Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 01 03 2017

Surujbally leaves GECOM

– urges revamp of commission Page 3 No. 104839

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 1, 2017

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Definitive action on GuySuCo

…Cabinet to announce policy position on GuySuCo GOVERNMENT on Tuesday took definitive actions on several major issues and there is now greater clarity among all ministers, President David Granger has said.

He made the disclosure on the sidelines of a ministerial conference at State House, the Ministry of the Presidency has reported.

According to the ministry, the conference discussed major policy positions on a number of key areas, such as Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo), the education and housing sectors and foreign relations.

The ministry said following the close of

the meeting, which includes both Cabinet and non-Cabinet Ministers, Minister of State, Joseph Harmon, is expected to provide a full briefing on definitive decisions that have been taken. The MOTP reported that while Cabinet meetings are held weekly Tuesday’s forum allowed all ministers of government to discuss major development plans and programmes for 2017 and it ensures coordination of work programmes and policies. “We haven’t finished the discussions at this point in time but what I would say is that we have taken more definitive action on things like foreign policy, education,

housing policy [and] GuySuCo… There is greater clarity on those issues now among all of the ministers,” Granger is quoted by the ministry as saying.

Meanwhile, according to the MOTP release, President Granger spoke about the relationship among coalition parties, saying that it remains strong and expressed full confidence that Raphael Trotman, who is the new leader of the Alliance for Change (AFC), is just as committed as his predecessor to making the political alliance work.

“Whenever problems have arisen these have been resolved by discussions between the

two sides, but I will say, so far, in almost exactly two years, we have not had any major disagreement on the form of the [Cummingsburg] Accord,” President Granger said.

Emphasising the importance of consistent communication and discussions among ministers of government, the President explained that all of them bring important perspectives and represent a wide cross section of constituents. “It is important that we speak to each other frequently so that there is no misunderstanding or lack of coordination in the various positions that we take,” he said.

President David Granger, Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo and Vice Presidents: Khemraj Ramjattan, Carl Greenidge and Sydney Allicock seated in front, while other ministers stand behind for the official photograph of the Ministerial Conference held on Tuesday at State House (MOTP photo)

Guyanese face charges for major drug bust

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Jagdeo to submit new GECOM list

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WCB man jailed for choking wife

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, March 1, 2017

Raise your standard of service – RHOs told THE first Regional Health Officers and Programme Heads Meeting for 2017 opened on Tuesday at Regency Suites with calls for health professionals across the country to raise the standards of services offered to citizens.

Themed: “Collaboratively we build a resilient health care system that is acceptable, accessible, timely and appropriate to meet the needs of every person in Guyana,” the four-day meeting is designed to foster a collaborative approach between the Public Health Ministry and its healthcare partners to effectively and efficiently

Director of Regional Health Services, Dr. Kay Shako addressing the Regional Health Officers and Programme Heads at Regency Suites

Some of the Regional Health Officers and Programme Heads present

deliver healthcare across the ten administrative regions of the country. Additionally, the Public Health Ministry is working with partners to reduce the gap between the hinterland and coastland regions.

In an effort to have greater efficiency within the healthcare system, several new positions will be created, Director of Regional Health Services, Dr. Kay Shako disclosed as she delivered the opening remarks in the presence of PAHO/WHO Country Representative, Dr. William Adu-Krow; Perma-

nent Secretary of the Public Health Ministry, Trevor Thomas; and the Directors and Coordinator of the Cuban Medical Brigade, among others.

Dr. Shako disclosed that in the not so distant future, the position of Deputy Regional Health Officer will be created. Additionally, a Deputy Director of Regional Health Services will also be appointed.

These appointments, Dr. Shako said, are expected to enhance the way in which healthcare is delivered within the country. But

Public Health Ministry Permanent Secretary, Trevor Thomas making a point during the forum

most importantly, she said, it will help to further narrow the gap between the way in which services are offered in the hinterland and the coast.

Additionally, the Director of Regional Health Services also disclosed that the organisational structure is being reviewed by the Public Service Ministry.

The structure, Dr. Shako, explained will clearly outline how healthcare services ought to be delivered within the region.

“Even as we speak, there is no organisational structure, organogram telling you how healthcare is to be delivered…If we have systems in place then healthcare can be delivered to the optimum for the average Guyanese citizens,” she posited.

As it is currently, the healthcare system leaves much to be desired, the Director of Regional Health Services emphasised. She said among other things there should be equitable and equal delivery of healthcare system.

Meanwhile, the Permanent Secretary said that whether the Public Health Ministry moves in the diTurn to page 3 ►

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, March 1, 2017

Surujbally leaves GECOM

By Alva Solomon Quoting Martin Luther King’s “Free at last , Thank God Almighty I’m free at last “ on his last day on the job, outgoing Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) , Dr Steve Surujbally, is calling on the powers that be to revamp the configuration of the electoral commission.

According to the GECOM website, in addition to the Chairman, the Constitution (Amendment) Act No. 2 of 2000, provides for the appointment of six members of the Commission; three members appointed by the President, acting in his own deliberate judgment . In addition, the amendment provides for three additional members to be appointed by the President acting on the advice of the Leader of the Opposition after he has meaningfully consulted the non-governmental opposition parties represented in

– urges revamp of commission – suggests Guyana can assist Haiti’s electoral process the National Assembly.

Surujbally, officially worked his last day at High Street on February 28, 2017, after fifteen years at the helm of GECOM following his appointment by Former President Bharrat Jagdeo.

During a press briefing on Tuesday at GECOM’s headquarters, the straight-forward Surujbally said that he does not know of any place in the world where three persons sit as representatives of political parties on two sides of an electoral body.

“That is no solution, that is a recipe for partisanship for polarization,” he said.

He said that Guyana has had a turbulent electoral history, one in which persons died. “I would like a revamp of the entire electoral commission,” he reiterated. Over the years, GECOM has been

Raise your standard...

From page 2

rection of re-establishing Regional Health Authorities or maintain its current system, health personnel at every level must recommit to delivering the best possible service to the people in Guyana.

“2017 cannot be a mere continuation of 2016. We have to be passionate about [what] we do,” Thomas said, as he called on the Regional Health Officers and Programme Heads to assess their successes and failures of the past and make a deliberate effort to do effect positive changes.

Touching mildly on the reported drug shortage, Thomas said “We have to get it right. And part of getting it right is that we must get it right at every level.”

He emphasised that the management of resources provided to the Public Health Ministry influences the way in which donors contribute to the sector.

In 2016, Global Fund disclosed that an investigation of its malaria grant to Guyana for a period of two and a half years, up to June 2015, had unveiled irregularities, including falsification of data and fraudulent expenditures, totaling some

$11 million.

“The investigation found a series of irregularities relating to the inflation of programmatic data, the fabrication of underlying programmatic documentation, and anomalies in fuel consumption and ‘per diem’ claims. These irregularities affected expenditures totaling US$72,973, which the OIG considers to be non-compliant, and therefore potentially recoverable,” the report by the Global Fund’s Office of the Inspector General (OIG) had stated.

It was noted that the irregularities were facilitated by the inadequate management of the Global Fund malaria programme by the Vector Control Services (VCS) of the Ministry of Health, as a result of poor record-keeping and a failure to respond to Global Fund Secretariat Management Actions.

Addressing this issue, Thomas said fiscal prudence cannot be underscored. It was on this note that he alluded to 2016 when the Public Health Ministry had to pay back Global Fund in excess of US$80, 000 because of poor record-keeping and accountability.

This mistake must not be repeated, he emphasised.

Outgoing Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) Dr Steve Surujbally smiles during his last press briefing at the electoral body’s headquarters on High Street, Kingston on Monday

criticised post-election day as regards the timely release of results but according to

Surujbally , several factors , including considerations of Guyana’s terrain and the

complexity of travelling to remote areas to ensure the numbers are correct, impact the timeliness and accuracy of the release of results.

Surujbally noted that GECOM’s expertise can also be utilised within CARICOM. Having headed an eight-member team as Chef de Mission of a CARICOM observer group to observe Haiti’s elections last November, he noted that GECOM can approach the International Standards Organisation (ISO) for certification.

He said based on comments from observers in the past, including international observers, “they thought that our process is good.”

During the 28th Intercessional Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Governments of CARICOM in February, President Granger

had noted that the regional body stands ready to assist Haiti to rebuild its economy. According to Surujbally, GECOM has reached a state where it can assist in strengthening the electoral process of that country.

“Haiti is in such need of electoral help in their methodologies which we have so well covered, “ he said.

Speaking about his future, Surujbally said that his time will revolve around his personal life.

Asked whether migration lies in his plans, he staunchly noted that he will “never leave this country.” Being someone who rose from being a little boy from Robb Street to become the chairman of GECOM, he said his story may be one which he can pen in a book, but he noted that such a feat may be a self-serving move. He added however, that he has a “bucket-list” and there are two outstanding items on his list.

Planter of fake SOPs still a …Surujbally urges media to pursue mystery matter relentlessly

By Alva Solomon OUTGOING Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), Dr Steve Surujbally, has urged the media to be “relentless” in pursuing the origin of fake Statement of Polls (SOPs) that were discovered during the May 2015 general and regional elections.

Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday morning at GECOM’s headquarters in Kingston, Dr Surujbally called on the media to pursue the SOPs and find out who introduced the documents as well as which political party or group stood to benefit from the move.

“When I tell my colleagues in the Caribbean that someone introduced false Statement of Polls into the count, they are flabbergasted. They cannot believe that somebody, some agency, some group could have done that,” the outgoing GECOM Chairman said.

But when he was asked those very questions at the end of the press conference, Dr Surujbally could not give any clear answer.

He was asked whether he knew where the fake SOPs originated from. In response he said, “I will not do what others do and speculate.

The answer to your question definitively…I do not know. There is empirical observation. There are certain matters that arose that will tend to lead us in certain directions. I am not going to comment on that.”

When pressed about what “directions” he is referring to, Dr Surujbally said, “Empirical data–not proven data–could point in a direction. The direction would be, the culprit, with further research, may be identified.”

As regards which political party stood to benefit the most from the fake SOPs, the outgoing Chairman noted that the matter is a “complex and complicated” one. He said that one could argue that it could have been “even the winning party – not too sure they were going to win, remember it was a close election–that they were the ones or the losing party or some wicked person or group wanting to claim some fame.”

He said that the 2015

polls were not rigged, noting that the results were close.

He said if one wanted to rig the elections, that person/s would have chosen a 40,000 figure instead of 4,000.”

So there can be no debate.

It would have to be a massive conspiracy with lots of people involved…the word would get out.” he added.

According to the outgoing Chairman, he has continuously asked for the evidence of rigging but to date, he has not been presented with any.

Following the elections in May 2015, GECOM made it clear that the fake SOPs were not tabulated as part of the preliminary and final results. The People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) had alleged that there were

hundreds of fake SOPs that were counted which led to the APNU+AFC winning the 2015 elections. At a press conference on May 14, 2015, Dr. Surujbally had said that the Chief Elections Officer (CEO) was lauded for finding the anomalies and highlighting them. He recalled that as the SOPs came in, the Commissioners we were able to pick up that they were bogus.

The SOPs used by GECOM during the 2015 elections were printed by a Canadian company with a number of security features. The media was told that the number of fake SOPs was not of that great quantum so as to disturb the outcome of the election.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, March 1, 2017

GGDMA takes aim at syndicates …calls them “new hustlers” seeking lands

ALTHOUGH not offering its full support the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA) on Tuesday extended “best wishes” to the newly formed syndicates that have popped up across the country even as it sought to clarify its position on a number of issues.

In a nine page press statement, GDDMA said there have been attempts by some to demonise the association creating the impression that it does not represent the small man only the big miners.

Though this contention is not new, GGDMA said it is public knowledge that it has long called on Government to make mineralised lands available to small miners.

“We have often highlighted that millions of acres are locked off in the Closed Area

Committee that small miners can access to their benefit; it would appear that finally some provisions are being made for this to become a reality,” the association stated.

In offering congratulatory remarks to the newly formed syndicates, GGDMA expressed the hope that the beneficiaries “finally obtain the success that has eluded them.”

However, the association is of the belief that this new movement which was initiated by the Natural Resources Ministry is an attempt to divide and rule the miners in light of strong concerns raised by GGDMA and the Guyana Women Miners Organisaiton (GWMO) regarding the implications of the new tax policies on the sector. “This move by the Jnr. Minister is directly

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geared at fracturing the small and medium scale mining industry by taking advantage of the “crab in a barrel” mentality that unfortunately exists in the industry and thereby gaining control over a chunk of a certain scale of miners to support current and future agendas,” GDDMA contended.

This contention has been rubbished by the Minister within the Ministry of Natural Resources, Simona Broomes, and the small miners who have suffered as a result of landlordism. For the small miners, this new movement provides an opportunity to empower and develop themselves.

For GGDMA, the cry of “landlordism” and the contention that GGDMA membership controls the majority of the “good lands” are noth-

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ing new. “This cry has intensified over the last few years as the price of gold had sky rocketed to record breaking heights, with many persons possessing no historic ties to the industry running into the bush to make “a quick hustle.

“In addition to these new hustlers seeking lands, there are many unsuccessful miners with long histories in the industry who are very bitter over their lack of success due to bad luck, bad investments or in many cases, “blowing out their money” on sporting, various escapades and living the high life without reinvesting sufficient funds into their mining enterprise or saving some for a rainy day,” GGDMA further contended.

Additionally, the association denied that it is in collusion with the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) to acquire lands illegally. In February the Parika/Mora Small Miners Association with the backing of the Karrau and Bartica Mining Syndicates

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called for the removal of the GGMC Land Management Division Manager, Donald Singh, on the grounds that the division under his watch has been engaged in alleged corrupt activities with members from GDDMA. The small miners further contended that the collusion had led to the President of GDDMA, Terrence Adams, acquiring 15 Blocks of mineralised lands in Karrau.

“This is complete rubbish; if the membership of the GGDMA was benefitting from these irregularities, then why is it that the GGDMA had penned multiple letters to the Commissioner of GGMC requesting his removal long before this issue was raised at the recent meeting. Also, if we were benefitting from these irregularities and collusion, why is it that several of the GGDMA members and executives have ongoing court matters against the GGMC as a consequence of issues stemming from the land management

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division? To make such allegations given these facts are baseless and just another example of certain persons lashing out against others due to the misconception that others are getting some sort of sweet ride or special treatment,” the association said while asking a number of questions.

It said that there are many issues at GGMC affecting all scales of miners – small, medium and large. “We wish to state our support for the Hon. Minister of Natural Resources to take whatever actions are necessary to resolve these issues at GGMC and to deal according with ANY miner who is involved in irregularities regarding the allocation of lands.”

Amid overflowing criticisms from small miners across the country, GGDMA is maintaining that it represents the interest of the entire gold and diamond mining industry with special focus on the small and medium scale.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, March 1, 2017

Jagdeo to submit new GECOM list AFTER over one month of stalemate, Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo has written President David Granger indicating that he will be submitting a new list of nominees for the post of chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission.

In a statement, the People’s Progress Party (PPP) said it has examined the interpretation of Article 161 (2) of the Constitution of Guyana, proffered by Attorney General, Basil Williams, in the recently concluded engagement with Anil Nandlall and Priya Manikchand.

According to the PPP while it does not agree with Williams’ interpretation, “we recognise that he has finally conceded that Article 161 (2) of the Constitution qualifies two categories of persons for the positon

of Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), namely: Judges, former Judges and person qualify to hold the position of Judges and or any other fit and proper persons. “ However, the PPP said their view, the Constitution does not accord any preference whatsoever to one of these categories of persons over the other as Williams contends. “Neither the letter nor the spirit of the Constitution confers such a bias. We are of the firm view that persons from either of these categories are equally qualified for the position of Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM). Our position is consistent with the historical evolution of this particular Article of the Constitution, as well as, the qualities and qualifications of the persons who have

held this position since this Article came into force.”

Notwithstanding and in the interest of moving the process forward, the PPP said on Tuesday, the Leader of the Opposition, Bharrat Jagdeo wrote to the President requesting some additional clarifications and informed him that six (6) names will be submitted to him shortly in accordance with Article 161 (2) of the Constitution.

Jagdeo’s first six nominees were; Rhyaan Shah who was the co-founder of the now defunct and divisive Guyana Indian Heritage Association (GIHA), which the then PPP government had neutralised by creating the Indian Arrival Committee, now renamed the Indian Action Committee.

Lawrence Latchmansingh is the former Programme Manager, Social Cohesion

Programme, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Guyana. Since May 2003, Latchmansingh has managed activities to build local capacities for the peaceful resolution of disputes and promote the rule of law and democratic governance. Chartered Accountant Ram who is also an attorney and former head of the Bar Association; Former Chairman of the Private Sector Commission (PSC) Ramesh Dookhoo; retired Chief-of-Staff of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), Norman McLean and Dr James Rose, a former PPP, elections candidate.

President Granger had told journalist at a media brunch back in January that the qualifications of the six people submitted by Jagdeo did not match the criteria as set out in the Constitution of Guyana. “The list that was

sent to me was unacceptable,” he said.

President Granger in defending his position had referred to Article 161 of the Constitution of Guyana, which clearly states that a judge must be appointed to the position. “Subject to the provisions of paragraph (4), the Chairman of the Elections Commission shall be a person who holds or who has held office as a judge of a court, having unlimited jurisdiction in civil and criminal matters in some part of the Commonwealth, or a court having jurisdiction in appeals from any such court or who is qualified to be appointed as any such Judge, or any other fit person to be appointed by the President from a list of six persons not unacceptable to the President

submitted by the Leader of the Opposition. After meaningful consultation with the non-governmental political organisation represented in the National Assembly, provided that if the Leader of the opposition fails to submit a list as provided for, the President shall appoint a person who holds or has held office as a judge of a court having unlimited jurisdiction in civil and criminal matters in some part of the Commonwealth or a court having jurisdiction in appeals from any such court or who is qualified to be appointed as any such judge,” he stated. Noting that the word “judge” appeared in the Constitution multiple times, President Granger said the only thing about the list submitted by Jagdeo is that it comprises six names.

Guyana welcomes appointment of officer to mediate border controversy PRESIDENT David Granger said that the Government of Guyana welcomes the recent announcement by the United Nations (UN) Secretary-General, Mr. Antonio Guterres of the appointment of Mr. Dag Halvor Nylander, a Norwegian diplomat as his Personal Representative on the border controversy between Guyana and Venezuela.

“We welcome the appointment. We feel it’s a positive

move. We are confident that the appointee can do his job and we will abide by the Terms of Reference and the conditions that have been laid down by the United Nations’ Secretary-General,” the President was quoted in a Ministry of the Presidency release as saying.

He informed that Guyana will continue to engage the UN through confidence building measures, while at the same time will do whatever is

possible to move the process along to enable the Secretary-General to make a decision about the juridical course of action requested by Guyana. President Granger disclosed that Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Carl Greenidge made a presentation at the Ministerial Conference held on Tuesday on the impact that the territorial controversy has had on investments in Guyana.

“The threats that we have ex-

perienced over the years to our territorial integrity have been a disincentive for foreign investors. We believe that the UN taking a stand is an indication that the matter will be brought to some form of closure by the end of this year and we expect

that things will be better for Guyanese investment,” the President said.

As a result of Venezuela’s renewed attempts to claim Guyana’s territory, former UN Secretary General, Mr. Ban Ki-moon before

demitting office, announced a limited term of one more year for the Good Offices process, following which, if no progress is made, then the International Court of Justice will be the next means of settlement.

gnnleditorial@gmail.com

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, March 1, 2017

Editorial

Editor-In-Chief

Nigel Williams LAST Wednesday the Appeal Court, by a two to one decision,upheld retired Chief Justice (ag) Ian Chang’s ruling that the term limit amendment in the Guyana Constitution, which prevents a president from running for a third term is unconstitutional. The dissenter was Chief Justice (ag) Yonette Cummings-Edwards. The petition brought before the High Court in 2014 by Cedrick Richardson claimed his constitutional right is being denied to elect former President Bharrat Jagdeo to a third term.

On Monday when the now Leader of the Opposition was asked if he is interested in a third term, his was a coy response that, “When the time comes then you will hear from me whether I am interested or not.” This craftiness he brings to modern politics and pursuit for the highest office of the land

has resemblance to that of Russia’s President Vladimir Putin. That aside, former President Donald Ramotar is quoted in the Monday’s Stabroek News as saying the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) believes in the term-limit and supported the amendment. While this may be reassuring,it makes constitutional and political sense to pursue the determination of the court’s case to finality.

Few can disagree that Jagdeo’s politics is not without a uniqueness that even leaves his comrades astounded. Leading up to the 2011 General and Regional Elections,he sought to impress upon society his disinterest in a third term, and distanced himself from a group, that included longstanding members of his party, who in 2009 were campaigning for him to run again. Even leading up to the 2011 elections,he gave

the impression that his political career was over and he was moving on to other things. Having said that, some may be disinclined to see a nexus between 2009 and 2014 push to have him run for a third term.

During Ramotar’s presidency,allegations were widespread that he did not enjoy the latitude of his office but functioned on the instructions of Jagdeo, though it should be said Ramotar denied it. In the 2015 Elections,the ferocity with which Jagdeo took to the campaign and his presence on the List of Representatives led to intensified speculations about his re-entry into politics and allegations as to who was in charge of the presidency and the party.

Being elected Leader of the Opposition and later as General Secretary of his party,while Clement Rohee withdrew from the position,would lend credence

Integrity of Constitution, National Assembly at stake Dear Editor WITH reference to the article titled, “PPP support for term limits has not changed-Ramotar” (SN, February 27, 2017), attorney-at-law Ralph Ramkarran is quoted as saying: “If the Attorney-General does not succeed in the CCJ [Caribbean Court of Justice], the Government will have to do what it needs to: hold a referendum.”

Article 164, ‘Procedure for altering this Constitution’, expressly allows for Article 90, ‘Qualifications for election’ to be the President to be altered “by the vote of not less than two-thirds of all the elected members of the Assembly.”

The Guyana Constitution is the nation’s supreme law, and where it permits or commands, it must be respected. I am strongly convinced that the interpretation made by retired Chief Justice (ag) Ian Chang that the altering of Article 90 has to be determined by a referendum is skewed. His failure to factor in that semicolon at the end of Article 164, subparagraph 2 (a) in determining his ruling is responsible for the confusion we have today.

We have to go back to the drawing board, and the case presented to the CCJ must reflect what Article 164 expressly says and permits us to do by way of the electors (i.e. voters) and the elected members of the National Assembly.

This matter is not only for lawyers, but also those who draft laws, conventions, charters and au fait with the English Language, among others, should be equally speaking to it. This is a very critical issue that implications for this nation and must be left to a few. We are talking about our Constitution and going to the CCJ; and this nation cannot afford to present any wishy- washy arguments on this supreme instrument as would obtain in the society. The integrity of the Constitution and National Assembly, and the intelligence of the people are at stake.

Regards LINCOLN LEWIS

to allegations that Jagdeo is obsessed with power.

Thus, though it was he who as president assented to the Bill that mandates not more than two terms, it is not lost on observers that Richardson’s petition is a step up from the group that lobbied for him to have a third term. Likewise, being on the List of Representatives,it was felt that he was there to make up number but became Leader of the Opposition;a similar situation is not impossible in achieving the presidency if the PPP/C wins any future elections.

The precedence society derisively calls “musical chairs” in 1999 that saw Jagdeo’s ascension to the presidency is a matter of political record that can be repeated. The Guyana Constitution is the country’s supreme law and it helps where there exists any doubt as to its interpretation that all legal avenues be

Editor

Godfrey Wray

Editorial: 227-5216; 227-5204 guyanachronicle.com wnigel10@hotmail.com gnnleditorial@gmail.com

Editorial

pursued to have it clarified. The High Court and Appeal Court had their say.

The next court to interpret whether Jagdeo, or any person, in the future, who would have been elected twice as president can seek a third term, or hold the office of the presidency for a third term, will now be determined by the Caribbean Court of Justice.

The appellants, Attorney General, Basil Williams S.C and Minister of Natural Resources,Raphael Trotman, have 30 days from last Wednesday’s ruling to file an appeal.

Through their lawyers they said they would. This case continues to generate robust conversations regarding proper interpretation of the pertinent Articles in the Constitution.

Definitively answering Richardson’s request in a court of law is of importance and it is reasonable to expect all the necessary counsel, legal and otherwise, will be sought and no stone left un-turned in presenting a credible response. The world will be following the petition, given its landmark nature and implications.

In tribute to Kenneth Joseph THE Ministry of Social Protection in general, and more particularly the Hon. Mr. Keith Scott, Minister within the Ministry of Social Protection wish to express condolences to the family members, relatives and friends of the late Mr. Kenneth Joseph who recently passed away.

Mr. Joseph, who was not only a longstanding member of the Trade Union movement but also a significant personality of the Labour Movement, would surely be

missed.

The Ministry remembers him serving the National Association of Agricultural, Commercial and Industrial Employees (NAACIE) as an ordinary Shop Steward several years ago, and through selfless contributions in the interest of workers, he rose to the rank of General Secretary of the Union from 2006 until his passing.

Mr. Joseph was also an executive member of the Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana

(FITUG), and served on the National Tripartite Committee (NTC), through which he made valuable contributions to trade unionism and Labour-Management Relations.

He will be missed for his provocative thoughts and unorthodox style in addressing workers’ issues.

May his soul rest in peace.

Regards KEITH SCOTT Minister within the Ministry of Social Protection

Sugar Welfare Committee mourns passing of Joseph The Committee Members, Management and Staff of The Sugar Industry Labour Welfare Fund Committee (SILWFC) wish to extend their deepest condolences to the relatives and friends of the late Kenneth Oscar Joseph, General Secretary of NAACIE. The late Kenneth Oscar

Joseph served as a Member of The Sugar Industry Labour Welfare Fund Committee (SILWFC) since 2003 until he met his demised.

He was a very dedicated member and relentlessly pursued invaluable contributions in the interest of sugar workers at committee meetings and even outside of that.

He was ever polite and rarely exhibited any anger even during the most heated of exchanges at meetings.

He would be deeply missed for his wise guidance and general contributions.

Regards Committee Members & Management of SILWFC

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, March 1, 2017

From international panhandler to global hot spot WHEN Jamaican Prime Minister, Andrew Holness, paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo, in July last year, he remarked that he sees “Guyana on the cusp of a boom period.”

Prime Minister Holness’ well-grounded prediction was a vast departure from what was once said about Guyana by another Jamaican Prime Minister who had reason to remark, during the previous decade and Mr. Bharrat Jagdeo’s presidency, that Guyana had a global image of “an international panhandler.”

Decades before Guyana had of course, commanded considerable respect regionally and internationally, but then things happened. Several things conspired against Guyana– some external, some misfortune, some unavoidable and some self-inflicted. And our international image began to fray and eventually became tattered and battered.

At the height of the disintegration was the Jonestown massacre. We have not yet fully exorcised the ghost of that dark day nearly 40 years ago.

Jonestown is still what many people internationally think Guyana is synonymous with.

That being among those who distinguish us from Ghana.

Prior to Jonestown, in July 1973, the price of oil on the world market stood at an affordable US$19.69 per barrel.

In seven months it skyrocketed to US$52.02 per barrel by February 1974. Six years later oil price had reached a then all-time high of US$117.28 per barrel – an almost 500% increase from the 1973 price.

The cumulative effect on the fuel-importing Guyanese economy is well known. The economy contracted and arguably necessary but unpopular measures were implemented in the 1970s and 1980s which caused confidence to be eroded and Guyana to lose face and respect. Mass migration ensued and continued with intensity well into the 2000s.

Regional and international reportage on Guyana was almost exclusively negative. From

hardships of acquiring basic food items to questionable elections to a twenty year absence of local government elections to obscene corruption to spiraling crime to extra-judicial killings to being a narco-economy and a major drugs transshipment point to multiple massacres to nepotism and cronyism – Guyana attracted only undesirable media attention.

Now things are achanging.

Guyana’s international image is taking on a new dimension. The reason for this is two-fold. The first and most obvious and undeniable reason is the enormous oil find which has been located in our waters.

Forbes Magazine, Bloomberg News, the New York Times and other high profile international media houses are now reporting favourably and even excitedly about Guyana.

In a June 2016 Forbes article titled ‘With Second Big Oil Dicovery, Exxon Puts Guyana on the Map,’ Christopher Helman wrote, “[t]he virtually unexplored waters of Guyana… are fast becoming a hotspot of global oil exploration.”

A Bloomberg article of July 2015, opens with “[a]n Exxon Mobil Corp. discovery in the Atlantic Ocean off Guyana, may hold oil and natural gas riches 12 times more valuable than the nation’s entire economic output.”

And in a January 2017, New York Times article, Clifford Krauss, wrote “Guyana… is poised to become the next big oil producer in the Western Hemisphere, attracting the attention and investment dollar of some of the biggest oil companies in the world.”

The article continues, “It’s not often that a country goes from 0 to 60 so fast like this,” said Matt Blomerth, head of Latin American Upstream Research for Wood Mackenzie, a consultancy firm. Industry excitement over Guyana was stirred by a widely distributed report… by the firm that said, ‘Guyana is rapidly joining the ranks of serious oil and gas players.’

The second reason is that there has been a restoration of

executive decency and order.

Following the historic elections of 2015, several measures have been implemented to restore confidence that Guyana is setting the foundations for a truly democratic and model developing economy.

1. The Public Procurement Commission has been set up.

No longer will the authority for contracts reside with Cabinet.

2. The Fiscal Management and Accountability (Amendment) Act has been passed.

This act allows for constitutional agencies – the Parliament, GECOM, the Public Service Commission etc. – to independently manage their budgets without government interference or control.

3. The Telecommunications Bill has been passed which will allow for the removal of the monopoly in the telecoms sector.

4. The United States Drug Enforcement Agency finally opened an office in Guyana after several years of being frustrated, stymied and blocked from doing so. The consequence of this is self-explanatory.

5. The United Kingdom Security Sector Reform Programme which was scrapped by the PPP regime, is on its way and British Senior Security Sector Reform Advisor Mr. Russell Combe is already in Guyana setting up office.

The list is practically inexhaustible and what is provided above is merely illustrative to underscore that strategic and deliberate action is being pursued by the Coalition Government to restore confidence in Guyana at this most exhilarating juncture of our history.

Guyana is in effect at the tail end of a period bracketed by the oil story.

In the 1970s, Guyana’s economy dipped into a tailspin as a result of stresses on its economy occasioned by skyrocketing oil prices. Now, over four decades later, oil is once again the hot button topic in town and Guyana’s ticket out of protracted poverty.

Prime Minister Holness captured it succinctly–Guyana is on the cusp of a boom period.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, March 1, 2017

Fraud trial to proceed against fmr GMC Manager, co-accused

Former General Manager of the Guyana Marketing Corporation (GMC), Nizam Hassan and co-accused Felicia De’Souza-Madramootoo

CHIEF Magistrate, Ann McLennan, on Tuesday overruled a preliminary submission made by defence counsel, Everton Singh-Lammy, that the charge against his clients was faulty.

Former General Manager of the New Guyana Marketing Corporation (NGMC), Nizam Hassan and Felecia De Souza-Madramootoo, are charged with conspiracy to procure money to be paid by false pretence in November 2016. They are both on $250,000 bail each.

The charge is in relation to the approval of payments for low-graded rehabilitation works done on the GMC building at Robb Street, Georgetown. At a pervious hearing, the duo’s lawyer had addressed the court, where he noted that the charge is not a criminal one.

In his submission, he said, “Particulars of the offence are insufficient… statements of the charge disclose no criminal offence known to the law.”

However, in her ruling

Engineer Hanniel Madramootoo

on Tuesday, the Chief Magistrate said that the charge is “as legal as it stands” and advised the Prosecutor to move ahead with trial.

The duo is charged under for procuring money to be paid by false pretence in Chapter 108, Section 195 of the Criminal Law Offence Act. The Act states that “everyone who by any false pretence cause or procures any money to be paid, or any Turn to page 9 ►

The GMC head office at Robb and Alexander Streets, Bourda, Georgetown

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, March 1, 2017

Full liberalisation of telecoms sector by May – Min. Hughes

Bill was first introduced in 2011.However, it was revised in 2013 before being sent to Parliamentary Special Select Committee in the 10th Parliament, and was near conclusion when that Parliament was prorogued in 2014 by the then President, Donald Ramotar.

When it was taken before the National Assembly by the

By Svetlana Marshall GUYANA’S Telecommunications Sector is expected to be fully liberalised by May, 2017,following the operationalisation of the country’s first Telecommunications Agency.

Minister of Public Telecommunications, Cathy Hughes,made this disclosure on Monday on the sidelines of GTT’s launch of its 4G LTE lightning fast Internet service on the Essequibo Coast. The establishment of the agency is in keeping with the Telecommunications Legislation, which was passed in the National Assembly last July,following extensive consultations with GTT, Digicel and other stakeholders, including the Private Sector Commission (PSC), the Public Utilities Commission (PUC), the University of Guyana (UG) and several non-governmental organisations.

Minister Hughes said currently her Ministry is assessing the concerns and recommendations made by stakeholders following their review of the seven regulations that will accompany the legislation. These regulations include licensing, spectrum allocation, pricing, interconnection and access to universal services, telecoms and consumer-related matters, among other things.

“We wrote to 25 stakeholders and private sector companies, the Citizen Advisory Bureau, both GTT and Digicel, and a range of companies so that they could give us their comments on the regulations,” Minister Hughes said, while noting that the very detailed regulations were placed on two websites just before

Public Telecommunications Minister, Cathy Hughes, engaging reporters on the liberalisation of her sector

Christmas for public scrutiny.

“We did not get the response that we had originally hoped,” she added. As such, in an effort to accommodate greater participation from the stakeholders, the deadline was extended to mid-February.

“We are now going through those comments and we are looking to see if any of those comments are things that maybe will change part of the regulations,” the Telecommunication Minister explained.

Additionally, the Ministry is putting a number of logistical systems in place, with emphasis on acquiring a pool of personnel that will meet the demands of the Telecommunications. “We have been planning in terms of getting the job description for the new positions,” she told reporters, while noting that although the Ministry has already received a number of applications, vacancies will be made public for all to apply before a determination is made.

“We are also looking at how we will merge the National Frequency Management Unit (NFMU” into it (agency),” the Public Telecommunications Minister added.

Minister Hughes noted too

that the Public Telecommunication Ministry is continuing negotiations with GTT and Atlantic Tele-Network (ATN) with the aim of ending GTT’s claim to a monopoly over international voice and data transmissions and domestic wireline service. “Just about three weeks ago we created a matrix of the different things that need to be done and we presented it to ATN and GTT, and they were very happy with the matrix.”

GTT and ATN have also been meeting with the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), according to the Minister. Based on the progress made thus far, Minister Hughes is optimistic that by mid-year, the telecommunication sector will be fully liberalized;opening windows of opportunities for investors and citizens alike.

“So we are moving very fast. I would hope that by April/May the structure would be there and after the structure is in place, then other telecommunication agencies or companies, local companies that want to get into providing any kind of service…they would then legally be able to register and be part,” she posited.

The Telecommunications

Fraud trial to proceed... chattel or valuable security to be delivered to any other person for the use of benefit or on account of the person making the false pretence or of any other person, with intent to defraud, shall be deemed to have obtained the Money, chattel, or valuable security within the meant of preceding section.”

Police are still to arrest the husband of DeSouza-Madramootoo, Hanniel Madramootoo; he is the project engineer within the Ministry of Agriculture.

His brother Philip Madramootoo and his friend Nizam Ramkissoon, both directors of Constantine Engineering and Construction Limited, have been jointly charged in connection with the same offense.

Prosecutor Deniro Jones

on Tuesday requested an adjournment for a few weeks, so that the police could prepare a summons for the three other accused. It is believed that they fled to Trinidad.

The Magistrate however advised Jones that she will be adjourning the matter until March 8, 2017, for the administration of Justice Act to be applied and the statements to proceed with trial. The Prosecutor will also have to report on the status of the three accused and whether the charges will be dropped.

Hassan is currently being represented by attorney James Bond, while Felecia De Souza-Madramootoo is represented by attorney Glenn Hanoman. Charges were recommended against Hassan and the other per-

From page 8

sons after the Special Organized Crime Unit (SOCU) completed its report into the investigations of the multi-million dollar construction of the GMC office building.

A forensic audit report submitted last year April by auditor, Saykar Boodhoo, had flagged the construction, citing several worrying things at GMC, an agency of the Ministry of Agriculture.

The forensic audit report was sent to Cabinet where it was decided that the findings of the report were serious enough to warrant a deeper investigation into not only the construction of the building, but also into the handling of hundreds of millions of dollars of fertilizers.

Government, the opposition People’s Progressive Party (PPP) had called for the bill to be sent to a Special Select Committee for further consideration, but Minister Hughes had argued that the bill had been long promised and was overdue. The sector, she emphasised, must be an opened one, so that the country can

progress and not lag behind its sister Caricom countries and the rest of the world.

The legislation provides for the fostering of an opened, competitive telecoms sector in which investors will be attracted, and in which a fair, competitive environment for sector participants is created.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday March 1, 2017

To serve and to protect

WHEN I was younger, I did not have any real thoughts concerning the police. All I knew and cared to know was that they were the people who were there to protect me and take me home if I managed to get myself lost.

Granted that even now that remains a possibility, this was a serious concern.

That aside, I saw them as the people who would arrest me if I broke the law and I think that that was the same view my childhood friends had of them too. A conversation I had with my four-yearold last year however, has caused me to realise that for children now, police are not abstract people who exist to “serve and protect.” In their minds, the police are there to do quite the opposite.

When I tried to convince her otherwise, I felt myself

losing steam to continue the defense because if anything, our history and current events continue to show us how the majority of those on the force have no interest in protection and upholding of the law. As sad as it is that that is how children now view the police, given that they are legitimate good ones out there, too often we end up with corrupt officers whose only interest is their self.

The police force is among the oldest institutions in the world. During its formation, we did not have the same system of appointment of officers as we do now. Back then, to be a police officer meant that you had to be elected by the powerful to serve. This of course saw many persons angling themselves up to the powerful in hopes of becom-

ing an officer because it was a lucrative job. Once they secured this role, they were expected to keep the powerful, powerful by intimidation and pay-offs. So, one can say that for as long as the police forces have been around, so has bribery and corruption.

When the progressive era came around, we began to see changes. The political ties attached to many police forces and officers were severely cut. We have come a long way since then in that generally anyone who is fit and able can become an officer but one thing that has not changed however is the issue of bribery.

Anything you want or want to get out of, there is a bribe for that. The places where I see bribery occurring the most is at traffic stops. Meant to keep road users safe and combat crime,

traffic stops have become one of the most lucrative avenues for taking bribes.

Many people of course, give them rather than going through the entire process of court hearing and basically paying the same amount of money for bail or more.

Just last week, a friend and I were driving and they jumped the red light. We were promptly pulled over by two police officers. After having us idle on the road for close to ten minutes, they had us drive to the police station. At this point, I was slightly annoyed that we were wasting so much time but I was also proud that they did not ask for a bribe and seemed to have no intentions of doing so.

After all, they would not really take us all the way to

the police station to collect a bribe, right? They could do that on the road. My friend went into the station and took a while so I assumed that they were going through the normal procedures only to have them come out to say that they asked for a bribe.

I have always been conflicted about the issue of bribes, traffic ones in particular. On one hand, I sympathise with officers because if we are all being honest, they are grossly underpaid for the amount of work they do and the dangerous situations they often have to enter. On the other hand, I see bribes as a slippery slope to deep and serious corruption as we have seen in many cases with police becoming hit men and the likes.

One of the problems we have is the issue of the prop-

er screening of those wishing to join the force. I am not sure about the current methods used to vet persons entering the force, but it surely does not seem to be a thorough enough vetting.

We have way too many cases of officers being involved in crimes. I am curious about what the force does to promote ethics amongst officers.

Do they have any active programs to help with morale? Do they do sensitivity training for cases such as abuse and rape victims? Are they taught that their biases and patriarchal views have no room in the force? From all indications, no such systems are in place. If they are, they seem to be failing miserably.

ICT hubs slated for Georgetown – poor communities to get first hubs

TWENTY areas around Georgetown have been

Minister of Public Telecommunication, Cathy Hughes identified for the development of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) hubs.

Although the initiative is being discussed at the municipal level, Georgetown’s Mayor, Patricia ChaseGreen, as well as Councillors of the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) are highly optimistic about the successful launch of the project.

The advancement of technology is constant, and in order to keep up with the rapid changes, the Ministry of Public Telecommunication, under its E-Governance Division, has sought

to partner with the M&CC to make the execution of this project more efficient and successful.

During a presentation to the Mayor and Councillors yesterday, an official of the E-Governance unit stressed the importance of the M&CC’s role in making sure the ICT project is a success.

It was said that one of their key roles is providing spaces owned by them to set up the ICT hubs.

These hubs will be equipped with computers and other technological devices which allow persons to have free access to the Internet, and even use the basic features of the computer to do work, to study and so forth.

And these opportunities, the official said, will be given to the lesser developed communities such as Albouystown and Rasville.

This is a fraction of a larger initiative to ensure that “poor, remote and hinterland” areas have access to ICT. Minister of Public Telecommunications, Kathy Hughes had explained last year that programmes will provide for the installation of ICT infrastructure and networks for Internet and telephony access for hinterland, poor, and remote communities.

Training, she said, will also be provided for not only residents in those communi-

ties, but also for government staff and entities such as the E-Government Unit.

“When this government took over the reins of statehood last year,” she’d said, “one of the first promises President Granger made was to ensure that our technolo-

Mayor, Patricia ChaseGreen gies would be brought up to par with the rest of the world; to use a well-known cliché, bring Guyana into the 21st Century.

“And this project puts Guyana firmly on the road to achieving that objective.”

As such, the officials of the M&CC welcomed the proposal, and indicated that they are looking forward to making the project a reality very soon.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, March 1, 2017

…Surujbally says judge best suited to replace him OUTGOING Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) , Dr Steve Surujbally ,believes that a judge may be the best suited person to replace him, provided he/she is “fit and proper”.

At the same time , while citing perceived difficulties in finding his replacement, with the 2020 polls being one that is “so serious”, Surujbally has called on his potential replacement to be “resolute” ,”fearless” and be prepared to tell a President or Opposition Leader “No”,after extensive consideration of his/ her position.

Speaking at what

he termed his last press briefing as Chairman of GECOM on Monday at the elections body headquarters in Kingston, Surujbally said that from an ethical and moral standpoint, it may be difficult to decide on a candidate to fill the post of chairman. He said that he thinks that the focus of the framers of the constitution was really to have a judge at the helm of the electoral body.

“If you could have a judge fit and proper,having all the positive elements in his behavior and his moral make- up, then yes , that would be the best person to have “, he said . Speaking

on the legal strength of GECOM, he said that the body has never been without lawyers.

Surujbally expressed belief that he is leaving behind a “less difficult “environment in which to work and according to him, he is prepared to offer any advice his successor may request.

As regards the naming of a successor, the outgoing chairman believes that the process has taken a long time. He said that process of waiting is sending a message and he believes that the message is one which tells that the 2020 elections would be serious

and the results would be of great interest to the relevant stakeholders.

Speaking of his entry into the post of Chairman, Surujbally said he met with his predecessor Brigadier General Retired, Joe Singh,for what was supposed to be a half hour meeting.

He said that the meeting turned out to be a threehour meet “pregnant with information”, noting that everything that was said to him by Singh panned out

the way it was said , “but some of the things you would have to stumble and find out for yourself”.

He advised his would be successor to pursue a course at the University of Guyana on elections management,“so that any time we need cadre , and we do need a lot of cadre , perhaps thousands,” such persons would be trained on any subject of the elections field,such as voter registration and training .

As regards projects he wished to complete, he said that the issue of information technology for GECOM’s electoral process such as registration, voting, counting and transmission of results are among matters he wished to accomplish. In addition, the construction of new headquarters with a press centre was also a feat he wished to achieve, noting that there exists space for a new building.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, March 1, 2017

WCB man jailed for choking wife A TWENTY eight-year-old man was on Tuesday sentenced to nine months in prison for assaulting and threatening his reputed wife.

He appeared at the Blairmont Magistrate’s Court where he received three months in prison for choking his reputed wife and six months for threatening her with a knife. Magistrate Rhondell Weever handed down the sentence on Regan Garette,a cane harvester of Cotton Tree Village,West Coast Berbice,after she found him guilty of the two offences committed on January 29th last.

Led by Prosecutor,Police Corporal Racquel Mars,the virtual complainant said that herself and Garette lived in the same home but on the

day in question she decided to go to her father’s home to spend the night because she knew that Garette had gone to a wedding house, where she expected him to consume alcohol, after which, on returning home in a drunken state he would attack and beat her.

She said that the man showed up at her father’s home and as was expected,was under the influence.

He demanded that she go home with him and she refused. She said she even invited him to spend the night at her father’s home, but he became infuriated.

He accused her of being unfaithful and rushed towards her and grabbed her by the neck with both hands.

While he was choking her,a female relative intervened and he was forced to let

her go.

She said that on being thwarted,Garette ran into the kitchen, grabbed a knife and lunged at her. Largely because he was so intoxicated, she managed to escape.

She then called the police, who responded promptly by visiting the home and arresting the inebriated man.

At The Blairmont Magistrate’s Court yesterday,Garette pleaded not guilty to both charges of assault and threatening behaviour. He,however,failed to convince the Magistrate of his innocence but was granted some measure of leniency in that he would only serve six months in jail since the two sentences would be allowed to run concurrently.

New magistrate for Mahaica-Mahaicony Courts

WANDA Samantha Fortune has been appointed magistrate by the Judicial Service Commission with effect March 1.

She is expected to preside over the Mahaica and Mahaicony Magistrates’ Courts. Young, vibrant, confident and talented, the 30-year-old nurtured her dream of becoming a lawyer while growing up in Sophia, Greater Georgetown.

She graduated from the International Business College (IBC), formerly located in Thomas Street, North Cummingsburg, as the most outstanding student at the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations.

Fortune then began attending sixth form at St. Stanislaus College in September 2004, where she obtained passes in Law Units I and II, Sociology Units I and II, History Units I and II, Caribbean Studies and

Newly-appointed magistrate, Ms Wanda Fortune English Literature.

Pressing on, she made her way to UG in September 2006, where she graduated with credit while obtaining her Bachelor of Laws (LLB) Degree, the first professional degree in law.

Fortune served as a member of the President’s Youth Award (PYARG)

programme; as the Administrative Assistant for the UNAG Peace Project during April and September 2010; volunteered at the Guyana Legal Aid Clinic for over two years while she was studying at the University of Guyana; and was a Liaison Officer for the St. Lucian Delegation at CARIFESTA. She briefly worked with now Attorney General Basil Williams, through whom she learned of court proceedings, the filing and servicing of documents, and the procedures connected therewith. She also had the opportunity to attend court to observe the law in action.

In early October 2012, Fortune, having graduated from the Hugh Wooding Law School in Trinidad, was admitted to practise at the Guyana Bar in the presence of proud relatives and friends.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, March 1, 2017

First CT Scan

THE first two weeks after my breast cancer diagnosis; I was on an emotional rollercoaster, I would be angry then sad and I felt ranges of emotions in between both spectrums. I was like a chicken running around with its head cut off replaced by images of the words ‘cancer’ and ‘chemo’ flashing as if they were neon signs outside of a bar.

The only thing I could

trast dye used, which meant I had to fast for about 6-8 hours before. On the morning of my CT Scan I drank about two litres of water that was mixed with the contrast dye- it tasted a bit metallic and was quite uncomfortable to do, especially after having not eaten for about six hours.

After drinking the water I was ready to start the scan.

I changed into the dressing gown provided and laid

not the best place to be for close to thirty minutes if you’re claustrophobic. Finally, it was over, the technician very gently removed the IV from my hand and was very concerned about how I was feeling. I received the results from my scan the same day – it confirmed that I did have swollen lymph nodes, however the great news was that no other areas in my body had been affected thus far.

Big Bore CT Patient Scanner do was take everything in steps. Step one- get my CT scan done, step two- get outsourced biopsy results, Step 3- Chemo (only if I really needed to!).

STEP ONE- CT SCAN A CT scan or computed tomography of the body uses special x-ray equipment to help detect a variety of diseases and conditions. CT scans may be done with or without “contrast.” Contrast refers to a substance taken by mouth or injected into an intravenous (IV) line that causes the particular organ or tissue under study to be seen more clearly. I was having a scan done on my throat, chest and pelvic area with and without the con-

down on the CT table, the technician then came over to me and took my hand- I hadn’t realised at that point the contrast dye would also have to be inserted via an IV into my body. Oh boy, this was only the beginning of having IV’s inserted into my hand. The invasive nature of medical exams greatly deter persons from having them done especially when ‘nothing is wrong’ but this slight discomfort may prevent one from future anguish by having issues diagnosed early, regardless of age.

T h e t e c h n i c i a n e xplained that the machine would tell me when to hold my breath and when to exhale. I laid in the machine which, due to its design, is

As I continued to wait on further confirmation and a more detailed diagnosis from my outsourced biopsy my family and I began to discuss chemotherapy options. I was very upset about this; I was adamant that I did not want to go through chemotherapy after hearing many horror stories about cancer patients suffering more from the chemotherapy than from the disease itself. My family suggested I speak to someone who had gone through chemo and get a firsthand account for myself.

It is funny indeed how people are placed in our lives from early on but their roles do not come into play until it is time. I was fortunate to have met Devika

Tinsram, while I was studying at the University of Guyana about eight years ago; we became friendly classmates then and the bond was further reinforced when we both worked for the same company after our graduation.

About two years ago Devika was diagnosed with breast cancer, I was shocked and probably displayed the same emotions people did when they found

out about me, I was an observer and supporter in her journey not knowing then I would soon share the same story as her.

Devika is indeed an inspiration to all women suffering with breast cancer or any disease for that matter. She has handled herself and her journey incredibly and has become a spokesperson for the disease in Guyana. I knew that if anyone could

help me through this difficult time it was Devika, she had just completed eight cycles of chemo and her beautiful hair was just starting to grow back. My intuition told me to let Devika’s account of her treatment and journey be my guide on how to move forward.

Next week – My interview with breast cancer survivor, Devika Tinsram.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, March 1, 2017

New orthopaedic technicians urged to adopt professionalism

GPHC staffers with the newly-graduated orthopaedic technicians following the ceremony on Monday (Photo by Michel Outridge)

FOURTEEN orthopaedic technicians on Monday were presented with their certificates when the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) held a graduation ceremony at the Resource Centre, New Market Street, to conclude the Orthopaedic Technician Training Programme for Batch No. 6.

Giving the charge, GPHC Director, Medical Education, Dr. Madan Rambaran urged the newly-certified orthopaedic technicians to adopt professionalism in their duty as they return to their respective hospitals across the country.

He observed that there is need for healthcare employees to be respectful and caring, adding that the Maternity Section has had too many complaints.

The programme which started 20 years ago has come a far way with the advance of technology and there is now an affiliate course with the University of Guyana (UG), Dr. Rambaran added. He also charged the faculty to review the course to make it better for participants to acquire the technical expertise.

Meanwhile, Senior Registrar, Orthopaedic, Dr. Kaaleshwar Ramcharran, giving a report on the

course, said the programme originated 20 years ago after it was recognised that technicians needed training in order to properly put casts on sprains and fractures.

Orthopaedic technicians, (sometimes called orthopaedic technologists) work with orthopaedic surgeons in caring for patients with injured joints and bones. Principally, orthopaedic technicians are responsible for applying casts, splints and braces.

IMPROVEMENTS Dr. Ramcharran noted that the training programme was geared towards effective patient management and it has seen significant improvements, attracting students from overseas and private hospitals.

He said that six students from Belize have been attending the training programme for the past four years. This recently concluded orthopaedic technician training programme started on April 11, 2016 with 16 students but only 14 graduated, including two from Belize.

Dr. Ramcharran pointed out that the programme was an intense one with lectures, theatre classes, on-call duties, course work, both theory and practice, and two months of intern-

ship.

He added that four of the 14 students graduated with distinctions and the course was vital for hospitals as the students were trained to diagnose fractures, etc., and to become surgery assistants.

In his charge to the graduands, acting Chief Executive Officer, Allan Johnson urged that they should strive for excellence always through hard work and the pursuit of advanced studies.

Meanwhile, Minister within the Ministry of Public Health, Dr. Karen Cummings was absent from the ceremony on Monday.

The best graduating student, Oswin Rockliffe expressed gratitude on behalf of his colleagues for the support given by the facilitators and others who contributed to their success.

He told the gathering that the journey was not an easy one but the students were steadfast despite the challenges and they were able to gain invaluable experience. He challenged his colleagues to maintain professionalism in executing their duties.

The 14 graduands were presented certificates while Rockliffe was awarded a trophy for being the best graduating student.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday March 1, 2017

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, March 1, 2017

Appeal Court upholds ru – SASOD, GTU say ‘vagueness’ of law could lead to discrimination

By Ravin Singh THE Court of Appeal on Monday upheld a 2013 ruling by former Chief Justice, Ian Chang that cross-dressing is not a crime, once not done for “improper purposes”.

In 2010, a group of trans-gender men had asked the Supreme Court to strike

down laws that left them open to arrest following a police crackdown the year before on male cross-dressers.

While Chang’s subsequent ruling allowed for men to dress in women’s clothing, it did not say what constituted “improper purpose”, which led to concerns about interpretation.

Subsequently, an appeal

was filed by members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community, seeking clarity on what constitutes “improper purpose”.

On Monday, however, Chancellor of the Judiciary, Carl Singh, Acting Chief Justice Yvonne Cummings-Edwards, and High Court Judge, Justice Brassington Reynolds

unanimously upheld the decision made by Justice Chang in 2013.

Singh reasoned that an improper purpose would be a man dressing as a woman, and using this female image to solicit services from a taxi driver, after which he robs the driver.

NOT FOR THE COURT

With “improper purposes” not being clearly defined, the Chancellor explained that it is not for the court to define what improper is, since Parliament has not done so.

The Summary Jurisdiction Act, which criminalised men and women presenting themselves in attire of the opposite sex, came into effect in 1893.

This means, too, that when

cases related to cross-dressing arise in the court, interpretation of the word “improper” will be determined by the magistrate hearing that case.

However, lead counsel for the appellants, Arif Bulkan explained that what this allows for is discrimination to continue, since there is no one interpretation of what improper is.

Said he: “We have had magistrates excluding ‘trans(gender)’ women from court

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, March 1, 2017

uling on cross-dressing for dressing in the gender with which they identify, and this court here repeated that it is not a crime.

“Yet, we have had, and continue to have magistrates doing that.”

‘DRESS LIKE A MAN’ Just minutes before this ruling was handed down, city magistrate Dylon Bess, in dealing with an assault matter involving a trans-gender

woman, reportedly asked the public to leave his courtroom, after which he instructed the trans-gender woman to “dress like a man” when she returns to court.

The magistrate is alleged to have done the same thing last week.

Meanwhile, in relation to the cross-dressing ruling, Bulkan said that he was disap-

pointed in the ruling, but that there is still room for Monday’s decision to be appealed.

“Admittedly, yes, it is disappointing, but it’s not the final court of appeal in Guyana,” he said, adding that the decision could more than likely be challenged, since it deals with the rights and liberties of citizens of Guyana.

The Society Against

Sexual Orientation Discrimination (SASOD), the country’s leading LGBT lobbyist group, has indicated that the appellants have confirmed that they intend to appeal this ruling to the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ).

Members of the Guyana Trans United and SASOD, along with their Attorneys, Arif Bulkan and Gino Persaud following Monday’s ruling (Photo by Ravin Singh)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, March 1, 2017

Suspected mastermind in murder of Tain woman charged

Suspected mastermind, Indira Outar

Dead: Lelawattie Mohamed

THE alleged mastermind in the murder of domestic worker, Lelawattie Mohamed, who was gunned down in her Tain, Corentyne, home on February 7, was charged with the indictable offense on Tuesday.

Indira Outar, 43, of Lot 8 Block 4, Tain Settlement, appeared before Magistrate Charlyn Artiga, at the Whim Magistrate’s Court and was not required to plead to the indictable offense of murder.

She was represented by Attorney-at-Law Mursaline Bacchus. The businesswoman, who owns a sawmill at Edinburg, East Bank Berbice, was remanded to prison until March 14, 2017. It is alleged that between January 1 and January 7, 2017, she procured five persons namely: Oliver Permaul, 34, and his wife Nazeema Permaul, 42, both of Lot 100 Tain Settlement; Andre James, 26 called “Tatoo Man”, of Lot 46 George Street, Rose Hall Town; Rohan Johnson 39, called “Jamaky” of Claredon, Jamaica, and of 107 Second Street, Rose Hall Town, and Shabiki Alert Thompson 28, the common law wife of Johnson.

These five persons were jointly charged with the murder of Mohamed on February 15, 2017. On February 27, Outar, in the presence of Attorney-at-Law Chandra Sohan, turned herself into the Whim Police Station; she was subsequently placed under arrest after investigators received pertinent information.

On the day of the murder, two men stormed into the Lot 145 Sixth Street, Tain Settlement home of Lelawattie Mohamed, 45, and cold bloodily executed her in the presence of her son and daughter. They shot her in the throat at point blank range under the guise of a robbery.

According to reports, the motive behind the murder of the mother of four is jealousy. It is alleged that the husband of the alleged mastermind was having an affair with Mohamed; this allegedly made her angry and she ordered the hit on the woman. It is believed that that Outar was having an affair with a barber and solicited his help in getting the hitmen.

Reports indicate that Johnson and James were the hired hitmen who reportedly carried out the act for an agreed sum of $4M. However, only $400,000 was handed over to the men, while Alert-Thompson was given the cash

by Johnson that was collected. Additionally, Oliver Permaul is said to be the one who solicited the men on behalf of the businesswoman who lives at Tain, while his wife Nazeema Permaul, assisted in planning and also acted as an agent, who allegedly handed over the cash to another woman, who then handed it to the ‘hitmen.’

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, March 1, 2017

Groups protest Finance Ministry, GRA over new tax measures ARMED with placards, a group of individuals on Tuesday staged a peaceful protest outside of the Ministry of Finance calling for government to review newly implemented tax measures.

The group comprised members of the local non-governmental organization (NGO) Red Thread and non-affiliates. Among the group was President of the University of Guyana Senior Staff Association (UGSSA), Dr Melissa Ifill, who said that the groups want the government to re-assess the range of new taxes “imposed” over the past two years.

She contended that the tax measures are “burdensome” to working class Guyanese.

“I think a re-assessment is needed to realign some of the policies that have been implemented, with campaign promises and some

of the promises in the APNU+AFC’s manifesto,” Dr Ifill said.

Some of the newly implemented tax measures the group is calling on the government to reverse include Value Added Tax (VAT) on private school fees, medical services, water and electricity.

Dr. Ifill explained that the state of public medical facilities is no secret and often times there are no medicines available at those institutions and this forces people to go to the private medical facilities.

“If you are going to impose VAT on persons approaching medical facilities, I think it is unconscionable,” she said, adding that people do not pay for private medical services because they want to expend money, but because they want to live.

Earlier this year, government introduced VAT

on electricity bills exceeding $10,000 and water bills exceeding $1,500 a month.

This, the government said, was introduced to reduce wastage.

However, Dr. Ifill contended that working class people are finding it difficult to pay this tax on what are supposed to be considered basic utility services. Revealing that she belongs to a family of three, the educator said that she pays VAT on those services even though her family is relatively conservative.

Simultaneously, a group of four persons also staged a peaceful protest outside of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), calling for the removal of VAT on private education.

Leading that exercise was popular businessman Roshan Khan, who said that the imposition of VAT on education and other services is very

A section of the group which staged a peaceful protest in front of the Ministry of Finance on Tuesday, against the imposition of new tax measures by the Government

The small group of four which protested the imposition of VAT in front of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA)

“depressing and worrying.”

He said that the government erred in not consulting with the people who

elected them, before introducing these new taxes.

He described the move as a heavy-handed approach

which he too, believes, must be reversed if Guyanese are to live comfortably.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday March 1, 2017

4.2 tons cocaine seizure…

Four Guyanese to face charges in US Virgin Islands

THE four Guyanese, who were arrested in an operation that seized 4.2 tons

of cocaine worth some $US125M from a fishing boat sailing north of Suri-

name, the San Juan Coast Guard reported Monday, are all expected to face US

Federal drug trafficking charges in St. Croix, US Virgin Islands.

They were identified as Mark Williams, Neville Jeffrey, Richard La Cruz and the captain of the vessel Mohammed Nazim Hosein. Authorities said that the operation was carried out on Feb. 16 in the Atlantic Ocean, when a US Coast Guard ship detected the cocaine-carrying fishing vessel 70 feet (21 meters) long, registered on the isle of Saint Vincent. Local narcotics agents of the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit will be working with their international partners since four Guyanese were identified.

The fishing vessel the men

were busted on, Lady Michelle was last in Guyana in 2013.

The captain of the Coast Guard ship out of San Juan, Francisco Rego, called this the biggest maritime drug bust in the Atlantic Ocean since the year 1999. Capturing the drug runners and their cargo was made possible thanks to intelligence sharing

by US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) personnel in its Santa Cruz and Barbados offices, among other federal agencies that make up the Caribbean Corridor Strike Force.

Where the cargo of drugs came from and where it was headed has not been revealed, since the investigation is still

underway. “As the cocaine flow from South America continues to increase, law enforcement partners in the Eastern Caribbean Region have to increase our collaborative efforts in order to effectively respond to the threat,” the DEA’s assistant special agent in the Caribbean, James Doby, said.

“Such collaborative efforts are currently underway in the Caribbean Corridor Strike Force, where law enforcement partners are collocated every day,” he said. Last week, U.S. agents confiscated cocaine during a routine operation in Caguas, Puerto Rico which was estimated to have a street value of US$14million.

The boat carrying the cocaine was stopped and searched by authorities February 16, during a joint patrol by the crews of the U.S. Coast Guard cutter Joseph Napier and the Coast Guard of Trinidad and Tobago

Miners nabbed with gun, ammo

POLICE ranks in ‘F’ Division on patrol at Aruba Backdam, Mazaruni Monday afternoon stopped and searched two men in an All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) and found an unlicensed twelve-gauge single barrel shotgun and two live matching cartridges.

The suspects ; a 44-yearold Brazilian national of Campbellville, Georgetown and a 25-year-old resident

The shotgun and ammunition retrieved of Kangarooma Village, Middle Mazaruni are being processed for court. Thus far from this year ranks of

“F’ Division have retrieved eight unlicensed firearms and all those arrested were charged.

Businessman, female friend charged with trafficking teenager CHIEF Magistrate Ann McLennan on Tuesday granted a businessman and a woman $500,000 bail after they were charged with trafficking a 15-year-old girl for sexual exploitation.

Businessman, Mahadsa Thomas and Speedboat Captain, Kenisha Hill were jointly charged with the offence, which alleged that between February 1 and February 24, 2017 at Supenaam, Essequibo they recruited, transported and harboured a 15-year-old for sexual exploitation.

The matter was held in camera and the duo pleaded not guilty to the charge. They

Kenisha Hill were released on bail and the matter was transferred to the Suddie Magistrate’s Court for March 17, 2017.

According to reports, the businessman and boat captain from Supenaam were arrested by detectives following the rescue operation which took place on February 24, 2017 following a ‘tip-off.’

It was disclosed that persons notified the police ranks about the presence of the young lady, who was being used for financial gains by the businessman and his friend.

The teenager was taken for a medical examination at the Suddie Hospital where it was discovered that she has been sexually active.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday March 1, 2017

Man remanded for illegal gun, ammo

A MAN was remanded to prison on Tuesday by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan for the illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition.

Karim Price Karim Price, 25 pleaded not guilty to the charge, which alleged that on February 23, 2017 at Fitzburg Sports Ground, Port Kaituma, he had in his possession a 9mm pistol when he is not a licenced firearm holder. He also denied that on the same day, he had 12 live 9mm rounds in his possession without being the holder of a firearm licence.

His Attorney, James Bond, in his application for

bail told the court that his client is the Manager of a reputable company and that the gun and ammo were found in the vicinity where there were a number of persons present. The lawyer also noted that his client suffers from hypertension and collapsed several times leading to hospitalisation while in custody.

However police prosecutor, Deniro Jones strongly objected to bail, stating that the gun and ammo were found in Price’s possession. The Chief Magistrate denied bail and remanded the man to prison until May 9, 2017. The matter was transferred to the Matthew’s Ridge Magistrate’s Court.

According to reports, Price was arrested in Port Kaituma with the gun and ammunition during the Republic Day celebrations at Fitzburg Sports Ground.

Police said about 19:30hrs, ranks were on foot patrol at a Sports Ground in the community and observed the suspect tucking an object in his waist. A search was conducted and the firearm and ammunition were found.

Mother of 7 remanded on drug trafficking charge CHIEF Magistrate Ann McLennan on Tuesday remanded a mother of seven, after she was allegedly found with over six kilos of marijuana at her Berbice residence.

Suzette Samantha LaFleur, 39 of Lot 141 Main Street Cumberland, East Canje Berbice, denied the charge which stated that on February 26, she had in her possession 6 Kilograms and 216 grams of cannabis for the purpose of trafficking.

LaFlur’s attorney, Paul Fung-a-Fat in his bail application explained to the court that the woman is employed at the Canje Hospital as a nurse. Prosecutor, Deniro Jones explained to the court that the police file is still incomplete since the analyst report on the drug found is still outstanding in the matter.

The Prosecutor objected to bail on the grounds that no special reasons were raised by the woman counsel for granting her pre-trial liberty. The Magistrate declined counsel’s bail application and remanded LaFleur to prison. LaFleur will make her next court appearance on March 8, at the Reliance Magistrate’s Court.

According to reports, police acting on information went to the woman’s house in Cumberland, East Canje Berbice, about 09:30hrs and carried out a search, during which they found the illegal substance wrapped in six parcels.

The 39-year-old mother and her 18-year-old daughter were arrested. Based upon police investigation the daughter was released and her mother was charged.

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Wednesday, March 1, 2017- 05:00 hrs Thursday, March 2, 2017- 05:00 hrs Friday, March 3, 2017- 08:30 hrs

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday March 1, 2017

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday March 1, 2017

GOA names 24-member team ...

From back page at Olympic House, High Street.

Coaches for table tennis, athletics, boxing and judo teams were present at the conference to give a little insight into how things are coming along for their teams.

Table tennis will carry a female team and a male team with three players each. The female team will comprise Chelsea Edghill, Trenace Lowe and Natalie Cummings, while the male players are Christopher Franklin, Nigel Bryan, Joel Alleyne with coach is Idi Lewis.

Lewis says he doesn’t see the competition being easy for the table tennis team, but expects all the players to give a good account of themselves.

“It’s an extremely competitive competition. There are a lot of world-ranked players, some ranked in the top 100, some ranked in the top 50, in the world.

The team has been training very hard (though), so I look forward to great results from both teams. For the women’s team the girls have been together for a while now, and they’re exposed to some top class table tennis,” Lewis commented.

The athletic team consists of recent scholarship awardees Natrena Hooper and Emanuel Archibald, both of whom are currently in Jamaica at the University of the West Indies, Olympian Winston George, and sprinter Alita Moore. Moore is local-based, while George is in the U.S. for training. The coach is Mark Scott.

Despite three of the athletes being overseas, Scott said that he is already in constant contact with all of the athletes, checking up on how they have been progressing so far for the season.

In the case of Moore, Scott said, that a special programme has already been put together for Moore, who is under the tutelage of Scott and coach Lyndon Wilson, both of the Police Progressive Youth who is Moore’s “We’re going to try as much as possible to prepare these athletes,” Scott said, “I’ve been following their training, and what they are doing out there.

Just recently I saw Natrena high jump 1.88m, previously she jumped 1.92. Emanuel he had a leap of 7.22m, and George just ran an indoor 300m, at present.”

The boxers are 24-year-old Desmond Amsterdam and 21-year-old Joel Williamson, with coach Clifton Moore. The judokas are Joshua Buchanan and Erskine Trotman, chaperoned by coach Raul Archer.

The competition will see a comeback by senior swimmer Earlando McRae, who has been out of the works for a while. The other swimmer is Andrew Fowler, and the two will be accompanied by coach Stephanie Fraser.

The taekwondo athletes are Adrian Spellen and Jibreel Malik.

This year’s team greatly outnumbers the seven-man team including two officials who attended the Games in 2013, when it was last hosted.

George, a double silver medallist, will be the only repeating athlete on this year’s team.

Yassin has pledged that the GOA will be looking to directly assist the athletes as much as possible, particularly as it concerns their nutrition.

“I would respectfully ask all the coaches if they could let us have a list of the nutrition they wish their athletes to have and we will endeavour to supply this, and we are working out a plan in which we would supply nutrition and other stuff to all our elite athletes and those on the threshold, but we need to get the cooperation from National associations,” Yassin stressed.

Dowrich, Cummins chopped from ODI squad ST JOHN’S, Antigua (CMC) – Batsman Shane Dowrich and fast bowler Miguel Cummins have been chopped from the 15-man squad for the three One-Day Internationals against England starting here Friday.

Dowrich is yet to make his debut in ODIs

SHANE DOWRICH

SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS Scottsville 08:50 hrs Over Sure 09:30 hrs Constantine 10:05 hrs Gusheshe 10:40 hrs Khetiwe ENGLISH RACING TIPS Musselburgh 10:00 hrs BallythomaS 10:30 hrs Acdc 11:00 hrs Pulpitarian 11:30 hrs Pekanheim 12:00 hrs Silver Streak 12:30 hrs Darwins Fox 13:00 hrs Miss Barbossa WINCANTON 10:10 hrs Cornish Warrior 10:40 hrs Sleep easy 11:40 hrs Murrayana 12:10 hrs Kristal Hart 12:40 hrs Lady Longshot FFOS LAS 10:20 hrs Bob Mahler 10:50 hrs Duelling Banjos 11:20 hrs Fille Des Champs 11:50 hrs Paddys Motorbike 12:20 hrs Batavir 12:50 hrs Absolute Power AMERICAN RACING TIPS Tampa Bay Downs Race 1 Swing Hard Race 2 Hiram’s Mistress Race 3 Grand Folly Race 4 Unbridled Majesty Race 5 First Appeal Race 6 Inkspired Race 7 Moonshine Promise Race 8 Thornton

while fellow Barbadian Cummins has played two games.

The 13-man squad will now turn their attention to finalising preparation for the opening ODI at the Vivian Richards Cricket Stadium,

with the second game set for the same venue on Sunday.

Kensington Oval in Barbados will host the final encounter on March 9.

SQUAD – Jason Holder (captain), Devendra Bishoo, Car-

los Brathwaite, Kraigg Brathwaite, Jonathan Carter, Shannon Gabriel, Shai Hope, Alzarri Joseph, Evin Lewis, Jason Mohammed, Ashley Nurse, Kieran Powell, Rovman Powell.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday March 1, 2017

Starc bracing for heavier workload in second Test (REUTERS) - Australia paceman Mitchell Starc is bracing for a heavier workload in the second Test against India having hardly broken a sweat in his team’s romp in the series-opener in Pune.

With spin twins Steve O’Keefe and Nathan Lyon claiming 17 of the 20 Indian wickets, Starc and pace colleague Josh Hazlewood bowled a combined 20 overs as Australia triumphed by 333 runs inside three days to go 1-0 up in the four-Test series.

“It’s amazing. I think it’s making up for the summer Josh and I had,” Starc told reporters yesterday.

“The spinners bowled really well and the pitch didn’t have much in it for Josh and me. There was very minimal natural swing because it was so abrasive and it didn’t really go too much reverse.

“But when Steve’s taking that many wickets and Nathan’s bowling really well there’s not really much

Pace bowler Curran called into England’s one-day squad (REUTERS) - Fast bowler Tom Curran has been added to England’s one-day squad for the series against the West Indies.

The 21-year-old, who has been part of the England Lions squad in Sri Lanka, will fly to the Caribbean as cover for Jake Ball who injured his knee in a warm-up match on Monday.

England play the first of three ODIs in Antigua on Friday.

“It’s all pretty surreal right now,” Curran said in a statement from the England and Wales Cricket Board.

“I can’t wait to get out there.”

Surrey bowler Curran, born in Cape Town, qualified to play for England last year.

He shot to prominence in 2015 when he and younger brother Sam took all 10 wickets between them in an innings in a County Championship game against Northamptonshire.

MITCHELL STARC need for us on that wicket.”

World number one India were all out for 105 in the first innings and managed only two more in the second before succumbing to a crushing defeat that snapped their 19-Test unbeaten streak.

With the smarting hosts unlikely to repeat the mistake of rolling out another turning track at Bengaluru, Starc reckoned he and

Hazlewood would have to shoulder more responsibility in the match starting on Saturday.

“I’m sure it will be a pretty dry wicket again, so that’ll probably help reverse swing there and it’s something we’ll be working hard at all the time in the nets,” said the 27-year-old.

“It’s about looking after that shine on an abrasive square.

And if it’s not going to spin as much in Bangalore, we’re going to have to make sure we’re using that reverse swing to make up for not as much spin as we’ve seen here in Pune.”

Starc did not hide his glee at having silenced those who had predicted a 4-0 whitewash for his team though he refused to get totally carried away.

“To shut a few people up and really show that this young team is here to play has been great for the group. But it’s one Test win, it’s not a series win yet so we’ll be doing all we can,” he added.

Pune rank turner rated ‘poor’ by ICC THE quality of the pitch for Pune’s debut Test match has been rated as “poor” after Australia upset India on a rank turner at Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium.

A report on the quality of the pitch, compiled by International Cricket Council (ICC) match referee Chris Broad, has been forwarded to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), which has 14 days to respond.

The venue, traditionally known for having a surface that favours carry and seam, with results in domestic four-day matches hard to come by, saw the tourists dismiss their hosts for 105 and 107 in the opening Test of a fourmatch series to seal a surprise 333-run victory.

There have been suggestions curators in Pune were encouraged to prepare a pitch that would disadvantage Australia, who floundered against spin in Sri Lanka in July and August last year.

Asked at a news conference about those insinuations, India captain Virat Kohli replied: “I don’t know. I didn’t speak to anyone.

“I don’t think it was any

Virat Kohli different from the turners that we played in the past.

We just didn’t play good cricket.

“You can ask me any sort of questions or any perception about the loss. We know exactly what happened, the mistakes that we made.

“External perceptions don’t matter to us; they have never mattered to us.”

According to ICC rules, a pitch deemed substandard for the first time would prompt a “warning and or a fine not exceeding US$15 000 given together with a directive for appropriate corrective action”.

The second Test between India and Australia begins in Bangalore on Saturday.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday March 1, 2017

Karting can teach drivers to rely on skill not power Says Stephan Sookram “HAVING witnessed the first-ever Georgetown Grand Prix, organised by GT Motorsports last week, one cannot invariably deny that there is an abundance of talent here.

It can be found in as young as a six-yearold.

But for those in the sport field, the problem never was talent, the problem was always

and focus a little more on ‘the man behind the wheel’.

I’m not saying that they aren’t any competitors who rely on their skill to rack up race wins, but if there were some way to bring those machines onto a level playing field in terms of horsepower or spendable dollars, you’d get a better picture.

Here’s where people like GT Motorsports and events like the Georgetown Grand Prix come in.

And the moment we start understanding this, we can obviously say that we are moving in the path of developing a more skilled brand of racing. This is not to say that there are members in the current crop who are not skilled; nor is it to say that the crème de le crème exists within the 82 000 square miles that is Guyana.

BUT BACK TO THE INTENDED TOPIC You see, at last Friday night’s event, five interesting classes of racing were birthed locally. They were the 60cc Sunburst Kids Cup, the 125cc Juniors and Seniors and the Honda Power four-stroke Light and Heavy classes (I’d subtly recommend that those later four names be re-fashioned into something less confusing but at the moment, that isn’t an issue).

The 60cc Sunburst Kids Cup was a refreshing sight to my mind, that kids from as young as six can hop into a kart and have

The 125 Seniors and Juniors tried to focus on the same capacity of engine (most ran the IAME engines) but was split by age group. I can only assume this was to ensure that their growth is taken in phases. I saw this as a great venture for those parents whose children needed a bit more responsibility than the 60cc machines but were not ready for the power of a shifter kart.

And then there was the four-stroke Honda-powered class. This saw a lot of the current crop of racers involved, a pleasing sight considering that they are beginning to understand the importance of being better drivers and not relying on better parts.

Its separation hinged also on the weight of the driver.

What each of the classes showed me was that there was something there for everyone - for those to develop racing skills and a love for the sport; for those who love the sport and need to understand it and for those who have skills but need to hone it.

Wheel-to-wheel action as Paige Mendonca (kart 15) leads Nathan Rahaman (71) during the Sunburst 60cc Kids Cup at the Georgetown Grand Prix last Friday. developing it, allowing it to grow and to train using the right avenues to turn raw product into international greatness.

And clearly, we’ve been going about it the wrong way, well at least we in Guyana.

You see, being versed in racing for most of my life and having the benefit of touring the Caribbean Islands have shown me one thing: that most Caribbean racers rely on their machines to produce their winnings, and not on their actual talent.

Now I know a lot of them may take offence to this and they do have a right to, but I do hope they understand that this piece is not meant to offend them in any way, but rather to encourage them to hone their craft; to shy away from the ‘big money spending’

Rather than going out and buying the latest European machine purposely built for Saloon/Sedan racing, the folks at GT Motorsports have made fun racing as simple as providing a Kart that lines up alongside a grid of equally similar ones for close races.

What you, as drivers need to do, is to master the art of the machine and use it for what it is.

Not by swapping out those ‘slow’ parts for their faster components or by strapping on an unholy sized turbo charger for erratic amounts of power; but rather by firstly understanding the fundamentals of how the machine works and why it works that way and then taking all of that into consideration when attempting to race.

Side by side, Stephen Vieira (kart 27) battles Ravi Singh of Trinidad and Tobago.

(NLightimaging photos) competitive, wheel to wheel action and understand that racing is a non-to-minimal contact sport and not a full contact as is sometimes portrayed.

It was a four-member race and I was reliably informed that the number is likely to grow; a warming thought for the future. Even more warming was the fact that one of the racers was female.

At the end of the day, win or lose, the idea is to have a better, cleaner and hopefully less ‘incidental’ brand of racing translate from karts to cars and bikes and the advent of these classes can only aid that.

And only those who understand the importance of this will participate; and in hindsight, I hope the list of competitors grows.”

Samuels fails as Sammy’s Zalmi suffer heartbreak SHARJAH, United Arab Emirates (CMC) – Marlon Samuels failed again while captain Darren Sammy was left stranded at the other end, as Peshawar Zalmi suffered a last-over heartbreak in a one-run loss to Quetta Gladiators in the first semi-final of the Pakistan Super League here yes-

terday.

Set an imposing 201 for victory at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Zalmi pulled themselves off the ropes at three runs for two wickets in the second over to be within touching distance of victory, at 194 for six heading into the final over.

Sammy was kept

scoreless off the first ball from off-spinner Mohammad Nawaz but survived a difficult dropped chance at point off the next ball, with Tymal Mills adding insult to injury by parrying the ball into the boundary.

A single off the next ball put Barbados-born England all-rounder Chris

Jordan on strike with two runs needed from the last three balls.

However, Sammy then watched helplessly from the non-striker’s end as Jordan, Wahab Riaz and Hasan Ali perished to first-ball ducks – the last two via run-outs – as Zalmi’s chances of a spot in the final slipped through their grasp.

Sammy finished on 11 not out.

Samuels had earlier run himself out for one before Mohammad Hafeez smashed 77 from 47 balls and English opener Dawid Malan, 56 off 30 deliveries, in a 139-run, third-wicket stand which breathed new life into the run chase.

Superstar Shahid Afridi then further tilted the balance Zalmi’s way with a 13-ball 34 which was laced with a four and four sixes.

Sent in, Gladiators got a stunning 71 off 38 balls from opener Ahmed Shehzad and 40 from England’s Kevin Pietersen, the two posting 90 for the second wicket.

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Intense rivalry anticipated for annual Cheddi Jagan memorial cycle road race THIS Sunday cycle fans and enthusiasts can expect keen rivalry when cycle coach Hassan Mohamed stages the 20th annual Cheddi Jagan memorial cycle road race in Berbice, beginning at 09:00hrs.

Defending champion Marlon `Fishy’ Williams who won the event last year in a time of two hours 15 minutes 40 seconds will be hard-pressed to make a successful defence of his title, as at present he does not seem to be in-form from three season-opening events - the Annual Ricks and Sari race; the R&R International Road Race and the Flying Stars Cycle Club’s Annual Forbes Burnham Memorial Three-Stage Road race.

Currently, the inform cyclists are Hamza Eastman, Stephano ANDREW HICKS Husbands and Andrew Hicks and these three riders are expected to `hot up’ Sunday’s event which gets underway from outside the People’s Progressive Party’s Berbice headquarters in New Amsterdam, proceeds to Number 51 Village Corentyne, and returns to finish at Port Mourant, where the presentation of prizes to the respective winners will be done by PPP’s executive members.

The event is open to cyclists from all across Guyana and apart from the open category, the first three juniors, the first three veterans, the first three mountain bikers and the first over-60 rider will receive prizes for their efforts.

Last year’s junior winner was Raphael Leung.

Richard Charles, Whitney Poyer and Monty Parris were the respective winners of the mountain bike, female, and Over-60 categories.

Cyclists are asked to take note that transportation from Georgetown to Berbice will leave the People’s Progressive Party head office in Robb Street, Lacytown, at 05:00hrs on Sunday.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

(Wednesday March 01, 2017) CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Sunday February 26, 2017)

COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPAMY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz:

(1) Antigua & Barbuda (First & Second ODIs) & Barbados (Third ODI) (2) Leeds, 1973

Today’s Quiz:

(1) How many players have represented England in ODIs to date?

(2) How many players have done so for the West Indies?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday March 1, 2017

Brigadier Patrick West to head GNRA

BRIGADIER Patrick West has been elected to the post of president of the Guyana National Rifle Association (GNRA) following the annual general meeting recently with all other office-bearers re-elected.

Former president Brigadier Mark Phillips, who did not seek re-election, and Brigadier George Lewis were also made life members of the Association, joining Major General Norman McLean, Major General Joseph Singh and Mr Neville Denny.

The proceedings were called to order and chaired

by Mr Mahendra Persaud, since former president Brig.

Mark Phillips was unable to attend.

The Minutes of the previous meeting were then confirmed by the members, followed by the presentation of reports from both the Fullbore and Smallbore captains, treasurer and the honorary secretary who focused on the management and operations of the association over the

Brigadier Patrick West is new president of the GNRA. last year.

Executive decisions made at the monthly Statutory Council meeting, guided the Association in promoting the sport of shooting.

In early 2016, a plan of action was drafted for the development of the Timehri Rifle and Pistol Ranges. This

comprehensive developmental plan is a collaborative effort with the Guyana Defense Force with the range being expanded from 14 targets to 24.

The whole area for the target mechanism has been re-engineered along with a safety area. The area for the administration of the hosting in October of the West Indies Fullbore Championship and the 150th Anniversary celebrations will also be renovated with a new absolution block.

A large area will also be prepared to house tents for the Admin office, medical, cafeteria, and relaxation area.

The small bore range will see berms being erected to facilitate four stages of shooting taking place simultaneously.

This new improvement will benefit the Guyana Defence Force and Guyana Police Force along with other entities who utilise the ranges. The major

work on the range should be completed by May. The Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) has contributed $1.5M towards the training of our shortlisted shooters for the Commonwealth Games in 2018.

The Association’s performance over the year included the Fullbore Team defence of the Short Range trophy, which now means that they have won it in all the shooting territories in the West Indies.

Mahendra Persaud was second with Lennox Braithwaite third in the Grand Aggregate in the X class Division, while Sherwin Filicien won the O Class title.

The team also won the four-man Waddali Cup with their demoralising performance against the other teams dropping only four points at two ranges.

The presiding officer of the elections was Attorney-at-Law Leslie Sobers who ensured that all voting was transparent.

The GNRA Committee

Former FIFA secretary-general Valcke appeals 10-year soccer ban FORMER FIFA secretary-general Jerome Valcke has appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) against his 10-year ban from football, the tribunal said yesterday.

The Frenchman, whose job was to ensure the smooth running of FIFA and in particular its flagship World Cup tournament, was right-hand man to now banned president Sepp Blatter before both were embroiled in a corruption scandal which swept soccer’s governing body in 2015.

Valcke was found guilty by FIFA ethics judge Hans-Joachim Eckert of misconduct over the sale of World Cup tickets, abuse of travel expenses, attempting to sell TV rights below their market value and destruction of evidence.

JEROME VALCKE He was initially banned for 12 years, which was reduced to 10 by FIFA’s own appeal committee last June.

CAS said the Frenchman “seeks to have the challenged decision set aside in order for the sanction imposed on him

to be lifted definitively”.

Valcke, fired from his post in January last year, is still facing another investigation by FIFA and criminal proceedings in Switzerland.

Last March, the office of Swiss attorney-general Michael Lauber said Valcke was suspected of criminal mismanagement and other offences. He denies any wrongdoing.

In September, FIFA’s ethics committee opened a new investigation into Blatter, Valcke and former finance director Markus Kattner for possible ethics violations which included bribery and corruption. That investigation, in which all three deny wrongdoing, is still under way.

CAS has already rejected appeals from Blatter and

former European football boss Michel Platini, who was also embroiled in the scandal, although in the latter’s case it cut the ban from six years to four.

Valcke joined FIFA in 2003 as marketing director but was fired in December 2006 for his part in botched sponsorship negotiations with credit card firms MasterCard Inc and Visa Inc. Within months of that settlement, Valcke was not only back at FIFA but was at the helm of the administration as secretary-general, answering directly to Blatter.

He was widely credited with getting the 2010 and 2014 World Cup tournaments, held in South Africa and Brazil respectively, up and running in time after delays in the preparations.

31

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday March 1, 2017

First GFF-Scotiabank grassroots session starts in Berbice YOUNG boys and girls in New Amsterdam enjoyed fun football drills with free coaching at the first GFF-Scotiabank Academy Training Centre (ATC) grassroots session in Berbice last Saturday.

At the All Saints Primary School, an enthusiastic group of boys and girls braved intermittent showers to practise dribbling around cones, catching and kicking the ball, and navigating a narrow slalom course at speed, before experimenting with their new array of skills in mini-matches.

A key part of each ATC is a weekly grassroots session for boys and girls aged 5 to 11, involving fun, basic football drills under the guidance

These youngsters are seen practising dribbling skills around cones

of trained coaches in a safe environment.

“The sessions themselves are age-specific, so they are a lot of fun, but they are also building in the fundamentals of what is required when they get further forward,” said GFF Technical Director Ian Greenwood.

“We have to make sure we are making that bond, so that the players want to come back every week.”

The GFF-Scotiabank ATC employs nine fulltime Technical Development Officers (TDO) and 14 part-time Youth Development Coaches (YDC) who are charged with the week-to-week organisation of a range of regional training sessions for boys and girls aged 5 to 17,

including the grassroots activities.

“We had kids from all across Berbice, kids from as far as Rosignol, as far as Corentyne, as far as Canje, and a lot of low-lying areas – a mixture of kids, different races, different creeds, different backgrounds,” said YDC Mark Bollers.

The Guyana Football Federation, in partnership with Scotiabank, has created Guyana’s first nationwide network of youth football academies across the nine regional football associations to get more children interested in football, and to scout and more effectively develop talented boys and girls for the national youth squads.

Adams backs review of WICB ‘unsustainable’ eligibility rule

BASSETERRE, St Kitts (CMC) – Newly-appointed Director of Cricket, Jimmy Adams, has strongly backed the ongoing review of the West Indies Cricket Board’s controversial eligibility rule.

The former Test captain, who has replaced Englishman Richard Pybus in the role, said there was now widespread acknowledgement among stakeholders that the rule was no longer “sustainable” and could in fact be detrimental to the development of West Indies cricket.

“I’m not the only one who’s going to be involved in the decision but I’m certainly of the view that it needs reviewing,” Adams said in a wide-ranging interview here Monday.

“There’s a process behind that. That means it probably won’t happen overnight.

The review will be ongoing and it has already started, but as to if a change in direction is to happen, that won’t happen overnight because of the process that backs that up but it is being reviewed.

“A lot of stakeholders in our cricket appreciate now that it does need to be looked at.”

The rule has proved a sore point for players over the years as it has required them to forego lucrative contracts in foreign leagues

and make themselves available for the domestic season, in order to be eligible for West Indies selection.

As a result, many of the region’s most experienced

WICB Director of Cricket Jimmy Adams players have missed out on international duty, opting rather to campaign in many of the global Twenty20 competitions instead.

Only last week, veteran batsman Marlon Samuels accused the WICB of playing hard ball with the rule after he was deemed ineligible for selection for the upcoming one-day series against England, because he played only two games of the recently concluded Regional Super50.

He left the tournament early to take up a contract in the Pakistan Super

League.

Adams, who played 54 Tests and 127 ODIs for West Indies, said despite the acrimony over the years, there was a lot of common ground that could be reached between players and the administration.

“Having spent quite a bit of time in different roles, representing the players association for a few years as secretary and then having worked as technical director in Jamaica, I’ve already stood on both sides of the fence and I can quite appreciate a lot of the issues that face both the board and the players,” the 49-year-old pointed out.

“I think we have the potential to achieve a lot more if we can get people singing off the same hymn book going forward. The outstanding issue right now is player eligibility and like I said, I’m encouraged by the fact that most, if not all parties, are in agreement that what is in place now is not sustainable and might not be helping our cricket in the short- and long-term so that for me is encouraging.”

Adams, who spent the last four years as head coach of English county Kent, acknowledged the foreign leagues had served to enhance West Indies players but said emphasis needed to be also placed on further de-

veloping the domestic league in the Caribbean.

“I also think that a lot of our international players – certainly the Chris Gayle generation – they would have started under Stanford (Stanford T20) but a lot of them developed and became, in my view, battle-hardened with leagues outside the Caribbean,” he explained.

“And I guess – if I am waving a magic wand – I’d like to eventually have the standard in the Caribbean where if they do play overseas that’s fine, certainly from a financial point of view, but in terms of developing our own to an international standard, we want our cricket here in the Caribbean to be a lot stronger.”

The Jamaican also noted

the review of the rule was critical as it was important to have the best players available for selection.

“I would like to have the best players available. I’m not going to stick my neck on the block. It’s a selection panel decision as to who the best players are but ideally, you always want your best players available for selection.”

First GFF-Scotiabank grassroots session starts in Berbice See story on page 31

GOA names 24-member team for Islamic Solidarity Games

Yesterday’s head table, from left: Boxing coach Clifton Moore, GOA president K. A. Juman-Yassin, table tennis coach Idi Lewis and judo coach Raul Archer

By Tamica Garnett A TEAM of 18 participants and six officials across six respective sporting disciplines are

set to make up Guyana’s contingent at the Islamic Solidarity Games which will be held in Baku, Azerbaijan from May 12 to 22.

Director of Sport on NCN Sports Magazine tonight DIRECTOR of Sport Christopher Jones is the special guest on this evening’s edition of the National Communications Network (NCN) Sports Magazine programme which is televised live every Wednesday between 21:00hrs and 22:00hrs.

According to Edwin Seeraj, long-standing host of the programme, the Director is expected to deal with several issues including the impending construction of multi-purpose sporting facilities in selected regions of the country, how the National Sports Commission intends to deal with delinquent organisations, and structures and systems that are being put in place for optimum results in the sporting spectrum.

Director of Sport Christopher Jones Tonight’s programme, which has been extended to 90 minutes will also feature Troy Mendonca and Jaime McDonald who will give insights to the upcoming Limacol Football Final and the Annual Fitness Challenge respectively.

With six players, table tennis will have the largest number of participants, followed by athletics with four athletes. There will also be two swimmers, two

judokas, two boxers, and two taekwondo artists.

This attendance will mark Guyana’s third participation at the event in just as many hostings. Chef-de-

Mission will be Ramjeet Ramphal, who will also be acting as the coach for the taekwondo team.

This was revealed by president of the Guy-

ana Olympic Association (GOA) president K. A. Juman-Yassin yesterday, at a press conference held See page 27

Bolt not worried about losing more medals

WORLD’S fastest man Usain Bolt insists he has no fear of losing further relay medals should future tests reveal doping infringements committed by teammates.

Bolt and the Jamaica team were stripped of their 2008 Olympic 4x100m relay gold medal when first-leg runner Nesta Carter tested positive for methylhexaneamine after samples were re-tested.

As a result Bolt’s Olympic medal tally was reduced to eight instead of nine, also robbing him of the famous triple-triple accolade.

The medals lost could, however, be quite significant for the global icon should Carter’s samples fail to pass the future re-tests.

The 31-year-old was part of 2012 Olympic Games relay team and 2011, 2013 and 2015 World Championship teams. Carter has, however, since appealed the ruling to the Court of Arbitration for Sports (CAS).

Regardless of the outcome Bolt remains convinced that even without the relay gold his individual achievements will prove enough as he vows to end his career at the London World Champi-

Printed and Published by Guyana National Newspapers Limi ted, Lama Avenue, Bel Air Park, Georgetown. Telephone 2 2 6- 3243-9 (General); Editorial: 2 2 7- 5204, 2 2 7- 5216. Fax:2 2 7- 5208

World’s fastest man Usain Bolt onships this summer.

“Even if I lose all my relay gold medals, for me, I did what I had to do, my personal goals,” Bolt said in a recent CNN interview.

The sprinter has also firmly continued to rule out an appearance at the 2022 Olympic Games in Tokyo.

“Maybe if it had come before the Olympics, maybe it would have taken away a little from me, and then I would have thought about it, but the fact that I got the chance to say, ‘the triple-triple,’ kind of made me feel good.” (Sportsmax. com) WEDNESDAY, MARCH 1, 2017