocco a developing country, and the renewed interest we are seeing in the agriculture sector, it would serve our country well to collaborate in order to develop our agriculture sector,” Minister Mustapha said. He noted that Guyana is open to having specialists with skills in agriculture come to this country and work with its technical officers and farmers to improve agriculture here. “Government has al-
ready started the groundwork by improving the drainage and irrigation infrastructure in a number of communities, the reduction of fees, and removal of taxes from agricultural inputs. These collaborations with international partners will further encourage an enabling environment for agriculture in Guyana to develop and reach its full potential,” Minister Mustapha said.
Nigerian charged with swindling Guyanese of cash
–– more ‘victims’ coming forward
THE Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) has charged Nigerian national, Uche Raymond Okoye called Uche Parker, with running a criminal scheme in Guyana and swindling four Guyanese of millions of dollars. Okoye appeared before Magistrate Leron Daly at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court on November 24 and was remanded to prison. The Nigerian, who denied two counts of obtaining money by false pretence, demanding money by menace and that he entered Guyana illegally, will return to court on December 7. A SOCU release informed that more charges are expected to be laid against Okoye since the investigation against him was still ongoing and more victims were coming forward with reports of fraud. It is alleged that Okoye entered Guyana illegally through Lethem and is part of a criminal organisation which seeks to fraudulently receive cash deposits from unsuspecting Guyanese. Okoye is suspected of being part of a criminal network involving Nigerian nationals who collaborate with other associates and solicit cash from their victims by promising high-valued merchandise to be delivered following the payment of a charge or fee amounting to millions from four victims so far.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 28, 2020
Women entrepreneurs gearing up –– changing business culture, expanding, investing in training to benefit from economic boom
By Navendra Seoraj
GUYANA is fast becoming a business magnet, attracting major foreign and local investors who are keen on pumping money into this fledging petroleum State, which is anticipating an “economic boom;” something that every member of society, including “women in business,” are positioning themselves to capitalise on. Women, over the years, have been taking a lead role in advancing the development of economies across the world. And, it has been no different in Guyana, where a business-friendly climate, supplemented by the anticipated economic ascension, is being credited for the attraction of major investors from around the world. Hoteliers, agro processors, key players in the global energy sector and many other investors are either already in Guyana or are interested in penetrating the country’s growing economy– which has a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of about US$4 billion. While the intended investments are immense and provide direct employment and other opportunities, there will be spill-off benefits which would accrue to the people of Guyana, especially those who are in a position to absorb and capitalise on those opportunities. Co-Owner of AT Investments, Amrita Rivas-Pierre, has wasted no time in analysing the local market and preparing herself to make critical decisions which would not only see her satisfying the increased demand for services, but maintaining her initial focus which she has a true passion for. Rivas-Pierre was among some of the enthusiastic female entrepreneurs who were showcasing their products/ services during the first virtual Women in Business Expo, organised by the Sonia Noel Foundation of the Creative Arts (SNFCA). According to the entrepreneur, AT Investments specialises in immigration consultancy but also offers
paralegal services, sourcing and brokerage, and real estate. “Our main focus is on providing services which are fast, reliable and accurate…We have helped other businesses regularise their operations because we know the legal side, so we were able to give them that service, among other things,” said Rivas-Pierre. Years of practice has made the entrepreneur an expert in her field and has also afforded her the opportunity to build a reputable brand, which she anticipates will attract businesses
entrepreneur. She admitted that the rapid growth was unexpected, but she has been upgrading her business to deal with the increasing number of clients. Owner of Rejuvenate Health Spa and Salon, Samantha Henry, has also started to upgrade her business to capitalise on the growing number of opportunities. “We are preparing ourselves for the increase in activities… I am preparing to do a course called medical nail technicians, which would equip persons to work with podiatrists and deal with diabetic issues and other
Owner of Rejuvenate Health Spa and Salon, Samantha Henry (left ), and one of her employees at their booth (Delano Williams photo) male-led operations. A report titled “Women in Business and Management,” done by the International Labour Organisation (ILO), had cited a study which was conducted on almost 13,000 enterprises in 70 countries. The study found that more than 57 per cent of respondents agreed that gender diversity initiatives improved business outcomes. Almost three-quarters of those companies that tracked
Almost three-quarters of the enterprises surveyed had equal opportunity or diversity and inclusion policies. However, the report stated that more specific actions are needed to ensure that women are visible and promoted to strategic areas of business. GROWING ROLE A past report had quoted President of the Georgetown Chamber of
Coordinator of the Women in Business Expo, Sonia Noel, engaging the Guyana Chronicle on Friday (Delano Williams photo) and individuals from a wide spectrum, in the coming years. CONTRACT-BASED OPPORTUNITIES In order to capitalise on the potential opportunities, which would stem from a rise in economic activities, Rivas-Pierre has started to recalibrate her business to focus more on contract-based opportunities, since many foreign companies and individuals are reaching out to AT Investments for matters related to immigration. “We will be going into more contracts because if I do this full-time it closes the other operations and defeats the purpose of what I worked hard to create… so, we are making room to be of service to everybody, whether company or individual,” said the
feet-related problems,” said Henry in an invited comment on Friday. She said the business operates under the slogan, “renew, relax and be revitalised”, which has served as a guide for her operations and as encouragement for customers. In anticipation of an increased number of customers, Henry said, she enrolled in, and completed, a course called ‘causes’ administered by an institution from North America. This, she hopes, will boost their reputation and increase traffic to the establishment. Henry and other female entrepreneurs, who were present at the expo, encouraged their fellow women to also capitalise on the potential opportunities by joining the local business community, which is dominated by
Co-Owner of AT Investments, Amrita Rivas-Pierre (Delano Williams photo) gender diversity in their management reported profit increases of between five and 20 per cent, with the majority seeing increases of between ten and 15 per cent. The report says that the beneficial effects of gender diversity begin to accrue when women hold 30 per cent of senior management and leadership positions.
Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Nicholas Boyer, as saying: “The role of women in our society is growing. We are seeing a new Caribbean woman emerge, one who is very educated, dedicated and desirous of moving forward. At GCCI it is our goal and desire to continue fostering and promoting the growth of this new and mod-
ern Caribbean woman. “The next wave of growth is going to come from these women-owned enterprises. They’re going to start out as small and medium size enterprises but flourish into full corporations employing hundreds of people and we as the Chamber of Commerce have to be there to help accelerate that growth. We’re excited for that and we’re excited for the future as we continue to see these ladies do and expand,” Boyer said. The Women in Business Expo was a clear indication that women had responded to the call, as there were persons who were involved in various aspects of business, offering beauty products, furniture, detergents, planting services, and a plethora of other things. The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) has no doubt stymied growth in this and other areas of development, but Noel said the expo served as an initiative to build momentum for next year and instill confidence into persons who would have otherwise been discouraged by the economic decline. “Sometimes people doubt themselves, so we need more people to say I can and want to do this... we want them to see this and say if she could do it, then I can,” said the entrepreneur. She encouraged people to cultivate a liking for creativity, as this will determine their ability to progress and capitalise on the potential widespread opportunities.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 28, 2020
Coalition lawyers in disarray, says Attorney-General LEGAL Affairs Minister and Attorney-General, Anil Nandlall said it appears as though the lawyers appearing for the petitioners in the Elections Petition cases are in disarray. He made the observation during an interview with the Department of Public Information (DPI) on Friday,
while explaining that the attorney-at-law for one of the applicants, Mayo Robertson, contradicted himself whilst objecting to the interlocutory application he’d made. On November 10, Nandlall filed an interlocutory application to have the case struck out, on the ground that it did not comply with Section 8 of the
explained. Nandlall explained that in his presentation to the court, he highlighted that the attorneys representing the petitioners utilised the identical procedure when they were confronted with situations where the electoral rules did not provide for certain situations.
Attorney-General, Mr. Anil Nandlall
National Assembly Validity of Elections Act. In essence, he is contending that the matter was not served within the timeline fixed by the law. On November 24, when the application was heard, Robertson argued that the AG’s application was improper, and should not be allowed, based on the grounds that the AG was not granted permission by the court to file the application, and the procedural mode used was incorrect. Nandlall explained that he conceded before the court that he did not receive permission, however, it was necessary to file the proceedings, since his submissions depended on factual ingredients present within the application.
Saturday November 28, 2020 –– 3:00 & 13:30 HRS
He explained that the election rules and regulations set out in the National Assembly Validity of Elections Act are silent on the question of the procedural mode that one is to employ, if one wishes to strike out an elections petition on the ground of non-service. However, the Attorney-General explained that he utilised the modus operandi that was cemented in law through judicial precedent. “What lawyers did, is if it is an interlocutory application (an application to strike out), you use the mode of procedure that is extant under the current High Court rules, and you use that as the mode to do the striking out. And courts have approved that for over 100 years,” he
AN IMPLOSION “It is clear that the lawyers who are appearing in these petitions for the petitioners, are in disarray, because one is objecting to exactly what the other did, and they are on the same side. So, clearly, there is an implosion; there is some degree of confusion within and amongst the ranks of the lawyers,” he stressed. He further noted that the “disarray” is further represented in the fact that he was served with a notice from former President David Granger, one of the respondents to the petition, explaining that he will not be contesting or opposing the petition. “Having named Mr. David Granger a respondent, and having sued Mr. David Granger, they now got Basil Williams to file a notice to the court to say David Granger is not opposing the petition. So, one is left to ask, ‘Well, why name him in the first place,’” Nandlall stressed. Nandlall stated that the attorneys for the applications may seem to be of the opinion that by having former President David Granger not oppose the
petition, the issue of non-service might no longer exist. “Perhaps they think that if they now get Mr. Granger to put in this document to say that he is not opposing the petition, then the argument that the petition was not served properly on Mr. Granger, was served late on Mr. Granger would be neutralized,” he explained. However, Nandlall explained that “perhaps they think that to circumvent this identified and proven deficiency, they can now get Mr. Granger to file this document to say I am not opposing. And if that is their thinking, again, they are wrong, because whether a person is a proper respondent, and whether that respondent, having been named, can exercise a right which the law gives him not to oppose are mutually exclusive concepts.” The Court, on November 24, accepted the interlocutory application filed by the Attorney-General, and it will be treated as part of one of two election petition cases before the High Court. The case was adjourned to November 30 for continuation of the submissions on the applications to strike out the petition on the ground of non-service.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 28, 2020
Health facilities to see ‘tremendous transformation’
Millions mismanaged at Amalgamated Transport and General Co-op Credit Union –– President Ali –– IMC to be installed, Minister Hamilton says FOLLOWING an audit that unearthed the alleged mismanagement of $8.4 million, the Ministry of Labour has taken a decision to install an Interim Management Committee (IMC) at the Amalgamated Transport and General Coop Credit Union. This disclosure was made by Minister of Labour Joseph Hamilton at a press conference on Friday. He stated that the Chief Co-operatives Development Officer, Ms. Perlina Gifth has met with the committee of management informing it that she will be taking control of the credit union. “The Amalgamated Transport and General Co-op Credit Union, I am reporting that the Chief Co-ops Officer is about to take possession and control under the law of that credit union. Reason is that presently that credit union is under suspicion for what they call under AMLFC Act ‘suspicious transactions’ and therefore the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) was written to about the specific issue about this credit union,” stated Minister Hamilton. The minister noted that the $8.4M is not the only incident of financial mismanagement at the organisation. He noted that at present the audit has already discovered two other incidences of mismanagement which totalled
an additional $8.5M. “Presently there is an audit of the books of the union, and monies that they cannot account for show the tune of $8.4 million. During the audit and during queries they (the union) had in their possession some $4.9 million in cash that they cannot account for; cash, money holding at this credit union premises. Then we had an alarming situation also where one of the senior officers was attempting to cash two cheques to the tune of $3.6 million I suspect payable to herself,” he informed. He stated that the situation at the credit union needed urgent and swift action. The minister reminded that the Labour Ministry and the Chief Co-operatives Development Officer, have the legal right to take control of and appoint an IMC to oversee the operations of the credit union. “Ms. Gifth just returned from a meeting with the committee of management there to advise and inform them that she will take control of that credit union. Presently we are in discussion as to the names of persons to be proposed and under the law, [the] Interim Management Committee will be installed very shortly,” Minister Hamilton said.
PRESIDENT, Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, has reiterated his Government’s commitment to investing in not only the infrastructure but in the human resource development of the healthcare sector. President Ali gave this assurance on Thursday evening during the launch of the retrofitting of the Leonora Cottage Hospital in Region Three, under the Smart Health Care Facilities Project. “Today we’re investing more… all the hospitals will see upgrades or improvements within the next few years. All the facilities will see tremendous transformation.” The President also announced that, with regards to the investments in the health sector in Region Three (Essequibo Islands, West Demerara), Government will be allocating more than $1B from next year’s budget to upgrade the West Demerara Regional Hospital. In outlining the tangible, as well as intangible advantages of the transformation, the Head of State, explained that the improvements would have multifaceted benefits which include the decentralising of healthcare services, empowering the local and regional health authorities to manage the facilities better and, more importantly, reaching patients who are in far-flung locations. “Many times, people have to make a decision as to whether to take $1,000 to pay their transportation costs to go to Georgetown Hospital, or take $1,000 and buy food for their children. When we invest in
President, Dr Irfaan Ali makes a point as everyone pays rapt attention during his visit to the Leonora Cottage Hospital (Office of the President photo)
these facilities, we are bringing health care to the people. We are reaching the unreached. It helps us to reduce the costs of access to health care, and it makes healthcare truly what PAHO and WHO want it to be—a universal right.” IMPROVED EFFICIENCY, HUMAN RESOURCE CAPACITY President Ali said, too, that the upgrades and improvements will also allow for more efficient and reliable access to healthcare services. He urged healthcare professionals to ensure that the facilities are ‘people-friendly’. “The most important responder when you get to the hospital is someone we don’t ever think about in the healthcare equation, the security. That is where customer service begins. Even the helpers and the cleaners are most times a person’s direct point of contact, which means they too must undergo training if we are to create a people-friendly environment.” While the President reiterat-
ed that there is not much sense in building the facility if the “human touch” is lacking, he urged those gathered to see the importance of a cultural shift as well as a shift in thinking. The President also called on the citizens to play their role and to avoid being abusive to the healthcare professionals. “These are the types of changes that will add value to the infrastructure investment that we make here today. All of this can go to zero if we don’t have the right mindset.” HUMAN RESOURCE CAPACITY President Ali also addressed the importance of adequate human resource capability within the healthcare sector. “We invested in over 1000 doctors; many of them are not in the system as yet. I have asked Dr Frank Anthony to look at this. Whatever hurdles there are we need the doctors to be in the system at different hospitals and health centres, not in their homes. We have to get
our human resource capacity out there to work and deliver to the people.” He announced that following Thursday’s engagement with a high-level Brazilian delegation, the Government is set to benefit from more international and regional support. In closing, the Head of State reminded all that healthcare was the single most important public good that emphasises equality. He called on those gathered to use the lessons of the pandemic as a stark reminder that at the end of the day, we are all one. “If you don’t believe me, remember this pandemic. It showed us, every single one of us, whether you’re high or low, whether you are short or tall, whether you’re orange or pink, we are all the same and we can all suffer the same consequences. Let this pandemic be the instrument that reminds us that we are all one and let it bring us together as one people.” (Office of the President)
‘Locals must get equal pay for equal work’ –– Minister Hamilton tells oil companies THE Ministry of Labour is strongly advocating for locals working in the oiland-gas sector to receive wages that are on par with their foreign counterparts. Labour Minister Joseph Hamilton said he made this position clear to the heads of the major oil companies operating in Guyana during recent engagements. Those companies include ExxonMobil, Tullow Oil, and Schlumberger. The minister said he is of the belief that locals in the oil-and-gas sector, when functioning in the same capacity as foreigners, should be paid the same wages, as they would be carrying out the same functions. “In my engagement with the oil companies, I was clear as crystal, making two points
to them. One, equal pay must be for equal work; if you bring in expatriates to do work, once they are doing the same job like a Guyanese, the Guyanese must be paid the same wages like them. We cannot have you paying five and ten times more to an expatriate than a Guyanese,” the Labour Minister said. Minister Hamilton further stated that while in engagement with the heads of the oil-and-gas companies, he also made it clear that the organisations must be open to their employees joining or forming workers representative organisations. He added that as a worker of any organisation, persons should always be able to be heard and represented. “The issue of the rights
of workers to form workers representative organisations, trade unions, or to join unions is non-negotiable, and I so informed the people in the oil-and-gas industry. And as I continue to engage the rest, that’s the same point I will make clear to them,” he said. The minister stated that presently, representation and unions is a necessity in the oiland-gas sector. He stated that just recently, he had been in contact with persons from one of the offshore facilities, and has been briefed on the extensive working hours employees are forced to undertake. “I have reports from people who work on these platforms; just this morning, a person who works on one of these platforms was communicating with me about an
issue that needs to be investigated about their work time. They have to work 12 hours a day; that is not inclusive of overtime,” Minister Hamilton explained. Minister Hamilton further highlighted that the Ministry is in the process of training Labour Officers who will be sent to the offshore facilities. He explained that for some time, the Labour Ministry has been without enough trained persons to monitor the operations of offshore companies. “You would recognise that presently, we have just land labour officers and land OSH officers. We are now in the process of training persons who can properly go out there; 200 miles or 120 miles, to pay attention to these matters. Because, if people are not trained what
to look for, sending them out there will waste time, unless they know what to look for,” Minister Hamilton said. The ministry, according to Minister Hamilton, is committed to ensuring that all Guyanese have a fair and equitable working
environment that is beneficial to them.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 28, 2020
Definition of murder
WHEN the coronavirus erupted into the global sphere from its reportedly original source in China, it seemed like a wrathful God sentencing a recalcitrant Mankind to Armageddon. Single cases became tens, then hundreds, then thousands of victims, with no surcease in sight. The deaths multiplied, with no respect for rank or status of persons, while governments with research capabilities and capacities went into emergency mode to find a cure for the deadly pandemic ravaging even developed nations. This highly-contagious disease continues to spread and take lives because of the intransigence of persons to observe the COVID-119 protocols and take the requisite precautions. Taking into consideration that the definition of murder is taking lives with intent, how does one who has a highly-contagious disease that is a certain killer, such as HIV/ AIDS, tuberculosis, and the COVID-19 pandemic, which, knowingly and deliberately infects others who are unaware of their ailment rate in this equation? While one could empathise and sympathise with someone who is ill, especially with a life-threatening disease, one cannot condone, and certainly one can scarcely forgive someone who deliberately infects
another with a deadly disease. Contracting certain diseases is, generally, in effect a potential death sentence, with lifestyle changes and proper medication with optimum care, later rather than sooner, but definitely one that heralds a contracted lifespan, with death imminent through unavoidable medical complications. One can only agonise over the unnecessary loss of lives. However, there are umpteen cases, registered and unregistered, known and unknown, where innocent persons have been infected by persons whom they have trusted implicitly. Marital partners, for instance, have in many instances engaged in extramarital relationships without considering the consequences of their lust then, knowing full well the danger they can bring to their marital bed, yet they engage in normal conjugal relationships with their spouses. Sometimes, in macabre irony, the one who infected his or her partner is saved for years from getting full-blown AIDS, long after the partner dies; and many times the guilty party accuses the innocent one of infecting them. There are countless persons with such sad stories, with variations, but with the same outcome, all over the world. Contagious diseases (such as the flu, colds, or strep throat) are spread from person to person in several ways. One way is through direct physical contact, like
touching or kissing a person who has the infection. Another way is when an infectious microbe travels through the air after someone nearby sneezes or coughs. Wikepedia reports that in many Anglophone countries, and in most of the states that have signed the European Convention of Human Rights, knowingly infecting others with HIV can lead to criminal prosecution. In a 2004 survey of the latter group, the Global Network of People Living with HIV/AIDS found that at least one prosecution had occurred in about half of these countries, and that in Finland, Sweden and Slovakia, about 0.5 to one per cent of all people reported to be living with HIV/ AIDS had been prosecuted for alleged intentional or “negligent” transmission of HIV. In many developing countries, such as Thailand, where the HIV/AIDS pandemic has been much more serious, laws regarding criminalisation of intentional transmission have been either weak or non-existent. From a global perspective, the U.S. and Canada account for the vast majority of reported prosecutions. In Guyana, a controversial motion sought to amend laws in order to make persons criminally responsible for will-
fully infecting others with HIV, as well as to allow for pertinent information to be used by prosecution, if so required, and for hospitals, clinics and such agencies that need relevant information that could help in the treatment of an infected person. It is expected that new legislation will make imperative the results of tests and other vital information be legally required to release such information to any court that requests such information. The motion also sought to infuse a charge of attempted murder instituted against any individual found to have knowingly endangered the life of another. Murder One is defined as the taking of the life of another human being with intent. The unintentional loss of a life as a result of another’s actions can be deemed manslaughter, or Murder Two, by the institutions of the law. Many lives are lost or compromised as a direct or indirect consequence of deliberate and intentional actions of carriers of infectious, life-threatening diseases, whose actions are just as effective as if they had put a gun to the heads of their victims and blown their brains out, which may have been a merciful death. T hey are no lesser a criminal than a convicted killer, and they should be prosecuted as the murderers they are.
ERC still trapped by old, ineffective approach THE Ethnic Relations Commission announced last week its plan to host a national conversation on ethnic relations to, according to its press release, “have frank and open discussions to capture diverse views on factors that impede ethnic harmony and recommendations for the compilation of a report, to be submitted to the National Assembly and relevant stakeholders for implementation.” The event is slated for mid-December, will span two days, and will give face time to political leaders, youths, and local and overseas presenters. Following the horrific incidents in WCB a few months ago, the ERC was intensely criticised for doing too little too late. Most likely, the Commission would think that its two-day national conversation is a robust response, both to the WCB events and to its critics. The ERC would be wrong to so assume. To be sure, Guyana needs a national conversation on fostering good ethnic relations, but mainly of a different sort from the ERC’s two-day talk shop. The main national
conversation must, instead, occur at the community and inter-community levels. As the WCB incident showed, (if further evidence was needed), it is at these levels that the fear, pain and suffering of bad ethnic relations play out. High-profile conferences in Georgetown, involving political leaders, dignitaries, and academics reach only so far. The ERC would be badly mistaken should it believe that such talk shops should be its leading tool in fulfilling its vast constitutional mandate. The report from its December event, it is an easy bet to make, could essentially be written as early as today. We would have heard the speeches and recommendations before, and we can predict that any palliative value of such a conversation would quickly fade. Guyana and the ERC must try something else; something more grass-root, more structured, and more durable. That “something else” must be a focus on working at the community and inter-community levels. So convinced, I submitted to the ERC in September the following three recommendations: 1) the ERC should promote the mushrooming
of grassroot community or inter-community ethnic relations initiatives. The objective here should be to get citizens themselves to create and execute programmes or activities to foster ethnic harmony in their own spaces. Such initiatives could be encouraged through grants, awards, publicity, and technical advice; 2) the ERC should meet separately with all NDCs and respective village stakeholders across the country. Agenda items for such meetings should include (a) assessing the current state of ethnic relations within each community and between adjacent communities, (b) identification of any tension indicators or potential flash points, and (c) activating prevention measures as necessary. As my third recommendation to the ERC, I advised that it should adopt, flesh out, and promote the suggested alternatives to violent ethnic protests offered by its own commissioner, Pandit Deodat Persaud (https://www.inewsguyana.com/erc-commissioner-urges-alternatives-to-violent-protests/). In closing, one should remind the ERC that building good ethnic relations, though important, is only one of its three
constitutional mandates. Equally critical are its mandates involving (i) the detection, prevention, and elimination of ethnic discrimination, and (ii) the promotion of equality of opportunity regardless of ethnicity. These two mandates shift the focus away from inter-community and interpersonal relations towards the governmental systems and institutions that determine our life opportunities; who gets what, when or if at all. One senses that over the years, the ERC has mistakenly conflated these three connected but distinct mandates under the lone umbrella of good ethnic relations. These mandates should be unraveled and tackled separately. The ERC needs to take stock of these and several other issues. It must at least begin by understanding that fulfilling its mission would demand far more than intermittent public appeals, national conferences, and culture shows. Yours faithfully, Sherwood Lowe
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 28, 2020
Jail the thieves of NIS, PAYE, and VAT
Dear Editor,
AS I, the undersigned, have been doing for decades, I wish to pen yet another missive on the contemptible actions of those employers who blatantly steal the ‘blood and life’ of the citizens of our country. In particular, these atrocious crimes are more prevalent in many security services, which I am ashamed to say are some of the worst culprits of the theft of NIS, PAYE, and VAT. Mr. Editor, General Managers of the NIS and GRA, I assert that this is a hideous crime against humanity committed by those who seem to have mastered this art of stealing. The worst of it is that these offences are usually committed against the poorest class of citizens, simply because they are unable to speak up and or stand up for themselves. Unfortunately, not many people realise (or maybe they do and obviously just do not care) about the repercussions this will create if this despicable act continues to prevail. For in the end, as people are unable to get their pensions and medical benefits, it would be expected that they will pressure the government for sustenance and medical care. If this continues, I foresee that the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security will bear the brunt of the demands to meet the needs of those who have been cheated of their rights to a pension afforded in Article (213)(1) of the Constitution of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana. The consequence being that the country would be faced with a huge burden in the foreseeable future. To the best of my knowledge, those who steal NIS contributions end up saving twothirds of what they have to pay. This deprives the NIS of the funds they need to provide services and benefits to, and the citizens who thought they were contributing to their benefits. I have found that these unscrupulous merchants of horror, whom I equate to the blood-sucking vampire, ‘‘Dracula’’, tend to
steal PAYE and VAT as well. Over the decades, I have advocated by writing several letters offering much guidance to the various governments of the day. One of which was published in January 2009 in the Stabroek News, entitled: “The Minister of Home Affairs should form a committee to look at the draft bill on private security organizations”. These letters of advisories go as far back as the latter days of Former President Linden Forbes Burnham’s administration, Former President Desmond Hoyte’s administration, Former President Dr. Cheddi Jagan’s administration, and all governments to this day without any thought or attention, except for now. I see that His Excellency, President Dr. Irfaan Ali intends to blacklist companies that do not remit their NIS. With this, I have to say, “All praise be to God!” while complimenting and saluting him. However, I would also advise him to be very careful with these people, as it is said that “the stricter the government, the smarter the scamps”. In other words, as they do now, some of these employers who tender below cost to steal NIS, PAYE, and VAT will do more of this in the future, declaring a limited number of contributions to procure or acquire compliances for tenders. The same goes for the PAYE taxes they pay for a tiny group to pull the wool over the eyes of these authorities. Corruption is alive, rife and ripe; the operatives and tempters are seductive with sweet smiles to entrap NIS officials and those of the GRA. Many even have corrupt relationships with persons in these agencies. In my view, with all the substantial amounts that is owed to the NIS and GRA, if they were to collect just a third of that amount, Guyana’s financial woes would come to an immediate halt, and the NIS would give bountifully to its contributors. With this in mind, my suggestions to the government to curb this unethical habit are as follows:
1. Criminalise the non-remittance of NIS as a serious felony, with severe imprisonment. If fines and all amounts owing are not paid then all property belonging to the individual or persons, even if it is a corporation, should be imprisoned and confiscated. I am a layman in law but I know that one cannot establish a corporation to commit fraud and theft of NIS and any other deductions. This is tantamount to fraud! The money, dear government, would flow like a river, if this recommendation is enforced. 2. File private criminal actions for fraud, with severe punishment for the scamps and bandits of this act. This is another solution, dear government, that I believe will trigger the flow of money. 3. Bankruptcy should never be an excuse to avoid the remittances of NIS, VAT, and PAYE, or the gravity of the situation becomes more exacerbated. In general, private arrangements should not work, as we saw with one security firm which declared bankruptcy, and then began the very minute with the same uniform, at the same location, and under a different name. Consequently, this company fooled NIS and GRA by paying for a few people, yet somehow was still able to win large-scale contracts within the country. I believe that the Honourable Minister and Attorney-General, Mohabir Anil Nandalall will have a ball establishing these laws, and instituting these charges against those who amass wealth at the expense of the lives of the poorest classes of people. 4. Avoid offering payment plans to these dishonest people. NIS and GRA came up with the idea that they will try to negotiate a payment plan with the people. However, they need to realise that not everyone is like Roshan Khan, or any other honest individuals of this country where they will stick to being honourable. We saw one security service, operated by a former senior military officer and an attorney-at-law whose books were seized by the GRA for failure to pay any cor-
porate taxes, and who, subsequently, vowed to pay it but never did. They were cleverly using a tricky private compensation system for workers, while at the same time hogging the wealth of NIS, PAYE, and VAT. I repeat, for emphasis, Mr. Editor, hogging to fatten themselves. I recall the late Commissioner of GRA, Mr. Khurshid Sattaur, being at pains to say that this business needs to be brought down. Crimes should never be permitted or tolerated; laws should be complied with. I would also like to state that some of the largest rice millers in Guyana, particularly on the Essequibo Coast, having known that bankruptcy was evident, declared bankruptcy while subsequently cheating the nation by exporting their money. Sadly, this created fear and horror in the lives of their workers. I sometimes wonder how these people look at themselves in the mirror, knowing that so many lives have been ruined, while they take cover under the nasty blanket of bankruptcy. Bankruptcy, in my opinion, should not be permitted in any conditions where fraud involving deductible workers’ emoluments has taken place. At this juncture, I am respectfully advising the Government of Guyana to at least start by taking private criminal actions while working to criminalise the theft of NIS, PAYE taxes, and/or VAT. One method that would work to a certain degree is blacklisting. However, be wary of those who have a penchant for such deceit, and will try every trick in the book to deceive you. Incidentally, I believe the Commissioner of Police, through the Security Act, has more power than the GRA and the NIS to haul in security services, and can instantaneously suspend and/or terminate a security company that is involved in these kinds of theft. I think it is time for this option to be utilised. Sincerely, Hajji Dr. Roshan Khan Snr.
Bookkeeping versus economics Dear Editor, AS I travelled around Guyana last week, respondents in a survey described what took place in the Ministry of Finance under the Coalition as bookkeeping rather than economic management. They said that they were not pleased with the performance of Winston Jordan when he was Finance Minister. They blamed him for the ‘paralysis’ state of the economy during the five-year tenure of the Coalition regime. Tens of thousands lost their jobs, and businesses shrank by more than 50% during the five-year period. In multiple annual surveys I conducted in Guyana between May 2015 and March 2020, markets and shops were virtually empty, with sellers and shopkeepers saying, “Things dead; business nah dey. Abee ah face pressure.” At times, during the busiest hours of the day, I observed there were more vendors in public markets than buyers. Sellers begged me to buy their produce. “Ow meh brother, buy something from meh nah!” Many stores were shuttered across the country; stress and depression were seen on the facial expression of people everywhere, including in APNU strongholds. Winston Jordan was not part of the current survey being undertaken, but his name would frequently come up when people were asked to compare and contrast their confidence in or the state of the economy now versus under the previous regime. The
respondents volunteered information that Jordan was not adept at, or know how to ‘create’ money in the economy. Businesses were glad Jordan is gone. I was taken aback when business people and the more educated, including those who voted for the Coalition, referred to Jordan as a ‘bookkeeper” rather than as an economist, meaning he was not focusing on growing the economic pie, but just ‘balancing’ numbers through collection of revenues and expenditures. Generally, but not always, a Finance Minister is an economist. Both Ashni Singh and Bharrat Jagdeo studied Economics, and were highly rated for their performance as Finance Minister. As someone who taught an economics course for a couple of decades, I would also give them high marks for their performance; they were very skilled and adept at their tasks. I do not know what Jordan studied at university, and businesspersons are unduly harsh in their views of him. Managing an economy is no walk in the park, especially when politics directs activities as happened under the Coalition. I do not think it was Jordan’s intention to stagnate the economy, but he had to follow political directives, especially in opposition PPP strongholds, where many households felt they were squeezed out of a living to drive them out of the country to weaken the PPP. That strategy backfired, resulting in APNU’s own supporters becoming disgruntled, with many not voting, resulting
in its defeat in elections. I did doctoral studies in Economics, under which I took ‘Bookkeeping’, so I have some understanding of both. Although they are related, in that they involve crunching business numbers, they are two separate fields. Bookkeeping is also known as Accounting, and is generally learnt in pursing a degree in Business Administration and or Commerce, and is about balancing or reporting income (money collected) and expenses (how much spent). Economics is studying the financial and resource state of affairs of the country (including political economy), such as production and consumption of goods and services and transfer of resources, marketing, trading, etc; it is much more than balancing numbers or tracking the flow of money, as occurs under Accounting practices. A bookkeeper tracks the flow of money in the economy, while the economist examines the movement of resources and activities that lead to the creation of the money. Economics is about creating jobs and attending to the country’s needs, not just balancing books. In short, the bookkeeper gives an account of the state of financial affairs after the money has been created by the economist. The public, businesses in particular, was critical of Jordan’s performance as Finance Minister, in that he did not create wealth as a good economist should and would. It was idiotic to shut down four sugar factories without alternative means of employment. Even though the estates were
money-losing enterprises, the circular flow of money and economic activities more than balanced off the losses. The estates helped the economy to grow, and kept families off the bread line. In political economy, not every financial activity is about balancing numbers. One must also balance livelihoods, and think of the politics of economic decision-making to retain support. Jagdeo is intelligent enough to know that the estates have to be re-opened because of political and financial reasons. Bharrat Jagdeo, unlike a Jordan, was and still is described as ‘a whiz’ in money creation and managing the economy. Respondents feel he managed the economy well when he was Finance Minister under the administrations of Cheddi and Janet Jagan, and when he became President. It is generally agreed, including by his worst critics, that Jagdeo knows how to grow an economy, and people are confident he would do it again. From my evaluation, as someone who studied economics, Jagdeo appears as a brilliant economic analyst. Critics must not underrate or underestimate his skills in analyzing business proposals and political agreements. Growth and unemployment are major concerns in the country. The nation looks to Jagdeo to find ways to stabilise the government and economy, and create jobs quickly. Patience among supporters is running thin. Yours truly, Vishnu Bisram
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Cultivate more corn, soya bean –– NAREI boss urges farmers
THE Agriculture Ministry is urging farmers to capitalise on the budgetary measures in the sector to expand their crop repertoire to include corn and soya bean. Guyana spends almost US$25 million annually to import these commodities for food for livestock. Instead of those sums being expended abroad, they can be used to purchase from local farmers. In an interview with the DPI on Tuesday, Dr. Oudho Homenauth, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI), said for Guyana to become self-sufficient, eight to ten thousand acres of corn and soya beans must be cultivated. He said that in doing so, farmers will have more spending power, and be as-
sured of a permanent market for their produce. The Government, in its 2020 Emergency Budget, removed the value-added tax (VAT) on agriculture machinery, fertilisers, agrochemicals and pesticides, making it more feasible for such investments to be achieved. Additionally, land lease fees across all sectors, and water charges have been reversed to 2014 rates. Dr. Homenauth is urging farmers to begin cultivation of these crops. Meanwhile, some farmers have already indicated an interest in cultivating between 40 and 50 acres of corn. “We are working with them. As incentives, we will be providing some of the seeds. While we don’t have all the seeds at present, we will work to generate seed materials, and that will start maybe by December, due
to the inclement weather. At Mahaica and the Linden Highway, I believe we can do about 20 to 30 acres, and from that, we can generate seed materials,” he said. Dr. Homenauth hopes to triple that amount come 2021, noting that the Brazilian investors have agreed to return and expand the cultivation next year. “I am sure we will have a couple hundreds of acres more,” he said. Agriculture is one of the most important sectors in Guyana’s economy. In order to realise the goals of the industry, special incentives were included in the budget to spur greater investment in the sector through expanding cultivation, and exploring new crop options and value-added production.
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 28, 2020
SOCU secures forfeiture order for $10M
COVID-19 cases in Region Six cross 200 mark
–– drug trafficker to pay an additional $1.5M to the State UNITED STATES and Guyana currency totalling in excess of $10 M have been forfeited to the State after the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) won a civil case against a convicted drug trafficker, Kevin Gordon. The order for the forfeiture was granted by Justice Navindra Singh at the Demerara High Court on November 13, 2020. The money involved includes the sums of US$48,560 (approximately $10.1M) and G$1,400 which were seized and detained from Gordon on the grounds that the money was the proceeds of crime. The court further ordered the State to transfer the currency to the Consolidated Fund as provided for pursuant to the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism Act Cap 10:11. Additionally, the court ordered Gordon to pay cost to the State in the sum G$1,500,000 on or before December 18, 2020. According to the State’s case, on May 28, 2017, at Parika, East Bank Essequibo, the currency was withheld from Gordon by officers of the Customs Anti -Narcotics Unit (CANU) during a search of his haversack which contained narcotics. Gordon was subsequently charged and convicted for narcotics trafficking. During the search he denied ownership of the currency and claimed that it belonged to one, Deon Williams. Williams indicated that the currency was his property and it was derived from the sale of fuel. The State led evidence that Williams was not licenced to deal in petroleum and petroleum products. The court was satisfied that the penalty for breach of the Guyana Energy Agency regulation includes imprisonment for three years. The State proved its case on a balance of probability and the court being satisfied that the money was the proceeds of crime, gave judgement in favour of SOCU by ordering the confiscation of the cash.
Region Six Chairman, David Armogan
REGION SIX, East Berbice, Corentyne, has registered over 200 COVID-19 cases, 207 to be exact, on Friday, Head of the Regional Task Force and Regional Chairman David Armogan has reported. He is calling on residents to do all in their power to help flatten the curve. “I want to implore on all the residents of Berbice to follow the guidelines set out by the Ministry of Health as well as PAHO/WHO. These guidelines are for the safety of all of us,” he said. The region is working assiduously to contain the spread of the virus, the chairman noted. The riverain community of Siparuta, located several miles up the Corentyne River, has recorded the highest number of positive cases thus far -- 63 cases while 16 cases have been recorded in Orealla. According to the chairman, the number of positive cases may increase as results are still pending. In Orealla and Siparuta, some 526 persons have been tested and 270 results are outstanding. The goal is to ensure that everyone in both communities is tested. In light of the rise in positive cases in those communities, the Orealla/ Siparuta village council has taken a decision to impose a twoweek lockdown on Friday. Toshao Carl Peneux said the numbers were worrying and he was hoping that the lockdown can contain the spread of the virus. In the interim, the village council will be assisting every household with hampers containing basic food supplies. Additionally, Regional Health Services currently has two teams of medical officials within the communities and within the next few days, Director of Regional Health Services, Dr. Vishalya Shar-
ma assured that a third team will be sent in to assist. She further noted that, with the assistance from the Vector Control Unit, sanitisation is being done on buildings and areas in the communities. Additionally, the medical teams, are, regularly, on air at radio Orealla, bringing awareness to the residents. Dr Sharma is urging everyone to be responsible and to always follow the guidelines. “We can only reduce our numbers if we collaborate to change, I urge all of us to please be smart in this, follow the guidelines, and take all the necessary precautions. Clean, sanitise, keep your mask on correctly, and avoid unexpected travels,” she said. The Chairman is also pleading with residents to comply with the gazetted emergency measures to curb the spread of the virus. “We need to do that to warn people that they must be careful of going into certain areas or certain places that you could very well get contaminated quickly, that is why we were doing that and we will continue to do that. We will not identify people by name so the identity of people will be kept a secret but the area and the number of cases we will have to declare those because that’s the only way the population will become aware of the gravity of this situation, because unless we put this information out, people don’t understand this is rising. Just imagine from 60-70, we are over 200,” he said. Meanwhile, persons experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 are asked to call the regional hotline. In New Amsterdam and surrounding areas, the numbers are 682-3055 or 667-4449 while for Skeldon and surrounding areas residents could call 622-9211 or 603-4332.
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 28, 2020
‘Defensive driving can prevent road accidents’
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–– Commander Watts says ranks working hard to decrease the numbers AS police in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) work tirelessly to implement various strategies to reduce road accidents, Regional Commander, Senior Superintendent Errol Watts has called on drivers to be more defensive when using the roadways. Commander Watts, while speaking at an inter-aith church service to kick off Road Safety Week, applauded the ranks for the work that has been done since he took charge of Division ‘D’ on August 6, 2020. He stated that while the region has recorded some 227 road accidents, which shows an increase from the 211 in 2019, the police force is working on systems to mitigate the issue of road accidents. According to Commander Watts, the major causes of accidents are speeding and drinking and driving. He reminded all that drinking alcohol blurs a driver’s thinking and vision, and this is extremely dangerous. He said that one way that drivers can prevent road accidents is by applying defensive driving techniques. “Drivers on the road need to be more defensive, in that not because somebody makes a mistake means therefore that you should jam into that person. Drivers therefore need to be more defensive. Additionally, what I have assessed in my three months over here, is that drivers are being inattentive, either by using cell phones and other devices,” the Commander said. He explained that while the Guyana Police Force (GPF) will be implementing strategies to combat road accidents, the road users have to work with the GPF to minimise road accidents and fatalities. Commander Watts disclosed that during this week, ranks will be distributing fliers and other resources on proper road usage as part of a public education campaign. He informed that there will also be an advancement of
Some of the ranks who attended the inter-faith church service in observance of National Road Safety Week
Regional Commander, Errol Watts
Some of the road safety equipment that will be used to promote road safety
visible road signs and markings. Additionally, he said that police presence in the peak accident hours will be heightened. According to the Commander, from 18:00 hours and later into the evening, persons are more likely to speed, and so, it is hoped that the police’s presence will be a deterrent to those persons. LEAD BY EXAMPLE Meanwhile, Regional Chairman Ishan Ayube stated that the safety of the citizens in Region Three is extremely important, in that road safety is of particular importance to the Regional Democratic Council (RDC). He further stated that the RDC is committed to working with the police in the region to ensure that all road users have safe
access. He further charged the ranks to lead by example in road safety, stressing on the importance of their not breaking the laws, since they are the ones who are expected to ensure others are not in breach of the law. “The officers here have to lead by example; we cannot set high standards and have high expectations of other road users, if the officers are not following those rules. So we have to ensure that in this period of Road Safety Week, and in future, the rules for safe use of the road are followed by all of the police ranks,” Ayube said. Additionally, the region’s Road Safety Association Chairman, Peter Katahan reminded the gathering that all members of the public have to work together to minimise
the number of road accidents within the region. He stated that all road users have the responsibility to put into the practice the safety guidelines. “We as road users, advocate stakeholders and enforcement officers have to do our part by implementing strategies and measures to combat fatal crashes; implementing awareness programmes, refresher driving courses, traffic education in schools and other institutions,” Katahan said. LONG-TERM APPROACH Inspector Eon Isaacs, who heads the region’s traffic department, said the Force will be looking to implement a more long-term approach to mitigating traffic accidents. He stated that for Road Safety Month, several booths
have been set up at sections of the road where speeding is anticipated. This, he said, will be extended on a more long-term basis. “Well, we have set up these booths for road safety month, but we are also looking to have them present on a more long-term basis. We are working to minimise road accidents not just during Road Safety Week, but on a daily basis. The ranks will be placed at the points where we know its straight road; where we know the drivers speed up,” he said. He explained that during this period, persons found driving above the speed limit and in a reckless manner that could cause damage, harm or even death, will be arrested and placed before the court. “We have rigid enforcement,” he said, adding that
one of the other campaigns the Force intends to embark on is random breathalyser tests. He explained that road users will be randomly tested for their alcohol intake levels, once a rank suspects them to be under the influence. This year, Road Safety Week is being celebrated under the theme, “Stop speeding; don’t drink and drive. Stay alive”. The church service was held at the Leonora Recreation Hall, on the West Coast Demerara, and saw several religious leaders and police ranks in attendance. Prayers were said for the protection of all road users, as well as for the guidance for the ranks to hold all abusers and misusers of the road accountable.
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GDF rewards soldiers, civilian employees
Chief-of-Staff, Brigadier Godfrey Bess hands over a symbolic cheque to soldiers at the ceremony (GDF photo)
FOUR-hundred soldiers and civilian employees drawn from units of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) were honoured on Friday with monetary incentives at a simple ceremony held at the auditorium of Base Camp Ayanganna. Staff Officer One, General One (SO1G1), Major Greasels Hinckson indicated that the incentives serve as tokens of appreciation for
outstanding performances demonstrated by the ranks and civilian employees who remain committed throughout the year, and would have gone beyond the regular call of duty. In brief remarks, Chiefof-Staff, Brigadier Godfrey Best congratulated the awardees, and charged them to continue setting high standards. He also reminded them of their value to the
Force, as an organisation. “I encourage you to continue supporting and inspiring each other, and to ensure the safety of yourselves and family members against COVID-19,” Brigadier Best said. According to the GDF, incentives are awarded annually to boost motivation and foster teamwork.
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 28, 2020
Guyana records 34 new cases of COVID-19 GUYANA continues to record a rise in the number of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) cases, with recent statistics showing that the country recorded 34 new cases within the past 24 hours. Health authorities have so far tested 29,154 persons, with 23,844 being negative and 5,310 positive. Of the positive cases, 4,272 persons have recovered and 149 persons have lost their lives. The remaining cases include 83 persons in institutional isolation, 802 in home isolation and four in the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU). According to the World Health Organisation (WHO),
COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by a newly discovered coronavirus. Most people who fall sick with COVID-19 will experience mild to moderate symptoms and recover without special treatment. The WHO had said that 81 per cent of persons who contracted COVID-19 will have mild symptoms, while 14 per cent will have severe symptoms and five per cent will need intensive care. But the COVID-19 disease has proven to be a “real killer”, especially in cases involving persons who have co-morbidities such as diabetes and hypertension, among others.
Persons are encouraged to take extra precautions because there is no approved cure or specific treatment for the disease. Guyanese were also reminded to observe the protocols established in the COVID-19 emergency measures. Anyone who displays any of the symptoms associated with COVID-19, or needs any additional information, can contact the COVID-19 Emergency numbers – 231 1166, 226 7480 or 624 6674 immediately – or visit the ministry’s website at www. health.gov.gy.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 28, 2020
GTA appoints new deputy director
THE Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA), on Friday, announced the appointment of Kamrul Baksh as its new deputy director. GTA, in a press release, said Baksh, who currently serves as Manager of Product Development within the Travel Industry Development Division (TIDD) GTA, has six years experience in the tourism industry and was unanimously identified out of 30 applicants as the most suitable candidate, at the end of a rigorous three-stage selection process, managed by the Board of Directors. The new deputy director will assume official duty from December 1, 2020. According to the release, Baksh, in his capacity as Deputy Director, will bring to the job a wealth of knowledge from his years of experience, on the job training and educational background. As the youngest to ever assume this role within the GTA, Baksh’s disposition truly belies his age. When asked about how he feels about his new appointment, he had the following to say: “I’m honoured and delighted to be selected as the new Deputy Director of the
on-going pandemic and craft a sustainable future for tourism in Destination Guyana. As Deputy Director, Baksh will have lead responsibility for Industry Training, Licensing, Operations and Finance and will support Product Development and Donor Development.
New deputy director of GTA, Kamrul Baksh
Guyana Tourism Authority. As a career tourism practitioner, I have played various roles within the multi-disciplinary industry that will assist me in the discharge of my functions in this new position,” he said. The deputy director added: “Having been integral to the development of new tourism products, ensuring their compliance with standards and continuously improving the capacity of tourism workers, I’m well-positioned to oversee the growth of these areas and others within the next few years.” Additionally, Baksh is quoted as saying, “Cognisant
that this time brings with it a new wave of challenges never experienced before in the industry, a top priority is ensuring that the industry is in a state of preparedness for travel, upon resumption. The tourism industry will undergo changes but, given its resilience, it will rise up and take on the opportunities that await as Guyana embarks on a period of transformative growth”. Baksh said that he was looking forward to continued partnership with all tourism stakeholders, private sector, communities, governmental and non-governmental agencies, to navigate through the
GTA launches new indigenous tours
THE Guyana Tourism Authority, on Friday, launched three new indigenous tours to expand Guyana’s tourism industry. According to Kamrul Baksh, the Manager of Product Development within the Travel Industry Development Division (TIDD), and newly appointed deputy director of GTA, the tours will provide a wider scope into Guyana’s unique and striking indigenous communities. “Today marks a momentous occasion for the authority and an extension by the tourism industry as we embark on launching three experiential tourism products, that is, Moraikobai, Wakapau and Seven Curry Tours,” said Baksh, who added that the tours “ are going to be new additions that will further diversify the tourism portfolio in Destination Guyana”. He stated that, over the past two years, the GTA had been working to see the new additions to Guyana’s tourism portfolio come to life. “The authority has played the fundamental role of facilitating the development of these tours by enacting the framework that provides the overarching structure that created these tours.” The tours, he added, were built to bring much recognition to the indigenous communities and to spark devel-
opment in the selected areas. “These products are experiential in that the products are unique, they are immersive, authentic. It allows for participation and education, all attributes that characterise a true Guyanese offering,” Baksh said adding: “Guyana’s tourism offerings are competitive from its pristine natural environment to the rich cultural heritage that visitors globally have come to know.” Baksh said the tours will serve to strengthen Guyana’s tourism products, “by developing these tours, once travel resumes, visitors will be contributing direct spending within these communities and [will] help to support micro and small enterprises that are beneficiaries from the tourism multiplier”.
Additionally, he stated the tours will provide employment for many in the respective indigenous communities. “The spinoff benefits of a tour are tremendous. It calls for the employment of many categories of workers from boat captains to guides to cooks to managers and administrators: the door of opportunity is pried open giving a chance to folks to enter the industry. The launch today will definitely create opportunities; it will also be a medium for cultural exchange, for learning and for the exploration of a beautiful country that few have seen,” he said.
Baksh holds a Bachelor Degree in Business Management, a MBA in Business Administration from the University of Bedfordshire, UK, and is currently pursuing a Master degree in Tourism and Hospitality at the University of the West Indies. The GTA board is con-
fident that Baksh’s experience, adaptability and passion for tourism, along with a strong support team at the GTA, will allow the organisation to continue along its path of developing Guyana as a top sustainable destination in the world.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 28, 2020
‘Sweetie man’ Prima facie case made out found dead against accused in ‘Saga’ murder in Linden THE body of 54-year-old Dwane Williams called "Levi" or "Sweetie man" was found Friday at Wismar Housing Scheme, Linden, with a gaping wound to the throat. Dwane Williams was a self-employed/vendor who resided alone at Wismar Housing Scheme, Linden. According to the victim's 33-year-old nephew of One Mile, Wismar, Linden, about 21:00 hours on Thursday, Williams visited his 88-year-old mother who resides with him. The nephew said that Williams spent some time then left, informing his mother that he was heading home to prepare a meal. The man's nephew said that about 05:45hrs on Thursday, he received information from persons in the area that his uncle was seen lying behind a shack. The police were subse-
Godfrey Scipio, called “Saga”
Dead: Dwane Williams
quently summoned to the scene and the body was examined and a gaping wound was seen to the throat and another to his right wrist. The area was searched and a knife was found. The body was escorted to the Linden Hospital Complex and later taken to the G. Jetsco Funeral home awaiting autopsy as investigations continue.
SENIOR Magistrate Fabayo Azore, on Friday, ruled that a prima facie case had been made out against the two former police officers who are accused of the 2017 murder of Godfrey Scipio, called “Saga”. The ruling was made at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court during the Preliminary
Inquiry (PI) into the murder. Former detective, corporal Derwin Eastman, and former constable, Jameson Williams, were jointly charged with murdering the popular D’Urban Street businessman at Kitty, during the course of a robbery. The magistrate ruled that the police prosecutor was able to prove its case with sufficient evidence. The matter was adjourned to December 11 when the duo will lead their defence. Ranks from the Police Ma-
jor Crime Unit were able to arrest the then serving policemen, days after the alleged ‘trigger-man’, Aubrey Bobb, was charged with the October 12, 2017, murder. Bobb is alleging that Eastman was the mastermind and had supplied him with the gun to carry out the hit. The police arrested Bobb one day after reviewing CCTV footage from the Kitty hotel, where 64-year-old Scipio was shot and robbed. He had reportedly confessed that he had
borrowed the gun to commit the crime. Bobb had previously served time for robbery. Reports are that Scipio was leaving the hotel in the company of a female friend, and was about to enter his car, which was parked in front of the building when he was accosted by a gunman. The gunman, according to the police, discharged a round, hitting Scipio in the abdomen. He later relieved him of his jewellery before escaping on foot in a northern direction. Scipio was rushed to a private city hospital where he was pronounced dead. The stolen jewellery was never recovered. Bobb is currently awaiting a High Court trial for the crime.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 28, 2020
Bond granted bail, returns to CID Monday PEOPLE’S National Congress Reform (PNCR) member and attorney, James Bond, was released on $200,000 station bail, on Friday, and is expected to return to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) headquarters on Monday. Bond and NICIL’s former Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Colvin Heath-London, are being investigated as police probe continues into the award of State lands at Peter’s Hall, East Bank Demerara (EBD). Fraud charges are expected to be instituted against the duo. Bond is accused of benefitting from land deals emanating from the sale of State lands while purportedly looking after the interest of the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL) which was presiding over the leasing of the lands. Meanwhile, NICIL has formally requested that the Guyana Police Force (GPF) investigates a document as
an alleged forgery after it was circulated in defence of its former Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Colvin Heath-London. Heath-London was arrested on November 20, 2020. London’s legal team has laid all wrongdoings at the feet of former CEO, Horace James, now deceased. Two businessmen embroiled in the scandal – Life 1 Pharms Inc. Director, Avalon Jagnandan, and Director of A-Z Pharmaceuticals Medical Supplies and Equipment Inc., Eddie Doolal – were arrested and, reportedly, told investigators that it was Bond who facilitated the deals which saw 30 acres of prime State lands being transferred to Chinese national, Jianfen Yu. Furthermore, the businessmen reportedly also disclosed to police that it was Bond, not them, who received a hefty payoff from both deals, amounting to more than $100M. Bond also reportedly received a US$1M payment
Chairperson of the PNCR, Volda Lawrence, greets Bond, at the Brickdam Police Station, after he secured bail
from Trinidad logistics company, Lennox Petroleum, for the sale of 10 acres of land leased to ARKEN Group Inc.
In that deal, ARKEN and its principal leased from NICIL 20.3 acres of land at Peter’s Hall on May 9,
2018, for a 20-year period at US$16,224 per year. ARKEN later sold the 10 acres to local logistics company, GLASS Holdings Inc. on October 10, 2019, for $200M. Like the other deals, instead of the principals of the companies receiving the payment, it was Bond who received the funds. In the aftermath of President Irfaan Ali’s Government taking office after a five-month battle following the March 2 elections, several companies have already returned lands, which were supposed to be developed. This occurred after a significant number of irregular land transactions involving State properties, including former sugar lands worth billions of dollars, were discovered. In these instances, investigators found that NICIL, as the representative of the people of Guyana for the transactions, did not even collect all the money when it transferred lands into the
recipients’ names. The police and its Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) are involved in the investigations. SOCU’s role may involve investigating whether crimes relating to money laundering were committed. The land transactions, which span Wales, Peter’s Hall and Ogle, have placed attention on a number of former ministers within the Coalition Government of David Granger, now in Opposition. Meanwhile, Bond in a statement released to the media stated: “Eddie Doolall and Avalon Jagnandan have told some unbelievable untruths and have clearly succumbed to political pressure and greed. I think I’ve grown accustomed to betrayal by these Judas types… Their lying statements amount to nothing, I will be vindicated. I know they intend to charge myself and Mr London and use these Judases as witnesses. But I will prevail.”
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 28, 2020
Local businesswoman h CHIEF Executive Officer (CEO) of Thunder Mining, Sheffield Douglas, has been recently honoured in the “100 Inspirational Women in Mining 2020 Edition” and has expressed gratitude to Women in Mining-UK for providing such a platform.
Douglas, who is also co-founder of Stabroek Solutions, was recognised among dozens of other women from all walks of life who are honoured for their contributions towards the development of their respective countries’ extractive industries, and as
social advocates. “What a time to be a woman,” expressed Douglas following her selection. The biennial WIM100, which was launched by Women in Mining UK in 2013, highlights the wealth of female talent within the
global mining industry, celebrates their “above and beyond” contributions to the industry, and identifies role models for future generations. The 100 women featured in the 2020 edition were selected due to their inspiring contribution towards a stronger, saf-
er and more sustainable mining industry. This includes making positive and impactful changes, advocacy and a desire to empower others, perseverance in the face of adversity, and an ability to find solutions to challenges. This year’s search was
launched in March 2020 and nominations closed June 2020, with more than 625 nominations working at 356 companies across 60 countries. Women in Mining-UK (WIM) is a volunteer non-profit organisation dedicated to promoting the employment,
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 28, 2020
honoured in WIM-UK retention and advancement of women in the mining sector. It offers a strong international network to progress professional goals and career aspirations, and hosts numerous networking, educational and mentoring events to support personal development.
Membership is free and everyone is welcome, regardless of gender or location. Meanwhile, Douglas, a mother of four, has a track record of entrepreneurial development, with 13 years of experience in real estate and mining.
Apart from the management of Stabroek Solutions and Thunder Mining Company, she conducts honorary work to provide support to vulnerable groups through a range of efforts including Deputy Co-Coordinator of the Social Services Committee and First Re-
sponder and Volunteer Counsellor for the Guyana Women Miners Organisation. She is also a member of the Spotlight Initiative National Reference Group, a member of the Bureau of Standards Technical Committee on Mine Standards, Vital
Voices - Global Freedom Exchange alumni (2018), as well as founding member of the Anti-Slavery Collective - for Generation Equality Process. Douglas has said that she is motivated by women empowering and protecting each other.
Sheffield Douglas
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 28, 2020
Region Two parents thankful for uniform vouchers – over 11,000 will benefit
THE distribution of the $4000 uniform vouchers began last Wednesday in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) and many parents have expressed gratitude for the timely initiative. Regional Education Officer, Nichola Matthews, disclosed that over 11,000 vouchers, totalling more than $44M are to be distributed in the region. Parents would gather as early as 07:30 hrs at the various nursery, primary and secondary schools to collect their vouchers. Those who have more than one child in the public education system were particularly grateful.
The vouchers which are being distributed through the Ministry of Education are expected to assist parents with the purchase of back-to-school items for their children. Many of the beneficiaries said it was very difficult especially during the pandemic to afford school supplies. “I am very happy for this help. I have five children and this is of great assistance for me. I will purchase school items and store it for when school re-opens. I want to thank the Minister of Education for this,” Mala Danpat, a parent said. Another parent from Three Friends Village, Kumarie Per-
saud, related that she was very happy to receive $8000 for her two children. Persaud said she will be buying school supplies and uniforms with the vouchers. “I am a single parent and I look forward to the assistance. I want to thank the Ministry of Education for the assistance. We parents look forward to this,” the elated woman added. Many other parents echoed similar sentiments. The distribution is expected to continue during the week. Recently many households in the region received a $25, 000 cash grant as part of the government’s COVID-19 relief efforts.
A copy of one of the uniform vouchers.
Fire at National Psychiatric Hospital extinguished AN investigation has been launched into a fire which damaged the roofing of a chalet at the National Psychiatric Hospital at Garrison Road, in New Amsterdam. Regional Health Officer, Dr Vishalya Sharma, said the incident occurred in the bathroom area of Chalet Four, the male admission ward of the mental health facility, just after 20:30 hrs on Thursday. The blaze resulted in damages to the roofing, which has since been repaired. Police Commander, Jairam Ramlakhan, told Berbice reporters that Head Nurse, Leyland Reece, was on duty but was in the compound when an inmate informed him of smoke emanating from the washroom area. As a result, checks were made and it was discovered
Regional Health Officer, Dr Vishalya Sharma that smoke was coming from the western side of the roof in the male washroom. An alarm was raised and police ranks and members of the Fire Service were quickly summoned. They managed to extinguish the blaze. Fortunately, none of the 18 patients was injured.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 28, 2020
COVID-free Deep South Rupununi welcomes cash grant By Rhonda Winter
RESIDENTS of Deep South, Rupununi, Region Nine, received Government’s COVID-19 cash relief grant of $25,000 during the month of September, much to their relief in light of the harsh life brought about by the pandemic. Although the pandemic, which is sweeping the world with devastating effect on countries worldwide, did not cause major problems in the South Rupununi communities, local lockdown precautionary measures brought on economic hardships for most
usually gathered and who could be infected and transmitting the virus,” another resident related. The cash grant initiative was also welcomed during this crucial time for the region, because it gave local businesses a boost since local entrepreneurs depended on the residents as customers to support their businesses. “I personally think that the businesses were impacted the most, since if nobody buys from us then we won’t be able to support the villagers when they bring their farm produce, or the ranchers when they have meat to sell, you know; so when the $25,000 cash grant
Deep South Rupununi to date is one of the few areas in Guyana that is COVIDfree, thanks to local radio broadcasters, doctors and staff of Aishalton District Hospital, the police and the councillors households. Strict lockdown curfews caused trade and businesses to drop dramatically in the Rupununi, a region that harbours villages that are far flung and often hard to access. Families found it hard to make an income under the imposed curfews. People rely on farming and trading agricultural produce to make a living. But with markets and most travelling restricted, people could not carry on normal economic activities. Also, with the lockdown and curfews in effect, businesses in the region could not retain employment of workers. Guyana Chronicle spoke to residents to have their views on the cash grants received, and they related that the initiative taken by the Government “has been really helpful because people were given the freedom of choice of how to use the cash given to them; even though some people thought it wasn’t a great idea since a relief package, with hampers for example, would have been better and less risky,” one man said. “I was really happy because nobody would give you $25,000 freely like that. I not only used the money to buy food supplies, but I was also able to purchase a pipe to get water into my yard instead of going outside to get water from the main pipe where persons
was distributed, our businesses benefitted a lot and we were able to have most of the cash circulate in our villages,” a senior businessman said. And a farmer related that “I felt really happy because I would usually travel to neighbouring villages and sell my farm produce but since the lockdown I wasn’t able to do that so I couldn’t gain an income and I could not afford to buy other things like salt, sugar and soap that I needed from the shop. So this cash grant really helped me a lot and I am really thankful to the Government for this.” Deep South Rupununi to date is one of the few areas in Guyana that is COVID-free thanks to local radio broadcasters, doctors and staff of Aishalton District Hospital, the police and the councillors. However, the villagers are not taking any risks. Residents had erected gates and fences around villages, which continue to be guarded and anyone entering the villages are placed on two weeks of quarantine. Central Rupununi, however, was heavily affected, with one theory claiming the reason may be because this area is closer to the town of Lethem and neighbouring City of BomFim, Brazil. The cases have since then been fluctuating as residents continue to follow protocols
and guidelines. The Indigenous people of Deep South Rupununi were among the first hinterland communities to receive the COVID relief
cash grant, and they unanimously said that “this initiative has been really helpful and greatly appreciated during this time of crisis”.
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Albon crashes as Hamilton leads in Bahrain ALEXANDER Albon suffered a heavy crash in second practice at the Bahrain
Grand Prix, leaving his Red Bull career hanging by a thread. The British-Thai driver is trying to prove to Red Bull that he deserves to be kept on for 2021. But his crash, in which he was uninjured, was the latest in a series of incidents that are undermining his case. World champion Lewis Hamilton was fastest from Red Bull’s Max Verstappen. Albon lost control at the final corner when on his qualifying simulation run, sliding wide, over-correcting the car and then flicking back the other way into the barriers, wiping out the right-hand side of the car and giving the team a long repair job overnight. At the time, he was 0.7 seconds slower than team-mate Max Verstappen and trying to improve. The incident followed spins during the past two races in Turkey and Italy, both times when he was running in a strong points position. Red Bull have said that they want him to earn the drive, but insist they have not yet made a decision on whether to plump for a more experienced driver from outside the Red Bull programme, includ-
ing either Sergio Perez or Nico Hulkenberg.
“I did back out, but not enough. When you
one for Albon’s crash and one immediately af-
stappen, with the Briton’s team-mate Valtteri Bottas
Alexander Albon of Thailand drives the (23) Aston Martin Red Bull Racing RB16 during practice, ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Bahrain at Bahrain International Circuit yesterday in Bahrain (Photo by Kamran Jebreili - Pool/Getty Images)
“(I’ve) had a few of them so used to it,” said Albon. “I should have pulled out of it really. I was a bit surprised by the lack of grip. Just one of those things. Not fun but all good.
have one tyre on the Astro and one on the grip, that’s when the tank-slappers happen.” The way the session developed, with teams on different programmes and two red flag periods,
ter the restart because a dog was loose on the circuit, meant it was hard to get a definitive read on overall competitiveness. H a m i l t o n ’s f a s t e s t time was just over 0.3 seconds faster than Ver-
0.018 secs behind the Dutchman. Racing Point’s Sergio Perez was fourth fastest, from Renault’s Daniel Ricciardo, Alpha Tauri’s Pierre Gasly and McLaren’s Lando Norris.
Australia beat India in first ODI
(BBC) - Australia beat India by 66 runs in the first one-day international in front of 20 000 socially-distanced fans at an emotional Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). There were tributes to former Australia batsmen Dean Jones, who died in September, and Phillip Hughes, on the sixth anniversary of his death. Both sides stood in a ‘barefoot circle’ as a stand against racism pre-match. Centuries from Aaron Finch and Steve Smith helped the hosts to 374-6, with India reaching 308-8 in reply. Victory in the first game of their men’s international summer gives Australia a 1-0 lead in the three-match ODI series. The second ODI also takes place at the SCG tomorrow, with the third at Canberra on Wednesday. The two sides then play three Twenty20 internationals and four Tests. In the pre-match ceremony, both sets of players stood barefoot together to demon-
strate opposition to racism while also acknowledging indigenous Australians.
one of just three aboriginal Australians to play Test cricket.
of Jones, who died after a heart attack aged 59, before highlights of his career
Steven Smith brought up a 62-ball century (Getty Images)
The practice was introduced by the Australian women’s team this year after it was suggested by Ashleigh Gardner, who is
Australia plan to take part in a barefoot circle before every series. There was then a minute’s silence in memory
played on screens around the ground. Both sides wore black armbands. After the match started, play was paused at 16:08hrs
local time - to mark Hughes’ Australian Test number of 408 - for a round of applause to remember the former opener, who died after being hit on the neck while playing for South Australia in a firstclass match in Sydney. Australia openers David Warner (69) and Finch (114) put on 156 for the first wicket, with captain Finch bringing up his 17th ODI century. Smith smashed 105 off 66 balls, sharing a stand of 108 with Finch, laying a superb platform for Glenn Maxwell to add 45 off just 19 balls as the hosts set an imposing total. Australia fast bowler Josh Hazlewood claimed 3-55, including India captain Virat Kohli for 21, as the tourists fell to 101-4 in reply. Opener Shikhar Dhawan made 74 and all-rounder Hardik Pandya hit 90 to keep their side in contention until both were removed by leg-spinner Adam Zampa (4-54) and India fell way behind the required rate.
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 28, 2020
Don’t cry for me, Argentina!
Maradona laid to rest amid public mourning
Fans on the side of the highway cheer for the hearse carrying the body of Diego Maradona (Photo by Tomas Cuesta/Getty Images)
(BBC) - Football legend Diego Maradona has been buried in a private ceremony after a day of emotional scenes in the Argentine capital Buenos Aires. Only around two dozen relatives and close friends attended the final ceremony on Thursday. But earlier huge crowds turned out to pay their respects, with many weeping, blowing kisses and praying as they filed past his coffin. Maradona died of a heart attack on Wednesday aged 60. His death triggered mourning around the world but nowhere was it felt more fiercely than in a country that saw him as a national hero. Maradona’s coffin draped in Argentina’s national flag and football shirt, bearing his trademark number 10 on the back - was on public display at the presidential palace on Thursday. By mid-afternoon queues stretched back for more than a kilometre,
and police clashed with mourners as they tried to close off the palace in anticipation of the wake scheduled for 16:00hrs local time (19:00hrs GMT). There were reports of tear gas and rubber bullets being used as officers in riot gear struggled to hold back the crowd. One well-wisher, Rubén Hernández, thought the police had overreacted. “We were calm lining up and suddenly, the police started to fire rubber bullets,” he said, quoted by Reuters news agency. “Crazy, I just want to say goodbye to Diego.” Authorities were eventually forced to stop public viewing of the coffin to keep the peace. The motorised funeral cortege drove his body to the Bella Vista cemetery on the outskirts of the city, where he was buried next to the graves of his parents. The atmosphere varied greatly outside the presidential palace. Those
waiting to go in were singing and chanting. “If you don’t jump, you’re English,” is one of the favourite chants of Argentinians about the 1986 match with England and THAT goal - the Hand of God - something many here saw as a sort of payback after the Falklands War, known here as the Malvinas. But on the other side of the square, there was another line with those coming out, many wiping away tears or hugging each other after processing what had happened. This wasn’t just the death of Argentina’s superstar footballer, but the passing of a man that many saw as a national icon, a star who made Argentina famous - and most of all, a very human role-model who Argentinians loved, flaws and all. A man who was respected for achieving so much, yet never forgeting his roots.
P&P Insurance throws support behind GSCL Prime Minister’s T20 tourney By Clifton Ross
THE ongoing 4th edition the Georgetown Softball Cricket League (GSCL)/ Prime Minister ’s T20 tourney received additional sponsorship compliments of P&P Insurance. One of Guyana’s most established insurance firms continued their efforts, despite the pandemic, to throw their support behind the annual event and one which they have been a part of from the inception. During yesterday’s opening round, GSCL
president Ian John, following the brief presentation, held upstairs the Everest Cricket Club ground pavilion, said that he was pleased at the gesture by P & P Insurance even during the pandemic. He said the relationship between the two entities has been solid over the years and as such he was happy to see it persist despite a rough 2020 for all and hoped it will continue into the future. Meanwhile, P & P Insurance boss, Vikash Panday, explained that he was overwhelmed just to have
played a part in the return of live action after months away. Panday and his company have been sponsoring sports across the board - golf, rifle and pistol shooting, horse racing and cricket to name a few. He said although 2020 has presented a number of hurdles due to COVID-19, he remains firm on his company’s support towards the development of all sports in Guyana. Meanwhile, the tournament concludes tomorrow with the semis and finals.
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West Indies tour of New Zealand 2020 T20 series …
Pollard says Windies keen on levelling series, forcing game 3 … admits inconsistencies cost WI opener By Clifton Ross
of his fastest T20 fifties; 75 from 37 balls with just 4 fours but 8 FOLLOWING a high-scoring massive sixes. opening match of the T20 The innings was however series, West Indies captain a losing one, after all-roundKieron Pollard said the Ca- ers James Neesham and future ribbean cricketers are here for skipper for the 3rd T20, Mitchell the battle and will be looking Santner, carried their bats to the to square the series today. end with knocks of 48 and 31. The first of 3 battles went to Speaking with the media the Black Caps, who managed during the post-match press to survive Pollard’s blitzkrieg to conference, Pollard said he was secure what in the end was a rel- first of all happy to be back atively convincing 5-wicket win. playing international cricket in The Windies skipper, fresh the presence of fans, admitting off his brilliant form from this that inconsistencies were the summer when he dazzled both Windies’ downfall. the CPL and IPL, clobbered one “I thought it was an enter-
taining game of cricket especially for the general public, It’s something they haven’t gotten for a long time. In terms of the disciplines, in terms of our bowling it was a bit erratic, a bit inconsistent and in international cricket if you’re bowling so many no-balls and you’re so inconsistent with your execution, you’ll end up on the losing side,” Pollard highlighted. Although rain played a role as the result was via Duckworth/ Lewis method, it was a pretty even match as both sides sought to shrug off any international rust and Pollard admitted that
his team needed to keep their foot on the gas. “You want to get a couple wickets and put them on the back-foot as we did, but we weren’t disciplined enough to stay in the game a bit longer because it’s easy going at 12/13 comfortably, but when it’s crunch time sometimes the pressure tends to take the better of you and in the end a couple less boundaries we would have been right in the game,”. he said. Despite mauling the Kiwi attack in his unbeaten knock, Windies skipper was peppered by the likes of pacer and Match MVP Lockie Ferguson, who ended with sterling figures of
5-21 from 4 overs. Responding to his time in the middle and the battle against the New Zealand pacers, the burly Trinidadian humorously said that his ribs were good and he was in Kiwi land for the long haul. “The ribs are fine, you guys battered and bruised me but I’m here for the fight. He (Lockie) bowled pretty well today; he bowled a magnificent spell which put us on the back-foot after we got off to a flyer. Losing couple wickets in that momentum wasn’t something we were looking for at that time,” admitted the Windies captain. Pollard nevertheless out-
lined that plans for today’s match will focus more on discipline and consistency with plans to even up the outcome and force a best-of-3 series. Meanwhile, man-of-thematch Ferguson told the media that his team was also a bit rusty as cricketers worldwide have now begun to experience some sense of normalcy inside these various bubbles. The Kiwi speedster further stated that the home team will need to revisit some plans and review their areas of concern going forward; especially with today’s match being a day game on a different ground.
West Indies toil after Crunch time looms as teams seek Brathwaite double-hundred to regroup ahead of 5th round GCB Tropical Spring T20 Over 40 Tournament
(CMC) - West Indies failed to make an early breakthrough against New Zealand ‘A’ after opener Kraigg Brathwaite hit a career-best double-hundred in their firstclass tour match yesterday. The Windies toiled without success for just over an hour, but Henry Cooper, not out on 19, and Rachin Ravindra, not out on 22, held firm for 15 overs before stumps were drawn on the second day of the four-day match with the Black Caps’ reserves 45 without loss, in reply to the visitors first-innings total of 571. Brathwaite, the most capped batsman in the West Indies Test squad, using the match to prepare for the two-Test series against the Black Caps senior team, gave further proof that he may have emerged from the morass that has bedevilled his batting for the past year with a purposeful 246. It is the highest score for Brathwaite in 160 firstclass matches, eclipsing his previous best of 212 against Bangladesh in his 24th Test for West Indies six years ago, at the Arnos Vale Sports Complex in St Vincent. Coincidentally, his final score is the telephone area code for his native Barbados, which celebrates its 54th anniversary of political independence from
Britain this coming Monday, and it will reassure followers of the sport in the island that he may be back to his best. Jermaine Blackwood, with whom Brathwaite compiled a century-stand for the fourth wicket, made 53, left-handed all-rounder Raymon Reifer added 46, and Test captain Jason Holder, wicketkeeper/batsman Shane Dowrich and Alazarri Joseph got starts without carrying on to allow the Windies to extend their innings to almost an hour past tea. Brathwaite and Blackwood comfortably batted through the first hour, after West Indies started the day on 353 for three. Brathwaite, not out on 183 overnight, reached his double hundred, when he drove the 280th ball of his innings from Blair Tickner to long-off for two runs, about 10 minutes before the morning drinks break. After drinks, Blackwood, not out on 19 overnight, reached his 50 from 79 balls with a single to long-on off New Zealand ‘A’ captain Cole McConchie, plying his uncomplicated off-spin. Blackwood added 107 for the fourth wicket with Brathwaite before he was bowled by Ravindra, bowling left-arm spin, in the first half-hour after the break. Dowrich came to the crease and with Brathwaite
carried West Indies to 463 for four at lunch before they were both dismissed in the first hour after the interval. Dowrich was bowled behind his legs for 23 by Ben Sears, and Brathwaite’s near 10-hour long stay at the crease that included 17 fours and one six came to a close, when he miscued a pull at his 400th ball and was caught at mid-wicket off Michael Rae. Holder carried West Indies past 500 with Reifer before he was caught at long-on off McConchie, who also bowled Rahkeem Cornwall for a duck five balls later in the same over. West Indies were 512 for nine, but Joseph joined Reifer and they shared 53 for the ninth wicket either side of carrying the visitors to 529 for eight at tea. After the break, the two Windies pacers continued to indulge themselves until Joseph was run-out for 22 in a mix-up going for a single and Reifer was caught at long-off from a lofted drive off McConchie, whose three for 130 from 36.1 overs were the best figures for the Black Caps’ reserves. The first Test between New Zealand and West Indies starts on Thursday, December 3, at Seddon Park in Hamilton, and the second Test begins on Friday, December 11, at the Basin Reserve in Wellington.
AFTER 4 rounds of action, the veterans will now have a few days to rest and come back stronger as they prepare themselves for what could be an intense round 5, set to bowl off Monday November 30. At Enmore Community Centre ground, Regal Masters tackle WD Mavericks while KV Construction battle RP Construction Legends from 09:00hrs and 13:45hrs respectively. At the Everest Cricket Club ground, Everest Masters will battle Bel Air RUBiS Ultra Tec, followed by the final match-up between WD Masters and Sand Piper Masters. Round Four results In the second scheduled match of the day, Sand Pipers Masters batted first but never seemed up to the task of scoring quick runs, apparently based
on the fact that the overs were drastically reduced to 10 oversa-side due to unfavourable weather conditions. In the end, Sand Pipers batsmen in an attempt to score quickly appeared to lose their classic timing and elegant stroke-play, as they seemingly clashed and smashed to no avail, falling to 39 for 6 off their allotted 10 overs. Alvin Charran made 10, before being run-out, and Bhupendra Deokie 10, to be the only two Sand Pipers’ batsmen to reach double figures. Considering it may be easy for Sand Pipers to blame weather conditions for their dismal performance, the theory of weather conditions supporting Regal’s bowlers may not be readily accepted. This is especially true, as in the case where Regal’s customary opening batsman Anthony Ifill, who enjoyed
CRICKET QUIZ CORNER Saturday, November 28, 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) Chris Gayle-1258 runs (12 matches) (2) Ross Taylor-1089 runs (12 matches)
TODAY’S QUIZ:
(1) Where and when did the WI & NZ firts contested a (1) What is
the highest score made by a WI in Tests against NZ to date? (2) What is the highest Test score by a NZ against the WI to date?
ANSWERS IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE
the rewards of a different role, captured the amazing figures of 3 for 2 off 2 overs - a spell which also included a maiden. In reply, Regal opening batsmen Anthony Ifill and Eion Abel wasted no time in demonstrating their prowess, racing to 43 without loss in just 3.5 overs. Ifill smashed an unbeaten 28, which included three sixes, while Abel was 8 not out. Regal Masters won by 10 wickets. Over at the Enmore Community Centre ground, after the first game was called-off due to a wet outfield,. West Demerara Masters made no hesitation to bat having won the toss in the second scheduled match of the day. Closing their allotted 20 overs with a score of 95-8, Tailender, Sudesh Persaud made 20 to top score while opening pair of Elroy Fernandes and Ramesh Thakur made 18 and 11 respectively, with Chabiraj Ramcharran, 11, being the only batsmen to make double figures for their innings .Bowling for RP Construction, Chatterpaul Singh, picked up two wickets off 9 runs in two overs. In reply, Vishnauth Gobin made 15 runs, while his middle-order counterpart Rohan Mangal contributed the highest score of the day (37), to launch their team to victory of 98-7 off 19.1 overs. In an attempt to contain the opponents, Sudesh Persaud and Stevel Haripal each sent two batsmen on their way. RP won by 3 wickets.
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 28, 2020
Outgoing British High Commissioner made honorary life member of Everest Cricket Club
OUTGOING British High Commissioner His Excellency Greg Quinn has been made an Honorary Life Member of the Everest Cricket Club (ECC). Mr Quinn, who was very active inside and outside of his office and a friend of the historic club, was symbolically recognised for his work at the club and country level, during a simple presentation ceremony earlier this week.
sador arranged a match between ECC Masters and the Diplomatic Corps to raise funds for charity. In 2017, the Diplomatic team had faced the Gandhi Youth Organisation (GYO) in a similar clash. President of the ECC, Manzoor Nadir, said that Quinn has been very close to the club and a fair and just diplomat. “Because of his ini-
British High Commissioner His Excellency Greg Quinn receives his Lifetime membership card from Everest Club manager Krista Norton
For several years, the high commissioner had helped to organise an annual T20 charity clash between the Diplomatic Corps and local teams. In 2019, the ambas-
tiative, we collaborated quite a lot in the past. He has been a good friend of Everest and he has helped to promote our sports programme amoug the diplomatic
community and youth groups.” Nadir, who is also Speaker of the National Assembly, noted that Quinn’s contribution to Guyana transcends sport, since he was instrumental in fighting for fair elections this year. Quinn was appointed British High Commissioner to Guyana in March of 2015. Prior to his journey here, he had worked in Tallinn, Accra, Minsk, Baghdad, Kazakhstan and Washington.
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West Indies tour of New Zealand 2020 T20 series …
Pollard says Windies keen on levelling series, forcing game 3 SEE PAGE 26
West Indies captain Kieron Pollard
SEE PAGE 25
Don’t cry for me, Argentina!
Maradona laid to rest amid public mourning
SEE PAGE 25
P&P Insurance throws support behind GSCL Prime Minister’s T20 tourney From left, P&P Insurance staff representatives Dhavina Bisnauth, GSCL president Ian John (centre) receive the sponsorship check from Anupa Lall (Clifton Ross photo)
SEE PAGE 26
Relatives and friends carry the coffin of Argentine football legend Diego Armando Maradona during his funeral at the Jardin Bella Vista cemetery, in Buenos Aires province, on November 26, 2020 (Photo by Ronaldo Schemidt/AFP)
West Indies toil after Brathwaite double-hundred
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SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2020