FRIDAY 20th July, 2018
No.105341
ALL SMILES: President David Granger welcomes Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo to State House as the two leaders hold talks on a number of national issues on Thursday (Ministry of the Presidency photo)
BACK TO
THE TABLE Page 03
Stabroek Block good for 3.2B+ BOE
- if all goes well Esso predicts Page 08
…President to lead talks with opposition after President Carter intervention …oil and gas, crime, environment on table
LGE on
November 12 Page 02
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 20, 2018
LGE set for November 12 – Bulkan says date was intentionally set to not clash with 2019 budget presentation
Minister of Communities, Ronald Bulkan (Delano Williams photo)
By Navendra Seoraj MINISTER of Communities, Ronald Bulkan on Wednesday announced that Local Government Elections (LGE) will be held on November 12. “I have sent an order which is expected to be gazetted; when the elections are held in November it will mark the first time in our post-independent history that successive LGE is held as legally due,” said the minister in an invited comment on the sideline of the National Toshao Council (NTC) conference at the Arthur Chung Convention Centre on Thursday.
The holding of LGE constitutes ‘irrefutable’ evidence of the commitment and sincerity of the A Partnership for National Unity and Alliance for Change (APNU/AFC)’s intention to ensure that democratic governance obtains. He said: “There is not merely respect, but reverence for provisions in the constitution. More importantly our commitment to rebuilding the damaged and broken system of local government we inherited is something we will resolutely pursue.” The National Assembly recently passed a bill which harmonises the period for elections for Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) and municipalities. It was stipulated that the LGE would be held between November 1 and December 7. Minister Bulkan said the early part of November was chosen because Government did not want the elections to clash with the reading of the 2019 National Budget which is anticipated to be before the end of November. In the 2018 National Budget, an allocation to facilitate the holding of the elections was made to the tune of $2.9B, which Bulkan described as a “huge investment”. This he said represents an unequivocal commitment and determination by this administration to ensure that there is democratic governance. The elections this year will see eight new NDCs being formed as well as a new town. Reports are that Mahdia in Region Eight (Potaro/Siparuni) is earmarked to become a town. At the March 16, 2016 LGE, approximately 507,633 persons were registered to vote for representatives of three
political parties, 17 voluntary groups and 63 individual candidates in a mixed system of Proportional Representation and First Past the Post. In June this year at the launching of a public awareness campaign on the lawns of Parliament Buildings , Bulkan noted that that the government views local government organs as a critical partner in national development, and that integral to the approach is a better resourced and organised local government system; one that is effective in the discharge of its functions. Minister Bulkan had said that the awareness campaign is aimed at bringing more information to the populace to ensure more participation in the LGE later this year. He had expressed hope that participation will be greater than the 43 per cent which obtained at the last LGE in March 2016. LGE, regardless of any challenges, will not be postponed Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), retired judge James Patterson had said in a report from the Guyana Chronicle. “It looks as if but I cannot guarantee that we are going to be undisturbed, unless there are troublemakers,” said Patterson in an invited comment. He believes that his staff understands the seriousness of the task ahead and intends to take it very seriously. GECOM has not encountered any challenges so far pertaining to the LGE, but there was a discovery of a fake Identification Card (ID) which stirred some concerns for the elections body, he said.
AML coordination committee to get legal standing ATTORNEY General and Minister of Legal Affairs Basil Williams, SC on Thursday read for the first time the Anti-Money Laun-
dering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (Amendment) Bill 2018. The Bill seeks to amend the AML/CFT Act and relat-
ed legislation to strengthen the regime for combatting money laundering, terrorist financing and proliferation financing (AML/CFT/ PF). Clause three of the Bill amends section 7A of the Principal Act to satisfy recommendation two of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) which states that countries should designate an authority to have a mechanism that is responsible for national AML/CFT/PF policies. This will see the establishment of the AML/ CFT/PF National Coordination Committee.
This committee will comprise the Attorney General, as Chair, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), the Governor of the Bank of Guyana, the Commissioner General of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), Director of the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU), Head of the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU), General Manager of the Guyana Gold Board, the Commissioner of the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC), Chairperson of the Guyana Securities Council, Chairperson of the Gaming Authority and the
Chief Cooperatives and Development Officers. Some of the committee’s responsibilities will include developing national AML/ CFT/PF policies informed by the risks identified in Attorney General, the recently com- Basil Williams pleted National nar, AG Williams underRisk Assessment and to de- scored the importance of velop a national action plan coordination and inforwhich includes recommen- mation sharing among dations to enable the respec- related agencies in the tive agencies to competently fight against money launtackle money laundering and dering. Passage of the Bill related crimes. will ensure Guyana is in Only recently at the compliance with all 40 Money Laundering/Ter- recommendations of the rorist Financing National FATF and other regulaRisk Assessment Semi- tions. (DPI)
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 20, 2018
Police, public service commissions soon PRESIDENT David Granger and Leader of the Opposition Bharrat Jagdeo on Thursday discussed the appointment of the Public Service Commission and the Police Service Commission. The high-level meeting was held at State House in the presence of Minister of State, Joseph Harmon; and Attorney General and Min-
ister of Legal Affairs, Basil Williams. The Leader of the Opposition was accompanied by former Attorney General, Anil Nandlall and Opposition Chief Whip, Gail Teixeira. Noting that the meeting was constitutionally required, Minister Harmon, according to a statement issued by the Ministry of the Presidency, said the Commissions are likely to be sworn in soon.
“As you are aware, these two Commissions, the life had come to an end many months ago but the process had required the National assembly to nominate some of these persons for both Commissions and once those were done; the President would consult with the Leader of the Opposition. So this is what took place this morning. The requirement was for
meaningful consultation and not necessarily agreement and so that consultation took place and now I believe we can proceed with having the two Commissions established and the President at a short time from now will have those two Commissions sworn in so that their work can continue,” the State Minister explained. Article 210 (1) of the Constitution states, “The Police Service Commission shall consist of (a) a Chairman appointed by the President acting after consultation with the Minority Leader…” and (d) “not more than three members exclusive of the Chairman of the Public Service Commission (in this article referred to as ‘appointed members’” who shall be appointed by the President acting after consultation with the Minority Leader.” The consultative meeting took place close to one month after the National Assembly adopted the Eight Report of the Standing Committee on Appointments paving the way for the nominees – Vin-
President David Granger, Minister of State, Joseph Harmon; and Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Basil Williams in discussion with the Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo, former Attorney General, Anil Nandlall and Opposition Chief Whip, Gail Teixeira on the appointment of the Public Service Commission and the Police Service Commission (Ministry of the Presidency Photos)
cent Bowman and Mortimer Livan – to be recommended to President Granger. The approval of the nominees was close to one year after the life of the Public Service Commission came to an end in 2017. Similarly, the nominees for the Police Service Commission were approved by the National Assembly last month. Heading the list of nominees is Assistant Commissioner of Police (Ret’d) Paul Slowe. The three other members are Assistant Commissioner of Police (Ret’d) Clinton Conway, Woman Assistant Commissioner of
Police (Ret’d) Vesta Adams, and Woman Assistant Commissioner of Police (Ret’d) Claire Jarvis. In presenting the 11th Report of the Committee on Appointments for the Police Service Commission for adoption, Chairperson of the Committee on Appointments, Minister George Norton told the National Assembly that the Committee held a total of 31 meetings. It was during those meetings that the nominees were chosen. The tenure of the previous appointees expired last August.
Woman hospitalized following stabbing incident A ROSE Hall Town family, still mourning the death of a male member who was allegedly murdered last Saturday, is now dealing with another tragedy after a stabbing incident that has left a female member in a serious condition at the New Amsterdam Hospital. Maureen Sundarsingh of Lot 316 Fifth Street, Rose Hall Town, is currently a patient in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the New Amsterdam Hospital after she was stabbed to the abdomen by another woman late Wednesday evening while at her brother’s wake. According to reports, an argument ensued between the woman and the suspect, when the suspect armed herself with a weapon and stabbed Sundarsingh to the abdomen. She was picked up and taken to the New Amsterdam Hospital where she was admitted and rushed into emergency surgery. Up to press time she remains in the ICU. Guyana Chronicle understands that the argument allegedly stemmed from the circumstances surrounding the brother’s death. Meanwhile, Morti Sundarsingh, the mother of the victim, was in a state of shock over the incident. Her son, Wayne Sundarsingh called “Wino”, was allegedly beaten to death during a drinking session at Bulletwood Steet. In the initial stage of the investigations, police had arrested three persons. However, after advice from the DPP, two were released and the prime suspect remains in custody. He is expected to appear before the court today to answer to the charge of murder. The suspect’s mother and her daughter are currently in police custody assisting with investigation.
Boy 10 found hanging in house …stepfather arrested By Leroy Smith DETECTIVES in ‘C’ Division on Wednesday detained 40-year-old Balram Basdeosingh after his stepson, 10 year-old Johnathan Rampersaud was found dead in the family’s two bedroom house at Success, East Coast Demerara. According to reports the La Bonne Intention (LBI) Primary School student was found hanging by his neck from a sheet in the house. At the time, the stepfather who some persons accused of constantly abusing the child, was alone with him and was under the influence of alcohol when the discovery of the body was made. Speaking with the Guyana Chronicle Bibi
Ameena Hamid, the child’s mother said that she was at work when she received a call about the death of her son. She raced home to find him hinging in the room where he slept. The woman said prior to leaving for work, the young man had requested that she took him with her but she could not accommodate him. At times he would accompany his mother to her work. Bibi said that outside of that, her son was still in high spirits when she was leaving and was even playing football in the yard even after she left for work. According to the distraught mother, when she arrived she enquired from neighbours if there was any misunderstanding between the child and his stepfather but they responded in the negative. She told this publication that
her son and his stepfather shared a happy relationship. She was then asked to explain the need to ask the neighbours if there was any misunderstanding between the two while she was away but she could not provide an answer. Meanwhile over at the home of the biological father of the young man, he believes that there was some level of foul play involved in the death of his son. Karran Rampersaud said that it was only on Wednesday he received all the horror stories about what his child had been going through and the alleged abuse at the hands of a relative. Rampersaud said that most of what he heard prior to the death of his son, came from persons who lived in the area. The man said that when he showed up at the
Johnathan Rampersaud
home where his son was found dead, he saw no signs of struggle for survival by a child who was hanging himself. He said that posture in which the child was found suggested that he might have been strangled then placed in the position. The father of the child has already indicated his willingness to have the police cause an examination of the child’s remains to see if he was ever molested.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday July 20, 2018
Lawrence tells House $366M drug purchase was legitimate THE $366.9M contract awarded to New York-based HDM Labs Inc. was done in a transparent manner and in keeping with the Procurement Act, Public Health Minister Volda Lawrence told the National Assembly on Thursday. In recent days, the Public Health Ministry has come under criticism for the multimillion dollar contract, over claims that the process was flawed. The contract for the supply of Emergency Pharmaceutical Supplies for Regional and Clinical Services was awarded on August 31, 2017. But on Thursday, Minister Lawrence sought to set the record straight for a second time within days. “According to the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board
(NPTAB), all the relevant procedures were followed by the Ministry of Public Health in accordance with the Procurement Act of 2003,” Minister Lawrence told the House before presenting them with the facts. It was stated that on April 28, 2017 a request for restrictive tendering was made to NPTAB for procurement of Emergency Pharmaceutical Supplies from the following six companies: Ansa McAl Limited, Caribbean Medical Supplies, Global Healthcare Supplies, International Pharmaceutical Agency, HDM Labs Inc. and Meditron Inc. According to the Public Minister, Standard Bidding Documents were approved on May 3, 2017 and by May 23, 2017 Tenders were opened
Public Health Minister Volda Lawrence
but only three bids were received. “On June 19, 2017, the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) recommended that no award be made to any of the three bidders, as all bidders had failed to meet all the evaluation criteria at the pre-
liminary stage,” she informed her colleagues sitting on both sides of the House. As a result, on June 29, 2017, the Health Ministry requested permission from NPTAB, and restrictive tendering for the retender was approved on June 30, 2017. “All six companies who had submitted bids in this process were then asked, Sir, by email on July 12, 2017, to resubmit, and only one company (HDM Labs Inc.) responded when bids were opened on July 18, 2017. On August 16, 2017, the Evaluation Report for retender was received by NPTAB with recommendation that the sole bidder be awarded the contract,” Minister Lawrence further explained. She stressed that it was NPTAB’s recom-
Drug dealers on the back foot …three planes intercepted, Colombians arrested LAW enforcement agencies are cutting into the profits of the drug trade by tackling money laundering offences and seizing motorcars. This is according to Public Security Minister Khemraj
Ramjattan when he responded to questions posed to him by the Opposition in the National Assembly on Thursday. In addressing questions by shadow Public Security Minister, Clement Rohee, about the drug trade, Minister Ramjattan said farmers in Colombia have increased their production of coco in the countr, resulting in the flooding of the underground market with drugs.
mendation that the contract be awarded to the sole bidder, HDM Labs. On August 29, 2017 a memo was submitted to Cabinet and by August 31, 2017 the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary was notified of the award by NPTAB. “I wish to remind this Honorable House, Mr. Speaker, that in 2017, it was under this Government that the Procurement Department within the Ministry of Public Health was established to ensure that there was segregation of duties, transparency and accountability in the procurement of items and services for the Ministry of Public Health, while ensuring that the Ministry followed and adhered to the Regulations and Procedures stipulated by
law,” she stated. Minister Lawrence said while her Ministry welcomes the interest and monitoring of the system by citizens, she urged that it be done in a sensible and appropriate manner avoiding sensationalism and misrepresentation of facts. She made it clear that her Ministry is not in the business of granting advanced payments. “Mr. Speaker, may I further inform this Honorable House that the Ministry of Public Health does not grant advanced payments to suppliers without any order, request, quotations or contract. Sir, that happened in the past and no longer pertains now in the Ministry of Public Health,” she told the House before taking her seat.
Ramjattan said certain law enforcement agencies now benefit from satellite surveillance in Guyana “when planes are going to land, we have managed through this assistance to so far intercept three planes through the international cooperation from the DEA.” He explained that CANU has conducted operations in which Colombians were arrested and Interpol has assisted in increasing the hardship of drug dealers, especially because of the integration of law enforcement units. Adding that for 2018, there were nine money laundering cases handed over to
the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) along with eight referrals from Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU). About money laundering, Ramjattan said the challenges to the cases are with the production of bank books information which is not provided for in the law. The Public Security Minister said that China, the UK and the US have assisted Guyana greatly in many tangible ways and there is currently a large strategy document being compiled. Rohee related that “buckets of rounds are coming through the border” and how does the government intend to deal with the amount of illegal arms and ammunition. Minister Ramjattan responded by stating that Minister Rohee should submit the information to the law enforcement agencies to assist with the apprehension of those guilty of committing such acts. When opposition MP suggested that there was political interference in the Guyana Police Force on a daily basis, Minister Ramjattan debunked this allegation, noting that a substantive commissioner of police will soon be appointed to properly direct the operations of the Guyana Police Force.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday July 20, 2018
Back to the table …President to lead talks with opposition …after President Jimmy Carter intervention
President David Granger flanked by Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo and PPP executives, Gail Teixeira and Anil Nandlall at State House on Thursday (MoTP photo)
By Lisa Hamilton PRESIDENT David Granger has agreed to lead talks between the government and the opposition following intervention by former United States (US) President Jimmy Carter, Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo said. Jagdeo made the comments on Thursday on the corridors of the Parliament building shortly after he met with President Granger at State House. At the time, the President, along with Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Basil Williams and Minister of State Joseph Harmon, was meeting with Jagdeo and other PPP Executives to discuss the appointment of Public Service Commission and the Police Service Commission. Jagdeo told the media that he received a call from President Carter last week after the former President got word that the PPP had refused the offer to engage in amiable talks with Government. “The impression I got from President Carter is that in his conversation with the President the President stated that he was inclined to have talks with us but we in the PPP we not so inclined because we don’t like Nagamootoo. And, so, I pointed out the President Carter that it was not Nagamootoo that was the issue, it was our concern that…he would not be able to commit the APNU or the PNC to anything at the meeting,” Jagdeo said. NO NAGAMOOTOO However, despite saying this now in a statement issued back in 2015, the PPP had this to say regarding Nagamootoo: “Knowing the dim view the PPP holds of Moses Nagamootoo, the APNU+AFC by insisting that he is their ‘best man’ who will head its team must know that that initiative will go nowhere. Thus, by pushing Nagamootoo centre stage, it is now pellucidly clear that the coalition’s objective is not to have any talks at all, but to put the PPP/C on the defensive and to project the party as refusing to engage in talks with the Government.” The Prime Minister Nagamootoo, who is a former PPP executive, has maintained that he had no axe
to grind with the PPP and is ready to enter talks on national unity. PRESIDENT WILL LEAD According to Jagdeo, at their engagement on Thursday the President opted that if the PPP has an issue with the Prime Minister, he (the President) would lead the discussions which are to be focused on the pertinent issues of crime, oil and gas and the environment. Although the compromise was made, the Opposition Leader told the media that he would have to discuss with the PPP Executives whether the body wishes to deliberate with the Government on the above mentioned issues. “He said “if you have a problem with Nagamootoo…I myself would lead the talks”. So I undertook to have a discussion with the party so we will decide whether we will engage with this and whether we want to add issues to the agenda,” he told the media, later adding: “There is a view out there that the Government wants us to discuss these three issues because these are the most vulnerable ones, the ones we are most critical on and that engaging us on discussions they will reduce the level of criticism.” Jagdeo also said that there was also the misunderstanding by President Carter that the Government had offered to deliberate on the matters of Governance and Constitutional Reform and the PPP had rejected the offer. For decades, the former US President has been involved in the assistance of smooth political processes in Guyana facilitating the country’s first internationally certified free and fair election in 1992. He last visited Guyana in 2015 where he coled the Carter Center’s 100th election observation mission of the May 11 General and Regional elections. Over the years, there have been calls for the major political parties, the PPP and the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) to put their differences aside and have political dialogue on social and economic matters as of high importance. Collaboration by
the major political forces, it has been opined, can foster confidence, trust as well as good, cordial relations at the national level, thereby obtaining solutions to matters of national importance. The APNU+AFC coalition government has from its very formation stressed inclusionary governance. In fact, President Granger has repeatedly said that his administration is committed to inclusionary democracy and is prepared to consider executive power-sharing with the PPP/C. Back in September 2015, the President noted that at that year’s General and Regional Elections, the coalition secured 51 per cent of the votes cast by the electorate and as such, it would not be prudent for his Government to exclude the PPP/C base. “We have at all times
aimed at having inclusionary democracy and inclusionary Government, so that the 49 per cent don’t feel locked out.” The head-of-state stressed that national unity is part of the philosophy of the coalition and noted that there must be some form of sharing, national unity and inclusionary governance. DYSFUNCTIONAL However, last year July during an interview with this newspaper the President had said that there has been a consistent lack of cooperation by the Opposition to have dialogue with the government on matters of national importance outside of constitutional requirements. The President had described the non-cooperation by the Opposition as “dysfunctional,”, while insisting that his administration is not opposed to talks with the Opposition on non-constitutional matters, but noted that “It is good to speak with people who are prepared to speak with you and we have
had some difficulties.” He noted that the resistance by the Opposition does not exist only at the level of central Government, but also regionally. “I have been to some meetings and the regional chairman won’t come to meet me, the Ministry of Communities has had seminars and the persons who have been elected on the PPP ticket don’t show up; municipal and regional levels.” President Granger assured that notwithstanding the challenges faced with regard to political dialogue between the coalition Government and the Opposition, he has no issue consulting with the PPP outside of constitutional matters. “So we have had a lack of cooperation from the Opposition in many areas. I would consult them yes, in matters of GECOM and things I am required to consult him on, and outside of the Constitution, but they have been very uncooperative.”
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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday July 20, 2018
Tackling sexual abuse THE laws have been made to be dispassionate, cold, and condign as it is applied to those who have offended its dictums, and therefore have to be sanctioned. But, there is another side to its blind application, where it is known to tender justice with mercy. But for the latter to occur, and for the convicted offender to be given such a consideration, remorse has to be genuine. As far as dispensing justice is understood, the court is said to consider such a personal acceptance of wrongdoing, and a genuine realisation of what the latter would have caused the victim(s). It is
then up to the judge, particularly to decide severity of penalty. From observation, it is a given that certain types of felonies are going to attract substantial, if not, maximum sanction, once a guilty verdict is returned. Heading the list would be murder and rape; attempted murder, and of course violent robberies. There will be very few mitigating factors that will not prevent the full wrath of the court, and this is, even if remorse is shown. Its consideration, yes; but marginal. Justice will be served. Sexual violence falls within the category of one
of society’s big social problems that is reacted to with scorn because of its beastly manner of using violence to overpower its victim for sexual gratification. In many instances, victims are often murdered by their assailants to prevent identification. The most recent case of a sexual deviant being found guilty of two counts of sexual assault, and given two consecutive life sentences, once again reflects the court’s readiness to administer its judicial displeasure in a wholly unequivocal manner on those found guilty of such a dastardly act. It is another example of severe judicial
repudiation of a type of crime that has become a national scourge. There is another similar guilty conviction that has been recorded, and for which sentence is due shortly. But there is an aspect of this recently closed case, which shares a commonality with a prior number of between 7 – 10 convicted sex felons, early this year, whose similar actions have attracted very significant custodial time–no remorse. With the exception of one instance where the convicted sex felon apologised to the court and to the victim, all the others omitted this factor of submission
from whatever they had to say to the court before being sentenced. There was even the particular, very outrageous instance of an assailant mocking his victim as he walked past her to enter the courtroom; astonishingly, to say the least, since it was reported that the woman had brought him up as her son. Such attitude underlines the descent of the age in which we live, one where societal morals have become so much dissipated that even a mother figure is sexually violated by an adopted son from whom, at least, appreciation and protection should be expected.
Sadly, it reflects a complete sea change in the understanding of deliberate wrongs, and the requisite acceptance from those who offend, in at least acknowledging their transgression, despite having to face the consequences. But the fact that this type of case, on evidence observed, does not see this kind of contrition, conveys the worrying conclusion that these deviants conclude that they have a right to commit such acts of lasciviousness because it is supposed to be done to their victims, even if they are mere babies, as many of the victims are.
Guyana cannot heal unless the truth is told Dear Editor, NOW that they are in opposition, the PPP and former President, Bharrat Jagdeo, are behaving like they were angels when they were in office. Their present rhetoric seeks to convey the impression that they had administrated the government in a non-partisan manner, and had adhered to the practice of good governance. On the contrary, their record demonstrates something quite the opposite. An examination of that party’s 23 years in power shows that the PPP deliberately instituted a policy of awarding contracts, both at the central and local government levels, to mainly party members, supporters and favoured cronies of the party leader or President. This political partisan and racist policy have had far-reaching effects for political and race relations in the country, since it resulted in the marginalization of the African and Amerindian community, with economic and social consequences which threaten their viable existence. This was the situation at the end of PPP/C rule in 2015. In spite of this reality, Jagdeo recently displayed yet another manifestation of his shameless
politics, claiming that the African condition under the PPP was rosy, even challenging President David Granger to a public debate on this issue, under the guise of “race relations”. The dishonorable gentleman has not changed his colours; he has not lost his oppressive instincts. (It was a good thing for Guyana that the CCJ struck down his devious efforts to run for president for the third time). Like all political oppressors, he seeks to present his oppression as great improvements in his victim's lives, and expect them to agree with his self-serving declaration on their situation. The PPP, Indian rights activist and other government detractors have succeeded in framing the debate on the government performance in an unfair way; by judging the government’s performance against that of the PPP, without taking into consideration that the PPP was in power for twenty-three continuous years. This protracted period in government-- its achievements, whatever that is-- should not be the test for the performance of the 3-year-old APNU+AFC government. A fairer and more meaningful comparison should be the first three years of the PPP rule after the 1992
General Elections, with that of the first three years of the coalition government. The observation above is a good example of how Jagdeo and the PPP/C, in the national debate, get away with falsifying the political discourse by propagandising on issues worthy of serious and objective discussion and debate. Guyana cannot heal unless the truth is told, and the PPP/C held politically accountable for its criminal policy in relation to the awarding of contracts, since this policy has seriously damaged race relations and national cohesion. Government‘s expenditure constitutes the largest injection of money into the economy, and those who control and have access to these significant sums of capital, have advantages for economic and social development that other sections of the society were denied. And even with their best efforts could not compete, given this huge disadvantage. It is estimated that the government’s expenditure on contracts between 1992 to 2015 was around US$…. Or G$ … In a situation where 90% of that money ends up in the hands of one race group, the elite of that section of the society becomes super rich overnight. Accompanying this
success was a sea of corruption at all levels of the society; not surprisingly, we experienced the worst degeneration of the political culture and the rise of the criminal state. Being in government for a long period, the PPP had the time and political space to place their party hacks in many important areas of the procurement process; this allowed them to be in the position to subvert the laws and procedures relating to awarding contracts. The national and regional tender boards were dominated by official control, directly or indirectly by the party. These officials operated a system based on bribery, collusion, fraud, kickbacks, misappropriation, contract overrun, as well as inflating cost for projects, and goods/ services purchased. This system is so well entrenched, that the APNU+AFC government to date has been unable to dismantle it and create a level playing field. A keen observer is forced to conclude that the government seems to be held to ransom since the same contractors that were established and favoured under the PPP are still getting the bulk of government and regional contracts across the country, to the dismay of coalition supporters. Dislodging
the well-entrenched criminal infrastructure has proved to be a formidable task that the regime is either incapable of changing, or lack the political will to do so. Ironically, this indecisiveness by the government on this grievous matter has resulted in growing political discontent in the APNU+AFC support base. In spite of this, the coalition is constantly being subjected to hostile and false propaganda by the PPP, and Indian rights activists of victimizing Indians and awarding contracts to Africans, and persons politically affiliated to the coalition. These erroneous claims of Indian victimisation are not supported by the facts on the ground. An effective way to combat this wicked and racist propaganda is an aggressive public awareness campaign by the coalition to address this falsification of reality and lay to rest the talk of “ethnic cleansing”. An important aspect of the campaign should be a published list of contractors and businesses who have received government and regional contracts since the new government came to office, and a similar list for the PPP period--1992 to 2015. Regards Tacuma Ogunseye
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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday July 20, 2018
OP-ED Masters of Our Destiny, Finally
By Imran Khan Director of Public Information
THE history of Guyana has many themes, among them the lack of control our people have had to chart our own course. Before independence, grey men in bowler hats in grey London offices thousands of miles away signed dry documents that sealed a people’s fate. Even before then, Guiana was seen as a mere bauble to be traded between European nations as part of treaties to end their wars. And after our hard-fought independence, the new Guyana was never truly in control for any sustained period, as the Cold War helped frustrate the dream of a post-colonial utopia. An indebted, damaged economy meant years under the supervision of the International Monetary Fund with draconian edicts over how money could be spent. Later, as we broke free from that crippling debt, drug lords were allowed and facilitated to create a near narco-state that saw hundreds of our people killed and the country brought to virtual anarchy
and labelled a pariah state. This decades-long lack of control as a country has trickled down to how many citizens view their own lives and is a major factor why so many hundreds of thousands took matters into their own hands and departed these shores to seek opportunities for themselves and their children overseas. While understandable, the cumulative effect of this unprecedented migration has been a massive brain drain that has weakened our institutions and governance and social structures. Since 2015, the coalition government has worked towards restoring order when it comes to crime, corruption and the management of the economy, even as it clears up the mistaken projects of the Jagdeo years, including the ill-advised Skeldon Sugar Factory, the burdensome Berbice River Bridge and the Marriott Hotel – all still being subsidized by taxpayers. The new GRA head, Godfrey Statia, has made impressive headway to coral serial tax evasion by so many in the private sector who refuse to shoulder their share of the social burden. But the government remains cash-
strapped and unable, as yet, to execute the kinds of transformative infrastructure and human development projects the country and its people so desperately need. All of this has the potential to change, come 2020, with the beginning of oil production by ExxonMobil in its Stabroek Block. The numbers are staggering and hard for us to get our heads around. If all goes to plan, by 2025 Guyana could be producing up to 700,000 barrels of oil per day. This would rank us the highest producer per capita in the world. By even the most modest calculations, Guyana will receive multiple billion dollars in revenue that would mean those transformative projects this country has always desired will become affordable and achievable. Top quality health care and education are within our grasp. It is an unlikely marriage: a giant American conglomerate that roams the world in search of energy, joining forces with one of the smallest, underdeveloped countries in the Western Hemisphere. And there are fears that we will be recolonised, this time by a multi-national and, by
Continuation of Jagdeo’s spite and vindictiveness Dear Editor NO one should be surprised at the Leader of the Opposition, Bharrat Jagdeo’s continued comments on the recently appointed member of the Police Service Commission, Paul Slowe. Editor, we are all au fait with the background to what is clearly the well-known trade mark of the PPP/C behaviour towards those who would have decided to challenge their unfair decisions – spite and raw vindictiveness. It is a simple case of Jagdeo not being able to live with the fact that Slowe challenged the former PPP/C’s government arrogance of power, via the courts, and won. As a result, he never got the promotion that he had earned, becoming Deputy Commissioner. In fact, in order to deny Slowe his due, there were no promotions to this rank, until
the latter retired. That was how horrible in mind, and still is, the mind-set of the PPP/C It was to have been expected, negative comments from Jagdeo, when Slowe had been appointed to head the COI into the alleged plot against the President’s life, especially given the fact that the senior officers involved were all favourites of the PPP/C. For not only did Slowe’s findings exposed glaring instances of incompetence and unprofessionalism among the senior collective that had to lead the investigation into such a very serious issue, as it surrounded the latter; but also personality conflict which can only result in affecting the force’s morale. What Jagdeo and adherents of his thinking should understand is that Slowe was not prepared to sacrifice professionalism in the face of political threat, and bow
down to its god; nor was it his intention to sweep his damaging findings under the rug of concealment because of the senior ranks that were involved. Here was a former police officer, who had lost none of his no-nonsense approach to policing, who was prepared to do what had to be done to expose the truth. There is no doubt that the appointment of this well-deserving officer to the Police Service Commission signals the further dismantling of the jagdeo hegemony over some sections of the senior hierarchy of the Guyana Police Force. This will be good for the professional health of such a key security institution, as well as improving its capacity and professional competency. Hands off Slowe, Jagdeo! Regards Earl Hamilton
extension, the United States - like some Central American banana republic. Indeed, should we really be tying bundle with these folks, given previous experiences? It is a question one should not dismiss, as ExxonMobil has said, it will be here for decades to come, and its production will contribute within a few years, the lion’s share of the country’s revenue. It was also a question that the Ghanaian revolutionary and leader, Kwame Nkrumah, grappled with in his 1965 book “Neo-Colonialism, the Last Stage of imperialism”. He noted that “non-aligned countries could cooperate with capitalist and socialist countries as long as investment is in accordance with a national plan drawn up by the State with its own interests in mind…. The issue is not what return the foreign investor receives on his investments. He may in fact do better for himself if he invests in a non-aligned country than if he invests in a neo-colonial one. The question is one of power….The struggle against neo-colonialism is not aimed at excluding the
capital of the developed world from operating in less developed countries. It is aimed at preventing the financial power of the developed countries being used in such a way as to impoverish the less developed.” The government seems keenly aware of these dangers. The two pillars of its approach will be the establishment of the Sovereign Wealth Fund (SWF) and the Green State Development Strategy (GSDS). The proposed legislation for the SWF is expected to be passed before the end of the year after what will be full and open discussion, and the fund set up in time for First Oil in early 2020. Critics complain that it is taking too long, but there are many issues to consider, including avoiding the resource curse-- how much to spend now on development and how much to save for the ultimate goal of long-term sustainability of the fund. The government has taken advice from numerous international institutions including the IMF and is being methodical in crafting the legislation for the fund that emphasises inclu-
sivity and transparency and links the fund’s management with the GSDS. This legislation is a cumulation of all that has been learned worldwide about resource-rich countries. It has taken time but it is finally coming together. There is a vision and a plan to implement it. Guyana’s prospects are truly exciting. Our oil reserves are substantial; and growing. They have the potential to make this small country with a tortured, turbulent history very wealthy and to offer us-- its people-- a standard of living we cannot yet properly imagine. Moreover, the SWF is designed to be a massive national savings account that will secure the prosperity of our children, grandchildren and many generations to come even when the finite resource of oil has run out. And crucially, because the proposed legislation aims at inclusivity, it is hoped the SWF will become the one tangible, unifying symbol which all Guyanese, regardless of politics, can support. It is hard to envisage, but Guyana and Guyanese, for the first time in centuries, will finally be masters of our own destiny.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday July 20, 2018
Stabroek Block good for 3.2B+ BOE – if all goes well Esso predicts By Svetlana Marshall ESSO Exploration and Production Guyana Limited, a subsidiary of U.S oil giant ExxonMobil, estimates that 3.2 billion barrels of oil equivalent have been discovered offshore Guyana in the Stabroek Block. But with data for three wells still outstanding, Esso said it is likely that the figure could very well surpass 4 billion. In the coming days, Exxon and its partners -- Hess Guyana Exploration Ltd. and CNOOC Nexen Petroleum Guyana Ltd. -- will release fresh data on the number of oil-equivalents the country has to date, when all eight of the oil discoveries are combined. This is according to ExxonMobil (Guyana) Senior Director of Public and Government Affairs, Deedra Moe. In
Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Senior Director of Public and Government Affairs, Deedra Moe
an interview with the Guyana Chronicle, Moe disclosed that the company is analysing its data as it moves to update its resource development in the Stabreok Block. It was explained that while ExxonMobil has made eight discoveries to date, the estimated 3.2 billion oil-equivalent barrels only cover five of the reservoirs: Liza, Liza Deep, Snoek, Payara and Turbot. As such, available data is being analysed to further quantify the amount of oil in the reservoirs at Ranger, Pacora and Longtail-1. “So what we are looking to update is some of the analysis on the three other wells in areas that we have drilled, which include Ranger, Longtail and Pacora,” Moe said. When the eighth discovery was made offshore Guyana at the Longtail-1 well last month, President of Exxon-
Mobil Exploration Company Steve Greenlee had said that the combined estimated recoverable resources of the Turbot and Longtail-1 wells will exceed 500 million barrels of oil equivalent. That figure was added to the 3.2 billion to arrive at an estimated 3.7 billion barrels of oil equivalent, but according to Moe, that figure is incorrect. She explained that recoverable resources found within Turbot were already included in the initial 3.2 billion, while emphasising that the results from the Longtail-1 well have not yet been finalised. In early January 2018, ExxonMobil had also discovered oil offshore Guyana at its Ranger -1 well, adding to its previous discoveries made since 2015. The Ranger-1 well encountered approximately 230 feet of high-quality, oil-bearing reservoir located some 60 miles north-west of its Liza Phase One project. The discovery at the Pacora-1 well was made approximately one month after about four miles from the Payara-1 well in the Stabroek Block. At the Longtail-1 well, approximately 256 feet (78 meters) of high-quality, oil-bearing sandstone reservoir was encountered by ExxonMobil in June. Moe said that in a few days, Guyanese will have a better understanding of the amount of recoverable
resources to be found within the eight reservoirs. “With the new resource estimate, we will be able to include all three,” she said, adding: “I haven’t seen the data on that, but it would be great to see continued increase in the resources that are there.” She also said that ExxonMobil’s experts are carefully analysing the data, with the help of Hess and CNOOC Nexen, and that once they are satisfied that the information is a true reflection of what exists, the greenlight will be given for the release of the updated information. ExxonMobil is currently making plans to add a second exploration vessel offshore Guyana in addition to the Stena Carron drillship, bringing its total number of drillships in the Stabroek Block to three. The new vessel will operate in parallel to the Stena Carron to explore the Block’s numerous high-value prospects. The Stabroek Block is 6.6 million acres (26,800 square kilometres). Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited is the operator, and has a 45 per cent interest in the Stabroek Block. Hess Guyana Exploration Ltd. holds a 30 per cent interest, and CNOOC Nexen Petroleum Guyana Limited a 25 per cent interest.
Detective testifies in murder P.I.
THE Preliminary Inquiry (PI) involving former Guyana Defence Force cap-
tain, Orwain Sandy, who is charged with the murder of his reputed wife, continued
on Thursday with the testimony of a Police Detective. The PI is being conducted
by Principal Magistrate Judy Latchman with evidence being led by Police Prosecutor Corporal Shawn Gonsalves. Sandy is represented by attorney James Bond. Detective Inspector Hubert Henry who is stationed at the Criminal Investigation Department of the Guyana Police Force took to the witness stand. The matter is adjourned until July 25. Sandy, who served as Special Assistant to the Chief-of-Staff of the Guyana Defence Force, is currently on remand for the murder of Reona Payne on March 31, 2018 at First Street, Alexander Village. According to reports, Sandy, after committing the act, surrendered to police at the Ruimveldt Police Station on Saturday, March 31. A post-mortem report revealed that Payne died from 14 gunshot wounds to her body– 13 to her chest and one to the head. The police have confirmed that Sandy used his service firearm during the shooting. Police sources also related that the soldier had on one occasion lodged his
Former Guyana Defence Force captain, Orwain Sandy
firearm at the police station during a domestic dispute. One source said the soldier had suspected that Reona was being unfaithful and was conversing with someone from overseas. It was reported that Sandy had planned to drop Payne off at her place of work when she received a phone call allegedly from the same person from overseas. When the soldier questioned her and asked her to
desist from railroading their relationship, an argument ensued and in the vicinity of the masjid in First Street, Alexander Village, Reona grabbed the soldier’s firearm and threw it out of the car. According to the source, Sandy stopped the vehicle to retrieve the weapon and Payne exited too, and after picking up the gun he fired in her direction, emptying the entire magazine.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday July 20, 2018
Far-flung communities to soon go hi-tech
– as gov’t readies to connect them with rest of the world Public Telecommunications Minister Catherine Hughes
By Svetlana Marshall RESIDENTS in close to 200 far-flung communities will soon have access to Information Communication Technology (ICT) services. The ball is scheduled to start rolling now that the greenlight has been given for the commencement of the US$17M ICT Access and e-Services for the Hinterland, Poor and Remote Communities Project. Though the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the National Data Management Authority (NDMA) had signed the approved Project Document last November, the Guyana REDD + Investment Fund (GRIF)-funded project had been at a standstill pending the signing of the a Letter of Understanding. Finance Secretary, Dr. Hector Butts last Friday confirmed that the Letter of Understanding was signed between the UNDP and the Government of Guyana on July 9. According to Dr Butts, the Letter of Understanding will guide the execution of the project, and establish the support services. NDMA Chairman Floyd Levi said now that the Letter of Understanding has been signed, the necessary steps will be taken to hire a Specialist Project Manager and put together a project team. A project board will also be established with representatives drawn from the targeted communities. Once those systems are put in place, Levi said the team will hit the ground running, since some of the communities have already indicated that there is existing infrastructure in place that could lend to the process. While addressing over 200 Indigenous Leaders at the Arthur Chung Convention Centre on Wednesday, Levi explained that the five-year
project, which is being facilitated under the Guyana-Norway Agreement, is designed to strengthen e-Government Policy Environment and National Legislation; provide ICT access to Hinterland, poor and remote communities; and provide Public e-Services and Information. Guyana’s Low-Carbon Development Strategy stresses, among other things, the importance of fostering sustainable development in the hinterland regions and a key component in achieving such an outcome is the linking of public services and information flows to the deployment and use of new ICTs. It is against this backdrop that the ICT access and e-Services project was crafted. The project, when completed, will see over 580 residents having access to 200 e-Services and 200 ICT hubs, covering approximately 90 per cent of the Hinterland poor and remote communities. Canal Bank, Hobodia, Ecipse Falls, Kamwatta, Karaburi and Red Hill in Region One (Barima-Waini); Akawini, Bethany, Capoey Lake, Kabawab, Mashabo, Wakapoa, St Denny’s and St Monica in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam); Caria Caria, Santa Mission, Saxacalli, Aratack and Lower Bonasika in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara); St Cuthbert’s, Waiakabra, Swann and Laluni in Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica) ; Moraikobai in Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice); Orealla, Siparuta and Cashew Island in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne); Agatash, Batavia, Chinoweing, Isseneru and Jawalla in Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni); Bamboo Creek, Campbelltown, Chenapou, Fairview, Kaibarupai and Kanapang in Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni); Achiwib, Aishalton, Annai, Apoteri and
Fly Hill in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo); and Great Falls, Hururu, Kimbia, Malali, Riverview and Rockstone in Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) are among the villages in the line up to benefit from the project. Levi told Indigenous leaders that as the NDMA awaits the activation of the multi-million dollar project, with financial support from the Ministry of Public Telecommunications, it has been bridging the digital divide between the hinterland and the coast. He said the move forms part of the government’s vision to create ‘Smart Governments’ and ‘Smart Communities’ that use ICTs to increase efficiency and transform public services. Alluding to the work done thus far, Public Telecommunications Minister Catherine Hughes pointed out that more than 100 community ICT hubs have been established across the country so far; while more than 150 primary schools and over 130 secondary schools and tertiary institutions have been connected. Added to that, over 120 Government Ministries and Agencies have been connected, the Minister pointed out. Minister Hughes told the Toshaos and Senior Councillors that with steady progress in the field of ICT particularly in Hinterland, Poor and Remote Communities, provisions will be made for smart classrooms, allowing their children to connect with teachers in Georgetown and other urban locations using technologies such as Skype. Steps are also being taken to provide for online training of teachers. To accelerate developments within the sector, she assured that within months, Government will move to fully liberalize the Telecommunications Sector allowing for other local, region and international companies to invest in the sector.
Jury empanelled for 2014 charge A 12-member jury was on Thursday morning empanelled before Justice Sandil Kissoon in the Demerara High Court for a 2014 attempted murder case which is expected to start on Monday at
09:00hrs. According to the indictment, the accused Alistair Woolford, a former soldier, allegedly shot Devon Howell with intent to murder him on November 21, 2014, in Georgetown.
The accused is represented by defence attorney Compton Richardson while the state prosecutors are Abigail Gibbs and Mandel Moore. The state is expected to present several witnesses.
Toshaos from across the country being updated on the projects and initiatives being executed to develop Guyana’s ICT Sector (Photos by Samuel Maughn)
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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday July 20, 2018
Albion Estate to step up its game
– produce white sugar, other value-added products soon
By Nafeeza Yahya AS PART of the move to transition the embattled GuySuCo and the sugar industry out of the red, the Albion Estate is looking to step up its game to ensure profitability and continued employment for their 3400 plus employees. They plan doing so by looking to add at least four value-added products to their strategic plan for the period 2018-2021. This was disclosed on Tuesday evening at a community meeting at the Albion Sports Complex by Corporate Communications Manager Audreyanna Thomas ahead of the 2nd crop for 2018. “As part of our business
plan for 2018-2020/2021, significant investment will be made to increase the productivity of Albion Estate,” Thomas said, adding: “Investments in re-capitalising the estate will include conversion of the cultivation to accommodate mechanised operations as well as improvements to the factory to produce plantation white sugar as one of our four value-added products.” Thomas said that a co-generation plant to supply power to the national grid, as well as the setting up of a packaging facility are among the other areas that the estate will be seeking to diversify into so as to increase revenues while lowering the cost of production. Turn to page 11 ►
Greater emphasis to be placed on TVET – chief education officer By Vishani Ragobeer CHIEF Education Officer (CEO) Marcel Hutson said a number of steps are being taken to enhance Technical, Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and in the years ahead, it is likely that centres will be established in every region. Speaking to Guyana Chronicle recently, Hutson said expansion of TVET in the school system is a matter engaging the Ministry of Education’s attention. “For the very first time, an extensive training programme will be instituted so that we will have enough teachers to go to these [hinterland] regions,” Hutson said, adding: “So persons from the regions can actually come to the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE), be trained, and go back to establish those institutions because we can’t set up institutions without trained staff.” Currently in the school system, there is already the Secondary Competency Certificate Programme (SCCP), which targets students who are less academically inclined. The programme also seeks to stem the dropout rate in the school system. Through the SCCP, students learn employable skills in a variety of technical areas including carpentry, masonry and cake decoration, and according to the chief education officer, while not every region has a TVET institute, the SCCP in a way will be filling this gap in the outlying regions.
Chief Education Officer, Marcel Hutson
“What’s going to happen in the future, once we would have accumulated all the staff and necessary resources, [is that] we could very well find that there is a Government Technical Institute in every region,” the CEO said, noting, “We’ve started the work and it is just a matter of time before we see the fruits of our labour.” He hailed TVET as a crucial component of education, particularly in this modern knowledge-driven society and given the discovery of oil off-shore Guyana. And on this note, he said the CPCE ‘satellite centres’ in hinterland regions can be tapped for the delivery of TVET. “[Establishing satellite centres] has not started with TVET as yet, but it has started with people who are into mainstream teaching,” he said, while noting that “It is something that we will mirror as we move along in TVET, but for now, the SCCP functions in a manner of bringing TVET to the regions by the school system.”
GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday July 20, 2018
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GDF reserves growing …Harmon calls on Region 2 residents to get enlisted
Minister of State Joseph Harmon
MINISTER of State Joseph Harmon is encouraging residents of Region Two to join the Guyana People’s Militia (GPM) as that is the only region where persons have not expressed interest and persons cannot be coerced in doing such. Harmon was at the time responding to Opposition Chief Whip Gail Teixeira in Parliament on Thursday when she requested the criteria and methodology of recruitment of persons into the People’s Militia, the number of recruitments, training, stipends and other benefits. In response Minister Harmon said that the number of persons recruited by
regions are: Region One -36, Region Two – zero, Region Three -154, Region Four – 365, Region Five -204, Region Six 405, Region Seven -93, Region Eight 42, Region Nine – 45 and Region 10 – 264. He said that training is done by the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) three times per week in the regions. The training focuses on map reading and navigation, personal drills, field craft, jungle operations, open country warfare, weapons training, first aid, disaster relief operations, internal security, national policy and academic development. He said the recruits receive a stipend of $2,829
per day by the GDF financial department for attendance at regional training and whenever they are required to participate in national or regional activities. “After a hiatus of 10 years the reserve officer training has recommenced from reserve officer course number 15 and on graduation, these officers will be providing leadership,” he said. Minister Harmon said all recruits are subjected to medical, physical and psychological evaluations which are done before training commences. Meanwhile, Teixeira said the purpose of the militia is to augment the GDF but Region Two appears not to be given the attention it deserves. Harmon related that the process for the militia is voluntary and advertisements are placed in the media and persons responded “there was no coercion” people were responding. “It is important for us to understand that we cannot coerce people or force people to join the militia as I said it’s an ongoing exercise and in fact if the figure are low in Region
From page 10 ►
Albion Estate to ...
“The new approach for the ‘New GuySuCo’ will focus on creating more value from its assets and resources, and delivering more value to its customers and the communities which we serve,” Thomas said, adding that the production of the Plantation White Sugar is expected to start soon, while the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) is expected to pay GuySuCo for the maintenance of drainage and irrigation facilities in communities where the closed estates were, as well as the three remaining estates. For Albion, that means essentially servicing the entire East Berbice and Corentyne areas, Thomas said, adding that the co-generation and packaging plants are both expected to come on board fully soon. She said that while management is in the process of finalising the business end of
things, the new Model will focus on a “Triple Bottom Line” which seeks to incorporate all aspects such as economic, environmental and social in moving forward for the benefit for all. She, however, cautioned that while GuySuCo is a $20B industry annually and contributes significantly to the surrounding communities, the need for collaboration with residents, business community and the various regional administrations cannot be underscored enough, and pledges to strengthen the various relationships for the betterment of all. She, further, plugged the need for increased yield and production by the estate and appealed to the community to assist in getting the workers to turn up for work consistently. In wrapping up, Thomas reminded her audience of the various social pro-
grammes the industry has put in place for personal growth and development under the ‘Sustainable and Resilient Communities Programme and Alternative Livelihood Initiative’, and urged them to take full advantage of them, as well as visiting the estate and enquiring about the various contractual opportunities that may be available. Albion is one of three estates that are still operational after the Coalition government was forced to close several others due to significant losses despite ploughing over G$38B into the sugar industry since taking office a mere three years ago. With diversification and forward-thinking approaches, it is envisaged that the industry will return to profitability in the near future.
Opposition Chief Whip Gail Teixeira
Two, I would encourage my colleagues on the other side of the house to encourage those persons over which they may have some influence to join the peoples militia,” he said. He noted that advertisements are placed on social media, radio, television
and flyers are distributed to attract interest. On January 3, 2016, the Chief-of-Staff of the GDF Brigadier Mark Phillips announced that the Guyana People’s Militia had been re-activated with effect from December 1, 2015 and that it had hoped to recruit
an additional 1500 persons as reserves. “These are not full-time, these are parttime soldiers. The whole concept to have a small regular army and a larger reserve that could augment the regular army,” he said. Phillips explained the advantage of having the GPM as a separate entity rather than being part of the GDP as the 2nd Infantry Battalion since August, 1997. “They will have a separate budget and a separate organizational structure, greater involvement at the regional and community levels in defence and security activities, not to mention training and employment activities,” he had said.
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Two accused for psychological evaluation
GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 20, 2018 PAUL Michael Khan, 34, was earlier this week referred to Dr. Bhiro Harry for a psychological evaluation. This was when he appeared before Justice Brassington Reynolds in the Demerara High Court. The accused told the judge that he never went to school; as such, he could neither read nor write. He hails from the North West District and is expected to face trial for manslaughter which took place on October 6, 2013. He will return to court on August 7, 2018 when Dr. Bhiro Harry will disclose whether he is fit to stand trial. Another accused, Toney Marcus, 45, who appeared before Justice Brassington Reynolds in the Demerara High Cour, said he was a psychological patient and has since refused to take his medication. The accused told the court that because of his mental state he was constantly bullied and beaten by other inmates in jail. The state made an application for him to be psychologically evaluated by Dr. Bhiro Harry who will make an assessment on whether or not he is fit to stand trial for (alternative counts) 1st count – attempt to commit murder and the 2nd count – felonious wounding. Marcus will return to the Demerara High Court on August 7, 2018.
Youth offered bail conditions AN 18-year-old boy appeared Thursday in a city magistrate court charged with attempted murder. He was not required to plead. The charge alleged that on July 15, 2018 at Philippi Village, Upper Mazaruni River, with intent to commit murder, Ron Leman wounded Terry Fredrick. The teen was represented by Attorney Clyde Forde. Police Prosecutor Sanj Singh told the court that the virtual complainant was not hospitalized, and was out and recovering. Singh told the court he had no objection to bail but asked that conditions be attached. Bail was granted by Magistrate Leron Daly in the sum of $150,000 on condition that the defendant report every Monday at 9 am to Sergeant Abrams at the Kamarang Police Station. The matter was adjourned to July 23, 2018.
Ron Leman
Toshaos sworn in as JPs, rural constables
Some of the 90 toshaos who were sworn in on Thursday as ex-officio justices of peace and rural constables
By Vanessa Braithwaite NINETY toshaos in total from Indigenous villages in Regions One, Two, Seven, Eight and Nine were on Thursday sworn in as ex-officio justices of peace and rural constables by Chief Magistrate Ann McClennan. The swearing-in ceremony was the highlight of the afternoon session of the fourth day of the National Toshaos Council. Twenty toshaos from Region One; 24 from Regions Two; 13 from Region Eight; 27 from Region Nine; and six from Region 10 took the Oath of Office, swearing on the Bible that they would
without fear or favour, serve their communities in the above mentioned capacities with integrity. While most of those appointed were men, a handful of the 90 were females. The latter were commended for taking the bold step. Magistrate Mc Clennan charged the JPs and Rural Constables to serve with integrity since the nation is depending on them. “The oath is to ensure that what you do is right, with integrity, the trust is in your hands, so I want to congratulate you,” she said, adding, “the nation is depending on you for your integrity and your trust.” They were encouraged
to follow all necessary protocols and legal procedures, since in the event of any fraudulent activity; they too will face the brunt of the law. Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Indigenous People’s Affairs Alfred King also commended the newly-appointed JPs and Rural Constables. “Deal with the issues in a fair, transparent and a sober manner, remember you took the oath without fear or favour, let us ensure that we conduct ourselves in a respectable manner, especially when we are carrying out duties dealing with issues in our communities,” King urged.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 20, 2018
Contraband, improvised weapons found at Mazaruni Prison A JOINT Services search conducted on Thursday at the Mazaruni Prison in the “Special-Watch, Infirmary and Condemned section” has unearthed a quantity of contraband. Among items that were seized are a GTT sim card, razor blades, metal spoons, cigarettes, lighters, broken mirrors, construction nails and improvised weapons. Reports indicate that 16 prisoner officers, seven soldiers and eight police ranks participated in the exercise. A previous search by the prison authority on July 17, 2018, unearthed three cell phones, batteries and improvised chargers and weapons.
The items found during the search at the Mazaruni Prison
‘Fabulous’ PI adjourned to July 24
Kerwin DaSantos, called ‘Buffy’
Kacey Heyliger
George Hope, called ‘Gregory’
Shawn Nurse, called ‘Fabulous’
A TEARFUL Monica Detting took to the witness stand on Thursday to give evidence in the Preliminary Inquiry into the murder of her son, America Street ‘money-changer’, Shawn Nurse.
Better known as ‘Fabulous’, Nurse was gunned down early one Sunday morning in February on the very America Street on which he did business. The PI is being conducted by Principal Magistrate Judy
Latchman and indicted are Kerwin DaSantos, called ‘Buffy’; and George Hope, called ‘Gregory’, both 24; along with 25-year-old Kacey Heyliger of Shell Road, Kitty. Also testifying was Nurse’s aunt, Debra Straker, and Police Detective Terry Cummings. The matter has been adjourned until July 24 for continuation, and is being prosecuted by Corporal Shawn Gonsalves. It is alleged that the trio, on February 4, 2018, at America Street murdered 47-year-old Nurse during the course of a robbery. Nurse was reportedly shot in the head after he refused to comply with the suspect’s demand that he turn over whatever cash he had on him. Reports state that after shooting Nurse in the face, his assailant made good his escape. The police were, however, able to make the arrests after reviewing CCTV footage from surrounding buildings. During last year, Nurse was reportedly robbed many times, but was later able to identify two of the persons who had allegedly committed the one before he died.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 20, 2018
The case of one friend Pawn Shop owner freed on drug charge beating the other A TWENTY-nine-yearold hospital attendant was on Thursday released on $300,000 bail by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan for allegedly beating his friend with a piece of wood. Andy Fernandes was not required to plea to the indictable charge which read that on July 18 at New Mar-
ket Street, Georgetown he wounded Terry Clement with intent to commit murder. Fernandes’ attorney, Everton Lammy-Singh, told the court that Clement was chasing his client with a cutlass and Fernandes picked up a piece of wood to defend himself. Lammy-Singh explained
that his client had made several reports to the Alberttown Police Station against Clement. However, Police Prosecutor Neville Jeffers told the court that Clement was unarmed when he was attacked by Fernandes. The matter was adjourned until July 26, 2018.
THE owner of D&D Pawn Shop, Andre Gomes, called ‘Zipper’, on Thursday walked out of the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court a free man after a drug trafficking charge was dismissed against him by Senior Magistrate Leron Daly. Gomes, 57, had spent the last five months on remand for the charge which alleged that on January 30, 2018 at his Lot 32, Craig Street, Campbellville home, he had 902 grams of cocaine in his possession for the purpose of trafficking. Magistrate Daly ruled that Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) prosecutor Konyo Sandiford failed to prove her case, since there was no evidence to clearly provide the court of what transpired on the day in question. Also, another factor was that the main witness, a CANU officer who allegedly saw Gomes handling and disposing of the drug in a black plastic bag through a window, was discredited through his testimony. In her ruling, the magistrate added that when she visited the scene during the
trial, the eye-witness testimony which was related in court was discredited and the prosecution failed to prove the elements of the case that Gomes indeed had the drugs in his possession. Gomes was then told by the magistrate that the drug trafficking charges were dismissed against him and he was free to go. In June 2015, a murder charge was withdrawn against Gomes by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) citing insufficient evidence. He was charged with the May 10, 2015 murder of Nigel Isaacs of Roxanne Burnham Gardens, Georgetown. Isaacs was shot in the head outside of Palm Court, Main Street, Georgetown. In August 2017, Gomes’ girlfriend Naomi Persaud was sentenced to four years jail and fined $21M after 20 pounds of cocaine in a gas cylinder was found at the family’s Campbellville house. Their grandson, a national Under-19 cricketer, was jointly charged with the offence but the charge was later dismissed after his
FREED Andre Gomes, called ‘Zipper’
grandmother “took the rap.” CANU had later issued a wanted bulletin for the arrest of Gomes in relation to the cocaine bust. However, Gomes’ son-33-year-old Mark Gomes-along with another accused is currently before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan for trafficking cocaine. Mark Gomes along with Mohammed Kadir are jointly charged for trafficking 4.9 pounds of cocaine on March 29 at Sheriff Street. The third accused Ryan Fowler, 33, had pleaded guilty to the charge and was sentenced to four years in jail and fined $6M. Come July 24, the Chief Magistrate will make her ruling in that matter. The matter is being prosecuted by Sandiford also.
GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 20, 2018
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 20, 2018
Muritaro, Malali ask for help
Receding floodwaters in the community of Muritaro (Photos by Delano Williams)
– with provisions, other essentials to help weather the floods THE toshaos of Muritaro and Malali in Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) are asking not to be forgotten, as they too were affected by the recent floods which hit sev-
because the water isn’t running and it’s contaminated. “And there is where people’s children would now be running in the slush, and they get rashes on their skin; they get vom-
Muritaro Toshao, Loretta Fiedtkou
eral riverine communities in the region. On Tuesday, Toshao Loretta Fiedtkou told the Guyana Chronicle that in Muritaro, where some 300 persons reside, farmers representing 50 per cent of the population and young children are being greatly affected by the after effects of the floods. Fiedtkou said that although the floodwaters have receded to five inches and below, she is still concerned about the health threats which have emerged as a result of the mud, slush and stagnated water left behind. “When the water is rising, you don’t get that much problems; it’s when the water starts going down,” she said. “It takes time to go down, and the place is left sappy. And now there are mosquitoes,
iting and diarrhoea… “And when the water reaches this high, people who use pit latrines are affected.” Noting that the livelihoods of the village’s farmers, who plant mostly cassava, eddoe, plantain, banana and other cash crops, have also been affected. Fiedtkou says that last year she visited the Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) Democratic Council (RDC) to report on very similar situations but was unable to receive the needed assistance at the time. Now, as she calls on the assistance of the government, Fiedtkou also petitioned for the addressing of other grievances affecting the village. She said that about four years ago, the Guyana Water Inc. (GWI) had made efforts to drill a well in the community, but after encountering some chal-
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 20, 2018 lenges, the project was abandoned. “GWI went in a few years ago and they dug a well there, but that well that they put there, they did not bore down to the main vein because they said they encountered challenges, so it’s just top water coming out,” she said, adding: “We can’t use it for
Malali Toshao, Orlayne Williams
drinking purposes; it has oil, brass and mud, so normally what we do is either boil water or add two drops of bleach to the water.” At the same time, she also lobbied for the completion of the sanitary block which caters for the children at the village’s school. Over in Malali, Toshao
Orlayne Williams told the Guyana Chronicle that his community faces similar challenges to that of Muritaro. He said that many of the villagers are losing their main source of income and food, due to floodwaters which have affected the village’s mission, farming grounds, play field and creeks. “It’s affecting us because we can’t get to fish, because all over is water and swamp,” he said. “We depend upon fish every day because we fish to eat, not to sell. “So sometimes you can’t go about doing your daily work to the backdam, because the creeks swell up and so you have to turn back and go home. “We can’t use the water to drink; we have to use the creek water, and when the rain falls, we have to catch rain water.” The newly-elected toshao says the village has some 44 homes, and requested assistance for these residents, stating: “We need things to treat the water; tablets, mosquito nettings and some foodstuff.” He also called for work
to be done on the entrance road to the village, which he says can only be accessed by tractor. Just last week, also in Region 10, hundreds of
residents in Kwakwani had been hit drastically by some eight feet of floodwaters. The government, in quick response, had mobilised aid through the
Civil Defence Commission (CDC) to assist the community as the water began showing signs of receding after three or so weeks.
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Shooting during the documentary
Where’s my inheritance?
An interview being conducted for the documentary ‘Where’s my inheritance?’
FOR some Guyanese in the diaspora, ties to the motherland have become distorted after years of being abroad. Some don’t even know the Land of Many Waters, but have had the Guyanese identity passed onto them nevertheless. Knowledge of ancestry and legacy may slowly be fading away. But, for some young and vibrant Guyanese in the diaspora, reclaiming this Guyanese identity is tantamount. And this is why they have begun creating a documentary called “Where’s My
Producer and star of ‘Where’s my inheritance?’ Charisse Holder (left) and Minister of Public Telecommunications, Cathy Hughes
Inheritance?” Producing the documentary is Charisse Holder and Randy Harris, who are ‘New Yorkers’ of Guyanese descent; they are also being featured. The director is Jose Pena and the cinematographer is Tarik Smith. The four of them form the core team of the project. Speaking to the Pepperpot Magazine recently, Holder related
ended. For Holder, this documentary holds a great personal and sentimental value. “My father, who was an integral part of our journey, recently passed away and with this sudden loss, our team has incurred more vigour to not only complete this film but to broadcast this film on a global scale; to not only honour his legacy but to help create dialogue and a sense of identity to those [locally] and abroad [in] the African diaspora,” she shared. What makes this documentary quite unique too, is not only its content but the people crafting and recounting the story. “As filmmakers representing the African Diaspora within mostly white male-dominated industries (both film and advertising), we’re uniquely suited to tell this story of rediscovering and reclaiming the Black identity and legacy of those across the African Diaspora,” Holder said. Explaining the documentary more, Holder said the team journeyed back to their homeland to try to uncover the gems left by their ancestors and fellow country people to fill the missing pieces of ancestry and legacy. Importantly, it was highlighted that upon delving deeper into the Guyanese culture and its struggle with past governments to embrace this culture specifically across music, the economy, and entertainment, Holder and Harris learned that inheritance is far beyond the materialistic. Filming began in January this year and Holder noted that the
that the documentary looks at colonisation and its harmful effects on specifically the African diaspora, and also the journey towards reclaiming Black identity, following the lives of Holder and Harris as they travel to Guyana. “Our mission is to open the dialogue within the families and communities of colour,” Holder said and added, “We wish to share an experience that many dream of undertaking, in order to provide answers to much-needed questions about identity
after colonisation.” Moreover, due to cognisance that the rich history and culture may become distorted for the younger generations, she noted, “We hope that by producing such a film, we will amplify the voices of our ancestors and provide a much-needed narrative for Millennials and all generations that need a road map back to [their] self.” And even there, the drive behind this production has not
team used most of their own money to finance the film in Georgetown, Guyana and to cut a trailer. The team has been working with the Ministry of Public Telecommunications to get the project running also. Currently in post-production mode, however, Holder noted that the team really needs the help from all of their supporters to complete the film. During this post-production period, editors; cinematographers; sound engineers; technicians and many others are needed to help complete the film for all to enjoy. Donations can be made at www.gofundme.com/wmifilm and will go towards covering the cost of all production editing, producing and licensing fees; festival entrance fees and a host of business fees to protect the film. “We hope to be completed with the film by late summer and be able to enter the film into the festival circuit as well as secure online distribution among Netflix, Hulu, etc,” Holder mentioned. “We are also looking to work with the ministries in Guyana to hold a film premiere during the Guyana Independence celebration.”
GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, July 17, 2018
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Come get your #cookup Guyana’s first Afrobeat Party AS Emancipation approaches there will undoubtedly be numerous events that celebrate the hard-won freedom of our African ancestors and Guyana’s rich African heritage. Joining these events this year is the Emancipation Afrobeat Party “#cookup”. The party is slated for Saturday, July 28, 2018, from 20:00hrs on 704’s Rooftop at the corner of Albert and Lamaha Streets. “#cookup” is being sponsored by MAKEDA and is the first ever event of its kind to hit Guyana, according to the store’s owner, Aisha Haynes. The name “#cookup” was chosen for the event to represent Guyana’s culture. The dish cookup is rooted in African Guyanese culture and is very versatile and loved by all as Haynes noted. Cookup represents a mix and combination of traditional and modern, Africa and the diaspora. “And it is just delicious,” Haynes added. “#cookup” will display the combining elements of its namesake dish by having a mix of music and dance from Africa and the diaspora. The Afrobeats sound currently dominates the airwaves in all music genres, as seen in Kes’ “Hello”, WizKid’s “African Bad Gyal” (featuring Chris Brown) or
the music of African artists like Davido, P-Square, Yemi Alado and countless others. The sound has fully mainstreamed and the resulting hits can be heard at events and parties and in commercials around the world. “‘MAKEDA’, the brand that encourages us to ‘Express Yourself! The African Way!’ has decided to bring this different event and provide an experience for all right here in Guyana,” said Aisha. “#cookup” will feature DJs from Nigeria, Toronto and Guyana, all of whom have been crowned the best Afrobeats DJs in their respective regions. Among them will be DJ Revy B, a female
DJ who was voted the best in Afrobeats and made history as the first Afrobeats DJ to be featured on Seratocasts, SUPAFRIK, who are known for their popular Afrobeats parties and events like GUMBO which are held across North America, and the Party King/Soca King DJ Energy. The event will also have actual cookup with a sampler station where patrons can help themselves to different types of cookup, all included in the ticket price. There will also be a selfie corner, Wakanda face painting and the MAKEDA temporary tattoo station. A culturally significant Akwaaba (welcome) drink, with included souvenir cup, will greet the first hundred persons who enter and there will be giveaways and prizes for the best dressed African outfit and best Afrobeat dancer. “This will be an event that is built on creating a unique experience and guarantees a good time during this Emancipation Season.” Tickets to “#cookup” cost $6,000 and can be purchased at MAKEDA, located at 146 Albert Street, Bourda, between Regent and Charlotte Streets. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to ACDA Youth Programmes.
Youth Summit 2018 set to inspire and motivate youth to make a difference
CREATING a safe and positive space for youths to connect, motivate and inspire each other is the focus of Youth Summit 2018 which kicks off this weekend on the East Bank Demerara. Youth will be pushed by their peers to join and contribute positively to society. The event which is being hosted by the Kaneville Full Gospel Fellowship will commence this evening with an empowerment session at the Grove Full Gospel Church, then tomorrow the summit/ concert will be held at the Park Vue Hotel at Farm Public Road, East Bank Demerara. The church is located in a community which is usually plagued by social ills and viewed negatively so this religious institution decided to play its part to better the community that hundreds of persons call home. Pastor Kwame Wilson who is one of the organisers of the event, stated that they started about seven years ago within the walls of the church and have grown drastically throughout the country. “We felt that we needed to do something as young people to reach other young people
because we recognised a lot of young people were not interested in the church [because] they felt it was boring. So there we were, those saved in the church and in the walls comfortable and those outside facing these social ills, and it seemed like nobody had any time with them and so we decided to start hosting this event to bridge the cap through positive entertainment,” he said. The church has partnered with several non-governmental organisations and government ministries in the past and hosted activities to raise
awareness against suicide and gender-based violence. The events also featured international gospel artists such as Papa San, Positive and DJ Nicholas and Guyana’s Samuel Medas. This year’s event will again feature DJ Nicholas and Samuel Medas among many other talented performers. The church will use the funds to develop projects to benefit the youth and develop communities. Tickets cost $1,500 which gives you access to all the events.
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‘COHESION’ A RECENT set of obligated encounters which ‘the obligation’ prohibits me from relating verbatim what has convinced me that the ideal of National Cohesion requires exploring in the context of peering into the existing cauldron. For too long, ‘the prominent guilty’ group of politicians and social authorities has fed their supporters its psychotic brew generating fragmented hallucinations that keep them fettered to the philosophy of the cauldron where only blind hate and its legion of deceptions of scorn and treachery persist. A soul must evolve out of the truth of self, with a greater understanding to come to terms with the physical and invisible currents that compose the organic humanity we are manifest within.
The challenge to cohesion is not the human variations that encounter and engage each other on ‘civi-street’ daily. The challenge against cohesion ferments among the power seekers, in politics, business and even among professionals who recognise that what cohesion entails is not merely smiling with each other at arranged functions, but a deeper understanding of each other along timelines that explain the pockets of history and pseudo history so often extracted and hyped to represent the whole. The Guyanese nation evolved along different experiences, from different backgrounds and cultural tenets. Details that remain unknown about each other from group to group, as they fell into the model the colonial state constructed for them, compound-
ing already existing confusion into functioning stereotypes and subliminal hostilities. The influences that mainly shaped our self-perceptions in 1890 were not all devised by colonialism, most of the views of ‘the other’ common with some
groups, harkened to doctrine and ancient biased views inculcated centuries before arriving in British Guiana (Guyana). Cohesion is today resuscitated, in 1973, just out of school and along with former GYC members. I was a pioneer at the Kuru Kuru College, the KAYS (Kuru-Kuru Agri-Industrial Young Settlers) cooperative society was just launched. This was a multi-ethnic group of youth. Some things were rumoured to be happening on the coast since it was an election year. We approached the manager Skipper Gordon, from Buxton, questioning why, since the PPP had started the troubles in 1961/4 (still alive in our young minds, minus a holistic comprehension). Why did the government not charge them and place them in jail? He looked at us and smiled at us informing us that Guyana needed all its ‘sons’ to build it. He referred that we were in charge of the facility (farm, chickens, pigs, cash crops block-making and water supply to contractors) because we were not old enough to vote, but were responsible. The concept of cohesion; the intention was alive in that system back then, but only in the philosophy of the administration. A different opposite doctrine haunted the provincial constituency of the opposition because the objectives of political power required the sacrifice of nationhood. Political power insisted on the myths of rigged elections, economic sabotage, ethnic collective
A cultural, biological vibe that commands a new landscape
defamation and the extraction of the selective areas of history devoid of the complete story, to ferment victimhood. This was politics for the sake of power, greed – selfish purposes, at the ultimate sacrifice of the nation. It can be concluded that this capacity to contrive lies and misguide can eventually convince one’s self of deliberate fictions, separating through mantra self-brainwashing, any ability to relate to the pursuit of balance, self-examination and closure. The danger is, when you create a cult of hate, double standards and intentional treachery as a practice, imposing it on others outside of the collective historical and cultural timeline, malevolence cannot be turned off, ever, without consequences. It must be confronted, worn down and beaten when confronted and whipped with the manicole broom of factual exposure, as all cult cycles do. If left unchallenged, it will damn, inflict injury and death on the ‘other’, then control both perpetrators of doctrine and its captured victims, until the eventual emergence of indelible truths. Human history is full of episodes of faith-in-faction obsessed madness, our modern history in Guyana included. The simple effort to realise cohesive inroads is to identify and dispel the idols on the altars of political intended fictions. Most of the misused historical, cultural, religious and political topics and dogma used for propaganda were left to ferment by the very human material targeted, in a sim-
plistic optimism that they will eventually fade away because they are not true, this is not objective nor realistic, it will not happen. For example, the Judeo/Christian philosophy and mysteries are grounded in African realities because they were extracted from African templates. Try telling that to most Afro Guyanese Christians, after 500 years of slavetrade and colonising biblical manipulation, that historical memory is buried too deep. Guyana needs to tell its history of politics, culture and specific economic periods in simple formats so that access can behave without the challenging stress of a thousand page academic intimidation. Yes, there are citizens who will tell you that literature that is more than a 24-page booklet, and without graphics, that they’re not going to try to read it, and they are the majority. But to lift the political-ethnic fabricated original sins from weighing down their self-esteem. They need to know. There must be a reference pool of relevant information; illustrated booklets on [A] the 70’s Oil crisis impact on Guyana [B] A timeline of dates on events from 1961-64] [C] The story of Venezuelan economic strangulation from 1962 to 2015 [D] The history of Sugar- up and downhill’s from 1832 to 2015] among others. Cohesion must begin by planting the seed of informative truths, to grow into formidable trees bearing liberating fruit.
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Naya Zamana 22
set for August 25
IT’S the weekend and we all want to have some fun after a long week of work! So here are some events that you can start off the weekend with rather than be cooped up at home. Get out and get your buzz on! TODAY The Vintage Wine Bar, Restaurant & Lounge presents Latin Night. Get two Desperado Tequila Beers for $1,000 For an after-work hang with friends, you can head down to Cheto’s Hot Spot &Pool Bar where you get to enjoy five Banks Beers for $1,000. Enjoy games such as pool, dominoes and darts and also enjoy a wide variety of cutters, fish, chicken and wild meat and DJ mixes all night. TOMORROW Generation Next presents their Games Night. Come and enjoy tons of games and prizes. Food and drinks will also be on sale. This event will be taking place at Lot 7 D’Urban Street Wortmanville, Georgetown, Guyana. Alpha & Ashanti alongside Trendsetter present a BBQ and dance called “Greatness”. This is going to be a dance to remember. Music by special DJs such as Hot Skull Dj David and DJ Cerdic straight out of Jamaica. This event will be going down at 23 Princess Street Lodge. Aces & Bar brings to you the party called “Lipstick & Heels”. Ladies this one is for you! Come out because this is going to be grand! Music by DJ Energy. The bar is located at 92 Second Street Albertown. The East Bank will be having their annual Beauty Pageant. Get a chance to see these beauties. This event will be taking place at the Grove Ground. Lash Pot family presents their Bagotville Third Annual Street Jam- Bawl out vs Walking Trophy. This party will be mad, with lots of prizes giving away to females. To miss is to diss! SUNDAY Bravo Arts is hosting its Masked Face Painting Competition at the Giftland Mall. Competitors will face off with their best face painting skills. Come out and see some of the best artists do their thing! The fun starts at 20:00hrs. Pic saved as buzzing
-will be hosted at the National Cultural Centre
Naya Zamana 221- Two dancers who will be part of the stage show during the photoshoot of Naya Zamana 22 (Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha photo)
THE public has asked for it and on Saturday, August 25, the National Cultural Centre will come alive when the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha will stage yet another spectacular annual theatrical production of Naya Zamana. This year will be the 22nd year since the production has been taking the stage with dances complimented with drama. According to a release from the Sabha, the event will be set against a breathtaking backdrop-one that will capture its loyal fans’ hearts. The event is hosted annually in both Guyana and in New York. The release said that tickets for the show are highly coveted and are grabbed quickly by theatre-goers. The creative vision of Dr. Vindhya Vasini Persaud who scripts, directs, choreographs and produces Naya Zamana is beautifully embellished by Trishala Simantini Persaud’s artistry in the dazzling and beautiful costumes that are a signature of the production. “Special lighting and sounds will be added in an effort to enhance the effects. The vibrant and cutting-edge choreography and the new story each year captures the emotions of the audience as they are taken on a roller coaster of the actors’ journeys of romance, ambition, jealousy and other battles,” the release stated. The liberal interspersing of Bollywood, creative, lyrical and Indian classical and folk dance by graceful and energetic dancers will make the production magical, memorable and certainly something persons must attend. Tickets for Naya Zamana 22 are on sale at the National Cultural Centre, Dharmic Kendra, Red Mango, E-Networks and Bhagwan’s and cost $3,500, $3,000 and $2,000.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 20, 2018
Guinness ‘Greatest...
FROM BACK PAGE
IT’S a fact that the street football phenomenon, known as the Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ competition, is the most anticipated event in the shorter version of the sport, and the 9th Edition is shaping up to provide a wonderful experience for the fans. The Guinness brand under Manager Lee Baptiste has every intention to make this year’s national playoffs as inclusive as possible and all the stops are being pulled out to ensure that the tournament’s legacy is enhanced and made secure. Organiser Banks DIH has attempted every year since the tournament’s inauguration to improve some aspect of the experience for the fans and players and this year’s national playoffs will be bigger and better. Last year saw the introduction of colourful uniforms and balls in keeping with the new trend seen internationally and, apart from a duplication of that effort, the organisers are planning to make seating accommodation available for fans so that more persons could share
the wonderful experience of witnessing the games. Teams have begun to intensify preparations and as usual the quality on display over the three nights is nothing short of fantastic. With the Bartica Zone just concluded and its representatives decided, players now have the opportunity to showcase the talent of that community against the more established communities of Georgetown, East Coast, Linden and West Demerara and the early whispers are that the newcomers will adequately acquit themselves, judging from the performance of zone winner Disconnection Crew who have a few Brazilians in their lineup. They will definitely want to prove something against the opposition and vindicate their presence in the tournament. Linden’s Dave & Celena All Stars who became the first team outside of Georgetown to win the national Guinness will no doubt be aiming to prove that last year’s performance was no fluke, while the Georgetown entries will be looking to reclaim lost glory. Then there are the dark horses from the other communities who are yet to stamp their authority in the big tournament; but just as the reigning champions showed, the gap is closing among all the teams. This year could prove to be a blockbuster extravaganza and one that fans will truly enjoy. At this point it is anyone’s guess what will be the outcome of this tournament with all the teams raring and ready to rumble. The tournament opens on July 27, at Pouderoyen tarmac, West Demerara and then moves to Haslington tarmac, East Coast Demerara on July 1, before the final showdown set for July 4, at the Guyana National Stadium. The teams that have qualified are listed below: Georgetown: Gold is Money (champions), Sparta Boss, Leopold Street and Bent Street. East Coast: Uprising (champions), Paradise, Melanie-B and Buxton Diamond. West Demerara: Showstoppers (champions), ESPN and West Side Ballers Linden: Silver Bullets (champions), Dave and Celina’s All-Stars (National champions) and Swag Entertainment. Berbice: Trafalgar (champions) Bartica: Disconnection Crew (champions)
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Thomas extends Tour lead amid unsavoury scenes at l’Alpe d’Huez By Julien Pretot L’ALPE D’HUEZ, France (Reuters) - Geraint Thomas became the first man to win up l’Alpe d’Huez with the yellow jersey on his shoulders yesterday as he extended his Tour de France overall lead amid unsavoury scenes while sparking fresh questions about the Team Sky leadership. Thomas, who took the yellow jersey when he won Wednesday’s 11th stage, prevailed again in a dramatic 12th at top of the 21-hairpinned climb, one of the most iconic of the Tour. On the mountain where disgraced Lance Armstrong won a time trial in yellow in 2004 before being disqualified for doping, Welshman Thomas found himself heavily booed by the crowd at the podium ceremony. His Team Sky leader, fellow Briton and reigning
champion Chris Froome, who finished fourth, was also jeered all the way up the famous ascent. Thomas accelerated in the last stretch to beat Dutchman Tom Dumoulin and France’s Romain Bardet who were second and third, two and three seconds behind respectively. Froome, booed on the run-in, was also three seconds off the pace. Sky have been hugely unpopular in France after doping allegations have been repeatedly made during Froome’s triumphant rides on the Tour. Froome was cleared of a doping offence after testing positive for excessive levels of an anti-asthmatic drug during last year’s Vuelta. It has not abated the French public’s anger towards the Briton, who already had urine thrown at him during the 2015 Tour. “Honestly I’m speechless. I
Cricket Canada,...
FROM PAGE 31
The victory was engineered by a fantastic unbeaten 134 by 19-year-old Guyanese Sherfane Rutherford whose 66-ball boundary-studded knock was spiced with 10 massive sixes and 11 fours and was the only century of the tournament. Inexperience finally took its toll on CWI B as they stuttered to defeat against the same opponents in the final, a loss that was by no means a disgrace, following their earlier exploits. The tournament organisers have promised that with more time to market the tournament next year, the possibility of starting shuttle
services for fans from central points to King City is very much on the cards. Indications are that there will be no major change as far as venue is concerned for the next few years although ardent cricket fans are hoping that the organisers will be able to persuade officials of the Toronto Cricket Skating and Curling Club into an agreement for the use of that facility which is more centrally located from downtown Toronto. Promises have also been made to construct a stadium but that seems far off at the moment but there’s no doubt Global T20 Canada is here to stay.
Malik confirmed... FROM PAGE 31
According to the management, tickets will only be available for the first three matches. Regarding the final two group matches on September 8 (Jamaica Tallawahs) and September 9 (Trinbago Knight Riders), an announcement will be made at a later date when those will be released. The first three home matches are scheduled
to be played at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence as follows: Thursday, August 9 – Guyana Amazon Warriors v St Kitts Patriots at 18:00hrs. Saturday, August 11 – Guyana Amazon Warriors v St Lucia Stars at 16:00hrs. Sunday, August 12 – Guyana Amazon Warriors v Barbados Tridents at 18:00hrs.
Team Sky rider Geraint Thomas of Britain wins the stage. (REUTERS/Benoit Tessier)
don’t know what to say. Not a chance in hell I thought I was going to win today. I just followed Dumoulin and Bardet,” said a dumbfounded Thomas. He kept his cool as attacks came from Vincenzo Nibali, Bardet and Nairo Quintana, who slipped
further down the rankings after being dropped in the second part of the ascent. Dutchman Steven Kruijswijk, who was a threat in the general classification, opened up a six-minute lead with an early attack but Sky never panicked and their Colombian prod-
igy Egan Bernal did an awe-inspiring job on the final ascent to rein in the Lotto-Jumbo NL rider. “I can be happy for sure now. Maybe I can keep the yellow jersey for the next few days, but this race is so hard. You never know how the body reacts,” added Thomas. Champion Froome was constantly jeered on the last stretch, a 13.8-km effort on an average gradient of 7.9 percent, with one spectator hitting him on the shoulder. “Obviously it’s not nice (the boos) but everyone is entitled to their opinion, but we need to be safe. You can boo, be vocal, but don’t affect the race,” said Thomas. Overall, Thomas now leads Froome by one minute 39 seconds and Dumoulin by 1:50. Former champion Vincenzo Nibali crashed with
about four kilometres left and ended seventh, 13 seconds off the pace. “There were two police motorbikes and the road became narrow, there were no barriers and Froome attacked, traffic slowed down and I fell. My back hurts. I had trouble breathing and now I don’t feel well standing,” said the Italian. Thomas, who did not respond to Froome’s initial attack, said on Wednesday the four-time champion remained the team leader, but he appeared to be the strongest rider at l’Alpe d’Huez. “In my eyes, Froomey is still our leader,” said Thomas. The sprinters’ field was ravaged after stage winners Fernando Gaviria and Dylan Groenewegen, as well as Andre Greipel, abandoned exhausted after a demanding opening block of racing in extreme heat.
Edgbaston to host 2019 Ashes series opener (REUTERS) - England’s bid to regain the Ashes next year will begin with the first Test against Australia at Edgbaston, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) announced yesterday. Edgbaston, where England are unbeaten since 2009, will get the five-Test series underway from August 1 from 5, with matches following at Lord’s, Headingley, Old Trafford and the Oval. Australia recorded a comprehensive 4-0 rout over England at home earlier this year but they have not won an away Ashes series since Steve Waugh’s side triumphed 4-1 in 2001. The Ashes will kick off the inaugural World Test Championship, which will see nine top-ranked Test nations compete in a league over a two-year cycle. England are also scheduled to meet Ireland at Lord’s in a four-day Test, July 2427, their first Test of fewer than five days since the tour of New Zealand in 1971. “We expect next summer’s inaugural Test Match at Lord’s against our neighbours to be a historic celebra-
tion for all Irish cricket fans,” ECB chief executive Tom Harrison said in a statement. “It will also provide excellent Ashes preparation for England against an Irish team whose impressive performance against Pakistan earlier this year showed they can compete strongly in this form of the game.” Pakistan will be England’s first opponents of the home international season next year, with their tour featuring five one-day internationals (ODI) and one Twenty20, as both countries prepare for the 50-overs World Cup starting on May 30. England’s 2019 home schedule: May 5: Only Twenty20 v Pakistan, Cardiff May 8: First ODI v Pakistan, the Oval May 11: Second ODI v Pakistan, Southampton May 14: Third ODI v Pakistan, Bristol May 17: Fourth ODI v Pakistan, Trent Bridge May 19: Fifth ODI v Pakistan, Headingley July 24-27: Only Test v Ireland, Lord’s
Aug. 1-5: First Test v Australia, Edgbaston August 14-18: Second Test v Australia, Lord’s August 22-26: Third Test v Australia, Head-
English Racing Tips Newbury 09:00 hrs Sheriffmuir 09:30 hrs Tatsia 10:05 hrs Rococo 10:35 hrs Emaratty Ana 11:10 hrs Nathan 11:40 hrs Air Of York 12:10 hrs Marshal Dan
ingley September 4-8: Fourth Test v Australia, Old Trafford September 12-16: Fifth Test v Australia, the Oval
Haydock 09:10 hrs Kannapolis 09:40 hrs Five Angels 10:15 hrs Lethal Lunch 10:45 hrs Glamorous Rocket 11:50 hrs Ashington 12:20 hrs Golden Quest
South Africa Racing Tips Fairview Irish Racing Tips 08:30 hrs bAviatrix Kilbeggan 09:10 hrs Arabian Dynasty 12:55 hrs Robin De Carlow 09:40 hrs Beataboutthebush 13:25 hrs Dreamtide 10:15 hrs Pillar Of Hercules 14:25 hrs I Keano 10:45 hrs Mega Scene 15:00 hrs Barra 15:30 hrs Wounded Warrior American Racing Tips 16:00 hrs Joluvy Saratoga Race 1 Haloween Horror Hamilton Race 2 Too Foofoo For You 12:45 hrs Jacob Black Race 3 Formal Start 13:20 hrs Showout Race 4 Azzedine 13:50 hrs Mujassam Race 5 Mertz 14:20 hrs Ower Fly Race 6 Cosita Mia 14:55 hrs Raymond Tusk Race 7 Cumbria 15:25 hrs Atticus Boy Race 8 Fightress 15:55 hrs Quoteline Direct Race 9 Heavenly Love
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 20, 2018
‘Confident Britton’ gunning for table tennis gold at CAC Games By Michelangelo Jacobus
I’ll open this article with a quote from the first black tennis player to be selected to the United States Davis Cup team and the only black male ever to win the singles title at Wimbledon, the US Open, and the Australian Open. His name is (the late) Arthur Ashe and he once said; “One important key to success is self-confidence. An important key to self-confidence is preparation”. This
is something that one of Guyana’s top National table tennis players, Shemar Britton, stands by. Currently in Barranquilla, Colombia, for the 23rd Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games, 20-year-old Britton is relying on his confidence and form to propel him to at least produce a medal-winning performance. Speaking to Chronicle Sport, Britton revealed, “I’m as confident as I’ve ever been. I’m of the belief that once I’m at my best, I’m as
hard to beat as anyone else there.” Being well prepared has led him to the belief that he can beat anyone in Colombia; “I’ve been training nonstop since the start of the year so I’ll say I’m reasonably prepared, I would have liked to have been to a few overseas training camps in preparation for these championships but that wasn’t possible this time around.” One of the problems that he had faced in recent times was not being compe-
tition-ready. However that will not be the case this time around according to the ace player. “Most times, heading into competitions like this I’m usually a bit ring-rusty, but this time around I’m as competition-ready as I’ve ever been.” One of the main areas that Britton will be looking to improve on at the CAC Games is the closing of matches, this definitely means keeping my focus throughout the duration of matches and not letting games slip out of my hands as I’ve had happened on a few occasions earlier this year.” With all his preparation and focus renewed, Britton has set his sights on bringing home medals. “My main aim in Colombia is just to leave everything on the table in every single
Shemar Britton
match, as long as I do that I’ll accept whatever results that come but of course I hope those results can lead to medals.” Britton began his tournament yesterday with the team competition getting underway in the group stage.
The Guyanese table tennis team consists of Britton, Matthew Khan (coach), Godfrey Munroe (coach), Priscilla Greaves, Trenace Lowe, Christopher Franklin, Natalie Cummings, Nigel Bryan, Joel Alleyne and Chelsea Edghill.
North Essequibo reiterates call for transparency by the GCB THE North Essequibo Cricket Committee (NECC), in a press release recently, has once again repeated its call for the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) to conduct free and fair elections. North Essequibo, which is a constituent member of the Essequibo Cricket Board (ECB), strongly condemned further delay in the process to have elections. The Committee, in its statement, describes the current state of affairs as unacceptable and a violation of the fundamental and constitutional rights of the county boards to elect its officials. The Committee is fully supportive of the Cricket Administration Bill which was passed in Parliament to govern cricket locally and nationally. One of the requirements governing the act is the appointment of an Ombudsman
by the Minister of Sport. This is still to materialise and the Committee has noted with concern the hasty appointment of an Ombudsman by the Guyana Cricket Board. Without transparency at the level of the GCB, the Committee notes that the national sport stands to suffer severely at the hands of a selected few, who have been systematically isolating certain constituencies from the administration of the game. In one instance, the Committee cited a reprehensible act by the senior official of the GCB to stymie the career of a promising young umpire of Amerindian descent. The Committee noted that the individual was selected by the panel to officiate in the last regional Under-15 tournament held in Guyana but under the instruction of the official, he was unceremoniously removed from the list. He would have been the first person from the Pomer-
oon to officiate at the national level. The Committee also stated that the acting president of the GCB is the Chairman of the Pomeroon Cricket Committee, yet he failed to represent the individual from being discriminated. The individual has since abandoned any further attempt to pursue his dreams. The official of the GCB is also a Director of Cricket West Indies and sits on the panel of selecting Regional umpires. These types of autocratic and destructive acts are frighteningly creeping into the administration of cricket which the Committee is demanding must cease immediately. The Committee further reiterates its call for the Minister with responsibility for Sport Dr George Norton to intervene swiftly and end the current impasse of the illegal GCB which has not held democratic elections for the past six years.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 20, 2018
Hamilton signs £40M-a-year deal with Mercedes until 2020 WORLD champion Lewis Hamilton will race for Mercedes in Formula 1 for at least a further two seasons. The 33-year-old Briton has signed a new contract with the German manufacturer that lasts until the end of 2020. BBC Sport understands Hamilton will earn at least £30M a year, rising to a maximum of £40M, depending on bonuses. Hamilton said a new contract had been “a formality” since he sat down with Mercedes F1 boss Toto Wolff to begin discussions last winter. He said: “It’s good to put pen to paper, announce it and then get on with business as usual. “I have been part of the Mercedes racing family for 20 years and I have never
been happier inside a team than I am right now. “We are on the same wavelength both on and off track - and I am looking forward to winning more in the future and shining even more light on the three-pointed star. I’m very confident that Mercedes is the right place to be over the coming years.” Mercedes have dominated F1 since the introduction of turbo hybrid engines in 2014, winning four consecutive drivers’ and constructors’ championship doubles. Hamilton has won three of those titles, with the fourth going to former team-mate Nico Rosberg, who retired after becoming champion in 2016. Hamilton’s first world title came with McLaren, using Mercedes engines, in
2008. He is eight points behind Ferrari’s Sebastian Vettel in this year’s championship before this weekend’s German Grand Prix, which marks the halfway point of the season. Hamilton added: “Although we have enjoyed so much success together since 2013, Mercedes is hungrier than ever. “The competitive passion that burns bright inside me is shared by every single member of this group - always chasing the next improvement and digging even deeper to make sure we come out on top. “I can’t wait to see what we can achieve together in the next two and a half seasons.” Wolff said: “There has understandably been a lot of interest and speculation
around the whole process, so it’s good to put all of that to rest and get this thing announced. “We signed the final documents this week and didn’t want to keep people waiting any longer! “There is not much about Lewis as a Formula 1 driver that hasn’t been said already - he is one of the all-time
greats and his track record speaks for itself. “But what I enjoy most about working with him is getting to know the man inside the racing helmet: his relentless drive for self-improvement, his emotional intelligence as a team member and his loyalty to those around him. “Mercedes has become
Lewis’ home in Formula 1. I am very confident that we have some incredible chapters of our story together still to come.” Mercedes still have to confirm the identity of Hamilton’s team-mate after this season, but Finn Valtteri Bottas is expected to be confirmed in the coming weeks. (BBC Sport)
Rashid set for recall to England Injury keeps Marlon Samuels Test team after one-day heroics out of Windies ODI squad
England leg-spinner Adil Rashid
TREVOR Bayliss has indicated Adil Rashid is in line for a Test recall for the series against India despite the fact the leg-spinner opted out of playing red-ball cricket earlier in the year. The England head coach was fulsome in his praise of Rashid after he starred in the one-day series win against India, the highlight of which was an outrageous delivery that bowled Virat Kohli in the deciding match at Headingley on Tuesday. The 30-year-old made the last of his 10 Test appearances against India in Chennai in December 2016 and had seemingly abandoned his ambitions to play any more when
he signed a white-ball-only contract with Yorkshire at the start of the summer. Speaking the immediate aftermath of England’s win at Headingley, Rashid indicated he would reconsider that stance, saying: “At this moment in time I’m just concentrating on whiteball cricket. But in the meantime if something comes about I’ll be happy.” Bayliss has said chief selector Ed Smith, who picked Jos Buttler based purely on whiteball form for the first Test series of the summer against Pakistan, is likely to have a conversation with Rashid to gauge his appetite for a return – potentially for the first Test at Edgbaston
starting on 1 August. “That’s a decision Adil’s got to make,” said Bayliss. “I’m not sure whether Ed Smith’s had a chat with him or not. Could he get picked in the Test team on white-ball form? It’s already happened once this year. I’m sure he’ll be up for discussion, definitely. “This year is probably the best we’ve seen him bowl. His control and his consistency has been top class.” Bayliss confirmed Ben Stokes will play in the first Test against India despite fears he could be distracted by his impending court case. The all-rounder will miss the second match of the series at Lord’s as it clashes with his trial at Bristol Crown Court on a charge of affray. Given the scheduled conclusion of the Edgbaston Test is just a day before the trial starts it would be understandable if England decided to overlook Stokes. However, Bayliss said: “Ben’s the all-round package and just lifts everyone. Look, it’s not the best situation not having him there for Lord’s but we want him available for as many games as possible.”(Yahoo Sport).
WINDIES middle-order batsman Marlon Samuels was excluded from the 13man squad named to play Bangladesh in the upcoming ODI matches because of injury. The veteran batsman, who is recovering from a knee injury, is currently undergoing rehabilitation. On Monday, Windies selectors named the squad to face Bangladesh in three ODI matches starting on July 22 in Guyana. Samuels was noticeably absent from the squad that saw the return of fast bowler Alzarri Joseph and all-rounder Andre Russell. Cricket West Indies (CWI sources told SportsMax.TV that Samuels was only left out because of injury and is expected to feature for the regional side once he recovers. Samuels is seen as a key player in the Windies run-up to the 2019 ICC World Cup in England. Samuels, speaking with SportsMax. TV yesterday, confirmed the injury which he has been carrying since the ICC World Cup qualifying tournament in Zimbabwe in March. “Since the world cup qualifying, I couldn’t stay on the field. The coach asked me to do a job so I had to force through in terms of the batting because the coach said those wickets down there would suit me, so I had to tough it out, take a lot of painkillers, but it’s been three months now since the world cup qualifying and the tear in my knee is continuing to give me problems but it is feeling much better and I have been doing some rehab,” Samuels revealed.
Marlon Samuels was left out of Windies squad because of a longstanding knee injury.
He praised Cricket West Indies (CWI) for providing him with the support. “The Windies board has been playing a significant role (in his rehab). They sent me to do an MRI and I have been doing my rehab so they have been playing a good role in making sure I am rehabilitating well,” Samuels said. He said he is taking a day-by-day approach to the healing process and hopefully will be back to full fitness soon. “I am not where I want to be in terms of going back on the field. I am still having a bit of problem but I am getting much better as I am able to run up and down my steps and I am using the pool very often so we are getting there slowly but surely.” (SportsMax)
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 20, 2018
Fundamentals of cricket should be inculcated at the grassroots level, says Jacobs
By Rajiv Bisnauth
NATIONAL cricketer Steven Jacobs feels the return of the Malteenoes Cricket Academy is a timely one, since the fundamentals of the game should be inculcated at the grassroots level. Jacobs’s comments came yesterday at a press conference, where the organisers of the Academy briefed the media on the two-week programme. “The Academy is very important, since we need to start from the grassroots level. It is important to learn the fundamentals of the game early,” Jacobs said. The former West Indies Under-19 captain also feels
From left, Orin Bailey who is the head coach of the Academy, Winston Semple, Sean Devers and Steven Jacobs.
the further revival of the game locally hinges on how much emphasis is placed on development at the grassroots level. “Years back cricket was so vibrant, because we had those programmes,
where youngsters learnt the fundamentals of the game at an early age, so we at Malteenoes are looking to bring back those days,” the 29-year-old opined. This year’s Academy is scheduled from July 23 to
August 3, and according to president Winston Semple, MSC’s principal intention is to add to the National grid at least 150 young, proud, confident individuals on an annual basis. The Academy will in-
volve boys and girls aged 6-13 and 14-18. It will include classroom and field work which will provide training to become cricketers, umpires, scorers, journalists and broadcasters. Meanwhile, MSC’s Public Relations Officer Sean Devers, in acknowledging the importance of the Academy, pointed out that children from less privileged backgrounds will also get the opportunity to showcase their talents, since the organisers have catered for 18 less fortunate children. The Academy produced Test players Ramnaresh Sarwan, Ryan Ramdass and Narsingh Deonarine, along with former USA captain Steve Massiah who played two ODIs for the
USA while Azeemul Haniff and Ricardo Mohamed played First-Class cricket. Karran Ganesh, Sauid Drepaul, Ravi Sarwan, Bachan Balram, Colin Murray, Karran Ganesh and Vishal Arjune all played National Youth Cricket. After a break the Academy was reintroduced in 2016 on a much smaller scale but was again interrupted last year due to the unavailability of coaches who were occupied with CPL duties. Registration forms can be had from the Malteenoes Club. Call 225-6509 for more information. The Malteenoes Cricket Academy was launched in July 1993 in recognition of the Club’s Motto: ‘Our Youth, Our Future’.
GBTI Tennis Open serves off National youth teams benefit from capacity-
Sarah Klautky
THE 8th annual GBTI Tennis Open served off last Monday and the competition was intense
amongst players. Ronald Murray started off the first set competitively against Joshua Kaleykeyzi and successfully won 6-0, 6-7, 6-3. The second set, Kaleykeyzi was in control of the game and brought the second set to a tiebreak 6-6 (7-5). Murray prevailed in 6-3 with aggressive rallies in the third set. In the Over-35 category, Andre Lopes trounced Surrendra Khayyam 6-0, 6-0; Sandeep Chand thrashed Steve David 6-0, 6-3. In the Mixed Doubles Open, Leyland Leacock/
CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Friday July 20, 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) WI won the series 2-0 (2) Jason Holder Today’s Quiz: (1) How many times the WI and Bangladesh have contested ODIs against each other to date? (2) Who were the captains involved when the WI & BANG first played an ODI game against each other? Answer in tomorrow's issue
Kizzy Richmond won 6-0, 6-1. Vaedenand Resaul was defeated by Mark McDonald in the Boys Singles, 6-4, 6-1, Nigel Lowe blanked Jared Cruickshank 6-0, 6-0, Jeremiah Kaleykeyzi beat Adesh Khayyam 6-4, 6-1. Sarah Klautky got the better of Kalyca Fraser in the Girls Singles, 6-4, 0-6, 10-6.
Nigel Lowe
building sessions during encampment
THE male and female youth teams, which recently wrapped up national encampment, have benefited from two sessions aimed at building their capacity for understanding the Laws of the Game and interacting with the media. The sessions, held on July 11 and 12, were facilitated by GFF’s Head of Refereeing Department, Stanley Lancaster, and Communications and Public Relations Officer Debra Francis who addressed the Laws of the Game and offered tips on media interaction respectively. According to Lancaster, the Laws of The Game discussion focused on explaining it in an ageappropriate manner to the group. Emphasis was placed on the Laws applicable to the age group being targeted. “We explained Laws 4–12, which address a crosssection of issues including player kit, ball in and out of play, determining the outcome of the match, the principle governing offside, fouls and misconduct, the importance of discipline on the pitch, and procedure for kicks from the penalty mark. The Law relative to the functions of the goalkeeper was also explained,”
Stanley Lancaster presents ‘The Laws of the Game’ to the National youth teams.
Lancaster said. Meanwhile, Francis, in her interactive session, addressed areas relative to being a guest on a media interview: how to introduce oneself, the art of the handshake, dress, responding to questions, posture and concluding the interview. She underscored the importance of national players having the skill to effectively engage the media. The national youth teams are preparing for the Caribbean Football Union (CFU) Boys U-14 Challenge Trophy, August 2-12 in Curacao and the CONCACAF Girls U-15 Championship from August 6 to 13 at the IMG Academy, Florida, USA. The next encampment with the shortlisted squads
is scheduled for July 2226 and July 29-August 1 respectively. Guyana are one of five countries placed in Group C of the CFU Boys U-14 Challenge Trophy along with Curacao, Bonaire, Trinidad & Tobago and Aruba while the U-15 Girls have been placed in Group E with The Bahamas, Cayman Islands and St Lucia. Guyana are scheduled to play their first match in the U-15 Championship against St Lucia on August 6 at 11:00hrs, followed by Cayman Islands on August 7 at 09:00hrs and The Bahamas on August 9 at 11:00hrs. The playoff will begin on August 10, following the Group qualifiers, with the finals set for August 13 at 11:00hrs.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 20, 2018
Cricket Canada, Mercuri deserve ...Says Frederick Halley to take a bow CRICKET Canada president Ranjit Saini and organisers of the inaugural Global T20 Canada cricket tournament deserve to take a bow for the splendid effort made in staging an event of such magnitude. According to an excited Saini, “In many ways, GT20 has kindled hope of a new and vibrant Cricket Canada, you can take my word on it, a new cricket nation is in the making.” As expected and not surprisingly, there were itches but by the time the tournament climaxed at King City last Sunday, both Cricket Canada and league owner Gurmeet Singh of Mercuri Canada must have been pleased with the bold and exciting start in what promises to be years of fruitful entertainment for cricket-starved Torontonians. That the spectators chose the final day to come out in their numbers after disappointing attendance in the previous matches was quite understandable, taking into consideration the location of the ground and the times the matches were being played. The organisers were able to attract a galaxy of international stars, including West Indians Chris Gayle and An-
Sherfane Rutherford celebrates his brilliant undefeated 134.
dre Russell plus banned Australian stars Steve Smith and David Warner among others which should be considered a plus when so many leagues around the globe are staging tournaments of this nature. What was quite significant was the fact that Singh disclosed that he only acquired licence for the tournament in April and was contemplating whether he should go ahead with its first staging this year, taking into consideration the time factor, or wait until 2019. In the end, a decision was taken to go ahead this year since they were also assured of getting the “big name” players. The organisers also felt
that North America was in dire need of a professional cricket league and it was essential to explore the market with the full understanding that profits wouldn’t be imminent and that they are prepared to sustain losses for at least the first three years. Originally set to be played at three venues, Cricket Canada and the organisers ruled out Sunnybrook and the Toronto Cricket Skating and Curling Club and instead settled for the Maple Leaf Cricket Club ground, King City for the tournament which had the blessings of the International Cricket Conference (ICC). Prior to the commencement of the tournament,
Malik confirmed as Amazon Warriors captain … brings into team a lot of professionalism, says Khan By Rajiv Bisnauth PAKISTAN all-rounder Shoaib Malik was confirmed yesterday as the Guyana Amazon Warriors captain for the sixth edition of the Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL). Malik has emerged as the top candidate for the challenging job, based on his captaincy experience, having led Pakistan’s senior side and recently Multan Sultans, the Pakistan Super League T20 team, according to the Guyana Amazon Warriors Team Operations Manager, Omar Khan. “Shoaib (Malik) has
tremendous experience in T20 cricket. He is a former Pakistan captain, he has captained a number of T20 franchises and he brings into the team a lot of professionalism, a level of discipline, that level of team spirit and that organisation that we think will add,” Khan, a former West Indies team manager said. Malik had previously represented the Barbados Tridents in the last five editions of the tournament. He had a decent stint with the Tridents in the last five years, where
Vancouver Knights in triumphant mood after Sunday’s final
it was announced that the league had been conceptualised, designed, developed and managed by Mercuri Talent Management Pvt Ltd, an Indian company, with Cricket Canada, the official governing body for the sport in the country and that the two had entered into a 25-year Master Licensing Agreement which covers not just the Global T20 Canada, but also investment in developing the grassroots for the sport in the country. Saini had boasted then that “Twenty20 Major League Cricket has the potential to change Canadian cricket forever. It is a great challenge and Cricket Canada is ready to deliver
a resounding success. That it did cannot be disputed, especially when several prior attempts never got off the ground. Mercuri had also made it clear that it was absolutely delighted to partner with Cricket Canada to contribute directly to aiding in the development of a world class Canadian national side. So it is not just about the league, but about the all-round development of the sport. As expected, since the officials were only using three pitches throughout the almost three weeks, some players and coaches were measured in their criticism of playing conditions, alluding to the fact that it was
he was as an important member of the playing unit both with the bat and the ball. “He is a good communicator and most of the guys respect him, and most importantly he is an international player who is highly respected, so the management staff thought we wanted that level of professionalism, somebody who can demonstrate true leadership skills,” Khan pointed out. Malik’s appointment now confirmed a new management team for the local franchise after the owner made a new signing for the head coach of the team and his assistant. After deliberating for quite a while the franchise pinned down on one name who best suits all the demands from the role and understands the dynamics of T20 cricket really well. Former South African all-rounder Johan Botha will take over as the head coach
of Warriors for the upcoming season. His deputy is the local man – manager of the Guyana Jaguars and West Indies A, Rayon Griffith. Meanwhile, ticket sales for the Warriors first three home games went on sale yesterday at the CPL Guyana Office, located at 238 Camp and Quamina Streets, Georgetown. P a t ro n s i n B e r b i c e wishing to purchase tickets can do so from Monday at Vijai Ramdhan’s office,
not quite world class. Nevertheless, there were several high-scoring encounters and it all boiled down in some instances to mind over matter. Still, frustration has come out at times. Montreal coach Tom Moody, whose team finished fifth in the six-team league, said that top-level batsmen are not accustomed to balls exploding off the pitch in front of their face. Former Pakistan fast bowling great Waqar Younis, who was coach of Winnipeg Hawks, while admitting there was definite need for improvement, complimented the organisers for a splendid job in putting the tournament together in such short time. Despite being runners-up, after going down to the star-studded Vancouver Hawks in the final, Cricket West Indies B were undoubtedly the talk of the tournament. Starting as the underdogs, the youthful side whose average age was 22 surprised all and sundry with some mouth-watering performances. After playing unbeaten in their first four games and suffering two consecutive losses, they stunned Chris Gayle’s Vancouver Knights with a last-ball victory in their first qualifying encounter which propelled them to the final. CONTINUE ON PAGE 27
Shoaib Malik
Number 19 Princess Elizabeth Road, Queenstown, New Amsterdam, Berbice. Tickets cost $5 000 for the Red and Green Stands; $3 000 for the Orange Stand and $2 500 for the Grass Mound. According to a release by the Warriors’ management, tickets can be purchased from 08:00hrs to 17:00hrs on weekdays and from 09:00hrs to 13:00hrs on Saturdays. CONTINUE ON PAGE 27
Mixed fortunes for Guinness Guyana’s table tennis ‘Greatest of teams on day one the Streets’ National playoffs start on July 27 … Seating accommodation being made for fans
PAGE
26 Part of the action in the Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ competition
Guyana successful at CUT Athletics Championships
Minister of Social Cohesion with responsibility for Culture, Youth and Sport, Dr George Norton, along with (from left) Orlando Carrington, Annalee Williams and Somayia Orna. (DPI photo)
A TRIO of young athletes represented Guyana at the recently concluded Caribbean Union of Teachers (CUT) Athletics Championships in Bermuda. Orlando Carrington, Annalee Williams, Somayia Orna were outstanding and medalled at the event. Carrington a New Amsterdam, Berbice native, earned a gold medal in the cricket ball-throwing event for which he now holds the record. The eight-year-old threw 44.75 metres, breaking the record of 44m previously held by Akelon Marcano in 2010. Carrington also competed in the 150 metres dash where he copped the
bronze medal. Annalee Williams also won a gold medal for Guyana in the cricket ball throw. The young lady who is from Cartabo Village, Lower Mazaruni, Region Seven threw the ball at 37.88 metres. Also, medalling in the cricket ball throw was young Somayia Orna from Linden, Region 10. Eight-yearold Orna earned a silver medal after throwing 18.44 metres. She also placed fourth, clocking 24.13 seconds in the 150 metres dash. The young athletes were honoured on Wednesday for their exceptional
performance by Minister of Social Cohesion with responsibility for Culture, Youth and Sport, Dr George Norton, and Director of Sport Christopher Jones. Minister Norton congratulated the athletes and added that he is optimistic that in the future the ministry can substantially support more young athletes in their venture overseas to represent Guyana. Similar sentiments were echoed by Jones who said the enabling environment that has been created by the government, for athletes, is one of the reasons Guyana teams continue to shine overseas.
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Natalie Cummings helped the Guyanese women to a win over Barbados on the opening day of the CAC Games in Barranquilla, Colombia.
By Michelangelo Jacobus GUYANA’S quest for glory at the 23rd edition of the Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games in Barranquilla, Colombia got off to a conflicting start yesterday, in table tennis, with the men and women playing in the group stage of the team competition. It was a day of mixed fortunes for the Guyanese as the women recorded a win and a loss in their two matches while the men lost their only match of the day. Up first were the Guyanese ladies who are in Pool 3 along with Cuba, El Salvador and Barbados. They came up against Cuba in their first match and lost 3-0. Cuban player Lisi Castillo defeated Guyana’s Chelsea Edghill in sets of 11-8, 11-7 and 11-6; Castillo’s teammate Idalys Lovet then dispatched Trenace Low in straight sets of 11-6, 11-6 and 11-7. In the doubles match, the Guyanese duo of Natalie ‘Speedy’ Cummings and Edghill managed to win a solitary game but lost the match 3-1. In the first two games, Cuba’s Lovet and Shelly Machado were tested to their limits but managed to win both games 11-8. However, in the third game, Cummings and Edghill managed to pull one back winning 13-11 before surrendering in the fourth game 11-7. In their second encounter, the Guyanese women faced Barbados and won comfortably. Edghill faced Kenady King and won in straight games of 11-2, 11-5 and 11-1 while Cummings defeated Janae Lewis 11-9, 11-2 and 11-3. In the Doubles encounter Lowe and Edghill made light work of Barbados’ duo Daniele Walton and Janae Lewis winning 11-7, 11-6 and 11-2. Pitted in Pool 1 with Cuba and Colombia, the Guyanese men faced the top-seeded Cubans with Shemar Britton facing Cuba’s Livan Martinez; the latter took the first game 11-4 before Britton bounced back to win the second game 11-7. This was the only game won by the Guyanese men. However he lost the next two games with identical scores of 5-11, Christopher Franklin then faced Cuban Jorge Campos and lost in straight games of 11-5, 11-3 and 11-4. In the Doubles match, Nigel Bryan and Franklin came up against the Cuban duo of Martinez and Andy Pereira; they lost 11-7, 11-6 and 11-5. After the first day of competition, the Guyanese women sit third in Pool 3 with three (3) points after two Team matches played while Cuba are first with four points, El Salvador second with three points but a better score ratio. Barbados are bottom of the Pool with two points. Meanwhile the Guyanese men are second in Pool 1 with one point while Cuba are top with two points and Colombia are yet to play. The Men head into action today against Colombia while the Women will face El Salvador. The Guyanese table tennis contingent is as follows: Matthew Khan (coach), Godfrey Munroe (coach), Priscilla Greaves, Trenace Lowe, Christopher Franklin, Natalie Cummings, Shemar Britton, Nigel Bryan, Joel Alleyne and Chelsea Edghill. FRIDAY, JULY 20, 2018