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NEWS19 SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM E’bo teen killed on late father’s birthday
Dead: Sanesha Subrina Lall
By LaWanda McaLLister
While lying on her bed, crying and remembering her dead father on his birthday, 16-year-old Sanesha Subrina Lall of Richmond Housing Scheme, Essequibo Coast, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), was knifed to death by her 34-year-old ex-lover.
Speaking with this publication, even as the family is still in shock, Sanesha’s older sister, Annasha Lall, said her sister woke up on Wednesday morning in a very depressed and sad mood, as she was reminiscing on the life of her dead father who died some two
years ago. Wednesday, the same day the teen was stabbed to death, would have been her father’s 50th birthday.
Annasha Lall said her sister was crying uncontrollably all morning and it never occurred to them that it would have been the last time all the siblings would have been together.
The older sister recalled that at about 09:00h, she heard a vehicle stop in front of the house, and upon checking, they saw the suspect at their door. She said that the suspect, of Bounty Hall, Essequibo Coast, told her that he had something to tell them. According to the older Lall sister, she was not properly dressed and so she went into her room to put on some clothes.
She related that while she was getting dressed, the man made his way into the home and she heard him calling for her sister but her sister did not answer.
Shortly after, the woman said she heard the father of two shouting “you very disrespectful”. She said she rushed into her sister’s room and it was then she saw the man whip out a Rambo knife from his waist and begin stabbing her sister about her body.
She said she tried to intervene, but the man threatened to kill her too.
“He just kept stabbing her, after he finishing stabbing her, he come out the house and drove away..,” the sister recalled.
According to Annasha Lall, her sister and the 34-year-old man started their relationship in 2018. However, she broke off the relationship with the man since she was moving to live with an uncle in the city. Sanesha was living with her uncle in Georgetown, who promised to send her back to school, since she dropped out of school when both of her parents died. She moved back to the Essequibo Coast earlier this year.
She said she has no knowledge about what led to the man killing her sister.
“She really wanted to [go] back to school…. she wanted to go to TI (Government
Technical Institute) after the COVID (COVID-19) finish and learn something so that she can get a job…”, she said.
In 2016, Sanesha’s mother, Anita Persaud, died leaving her and her other siblings motherless. Less than two years later, their father also died after losing his battle with cancer. Since then, the teen and her siblings have been battling to keep their heads above water as their financial situation deteriorated.
Following the stabbing, Lall was rushed to the Suddie Public Hospital, where she was pronounced dead on arrival. Her body was taken to the hospital’s mortuary to await a post-mortem examination.
Police found the suspect at Better Hope Backdam, Essequibo Coast. He told the ranks that he had consumed a poisonous substance. He was admitted under guard at the Suddie Hospital.
According to Police, the suspect remains hospitalised with no change in his condition.
Nevertheless, Annasha told this publication that even though the family has their struggles they were happy together and want justice for their sister.
“I want justice for my sister, she was so young, so innocent, she had a good life ahead of her and now she is gone”, the grieving sister said.
Investigations are ongoing.
20 NEWS SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM
Special housing programme... FROM PAGE 18
President Irfaan Ali standing in front of the Veterans’ Monument, Base Camp Ayanganna, on Friday after laying a wreath there
22 SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM
…“our long-awaited transformation” on verge of unfolding – Finance Minister
Senior Minister with responsibility for finance, Dr Ashni Singh
Satellite imagery, security services, as well as housing and urban development are just some areas that major US companies have expressed an interest in investing in Guyana.
This announcement was made by US Ambassador to Guyana Sarah-Ann Lynch, who noted that Fortune 500 companies – just last week – inquired about investment opportunities here.
“I get calls from US companies regularly. Just last week, I met with the Business Council for International Understanding, a USbased organisation founded under President Eisenhower, whose members include Fortune 500 companies interested in what Guyana has to offer.
“The company representatives inquired about a broad range of investment opportunities including investment in the oil and gas sector, housing and urban development, environmental resiliency, satellite imagery and security services, just to name a few,” Ambassador Lynch revealed during the opening ceremony of the Annual General Meeting of the American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham) Guyana.
The term “Fortune 500” refers to a list of 500 of the largest companies in the United States compiled by Forbes magazine every year, ranked by their annual revenues for their respective fiscal years. To be a Fortune 500 company is widely considered to be a mark of prestige.
The current top ten Fortune 500 companies are Walmart, Amazon, ExxonMobil, Apple, CVS Health, Berkshire Hathaway, UnitedHealth Group, McKesson, AT&T, and AmerisourceBergen.
According to Ambassador Lynch, the US wants to be Guyana’s “top trading partner and partner of choice”.
“From infrastructure to energy, from healthcare to agriculture, the future of US investment here is just beginning,” she expressed.
“Over the next year, we look forward to partnering with AmCham on webinars in all of these areas. We
look forward to US companies competing fairly and transparently in tender processes, as we want to remain Guyana’s top trading partner and partner of choice,” she added.
In this regard, the US Ambassador called on AmCham to continue to play its part in fostering business relations between the two countries.
“Your expertise in the local market and knowhow are critical elements for any investor who wants to work with Guyana. Your advocacy for fair and transparent procurement processes, your adherence to environmental laws and fair hiring practices, your mentoring of young entrepreneurs, this all matters. And it all contributes to a bright and prosperous Guyana,” she noted.
In further underlining the magnitude of interest by the US in Guyana, the American diplomat recalled the September 2020 visit by Secretary of State Mike Pompeo as well as the visit by the delegation from the Development Finance Corporation (DFC).
She also recalled that AmCham, two weeks after the DFC visit, hosted a follow-up webinar for over 60 businesses with the DFC.
“This was to ensure the Private Sector knows how the DFC provides project financing through public-private partnerships and other mechanisms. We at the Embassy are happy to connect the Private Sector with the DFC for these financing opportunities,” Ambassador Lynch posited.
In further expanding on the topic of USGuyana business relations, the envoy explained that the US Embassy is a US Commercial Service partner post with the US Department of Commerce, which means that they can connect investors with Guyanese businesses.
“We also help facilitate requests for Guyanese businesses seeking to invest in the United States. Interested in opening a US franchise here? We are your first stop. Need assistance importing US products and materials? We are here for you,” she explained.
Furthermore, she noted that this year, the US will be opening an “American Corner” at the National Library, which, she said, has already expressed interest in working with AmCham on financial literacy issues for young people.
Long-awaited transformation
Meanwhile, senior Minister with responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh acknowledged that there has been a strong and special bond between the US and Guyana which has
US Ambassador to Guyana, Sarah-Ann Lynch
manifested through traditional economic relations, such as official development assistance through bilateral and multilateral channels, trade, as well as financial flows such as migrant remittances from the large Guyanese diaspora in the US.
Against this backdrop, Dr Singh noted that “Guyana’s new status as an oil producer and exporter has generated unprecedented interest by American companies in our country, not just in the oil and gas sector but also across the entire spectrum of productive activity.”
“This is not surprising given the inevitable positive externalities that oil and gas production can bring to the rest of the economy,” he added.
Dr Singh explained that, beyond the COVID pandemic, the prospects for Guyana are “historically bright and the
long-awaited transformation is on the verge of unfolding.”
He explained that “becoming an oil producer presents us with an op-
portunity, and with the
means, to improve the well-being of the Guyanese people to realise the longstanding aspirations of our country.”
Dr Singh outlined that the Government’s overall aim is, in the shortest possible time, build a modern Guyana, with world-class infrastructure that unlocks the vast potential of the country’s economy.
“In addition to ensuring all the required supportive infrastructure, our plan includes ensuring availability of a highly-skilled workforce, and State institutions that encourage and facilitate, rather than hinder and frustrate, the operations of the Private Sector. In this regard, reducing bureaucracy and removing bottlenecks to doing business will be an important pillar of our institutional reforms,” he stated.
The Finance Minister said he will soon be engaging with AmCham to discuss its membership’s contribution to the country’s economic transformation as well as to discuss ways in which the organisation can work with the Government to ensure that their shared vision for Guyana is realised.
24 NEWS SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM Single mother tells of struggles, sacrifices to give daughters better life
…as President Ali fulfils wish of young girl to seek an education
Armed with cour- not been able to properly con- efit from the device. age and determina- tinue learning since she has “As soon as I ketch mi tion, eight-year-old no electronic device or access hand, I gonna try to get lil inTashmini Sewah convinced to the internet to benefit from ternet to put on the tablet to her mother to journey to New online classes. From time do the schoolwork,” she exAmsterdam, Region Six (East to time, she would use her plained, noting that life has Berbice-Corentyne), to meet neighbour’s phone and inter- not always been easy for her with President Dr Irfaan net but for the most part, she small family of three. Ali with faltering hopes that was unable to benefit from Drugen’s elder daughthey would even get to inter- online learning. ter, who is 18 years old, also act with him. She told the Head of State needed an electronic device to
When they arrived at of her struggles and her de- continue learning. However, the Office of the Regional sire to gain an education when they were making the Democratic Council (RDC) at so she can become a doctor. trip to see the President, her Vryman’s Erven – where the Within minutes, President other daughter was stayHead of State was hosting an Ali fulfilled the little girl’s ing with her grandmother outreach – the mother and wish, delivering to her a tab- in Canje, New Amsterdam, daughter duo was fervent in let. where she would utilise a their quest to get an audience “I feel very happy,” single phone and internet service. with the President. mother, Shelly Drugen told The 18-year-old is curTheir turn finally came around and little Tashmini Guyana Times during a telephone interview on Friday. rently studying for the Caribbean Secondary Eight-year-old Tashmini Sewah telling President Irfaan Ali about her educational challenges during his outreach in Region Six (East Berbice Corentyne) wasted no time in telling Drugen explained that she Education Certificate (CSEC) President Ali of her struggles never expected that her since she did not perform sat- that it will go a long way in tremely difficult having to ago that she decided to start in accessing an education. daughter’s wish would have isfactorily the first time she helping the family. juggle the jobs and take care selling chicken. However, she
Tashmini is a student of been so promptly fulfilled. wrote the exams. “I gonna now try to help of her children, particularly noted that business is tough the Port Mourant Primary Her next goal is to find a Notwithstanding, Drugen myself,” she explained, not- ensuring that little Tashmini since a lot of people are doing School, however, due to the way to secure internet access is grateful for the Head of ing that she has struggled made it to and from school. the same venture. COVID-19 pandemic, she has so her daughter can fully ben- State’s intervention, noting and will continue to struggle She recalled having just one According to the single to ensure she provides a bet- to two hours of sleep on a dai- mother, her daughters’ fater life for her two girls. ly basis. “I sacrifice myself a thers have not been very helpReflecting on her life just lot,” she explained. ful in taking care of them. some two years ago, the sin- After saving up, the single When Tashmini was gle mother recalled working mother finally managed to three months old, her mother three jobs just to make ends build her own house at Port and father separated. “Since meet. Mourant, which they moved then, he never pay attention “It was a very tough strug- into sometime in 2018. At the and do anything for her. We gle, it was very, very hard,” time, the house was not com- at court right now,” she exshe expressed. plete. “We had no light, no plained. At the time, she was liv- water, no door, no window, Her elder daughter’s faing with her mother in Canje. but we still stay inside,” she ther is currently remarDuring the day, she worked explained. ried and living in New York. as a maid and in the evening, When they moved to Port Notwithstanding, Drugen she worked at a restaurant. Mourant, Drugen said she said she will continue to work After she clocked off from started working at a food es- hard to ensure her daughwork at nights, she would do tablishment. When the pan- ters have the foundation laundry to earn a little extra demic hit, she was without a for a good life, starting with money. job. their education. (Devina For Drugen, it was ex- It was only three months Samaroo)
NEWS25 SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM COVID-19 provided opportunity for local firms to embrace technology – AmCham
…to push for US companies to aid technology transfer
Noting that business- He highlighted that due mobile app to efficiently al best practices to ensure es must start em- to the COVID-19 pandem- and effectively communi- they only hire firms that bracing technology ic, many organisations – cate with its members on are in compliance with to improve its operations, including AmCham – have all matters related to the these requirements,” he exChairman of the American had to start embracing Chamber, its activities and plained. Chamber of Commerce technology in order to keep membership information. As such, Ally said the (AmCham) Guyana, their operations alive. Additionally, the organ- Chamber has started to put Zulfikar Ally announced “AmCham immediately isation’s website has just plans in place and will have that – in the coming year – embarked on a series of we- been re-launched to provide to work with its partners to the organisation will push binars to continue to keep real-time updates and in- bridge that gap between for American firms to aid in our membership and the formation for members and its American members and the transfer of technology general population aware non-members alike. those that are Guyaneseto the local Private Sector. of COVID. We have since Apart from technology, owned.
He explained that, be- embraced the use of tech- the AmCham Chair empha- In fact, he revealed that yond the COVID-19 pan- nology in the way we con- sised the need for interna- an AmCham member has demic, local businesses duct our business. Our tional best practices, com- already been leading at the must embrace the use of forefront in training, faciltechnology to become more itating and encouraging competitive. companies to get the rele-
“While the pandemic vant certifications. has put a damper on the In this regard, Ally said, way we would have gone “we will encourage more about our business, it also initiative like these and we provided us with the oppor- would like to work with the tunity to embrace technol- Government of Guyana to ogy. A necessary platform ensure that adequate meathat the Private Sector in sures and opportunities Guyana must embrace to be are put in place to accomcompetitive in the future. modate this for the busi-
“…It is our goal in the ness community across the coming year to encourage country.” our members, especially On this note, he made US Firms to make it a pri- it clear that the Private ority to aid in the transfer Sector “depends on a reof technology to the local sponsive Government maprivate sector, to work with chinery”, adding that “and them collaboratively to en- Board meetings and that of pliances and certifications the Government expects hance their capabilities and the various committees in- among local businesses. in return a strong Private skills, and train Guyana’s cluding those with Cabinet “It provides a disadvan- Sector, willing to take risks talented human resourc- Ministers were done via tage to local companies to es in the technological and electronic means,” Ally participate in contracts estransformative ways of stated. pecially in the oil and gas working and conducting In a bid to become more sector and it is also a great business,” Ally expressed technologically-inclined, deal of frustration for induring the Annual General he noted too that AmCham vestors who are bound by Meeting of AmCham. is currently retooling its policies and internation-
Zulfikar Ally
and contribute towards nation-building and playing their part in improving the lives of every Guyanese”.
And, according to Ally, AmCham members are all ready to take part in the growth of Guyana’s economy.
“As we bring the curtains down on 2020, AmCham Guyana would like to assure the Government of Guyana that you can consider us a partner in development. We will continue to promote those values that we hold dearly such as the rule of law, governance and security and of course the principles of democracy, without which business cannot flourish and devel-
opment becomes impaired,” he expressed.
He added that AmCham intends to work in a meaningful and collaborative way with the Government, other Private Sector organisations and civil society to ensure that democratic principles continue to flourish, that equal and fair treatment are meted out to all and that the system for remedies provides certainty for all.
“This is the only way that trade and investment can flourish a while at the same time bringing development to all,” he said.
“Guyana’s future is bright and promising; every Guyanese have the potential to enjoy a quality of life that can be the envy of the region,” Ally added.
He noted too that Guyana is also now poised to be a leader in every aspect within the Caribbean region and that AmCham will “be there” to work with the Guyana Government to help those “dreams and aspirations” of Guyanese to become a reality, “sooner rather than later”.
26 NEWS SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2020 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM
Regional administrations must break down barriers of governance – President Ali
…announces establishment of rapid response technical teams
President Irfaan Ali has emphasised the importance of forging better cooperation between citizens and the Government, calling on the regional administrations across the country to play their part in breaking down the barriers that separate the two.
He made his pronouncement on Friday during an outreach in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), where he met individually with a number of citizens and heard their concerns at the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) office in New Amsterdam.
The issues raised ranged from access to electricity, water, land allocation concerns and drainage issues. The President was accompanied by officials from the Guyana Power and Light (GPL), National Insurance Scheme (NIS), National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA), Lands and Surveys, the Ministry of Health and the Guyana Police Force among others, during the outreach.
According to President Ali, the regional administrations, particularly in Berbice, have the capacity at the Local Government level to deal with the issues that were raised.
“We have a lot of expertise at the regional level. What we have to do is to have more coordination and break down the barriers of governance,” he posited.
The Head of State announced during the outreach that a rapid response technical team will be set up in all 10 administration regions across Guyana to cater to the needs of the residents.
“In every single region, we’ll be creating a rapid response team. This will comprise of representation from the different agencies, chaired by the Regional Chairman. This team will be responsible for the following up of issues at the community level and will ensure that these issues are resolved,” Ali said.
He further urged the officials and representatives from the various Ministries and State agencies that were at the outreach to guarantee impartiality and fairness when dealing with the concerns raised.
“You have to respect the people and the issues which are raised…You are not dealing with personalities; you are dealing with issues,” he as-
President Irfaan Ali meeting with residents of Berbice during an outreach which addressed numerous issues faced by residents
serted. dential areas, which are away been without light for de- ganising the outreach, which in the East Berbice-Corentyne
The President explained from the farming communi- cades. Right now, I am so hap- she dubbed as “one of a kind.” region, President Ali also adto the gathering that similar ties. py that I was able to speak Nevertheless, Ali said that dressed concerns raised with outreach exercises will also be This issue has been hand- to President Ali in person. I his Administration has not this programme. conducted in other parts of the ed over to the Lands and couldn’t sleep last night be- completed the structural com- While the grant is being country. Surveys Commission. cause I was so anxious and I position of Government at distributed per household, a
“Today we are not here to Meanwhile, 63-year-old even woke up this morning ex- both the national and region- “pink slip” is given out in cases look at issues for two or three Wendy Adams, who has been cited,” the woman exclaimed. al levels. where there is more than one weeks, we are here to resolve without electricity for a num- She said that this is the He also indicated that family residing at an address. problems. For the ordinary ber of years, was one of the first time that she was able to while Government is current- That slip will allow for those people on the ground, there first persons that were able to speak to someone in authori- ly implementing the 2020 families that did not get the will be a greater connection sit before the Head of State in ty concerning her woes, after Emergency Budget, they are grant to receive their $25,000 between the people and the the RDC Boardroom and air being given the “royal run- also working simultaneously grant after a verification proGovernment and greater con- her concerns. around” for years. on the 2021 Budget, program- cess. nection between the agencies “I was so happy and glad “I can’t explain to you how ming resources for the upcom- “So, after that verificaand the people. There will that I will be getting through much I am happy right now. ing fiscal year. tion process, then we will fibe a better understanding of after so many years without Never in my life have I ever Meanwhile, with the dis- nalise the list [of] those perconcerns and problems that current. I have a house and been able to do that. I am just tribution of the $25,000 sons [who] will also receive the people are facing on the everything and finished it so glad,” the woman said while COVID-19 Relief Grant to the grant,” the President exground,” he stressed. couple years ago, but I have praising President Ali for or- households currently ongoing plained. (G4)
After meeting with citizens, the Head of State told reporters that if there is a Newest oil producer less bureaucratic mode of communication from the level of the regional adminis- Guyana taking steps to woo tration, and agencies such as the NDIA, the Lands and Surveys Commission, NIS, diaspora to return homeand Central Housing and Planning Authority then many of the issues can be resolved. With Guyana now being one of the most attractive involves the Ministry and the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA). The Ministry will Government, is one of the highest in the world, numbering about 30,000 annualhave expressed an interest to return to work or invest here.
“But from what you hear, vestment destinations in process the application ly. Chief Economist it is the long delays in address- the world due to massive and through the Minister’s The report “The for Smith’s Research ing some of these issues. It is oil and gas discoveries, the Office, make recommenda- Guyanese Diaspora” which & Gradings, Scott B also a communications prob- Government has begun tak- tions. The GRA examines was authored by Michael MacDonald recently exlem… So, there is a great need ing active steps to make it the tax exemptions aspect, Matera, Linnea Sandin and pressed that Guyana’s econfor public awareness about easier for the country’s large as provided by law. Maripaz Alvarez, provided omy is tipped to perform what is happening in the vari- diaspora to return to their Additionally, the simpli- a comprehensive analysis of extremely well, and ride ous agencies,” he said. homeland. fied process allows persons the Guyanese Diaspora and through the COVID-19 pan-
According to President The Foreign Affairs and to track their applications suggested a framework with- demic in better shape than Ali, among the issues raised, International Cooperation as they are processed, and to in which this valuable asset practically any other econothe most alarming is the fact Ministry recently announced see the exemptions for which could be utilised for the ben- my on the planet. that many persons have been that it has launched a re- they may qualify. efit of both the diaspora and MacDonald, who is also stripped of their ownership of migration brochure, which “Those are some of the their home country. a Senior Associate at the lands. will seek to fill the informa- kinks that we are currently According to the report, Center for Strategic and
In one instance, tion and other support gaps, working out because there is the first-generation immi- International Studies (CSIS) Chandramattie Drepaul, who which have prevented per- a lot of enthusiasm. There is grant Guyanese Diaspora to- and a Research Fellow at has had a land issued since sons in the past from start- a lot of interest in persons re- day is estimated to be around Global Americans, notPresident Ali was the Minister ing the process to return migrating and we want them 550,000 worldwide, not in- ed that Guyana is no lonof Housing, explained that “home”. to benefit from the scheme cluding their descendants. ger “the isolated country on the land that she had bought Foreign Secretary Robert that is provided for by the The People’s Progressive the northeastern shoulder of was used to build a school by Persaud said that the Government,” he outlined. Party/Civic (PPP/C) South America it once was”. the State. She had requested Ministry is looking at ways He further noted that Administration has ex- “The combination of masthat the money she paid be re- to improve services by mak- the Ministry is working with pressed its desire to work sive oil discoveries; improved turned to her. However, since ing it more convenient for the International Office for collaboratively with the di- global communications; and then, she has not been refund- persons who wished to come Migration, which is finalis- aspora, stating that they too a better-connected diaspoed. back to Guyana to do so with ing a strategy that looks at have a stake in the develop- ra in North America, the
Though she was asked a great deal of ease. remigration and the diaspo- ment of their homeland. United Kingdom and the by Central Housing and “One of the gaps we no- ra to make remigration more “We must welcome back Caribbean means that Guyana Planning Authority (CH&PA) ticed is persons were unclear lucrative. to their homeland our dias- is no longer on the outskirts of CEO Sherwyn Greaves at the on how they can go about However, Persaud said pora who played such a pos- the global economy,” the expert outreach if she wanted to be accessing the remigration the current remigrant itive and constructive role in had written in an opinion piece relocated, Drepaul refused scheme. Immediately, we de- scheme is already an attrac- defence of our democracy,” published by Caribbean News and insisted that her money veloped what we call a ‘remi- tive one which not only tar- President Dr Irfaan Ali had Global. be returned. gration brochure’ that is now gets families but also stu- said when he was sworn in The mass exodus of
President Ali listened available on the internet, but dents studying abroad. on August 2. Guyanese had started in the closely to the woman and in- also at all our missions and The Washington-based “My Government intends early 1960s under the Forbes structed that the CH&PA deal embassies [which provides] Center for Strategic and to embrace Guyanese abroad Burnham dictatorship when with the issue. the basic information they International Studies (CSIS) as we enlist them here at the economy was facing total
Also, during the out- need to know,” Persaud was in a recent report stated that home,” Dr Ali had asserted. collapse. There were no proper reach, several groups from the quoted by DPI as saying. Guyana’s emigration rate, The major oil discover- jobs; social services were almost four Polders in Black Bush, Persaud, also a former which skyrocketed in the ies have now caused Guyana non-existent, and there was a Corentyne, voiced their con- Minister within the previous 1960s due to the hardships to be placed in the interna- sense of hopelessness all over cerns for more structured resi- PPP/C Administration, ex- created by the then People’s tional spotlight and many the country. plained that the process in- National Congress (PNC) Guyanese in the diaspora
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2020 27 Around the World
OILNEWS
Oil falls on rising Libya output, coronavirus surge
Oil prices fell about 2 per cent on Friday, pressured by swelling output from Libya and fears that rising coronavirus infections may slow the recovery in the global economy and fuel demand.
Hopes for a vaccine kept crude futures on track for a second straight weekly gain.
Brent crude fell 75 cents, or 1.7 per cent, to settle at US$42.78 a barrel. US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures fell 99 cents, or 2.4 per cent, to end the session at US$40.13 a barrel. For the week, both notched gains of more than 8 per cent.
Libyan oil production has risen to 1.2 million barrels per day (bpd), a Libyan oil source told Reuters, up from the 1.0 million bpd reported on Nov 7 by the country’s National Oil Corp.
Signs of rising production in the US added to bearish sentiment. US oil rigs rose 10 to 236 this week, according to Baker Hughes data, their highest since May.
Also pressuring prices, US Government data showed crude inventories rose by 4.3 million barrels last week. Analysts had expected a draw of 913,000 barrels.
“In essence, some of the feel-good factor from the Pfizer vaccine has worn off and disappointing EIA figures have created a bit of a downward correction,” Harry Tchilinguirian, head of commodity research at BNP Paribas, said.
“However, OPEC+ is prepared to tweak its production and we’re still waiting for the trial results of other vaccines that may be easier to distribute since they won’t need such cold storage.”
New coronavirus infections in the United States and elsewhere are at record levels and tightening restrictions should lead to fuel demand recovering more slowly than many had hoped.
WTI and Brent contracts jumped this week after data showed an experimental COVID-19 vaccine being developed by Pfizer Inc and Germany’s BioNTech was 90 per cent effective.
But on Thursday, the International Energy Agency (IEA) said global oil demand was unlikely to get a significant boost from vaccines until well into 2021.
“It’s no surprise that the market is trimming the price gains today as realities for crude supply and demand are grim, while daily new COVID-19 cases in the US are setting new records for the third-straight day,” Bjornar Tonhaugen, head of oil markets at Rystad, said.
“Our crude and liquids balances suggest oil prices need to go lower before they go higher.”
Analysts say tougher restrictions on mobility to deal with sky-rocketing coronavirus cases mean the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and its allies may hesitate to loosen output curbs as planned in January.
The group known as OPEC+ is due to hold a Joint Ministerial Monitoring Committee next week, which will give some indications of what the producers may decide at the next ministerial meeting on Dec 1.
Algeria’s Energy Minister said this week that OPEC+ could extend the group’s current oil production cuts into 2021 or deepen them further if required. (Excerpt from Reuters)
Tropical Storm Iota forms southeast of Jamaica
Tropical Storm Iota noon through to Monday. has formed south- The service added that east of Jamaica and sea conditions are expectis expected to move west- ed to deteriorate signifiward and south of Jamaica cantly during this period, throughout the weekend, especially for inshore and before approaching Central offshore areas of the south America on Monday. coast.
According to the The forecast this mornMeteorological Service of ing is isolated showers Jamaica, the extreme out- across eastern parishes, er bands of Iota are expect- otherwise partly cloudy, ed to produce cloudy and and in the afternoon, widewindy conditions across ly scattered showers mainthe island, with periods of ly across southern and showers and isolated thun- northeastern parishes, but derstorms mainly across otherwise mostly cloudy southern and northeastern and windy. (Excerpt from parishes Saturday after- Jamaica Observer)
PM Johnson’s Brexit “brain” Cummings to leave Downing Street
Dominic Cummings, But No 10 said 2019 landslide election win, British Prime Cummings would continue had told the BBC that he Minister Boris to work for Johnson until wanted to be largely redunJohnson’s most powerful ad- mid-December, although it dant by the end of this year, viser, will stop working for was unclear in what capaci- once Britain has left inDowning Street in mid-De- ty and whether he would re- formal membership of the cember as Johnson tries to turn to the building. European Union. reset his premiership after a Johnson is grappling Johnson is under presseries of failures in tackling with factional fighting over sure from Conservative parthe coronavirus pandemic. the future direction of the liamentarians to recast his
Cummings, expected to Government just as he strug- Administration and get a stay until around Christmas, gles to contain Europe’s grip of the pandemic which was pictured by a Reuters Dominic Cummings, special deadliest COVID-19 out- is decimating the economy. photographer clutching a advisor for Britain’s Prime break, establish a rapport The exit of Johnson’s inbox as he left Johnson’s of- Minister Boris Johnson, with US President-elect Joe fluential right-hand man fice in No 10 Downing Street leaving 10 Downing Street, in Biden and master the deli- marks one of the most signifon Friday evening. London, Britain, November 13, cate diplomacy of a last-min- icant changes to the Prime
The BBC, Sky News and 2020 ute Brexit trade agreement. Minister’s inner circle so other media outlets report- reducing the sway of Brexit Cummings, who master- far: Cummings was cast by ed that Cummings had left hardliners in Johnson’s minded the 2016 Brexit ref- some as Johnson’s “brain”. his role for good, abruptly Government. erendum vote and Johnson’s (Excerpt from Reuters) Ethiopia Tigray crisis: UN warns “war crimes” may have happened
Reports of the mass vices are down. killing of civilians in In a statement, the Tigray Ethiopia’s northern government denied that its Tigray region “would amount forces were behind Monday’s to war crimes” if confirmed, killings. the UN human rights chief There has been has warned. long-standing tension be-
Michelle Bachelet called tween Ethiopia’s Government for an inquiry into reports and the TPLF, which controls that scores and maybe hun- Tigray, the country’s northdreds of people had been ernmost state. The tension stabbed and hacked to death Troops loyal to the Government ride in trucks to face the forces of has boiled over into military in one town. the Tigray People’s Liberation Front clashes, including airstrikes
Prime Minister Abiy rampage after federal troops man rights group Amnesty by federal forces. Ahmed has accused forces had “liberated” the western International. Ethiopia’s Foreign loyal to Tigray’s leaders of the part of Tigray, “brutally” kill- If confirmed, this would Minister Demeke Mekonnen massacre. ing innocent civilians in Mai- be the first large-scale killing said on Friday that the mil-
Its officials have denied Kadra, a town in the South- of civilians in the fighting be- itary operation was going on involvement. West Zone of Tigray. tween Government forces and as expected and would end “in
Abiy said that fighters Witnesses blamed forces the TPLF which broke out on a very short period of time”. backing Tigray’s ruling party, loyal to TPLF for Monday’s November 4. He added that order had the Tigray People’s Liberation killings - first reported by hu- Getting information about to be restored and “criminals Front (TPLF), went on the the clashes is hard because caught” before dialogue was Dozens wounded in Peru phone lines and internet ser- possible. News) (Excerpt from BBC as protesters and Police Chile Health Minister hopes clash amid political crisis At least 27 people have been wounded in clashes between Police and protestors cusations he denies. Merino, a member of the centre-right Popular Action party who had been the head Joe Biden’s win in the US election is raising hopes in Latin topped global charts for COVID cases and deaths between for several months Biden victory will help avoid vaccine “trade war” as thousands of Peruvians of Congress, swore in his America that a war over up to August - should pretook to the streets to demon- new Cabinet on Thursday medical supplies at the pare for a second wave like strate against the dismiss- and called for calm. start of the COVID-19 out- the one current ravaging al of President Martin Some carried banners break will not be repeated Europe. Vizcarra, Police and rights comparing Merino to the once vaccines are approved Chile has signed up for groups said on Friday. coronavirus pandemic and for use, Chile’s Health 7.6 million doses through
The unrest over the saying he did not represent Minister told Reuters on the global vaccine distribulast four nights, and oth- them. Friday. tion scheme COVAX, co-led er more peaceful protests Vizcarra oversaw an an- Enrique Paris said he by the GAVI vaccines alliin the capital Lima and oth- ti-graft campaign that led believed Biden’s leadership ance and the World Health er cities, are piling pressure to frequent clashes with would allow for countries Organisation. on a fragmented Congress Congress in a country that to present a more “united” Paris said Chile had and the new government of has a history of political front against the pandem- paid extra to be able to President Manuel Merino. upheaval and corruption. ic, avoiding the commercial pick the vaccines it re-
On Thursday night, A judge on Friday ordered battles by nations including ceived from COVAX. But Police used tear gas and Vizcarra not to leave Peru the United States to secure he added that he had prorubber bullets against pro- while prosecutors now in- ventilators, masks and per- posed, and received backtesters, some of whom threw vestigate the allegations sonal protective equipment ing from his fellow Latin rocks at police and destroyed against him. seen earlier this year. American and Caribbean store windows and cash ma- The crisis precipitated He said Chile had to Health Ministers, to push chines. The demonstrations by his departure has rattled charter or send military for all countries to be treatwere among the largest in Peru, the world’s no 2 cop- planes to pick up supplies ed equally under COVAX. two decades in Peru. per producer, and seen its and keep flight plans secret. Paris said the Pfizer vac-
Vizcarra, a political- sol currency scraping record Despite the “very good cine represented one option ly unaffiliated centrist who lows. It fell again on Friday news” this week from for Chile’s vaccination camis popular with voters, was and the central bank said it Pfizer that its vaccine had paign but that the counousted on Monday in an im- would keep intervening to proved 90 per cent effective try had sought to diversify peachment trial over allega- help stabilise the currency. in late-stage trials, Paris to assure a steady supply. tions he received bribes - ac- (Excerpt from Reuters) said Latin America - which (Excerpt from Reuters)
ARCHIE
DILBERT
PEANUTS
CALVIN AND HOBBES
SUDOKU
SOLUTION FOR LAST PUBLISHED PUZZLE
ARIES (March 21April 19)
TAURUS
(April 20May 20)
GEMINI (May 21June 20)
CANCER (June 21July 22)
LEO (July 23-
Aug. 22)
VIRGO (Aug. 23-
Sept. 22)
LIBRA (Sept. 23-
Oct. 23)
SCORPIO (Oct. 24-
Nov. 22) SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23-
Dec. 21) (Dec. 22-
Jan. 19)
AQUARIUS
(Jan. 20-
Feb. 19)
PISCES (Feb. 20-
March 20)
Pick your battles wisely. Look inward and consider the best way to handle an impasse with someone you live with or work alongside. Channel your energy into physical activity. Make personal adjustments that will help you advance. Use your connections, intelligence and experience. A partnership looks promising if you discuss what you both have to offer and how best to use your skills.
Pay more attention to how you present yourself to others. Appropriate attire and a good reputation will help you impress someone important. Play to win. Romance is encouraged. Set high standards and goals. Refuse to let trivial matters upset you or stand in your way. Do your best to make a difference in your community. Your words will help someone in need.
Take better care of your home, family and reputation. Face facts, implement routines, and add structure and fitness into
your schedule.
You’ve got everything under control, so don’t mess with what’s working. A positive change is heading your way. Being fully prepared will promote high returns.
Stick to what and who you know. Refuse to get into an altercation with someone who will never share your beliefs or values. Set the record straight regarding your feelings and intentions.
Take the path that leads to peace of mind. Precision and attention to detail will be instrumental in reaching your goal. Protect your physical well-being. Avoid
CAPRICORN
excess and risk.
Take pride in what you do and focus on the things that make you feel good about yourself. It’s OK to do something you enjoy and to live life your way. Romance is in the stars.
You’ll come up with exciting ways to change your living arrangements or use your space to pursue something that brings you joy. A change of plans will end up benefiting you.
Avoid anyone trying to persuade you to do something that will cost you financially or emotionally. Stay focused on what’s worked best for you in the past, and you’ll avoid making a mistake. You’ll make personal gains if you stick to your game plan and bring about the changes that will improve your personal life. Sharing expenses with someone close to you will turn out well.
Talented all-rounder Andre Russell’s place in the West Indies Team could be in doubt in the future after a number of injuries and invitation declines.
Russell was invited to join the team for the upcoming tour of New Zealand, but declined, claiming he needed space
“WI could move on from Russell, says
CWI Chief Selector Roger Harper – hints that emerging talent could push explosive all-rounder out to ‘clear his head’ brilliant performances to ue to consider those ence to the situation. success of the team. I after having to his credit, Harper insisted players, or we need “A lot of things think if players in the deal with play- he was keeping an eye on to move on,” Harper are determined team perform exceedinging during the things, and that emerging told members of by how well the ly well, then it will make COVID-19 talent could make it diffi- the media from team performs, it difficult for those that pandemic. cult for the 32-year-old to the team’s train- how well the are not on the tour to get That is the continually be selected “if ing camp in New players in the back into the team. position with Russell, ac- they take their opportuni- Zealand in refer- team at the So, a lot of cording to Cricket West ties”. time perform, Indies (CWI) Chief of Selectors Roger Harper. “I think (that) as we move forward, we will look Andre Russell and the
Russell last represent- at all situations, all play- things ed the West Indies on tour ers, and determine will be takof Sri Lanka earlier this whether we en into considyear, and his scintillating need to con- eration as we move for40 runs from 14 deliveries tinue to look ward.” (Adapted from a saw him named man-of- at those play- Sportsmax article) the-match. Even with such ers, contin-
Two members of the Jamaica football delegation currently in Saudi Arabia have tested positive for COVID-19 following PCR tests administered on Thursday. One is a player, and the other is a member of the technical staff. Two other players are under investigation.
All four, who had been in quarantine for 48 hours with the full group, have now
been isolated, and the proto-
cols set by the Saudi Arabia Football Federation (SAFF) are expected to be put into effect.
The protocols dictate that all confirmed cases - either symptomatic or asymptomatic - will be isolated in the same hotel on a different wing or section away from the bulk of the rest of the team. Based on medical advice, possible isolation in a different hotel or medical facility is not ruled out.
If a patient is asymptomatic, he or she will be constantly assessed by the JFF Head Doctor, and the patient will be allowed to travel after a negative PCR test, or based on a medical assessment and local authority health protocols.
If the patient shows symptoms of COVID-19 and requires further medical care, he or she would be transferred to a designat-
ed hospital. Any confirmed case has to be retested after three days of the disappearance of the last symptom, to assess his or eligibility for travel.
The Jamaican delegation is now in Saudi Arabia preparing to play two international friendlies against the host on November 14 and 17. (Sportsmax)
Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah tests positive for coronavirus
Liverpool forward lowed by a Champions Mohamed Salah has League tie against tested positive for Atalanta at coronavirus while on in- Anfield on ternational duty with Wednesday, 25 Egypt. November.
The Egyptian Salah Football Federation h a s said on Friday that start Salah, 28, returned a pos- ed all eight of itive test, but is not display- Liverpool’s Premier ing any symptoms. League games
They added that the oth- this season, and er members of the team has scored eight have tested negative. Salah goals. (BBC.
Egypt host Togo in the will now self-isolate, and COM) Africa Cup of Nations qual- could miss Liverpool’s next ifying match (today) on two matches. Saturday, followed by the The Reds host Leicester reverse fixture in Togo on in the Premier League on Tuesday. Saturday, 21 November, fol-
“He needs to focus on his batting” – Windies’ chief of selectors
explains why Brathwaite dropped as vice-captain
Kraigg Brathwaite has been dropped as West Indies Test vice-captain in order for him to be able to concentrate on improving his batting, CWI Chief of Selectors Roger Harper has revealed.
Brathwaite was replaced as vice-captain by all-rounder Roston Chase and batsman Nicholas Pooran ahead of the start of the team’s tour of New Zealand. The opener, who was first appointed Test vice-captain in 2015, has averaged 21 from his last 15 Tests heading into the England series.
He did show signs of a promised recovery with halfcenturies in the first Test, where he scored 65, and he scored 75 in the second Test. Brathwaite, however, also had scores of 4, 12, 1 and 19, to
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According to Harper, the decision panel is hoping less responsibility would lead to more consistency from the player.
“We thought it important at this time to allow Kraigg Brathwaite, who has been the vice-captain for a while, to just pay a little more attention, to focus a little more, on his batting,” Harper told members of the media from the team’s training base in New Zealand.
“He has not been in the best of form for a little while. I think he began to get himself together on the England tour, we want him to build on this. We thought the relieving of the responsibility would allow him to focus some more on his batting.” (Sportsmax)
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BCB, Labour Minister Joseph Hamilton hold successful meeting
The Berbice Cricket of the BCB, while donating the St. Francis Community Head indicated an interest the level of management of Board (BCB) has been $1M and a large quantity of Developers Training Centre. in getting young cricketers clubs in Berbice, and the busy meeting with cricket gear to that club. Matters discussed included a trained in areas that would need to host leadership senior Government offi- Agriculture Minister wide array of topics, includ- allow them to gain meaning- skills seminars for those cials since the newly elected Government took office. Zulfikar Mustapha has sponsored a cricket tournaing vocational training for youths, leadership seminar ful employment. It was noted that not all youths would in management positions, and this would also be disMinister Joseph Hamilton
Led by its astute presi- ment and provided a one- for club management, coop- be able to pass with flying cussed further with the hope cussions with the Minister of dent Hilbert Foster, the BCB year scholarship sponsorship eration to tackle child abuse colours at the CSEC level, of organising seminars in the Sport concerning the hosting has so far held very success- to attend the University of and child Labour, and host- Foster noted that gaining near future. of a cricket tournament by ful meetings with several Guyana as part of the prizes ing of a cricket tournament. skills to become a carpenter, The BCB also sought to the Labour Ministry to proGovernment Ministers, in- to be won in the tournament. Minister Hamilton in- mechanic or tailor could as- obtain cooperation of the mote solutions to the probcluding Minister of Sport Commitments of coopera- dicated his keen interest in sist youths to gain an income Labour Ministry to stop child lem of child abuse. Charles Ramson, Minister tion have also been received working along with the BCB, and take them away from a abuse and child labour in the Foster expressed gratiof Agriculture Zulfikar from other senior officials of as he was impressed with life of crime. county. Minister Hamilton tude to Minister Hamilton for Mustapha, Attorney General the Government. its work and linkage with Minister Hamilton man- mandated Chief Labour taking the time to meet with Anil Nandalal, and Minister Last Saturday, Foster youths. Head of the Industrial dated the BIT Head to follow Officer Charles Ogle to work the Berbice Cricket Board, of Natural Resources led a seven-member dele- Board, Mr. Richard Maughn, up discussions with the BCB along with Foster to have and said the BCB looks forVickram Bharrat. gation to meet with Labour spoke broadly on the training to organise some sessions. a campaign involving postward to a successful relation-
Minister Bharrat was last Minister Joseph Hamilton programmes associated with Foster also expressed dis- ers and billboards, while he ship with the Ministry. week inducted as the Patron in an hour-long meeting at the Ministry after the BCB appoint - ment at also committed to have dis-
Panthera Solutions makes significant financial contribution to Christmas Charity Programme of RHTY&SC, MS
– Overseas-based Guyanese also on board
Since its formation in accepted the contribution on Christmas Eve breakfast at 1990, the Rose Hall behalf of the teams. their residence. Town Youth and The company, in 2019, Among the other proSports Club, MS, has host- came on board as an of- grammes planned are dised a Charity programme ficial sponsor of the club, tribution of clothing, school with the main objective of and co-sponsored the bags, educational materials, putting smiles on the faces 2019 Christmas Charity and donations to orphanages of the less fortunate during Programme along with a for- and senior citizens’ homes. the festive season. ty-page youth information Foster has said that the
The ten cricket teams of booklet. Foster disclosed ten teams: Poonai Pharmacy the club host a yearlong pro- that this year, the Christmas Under 12 and Under 13, gramme for the elderly and Charity Programme would Farfan and Mendes Under less fortunate, but special involve the distribution of 15, Bakewell Under 17 emphasis is placed on the one thousand food ham- and Second Division, Pepsi Christmas segment during pers to less fortunate fami- Under 19 and Intermediate, the month of December. lies, together five thousand Metro Female, Namilco This year’s programme Christmas toys and a feed- Under 21 and First Division, would start on December 5 ing programme to provide would look after the threeand conclude on Christmas a warm box of food to one week programme. Eve Day, December 24. thousand persons. The RHTY&SC
The teams have, since Additionally, five hun- Secretary/CEO has exmid-September, been plan- dred families would receive pressed gratitude to ning for the programme, a special Christmas pack- Panthera Solution and its and on Monday last, they age consisting of apples, General Manager Andrew received a major boost with grapes, biscuits, walnuts, Dinsdale for the supa significant financial con- sweets and other items; port received. Dinsdale, tribution from Panthera while hundreds of senior in his remarks, hailed the Solutions. Club Secretary/ citizens would be provided RHTY&SC as a role model CEO Hilbert Foster by the teams with a special organisation with which his
BCB President Hilbert Foster
As we approach the 60th anniversary of the famous Tied Test, this year’s Frank Worrell Memorial Lecture in honour of the great man who led the West Indies team in that match promises to be special.
On Monday 16th November, Ricky Skerritt, President of Cricket West Indies, will deliver the feature address, titled “Reforming Cricket West Indies for Improved On-Field Results”, as we remember Sir Frank Worrell, the first Black man to be appointed captain of the West Indies team.
In December 1960, Worrell led the team on tour of Australia, and history was created when the first Test at the Gabba in Brisbane ended in a memorable tie.
It was the start of a series which would go down in history as the one “which saved Test cricket and kept it alive”.
This is the 20th anniversary of the annual lecture, and it would normally be held before an audience at the Cave Hill Campus of the University of the West Indies, where Sir Frank’s burial place company is pleased to be associated.
Panthera Solutions is a joint venture between Farfan and Mendes Ltd and the Canada- based company Crosbie. This company, located at Providence, East Bank Demerara, offers services in the local oil sector. Dinsdale has assured the RHTY&SC, MS, that his company is committed to a long-term relationship, and that its sponsorship would increase as the business expands in Guyana.
The ten cricket teams of the RHTY&SC, MS, would also like to express profound gratitude to numerous local and overseas-based Guyanese who have come on
CWI President Skerritt to honour Sir Frank Worrell at memorial lecture
board to offer support. overlooks the Three Ws Oval – alongside his other famous team-mates Sir Clyde Walcott and Sir Everton Weekes.
However, due to COVID-19 protocols, Skerritt will deliver his address virtually. It will be held on Monday, November 16 at 8:30pm (7:30pm Jamaica Time) and will also be available on UWI TV.
Game Xpress leads the sponsors’ list for Big Man Cricket
Supervisor of GAME XPRESS, Tofarah D’Andrade handing over the sponsorship check to Jonathan Yearwood, Admin Officer of BIG MAN CRICKET-GUYANA
Guyana’s popular plies for purchase and/ game store Game or rental. Xpress leads the Businessman Audie way in sponsorship for Henriques, proprietor of the Big Man Cricket the store, readily came tournament scheduled on board with the Big to commence on Sunday Man Cricket Over 45s November 22nd, 2020. T25 tournament. He
The family-run has voiced his commitGame Xpress store, lo- ment to giving back to cated at 25 North Road, the community, as lots Lacytown, Georgetown, of the cricketers playing is perhaps best known in this tournament are for its wide variety of drawn from across the gaming supplies, ac- country and presently cessories and services. are possibly his customHowever, there is much ers, or could possibly be more depth and unique- future customers of his ness to the products store. found at Game Xpress. BIG MAN CRICKETAs the Christmas season GUYANA fully endorsapproaches, customers es the products and serwould be presented with vices found at GAME a lot of exciting choic- XPRESS, and heartily es and an opportunity encourages the public to play a simple game at large to support this to have determined the generous entity in these amount of discount they challenging times. would receive on their purchases. The store is flush with games and party sup-
