Issuu

TUESDAY 30th November, 2021

No. 106561

‘Get vaccinated’

– President Ali urges, to protect against Omicron variant

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Three lives saved through David Hinds called out for racially groundbreaking surgeries insensitive SEE PAGE

Dr. Duan Yunfei (right) performing the cholecystectomy and hepatectomy at the Georgetown Public Hospital

remarks

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$7M water-supply system commissioned at River’s View SEE PAGE

Man, 20, dies after pinned by toppled tractor

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, November 30, 2021

David Hinds called out for racially insensitive remarks A COMMENT which is seemingly inconsistent with the social construct of Guyana, a pluralist society, has landed senior Working People’s Alliance (WPA) member Dr. David Hinds in hot water, with political scientist, Freddie Kissoon even questioning whether the issue will fall under the radar of the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) for further scrutiny. In a video circulating on Facebook, Hinds appears to be inciting racial division by calling on a section of the population to undermine another. The WPA member, who, through his party, attempts to portray himself as a vibrant “Guyanese leader”, could be heard saying: “Undermine the enablers of the government, the businesses; dem does come with big truckload… Dem from Black Bush, but dem come ah Plaisance Market fuh sell; dem ain’t from here.” He further extended his call for “the enablers” of the government to be undermined, saying: “We cannot

go to Mon Repos Market and buy black pudding.” Black pudding, as said by many persons, is a delicacy enjoyed by Guyanese of all walks of life. This thought, however, reportedly evaded the mind of Dr. Hinds, as he sought to use the dish and the sale of it to support his cause. The WPA member said: “Me bin ah Better Hope Market/Mon Repos Market a couple years ago, and me see a crowd. Me say eh eh, what a crowd deh… they say is a lady selling black pudding; me is a black pudding man, me go up and say eh eh this black pudding ga fuh sweet. When me go, is not a black lady selling the black pudding; well, I almost fall down dead. You left Plaisance, BV, Buxton fa go Mon Repos Market fuh buy black pudding.” WHAT IS WRONG? Asking the question which many persons on social media have asked, Kissoon said: “What is wrong with an Indian woman selling black pudding? “When my mother was

WPA Executive, Dr. David Hinds pregnant with me, she sold wood for the coal-pot for a living, and my sister, Gwendolyn, would cook and sell black pudding next to her on Bent Street, Wortmanville, a south Georgetown ward that was 99 per cent populated by African Guyanese,” Kissoon related. He further questioned: “What is wrong with Black Bush farmers sending their stuff to Plaisance so that Plaisance vendors could sell East Coast residents vegetables, ‘greens’ and fruits at a cheap price?”

I n s i n u a t i n g t h a t D r. Hinds’ comments were racially divisive, Kissoon asked: “Will the Ethnic Relations Commission indict Hinds?” He added: “The tape is there to be viewed; it was pure racial incitement. Hinds lives in the US, but he could still be indicted, and when he comes to Guyana, he could be arrested.” Meanwhile, in responding to accusations of a similar nature, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr., sought to clear the air on the matter by saying: “The APNU and their media outlet tried to spin that I said that there are no role models in the black community, or that there is a lack of role models in the Black community. I never said that. Of course, there are many Afro-Guyanese role models, and, in this context, a role model is a law-abiding, productive member of society who carriers himself or herself in a respectable way.” THOUSANDS OF ROLE MODELS He went on to say that

there are thousands of AfroGuyanese professionals like doctors, judges, lawyers, engineers, and men and women in the disciplined and public services, who are role models. Referring to his remarks which sparked the accusations, Ramson said he was merely expressing how sad it was to see “Black leaders” attack Statement Investment Inc., a company owned by three Afro-Guyanese, for winning a contract to build a primary school in Region 10. “Speaking as a political leader, I know what I saw as a child growing up with my dad as a lawyer, and how that helped shape my life. And there should be lots of examples of success in the Black community. That does not mean I said that there are no role models, or a lack of role models in the Black Community. “I said there should be lots of examples of success in the Black community; the more that there are and the more that are seen of different types of success, the bet-

ter. I know how it can inspire young people,” the minister related. While the rhetoric from the Coalition has been reportedly critical of certain Afro-Guyanese who are excelling, Ramson said the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) government has been creating opportunities for all persons through housing, infrastructure development, among other things. President Dr. Irfaan Ali had also committed from the onset to create a system which would benefit every Guyanese. Specifically on race, during his inaugural address to Parliament, President Ali had announced the formation of a ‘One Guyana Commission’ which will be tasked with fostering love for country, celebrating the ‘oneness’ enunciated in the national motto. This, he explained, is part of the government’s efforts to put an end to the division caused by race and politics and to create a path towards building a single Guyanese identity.

Guyana, France seek to deepen economic cooperation SENIOR Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni

Singh, on Monday met with a delegation from the French Development Agency (AFD), France’s

inclusive public development bank. According to a release, the meeting was held at

the Ministry of Finance and the aim was to reestablish and deepen ties of economic cooperation

Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh and team meeting with the delegation from the French Development Agency on Monday

with France. The French delegation comprised Milena Valbuena, Director of AFD’s Suriname-Guyana office; Nicolas Brun, Project Officer in charge of Surinamese operations and Tahiry Marcel, economist in the geographic department of AFD’s headquarters in charge of Surinamese operations. Minister Singh was accompanied by Tarachand Balgobin, Director in the Project Cycle Management Division (PCMD) and Donna Levi, Head of the Bilateral Division, Ministry of Finance. The AFD team is in Guyana

on a macroeconomic mission slated to conclude on December 1. The AFD Group is a French public institution that implements France’s policy in the areas of development and international solidarity. The mission of AFD is to contribute to the economic, social, and environmental progress of low and middle-income countries. During the meeting, Minister Singh wel comed the group and both sides discussed a number of areas for possible future collaboration, the release said.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, November 30, 2021

‘Get vaccinated’ – President Ali urges to protect against Omicron variant

President Dr. Irfaan Ali By Richard Bhainie WITH a new COVID-19 variant named Omicron mounting concerns globally, President Dr. Irfaan Ali, on Monday, urged Guyanese to take their COVID-19 vaccine, as it is currently the only “tool” available to protect against the consequences of the deadly novel coronavirus. “If it is that this variant is far more infectious, then the only thing that can protect us is the vaccination, the only thing that will slow hospitalisation is the vaccination,

the only thing that will slow death rate, and actually very successfully, is the vaccination,” the President said. The World Health Organisation (WHO), on November 26, designated the SARS-CoV-2 variant B.1.1.529, named Omicron, a variant of concern (VOC) on the basis of advice from WHO’s Technical Advisory Group on Virus Evolution after the variant was first reported to the WHO from South Africa on November 24. In a report titled ‘Enhancing Readiness for Omi-

cron (B.1.1.529): Technical Brief and Priority Actions for Member States’ released on November 28, the WHO noted that “overall global risk related to the new VOC Omicron is assessed as very high”. “Omicron has an unprecedented number of spike mutations, some of which are concerning for their potential impact on the trajectory of the pandemic. Preliminary evidence suggests there may be an increased risk of reinfection with this variant, as compared to other variants of concern (VOC),” the WHO noted. However, there is still substantial uncertainty regarding Omicron’s transmissibility, immune escape potential, clinical presentation, severity of disease, and response to other available counter-measures, but studies are underway to evaluate the transmissibility, severity and reinfection risk of the variant. Importantly, the WHO advised that public health authorities should “acceler-

ate COVID-19 vaccination coverage in all eligible populations” especially for highrisk populations, namely, senior citizens, health care workers and persons living with underlying conditions which may increase their risk. VACCINES ARE AVAILABLE President Ali, during a short address to the nation on Monday, reminded that vaccines are available for persons who have not yet received their COVID-19 ‘jab’. He also encouraged persons who are eligible to receive a booster dose, to take their shot. “We have the vaccines available, so my short answer to you as we adopt in this new way of living in fighting all these variations is to be vaccinated …. This is our only chance of fighting off and being aggressively ahead of the impact of any variants on our country,” the Head of State said. The Guyana Government has made available the AstraZeneca, Sputnik V,

Great for business, better traffic, safe for pedestrians

Sinopharm, Johnson & Johnson and Pfizer-BioNTech vaccines against COVID-19 available for its citizens. Anyone over the age of 12 can be inoculated and efforts are underway to secure vaccines for children from five years old to 11 years old. Since November 22, booster doses have been made available for persons over the age of 18 who have any comorbidities; anyone over the age of 50, with or without comorbidities and health care workers as they are considered high-risk. As of Sunday last, 399,821 persons, representing 77.9 per cent of Guyana’s adult population, received their first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, while 276,888 persons representing 54 per cent of Guyana’s adult population received their second dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. On the other hand, 29,088 adolescents, or persons between the ages of 12 to 17, have received their first dose of Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine, repre-

senting 39.9 per cent of that age cohort, while 20,270 adolescents received their second dose, representing 27.8 per cent of the country’s adolescent population. The latest COVID-19 vaccination statistics were disclosed by the Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, during his COVID-19 Update with the Department of Public Information (DPI) on Monday. In response to the new variant, at least 44 countries have imposed travel restrictions from several African countries following the discovery of the variant; with countries including Japan and Israel banning all foreign nationals from entering their countries. The WHO recommends that the most effective steps individuals can take to reduce the spread of the COVID-19 virus are wearing well-fitting masks, hand hygiene, physical distancing, improving ventilation of indoor spaces, avoiding crowded spaces, and getting vaccinated.

- residents, entrepreneurs in Mandela laud coming four-lane highway

THE new Eccles to Mandela access road is in its final stages and is expected to be completed in approximately two weeks. On Monday, residents in the area said that the project will positively af-

fect their businesses and ease traffic buildups. “Well the traffic is really build up a lot, it’s hard to catch bus… on an afternoon, especially when you going up the [East Bank Demerara]… so I glad about this road because

it gon be an easy access to go up the bank,” one Farm, East Bank Demerara resident Natasha Marques said. Moreover, with her business located on Mandela Avenue, Marques noted that the new road will

allow for more vehicles to traverse the vicinity of her shop, making it easier for her business to be noticed. “I can’t wait for the road done to establish my business more, so I could be closer to persons passing by. It will benefit me

Infrastructural works being conducted on Eccles-Mandela

Murvin Davson

Natasha Marques

a lot because it will be easier for persons to stop and buy,” she explained. Murvin Davson, a tinsmith, also expressed satisfaction over the new highway. “The new road I could see right now… the more people pass, the more people gon get to view and look into the kind of products I got and so. So, it’s going to be a vast improvement for me,” he noted. Another resident and businesswoman, Shevon Niles believes that the road will positively impact her business transactions on a day-to-day basis and will be much safer for pedestrians. “There are elderly citi-

zens who usually traverse this road and it’s a challenge for them… so the signs and road markings will benefit the elderly and also women and children with disabilities,” she said. The road works were divided into six lots and consist of a four-lane road with dual carriageway of two lanes each and jointed reinforced concrete pavement in accordance with international standards. The contracts for the project were signed earlier this year and are the realisation of the commitment made by the current administration for advancing infrastructural development. (DPI)

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, November 30, 2021

Biden says Omicron lockdowns not needed 'for now'

US President Joe Biden has called the Omicron COVID variant a "cause for concern, not a cause for panic" one day after it was detected in North America. He said he saw no need for a lockdown "for now", adding, "If people are vaccinated and wear their masks". Cases have been found in Canada, and the US has

imposed travel bans on eight African countries. Despite vaccines and Biden's vow to "shut down" the virus, more Americans died this year from Covid than last. At the White House on Monday, the President called it "almost inevitable" that the Omicron strain, first reported by South Africa, will be found in the US "at some point".

He added that vaccine companies are creating "contingency plans" for new vaccines "if needed". Late last week, the US announced a ban on flights from South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Lesotho, Eswatini, Mozambique and Malawi. Canada, the UK and the EU and other countries have also restricted travel from southern Africa. Canada, the US neighbour to the north, said on

Sunday that the Omicron strain had been discovered in two patients who had recently travelled to Nigeria. A third case was announced on Monday. Biden said that the ban had bought some time for the US to study the new strain. While the World Health Organisation has deemed Omicron a "variant of concern", it is still not clear whether it is associated with more transmission or more risk of evading

US President Joe Biden vaccines. Critics noted that Biden accused former President Donald Trump of "hysterical xenophobia" after he limited travel from China in January 2020 as the coronavirus spread in the US. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, a Republican and a possible 2024 White House candidate, dismissed the latest flight restrictions as a "knee-jerk reaction". "In Florida, we will not let them lock you down," he said. "We will not let them take your job. We will not let them harm your businesses. We will not let them close your schools. The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result." Florida, which has taken steps to ban COVID-19 vaccine and mask mandates, currently has one of the lowest rates of coronavirus transmission out of all 50 states in the US, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. While Biden once again urged Americans on Mon-

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day to wear masks, he has come under fire for flouting his own rules. He was pictured without a mask covering his face over the Thanksgiving weekend where he stayed in Nantucket, Massachusetts -- at one point inside a shop that had a sign on the window requiring customers to wear face coverings. First Lady Jill Biden was also criticised online on Monday as she appeared in the White House without a mask, reading to a group of schoolchildren who were all masked and socially distanced. Earlier on Monday, a federal judge blocked the Biden administration from enforcing a coronavirus vaccine mandate on thousands of healthcare workers in 10 states. The judge wrote that government officials had probably overstepped their legal powers. Another federal court earlier this month put a hold on a separate rule requiring businesses with more than 100 employees to ensure their workers get vaccinated. (BBC)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, November 30, 2021

Trinidad and Tobago denies entry for non-nationals - citizens must quarantine after travel from eight African countries

The Trinidad and Tobago Government has imposed travel restrictions on eight countries in an attempt to restrict the spread of the covid19 variant of concern omicron (B.1.1.529), a media release from the Ministry of Health reported on Friday night. The release reported the eight countries include Botswana, Eswatini (formerly Swaziland), Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa and Zimbabwe. Non-nationals who are not citizens or permanent residents of TT, and visited any of these countries within a 14- day period will not be allowed to enter the country. Citizens and permanent residents who visited any of the countries within a 14-day period of their arrival will require mandatory state-supervised quarantine of no less than 14 days. "The public is advised

that the traveller will be required to bear all associated costs and therefore should make the necessary arrangements prior to travel," said the ministry. The mandatory quarantine applies to vaccinated and non-vaccinated nationals. All other existing entry requirements must be adhered to, inclusive of a negative nasopharyngeal (nasal swab) RT-PCR test result taken no earlier than

Barbados becomes world's newest republic

Prince Charles meets Barbados’ Prime Minister, Mia Mottley on arrival in Barbados at the Grantley Adams Airport (Barbados Today photo) Barbados has become the world's newest republic and in doing so removes the Queen as its head of state. The Buckingham Palace says it respects the decision of Barbados. The Prince of Wales has flown into Barbados for Monday's handover ceremony in National Heroes

Square as a representative of the Queen but also in his role as her successor as head of the Commonwealth. Barbados will remain in the Commonwealth. Prince Charles saw the final salute to the British monarchy and watch as the Queen's standard is lowered.

72 hours prior to arrival in TT. The ministry also said it "strongly advised against all non-essential travel" to the affected countries. The ministry said it would update the travel advisory as required. Last year, on March 1, the government announced restrictions for people who travelled to China, Iran, Italy, Singapore and South Korea when the first variant of covid19 surfaced.

Later that month, on March 11, the restrictions were amended to include travel from France, and Germany. On March 16, the Prime Minister announced that TT will close its borders for 14 days restricting entry to all except citizens, residents and essential staff. On March 21, then National Security Minister Stuart Young announced a full shutdown of air and seaports from March 22. Borders remained closed until May 15. In an address to the nation on Thursday, the Prime Minister noted reports of the new variant which may be possibly vaccine resistant. He still urged people to get vaccinated warning that the third wave of cases and deaths threatened to overwhelm hospitals, and local health care. (Trinidad and Tobago Newsday)

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, November 30, 2021

Smart Hospitals THE Ministry of Health is in the process of upgrading a number of health facilities to what is described as 'smart hospitals.' Four public health institutions have been identified to be upgraded to the status of smart hospitals. These are the Diamond Diagnostic Centre, the Lenora Diagnostic Centre, the Maburama Regional Hospital and the Paramakatoi Health Centre. The projects are being done in partnership with the Pan-American Health Organisation (PAHO) and the United Kingdom Department for International Development (DFID), which is providing financial support. A sum of US$4.175M has been allocated by the British Government to upgrade the

restructuring processes. The Smart Hospital initiative is not unique to Guyana and has already been implemented in several Caribbean countries and in Latin America. It has already demonstrated its cost-effectiveness and resilience, especially during times of natural disasters. Natural disasters and extreme weather conditions can cause severe disruptions to health services and consequently endanger lives in times of natural disasters. Guyana, as the recent flood situation has demonstrated, is vulnerable to natural disasters, and as such, the Smart Hospital initiative is both timely and necessary. These are indeed forward-looking initiatives on the part of the Ministry of

Health, which, along with its several development partners, have been very proactive in terms of improving both access to health care to the Guyanese people and the quality of such care. It is no secret that despite the several interventions by the ministry to upgrade the quality of health care delivery, much more remains to be done. Many who could afford will rather go to a private hospital to take care of their medical needs. There are all manner of allegations made by members of the public over long delays in getting treatment at public health institutions, especially at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC). Some of the concerns raised have to do with the attitude

of health professionals, which border on issues of professionalism and in some cases, work ethic. There is perhaps a case for more work to be done in terms of customer care by health care professionals. This is not to take away from the vast number of hard-working and dedicated professionals, many of whom work beyond the normal call of duty. In fact, the government has allocated $400 million dollars payout for nurses in 2021 for exemplary services during the COVID-19 pandemic. This is in addition to an overall seven per cent increase to all public servants. The fact is that the vast majority of Guyanese have little choice in terms of accessing health care and most end up

at public health care facilities, especially the GPHC, which is the only referral hospital in the country. It is against this background that the PPP/C administration is seeking to modernise public health institutions all across the country. The Smart Hospital initiative is designed to improve hospital resilience and strengthen structural and operational aspects through greener technologies. This approach is consistent with the low-carbon development trajectory of the country. Apart from resilience and the utilisation of greener energy, it is also much more cost-effective and environmentally friendly. The PPP/C administration has placed much emphasis on the upgrading of health insti-

tutions and facilities and in the training of doctors, nurses and other health professionals and billions of dollars are spent annually on the procurement of drugs and medical equipment. In fact, the health sector has received the largest budgetary allocation due in part to the COVID-19 pandemic, but more fundamentally to reach a point in which Guyanese receive the best health care in the Caribbean. The Smart Hospital Initiative is yet another step in that direction for which the PPP/C administration must be given credit. As mentioned earlier, this is indeed a forward-looking initiative and it is only a matter of time before more such institutions come on board.

Do not do the biddings of the ‘inglorious’ Dear Editor, AS a patriotic citizen of this country, a blessing which I think I always was and I am and always will be. It is the love I have for my country, for my fellow citizens of all ethnic backgrounds. I truly believe in one human family under God, I truly believe in one people, one nation, one destiny. When things such as this, where ‘The Inglorious’ try to destabilise our government, and always trying to destabilise the PPP/C Governments in history, as we have seen from the 60s to date. It is always the same kinds of mentalities, the same kinds of behavioural patterns. In the stink of politics and personal ambition, those who will do all they can to decimate a nation, decimate a people, in an at-

tempt to break the will of the government and the people. Their aim is to create confusion and hate, even civil war, where one group must try to hurt and destroy another is ‘The mindset of the Inglorious!’ Who are ‘The Inglorious?’ My purpose is to foster harmony, development with new and glorious dispensations of development for peoples, as I like to refer to it as human development in our beloved Dear Land of Many Waters. It is unfortunate that even the sick-minded ones that I refer to as ‘The Inglorious’, who think they are doing something that is good for the country. Somehow their warped mentalities give them an internal self-glow and feeling of joy where they create confusion and decimate prem-

ises of national importance, service, Law and Order. I am seeing in my mind’s eye how they glow in their gross stupidities, inanities and vulgarities that are embedded in the nasty recesses of their hearts, souls and minds. The latest conspiracies and hate by the few are hellbent on creating disharmony in a land of peace, goodwill and respect. Those locally and those living in the basements of Brooklyn, the ones I call ‘The Inglorious!’ It is unimaginable that they would do all in their power to bring down, in a sick combined assault of a truly democratically elected government recognised by the entire world. Do these people not realise that innocent people could have died? Do these conspirators know that it’s the taxpayers’ dollars which have to rebuild these premises?

Monies that could have gone for national development, better wages and salaries of our people? I personally believe that certain elements within The People’s National Congress party and some may be annoyed with me and I care not, that are involved with the clandestine skulduggers, the pavement dwellers, and the sickos of Brooklyn. I know and believe that within this great political grouping of The People’s National Congress Reform, that within its bosom, its belly, its guts that they have great leaders and true patriots in positions of power, business and industry, who truly care for the development of this country. This is why they can never know when the clandestine operatives will operate their evil intentions! ‘The Inglorious’ are in conspiracies to

divide our people ethnically and demolish the smoothness of governance. This fire at the Office of Professional Responsibilities which houses sleeping quarters for firemen and policemen could have taken so many innocent lives. I mentioned that people could have died and possibly so I believe that within the ranks who are using the sleeping facility are loyalist and maniacs who will in conspiracy work to decimate this nation. It is unfortunate that within any military structure, paramilitary or social structure such as the police department, our military forces and even in governmental bureaucracy and others, that some will always be anti-government. That nasty anti-government hate in league with ‘The Inglorious’ will commit arson for those degenerates and

low lifers! It is to the point where they will commit arson for the degenerates and the low lifers. Look at the chaos that has been created as a result of this act. It is obvious that the skulduggers and conspirators were targeting the Director of Public Prosecution’s Chambers. And this is where my police instincts and security charisma within me are on high alert. Obliviously the aim was to destroy valuable evidence, paperwork, and prosecutorial histories which could be looked back on legally for references and guidance in presentations for courts, education etc. It could be one or more of the sleepers who are enemies of the nation used enemies of the nation and with warped mentalities. It is sad, it hurts and confuses me that people Turn to page 7

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, November 30, 2021

Do not do the biddings... From page 6 who are taking salt for themselves and family as employees of the police and fire department, they will turn around and try to ambush the nation via the element of surprise to create mayhem and destruction. It was a joy to see the dynamic law-abiding policemen and women: the ministers on the ground, supporters of the Police Force rendering assistance and their vehicles, to help safely transport documents and have them secured well, so that cases against the riggers of election of ‘we know who and who,’ and those certain former ministers under the former government under serious study for prosecution. We have in the Hindi language a word called ‘Neemak Haram which refers to the low lifers and means: you eat my salt then you curse me, or simply ungrateful Inglorious’ Our dynamic Police Commissioner and his honourable Deputy Commissioner, other senior and junior officers, true patriots, special congratulations and salute. I know they will chart a way for Law and Order to prevail in this great Land of Guyana. We shall be victorious! We shall be victorious! Guyana shall prosper! Before I close I would like to applaud our government, led by His Excellency President Dr. Ifraan Ali, with the geniuses of VP Dr. Jagdeo and Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, in cohesion with the Masters in Law Enforcement for all that is being done to bring Law and Order and to keep the sanity of our nation. They are already putting

things in place to truly secure those files and have them stored maybe in the vault of certain reputable banks in this country and to procure vaults that are fireproof, under the control of only certain top brass of the DPP, the police, the government and in the court system. I am speaking of the best of fireproof safes, where even the heat cannot damage paper. We know also that several attempts were made to burn down the courts of Guyana, and that they will try again, especially when the matter enters into the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court. Attempts will be made by the clandestine operatives of hate and destruction for the paperwork to go missing, as we say in Guyanese ‘parlance,’ they will ‘go mystic.’ We know also that much of our Supreme Court and Law Enforcement are made of wood, which easily ignite and could burn. ‘The Inglorious’ shall try again and again and again! Simply because of the hate in their hearts. They only want to see destruction in our beloved country. So I have a few suggestions: I am positive that the Government of Guyana in cohesion with the Guyana Police Force are trying to find ways and means that all such documents will be stored in fireproof buildings and safes in future. And this should also relate not only to prosecutorial matters in the DPP Chambers, but also all legal files in the hands of the police and in the court system. As a little boy growing up in the Burnhamite era,

while I was always attracted to police, security and the military as a part of my imagination and vision for a career, incidentally I achieved. By studying police sciences, I served in the Canadian Armed Forces and the Guyana Defence Force through the Guyana National Service. As a result, from childhood I was always very observant and even as I grew older and in high school, I used to ask why is it that the late President Forbes Burnham as head of the military was posting soldiers in small camps or groups at certain sensitive locations in the country? I was saying it makes Guyana look like a military dictatorship. However, I now realise that the man was always ahead of his time in national security and food- security matters. I really admired that in him, but I also know and knew that he had serious problems with democracy. I would pass the Demerara Harbour Bridge as a security officer in the same year that I started my company RK’s Guyana Security Services. The DHB was launched coincidentally and simultaneously. I would see periodically soldiers on both sides of the bridge for long and short periods I would also see soldiers patrolling the bridge, the upper level and even in boats in the waters. I learnt that the former President would do these things to create fear in the hearts of politically minded saboteurs. I even managed to get some inside information. He would suddenly decide to call up and inform the Chief of Staff that he re-

ceived information that people wanted to sabotage the bridge, which in my opinion was very wise and would cause the military to do some proper work in order to properly earn their keep. Therefore, I would like to see now and in the future groups of military personnel encamped at the DHB entrances, with boats making periodic patrol in the waters on a constant basis 24/7, especially during election time, holiday time and at times just called out to actively patrol. I saw the same kinds of military personnel at the Earth Station on Carifesta Avenue. Even near the police stations, communication towers, wharves and important bridges. When I lived in Corriverton, formerly Skeldon, there was an action-oriented wharf from where we used to export rice and sugar and to unload brick, sand, soft drinks, etc. The soldiers were also encamped there and at the various sugar estates. Then they would do periodic patrols in

the cane-producing areas, even at major schools. They would do exhibition-style marches with drums which created fun for the youths and served as an excellent recruiting mechanism to attract people into the military. I would say they should do this combined with the Guyana Police Force in marches and drills for recruitment purposes. Periodically, he would have national patrol, war games in various areas of the country, all to which in my opinion could help create a military dynamo working in cohesion with the Guyana Police Force and communities of Guyana. I would advise medical and dental clinics and games be included. I would like to suggest that the government recruit youths who wish to volunteer to be trained as soldiers and policemen. I have seen this being done in New York City. I Hajji Dr. Roshan Khan, lover and patriot of Guyana, hereby offer a reward of

five hundred thousand dollars (half a million dollars) for information leading to the arrest of ‘The Inglorious’ and possible prosecution. With this in mind I hereby offer this reward on behalf of RK’s Guyana Security Services and this is sworn to. All my life, I pledge the support of my company RK’s Guyana Security Services to the Guyana Police Force and Government of Guyana in whatever little way we can for development and stability of Guyana. People of Guyana do not allow ethnic haters or political masterminds and others whom I refer to as ‘The Inglorious,’ to influence any of you to do anything that would be bad for our country and our people. Think positively, think great, think good, see great, see good, long live Guyana! Yours sincerely, Hajji Dr. Roshan Khan Snr

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, November 30, 2021

$7M water-supply system commissioned at River’s View

RESIDENTS of River’s View, a village located on the border of Region 10, now have first-time and improved access to potable water with the completion of a water-supply improvement project to the tune of approximately $7M. This project was execut-

ed by a Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) in-house team in close collaboration with the River’s View Village council and was funded by the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) under the Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) programme. The works which were

done included the installation of almost four kilometres of pipelines, the upgrading of two wells and the installation of new photovoltaic systems in the community of approximately 1,100 residents As a result, 70 per cent of the community is now benefitting from improved

Minister Croal is flanked by residents and other officials as he samples the water from one of River's View wells (GWI photo)

Two young River's View residents assist in the ceremonial cutting of the ribbon at the station (GWI photo)

or first-time access to potable water. Of these beneficiaries, 334 residents now have access to potable water for the first time. The water produced by the wells has been tested and results show that it is safe for consumption. This achievement is in keeping with a promise made by the company’s Chief Executive Officer, Shaik Baksh during a visit to the community earlier this year upon an invitation from Village Toshao, Melena Pollard. On Sunday, November 28, the system was commissioned by Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal, who stressed that the immediate focus is to ensure that Guyanese without access to potable water gain such access. In this regard, he expressed confidence that GWI will achieve 100 per cent access to potable water in Guyana by 2025, five years earlier than the target set under Sustainable Development Goal Number Six. Further, he outlined that by the end of its 2021 programme, GWI would have increased water access coverage by five per cent along the coastland. With regard to the hinterland, Minister Croal noted that GWI has been working in a programmed way to remove the practice of the pumping of water from waterways and con-

tinues to move in the direction of the drilling of wells. TRAINING He assured residents that two community service officers from each community will be trained to maintain the water-supply systems. The minister congratulated the residents of River's View on their new water supply, while informing them that partnership will be explored to provide water access to the satellite community of Fall Mouth by the end of 2022. He took the opportunity to express gratitude to UNICEF for its support in the execution of the WASH project, under which the River’s View system was funded. Meanwhile, Chief Executive Officer of GWI, Shaik Baksh, stressed the importance of community involvement in the execution of water-supply improvement projects. This was evident in River’s View, which now has an improved distribution network and hundreds of residents can now access water on their premises for the first time. Baksh was in high praise of UNICEF for making improved water supply in the community a reality under the second phase of the WASH project. He urged the residents to care the water-supply system which is for their

benefit. UNICEF Focal point for WASH/Climate Change, Gaulbert Sutherland, in his remarks at the commissioning said that the organisation, along with its sister agency, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) was happy to provide funding for the project. According to him, UNICEF's partnership with GWI has focused on providing WASH services in the most vulnerable hinterland communities, including those that host migrants. He stated that the organisation is happy that the River’s View water-supply system is solar- powered, since this provides families with a higher quality of water while helping to reduce carbon emissions. Sutherland thanked GWI and the Ministry of Housing and Water for their valuable partnership in ensuring an adequate and safe water supply for the survival and growth of children and their families in Guyana. Toshao Pollard also used the opportunity to urge residents to care the system which is providing an invaluable resource to the community. Prior to the execution of the water-supply improvement project, only a section of River’s View was served by one existing well.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, November 30, 2021

Three lives saved in groundbreaking surgeries at GPHC

By Tamica Garnett THE lives of three Guyanese were recently saved, thanks to groundbreaking surgeries, including Guyana’s first-ever locally performed laparoscopic adrenalectomy. The three surgeries were performed on Thursday at the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPHC) by a team of remarkable surgeons. Each of the surgeries lasted for approximately three hours. The laparoscopic adrenalectomy was performed on a 54-year-old female, who was diagnosed with a pheochromocytoma after suffering with uncontrolled high blood pressure, while a “gallbladder cancer cholecystectomy, and hepatectomy” was performed on a 50-year-old female with a history of ovarian cancer. A ”ruptured Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) and emergency graft repair” was performed on a 36-year-old male patient. Though adrenalectomy, which involves the removal of the adrenal gland, would have been done in Guyana before, Thursday’s surgery marked the first time one was performed laparoscopically. The laparoscopic adrenalectomy was performed by a team of surgeons led by General and Advanced Laparoscopic Surgeon, Dr. Heimraj Ramcharran, who hailed the occasion a momentous one. “It's pretty exciting for me as a surgeon that we can now do more of these, and bring up our patient care to that of the developed world. I’m grateful that we were able to complete it, and that we had the equipment pro-

vided by the hospital CEO, Robbie Rambarran and Dr Navin Rambaran, Head of Department of Surgery,” Dr. Ramcharran commented.

happening in the developed world, widespread. Majority of patients do laparoscopic surgeries, and don't do open surgeries as much,” Dr.

Dr. Duan Yunfei (right) performing the cholecystectomy and hepatectomy at the GPHC Dr. Ramcharran would have been trained in laparoscopic surgery during a fellowship in Canada, and now looks forward to training other Guyanese doctors in this area. As opposed to “open surgery”, where a surgeon makes incisions 6 - 12 inches long in order to access organs, laparoscopic surgery is a minimally invasive surgery, whereby notably smaller cuts are made, and the doctor conducts the surgery via inserted cameras. Thursday’s adrenalectomy would also mark the first time laparoscopic surgery of such an extensive nature was performed here in Guyana. “It was a success, and represents now that we can do major surgeries laparoscopically. We don't have to do open surgeries as before, and this is how it is

Ramcharran said. He added: “We did four small holes in the abdomen; we put in some cameras and equipment, and we did the entire surgery through the four small holes. This allows the patient to be up and about in about six hours after the surgery. In our case, our patient was walking the next morning with minimal pain, eating and tolerating a regular diet.” Dr. Ramcharran shared that he is grateful for the backing of his team during surgery, which included a number of surgeons, anaesthetists and an endocrinologist. On the surgical team, Dr. Ramcharran was assisted by Dr. Tamesh Algu, Dr. Leon Placeras, Dr. Delon Ramnarine, Dr. Drohinauth Singh, and Dr. Kevon Tracy, while on the anaesthesiology team

were Dr. Arturo Marrero, Dr. Yvette Martin, Dr. Rhina Acousta and Dr. Fernando. Dr. Ramcharran particularly praised the work of Dr. Yaquelin Gonzalez-Ricardo, who played a vital role in stabilising the patient’s blood pressure to a level necessary for surgery. The patient’s blood pressure was excessively high, due to the tumor in her adrenal gland. Dr. Ramcharran was also on the team for the cholecystectomy, which involved the removal of the gall bladder, and the hepatectomy, which involved the removal of part of the liver. This surgery was led by Dr. Duan Yunfei, who is part of a medical team here in Guyana from China. Dr. Ramcharran explained that without Dr. Yunfei's role in the hepatectomy,

was there. If he wasn't here, we wouldn't have been able to resect the liver, and then the patient would’ve lived for about six months more; that’s how aggressive this cancer was. But with the hepatectomy, now the patient can live a longer space of time,” Dr. Ramcharran said. “That surgery was a bit challenging, because of the blood loss that can occur, but Dr. Yunfei was very skillful, and able to go through the surgery with minimal blood loss,” he added. Meanwhile, the ruptured AAA and emergency graft repair was performed by Dr. Kishore Persaud and Dr. Carlos Martin. Speaking with the Guyana Chronicle, Dr. Persaud explained that while AAA surgeries would’ve been

Dr. Heimraj Ramcharran (third left) and some of the members of his team during the laparoscopic adrenalectomy surgery the patient would not have had that much longer to live. “Dr Yunfei is a hepatic (liver) surgeon who came to Guyana just a month ago, and it’s a good thing that he

performed in Guyana in the past, this would have been the first time that one would have ruptured. He added that this is the first case he can recall of a patient surviving

Dr. Kishore Persaud after a ruptured AAA. It was while the patient was being transported to surgery on Thursday afternoon that the aneurysm ruptured, and he went into hypovolemic shock. An aneurysm is a ballooning at a weak spot in an artery wall. “We would’ve done aortic aneurysms before in the past, but this is the first case we would’ve done of a ruptured aortic aneurysm at GPHC, and the first case to survive off the operating table. The patient is in a stable condition, awake and sitting up in bed,” Dr. Persaud noted. He explained that the surgery was particularly possible, due to the availability of the grafting materials, more of which is needed. “It's the graft that allowed us to perform such a lifesaving surgery. We have the resources, in terms of the technical capabilities and human resources, but we are lacking the grafts to do other such surgeries. If we do not have more vascular grafts available, we would not be able perform more such surgeries,” he explained.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, November 30, 2021

Fort Island health centre in need of more manpower By Naomi Parris WITH only one community healthcare worker stationed at Fort Island, residents of the island and other surrounding catchment areas are often left to wait long hours to receive medical assistance. The lone nurse, Pretty Debedin, told the Guyana Chronicle during a recent visit to island that she caters for approximately 95 persons and is in dire need of an assistant at the facility. “I’m the only nurse for the entire island and it is difficult for me. I need assistance because just in case of an emergency and I have to leave, the health facility leaves unprotected. If I’m on sick leave, I need persons that can be there

to assist,” Nurse Debedin said. Debedin, who is also the Chairperson for the island, stated that she is ‘stretched thin’ since she not only cares for those on the island but also those in surrounding communities. “When we talk about Fort Island and health it is not just Fort Island alone, because we deal with a lot of catchment area and persons come from various areas to get care.” She noted that some months back a request was made to the authorities of Region Three for assistance; a suggestion was also made to identify and train persons from the island in the field of medical assistance and nursing; however, she is yet to receive a response.

At the time of the interview, Debedin was on two days sick leave. No one was at the health centre to respond to the needs of the residents. “Right now, I’m on sick leave, I’m on two days sick leave; it’s me alone and I have to do everything by myself. Nobody is there and that is reason make I say we in need of a next person,” she said. In further stressing the need for more manpower, Nurse Debedin shared a recent incident where there was an emergency she was unable to tend to due to other medical engagements. “It had a delivery and I was not here; I was at the hospital and the person had delivered in the boat.

These are things that I always talk about because I’m not always here and I can’t divide myself,” she stressed. However, she explained that while she is equipped to handle deliveries, she advises against them being done on the island and often transfers expecting mothers to the West Demerara Regional Hospital. COVID-19 RESPONSE Meanwhile, when asked how she manages to respond to COVID-19 patients on the island, Debedin disclosed that she takes a swift approach to limit the spread of the virus. “If a resident shows signs or symptoms, I en-

Nurse Pretty Debedin is the only healthcare worker on Fort Island courage them to go and do the test and if they don’t have a boat, I take them

with my boat and engine and let them do the test. When the results come, if the person is negative and they are not critical we encourage that person to stay home and take medication and I do check ups.” Additionally, nurse Debedin related that she spearheads a robust COVID-19 education campaign, “What I do is more home visits and more talking. I go and I educate the persons more about the virus.” To date, according to Nurse Debedin, the island has only recorded three COVID-19 patients but she is awaiting the results of a few persons who were recently tested.

Young agro-processors get spotlight AGRO-PROCESSORS in Region Two were, on Sunday, given the opportunity to showcase their products and services at a mini-expo held at the Bacchus Play Park, Region Two. The event was coordinated by entrepreneur, Tatyana Moore of Miracle Oils, in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism Industry and Commerce. In attendance at the agro-processing fair was Director of Business, John Edghill. Edghill met with local entrepreneurs and used the opportunity to advise them on how to apply for loans/grants through the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce. During his interaction, he told the agro-processors that the ministry is giving grants up to $500,000 to assist small business to prosper. He also called on them to collaborate and become business partners to further enhance their businesses. Chief Executive Officer of Imam Bacchus and Sons Limited, Aadil Baksh said the fair gives the entrepre-

Tatyana Moore with her products neurs an opportunity to create a network where they can market their products. According to Moore, the event was geared at showcasing the work of young entrepreneurs and pointed out that businesses did not have to pay for space as all they were required to do was show up with their local products. The tents and tables were provided by the Tourism Industry and Commerce

Ministry. “I am glad for such exposure, since the pandemic, we haven't get to do anything much. Business was slow so I’m glad for this mini-expo to showcase my products,” Abiola said. Te n l o c a l e n t r e preneurs participated in the fair. On display were jams, pepper sauce, cakes, oils, massage and décor services as well as vet clinic.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, November 30, 2021

Greater effort to reduce hunger, build more resilient food systems - in 2022, says Food and Agriculture Organisation

In 2022, the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) must make “extraordinary” efforts to achieve tangible onthe-ground progress towards reducing hunger, making agrifood systems more efficient, inclusive, resilient and

ing address touching on how FAO has been made more fit for purpose in the 28 months since he took office in August 2019, while grappling with the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. He noted that FAO continued to be “prudently optimistic on the progress towards

culture sector, which currently receives less than 10 per cent of allocated resources even though more than two-thirds of the people affected by crises rely on it. “Agriculture is very crucial and cannot wait for other priorities to be addressed first,” he said. “Protecting rural live-

FAO Director-General QU Dongyu (left) and Hans Hoogeven, the Independent Chair of the Council (FAO photo) sustainable, and to ultimately achieve the Four Betters – Better Production, Better Nutrition, a Better Environment and a Better Life for all – Director-General QU Dongyu told the FAO Council on Monday. “We need extraordinary thinking, ways of doing business and extraordinary efficiency and effectiveness next year,” the Director-General said in opening remarks to the 168th Session of the Council, the executive organ of FAO’s Conference. “I have been walking the talk,” Qu said in a wide-rang-

a ‘new normal’.” “The organisation is striving for a culture change towards a work environment that is people-centred, transparent, accountable, dynamic, engaged and ethical,” he stressed and reaffirmed his “full commitment to FAO’s zero tolerance policy towards all forms of misconduct”. FAO is also focusing on catalysing structural reforms at regional and sub-regional levels, following the restructuring of headquarters in Rome. The Director-General also stressed the need to repurpose financial support in the agri-

lihoods must be a fundamental element of the immediate emergency humanitarian response.” The Director-General pointed to particularly challenging food insecurity conditions in a number of countries due to humanitarian emergencies, the climate crisis and pests and diseases. In this regard, he emphasised the importance of ongoing support for FAO’s efforts to contain Desert Locust outbreaks and control the spread of Fall Armyworm, that has now reached more than 75 countries and has caused an estimated $9.4 billion in crop yield losses

in Africa alone. While most agrifood systems held up during the COVID-19 crisis, falling incomes of many households severely limited access to foods, with 45 million people in 43 countries currently “moving closer to starvation,” Qu said. The agrifood sector offers an ideal entry point for “nexus approaches” that tackle the root causes of hunger by integrating humanitarian, development and peace factors, Qu said. Hans Hoogeven, the Independent Chair of the Council, echoed that view. COVID-19 recovery plans are “humanity’s big chance to change the future,” he said. “We need radical change and we need it right now.” SCIENCE AND INNOVATION Science and innovation are needed to deliver on common goals of transforming agrifood systems to nourish people, nurture the planet, advance equitable livelihoods and build resilient ecosystems, the Director-General said. He noted the importance of developing FAO’s new thematic Strategy on Science and Innovation, to help FAO shift to a forward-looking business model that effectively supports agrifood systems transformation on the ground, he added. FAO is also in the process of developing a new thematic

Strategy on Climate Change to foster greater coherence in action for climate and biodiversity across agricultural sectors, and to support Members to better achieve their commitments under the Paris Agreement, the Director-General said. Both strategies call for and need “game-changing, innovative and wise solutions based on science and partnerships,” he added, and were “being developed in tandem to ensure complementarity.” FOOD SYSTEMS COORDINATION HUB The Director-General also announced that FAO will host the Coordination Hub for follow-up actions to the UN Food Systems Summit, saying that it was “Now time to accelerate the work at country level”. The Hub will start in early 2022 and its Oversight Group comprises the principals of FAO, the International Fund for Agricultural Development, the World Food Programme, the UN Development Coordination Office and the UN Environment Programme. The Oversight Group, of which UNEP is the current chair, will be chaired on a rotational basis. KEY FINDINGS GOING FORWARD Reflecting on his 851 days in office, the Director-General also shared some key findings moving forward with imple-

menting the new FAO Strategic Framework 2022-2031, including that connectivity is a pre-condition for inclusivity; the need to reduce food loss and waste; preventing future pandemics is a collective and coherent responsibility; smallholder and family farmers, women, youth and indigenous peoples must be at the centre of agrifood systems transformation; and the need for a holistic approach - for people, planet and prosperity. Director-General Qu also emphasised the importance of sound legal frameworks for sustainable agrifood systems, noting that FAO provides technical legislative assistance to members. QU recalled his vow to take “our work out of the castles and bring it to the people in the street”, and pointed to a 50 per cent increase since 2019 in online engagements. The total number of visitors to FAO’s website is 26 million in 2021, while social media followers now number 6.3 million, both 50 percent increases in two years and attesting to the Organization’s increased public visibility. The full speech of the Director-General in the opening session of the FAO Council can be accessed here. FAO Council 168 continues through Friday 3 December and can be followed by webcast. (FAO)

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, November 30, 2021

Bartica residents receive land titles -dozens access housing services

AFTER years of waiting, a number of Bartica residents who were allocated lands in the Five Miles Housing Scheme are now in receipt of their land titles. The titles were distributed early Monday morning during an outreach at the Bartica Community Centre Ground, where persons were able to access other housing services. Housing and Water Minister, Collin Croal is leading a team from the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) on the outreach,

Bartica resident, Luvina Jones receives her title from Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal at the Bartica Community Centre outreach

which saw persons accessing a number of services, including the lodging of new applications, updates on existing applications and other queries pertaining to boundary issues. For Luvina Jones, a widow, it’s a relief to have received her title after nine years of waiting. Jones, who was allocated a land in the Five Miles Housing Scheme, said that now that she has the title in hand, she is more at ease with respect to ownership of the land. The woman related that she is now ready to start clearing the land, and to approach a financial institution for a loan to commence construction. Similar sentiments were expressed by other persons

who were able to uplift their titles after years of waiting. Residents were also updated on development plans for their community, including the ongoing effort by the Ministry of Housing and Water’s Central Housing and Planning Authority to acquire land for allocation in the new year. The minister assured the residents of the Five Miles Housing Scheme that their water woes will be addressed in the near future. “We made a promise to you to make potable water accessible by the end of 2020; unfortunately, we were not able to deliver on that promise, because of some technical issues. Nevertheless, we have reverted to our initial plan to

install a booster pump which will resolve the issue,” he said. Minister Croal explained that two attempts were made to drill wells in the area, but they both proved futile. “I must apologise to you, but we are working assiduously to address your concern; we have ordered the booster, and it is expected in the country by the fourth week in December for installation,” the minister said. Residents were also informed that plans are still in place for the setting up of a Regional Housing Office in Bartica, which would improve the level of service persons are able to access in the region.

A section of the gathering at the Bartica Community Centre Ground

Man, 20, dies after pinned by toppled tractor

SAMUEL Singh, 20, of Don Robin, Corentyne, Berbice, Region Six, lost his life on Sunday when the tractor he was driving toppled and pinned him in a rice field at Caracas, Vryheid Village, West Canje, Berbice. Police said upon seeing this, his father, Anand Singh, sought the assis-

tance of other farmers who were nearby. They removed his lifeless body from under the tractor and took him to the New Amsterdam Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival. The body was taken to the mortuary and is awaiting a post mortem examination.

Dead: Samuel Singh

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, November 30, 2021

Day of fun, Christmas tree light-up set for Dec 18 at Linden Meanwhile, Khan, who is the owner of several local businesses including District, Level, and Publik, told the Guyana Chronicle that he has always made space for philanthropy. He disclosed that every year he prepares a budget that caters to people-centred outreaches across the country. “I've been doing similar partnerships for years now.

Businessman Ferez khan (left) hands over the cheque to CIOG General Manager Shameena Haniff and leader of the Military Information Support Team of the United States Embassy, David Giraldo (Adrian Narine photo) SOME 150 children of Maria Elizabeth/Three Friends in Linden, Region 10, will on December 18, 2021, be treated to a day of fun and Christmas tree light-up. This is being made possible by local businessman Ferez Khan, known as “Sean Major,” in collaboration with the Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana (CIOG) and the Military Information Support Team of the United States Embassy. According to CIOG General Manager Shameena Haniff, the organisation will utilise a monetary donation from Khan to put smiles on the children’s faces during the festive season. She said that the organisation visited the community in November for a medical outreach and sub-

sequently decided that a Christmas fun day will be held there. “This would have stemmed from a medical outreach that we would have had in November and given the community is quite poor and vulnerable and a lot of people don’t go to that end to do anything much, we just want to bring, we don’t want to say Christmas cheer, but just some level of entertainment to them…things that they don’t normally get,” she added. Haniff noted that the children can expect school supplies, toys, food and drinks, and a day packed with exciting games and activities, with a tree light-up as the main event. She noted that 150 children from the community will be catered for.

Throughout the year we have a budget put aside for different areas, whether it is to buy bicycles for kids up in the rural areas, or different people approach me to say we have a project that would benefit someone or a group of people and whatever our budget allows, we cater to them. What we can afford we afford,” he said. Khan expressed belief that the fun day and

tree-lighting is coming at an opportune time since the COVID-19 pandemic has put a damper on these types of celebrations. He stated that with the COVID-19 vaccination numbers picking up, he believes the time is right for this type of festive activity to be held in accordance with the "new normal." "I think everyone kind of wants an opportunity to

breathe after the last year and a half that we’ve had. I’m sure not much of these have been organised in the past year and a half, so I guess now with the COVID situation coming a bit under control here in Guyana and around the world, I’m hoping that this programme would now give us the chance to feel that sense of normalcy again," the businessman added.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, November 30, 2021

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, November 30, 2021

Restoration of Dutch forts on the cards By Naomi Parris THE Ministry of Tourism Industry and Commerce in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport and the National Trust of Guyana, will soon kick start plans for the restoration of the Dutch forts located on the Essequibo River. This was disclosed by Tourism Industry and Commerce Minister, Oneidge Walrond during a media familiarisation tour of two of the three forts over the weekend. Minister Walrond told reporters that in the early part of 2022, the ministry will be collaborating to plan a series of visits to the historical sites and identify the works needed to be done to restore them. “The Minister Charles Ramson and I, we are going to very early next year along with National Trust, we are planning visits to all of the forts. We realise that there is such keen interest in our history,” Minister Walrond said adding: “As we step out, we already saw the kinds of restoration works that has to be done and we are going to be looking at that very early in the year.”

FORT KYK-OVER-AL This fort was constructed in 1613 at the intersection of the Essequibo, Cuyuni and Mazaruni rivers. This fort, many moons ago, served as the centre for the Dutch administration of the Essequibo County, but now only the ruins of a door frame is left standing overlooking the mighty rivers.

Tourism Industry and Commerce Minister, Oneidge Walrond at Fort Kyk-Over-Al (Delano Williams photo) ty-handed. They decided stay THE DUTCH FORTS As is told by the many and establish settlements and history books, the Dutch traded in various parts of the came to Guyana in search of country, mainly in the Essethe golden city of El Dorado; quibo and Berbice regions. They began trading with however, they found no such the Amerindians, Guyana’s city in existence. Despite not finding the first people. As trading exgold they wished, they were panded, the first and oldest – not too keen on returning Fort Kyk-Over-Al, was built to their mother land emp- to protect Dutch settlements.

Duo freed of Freeman Street murder

Murder accused: Stephon Howard (left) and Shawn DosSantos TWO men who were on they murdered Shaheed, a trial for the 2017 murder 58-year-old Berbice busiof Fazal Shaheed at his nessman. Freeman Street, East La After deliberating for Penitence house, were on almost two hours, the Monday acquitted of the 12-member jury found the crime by a jury. two accused not guilty. Shawn DosSantos and They were represented Stephon Howard, who are by attorneys-at-law Nigel also residents of Freeman Hughes, Konyo SandiStreet, were on trial before ford and associate, while Justice Jo-Ann Barlow at prosecutor Cicelia Corbin the Demerara High Court represented the state. for the capital offence The Guyana Chroniwhich read that during cle had reported that on the course of a robbery Sunday, September 24, on September 24, 2017, 2017, gunmen stormed

Dead: Fazal Shaheed Shaheed’s home while relatives were making final preparations for the patriarch’s one-year memorial service. Shaheed was reportedly in the yard around 00:40hrs when the gunmen struck, while his two brothers, sisters and mother were in the house. His brothers, Talim and Shalim, who had come in from Canada and the U.S. respectively for the service, were both shot about their bodies.

FORT ZEELANDIA This fort is located at the mouth of the mighty Essequibo River on Fort Island. The island also houses the Court of Policy or Dutch Church. Fort Zeelandia was constructed in 1744 to protect the interests of the Dutch West India Company from European rivals such as the English and French and served as a stronghold against inter-

The remaining structure of Fort Zeelandia located on Fort Island (Delano Williams photo) nal forces such as rebellious built with wood and enclosed with palisades, an slaves. irregular rectangular redoubt and a barrack house. FORT NASSAU Built in 1627, this fort To date only the foundation was the capital of the Dutch of the above structures recolony of Berbice. It was main.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, November 30, 2021

Two more trucks to help with holiday garbage

FOR years now, proper disposal of garbage in Georgetown has been a challenge not only to the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) but to residents who live and work in the municipality.

A major contributing factor, over time, has been the irresponsible dumping of refuse by store owners and other businesses. To date, those individuals in the City’s commercial areas continue to disregard the

pleas of the Council to have a proper disposal system in place. “They don’t have receptacles, so they just leave the stuff out… As much as we try to advocate for them to get bins, they just have makeshift ones like

Head of Solid Waste Management Walter Narine boxes and plastic,” Head of the City’s Solid Waste Management Department Walter Narine said on Monday. Unable to persuade the business owners in this regard, the Council recently took a decision to provide a second clearance in the commercial areas during the period of November 15 to February 4 to cater for increased garbage during the holiday season. This means that all of the streets in the commercial areas are being cleared in the morning at 08:00hrs, and then again at 18:00 hrs. In between these times, the practice of store owners to leave their garbage in front of their stores, on pavements, and parapets continues to create an eyesore to residents and shoppers. In an interview with the Guyana Chronicle, Narine stressed that the City Council ensures that it cleans the

area twice daily. As his department continues to manage three groups in Georgetown, the garbage contractors attached to the M&CC have been doing a fairly good job so far, he observed. “No system is perfect; there is room for improvement all the time, but, generally, it’s doing good,” Narine said. According to him, the Council recently approved the purchase of two additional garbage trucks, which should be in operation before mid-December. These were purchased primarily for picking up parapet wastes. “This will be a tremendous boost to the City, and save the Council money, because we’ll do it ourselves. What we really want to achieve this year is a clean Christmas; a clean season. We don’t want to have pockets of garbage anywhere,” Narine stated. The Ministry of Public Works has also been spearhead-

ing an enhancement initiative in the City, and has been assisting the City Council with internal drainage in Queenstown, Alberttown, and on Regent Street and other locations. “This is assisting the Council greatly, because we’re heading into the rainy season, and we really don’t want to have any flooding,” Mr. Narine said. Beginning today, Narine and team will be installing garbage receptacles in six avenues of the City. Earlier this year, Narine had lamented that market waste, especially in the environs of Bourda, along with an increase in coconut shells that are being dumped on just about any open space in the City, was significantly affecting the work of the Council. The majority of the vendors who engage in this practice do not live in Georgetown, but are merely here to sell their produce. As such, Narine had said that they have no regard for the environs in which they operate daily. In fact, all they seem to be concerned about is that their garbage is being removed at a very minimal cost, such as by employing the services of social rejects to do the dumping for them. “Nobody comes forward with a video or a picture of somebody dumping at these sites so we can arrest them; nobody does that. When there’s an accumulation, then all the blame comes on City Hall’s shoulders, and it’s unfair. It’s a fight to get out of this scourge of dumping garbage all over and anywhere,” Narine said as he recalled how the notorious 2005 floods happened not only because of overtopping, but due to clogged drains as well.

Beginning today, garbage receptacles will be installed in six avenues of the City

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday, November 30, 2021

Man to stand trial for brother-in-law’s murder

Martin Blair

Dead : Daniel Boutrin

MARTIN Blair was on Monday committed to stand trial at the High Court for the murder of his 23-year-old brotherin-law Daniel Boutrin, who was stabbed to death during an argument earlier this year. Blair, 23, of ‘D’ Field, Sophia, was committed by Magistrate Rochelle Liverpool at the Sparendaam Magistrate’s Court following the closure of the preliminary inquiry (PI) into the matter. According to the Statement of Offence, Blair, between March 13, 2021 and March 15, 2021 at ‘D’ Field, Sophia, murdered Boutrin. Magistrate Liverpool ruled that a prima facie case had been made out against Blair for him to be tried at the High Court. He will go

on trial at the next practical sitting of the Demerara Assizes and will remain on remand. The Guyana Chronicle had reported that on March 13, at ‘D’ Field, Sophia, the two youngsters got into an argument over a bicycle Boutrin had borrowed last year and subsequently lost. Blair became annoyed and armed himself with a knife, while Boutrin armed himself with a cutlass. However, Blair’s parents intervened and asked Boutrin to leave. As Boutrin was about to enter a taxi, he was attacked by Blair and stabbed several times with a knife. Boutrin was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital and died on March 15 while receiving treatment.

Woman freed of rape charge SHERRYANN Bashier was on Monday freed of a rape charge by the Sexual Offences Court of the Suddie High Court after a jury returned a not-guilty verdict. Bashier was on trial before Justice Priya Sewnarine-Beharry for the offence which alleged that between November

11-12, 2015, in the County of Essequibo, she caused a 15-year-old girl to engage in sexual penetration with a male. On Monday, the jury after deliberating for almost two hours returned with the unanimous verdict. The state was represented by prosecutor Tiffini Lyken.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday November 30, 2021

Ashwin becomes India’s third highest wicket-taker in Tests Ravichandran Ashwin on Monday became India's third-highest alltime wicket-taker in Test cricket, surpassing veteran off-spinner Harbhajan Singh in the elite list. He achieved this feat on Day five of the first Test between India and New Zealand at the Green Park Stadium in Kanpur. He dis-

missed the Kiwi vice-captain Tom Latham to reach the milestone. Ahead of the first Test, Ashwin needed five wickets to pip Harbhajan Singh's tally of 417 wickets in the longest format of the game. In the first innings, Ashwin had taken three wickets to take his tally of wickets to 416. In the second innings, he dismissed Kiwi openers Will Young just ahead of

stumps on Day four, before castling Latham in the second session of the final day. Only Anil Kumble and Kapil Dev have taken more wickets for India in the whites than Ashwin (418). Kumble, the legendary leg-spinner, had registered 619 scalps in 132 Tests while the former Indian skipper, Kapil Dev, had scalped 434 wickets in 131 appearances.

Nissanka shines but rain... for the first wicket. Unbeaten on 27 at the break, Nissanka progressed well afterwards, smashing left-arm spinner Veerasammy Permaul – playing only his first Test in six years – for a six over long off to move into the 40s before taking a single to the deep a few overs later off the same bowler, to raise his third Test half-century. All told, the right-hander has faced 109 deliveries and counted four fours and a six. Karunaratne, meanwhile, coming off a hundred and a half-century in the first Test, faced 90 balls and struck half-dozen fours before punching a

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return catch to off-spinner Roston Chase, after finding the boundary on either side of the wicket earlier in the

over. Only 22 more deliveries were possible in the day before fading light

(From back page)

ended play prematurely, with new batsman Oshada Fernando unbeaten on two.

SCOREBOARD SRI LANKA 1st Innings

P Nissanka not out 61 *D Karunaratne c & b Chase 42 O Fernando not out 2 Extras (lb7, nb1) 8 TOTAL (1 wkt, 34.4 overs) 113 To bat: A Mathews, Dhananjaya de Silva, +D Chandimal, R Mendis, S Lakmal, C Asalanka, L Embuldeniya, P Jayawickrama Fall of wickets: 1-106 Bowling: Roach 6-2-12-0, Holder 8-2-23-0, Mayers 2-0-13-0, Permaul 5-0-18-0, Chase 7.4-0-33-1, Warrican 6-3-7-0. WEST INDIES – Kraigg Brathwaite (captain), Shai Hope, Nkrumah Bonner, Roston Chase, Jermaine Blackwood, Kyle Mayers, Joshua da Silva, Jason Holder, Kemar Roach, Veerasammy Permaul, Jomel Warrican

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday November 30, 2021

Debutant Ravindra, Patel save NZ in first Test thriller (REUTERS)-Debutant Rachin Ravindra and No.11 batter Ajaz Patel have survived intense pressure to help New Zealand draw the opening Test in a thrilling finish against India in Kanpur. Chasing a target of 284 for victory on the final day, the Kiwis slumped to 9-155 with nearly nine overs to go and an upbeat India was pressing for victory in fading light. But Ravindra and Patel batted resolutely to deny India and guided New Zealand to 9-165 when bad light stopped play. The 22-year-old faced 91 balls for his 18 not out, while Patel survived 23 balls to be unbeaten on two. Tom Latham top-scored for New Zealand with 52 from 146 balls, but it was the unbroken last-wicket partnership that saved the Test. "It has been touch and go around this time throughout this Test," New Zealand captain Kane Williamson said after the match. "The Indian side is a formidable one, they were on top for the large part, but we hung around. "All three results were in play, but we fought hard and

New Zealand's 22-year-old debutant Rachin Ravindra batted for 91 balls on day five to save the first Test // BCCI/Sportzpics

showed the fight on the last day." After a wicketless morning session, India claimed three wickets in the second session to take charge of the final day on a deteriorating pitch. Spinners Ravindra Jadeja (4-40) and Ravichandran Ashwin (3-35) took the bulk of the wickets for the hosts, sending down 28 and 30 overs respectively in New Zealand's second-innings. "Very good game of cricket, they played really well," India captain Ajinkya Rahane said. "I think the way we came

back in the second session was very good." Asked about his chat with the umpires when the light was being checked, Rahane said: "As a fielding team, you want to bowl more overs, as a batting unit you don't want to bat in that situation. "The chat was about the light, but umpires made the call and I thought they were right." India batsman Shreyas Iyer was awarded playerof-the-match for smashing a century and a fifty in his debut Test. The second and final Test starts in Mumbai on Friday.

SCOREBOARD

INDIA 1st innings 345 New Zealand 1st innings 296 India 2nd innings

Mayank Agarwal c Tom Latham b Tim Southee 17 Shubman Gill b Kyle Jamieson 1 Cheteshwar Pujara c Tom Blundell b Kyle Jamieson 22 Ajinkya Rahane lbw Ajaz Patel 4 Shreyas Iyer c Tom Blundell b Tim Southee 65 Ravindra Jadeja lbw Tim Southee 0 Ravichandran Ashwin b Kyle Jamieson 32 Wriddhiman Saha Not Out 61 Axar Patel Not Out 28 Extras 3b 1lb 0nb 0pen 0w 4 Total (81.0 overs) 234 decl Fall of Wickets: 1-2 Gill, 2-32 Pujara, 3-41 Rahane, 4-51 Agarwal, 5-51 Jadeja, 6-103 Ashwin, 7-167 Iyer Did Not Bat: Sharma, Yadav Bowling: Tim Southee 22 - 2 - 75 - 3, Kyle Jamieson 17 - 6 - 40 - 3, Ajaz Patel 17 - 3 - 60 - 1, Rachin Ravindra 9 - 3 - 17 - 0, William Somerville 16 - 2 - 38 - 0.

NEW ZEALAND 2nd innings

Tom Latham b Ravichandran Ashwin 52 Will Young lbw Ravichandran Ashwin 2 William Somerville c Shubman Gill b Umesh Yadav 36 Kane Williamson lbw Ravindra Jadeja 24 Ross Taylor lbw Ravindra Jadeja 2 Henry Nicholls lbw Axar Patel 1 Tom Blundell b Ravichandran Ashwin 2 Rachin Ravindra Not Out 18 Kyle Jamieson lbw Ravindra Jadeja 5 Tim Southee lbw Ravindra Jadeja 4 Ajaz Patel Not Out 2 Extras 12b 1lb 4nb 0pen 0w 17 Total (98.0 overs) 165-9 Fall of Wickets: 1-3 Young, 2-79 Somerville, 3-118 Latham, 4-125 Taylor, 5-126 Nicholls, 6-128 Williamson, 7-138 Blundell, 8-147 Jamieson, 9-155 Southee Bowling: Ravichandran Ashwin 30 – 1235 - 3, Axar Patel 21 - 12 - 23 - 1, Umesh Yadav 12 - 2 - 34 - 1, Ishant Sharma 7 - 1 - 20 - 0 (2nb), Ravindra Jadeja 28 - 10 - 40 - 4 (2nb).

Pakistan closing in on victory over Bangladesh PAKISTAN openers Abid Ali and Abdullah Shafique hit unbeaten fifties as Pakistan move to within 93 runs of victory over Bangladesh in first Test; Shahen Shah Afridi earlier completed five-wicket haul as Tigers dismissed for 157 in second innings in Chittagong. Shaheen's fourth five-wicket haul in Tests saw Bangladesh dismissed for 157 in their second innings, leaving Pakistan a target of 202 for victory. Visiting openers Abid Ali (56no) and Abdullah Shafique (53no) then helped Pakistan reach 109-0 at stumps, with the tourists now just 93 runs from a 1-0 lead in the two-match series. Bangladesh led by 44 on first innings after scoring 330 and then bowling Pakistan out for 286 but the hosts were rolled in their second knock as left-arm paceman Shaheen came to the fore. Shaheen's three-wicket burst on day three had reduced Bangladesh to 25-4 and he then struck twice in an over on day four, dismissing top-scorer Liton Das (59) and tailender Abu Jayed (0), amid the hosts losing their last four wickets for four runs to tumble from 153-6.

Pakistan openers Abid Ali and Abdullah Shafique have so far shared an unbroken opening stand of 109.

Ali and Shafique then brought up their second century partnership in the match, having shared an opening stand of 146 in the first innings before Ali went on to score 133. Liton, who hit a first-innings century for Bangladesh, put on an unbeaten 47 with Yasir Ali in the second innings before the latter was withdrawn from the game after being struck on the back of the head by an Afridi bouncer. Afridi went on to pin Liton lbw and then had Jayed caught behind by wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan, before Sajid Khan (3-33)

wrapped up the Bangladesh innings. Fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi claimed 5-32 before Pakistan closed in on victory over Bangladesh in the first Test in Chittagong. Shaheen's fourth five-wicket haul in Tests saw Bangladesh dismissed for 157 in their second innings, leaving Pakistan a target of 202 for victory. Visiting openers Abid Ali (56no) and Abdullah Shafique (53no) then helped Pakistan reach 109-0 at stumps, with the tourists now just 93 runs from a 1-0 lead in the two-match series. (Sky Sports)

SCOREBOARD

BANGLADESH 1st innings 330 Pakistan 1st innings Abid Ali lbw Taijul Islam 133 Abdullah Shafique lbw Taijul Islam 52 Azhar Ali lbw Taijul Islam 0 Babar Azam b Mehidy Hasan 10 Fawad Alam c Liton Das b Taijul Islam 8 Mohammad Rizwan lbw Ebadot Hossain 5 Faheem Ashraf c Liton Das b Taijul Islam 38 Hassan Ali st Liton Das b Taijul Islam 12 Sajid Khan b Ebadot Hossain 5 Nauman Ali lbw Taijul Islam 8 Shaheen Afridi Not Out 13 Extras 1b 1lb 0nb 0pen 0w 2 Total (115.4 overs) 286 all out Fall of Wickets: 1-146 Shafique, 2-146 Ali, 3-169 Azam, 4-182 Alam, 5-207 Rizwan, 6-217 Ali, 7-229 Ali, 8-240 Khan, 9-257 Ali, 10-286 Ashraf Bowling: Abu Jayed 12 - 0 - 41 - 0, Ebadot Hossain 26 - 7 - 47 - 2, Taijul Islam 44.4 - 9 - 116 - 7, Mehidy Hasan 30 - 7 - 68 - 1, Mominul Haque 3 0 12 0 4.00 BANGLADESH 2nd innings Shadman Islam lbw Shaheen Afridi 1 Saif Hassan c&b Shaheen Afridi 18 Najmul Hossain Shanto c Abdullah Shafique b Shaheen Afridi 0 Mominul Haque c Azhar Ali b Hassan Ali 0 Mushfiqur Rahim b Hassan Ali 16

Yasir Ali Retired Hurt 36 Liton Das lbw Shaheen Afridi 59 Mehidy Hasan lbw Sajid Khan 11 Nurul Hasan c Faheem Ashraf b Sajid Khan 15 Taijul Islam st Mohammad Rizwan b Sajid Khan 0 Abu Jayed c Mohammad Rizwan b Shaheen Afridi 0 Ebadot Hossain Not Out 0 Extras 1b 0lb 0nb 0pen 0w 1 Total (56.2 overs) 157 all out Fall of Wickets: 1-14 Anik, 2-14 Shanto, 3-15 Haque, 4-25 Hassan, 5-43 Rahim, 6-115 Miraz, 7-153 Hasan, 8-157 Das, 9-157 Chowdhury, 10-157 Islam Bowling: Shaheen Afridi 15 - 8 - 32 - 5, Hassan Ali 11 - 0- 52- 2, Faheem Ashraf 8 - 3 - 16 - 0, Nauman Ali 9 - 3 - 23 - 0, Sajid Khan 13.2 - 1 - 33 - 3. PAKISTAN 2nd innings Abid Ali Not Out 56 Abdullah Shafique Not Out 53 Extras 0b 0lb 0nb 0pen 0w 0 Total (33.0 overs) 109-0 Bowling: Taijul Islam 16 - 3 - 37 - 0, Ebadot Hossain 5 - 1- 23 - 0 , Mehidy Hasan 10 - 2 - 36 - 0, Abu Jayed 2 - 0 - 13 - 0.

CSA confident to host India amid tensions over Covid-19 variant

South Africa cricketers

CRICKET South Africa (CSA) is positive about hosting India for the upcoming series despite the sharp upsurge of Covid-19 cases in the country and the emergence of a new variant Omicron, which has led to the postponement/cancellation of multiple sporting events already. While it is understood that both BCCI and CSA are constantly in talks, the cancellation of the Women’s World Cup qualifiers in Zimbabwe and the postponement of the Netherlands ODIs right before the start of the India tour does not infuse promise. Various nations have already shut their borders on South Africa, while India has called for rigorous testing of travellers from all the African nations, where the infections of the new variant have been majorly reported so far. Amidst this, however, the CSA’s acting chief executive officer Pholetsi Moseki is hopeful that the series will go as per plans. “We’ve been engaging with them (the BCCI) and they are very keen to come,”

Moseki was quoted by ESPNcricinfo. “Our government is very keen to support us and to reassure our Indian counterparts. Everything is on track.” “India A is still in the country and there isn’t a sign of them leaving. They’re still committed and they’re expecting the tour to go ahead,” he said. “The tour is definitely still on and there’s no reason for it not to go on unless we’re blindsided by something we’re not expecting. Moseki is also confident about the bio-secure arrangements in place to ensure the well-begin of all the players. “We had prepared for two BSEs. We learnt a lot from the England tour last year. When we planned for this tour, we always planned for Gauteng and Cape Town, because of the quantity of games,” Moseki said. “The plan is to charter a flight from Jo’burg to Cape Town. That was always the plan, even before this new variant.” South Africa have undergone heavy financial losses over the last year following the cancelled home series

against England and Australia. While England travelled back home, abandoning the three-ODI series in December 2020 after the emergence of cases inside the bio-secure environment, Australia never showed up for the three-Test series in March 2021 owing to the then-ongoing second wave of the pandemic in the country. “We jacked up our bio-bubbles after that and the spectator matter is something that’s not in our control. Once we are sorted with the Netherlands matter, we’ll communicate further with the tour to show that there is a commitment for the tour to take place. We can play without spectators in the same way we did against Pakistan and Sri Lanka because the government knows we prepare strong bio-bubbles,” Moseki said. “If the tour doesn’t happen, it will definitely put us in a difficult position. We will have to put some programmes on pause. We will be in a difficult position for a year or two,” he added. (CricTracker)

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday November 30, 2021

Curry beats three-pointer record in Warriors win over LA Clippers STEPHEN Curry inspired the Golden State Warriors to a seventh straight victory as he scored 33 points in a 105-90 win over the Los Angeles Clippers. Curry scored seven three pointers to take his tally to 105 in 19 games. In doing so, he broke his own record for the fastest player to reach 100 three pointers in a season. The Warriors, who have the best record in the NBA with 18 wins and two losses, next play the Phoenix Suns, who have won their past 16 games. Curry scored 13 points, which included a burst of scoring after he felt aggrieved at not being awarded a foul, in the fourth quarter. "I thought I got fouled so I wanted to let the emotions out and then you let it go and

Stephen Curry is a two-time NBA MVP.

then you just play basketball," said Curry. "For me individually and for our team, I think we fuelled off of that and just worried about putting the ball in the basket and that's when the avalanche started." LeBron James also scored 33 points to help Los Angeles Lakers beat the Detroit Pistons 110-106, while Giannis Antetokounmpo contributed

26 points and 13 rebounds for the Milwaukee Bucks as they earned a 118-100 victory over the Indiana Pacers. The Memphis Grizzlies, helped by 21 points from Dillon Brooks, saw off the Sacramento Kings 128-101 and the Boston Celtics registered a fourth win in six games with a 109-97 victory over the Toronto Raptors. (BBC Sport)

Manchester United appoint Ralf Rangnick as interim manager MANCHESTER United have appointed Ralf Rangnick as their interim manager until the end of the season, subject to work visa requirements. The 63-year-old takes over from Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who was sacked on 21 November following a defeat by Watford. Rangnick has left his role as head of sports and development at Russian club Lokomotiv Moscow to take up the job. "I am excited to be joining Manchester United and focused on making this a successful season," said Rangnick. Following the end of this season, Rangnick will stay on at Old Trafford for an additional two years in a consultancy role. His first game in charge of United, who are eighth in the Premier League,

Manchester United said Ralf Rangnick was the club's number one candidate for interim manager.

could be against Arsenal on Thursday if his work permit application is received in time. If not, temporary manager Michael Carrick will remain in charge of the side. "The squad is full of talent and has a great balance of youth and experience," added Rangnick. B"All my efforts for the next six months will be on

helping these players fulfil their potential, both individually and, most importantly, as a team. Rangnick has built an impressive coaching reputation during his time in Germany, with both Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp and Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel speaking highly about their compatriot. (BBC Sport)

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday November 30, 2021

FIFA Club World Cup Palmeiras retain Copa dates 'disrespectful' Libertadores after Deyverson's extra-time winner to Africa, says Mido PALMEIRAS won the Copa Libertadores for the second year in a row when an extra-time goal from Deyverson gave them a 2-1 win over Flamengo in an absorbing all-Brazilian final on Saturday. It is the third time the Sao Paulo club have won South America's equivalent of Europe's Champions League following victories in 1999 and 2020. Raphael Veiga put Palmeiras ahead after five minutes when he side-footed home a cross from the right but Gabriel Barbosa equalised for Flamengo with 18 minutes remaining. However, Deyverson took advantage of slack defending by Manchester United loanee Andreas Pereira to steal the ball 30 metres from goal and then coolly beat goalkeeper Diego Alves five minutes into extra time. A counter-attack started by defender Gustavo Gomez found right back Mayke free and onside thanks to

Bayern Munich won the 2020 edition of the Club World Cup, which was postponed until February 2021 because of the coronavirus pandemic. Palmeiras celebrate with the trophy after beating Flamengo 2-1 in the Copa Libertadores finalon Saturday

Flamengo defender David Luiz. Mayke's low cross reached Veiga, and he put it past goalkeeper Diego Alves. Assisted by Giorgian de Arrascaeta, Barbosa - the man nicknamed Gabigol - scored from close range against goalkeeper Weverton, who was not quick enough to block the shot. It didn't take long for

Palmeiras to regain the upper hand as the game headed into half an hour of extra time. A slip by Pereira allowed Deyverson - who replaced a fatigued Veiga minutes before - to drive into the area before and calmly beating goalkeeper Alves. Deyverson returned to Palmeiras in June after a loan to Alaves, and was in tears after his first goal in

this Copa edition. The result is a personal triumph for Palmeiras' Portuguese coach Abel Ferreira, who has become the first European to win the Libertadores twice. It is also the first time a team has successfully defended the Libertadores title since Boca Juniors in 2001. (Sky Sports)

Joshua refuses to rule out stepping aside to let Fury fight Usyk ANTHONY Joshua says he would consider stepping aside from his rematch with Oleksandr Usyk to allow the Ukrainian to fight Tyson Fury. Joshua is set to fight Usyk for a second time in early 2022 after losing to the 34-year-old, who claimed the WBA, WBO and IBF belts on a unanimous points decision at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in September. WBC Champion Tyson Fury, after defeating Deontay Wilder in the final bout of a gruelling trilogy, is waiting on a decision whether a title fight will be ordered with Dillian Whyte, who wants to be sanctioned as the mandatory challenger. However, Fury's ambition is to fight Usyk in a

battle to become the undisputed champion, leading to calls from the 'Gypsy King' for his fellow Englishman Joshua to step aside. For the first time a Fury-Usyk bout seems a possibility, with Joshua conceding he would consider skipping the sequel temporarily for both respect in boxing and financial gain. "I think people know not to approach me with that rubbish," Joshua told IFL TV when asked if he had been offered a deal to skip the rematch. "That is bulls***. It may have come to my team, but they know not to bring that to me. "Let me be real, it's not about the money, it's about the respect. What I want out of this game, number one is respect. You don't have to like me, but you will respect me.

"Second thing is to go down as a throwback fighter, somebody who was willing to fight the best in their division so people know me as a true fighter. "In terms of [stepping] aside, I don't know if that goes in line with what I morally stand for. But let me be real, I want to be known as one of the smartest businessmen as well. "I used to watch Tyson, Holyfield, Bowe, we all know the stories of NFL players, basketball players, they make bad decisions. I wanted to make sure I make the smart moves when it comes to this business. If the money is right, you have to look at it. "You have to look at it. But respect to me has a lot more value than money. Respect first, what I'm known for when I leave this divi-

Anthony Joshua is set to fight Usyk for a second time in early 2022.

sion, then being the smartest businessman in my career. "That step aside thing, it may not go with what I stand for in terms of bringing me respect, fighting the best, but it may make sense for business." (Sportsmax)

THE new scheduling of the FIFA Club World Cup is "disrespectful" to Africa, according to former Egypt international Mido. The world governing body's tournament was due to take place in December but is now set to be held from 3-12 February in the United Arab Emirates after original hosts Japan pulled out because of the Covid-19 pandemic. The revised dates clash with the culmination of the Africa Cup of Nations, which will see the continent's national champions decided in the final on 6 February in Cameroon. Egyptians Al Ahly will be Africa's representatives in the UAE and could be without several players depending on their respective countries' progress at the Nations Cup. "FIFA deciding to hold the Club World Cup while Afcon is going on is a sign of disrespect to African football," former Ajax and Tottenham striker Mido said on Twitter. "It wouldn't have been the case with the Euros or Copa America." The Club World Cup sees the winners of the continental cups in FIFA's six confederations, along with the UAE league champions, compete to become world club cham-

pions. Al Ahly says its participation in the tournament will be impacted as the club expects to have "more than seven players" in the Egypt squad for the Nations Cup, along with three other internationals on duty in Cameroon. The Cairo-based outfit will write official letters to the Egyptian FA, Nations Cup organisers Confederation of African Football and Fifa on Tuesday, requesting the three bodies "collaborate to resolve the clash of dates" between the two events. Al Ahly, holders of the African Champions League, will face CF Monterrey of Mexico when they enter the Club World Cup in the second round, which is likely to take place on the same day as the Nations Cup final. The winners of that match will play newly-crowned Copa Libertadores champions Palmeiras in the semi-finals, while European champions Chelsea take on either Al Hilal, Al Jazira or Auckland City in the other last-four tie. The Blues may be missing goalkeeper Edouard Mendy and winger Hakim Ziyech if Senegal and Morocco respectively have good runs at the Nations Cup. (BBC Sport)

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday November 30, 2021

Tenelec Inc pumps $US5400 into Berbice cricket for two tournaments ‒ Foster unveils plans to produce ten West Indies players at all levels in two years

Bobby Deonarine of Tenelec Inc hands over sponsorship cheque to BCB Secretary, Angela Haniff, in the presence of other executives and Under-15 players

Bobby Deonarine receives a gift from BCB Secretary, Angela Haniff

"On behalf of the Berbice Cricket Board, I would like to welcome you back as an official sponsor of our cricket and I am confident that your investment would assist us to produce more international players like you did in the past. Berbice cricket is now widely considered the role model of cricket administration and we look forward to working along with you and Tenelec Inc to lift it even further" the words of BCB president Hilbert Foster at a

ber Park, Rose Hall Canje, Young Warriors, Albion, RHT Namilco Thunderbolt Flour, Port Mourant ,Upper Corentyne and Skeldon. The BCB is to consider a team from the Berbice Riverine area but a final decision will be made early next year by the executives. Among the players expected to play in the tournament are Romario Shepherd, Kevin Sinclair, Gudakesh Motie, Veersammy Permaul, Kevlon Anderson, Nial Smith, Shimron Hetmy-

simple presentation ceremony at the Albion ground as overseas Guyanese, Bobby Deonarine, handed over a cheque for US$5400.00 on behalf of his company, Tenelec Inc. The sponsorship would be used to host a knockout fifty-over tournament for the county’s eleven first division teams and a round-robin Under-15 tournament with sixteen teams competing. Foster disclosed that despite the ongoing rainy season, a total of six matches have been played to date and

the tournament would be used to select the Berbice team for the 2022 Under-15 Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) tournament. Among the teams in the Tenelec Under-15 tournament are Achievers, Cotton Tree, Tucber Park, Guymine, Mt Sinai, Albion, Rose Hall Canje, RHTYSC, Port Mourant and Upper Corentyne. The fifty-over knock-out tournament will be played in early 2022 and contesting teams include Blairmont, West Berbice,Police, Tuc-

er, Anthony Bramble, Keon Joseph, Jonathan Foo and Devendra Bishoo. Foster reassured Deonarine, who is an uncle of former West Indies Test player, Narsingh Deonarine, that the tournaments will be well organised and completed on time. The BCB president, who is also a vice president of the GCB, stated that the board was committed to hosting at least four major first division tournaments in 2022 and a total of at least 30 at all levels including juniors,

seniors, internal zones and females. Deonarine stated that he was delighted to be back with the BCB and expressed confidence in the current executives led by Foster. Berbice cricket, he stated was very special to him and he would continue to invest as long as he can. Tenelec Inc is co-owned by Bobby Deonarine and Tom Gruentzel. It provides services to the American public in the electrical and telecom sector.

GFF and GNWFA launch Women’s Super 16 Festival THE Guyana Football Federation (GFF) and Guyana

National Women’s Football Association (GNWFA)

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Tuesday November 30, 2021)

COMPLIMENTS OF CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) 9 West Indians (2) 10 Sri Lankans Today’s Quiz: (1) Where and when did the WI defeat SL in a Test for the first time? (2) Where and when did SL gain a Test victory over the WI for the first time? Answers in tomorrow’s issue

have officially launched the GFF-GNWFA Women’s Super 16 Festival 2021, alongside a public campaign against domestic abuse, as part of the GFF’s plans for the safe return of senior football over the year-end holiday season. Sixteen teams from across Guyana will do battle for the nation’s first female year-end title, which will feature the cream of women’s football talent, including several domestic-based ‘Lady Jags’. The tournament will promote the tagline “We rise against domestic violence” to raise awareness about maleon-female abuse and inspire change across society. “The true power of football to change lives, bring people together and create hope is only

possible when women and girls are given equitable access to the game and its developmental resources,” said GFF President Wayne Forde. “The inaugural Women’s Super 16 Festival 2021 is only the first step in bringing about the much- needed institutional changes that are necessary to lift the profile of female football across Guyana,” Forde added. “While we still have a far way to go, we are determined to change the landscape for women’s football in the coming years.” GNWFA President, Andrea Johnson, said the tournament will revive “women’s football in spectacular way” after the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. “This year-end tournament

GFF president, Wayne Forde

will see 16 teams from the coastland and hinterland regions battling for supremacy and vying for over one million dollars in cash and prizes,” Johnson said. “The teams and players are extremely elated to participate after being dormant for more than a year because of the pandemic. This is the first time we will be having more than five

hinterland teams participating.” “It promises to be electrifying and thrilling,” she elaborated. “Throughout the four weeks that this tournament will be played, we will witness in action Annalisa Vincent, Lakeisha Pearson, Shamaya Daniels, Shanic Thornhill and others. The tournament will be played under the tagline ‘We Rise Against Domestic Violence’ because we want the public to know that it’s not okay to abuse a spouse.” The tournament will kick off in St Cuthbert’s Mission on December 11, with the final slated for January 2nd at the GFF National Training Centre. Other matches will be played across the country, including in Georgetown, Leonora and Bartica. (GFF release)

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday November 30, 2021

Bowling changes aimed at winning second Test: Estwick GALLE, Sri Lanka, (CMC) – West Indies are hoping the two tactical changes to their bowling attack pay dividends in the second Test and help them level the two-match series against Sri Lanka. Following their heavy 187-run defeat in the opening Test last week, the Caribbean side have brought in

bit too wide. “He needed to be on the stumps a little bit more challenging the outside and inside edge. “I had a discussion with him, he’s in total agreement and he’ll come tomorrow and make the adjustment.” The 32-year-old Permaul played the last of his six Tests six years ago, and has

Left-arm spinner Veerasammy Permaul … included for his first Test in six years.

left-arm spinner Veerasammy Permaul and veteran seamer Kemar Roach, replacing off-spinner Rahkeem Cornwall and speedster Shannon Gabriel. Only 2-½ hours play in the final session was possible on Monday’s opening day due to rain, with the hosts reaching 113 for one after choosing to bat. “When you look at the Sri Lankan batting lineup, they’re packed with right-handers and we felt that with Roston (Chase) already bowling off-spin, it would’ve been wiser to go in with the two leftarm spinners,” Estwick explained I thought Jomel Warrican, in the few overs he bowled this evening, looked threatening. He went past the bat a lot. “Permaul obviously coming back from being out of Test cricket for a while, I thought he looked good initially but then a change of field meant he went a little

taken 18 wickets at 43 runs apiece. Warrican featured in the first Test alongside Chase and Cornwall, with Gabriel and former skipper Jason Holder providing the main seam options. However, the attack proved ineffective on a slow, turning track, Sri Lanka gathering totals of 386 and 191 for four declared, en route to a day five win. Cornwall took two wickets from 42 overs in the first Test but Estwick clarified these returns had not been the reason for his exclusion. “We felt it would’ve been wiser to go with a bowler spinning it away from the [right-hander’s] bat and that’s what the decision was based on,” he stressed. “It was not based on how well he bowled or didn’t bowl in the last Test match. It’s just that we’re looking to win this Test match and we’re looking for the best combination possible.” Roach surprisingly sat

out in the first Test as selectors opted for Gabriel’s express pace. However, the Trinidadian claimed just two wickets from 19 overs in the first innings before sending down another four overs in the second innings and leaving the field. Roach is the leading Windies fast bowler with

231 wickets from 67 Tests, just four scalps behind the legendary Sir Garry Sobers who is seventh on the alltime list. Estwick said the plan had always been to rotate Roach and Gabriel, to keep the seam element of the attack “fresh”. “Obviously with a short turnaround, there’s three

days between Test matches. Obviously there’s been a lot of rain around Galle and the fields are a little bit heavy so it’s very, very taxing on the fast bowler’s body,” Estwick pointed out. “Kemar didn’t play in the first Test and that was planned … [that] he would come in for the second Test and keep the bowlers fresh.

“You’ve now got to manage your bowlers especially with the short turnaround time. Before, you’d have eight or ten days between Test matches – that’s a thing of the past. “So you’ve got to make sure all the bowlers are up and when they’re called upon, they’re ready to go.”

Messi wins record seventh men’s Ballon d'Or

Lionel Messi poses after being awarded the the Ballon d'Or (Image credit: Getty Images)

Paris St-Germain and Argentina forward Lionel Messi won the Ballon d'Or - awarded to the best footballer of the year for a record seventh time. Messi, 34, helped his country win the Copa America, his first international honour, and has scored 40 goals in 2021 - 28 for Barcelona, four for Paris St-Germain and eight for Argentina. Bayern Munich and Poland striker Robert Lewandowski came second, Chelsea and Italy midfielder Jorginho was third

and Real Madrid's French striker Karim Benzema finished fourth. The Ballon d'Or is voted for by 180 journalists from around the world, although there was no award in 2020 because of the coronavirus pandemic. Either Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo (five wins) collected the award every year from 2008 to 2019, apart from in 2018 when Croatia midfielder Luka Modric won it. Messi had already won the trophy more times than any other

Nissanka shines but rain spoils opening day of second Test

player and his seventh success comes after wins in 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2015 and 2019. Lewandowski, who scored 53 goals in all competitions in 2021 for Bayern, was awarded the Striker of the Year prize, a new award that was only announced hours before the ceremony began. Paris St-Germain's Gianluigi Donnarumma, who helped Italy win Euro 2020, won the Yashin Trophy for best goalkeeper, while Champions League winners Chelsea were named Club of the Year.

Pathum Nissanka was positive almost from the outset in his unbeaten 61 (AFP/Getty Images)

GALLE, Sri Lanka, (CMC) – Persistent rain wrecked the opening day of the second Test here Monday, allowing only 2-½ hours play and frustrating West Indies’ hopes of making inroads in their search for a series-levelling win. The inclement weather forced the abandonment of the first two sessions at Galle International Stadium but Sri Lanka made the most of the nearly 35 overs possible, reaching 113 for one, with opener Pathum Nissanka unbeaten on 61. Captain Dimuth Karunaratne missed out on another half-century when he perished for 42 as West Indies struggled for wickets after play finally got underway at 3 pm. Despite the lack of breakthroughs, assistant coach Roddy Estwick said the Caribbean side’s bowlers had been focused in their approach. I thought it was good. We could’ve been a little better, with maybe a little but too

many boundary balls but I thought that Kemar (Roach) and Jason (Holder), bowling 13 overs on the trot, went past the bat quite a bit,” Estwick pointed out. “Their captain (Karunaratne) is in good form [but] we stuck to our plans well. We wanted to take the stumps out the equation and make him hit the ball through the offside and I think we achieved that. “He scored 40-odd off 90 balls so I thought all in all we bowled well. We could’ve gotten one or two more wickets but that’s how cricket goes. “We’ll come tomorrow, we’ll work hard. We’ll make sure we keep reviewing our plans and then go out and try to execute them.” Roach, who replaced Shannon Gabriel, paired with Holder to ensure a testing first hour for the Sri Lankan openers, but both survived to take the hosts to 43 without loss at the first drinks break as they put on 106 TURN TO PAGE 22 ►

Barcelona midfielder Pedri, 19, won the Kopa Trophy for the best player aged under 21, with England internationals Jude Bellingham, Mason Greenwood and Bukayo Saka coming second, fifth and sixth respectively. Fourteen of the 30 players shortlisted for the Ballon d'Or currently play in the Premier League. Chelsea had five players represented, with third-placed Jorginho joined by N'Golo Kante in fifth, Romelu Lukaku in 12th,

Mason Mount in 19th and Cesar Azpilicueta, who tied for 29th. Premier League champions Manchester City had the same number as Kevin de Bruyne came eighth, Raheem Sterling 15th, Riyad Mahrez 20th, Phil Foden 25th and Ruben Dias 26th. Manchester United pair Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes were sixth and tied for 21st respectively, Liverpool's Mohamed Salah was seventh and Tottenham's Harry Kane 23rd. (BBC Sport)

Windies Women in Oman but route home, timelines unclear

Members of the West Indies Women’s squad at the airport in Oman.

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, (CMC) – West Indies Women’s travel plans remained unclear Monday after the contingent arrived in the Gulf state of Oman from Zimbabwe, following the cancellation of the ICC World Cup Qualifiers in Zimbabwe last weekend. A tweet from Cricket West Indies’ official account said Monday the contingent were now in Oman but did not indicate how long they were expected to remain there before flying out. The Caribbean side are en route to the region but face potentially difficult logistical challenges, after several major nations slapped travel restrictions and bans on southern African nations, including Zimbabwe, due to the discovery of the new Omicron strain of the COVID-19 virus. From Monday, United States said only its citizens and residents would be allowed in from southern Africa while several the United Kingdom and European Union states have followed suit. The International Cricket Council abandoned the nine-team qualifying tournament on Saturday and hastened to fly teams out

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of Zimbabwe. “The [International Cricket Council] have made all arrangements for the team and are working assiduously to get them home to the Caribbean as quickly and as safely as possible,” CWI tweeted. Speaking at an event in St Kitts on Monday, CWI president Ricky Skerritt also confirmed the development, saying: “The West Indies Women are actually out of Africa at the moment, in the Middle East, and essentially on their way home. “The ICC took a very quick decision to discontinue the tournament.” West Indies played only one game in the World Cup Qualifiers, beating Ireland Women by six wickets last week. They were scheduled to face Sri Lanka in their second game on Saturday but the match was abandoned after a member of the Asian side’s support staff tested positive for the coronavirus. With the tournament’s cancellation, West Indies, Bangladesh and Pakistan will advance to next year’s showpiece in New Zealand, as the highest ranked teams. TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2021