Guyana Chronicle E-paper 8-13-2018

THURSDAY 2nd August, 2018

TAKE FULL ADVANTAGE No.105354

…President challenges Guyanese to prepare for petroleum state 03 PAGE

President David Granger and First Lady, Mrs Sandra Granger are surrounded by enthusiastic residents of Union, Corentyne as they make their way into the venue for the Emancipation celebrations on Wednesday (Adrian Narine photo)

Thirteen homeless in West Berbice fire Bynoe’s appointment good for Guyana

…former minister, other officials say

Gunman 02 shot after PAGE

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firing on cops

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Bynoe’s appointment good for Guyana

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, August 2, 2018

…former minister, other officials say …urge full support by all stakeholders

THE appointment of Dr. Mark Bynoe, Environment and Resource Economist and former head of the project development and management unit of the Caribbean Community Climate Change Centre (CCCCC) as head of the Department of Energy is being seen as positive news to many.

Dr. Bynoe’s appointment was confirmed on Monday

by Minister of State Joseph Harmon, who noted that a formal announcement will be made later. The appointment of Dr Bynoe followed an announcement made by the Government of Guyana earlier this year that the Ministry of Natural Resources would no longer be dealing with the petroleum sector and that sector would fall under the Ministry of the Presidency.

According to the administration, there is need for specialised attention to be placed on the petroleum sector, given the complexity of tasks that exist with the administering of such resources. At the moment, it is unclear who the other appointed staff of the Department of Energy are.

But as news spread of Dr Bynoe’s appointment, there have been mixed views, though most are positive. On social media, former minister of natural resources under the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Robert Persaud said

Dr Bynoe’s appointment is welcomed.

“Based on my interactions--in my capacity as a government minister--with Dr. Bynoe, I have always found him to be a consummate professional with a deep sense of commitment to country and the tasks before him. His academic qualifications and wide professional experience speak for themselves and need no elaboration.”

Persaud chided utterances by many which suggest that Dr. Bynoe lacks the requisite experience to head the department as Guyana prepares for first-oil in the first quarter of 2020. “He’s a young, brilliant Guyanese and we all must be proud that we can find someone, amongst us, who can be tasked with this responsibility. Unlike a few ‘experts’ (who now populate the newspapers with their advice and doomsday predictions) and were away for decades enjoying their cushy jobs, (as is their right) including with oil majors and did little or nothing in the initial period when we were preparing for a sustainable oil-and-gas sector, Dr. Bynoe was offering his expertise in moulding environmental and natural resources professionals at UG, among other contributions,” the former minister stated.

He added that it is import-

ant that Guyanese be given an equal opportunity to contribute to a sector that is new.

“We must be able to give our own a chance, rather than rushing to doubt their skills and abilities to rise to the occasion,” Persaud stated, while cautioning that the success of Dr. Bynoe and his department is dependent on “how involved all stakeholders will be and given an opportunity to contribute to the success of the management of Guyana’s oil-and-gas sector.”

Similarly, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Guyana (UG) Professor Ivelaw Griffith, on Facebook congratulated Dr. Bynoe for being appointed to the post. “I am what I am. I am who I am. Congrats to this distinguished alumnus and former lecturer of our university on his appointment as the founding director of this important new element of Guyana’s preparation for the oil-and-gas venture and adventure! Keep on keeping on! I am UG Renaissance,” said the vice-chancellor.

Meanwhile, executive member of the Private Sector Commission (PSC), Ramesh Dookhoo, described Dr Bynoe’s appointment as a good one. In a comment on Facebook, Dookhoo said, “A good if not great appointment.

Mark was an early executive director of the PSC in its formative days.”

Like Dookhoo, Marine Turtle Conservationist Annette Arjoon congratulated Dr Bynoe. She said in a Facebook post, “Congrats Mark and it’s good to have you back home.”

In an article published in Wednesday’s edition of the Stabroek News, former advisor to President David Granger on oil and gas Jan Mangal noted that the requirements for someone to head the department were outlined in a plan documented in March 2018 during his tenure. “The head of the new Department of Energy, per the plan from March, was to be someone with international gravitas, someone who could challenge the likes of (former US Secretary of State and former Head of ExxonMobil) Rex Tillerson, for example, who was comfortable talking [oil and gas] with ministers from the major producing countries and the top executives from the major oil companies,” Mangal was quoted as saying in the Stabroek News.

According to that article, the person appointed should have high-level ministerial experience in natural resources and executive-level experience with a major oil and gas company.

“The objective was to hire the best from around the world, and the intention was to advertise transparently in top international magazines

Dr. Mark Bynoe, Head of the newly created Department of Energy

(such as the Economist). It is unlikely any Guyanese would have fit the criteria, but that was accepted back in March,” Mangal reportedly stated. He expressed some concern that Dr Bynoe’s appointment “did not follow the plan from March.”

Dr Bynoe, who served as Director, School of Earth and Environmental Sciences (formerly Environmental Studies Unit), University of Guyana, is the holder of a Doctorate in Economics (Environmental Economics) from the University of East Anglia, United Kingdom, A Master’s Degree in Resource Management), University of Edinburgh, Scotland; a Postgraduate Diploma in Development Studies, University of Guyana; a BA Geography/Economics (double major) from the University of Guyana; a Certificate in Environmental Economics and Policy Analysis, Harvard Institute of International Development, Harvard University, United States of America; and a Certificate in Programme Monitoring and Evaluation hosted by the Commonwealth Secretariat,

St. George’s University in Grenada, Grenada.

The soon-to-be-established Department of Energy will focus primarily on the country’s up-and- coming oil-and-gas sector and the department falls directly under the Ministry of the Presidency and will receive direct guidance from President David Granger.

Earlier this year, government announced that Minister Trotman will hand over the oil-and-gas sector given Cabinet’s approval for the establishment of a new Department of Energy within the Ministry of the Presidency. The Ministry of the Presidency had made it clear that the Natural Resources Minister had not been stripped of his responsibilities in the oil-and-gas sector. “The Natural Resources Minister has provided sterling leadership in the development of the sector and it is under his stewardship that significant progress has been made in capacity-building and preparations for ‘firstoil’,” the MoTP said in a release earlier this year.

Gunman shot after firing on police THE police on Wednesday shot and injured a man whom they said opened fire on them at Norton and Chapel streets.

According to the police, a mobile patrol observed the suspicious movement of a motor car in the city and followed it into Princess Street where two occupants of the vehicle exited with handguns.

The men reportedly went into a yard in the area, but two officers from the patrol pursued them while the other officers followed the car.

Officers inspecting the car which was abandoned by the suspects at Norton and Chapel streets

Police later caught up with the car at Norton and Chapel streets where another armed male exited the vehicle. “He too was pursued by two other ranks and in the process

he discharged his weapon at the ranks who returned fire from their service weapons and struck him in the upper left shoulder,” said the police.

Residents of the area said it was like a scene from a movie, but instead of being enthused by the drama they were fearful for their lives. A man who was clearing the bushes in front of his yard at the time of the incident said the action caught him off guard, so he plunged into a trench to avoid being hit during the exchange of gunfire. The residents however commended the police for their response to the situation and encouraged them to keep up the good work.

The gun and ammunition that were recovered

Officers found a .357 revolver with four live rounds and one spent shell on the injured 21-year- old suspect from Albert Street, Queenstown. According to the police, the injured sus-

pect is in a stable condition at the Georgetown Public Hospital under guard, but the search for the others continues. The car which was left abandoned is in police custody.

Take full advantage 3

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, August 2, 2018

…President challenges Guyanese to prepare for petroleum state

By Nafeeza Yahya PRESIDENT David Granger said Guyanese must prepare for the impending petroleum state, warning that “if we are not careful, we will lose the advantage that God has given us, a blessed resource, which should not be allowed to fall into the hands of foreigners…”

The Guyanese leader was at the time addressing a large gathering at an Emancipation programme held at Union, Corentyne. The President pointed to the prospects of being a petroleum state and the numerous benefits that not only the current generation will gain from, but many future generations. He however cautioned that without preparation and education, all can be lost. He said education is the key to avoid what he deemed as the four horsemen of the Guyanese apocalypse: ignorance, poverty disease and crime. “So What I am proposing today apart from the cultural presentation is that we Guyanese accept that we have to move from social emancipation to economic emancipation and it comes back to education. My dear brothers and sisters, we have to prepare the next generation for this new economy, we have to stop and start thinking about the future, we have to start thinking about the type of education, scientific and technical education, so that Guyanese can compete with other petroleum- producing countries.

The future is bright, but if we as a nation and people are not careful, we will lose the

President David Granger addresses attendees at this year’s Emancipation celebrations held at the Union Cultural and Sports Complex No. 53/ Union Village, Corentyne. (Adrian Narine photo)

advantage that God has given us, a blessed resource, which should not be allowed to fall into the hands of foreigners and we must be able to produce fully qualified people… we must educate our sons and daughters to take over, so that future generations can inherit something better than what the current generation inherited from our foreparents.”

The President left a threepoint message to all that will serve as the foundation for ensuring a bright future for all: achieve economic emancipation through education, seek employment in your villages and towns to get out of poverty and becoming entrepreneurs by seizing opportunities when they arrive.

“When the drumming stops and the dancers are tired and we have to face the future and for me and I am sure for you the future is bright, all of us man woman and child and for generations to come can look forward to the good life in the Cooperative Republic of Guyana.”

Meanwhile, giving a history lesson on village movement and the significance of Emancipation, President Granger said: “One hundred and eighty(180) years ago, our foreparents succeeded after centuries of sacrifice and struggles to win legal emancipation. Today 2018, we the heirs of descendants must still struggle to secure economic emancipation.”

The President, a historian, reflected on the history of the struggles and ultimate triumph of the Africans and how through unity they were able to transform Guyana.

“This is the most auspicious event in Guyanese history; it is a day of deliverance from the worst crime on humanity -- 200 years of enslavement.

It was a day of departure from the plantations, the degradation and the decimation on the plantation, but it is also a day of determination when 80,000 slaves decided they will never be slaves again. That they wanted bet-

All decked out! These mothers and their offspring are fully garbed in their African attire as part of Emancipation 2018 celebrations at No. 53/ Union Village, Corentyne. (Adrian Narine photo)

President David Granger interacts with students who are beneficiaries of 15 bicycles which were handed over on Wednesday. Distribution of the bicycles was done to ensure that the beneficiaries no longer face difficulties getting to and from school (Adrian Narine photo)

ter lives for themselves, their womenfolk and their children, but it was also a day of demographic change for the whole country. After the 1st of August Guyana was never the same again. This is the most important demographic event; this is a time when our people came together. It was transformative, it was revolutionary, nothing like that happened before and it won’t happen again.”

He continued that through the abolition of slavery, 6000 hectares of land was bought from savings, including that of #53 Village that helped to start the village movement that not only allowed Africans, but all other races to go into the villages and live in unity as Guyanese. “Number 53 was one of the oldest and boldest that was part of the village movement and the villages are important even today, because the villages are the cradle of the nation.

People of all ethnic groups live in villages. We have

to understand and respect villages and the roles they play historically and the roles they will have to play in the future. When these villages were formed they were not haphazard, they were carefully planned by people who couldn’t read or write. These people had a vision, a sense of mission, a sense of purpose to establish these four villages on four pillars Home, Church, School and Farm.”

The President said that The village movement and the four pillars helped to form a new society and helped to make the country a better place for all and urged that the village movement and the four pillars be used to preserve and protect the country.

To this end, he pointed to his declaration of November 7th as National Day of Villages as he recognised the role villages played and will continue to play in the transformation of lives and the nation.

Earlier, the village of

Union came alive as the Berbice Association of African Groups pulled out all the stops as they put together a spectacular cultural programme laced with songs, dances, fashion and drumming in addition to having on display food, craft and African literature that left everyone spellbound, including the President, who remarked “this was the most exciting cultural presentation I have ever witnessed.”

Also gracing the event were several senior members of the government and regional administration officials including Vice-president and Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan; Minister of Social Cohesion, Dr. George Norton; Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawerence; Minister of Social Protection, Amna Ally; Minister of Education, Nicolette Henry; and Regional Chairman David Armogan, among others.

President David Granger interacts with young children while at the Union Cultural and Sports Complex No. 53/ Union Village, Corentyne. Also in photo are First Lady Mrs. Sandra Granger (centre) and Minister of Social Cohesion, Dr. George Norton (right) (Adrian Narine photo)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, August 2, 2018

Deadly poll violence in Zimbabwe Three people were killed in Zimbabwe’s capital Harare after troops opened fire on rioting opposition supporters, police say.

The government says the army was deployed in central Harare to help police restore order. The opposition MDC Alliance condemned the crackdown, saying it was a reminder of the “dark days” of Robert Mugabe’s rule. It alleges that the governing Zanu-PF party has rigged Monday’s elections.

Parliamentary results show Zanu-PF heading for

a big majority in the first elections since long-serving ruler Mr Mugabe was ousted from power. The presidential result has yet to be declared.

However, the MDC Alliance insists that its presidential candidate, Nelson Chamisa, won Monday’s election.

European Union monitors have expressed concern over the length of time it is taking to declare the presidential result.

What are the two sides saying?

President Emmerson Mnangagwa was quoted by

state broadcaster ZBC as saying: “We hold the opposition MDC Alliance and its whole leadership responsible for this disturbance of national peace, which was meant to disrupt the electoral process.”

He later took to Twitter to urge peace: Justice Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi said the army had been deployed in Harare to disperse a violent crowd and to restore “peace and tranquillity”. He added: “The presence of the army is not to intimidate people but to ensure that law and order is maintained. They are there

to assist the police.”

A spokesman for Mr Chamisa condemned the deployment of soldiers and the subsequent loss of life.

“Soldiers are trained to kill during war. Are civilians enemies of the state?” he asked. “There is no explanation whatsoever for the brutality that we saw today.”

Correspondents say the violence was confined to the centre of Harare - an opposition stronghold - while other parts of the country remain calm.

Latest reports from the capital suggest the security forces are in control of the streets.

The Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (Zec) has announced 132 seats for Zanu-PF so far, and 59 for the MDC Alliance, ZBC state media reported. There are 210 seats in the National Assembly’s lower house.

More than five million people were registered to vote, and there was a high turnout of 70%. ZBC had reported that the electoral commission would announce the presidential results at 12:30 local time (10:30 GMT) on Wednesday, but only parliamentary results were read out.

The army and police have clashed with supporters of Zimbabwe’s opposition MDC Alliance who took to the streets amid allegations that the ruling Zanu-PF party rigged Monday’s presidential and parliamentary vote.

The BBC’s Shingai Nyoka reports that the announcement on the presidential poll was not made because representatives of some of the 23 candidates had failed to turn up to verify the results. A presidential candidate needs more than 50% of the vote to win outright. Otherwise, a run-off election will be held on 8 September.

The EU mission has criticised the delay in announcing the presidential results. Zec has until Saturday to do so. It said it had observed several problems, including media bias, voter intimidation and mistrust in the electoral commission, adding that there was an “improved political climate, but un-level playing

field and lack of trust”.

This is the first time in 16 years that the government has allowed EU and US election monitors into the country. The African Union mission has said the elections “took place in a very peaceful environment” and “were highly competitive”. It added that it could not confirm opposition parties’ complaints of vote-buying, intimidation by the state and bias by traditional leaders. A preliminary report by the Southern African Development Community (Sadc) observers said the elections were largely peaceful and conducted in accordance with the law. (BBC)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, August 2, 2018

Tap oil and gas sector

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– AG urges residents of Bagotville

Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Basil Williams sitting among residents of Bagotville on the eve of Emancipation Day

By Svetlana Marshall ATTORNEY General and Legal Affairs Minister Basil Williams has urged residents of Bagotville, West Bank Demerara, to tap into the oil and gas industry when he addressed them during the village’s 180th Emancipation celebrations.

With the production of oil set to commence in 2020, Williams, who is also the chairman of the People’s National Congress/Reform (PNCR), told the residents that it is important for them

to equip themselves with the requisite skills and knowledge needed to function effectively and to capitalise on the opportunities that would exist in an oil and gas producing nation.

He said residents must also play their part in developing Guyana into a green state.

The Government is presently drafting a Green State Development Strategy.

Williams has been attending Bagotville’s Emancipation celebrations for more than 10 years, having visited the village as a child with his grandmother. On Tuesday, the

Bandit nabbed with unlicensed gun

The .38 revolver which was found on the suspect

A SUSPECTED thief was apprehended by officers of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) at Leopold Street on Wednesday.

According to a report from the police, prior to being apprehended, the suspect and his accomplice had allegedly robbed a Nicaraguan doctor of cash and documents at Croal Street, Bourda.

The men reportedly approached the doctor on a scooter and carried out the act before escaping with the valuables. Police reported that the suspect, who was captured, admitted to only aiding in the escape of his accomplice.

After conducting a search of the suspect, the police found a .38 revolver which was concealed in the suspect’s crotch. The gun was reportedly identical to the one used during the robbery.

Although they found the gun easily, it was a challenge to get it away from the suspect. A scuffle ensued between him and an officer resulting in the suspect sustaining an injury to his face during the ordeal.

Police have identified the suspect as a 40-yearold carpenter of Laing Avenue. Efforts are being made to apprehend the other suspect.

residents present, the majority being young adults, made out a case for Bagotville to be gifted with a new community

centre.

The Legal Affairs Minister pledged to make representation on their behalf

to Government. Among the highlight of the night were several energetic dance pieces.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, August 2, 2018

The fight against oppression THE history of this society where multiracial groups settled is one that saw engagements of relationship built on systems of inequality. Those who ascribed to themselves the notion of superiority set out and ensured that systems, including actions, were put in place to keep the designated inferior in ‘their place.’

Man in his infinite wisdom will fight against any form of oppression, marginalisation and domination, even as some among him would apply the lowest of instincts to deny, dominate and oppressed. Such has been the relations of man over time, resulting in conflicts that have been marked with successes in toppling systems of injustice, replacing and fortifying them with systems built on justice, equality and fair play.

Guyanese joined with their fellowmen of Britain and the British Commonwealth cel-

ebrating Emancipation when chattel slavery through proclamation was ended. This meant that Africans where once enslaved were now legally free from the yoke of domination/ bondage and being treated and seen no longer as sub-human, inferior. In relationships of such nature, in addition to having some impact on economic relations and the sourcing of labour, would have also impacted co-existence among major forces, where one was conditioned for centuries to think it had to look down on the other, and the other look up to it. The progress towards equalising relationships in the socio-economic and political spheres between these two groups (Europeans and Africans) was not without several hiccups, conflicts and flareups. And it should be said such is not uncharacteristic in human relations, where competing interest and demand for equity are considered pre-

mium.

Where the society has seen the grit and determination of Africans in establishing life after slavery, creating what is known as the Village Movement, which had within a system of self-government, guided by rules, that members of the community were required to adhere, ensured order, equality, and deliberateness in the approach to their development. Conversely, their European counterparts, in the government, plantations/ estates, merchant-class and other areas in the socio-economic and political spheres, had to accept that Africans were equally deserving and must be allowed to participate in the development of the wider society.

There can be no pretence that the forging of the new relationship would have been seamless, of which there are several documentations, through the lens of various

participants and analysts of the era, that are easily accessible and can verify the claim being made here. Our focus today is to seek to impress upon the society, as we observe emancipation and recall the struggle which preceded and succeeded this landmark, is that the society, having reached this far, such progress was made not only possible from these experiences, but the institutions/ systems put in place to protect and advance the gains.

With Emancipation that came via proclamation, it meant non-acceptance of the practice of this abominable system and everything that flows therefrom must come to an end. At a human relations level, it requires the treating of each other as human beings.

As such, the inalienable right to be treated as equal, with dignity and respect, where such was denied, in whatever form, those who fought to ensure its respect were doing

so with the protection of the law that they are no longer enslaved or sub-human.

This fight to protect and deepen what Emancipation sought to achieve continues unto today. Tracing the evolution of this nation, it will be seen that groups fought against other systems of oppression as in indentureship and colonisation. Where the African community is credited with establishing a system of local government in the villages, this later guided local government authorities nationally, and aided in influencing the fight for internal self-government.

Emancipation means different things to different people. In our society where the concept is associated with the freedom of a people, who for centuries fought against their enslavement, this freedom continues to defined and refined based on the evolution taking place in society that all

are equal and should be treated with dignity and respect.

Ensuring the realisation of freedom, the institutions of state, given that the state is responsible for the sovereignty and protection of the people, must ensure through laws and practices that freedoms of man, which in today are guided by universal declarations, charters and conventions are not only ratified, but implemented through laws, policies, programmes and practices. The achievement of Emancipation 178 years ago is not an end in itself, but the catalyst of a process to bring about freedoms in every form. And until every man, woman and child can have the protection, surety and enjoyment of his or her inalienable rights, the principle that informed the struggle saw this major achievement in 1838 is still relevant and applicable today.

Williams sets record straight on NTC complaints Dear Editor,

THE dust has now settled on the National Toshaos Council (NTC) conference of 2018. It was the 12th such conference to be convened here in Georgetown to date.

I sat in the back row of the Arthur Chung Convention Centre and listened to the now former NTC Chairman Joel Fredericks as he addressed an audience in which sat His Excellency President David Granger, the Honourable Moses Nagamootoo, prime minister, almost the entire Cabinet of ministers, leading members of the diplomatic community, heads of state agencies and newly elected Indigenous leaders from all across Guyana.

I was shocked to hear some of what Mr. Joel Fredericks had to say. This gentleman–a pastor- whom I have over time come to call friend, literally transformed right before my very eyes. He abandoned truth; exited reality and lunged blindly into an area

of darkness that was devoid of the sincerity and humility which drew me to him and formed the basis for our friendship.

Joel accused the Government of Guyana of: “…failing to keep several promises, including addressing land rights …the lands commission, revision of the Amerindian Act, … granting of the title for the land on which the NTC Secretariat would be built and the renaming of St. Cuthbert’s Mission to Pakuri…” [Source: Demerara Waves July 16th 2018] Land rights and Land Commission: The fact of the matter of land rights is that the President established a presidential Commission of Inquiry (CoI) in March of 2017 to address this matter which is known and understood to be of utmost importance to Guyana’s Indigenous Peoples. In so doing, His Excellency was fulfilling a commitment made to the NTC in 2015.

This CoI was rejected by

the NTC under the Chairmanship of Brother Joel Fredericks without the suggestion of an alternative mechanism for the achievement of the same or an even better outcome. In fact, the prompt public support which came from the opposition People’s Progressive Party (PPP) openly suggests the source or origin of the NTC’s position under Brother Joel’s leadership.

In a statement issued on April 5th 2017, the PPP said: “The People’s Progressive Party wishes to publicly express its unequivocal support for the National Toshaos Council’s (NTC) public condemnation on March 28th, 2017 of the establishment of the Commission of Inquiry “to examine all issues and uncertainties surrounding the claims of Amerindian land titling…”

The CoI has since proceeded to address the other components of its mandate and will shortly report to the President. Meanwhile, the Indigenous Peoples population has lost this opportunity to

have the very important land issue investigated beyond the scope of the Amerindian Land Titling Project (ALT) and titles fast tracked. The newly elected executive committee’s leadership on the matter is eagerly awaited.

Revision of the Amerindian Act: The consultative process leading to the revision/ strengthening of the Amerindian Act is ongoing. The process commenced with a consultation in Santa Rosa, Moruca, Region One, in April.

At the time of Brother Joel’s attack on the government, there were at least two completed rounds of consultations.

There was a deferral of additional rounds of consultations to accommodate the NTC conference attendance. The process has since resumed.

Granting of title for the land for NTC’s secretariat: It is no secret that His Excellency President Granger committed to assisting the NTC with land for the establishment of its secretariat. It is

no secret that he fulfilled that commitment. Brother Joel was briefed by the Ministry of the Presidency on what steps he was required to take to conclude the process for the issuing of title. He did not take those steps. He chose instead to say what he said at the conference, much to his own discredit.

Renaming of St. Cuthbert’s Mission to Pakuri: Brother Joel was still Chairman of the NTC on July 15th, 2018. He ought to have known, therefore, that the consultative process to obtain the Free Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC) of the general village population on this very important and sensitive matter concluded on that date.

He should have been informed by his vice-chairman, the past toshaos of that village that there was a General Village Meeting on July 15 at which the residents roundly rejected the call for a namechange. They contend that their immediate past toshao was on his own pushing gov-

ernment to change the village name so that he can satisfy his personal ambitions.

It is the will of the people that the name of the village shall remain St. Cuthbert’s Mission.

In conclusion, my dear friend and brother has done great harm to his own public image by reporting inexactitudes and using them in an attempt to discredit the Government of Guyana.

He has committed another grave sin: he has used a public podium to attack a sitting head of state in his presence and in public using untruths and making claims which he knows that he cannot substantiate in this life or the other. Sincere is my hope that he was not misled by someone whose political ambitions exceed his capacity for leading a little Village.

Regards Mervyn Williams Adviser to the Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, August 2, 2018

Newsroom article is erroneous, misleading Dear Editor

THE assertion by Newsroom in its article “Attorney General, others to pay “no tax whatsoever” under amendment to the AML/CFT law,” dated July 27th, 2018, that the members of the committee “will be exempt, under section 7G of the Bill, from taxations” is erroneous and misleading.

Nevertheless, the Hon. Attorney General welcomes the opportunity to offer further clarity on clause 7G of the Amendment Bill. Clause 7G of Bill No. 10 of 2018, states“7G(1) The committee, its assets, property, income and its operations and transactions authorised by this Act, shall be exempt from all taxation including customs duty, consumption tax, capital gains tax, corporation tax, income tax, property tax and purchase tax, and the committee shall be exempt from payment of any tax or duty whatsoever.

(2) “No taxation of any kind shall be levied on any obligations or security issued by the committee.”

Firstly, as detailed in the

above provision, it is clear and unambiguous that the committee itself is the entity that the law seeks to exempt from any tax liability and not the attorney general and members of the committee. Nowhere in the provision is it mentioned that members of the committee will be exempt from any taxes. Taxation laws demand that the law must clearly state who will be taxed and who will not be taxed. In the case of clause 7G, it is specific that only the committee is exempt.

It is important to note that the committee is a statutory body akin to a board, an agency or an authority.

Secondly, prior to the establishment of the committee, the AML/CFT Act contained an identical provision relating to the authority (which the committee replaces) namely 9G. This provision, like 7G, stated that the authority was exempt from taxes. These provisions are standard provisions, because if the committee is chargeable to taxes, then it would amount to the government taxing itself. A search of other legislation would reveal a similar provision with respect

Morning will come to City Hall, it has no choice.

Dear Editor, WITH the citizens of Georgetown having been subjected to enduring over the last two years, some of the worst living conditions that one could encounter in a capital city, it finally seems as though the end is nigh for the current Mayor and City Council with the announcement of local government elections for November 12, 2018.

One would think that this gives for more substantial grounds or cause for celebrations than the commemorations of the 175th Anniversary of the birth of the city, as substantial as that is.

As the mayor begins to pack and remove her things from her office, in anticipation of departure, one can only hope that she takes along with her a number of the infamous things from her stint, including the infamous parking meter contract, the useless stun guns that were purchased for the abattoir, the scores of used airline tickets and boarding passes, the plans to convert green spaces in Bel Air Park, Farnum Playground and Lamaha

Springs into residential areas, the massive plans they had to overhaul Georgetown and restore its Garden City acclaim, plans for the Merriman Mall Recreation Park which were supposed to feature among its facilities a petting zoo, the proposal to construct a three-storey shopping mall with special entertainment facility at the New Vendors mall and a similar edifice with parking facilities for farmers, wholesalers and other merchants at Bourda Green and all the other quixotic ideas that came from La La Land.

Hopefully, the new Mayor and City Council will do away with all of the excesses such as bodyguards, chauffeurs, special assistants, residential security, frequent travel to the ends of the earth with assistants in tow, etc. Hopefully also, the new municipal government will be filled with smart young persons that will not be so out of control, so bloated and so infested with deceit and abuse of power.

Have faith citizens. Morning will come to City Hall, it has no choice.

Regards Sambu Jacobus

to other statutory bodies, for example, the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission Act, Cap. 66:02 (section 30), Revenue Authority Act, Cap. 79:04 (section 30), National Sports Commission Act, Cap 39:14 (section 21) and Deeds and Commercial Registries Authority Act (No 4 of 2013) (section 25).

Thirdly, what is exempted is very specific. It is only

things belonging or related to the committee that are exempted from taxes. The provision clearly states that “assets, property, income and its operations and transactions authorised by this Act.” Moreover, any transactions must be authorised by the Act before it can attract the exemption. The list stated above excludes salaries of members of the committee or anything belonging or relat-

ed to members of the committee. In fact, no member of the committee will be receiving a salary, as only staff of the committee may be paid a salary.

This is because all members of the committee are ex-officio members and therefore will not be in receipt of salaries.

Regards Attorney General’s Chambers

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, August 2, 2018

Linden drivers call for action to curb accidents

A HIGH-level multi-stakeholder task force, which was established in June this year, has made several recommendations to reduce the number of fatal accidents and quell the destruction of roads by the indiscriminate movement of lumber trucks within the town of Linden and the Soesdyke/Linden Highway.

Among the recommended measures were restricting lumber trucks to traverse on ‘back roads’ only and curtailing the hours that they may traverse on the main roads.

The last of the two meetings held saw government ministers, including Minister within the Ministry of Natural Resources, Simona Broomes and Minister within the Ministry of Communities, Valerie Patterson calling for the enforcement of several of the recommendations by June 15, 2018.

However, about two months after that meeting, none of these recommendations were implemented and fatal accidents continue to occur on the highway at night as a result of lumber trucks; the latest being last week. Residents of Linden, especially drivers, have expressed their disappointment that issues of national safety continue to be just talk and no action. “It was reported in the papers that these drivers should only drive in the day, they can’t park on the road without reflectors at nights and all these things, and nothing isn’t changing.

I want to know who really is the boss,” said one Linden driver en route to Linden on Monday night, after passing a string of lumber trucks, parked and moving, on the Soesdyke/Linden Highway.

Commenting on last Wednesday’s accident, which caused the death of 24-year-old Ryan Wilson, the driver said that he passed the truck parked without proper reflectors on a turn and commented that

the way the truck was parked during the wee hours of the morning when the atmosphere was heavily fogged, it will cause an accident. Not to his surprise, less than an hour after, Wilson slammed into the right side front of motor lorry GPP 2777 with trailer TTT 1610, which was stationary along the eastern side of the road facing north. A bulldozer was loaded unto the trailer of the lorry at the time of the accident.

Even as fatal accidents continue to occur as a result of lumber trucks, daily commuters and drivers using the Soesdyke/ Linden Highway believe that while efforts are being made by regional officials to monitor the movement of lumber trucks at nights, these efforts are not bearing fruit and persons continue to lose their lives.

Clement Rio, another driver who traverses the highway, said that without lights it is very difficult to see at nights and more so to see a heavily laden lumber truck, parked, especially around turns, as is most times the case. “When you coming up on that highway at nights is the grace of God that does bring you through, nothing but the grace of God. Them truck man continue to do as they please, continue to drive whenever they please and continue to ‘overweight’ the trucks as they please. Nobody seems to be doing nothing about it,” Rio said in conversation with this publication, en route to Linden.

WHERE IS THE BREAKDOWN? The multi-stakeholder meetings that were held were chaired by Regional Chairman Renis Morian who was very vocal on the implementation of the changes to see stricter monitoring of the lumber trucks, especially at nights. When questioned by this publication about whether the issue is just a ‘talk

show’ as the residents have it, he said that the breakdown lies in the fact that as much as the RDC and regional officials want to implement the changes, the powers are not within his hands. He said that out of the two stakeholder meetings came recommendations that were presented to the Minister of Public Infrastructure David Patterson to be enforced. “On a daily basis, we have trucks breaking down on the highway, but we can’t make the decisions, we only can make recommendations because signs and traffic fall under Ministry of Public Infrastructure,” Morian affirmed.

He said that after the meetings, letters were sent to Minister Patterson, Permanent Secretary Geoffrey Vaughn and other government officials. To date, he said, the RDC is still awaiting a response. “It is a pressing issue, the population is pressing on the RDC to give solutions. We are waiting here from the minister on whether he will adopt or put the recommendations into force,” Morian said. With the recent inclement weather, Morian said that the situation is worse and while there is the issue of fatalities, the other issue is that the roads on which the government continues to spend millions, continue to be destroyed by the lumber trucks.

In an invited comment, Minister Broomes, who was part of the meeting, said that she was a part of the discussion to lend support to the region. She said that a meeting was set up with Minister Patterson and the regional officials, since it is under his purview to deal with weight limit and scales and so forth.

She, however, also understands that there are certain things the region has to deal with; internal regional issues that have to be dealt with by not only the RDC, but the Municipality as well. She is encouraging all parties to meet with Minister

Patterson to discuss these issues, since one life lost is one too many.

Broomes said she will continue to lend support to the process, since yesterday might be someone else’s day, but today might be ours, since we all traverse the highway.

COSMETIC LOCAL GOVERNMENT REFORM Concerning issues where local leaders cannot enforce decisions that may be in the best interest of the lives of the residents in their constituencies, Morian, during a recent RDC statutory meeting, posited that real power is yet to trickle down to local government organs such as the RDC. He said that local government reform is ‘cosmetic’ and is calling for a phase two of the reform to be done so that powers can be deepened within the local government organs.

“For us to get a decision, we gotta write somebody. A lot of people feel the chairman and councillors got powers; we got pen powers, we can’t go out there as the Council and redirect them trucks because we will run into a whole lot of laws and obstacles,” Morian said.

The RC is calling for more power to be given to the RDC to institute rules in cases such as these.

“The people who I feel would have presided over local government reform, they never really work in local government on a day-to-day basis to understand what is happening. So the reforms that were made to me are still cosmetic….. the whole local government reform needs to be revisited, the government is looking to divest power to local government organs but I feel that real power is still to come down to local government organs,”Morian said.

RECOMMENDATIONS MADE At the stakeholder meetings

held, the recommendations for enforcement in addition to those aforementioned was for the logs to be transported down the Demerara River as was done before the construction of the Soesdyke/Linden Highway.

Trucks were to utilize the Wisroc and Noitgedacht back road on the Wismar and Mackenzie shore, respectively. The RDC was to have collaborated with other entities to ensure that the back roads which are currently in a deplorable state; be repaired so that the trucks can utilise them without hiccups.

Recommendations were also made for the loggers and other lorry drivers to play a role in repairing the roads, since the trucks would have contributed to the state they are in.

The police were to clamp down on drivers driving with bright lights at nights; and truck drivers were to be always equipped with reflector cones and other illuminators so as to guide other motorists accordingly in the eventuality of a breakdown. Trucks were to also transport the correct length of lumber which is 12 feet. Traffic Chief Ramesh Ashram made a commitment to the team that decisions will be enforced accordingly. “I will ensure that action is taken,” he said.

Calls were also made for a robust highway patrol to be implemented by the GPF so as to effect stricter monitoring of lawless drivers. Calls were also made for the Soesdyke/Linden Highway to be equipped with signage and road markings and to clear overhanging trees to allow for safer use by motorists.

Residents and drivers of Linden are hoping that the recommendations will be enforced so as to make the Soesdyke/Linden Highway safer at nights to drive.

De Willem promoter home invaded …attacker issues racial slurs, threats

A POPULAR promoter and public relations officer is now fearful for his life after his De Willem, West Coast Demerara apartment was allegedly burglarised by persons, who not only stole items, but also issued racial threats and urged him to leave the village.

According to the man who was once a reporter, the incident occurred on Tuesday, days after he had moved into the De Willem apartment. He said at around 07:45hrs on Tuesday, he left for work, and upon his return at 16:45hrs, he realised that something was terribly wrong. The promoter said though there was no sign of forced entry, once in the apartment he realised that his chair cushion was on the

floor and that someone had written something on it with a black ink pen.

“This is just a warning,

move or we will move you…

We not need you here, we will come back if you nah move. Put this in de papers,”

In this photo, carbon tablets commonly called rat poison, can be seen in a pot of food

This modified photo shows some of the threats which were reportedly issued by the invaders

a section of the writings on the cushion read. In what can be described as a very demeaning tone, the attackers indicated that they have an issue with a person of African descent living in the area.

His walls, based on photos seen by the Guyana Chronicle, were marred with racial slurs and threats.

“They plunge a knife into my framed picture on the wall, rat poison thrown all

over in my food and on my bed. My entire apartment is trashed,” the public relations officer said.

A stereo system valued $159,800; a $12,000 DVD player; and four pairs of shoes valued $38,000 were among the items reportedly stolen from the apartment.

His back door was left open.

The police were called in and an investigation is currently ongoing. The man told this newspaper

that he pointed the investigators to his neighbours, whom he alleges had overheard him talking about placing an advertisement in the local newspapers.

The man said that he is afraid to remain in the apartment and is considering his next move. He said he will also file a complaint with the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC), given the seriousness of the matter.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, August 2, 2018

President to receive Lindo Creek CoI report today THE Lindo Creek Commission of Inquiry (CoI) report will be handed over to President David Granger today by Chairman of the Commission, Justice (ret’d) Donald Trotman.

The simple handing-over ceremony will unfold at State House at 12:00hrs, following a six- month inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the killing of Cecil Arokium, Dax Arokium, Horace Drakes, Bonny Harry, Lancelot Lee, Compton Speirs, Nigel Torres and Clifton Berry Wong, whose charred remains were discovered on June 21, 2008 at Lindo Creek in the Upper Demerara/Upper Berbice region.

Over the six-month investigation, which included two extensions, over 60 witnesses and persons of interest appeared before the commission. A total of 20 public-hearing sessions were reportedly conducted, in addition to 10 private interviews and five in-camera sessions. According to a source close to the commission, the report presents conclusive findings.

Relatives of the murdered men have maintained that the act was committed by members of the Joint Services but the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) and Guyana Police Force are contending that the men were murdered by the

Chairman of the Lindo Creek CoI, Justice (ret’d) Donald Trotman

then Rondell Rawlins alias ‘Fine Man’ gang.

When GDF Major Andy Pompey and Lieutenant-Colonel Omar Khan took the stand in May, they said it was possible for the criminal gang to be mistaken for the Joint Services on the basis that they were using military weapons and camouflage clothing while on the run from the police.

The Military Criminal Investigation Department (MCID), which had conducted an investigation in June and July, 2008, had said that miners may have been victims of

a fatal robbery or may have been killed because of their suspected roles as informants of the Joint Services as it cleared the Joint Services of the allegation of mass murder.

But George Leonard Arokium, owner of the mining camp where the charred remains of the miners were found at Lindo Creek, in his search for answers, questioned whose decision it was to destroy the “evidence” at the scene.

Mr. Arokium, whose son Dax Arokium and brother Cedric Arokium were among those killed at the camp, was the final witness to appear publicly before the commission investigating the massacre. The charred remains were discovered by Mr. Arokium.

Mr. Arokium said he finds it difficult to believe that “Fineman” and gang after engaging in a shootout with police at Christmas Falls on June 6, 2008, would proceed to the camp at Lindo Creek and kill the miners when there was a heavy presence of Joint Services ranks at the UNAMCO checkpoint.

The UNAMCO trail is used to access Lindo Creek from Ituni and Kwakwani. In the words of Mr. Arokium, “Fineman” ought to have been a “really brave man” to kill and burn the miners in close proximity to the checkpoint where the Joint Services were operating.

The 2008 Lindo Creek Massacre victims

A critical part of the investigation by Justice Trotman was a visit to the scene at Lindo Creek in May. At the scene, the commissioner told those present that the journey was critical to the inquiry.

“We hope also that our presence here will encourage the appropriate authorities of our state and government to afford and accord the responsibilities which they have to protect their citizens in times of peace and in time of peril. So as we leave here today, history will remember that we met here in a spirit of inquiry; in a spirit of wanting to find the truth of what happened so that something similar will never happen again in

our country among our people,” he had said.

Ahead of setting up the commission, President Granger had said that the inquiry into the Lindo Creek Massacre was pivotal in the unravelling of the tapestry of criminality that engulfed the country between 2000 and 2008.

He noted that while there were approximately eight massacres during the period of the “Troubles,” the investigation into the Lindo Creek Massacre is critical in exposing the intellectual authors behind the criminal network that wreaked havoc under the Bharrat Jagdeo administration.

Thirteen homeless in West Berbice fire THIRTEEN persons, Including eleven children, were left homeless after a mid-morning fire razed their wooden dwelling at Lot 31 Kingelly Village, West Coast Berbice on Wednesday.

Government has responded immediately and the Ministry of Social Protection has committed to assisting the family. Subject Minister Amna Ally, during a visit to the family, pledged government’s support and invited them to her office today to work out arrangements for the assistance.

Those left homeless are Ms. Shelly Long, her reputed husband George McDonald and her eleven children, ages ranging from sixteen years to less than one year old.

Mrs. Long told the Guyana Chronicle that she had no idea what could have caused the blaze. “I left the children at home around 9 o’clock and went to a nearby shop to get some goods. It was on my way back home that I saw the smoke and the fire coming from the house,” she said.

Neighbours said that

Neighbours have pooled their resources and commenced rebuilding a home for the family (Adrian Narine photo)

The wooden house was quickly destroyed by the fire (Adrian Narine photo)

given the proximity of the house to the heavy breeze from the nearby Atlantic

Ocean, the blaze quickly engulfed the wooden building.

“No one was able to get into

the house to save anything.

The only concern had to be making sure that none of

the children were trapped in the blaze. Thankfully, all managed to escape unhurt,” they said The neighbours said that the Fire Service was called but the building had already been flattened by the time they arrived. Ms. Long, who is the owner of the property, said that her losses amounted to close to a million dollars. The woman said yesterday that she was a housewife while her reputed husband was self-employed and their means of income and livelihood were limited.

She said she fervently hope that she would get public assistance to get temporary shelter for herself and family and help in subsequently getting their own roof over their heads as soon as possible.

Mrs Long, her reputed husband George McDonald and seven of her children on the road opposite to where they lived

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, August 2, 2018

Developing village economies a top priority – Minister Harmon tells Buxtonians

By Lisa Hamilton MINISTER of State Joseph Harmon said although the “flicker of hope” was “dimmed” by the previous administration, the Government will continue to work in the coming years to grow and protect village economies.

Harmon was at the time speaking on the issue of cooperate societies and their importance in organising ordinary people into groups for economic purposes at the

village of Buxton on the eve of Emancipation Day. The Buxton Emancipation Cultural Extravaganza 2018 was celebrated under the theme “Emancipate yourself from Mental and Economic Slavery”.

According to Harmon, emancipation is not only a physical process but a mental one which Guyanese, today, must work to achieve in all areas of their lives.

He said despite the intense efforts of the colonial masters to dehumanise Guyana’s an-

Minister of State Joseph Harmon sits along with other members of the audience (Samuel Maughn photo)

cestors, they never gave up in their fight for freedom.

“As the shackles are removed from one’s feet, the shackles must also be removed from one’s mind.

Through emancipation, therefore, is a process that begins in the mind,” he said.

He added: “Once physical emancipation was achieved, the former slaves demonstrated their mental resilience, their industry and discipline by purchasing abandoned plantations, transforming them into organised villages and started the Village Movement.”

Members from the community sing folk songs at the Buxton Market Square (Samuel Maughn photo)

SYSTEMATIC SABOTAGE However, the minister of state said that the Village Movement was stifled and led to underdevelopment due to the “system and the systematic sabotage of the infrastructure and the flooding of village lands”.

“These measures succeeded in frustrating our ancestors and caused them to abandon their agricultural lands,” Harmon said, adding that the villages nonetheless survived and formed the basis for the establishment of the nation.

However, the same sabotage once occurred again with the previous administration, who sought to do away with cooperate movement and societies for their personal gain, Harmon said.

“Again, the cooperative spirit, the systematic sabotage of our cooperatives, the systematic damaging of our lands by the previous administration, again sought to dim that flicker of hope. But, our people remained strong.

“And so, after decades of the PPP Government in administration, after the systematic sabotage of the agriculture lands of our people here in Buxton, we have now a new hope. We have a new flicker; we have a light that is going to shine bright on this

village of Buxton.”

Harmon continued that with the country being on the cusp of the discovery of oil, Guyanese must understand that the revenues from oil will be used to ensure that the needs of villages are addressed.

“We are going to ensure that the infrastructure of the villages are taken care of; we are going to ensure that agricultural extension services are provided to the village; we are going to ensure that drainage and irrigation are fixed in the village; we are going to ensure that we give you back that spark, but it’s up to you, the villagers of Buxton, to ensure that you take advantage of this… all of these things we promise you because we understand that this flicker which was dimmed by this previous administration needs to be rekindled and we, in the Government, will rekindle that spirit,” Harmon pledged.

To do this, he said that the Government will utilise Cooperate Movements as the “vehicle” to take persons out of their current conditions.

He reminded that under the People’s National Congress (PNC) administration after 1966, several cooperate societies were established with 1,444 cooperate societies by 1989.

“By 2016, the PPP had

actually shut down or made some of them dysfunctional.

At least 130 of those societies were shut down… the PPP wanted to kill those cooperate societies because those societies had large tracks of land under which [they wanted to] control. So the idea was to kill those societies off and to take the land and to distribute it in the way they wanted,” Harmon then revealed.

As such, since taking office the Government has established an Interim Management Committee for the co-op society which, over the last year, has resulted in over 140 cooperate societies being re-established or formed.

The Buxton Emancipation Cultural Extravaganza evening was filled with story-telling, singing of folk songs, dancing, drumming, poetry and more as many within the community demonstrated their talents.

Speaking a message of hope to the villagers, Harmon said: “It is the strength of Buxton; it is that fortitude of Buxton that demonstrates to the rest of Guyana what the ‘black spirit’ is. That it cannot be conquered, that we are resilient people, that in spite of all that is taking place that we stand firm in our belief that we have the power in us to make the changes that are necessary.”

PM Nagamootoo pledges support for UG Constitutional Education Project PRIME Minister Moses Nagamootoo on Tuesday pledged financial, technical and logistical support for the University of Guyana’s Constitutional Education Project.

Following a meeting with the university’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ivelaw Griffith and Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Planning and International Engagement, Dr. Barbara Reynolds, the prime minister said the initiative has his office’s full support.

“We want to be able to con-

tribute to the sensitisation programme, we want to contribute to the educational programme to deal with the issue that not all Guyanese are aware of what is in their constitution.”

One of the main components of the university’s project recommends a nation-wide public education campaign led by the University of Guyana with civil society’s involvement. The survey would gauge the levels of knowledge and understanding of the constitution

and constitutional reform, while also identifying key areas for reform.

Professor Ivelaw Griffith said, “Critical to the education component of this is a survey to really have a baseline sense of what people know, what they don’t know. Part of the design is to do a survey, have a sense of what are the information gaps in the communities and then build a communication education plan.”

The project is expected to be rolled out between

2018 to 2019 with the aim of fostering informed dialogue and educating the public on constitutional issues and also aims to encourage civic dialogue, transparent debate and civic education across all segments of Guyanese society. The project will offer space and platforms for citizens’ dialogue and consensus-building on constitutional issues that touch on a wide range of topics of national interest ahead of the next national elections due in 2020.

(In the photo, from left) Vice-Chancellor of the University of Guyana, Professor Ivelaw Griffith, Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo and Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Planning and International Engagement, Dr. Barbara Reynolds

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo also donated from

his extensive book collection to the university. (DPI)

11

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, August 2, 2018 President David Granger addresses scores from the community of Beterverwagting on the eve of Emancipation Day (Samuel Maughn photo)

Shun idling, liming and drinking – embrace education, agriculture and community – President Granger urges in stirring Emancipation message

By Lisa Hamilton AFTER winning the fight for Emancipation from slavery many decades ago, President David Granger on the eve of Emancipation Day challenged Guyanese to strive for “economic emancipation” by making use of the approaching oil wealth.

The President was at the time speaking at Beterverwagting on Tuesday evening at a cultural evening organised by the Beterverwagting/Triumph 8th of May Movement to mark the 180th anniversary of the Abolition of Slavery.

Hundreds of Afro-Guyanese gathered in the compound and outskirts of the Beterverwagting Primary School to listen to the head of state’s wise advice on how they could build on the efforts of their predecessors.

The President told the residents that while their ancestors fought 180 years ago for their legal emancipation, today, each Guyanese must now fight for “economic emancipation.”

This, he said, includes making crime, poverty and disease “history” by building societies which possess a vision of the future, even as

He likened the master in the parable to Guyana’s ancestors; his servants to present-day Guyanese; the talents given as village lands, farmlands, schools and more and the Kingdom, he likened to the “good life.”

“If you waste your talents, it will be taken away from you. If you don’t make use of the talents that your forefathers gave to you, you will be poor. They did not intend for you to be poor and destitute, they intended that you should

sage to the community that unproductive actions will not advance their community as villages in Guyana have, and always will, depend on the four pillars of the home, church, school and farm for prosperity.

“Our lives will be determined by how we make our living. If we make our living by hanging around the corner, liming by the Guinness bar, we will be forever poor. But if we go into our farms, go into our workshops, into our

President David Granger receives a token of appreciation from a representative of the Beterverwagting/Triumph 8th of May Movement (Samuel Maughn photo)

Guyana approaches immense oil wealth.

“This is the chance of a lifetime and you who are living today are witnessing the most transformative event in Guyana’s economic history, the coming of the petroleum industry. Don’t be sidelined, don’t be left behind, go to school, educate yourself, so you can prove to your grandchildren and future generations what your foreparents did for you,” he said.

The President continued: “It is towards economic emancipation that we must

turn our efforts… there is, out there in the Atlantic, a powerful resource that belongs to all of us. It is not for foreigners, it’s not for strangers; it’s not for outsiders. It’s for you, your children and generations to come.”

GUYANA DEPENDS ON VILLAGES In the village where Christians are in the majority, the President put forward the biblical ‘Parable of the Talents’ from the book of Matthew to make his petition clearer.

A choir of youngsters belt out notes during the cultural presentation segment at the Beterverwagting Primary School (Samuel Maughn photo)

Minister of Social Cohesion George Norton presents a book voucher along with a brand new bicycle to NGSA top student Krystal Duncan from the New Guyana School, who gained 523 marks (Samuel Maughn photo)

never be slaves again,” the President remarked.

Later, he said: “What I ask you tonight is to think not about 180 years ago, but about the next 10 or 18 years when that mighty Atlantic starts to generate wealth for Guyana. I can do everything possible to make sure that the profits and benefits are equitable shares. But you, and your children, your sons and daughters, must be educated and must be empowered to make use of that new ‘talent’.”

He relayed a candid mes-

schools, we’ll be able to have prosperity,” he advised.

He added: “Most Guyanese live in villages, up to now, they come from villages. Most agriculture produce comes from the villages, without the villages we’d starve. My brothers and sisters, we must not allow our villages to degenerate into dormitories where every morning we catch the minibus and clear out [to the major towns] and every evening we come home to sleep. If that continues to happen, the village economy

will shrivel.”

BE BETTER, DO BETTER Instead, he encouraged the attending residents to venture into self-employment through agro-processing and growing and selling their own produce.

Even as several children from the village were honoured for their exceptional performance at the recent National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) examinations, the head of state took the opportunity to urge the scores of parents present to ensure that every child in their village goes to school.

He made this call, noting that the government will also continue to do its part to push for the same with its Boats, Buses and Bicycles initiative.

“We have to put an end to ignorance. Not just the village movement, I want the whole village to embrace the need for education,” he said.

At the function, where several cultural presentations came in the forms of dance, singing, poetry and drumming, the President said that every family must have a copy of the history of their village.

As such, he committed to funding such an initiative should the village leaders show interest.

“I would like to commit to the leaders, the members of the committee who organised this celebration, if you can put together the history of Beterverwagting I would pay to reprint that history, so that the little children in this village can have it,” he said.

Beterverwagting, a Dutch name meaning ‘better expectation’, is one of the oldest villages in Guyana which was purchased in 1838 by 61 emancipated Africans.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, August 2, 2018

African, Guyanese pride ...thousands celebrate Emancipation in grand way at National Park

By Navendra Seoraj THE African culture has been ever present in Guyana and even continues to grow as the descendants of African slaves revolutionise and expand the culture which was once shackled by oppressors.

That culture was displayed in the form of food, art, craft, music and much more on Wednesday when Guyanese, particularly the descendants of African slaves, celebrated 180 years since the abolition of slavery. Slavery, which was abolished on August 1, 1838, was known as the most egregious crime against humanity. Breaking the mental and physical confinement was no easy task for the people, but their struggles and success against the oppressors created an opportunity for not only Africans, but for other people to experience freedom.

With freedom came opportunities for self-enrichment, enhancement and elevation, which have not slipped through the hands of the Afro-Guyanese who continue to rise and be proud of their culture. “Emancipation Day is an important moment, for it represented a new beginning for a people whose cultures and identities were forcefully interrupted,” said Christine Pilgrim, who joined thousands of Guyanese at the National Park on Wednesday.

She believes that over the years, the culture has been accepted and expanded by persons across Guyana. The culture has not only been accepted by Afro-Guyanese, but by people of every race, creed and religion. This was evident

because persons of East Indian origin and even Indigenous people wore the traditional Dashiki and enjoyed popular African delicacies such as foo-foo, cook-up and so forth that were sold at the National Park.

Persons were even more mesmerised by the different cultural presentations on the National Park tarmac. There were dances by a number of local dance groups. Those performances were accompanied by songs, skits and other cultural activities. “It is definitely a growing culture indeed,” said Andy Persaud, adding that the culture continues to be displayed by more groups and people every year.

He said he did not intend attending the activity, but it was the aroma of the sumptuous food and the beats of the drums that encouraged him to stop in for a while. There were many other persons who had a similar experience but, whether coincidental or intentional, the turnout was massive.

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo said the organisers of the activity, the African Cultural and Development Association (ACDA), did an impressive job and should be complimented for the programme. He said ACDA has invested and continues to invest a lot into the new generation. This investment had made the African descendants more conscious about their roots and culture.

“While we recognise the significance of observing 180 years after the abolition of slavery, we must also look ahead,” the prime minister said.

The prime minister encouraged persons to look ahead,

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo seated alongside Attorney General Basil Williams and Minister within the Ministry of Natural Resources, Simona Broomes (Delano Williams photo)

One of the many cultural groups that did a unique performance at the National Park (Delano Williams photo)

as about 18 months from now the country will face the new prospects of the oil-and-gas industry. “It is not oppression, but it is a forward movement and we have to tell ourselves what it is this celebration means; it means retrospection, examination, but we will also do a prospective planning of where will we be in 18 months from now,” said Prime Minister Nagamootoo.

As opposed to when the oppressors treated Africans as human cargo, the government is intent on dealing with persons as human capital to develop the human resources for the new oil-and-gas industry. “As I look around, there is a growing sense of African and Guyanese pride,” he said, adding that there is a heavy infusion of optimism about the new industry and in order to capitalise on the resources, they have to develop the human resources to move forward.

Attorney General (AG), Basil Williams also spoke along the line of forward thinking, noting that President David Granger is a historian who will continue to respect and appreciate the celebration of Emancipation. He believes that the President will identify a new Emancipation Village in 2019. Leader of the Opposition, Bharrat Jagdeo, also acknowledged the importance of Emancipation Day, noting that it is not just for Afro-Guyanese, but for the entire Guyana.

He too, explained that the sacrifice of the African ancestors was intense, but it made a huge difference by bringing about freedom for not just people of African origin, but also people from around the world.

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo and Mrs. Nagamootoo share a light moment with persons at the National Park (Delano Williams photo)

This young lady sports one of the many unique African outfits on Wednesday (Samuel Maughn photo)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, August 2, 2018

The drummers had everyone shaking and swaying (Delano Williams photo)

Getting in the mood and character was easy for the children who enjoyed face- painting (Samuel Maughn photo)

‘Honouring our Heroes’ for Emancipation 2018 SCORES of people, came out Tuesday evening at the Square of the Revolution in Georgetown for the traditional Libation Ceremony.

This year’s celebration was themed “Honouring our Heroes”, highlighting some of the historic men and women of Guyana, who fought and afforded us the life we have today.

A procession of worshippers walked the length of Hadfield Street into Mandela Avenue and up Homestretch Avenue, back to the Square of the Revolution, led by spiritual leader, Bishop Andrew Irving. They were all clad in white robes and carried lanterns in their hands, singing and chanting. A few of them held photos of some of Guyana’s ancestors.

A libation is a ritual pouring of a liquid as an offering to God or spirit in memory of those who have died. It is common in many religions of the distant past and continues to be practised in Guyana’s

rich African culture today.

As the worshippers paraded the streets, the scores of people were entertained with exceptional performances that showcased Guyana’s African heritage and the extraordinary talent that our people possess. Dances by children of the National School of Dance and the Enigma Dance Group, songs from the Korokwa, Fanoka singers, spoken-word pieces and tributes to our ancestors, are but some of the entertainment experienced.

Director of Sport, Christopher Jones, Mondale Smith and Jewel Hermonstine were assigned as MCs and did a fine job in keeping a smooth flow of the items and ensuring that the crowd stayed entertained.

The feature address was made by Public Health Minister, Volda Lawrence, who stressed the importance and significance of the Emancipation. “We are here to pay our respects and homage to

Onlookers of the libation (Delano Williams photo)

our ancestors who fought courageously and relentlessly to free themselves from the shackles and bondage of slavery, and to celebrate that freedom, we the descendants have inherited. Today marks 180 years since this dehumanising system was brought to an end. And it is fitting that this libation ceremony is themed ‘Honouring our Heroes’, since they are the reason that we can celebrate today,” Minister Lawrence said. She also urged members of the audience to reflect on the inputs of their ancestors, emancipate themselves from mental slavery and start leading productive lives.

Coordinator of the event, Wendy Hermonstine, expressed her satisfaction with the execution.

She stated that this year they placed specific focus on the Guyanese historians, with the primary one being Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham.

The libation ritual being done by worshippers (Delano Williams photo)

From right, Director of Sport, Christopher Jones; Mayor of Georgetown, Patricia Chase-Green; Public Health Minister, Volda Lawrence and onlookers of the ceremony. (Delano Williams photo)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, August 2, 2018

Rich biodiversity discovered in the – area never before studied Upper Berbice region by biologists THE rich biological diversity of Guyana continues to be under the radar of local and international researchers, and in this regard, World Wildlife Fund Guianas and Global Wildlife Conservation announced the completion of the third Biological Assessment Team (BAT) Survey and publication.

The Upper Berbice region--characterised by dense forests that were once deemed impenetrable--is a mystery no more. This publication unveils the abundant biodiversity and exceptional beauty that this unique region has to offer.

This time, the team of researchers which consists of expert field biologists, taxonomists, students and local community research counterparts, studied two sites with distinct environmental characteristics located within the Upper Berbice region of

Guyana in September and October 2014; this region had never before been studied by biologists.

Michael Gordon, Communications Officer of the World Wildlife Fund Inc. Guyana Office, stated that the publication is significant to Guyana because not only does it feature the rich species diversity of the Upper Berbice region, but provides relevant agencies with data which can inform conservation management strategies for the region. He added that it also opens doors for further research and can prove to be very beneficial to academic institutions, since the report is the first of its kind for the Upper Berbice region.

The BAT survey report highlights that in the surveyed region, myriad species of flora and fauna, many of which were recorded for the first time in Guyana, were revealed. These include 16-

plus Aquatic Beetles, nine Odonates, nine Ants, three plus Fishes, one Crab and one Bat. Some of the species in these categories are likely new to science, but further analysis is needed to confirm this.

The pristine forests of this region support scores of magnificent wildlife species including Guyana’s giants; the Jaguar, Anteater, Black Caiman, and a multitude of exquisite Odonates that serve as indicators of the environment’s health.

Among the species of conservation concern documented during the BAT survey are the Yellow-footed tortoise, Tapir, Giant Anteater, Red-faced Spider Monkey, to name a few.

Dr. Leeanne Alonso in her presentation, stated that no large-scale logging or mining was being done in the Upper Berbice River region at the time of the survey,

Some of the species discovered

but the extractive industries are displaying an increased interest in this region today, so it is crucial that stringent measures are taken by the relevant agencies to monitor, prohibit and regulate any activities that may compromise the integrity of this biodiversity-rich region.

The third BAT survey report was launched on July 31, 2018 at the Cara Lodge in Georgetown and was made possible through the collaboration of WWF-Guianas and Global Wildlife Conservation (GWC).

WWF-Guianas is part of one of the world’s leading conservation organisations with a mission to stop the degradation of the earth’s natural environment and to build a future in which humans live in harmony with nature. The Guyana office is involved in a plurality of site-specific objectives, often in partnership with civil society organisations and government institutions.

These range from the protection and management of ecological landscapes, to educational and aware-

ness campaigns on climate change and conservation.

Learn more at http://www. wwfguianas.org/ GWC preserves the diversity of life on earth by protecting wildlands, conserving wildlife, and supporting local guardians. They maximise their impact through scientific research, biodiversity exploration, habitat preservation, endangered species protection, and environmental leadership development. Learn more at http:// globalwildlife.org

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, August 2, 2018

Hundreds of Lindeners celebrate Freedom Fest some day,” he said. He also entertained the crowd with the performance of a piece of dramatic poetry.

A section of the packed crowd at Linden freedom fest 2018

DESPITE heavy showers during the afternoon hours, hundreds of Lindeners turned up at the Wisroc Play Field, dressed in their colourful array of African wear to celebrate Guyana’s 180th Emancipation from slavery. The event was the first of its kind and aimed at giving Lindeners a reason to stay in the town to celebrate, rather than to have to journey to Georgetown to do so.

A celebration indeed it was as families joined the day’s proceedings which included African drumming, dramatic poetry, dancing and singing and cook up competitions by the various Community Development Councils in Linden. The highlight of the proceedings, however, was a live performance by Jamaica’s reggae singer Duane Stephenson. Linden’s local artistes also entertained the crowd with their local hits after the formal session was over. Performances were done by the Epic Dance Group, Green Jaguars drummers, renowned poet Yvonne Drakes, Shondell James and other Lindeners.

The event was hosted by Right Start Foundation under the stewardship of Member of Parliament Jermaine Figueira in collaboration with Minister

within the Ministry of Natural Resources, Simona Broomes and Minister of State Joseph Harmon. In attendance was Minister of Finance Winston Jordan as well as regional officials including Mayor of Linden, Waneka Arrindell.

In his feature address, Minister Harmon said that as Lindeners celebrate emancipation, they should do so realising that there is so much in store for the town. Going back, he said, so many changes came to Guyana through the abolition of slavery and our ancestors should be credited for those changes, since they allowed us to enjoy the freedom we are enjoying today.

“So today, the freedom that we enjoy, the good things we enjoy are as a direct result of those people; it should not be taken lightly at all,” he told the crowd. “This could have only been done through cooperation that our ancestors demonstrated even through post-emancipation struggles.”

Lindeners, he said, should continue to show cooperation as this administration is pushing to revitalize cooperative societies. “The Government of Brigadier David Granger has committed to rebuild that physical infrastructure which was damaged by the

PPP… [the Government] has committed itself to rebuild the education system which was damaged by the PPP,” Harmon said. He said that Lindeners can look forward to major things happening in their communities through the cooperative societies. “We are doing things and Linden, you will see things happening.

Linden has a number of cooperative societies particularly in the forestry sector…..so tonight as we celebrate, as we acknowledge freedom, as we acknowledge this festival, I want to say to you that better things are in store for you. I am urging you to grasp these opportunities, grasp the opportunities that are provided by the rejuvenated cooperative societies, grasp the opportunities that we are going to make by the physical infrastructure, in education, in health, in the tourism sector and the green economy.”

Member of Parliament Jermaine Figueira reminded Linden of how our ancestors had to fight for freedom and how we should continue to fight against any form of slavery today. “But we will continue because we are a strong, resilient people and we will continue to fight so that what is due to us will be given to us

Guyana Chronicle reporters

From left: Gabriella Chapman, Svetlana Marshall, Navendra Seoraj, Lisa Hamilton and Ariana Gordon (Samuel Maugn photo)

The cook up competition saw participants from various communities across Linden such as Silvertown, One

Mile and AndyVille who vied for trophies and cash prizes.

African music, including folk songs, were also performed.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, August 2, 2018

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, August 2, 2018

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, August 2, 2018

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, August 2, 2018

Mixed results for ‘Green Machine’...

FROM BACK PAGE

IT was a day of mixed fortunes for the Guyanese ‘Ruggers’ in Colombia, on the opening day of the Central America and Caribbean (CAC) Sevens Championship.

After playing to an impressive 22 – 7 win over Costa Rica in their first ‘Group A’ game yesterday, Guyana, more popularly

known as the ‘Green Machine’ on the rugby circuit, fell 10 – 14 to rivals Mexico in their second game. Guyana also played Colombia in their final group game, but up to press time, the game was yet to start.

In their win over Costa Rica, Captain Dwayne Schroder, along with Claudius Butts, Avery Corbin

and Peabo Hamilton scored a try each, while Ronaldo Mayers bagged the lone conversion in the game.

For Costa Rica, Byron Monge scored a try and the team’s conversion came from Julian Padilla.

In their second, Guyana came face-to-face with a familiar foe; their Rugby Americas North (RAN) nem-

GMR&SC Endurance...

By Stephan Sookram RACING action returns to the South Dakota Circuit this weekend after a lengthy layoff with an endurance race event.

The club will host its second endurance event of the year from 13:00hrs at the South Dakota Circuit, Timehri. According to the club, there are four categories up for grabs.

They are the 0-1500cc class, the 1501-1600cc class,

the 1600cc-2000cc and the unlimited (over 2000cc).

The defending champions, Ramchand’s Wreckers team of Adrian Fernandes and Annand Ramchand, had completed 83 laps, over the two-hour event the last time out in their Gillette-sponsored Levin.

In the 0-1500cc class, Roshan Ali and Shahabudin Roshandin are the defending champions as they outshone the Nexus team of Haniff Mohamed and

FROM BACK PAGE Raymond Seebarran who completed one lap less.

The 1501-1600cc was won by the Wreckers.

In the 1601-2000cc class, Rameez Mohamed was the only driver to finish the race with 32 laps, also resetting the lap record with 1:19.086.

The Unlimited class was won by Romeo Singh who completed 57 laps.

Meanwhile, the club has also set August 26 as the date for its second drag meet of the year.

Sparta set up dream...

Cassou, who came on as a substitute fired in his goals in the 13th and 17th minutes to seal his team’s spot in the last four, to be staged tonight.

The second encounter saw a mesmerising performance from tournament favourites Sparta Boss who hammered Showstoppers 8-1 in a clinical display.

Sheldon Shepherd, Courtney Britton and Denis Edwards each netted a pair, while Gregory Richardson and Jermin Junor supported with one each.

Marvin Josiah was the lone marksman for Showstoppers.

In the third game, the resurgent Tiger Bay reminded Future Stars that they still have a long way to go after beating them 5-1 with talisman Deon Alfred continuing his ripping form with four goals.

He netted in the 2nd, 13th, 22nd and 26th minutes and surely indicated to their semi-final opponents that he will take some stopping.

Orin Moore completed their tally, while Jamal Codrington scored for Future Stars. Back Circle then closed off the night in exciting fashion with a domi-

nant performance against Albouystown who had looked unbeatable in the earlier rounds.

Back Circle won 5-1 with Stephon McLean leading the way with a double

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FROM BACK PAGE

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esis Mexico, in a game what many pundits would’ve been the most entertaining for the open day’s action.

The game lived up to its billing. Butts scored the only try in the first half and Guyana held on to a 5 – advantage.

However, things took a turn in the second half, when

Mexico when Alberto Ripoll and Juan Martinez both scored tries and Andres Rodrigues scored both conversions to push the Mexicans to a 5 – 14 lead over Guyana.

With a minute remaining in the contest, winger Patrick King crossed the try line to pull Guyana back 10 – 14, but time would run out, leav-

ing Guyana to fall in the first defeat at the CAC Games.

In 2010, the Guyanese ‘Ruggers’ won gold at the CAC Rugby championship when it was hosted at the Guyana National Stadium, and to date, they remain the only team to win gold for Guyana at the CAC Games. (Rawle Toney)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, August 2, 2018

First Test at Edgbaston

Root run-out sparks England collapse in final session

By Saikat Chatterjee

BIRMINGHAM, England (Reuters) - England collapsed in the final session on day one of the first Test against India, losing six wickets for 67 runs as they limped to the close on 285 for nine yesterday.

England captain Joe Root top-scored for the hosts with a fluent 80 runs but his run-out from a brilliant throw by Virat Kohli sparked their demise.

England, who were 216 for four when Root was dismissed, lost their next four wickets for 27 runs, with spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, who ended the day with four wickets, inflicting the bulk of the damage for the visitors.

Electing to bat after winning the toss, England had made a solid start to their innings, reaching 83 at lunch in a morning session that offered some early help to the fast bowlers.

SCOREBOARD

India’s Virat Kohli celebrates after Ravichandran Ashwin bowled England’s Alastair Cook. (Action Images via Reuters/Andrew Boyers)

The confident start almost threatened to unravel in the afternoon before Root and Jonny Bairstow steadied the ship with a 104-run partnership for the fourth wicket.

In England’s 1000th Test match, opener Keaton

Konta inflicts worst career defeat on Serena, 6-1 6-0

Jennings was dropped on nine, but moved to 42 before being bowled by Mohammed Shami, while Bairstow looked confident on his way to 70 runs off 88 deliveries.

India’s seam attack struggled to extract much help

from the pitch and the visitors’ one success before lunch was a ripper from off-spinner Ashwin that removed Alastair Cook for 13.

The 33-year-old had struck two handsome boundaries off Umesh Radav but

ENGLAND 1st innings Alastair Cook b Ravichandran Ashwin 13 Keaton Jennings b Mohammed Shami 42 Joe Root run out Virat Kohli 80 Dawid Malan lbw Mohammed Shami 8 Jonny Bairstow b Umesh Yadav 70 Ben Stokes c & b Ravichandran Ashwin 21 Jos Buttler lbw Ravichandran Ashwin 0 Sam Curran not out 24 Adil Rashid lbw Ishant Sharma 13 Stuart Broad lbw Ravichandran Ashwin 1 James Anderson not out 0 Extras: (b-9, lb-4) 13 Total: (nine wkts, 88.0 overs) 285 Fall of wickets: 1-26, 2-98, 3-112, 4-216, 5-223, 6-224, 7-243, 8-278, 9-283.

Bowling: Umesh Yadav 17-2-56-1, Ishant Sharma 17-1-461, Ravichandran Ashwin 25-7-60-4, Mohammed Shami 19-2-64-2, Hardik Pandya 10-1-46-0.

in Ashwin’s second over he played forward to a ball that drifted in towards middle stump before straightening past Cook’s outside edge and clattering off stump.

After Cook’s dismissal, Shami continued to look dangerous for India - beating

Jennings with a beauty in the 21st over.

Shami took the wicket of Jennings midway the afternoon while Dawid Malan could score only eight before becoming the Indian medium pacer’s second victim of the day.

Buxton CC Cricket Camp billed for August 7-19

… RTHYSC latest to donate under Patron’s Fund

British number one Johanna Konta

JOHANNA Konta inflicted the worst defeat of Serena Williams’ career with a thumping first-round victory over the 23-time Grand Slam singles champion at the Silicon Valley Classic.

The British number one took less than an hour to win 6-1, 6-0 in San Jose.

Williams, 36, had never lost a match without winning at least two games since turning professional in 1995.

“I tried to put aside the incredible champion she is and just play the player of the day,” Konta, 27, said.

“She obviously wasn’t playing at her best level, nowhere near it, and I really just tried to play the match on my terms.

“I felt I did better than

she on the day but it’s still a humbling experience to be out here with her.”

Williams, who only returned to the women’s tour earlier this year after giving birth, made 25 unforced errors to Konta’s nine.

“I think she played well in the second set and I think I wasn’t sharp at all in the first set and she got confident and she clearly ran away with it,” the American said.

Konta will play American teenager Sofia Kenin in the second round.

Fellow Briton Heather Watson was also a firstround winner, beating Claire Liu of the US 6-4, 3-6, 6-4.

She will meet Serena Williams’ sister Venus in round two. (BBC Sport)

AIMED at imparting the fundamentals of the game at an early age, the Buxton ‘Carl Hooper’ Cricket Club’s Cricket Camp is billed for August 7 to 19, at their East Coast Demerara ground.

The two-week camp caters to children between ages 7 and 19 and sessions will include technical, practical, physical and off-the field actives, and will run from 09:30hrs to 15:00hrs President of Buxton Cricket Club, Essie Peters, said that, while the camp is important for the youths in and around the Buxton community, sponsorship remains the biggest issue.

To this end, the RHTYSC of Berbice has confirmed its support.

The club made the presentation last Monday to former Guyana U-19 cricketer and National footballer Clive Andries.

The donation was made under the Patron’s Fund in celebration of its Patron, His Excellency President David Granger, who cele-

brated his 73rd birthday recently.

Andries, a past student of President’s College and Buxton Cricket Club’s most accomplished sportsman, collected cash to purchase a cycle, school bags, three trophies, a blender, a set of stumps, a pair of wicket-keeping gloves, a pair of pads and a bat.

The club was founded in 1992 and was officially launched as the Buxton ‘Carl Hooper’ Club in 2002 when Hooper was appointed West Indies captain.

They have been participating in East Coast cricket ever since and are ranked among the three top teams on the East Coast.

RHTYSC joins a list of sponsors which includes East Coast Cricket Administrator Bissoondyal Singh Guyana U-19 cricketer and National footballer Clive Anwho owns Bissans’ Trading. dries collects the donation from RHTYSC’s Simon Naidu, while Mark Papannah shares the moment.

“It’s been hard to get sponsorship but we are ting into the wrong things last 15 years. hopeful that as the camp since this has been happenThose interested in gets closer we will find ing for the last 12 years,” helping can call Peters on more people to help keep said Peters, who has been 665-3185 or Sean Devers our youths away from get- the club’s president for the on 669-1823.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, August 2, 2018

Team Sky best place for Thomas, says Brailsford LONDON, England (Reuters) - Team Sky boss Dave Brailsford said he intended to negotiate a new deal for Tour de France champion Geraint Thomas after the Welshman said he was ‘open to hearing other options’.

Thomas has been with Team Sky since its inception in 2010, mainly living in the shadows of first Bradley Wiggins and then Chris Froome before his breakout victory this year.

His new-found status as Grand Tour winner would make him an obvious target for rival teams, but Brailsford believes the 32-year-old Welshman is best-served by staying at Sky.

“I am pretty positive this is the best team for Geraint,” fellow Welshman Brailsford told BBC Radio Wales yesterday.

“It’s not unusual that these guys win something big and it puts them in a different place to when they started out.

“With the contract negotiations we will sit down and thrash it all out. We’re a team who want him, a team where he has been very successful, one where he knows the staff.

“Like anyone he is entitled to listen to other options but I’d like to think we will get it all sorted out.”

Thomas rode a superb race to eclipse team mate Froome who had been favour-

Tour de France champion Geraint Thomas

ite to win a fourth consecutive Tour de France.

However, with Froome and highly-rated Colombian Egan Bernal competing with

Thomas to be Sky’s top dog on the road, he is not assured of being team leader at future Tours.

“For sure, you want to

listen to what people have to say because there are a lot of other strong teams around; it’s not just like Sky is up here and everyone is down there,” Thomas was quoted as saying by the BBC this week.

“You just need to sit down properly, look at the positives and negatives and go from there.

“It’s quite fortunate I didn’t sign (a new deal) before the Tour! But the way the team is run works really well for me. But I’m open to hearing other options.”

A move to another outfit would allow Thomas the sole ‘team leader’ status he has never enjoyed but

Brailsford says it would not boost his chances of winning another Grand Tour.

“It’s always been the case at Team Sky that we have individuals who can perform at the highest level,” he said. “In our sport you don’t sit down and write a name on a piece a paper and say he will be the team leader next year.

“Take Geraint for example, in order to win the Tour de France (again) he would have to beat Chris Froome and Egan Bernal.

In our sport it has a structure where you’re on a team with someone but to win you have to be better than they, whether you’re in another team or in that team.”

Regional athletics bosses Russell, Williams star in West Indies T20 win back new IAAF transfer rules REGIONAL track and field bosses seem to be fully behind the new IAAF rules that have clamped down on the ease with which athletes are able to transfer their allegiance to another country.

Under the new rules, those who wish to transfer allegiance will have to wait three years and they have to be over the age of 20.

These are just some of the changes agreed to during the recent meeting of the IAAF Council in Buenos Aries in Argentina.

In February 2017, the Council froze the rule to give itself time to develop a solution to the growing problem of athlete trafficking. In the recent years, a number of Caribbean athletes have transferred allegiance to other countries.

They include Winston Barnes and Jacques Harvey, Andrew Fisher and Kemarley Brown. Barnes and Harvey now represent Turkey while Fisher and Brown represent Bahrain.

Sprinter Miguel Francis formerly of Antigua and Barbuda also assumed British citizenship while sprinter hurdler Orlando Ortega switched allegiance to Spain and triple jumper Pablo Pichardo is now representing Portugal.

Going forward the ease with which these transfers took place will come to an end.

Under the new dispensation, there will be a minimum threeyear waiting period before an athlete may transfer to represent another Member; a review panel will be established to make determinations on the credibility of applications and there will be a requirement for the provision of evidence that countries are offering full citizenship and associated rights.

An athlete can only transfer once and no transfers can take place before the age of 20.

The new rules will be sent to Member Federations and posted on the IAAF website.

So far, the new rules are being embraced by federations heads across the region.

President of the Jamaica Athletic Administrative Association believes the new rules will help prevent the exploitation of athletes. “There are countries, while they have programmes, seeking to attract athletes from other countries by large sums of money.

But as soon as they stop running (representing), their new countries have nothing to do with them. The federation supports this stance, as it protects federations and athletes,” Blake told The Jamaica Gleaner.

“In Africa especially Ethiopians and Kenyans, who switch to countries like Bahrain, they are not made citizens; they are given a passport that enables them to compete, but if they lose the ability to run, the passport is removed. So this (ruling) protects them from countries just interested in getting medals by any means.”

President of Trinidad and Tobago’s National Association of Athletic Associations (NAAA) Ephraim Serette told SportsMax. TV that he is especially pleased about the rule that prevents athletes below the age of 20 from transferring allegiance.

“I am in agreement with the new rules,” he said. “Some countries are targeting junior athletes, now they cannot do it unless they are over 20 years old. I am very much in agreement with that.”(SportsMax)

ANDRE Russell said he enjoyed batting higher up the order after proving a star turn in West Indies’ seven-wicket win Tuesday night over Bangladesh in a rain-affected first Twenty20 international at Basseterre.

Chasing a revised total of 91 from 11 overs, Russell batted at three for the Windies and blasted 35 not out from 21 deliveries, in a knock which included three fours and three sixes.

Marlon Samuels (26 from 13) joined Russell after two overs, with the hosts at 10-2, following

Andre Russell starred with an unbeaten 35, hammering 3 boundaries and 3 sixes

two early wickets from Mustafizur Rahman, but the chase was never in danger as the Windies cruised

home with 11 balls to spare.

The 30-year-old also bowled his full quota of four overs, taking 1-27, and bowling 11 dot balls as he returned to the side after a knee injury.

“We lost the ODI series, but we wanted to put some pride into this game and come back with a good win,” man-of-the-match Russell said.

“It’s more responsibility and that’s good. I’ve always wanted to open the innings in T20. It’s a challenge to face the new ball. I’m not quite 100 per cent, but I’m fit enough

to play, probably 95 per cent.”

Bangladesh had earlier made 143-9 in their 20 overs before the rain came down. Tamim Iqbal and Soumya Sarkar departed in the first over as the visitors stuttered early, before Mushfiqur Rahim and Mahmudullah put on a 47-run partnership in four overs to put Bangladesh back on track.

Kesrick Williams took the final three wickets, though, finishing with figures of 4-28 from his four overs to skittle out the Tigers’ tail.

De Kock, bowlers power South Africa to 2-0 lead DAMBULLA, Sri Lanka (Reuters) - South Africa opener Quinton de Kock’s attacking 87 set up a four-wicket win over Sri Lanka in the second oneday international yesterday, handing the tourists a 2-0 lead in the five-match series.

Chasing 245 for victory, South Africa reached their target with 43 balls to spare, giving themselves the perfect opportunity to pick up a series win in the 50-over format after going down 2-0 in the test matches. de Kock and Hashim Amla gave the touring side the perfect platform in their run chase with an opening stand of 91, before spinner Akila Dananjaya dismissed Amla for 43.

Dananjaya, who picked up 3-60, also sent back Aiden Markram soon after but de Kock and South Afri-

ca captain Faf du Plessis pegged Sri Lanka back with a 53-run stand for the third wicket. de Kock hit 13 fours and a six in his 78-ball knock while du Plessis chipped in with a handy 49, before spooning a catch back to Dananjaya to become the off-spinner’s third victim.

South Africa lost du Plessis and David Miller in quick succession but once Dananjaya’s quota of 10 overs ended Sri Lanka’s attack lacked the teeth to pull off an unlikely victory.

Earlier, half-centuries from captain Angelo Mathews and opener Niroshan Dickwella took Sri Lanka to 244 for eight in their 50 overs after the hosts won the toss and chose to bat.

Pace duo Andile Phehlukwayo and Lungi Ngidi picked up three wickets

Quinton de Kock laid the platform for South Africa’s four-wicket win with a fluent 87.

each as South Africa’s bowlers once again managed to prevent Sri Lanka from posting a commanding total.

Ngidi, who took 3-50, provided the early breakthroughs for the tourists by dismissing Upul Tharanga and Kusal Mendis off consecutive deliveries in his opening over.

Dickwella and Mathews steadied the innings with a

67-run stand for the fourth wicket before the former was bowled by Phehlukwayo, who picked up 3-45, for 69.

Sri Lanka failed to add much momentum to their innings as none of their other batsmen managed to cross a score of 20. Mathews remained unbeaten on 79 off 111 deliveries. The third ODI will be played at Kandy on Sunday.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, August 2, 2018

Record-breaker McMaster adds CAC title to Commonwealth honour

BARRANQUILLA, Colombia (CMC) – Reigning Commonwealth Games champion Kyron McMaster added yet another trophy to his collection when he broke an eight-year games record en route to gold in the men’s 400 metres hurdles at the Central American and Caribbean Games here Tuesday night.

The third fastest in the world this year, the British Virgin Islands athlete stopped the clock at 47.60 seconds – his second fastest time ever – to eclipse Jamaican Leford Green’s old mark of 48.47 set in Mayaguez back in 2010.

Jamaican Annsert Whyte clocked a personal best 48.50 to clinch silver while the Dominican Republic’s Aquino Santos picked up bronze in 48.77, also a personal best.

Another Jamaican Shawn Rowe missed out on the podium when he trailed in fourth in 49.30.

The 21-year-old McMaster, who won Commonwealth gold in Gold Coast, Australia back in April, said the success was his way of honouring his small country.

“Today was really more

Jamaica’s Rhonda Whyte

about the country. It is my contribution, but nothing to do with me personally,” he explained.

“I just wanted to come out and run for the country. I am learning a lot with my new coach. We are just combining, mixing and playing with new things.

The Games represents the area where we grew up, our beginnings, our heritage.”

With the victory, McMaster became the fourth athlete from the BVI to win CAC gold.

Jamaica captured the corresponding women’s final as Ronda Whyte stormed to the finish first in a time of 55.08 second,

swith Mexico’s Zudikey Rodriguez finishing second in a personal best 55.11.

Cuban Zurian Hechavarria also clocked a personal best 55.13 in capturing bronze but there was disappointment for Jamaican Rushell Clayton (55.30) and Trinidadian Sparkle McKnight (55.56) who finished fourth and fifth respectively.

There was further success for the English-speaking Caribbean when Barbadian Shane Brathwaite produced a personal-best run to win the men’s sprint hurdles in 13.38 seconds.

Trinidad and Tobago’s Ruebin Walters copped silver in 13.57 while Cuban

Kyron McMaster of the BVI won the men’s 400m hurdles in a new games record.

Roger Valentin was a close third in 13.58.

In the women’s equiva l e n t , H a i t i ’s Va n e s s a Clerveaux stopped the clock at 13.07 to capture silver, following home winner Andrea Vargas of Costa Rica in a personal-best 12.90.

Jamaican Jeanine Williams was forced to settle for silver in 13.11 but there was no such fortune for Guyanese Jenea McCammon (13.40) and Barbadian Kierre Beckles (13.48) who were seventh and eighth respectively.

Jamaica meanwhile managed yet another gold courtesy of Ramone Bailey who left it late before

coming up with his winning leap of 8.07 metres to take the men’s long jump.

Bermuda’s Tyrone Smith was second with a personal-best 8.03 while Trinidadian Andwuelle Wright snatched bronze in 7.94.

Guyana’s Emanuel Archibald barely missed out on a medal when he finished fourth with a jump of 7.83, a personal best.

In the men’s 200 metres, Jamaican Rasheed Dwyer posted a personal-best 20.19 seconds to finish second in semi-final one and qualify for yesterday’s final.

He was joined by coun-

tryman Jahnoy Thompson who clocked 20.23 to finish third in the second semi-final where impressive Trinidadian Kyle Greaux sped to a personal-best 19.97 in finishing second. Alonso Edward of Panama reset the games record for the third time on the day when he edged Greaux in 19.96.

Colombian Navas Baloyes had earlier broken Churandy Martina’s eightyear-old record with a run of 20.04 in the heats only to reset his own record when he won the first semi-final in 20 seconds flat.

In the women’s 200m, Jamaican Jodean Williams won the first semi-final in a personal-best 22.88 seconds, with Trinidadian Semoy Hackett (23.01) and French Guiana’s Gemima Joseph (23.74) also booking their spots in the final.

Williams’ teammate Shashalee Forbes stormed to victory in semi-final two, clocking 23.02. Trinidadian Kayelle Clarke (23.57) finished second, Cuba Adriana Rodriquez (23.65) was third and Laverne Jones (23.93) of the US Virgin Islands, fourth - to all qualify.

BV/Triumph 8th of May Movement Priyanna Ramdhani exits at CAC badminton quarter-final stage Emancipation Cohesion Football League to be launched tomorrow THE inaugural Beterverwagting/Triumph ‘8th of May Movement Emancipation Cohesion’ Football League is scheduled to be launched tomorrow at 17:00hrs at the Annex

of the Calvary Baptist Church, Republic Drive (main road), Beterverwagting.

The league, which will feature Junior Shield and Senior Cup phases, will witness

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Thursday August 02, 2018) COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & Cummings Electrical Company Ltd. 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) BANG vs ZIM, Khulna, 2006 (2) Nazmus Sadat Today’s Quiz: (1) What was the result of the recent WI/BANG ODI series?

(2) Who was voted Man of the Series at the end of the recent WI/BANG ODI engagement?

Answer in tomorrow's issue

the participation of registered teams. The Junior Shield phase will be for Under-20 teams, with the age eligibility of players being those born on or after January 1, 1998.

These teams will test and demonstrate their skills in an attempt to lift the Gold Crown Honours, of the Junior Shield League. There will also be a Silver Plate and Bronze Award for the respective second- and third-placed teams. The Junior Shield will also feature a ‘Doving Skill Competition’.

This skill exercise will occur before and during the breaks of selective matches where designated team players will “dove” it out for a single overall league cash prize of $20 000 and the attainment of a champion trophy for bragging rights.

THE Guyana badminton players who took part in the CAC Games 2018 held in Barranquilla Colombia performed above expectations with 16-year-old Priyanna Ramdhani reaching the quarter-finals in the Ladies singles and being placed in the top eight in Central America and in the Caribbean at these games.

In the opening rounds she gained a bye to move into the second round where she defeated Nathalie Angelique Fedney Vidal 21-13, 21-11 to move into the quarters but she lost to Sabrina Solis Martinez 21-13, 21-8.

In the opening round of the Mixed doubles Narayan Ramdhani and his sister Priyanna defeated Damien Ricardo Howell and Tamisha Williams of Barbados in a thrilling three-setter, losing the first game at 2022 then coming back in the second game to win 21-17, before taking the last set

Priyanna Ramdhani

and the match at 21-19.

In round two Narayan and Priyanna lost to the Dominican pair of William Cabrera Jose and Polanco Munoz in another thrilling three-setter with the Guyanese pair losing the first game at 22-20, winning the second game at 21-17 and losing the third

and the match at 21-19.

In a release to the media, the GBA thanked the GOA for its efforts in getting the athletes to the Games and further stated, “It could only have been of great benefit to the athletes in improving their standards to a higher level.”

23

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, August 2, 2018

Andy Persaud spurs Berbice to white ball Inter-county title

The victorious Berbice team and supporters after their victory over Demerara

Berbice captain Damodar Daesrath (left) receives the winning Canadian Surplus trophy from managing director Premchand Punwasi.

By Frederick Halley TORONTO, Canada -- A fine spell of bowling by Andy Persaud, spurred Berbice to a comprehensive 30-run victory over archrivals Demerara in the second white ball Inter-county tournament, played last Saturday at Keele Top, North York, Toronto, Canada.

Persaud grabbed an im-

pressive four wickets for 14 runs from his allotted four overs as Demerara were shot out for 76, chasing 107 for victory in the 20-over final, played before vocal supporters from both sides. He was well supported by Riaz Kadir who claimed two for 16 from three overs. Ian ‘Russian’ Baldeo offered token resistance with 14.

Earlier, the experienced Yadram ‘Lara’ Bogh

slammed three sixes in a top score of 28 as Berbice were dismissed for what seemed an inadequate 106 in 16.3 overs. Skipper Troy Gobin was his team’s best bowler with two for 12 from three overs.

In semi-final actions, Berbice got the better of Essequibo while Demerara turned back the challenge of defending champions Canadian All Stars who were missing the services of captain and last year ’s hero Royston Crandon.

Essequibo could muster only 142 for eight, after Berbice had rattled up a challenging 158 for seven in their allotted 20 overs.

Farouk Hussein stroked a fine 40, while captain Da-

modar Daesrath supported with 28 for the eventual winners. Narindra Mandolall led Essequibo’s charge with an undefeated 61.

Andy Persaud was again among the wickets with three for 15 from three overs.

Canadian All-Stars batted first and reached 117 for seven in 20-overs with Rabindra Diaram (28) and captain Anil Samuel (24) being the principal scorers. Ramo Malone took three for 18 and Gobin three for 31.

Demerara reached the required target in 19 overs, losing six wickets in the process as Surujpaul Deosaran slammed 37. Diaram took two for 10 from four overs.

Berbice collected the

Canadian Surplus trophy and $1,000 (Can) while Demerara were rewarded with the Dent Wizard trophy and 500 (Can). Most Valuable Player (MVP) Andy Persaud took home the Tropical Night Restaurant trophy for his sterling efforts in the final.

Bogh copped the Caribbean Sensation trophy for scoring the most runs in the final while Persaud also took away the S&G Glass Insulation trophy for the most wickets in the final and the Caribbean Lyme trophy for the most wickets overall. Mandolall got the JDG Tooling trophy for the most runs in the tournament and the PGI Limited prize for the highest individual score.

The best catch-of-the-day trophy, sponsored by T/S Enterprise went to Demerara’s Anil Samuel while the MVP for Demerara/Canadian All-Stars clash was Ramo Malone who took the IR Construction trophy. Farouk Hussein received the 24 Hours Glass prize for being the MVP in the Berbice-Essequibo fixture while the Santa Maria trophy for the most sixes in the final went to Yadram Bogh.

Organiser Daesrath, who hailed the tournament a success, once again thanked the many sponsors for coming on board for the second year in a row. He also lauded the efforts of umpires Kay Sookdeo and Wasim Zaffar.

Brathwaite hails Windies fielding effort in opening T20 match BASSETERRE, St Kitts (CMC) – Captain Carlos Brathwaite has hailed the West Indies fielding effort in the opening Twenty20 International against Bangladesh, contending it set the tone for the eventual seven-wicket victory under lights at Warner Park here yesterday.

Opting to bowl first, West Indies restricted the tourists to 143 for nine off their allotted 20 overs. Their target was, however, revised to 91 from 11 overs, following rain during the interval. Windies then easily chased down the runs to win with 11 balls to spare.

“Sometimes you just have to take a win and be satisfied. I think what was especially pleasing was the fielding effort,” Brathwaite pointed out.

“Obviously on a wet outfield that could have been considered dangerous … the way the guys threw themselves around in the field.

Bangladesh (were) going very well and we saved about 10-15 runs on the boundaries throwing our bodies around.

“So (there’s) probably not (anything to) change or improve but just replicate that fielding performance, that energy. Along with the wickets being taken it really set the tone for a good fielding performance.” Bangladesh were never given the opportunity to get going, with the Windies bowlers striking at key points at the innings to limit the visitors’ progress.

Veteran Mahmudullah top-scored with 35 and Liton Das got 24 but no other batsman passed 20 as seamer Kesrick Williams (4-28),

Captain Carlos Brathwaite (left) celebrates the first of Ashley Nurse’s two wickets with the bowler during the first Twenty20 International against Bangladesh. (Photo courtesy CWI Media)

along with off-spinner Ashley Nurse (2-6) and pacer Keemo Paul (2-24) kept the scoring at a minimum.

“It was pretty ‘even stevens’. We got some early wickets which really put us just ahead but we continued

to field well and keep the intensity up and the bowlers hit the mark every time they were called upon. I think it was a very professional performance with the ball,” Brathwaite explained.

“Credit must go to Ban-

gladesh for being in the position they were in but sticking it all the way out and batting all 20 overs, even getting close to a respectable total after being 40-odd for four.

But our guys stuck to our guns, stuck to our plans, we were very disciplined and we executed the plans we wanted very, very well.”

West Indies found themselves in early trouble in their run chase when openers Evin Lewis (2) and Andre Fletcher (7) perished in the second over with the score on 10 for two.

However, man-of-thematch Andre Russell showcased his explosive hitting skills, counting three fours and three sixes in a 21-ball unbeaten 35 to revive the innings and take the Windies over the line.

“As soon as we knew the

target, we knew what we had to do so it was just a matter of going out there and doing it and again, it was another professional performance with the bat,” Brathwaite said.

“Russell being promoted to number three and having an exceptional performance, finishing the game.

We are not given a lot of credit enough times for the way we play our cricket and the professionalism we show.

“It was a very professional performance from the guys.

I couldn’t ask for anything more. It’s just for us to replicate it come the games in Florida.”

The next two games of the three-match series will be a double-header at the Central Broward Regional Park Stadium in Fort Lauderdale at the weekend.

GMR&SC Endurance set for August 5 … International drags August 26

See Page 19

Adrian Fernandes, Anand Ramchand and their mechanic ‘Kesho’ following the first GMR&SC Endurance meet on Sunday. They won after completing 83 laps. (GTRidez photo)

Sparta set up dream matchup with Leopold Street

Mixed results for ‘Green Machine’ on day one of CAC 7’s Rugby

… Back Circle square off against Tiger Bay SPARTA Boss, Tiger Bay, Back Circle and Leopold Street roared into the semi-finals of the GT Beer/Keep Your Five Alive Futsal championship, following some lop-sided wins, as quarter-final ac-

tion ended on Tuesday evening, at the National Gymnasium.

The semi-finals set for this evening will see Back Circle square off against Tiger Bay in the first game, while Sparta Boss and Leo-

pold Street lock horns shortly after.

First up, Leopold Street on the back of a brace from the lively Roy Cassou outlasted a spirited Rhythm Stars 2-1.

CONTINUE ON PAGE 19

Part of quarter-final action in the GT Beer/Keep Your Five Alive competition, currently being played at the National Gymnasium

See Page 19

Claudius Butts was superb on the opening day of the CAC Rugby Championship in Colombia.

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THURSDAY, AUGUST 2, 2018