All Guyanese will benefit from country’s wealth – Teixeira 3-4 July, 2021 / Vol. 11 ‒ No. 79 / Price: $100
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Coalition’s Ferguson arrested for cyber bullying PAGE 3
Unvaccinated persons at higher risk of catching Delta variant – Min Anthony PAGE 23
New PAC Chair likely to be elected today PAGE 2
$37.5M in subvention allocated to 15 Region Four NDCs PAGE 8
PSC promotion list rejected as ‘unlawful, illegal’
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SEE INSIDE
Meeting Paris Agreement targets critical to prevent PAGE 10 future water disasters
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WEEKEND MIRROR 3-4 JULY, 2021
PARLIAMENT HAPPENINGS UNDER REVIEW Parliamentary Select Committee to address ‘weed bill’ convened
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he Parliamentary Special Select Committee met on Monday (June 28, 2021) to address the Government’s Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic (Control) Amendment Bill. At the meeting Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Mohabir Anil Nandlall, was elected as the Chairman of the Special Select Committee. The Special Select Committee comprises three Government and four Opposition Members. The Government’s side will be represented by Nandlall, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance,Gail Teixeira; and Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr. The Opposition side includes of Members of Parliament, Khemraj Ramjattan, Amanza Walton-Desir and Sherod Duncan.
The Committee will address the Government’s Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic (Control) Amendment Bill, which is seeking non-custodial sentences for persons in possession of marijuana weighing 15 grammes or less, with mandatory counselling, while those found with more than 15 grammes, but less than 30, would attract community service. Members of the Rastafarian community continue to call for the suspension of jail sentences for the possession of small amounts of cannabis and for its use as a religious right to be respected. Currently, possession of 15 grams or less could attract a prison sentence between three to five years and a fine of no less than $30,000. AMENDMENTS The amendments are
meant to reduce the burden on the justice system. It covers issues like marijuana possession, recidivism and prison overcrowding. This would not only save the State money, but would also help to keep families together and rebuild communities affected and disadvantaged by the incarceration of persons, especially youth. Clause 4 of the Bill amends section, 4(1) and (2) of the Principal Act. It now excludes from the offence of possession of any narcotic, defined to include cannabis, under subsections (1) and (2), to simple possession. This however, cannot exceed the specified amount listed separately under the new subsections (2A) and (2B). “Under the new subsection (2A) the possession of a quantity of cannabis or any substance held out to be can-
nabis which does not exceed fifteen grams is punishable by mandatory counselling for a period to be determined by the counsellor,” the document stated. Further, under (2B) the possession of any quantity of cannabis or any substance thought to be cannabis which exceeds 15 grams but does not exceed 30 grams, is punishable by community service. This includes employment in a public work under the Extra-Mural Work Act, Cap. 11:02, for a period not exceeding six months. “ P u b l i c w o r k i s d efined by section 2 of the Extra-Mural Work Regulations, Reg. 8 of 1998, to include any work on State or Government land or any property belonging to, or rented or leased to the State or with the permission of a local government authority,
on any land or any other property belonging to, or rented or leased to, the local government authority.” Clause 5 of the Act has also been amended. Section 5(2)(e) has been amended to increase the quantity of cannabis, in relation to the burden of proof being placed on a person to prove that the person is not in possession of cannabis for the purpose of trafficking. This concerns an amount more than 30 grams. The amount in the Principal Act is 15 grams. Clause 6 amends section 12 to remove the fine and term of imprisonment for the smoking, inhaling, sniffing, or otherwise using cannabis, being found in a place used for that purpose, or being the owner, occupier, or concerned in the management of any place used for preparation of cannabis for
that purpose. Further, while the clause removes the fine and term of imprisonment for smoking cannabis in places where cigarette smoking is also banned, it imposes a $10,000 fine for a first offence and a $20,000 penalty for a second and subsequent offences. Finally, the bill also caters for those instances where an offender may refuse to consent or breach an order of mandatory counselling or community service. The amended Act would grant the court the discretion to order the offender to pay a fine of $250,000 where it sees fit. The Bill was laid in the National Assembly on January 28, 2021 and read for the first time. The Bill was then sent to a Special Parliamentary Select Committee for consideration.
New PAC Chair likely to be elected today A
meeting of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of Parliament has been scheduled for Friday, July 2, 2021, where a new
Chairperson is expected to be elected. The former PAC Chair, APNU+AFC Coalition Parliamentarian, David Patter-
son, was removed as Chair, following a vote in the National Assembly, on June 15, 2021, just at around 5:32hours, after about five
hours of debate. The motion was tabled by the Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, Gail Teixeira. In her
contribution, the Minister recalled that Mr. Patterson was nominated and declared PAC Chairperson on December 28, 2020. During the sixth meeting of the committee on February 1, 2021, following the exposure of findings of the Auditor General’s Report of 2016, Minister Teixeira had moved a motion calling for Mr. Patterson to resign as the PAC Chairman. Cognizant of those findings, Minister Teixeira said it was “inappropriate” for Patterson to continue as the Chairman. But despite numerous instances of guidance from Mr. Sherlock Issacs, the Clerk of the National Assembly, Mr. Patterson refused to resign from the Committee. To compound matters, he had refused to allow the motion to be put to the vote and PAC meetings were cancelled as a result of the ensuing stalemate. Minister Teixeira explained, “Mr. Speaker, worse yet, having not been satisfied that he hadn’t put the motion and we had to put another motion on the agenda, the
Chairperson deliberately refused to deal with the motion and went to all the other issues, even though we kept trying for the motion to be put to the vote. “…no Chairperson is so entrenched and entitled to the point that he or she cannot be removed; just like a government. If a government can be removed, why not a Chair of a committee? This is logical, isn’t it?” A subsequent motion by Minister Teixeira for Mr. Patterson’s removal as Chairperson was asterisked by him meaning it was not to be dealt with. Teixeira noted that Mr. Patterson was advised by both the Clerk and the Speaker of the National Assembly, Hon. Manzoor Nadir, that he did not possess the authority to asterisk a motion. In a letter to Mr. Patterson, the Speaker had also indicated to him that his actions were a “gross violation of the Standing Orders and tantamount to bullyism”. Friday’s meeting was called by House Speaker, Manzoor Nadir.
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Coalition’s T Ferguson arrested for cyber bullying
More members leave PNCR
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PNU+AFC Coalition Parliamentarian, Annette Ferguson, was arrested on Wednesday (June 30, 2021) and released by the police on her own recognizance in connection with a cybercrime investigation. The Guyana Police Force (GPF) in a statement disclosed that Ferguson was arrested by ranks at CID Headquarters, Eve Leary, Georgetown pursuant to a report received against her in relation to a Cyber Crime allegation. “The report was made by a senior member of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) against Ms. Ferguson in relation to a Facebook social media post which falsely alleged that the said senior GDF rank will be in charge of a killing squad,” the Force said.
Further, in response to comments from Opposition Leader, Joseph Harmon, on the matter, Home Affairs Minister, Robeson Benn, said, “I wish to reject, in entirety, the assertions made by Mr Joseph Harmon, in a statement he issued today, on the issue of the questioning and arrest, and the laying of charges by the Guyana Police Force against Ms. Annette Ferguson M.P. in matters identifying breaches of the Cyber Crime Act. Mr. Harmon, of all persons, should need no reminding that all persons – inclusive of Members of Parliament and, also, members of the APNU/AFC – are subject to the Laws of Guyana adherence to which the Guyana Police Force is duty bound
to enforce without fear or favour. Mr. Harmon’s now natural reflexive instincts of making unwarranted attacks about partisan `… political persecution…’, `… weaponizing of the Guyana Police Force…’,…are not only grossly untrue but are of malicious intent…..when viewed from its advocacy and reckless support of Ms. Ferguson’s present gross indiscretions Harmon’s statement goes further by identifying the continuous resort to the racist and seditious playbook he has ready at hand.” Investigations are ongoing and upon completion the file will be sent to the Chambers of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for legal advice, according to the Force.
Another ‘questionable agreement’ by Coalition raises eyebrows T
he former APNU+AFC Coalition move to ink a questionable agreement has raised eyebrows, given the sweeping concessions and immunities. Details of the agreement that have emerged indicate that the Coalition, back in 2018, engaged Partnership for Sustainable Land Management (PISLM), which was branded as a regional diplomatic intergovernmental agency. As per the agreement, the Coalition granted the members of PISLM immunity from various arms of law enforcement. Further, members of the Guyana Police Force (GPF), Guyana Defence Force (GDF), the Judiciary or administrative, were barred from entering
any PISLM property unless they receive the consent of the agency’s Executive Director. “All archives and records, correspondence, documents and other materials of PISLM shall be inviolable… PISLM, its property, assets and other facilities, wherever located and by whomsoever held, shall enjoy immunity from every form of legal process except (if) it has waived its immunity; it is understood, however, that no waiver of immunity shall extend to any measure of execution,” the agreement said. Further, members of PISLM benefitted from tax concessions and other perks, including exemptions from paying income tax or National Insurance Scheme
(NIS) contributions, as well as exemptions from paying customs duty and Value Added Tax (VAT) on any motor vehicles, personal and household items they imported within the first 12 months of their stay in Guyana. A number of luxury vehicles were brought into Guyana using this provision and in the last week these vehicles included a 2019 Mercedes G550 and a 2021 Cadillac Escalade. The principal of PISLM is embattled former head of the then Guyana Lands and Surveys Commissioner (GL&SC) Trevor Benn. This agreement was signed into effect on December 28, 2018, by then Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge.
he People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR), the majority partner in the APNU+AFC Coalition, continues to grapple with the loss of members. Over the past several days, former sports director and youth advocate, Brian Smith, indicated that he will not be renewing his membership with the PNCR. In a widely broadcast interview, he said, “I’ve given a service to the party, and I’ve been an advocate… since I left school, so about 15 years of my life. I think it is now time for me to move on…I think that after 50-something years, we don’t need to be inheriting the fights of older people. Guyana… we’re post-2000: a new era, a new time. And while I don’t discount the efforts of those
who have come before, I thank them for their service; thank them for their fight, but I believe it is time for us to chart a new course, a new direction.” Further, a member of the Central Executive Committee, businessman Shawn Hopkinson, also confirmed his departure from the PNCR. Last week, longstanding People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) member Thandi McAllister, who has been with the party for decades and was a candidate at the last General and Regional Elections, has resigned from the party. McAllister resigned as Central Executive Committee of the PNCR and the Office of Regional Chairman. The letter was addressed to PNCR General Secretary Amna Ally.
In a statement, McAllister said, “After very careful and agonizing consideration, I concluded that the present direction of the leadership is ill-suited to the fulfilment of the aspirations of young people in Guyana, the enhancement of the party’s supporters, and the advancement of the nation…in this connection, I can no longer accompany a process that, in my view, has departed from serving the interests of the many who reposed faith in the PNC/R to champion their causes, and to offer constructive pathways for the development of our beloved Guyana.” The PNCR-led APNU+AFC Coalition has been grappling with a series of resignations over the past several months.
Authorities rescue Haitian nationals stranded along Linden-Lethem trail
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bout 50 Haitian nationals, including children as young as two-years-old, were rescued by law enforcement officials after they were found wandering along the Linden/Lethem trail. With limited water and food, the foreign nationals related that they were left in the bushes along the trail for seven days. Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, in commenting on the matter, disclosed that the rescued Haitians are in the care of law enforcement. He added that the Haitians were abandoned after they refused to pay increased transportation fees to get them past the border, at Lethem, and over to neighboring Brazil. The Attorney General said, “It is a human rights tragedy, a smuggling of people ring… we are seeing all the trappings of it. It is well organised and it is well orchestrated and a lot of money is involved.” Last week, President Dr Irfaan Ali signed an Immigration Revocation Order,
effectively removing Haiti from the list of countries that enjoyed visa-free travel to Guyana. Haiti was in January 2019 added to the list through an Order under the Immigration Act by former President David Granger. With this order being revoked by President Ali, this means that Haitians will no longer enjoy the automatic six-month stay upon arrival in the country. Several incidents have fueled concerns of the Government of Guyana about human trafficking. In early June 2021, local police arrested a number of Haitians in close vicinity to Lethem, Region Nine Also in June 2021, a total of 10 Haitian nationals were found at the Swiss Hotel, Skeldon, Berbice, Region Six. The persons disclosed that they were brought into Guyana through Suriname, but had their passports and other documents taken away. In February 2021, the Brazilian Federal Police arrested 26 Haitians who
entered Bom Fim illegally from Guyana through Lethem. In November, 2020, a total of 26 Haitian nationals, including seven children, were discovered by police officers in a city hotel and in a minibus on the Linden-Mabura Road. More than 30,000 Haitian nationals entered Guyana between 2015 and 2020, but cannot be accounted for. A total of 38,187 Haitian nationals entered Guyana from 2015 to 2021, but were never recorded as having left. According to data, for 2021 so far, 1378 Haitians were documented entering Guyana, but only 165 were shown to have left. Some 9,239 Haitians entered Guyana in 2020. However, only 717 are documented by the authorities as leaving. In 2019, there were 20,261 arrivals of Haitian nationals in Guyana. However, only 1,697 were recorded as leaving Guyana, leaving 18,564 unaccounted for.
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EDITORIAL
Reject the Coalition’s political plays Issue of foreign nationals being T ‘smuggled’ through Guyana must he 2020 Trafficking in Persons Report, which is produced by the US State Department, registers Guyana’s ranking as Tier 1. This means that the Government of Guyana fully meets the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking. According to the report: “The government continued to demonstrate serious and sustained efforts during the reporting period; therefore Guyana remained on Tier 1. The government demonstrated serious and sustained efforts by completing a draft amendment of the Combating Trafficking of Persons Act, sentencing a convicted trafficker to a total of 15 years imprisonment, drafting a national action plan to eliminate child labor, completing standard operating procedures for investigating and prosecuting trafficking cases, and opening its first trafficking shelter outside of the capital area….although the government meets the minimum standards, it investigated and prosecuted fewer suspected traffickers, identified fewer victims of trafficking, and did not provide adequate screening or shelter for child and male victims. There are insufficient labor inspectors and their training in human trafficking is inadequate…. as reported over the last five years, human traffickers exploit domestic and foreign victims in Guyana, and traffickers exploit victims from Guyana abroad. Women and children from Guyana, Brazil, the Dominican Republic, Haiti, Suriname, and Venezuela become sex trafficking victims in mining communities in the interior and urban areas. The government notes a large increase in the number of trafficking victims from Venezuela.” As per the report, there is still work to be done to better address the issue of Trafficking in Persons. Thankfully, the change of Administration, also saw serious efforts being made to ensure that Guyana is not a transshipment point for traffickers. Two major areas of actions have been stepping up law enforcement effort – an area seen as weak in 2020 in the US State Department Report; and greater victim assistance – a second area seen as weak in the 2020 Trafficking in Persons Report. On the matter of victim assistance, the government’s ramped up efforts have been evident in the past few weeks. The most recent was the rescuing of about 50 Haitian nationals, including children as young as two-years-old, by law enforcement officials after they were found wandering along the Linden/Lethem trail on Monday, June 28, 2021. With limited water and food, the foreign nationals related that they were left in the bushes along the trail for seven days. The foreign nationals reportedly refused to pay increased transportation fees to get them past the border, at Lethem, and over to neighboring Brazil. In the past year, Haitian nationals have been found to be at risk as victims of human trafficking. In early June 2021, local police arrested a number of Haitians in close vicinity to Lethem, Region Nine. Also in June 2021, a total of 10 Haitian nationals were found at the Swiss Hotel, Skeldon, Berbice, Region Six. The persons disclosed that they were brought into Guyana through Suriname, but had their passports and other documents taken away. In February 2021, the Brazilian Federal Police arrested 26 Haitians who entered Bom Fim illegally from Guyana through Lethem. In November, 2020, a total of 26 Haitian nationals, including seven children, were discovered by police officers in a city hotel and in a minibus on the Linden-Mabura Road. Over a five-year period, more than 30,000 Haitian nationals entered Guyana between 2015 and 2020, but cannot be accounted for. A total of 38,187 Haitian nationals entered Guyana from 2015 to 2021, but were never recorded as having left. Given the issue at hand and the concerns of human trafficking, last week, President Dr Irfaan Ali signed an Immigration Revocation Order, effectively removing Haiti from the list of countries that enjoyed visa-free travel to Guyana. Haiti was in January 2019 added to the list through an Order under the Immigration Act by former President David Granger. With this order being revoked by President Ali, this means that Haitians will no longer enjoy the automatic six-month stay upon arrival in the country. Unfortunately, despite the efforts to step up victim assistance and the recognition that Haitian nationals are at risk for being exploited, the issue is being used for political gain by the Parliamentary Opposition. This is no time for gamesmanship. The unfortunate political plays must be rejected. A major issue has been identified, quantified and efforts are being made to address it. The effort of combatting human trafficking and ensuring that Guyana is not used as a transshipment point must be embraced as a national task.
be addressed Dear Editor,
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overnment has expressed concern over the volume of transient migrants, surmising that a human trafficking ring is involved, with great justification. During the torturous 2020 pre and post elections saga, there was ample evidence of the facilitation of human trafficking by leaders of an identified political configuration. Allegations were rife that large sums were being expended from the nation’s coffers to facilitate travel, house and support illegal aliens and to provide them with Guyanese identity documents such as birth certificates and national identity cards, with Guyanese names. A news item published on 14th November 2020, headlined “Five in custody after 26 Haitians ‘discovered’ in suspected smuggling ring” related that twenty-six Haitian nationals were placed in protective care after police, during multiple operations, discovered them in a suspected smuggling racket at a city hotel and a minibus on the Linden-Mabura Road. In protective care are 10 men, nine women, and seven children (two boys and five girls). The children were proven not to be related to any of the adults in the party, which is alarming as revelations are circulating worldwide of incidents of kidnapping of persons for body parts, as well as for the usual
reasons persons, including children are kidnapped, primarily as slave labourers and sex slaves. Making one’s country an in-transit hub to facilitate incursions by human aliens into neighbouring countries goes against international protocols and can create antipathetic reactions from the country being invaded. For instance, the Government of Brazil has complained to the Government of Guyana about this country being used as a transshipment point for illegal aliens entering Brazil. Several incidents reported by the media of Suriname last year referenced a surge of Haitians entering Suriname illegally from Guyana. The 26 Haitians had provided false information to immigration officials on their arrival in Guyana, which caused suspicion of human smuggling, so a deportation order was sought and granted by Principal Magistrate Sherdel Isaacs-Marcus, at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court in December, 2020. However, the Chief Justice, on December 3rd last, issued a conservatory order halting the deportation of the 26 Haitians, in an action filed by Attorney Darren Wade against AG Anil Nandlall, contending that the order for deportation issued by the magistrate was arbitrary, and in violation of the fundamental rights of his clients.
After the Chief Justice issued the Conservatory Order, the Attorney-General informed her that their passports would be returned and they would be delivered to a location of their own choosing. This was done and within days they had disappeared, validating the Government's contention that their movements were facilitated by a smuggling ring operating out of Guyana. Subsequently, it was reported that Allandres Archer had withdrawn his name from representing the 26 Haitians. Archer claimed: “I was contacted by Attorney-at-Law Darren Wade to give an affidavit to be a witness and it ended up I was the person who was taking the government to court… I never agreed to that; I never wanted no (sic!) part of it, I received the people from the airport. I brought them to the hotel, I checked them in, then we got arrested and that was basically what I agreed on: But to take the government to court or to fight on behalf of the Haitians was never my intention.” It is important to note, as a matter of great significance, that the lawyer who went to great lengths to champion the cause of the 26 Haitians who breached Guyana’s immigration prerequisites is a staunch PNC member. Yours truly, Todd A Morgan
Unacceptable, unpardonable sins committed by GECOM staff Dear Editor,
T
he serious inclement weather and unbelievable flooding are wreaking havoc in our communities. Hence, the holding of Local Government Elections so as to strengthen local democracy and bring about better-quality leaders at the Neighbourhood Democratic Council is imperative. Many more mature and experienced persons are showing interest in public and civil activities. Guyana is on the rise, and our democracy must prevail. The massive defeat at the 2016 and 2018 Local Government Elections will continue, as the APNU/PNC is doomed to be humiliated. All eyes are on GECOM, and they are under serious scrutiny to prepare fully and hold free and fair elections. GECOM is on trial to conduct free and fair elections, and its administrators have created such a stony, thorn-filled path in respect to any evaluation for the continuation of the “trio” to be at GECOM. Hence, GECOM must immediately get rid of all the staff members who are before the courts for fraud and misconduct at the 2020 National and Regional Elections. Significantly, GECOM has unani-
mously decided to send Chief Elections Officer (CEO) Keith Lowenfield, Deputy Chief Elections Officer (DCEO) Roxanne Myers, and Region Four Returning Officer Clarmont Mingo on leave pending a decision on a proposal on whether a tribunal would investigate the serious accusations against them. The Chairperson of GECOM must be fully aware of the fact that the Commission has the power and authority to deal with any insubordination, dishonesty, and fraud at the Commission. The proposal made by Alexander and his support team for the survival of the ‘rogue’ staff must not be condoned. GECOM must understand that the unacceptable and unpardonable sins that were committed by staff at GECOM have caused a total loss of public confidence and public trust in the electoral process. As GECOM now prepares to hold Local Government Elections, the Commission must put on the agenda preparation and plan for the holding of Elections this year. Further, there are many others who are before the court for wrongdoing, and many others who are guilty of being a part of the attempts to derail and rig the National and Regional Elections. Hence, all eyes are on them, and the
hiring of staff for future Elections must be done in a transparent manner and with persons of integrity. GECOM must deal with these issues and persons swiftly. They have all been accused of failing, neglecting, and abdicating their functions, duties, and responsibilities to ensure compliance with the provisions of the Constitution and the electoral framework and the very essential criteria of impartiality, transparency, fairness, and credibility to the operations of the Commission and its Secretariat. The underperformance, the deliberate attempts to do skullduggery, and the fact that they committed all their dirty work in the eyes of our entire population and the imminent international observers are enough evidence for the Commission to deal condignly with all the fraudsters. Further, the three rogue staff members are all before the court facing criminal charges, and the nation’s expectations are high that they would be dealt with severely. Their punishment must be a deterrent to any further attempt to rig elections in this country. Sincerely, Neil Kumar
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WEEKEND MIRROR 3-4 JULY, 2021
The Coalition has always served those in power rather than the people Dear Editor,
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he former prime minister’s vacuous, venomous and vindictive insinuations of ‘vaccines, vultures and victims’ will never gain traction again. His true identity has been laid bare for the world to behold. The Coalition had spun this corruption mantra to perfection and the gullible had swallowed it. Guyanese will never fall for this again when for five years they witnessed not only what real corruption was, but what real rigging is under the Coalition. Young Guyanese had a taste of Burnhamism in action! And to those who had forgotten, their memories were jolted! Guyanese must never forget that Coalition politics destroyed this country on two occasions and this should never be permitted to happen again. Nagamootoo knows this too well. When one analyzes what took place in the Coalition of 1964 and that of 2015, one can discern stark and compelling similarities to support this proposition. Let me refresh the memory of the former prime minister, Moses Nagamootoo, General Elections were held in Guyana (then British Guiana) on 7th December, 1964, which saw the PPP, despite winning a majority of 24 seats, saw the beginning of dirty coalition politics in Guyanabetween the PNC and the UF. The interests of the people were not of any importance and this unholy, engineered alliance served both foreign interests and that of Burnham and the PNC. In 2015 again, the Coalition was never about the people, but to gain power in order to feather their nests. This Coalition had marked also the beginning of a most ruthless reign of the Burnham dictatorship, which saw the rapid decline of our socio-economic structure. History would repeat itself in 2015 when in just within five years, the Treasury became empty, the reserves were depleted and the country facing bankruptcy, unemployment rose and the standard of living plummeted. The economic decline began to gain traction in 1966, just two years into government. Agriculture became the prime target of the PNC as it was after 2015. The Coalition government was deliberately applying policies that were detrimental to the agricultural sector. Similar to the promises made during the 2015 election campaign, during the 1964 election campaign, the farmers were promised 30 acres of land with good drainage and irrigation; they would get good markets and fair prices. They had also promised that rice farmers will get $10 more per bag from the Cuban rice market. In 2015 they were promised $9,000 dollars per bag. However, it was not only agriculture, but the other sectors began a rapid decline as well. The balance
of trade which was favourable up to 1964 became increasingly unfavourable, showing an increasing deficit each year (1965 it was $4.3 million and 1966 by $4.3 million and by the first half of 1967 it was a staggering $26 million). Over 4,250 workers were retrenched, this included 1,000 sugar workers and 1,500 bauxite workers and the unemployment statistic rose to 23 per cent. It must be noted that this exact scenario played out when the Coalition assumed power in 2015. It is ironical that during this period of ruthless dictatorship and corruption, Nagamootoo had written and spoken volumes and was one of the prime targets of the , but the return of the PNC dictatorship in 2015 which he supported, saw him hearing and seeing no evil. He was himself utterly consumed by the same corrupt practices which he had vociferously condemned. Just as in 2015 the promises were not kept and things fall apart rapidly. In fact, hunger and suffering began to stalk the land. The Coalition was simply a ruse to oust the PPP and get into power. It’s just startling how the PNC can fool Guyanese with the same promises twice. This time this unholy alliance was spearheaded and orchestrated by Nagamootoo, the self-acclaimed disciple of Dr Jagan and the anointed one. The disastrous effect of the 1964 Coalition lasted for 28 years. It must be recalled that under the PNC dictatorship the entire socio-economic structure collapsed and it became criminal to even put certain foods on the table, such as potato, flour, onion, garlic, flour and sardines, etc. Moreover, during these horrific years, the PNC, apart from completely bankrupting the economy, sold off many of our valuable assets for next to nothing, enriching families and friends and those who could have provided lucrative kickbacks. This was more pronounced just before the 1992 Elections. Fortunately, in 1992 and until 2015, the PPP/C under the leadership of the late Dr Jagan and then Dr Jagdeo, propelled Guyana into an upward progressive trajectory which moved Guyana from a poor, low- income country to a middle-income country with a per capita income in excess of US$5,000. Even before they coalesced in 2015, the AFC had joined hands with the PNC to frustrate and destabilise the PPP/C Government. This became more pronounced from 2011 when Nagamootoo became the ‘scissors man’ for the PNC. This man saw an opportunity to fulfil his political ambitions, so he moved a no-confidence motion to remove the PPP/C Government. This was achieved and the elections in 2015 saw the return of an infamous alliance and he became the ‘siren’ prime minister. The Coalition in 1964 was re-enacted but with a difference. The AFC was the perfect partner in crime. Ironically,
the no- confidence motion in 2018 was the precursor to the eventual toppling of the fledgling PNC/AFC dictatorship in 2020. This was poetic justice! Unlike Peter D’Aguiar, the AFC’s leadership in 2015 saw an opportunity for self-aggrandizement and enrichment. The APNU+AFC had squandered and mismanaged our economy through corrupt practices to the extent that they spent more than $1.3 trillion dollars with nothing to show; in fact, Guyanese have been overtaxed with an additional annual average of $80 billion more than under the PPP/C. It is equally alarming that they spent more than $600 billion than what the previous PPP/C government spent in their last four years in office! Where has the money gone when it is considered that more Guyanese were unemployed than ever before and that four sugar estates have been closed and the factories, the infrastructures and the cultivation completely annihilated. In fact, the AFC’s leadership referred to GuySuCo as the ‘black hole’ and likened subsidies to ‘raping of the Treasury.’ The ‘sugar champion’ had
deserted the sugar workers. Fortunately, this government has once again come to the rescue of the entity which from all indications will once again be brought back to its glorious days. Luckily, Dr Jagdeo’s leadership ensured that Guyanese do not have to wait for another 28 years! Now the PPP/C Government is once again in government and rapidly building the socio-economic structures despite inheriting an empty Treasury and depleted reserves and despite being faced with two disasters of gigantic proportions. And what is the opposition Coalition doing? They are hell bent on derailing the progress, crying corruption and attempting once again to deceive and fool the people, shouting ‘fake vaccines and corruption’! The Coalition has always served those in power rather than the people and it is time the opposition makes some meaningful contribution to the development of our country. Yours sincerely, Haseef Yusuf
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Measures put in place necessary to avoid Guyana being an international human transshipment point Dear Editor,
T
he human trafficking curse is becoming quite topical in Guyana. Just recently, gleaning from the news, “10 youths, including a pregnant woman, had been held at a hotel on the Corentyne, after they had been brought from neighbouring Suriname.” It is sad what is unfolding, and Guyana has done the right
thing by having them stationed at the Hugo Chavez Centre for Rehabilitation, West Coast Berbice, even as police are investigating. Prior to this, Law Enforcement Agencies, in the past, did hold-up Haitians heading to Brazil, after they were blocked at the entry point at Lethem. This interceptive work resulted from a joint effort between the Brazilian Federal Police and Guyana’s Customs
Job creation continues Dear Editor,
W
e must never forget that it was under the former APNU+AFC Coalition Government that over 30,000 people lost their jobs. So, this new “US$100 million cement factory to be constructed on Essequibo Coast” is yet another way to create job opportunities for Guyanese, even as their confidence is being restored. During the 2020 APNU+AFC rigging attempt and even before, many Guyanese suffered in a state of hopelessness because of the economic state of the country, coupled with the lack of job opportunities available. This was the catalyst for the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C), who at the time made a strong commitment “… to
restore, enhance and create new jobs for all categories of workers.” Currently, the Sugar Industry is up and running and many are back at work. With this cement factory in the near offing, more hope is descending on the country overall, as apart from some 200 job openings, local cement will be available on the Guyana market. The word is already buzzing that “A new variety of cement will soon be added … following the construction and commissioning of a proposed Cement Plant on the Essequibo Coast, set to manufacture the ‘Hydraulic Cement.’ This plant will be under the aegis of the Georgetown Cement Company, of which Mr. Vijay Sukhdeo is the Chief Executive Officer. This CEO is a seasoned campaigner,
Anti Narcotic Unit. Countering any form of trafficking is a huge undertaking and the reason is obvious. The figures show that it earns global profits of roughly $150 billion per year for the traffickers. Here in Guyana, there is a burgeoning crisis. Back in September 2019, Winston Felix, then in charge of immigration issues under the Granger Government, noted that “… while close to 8, 500 Haitians arrived in the country for the first seven months of the year, only 1,170 are known to have departed the country. The rest, Felix said, are not in Guyana.” What is the take here? For one, who can definitively prove this? And two, is it that Guyana is a suitable conduit? So, the problem must be addressed immediately. I recall too that in August 2019, Moses Nagamootoo did admit that “… the departure of Haitians should be better monitored. In this vein, it is good to read that Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall announced that: “Haitians and Cubans would soon require visas to travel to Guyana, amid concerns about a well-organised human trafficking ring.” He added that: “We are taking a position that will require visas for these nationals when they come, originally from Wakenaam, who migrated to the United States at the age of 17 and now has some 30 years of experience in this kind of business. This project is expected to get going later in the year, with the hope of completing it in a one-year time frame. Sukhdeo detailed that “Once completed, the plant will utilize both French and German technology, producing grey and white cement (as) our aim is to complete (it) within 12 to 13 months, so we can start grinding cement right after.” If all goes well, the factory will churn out both white and grey cement, in an unprecedented quality at 50,000 metric tons per month. Outside of employment to build and run the factory, there will be huge economic advantages, as it means ‘more affordability,’ simply because the cement will be locally made, and therefore residents will benefit from the cheaper price. This is not difficult to grasp, as the CEO explained that “We decid-
WEEKEND MIRROR 3-4 JULY, 2021 including Haitian nationals, Cuban nationals etc. so the government of Guyana will be moving in that direction.” Normally, the vast majority of CARICOM citizens can enter and stay for a period of six months in any one of the countries comprising CARICOM. The facts are that Most of Haiti's trafficking cases involve children in forced labor and domestic service, who often are physically abused, receive no payment for services rendered, and have significantly lower school enrollment rates. So, safeguarding the ten at the Hugo Chavez institute is indeed a good move. The Attorney General predicted that the Government's move will be politicised/ racialised, (and I am going with the trend here) by APNU+AFC. He is right, as I think back to the recent attacks from APNU+AFC regarding the Covid19 Cash Grant, helping desperate flood victims and the vaccine procurement matter. However, Guyana must oppose this and put measures in place so that it cannot be used as an international human trans-shipment point, no matter what the APNU+AFC does. Respectfully Yours, Alvin Hamilton ed to step in because of the cement demand and price for the product presently.” So, “Instead of importing the finished product, we will be importing the ingredients like iron ore and line stone gypsum.” There is a big plus too in that this “Hydraulic Cement is great for sea defense and stands up longer to salt air… Its trying time is 30 minutes longer than that of all-purpose cement, but it allows for the cement to have a better bonding.” Many Guyanese are now living closer to the Atlantic Ocean, and many of them have suffered from the salty sea breeze, so this will add impetus for local purchase, but with the high rate of production, the Hydraulic Cement will also be supplying other Caribbean countries, including Suriname. This means ‘earned foreign exchange.’ Yours truly, Attiya Baksh
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Collective approach to security promotes stability and prosperity of region – PM T
he importance of a collective approach to security in the region was stressed by Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) the Honourable Mark Phillips. He told scores of foreign officials and local ranks at the closing ceremony of Operation Tradewinds 2021 at the National Stadium in Providence, last Friday, June 25,
2021, that the union formed from the multinational exercise should be maintained and amplified. The Prime Minister said that it is imperative that the region confront key issues together, like border disputes, counter-narcotics, combating organised crime and the threat of climate change. He said, “As countries of the
Caribbean, sharing the same geopolitical space also means the sharing of common problems and the fact that we will be more receptive of working together to resolve them”. He added that with shared values such as democracy, economic integration and regional security, the construction of interregional linkages would culminate in a
peaceful hemispheric security environment. The multinational military exercise, sponsored by the US Southern Command (USSOCOM), involved over a dozen countries, including hosts Guyana. The 14-day military exercise saw participation from host country Guyana, the Bahamas, Belize, Bermuda,
Brazil, Canada, Dominican Republic, France, Jamaica, the Netherlands, Trinidad and Tobago, and the United Kingdom. Also present at today’s closing ceremony were: Senior Minister within the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, the Honourable Dr Ashni Singh; Minister of Home Affairs, the
Honourable Robeson Benn; Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, the Honourable Oneidge Walrond; National Security Advisor to the President, Gerry Gouveia; Chief of Staff of the Guyana Defence Force, Brigadier Godfrey Bess and several senior officers of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) and the Guyana Police Force (GPF).
CHPA delivers 350 house lots to Essequibians T
he Ministry of Housing and Water, through the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA), hosted the second ‘Dream Realised’ initiative in Region Two, where some 350 residents will receive house lots in the Tract ‘B’ St. Joseph, and Tract ‘A’ Buxton, Charity Housing Scheme. Speaking at the opening of the event at the Anna Regina Municipality compound, subject Minister, Collin Croal, said the house lots are heavily subsidised. Each area would be equipped with roads, drainage channels, culverts, access bridges, electricity and water distribution networks. The development cost
for the Buxton/St. Joseph scheme is $872 million while the Charity squatting area and Onderneeming Phase IV are $628 million and $1.7 billion respectively. Allocations will be made for residential, industrial and commercial purposes, and will include religious and community facilities and public open spaces. Minister Croal said members of the disciplined services will also benefit from house lots there. He said, “For those of you who will receive house lots today, I want to encourage you to seek out the banks present for assistance and financial guidance, so that you can start building your homes as quickly as possible. You’ve
waited a long time for this day. And be sure to speak with the insurance company about protecting your investment. For those of you who are patiently waiting for your time, I promise you that we are doing everything we can to make the dream of owning your home a reality,” Minister Croal also clarified information circulating regarding house lot allocations in Region Two. He said from 2015 to 2020 only 110 allocations were made, all of which were done in 2019, mere months before the 2020 General and Regional Elections. Some 45 lots were allocated in Onderneeming Phase 11, 64 in Phase 111 and 1 in Charity.
In just Eight months, the PPP/C Administration has distributed some 700 house lots on the Essequibo Coast. In fact, since August 2 to date, over 4,300 house lots were distributed in mainly Regions Two, Three, Four and Six, and with over 600 certificates of title and transports processed. Meaanwhile, CH&PA’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Sherwyn Greaves said that each house lot is subsidised at a cost of some $2.5 million. However, the cost for the
house lots will range from $92,000 to $700,000. The CEO encouraged allottees to build their homes within the shortest possible time. In April, the Ministry distributed over 300 house lots in Onderneeming Phase Four, Essequibo Coast. The next stop will be in Linden, Amelia’s Ward, Region Ten where 400 house lots will be distributed. Distribution exercise will also be held in Regions Four, Three and Nine respectively. This will bring the Gov-
ernment closer to realising its goal of distributing 10,000 lots during its first year in office and an overall 50,000 lots in five years. Permanent Secretary at the Ministry, Mr. Andre Ally, Region Two Chairperson, Ms. Vilma Da Silva also attended the event. Representatives from the Guyana Water Incorporated and several banking institutions and insurance companies were also there to provide guidance on how persons could access their services.
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$37.5M in subvention allocated to 15 Region Four NDCs S
ome $37.5 million in subvention was on Monday (June 28, 2021) allocated to 15 Region Four Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) to advance services within the various districts. The simple presentation ceremony was held at the office of the Minister of
Local Government and Regional Development, Minister, Hon. Nigel Dharamlall. Region Four has 17 NDCs, the other two would receive their cheques at a later date. Minister Dharamlall called on residents to be informed and involved in Government’s interventions
within their areas. He said, “They can help us to get the resources that we put into these villages spent wisely, so that we uphold the values that we pursue as part of our good Governance. The balance of the subvention will also be provided when they are finished spending this 50 per cent. We expect
they are going to use the balance to complete work that have not yet been fully completed. But to ensure that they do things that are more meaningful to persons on the ground.” The Minister said the onus is now on the NDCs to honour their obligations and partner with communities to
address issues, especially those that are priority. Some of the NDCs which received cheques today are Industry/Plaisance, Better Hope, Golden Grove, Cane Grove and Buxton. Similar distribution exercises are scheduled to be conducted in Regions
Five and Six on Tuesday. Already, a $35 million subvention was handed over to 14 Region Three NDCs last week. Minister Dharamlall said Government will continue to advance work in all the NDC areas to better the lives of persons residing there.
National forest inventory ongoing
ests based on intended use (timber, mining, NTFP etc.), maximising the multi-purpose potential of Guyana’s forests • Identification of areas for conservation and protection; and providing baseline data for understanding the forest dynamics in these areas. • Allow for efficient biological and ecological research by providing preliminary baseline data on forest species, composition and distribution. • Integration of forest inventories with GIS/Remote Sensing technology, using empirical national forest data
to design specific technologies for the monitoring of Guyana’s forests. • Provide a reference dataset on forest resources for long-term monitoring and decision-making, including creating historical records of forest use for future generations. The Ministry of Natural Resources through the forest regulatory agency, the Guyana Forestry Commission is committed to achieving all set targets of the National Forestry Inventory for 2021 in keeping with sustainable forest management and international practices.
‒ in keeping with the government’s strategic development plans for the forest sector
T
he Ministry of Natural Resources’ Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC) has commenced its National Forest Inventory (NFI). This is essential for forest management planning, concession allocation, and forest utilization. The GFC legislation and the National Forest Policy require the GFC to execute strategic forest resource inventories in order to effectively plan for the sustainable management
and optimal utilization of Guyana’s forests. This is a multi-year project that will see the updating of forest resource information that is essential for national and concession level planning and scientific research and referencing to support the modern outlook of the National Forest Policy and the Low Carbon Development Strategy. The last National Forest Inventory was executed some 50 years
ago. The current implementation of the NFI is dedicated to field data collection in state forests by administrative regions – all except for Regions Four and Five where no state forests occur. In 2019, field work was completed for forty-eight (48) clusters which represented approximately 507,099.00 hectares of state forest area in Region Ten. In 2021, the GFC will begin by tar-
geting clusters in Regions Ten, Two and Three; after which inventory teams will be moving on to Regions Six and Nine. The NFI is expected to provide the following key benefits at the national level: • Stratification of Guyana’s forests based on the quantity and quality of forest resources in different areas, resulting in efficient zonation of for-
$200M Instrument Landing System installed, tested at CJIA
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eroplanes flying into the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) in poor visibility conditions will soon be guided in more safely when the recently installed and tested $200 million Instrument Landing System
(ILS) at the airport comes on stream. The new system will ensure better line of sight of the runway for approaching aircraft. Poor weather conditions sometimes make it difficult for aircraft to land
at CJIA. The land was preparation works were done and installation began in December 2020. In keeping with local and international regulations, the ILS was installed and tested via a flight check.
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WEEKEND MIRROR 3-4 JULY, 2021
POSITIONS FROM THE PRESIDENT Force’s 182nd anniversary celebrations commence
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ommander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Dr Irfaan Ali, attended the Guyana Police Force’s (GPF) annual Traditional Drum Head Church Service
at the Police Officers’ Mess Annexe, Eve Leary. The Service was in honour of the Force's 182nd anniversary and will com-
mence this year's celebrations. Also in attendance was Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn; Chief of Staff of the Guyana Defence Force Briga-
dier Godfrey Bess, Acting Police Commissioner, Mr Nigel Hoppie; Acting Deputy Commissioner, Mr Calvin Brutus, and other high-ranking GPF officers.
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POSITIONS FROM THE PRESIDENT
Meeting Paris Agreement targets critical to prevent future water disasters U
nless the targets that were set at the Paris Agreement in 2015 are realised, the world can expect to experience future water disasters and further setbacks to the Sustainable Development Agenda, declared President Dr. Irfaan Ali. The Head of State made this assertion during his virtual address at the plenary session of the 5th United Nations (UN) Special Thematic Session on Water and Disaster. The President also reaffirmed Guyana’s commitment to working with the UN and the international community to press for coordinated global attention and action to combat climate change. He said, “I commend the United Nations for organising this vital Session, which I believe has an obligation to move the global community towards greater action in addressing climate change as a trigger
for water-related disasters… Guyana, however, remains engaged in working along with the United Nations and the rest of the international community to press for concerted global attention and action to arrest climate change.” He pointed to the pandemic and climate change as the foremost extant threats to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The pandemic, he added, has served to magnify the already existing problems within society and in relations between states. Ali said, “The COVID-19 pandemic has added to challenges posed to the SDGs. In many small states, the pandemic has reduced the fiscal space needed to propel the SDGs. Not only have these states had to shoulder the burdens of unanticipated and excessive health care costs, but the COVID-19 pandemic has also led to economic
contraction and massive job losses. And as the recent experience of my country illustrates, water disasters compound the difficulties posed by states which are vulnerable to climate disasters.” Notwithstanding, President Ali reiterated his stance during his address to a Regional Consultation organised by the Global Water Partnership in February of this year, where he said that the pandemic “should not divert attention from or diminish the gravity of the threats” posed by other disasters such as hydro-hazards. He said,“Addressing the climate crisis is therefore integral to the post-COVID-19 recovery. It would amount to a misadventure on the part of the international community if, in its efforts to rebuild stronger and better after the pandemic, it neglects the potent threats posed by water disasters or ignores the indisputable link
between these hazards. Indeed, it is vital that the international community recognises the impact of the pandemic on developing countries and how these impacts can retard progress towards the SDGs.” GUYANA’S LOW CARBON PATHWAY TEMPLATE President Ali said that Guyana has committed itself, irreversibly, to a low carbon path to development, in which mainstreaming the SDGs in national development while combatting climate change are fully compatible. The template he pointed out, therefore exists for a POST COVID-19 recovery that promotes climate resilience and commits to the SDGs. He, however, noted that the pace of the necessary reforms to achieve these objectives will, especially for small-island developing and
low-lying coastal states, be dependent on international cooperation and assistance. The President acknowledged that the Special Thematic Sessions on Water and Disaster have highlighted the gravity of the threats posed by hydro-hazards and have reaffirmed the importance of addressing climate risks in realising the SDGs. “The link between climate change and water disasters hardly needs restating. The awareness of the problems exists. What is now urgent is greater international resolve to commit resources to combat the climate crisis. It is now time for action, not debate,” Ali said. He wished the participants success and expressed the hope that the Special Thematic Session on Water and Disaster would result in greater efforts on the part of the international community to urgently accelerate support
for the building of climate resilience. The event was held under the theme “Building Back Better towards More Resilient and Sustainable Post-COVID-19 World” with Hungary, Indonesia, Japan, Mexico, the Netherlands, Republic of Korea, Tajikistan, High-Level Experts and Leaders Panel on Water and Disasters (HELP) and National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies (GRIPS) of Japan as co-hosts. It focused on sharing experiences and promoting actions to achieve a more sustainable, resilient and climate-adaptive postCOVID-19 world based on the lessons learned from the pandemic. It also provided a tangible step towards accelerating the SDGs and other globally agreed agendas by providing useful lessons, innovative ideas, and common understandings.
GPF’s future will include technology, people-centred policing
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resident Dr Irfaan Ali has made clear that the use of technology and people-centred policing are essential to the future of the Guyana Police Force (GPF). As such, he announced that work is currently underway to expand the Smart City programme, which will see greater technological use, including surveillance cameras, to aid crime-fighting and intelligence gathering. The Head of State made these assertions this afternoon, as he delivered the feature address at the handing over ceremony of a Computer Training Centre at Cove and John Police Station on the East Coast of Demerara. He said that as crime changes, the approach to fighting crime will also have to change through the use of greater intelligence gathering and better surveillance, executed by well-trained professionals. Ali said, “We understand that the nature of crime is changing globally and as such will change locally as a more prosperous
country becomes a target for more sophisticated criminals.” President Ali noted that cross-border collaboration is necessary and that relationships with other countries have led to drug busts at the regional level over the past months. He pointed out that these took strategic planning—and will be part of the country’s strategic positioning moving forward. The President said that the GPF has to lead by creating a learning environment— even if it means unlearning or re-learning methods. He said, “That is why easy access to technology and the training component that comes with it is such an important part of un-learning and re-learning to meet the future requirement demand. Part of leading is to create an efficient environment, one in which people have belief in the systems and one in which the system itself is efficient, not where files are misplaced and lost. One in which there is traceability,
so that... there is greater accountability. That is what technology helps us to do-that is the direction we’re heading in.” The Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces said that a change in attitude and mindset is also an important part of leading. As such, he acknowledged that his Government has a responsibility to improve the environment in which the men and women in uniform operate. He said, “A positive environment will also create a positive mindset. We are embarking on a massive programme to create that environment. You will see in the communication strategy, we have brought in professionals in that area so that we have a merge of different capabilities and strengths, so that we can have a better product that comes out.” The President said that crime-fighting will not be limited to the capital or major towns but will be spread across the country. He said, “You know we have the Na-
tional Centre established… We are going one step farther, in every region… we’re now looking at the possibility of establishing regional centres that will incorporate civilians and the police force.” He added that his Government is now placing resources into regionalisation, which has been part of the security strategy for the last decade. Ali said, “The nature of crime is changing, so we have to create specialised regional outfits that have a multi-faceted menu of skillset that can respond rapidly and effectively to various situations. That is why you will see people who were trained in Special Forces; you will see specialised police officers, you will see persons from CANU being part of that regional hub, that regional unit that we want to create.” The President noted that the merger of skills would result in a multidimensional approach to crime-fighting. He added that the best
way to fight crime is to have partnerships and collaborations. In this regard, he said that he would like to see the private sector play a more supporting role. High on the agenda is also to have the police become more people-centred. “So you have a computer lab, as you’re able to work alongside students, members of the community; you start to create a positive network. If we can train the police officers as trainers in computer science and technology and then have those officers go and volunteer an hour every week in a school to impart that training on students... you start to create a positive link with members of the community,” Ali charged. He extended gratitude to husband and wife Jay and Sylvia Sobhraj from the Zara group for their continued support over the years. “I want to assure you that what you’re contributing to is the creation of a new outfit to better serve the people, and we thank you sincerely for
that, as we move forward in the Guyana Police Force with the three E’s - equip, evolve and emerge,” the President said. Minister of Home Affairs, the Honourable Robeson Benn, also expressed gratitude to the family and explained that he was “enthralled” by the gesture and their continuous support for the Guyana Police Force. He encouraged the ranks to take proper care of the assets and the software to better serve the people. This, he said, will lead to a more holistic response to crime-fighting and security. The training centre was built and equipped through a collaboration between the Guyana Police Force and the Jay and Sylvia Foundation, Zara Group of Companies. Prior to this initiative, the foundation’s collaboration with the GPF has resulted in 13,626 persons being trained at four computer training centres around the country— 2,834 members of the GPF and 10,792 civilians.
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POSITIONS FROM THE PRESIDENT
Partnerships from Operation Tradewinds 2021 critical for peace, security and stability of region
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he partnerships stemming from the multinational military exercise—Operation Tradewinds 2021—are critical for the overall peace, security and stability of the region, according to President Dr. Irfaan Ali. The Head of State made the comments at a cocktail reception hosted at the Baridi Benab at State House to honour the heads of the participating delegation. There he thanked the local high commissions and embassies for organising the event and pointed to the resilience of the participants, who were able to execute at a high level despite the many challenges of Covid-19. President Ali stressed that he wants to see the participating countries continue their strong networking and the building of integral relationships. He said, “You must have, at various level,
colleagues who can pick up the phone and talk to each other and exchange ideas and talk about things.” He also implored the delegation to convey the country’s and his highest regards and sentiments to their respective headquarters and to let them know that “Guyana is not only a strong partner, but a ready partner that wishes to faithfully execute full cooperation with all of you in the security of our region.” The Head of State said that security should always be a priority. He said, “The overall objective from all of us who participated here is to ensure we build an international coalition to ensure the peace and stability of this region, to ensure the security, and to ensure this region never becomes a safe haven for transnational crime.” Tokens of appreciations
were also given to heads of the participating nations. The two-week, US Southern Command (USSOCOM) sponsored event, will officially rap up tomorrow morning. As hosts, ranks from the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) trained in various military skills, including close-quarters combat. They were also trained in marksmanship, emergency medical evacuation, search, rescue and recovery responses and mechanical and engineering repairs for both air and water transportation, among other areas. Along with Guyana and the USA, ranks from the United Kingdom, Canada, France, Netherlands, Brazil, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Bermuda, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, and Trinidad and Tobago also participated.
Ghana’s President Akufo-Addo engaged in productive talks P resident Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali, last week, held talks via telephone with the President of Ghana, His Excellency Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. The two Presidents reaffirmed their strong commitment to the long-
standing friendly relations between their two countries and recalled the discussions held during the Ghanaian President’s state visit to Guyana in 2019 when he met with a delegation led by then Opposition Leader and now Vice-President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo.
During their discus sions, earlier today, Presidents Ali and Akufo-Addo committed to advancing and deepening the agenda for cooperation between the two countries, including in the oil and gas sector and on environmental issues, amongst other areas.
Region Five farmers reissued land taken away by former REO
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he farmers whose lands were taken away by former Region Five Regional Executive Officer (REO), Mr. Ovid Morrison in 2016, were engaged by Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Nigel Dharamlall on Tuesday (June 29, 2021). The farmers were given the green light to return to their lands following court proceedings. President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali had given Minister Dharamlall a directive to engage the farmers. During Tuesday’s engagement, the Minister said the Administration is willing to work with the farmers during this phase. Dharamlall said, “I am here today on behalf of the government to ensure that the injustice that was done against you that we made good on the decision of the court. You are aware that a
few years ago the last Government took possession of about 50 acres of land right in this area and repossessed without any due regard to your livelihood. We are very happy that the court ruled in your favour.” The Minister recommended that the farmers form a group, which he said would allow them to put together ideas and plans to improve production, which can significantly contribute to the Government’s food security agenda. He also advised that they work closely with the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) for a smooth process back into production, noting that priority must be given to persons who occupied plots before the court proceedings. “The Regional Democratic Council will provide total access to you but just make sure that whatever you are doing, you
do it within the law and the crops that you plant must be legal crops and that is what we would like to see moving forward,” the Minister said. Back in 2016, Mr. Morrison had forced the farmers off the lands at Bath, Naarstigheid and Fort Wellington, where they cultivated crops. Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Mohabir Anil Nandlall, while in opposition, had filed legal proceedings on behalf of the farmers against the former REO. The judgement was later awarded in favour of the farmers by Justice Simone Ramlall. Meanwhile, Regional Chairman, Mr. Vickchand Ramphal had described the action as wasteful spending, explaining that Mr. Morrison injected some $600 million to offset a model farm project, which did not benefit the region.
World Bank Approves US$6M in additional financing for COVID-19 response and vaccines in Guyana
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orld Bank approved on Wednesday (June 30, 2021) US$6M in additional financing for the Guyana COVID-19 Emergency Response Project to support affordable and equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines and ensure effective vaccine deployment in Guyana. The project will also support general preparedness, resilience, and overall health system strengthening. A statement said, “An efficient and equitable rollout of COVID-19 vaccines will be critical to save lives and restore economic activities
in Guyana,” said Ozan Sevimli, World Bank Resident Representative for Jamaica and Guyana. “The World Bank is closely coordinating with development partners and Government of Guyana counterparts to support the vaccination campaign, and long-term improvements to the country’s healthcare system.” The pandemic has had socioeconomic impacts, including job losses, which disproportionately affect women. This additional financing to the Guyana COVID-19 Emergency Response Project
will fund the acquisition of COVID-19 vaccines. It will help the Government of Guyana strengthen health system functions that are necessary for immunization, such as vaccine awareness communication, human resources, information systems, and waste management. The additional financing to this project also aims to increase overall health system preparedness to tackle future emergencies. The original project was approved in November 2020 to support Guyana’s pan(Turn to page 18)
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Preliminary report on flood a step to successful recovery – PM Phillips – CDEMA praises CDC for disaster response T
he preliminary report on Guyana’s flood disaster presented on Wednesday (June 30, 2021) by the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) team, is a major step towards the country’s recovery, according to Prime Minister, Brigadier (ret’d) Mark Phillips. The team met with the Prime Minister, the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) and a number of Government Ministers whose sectors were impacted by the recent floods. Phillips said, “My understanding is that after this phase here, there are two other steps that we will commission that will help us to plan our recovery from the floods. As you know, recovery in a sense is getting the whole development process back on the road, so to speak, in terms of infrastructure development, getting the livelihood
of the people who were affected by the flooding back on stream. So, this will help us to determine the inputs from all the sectors.” PM Phillips explained that a more detailed report will be presented to the Government, and the final steps to recovery will begin in an informed manner. Meanwhile, Director General of the Civil De-
fence Commission, Lieutenant Colonel Kester Craig said the data gathering or preliminary assessment called the Dana Continuum has allowed his team to identify things needed to enable a speedy recovery. “At this stage there are some immediate actions that we would have derived from this assessment such as improved response in
A significant amount of crops destroyed as a result of flooding – Mustapha
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n ongoing flood assessment has so far revealed that a significant amount of crops from areas that have experienced severe flooding, over the past two months has been destroyed. This was disclosed by Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha during an interview with Brazil’s AgroMais News. He said, “Over the last two months, we’ve experienced unprecedented rainfall which has resulted in flooding in all ten Administrative Regions of Guyana. Between May 24th and June 10th, we’ve seen close to 20 inches of rainfall. This is the highest amount of rainfall we’ve seen since 1981. This has resulted in Guyana’s southern basin between the upper Essequibo and Corentyne Rivers being filled and overflowing. Many areas in the Hinterland were also and still are flooded. Compounding that, with the heavy rainfall, we’ve seen higher than normal water levels in the rivers that have inundated most of the coastal areas. This has resulted in close to 90% of crops being destroyed, livestock being lost, and close to a thousand households been affected.” As floodwaters begin to slowly recede in several areas, Government has commenced its flood
assessment to determine the extent of the losses incurred across the country. Officials from the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) and officers from various agencies which fall under the Ministry of Agriculture have been visiting affected communities to gather data to determine losses. A team from the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) is also in the country conducting a Detailed Disaster Sector Assessment (DDSA) on the flood situation. The Minister said the Government will need assistance with rebuilding the economy, more so the agriculture sector, when the floodwaters recede. “Guyana will need a lot of help in terms of rebuilding the agriculture sector. Apart from what the government is doing, we will need help from our Regional and International partners. Our assessment report will be able to detail our needs and those needs will then be made known so that countries who wish to assist us can know what we need. IICA has already indicated that they will be supplying a number of vegetable seeds and planting material for cassava and plantains, bananas as a part of the relief efforts,” the Minister said. The Minister also dis-
closed that Government is making preparations to effectively manage some of the impacts of the ongoing flooding. This, he added, includes the outbreak of water-borne diseases. Mustapha said, “In addition to carrying out flood assessments across the country, health officials have also been closely monitoring affected areas for water-borne diseases such as leptospirosis and other conditions like unusual diarrhoea, vomiting, and gastroenteritis. As a government, we are aware that an outbreak of such illnesses may be imminent so we are making the necessary preparations to ensure we have the necessary health facilities if an outbreak does occur.” The minister said despite resources are limited, Government will continue to provide the necessary support to everyone who is affected. “The immediate task of the Government is to ensure those who were affected have food supplies and potable water. We will have to provide food for most of the areas that were affected, especially the Hinterland communities,” he assured. Minister Mustapha said Government will continue to offer support until those affected can return to normalcy.
the regions and community levels in terms of areas when it comes to water contamination and health responses, areas when it comes to provision of food supplies, areas in the area of coordination and management, so they are immediate actions that we would have already identified and would be taking to improve our response,’ he stated.
Executive Director (Ag) of CDEMA, Ms. Elizabeth Riley said she was pleased with the outcome of the meeting and general work of teams on the ground. Ms. Riley praised the well organised work of the CDC. “We looked at a range of sectors, we look at the extent to which the coordination was being effective within the sectors
and I think one of the very good finding has been that the Civil Defence Commission under the leadership of Colonel Craig has done an excellent job in the overall coordination thus far. We have also seen relatively good coordination at the regional level as well,” she noted. Minister of Public Works, Hon. Bishop Juan Edghill, Minister of Health, Hon. Dr. Frank Anthony, Minister of Finance, Hon. Dr. Ashni Singh, Minister of Agriculture, Hon. Zulfikar Mustapha and Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Hon, Nigel Dharamlall were also present at the meeting. The CDC team headed by Lieutenant Colonel Craig included Major Salim October. The CDEMA team arrived in Guyana a week ago following a request by the Government.
Over $80m donated to CDC for flood relief
T
he Civil Defence Commission (CDC) has so far received $86.6 million in monetary donations and 98,188 relief items from the private sector and non-governmental organisations, in response to its calls for support of the national flood relief efforts. The CDC has also asked the public to support its flood relief efforts by making contributions based on its published needs list. It has also asked for volunteers to assist in packaging hampers. Data from the Commission shows that 25 per cent of the country has been affected by flooding. Some 51, 578 households across the ten regions are severely affected. Communities in Region Six have been heavily impacted, with 10,367
affected households, followed by Regions Three with 5,761. The Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency has classified Guyana’s flooding a Level 2 Disaster. Its impact varies across communities, with Regions One, Three, Four, Eight and Nine classified at level 2, while Regions Two, Five, Six, Seven and Ten are at level three. The public was advised to take precautions and to relocate to higher grounds where possible. To facilitate this, the CDC established 12 emergency shelters for displaced persons. To date 239 persons are occupying the shelters, with a significant number being housed at the Hururu Forest-
ry Compound. The CDC has also documented 20,338 farmers and livestock being affected mostly in Regions Two, Six and Nine, even as the rain and high tides continue. The agency has also distributed a total of 60,988 hampers, 33,548 of which are foodstuff and 25,440 cleaning supplies. Additionally, the commission continues to monitor, record and update flood reports every 72 hours to assist affected persons. With the wet season forecast to continue into August with above normal rainfall, the CDC continues to reform the needs list based on the necessity of specific regions. The list is published on its website and social media platforms.
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WEEKEND MIRROR 3-4 JULY, 2021
Op-Ed: A global model to tackle violence against women By António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations
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s the world grapples unevenly with the effects of COVID-19, a parallel and equally horrific pandemic has threatened half the world’s population. In the early months of the pandemic, the United Nations projected that quarantines and lockdowns could lead to a shocking 15 million additional cases of gender-based violence every three months. Sadly, those predictions appear to be coming true. This week, world leaders and others will gather at the Generation Equality Forum in Paris and online in a massive push for gender equality. At that meeting, I will call on states, companies and individuals to join in a
global initiative, with proven results, to end the fear and insecurity that threaten the health, rights, dignity and lives of so many women and girls. From domestic violence to sexual exploitation, trafficking, child marriage, female genital mutilation and online harassment, violent misogyny has thrived in the shadow of the pandemic. Full data will take time to collect and assess, but the trends are clear. In twelve countries tracked by the United Nations, the number of cases of violence against women and girls reported to various institutions increased 83 per cent from 2019 to 2020, and cases reported to the police grew by 64 per cent. In the first months of the pandemic, calls to helplines
increased by an average of 60 per cent across the European Union. Calls to Peru’s sexual violence hotline almost doubled in 2020 compared to 2019. In Thailand, the number of clients visiting domestic violence crisis units in hospitals in April 2020 was more than double the number from the same time period of the previous year. Such statistics and stories span the world, adding to an existing epidemic of violence against women and girls. Before the pandemic, the World Health Organization estimated that one in three women would experience male violence in their lifetime. Just over a year ago, I raised the alarm. Echoing my call for a global ceasefire, I appealed for peace in
the home – an end to all violence everywhere, from war zones to people’s homes – to allow us to face the pandemic, humankind’s common enemy, with solidarity and unity. More than 140 countries expressed support. Some 800 measures have been adopted in 149 countries, the majority focused on shelter, legal assistance and other services and support. But, in many cases, these actions have been limited and short lived. Worse, other countries are retreating, rolling back legal protections and standing by as violence is used to target women, including human rights defenders protesting these reversals. The pervasiveness of violence against women and girls has led to acqui-
escence that it is somehow inevitable or impossible to end. This is as outrageous and self-defeating as it is plain wrong. Despite the challenges of the past year, the United Nations, with significant funding from and partnership with the European Union, has demonstrated that change is possible. Over the course of 2020, the Spotlight Initiative to eliminate violence against women and girls has delivered notable results in 25 countries. Eighty-four laws and policies to protect women and girls were adopted or strengthened. Prosecution of perpetrators increased 22 per cent. Some 650,000 women and girls received services despite lockdowns and mobility restrictions. Close to 900,000 men and boys – including traditional
leaders, heads of religious institutions, male taxi drivers and young gamers – were engaged to be allies in finding solutions. And across these countries, national budget allocations for preventing and responding to violence against women and girls increased by 32 per cent, a clear indication of future sustainability. By coming together, in Paris, around a proven model, we can begin to ensure that the next generation of girls will not be expected to live with fear simply because we didn’t act. In time, there will be many lessons learned about what the world got right and wrong in handling this pandemic. One of the first must be to ensure that this disgraceful hidden pandemic facing half our population ends now.
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WEEKEND MIRROR 3-4 JULY, 2021
Selection for online scholarship programme this week – Minister Parag T
he selection process for the Government’s online scholarship programme, managed by the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL), is expected to be completed this week, ac-
cording to Minister of Public Service, Sonia Parag. The Ministry was expected to complete the eligibility process today, before applications are handed over for the selection exercise. Parag said,
“As soon as we receive the processed applications from GOAL, we will commence the selection process. We are expected to do so this week and this will take about a week and a half to complete.” Minister Parag explained that GOAL has oversight of the applications to ensure persons are qualified for the programmes chosen. She said, “We want to ensure that applicants are processed accurately in terms of the criteria to be met, which will determine if they are eligible or not for the programmes of their choice and then the selection of the beneficiaries
of the scholarship will be conducted.” The Guyana Online Academy of Learning has received over 8,800 applications for the Government’s online scholarship programme. Some 60 per cent of those applications were submitted online. Most of the applications were from Region Four which saw approximately 3,400 persons applying for the programmes. Region Three follows with 1,044 applications; Region Two with 786; Region Six, 674; Region Five, 577; Region Ten, 429; Region One, 300; Region Seven, 296; Region Eight, 109 and Region
Nine 110. Once submitted, applicants will be further vetted to determine if they are qualified for the scholarships. Some of the conditions which would be taken into consideration include Grade Point Average (GPA), geographic location and income. The scholarships will be awarded by the end of June to facilitate the commencement of classes in July. The Government’s 20,000 online scholarship initiative is the fulfilment of a commitment the PPP/C made while on the hustings, to provide opportunities for educational
development. Applicants were allowed to choose from 104 available programmes offered by six international universities. The institutions are the University of the West Indies Open Campus, the University of the Southern Caribbean, the University of Applied Sciences, the Indira Gandhi National Open University, the JAIN “deemed to be” University and the Sherlock Institute of India. The 20,000 online scholarship initiative will see 4,500 people benefiting from scholarships every year over a fiveyear period.
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WEEKEND MIRROR 3-4 JULY, 2021
All Guyanese will benefit from country’s wealth – Teixeira
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he PPP/C Government is working to ensure every Guyanese benefit from the nation’s resources. The declaration came from Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, Gail Teixeira in response to a news article published by the online news agency, Demerara Waves, under the headline ‘Second US Congressman calls for wealth sharing, political inclusion in Guyana’. The article quotes United States (US) Congressmen, Hank Johnson and Albio Sires, who spoke of the need for Guyana to ensure inclusive economic growth. “We wish to assure our friends in the United States
that we are committed,” she stressed. Teixeira made clear that the position of the PPP/C Administration has been consistent. She said, “We have been saying this all the time. The manifesto of the PPP/C during the election campaign and in the programmes, we brought out since, focuses on making sure that Guyanese benefit not only from oil money, but from the development of our nation, and the modernisation and expansion of our economic base.” In the space of less than a year, the PPP/C has responded to the needs of Guyanese with COVID-19 relief, in the form of cash grants and hampers; and increasing the
cash grant for public school students; among other forms of support. Relative to the flood situation, she noted that the Government had engaged the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA), as well as United Nations Organisations and civil society, to assist with an assessment of the damage, while ensuring that hampers, hygiene kits and cleaning materials are provided to those who are affected. Minister Teixeira said the PPP/C Government believes in Article 13 of the Constitution of Guyana, which speaks to the principal objective of Guyana’s political system being an inclusionary
democracy. She said the proof of this can be found in this Administration’s performance since it assumed office on August 2, 2020. “We are committed to the sustainable development goals. We are committed to article 13 of our constitution. We are committed to constitutional rule of law, and participatory democracy,” she said. Teixeira stressed that these efforts demonstrate that the PPP/C government has been working to ensure Guyanese benefit from the country’s wealth before, during and after oil. In contrast, she underscored the fact that the APNU+AFC Coalition is guilty of discrimination,
and that is evident in the manner in which it governed the country. “It is the APNU+AFC that has discriminated in the five years. They terminated 1,972 Amerindian community service officers. They terminated 7,000 sugar workers. 30,000 people lost their jobs in that period, including other public servants, approximately over 2,000 who lost their jobs because the colour of their skin was wrong, or the colour of their politics was wrong. We have witnessed this in the five years, and we are not going to allow that to happen again in our country,” she said. The Minister added, “…
in fact, the party that is guilty of discrimination that keeps hollering about discrimination is in fact the party that was in government for five years that refused to obey the rulings of the courts, not only in Guyana but the Caribbean Court of Justice in respect to holding elections after the no-confidence motion.” Notwithstanding that, the Minister said the Government will not be bullied. Therefore, Government looks forward to the APNU+AFC taking a mature political stance which recognises the legitimacy of the PPP/C Government, after which opportunities for dialogue on a number of issues will be opened.
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World Bank Approves US$6M in additional financing... (From page 11) demic response and strengthen the country’s health system. US$5 million of the additional financing approved today comes from the International Development Association (IDA). Guyana receives interest-free financing from IDA, with a maturity of 40 years, including a grace period of 10 years. An additional US$1 million
is a grant from the Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Multi-Donor Trust Fund. Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the World Bank Group has committed over US$125 billion to fight the health, economic, and social impacts of the pandemic, the fastest and largest crisis response in
its history. The financing is helping more than 100 countries strengthen pandemic preparedness, protect the poor and jobs, and jump start a climate-friendly recovery. The Bank is also providing US$12 billion to help lowand middle-income countries purchase and distribute COVID-19 vaccines, tests, and treatments.
WEEKEND MIRROR 3-4 JULY, 2021
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WEEKEND MIRROR 3-4 JULY, 2021
PSC promotion list rejected as ‘unlawful, illegal’ T
he Police Service Commission (PSC), on Monday (June 28, 2021), announced police promotions. However, the PPP/C Administration has made clear that these would not be recognised as the Commission had been suspended by President Irfaan Ali. Below is the full statement from the Government of Guyana, which was issued by Attorney General, Anil Nandlall: The Government of Guyana rejects as unlawful and illegal, a list of purported promotions of members of
the Guyana Police Force by the Police Service Commission. The Police Service Commission has been suspended by a decision of His Excellency, the President of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali on the 16th day of June, 2021, in the exercise of powers conferred upon him by the Constitution of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana. This decision of His Excellency was communicated to each member of the Police Service Commission by a letter bearing that date
which was dispatched and received. The said decision of the President can only be rescinded, revoked, set-aside or reversed by the President himself, or by a court of competent jurisdiction. No person, let alone, a constitutional commission, will be allowed to become judge, jury and executioner in our constitutional democracy. The Rule of Law simply does not permit it. The attempt of the Police Service Commission therefore, to countermand, disobey and disregard the Pres-
ident’s decision, not only amounts to an effrontery to the highest executive office in this land, but is simply absurd. If anyone had any doubts about the independence and rectitude of this grouping who constitute the Police Service Commission, those doubts should now be put to rest. It must be made abundantly clear that nothing
in the ruling rendered this afternoon (June 28, 2021) by the learned Chief Justice, the Honourable Roxanne George, CCH, SC, in the case filed by Mr. Calvin Brutus, Senior Superintendent of Police, against the Police Service Commission and the Attorney General, gives legitimacy to the purported list of promotions issued by the PSC or any such list,
as suggested in certain segments of the Press. In fact, one of the grounds that the Police Service Commission proffered in opposition to the case brought by Mr. Brutus is that ‘’the Commission has not made a final decision regarding promotions.’’ In the circumstances, this purported list of promotions of members of the Guyana Police Force will be ignored.
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WEEKEND MIRROR 3-4 JULY, 2021
More charges for GECOM trio
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hief Election Officer Keith Lowenfield; Deputy Chief Election Officer Roxanne Myers; and Region Four Returning Officer, Clairmont Mingo, were slapped with two joint charges of conspiracy to defraud voters at last year’s general and regional elections on Tuesday, June 29, 2021. The three appeared before Principal Magistrate Sherdel Isaacs-Marcus in the Magistrate
Court and had the charges read to them. It is alleged that Lowenfield, Myers and Mingo, between March 2, 2020 and August 2, 2020, conspired with each other – and together with Volda Lawrence, Carol Smith-Joseph, Sheffern February, Enrique Livan, Denise Bobb-Cummings, Michelle Miller and others – to defraud the electors of Guyana by de-
claring a false account of votes cast for the General Elections of March 2, 2020. It is also alleged that they and the others committed the same offence in relation to the Regional Elections of March 2, 2020. They were not required to plead to the charges. They were each released on $100,000 bail. Lowenfield is facing three charges for misconduct in pub-
lic office and three counts of forgery. Myers is facing two charges for misconduct in public office. Mingo has been individually and jointly charged with forgery and conspiracy to de-
fraud. Individually, he is facing four charges for misconduct in public office. The embattled Region 4 Returning Officer was charged jointly with PNCR Chairperson, Volda Lawrence, with one court of conspir-
ing to commit fraud. He was also charged jointly with APNU+AFC Coalition activist, Carol Joseph, with one count of forgery. The matter was adjourned to September 14, 2021.
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WEEKEND MIRROR 3-4 JULY, 2021
First consignment of purchased Sinopharm vaccines arrives T
he first consignment of the Chinese made Sinopharm vaccine arrived in Guyana early Wednesday (June 30, 2021), with the remaining doses scheduled to arrive later this week. Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony said the shipment was the first of 100,000 doses purchased from the People’s Republic of China. According to him, the 100,000 doses will see some 50,000 persons being immunised. He said, “As you would know that during the month, we spoke about the Government of Guyana purchasing 100,000 doses. So, the majority of those doses came in last night. And we will now do the count to see exactly how many we have received, and the rest of the shipment is going
to be here by Saturday so with that final shipment on Saturday we should have all 100,000 in Guyana...as you know, the Sinopharm vaccine, what you give as your first dose, you also give that as a second dose, so we’ll be keeping 50,000 in storage, we will be distributing 50,000. “…starting from today (June 30, 2021), those vaccines that we have received will be distributed to the different regions. And again, we are hoping that people will come forward and get their vaccine because we will have your second dose waiting and ready.” With the Sinopharm vaccine, the health minister explained that the four weeks interval between doses will continue. He said the
efficacy is ‘quite good,’ and urged all eligible adults to take the jab. The Health Minister said, “When we talk about efficacy, we want to talk about a couple of things here; how effective is the vaccine against preventing infection, how effective is the vaccine against preventing severe forms of the infection meaning hospitalisation, and how effective is the vaccine against preventing deaths, and in all three of these areas, the Sinopharm vaccine is around 70 something per cent. So, it’s really good. I keep reiterating that we have not seen anybody who received both doses of their vaccine, having a severe form of COVID, meaning that they come into the hospital, ended up in the ICU or dying from
COVID. So, it is important that people understand this and get both doses of their vaccines. So, we expect that people would come out and get their Sinopharm vaccine.” In early March, the Government
of the People’s Republic of China donated 20,000 doses of its Sinopharm vaccine to Guyana. From that consignment approximately 10,000 persons were vaccinated against COVID-19.
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WEEKEND MIRROR 3-4 JULY, 2021
COM M ENTARY
Vaccinate now or allow the Delta Variant to kill thousands of our people this year By Dr. Leslie Ramsammy
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e are in a race, a deadly race. The winner lives. The loser dies. Guyana must either fully vaccinate against COVID-19 now or allow the Delta Variant to enter and dominate. We have a stark choice which must be made now. Take the COVID vaccine now or live with the daily expectation that the DELTA Variant will kill us. It is not here yet. But it is coming. We have only one weapon to stop it - vaccination. Will we be wise or do we chose to be stupid. The Delta Variant of the COVID-19 virus (SARS-CoV 2) is deadlier than the original COVID-19 virus, almost 100% deadlier. The Delta Variant is almost 100% more transmissible than the original COVID-19 virus. The Delta Variant is more transmissible in young people than the original COVID-19 virus. More frightening, the Delta Variant affects children more than the original COVID-19 virus. We should all hope that the Delta
Variant does not make its way to Guyana. But we are already at great threat. Our future as a country is imperiled by the Delta Variant. Guyana has endured many crises, many things that threatened us before. But nothing has threatened us as a nation more than the DELTA VARIANT. If anyone thinks I am being hyperbolic, know this - I wish I can be more blunt. Strict public health measures have helped to slow down the COVID-19 virus in countries like America and UK, but have proven less effective against the Delta Variant. Vaccines, however, work against the Delta Variant, just as vaccines work against all the other forms of the COVID-19 virus. The COVID-19 vaccines, all of them in use today, represent Guyana's only hope, the only hope the global community have against this deadly enemy. The vaccine in front of us is the only weapon we have against the Delta Variant. In fully vaccinated people in the UK, the USA and other
developed countries, there have been no reported death caused by the Delta Variant. But in people not vaccinated, the Delta Variant is creating havoc. These countries are discovering that vaccinating most of their people is not an effective barrier against the Delta Variant. The answer is vaccinating all adults and adolescents. Almost 70% of Americans have received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine and more than 50% are fully vaccinated. But the Delta Variant is finding those who are yet to be vaccinated. The same story is playing out in England and other countries. As long as a small group of non-vaccinated people is present, we provide an enabling environment for the Variant to prosper. Guyana has vaccinated close to 50% of our adults with at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccines. We have fully vaccinated just over 22% of the adult population. In terms of the global picture, particularly the global vaccination picture in developing coun-
tries, Guyana has done well. But in this case good is not good enough. We must race towards 100% adults with one vaccination now and we must race for fully vaccinated adult population long before the end of 2021. This is an ambitious goal. The government of Guyana is determined to obtain all the vaccines we need to fully vaccinate the adult population. But it is a case of "taking the horse to the water, but you cannot drink the water for the horse". People must come forward to take their vaccines. Even when all adults are fully vaccinated, Guyana must then try to fully vaccinate all adolescents. This is a journey we cannot avoid. In a global milieu in which vaccine apartheid is dominant, the Guyana Government has stepped forward with a promise to get all the vaccines necessary. The Guyana Government has committed that it will spare no expense in obtaining enough vaccines for our people, sooner than later. Therefore, it is unconscionable that public health work-
ers and volunteers put their lives at risk every day, beg people to take their vaccines, and still there are so many persons who resist taking their vaccines. It is reprehensible that there are public figures, like the Leader of the Opposition, who enable people in their bizarre rejection or hesitation in taking their vaccines. The time has come for people to know they put their own lives and the lives of their family members and others in jeopardy each day they delay taking their vaccines. It is time that political leaders know and be told in blunt language that they threaten people's lives when they cast doubts about the authenticity of vaccines, which reinforces the anti-vaxxers vexing attitude. It is time we let religious leaders know they sin when they lead their congregation astray by preaching anti-vaxxer language or by being silent. It is time religious leaders know they stand in representation of the devil and in opposition to God. It is time professional organizations hold their members accountable. Or-
ganizations such as the Allied Health Practitioners Council cannot sit silent when persons who claim they are Alternative Medicine Practitioners, such as Sister Lin and Dr. Haynes, preach against the vaccine. Their license must be withdrawn. If they practice without license, they must be charged and jailed. It is time, the Broadcasting Authority remove the license of those TV and Radio Stations which broadcast the deadly message that people like Sister Lin and Dr. Haynes indulge in. There are others, but these are ones I have personally heard. Guyana has never made vaccination compulsory. There should be no need for Guyana to take drastic actions, such as those advocated by the Indonesian President who has threatened to jail all those persons who refuse to take the COVID-19 vaccines. I am reluctant to support such draconian action against individuals. But I am fully advocating that those who deliberately spread fake news and preach false messaging, without any evidence, should be held accountable. Free speech is guaranteed in Guyana, but free speech does not mean we can spread false news, especially when it has deadly consequences. While I still believe that mandatory COVID-19 vaccination is not necessary, I do support employers who introduce measures to keep their workplace safe. If someone wants to exercise his or her right to refuse vaccination, they of all people, should also understand an employer's right and obligation to keep workplaces safe. I find measures such as employers demanding a COVID-19 test each week for all those unvaccinated employee to be a reasonable response to those employees who refuse to take the vaccines. Vaccinate or be tested, it is your choice. In this regards, my recommendation for government is that our COVID-19 testing should be limited only for diagnostic purposes - referral by a medical practitioner - or for contact tracing as requested by public health officers. All testing for traveling or for workplace eligibility must be referred to the private sector. In other words, for those who refuse vaccination, they must be tested at their own cost. Exercising your options come with a price. Exercising your right must not put anyone's life at risk.
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WEEKEND MIRROR 3-4 JULY, 2021
Unvaccinated persons at higher risk of catching Delta variant – Min Anthony P
More than 22 per cent of adult population fully immunised against COVID-19
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s Guyana’s COVID-19 vaccination campaign continues, over 22 per cent of the country’s adult population has been fully immunised against COVID-19, according to Health Minister, Dr. Frank Anthony. He said, “As of yesterday, we have 233,134 persons who would have received their first dose of one of the COVID-19 vaccines that would amount to 47.9 per cent of our adult population. And for those who would have received second dose vaccines we have 108,752 persons. That is accounting for 22.3 per cent of our adult population.” In Region One, 59.9 per cent of persons have received their first dose; Region Two 43.7 per cent, Region Three 47.1 per cent; Region Four 49.4 per cent; Region Five 50.4 per cent; Region Six 56.1 per cent; Region Seven 47.9 per cent; Region Eight 32.7 per cent; Region Nine 46.3 per cent; and Region Ten 14.6 percent. Minister Anthony said while the vaccine uptake in the regions has been positive, Region Eight and Ten are still lagging. He explained that that hesitancy, particularly in Region Ten, is due to the Opposition’s negative comments about the safety and effectiveness of the vaccine. “We are working to counter the negativity caused by the Opposition and to still encourage people to dispel whatever myths they have and come out and get vaccinated,” he said. Anthony noted that that more ground work is being done to dispel the myths and rumours surrounding the vaccines. The Health Ministry has embarked on a house-tohouse vaccination campaign, where health teams are meeting with villagers to address their concerns. Anthony said, “In Region One we have taken the house-to-house approach now. In Region
Ten, we’ve had similar exercises with some obstacles but we are pushing through and in Region Nine, we are doing the same thing going village to village trying to get more people vaccinated.” Additionally, the Health Minister encouraged persons to take their jabs. Anthony said, “With first dose, we still have approximately 253,000 persons more that we’re aiming to vaccinate. So, we still have a long way to go, so I want to encourage people to come out and get their vaccines we now have, as you know, the Sputnik first dose. We also have AstraZeneca first dose and the second dose, and we now have Sinopharm, which is for both first and second doses.” Individuals 18 years and older are advised to visit any of the Ministry’s COVID-19 vaccination sites to receive their vaccines.
ersons who are unvaccinated or partially vaccinated persons are at a higher risk of contracting the COVID-19 Delta variant, which is now affecting Europe and the United States, according to Health Minister, Dr. Frank Anthony. The Delta variant was first detected in India in 2020. Anthony said the World Health Organization (WHO), has stated that the most severe cases of the disease are in unvaccinated persons or those who have not been fully immunised. He said, “This particular one is now on the upswing where it is now circulating in several countries around the world, and it is causing an increase in cases and it is causing more hospitalisation and possibly more deaths. This particular variant is more transmissible. So, it is twice more transmissible than the Alpha variant, which was the one that was in the UK, and, you know, that one was really highly transmissible. So, this one is even more transmissible, so that is one of the hallmarks. So, if people get it, it is going to be passed on very quickly.” The WHO has said the Delta variant is dominant and lethal. Minister Anthony again appealed to Guya-
nese to take a Covid vaccine and protect themselves and loved ones. The Health Minister said, “What they have noted is that people who are unvaccinated would be the persons who would be getting infected with this variant more often. So, unvaccinated persons are going to be at higher risk for getting infection with this particular variant. A couple of weeks ago, you would have noticed that this particular strain of the virus would have
caused a lot of people getting infected, people getting hospitalised in some cases, hospitals could not cope with the amount of persons who require hospitalisation. And there were lots of persons who died because they were not able to get the kind of care for this particular variant because of its transmissibility.” To date, over 230,000 persons in Guyana have taken their first COVID-19 vaccine, while over 105,000 persons are fully vaccinated.
Ali updates Caribbean leaders on food production, security P
resident Dr Irfaan Ali and a delegation virtually attended the Eleventh Meeting of The Prime Ministerial Sub-Committee on the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME) on last week, where he provided an update on The Special Ministerial Task-
force (MTF) on Food Production and Food Security. The Head of State reported on the April to June 2021 progress of the MTF and recommended that it be further considered at the Forty-Second Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government
next month. The Lead for Agriculture in CARICOM urged the committee to prioritise the work of the Ministerial Taskforce and was frank in his opening remarks to say that he will move forward with those who are serious about getting the work done. To take the CARICOM Agri-Food System Strategy forward, the implementation plans identified priority commodities such as poultry, other meats (beef, pork and mutton), corn, rice, niche vegetables and coconut products. He further stated that CARICOM has the ability to achieve the targets identified to lower these priority commodity imports by 2025 and the potential to increase coconut exports. The Caribbean Private Sector Organisation and the MTF led by Guyana’s Agriculture Minister, the Honourable Zulfikar Mustapha, have met and are in agreement with the priority commodities, focusing on poultry and niche vegetables for the short term. President Ali reported that resource mobilisation has begun for the Regional E-Agriculture Strategy, and work is in progress for the development and implementation of both a Business-to-Business (B2B) Platform and a Government-to-Government (G2G) portal. He also noted that the successful hosting of the CARICOM Regional Food Systems Dialogue on May 28, 2021, was in preparation for the UN Food Systems Summit. The Ministerial Taskforce recognised transport and logistics as integral to the effective implementation of the CARICOM agrifood systems agenda. “In examining the potential and competitiveness of the sector as you would have expected, transportation is one of the critical issues that is linked to food production and for regional
trade,” President Ali stated. To this end, he has engaged the Lead Head on Transport with a view to developing specific recommendations aimed at incentivising private sector interest and partnership in transport and logistics relative to the agri-food systems agenda. He further outlined some options, including the formation of an all-purpose company, the floating of a regional bond, approaching the private sector window of the Caribbean Development Bank, approaching regional commercial institutions, international financial institutions (such as EXIM Bank), Expression of Interest for financing, managing and operating a facility for regional transportation and logistics. Meanwhile, work will continue to explore incentive regime to attach investment. Other matters discussed included: implementation of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME), Update on the Comprehensive Review of the Common External Tariff (CET) and Community Rules of Origin, Supportive Macro-Economic Policy Environment, Implications of the CCJ Advisory Opinion to the opt Out Provisions of The Revised Treaty, Protocol to Amend the Revised Treaty to Allow Enhanced Cooperation Among Member States. The delegation included Ministers of Agriculture, Legal Affairs, and Foreign Affairs, along with the Foreign Secretary and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
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