Guyana chronicle e paper 04 19 2018

THURSDAY 19th April, 2018

No.105249

Army officers testify …before Lindo Creek CoI

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‘Pay attention to your health’

…PM Nagamootoo tells Health Expo launch

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President reaffirms commitment to malaria fight President David Granger (right) engages Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister Keith Rowley (left), and Dominica’s Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit (centre) in light conversation before meetings Wednesday on the sidelines of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in London, United Kingdom (Kawise Wishart/ DPI) (See stories on pages 2 & 10)

Power company, UG sign 09 partnership pact PAGE

…to assist engineering students annually

Pastors uncover ‘devilish’ irregularities in drivers’ exam

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, April 19, 2018

Mozambique, London diaspora recommit to strengthening relations with Guyana GUYANA and Mozambique on Wednesday recommitted to strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries during a meeting with the countries’ presidents.

Guyana’s President David Granger and his Mozambique counterpart, President Filipe Nyusi, met on the sidelines of the 2018 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) being hosted in London, United Kingdom (UK).

President Granger told the Department of Public Information (DPI) that the meeting served as a renewal of a long-standing friendship.

Mozambique as a member of the Commonwealth has also thrown its support behind Guyana in the fight to maintain its territorial integrity and gratitude was expressed to that country in this regard.

“Mozambique is now a member of the Common-

President David Granger greets Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in London during the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting. (Kawise Wishart/ DPI)

wealth and we are very grateful for the support the Commonwealth has given us over the territorial controversy with the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, so again we were able to speak to Mozambique as a member of the African, Caribbean and the Pacific states and as a member of the Commonwealth,” said

President David Granger met with the President of Mozambique, Mr. Filipe Nyusi on Wednesday in London on the sidelines of the 2018 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting. (Kawise Wishart/ DPI)

the Guyanese leader.

The two presidents also committed to strengthening ties in areas of common interest and President Granger viewed the meeting as an opportunity to look to the future and build solidarity.

While the two countries have not yet discussed economic collaboration, the President said: “In political

Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Janica Charette, High Commissioner for Canada to Great Britain and Northern Ireland Wednesday during meetings with leaders of developing countries. (Kawise Wishart/ DPI)

terms, we are interested in ensuring that the African Caribbean and Pacific states go forward into the new era as a united front.”

Meanwhile, on Wednesday, the Head of State also met with several prominent members of the diaspora in London, who restated their commitment to Guyana’s continued development.

“They are very confident with their relations with Guyana and we are looking for the strengthening of economic ties be-

tween the diaspora and their home country, particularly in the field of investment,” President Granger pointed out.

Investment in the area of infrastructure and development of Information and Communication Technology is of major interest to the government.

President Granger emphasised the need to build the institutions and mechanisms to ensure the diaspora relations with Guyana are strengthened. He described

the discussions with the diaspora as fruitful, while disclosing that some persons have expressed an interest in acquiring housing settlements, after their retirement in the UK. The President noted that more information would be made available in the future as a delegation from the diaspora is scheduled to visit Guyana to examine investment possibilities in infrastructure, eco-tourism and several other areas.

While informal, the President said the meeting was very important and reinforced the need for deepening the existing relations. President Granger will continue his engagements on the sidelines of the CHOGM, with the formal opening slated for today.

Meanwhile, President Granger has the expectation that the 2018 CHOGM will provide its member states with a roadmap for the future, given the uncertainty of post- BREXIT relations.

“We would like to get certain guarantees about our economy; we would also like to look at the post-BREXIT relations and the post-COTONOU relations as well. We would like to get some assurances about investment in Guyana,” the President underscored.

Further highlighting the importance of the meeting, the President said 2019 will mark the 40th anniversary of the Langkawi Declaration, which was issued on October 21, 1989, at Langkawi, Malaysia, during the tenth CHOGM, where Guyana committed to establishing the Iwokrama Centre for Rainforest Conservation and Development. (DPI)

Canada’s President Justin Trudeau engages leaders of developing countries Wednesday on the sidelines of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in London, United Kingdom. (Kawise Wishart/ DPI)

Army officers testify 3

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, April 19, 2018

…before Lindo Creek CoI

By Svetlana Marshall SENIOR military officers who were on the ground pursuing one of the country’s most notorious gangs between Kwakwani and Christmas Falls in the Upper Berbice River back in 2008 were interviewed as the Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the Lindo Creek Massacre continued on Wednesday.

Among the soldiers who were interviewed were: Lieutenant Colonel Lloyd Souvenir, Lieutenant Colonel Sheldon Howell, Lieutenant Colonel Omar Khan and retired Lieutenant Colonel Fitzroy Warde. They were interviewed behind closed doors by Chairman of the Lindo Creek CoI, Justice (Retired) Donald Trotman and the commission’s Attorney, Patrice Henry at the CoI Secretariat, which is housed in the Department of the Public Service, Waterloo Street, Georgetown.

The military men are being represented by Attorneys-at-Law Leslie Sobers and Roysdale Forde, in addition to two in-house GDF attorneys, one of whom is Colonel Michael Shahoud.

On the sideline of the ‘interviews’, Sobers told reporters that the senior GDF officers were commanders on the ground at the time the Joint Services were hunting the Rondell “Fineman” Rawlins gang.

“They were on the ground.

They were conducting certain military operations and so they are enlightening the commission as to the role of the military during that period of time,” Sobers told reporters.

The commission, over the weekend, had issued a public notice calling for eight Joint Services ranks to make urgent contact with the secretariat. Lieutenant Colonel Omar Khan was not among the eight, but he accompanied his colleagues on Wednesday, on the basis that he was an intelligence officer operating on the ground at the time. Sobers said the GDF is making special efforts to contact those persons who are no longer part of the military. “The army may not be able to contact every single junior soldier who has left the job, but I can tell you this morning one of the retired senior officers was contacted and

Lieutenant-Colonel Sheldon Howell and Lieutenant-Colonel Lloyd Souvenir waiting to be called into the interviewing room at the CoI Secretariat

came all the way from the interior to attend this interview, along with three who are on strength,” the attorney said.

The commission’s Attorney Henry, in a separate interview with this newspaper, said that the three military men and the ex-GDF officer will form part of a pool of witnesses that will take the stand when public hearings resume. However, he was unable to indicate when the public hearings will recommence.

Henry noted that the GDF officers who were interviewed by the commission on Wednesday, were in 2008 deployed to the Kwakwani-Christmas

Falls catchment area where it was suspected that “Fine Man” was hiding out. Lindo Creek, where the eight diamond miners’ charred remains were found, is located approximately 10 miles downriver from Christmas Falls.

Henry also disclosed that from the list published in the local newspapers, former Guyana Police Force Assistant Superintendent Dwand Cambridge and Philbert Bobb have been in contact with the commission, and are assisting with the investigation.

Outgoing Commissioner of Police Seelall Persaud, who was the country’s crime chief at the time, and Assis-

Man denies deliberately stabbing ‘child mother’ ONE day after 24-yearold Lashana Boyce, a sales girl attached to Grill King was allegedly killed by the father of her child on Durban Street Lodge, the suspect Cleveland Williams has turned himself in to police.

Williams has however denied stabbing Boyce deliberately. In an interview with Nightly News’ reporter Travis Chase on Wednesday before he turned himself in, Williams said he was waiting for the mother of his daughter to arrive at the child’s school. He explained in the brief interview that he waited for some time until he saw Boyce walking from the direction of their child’s

school.

“And after sitting for a while, she come from the direction of my daughter school. So I go over to her and ask her ‘girl what happen why you ain’t pass and collect the snacks and things for my daughter. She start fuh say you ain’t supposed to ask me nothing, you are supposed to stay 100 yard away from me. I said man is meh daughter you talking about and she carry on. And me and she start fighting – I had a knife in my waist, I take out the knife and when me and she fall in the drain… pon she back, me hand went under she back and I give she two slap in she face and me mother and

nephew come and hold on pon me,” said Williams, who is said to be a labourer.

The man maintained during the interview that he did not stab the woman deliberately with the intention to kill her. “No, I would never do that to that girl…I love that girl you know,” he stated. According to reports, Boyce had a restraining order against Williams. He told Chase that the restraining order had to do with domestic matters.

“I go and meet she with a man by she and when I talk to she about it, she must be don’t like what I tell she so she go at the station,” he said.

Lawrence said he decided to turn himself in to the police because “it is the right thing to do.” “My mother told me the police was at her

house, so I decided to ease everything and go there,” he stated.

Meanwhile, the police said that reports indicate that Boyce had just dropped her child off to school and was walking on the southern side of Durban Street, heading east, when Williams, a labourer of Durban Street, pulled out a knife from his waist and attacked her.

The woman reportedly attempted to jump into a nearby gutter, but Williams held onto her and a scuffle ensued. She was stabbed twice in the back and was rescued by public-spirited persons. At that time, Williams fled the scene. The woman was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where she remains a patient.

Attorney-at-Law Leslie Sobers speaking to reporters outside the interviewing room (Photos

by Samuel Maughn)

tant Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken, who were a part of a police operation had placed the “Fine Man” Gang at Christmas Falls on June 6, 2008. The police and the gang were reportedly engaged in a fierce gun battle, which resulted in one of the criminals being shot dead.

According to both Persaud and Hicken, after the shooting incident they were instructed by the then Commissioner of Police Henry Green to return to Police Headquarters in Georgetown. The Joint Services reportedly took over the operation.

Leonard Arokium, the owner of the mining camp, who had discovered the charred remains of the eight diamond miners – Cecil Arokium, Dax Arokium, Horace Drakes, Bonny Harry, Lancelot Lee, Compton Speirs, Nigel Torres and Clifton Berry Wong – on June 21, 2008 at the Lindo

Retired Lieutenant-Colonel Fitzroy Warde

Creek camp site, had long argued that the killings were committed by members of the Joint Services; but the police have maintained that the men were murdered by the then Rondell Rawlins alias “Fine Man” gang.

Arokium’s son, Dax, 29; his brother, Cedric called “Brother” were among those killed. One of the key witnesses, Courtney Wong, in an interview with this newspaper earlier this month, had said that the “truth is out there.”

The Justice Trotman-led commission is enquiring into the circumstances surrounding the killings. The findings and recommendations are expected to be submitted to President David Granger this month-end. However, the commission’s attorney said it is likely that an extension will be requested due to the volume of work still to be done, including of public hearings and a visit to the crime scene at Lindo Creek.

Jury empanelled for 2015 murder trial The 12- member jury for the 2015 murder for which Marlon Callendar stands accused was on Wednesday empanelled before Justice Sandil Kissoon at the Demerara High Court.

Callendar is represented by Everton Singh-Lammy while the state’s case is being prosecuted by Lisa Cave and Mandel Moore who are expected to present 10 witnesses.

According to the indictment, the accused Marlon Callendar allegedly murdered Envil Pollard on January 29, 2015 in the county of Demerara.

The matter will begin on Monday, April 23 at 09:00hrs.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, April 19, 2018

Cuba nominates Castro replacement Miguel Díaz-Canel Cuba's parliament has picked Miguel Díaz-Canel as the sole candidate to succeed Raúl Castro, 86, bringing the family's decades-long rule to an end.

Mr Castro took over as president from his ailing brother Fidel in 2006.

The National Assembly, the country's legislative body, will vote on the nomination but Mr Díaz-Canel is almost certain to be confirmed. Mr Castro is expected to remain a powerful influence in the communist state even after he steps down. He will stay on as the head of the Communist Party until its next congress in 2021.

But he will formally pass the presidency to Mr Díaz-Canel after the announcement of the National Assembly's vote on Thursday. The next Cuban leader

will inherit a country in economic stagnation and with a young population impatient for change, BBC Cuba correspondent Will Grant reports. There is also the complex task of leading without the same revolutionary past as the predecessors.

Who is Díaz-Canel?

He may have had a relatively low profile when he was first appointed vice-president of Cuba's Council of State in 2013 but he has since become Mr Castro's right-hand man.

Cuban first vice-president Miguel Diaz-Canel speaks with the press in Nautico neighbourhood in Havana, on April 19, 2015Image copyright Getty Images For the past five years, he has been groomed for the presidency and the handover

Miguel Díaz-Canel (left) has served as vice-president to Raúl Castro (right)

of power. But even before being named first vice-president, the 57-year-old had already had a long political career. He was born in April 1960, little over a year after Fidel Castro was first sworn in as prime minister. He studied electrical engineering and began his political career in his early 20s as

a member of the Young Communist League in Santa Clara. While teaching engineering at the local university, he worked his way up the ranks of the Young Communist League, becoming its second secretary at the age of 33.

Raúl Castro has praised his "ideological firmness".

Will the new president bring real change?

Whoever leads the country next is unlikely to make any major changes in the short term, especially as long as Mr Castro remains a political force to be reckoned with. Any changes are likely to be gradual and slow-paced. Having said that, Mr Castro did bring in reforms after he took over as president, most strikingly the thaw in relations with the US which had seemed unthinkable under his brother Fidel.

The new leader will have to consider how to overcome the problems caused by the economic collapse of Cuba's ally, Venezuela, and what kind of relationship the Caribbean island wants with the US under Donald Trump. But what most

Cubans will judge the new leader on is whether their day-to-day lives improve.

How representative is Cuba's National Assembly?

Often regarded as a rubber-stamp body, it is officially meeting to swear in its 605 members, who were elected last month. It also v o t e s o n t h e c o m p o s ition of the all-powerful Council of State, whose president serves as both head of state and government. Cuba has long maintained it has one of the most inclusive and fairest election systems in the world but crit ics say that assertion is laughable as the process is fully overseen by the ruling Communist Party.

All 605 candidates stood unopposed in March.

Thursday, April 19, 2018 - 05:00 hrs Friday, April 20, 2018 - 05:00 hrs Saturday, April 21, 2018 - 08:30 hrs

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, April 19, 2018

‘Working in partnership is the way to go’ – Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs Sydney Allicock says at NTC engagement

By Alva Solomon THE National Toshaos Council (NTC) and the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs will be building on their relationship, even as the former boasts of its accomplishments including its ability to function independently.

This was brought to the fore on Wednesday evening during a joint press conference hosted by both parties at the Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC) multiplex at Water Street in Kingston. The forum was held at the completion of a

ments of the two bodies did not happen overnight.

NTC Vice-Chairman Lenox Shuman, told the media that the relationship which the ministry and the indigenous body built over the past three years is strong. He said that it would take much to destroy the relations, noting that “some pope may have wanted to see this relation [ship] broken completely.”

The vocal Shuman said that the NTC has always been committed to working with Allicock and the ministry, noting that the two parties have been en-

Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Sydney Allicock embraces Toshaos Joel Fredericks and Lenox Shuman, the chair and deputy chair respectively, of the National Toshaos Council

Minister Allicock addresses the media in the presence of the executive of the NTC

three-day exercise undertaken by the NTC executive body as it prepares for the upcoming National Toshaos Conference slated for July 16-20 this year.

Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs Sydney Allicock told the media at the press conference that while the ministry and the NTC may have their differences, both parties are working for a common cause. “Teeth and tongue must bite, they can’t do without each other,” he said.

He said that while the two parties “might have had a little bit of serious discussions and in some cases , challenges in these discussions “, they have been able to accomplish a number of feats which may not have been fully utilised in the promotion of their respective mandates. Allicock said that for the indigenous peoples of Guyana, there is a plan forward.”Old pathways with new directions,” he said of the approach, as he noted that the achieve-

gaged in positive dialogue.

Chair of the NTC , Joel Fredericks, noted that he knows that the minister has good intentions for the cause of the nation’s first peoples .He said that the two parties have “grown” over the years in their relations , adding that there has been mature leadership expressed by both the NTC and the ministry.

Allicock urged the NTC not to view the ministry or the government “as isolated from the fight for the cause

of indigenous people.” He said that to strive for the indigenous peoples to be truly represented and for such representation to come to the fore is long overdue; and according to him, they possess the requisite skills to build the nation. He said that the government is embarking upon a Green State development agenda and he noted that the indigenous peoples “are best suited “in that cause since according to him, they are knowledgeable about the environment and relevant issues such as

climate change.

As he lauded the work of the NTC over the past three years, the subject minister urged the incoming executive body to continue undertaking the work of the body.

Executive member of the NTC, Nicholas Fredericks, said that the body has travelled a long road in undertaking its mandate. He said that the executive has worked to tackle its challenges headon, as he noted too that it is difficult to address the issues facing individual communities. ”We have a

ministry, we have a relation [ship] which is very

open , that is why you see we as the NTC take a strong stand, because we believe in what we stand for,” he said. He noted that the body now has the ability to air its views with freedom and to raise concerns on behalf of the indigenous peoples.

Meanwhile, the NTC executive noted that it is making preparations for the upcoming conference at which a new executive body will be elected. The current leadership of the council said that it will continue to promote its mandate, adding that its leadership will carry its work in tandem with the rules set out in its rulebook. Political neutrality, the executive noted, is key to the body’s progression.

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Editorial

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, April 19, 2018

Historic ICAO conference in Guyana ONE of the most important happenings in Guyana in 2018 will be the Air Transport Conference of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).

The ICAO has a membership of 192 states and it is expected that 120 will attend, and will be represented by more than 400 delegates. The conference will take place between 19 and 23 November and is jointly being organised

by ICAO, CARICOM, the African Union and the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO).

This conference could have many spin-off benefits for Guyana and the rest of the Caribbean. It opens the door to the exploration of many new areas of co-operation, especially with Africa. Indeed, high on the agenda of the conference is the possibility of improving trade in the air-transport sector between the Caribbean and African countries, through Guyana.

In Guyana, for far too long some have had a fixation that only from Western countries could we have aid, trade and technological transfers. It was only when the West itself began to acknowledge the importance of India and China in world economics, finance, trade and technology that Guyana has awakened to their importance. In similar vein, in our unconscious assumptions, we have tended to think of Africa as poverty-stricken and backward and having no mode of co-operation between the countries of Africa and ourselves in the Caribbean. These assumptions belie reality and there are many areas of trade, tourism and cultural life and experiences where Africa and ourselves could fruitfully co-operate. It is expected that this ICAO conference would act as a catalyst to bring about greater co-operation.

The conference could also be used to put new vitality and

meaning into the present framework which exists between the African Union and the Caribbean Community. Africa, especially West Africa, has a surfeit of brilliant professionals who would prefer to come to Guyana and the Caribbean rather than to emigrate to the developed Western countries; and we could use the opportunity of the conference to attract such professionals.

The ICAO official who had come to Guyana for preliminary arrangements is the ICAO’s Chief Economic Regulatory Officer, Mr Peter Alawani, who is from Africa. Mr Alawani has an empathy with Guyana and the Caribbean and his initial visitation has been smooth and fruitful. With the friendly and constructive engagement which the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has with ICAO, it is expected that the President of the ICAO Council, Dr Olumuyiwa Bernard Aliu will attend the Conference.

The Guyana point man for Civil Aviation Affairs and for the Conference is Lieut. Col (ret’d) Egbert Field, the director-general of the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority. Col Field is a very experienced officer who served many years abroad, and under his direction, the conference promises to be an impressive success. Col Field endorsed Mr Alawani’s observation that far more could be done to form partnerships to enhance infrastructure in aviation. He pointed out that during World War II, Atkinson Airport was a hub to transport materiel to Africa and bauxite to North America and felt that these routes could be resuscitated. In this commercial age, with infrastructural improvements everywhere, the profitability and efficiency of such commercial contact could be enhanced. Actually, Col Field was reminding the

business community that they need to explore the lucrative commercial opportunities which Africa offers.

Col Field mentioned a number of important items on the conference agenda affecting Guyana. He mentioned the possibilities of stimulating investment in aviation infrastructure and investments in aviation as a whole. He mentioned the issue of harmonization, which would bring great social and economic benefits to the Caribbean. Liberalisation of air cargo and passenger traffic would be seriously considered, as well as the creation of a heliport.

One of Col Field’s important observations was that in Guyana, the Caribbean and South America, there is a large African diaspora and closer contact through aviation would be a positive development for the Caribbean and Africa. This kind of “familial” contact could lead to cultural exchanges and our mutually supporting each other in world fora and opening doors to trade and technical advice. Africa’s great experience with nature tourism, for example, could be of help to Guyana. The ICAO conference is a historic occasion and Guyanese are looking forward to welcoming the delegates.

Jagdeo’s nightmare and sleepless nights

Dear Editor

HERE’S a man who led an organised and well-oiled machinery that squeezed the nation’s financial operations such that only his cabal benefitted from the spoils. What a human!

Here I refer to another of his hysterics, this time via the Kaieteur News, of April 15, 2018 headlined, “APNU+AFC is most corrupt Gov’t. in English speaking Caribbean’’.

Any reader of basic political strategy will know that this is another desperate attempt at damage control in the wake of another instance of big wigs of the People’s Progressive Party/CIVIC (PPP/C) administration being taken to court, this time for charges surrounding the sale of state lands. Of course, he has labelled the charges “frivolous”, even accusing the government of “manipulating the Director of Public Prosecution(DPP) and directing SOCU to institute fabricated and malicious charges against political opponents and highly qualified professional Guyanese… etcetera.’’

I am not the spokesperson in any way for the offices of these two important departments of the criminal justice system, except to say

that such statements emanating from the person of the opposition leader is disrespectful to say the least and are attempts to cast aspersions on the professionalism and integrity of their respective functions. One would hope that in a short while, appropriate responses to Jagdeo will be forthcoming.

As an aside, the leader of the opposition should be reminded that both the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the judiciary now function in a free and more professional environment, unshackled from the dictates of the executive that had formerly been the stultifying environment of past PPP/C administrations. Jagdeo must now observe the High Court decisions that have not favoured the government. The judiciary is now truly independent.

Reverse psychology is a known medium by those who are morally cornered and in many other ways, to deflect situations that are not only proven, but quite applicable to them, on to the source of revelation. Of all citizens of the world of corrupt practices and criminalities committed against the people of this country, Jagdeo has the gumption to speak about such a culture! He lacks every right, and all reasons to even utter any statement, much

less accusation against any other executive.

Every Caribbean island, its leaders, and peoples are well aware of what had occurred in this country during the period of PPP/C administrations. In fact, there was a saying that used to make the Region’s rounds: that Guyana is good for business because one did not pay any taxes. And there were other innuendoes that were so demeaning that it felt shameful to be a Guyanese. No doubt that so many Guyanese travellers suffered humiliation at CARICOM ports of entry, because of the perception of what their then government and country represented.

Which country that was governed in accordance with the Rule of Law, would have allowed continuous auditor general’s reports that revealed serious discrepancies in the spending of taxpayers’ monies to go unchallenged without investigation? We are all now aware, via the coalition government’s requested audit reports, about the wholesale financial criminalities that took place at the state level.

How does he explain the Guyana Rice Development Board’s (GRDB) loaning of $100M to the senior functionary of the Guyana Rice Producers Association(GRPA)

without any proper documentation, if any?

Further, where did this money go? Has it been accounted for, and is such a transaction authorised in the board’s remit?

Then there is the accusation of the board’s money being used by senior officials in a buying-and-selling scheme of foreign exchange.

Was this an authorised, legitimate business activity? Add this to the allegations of money laundering, and we have a well woven tapestry of free-for-all with taxpayers’ monies.

These are just episodes in the principal investigation surrounding the sum of US $500M of Petro Caribe funds.

Also, Jagdeo or Donald Ramotar, his protégé, or both of them should explain the huge sums of money, a reported $14 billion, found deposited in a former permanent secretary’s (PS) bank account. Just how and where did such a colossal sum originate? If as the now charged PS has claimed, that such sum accrued from the sale of phone cards, then he must have had the sole monopoly as distributor!

These are just the tip of the iceberg’s financial plunder that occurred under the watch of the PPP/C. Editor, Turn to page 7

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, April 19, 2018

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Let’s bid a friendly farewell to Romanex at Marudi Mountain Dear Editor WHILE overseas, I read with interest the efforts made by Hon Minister Raphael Trotman and Major-General (Ret’d) Joseph Singh at mediation in the Marudi Mountain mining issue.

These two gentlemen must be complimented for their efforts. However, I wish to deal with what I feel is the gut and fundamental issue, that is, the exploitation of our patrimony, in particular our mineral resources bequeathed to us by the Creator.

These were initially harvested by the earliest hinterland miners fondly referred to as ‘Pork-knockers.’

The issue of working the Marudi Mountain area surfaced decades ago and I

recall the efforts made by the then Head of State Forbes Burnham, who encouraged and facilitated ordinary miners to make use of this and other areas and had put in place ‘incentives for small miners.’

However, after his demise certain persons bought the idea that only persons with modern machinery could (work) in that and other areas. I disagreed and those involved would remember the position I took in what became a controversial, if not an acrimonious matter.

First, recalling the famous statement by the Late Prime Minister Eric Williams of Trinidad & Tobago that “oil don’t spoil,” I took the position that “Gold don’t rust,” and in order to honour those brave “Pork-knock-

Jagdeo’s nightmare ... the above samples, assist in understanding why there had never been any urgency on the part of the former government to legislate the Anti-Money laundering Bill, or give sharpest teeth to the Special Organised Crime Unit, both of which were finally done by the coalition government on assumption of office.

Jagdeo’s reported best friend is well known to the entire nation as one of the most highly favoured of the PPP/C’s beneficiaries for contracts. He cornered the entire state health’s pharmaceutical supply. I stand to be corrected when I say that this chosen one had been facilitated by the very unfair and devious strategy of being made privy to the pre-qualification conditions, as reported in the media. It placed the other bidders at a disadvantage.

Also, this very supplier, as reported, was given a cheque in excess of $500M as total payment for pharmaceuticals which had not as yet been supplied, and which manner of payment made had been against procedures.

Jagdeo ought to be reminded that an investigation carried out by the National Procurement Commission, which is inclusive of a former PPP/C cabinet official, as ordered by government as a result of accusations against the subject minister, exonerated her from any charge of illegality.

There are going to be other citizens, whom I am sure will rebut Jagdeo’s spurious claims, ripping apart his lies and attempts at misinformation. But as a final question, I should ask, how did the Jagdeo PPP/C government award ‘Fip’ Motilall such a

ers,” we should encourage their descendants to make optimum use of this and other areas.

Judging from the media reports, if groups reach an agreement, all sides should be prepared to respect and comply with the terms of that agreement. Human beings have suffered immensely because national leaders, regional, community and even families, dishonour agreements reached in good faith.

Having said that I don’t know what pressures may have been brought to bear during the discussions.

These small miners have approached me recently and related their grave concerns and disquiet about what is taking place in that area. I suggest that we find a way to terminate the concessions

from page 6 huge contract for the Amaila Falls road project, when he did not have any prior track record of building anything, not even a fowl pen.

It is quite evident that both the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) and State Asset Recovery Agency (SARA) are causing a nightmare for Jagdeo, since each charge and subsequent trial, will further inform the nation about the disrespect heaped on it by a government and cronies that governed in the interest of a few. Corruption is an economically debilitating crime, since it takes away from providing better comforts for citizens, in the particular jurisdiction. Let the law continue to take its course.

Regards Earl Hamilton

for all aliens, gold and diamond-mining companies and restrict the harvesting of our gold and diamonds, Guyanese groups and individuals.

The harvesting of gold does not require skills that we don’t have locally–ordinary Guyanese have successfully mined golds for over a century. (Ocean Shark, Tengar, Frederick Mahaica, Wesley Baird) and others.

This means that at locations such as Marudi Mountains, we can bid a friendly farewell to the likes of Romanex. In any case, the bulk of the profits from these foreign companies bring min-

imal benefits to locals.

These folks don’t even support sports, culture and education.

Our policy now should be to encourage overseas companies to invest substantial sums to produce what is now not there on our land, i.e. grains, fruits and vegetables and leave the harvesting of what is already there and require no special skills to Guyanese, whose ancestors developed the entire coastal belt as slaves and later, indentured labourers.

I hope the above is given serious consideration so that we bequeath to our children

and their children a country that remains essentially Guyanese and Caribbean and so avoid what can be easily a subtle re-enslavement and exploitation and the changing of the landscape of a Guyana we inherited on the 26th of May, 1966.

Finally, I suggest at the entrance of certain ministerial and ministers’ offices we erect a prominent signboard marked, “Guyana is not for Sale.”

Regards Hamilton Green

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Farmer gets 10 years for 2014 killing of friend

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, April 19, 2018

Car rental owner on carjacking charge Nigel Chung and his son, Ricky Chung

…during drunken brawl PHILIP Sutherland was on Wednesday sentenced to 10 years’ imprisonment for the 2014 killing of his friend during a drunken brawl in the Rupununi, having pleaded guilty to the lesser count of manslaughter in the Georgetown High Court before Justice Sandil Kissoon.

Having made some deductions, including for time served, plea of mitigation and the probation report, Justice Kissoon handed down the 10-year sentence.

The judge told the court that the plea of mitigation which was presented by defence attorney Siand Dhurjon was well informed. Justice Kissoon added that the act caused the family of the deceased much grief and although it was a drunken fight among friends, justice must be served.

According to the state’s case, which was led by Mandel Moore in association with Lisa Cave, on January 9, 2014 in the county of Essequibo, the accused, the deceased, Martin Roberts and other persons went to the home of the deceased’s brother-in-law to do some self-help work.

However, later that day they proceeded to drink alcohol after which the accused and others were involved in a fight.

The court heard that the accused and the victim were friends and they were drinking yeast tonic wine in the Rupununi area when a fight broke out between the accused and another man. Somehow, the victim got involved and received injuries. The cause of death was given as a broken larynx, and blunt trauma to the head.

The court heard too that the body of the deceased was found and when the father of the deceased went to the scene, the accused told him he had killed his son.

In his plea of mitigation, defence attorney Siand Dhurjon told the court that his client was only 23 years old when the incident happened and he resided at Annai, North Rupununi where his life was simple and has seven siblings, a wife and two children. At the time, he was a farmer and his children are now six and seven years old respectively.

Dhurjon added that the probation report described the accused as a quiet, well-behaved and thoughtful individual, who has been observing all prison rules and has been communicating well with fellow inmates.

The attorney stated that based on the evidence, it is clear that the accused was not the sole contributor which led to the demise of the deceased.

Dhurjon told the court that the accused has expressed genuine remorse, has reformed and is a Christian, who wants to make peace with himself and has had the time to do some soul-searching and decided to come to terms with his past.

The attorney explained that his client is simple, is no hardened criminal and his lifestyle is different since he was unaware of the ramifications of his action back then. The attorney then pleaded for leniency on his client’s behalf.

Dhurjon added that his client is now 27 years old and noted that the evidence

Ex-police officer Jason Harry

The accused (right) at the Georgetown High Court in conversation with his attorney Siand Dhurjon

is not tremendously strong against the accused, who was young, simple and hardworking.

In response, state prosecutor Mandel Moore said that the accused admitted he was in the fight and he killed the deceased.

On March 27, 2018, the accused Philip Sutherland on the date scheduled for his probation report and sentencing for the 2014 alleged murder of Martin Roberts, changed his plea through his attorney Siand Dhurjon before Justice James Bovell-Drakes in the Georgetown High Court.

He had pleaded guilty to the lesser count of manslaughter three weeks ago,

after which a probation report was requested and it was granted by the judge.

However, when he showed up before the said judge his attorney Siand Dhurjon made an application to change the plea of the accused to not guilty.

In his submission, Dhurjon cited that at the time the accused made the plea of not guilty to manslaughter, he did not understand his plea and what he was pleading to.

On March 6, 2018, Philip Sutherland pleaded guilty to the lesser count of manslaughter for the January 9, 2014 alleged murder of Martin Roberts in the county of Essequibo.

Supenaam man jailed for narco trafficking LEONARD Paul, 63, of Supenaam Market Street, Essequibo Coast, was fined $307,000 and sentenced to six years imprisonment for possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking, when he appeared before Magistrate Esther Sam at the Anna Regina Magistrates’ court on Tuesday.

He was charged with two counts of possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking.

The charge stated that on April 15 at Supenaam, during a

police search on his premises, a quantity of the narcotics was found in his generator room.

Police unearthed 177 grams of cannabis along with nine grams of cocaine in paddy bags. He pleaded guilty to the charges and was sentenced to three years for each charge. The sentences will run concurrently.

Paul was fined $250,000 for the cannabis and $57,000 for the cocaine respectively.

AS the police investigation into the carjacking ring continues, the owner of a car rental service is the latest person to be brought before the court, charged with three counts of fraudulent imitation of an identification mark on Toyota vehicles.

Osaffo Yarde, the owner of K&O Car Rental, found himself before City Magistrate Fabayo Azore charged with using fake chassis numbers on three Toyota Premio motorcars between April 19 and April 21, 2018 at Lodge Housing Scheme. He denied the charges. Yarde’s attorney, Glen Hanoman explained to the court that the vehicles are second hand and his client bought each of the vehicles for $2.5 from an individual and also have agreement of sales to prove the claims.

However, the prosecutor, Simone Payne strongly opposed to the businessman being released on bail on the grounds that the police is expected to institute more charges against the defendant next week.

The magistrate nevertheless released Yarde on $300,000 bail and adjourned the matter until May 30.

On Tuesday last, 30-yearold taxi driver, Steven Hercules, appeared before Magistrate Sunil Scarce at the Providence Magistrate’s Court for using a fake number plate, HC 4543, on registered motor vehicle, PVV 6204, which was stolen last March during an armed robbery.

In February, former policeman Jason Harry and two welders were charged with changing chassis numbers on two stolen vehicles. Harry, along with Nigel Chung, 43, and his son, Ricky Chung, 23, of Coverden, East Bank Demerara appeared before

Owner of K&O Car rental, Osaffo Yard

Magistrate Judy Latchman for these offences. The trial is currently ongoing before Magistrate Fabayo Azore.

Harry, who is said to be the alleged mastermind behind the carjacking ring, was charged for receiving four stolen Toyota-made vehicles worth over $10.6M between December 8, 2017 and February 10, 2018.

On February 9, 2018, police seized several suspected stolen vehicles and car parts at North Vryheid’s Lust, East Coast Demerara and Monument Hill, Kuru Kururu, Soesdyke/Linden Highway. It is believed that the vehicles were stolen and stripped of their parts which are being sold.

Police ranks from the Major Crimes Investigation Unit swooped down on the North Vryheid’s Lust premises, occupied by a couple, where they found several car mirrors, doors, lights, wipers and other vehicle parts for Toyota Allion, Spacio and Premio motorcars.

As a result, the couple was taken into custody after the husband provided the police with conflicting stories as to why the suspected stolen vehicle parts were piled up at his residence.

When he was first questioned by ranks, the man claimed that apart from being a taxi driver, he is employed with an auto spares company for which he was storing the items. The taxi driver then told the ranks that he was storing the items for Harry. Acting on information received the police then went to Harry’s home at Monument Hill, Kuru Kururu, and conducted a search during which a quantity of vehicle parts and several vehicles, suspected to be stolen or unlawfully obtained, were found.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, April 19, 2018

Power company, UG sign partnership …to assist engineering pact students annually

By Svetlana Marshall THE University of Guyana (UG) and the Power Producers and Distributors Incorporated (PPDI) have formalised years of partnership with the signing of an Academic Collaboration Agreement.

As part of the agreement, the power company among other things has committed to donate $1.5M annually to assist final-year engineering students with their research and projects. The first cheque was handed over on Wednesday at the Vice-Chancellor’s Office, Turkeyen Campus, by PPDI Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Dr Arron Fraser to the university’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic Engagement), Professor Michael Scott, following the signing of the agreement.

The Academic Collaboration Agreement provides for five baccalaureate engineering students to undergo 10 months of industrial training at the PPDI on a yearly basis. Additionally, under the agreement, UG will collaborate with the power company to design special engineering courses. The power company will also make available its laboratory facilities for use by the university, once adequate notice is given.

During the simple signing ceremony, Dr. Fraser said the partnership between the power company, which was formally managed by Wärtsilä Operations Guyana Inc., and the university has existed for more than eight years, though informally.

The PPDI Director said the power company understands the importance of industrial attachment for the university students, and is pleased to acculturate them into the world of work.

“This morning signals our commitment to the development of a Guyanese

PPDI Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Dr. Arron Fraser and UG Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic Engagement), Professor Michael Scott handing over the agreement

institution which has been a repository for us over the years. Sixty per cent of our management staff would have graced the rooms at UG, and for that we are grateful,” Dr. Fraser said.

He also made a pitch for all the programmes to be accredited by the major accredited bodies. “It gives students, regionally and extra-regionally an option…. once the accreditations are there, there is no doubt about the quality.

Professor Scott said that there is “advantage in collaboration” as he applauded the move by both parties to concretise the partnership.

He said Academic Collaboration Agreements are not “wishful” statements, explaining that they act as formal guides.

“I must express appreciation on behalf of the university for your incentives, investments and I dare say, your invaluable inputs in the lives of our students beyond what would be considered attachment. Because the idea is to cultivate character, to ensure discipline to give them the kind of skills and professionalism is beyond the classroom. To have a sense of what happens in the workplace is something that cannot be counted in terms of dollars and cents, and so for that I also want to express our appreciation,” Professor Scott said.

In response to the concern about accreditation, Professor Scott said it is a work in progress.

Government Member of Parliament and the university’s Academic Engagement Officer (External Engagement), Audwin Rutherford, said students who have benefitted from industrial training at PPDI in the past have given good reports. However, he asked the power company to consider fully sponsoring students in the future.

“I want to put a pitch for them, that you examine their work carefully, and the possibility must exist for you to maybe fully sponsor some after their associate degree, because some of these students would have economic challenges and some may want to stop because of those challenges; so I don’t want to encourage you to just take them, but try to see how you can extend sponsorship to them to complete their degrees,” Rutherford implored.

In response, Dr. Fraser noted that PPDI has a scholarship programme in place which is open to internal staff, explaining that five scholarships are offered yearly. He noted that if the five scholarships are not utilised by staff, such would be made available to students who are most in need.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, April 19, 2018

President reaffirms commitment to malaria fight PRESIDENT David Granger on Wednesday proposed a four-pronged international approach to tackling malaria when he addressed a conference on malaria in London.

Malaria remains one of the leading causes of death for communicable diseases in Guyana. Therefore, the President said the country is committed to halving the number of malaria cases and deaths by the year 2023. From the 2015 baseline of 8,329 cases, the Guyanese leader said significant national progress has

been achieved in reducing malaria cases.

“The total number of new cases declined by 60 percent between 2010 and 2015. Malaria unfortunately despite these gains, [remains] highly resilient. A 5 percent increase in new cases was recorded in 2016 and again in 2017,” the President told leaders.

The highest incidence of these cases, the Head of State informed the summit, was recorded in the forested areas of Guyana where mining is the principal economic

activity. The President then proposed the four-pronged international support strategy to combat the communicable disease be directed towards protecting citizens against the spread of malaria by the transfer of technologies from developed to developing and poor countries.

“It involves preventing and limiting vector-borne infections by the dissemination of quality health information; it involves providing improved tools for diagnosing and identifying active cases of malaria, regardless of spe-

cies and finally by procuring high-quality combination malaria treatment to ensure full curing of infected persons and to avoid drug-resistant malaria,” he posited.

The London Malaria Summit, President Granger urged, must emerge with a realistic roadmap to end the global malaria pandemic. Guyana, he reiterated, is ready to join with other nations to beat malaria.

The President also extended best wishes for a successful outcome of the summit.

His Royal Highness Prince Charles of Wales also speaking at the summit, expressed worry that countries may underestimate the systemic threat the disease poses.

Prince Charles said the achievement of the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), of which Goal Three speaks to the eradication of malaria, “is not part of some al a carte

menu, it is the prerequisite of our survival …we simply do not have the luxury of deferring the actions to future generations, nor is it fair that we should shackle them with the consequences of our inaction.”

The commitment shown in the fight against malaria, the Prince noted, is an excellent demonstration of the Commonwealth “at its best.” Statistics show that six out of the 10 countries most affected by malaria are members of the Commonwealth: these are Nigeria, India, Mozambique, Ghana, Uganda and Tanzania, many of which were represented by their leaders at the summit. The November 2017 World Malaria Report showed that progress made to fight malaria had stalled, which posed the risk of all the work done so far becoming undone, at worst, a

President David Granger during the Eighth Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting

resurgence. As a result, the malaria community united to put on the Malaria Summit in London, under the theme, “Ready to beat Malaria.” Ahead of this summit, leaders committed to halving the number of malaria cases in their respective countries over the next five years.

Kabakaburi residents feel economic squeeze CLOSE to one and a half years since the cessation of lumbering activities within the Kabakaburi district in the Upper Pomeroon River, Region Two, Toshao of the indigenous community, Cleveland Simon, said hundreds continue to be affected.

Lumbering activities within the indigenous community ceased in 2016 after the village council was allegedly logging on stateowned land.

The issue started in the 1990s and continued in 2016 when the Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC) ordered all logging operations be ceased on

the disputed territory until the matter is resolved. To date, the matter is yet to be resolved and many in the community are facing economic challenges.

According to Simon, more than 60 per cent of the community’s population is affected, since lumbering is a chief source of livelihood.

“Most of the residents depend on lumbering. They were ordered to stop harvesting; this is unacceptable and something needs to be done,” Simon said.

The toshoa has requested a land map of the village from the authorities to avoid operating outside of their community.

The matter is engag-

Kabakaburi Toshao, Cleveland Simon

ing the attention of the Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC), the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, and other relevant authorities.

Crying man jailed for assaulting wife LUCK was definitely not on the side of Leonard Grant, 30, of Westbury, Essequibo Coast, when he made his final appearance at the Charity Magistrates’ Court in relation to an assault charge on Monday.

Following the testimonies of several persons in the trial, Grant was found guilty

by Magistrate Esther Sam of assaulting his child’s mother Shenalla Marks during a heated argument last year.

Marks had several injuries inflicted about her

body during a beating at the hands of Grant, with whom she shared a common-law relationship at the time.

Grant was sentenced to 14 months imprisonment, and on hearing the verdict, he broke down in tears and even asked for forgiveness.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, April 19, 2018

Convicted gunman A menu of marijuana facing carjacking charge and two boxes of food STEVEN Hercules, one of six men who the police arrested following a failed robbery attempt on the East Bank of Demerara last week, was on Wednesday hauled before the court to answer to a carjacking charge.

On Tuesday, Hercules, a taxi driver, was jailed for eight years after he confessed

Steve Hercules

to arms and ammunition charges, one week after he and five other men were stopped by the police at a roadblock.

Hercules appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday and denied that on March 25, 2018 at Princes Street, while being armed with a gun, he stole a motorcar along with other items amounting to $3.7M, property of Shawn Liverpool. He

was remanded to prison until April 30.

Last Tuesday night, the men made a failed robbery attempt at the home of a Chinese national prior to their arrest at the roadblock.

Hercules, along with Nabidigi Gobin, 33, of Charlotte Street, Bourda; Reynard Khan, 31, of Cooper Street, Albouystown; Mark Prince, 39, of Parfaite Harmonie, West Bank Demerara; Edward Skeete, 30 of Independence Boulevard; and Marvin Blackman, 27, of South Ruimveldt, made their appearance before Magistrate Sunil Scarce at the Providence Magistrate’s Court.

The six men were jointly charged with having two 9MM Glock pistols along with 22 live rounds, one Beretta pistol with 11 live rounds, and a .32 Taurus pistol with six live rounds in their possession on April 10 at the Grove Public Road, E.B.D. without being holders of firearm licences.

Hercules confessed to the charges while the other defendants denied the allegations. He was charged separately for using a fake number plate, HC 4543, on registered motor vehicle, PVV 6204. He also confessed that he was paid $50,000 to transport a bag with firearms to Georgetown.

Hercules told the court

UG students reach out to special needs school THE New Amsterdam Special Needs School will soon be able to empower students to be self-dependent following the construction of a greenhouse by the University of Guyana, Tain Campus final year Social Work students.

Spokesperson Tessie Ramnauth said the group, which includes Celes Bradford and Jamalaa Albert, was tasked with undertaking a project that would benefit a community.

After much thought, the

group chose the greenhouse project for the special needs school as they considered its long-term benefit, once effectively managed by teachers and the differently-abled students.

The group is of the view that the students will learn a new skill which can be useful to them in their adult life.

The project was executed to the tune of $55,000, the majority of which was the students’ personal contribution and the remainder from family and others.

on Tuesday that he picked up the other defendants, whom he claimed he had never met before, along his journey so as not to raise suspicion to police, since he wanted the car to look like a regular taxi. Following his guilty plea on Tuesday, Hercules was sentenced to eight years in jail and fined $800,000 for the arms and ammunition charges.

NICOLE Clarke, a 37-year-old woman was on Wednesday remanded to prison for allegedly trafficking 355 grams of marijuana into the Camp Street prison in Georgetown.

It is alleged that on April 17, at the Camp Street Prison, she had the marijuana for the purpose of trafficking.

According to the evidence presented in court by the police prosecutor, at the time of her visit, the woman was in the waiting room of the prison with a white plastic bag which contained two boxes of food.

Prison officers reportedly searched the boxes and found the drugs concealed inside the food. She was

immediately arrested and reportedly confessed to the crime under caution.

The woman who resides at Durban Street, Lodge, pleaded not guilty to the charge.

Bail was refused by Magistrate Fabayo Azore and the woman was remanded to prison until May 30, 2018.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, April 19, 2018

Nandlall wants DPP review charges against Singh, Brassington DIRECTOR of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Shalimar Ali-Hack was on Tuesday called upon to review and discontinue charges laid against former Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh and former National Industrial and Commercial Investment Limited (NICIL) Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Winston Brassington.

The duo have been charged with three counts of misconduct in public office, contrary to the common law. “I respectively invite a review of the said charges for the purpose of specifically considering whether the particulars of the offences disclose any offence at law, more particularly, the offences for which the accused persons have been charged and if not, I further invite you to consider exercising the powers vested in your office

by Article 187 of the Constitution of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana and to discontinue the said charges, forthwith,” said Nandlall in a letter dated Tuesday, April 17, 2018 and addressed to Ali-Hack.

Dr Singh and Brassington who both reside overseas were last Thursday given three weeks to appear before

Chief Magistrate Ann Mc Lennan. The two are required to answer to three charges of misconduct in public office, contrary to the common law.

The charges were filed by the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU). SOCU said investigators have been trying since 2015 to communicate with the duo but to no avail.

Last Thursday, when the matter was called, the charges were not read by the chief magistrate because the accused were not before the court. The matter has since been adjourned to May 7, 2018. Meanwhile, Nandlall in his missive reminded the DPP that her office has a constitutional responsibility to protect the citizenry against the institution of criminal charges that are based “on malice, mala fides, ulterior or sinister motives and vendetta and or from charges that cannot reasonably yield a lawful conviction.”

The two former public officials were charged by Information upon oath and Corporal Munilall Persaud of SOCU swore to the evidence submitted before the court.

According to information sworn under oath, Dr Singh and Brassington on Monday, December 28, 2009 by way of an agreement of sale and

purchase “acted recklessly” when they sold to National Hardware (Guyana) Limited, lands amounting to 103.88 acres, property of the state for the sum of $598, 659, 398 (vat exclusive), without first having procured a valuation of the said property from a competent valuation officer.

The second charge alleged that the duo on Tuesday, December 30, 2008 by way of agreement of sale and purchase “without due diligence” sold to Scady Business Corporation, land located at Liliendaal, ECD amounting to 4,700 acres, also the property of the state for the sum of $150,000,000, knowing that the said property was valued at $340,000,000 by Rodrigues Architects Associate.

The final charge alleges that the former finance minister and NICIL’s CEO on Saturday, May 14, 2011 by way of agreement of sale and purchase “acted recklessly” when they sold to Multi-cinemas Guyana Inc. 10, 002 acres of land located at Turkeyen, ECD, property of the state for the sum of $185, 037,000 without first having procured a valuation of the said property from a competent valuation officer.

Magistrate changes man’s plea after hearing explanation KEVIN Christopher Balkaran who was jailed for four months in 2016 for assault on Wednesday committed a similar offence and appeared before a city magistrate.

It is alleged that on April 16,, 2018 at Houston Housing Scheme, Balkaran used abusive language and assaulted Melissa Balkaran.

On the same day, police said

he used abusive language towards Usha Balkaran.

It was further alleged that on the same day he unlawfully and maliciously broke a table valued $35,000.

Christopher pleaded guilty to all the charges read out to him in court.

He told the court that the virtual complainants kept him locked up in the

house and one of his hands was chained to the table. He added that Melissa Balkaran provoked him by hitting him on his chest and he retaliated by cuffing her to her mouth and splitting her lip.

After listening to his explanation, Magistrate Fabayo Azore entered a not guilty plea and the matter was transferred to another court.

Two hospitalised in boat collision TWO persons are patients at the Oscar Joseph Hospital in Charity, Essequibo Coast, nursing injuries following a boat collision at Wakapoa, Lower Pomeroon, Region Two on Tuesday.

Those hospitalised are Ve-

nassa John, 17, and Michele Smith, 14. The captains of both boats are in police custody assisting with investigations.

Reports indicate that Hurbert James, 49, a pastor of Wakapoa, was heading

east of the river with the two teenagers when he collided with the deputy toshao of the community, Wayne Boyan, who was heading in the opposite direction.

Police are investigating the incident.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, April 19, 2018

Pastors uncover ‘devilish’ irregularities in driver’s exam

AN investigation has been launched into what appears to be “massive irregularities” in the Guyana Police Force’s learner driver’s theoretical examination which took place last Thursday at the Felix Austin Police College, Georgetown.

According to a statement issued by the Guyana Police Force, the Office of Professional Responsibility has commenced investigation into the matter following a report made by a senior pastor, who serves as the Force’s Chaplain, to the Commissioner of Police (ag).

The pastor said at the conclusion of the examination, his colleague pastors who invigilated the examination, reported that 174 persons were registered to write the examination but only 106 persons presented themselves on the said date.

However, 207 scripts were received at the conclusion of the examination and 155 of the total scripts received were completed.

According to the police, initial enquires revealed that a senior subordinate officer who was mandated to over-

see this theoretical examination in collaboration with two pastors from the COPS and Faith Community Network partnering with the Guyana Police Force, along with three junior ranks, left the examination venue shortly after the examination began and did not return.

Further, a junior subordinate officer who ought not to have been at the examination venue, presented himself, spent some time there and left.

The three constables left the examination venue prior to the counting of the examination scripts by members of the COPS and Faith Community Network at the end of the examination.

Only the members of the COPS and Faith community Network, that is, the two pastors, were left in possession of the completed examination papers.

“These preliminary enquires indicate a complete breach of the Standard Operating Procedures governing the administration and conduct of the learner driver’s theoretical examination,” the statement said.

As a result, persons who

sat the examination at the venue on Thursday, April 12, 2018, will have to re-sit the examination. The identified persons will be informed of the new date and time for the new examination.

The Guyana Police Force has pointed out that over a number of years, the volunteer assistance and involvement of members of the COPS and Faith Community Network countrywide has been invaluable in the several areas in which they partner with the Force.

Members of the public and members of the Force, the statement said, must appreciate and understand that since the involvement of the members of the COPS Faith Community Network in the invigilation of the Learner Driver’s Theoretical and Practical examinations, there has been a significant reduction in the opportunities for corruption, complaint and allegations and this voluntary involvement will continue to ensure the integrity of the processes.

The completed investigation will be sent for legal advice.

Guyanese man found stabbed to death in NY NEW YORK (CBSNewYork)–Police are dealing with a real-life murder mystery in Brooklyn, trying to figure out who would stab a disabled former MTA bus driver multiple times in his apartment.

Otis James, 46, was found in his home on Central Avenue in Bushwick unconscious and bleeding.

Police say he had multiple stab wounds to his chest and blunt force trauma to the head. “He didn’t deserve it, said Kevin Arokium, a friend of the victim. “He’s a peaceful man, a humble man.”

Arokium says he cant get the picture out of his mind, seeing the dead body of his downstairs neighbor James, a married father of three.

“I see my man on the floor – blood, paper towel, knife – that’s all I could remember seeing,” said Arokium “That’s all I see right now, a big hole in my man’s chest.

That’s all I see right now.”

Wednesday morning

police carried out bags of evidence from the murder scene at 494 Central Ave. in Bushwick, including James’s boxed up wheelchair. Police arrived around 4:30 Tuesday afternoon and found a bloody scene where someone stabbed James more than 10 times.

Aunt Donna James says the family is devastated.

“Right now he says he’s walking around like a zombie,” Donna said of her husband. “He don’t know what to do. He’s like a father figure to him.” James worked as an MTA bus driver for about 11 years, retiring on disability in 2017. A union official says he had been robbed and shot on vacation in Guyana, leaving him paralyzed from the waist down.

Robbery may have played a role in his murder, as well. “There are some allegations that there was money in the house but at this point in time it’s a little early to define

Otis James

the motive,” said NYPD chief of detectives Dermot Shea. The family had no idea who would wish such malice against James. “We don’t know,” said Donna “We really don’t know.”

Police are searching the neighborhood block for surveillance video that may have caught the suspect. So far no arrests have been made.

National Trust of Guyana launches “Places of Interest” publication in Essequibo … during Heritage Exhibition

Minister of Social Cohesion, Culture, Youth and Sport, Dr. George Norton, unveiling the new publication, “Places of Interest” launched by the National Trust of Guyana. Also in photo is CEO of the National Trust of Guyana, Miss Nirvana Persaud

By: Indrawattie Natram IN recognition of International Day for Monuments and Sites in Guyana, the National Trust of Guyana on Wednesday hosted a heritage exhibition at the Anna Regina Car Park in close proximity to the Damon Monument in Region Two. The exhibition was held under the theme, “Heritage for Generations” and was declared opened to the public by Minister of Social Cohesion, Culture, Youth and Sport, Dr. George Norton.

During the formal programme, an interesting publication called “Places of Interest” which the National Trust of Guyana compiled, was unveiled giving Essequibians the opportunity to learn more about Guyana’s rich heritage. The exhibition consisted of several thematic displays, publications and interactive sessions affording patrons much-needed knowledge about the existing monuments and historic sites in Guyana. There was an oral component whereby local historian, Ishahack Basir, volunteered his time to share his knowledge with persons visiting the exhibition. In the midst of the exhibition was designer/sculptor of the Damon Statue, Ivor Thom.

According to Chief Executive Officer of the National Trust of Guyana, Ms. Nirvana Persaud, the new publication provides valuable information on some 200 monument sites and locations throughout the ten administrative regions.

She said the compilation is the first of its kind singling out location, classification, period of existence and images of existing monuments. The inventory for the publication commenced early last year in an effort to raise awareness to citizen and non-citizen.

“The researches are tangible markers as a journey of a people both positive and negative aspects, used

as guidelines for a continued path,” Persaud said.

Persaud said that the state agency is responsible for the preservation and promotion of monuments in Guyana.

She said heritage education and public sensitisation initiatives, institutionalisation of policy to safeguard, research and document are some of the many programmes of the Trust in relation to heritage preservation in Guyana.

EMBRACING DIVERSITY Delivering feature address in observance of the day was Minister of Social Cohesion, Culture, Youth and Sport, Dr. George Norton, who said that the ‘Green land of Guyana’ possesses a rich history and culture and the country’s monuments and sites serve as reminders of the struggles that Guyana managed to overcome as a nation.

“Our monuments and sites form parts of our identity as a country and as a people… the monuments’ structural locations are a unique story of struggles and sacrifice. Over the last 45 years the National Trust of Guyana has been the main body tasked with protecting and preserving these infrastructural aspects of our heritage,” Minister Norton said.

The Minister said that there are many motives to destroy the monuments by persons who do not have knowledge on same and he implored those present to play their part as citizens to protect the monuments. He called on all Guyanese to try as much as possible to prevent destruction of the heritage sites and to dedicate their energies to seek information on the monuments. The Minister said that once persons are educated then they can appreciate and enhance their knowledge of Guyana’s rich history.

“This is where social cohesion lies so that we recognize ourselves as a people so we can appreciate others.

Our ancestors pave ways so we can enjoy what they left.

We must all join in promoting the good things that Guyana has to offer” Minister Norton said.

Also attending the exhibition and book launch was Region Two Chairman, Devanand Ramdatt, who welcomed the team to Region Two and thanked the National Trust of Guyana for hosting such a significant day in the Region. He said he was happy to have the sculptor of the Damon Monument at the exhibition.

“Region Two is part of Guyana. Many times traditionally we see these launches happening in Georgetown, so I want to thank all the stakeholders and those that are responsible for bringing such an activity to the Region,” Ramdatt said.

He said he believes that respect for the various heritage sites as well as recognition of the monuments’ preservation and enhancement heavily depend on citizens.

He therefore called for co-operation from Essequibians to help preserve the many historic sites within the Region.

Representing the Guyana National Commission for the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) was general secretary, Patrice La Fleur. Sharing some knowledge on International Day for Monuments and Sites, the general secretary said on April 18, 1982, on the occasion of a symposium organized by the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) Tunisia and a corresponding meeting of the Bureau in Hammamet, it was suggested that a day be established to celebrate the diversity of heritage throughout the world. She said from that idea the day was born.

She said UNESCO General Conference adopted the concept by passing a resolution at its 22nd session in November 1983, recommending that member states examine the possibility of declaring April 18 each year as, “International Monuments and Sites Day”.

Also attending the exhibition and book launch was Town Clerk of the Anna Regina Town Council, Diane Critchlow; Member of Parliament, Haimraj Rajkumar; members of the Essequibo Chamber of Commerce; schoolchildren and other government officers. The programme was organised by the Ministry of the Presidency, Department of Social Cohesion, Culture, Youth and Sport in collaboration with the National Trust of Guyana.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, April 19, 2018

‘Pay attention to your health’ …PM Nagamootoo tells Health Expo launch Health Expo 2018 was on Wednesday launched amid calls for citizens to lead healthier lives.

THEMED “Reaching for a better life with good health,” the Expo which will run from May 30 to June 2, 2018, at the Sophia Exhibition Centre, and is geared at strengthening health awareness here through seminars, workshops, continued medical education, as well as a career day fair, to name a few activities planned.

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo, who is performing the functions of President, called on citizens to pay keen attention to the choices they make as those choices can affect their health. He used his own recent heart surgery as an example of why persons need to pay attention to their health.

Mr Nagamootoo stressed that the health expo is intended to focus nationally on how citizens can contribute to bringing

about wellness in society. He said a nation is blessed when it has healthy and productive citizens and reminded the audience that the Health Expo will promote awareness about health conditions, diseases and viruses, as well as explain the extent of services available through the public health system.

He said too that unhealthy habits can lead to a “slow demise”, as he called on companies to be responsible and not hoodwink their customers.

Additionally, Nagamootoo said despite the challenges facing the health sector, it is imperative for the government to uphold Article 24 of the Constitution of Guyana, which speaks to the right to free medical attention, social care, old age and disability.

He said over the years billions of dollars have been pumped into the healthcare system, which he said is indicative of

government’s commitment to bettering the sector. “You have choices to make, make them while young,” he said, while opining that eating healthy is critical to sustaining a healthy lifestyle and long life. “Pay attention to your health; we can all live a better life with good health,” Nagamootoo concluded.

Subject Minister Volda Lawrence in opening remarks said the country’s first health exposition will also serve to develop synergies between the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH), health care providers and the public. She noted that over the years many persons have appeared at public health facilities after expending large sums at private institutions, because they were unaware that the same services are provided by the MoPH free of cost.

“Too many persons are not au fait with the services provided by the MoPH,” she said,

Acting President and Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo (centre), Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence, (left) and Minister within the Ministry of Public Health, Dr. Karen Cummings, (right) with students from a number of school students that were present at the launch of Health Expo. (DPI)

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo examining some medication on display at the Health Expo. Also in photograph is Minister within the Ministry of Public Health, Dr. Karen Cummings. (DPI)

while noting that the Expo will ensure that the public becomes acquainted with the services that are provided across the board in primary as well as tertiary health care institutions.

Lawrence told the gathering of mainly health care providers, and schoolchildren that the time has come for “family oriented health.” She noted her ministry’s 2020 vision, which speaks to health for all and stressed the need for the public to be oriented towards preventative care.

“We want to ensure we stop the ‘I’ and the ‘me’ when it comes to our health…and start thinking about family-oriented health; that is, we begin

to ensure that persons within our households are accessing our health facilities” said the Minister of Public Health, as she stressed that Guyanese can become more health conscious.

“We want to remind everyone that they are living in a country that is blessed with an abundance of healthy foods,” the minister said, noting that Guyanese can live long and healthy lives should they utilise fresh, organic produce as opposed to canned preservatives.

It is expected that partnerships will be forged with stakeholders in the heath sector, so that there can exist a much healthier nation in the future.

“Health Expo is also for the interaction of so many from the outside with those within the Ministry of Public Health. We believe that it will give us a good idea, in terms of some of the thoughts of the citizens and the things they’d like us to improve on,” Lawrence stated. The Public Health Minister said too that through the Health Expo, it is expected that opportunities will arise for the ministry and its partners to work collectively to improve the health system.

Permanent Secretary MoPH, Colette Adams, who echoed the sentiments of Minister Lawrence disclosed that her ministry is moving to create an electronic medical information system so that patients’ information can be readily retrieved and patient management and care enhanced. “Health Expo will provide an opportunity to introduce this system to the public, using modern information technology,” she said, while noting that the forum would

also facilitate launching of the food- based guidelines so that citizens of Guyana can be aware of health consumption to achieve healthy lifestyles.

MoPH Adams said the ministry is committed to fulfilling its mandate as outlined in its vision 2020, which is to advance the well-being of all the people of Guyana, reduce inequalities and offer quality health services. She noted that the main objective of the Health Expo is to strengthen awareness that the MoPH is the primary health care provider.

The permanent secretary said despite the challenges and constraints, the MoPH is optimistic the challenges will be overcome in the near future and Guyana would continue to stand as a healthy nation.

“The objective of this fair is to strengthen the awareness and communication among citizens, to sensitise the public about the services provided by the ministry and to provide a platform whereby local and foreign manufacturers, distributors and suppliers can interact and discuss current knowledge and best practices in the health environment,” she stated.

Similarly, Minister within the Ministry of Public Health, Dr Karen Cummings, in delivering the vote of thanks, said through collaboration Guyana is working tirelessly to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), in particular Goal 3. SDG 3 calls on nations to “ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages.” “This requires joint action through health literacy,” Dr Cummings added.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, April 19, 2018

Haemophilia Society launched

By Lisa Hamilton THE Guyana Haemophilia Society (GHS) was officially launched on Tuesday and it was revealed that Guyana lacks awareness, experience, access to medication and treatment facilities when it comes to the fatal disease.

Joining in with the global celebration of World Haemophilia Day observed on April 17, the GHS utilised the opportunity to introduce itself to Guyanese at the event hosted in the conference hall of the National Library.

Present at the function were junior Public Health Minister Dr Karen Cummings, executive members of the GHS, medical personnel and individuals with the disease.

Haemophilia is an inherited bleeding disorder which prevents blood from clotting normally and for which there is no cure.

It results in bleeding, tightness, swelling and pain in the joints; bleeding in the brain after simple bumps and at times even spontaneous bleeding.

Haemophilia is a sexlinked disease which results in it being transferred only from mother to sons or from father to daughters.

It is estimated that there are 475,000 persons worldwide with haemophilia, while only 187,000 of these have been identified as pa-

tients.

In Guyana, it is estimated that there are 75 persons living with haemophilia, only five of which have been confirmed, thus far, by the society.

Director of the Georgetown Public Hospital Complex (GPHC), Dr. Pheona Mohamed-Rambaran, said Guyana is inexperienced in management of the disease.

quantity received from Project Share is inadequate to manage the country’s five identified patients, which points to a need for additional mechanisms to be put in place.

SPECIALISED CLINICS She also highlighted the need for specialised clinics for persons with the disease, as they oftentimes are not

programme for testing and treatment, as well as for receiving additional products.

Addressing the gathering, Dr Cummings said the ministry pledges its full support to working with the GHS to bring about several improvements in the area of the disease.

These are to increase public awareness about haemophilia; to make available Junior Minister of Public Health Dr Karen Cummings at the launching of the Guyana Haemophilia Society (GHS) (Delano Williams photo)

A number of supporters turned out to the National Library in observance of World Haemophilia Day (Delano Williams photo)

The main treatment for haemophilia is through a replacement therapy known as a clotting factor, which Guyana does not produce and tests are sent abroad to be diagnosed, since this service is unavailable locally.

The clotting factor is therefore received through Project Share, a US-based humanitarian programme which donates blood-clotting medicines to developing countries.

However, Dr Mohamed-Rambaran said the

given immediate attention for emergency cases when visiting public hospitals.

In addition, the director recommends the implementation of a haemophilia registry to monitor and manage patient cases, as well as home-therapy systems to cater for persons who suffer from mild bleeding.

The GHS is putting plans in place to become a part of the World Federation of Haemophilia which will see Guyana being assisted in the development of a national

diagnostic capabilities at health facilities; establish and distribute necessary protocols and standard treatment guidelines; to ensure appropriate treatment options are available; and to establish a strong network with the blood bank.

“I do look forward to strong future collaboration between the Ministry of Public Health and the Guyana Haemophilia Society, which will ensure that persons living in Guyana diagnosed with haemophilia or other

inherited blood disorders have access to and receive the highest quality of health care services available,” Cummings said.

She commended the previous works of the society and encouraged that efforts be continued to ensure the body becomes a part of the World Federation of Haemophilia.

Meanwhile, GHS President Laurence Bakhsh, who is also a patient with severe haemophilia, said psychologically, the disease is hard to live with and many sufferers often contemplate suicide.

Other common challenges relate to mobility, stigma, early on-set arthritis, unemployment, mental health challenges and hindrances to being involved in school and sports, apart from swimming.

Bakhsh said he antic-

ipates support from the Ministry of Public Health and made recommendations to health workers to become fully aware of the unique needs of haemophilia patients.

“When we go to the emergency room we’re not supposed to be standing and waiting for a simple multi-vitamin which doesn’t necessarily help us. The doctors and nurses need to be more educated, especially the clinics, because those are our first response,” he stated.

Also delivering brief remarks was Director of the National Blood Transfusion Service (NBTS) Pedro Lucas, who congratulated the society and encouraged citizens to participate in blood donations.

He acknowledged that every person must play a part in supporting the lives of others, even as the blood bank seeks to improve on its own standards to meet the needs of the country.

The GHS founded and registered in March 2017

by Laurence Bakhsh, Lloyd Bakhsh and Freda Figueira, aims at highlighting the plight of persons with haemophilia.

This year, World Haemophilia Day is being celebrated under the theme “Sharing Knowledge makes us stronger”, marking its 28th anniversary, having first begun in 1989 by the World Federation of Haemophilia.

Surinam Airways remains committed to Guyana service SURINAM Airways says it remains committed to serving the Guyana market, even with the announcement by another major air carrier, American Airlines, that it will introduce service from Miami to Georgetown later this year.

Questioned on Wednesday about the future of Surinam Airways service between the United States and Guyana, the airline’s general manager for North America, Henk Fitz-Jim, said that

“SLM remains committed to our service between Miami International Airport (MIA) and the Cheddi Jagan International Airport in Guyana.

Not only are we committed to maintaining the current three flights weekly, but are actively considering adding another flight,” Fitz-Jim said during a discussion forum Tuesday at the airline’s office here.

However, Fitz-Jim disclosed that SLM has taken a decision not to offer this

year its seasonal service between Orlando, Florida and Guyana, which it has offered between June and September each year for the past three years. “As we look at our network of routes we have decided to drop our seasonal service from Orlando, with a view to increasing service on more critical routes. So, it is against this backdrop that we are contemplating adding an additional Miami flight each week. We are also looking at some long-term plans that

include the possibility of offering service from New York, among other destinations,” the airline official said.

Fitz-Jim disclosed that during 2017 there was a healthy growth in passenger traffic between Miami and Guyana with an average ontime departure of 85 per cent and an extremely low rate of delays and cancellations.

“We are happy with the quality of service we provide on our network of routes

and in particular the Guyana route, especially since we are the only airline offering non-stop service between Florida and Guyana at this time. We know how convenient this service is for our customers and we are listening to their feedback. That is why we are looking at an additional flight,” he said.

Fitz-Jim is encouraging travellers to Guyana for the Christmas season to book early so as to ensure that they can be accommo-

dated on flights during the peak season. He also indicated that SLM will continue to offer the first piece of luggage, not to exceed 50 pounds, free of cost in addition to a hot meal for passengers while in-flight.

Surinam Airways is to take possession next month of one new B737-700 aircraft which will be put into service on its various routes including Guyana, and an additional B737-700 later this year, he disclosed.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, April 19, 2018

Two more days to go!

LINDEN is turning the volume all the way up in 2018!

All Guyanese, those both here at home and abroad, have just two days to get ready for the highly-anticipated partying, feting, exploring, gyrating and celebrating.

The mining town of Linden is celebrating its 48th Birthday under the theme, “Celebrating Culture, Talent and Creativity in a Clean, ‘Green’ 2018”.

A diverse, colourful and well-packed calendar of over 60 events and activities will commence this Saturday, April 21, and end on Labour Day, Tuesday May 1.

This is the time for Lindeners to unite and celebrate, and to be proud of what they have achieved. Everyone is invited to celebrate this signature event with the people of Linden. The bars, hotels, restaurants, salons and barbershops, the designers, make-up artists, vendors and boutique owners are all ready to render their services at this time.

The Linden Town Week 2018 committee has spent months planning and organising in an effort to have everyone involved; from every grandmother, mother, youth, student and child.

Even church goers, sports fanatics, nature lovers, party fanatics, family-oriented individuals and pageant lovers were considered during the planning. It is a time for one, a time for all.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS On Saturday, the Miss Linden Town Week 2018 will be crowned at the Mackenzie Sports Club Ground.

For nature lovers, there are Heartland Treks; Day Tours to Rockstone; and Wisroc Village Day, while party lovers will be ‘palancing’at the Soca Rave Party.

Starting the week off officially will be the official opening ceremony with a street parade and church service.

Throughout the week, there will be many more nature tours such as the Coomacka Mines Tour; Up-River Boat Tour; and Nature walks.

Party lovers can also en-

-to Linden Town Week 2018

The ‘I love Linden’ sign that should be unveiled at the start of events joy the LTW All- White Party; the highly anticipated All Black Party; Big Ooman Cud Neva Dun; HJ Sunrise Breakfast Party; Camouflage Party; and the Linden Town Week Wash-Down.

Focussing on education, students are invited to participate in the Debating Competition, Rising Star Essay Competition, Spelling Bee Competition and the on-thespot Art Competition.

Sports fanatics can start lacing up their sneakers for the several Guiness-in-the-Street Futsul Games, LABA Basketball Playoffs,

Mayor’s Cup Trialton and Athletics, and well as the Disabled Day of Sports.

Then next Sunday, April 29, several villages will decorate the streets of Linden, among them Extra Beer and Energy Village, Ansa McAl Village, Eldorado Village, Corona Village and the Extra Beer Village.

Senior Citizens will also be treated to lunch by the LMTC that day.

The LTW 2018 committee is collaborating with several stakeholders to ensure that this year’s

The seven Linden beauties vying for the coveted Miss Linden 2018 crown and title

calendar of activities does not disappoint.

While the jingle has already been released

by Linden celebrity, Diana Chapman, the vis-

itor’s park, street signs and magazine will be unveiled in time for LTW 2018.

A visitors park is expected to be established at the Kara-Kara Dyke and will include benches and pathways and all the other recreational amenities, and along with a three-dimensional “I Love Linden” 7’ high (25’ long) 3D structure hoisted on a 2’ high solid concrete base signboard to greet visitors.

LTW is a time when the town of Linden is branded and showcased, its economic, social and tourism potential are exploited.

LTW started 22 years ago as just a three-day event, but has since then revolutionised and rebranded to suit every target group.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, April 19, 2018

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Lindeners prevail again --at CARIFTA games

Deshana Skeete

THE Linden championship spirit at athletics continues to prevail, and Lindeners continue to prove undeniably that they are the best on the track and the field.

This was proven again at this year’s Caribbean Free Trade Association Games (CARIFTA), with five out of the nine overall medals being won coming to the mining town of Linden.

Diana Chapman’s recently released single, ‘I Love Linden’ where reference was made to Lindeners being champions at athletics was fittingly released and celebrated when the beloved and well-supported team returned home last week.

Murphy Nash

Chantoba Bright, Murphy Nash, Shaquka Tyrell, and Deshana Skeete travelled to the Bahamas with the aim of returning home accessorised with medals. And accessorised they were.

And while the rest of the Linden team did not score medals, they, too, were celebrated and complimented for putting their best foot forward and making the mining town proud once again.

Those team members are: Daniel Williams, Jermaine Simmons, Tremayne Brown, Onasha Rogers, Avon Samuels and Claudrice McKoy. All of the Region 10 athletes made their family, team members,

Shaquka Tyrell

school, coaches and, most importantly, their hometown proud.

While for many Guyanese this may be a regular achievement, for Lindeners, being the toast of the town at athletics is another way in which all of the negatives that have been associated with the community can be downplayed.

As one Linden sports fanatic observed: “You are always hearing that Linden is the town where money ain’t circulating; dem ain’t get jobs; the bauxite dust does mek we look gloomy.

“People always washingdem mouth pon we, but victory such as these must be highlighted, so not

only Guyana, but the world, can see that Linden is a place that nuff good does come out of, and one of those good is athletics, and we will continue to prevail.”

Performance-wise, Chantoba Bright was the only one to secure a gold medal in the Girls Under-20 long jump. She, however, won a bronze in the triple jump.

This performance was as good as last year’s, with Bright winning gold in her long jump event and bronze in the Girls Under-18 triple jump.

Murphy Nash won his medal in the Boys’ Under-17 1500m race; Deshana Skeete in the Girls Under-17 400m; and Shaquka Tyrell in the

Chantoba Bright

Girls Under-17 1500 metres.

While Linden’s beloved Daniel Williams ran his personal best, he did not make it to the podium with his fifth-place win in the Boys Under-20 200 metres final. He ran it in 21.21.

Linden congratulates the team for a job well done, and calls are being made for the government and relevant officials to rally around the athletes by giving them all the needed support.

One way of supporting them is for the materialisation of a 400-meter synthetic track for the Bayroc Community Centre Ground.

The setting’s right! The water beckons!

--recent studies prove Linden blue lakes safe for swimming OF LATE, the Blue Lakes of Linden, arguably one of the more enduring hallmarks of the town, have been the centre of overwhelming attention as the push to exploit these touristic gems gains more traction.

The latest such episode is the recent buzz created on social media when one adventurous Lindener, a Mr Deon Anderson, took it upon himself to sell the picturesque beauty of the Kara Kara blue lake by taking his young family to spend a fun-filled day out there in its beach-like environs.

Needless to say, what for him was innocent fun raised questions about the safety of the lakes, given the long-held belief that the waters therein were filled with harmful chemicals.

But before we go deeper, one needs to understand the origin of these lakes at reference, in that far from occurring naturally, they are the product of years of bauxite mining going all the way back to 1916, and are located in old mined-out areas such as East Montgomery, South Arrowcane, Kara Kara, Richmond Hill and Wisroc.

What they are, in essence, are the end result of the stripping of the over-

burden to get to the bauxite below, and can be found nestled neatly amongst the towering part-sand-part-clay hills of the mined-out remains of once bauxite-rich areas.

NATURAL SPRING WATER Veteran bauxite worker, Mr Charles Sampson, who has a wealth of knowledge on the subject, told this publication that in the early days of bauxite mining, it was actually natural spring water, which Linden has in abundance, that made its way into the mined-out holes, thus forming lakes.

But the presence of chemicals such as goethite and haematite, he said, caused the water in those lakes to have a high pH balance, which in layman’s terms is the level of acidity or alkalinity of a liquid on a scale of zero to 14 and above or below.

And by “high pH balance”, what Mr Sampson means is that the water had a high level of acidity, which spells disaster for those wanting to take a dip.

Another veteran bauxite man, a Mr Horace James explained that the iron sulphate in the bauxite would have also contributed to Turn to page 18

The beautiful, beach-like Blue Lakes of Linden

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, April 19, 2018

Personality…

More a humanitarian than a politician --the two sides to Jermaine Figueira, MP

“I DON’T like to be called a politician because of the many negative connotations that are associated with being a politician,” he says.

“So when people say, ‘Figgy, you are a politician,’ I say in a joking manner, ‘I am not

But what is even more endearing about him, especially to the people of Region 10, is that something in him that compels him to lend a helping hand to those in need, be it man, woman or child, or the elderly.

Rather than being at executive meetings

Taking charge of things during a recent clothes drive in Mackenzie

a politician; I am just in a political position,’” he told the Guyana Chronicle just recently.

Jermaine Figueira, regarded as one of the youngest Members of Parliament, hails from the mining town of Linden and is also privileged to be representing his own constituency at the Central Government level.

His snazzy mode of dress, pierced ears, dreadlocks and all, have all combined to earn him the nickname, ‘Cool Figgy’.

dressed in collar and tie, and discussing politics, ‘Figgy’ is known far and wide for rendering humanitarian service to various communities in Linden, especially those known to have a high poverty ratio.

Since being elevated to MP, this young Lindener, who is also a teacher by profession, has already conducted dozens of drives in which food, clothes, toys, street lights, agricultural tools and other items were distributed.

At the service of the elderly during the commissioning of the Wisroc Centre for the Elderly

Among communities to have benefitted from these charitable activities are Victory Valley, Speightland, Block 22, Wisroc, Kara Kara, and Silver Town.

Modest to a fault, the young politician said: “I have been very fortunate to have at my side Mrs Elene Richmond-Shockley, who has made this aspect of service very possible for me.

“It is primarily because of her and her organisation, Caring for Others, that much of the humanitarian work I have been able to venture into was made, be it the senior citizens breakfast programme; food bag distribution to senior citizens and single parents; clothing distribution for women, men and children; Father’s Day dress shoes and suits distribution and much more.”

For Figueira, being an MP is not just about being present in the House whenever there is a sitting, or taking a seat at the head table at public events; it’s about meeting the needs of the grassroots people, since it is they who entrusted their vote to the Coalition.

FORGING ALLIANCES Being cognisant of the fact that he cannot do it on his own, he has partnered with several charitable organisations that have been supporting his humanitarian work.

“Food for the Poor has also partnered with me in a skills training programme I started in all eight constituencies in August,” Figueira said, adding: “This initiative targets single-parents and unemployed youths, providing them with training in tie dying, candle making, soap making and stuffed toys, with the aim of them eventually starting up their own business.” He said that farming tools were also distributed

The setting’s right! ... a rise in the water’s pH balance.

Sampson, however, said that with the halcyon days of bauxite mining long gone, and heavy rainfall and habitational changes over the years, the pH level has dropped significantly and the water is now safe for swimming.

“There are even fishes in those waters,” he said. “People go at those blue lakes and fish; some even have alligators living in them.

“The water no longer has a high pH, so there is nothing to worry about.”

COLOURATION Questions have however lingered about the blue colouration of the lakes and whether the occurrence may be as a result of chemicals in the water. This publication has, however, been assured by knowledgeable sources that it is actually the reflection of the sky that makes the water blue or turquoise, because of the absence of dark sediments on the bed of the lakes. Sampson said that the same holds true for the colour of the oceans.

Anderson, a chemical engineer by profession who has been pushing the lakes as an ide-

to families in an effort to push agriculture in the region.

Several communities that were in darkness for decades also benefitted from his ‘Light it up for Christmas project’ with the installation of street lights. This project has been ongoing ever since.

For many who may have achieved much materially and climbed the social and political ladder, giving back is of no significance, but for Figueira, it is his way of remembering where he came from.

“I know what it is to be poor and don’t know where the next meal will come from; having one pair of shoes for every occasion,” he said.

“I know what poverty is; I’ve lived it; I am surrounded by it, and I see it every day. And so I am thankful to my parents for the upbringing they gave me: To always remember where I came from; to remain humble; and to be able to genuinely do what you can to help others in need, because you can empathise with them.”

It is for this very reason that this young MP prefers to be an MP for the people, and though he has accepted the fact that no matter what you do, people will always criticise you and see fault in you, he does not see this as a stumbling block but as a bridge to do more.

Said he: “Service to the people makes you feel good, and brings with it a comfort and warmth to the soul.

“And for this reason, I live by this Maya Angelou quote, ‘I’ve learnt that people will forget what you said; people will forget what you did; but people will never forget how you made them feel.’”

From page 17

al tourism destination, said that recent studies of the Kara Kara lake have proven that the water there is completely free of heavy metals such as mercury, copper, cadmium and lead.

VERY DEEP Mr James, however, warned about the depth of the lakes, since bauxite mining required very deep drilling. Other than that, he said, the only concern should be about the safety of young children and amateur swimmers.

In the past, there have been a few occur-

rences of drowning at the lakes. As such, safety practices as well as close supervision are expected of those visiting the lakes to swim or take part in other forms of recreational activities.

The lakes can be utilised for kayaking, jet skiing, surfing and boating, or just sitting on their beaches of white sand and enjoying a long drink of refreshingly cold coconut water.

The tranquil atmosphere and breathtaking scenery of a Caribbean beach can be found right in the mining town Linden which is now dubbed the ‘Island of Guyana’.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, April 19, 2018

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‘Tropical Reflection’ --A taste of Jamaica where you least expect it

WHILE the mining town of Linden has much to offer by way of work, the one thing that Lindeners have always complained about is the lack of variety where

with this publication, Lyle said that the restaurant offers both local and international cuisines, especially Jamaican delicacies such as oxtail, ‘mannish wata’ and curry

One of the many dishes on Tropical Reflection’s menu

entertainment is concerned.

But all that is about to change with the advent of the Tropical Reflection Restaurant and Bar, the latest weekend dive in Linden.

And while it is safe to say that the entertainment scene has received an overwhelming boost from this one business, it is equally safe to say that its opening has created a ripple effect on the Linden economy, since several other small businesses and entrepreneurs have been benefitting tremendously.

Conveniently located in the popular ‘Five Corner’ neighbourhood, this restaurant and bar owned by Hilton Lyle was opened with the aim of bringing standard to the restaurant industry in Linden, something that has been sorely lacking in the past, while simultaneously offering services to those commuting between the hinterland and the coastland.

In an exclusive interview

goat.

A Jamaican chef was specially hired to afford Lindeners these delicacies. The cuisines, Lyle said, are prepared very health consciously, being ever cognisant of the plethora of non-communicable diseases that are on the rise in Linden.

While the only intention was to establish a restaurant, Lindeners, he said, being starved of entertainment became creative. “We were just proposing to have a restaurant, but the residents turned it into a restaurant and bar,” the restaurateur said, “and so we have 100% support from the people of Linden. “We would have special events such as ‘One-man-band’ and so on…”

Other services being offered are restrooms, whereby travellers on their way to and from the interior can stop and freshen up, as well as meals round-the-clock, whether hot or cold. There is also a

A girls night out at Tropical Reflection

dining area for the hosting of celebratory or business functions.

Said Lyle: “Our mission is ‘Clean, fast and friendly’, because I saw the need for standard in the restaurant industry.”

On weekends, several other small entrepreneurs would converge on ‘Five Corner’ to cash in on sales.

Hucksters, mobile food vendors, taxi drivers as well as the many other shops located at ‘Five Corner’ would all benefit.

“The entire ‘Five Corner’ does be lit up,” Lyle said, alluding to the hundreds of Lindeners who crowd the facility especially on weekends.

The restaurant also sources many of its ingredients and other raw material from Lindeners, so many farmers, retailers and small-scale entrepreneurs also benefit from it. This is in addition to the 14 Lindeners in its employ.

According to one mobile food vendor, “I use to operate by business out at Mackenzie, but now that the crowd is here on the weekends, I decided to come here.

“And I haven’t regretted it one bit; I am very happy that this business is open and Linden people are supporting it.”

Lyle said he doesn’t regret taking the risk of opening a restaurant of such high standard, as he’s shown others what is possible in Linden, a place openly labelled as economically dead.

Now he is urging other potential investors to come to Linden, as there is room enough for everyone.

“I am a businessman,” Lyle said. “I always look at the area and see the needs of the people, and to cater for their needs. And you would not fail.”

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56 Days to go …

Football’s Coming Home -

the Story of the 1966 Final

SINCE the 1966 FIFA World Cup, England have never reached the final of any major tournament. It’s been a painful 52 years since the Three Lions last touched the illustrious World Cup trophy, but the heroics of Geoff Hurst and Bobby Moore - as well as the iconic words of Kenneth Wolstenholme’s famous commentary - are still remembered across every home in England.

Saturday, July 30. Wembley Stadium, England versus West Germany: The script had been written, Pickles had found the Jules Rimet trophy, and all that was left for England’s famous XI to do was to perform on the day.

The England squad had come a long way throughout the tournament, but while this was a land of hope, there was little expectation of glory. Before the tournament had even started, the Observer was already slating England’s chances, “All the indications are, as a national prestige booster, the World Cup is going to be a resounding flop”.

The starting XI was out. England would line up with Banks in net; Cohen at the back alongside Leeds’ Jack Charlton, West Ham’s Bobby Moore and Everton’s Ray Wilson. Just sitting in front of the defence was Man United’s battling midfielder Nobby Stiles, and in front of him was the inspiring trio of Alan Ball, Martin Peters and Bobby Charlton.

Finally, England’s front two was made up by Liverpool’s Roger Hunt alongside West Ham’s Geoff Hurst.

The players had made their way to the pitch, and Queen Elizabeth herself was watching nervously.

Not only did they have the added pressure of the Queen watching their every movement, a vociferous 96 000 people had made their way to Wembley to watch England’s biggest game ever.

The game had started, and only ten minutes in, the unthinkable had happened. England had conceded.

England’s seemingly staunch defence was lauded for terrific performances throughout the tournament, but Helmut Haller had put the Germans ahead before Moore and co. had any chance to find their feet.

A botched clearance from Wilson put England under pressure, and Haller was there to exploit the defender’s mistake. Haller cushioned the ball down, took a touch with his right before nestling it into the bottom corner past an unsighted Gordon Banks.

But then, only eight minutes after the opener, Geoff Hurst came to England’s rescue as he bagged a vital equaliser that changed the game in the hosts’ favour. England had not offered anything in the

game so far, and the goal came out of nothing.

Bobby Charlton evaded Beckenbauer in the centre, and then slipped the ball out left to Moore. Moore was then clattered by Overath, and a free kick was awarded. Quickly

both sides were met with impeccable defending and goalkeeping from both Banks and Tilkowski. When the sides went in level at halftime, it was miraculous that the game was 1-1 and was not been three apiece.

When the sides came back out,

England ahead after a woeful clearance from German defender Höttges. The ball dropped into the German box, eight yards out, and Peters was there to lash the ball home. England, having waited 103 years since inventing the game,

The 1966 World Cup-winning England team show off the Jules Rimet trophy.

dusting himself off, the England captain then put in a delightful ball to fellow Iron Geoff Hurst, who made no mistake and buried the ball past Tilkowski. England were back in it.

Hurst’s equaliser opened up the game, and frenzied attacks from

torrential rain had greeted Wembley, and the second half started scrappily. The fans had quietened down; the match was now a lot more even. One goal could change everything.

And it did.

In the 78th minute, Peters put

were now 12 minutes from becoming the champions of the world. All England had to do was hold out.

Wembley was waiting. The Queen was waiting. England was waiting.

Of course, they conceded.

A German goal in the 89th minute spelt heartbreak for England!

Sir Geoff Hurst scores a hat-trick in the 1966 FIFA World Cup Final.

A needless panic by Jack Charlton gifted Germany a free kick 30 yards out, just to the left of the goal. Emmerich blasted the free kick straight through to wall, where the ball fell to his teammate Held, who struck the ball goal-wards.

The shot was hit towards Banks, but it hit the back of Schnellinger and deflected to the right, drifting slowly through an anarchic melee.

The ball somehow evaded both Wilson and Seeler, but Weber slid in at the right hand post and lifted the ball over the despairing arms of Banks.

Four minutes after the game had restarted England thought they had found a winner through their follically challenged number nine, Bobby Charlton, who struck the post with a low shot. The ball even rebounded into the ‘keeper’s face, and rolled away from danger. England were pressing for the all-important goal, and the sun was now beaming on the 22 players gracing the Wembley turf.

The fans were roaring the Three Lions on when, in the 101st minute, Geoff Hurst had surely won it for England. The goal of goals, Geoff Hurst had seemingly scored a World Cup winner. Hurst unleashed a powerful rising shot towards Tilkowski. The ball rocketed up over the ‘keeper’s head and off the underside of the crossbar, before bouncing down on the line and back into the centre.

Hunt, who really should have been following it in, turned instead to celebrate, both arms aloft. Weber steps in to head over the bar for what he imagined will be a corner.

For a couple of seconds, it appeared a corner would be the result of Hurst’s effort.

The pseudo-goal scorer’s shoulders slumped, his hands resting on his knees. But they were soon in the air in celebration: the referee quickly consulted his linesman and pointed to the centre circle. The home crowd erupted. Hurst had done it.

The whistle then blew for halftime. England knew what they had to do: hold out for fifteen minutes, and the Jules Rimet trophy was theirs. They’d thrown away their lead in the 89th minute, and Alf Ramsey assured them they weren’t about to repeat such heartbreak.

After the restart, England were on the back foot and defending for their lives. They had lasted fifteen minutes and the referee was seconds away from blowing his whistle, when Geoff Hurst became England’s hat-trick hero, and sealed the World Cup for England. 4-2.

England had won the World Cup!

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, April 19, 2018

UEFA president ‘worried’ over use of VAR at World Cup MILAN, Italy (Reuters) UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin has expressed concern over the decision to employ the video replay system (VAR) at the 2018 World Cup, saying the technology still needed more testing before it can be considered for use in the Champions League.

Global soccer body FIFA voted in March to deploy VAR at the June-July tournament in Russia, only two weeks after its use was approved by IFAB, the organisation responsible for rule changes in the sport.

“I have some fear for the World Cup, where we will have referees who have never officiated with the VAR,” Ceferin told Italian paper Gazzetta dello Sport in an interview.

“I hope there are no scandals or problems.”

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin

Ceferin has already said that VAR would not be used in the Champions League next season.

“The Champions League is like a Ferrari or a Porsche: you cannot drive it right away, you need training, offline testing. And everyone has to understand how it works,” he said.

“It’s too early for VAR.

Twenty-five wickets tumble on opening day in Demerara, Essequibo clash DEFENDING champions Demerara endured a miserable opening day in round three of the 2018 GCB/ Hand-in-Hand Insurance Under-19 Inter-county tournament yesterday.

Playing at Tuschen on the West Coast of Demerara, the defending champions won the toss and decided to bat but crumbled for a paltry 40 runs all out in 20.2 overs.

Kennard Moonsammy was the only double-figure batsman with 11 runs.

Bowling for Essequibo, Joshua Jones and Joel Fortune picked up 3 wickets for 10 and 9 runs respectively and support also came from Quintin Sampson who took 2 for 9.

Essequibo, in reply, scored 143 all out in 41.1 overs. Vice-captain Kurt Lovell scored a composed 43, Quintin Sampson 31 and Joshua Jones 21. Bowling for Demerara, Sadik Khan and Ashmead Nedd swept up 5 wickets each for 42 and 43 runs respectively.

Demerara, in their second innings, got a little more comfortable, having scored 91 for 5 in 26 overs at stumps with Joshua Persaud 31 and Adrian Hinds 31. Bowl-

ing for Essequibo, Sherlon Anthony collected 2 for 11 while Shane Wong, Joel Fortune and Joshua Jones have so far collected one wicket each.

At the Everest ground, Berbice batted first and tallied 176 all out in 68.1 overs.

The Select Under-17 bowlers dismissed the top order of the Berbice batting line-up cheaply, but it was Trevor Stanislaus and Leon Swamy who scored 47 runs each while Kevin Sinclair contributed 21 runs. Karan Arjpaul was not out on 10. Bowling for Select Under-17, Sheldon Charles picked up 3 for 20, Niron Bissu 2 for 12 while Sylvian Williams, Gevon Shultz, Nigel Deodat, Seon Glasgow and Andre Seepersaud each walked away with a wicket.

The Select Under-17 team, in their second innings, were at 76 for 4 at the end of over number 31 at close of play. Captain Sachin Singh scored 15 and Seon Glasgow contributed 18.

Day two of this round continues today from 10:00hrs at the various venues.

That doesn’t mean we will never have it as the process is inevitable. We’ll have it one day in the Champions League but there’s no rush.”

VAR is already being used in Serie A, the Bundesliga and Portugal’s Primeira Liga this season, among others.

IFAB insists it has reduced refereeing mistakes but critics say there has been confusion in

a number of matches.

Goals have been annulled several minutes after being scored - with the teams waiting to restart - and penalties revoked with the ball on the spot.

Another criticism is that the spectators are not kept informed of what is happening when a decision is reviewed.

Ceferin said that VAR would not have made any difference in last week’s Champions League quarter-final between Real Madrid and Juventus, where a soft stoppage-time penalty led to the Spanish side advancing 4-3 on aggregate.

“What would have changed with VAR? Nothing. There are those who have watched it 20 times.

I’ve watched it 50, but for half the people it’s a penalty and for the other half, it isn’t.”

Guyana Carnival unveils ‘Carnival Rugby’ … Regional teams set to invade Guyana on May 20

SOME of the Caribbean’s top ‘ruggers’ will invade Guyana on May 20, as Hits and Jams Entertainment team up with Pepsi Hornets Rugby Club to host the inaugural ‘Guyana Carnival 7s Rugby’ at the National Park.

The one-day tournament was unveiled when the promoters held their Guyana Carnival corporate and media launch yesterday, at the Guyana Marriott Hotel. The Guyana Carnival is set for May 18-27.

Rawle Toney, one of the principals behind the Carnival Rugby tournament, told the gathering that teams and players from Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago and other Caribbean countries are all eager to make the voyage to Guyana for the highly anticipated event.

Toney further revealed

that the tournament will also see players from the USA and one Brazilian recently signalled his country’s intention to participate.

The tournament will carry a winners’ purse of US$1400, while the team who finish second will pocked US$700. There’s also a US$100 prize for the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the tournament.

“What I can say for certain is that Jamaica ruggers are very anxious to come to Guyana and the players here are also eagerly awaiting their arrival because it was the Jamaicans who broke Guyana’s heart and snatched their Caribbean title from them in Mexico,” Toney said.

According to the organisers, other information in relation to the tournament will be divulged shortly.

GMR&SC King of the Strip 2 South Africa Racing Tips

12:20 hrs Occupy

Vaal

12:55 hrs Breath Caught

08:30 hrs Ninjara

Cheltenham

09:05 hrs Mohallela 09:40 hrs Speedpoint 10:15 hrs Smoke 10:50 hrs Ghost Town 11:20 hrs Bush Pilot American Racing Tips Keenland Race 1 Elle Factor

09:05 hrs Dame De Compagnie 09:40 hrs The Bay Birch 10:15 hrs The Organist 10:50 hrs Same Circus 11:25 hrs Foxy Lass 12:00 hrs Got Away 12:35 hrs Definitelyanoscar Ripon 09:15 hrs Kodinar

Race 2 United Patriot

09:50 hrs Conversant

Race 3 Furious Warrior

10:25 hrs Biddy Brady

Race 4 Abyssinian

11:00 hrs Summerghand

Race 5 Ventry Bay

11:35 hrs Carnageo

Race 6 Go Stellaire

12:10 hrs Book Of Dreams

Race 7 Divide

12:45 hrs Yabass

Race 8 Uncle Mojo

13:15 hrs B Fifty Two

Race 9 Special Forces

Irish Racing Tips

English Racing Tips

Fairyhouse

Newmarket

11:40 hrs Azua Emery

08:50 hrs Music Society

12:15 hrs Black Key

09:25 hrs Military band

12:50 hrs Goaheadmakemyday

10:00 hrs Brando

13:25 hrs Robin The Hare

10:35 hrs Roaring Lion

13:55 hrs I’m Serious

11:10 hrs Improve

14:25 hrs Ifyoucatchmenow

11:45 hrs Argentello

14:55 hrs Castle North

Brijpal not concerned about title defence

WITH the second King of the Strip Drag race meet just a few days away, defending 14-second class champion Rayon Brijpal stated, “This meet is the big one, the one we have been waiting for all year and I think we are ready for it. My car (Toyota Runix) is almost always ready to run,” he told Chronicle Sport.

He continued, “My car is street-modified and all I do on drag-racing day is change my wheels and take my seats out to go a bit lighter. I also do a full service with my mechanic Les Thomas before and after the meet to keep the car in shape.”

“I am coming to defend my 14-second class I won last time against the East Coast and East Bank because I am representing the West Side,” he added.

For him, drag-racing represents something that shows not only how well prepared a person’s car is but how well he can drive it.

“At the end of the day, it’s about who can bring the full potential of his car out on the drag-strip.”

He threw out a strong challenge to those attempting to take the 14-second class trophy, come race day.

“I am willing to race any 1500cc machine in my class whether a manual or automatic transmission because I have confidence in my car and myself.”

Brijpal, along with the rest of the Guyanese dragsters, will have to come big on race day as they face challenges from invading Trinidadian and Surinamese contingents.

The King of the Strip 2 is sponsored by the Trans Pacific Motor Spares, BM Soat, Prem’s Electrical, Mohamed’s Enterprise, JAPARTS, E-Networks, STAG and Tropical Shipping.

Admission is $500 for children and $1 000 for adults.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, April 19, 2018

25

Muneshwers Travel Agency 10th Annual Golf tournament set for Saturday VETERAN golfer and winner of several tournaments, Robert Hanoman, who is also a Director of Muneshwers Travel Agency, has indicated that this weekend’s 10th tournament is special to Muneshwers.

It has always been the company’s desire to seeing golfing improve in Guyana, and the present improvements of the Lusignan Golf Course are very pleasing, indicative of a standard similar to golf courses in North America.

Muneshwers Travel Service, of 45-47 Water St, Georgetown, telephone 2276992, the oldest and largest travel agency in Guyana,

declares, “Providing extremely high-quality and personalised service is our number one goal and we can assist in coordinating every detail of your travel plan.”

With a tradition of excellence, it is Muneshwers pledge to assist customers to travel seamlessly around the world. The agency maintains regular facebook updates to keep internal and external customers abreast of developments.

Lusignan Golf Club president Aleem Hussain expressed gratitude to Muneshwers at a simple sponsorship cheque handing-over ceremony at the Travel Agency on Tuesday morning.

He indicated that the

In photo, PRO Guy Griffith (with hat) receives cheque from Robert Hanoman, while the president Aleem Hussain (4th from left) and some of the agency’s staff enjoy the moment of goodwill. (Picture - compliments of Kaieteur News)

continued support of corporate citizens like Muneshwers has made significant

Pacquiao not closing the door on trainer Roach

Manny Pacquiao preparations may not involve long-time trainer Freddie Roach.

MANILA, Philippines (Reuters) - Manny Pacquiao has not decided on the fate of his long-time American trainer Freddie Roach, the Filipino said, as he prepares for his bout against Argentine welterweight champion Lucas Matthysse for the World Boxing Association (WBA) crown in July.

“First, I would like to clarify about that issue with Freddie Roach,” the 39-year-old eight-division world champion told a news conference yesterday to promote the fight which will take place in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

“Freddie and I ... we’re like a close family, and I didn’t make any decision yet about Freddie Roach, but if, assuming, I will make a decision about Freddie Roach and choose Buboy Fernandez as head coach for this fight, I’m still not closing the door with Freddie.

“We just want to try and experience how Buboy will handle this one fight and after that we go back to Freddie,” said Pacquiao, who

last fought in a unanimous points loss to Australian Jeff Horn in July last year.

Pacquiao also expressed his desire for a bout in Manila, possibly against Ukrainian Vasyl Lomachenko, after he fights Matthysse.

“That’s one of my plans, fighting Lomachenko, and also my plan is to have a fight here in Manila.

So either Lomachenko or anybody as long as it’s here in Manila, no problem. It’s going to be exciting.”

Matthysse, who beat Thailand’s Tewa Kiram to win the vacant WBA welterweight belt in January, said he would fiercely defend the title.

“Sure, you know, Manny has won so many titles. He’s done so much in boxing. I’ve only won one title and I’m not going to give it up.

I’ll die for it if I have to.

“He’s had a great history in boxing and this is my time; this is my time, and I’m going to defend this title until death,” added the 35-year-old.

contribution to the current state of improvement that Hanoman alluded to.

The Club’s Public Relations Officer, Guy Griffith, in response to a media ques-

tion, noted that Muneshwers tournament has always been a highly competitive one, and at this Saturday’s tournament keen competitiveness is definitely expected.

A great turnout of golfers is expected, as is usually the case for this tournament.

The public is invited to view this tournament and enjoy the ambience of the improved Lusignan Golf Course on Saturday. Starting-time is 12:30hrs.

Golf tournaments usually last for 4-5 hours, after which there is a brief prize distribution ceremony. Prizes will be awarded for 1st to 3rd Best Net scores, the Best Gross and the Nearest to a Pin.

CA quashes coach appointment claims “We expect to have a clearer understanding of the approach and appointment timelines following this meeting.”

Langer has coached Western Australia and the Perth Scorchers since 2012 and has long been considered the natural successor to Lehmann.

The 105-Test veteran stood in as head coach for Australia’s ODI tour of the West Indies in 2016 when Lehmann took some time off.

Speaking to PerthNow earlier this month, Langer said he’d consider putting his hand up for the job but admitted its relentless nature could be a deterrent.

“If the opportunity came up, there would be a lot to consider,” said the 47-year-old.

“The complication is that I love my job. I love my Justin Langer has led the Scorchers to three job here. I love being on the board of the West Coast BBL titles. (Getty images) Eagles (football team). I love being with my family CRICKET Australia insists no appointment has all the time. “(Coaching Australia) would mean (travelling) 11 been made to the vacant national men’s head coaching position despite reports that former Test months of the year.

“I love working at WACA, and working with the opener Justin Langer has won the job.

Scorchers.

My family is all in Perth. I am a Perth boy Australia are on the hunt for a new coach following and I love being home. So that’s why it is complicated.

Darren Lehmann’s resignation last month in the wake “I’m also involved with five or six charities here of the Cape Town ball-tampering scandal, with Langer in WA and walking away from all that is not that easy presumed to be a leading contender. to do.”

The West Australian reported yesterday that the That load could be lightened, however, should CA Cricket Australia board will ratify Langer’s appointment tomorrow, but a spokesperson for the organisa- opt to split the Test and limited-overs coaching roles, an idea that has gained traction, given the increasingly tion stressed that is not the case.

“The process to be undertaken for the appoint- divergent demands of the different formats.

Langer’s former captain Ricky Ponting has ment of a new Australian men’s head coach will be discussed and agreed at the CA board meeting this already expressed his interest in coaching the national T20 side, while former Australia fast bowler Friday,” a CA spokesperson said in a statement.

“No appointment has been made, and nor will any Jason Gillespie has previously discussed a desire to candidate be put to the board for ratification tomorrow. coach at the highest level.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, April 19, 2018

GHB/Solo U-19 Hockey Leagues

GCC, Hikers notch up wins over the weekend THE Hikers had a triumphant weekend in the Solo Under-19 leagues with two wins in as many matches.

This performance helped push them up into second position behind the GCC Pitbulls who also were victorious against the Saints Sonics.

Meanwhile the Saints Splinters enjoyed their first win of the competition at the expense of newcomers North Ruimveldt Multilateral.

Just one goal separated the Hikers from a strong St Joseph Warriors challenge.

With the teams locked at 0-0 for the first half of play, leading scorer of the competition, Baraka Garnett finally managed to make a breakthrough in the 25th minute to score the deciding goal which gave the Hikers a 1-0 victory.

The Saints Splinters scored their first goal of the competition against the lowly NR Multilateral after losing their first two matches. Leroy Geer was the player on

target, scoring in the 16th and 18th minutes for Saints.

The GCC Pitbulls completed an unbeaten first round with a 3-1 win over Saints Sonics. After a scoreless first half, the game came alive in the first minute of the second half with midfielder Samuel Woodroffe blasting home a shot to give GCC a 1-0 lead.

However, Malique Ferreira found the back of the GCC net six minutes later to signal that the Sonics would not go down without a fight.

GCC strikers Tariq Nelson and Gianni Carpenter, however, had the final say by scoring a goal each to give the GCC Pitbulls a 3-1 win.

The Hikers topped off a productive weekend with a 4-1 victory over Old Fort.

Baraka Garnett was once again the high scorer of the match with a hat-trick while Joash James scored the fourth goal for the Hikers. Rafael Robertson managed to pull one back for Old Fort in the

Abosaide Cadogan (at right) on the go for the Bingo Spartans over the last weekend

dying minutes but it was too little too late.

In the female competition the Bingo Spartans and

Saints continued to dominate with both teams chalking up their second victory in as many matches.

Tournament’s leading scorers Abosaide Cadogan and Alana Cheung scored twice in the match for Spar-

tans while Makeda Harding and Kirsten Gomes added one each in the one-sided affair.

The GCC Her-ricanes did little better against Saints as the greys racked up 5 unanswered goals in their convincing victory. The promising Charlia Webb was top of the scorers’ table with two goals for Saints while teammates Kizia Chinian, Kimberley Kenyon and Thea Heartly each scored one.

The Boys’ table finds the GCC Pitbulls at the top with 15 points, followed by the Hikers with 9, Saints Sonics 7, Joseph Warriors 4, Old Fort and Saints Splinters 3 and NR Multilateral 0.

The Girls’ table sees the Bingo Spartans and Saints sharing the lead with 6 points while St Joseph and the GCC Her-ricanes are yet to secure points.

Matches continue this Saturday and Sunday at the St Stanislaus College ground.

Knight Riders pull level with Sunrisers at top IPL table Ramdin still hopeful of Test comeback KOLKATA Knight Riders pulled level with Sunrisers Hyderabad at the top of the IPL standings with a seven-wicket victory over Rajasthan Royals yesterday.

The Royals came into the fixture on the back of consecutive victories but were unable to extend that run against a Knight Riders side who now sit alongside the Sunrisers on six points, although they have played two more matches.

D’Arcy Short (44) and Ajinkya Rahane (36) had appeared to put the visitors on a

sound footing in Jaipur, while Sunil Narine was uncharacteristically impotent with ball in hand, finishing with bowling figures of 0-48.

Narine (35) went some way to making amends as he combined with Robin Uthappa (48) for a second-wicket stand of 69, after Chris Lynn fell for a duck just three balls into the Knight Riders’ response to the Royals’ 160-8.

That laid the foundation for a run chase that was ultimately comfortable, with Nitish Rana (35 not out) and Dinesh Karthik

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Thursday April 19, 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) Royal Challengers Bangalore (2) 59 games Today’s Quiz: (1) Who is the only player to have won the IPL Man of the Series trophy twice?

(2) Who is the first WI to win the Man of the Series title in the IPL? Answers in tomorrow’s issue

(42 n.o.) also making impressive contributions as the hosts surpassed their target with seven balls to spare.

The Knight Riders’ time at the top could be short, with the Sunrisers set to face Kings XI Punjab today.

Narine’s off-colour bowling display cost him the opportunity to bring up his 100th IPL wicket.

Having conceded no more than 18 runs in his previous three matches this season, the West Indies man took just one over to match that figure yesterday.

Indeed, these were his most expensive IPL figures, perhaps compounded on a personal level by the fact that all of the Knight Riders’ other bowlers took at least one wicket.

Sanju Samson was the star of the show when the Royals got the better of Royal Challengers Bangalore last time out, hitting an unbeaten 92 off 45 deliveries.

The promising batsman had racked up at least 37 in each of his three IPL matches this season, prior to yesterday’s match.

However, he could not replicate that form against KKR, as he was dismissed

by Shivam Mavi for just seven after barely an over at the crease.

PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC) – Seasoned wicketkeeper/batsman Denesh Ramdin says he is still hopeful of making a Test comeback, especially after being retained in the West Indies Twenty20 squad for the Rest of the World XI fixture in London next month.

The 33-year-old returned to the international side for the first time in 17 months earlier this month, when he toured Pakistan for the historic three-match T20 series in Karachi.

His selection came against the backdrop of his heavy scoring in the first class season when he piled up 799 runs at an average of 61, including three centuries.

And following a decent series against Pakistan, the Trinidadian told the NewsDay he was now eyeing a return to the Test arena, which was his preferred format.

“My job was to go out and make a lot of runs and I think I did that. That is my part and hopefully the selectors can do their part now,” said Ramdin, who was axed from all formats in 2016.

Gloveman Denesh Ramdin is hopeful of a Test return.

“I’m just waiting on the call to play Test match or T20. Whichever one, I’m happy to go out and play. Test cricket is the ultimate. Once I get back there I would like to continue where I left off in Australia where I had some good performances.

“We have some good cricket coming up in the next few months and hopefully if I get my opportunity I will go out and do my best.”

West Indies suffered a 3-0 whitewash in Pakistan but Ramdin did his chances of re-selection little harm, with a stroke-filled unbeaten

42 in the final T20.

Part of a depleted unit then after several senior players opted out of the tour, Ramdin will now be a member of full-strength Windies squad with the likes of captain Carlos Brathwaite, Chris Gayle and Andre Russell all returning.

Ramdin said he was pleased with his selection and was looking forward to the May 31 fixture at Lord’s.

“It’s a good feeling still.

I didn’t do badly in Pakistan.

It’s always (a privilege) to represent West Indies at any level,” said Ramdin, a member of the T20 World Cup-winning squad two years ago.

“It’s an important game against the Rest of the World. It’s gonna be a nice experience playing against all the other guys around the world on one team and meeting up the T20 champs (West Indies).

“It’s gonna be an exciting game and I hope a lot of people come out and support.”

Ramdin has played 74 Tests, 139 One-Day Internationals and 61 T20Is.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday, April 19, 2018

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MMP Foundation launches charitable floodlight cricket tournament

By Colin Bynoe The MMP Foundation for Excellence, from inception, is seen as a force to be reckoned with. The organisation’s work sofar has stretched from School Feeding programmes to willingly lending assistance to students who are unable to attend school, by contributing students’ school supplies. Debates and Spelling Bee competitions among schools are also arranged, to name a few.

This Foundation was formed on October 17, 2016 with seven members and so far the many charitable works have been excellent.

Yesterday, the MMP Foundation launched an exciting six-team floodlight cricket tournament to be played at the Albion Sports Complex ground on Satur-

… Six of Berbice top First Division teams to compete day, April 28.

Present at the launch were MMP Cricket PRO Bhisham Mohamed, secretary to the Foundation Ms Ladonna Nero, president of the Berbice Cricket Board Hilbert Foster, Ansa McAl representative Sean Abel in addition to Guyana and West Indies cricketer Shimron Hetmyer.

This is the first sporting venture that the MMP Foundation has organised since its existence and treasurer of the Foundation, David Brigbhukan, gave an overview of what to expect on April 28.

The first ball will be bowled at 10:00hrs and there will be three preliminary matches with a 10-over allotment.

The semi-final will be 15 overs and the grand final will

Seated from left: MMP Floodlight Cricket PRO Bhisham Mohamed, Ansa McAl representative Sean Abel, president of BCB Hilbert Foster, secretary MMP LaDonna Nero, rep for Albion Cricket Club and MMP treasurer David Brigbhukan.

be 20 overs. The six teams who will be competing for the inaugural MMP trophy are Albion Sports Complex, Port Mourant, Rose Hall Tigers, Rose Hall Town Metro, Blairmont Cricket Club and Young Warriors.

The winning team of the final will pocket $50 000

Jonathan Agnew ‘sorry’ after TMS loses radio rights to talkSPORT ENGLAND’S cricketers will tour Sri Lanka and the Caribbean this winter but they will not be accompanied by the iconic broadcast of the BBC’s Test Match Special (TMS). As they had threatened to for last winter’s Ashes, talkSport have secured the audio rights.

The boards of Sri Lanka and West Indies are cashstrapped, while talkSport, backed by Rupert Murdoch, are not, leaving the BBC unable to compete in a battle of the highest bidders. For overseas tours, the sale of broadcast rights has nothing to do with the ECB, just the home board.

This is news that will disappoint many cricket fans.

The last time TMS, which lavishly celebrated its 60th summer on air in 2017, did not win the rights was the winter of 2004-05, when talkSport broadcast England’s tour of South Africa.

The BBC programme is known for marrying cricketing rigour with wit and whimsy and for listeners’ love of sending the broadcasters cake. They still hold

Jonathan Agnew

the domestic audio rights until the end of summer 2019.

“I think the response to this speaks volumes,” tweeted Jonathan Agnew, the BBC’s cricket correspondent.

“I know our loyal TMS listeners will be very disappointed and I’m very sorry.”

Both talkSport and talkSport2 will carry the coverage of all England men’s internationals this winter. They are currently broadcasting the Indian Premier League.(IPL) Scott Taunton, chief executive of the Wireless Group, talkSport’s Murdoch-owned parent company, was in celebratory mood, promising

“our own expert line-up of cricketing stars” while the station’s website said the rights had been “snatched” from the BBC. “Winning these prestigious rights is a great victory for talkSport and its firstclass coverage,” he said.

“England’s overseas tours are sure to lure large audiences of fans as we cement talkSport’s position as the fans’ favourite for sporting news, analysis and live coverage.

I’m delighted that we will be with England fans for every ball of the day throughout these winter tours, with our own expert line-up of cricketing stars.”

While vowing to freshen up cricket coverage, Taunton also took the opportunity to take a shot at TMS. “I think TMS has been doing the same thing for a long time and has been struggling to bring in a new audience, and we will certainly do that,” he said.

“We can broaden the appeal to a wider audience.”

while the second- and thirdplace teams will receive $30 000 and $20 000 along with a trophy. Other incentives will be at stake for players such as player-of-the-match, most wickets and best catch award.

Brigbhukan stressed, “The main aim of this event is to garner funds to execute

the work programme of the MMP Foundation for Excellence this year.”

The MMP Foundation for Excellence offered words of thanks to its sponsors namely, Ansa McAl, MMP Global, Little Wonder Baby Store and Stationery plus Universal DVD Club, Nand

Persaud and Company, Republic Bank, NTN Television, Balram Shane Variety Store, Shavez Restaurant Night Club and Hotel, Trophy Stall, Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company.

Tickets for the event can be obtained from the JC Chandisingh Secondary School, Benjamin Gym, Universal DVD Club and Big B Restaurant on the West Coast, Berbice. Persons residing on the West Coast who are desirous of attending this event can be transported freely, courtesy of the MMP Foundation once they make that arrangement with management of Big B Restaurant.

The organisers are expecting a grand turnout and an exciting day of activities.

GAPLF Bench Press Challenge set for 704

… Part of a fundraising drive THE Guyana Amateur Powerlifting Federation (GAPLF) Bench Press challenge was launched on Monday in collaboration with the 704 Sports Bar at the company’s location at Albert and Lamaha Streets, Georgetown.

The staging of the GAPLF’s Club 704 and Banks DIH’s Guinness fundraising Bench Press competition will kick off on Saturday at 15:00hrs.

Registration will be done in three categories (Light, Medium and Heavy) and begins at 14:00hrs with a scale provided to identify the three weight classes.

Each participant will have three attempts to see who can bench press the most weight in his category.

Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the GAPLF, Runita White, revealed that “this is the first of several activities planned to raise funds to send a 15-member team to participate in the North America Powerlifting Championships in Mexico from July 31 to August 4”.

Admission to the venue, the Sky Lounge (top floor) is $1 000 and interested persons from the public can register for free and give themselves the opportunity to win cash prizes, while at the same time to aid in

sending the team to Mexico.

Meanwhile president of the GAPLF, Ed Caesar, is encouraging everyone to start exercising to build their bodies and minds to produce a strong and healthy nation.

“Weight training is one of

the best ways of getting strong and fit. We got 32 medals for Guyana recently in a tournament in Florida and I call on government and corporate Guyana to support this team which puts Guyana on the map, give this country glory when we do well,” Caesar stressed.

GAPLF and 704 representatives at the launching on Monday

Guyana Carnival unveils

‘Carnival Rugby’

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From left, Shane Grant-Stuart, Avery Corbin, Blaise Bailey, Ryan Gonsalves and Dwayne Schroder are joined by the Guyana Carnival models at the Marriott Hotel at the launch of the Guyana Carnival. (Adrian Narine photo)

GCB/ Hand-in-Hand Inter-county U-19 Tournament

GMR&SC King of the Strip 2

Twenty-five wickets tumble on opening Brijpal not concerned day in Demerara, Essequibo clash

about title defence

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Rayon Brijpal (left) collects his 14-second class trophy from GMR&SC vice-president Hansraj Singh. (GTRidez photo)

A Select U-17 batsman is run-out at the Everest ground. (Adrian Narine photo)

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THURSDAY APRIL 19, 2018