Issuu

No. 104812

FRIDAY FEBRUARY 3, 2017

Price: $80

(VAT Inclusive)

Bartica Massacre trial

Duo gets death –– ‘Smallie’, ‘Anaconda’ sentenced to death by hanging; ‘Goat Man’ freed

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Teaching outside the box: This teacher took a break from the conventional classroom and conducted her lesson on the steps of St George’s Cathedral, Church Street, Geogetown on Thursday (Adrian Narine photo)

Albouystown 650 Wales Caught man workers red-handed shot dead retained Page 11

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–– Cevon’s illegally dumping waste in Linden

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday February 3, 2017

AG to review parking meter By-Laws By Fareeza Haniff

THE By-Laws governing the parking meter system in Georgetown is currently at the Chambers of the Attorney General for review, even as motorists continue to be penalised under those very laws. After the review is completed, the By-Laws will then be sent to Cabinet for approval and then advertised in the official gazette. However, when asked if it is appropriate for the City to implement laws that are yet to be reviewed and approved by Cabinet, Minister of State, Joseph Harmon, said the Council is fully authorised to institute parking meters. It should be noted that the By-Laws were sent to Minister of Communities Ronald Bulkan two days before the parking meters came into effect. Speaking to reporters at a post-Cabinet press briefing on Thursday, Minister

Harmon said the By-Laws have to be consistent with the Laws of Guyana. “The By-Laws is a fairly thick document actually… In as much as it is signed off by the Minister of Communities, it still has to go through the process of the Attorney General vetting it and checking to ensure it is consistent with the Laws of Guyana and that the rules which require certain level of fairness are embedded in those By-Laws.” The minister believes the laws should be examined to determine groups which should be exempted from the regime, including the diplomatic community and certain State agencies. This newspaper has been able to review some sections of the By-Laws, which state that once a driver is clamped, booted and impounded, he will have to pay a minimum fine of $27,000 to get his vehicle back. For every day a person’s

Motorists continue to shun the recently implemented parking meter system

vehicle is impounded, a $7,000 fine is added. This is in addition to having to possibly face the court for an infraction that led to the booting, which could see fines of up to $100,000 being imposed or three months jail time. Immobilisation fee (clamping) is $8,000; towing fee is $12,000; impoundment Fee is $7,000; storage fee is $7,000 for every elapsed period of 24 hours. Additionally, violating parking By-Laws (parking where one should not, not paying etc...) can carry a fine of up to $100,000 or three months in prison. The parking meter project is being implemented by the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) in collaboration with Smart City Solution (SCS) and according to the By-Laws; the M&CC and SCS are not liable for damage to vehicles as a result of clamping, booting, impounding etc.

Meanwhile, motorists continue to shun the project by refusing to park where there are parking meters. The parking meters were installed between Water and Camp Streets, Brickdam to Quamina Street. The second phase of the meter project, though, will see an extension of the boundaries from Camp Street to Vlissengen Road and from Brickdam to Lamaha Street. Prepaid parking cards are said to be available at over 100 places, including pharmacies, gas stations, MoneyGram offices, post offices and the City Hall itself. The intention is for them to become as available as phone cards are. The cards will be available in $500, $2,500, $5,000 and $10,000 denominations. The $5000 card will carry a one-hour free parking bonus, and the $10,000 card will carry a two-anda-half hours free parking.

Albouystown man robbed, shot dead By Rabindra Rooplall A MAN was gunned down Thursday morning in Al-

bouystown after two men on bicycle robbed him of his gold chain at Lot 252, Independence Boulevard,

after he picked up his girlfriend from work. Dead is Paul Anthony Daniels, 32, called “Dundee” of the aforementioned address. He was shot in the chest and was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital by his fiancée where he was pronounced dead on arrival. Police say based on their investigation, the bandits entered the dwelling of the couple who were watching television at the time and robbed them of cash, jewellery and other valuables. Following the robbery, the men were making good their escape when Daniels tried to pursue them and was shot in the chest. Residents who know Daniels as a footballer and carpenter called on the Guyana Police Force to take swift

and condign action against the perpetrators. At the scene of the shooting, residents expressed frustrations over the incident. The zinc gate that gave access to the home had over two dozen shotgun pellets piercings in one area. There were blood stains on the ground as well as a pillow which was used to stop the bleeding of the wounded Daniels. Police have since taken statements from persons in the area, as well as the dead man’s girlfriend. “He went and pick up his wife this (Thursday) morning from Beharry at 6:30am and they follow he for the two big chain he wearing on his neck and they come and shoot he for it; everybody know he as a football player and he don’t trouble nobody, they

should have taken the chain and go away,” one resident lamented. Father of the deceased Charles Daniels called for criminals to be dealt with condignly. “These things happening over and over and the President needs to make some people examples, because from the minute they get a good lawyer they get off and gone back and do the same or worst crimes. Look at Desmond Hoyte who set the right example and crime instantly decreased. You can’t have people killing out the population and treat criminals like church boy. You have to hang them high!” the senior Daniels said. He explained that now the family has lost a son in addition to being placed

Irate Albouystown residents gathered where the shooting occurred to express their displeasure

Dead: Paul Anthony Daniels under financial burden to “keep wake” and bury their loved one. Another resident called for more police in the “Ghettos” since bandits are “coming in your own house to kill you”. “This boy is an innocent boy, he is a tradesman that worked hard for his money. He get engaged to marry and she is even pregnant for him. Now he dead and leave his innocent child. Who will look after the child? The Government?” she questioned. Residents expressed fear at the killing, saying that when one person dies in the community, it affects everyone.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday February 3, 2017

Bartica Massacre trial

Duo gets death –– ‘Smallie’, ‘Anaconda’ sentenced to death by hanging; ‘Goat Man’ freed

By Michel Outridge ROGER Simon called “Goat Man” has been freed of involvement in the Bartica Massacre but Mark Royden Williams and Dennis Williams have both been sentenced to be hanged by the neck until dead. The sentences were handed down late Thursday night by Justice Roxane George SC, following two months of trial which captivated the attention of the public. Mark Royden Williams called “Smallie” was sentenced to be hanged by the neck until dead for eight counts of murder after the jury found him guilty. He will be sentenced today (Friday) for four counts of manslaughter at 13:30hrs. Asked if he wanted to say anything, a grim Williams responded in the negative, and was escorted to jail under heavy security. Dennis “Anaconda” Williams, who was absent from court since last Wednesday was also sentenced to be hanged by the neck until

Mark Royden Williams, called ‘Smallie’

dead for seven counts of murder. In addition, he will be sentenced for five counts of manslaughter today (Friday) at 13:30hrs. Meanwhile, Roger Simon called “Goat Man” would have been a free man had he not had an indictment of 12 counts of terrorism, an indictment in relation to the Bartica Massacre for which he was remanded. The 12-member jury found him not guilty for 12 counts of murder. Simon was granted bail

Dennis Williams, called ‘Anaconda’ after his Attorney Peter Hugh made submissions on his behalf given the fact he spent almost nine years in jail. He was bailed for one count of unlawful wounding and three counts of break and enter and larceny at $100,000 on each count. His relatives, who were at the court to hear the verdict, shouted “freedom” as he was escorted to prison. More than 30 witnesses’ testified at the trial. On February 17, 2008, when residents were engrossed in the 20/20 cricket

Roger Simon, called ‘Goat Man’ match being televised, a group of heavily armed men went on a rampage having descended on Bartica at nightfall. They carted off guns belonging to the Guyana Police Force (GPF) after they killed three cops. The group took the police vehicle and continued their onslaught in Bartica where they killed innocent civilians numbering nine including five men, who were executed at the Bartica Stelling. Some men who partic-

Taxi drivers be on alert

THE Guyana Police Force says all taxi drivers, particularly those operating Toyota Allion and Toyota Premio motor cars must be on the alert for potential hijackers. The Force in a release says the modus operandi has been to direct one or two female accomplices to hire cabs in Georgetown en route to destinations such as Lilliendaal,

Lower East Coast Demerara, East and South Ruimveldt in Georgetown. Upon arrival at their requested locations, the police said the drivers are attacked and robbed by two men armed with guns, of their personal belongings as well as their motor cars. The Guyana Police Force is appealing to the public to provide

any information they may have regarding the identities of individuals involved in these activities. They can immediately make a report to the nearest police station or call 225-6411, 226-1389, 227-2128, 225-2227, 226-7065, 225-0575 or 911. All information will be treated with strict confidentiality, the police said.

ipated in the incident were arrested following an investigation conducted by the police and three of them were present for the trial. On trial was Mark Royden called “Durant”, Dennis Williams called “Anaconda” and Roger Simon called “Goat Man,” indicted for 12 counts each for the murder of nine civilians and three policemen at Bartica on February 17, 2008. Royden is being represented by Roger Yearwood, Williams’ lawyer is Saphier Hussain and Simon’s attorney is Peter Hugh. Caesar and Reece have since pleaded guilty to the lesser count of manslaughter separately in December 2016 and have since been sentenced. During the February 17, 2008, rampage nine civilians and three cops were gunned down by a group of heavily armed men, who descended on Bartica at nightfall. Those who lost their lives

were Bartica residents Edwin Gilkes, Dexter Adrian and Irving Ferreira; policemen stationed at the Bartica Police Station, Lance Corporal Zaheer Zakir, Constables Shane Fredericks and Ron Osborne; Deonarine Singh of Wakenaam; Ronald Gomes of Kuru Kururu; Ashraf Khan of Middlesex, Essequibo; Abdool Yasseen, Errol Thomas of Tuschen, East Bank Essequibo and Baldeo Singh of Montrose, East Coast Demerara. Rondell ‘Fineman’ Rawlins, according to the police, led the gang on the rampage in Bartica as well as the one that converged on Lusignan on January 26, 2008. Rawlins was killed during a joint services operation on August 28, 2008. With his death and the arrest and prosecution of the five suspects, it appeared as though the police had closed their investigation.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, February 3, 2017

US to issue new Iran sanctions

US President Donald Trump is poised to impose new sanctions on multiple Iranian entities, seeking to ratchet up pressure on Tehran while crafting a broader strategy to counter what he sees as its destabilising behaviour, people familiar with the matter said on Thursday. In the first tangible action against Iran since Trump took office on Jan. 20, the administration, on the same day he insisted that “nothing is off the table,” prepared to roll out new measures against more than two dozen Iranian targets, the sources said. The announcement is expected as early as Friday, they said. The new sanctions, which are being taken under existing executive orders covering terrorism and weapons of mass destruction, may mark the leading edge of a more aggressive policy against Iran that Trump promised during the 2016 presidential campaign, the sources, who had knowledge of the administration’s plans, said. But the package, targeting both entities and individuals,

was formulated in a way that would not violate the 2015 Iran nuclear deal negotiated by Trump’s predecessor Barack Obama, they added. The sources said the new sanctions had been in the works for some time and that Iran’s decision to test-fire a ballistic missile on Sunday had helped trigger Trump’s decision to impose them, although Washington has not accused Iran of violating the nuclear deal. The White House signaled a tougher stance toward Iran on Wednesday when Michael Flynn, Trump’s national security adviser, said he was putting Iran “on notice” after the missile test and senior U.S. officials said the administration was reviewing how to respond. A top adviser to Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said his country would not yield to “useless” U.S. threats from “an inexperienced person” over its ballistic missile programme. The adviser, Ali Akbar Velayati did not identify a specific U.S. official in his comments. The impact of the new

round of sanctions will be more symbolic than practical, especially as the move does not affect the lifting of broader US and international sanctions that took place under the nuclear deal. Also, few of the Iranian entities being targeted are likely to have US assets that can be frozen, and US companies, with few exceptions, are barred from doing business with Iran. But the administration is working with congressional staffers and outside experts on a still-evolving comprehensive plan aimed at hitting as many of Iran’s pressure points as possible, including its already restricted nuclear programme, its missile development and its support of militant groups in the region. Though development of the new approach is in its early stages, options under consideration include exercising “zero tolerance” for even the most minor Iranian violations of the nuclear deal and officially designating Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist entity, the sources said. “Michael Flynn did not put

Iran on notice as mere empty words,” said Mark Dubowitz, an Iran sanctions expert and head of the conservative Washington-based Foundation for Defense of Democracies who is advising the Trump administration and lawmakers. “Iran’s continued missile and terrorism activities will lead to dozens of new US designations and tough new congressional sanctions. This is merely the beginning of what Flynn meant.”

“NOTHING IS OFF THE TABLE” Trump’s declaration that nothing has been ruled out in response to Iran appears to leave open the possibility of military action, though experts say both sides will take care to avoid armed confrontation in the oilrich Gulf. Still, the US threats of reprisals, coupled with Iran’s defiant reaction, could dangerously ratchet up tensions between the two countries. Every recent US President, including Democratic predecessor Obama, has said that US military options were not off

the table to prevent Iran from getting a nuclear weapon. But Trump and some of his aides have gone much further in their rhetoric, especially in criticising the Iran deal as weak, ineffective and in need of renegotiation. Iran’s continued missile testing has been a source of controversy. In the latest move, one source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said about eight Iranian entities were to be sanctioned, or “designated” in US legal jargon, for terrorism-related activities and about 17 for ballistic missile-related activities under separate existing US executive orders. The source declined to name the entities, which were targeted under executive orders signed by George W Bush in 2001 and 2005. Sanctions designations can lead to asset freezes, travel bans and other penalties. The White House declined comment. A US State Department official, asked for comment, replied: “As standard policy, we do not preview sanction decisions be-

fore they are announced.” Leading a chorus of Republican calls for new sanctions, Paul Ryan, the speaker of the House of Representatives, said the United States should stop “appeasing” Tehran. “I would be in favour of additional sanctions on Iran,” Ryan told reporters at a weekly news conference. “I’d like to put as much toothpaste back in the tube as possible. I think the last administration appeased Iran far too much.” Like every Republican in Congress, Ryan opposed the nuclear agreement with Iran that went into effect early last year. But Republican lawmakers said they were working with the Trump administration to push back on Iran as much as possible without risking the international uncertainty that would come with tearing up the pact. “Now we have a partner that’s willing to deal with Iran in the way that Iran should be dealt with. ... And so we’re in a real different ball game,” Senator Bob Corker, chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, told Reuters.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday February 3, 2017

Hamilton Green to be replaced

MINISTER of State Joseph Harmon has announced that Hamilton Green will not return as Chairman of the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA). The announcement came in light of a decision to undertake a general review of State Boards, agencies and commissions with the aim of establishing an age of retirement for persons who sit on them. Only recently, retired Justice Cecil Kennard, Chairman of the Police Ser-

CH&PA Chairman Hamilton Green

vice Commission and Prem Persaud, Chairman of the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) were asked to step down due to their age. Speaking at a post-Cabinet media briefing at the Ministry of the Presidency on Thursday, Minister Harmon said the administration is creating “upward mobility” for younger persons who are competent to fill these posts. “We have to, as a nation, strike a balance, where efficiency is concerned, where a person’s age is concerned.

We do not believe age is a deterrent in and of itself, but we do believe that the fact that we have so many younger persons who are there, competent as well to carry out these duties, that we believe they ought to be given a chance,” Minister Harmon said. Green, a former Mayor of Georgetown, was appointed Chair of CH&PA in October 2015. He has served as Mayor since 1996 and was Prime Minister under the PNC Government before a fall out with that party in

Minister of State Joseph Harmon

1993. Given Government’s position on the matter, it is expected that other people in the public sector will be affected and Minister Harmon has assured that the administration is grateful for the work done. “It is no disrespect or no disregard to the work that has been done by these persons, but we do believe that we have to also create upward mobility for persons who are in the system,” the Minister of State said.

Guyana oil output may surpass T&T’s GUYANA has come a long way from being a recipient of discounted oil under special terms from Venezuela via PetroCaribe, to where it is now: set with ExxonMobil to topple Trinidad and Tobago as the new largest oil producer in the Caribbean, and one of the largest in South

America. On a conference call with investors on Tuesday, ExxonMobil vice president of Investor Relations and Secretary Jeff Woodbury, (because ExxonMobil chairman Rex Tillerson is US President Trump’s Secretary of State) said Guyana will initially produce about 100,000

barrels of oil per day (bopd). To put in perspective, T&T has been struggling to produce 70,000 bopd on average in 2016, according to Energy Ministry data as of last November. In a statement, State oil company Petrotrin said it was “open to the possibility of further developing business

relations with fellow energy companies in neighbouring Guyana.” Petrotrin also said its Pointe-a-Pierre refinery was 100 years old this year, and wanted — a year after its completion — to advise that thanks to its Gasoline Optimisation Programme at Pointe-a-Pierre,

“the refinery has resumed high throughput operations consistent with its capacity of 168,000 bopd.” The statement said: “While Petrotrin is confident that it can explore several avenues for improved relations with the Guyanese energy industry, our capacity to

process the crude discovered in the Stabroek Block can only be determined after the quality of this crude has been ascertained. In this regard, Petrotrin will be further guided by the ongoing discussions with the Guyanese Government.” (Daily Express)

Drama outside Bank of Guyana … as employees vehicles clamped

SMART City Solutions (SCS) clamped the wheels of vehicles belonging to employees of Bank of Guyana (BoG) on Thursday on the grounds that the vehicles were double parked. Public Relations Officer of SCS, Kit Nascimento disclosed that the employees breached the By-Laws by doubling parking outside the bank on Avenue of the Republic. Employees of the Bank questioned the company’s authority to clamp the wheels of vehicles which are parked in areas not demarcated as a parking meter spot. In response, Nascimento indicated that apart from being tasked with enforcing the laws pertaining to the parking meters, Smart City Solutions is also in charge of ensuring that all traffic by laws are abided by. Any vehicle which has not paid for parking or has exceeded the paid time will have their wheel clamped by a tyre booting device. This can be done whether the vehicle owner is present or not. A fine of $8000 plus VAT will have to be paid in order to unlock the vehicle. If the fine is not paid within two hours,

the vehicle will be towed to an impound lot. The fine would then be $12,000 plus any VAT applicable. The by-laws were drafted after the city’s administra-

tion and National Parking Systems/ Smart City Solutions (NPS/SCS) had signed a contract for the installation of parking meters around the city.

One of the vehicles which was clamped yesterday by Smart City Solutions

gnnleditorial@gmail.com 6

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, February 3, 2017

Editorial

Guyana improves score on Int’l Corruption Index

2016 MARKED the full calendar year to do any assessment of the David Granger/Moses Nagmootoo Government. Transparency International, a global organisation against corruption, had the opportunity to do so and in its assessment Guyana scored 34 on the corruption perception index. This is the country’s highest score ever and notably an improvement on 2015, when the score was 29, which remained relatively the same as in 2014. Even though Guyana is still ranked “very corrupt” –i.e. perceived levels of corruption in the public sector-the present score is a positive movement to get out of this shameful category and therefore a welcoming sign. There is no doubt Guyanese are capable of achieving whatever we set our minds to. Any and every effort by this government to rid the system of corruption is a positive move which should not go without notice and commendation. While 34 registers marked improvement from where the country was, this score should be used as opportunity for not only putting structures in place, but improving on what currently exists. The country’s justice improvement programme, along with the State Assets Recovery Agency Bill, are seen as instruments in supporting existing laws on anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism. Guyana’s present score, which indicates the will is there to do better, also brings with it the responsibility of ensuring existing perceptions of corruption on projects such as the D’Urban Park Stadium, pharmaceutical bond in south Georgetown, the China trip/GT&T, and so forth, can withstand legal and accounting scrutiny.

To improve on Guyana’s image, which everyone should have vested interest in, given the implications for development, the forensic audits that cost tens of millions of dollars to prepare should not be left to gather dust. These audits should not only be used for the purpose of prosecution but also to put recommended structures in place to avoid future malpractices. Corruption robs a society of having its limited resources channelled toward productive endeavours for the people’s benefit. The United Nations sees corruption as a human right violation given that it encroaches on fundamental rights and freedoms and fuels inequity in the system. For instance, corruption denies citizens quality social services such as education, healthcare, physical infrastructures and security such as food, water and police protection. Corrupt governments also engage in acts of suppressing public dissent and press freedom in efforts to hide its malpractices. When persons are entrusted with the privilege and responsibility to manage the resources of the nation for the benefit of the people and treat same as personal property there must be zero tolerance for such misconduct. Stamping out corruption not only requires improved systems management but an efficient and effective judiciary. A judiciary that has not only independent minds, but adequate resources to carry out its day-to-day activities is integral to fighting the scourge. At the same time it cannot be ignored the efforts being made to empower the judicature, as in instances of financial autonomy and the introduction of night court. The effort of putting programmes and systems in place to address improvement in our policing would also help. The act of

Editor-In-Chief

Nigel Williams Editor

Godfrey Wray

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

Editorial

enhancing training, improving the physical conditions under which the police operate, and being supported with improved remuneration, would undoubtedly energise our men and women in uniform in working in unison with other arms of government. Citizens too have a role to play in the fight against corruption and ensuring their resources are used for the benefit of the collective. The held view that provided one is living in wealth, the squalor, deprivations, and crime around them do not matter and has no basis in fact. Inevitably all are consumed by the stench, attendant anti-social behaviours and health crises that flow from corruption. Conversely, where the enabling environment is created for law and order to prevail in the system, the people and society stand a better chance to succeed. In 2017 Guyanese– the people and their government– must assiduously work to ensure this year’s report is better than 2016. Our objective must be to move from being the most corrupt English-speaking country in the Caribbean to being the least corrupt.

Anti-parking meters activists on losing side of modernisation Dear Editor

THE introduction of parking meters in any jurisdiction in the world attracts opposition. Similarly, a vocal minority opposes the establishment of paid parking in Guyana’s capital, Georgetown. The group launched a campaign to dissuade motorists from parking around the city to starve the city of funds. The dissenters who seek to obstruct this initiative are on the losing side of modernisation. Ultimately, the policy will normalise when an informed citizenry accepts that its benefits overwhelmingly outweigh the inconvenience. The manufactured opposition therefore is no empirical indicator of the potentiality of paid parking in Georgetown. The unveiling of this project indeed featured operational and implementation challenges, which were resolved. Glitches during the launch of technology projects are common. When the

Air-train to the JFK Airport was launch in New York in 2002, the train derailed from 150 feet in the air, killing the test engineer on the very first test run. Today the Air-train is a perfect system, because those initial glitches were fixed. No one died from the introduction of Parking meters in Georgetown. Initial glitches will be fixed, and the system will work perfectly over time. Parking meters are presently law in Georgetown. Opposition to this law is not grassroots driven. It is believed to be clandestinely driven by “special interests” who did not win the contract to execute this project. Institution of fees and taxes on the citizenry normally elicits legitimate skepticism and dissent. These are characteristics of an open, democratic society. But generating public chaos, under the pretense of opposition to a policy that one previously espoused, and will otherwise support, if given the commercial benefit of its execution, is illegitimate,

deceptive and scandalous. We elect governments to make decisions to advance development, i.e., improve living conditions, create economic and social growth, enhance infrastructure and services and transform the social order for citizens to realise successful lives in a modern society. This vision can only be realized by generating the requisite revenue. Parking meters are a feature of every major city in the world. They are a hallmark of a modern city, and serve three purposes. They regulate parking and bring about order; generate revenue to maintain and develop the city and, provide an avenue for motorists, who reside outside that city but utilize its services, to contribute to its upkeep. Parking on city property is not a right, but a privilege granted by an authority. The law empowers the Georgetown Mayor & City Council to levy fees, rates and taxes. Parking meter fees are a tax to park on city property,

similar to fees paid to park on private property; which is far more expensive and unopposed. Paid parking is the exact concept as property tax which the city levies for services concomitant with owning a property - Except the city outsourced the parking meter project to a private company. The City contributed zero dollars to this project. It will receive 20% of gross receipts–a percentage I concede should be renegotiated upwards. This fund should be dedicated to a specific modernisation project for citizens to see the tangible benefits of paid parking. Georgetown needs drastic development. The city administration must therefore generate additional revenues to fund a modernization program. Development comes at a cost to the people. Good drainage, efficient garbage disposal, effective building and environmental code enforcement, good, safe streets, modern integrated traffic signal networks, superior sanitation and quality garbage

disposal, excellent water purification and supply, state of the art sewage disposal etc, all require significant financial resources. Budget allocations to municipalities from the central government are inadequate to fulfill their mandate. Therefore, alternative revenue generation is crucial. Georgetown must also enact policies facilitate citizen education and participation in city government. There will not be unanimous agreement with every policy. But public engagement is essential for accountability and good governance. Furthermore, in an established democracy, we do not obstruct the decision of the majority, because we lost a vote. We embrace and implement it as a decision of the body. Education is power. When citizens become knowledgeable that they will be ultimate beneficiaries of this new policy, the manufactured opposition will become irrelevant, new citizen - city partnerships will emerge and

the policy will be successful. I am also mindful that a less vocal majority supports paid parking, and that some dissenters do not even drive, much less park. As an act of transparency, the city should open a dialogue with its residents to solicit their support and feedback on a reasonable fee for parking. This effort cannot be an act in futility. It should be done in concert with the investors who made the capital investment in this project. The outcome must be a settled fee based on consensus or a majority opinion. This is how you empower citizens to help manage their government. The citizenry must be mobilized to embrace a vision for a modern Georgetown. This is the real challenge of the City council.. Regards Rickford Burke President, Caribbean Guyana Institute for Democracy (CGID)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, February 3, 2017

Stakeholders being engaged on Mash Dear Editor,

IN response to Master Clayton Halley’s letter, I wish to let him know that Mashramani planning is a collaborative process and contrary to his missive dated February 1, 2017, there has been and continues to be public and stakeholder’s engagement and consultations on Mashramani plans and activities for 2017. From my experience thus far the deci-

sions made for Mashramani are not made by Minister Nicolette Henry in isolation or unilaterally. In fact, that opinion is furthest from the reality on the ground. I have been privileged to be part of the continuous consultations/engagements that have resulted in continued adjustments to the standard Mashramani Calendar of events and plans. As the Public Relations Officer for the Department

of Culture, I am categorical that it is a result of continuous engagements at the subject Minister’s level as well as the Mash Coordinator and others working so hard to make this happen that there continues to be adjustments in the public’s interest. Regards Mondale Smith PRO Department of Culture

A timely charge by Ramjattan Dear Editor

AT the recent 5th Biennial National Conference of the Alliance for Chance (AFC) at the Vreed-en-Hoop Primary School on Saturday, January 28, 2017, the newly elected Chairman of that Party, Mr. Khemraj Ramjattan, gave a passionate and timely charge for party supporters and Guyanese in general to rise above destructive criticisms of the APNU/ AFC coalition government. He said: “there will always be jealousies and pettiness, especially coming from lesser minds…and the party must seek to avoid that which will jeopardise the coalition’s existence to the detriment of the Cummingsburg Accord or to the benefit of Jagdeo and the PPP”. His appeal could not come at a better time, when many Guyanese, particularly those who robustly supported and voted in the APNU/ AFC coalition government seem to have suffered Lacunar amnesia and murmur constantly. Lacunar amnesia is the loss of memory about a specific event. Some specific events for which many people seem to have Lacunar amnesia effects include, but are not limited to, the following that took place between 1995 to 2015: * The wanton abuse, misuse, theft and conversion of State Assets by the PPP regime (Example: Pradoville) * The semi-genocidal murders of over 400 (mainly Afro-Guyanese) during the period 2000 – 2005 * Mismanagement of GUYSUCO and the Skeldon Sugar production plant fiasco, which remains a ‘goadie’ on the Guyanese economy * Baseless fear mongering particularly affective Indo-Guyanese * The Lusignan and Bartica Massacres of innocent citizens

* The assassinations of Satyedeow Sawh, Ronald Waddell and Courtney Crum-Ewing * Poor contractual works (Examples: The Kato Secondary School in Region# 8 and Charity Wharf in Region# 2) * Weakened foreign policy and territorial defense which embarrassed Guyana with the eviction of a CGX oil rig by Surinamese military gunboats in 2000 * Illicit drug trade causing the country to be listed by the United States DEA as a major drug transshipment hub * Corrupt alliances and poor regulatory controls which resulted in $$ billions lost through illegal Gold and Timber exportation * Dirty Capital City (Georgetown) and uncontrollable filthiness nationwide * The neglect of Linden * The destruction of cash-crop farms in Buxton/ Friendship * The FATF blacklisting of Guyana for failure to enact Anti Money Laundering and Counter Terrorism Financing legislation In the Holy Bible, the Children of Israel murmured against their leader (Moses) because of their Lacunar amnesia. Numbers 14:2, “And the children of Israel murmured against Moses and against Aaron: and the whole congregation said unto them, Would God that we had died in the land of Egypt! Or would God we had died in this wilderness!” Such murmuring did not only trouble Moses, but it displeased God. As a consequence, that generation of the Children of Israel was not allowed to make it to the Promised Land. Numbers 14:27-29, “How long shall I bear with this evil congregation, which murmur against me? I have heard the murmurings of the children of Israel, which they murmur

against me. Say unto them, As truly as I live, saith the LORD, as ye have spoken in mine ears, so will I do to you: Your carcasses shall fall in this wilderness; and all that were numbered of you, according to your whole number, from twenty years old and upward, which have murmured against me” Guyanese, with their murmuring and insinuation that the coalition government will only survive ‘one-term’ need to be wary of ‘self-fulfilling prophesy’. Many who utter such nonsense seem to forget their (Egypt) experiences under the PPP. They also seem to lack gratefulness and cognizance of the wide-ranging socio-economic, institutional and infrastructural improvements that have taken place in just under 2 years of the incumbent administration. Most of those who murmur are like loafing spectators who make very little contribution to the pot of development in this country and are effortless in changing their dispositions in the first place. Our political leadership in the APNU/ AFC government and enlightened citizens need to recognize that the innuendos spread by those who murmur and senselessly criticize the coalition government can be harmful overtime. Greater community and public relations is necessary, in order to quell the infectious propagating by those perennial murmurers. As one man recently said on a CN Sharma’s Voice of the People program, “Give the government a fair chance to do their job”, ”you can’t expect them to transform everything in 2 years when the PPP had over 20 and left a mess“ Regards Orette Cutting

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday february 3, 2017

Expand the Drama festival to other levels By Barrington Braithwaite

IN last week Sunday Chronicle, Francis Quamina Farrier expressed in his article suggestions for a better National Drama Festival, amid the recent controversy with the 2016 edition that ended with the chief judge, Al Creighton, resigning. Though my play won with a tie, I did not follow the controversy, so I am unaware of the details. However, I do have enough experience with the theatre to understand that the realm of the stage with its off stage characters lies in the perfect microcosm of politics, that the real sub-plots of theatre do not dwell in the script of the play, but with the pawns the muses use to express and amuse themselves on this plane. One of the grouses was the pitiful advertising that resulted in the poor turnout. This can only be rectified when the local arts merit encouraging coverage on the local TV news, the radio and the very social media that is used as a complaint and cuss out forum. The fact is that most of the electronic media especially lack the expertise

that can hardly recognise if a painting is upside down or not, much less analyse a play. The absence of sensitising can be credited to that overall attitude where the local arts are viewed as a seasonal duty to facilitate rather than a national industry to develop. Again, local media personnel with expertise to even comment vaguely on any creative production is severely lacking, that ability is reserved for a meagre percentage. Every competition will have real and imagined cries of foul and conspiracy. The essence is to take it to another level. For example, when I self published ‘Shadow of the Jaguar’ in 1988, with a Rastafarian in the lead role, and possibly CARICOM‘s first super hero, a local critic described the comic book as “well packaged trash.” Then in 1992 when I wrote the stage script for Archie Poole, who produced it for stage with the late renowned Barbadian Director, Earle Warner and Norman Beaton, featured as the Cacique El Dorado the same critic favourably commended it. At that time there were people who presumed that culture and literature in this country were theirs to deter-

mine. It even won a best-set design when reviewed by the new theatre arts award group [whose correct name I have to seek out] back then in 1992. What the authorities of the National Drama Festival should do is open a debate on how much it would cost to produce a play with the elements to hold the TV viewers attention for an hour, followed by a half hour interactive discussion with viewer participation. More possibilities will be opened

project. A young playwright told me that the learning channel carried local plays at some time. Unless there is a definite new outlook to events like the National Drama Festival that encompasses an annual commitment and concludes with that event, the same can be said for the Calypsonians. Then the impetus will become less motivational for writers, who can write plays but step aside because of the short lived exuberance of the competition’s swift season; which when completed

year, and with school pageants to celebrate landmark national holidays the options are tremendous, many of us are aware of the precedents that enveloped our upbringing and opened our minds to wider landscapes. It must be recorded that the earliest drama shows to hit old Stabroek was in the 1790’s, when travelling acts from North America visited Stabroek. According to Henry Bolingbroke’s, ‘A voyage to Demerary’ 1799-1806, that author relates, “Strolling play-

From the plays ‘A Raisin in the sun, Man from La Mancha, Wizard of Oz, Sound of Music, to Rent,’ theatre has made its impact on cinema, with tremendous eternal musical scores. The domestic scene has the ‘minds’ to envisage all that this article presents. What will be demanded is much more balance in plays on references for subject content, in relation to time frames for plots with related period moods unless a deliberate cleaver revolutionary presen-

once it is taken to the next level. Meet the audience where they are, engage them and solicit response. It is quite impossible to reverse to the past audiences of the eighties without special efforts. The NCN since its existence has recorded local shows and there has to be a large archive of material for which a reasonable royalty can be negotiated with its creators to jump start such a

lacks any further steps to insert a relationship with drama into the local consciousness, take into consideration that we’re not a country whose diverse wealth is activated in our interest, as yet, regardless we must persevere, to rectify years of neglect and not just marching to the same redundant drum beat. The viewing of plays and participation in plays must find a path once more into the winding up of the school

ers from north America occasionally visit the West Indies. Twice during my six year stay they came to Stabroek, they chartered a vessel at New York; they had embarked a cargo of canvas palaces and painted forests, of crowns and daggers, sceptres and chains, of the purple attire of majesty, and the motley foppery of folly.” They performed Shakespeare, with Afro actors doing the Moorish parts.

tation construct is pitched. It’s also time to up our set designs; to create a bond for storage of sets, Mash-art works and stage costumes, with the potential for reuse. Talents like Henry Muttoo are just a significant drop in the Guyanese pool left out of taking us where we need to go. When is it a good time to start expanding, now or...?

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday February 3, 2017

First crop rice likely to surpass target Tighter measures

RICE production for the first crop in 2017 is expected to surpass 220,000 acres, Extension Manager of the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) Kuldip Ragnauth had said. Ragnauth told the Government Information Agency (GINA) that based on sowing that has been completed, year-end records will show that rice production has increased significantly. “The target for this crop is 210,000 acres for this crop. That’s the acreage that has been sown. At this point in time that would have been surpassed, its over 220,000 acres that has been sown for the crop and that’s a good sign and it also has implications for rice production

GRDB Extension Manager Kuldip Ragnauth at the end of the year,” Ragnauth said. Meanwhile,rice is still being sown in the some regions even though the sowing period has passed. This is due

to severe and intense rainfall during the month of December. The first crop-sowing period is from mid-November to late December. The Extension Manager noted that there are only two sowing crops in the year, the second, starts from mid-May -and ends late June. “The rains came sometime early December, as a consequence, (the crop) commenced in most of the regions during that time. In Region Six, it is actually because of the availability of water in November. … now sowing would have ended in Regions Two, Three and Four and it is continued on a small scale in Regions Five and Six,” Ragnauth explained.

Ragnauth added that research and extension activities to diversify the local rice varieties continue while the aromatic rice variety is being developed. Region Five is currently in the stage of cultivating 3000 acres of the aromatic rice variety. Farmers, especially in Region Five are also being encouraged to plant the aromatic rice variety since private rice millers are offering incentives for rice paddy. Guyana is currently exporting the local rice variety (GRDB 10) to thirty countries. However, there are also discussions with the government and other relevant officials of Mexico to secure additional rice markets in that country.

Man arrested for illegal possession gun, ammo POLICE ranks around mid-day on Thursday arrested a 46-year-old male of Mongrippa Hill, Bartica for unlawful possession of a firearm and a quantity of live ammunition, at Itaballi Check Point. According to a release, about 13:00hrs, the ranks conducted a search of the suspect’s vehicle and found an unlicensed .32 Taurus pistol and 41 live matching rounds, hidden behind the driver’s seat. The suspect, who is a miner/driver, has since admitted ownership of the firearm and ammunition. He is being processed for court.

The gun and ammunition seized by police on Thursday

to stop illegal immigrants

MINISTER of State,Joseph Harmon,said Guyana will be ‘tightening up’ to stem the influx of illegal immigrants here. Harmon noted that with the recent announcement by Trinidad and Tobago’s Minister of National Security that over 100 known terrorist linked to ISIS is in that country, it is important that Guyana beef up its immigration strength. “We cannot be aware that something is happening in our neighbours yard and do not take steps to ensure we correct it here,” Harmon said, adding, “We have to ensure that we protect Guyanese, we protect our image internationally and so that we will not become another hot bed for extremism in this region, so yes,we have to tighten up our immigration and it has to do with illegal entry into Guyana as well as for security purposes.” Harmon noted that there will not be a ban on citizens travelling to and from places that are known terrorist threats unless the person engages in activities that raises a red flag. “Once red flag raises, they (immigration) basically do their investigation. The intention of course is to ensure that we provide safety to Guyanese,” Harmon stated. Additionally, the Minister pointed out that the government will not put measures in place that prevent Caribbean Community (CARICOM) personnel from entering Guyana. Noting that the Treaty of Chaguaramas facilitates and allows for movement of persons across the region, Harmon said, “Unless we have some higher information which identifies a person as a security risk or they are involved in something illegal,then of course our immigration officers will be required to take action.” (GINA)

M&CC clamps down on businessman … seizes materials over illegal construction

THE Mayor and City Council (M&CC) on Thursday seized construction materials, including concrete blocks and sand, belonging to Stain Masters, on the grounds that the owner was not given

permission to renovate his house and parapet in South Ruimveldt, Georgetown. Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the M&CC, Debra Lewis,told the Guyana Chronicle that the owner, Anthony Noble,was recently

warned not to move forward with his renovations until he acquired the requisite approval from the M&CC. Lewis claims that the construction is illegal since sediments have blocked nearby drains. According

Officials of the M&CC removing the construction materials belonging to proprietor of Stain Masters, Anthony Noble. [Samuel Maughn photo]

Noble speaking to officials of the council. to her, the move to seize who was distraught at the a verbal approval that led to Noble’s items is not an act time of the M&CC’s exer- me beginning my renovation of victimization but a lawful cise, said that he received work,” Noble said, pointing one. verbal approval from the out that his investment is The businessman will M&CC to go ahead with well over $500,000. nevertheless be able to re- construction. According to the busitrieve his items at a cost, “Earlier last year I got all nessman, he decided to enonce he applies to council the documents together and hance the parapets, given for permission to continue submitted my application to the fact that it floods easily the work he started. Noble, the M&CC…I later received during heavy rainfall.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday February 3, 2017

10 apply for post of chancellor

GOVERNMENT has received at least ten applications for the post of Chancellor of the Judiciary, Minister of State, Joseph Harmon revealed. Acting Chancellor, Justice Carl Singh, will officially retire and demit office on February 23, 2017, and according to Minister Harmon, the ten persons who have applied

thus far have the requisite qualifications and experience. “Thereafter, there will have to be a process of vetting these persons and then there will be of course, subjected to interviews,” Minister Harmon told reporters at a post cabinet press briefing, adding that government wants to ensure that the interview process is trans-

parent. “You’d see how a Justice of the US Supreme Court is interviewed; he has to go through a process. We’re trying to put in place some processes like that, that are transparent, that will allow for the person who actually gets into that position, to be enjoying the confidence of not only the administration, but of

Acting Chancellor of the Judiciary, Carl Singh

the Guyanese people at large,” the Minister of State said. According to Guyana’s constitution, the Chancellor and the Chief Justice shall be appointed by the President, after obtaining the agreement of the Leader of the Opposition. The constitution also states that an officer who is retiring from the Ju-

dicial Service shall proceed on his pre-retirement leave for all accumulated vacation leave earned prior to the effective date of his retirement. There have been concerns about Justice Singh’s retirement. He is likely to leave office without being confirmed as Chancellor, a post he has held for more than ten years.

Police Force is wanted by the police for questioning in relation to four parcels of cocaine that were found in a suitcase on January, 24, 2017 at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), Timehri. A female outgoing passenger, who was on a flight to Toronto, Canada was arrested. The substance was tested, weighed and amounted to 4,178 grams. Meanwhile, Azeemudeen Kamaludeen is also wanted in connection with trafficking in narcotics that occurred on January, 20, 2017 at Cheddi Jagan International Airport, Timehri. Anyone with information that may lead to the arrest of Shawn Nebblett and Azeemudeen Kamalu-

WANTED: Shawn Nebblett deen are asked to contact the police on telephone numbers 225-6411, 2261389, 227-2128, 226-7065, 225-2227, 225-0575, 911 or the nearest police station.

Ex-cop wanted for cocaine trafficking

POLICE issued a wanted bulletin for two suspects in connection with cocaine trafficking in January. Shawn Nebblett, an Ex-Member of the Guyana

WANTED: Azeemudeen Kamaludeen

Caught red-handed

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday February 3, 2017

–– Cevon’s illegally dumping waste in Linden

By Vanessa Braithwaite PRIVATE garbage collection and waste management company Cevon’s Waste Management, is in hot water after the Linden’s Mayor and Town Council and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), on Thursday caught the company illegally dumping waste in the ‘Millies Hide Out Junction’. Mayor Carwyn Holland, along with the Council’s Health and Environmental staff acted quickly after being furnished with information and photographs

caught red-handed and them in even say come back and clean it up,” the man lamented. ‘NOT ME’ He also revealed that several other trucks have been dumping garbage at the location. In fact at the said time, a Guyana Forestry Commission truck was dumping boxes at the location and when asked by this publication the reason for such action, the driver responded, “is not me dumping, is them send me to dump.” Mayor Holland said the illegal dumping is criminal.

machinery. He said because of the Council’s situation, Cevon’s is taking advantage and is now getting involved in indiscriminate illegal dumping. When contacted, Cevon’s Waste Senior Manager, Morse Archer, explained that the company is not responsible for the loose garbage dumped at the site since it did not dump those. ‘ERRANT DRIVER’ He however acknowledged that the liquid waste was dumped by an errant driver who did not

Garbage dumped at “Millies Hide Out”, Linden, Region 10 from a resident operating a business in proximity to the area where he saw Cevon’s Compactor Truck dumping liquid waste indiscriminately. When the Guyana Chronicle visited the site on Thursday morning, the entire area was inundated with both biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste in addition to human faeces. The stench was unbearable and the entire area was an eye-sore, worst yet it is the junction where the town begins. The individual who shared the information and photographs told Guyana Chronicle that he was deeply saddened at the indiscriminate dumping of Cevon’s Waste, a private company that came to Linden to operate. “You know they get

“This act I see as an attack on the environment, an attack on health and humanity, it is a serious thing against the people of Linden, it is not the first time. This is the second time Cevon’s has been called into question about dumping faeces around the town… This time they are caught in the act, we have the evidence right here. To dump faeces where people have to traverse, that is so wrong; all for a dollar. I believe it is time Cevon’s Waste Management understands that the people of Linden will not stand for this kind of treatment,” Holland said. He also used the opportunity to solicit assistance from Central Government to assist the financially ailing Council as it relates to the garbage collection since it has limited staff and

follow the policies of the Council since the waste was to be transported to Georgetown. Archer revealed that even though the company did not dump the rest of the garbage, a team has already been dispatched to clean up the entire site. “We are a major player in Linden and it is easy to point fingers but we don’t want the back and forth so we have already dispatched a team to clean up the garbage.” He revealed that Cevon’s have stuck to the Council’s instructions to dump garbage at the Dakoura Creek. The dumpsite at the Dakoura Creek has already been called into question by the EPA since it is in proximity to a water shed which supplies water to communities on the Wismar shore.

A Cevon’s waste compactor truck caught red-handed dumping faeces at “Millies Hide Out” The EPA has already mandated the Council to shut down the dump site since there were concerns of leaching and other health hazards. Archer contended that until they are instructed to dump at the proposed dumpsite at Kara Kara, they will continue to dump at Dakoura.

The road leading into the Kara Kara dumpsite had been deemed virtually impassable but Mayor Holland revealed that works have been started as the Council no longer dumps at Dakoura but at Kara Kara. The Ministry of Communities has expressed interest in repairing the

access road leading to the Kara Kara dumpsite and the Mayor said he will make representation for the road to be repaired. In addition to cleaning up the garbage at “Millies Hide Out”, Mayor Holland posited that the EPA related that Cevon’s will also have to pay a fine.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday February 3, 2017

Kwakwani chairman, vice-chair sworn in By Vanessa Braithwaite

THE chairman and vice-chairman for the Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) of Kwakwani, Region 10 were sworn in on Thursday at the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) in Linden by Regional Executive Officer, Gavin Clarke. The chairman elected is Merna Adrian, while the vice- chairman is Kelvin Daly. They are both councillors representing the A Partner for National Unity+ Alliance for Change Coalition. The swearing-in came after intervention from the Minister of Communities, Ronald Bulkan, following a tie at internal elections held last December. The tie occurred since one of the APNU+AFC coun-

Newly-sworn in chairman, Merna Adrian and vice-chairman, Kelvin Daly (centre) with regional authorities. From left: Regional Executive Officer, Gavin Clarke, Deputy Director for Community Development Council, Sandra Adams, Regional Vice-Chairman, Elroy Adolph. At right: Deputy REO, Maylene Charter, Member of Parliament, Jermaine Figueira and Regional Chairman, Renis Morian cillors voted in favour of the independent group Kwakwani United for Progress (KUFP) when the position of chairman was being contested.

There were originally seven APNU+AFC and five KUFP councillors on the NDC, but during the elections, both groups received six votes. Two AP-

NU+AFC councillors tied for the Vice-Chairman position. They were Carl Liverpool and Kelvin Daly. Competing for the chairmanship were Merna Adrian

650 Wales workers retained … to be transported daily for duty at Uitvlugt

THE Guyana Sugar Corporation Inc. (GuySuCo) on Wednesday met with a delegation from the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers’ Union (GAWU) and the workers’ representatives from the Wales Estate, Cane Harvesting and Cane Transport sections, to discuss the employment status of these two categories. The meeting was informed that the Corpora-

tion along with the Union’s General Secretary had held earlier discussions with the cane harvesters, where the Corporation expressed its preference to have this category continue in its employ. Since the end of the Second Crop 2016, a team from GuySuCo had been engaged in a process of determining suitable alternative placement in order to retain both the Cane Harvesting and Cane Transport employees.

The Uitvlugt Estate is preparing to increase its production from 20,000 to 40,000 tonnes of sugar annually. However, this is one of the estates that has a heavy dependence on manual labour since the weather patterns (primarily heavy rainfall) are not suitable for mechanization. With this demand for labour at the Uitvlugt Estate and the transitioning of the Wales Estate out of sugar

production; the Corporation sought to explore the possibility of retaining the cane harvesters and cane transport employees at Wales Estate. The employees from both categories mentioned will be transported to Uitvlugt Estate on a daily basis. This decision was also influenced by views expressed by the majority of employees during various protest actions on their preference to keep their jobs.

of the APNU+AFC and Juanita Leacock of the KUFP. Adrian and Daly served as councillors in the previous Council and told this publication that the minister deemed it fitting that they return to serve in the same capacity. Chairman Merna Adrian said she plans to work to the best of her ability for the community and she is proud of what the Council achieved under her chairmanship in 2016. “In 2017, we have a lot of plans, drainage, road projects and other small things that we plan to do since we are looking at great development for Kwakwani,” she said. Vice-Chairman Daly, in an invited comment, told Guyana Chronicle that the NDC is seeking assistance from the RDC as development will only come through collaboration. He said the Currently there are more than 950 employees on register at Wales Estate, out of which 650 will remain as employees of that estate. The Uitvlugt Estate is schedule to commence its First Crop on 11 February, 2017 and the Union’s delegation was informed that work will be made available to the cane harvesters along with the cane transport employees from the Wales Estate. The Corporation has examined and exhausted all alternative to keep the employees and to provide meaningful available work at Wales and Uitvlugt Estates, as such, redundancy was the last option. Further, the Corporation exhorts the Union’s dele-

community is in need of help in many areas. “Our community is in a dying state, we really need some strong councillors to get our community going,” he posited. Daly highlighted that some of the major challenges are in public infrastructure, including drainage and roads. While these are paramount, the schools and hospital are also in need of assistance. He said the community is grateful to the Ministry of Infrastructure for allowing the Council to garner 31 per cent of the funds from the communities crossing barge. This, he said is used to pay workers and to take care of other necessary expenses. The Council also receives a subvention of $3M from Central Government, which is used towards community projects. gation to see this decision regarding the future employment of Cane Harvesters and Cane Transport employees, as meaningful and in the best interest of the employees, their families, communities, Guyana and the Union. The Corporation’s decision was also guided by the opinions expressed by those employees and the pleas of residents from neighbouring communities. The meeting concluded with the parties agreeing that they will in the upcoming week, have sessions informing all employees from the two categories of the benefits and rationale for the decision, and commended the initiative.

Around the Court with Clestine Juan

Date set for ruling in causing death of Six Head Lewis

COME February 27, City Magistrate Fabayo Azore, is expected to make her ruling against Manx Powers, the driver who is accused of causing the death of former world champion boxer An-

Manx Powers

drew ‘Six Head’ Lewis. This decision was made on Thursday when Powers took to the witness stand and opted to give unsworn testimony for his defence in relation to the charge that on May 4th, 2015, at New Hope Public Road, East Bank Demerara, he drove PNN 596 in a manner dangerous to the public, thereby causing the death of Lewis. Attorney, Peter Hugh is representing Powers while Police Prosecutor, Stephen Telford is leading evidence in the case. According to reports, on the day of the accident, it is alleged that Lewis was attempting to cross the road on a bicycle when he was struck down by the car driven by Powers. He was later picked up by an ambulance that was passing and rushed to the

Andrew ‘Six Head’ Lewis Diamond Diagnostic Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival. Hugh had claimed that Lewis was to be blamed for the accident and that there was insufficient evidence led by the prosecution to have his client lead a defence.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday February 3, 2017

EMS must be made available countrywide-Pres Granger

PRESIDENT David Granger, Thursday morning, said that emergency medical services must be available to citizens in every region across the country. The Head of State made the comments during a meeting with Council members of the St. John’s Association and Ambulance Brigade at their office on Cowan Street to discuss areas in which the State can lend assistance. The President, who is the patron of the organisation, said that he is committed to ensuring that the organisation fulfills its obligations and performs its functions in the public’s interest, particularly in the area of public health. For too long, the Head of State said, the organisation has been neglected and it is his mission to ensure that it once again becomes equipped to serve the average Guyanese. “My mission this morning is to ensure we combine our thoughts and ideas to ensure that the St John’s Ambulance Brigade is financed and organised to discharge its mandate. St John’s is an underutilised resource. It has not been given the assets

and resources to perform its functions effectively. I would like to add the muscle of the state to the enthusiasm and commitment of the Brigade… Public Health is a countrywide responsibility… From a conceptual point of view, I see that this organisation must accept a national responsibility,” the President told the members. Committing his support to building and strengthening the capacity of the Brigade, the President said that every region and capital town across the country must be able to deal with emergencies. “You know better than I do the functions this organisation, through its Brigade plays especially at public events. Now we have the Durban Park and when there is an event there, there is room for volunteers to be on standby. Mashramani is coming up and these are public events that volunteers can lend assistance. We have National Days and events like the National Education Day, where there are thousands of children. So at every point of view there is a public duty to perform,” President

Granger said. Noting that the organisation can save lives as first responders during accidents and other emergencies, the President said that the organisation can recruit volunteers in the various regions to ensure that it has hands on the ground when needed. In this regard, the President encouraged the organisation to make use of various forms of media to attract persons, particularly young people, to its work. He called for updated training to be responsive to the new challenges and diseases in the health sector, but at the same time, cautioned against spreading the curriculum too wide. “What I see eventually is the association assisting to recruit volunteers because you are heavily reliant on volunteers and those volunteers can contribute a valuable service if they have the training and equipment. I would like to encourage and assist the organisation to develop its capabilities in Mabaruma, in Anna Regina, Mahdia, Lethem, as well as the coastal regions. This is because the public health

President Granger makes a point to Chairman of the Council, Mr. Vibert Parvatan and Vice-Chairman, Dr. Jose Louis DaSilva problem in Guyana is very widespread and I am not saying that there is a crisis, but Guyana has long borders and we are very susceptible to transnational diseases and diseases do not have borders. We have to be continuously vigilant against these diseases,” he said.

President David Granger makes a note of the recommendations and ideas, put forward by the Council of the Association

As the country grapples with the effects of climate change, the President said too that the brigade must enhance its disaster preparedness. To do this work countrywide, the President said that he has recognised that the association will have to be properly staffed and financed. While the State will play its part, the President also encouraged the members to work on collaboration with other agencies and commission such as the Civil Defence Commission (CDC). He further encouraged the Association to connect with the Chairpersons of Essequibo Islands-West Demerara (Region Three), Demerara-Mahaica (Region Four) and Demerara-Berbice (Region Five), regions without capital towns, with a view of establishing Centres. Currently, most of the organisation’s work is being done in Georgetown and New Amsterdam. The Head of State also suggested that the practice of observing an Association

Day be reassessed so as to give greater visibility to the works of the organization, as well as to focus on Occupational Health and Safety to ensure that workplaces are equipped with First Aid and other related services. The members of the St. John’s Association have been asked to submit a formal budget by the end of June 2017 to be considered in the 2018 National Budget. Dr. Jose Louis DaSilva, Vice Chairman of the Association, said that the Association was grateful that the President has taken the time to meet with the Council to discuss and identify areas, which can and must be strengthened. “St. John’s goes back to 1947 so with that legacy behind us we are sure that with your points that you have delivered here to us and with your ideas, it will be well received and well thought out and well implemented in the future. We thank you,” he said. (Ministry of the Presidency)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday February 3, 2017

Stricter regulations, monitoring of commercial banks By Fareeza Haniff

THE Bank of Guyana (BoG) has been instructed by Finance Minister, Winston Jordan, to implement stricter regulations and closely monitor the foreign exchange market amid concerns that some exporters are withholding sales of foreign currency. The BoG is the regulatory body for local banks and nonbanks cambios. Cabinet has been briefed on the matter by Minister Jordan who explained that there was some disequilibrium (imbalance) in the foreign exchange market, giving the impression that there was a shortage of foreign currency. Minister of State, Joseph Harmon, told a post-Cabinet media briefing Thursday that Central Bank is expected to issue a number of guidelines with regards to the new regulations and monitoring. These includes ensuring that exporters repatriate their export earnings to the banking system as is required and conducting close monitoring and examination of bank and non-bank cambios in order to maintain orderly behaviour.

“Measures will also be taken to ensure that all foreign loans and grants that are issued are disbursed on time so as to increase the flow of foreign currency to the country,” Minister Harmon told reporters. Even though the Bank of Guyana maintains that there is no shortage, some commercial banks have stated otherwise. There is a belief that the commercial banks are siphoning foreign exchange to selected customers and clients. When asked how BoG will deal with this, Minister Harmon said more oversight will be required. “It is the quality of the oversight which the Central Bank has been engaging in over the operations of these banks and non-bank cambios. I think what the Minister has recommended is that the bank strengthen its monitoring capacity and ensure that the rules and regulations by which these banks operate, that they hold them on a much closer, tighter leash.” He added: “The fact of the matter is, yes, there are some companies that have actually been sending large

amounts of foreign currency abroad because when you examine the situation all around us, in the entire region, you have foreign currency issues in Suriname, in Trinidad, in Barbados, in Venezuela, in Brazil.” Over the past few weeks, it has been reported that there is a shortage of foreign currency, specifically US dollars here, but BoG Governor, Dr Gobind Ganga has said Central Bank is not aware of such a situation. Minister Jordan had said there are six banks, 13 nonbank cambios and the BoG and noted that there are exporters, importers and other participants in the foreign exchange market, who conduct business with commercial banks or cambios of their choice. He had noted that large spreads between the buying and selling rates for foreign currency, especially in bigger banks, have led to some level of disintermediation. “These banks act as the pacesetters in the pricing of foreign currency and interest rates. They have great influence in creating uneven competition for smaller banks. These developments

Bar associations ignoring DSG’s ‘feral blast’ on AG ATTORNEY General, Basil Williams has chided the various bar associations for ignoring the fact that he was forced to respond to a feral blast against him by the Deputy Solicitor General and again accused her of undermining government cases she had been charged with handling. In a terse press statement responding to calls for his removal from office by attorney, Adrian Anamayah who is also a member of the Berbice Bar Association, the AG asked where was he when the former Attorney General Mr Anil Mohabir Nandlall confessed to a taped conversation in which he issued threats to injure the staff of Kaieteur News which, according to the Kaieteur News publication dated November 2, 2014, was a part of a direct orchestrated design to shut down the newspaper in the year 2014. Additionally, the AG reminded Anamayah of the former AG’s alleged unlawful taking

away of the Law Books from the Ministry of Legal Affairs and Attorney General Chambers valuing approximately 3M and his admitting to unlawfully taking over $7M from the Government coffers which he claimed he repaid. Nandlall had said that he was authorized to take the books by former President Donald Ramotar. “The Honourable Attorney General was forced to respond after the Deputy Solicitor General went into a public feral blast against him, which as a public officer she cannot lawfully do. The Ministry of Legal Affairs and Attorney General Chambers notes the condonation of the acts of the Deputy Solicitor General by the bar associations without making any attempts to ascertain the true facts, whilst ignoring the rebuttal of the Honourable Attorney General that she has been undermining the Government cases,” his statement ended.

have artificially stressed the foreign exchange market,” he said, noting their potential to destabilise Guyana’s fragile economy. He had said that the level of foreign exchange in the system indicates that the current demand can be adequately met without spec-

ulation. In spite of the fall-off in export earnings for rice, sugar and timber, the foreign exchange reserves of the Bank of Guyana have increased to US$616M at the end of December 2016 from US$598M, at the end of 2015.

Finance Minister, Winston Jordan

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday February 3, 2017

Cyclist killed in Bagotville accident

AN unidentified cyclist was killed Wednesday evening after a minibus bearing registration number BKK 9004, overtook another vehicle and slammed into him on the Inner Bagotville, Canal Number 1, West Bank Demerara Public Road. Reports indicate that the mangled body of a male East Indian was retrieved several feet onto the parapet and was taken to the West Demerara Regional Hospital by a public-spirited citizen. The accident occurred at 19:30hrs. One resident in the area said he heard a loud sound but thought it was a minibus that fell into a pothole, but upon inquiry he discovered it was a collision between a man on a BMX bicycle and a Route 31 minibus.

Another resident said he was told that the minibus driver was informed of the danger of overtaking another vehicle as a cyclist was in danger but he paid no heed. “The man said he tried to slow down and position himself more at the centre of the road because he realise if the minibus overtake him the cyclist would be in danger, but the minibus bore through,” he said. Residents collectively agreed that the area needs street lighting since many persons were injured there due to accident. “This place needs lights, plus the cycle didn’t have any proper lights on it and this place really dark in the nights,” another resident said.

Traffic ranks with the driver of the minibus at the accident scene Thursday taking measurements

The minibus that was involved in the accident parked at the La Grange Police Station

The cycle involved in the fatal accident

Driver accused of killing traffic cop to know fate on Feb 17 GEORGETOWN Magistrate Leron Daly, is expected to rule on February 17, on a no-case submission made on behalf of Ron Cole, the driver who is accused of causing the death of traffic cop, Nakosi ‘Kelvin’ La Fleur. Police Prosecutor, Inspector Bharat Mangru, on Thursday replied to the nocase submission made by Cole’s attorney, in relation to the causing death by dangerous driving charge against the defendant. It is alleged that Cole of Blueberry Hill, Wismar, Linden, on April 11, 2016, at Eccles Public Road, East Bank Demerara, drove motor pick-up GRR9355 in a manner dangerous to the public and caused the death of LaFleur. According to reports, LaFleur who was stationed at the Providence Police Station, was directing traffic at Eccles when he stepped back

Ron Cole to allow a vehicle to pass in front of him. That was when the pick-up hit him from behind. The 25-year-old policeman died three days later at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC). He was initially treated and sent away, but was rushed back to the hospital after complaining of severe pain.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday February 3, 2017

Student’s vehicle clamped outside Bishops’ High School

AS motorists continue to resist the newly enforced parking meter system in Georgetown, a female student of the Bishops’ High School (BHS) had her vehicle clamped, while it was parked outside the school Thursday. The student’s vehicle, a Toyota Ist, was parked on Carmichael Street, just

across the main entrance of her school when it was discovered clamped at approximately 09:30h. A teacher of BHS, Coen Jackson, told the Guyana Chronicle that the student was made aware that she had to pay a fine of $9,280 to remove the clamp. She was escorted to City Hall by another teacher of the school,

Three years for cocaine trafficking MICHAEL France, called “Mosquito” was Tuesday sentenced to three years imprisonment for the traf-

Michael France, called Mosquito ficking of cocaine after his trial before Magistrate Crystal Lambert at the Providence Magistrate’s Court came to an end. On January, 29, 2016,

France, 41, of Grove Housing Scheme, was found guilty of having 11 grams of cocaine in his possession for the purpose of trafficking. He was sentenced to three years imprisonment and ordered to pay a fine of $30,000. According to reports on January 29, 2016, police ranks of the Narcotic Branch conducted a raid at Lot 17 Nazreen Street, Grove, EBD. The house is reportedly occupied by the accused, who is the owner of the property. During the raid, the ranks saw the man throw a transparent plastic bag into an empty plot of land next door. When the bag was retrieved, it was revealed that it contained a substance suspected to be cocaine. The accused, according to police sources, subsequently escaped but was captured on February 14, 2016.

Bus driver to know fate today CITY Magistrate Judy Latchman, will today make her ruling against a 40-year-old minibus driver on a charge of causing death by dangerous driving. The ruling will be made in the case against, Robert Grant of Soesdyke, East Bank Demerara, who is charged with driving his minibus BSS 5550 in a manner dangerous to the public, thereby causing the death of Keith Andrew Simon on May 23,2016, at Garden of Eden. Grant is currently out on $1M bail for the offence. Simon, a 37-year-old farmer and resident of Grove Housing Scheme, EBD, was fatally struck along the Garden of Eden, EBD public road on the day in question. He was reportedly walking on the left side of the road, heading south when he was struck and

Robert Grant killed by a minibus that was heading in the same direction. The driver allegedly told ranks that he swerved from a vehicle and ended up colliding with the man. Simon was taken to the Diamond Diagnostic Centre where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

where she was informed that the area in which she was parked was “off-limits” and the agreement ratified between Smart City Solutions and the Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU) only exempted teachers from the parking meter system. After discussions with the officials, it was agreed that the student will not pay

the fine but was let off with a warning to not repeat this incident. Teacher Jackson asserted that there are not enough parking spaces on one side of the street to accommodate both students and teachers and posited that in more “advanced” countries, there are no parking meters in front of schools.

The student’s vehicle clamped while parked outside of her school yesterday (Coen Jackson photo)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday February 3, 2017

Updated standards for tyre importation –– says GNBS By Rabindra Rooplall

THE updated standards for the importation of new and used tyres will be published and made available within the first quarter of 2017, Executive Director, Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) Candelle Walcott-Bostwick said.

“When that new standard comes out we will ensure that there is compliance to that standard… we will continue to conduct visits and the different locations and premises to ensure that the products we monitor continue to conform to the requirements of national standards, we want to encourage regulators to enforce standards that fall

under their purview,” the GNBS head said. Speaking at a recent press conference at the GNBS office at the Exhibition Complex in Sophia, Walcott-Bostwick said monitoring of tyres is done by inspectors at ports of entry, bonds and outlets, where tyres are examined for labelling and quality requirements. She noted that to ensure used tyres meet the quality and labelling requirements

for importation; the GNBS provides importers with a copy of the relevant national standards and advises them to ensure that their foreign suppliers are aware of the requirements to minimise rejects at the time of examination in Guyana. Senior Inspector for Legal Metrology and Standards Compliance, Dillon Beckles, said used tyres are rejected after use in the country of origin for varying time peri-

Senior Inspector for Legal Metrology and Standards Compliance, Dillon Beckles, inspects a used tyre ods and for various reasons unknown to the buyers. As such, he said one cannot vouch for their quality and fitness for resale. He said that ever since the commencement of the importation of used tyres in Guyana, the bureau has been monitoring this commodity under its Standards Compliance Programme to ensure that key requirements are met. These include specification for pneumatic passenger car tyre; specification for new pneumatic tyres for commercial highway vehicles; and the Code of Practice for the storage of tyres, inner tubes and flaps. TOUGH JOB The inspector explained that used tyre inspection is a very labour intensive activity as tyres are individually inspected for defects as some defects are not visible to the naked eye and may not be detected, so users are not quite sure of the kinds of defects that may be present at the time of purchase. In addition, he said during routine surveillance, inspections of used tyre outlets, due to inappropriate storage inspectors have found tyres with damaged beads, evidence of dry rot, failure to meet the 4 mm thread depth requirements, patches and plugs occurring in proximity to each other, among other defects. Tyres, which are found with these defects, are destroyed by the GNBS.

Given the fact that there are hidden defects in used tyres, Beckles said that human lives are placed at even greater risks, especially given the practice of over-inflating and under-inflating these tyres, using the wrong size, overloading buses used for public transportation which puts added weight on these used tyres, coupled with speeding on the roadways. He underscored that importers and dealers of used tyres are asked to note that they will still be required to register with the GNBS as it will continue to monitor the quality and labelling of both new and used tyres imported and offered for sale in Guyana, until such time when the proposed ban takes effect and used tyres have been phased out. On an average, over 260,000 used tyres are imported annually into Guyana. Over the last four years the GNBS has inspected over 1.1 million used tyres that were imported at an average rejection rate of approximately 3000 per year. A large majority of these registrants are involved in the trade of used tyres, which are imported mainly from Europe, and in a few instances, North America. Finance Minister Winston Jordan during his 2017 budget said that restriction will apply to the importation of used tyres for motor cars, vans, pickups, Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) and mini-buses, with effect from April 1, 2017.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday February 3, 2017

AFC not being gobbled up by APNU –– says Ramjattan, wants party to become a more vibrant force in coalition

TOP Alliance for Change (AFC) officials, who were recently selected for new positions are bent on making the party a more viable force within the ruling A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) + Alliance for Change (AFC) Coalition Government. The party’s position comes in light of new leadership and claims that the AFC continues to die as it is being gobbled up by the larger APNU fraction. Party Chairman, Khemraj Ramjattan, speaking at a press briefing on Thursday dismissed those claims, pointing out that the large turnout at the party’s recent biannual conference has reassured its presence in the political arena. According to Trotman, some 300 persons voted at the conference with over 500 observers. Those persons were vibrant and merry, he said passionately. “What we saw is a party that is strong,” Trotman noted, stressing that it was a proud moment for him to see “the evolution of a movement into a full-fledged

AFC Chairman, Khemraj Ramjattan political party”. He noted too that he intends to build upon what former leader Khemraj Ramjattan has done, and on that note, thanked Ramjattan for the AFC’s success in going into Government with the APNU. Trotman said he will continue to share the leadership with his predecessor and will strive to make the party

into a stronger fighting force. “The party will spend the next two years preparing itself in becoming a better fighting force,” he said. And Ramjattan said there is room for improvements in APNU and AFC relations. He hoped that the upcoming oil sector will improve relations between the two sides, especially in the area of job creation since the coalition has been under intense pressure for inadequately addressing this campaign promise. Ramjattan said he saw an “extraordinarily brighter economic and financial reality” with the upcoming industry that is also currently managed by Trotman, who is Minister of Natural Resources. People want jobs and that is the current challenge, he said, noting that being unable to provide the jobs requires a frank overview of the situation. This matter, he said has been a concern for the coalition since members of both sides have expectations to be met. Ramjattan said he would like to see continuity be-

tween the two parties as they address the issues faced and improve engagement in dealing with disputes and resolving them quickly. “I rather feel it has been a relationship that has been very sound and sometime unjustifiably criticised because expectations are extraordinary great,” Ramjattan said. According to him, being in opposition is one thing, but being in government and knowing the political, financial and economic realities, “sometimes create the difficulties of expectations not being met.” Ramjattan also believes that a new party leadership is good to help “reopen a number of things that will ensure expectations are better met.” “So I believe in all honesty that those difficulties and challenges and constraints that we presently have in this relationship will all be met,” he said. Meanwhile, Trotman also dismissed claims that he could compromise his party since he was handpicked by President David Granger to manage the natural resource

Attorney Mortimer Codette passes on WELL-KNOWN criminal defence lawyer, Jonas Mortimer Codette, on Tuesday passed away in the United States of America after a brief period of hospitalisation. Codette, age 80, had been a practicing attorney for almost 44 years, after being admitted to the bar August 17, 1973. He was

also on the board of trustees from Georgetown American University as a legal advisor. Speaking to Guyana Chronicle, colleague and fellow bar member, Attorney Leslie Sobers explained that he was saddened by the passing of his senior. “I was a bit taken back since he [Codette] was one

of the lawyers I looked up to” Sobers said. “Last year I had a conversation with him in his office and he told me about when he was admitted to the bar.” Coddett was also a businessman since he was into the Timber industry and also consultant at many firms.

The late Jonas Mortimer Codette

sector. Trotman told reporters that other party members were chosen outside of the APNU, AFC Cummings-

burg Accord. “We are extra appointees,” who have in no way been compromised, he said.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday february 3, 2017

CCJ could rule soon in S.M Jaleel law suit against Guyana

THE Caribbean Court of Justice this week heard submissions from Guyana and attorney representing SM JALEEL & Company Limited- the company that had filed a law suit claiming millions of dollars in compensation for what it said was the wrongful levy of an Environmental Tax on it by Guyana between 2006 and 2015. In a release the Attorney General Chambers said the matter was heard by the Full Bench of the CCJ headed by Chief Justice Dr Dennis Byron. The Government of Guyana team included Dr. Claude Denbow S.C, Ms Donna Denbow Attorney-at-Law, Ms Judy Stuart-Adonis from the Attorney General’s Chambers and Basil Williams S.C M.P Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs. Attorney-at-law, Hans Lim-A-Po of Suriname represented S.M. Jaleel. According to the AG chambers the Court entertained submissions from both sides for nearly three hours and adjourned the matter. It said notices will be sent in relation to when the Court is ready to render its decision. SM JALEEL & Company Limited and its locally-based subsidiary Guyana Beverages Inc. in

April last year moved to the court seeking redress. Williams had told a news conference then that the companies were seeking special leave to file an “originating application,” claiming relief and reimbursement against Guyana for an alleged breach by the South American country of the principles of trade liberalisation and free movement of goods envisioned by the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas – the treaty which established the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME). The applicants are claiming a refund of the environmental tax imposed on the companies during the period January 1, 2006, to the date of repeal of the Act in August, 2015. The AG explained that they were relying on the judgement in the RUDISA Beverages’ matter in which a similar claim was made. Rudisa Beverages had taken Guyana to court over a “discriminatory” environmental tax a few years ago. The company had argued that there was an imposition of $10 on every disposable container imported into Guyana. They eventually won the case, by arguing that a similar tax was not imposed

on local distributors such as Banks DIH and Demerara Distillers limited. The Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) subsequently granted the Government of Guyana time to repay US$6M – which the two parties agreed to – by January 31, 2016. However, Williams had explained that what is noteworthy is the fact that in the RUDISA matter, the Government of Guyana did not lead evidence to show that the tax was transferred. As such, he had noted that it was the Government’s intention to lead such evidence in the S.M Jaleel case. SM Jaleel & Company Limited, also known as SMJ, is the largest manufacturer of non-alcoholic beverages in the English-speaking Caribbean. Since the inception in 1924 their portfolio of beverages has been distributed to over 60 countries worldwide. SMJ’s products include a wide array of soft drinks, fruit juices, purified and flavoured water, energy drinks, and other fruit-flavoured beverages. The company’s headquarters is based in Trinidad and Tobago with subsidiary offices in Jamaica, Barbados, Suriname, Guyana, St. Lucia, South Africa and some parts of Asia.

Attorney General, Basil Williams, and his Trinidad and Tobago counterpart, Faris AL- Rawi with Judy Stuart of the AG Chambers pose for a photograph during a meeting in T&T

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday February 3, 2017

Ophthalmologists learn better approach to tackle cataract By Shirley Thomas THE Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (CJCLDS) is on its second humanitarian mission to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) in two years, this time around, providing training for ophthalmologists of the Eye Care Department, employing the use of advanced technology to perform cataract surgeries. Over the last week Dr. Aaron Smalley, ophthalmologist from Utah, USA has been delivering lectures for the local ophthalmologists in “The Introduction to Phacoemulsification Cataract Surgery”, and has also conducted several surgeries at the institution.

Phacoemulsification, or ‘phaco’, as surgeons refer to it, is used to restore vision in patients whose vision has become cloudy from cataracts. Phacoemulsification cataract surgery is a procedure in which an ultrasonic device is used to break up and then remove a cloudy lens, or cataract, from the eye to improve vision. The insertion of an intraocular lens (IOL) usually immediately follows phacoemulsification. Julie Smalley outlined that phacoemulsification is an advance approach to doing cataract eye surgery today. Some of the benefits include faster healing of the eye after surgery, with less chances of developing infection of

er lecture for Emergency Room doctors, training them how to respond in case of an eye emergency. He also had other engagements with Consultant Ophthalmologist, relative to the operation of the ‘phaco’ equipment. PRESENTATION While on their first visit to the GPHC in 2015, the CJCLDS Charities made a presentation of a phacoemulsification equipment to the institution which is being operated by Consultant Ophthalmologist, Dr. Shailendra Sugrim. Vandyke, who was the first to be operated on, using the machine, attested to the fact that Dr. Sugrim did a ‘fantastic job’ on him, using the

US Ophthalmologist, Dr. Aaron Smalley (right) and team of doctors during a cataract surgery at the GPHC – all part of the Ophthalmologist training in cataract surgery reside at Berbice. Ophthalmologists benefitting from the training are Dr. Damonie Lamy and Dr. Jennel Sarju of the GPHC; Dr. Celeste Hinds of Linden and Dr. Louisa Mc Donald of Suddie, who all report to Consultant Ophthalmologist, Dr Shailendra Sugrim. Previous CJCLDS charities made donations of a Slit-Lamp Biomicroscope, Auto-refractor. The charities will also be donating some other equipment and consumables to the Department of Ophthalmology in a few weeks, the hospital’s Public Relations Officer, Mitzy Campbell said.

She said the GPHC is deeply appreciative of the initiative and would like to express gratitude to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. A rather elated Elder Thomas Peterkin commented: “We are so glad Dr. Smalley was able to come. We just arrived here two months ago and we are excited to be here to serve the people of Guyana the best we can. We like to do projects that will be ongoing, so we train the doctors here, and they will be able to train more doctors, so that more people would be cared for… So that’s our purpose, that’s

what we are concerned about.” His wife Catherine added: “We are so pleased to be able to work with the Georgetown Hospital. Dr. Sugrim, his staff and all the other doctors have been just wonderful and we are so touched by the warmth of the people of Guyana.” Meanwhile, Smalley said she was amazed at the work attitude of the doctors who all showed a keen interest in learning, and were also very knowledgeable and willing to learn more. She had kudos for them, adding that the doctors and staff are doing a great job at delivering health care here.

Reading glasses donated by Julie Smalley for distribution to deserving hinterland residents Dr. Smalley, a graduate of the George Washington D.C. University, did his ophthalmology training at Hershey, Pennsylvania and currently resides at Utah. He is accompanied to Guyana by his wife, Julie Smalley who, on Tuesday made a donation of some 200 reading glasses to Eye Care Guyana. The spectacles were received by Charles Vandyke, National Programme Manager who thanked the donor and said that the glasses will be distributed to deserving cases in the hinterland locations of Guyana.

the eye. Using the ‘phaco’ method also takes a lot smaller incision; the recovery process is a lot easier and the recovery time is drastically reduced. It is easier for the patient to recover once the doctors understand and know how to use the machine, she said. On Monday Dr. Smalley delivered his first lecture for ophthalmologists and general practitioners, with about 45 persons in attendance. On Thursday, he conducted another lecture at the Multi-Purpose Hall, GPHC compound. Meanwhile, on Friday Feb 3, he will deliver anoth-

‘phaco’ machine. Other items in the (2015) gift package included a Slit Lamp Biomicroscope, Auto-refractor and an Indirect Ophthalmoscope. The humanitarian gestures currently being witnessed are in keeping with a promise made on that occasion, to send an ophthalmologist to conduct a training course for the doctors here. This package is being rolled out under the remit of Elder Thomas Peterkin and wife, Sister Catherine Peterkin. The Peterkins who are on an 18-month stay here, arrived in Guyana last November, and

Julie Smalley (wife of Dr Aaron Smalley), Sister Catherine Peterkin; Elder Thomas Peterkin and Mr. Charles Vandyke

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday February 3, 2017

Gov’t gives IAC $500,000 for centenary commemoration activities MINISTER within the Ministry of Education, Nicolette Henry on Thursday handed over $500,000 to the India Action Committee to aid in the centenary commemoration activities. The cash donation follows the submission of a proposal for support from the Ministry. The IAC, a

working on a series of activities for our centenary.” March 12, will mark 100 years since the abolition of Indian indentureship while April 18, marks the centenary since the last ‘Coolie Ship’ S.S. Ganges docked in British Guiana. According to Ms. Gafoor, who received the donation on behalf of the

Minister within the Ministry of Education, Nicolette Henry, hands over the envelope of cash to Safiya Gafoor of the IAC Non-Governmental Organisation was formed in 2003 to promote and preserve the Guyanese Indian Heritage as part of the Guyanese Multi-Cultural fabric. “Our aim is to ensure that the Indo-Guyanese Culture is not lost while addressing the many issues affecting the Indo-Guyanese population,” says Safiya Gafoor, IAC Executive Member. She further noted that “Ours is a three-tier focus that includes education, culture and social development. For 2017 we are

IAC, “This donation will be used as part of our efforts for the successful commemoration of the centenary activities.” The committee’s action plan includes assisting in the promotion and preservation of the Indo-Guyanese Cultural Heritage. The NGO also assists in creating awareness of the issues affecting the Indo-Guyanese population. The IAC’s Executive member expressed the Committee’s gratitude for the donation received.

Sadam on trial for attempted murder JUSTICE Jo-Ann Barlow and a Demerara Assize Jury heard that Kenneth Bhagwanden attended a Bar-B- Que at Goed Fortuin, West Bank Demerara, one night in November 2011, when Azaad Ally, called “Sadam” allegedly discharged a firearm at him with intent to cause him grievous bodily harm. Sadam, defended by former Judge

Jaynarayan Singh, has pleaded not guilty. Bhagwanden said he had attended the fete and was walking away in the early morning of November 6, when he was shot and injured. The prosecution is conducted by Shanette Austin, Miss Tamieka Clarke and Mandel Moore. The trial continues.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday february 3, 2017

ARIES Life is breathed into your daydreams today as they cross the veil which separates fantasy from reality. Desirous Venus debuts in your 1st House of Personality, imbuing you with charm, courage and a splash of impatience. You’re unwilling to lay down your sword and surrender now; you’re ready to go after what you want without compromise. Although your dreams are playing out before you in full colour and clarity, a nod from potent Pluto reminds you that this is a marathon, not a sprint. Combining passion with perseverance is the only way to win. TAURUS Something marvellous is beginning to brew, and you’re craving peaceful solitude where you can listen to the quiet music that is playing deep within your heart. Alone time is essential for incubating your ideas, but unfortunately, the world doesn’t wait around for anyone. The down-to-earth Taurus Moon makes a challenging aspect to the forward-thinking Aquarius Sun, encouraging you to test your resolve and make the adjustments needed for professional progress. Thankfully, your dreams will still be there when you get back from work. GEMINI You’re an expert on the field of verbal athletics, able to play both sides of a conversation with finesse. However, you may begin to grandstand and swing for the fence now that acquisitive Venus suits up in independent Aries. This impassioned approach to your aspirations is exhilarating, but the grounded Taurus Moon reminds you to take a timeout when needed so burnout doesn’t sabotage your game. Stepping back from the plate provides a wider perspective. CANCER Your vocational goals take center stage and it’s time to see if your preparation has paid off. Vivacious Venus, strides into your 10th House of Career today, eager to refashion your public image and take you to new heights. It may not be your nature to speak up and demand satisfaction, but you’re beginning a new phase in which you find your voice rising above the rest. However, simply being the loudest in the group won’t bring you long-term satisfaction. It’s not about being better than anyone else; it’s about being better than you were yesterday. LEO Expanding your repertoire can be exhilarating now, and you’re eager to strive for the next level by mastering something new and exciting. However, your immersion into the world of learning may prove to be more like diving into an ocean than a swimming pool. Insatiable Venus surges into impatient Aries, but a nudge from unrelenting Pluto warns that the journey might be longer than you think. Nevertheless, your dreams are within reach -- just remember to rehearse before rushing to launch your new show. VIRGO The path to the top isn’t always a straight line, and you’re acutely aware of the rigorous testing that must happen to prepare yourself for advancement. Nevertheless, the heat is intensifying, requiring you to face the deep changes that rumble within. Magnetic Venus enters your 8th House of Metamorphosis, turning your gaze away from the outer world. Self-transformation is a bold and admirable task, and you’re up for the challenge now. Henry Ford said, “If you think you can or you think you can’t, you’re right.” LIBRA Cupid’s arrow has been dipped in a passion potion and directly hits its target today. Sassy Venus saunters into sexy Aries, highlighting your 7th House of Partnerships and setting your heart on fire. You approach your relationships with new certainty, unafraid to boldly state exactly what you want. Limber Libras often adapt to the needs of others, and this move toward decisive action may render you more impatient than usual. Your desires seem simple to you, but they paint a more complicated picture to everyone else. Hang onto your trademark tact as you chase what you crave most. SCORPIO Your closest companions want your time and attention today, but a complex inner atmosphere ties an easy decision into a rather complicated knot. While you prefer to relax with the ones you love, passionate Venus blazes into your 6th House of Wellbeing, encouraging you to get off the couch and spice up your routine. Creating new habits is a positive step in the right direction, but obsessing over every detail can detract from your health instead of improving it. Stop pursuing happiness, create it. SAGITTARIUS You’re eager to paint the town red when vibrant Venus dances into impulsive Aries, lighting up your 5th House of Play like a city skyline. Instant gratification is the name of your game as you see no reason to hold anything back. However, a tense square between the objective Aquarius Sun and the practical Taurus Moon reminds you to rearrange your priorities before throwing your schedule out the window. Guilt can ruin the best of times; letting loose is more fun when you complete your work first. CAPRICORN Everyone knows you’re ambitious by nature and it’s not uncommon for you to bring your work home. However, your attention is shifting to what you can do to make your place more beautiful as stylish Venus charges into energetic Aries, emphasizing your 4th House of Foundations. An aggressive attitude toward home-improvement lends itself to quick execution of your undertakings, but balancing your budget requires more mindful planning and temperament. Little changes act as stepping stones toward a larger transformation. AQUARIUS After juggling a hectic schedule, it’s time to downshift and enjoy some peace and quiet. However, your thoughts begin to race as resourceful Venus strides into your 3rd House of Mind, and soon you’re itching to tell your new ideas to anyone who will listen. Intense Pluto joins the conversation, warning that your fervency could be an overcompensation stemming from a complex inner dynamic. Peter Marshall said, “Small deeds done are better than great deeds planned.” PISCES The frenetic pace is settling down and you’re proud of yourself for taking the busy week in stride. Your confidence is bolstered by beautiful Venus as she enters assertive Aries today, accentuating your 2nd House of Self-Worth. Doubts fade into the past as it becomes easier to pursue the things you want. However self-assured you feel now, be sure to make the best choice, not just the bold choice. Forgotten details could compromise your plans if you don’t take the time to thoroughly think things through before forging ahead. Don’t let haste make waste when the stars are on your side.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday February 3, 2017

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, February 3, 2017

African Culture in Guyana --The importance of having a revival

THE month of February is that time of year when the United States of America and Canada commemorate the accomplishment of persons of African descent through ‘Black History Month’. Here in Guyana, the Rastafarian community believes that this western tradition should be emulated, as it would better help to highlight the history and work of the country’s African ancestors. “Just as the month of September is acknowledged as Amerindian Heritage Month, then February should be recognised as a month to honour our African Heritage; something should be done to give the same weight to the efforts of our African ancestors,” says General Secretary of the Guyana Rastafari Council, Ras Khafra. It is in this regard that the Council has sought to host a number of symposia at the

University of Guyana, aimed at focusing on African Heritage and the Caribbean Revolution. The meetings, which began on February 1, are being hosted in collaboration with the African Studies and Research Group of the University of Guyana, and cover topics such as the History of the Caribbean Revolution; the Relevance of Cultural Policy to the Caribbean Revolution; Local Reparations and Implications for Social Cohesion; and Global Marijuana Decriminalisation and Guyana’s Indifference. Each event features lectures from experts in the different areas, including representatives from the Black Consciousness Movement, the Guyana Rastafari Council, and the University of the West Indies. THE GENESIS The idea for having this commemorative event

stemmed from a visit from a Jamaican activist who shared with the Council the idea of Reggae Revival, a movement formed by a group of Jamaican artistes aimed at repopularising the genre. “When we heard of the Reggae Revival, the Council saw that African culture seems to have been forgotten throughout the Caribbean by the younger generation; there is a gap. So we decided to have the Symposia under the theme, ‘Reviving Caribbean Revolution in the 21st Century’,” Ras Khafra said. He noted that culture is one of the most pivotal parts of human life, and that without it, a man cannot find his way. “A man is his culture, and his culture is his identity. And identity is central to a healthy personality. “Culture deals with every aspect of living, and how it is passed on from one generation to the other provides a link to

The Council hosted the first Symposium on Wednesday focusing on “Caribbean Revolution: A historical Perspective”

the past,” he said, adding: “African people were put in a position where they internalised an inferiority complex; and that is because they were told that they and their ancestors haven’t contributed to civilisation; that they are less than human or not worthy of recognition. “So, for us, knowing your heritage, which is a part of culture, is important.” Aspects of culture also provide a medium for helping to deal with day to day difficulties, he believes, and music, craft and other parts of culture within Rastafarianism are seen to have those values as well. “Rastafarian culture values independence, farming and creativity; and those are values that have positives in this time,” Ras Khafra said. “With music, that captures our feelings as a people. It is also central to African tradition; it provides hope to people through difficult times; it bridges divides and gaps. “Craft can do the same thing, so these are the things we want to revitalise for young people,” he added.

MEANS OF WORSHIP And while these symposia are geared at touching on aspects of African culture on a whole, some focus is still placed on the decriminalisation of marijuana. The local Rastafarian Community has, for years, advocated for this to be done in Guyana, as marijuana use is considered a means of worship for the Rastafarians. “The whole process of a Caribbean revolution, which is a cultural revolution, has not been without its opposition,” he said.

Ras Khafra, General Secretary of the Guyana Rastafari Council

“The present context we are operating in is what the UN is calling the International Decade for People of African Descent, where it mandates governments to remove laws and other statutes that exist that create inequality when it comes to the African community. “This is one such issue, and we feel that the Government of Guyana has not responded favourably to the issue. We managed to obtain public indications of interest to do something about the situation, but we have seen a kind of reneging so far on their part, so we decided to make this year one in which we step up our activism in order to get some response.” SOME ADVOCACY He said that the Council is pleased to see some advocacy in some areas, and highlighted the work of Attorney-at-Law, Mr Nigel Hughes and AFC Parliamentarian, Mr Michael Carrington, who have both contributed to the Narcotic

Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Control) (Amendment) Bill 2015, which proposes lighter sentencing for possession of marijuana. “We were a bit apprehensive, because we were not consulted in the entire process. We felt that they were just trying to deal with this issue and ignore major stakeholders like the Rastafarian community, so we decided to have that discussion at the symposium,” Ras Khafra said. He, however, noted that the issue of inequality goes beyond the use of marijuana. “There was a time when African drums were outlawed; different things existed to impede the forward movement of the African community. “So, even though marijuana speaks to our community, it is broader than that; we represent blackness, and there has always been a fight against that,” he said. Meanwhile Ras Khafra said that the Rastafarian Community is proud to hold the Symposia in honour of Black History Month, and hopes that the Government signs on to making the observance an official one. And though the observance of the month has come under criticism for focusing primarily on one race, he believes that as a minority group, focusing on African heritage would always serve as beneficial to the morale of people of African descent. “I think Black History Month provides an opportunity for us to share with people certain aspects of our culture and history that are not mainstream, because you don’t learn it in school,” he said.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, February 3, 2017

Mash ‘Jump up’ for Rosignol A MASSIVE ‘Mash Day Jump Up’ is billed for the Rosignol Stelling Road as part of a packed ‘Mash’ programme of events planned for West Berbice this year. According to programme coordinator, Ms Carol Smith-Joseph, this year is set to see the biggest ‘Mash’ celebration West Berbice has ever seen since 1982. “We have many people on board in the planning,” she said. “We have private sector entities, including business people and members of the Region Five Chamber of Commerce; we have public sector entities, including the Police, the Army, the NIS, the MMA/ ADA and GWI, as well as residents of several villages who are part of the planning to bring back large-scale

Mash celebrations in West Berbice,” Smith-Joseph told The Buzz. The ‘stelling jump-up’ will take place at the end of a parade from Hopetown to Rosignol, starting at 09:00hrs on Mash Day, February 23. Smith-Joseph said: “We may not have very many extravagant floats this first time around, but the parade is being planned to be colourful and to be fun, for participants as well as those who will witness it along the nine mile route.” The Jump-Up on Mash Day will precede the formal Flag Raising Ceremony at Cenotaph Square, at Fort Wellington at midnight on February 22. FUN MASH NITE Mash Night will also be a fun night for celebrants of

the observances in West Berbice, as the Committee is finalising plans for a J’Ouvert Morning affair at Playboy Square at Number 28 Village for another opportunity for them to jump up. She, however, has a word of advice for her fun-loving fellow West Berbicians: “Keep fit! The rhythm of the local calypsos is pretty fast this year, so get that waistline acclimatised for the tremble and the shake and the roll. “This year Mash in West Berbice, you gon need stamina pon stamina!” Noting that the Committee is also reaching out to residents of the Mahaicony/ Abary end of Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice) this year, Joseph said: “They usually have their own thing, but if they are not

having it this year, we are inviting them to come and join us at the Abary/Berbice end, and make the Mash celebrations even more memorable.” The last centrally-planned Mash celebrations in West Berbice were held in 1982. Residents of villages at the western end of West Berbice, such as Paradise and Belladrum, had held spontaneous parades and other forms of celebration in the intervening years. The West Berbice Mash 2017 Committee will meet again next Wednesday at the Hugo Chavez Centre at Onverwagt at 13:00hrs to review the progress being made in the planning, and to add other details to make the revival of Mash celebrations in West Berbice “a very remarkable affair”.

Mash Logo

Nkechi Vaughn makes the cut

--in Caribbean’s Next Top Model race FORMER Guyana Top Model winner, Nkechi Vaughn is trying her hand on the regional scene, hoping that she has what it takes to also win Caribbean’s Next Top Model (CNTM). Vaughn is the only Guyanese that made the cut for the Season 3 line-up of CNTM which began airing last Monday on Flow1 in Grenada. Most of the filming for the show took place in Grenada. Over the next few weeks,

Nkechi will vie against girls from all across the Caribbean, under the watchful eyes, and critiques, of the judges. Former Miss Universe, Wendy Fitzwilliam, continues as the show’s host and head judge. The other judges are internationally-acclaimed photographer, Pedro Virgil of Australia, and Dominican fashion designer, Socrates McKinney. Vaughn, 21, admits being surprised when she learnt

she’d been selected to be in the show ahead of hundreds of Caribbean beauties who were pining to get in. Only 17 finalists survived the preliminary vetting, and made the cut for the show. For Vaughn, her selection was all the more sweet because it follows the rejection of her 2013 submission to be a part of Season 2’s cycle. IN SHOCK “I was in total shock,

because I’d just applied for the sake of applying. I was honestly expecting another “We’re sorry” message; I just didn’t think I was going to make the cut and be the only Guyanese,” the St Stanislaus College alum told The Buzz. Vaughn’s selection show’s that perseverance truly is the key. “When CNTM was in Guyana doing auditions in 2013,” she said, “I had auditioned then for Cycle 2, but I didn’t get in; Guyanese model, Anasha Dutchin was selected. I was devastated! Quit modelling for a little while and stuff like that, but when Cycle 3 came, I just reapplied. And, to my surprise, I got in!” Vaughn can only hope that when the dust settles, she has what it takes to follow in the footsteps of Cayman Islands’ Treveen Stewart, and Grenada’s Kittisha Doyle, CNTM’s Season 1 and 2 winners respectively. Doyle is currently off to New York Fashion Week, flaunting what her momma gave her. Vaughn has already proven that she has what it takes to survive at least two episodes, as she’s still in the running after last Monday’s two episodes, where a total of six girls found themselves axed. The first episode sent home Grenada’s Gabrielle Minors, Dominica’s Lynah Bontiff, Trinidad & Tobago’s Karen Rampersad and a tearful Nyierah Placide of St Lucia. Another contestant, Jamaica’s Altena Wilson, could not get pass Episode 2’s challenges. Neither could Sint Maarten’s Nina Victor, who was advised that she has a lot to work on with her modelling.

Nkechi Vaughn during the CNTM’s Episode 1 photoshoot

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, February 3, 2017

‘Africa Unite’ to feature top local artistes

A HOST of local and international artistes are set to fire up the stage at Congress Place Sunday when Carib Feedback Productions hosts its AFRICA UNITE international musical showcase. Besides marking Black History Month and the UNled International Decade for People of African Descent (IDPAD), the event is also in celebration of the late Bob Marley, who would have turned 72 on Monday. “AFRICA UNITE” will feature Guyanese Prince Ally and Phil “Bumpy” Dino from Canada; Leemunth John, aka “B’naanza” from Suriname; First Born, Mark Batson, I Max, and female sensation “JP”, all from the Vizion Sounds music family in Guyana; Mario Kein, Gad I, Silenci Negusi, Ras John Marcus, WiFi and Kenya, backed by the Yoruba Singers and the new Sound Di-

Prince Ally

mension band. Guest artistes include Killa Milla, Chubby, Double S, and Surprise from the Creator Family, and Ras Marcus, the acrobat. King Tafari Love Music

sound system and DJ Emron, from the UK, will also be in the house. Admission is $1,000 for adults, and $500 for children. Tickets are available at Vizion Sounds studio on

DJ Emron

Anira Street, Queenstown; Congress Place, in Sophia; and from the artistes them-

selves. For more information, call 592-693-6035.

Mario Kein

Selector Face wins Armageddon --triumphs over arch-rival, Magnum WHEN the mic dropped at the Armageddon DJ clash last Saturday, Selector Face was the last man standing, prevailing over DJ Magnum in the final round, when the latter eliminated himself by violating the rules. The win marked redemption for Selector Face, after he lost to DJ Platinum and Skinny Hype in last year’s “The Art of War” DJ clash; it saw Face walking away with the winnertake-all $500,000 grand prize and trophy, and, of course, his bragging rights. Face, whose real name is Serettee McAllister, called the competition a challenging one. Well, at least when he got started! But as the night progressed, he truly got into his element and enjoyed himself. “It was very challenging at the start, but it became easier as we got more to the end, with

me cutting through the rounds like a knife through butter,” Face joked when The Buzz caught up with him earlier this week. “It’s a great win for someone of my caliber,” Face said, adding: “After 22 years in the business, this my first official clash crown.” Face and Magnum sized up against three other competitors, namely: Selector Clive, backed by Hot Rass; DJ Dellon, who partnered with Selector Charley and DJ Antzman in four rounds of competition, before a crowd of judges at the National Gymnasium tarmac on Mandela Avenue. The event was emceed by ‘Ghetto Scholar’, Malcolm Ferreira, while Enivs Phillips, Nigel Canterbury and Keane Jeffers made up the review panel, which overlooked any

infringements made by the DJs. The first three rounds allotted each contender 10 minutes to convince the crowd that they were worth their salt to move on to the next round. FIRST CASUALTIES Selector Clive and Hot Rass were the first casualties, as they could not get past the “God Bless” round. DJ Antzman soon followed after the “Release the Beast”, which was an “anything goes” 10 minutes. The crowd was not pleased with what the dreadlocked Antzman had to offer, and it was the end of the night for him. The first violation of the night came from DJ Dellon and Selector Charley for replaying a song; they not only got a red card, but booted as well, making Face and Mag-

Selector Face (left) collecting his winnings from an Ansa McAl representative yesterday

Magnum at last Saturday’s clash (Photo courtesy Terrence Thompson)

num automatic finalists. This final round was a tune-for-tune one, but mandated that each contender play only music vocal artiste, which meant no “jump up” music, particularly dancehall. Ego, perhaps, got the better of Magnum, who decided

to throw in Bushman’s “Call the Hearse”, as well as Cocoa Tea and Buju Banton’s “Too Young”. The review panel ruled that Bushman and Buju Banton being dancehall artistes, Magnum was in violation of the rules, and Face triumphed.

The prize money for the competition was sponsored by Ansa McAl under their Mackeson brand, and an elated Face officially received his winnings yesterday at a handing over ceremony at Ansa McAl’s office on the East Coast of Demerara.

LOOKS like it’s going to be a weekend with a little something for almost everyone, no matter what genre you’re into! There’s EDM, there’s heavy metal, there’s calypso, and there’s soca! So there’s a lot of parties and reasons to be out! It’s the Mash season, so the Junior Calypso competition going down at the National Cultural Centre is going to be centre-stage, with many anticipating who would walk away with that win. Though Sundays are usually quiet, this Sunday will be anything but! It’s Super Bowl 51, and the battle’s between the Patriots and the Falcons; so this is not a game to be missed! 704 and Club Privilege both have viewing parties if you feel like getting out! TODAY You’ve had the Jamaican Afterwork Lime; well now it’s time for the Trinidadian Afterwork, brought to you by Tower Suites Poolside! Eat, Drink and Lime this Friday, TRINIDADIAN STYLE! Party Straight off yuh seats with non-stop energy and excitement from the one-man band sensation, Stitchie! Try out some of Trinidad’s signature foods at just $2,000 per serving, buffet style! The Guyana Rastafari Council is commemorating Afrikan Heritage Month and Bob Marley Day with a creative arts ‘expo’ on Orange Walk, beginning today and ending on Sunday. There will be on sale Sculptures, Paintings, Leather Craft, Bead Craft, Calabash and Coconut Craft, Ital Food and Beverages etc. Boss-Lady Fridays continues at Club Privilege! LADIES FREE ALL NIGHT! Bottle Service will be available! Come and be a part of this #Bossy event! South View Tavern presents a soca party called “Bazodee”, featuring music by DJ Kevin and DJ Blackspeed! Ladies free before 22:00hrs; tickets cost $1000.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, February 3, 2017

Married! TWO-time Guyanese queen, Katherina Roshana Khan tied the knot with Southland International businessman, Irzad Zamal on January 14 in an extravagant Nikah ceremony (Muslim wedding) at the Bride’s residence on the East Coast of Demerara. A reported 600 guests witnessed the traditional and enchanting affair. The two had been engaged for almost a year, after Zamal proposed last F ebruary at O cho Rios while on vacation in Jamaica. The two had basically been inseparable since they became an item some four years ago. “We discuss everything, whether it’s business-related or even ‘girl talk’. We are each other’s keeper, wingman, woman and best of friends,” is how Katherina lovingly speaks of the relationship she shares with her husband. The two are currently off honeymooning in the Turks and Caicos. Many remember Katherina, daughter of local businessman, Roshan Khan, for

when, in 2013, she copped the Miss India Guyana crown. Later that same year,

she went on to compete in the Miss Universe Guyana pageant, and strutted away with the title.

Drake, Nicki Minaj bury the hatchet

TOMORROW It’s Junior Calyso Competition time, and it’s on at the NCC! As the Mashramani activities continue today, the Junior Calypso winner will be decided, and you can witness the entire show for free at the National Cultural Centre! The show begins at 17:00hrs. We live it, we love it, we rave it! Pulse Entertainment presents the “Live, Love, Rave” EDM Party at 704 Club! Rave anthems coming at you all night from the best E.D.M DJ line-up to hit clubs this Mash season. 50 lucky ravers can win free tickets to our Pulse Jungle Fever J’ouvert! Admission is free before 22:00hrs, and $2000 after! It’s been too long since GT shook with the sound of METAL! So, metal lovers, this one’s for you! The Veterans presents “Warriors of the World” metal party at 333 Cummings Street, Alberttown! TWO LIVE BANDS; ONE SHOW, and it’s absolutely FREE! Featuring “Et Tu Brutus”, “Rock United Musicians”, and DJ Nick Rock! The head banging starts at 19:00hrs! SUNDAY Super Bowl Sunday continues at 704 Sports Bar! Come see the Atlanta Falcons take on the New England Patriots, while kicking back on a few drinks and enjoying a good time with friends! Also enjoy free Super Bowl memorabilia, and the sounds of DJ 50 and DJ Tallest. Club Privilege wants in on that NFL buzz, and will be airing Super Bowl 51! Come be entertained by DJ Energy, and be a part of the celebration with over 50,000,000 viewers worldwide! Doors open from 11:00hrs. Special Super Bowl snacks and cocktails will be available!

DRAKE and Nicki have put an end to their two-year fight following her break-up with Meek Mill. And it has put Drake in a very good mood. Following the split of Nicki and rapper boyfriend Meek Mill last month, Drake reportedly called Mack Main, the president of his and Nicki’s record label, Young Money, and asked: “Why didn’t you tell me the family is back?” Drake reportedly headed to Miami days later to reunite with Young Money founder, Lil Wayne, and Nicki. On Wednesday, Nicki

posted a picture of the trio’s reunion to her 72.9 million followers, calling them ‘The Big 3’. The news comes after a two-year-long dispute between the pair, which began in 2015 after Nicki’s former beau called out Drake’s lack of support for his latest album release, and claimed he doesn’t write his own music. However, despite the pair’s bad blood, Drake wasn’t shy to admit he still had strong feelings for the ‘Anaconda’ performer. In an interview with Zane Lowe on his Beats 1 radio

show last year, the Views singer revealed: “‘I don’t really talk to Nicki, another person I have a lot of love for.” Fast forward a year, and the pair have finally buried the hatchet after Nicki dumped Meek following the pair’s trip to Turks and Caicos at Christmas. Nicki and Drake posted pictures of the pair’s reunion to Instagram the same night Drake reportedly promised fans a refund during his show in London, when his guest performer, Travis Scott, fell through a hole on stage.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday February 3, 2017

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, February 3, 2017

2017 Limacol round-robin knock-out football

Milerock stunned, Western Tigers overpower Eagles 1-0

By Stephan Sookram

A TEN-MAN Milerock team were on Wednesday evening stunned when they were beaten 1-0 by Grove HiTech in the latest round of action in the 2017 Limacol round-robin knock-out football tournament. Playing the opening game of the night’s double-header at the GFC ground, the defending champions had managed

to keep their Grove opponents at bay for most of the night, but they fell apart after the sending-off of Bryan Johnson in the 77th minute. Johnson’s earlier 19th minute foul had warranted a yellow card and the risk of keeping him on the field may have paid off for the time but it ultimately cost the team. Milerock may not have sported ‘lady luck’ Wednesday night, as several of their

attempts came close to scoring, the closest of which came after a deflection by the HiTech keeper right into the path of the attacker who let loose a cannon onto the upright. Grove, on the other hand, had their fair share of misses before Domini Garnett’s 90th minute strike, the closest coming from a set piece which tricked the wall into jumping while the passed off ball could have been slotted in from ten

yards, but instead was passed back outside the area. Garnett’s goal came contrary to the side’s aerial style of play throughout the game as a complete and precise string of ground passes caught the opposition’s defence at sea before slotting past the outstretched goalie. With that result, the Group A still sees Winners Connection leading with four points, while Miler-

ock sit second thanks to three points and a superior goal difference over Grove. Northern Rangers have one point. In game two, Western Tigers took an early lead in their game against Eagles United, Andrew Murray’s 4th minute guiding header rocketing past the goalie. Though they pushed on for more goals, the score line remained unchanged when

the final whistle sounded. In the B group, Western Tigers have assumed a commanding lead with six points over their nearest competitors Eagles with three. In the next round of matches on Sunday evening Mahaica Determinators and Riddim Squad will clash from 18:30hrs while Ann’s Grove will face Pouderoyen from 20:30hrs at the Victoria ground.

Bolt rules out 2018 Commonwealth Games swansong (REUTERS) - Jamaican sprint great Usain Bolt has no plans to extend his career beyond this year's world championships in London and has ruled out a return to Australia for the 2018 Commonwealth Games. Bolt, who completed a 'treble treble' of 100m, 200m and 4x100m Olympic titles at the 2016 Rio Games, had his 2008 relay gold stripped last month

after teammate Nesta Carter's re-tested sample showed traces of a banned substance. The 30-year-old Bolt also anchored the Jamaican relay team to his only Commonwealth Games gold in Glasgow in 2014 and organisers had hoped that he might extend his career to the next edition on the Gold Coast in April 2018. "To come out here next

season, to really train as hard as I need to get to the level I need to win, it's not going to happen," Bolt told reporters in Melbourne yesterday. Bolt will lead an international team of ‘All Stars’ in the Nitro Athletics series in the Australian city against four other teams representing England, China, New Zealand and Japan. The first meeting is on

Colours/Guinness Greatest in the Street football …

East/West Bank Demerara tournament begins tonight

FOOTBALL teams on the East and West Bank of Demerara will get a chance to be a part of the Guinness Greatest in the Streets football action when it rolls into their turf this evening. Set for the Pouderoyen tarmac, the second leg of the championship this year will see 35 teams over the course of six nights. The first two nights will be knock-out, the other two round robin and the final two set for the semi-fi-

nals and final. Speaking at yesterday morning’s launch Guinness Brand Manager Lee Baptiste stated, “We encourage all participating and non-participating communities to come out and support their teams. “Compared to last year, we have 20 more teams taking part in this year’s tournament and this speaks to the continued success of the tournament,” Baptiste added. Meanwhile, organiser

Travis Bess contended that the tournament’s opening night will feature 10 games, two of which are qualifiers while the remaining eight will be straight knock-outs. The winners of the tournament will pocket $450 000, with second-placed finishers pocketing $50 000, third-placers $100 000 and fourth-placers $50 000. The opening night’s matches will commence at 19:00hrs.

tomorrow, with a further two on February 9 and 11. "It is going to be great, going to be something different. Like cricket and Twenty20, it's going to be different," Bolt added. "I feel it will catch on -- it's

South Africa Racing Tips Greyville 12:20 hrs Oliver Queen 12:55 hrs Arran Isles 13:25 hrs Chilli Affair 13:55 hres Seek The Summit 14:25 hrs Mr Winsome 14:55 hrs Night Cirecus 15:25 hrs Silver Ridge Arab Emirates Racing Tips Jebel Ali 08:15 hrs King Cole 08:45 hrs New Signal American Racing Tips Aqueduct Race 1 Special Risk Race 2 Taoiseach Race 3 Northern Screamer Race 4 Groton St Scout Race 5 Summer of Joy Race 6 Flux Capicator Race 7 Foxy Posse Race 8 Ryder Road English Racing Tips Catterick 09:15 hrs Walsingham Grande 09:45 hrs Sam Spinner 10:15 hrs Alchimix

going to bring a lot of excitement to the sport. It is going to be something different, not going to be normal -- a lot more exciting. I feel personally it is a great idea. This is why I am a part of it."

10:45 hrs Forty Crown 11:20 hrs Two Smokin Barrels 11:55 hrs Inchcolm 12:25 hrs Bell Weir Lingfield 10:00 hrs Skidby Mill 10:30 hrs Flowers Of Venus 11:00 hrs Earthly 11:35 hrs Mailshot 12:10 hrs Gnaad 12:40 hrs Burnside Kempton 13:45 hrs Prince Of Time 14:15 hrs Dark Destroyer 14:45 hrs Popsilca 15:15 hrs Dutch Golden Age 15:45 hrs Blue Revelation 16:15 hrs The Ginger Berry Irish Racing Tips Dundalk 13:00 hrs He’s Our Music 13:30 hrs Song Of Love 14:00 hrs Carraigin Aonair 14:30 hrs Three Majors 15:00 hrs Jackmel 15:30 hrs Shepherd’s Purse 16:00 hrs Strategic Heights 16:30 hrs Alans Pride

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, February 3, 2017

New Zealand to launch urgent inquiry into Napier washout By Greg Stutchbury NAPIER, New Zealand (Reuters) - New Zealand Cricket (NZC) and local authorities have agreed to an urgent inquiry to determine why the second oneday international between the hosts and Australia was abandoned yesterday without a ball being bowled. Morning rain delayed the scheduled start time, but the conditions improved enough for the ground staff to prepare McLean Park in Napier for a shortened match.

ficer Anthony Crummy said they had agreed with the ground owners, the Napier City Council, to begin an independent inquiry as soon as possible as to why the field did not drain effectively. “It’s too early to say what happened,” Crummy said. “We did have some rain today but not enough to have the game being abandoned. So we really need to have a look at what has happened. “We have spoken to council and they have reassured us there will be a full

that it doesn’t happen again.” Napier mayor Bill Dalton, while disappointed with the outcome, said he believed there was no issue with the drainage and stood by longterm groundsman Phil Stoyanoff. Dalton added that several persons who had access to the playing area had been surprised the match was abandoned. “It was only one small area of the park that was deemed not to be dry enough,” Dalton said. “I know people who walked

Umpires Kumar Dharmasena and Chris Brown speak to the two captains. Practice facilities across the road from the ground were “bone dry” shortly after the rain stopped, according to New Zealand coach Mike Hesson, but the outfield at McLean Park failed to drain properly. “There were parts of the ground where you’d hit the ball and water would just go everywhere,” Australia captain Aaron Finch told reporters. “It wasn’t ideal; I don’t think it would have been safe for players to play on.” The decision left thousands of fans frustrated and the players visibly annoyed. NZC chief operating of-

independent review.” Council chief executive Wayne Jack said he considered the review to be an “urgent” matter and would meet with NZC to start proceedings today. The ground is due to host another ODI against South Africa on March 1. Crummy said it was too early to say whether that fixture was in doubt. “Our number one priority is making sure that that game can go ahead without interruption,” Crummy added. “Again, we just have to find out what has happened and what steps need to take place

over that particular area and couldn’t see what the issue was. “The general feeling amongst the public is that they couldn’t understand why play didn’t commence. But I’m not an umpire or a cricketer and can’t make those calls.” Crummy said all general admission ticket-holders would receive a full refund. He said “about six-seven thousand” tickets had been sold but did not discuss how much money NZC would need to pay out, or their insurance arrangements.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, February 3, 2017

Barbados Pride enjoy biggest win of Super50 to date THE Barbados Pride delivered a crushing 200run defeat on the CCC Marooners on Wednesday night in the CWI Regional Super50 at the Kensington Oval in Barbados. Deciding to bat, the Pride were bolstered by Roston Chase’s 76 and two scores of over 40 and two others over 30, to post a formidable 294 before routing the Marooners for 94. Pride skipper Kraigg Brathwaite recovered from a poor outing against the Scorpions in his last game to deliver a solid 44 in an opening partnership with Anthony Alleyne worth 86. The innings started slowly, as Brathwaite earned his runs from 65 deliveries, while Alleyne, the second man out scored 39 from 83.

Shai Hope looked in good knick before he was run-out for 14 with the score on 115-3 but Jonathan Carter, 40, and Chase put on a partnership worth 65 before the former was sent back for a well-played 40. Chase then got good support from an aggressive Shane Dowrich, who slammed 32 from 23 deliveries in a partnership worth 78. In the hunt for quick runs, Pride lost their way towards the end and fell short of what could easily have been a score over 300 runs. As can be expected, the bowling figures of the Marooners did not look great, with Jermaine Levy, 3-64, Vikash Mohan, 2-51 and Keon Harding 2-63 - the best of the lot. There was also a wicket for Larry

Edward, 1-35. The Marooners’ response never got going as the opening pace attack of Jason Holder and Kemar Roach did the trick at the top of the order. Holder first removed Kyle Corbin for one, before getting rid of Aaron

BCA official Erskine King presents Roston Chase with his player-of-the-match award.

Everest Cricket Club undergoing physical transformation President of the club, Rajesh Singh, noted that help is given to those who help themselves, and that is why as a club we are fixing up our home away from home by ourselves. Singh further stated that the club remains committed to serving the business community. “We have space for billboards, space along the outer and inner fence and pavilion that our business partners can exploit,” Singh said in the release. Other projects include the repainting of the outer

support, as only Mohan, 28, got into double figures. After the onslaught of pace from the Pride, the Marooners were further done in by the pace-spin combination of Ashley Nurse and Sulieman Benn.

Benn ended with figures of 3-25, while Nurse had 2-18. Holder would end with admirable figures of 2-14, while Carlos Brathwaite, 1-12, and Roach, 1-9, were the other wicket-takers.

SCOREBOARD

PRIDE innings K. Brathwaite lbw b Mohan 44 A. Alleyne lbw b Edward 39 S. Hope run-out 14 J. Carter c wkp. Smith b Mohan 40 R. Chase c Jangoo b Harding 76 S. Dowrich c Hinds b Levy 32 J. Holder c Corbin b Harding 9 C. Brathwaite run-out 14 A. Nurse b Levy 0 K. Roach c Mohan b Levy 1 S. Benn not out 1 Extras: (b-4, lb-4, w-15, nb-1) 24 Total: (9 wkts, 50 overs) 294 Fall of wickets: 1-86, 2-94, 3-115, 4-180, 5-258, 6-277, 7-277, 8-283, 9-286. Bowling: Powell 6-0-24-0, Harding 10-1-63-2 (w-7), Harding 8-049-0 (w-1, nb-1), Levy 10-0-64-3 (w-7), Edward 7-0-35-1, Mohan 9-0-51-2.

MAROONERS innings K. Corbin c wkp. Hope b Holder 1 J. Smith c Benn b Roach 6 A. Jones c Benn b Holder 0 A. Jangoo b Brathwaite 23 C. Burton lbw b Benn 8 R. Hinds c Brathwaite b Benn 7 V. Mohan b Nurse 29 L. Edward lbw b Nurse 3 K. Harding c wkp. Hope b Benn 1 C. Powell run-out 6 J. Levy not out 0 Extras: (b-2, lb-1, w-6, nb-1) 10 Total: (all out, 36.2 overs) 94 Fall of wickets: 1-4, 2-6, 3-17, 4-44, 5-53, 6-54, 7-79, 8-82, 9-90. Bowling: Roach 7-2-9-1 (w1), Holder 7-0-14-2 (w-4), Brathwaite 5-1-12-1, Carter 2-013-0 (nb-1), Benn 9-1-25-3 (w-1), Nurse 6.2-1-18-2. Points: Pride 5, Marooners 0.

Former England and Chelsea midfielder Lampard retires at 38

Everest Cricket Club executives repainting the scoreboard last Sunday.

ONE of the leading cricket clubs in Georgetown, the Everest Cricket Club, is currently experiencing a physical transformation that is spearheaded by the executive body. According to a release from the club, the move follows a decision taken at the club’s monthly meeting in mid-January after examining the need for the upgrade and the club’s financial position. The Everest Club first project was the repainting of the scoreboard and the tins.

Jones for a duck. Roach got into the attack, sending Corbin’s opening partner and skipper Jamal Smith back to the pavilion for six. Amir Jangoo, who has been a find for the Marooners, tried to steady the ship with his 23 but received no

walls of the club’s main pavilion, fixing light fixtures, levelling the outfield and with lots of external help, building the northern mound. In terms of finances, the club will be hosting a curry-que today and will have other fundraising events periodically to improve its financial position. Tickets for the curry-que are available at the club or from any executive member. The upper level of the club is also available for rental for special events at affordable rates.

(REUTERS) - Former Chelsea and England midfielder Frank Lampard announced his retirement from professional soccer yesterday, after spending last year with New York City in Major League Soccer in the United States. Lampard, who started his career at West Ham United, established himself as one of Europe’s finest midfield players during a 13-year spell at Chelsea. “After 21 incredible years, I have decided that now is the right time to finish my career as a professional footballer,” Lampard said in

a statement. “Whilst I have received a number of exciting offers to continue playing at home and abroad, at 38 I feel now is the time to begin the next chapter in my life. “Looking forward, I’m grateful to the FA for the opportunity to study for my coaching qualifications and I look forward to pursuing the off-field opportunities that this decision opens.” Lampard, who was capped 106 times for England, is also Chelsea’s alltime top goalscorer with 211 goals in over 400 appearanc-

FORMER Ireland coach Phil Simmons has taken up a role as consultant with Afghanistan, who face the Irish in the Intercontinental Cup in March. Simmons left the Ireland job in 2013 after six successful years to take charge of his native West Indies. But last September the 53-year-old former Test opener was dismissed, with Joel Garner taking temporary charge. The Afghanistan Cricket Board said Simmons would

assist head coach Lalchand Rajput on technical issues. As well as the four-day Intercontinental Cup matches, Ireland will play Afghanistan in five one-day internationals and three T20 games, all in Greater Noida. Under Simmons, Ireland qualified for the 2011 and 2015 World Cups, achieving wins over Test nations England, West Indies and Zimbabwe. The Windies appointed ex-Australia batsman Stuart Law as Simmons’ full-

es in all competitions. The midfielder won three Premier League titles, four FA Cups and the Champions League during a trophy-laden spell at Chelsea.

Frank Lampard was capped 106 times for England

Afghanistan role for Phil Simmons time successor last week. (BBC Sport)

Phil Simmons

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, February 3, 2017

Cameroon beat Ghana 2-0 to reach African Nations Cup final (REUTERS)-Cameroon reached the African Nations Cup final as a second-half goal from defender Michael Ngadeu-Ngadjui and a stoppage-time effort from Christian Bassogog secured a 2-0 win over Ghana in their lastfour clash yesterday. Giant centre back Ngadeu-Ngadjui sneaked around the back of the Ghana defence from a free kick and took advantage of a mix-up to blast the ball home from close range in the 72nd minute. Bassogog caught Ghana on the counter attack as Cameroon added a second with virtually the last kick of the game to claim a place in Sunday’s final against Egypt in Libreville.

Cameroon, who were beset by selection problems before the start of the tournament, profited from poor finishing by their more fancied opponents, who were making a sixth successive semi-final appearance, but are still without success since 1982. Ngadeu-Ngadjui, almost unknown in his own country less than a year ago, fired home from an acute angle after Ghana centre back John Boye got into a muddle with keeper Razak Brimah that allowed the ball to run through to the unmarked Cameroonian. The goal broke the deadlock in a lively affair and set up a grandstand finish as Ghana tried furiously to find an equaliser, forcing several corners as they desperately

sought a way back. But as Ghana pressed forward they were always susceptible to the counter attack and Danish-based Bassogog steamed away three minutes into added time to wrap up Cameroon’s triumph. BRIGHT START Cameroon started brightly and created good early chances, notably when defender Adolphe Teikeu forced full back Harrison Afful to clear off the line from an eighth minute corner. Robert Ndip Tambe hit a powerful effort from close range straight at the fortunate Brimah four minutes later to set the tone for a game littered with opportunities. Ghana had to wait until five minutes before half-

Concerned members question state of affairs at DCC; petition GCA to intervene …club president Alfred Mentore says disgruntled members trying to use another loophole to unseat him

By Rajiv Bisnauth A NUMBER of concerned members attached to the Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) have petitioned the Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA), requesting its immediate intervention, with regard to the state of affairs at the Queenstown-based club. The petition, which was sent to GCA president Roger Harper on January 17, 2017, and was made available to Chronicle Sport, indicated that the concerned members wish to bring to the attention of the GCA the deplorable state of affairs at the club. The petition indicated that there has been neither Annual General Meeting nor Ordinary General Meeting at the Demerara Cricket Club since the very questionable elections process on April 24, 2014. Therefore the term of that 2014 executive expired in 2015 which makes the executive body illegal. Further, the concerned members said no motion was passed to extend the serving period for that executive body, while there is no visible executive committee running the affairs of the club, and no executive meetings have been held for in excess of a year. Also in the absence of a

functioning executive, the financial records and membership records have not been presented to the membership. So we, the concerned members, are questioning the ongoing daily state of affairs being carried on by persons assuming to be in authority. Additionally, the concerned members are petitioning for the holding of the Annual General Meeting as required by the club’s constitution, since, according to them, there is no Court order prohibiting the holding of the AGM and elections. They noted that these issues must be addressed frontally and in an efficient manner so that the club can return to its structural order as guided by the constitution, be it meetings, sanction or any other means necessary. However, in an invited comment yesterday, DCC president Alfred Mentore pointed out those disgruntled members are trying another loophole to unseat him, or cause him another discomfort. “As a matter of fact some of those persons questioning the state of affairs at DCC are members who played for DCC, and who have actually played in the NBS final at GCC where the game ended in dispute … some of those same players in the pe-

DCC president Alfred Mentore

tition were part of the team when they walked off the field and conceded the game. Subsequently some of them were banned by the GCA,” Mentore said. When questioned the reasons for no AGM since 2014, Mentore pointed out that there was an injunction seeking to prevent his executive from functioning after the April 2014 AGM and Elections by some of the very members whose names are on the petition. According to Mentore, the injunction was refused in August 2014 and the matter then took its normal course and was only determined in 2016. Mentore has committed that the club will hold its AGM & Elections by the end of February 2017.

time to get their first proper chance as Teikeu’s defensive slip allowed Jordan Ayew, who moved from Aston Villa to Swansea City at the start of the week, to strike just wide from an acute angle. The second half saw Ghana dominate the game as Andre Ayew cut his eye in a collision with goalkeeper Fabrice Ondoa and Mubarak Wakaso forced a diving save with his swirling free kick. Thomas Partey and Jordan Ayew then went wide with shots before Ghana threw experienced captain Asamoah Gyan, injured last week, into the fray for a furious final quarter-hour. But Cameroon, who won the last of their four Nations Cup titles 15 years ago, managed to hold on for a place in

Cameroon’s Michael Ngadeu-Ngadjui celebrates scoring their first goal with Benjamin Moukandjo Reuters / Amr Abdallah Dalsh Livepic their first final since Egypt na Faso in tomorrow’s third place playoff in Port beat them in Accra in 2008. Ghana will meet Burki- Gentil.

Priyanna Ramdhani makes it into men’s doubles final CARIBBEAN Junior Girls’ badminton champion Priyanna Ramdhani, has reached across barriers to play in the Men’s doubles and made it all the way to the final with partner, Avinash Odit, in the GUMDAC Annual Open Doubles, when the 2017 badminton season commenced last Wednesday. Played at the National Gymnasium, the first day of competition also saw Ramdhani win in the Ladies’ doubles, where she teamed up with Greer Jackson. In the open Mixed doubles she will join forces with Jonathan Mangra. Due to lack of competition in the Ladies’ division, Ramdhani is being allowed to play in the men’s competition to keep up her top form, according to a press release from the Guyana Badminton Association. Though unusual, it is not the first time something like this has been done. In squash, Guyana’s Nicolette Fernandes has played in the men’s competition before. Ramdhani and Odit made it into the final after ousting Marlon Chung and partner Ronald Yen in 21-15, 21-16 semi-finals match-up. The duo also had an earlier win when they took out veterans George Melville and

Leslie Lui 21- 11, 21-15. The other men’s doubles semi-final win went to Nicholas Ali and partner Jonathan Mangra. Ali and Mangra won 21-18, 21-18 sets against the pair of Gokarn Ramdhani and Javid Rahaman. In other wins in the quarter-finals Chung and Yuen defeated Tyrese Jeffrey and Akili Haynes 21-7, 21-10, while Gokarn and Javid prevailed against Stephan Murdilall and Haymant Ramdhani 21-9, 21-13. In the only Ladies’ doubles match of the day Priyanna and Jackson triumphed 21-5, 21-9 over Emelia Ramdhani and Ayanna Watson.

In the open Mixed doubles final Priyanna and Mangra will take on Ali and Jackson. Priyanna and Odit were on opposite ends in their Mixed doubles match-up. Odit teamed up with Angelica Holder and lost 19-21, 12-21 to Priyanna and Mangra. The tournament continues tonight at 18:00hrs with play-offs in the finals and third-place matches along with the presentation of prizes. The tournament, being played for the 5th year, is sponsored by GUMDAC through Managing Director Darrell Carpenay, who is also an executive on the GBA.

Priyanna Ramdhani (left) goes for a ground stroke during her match.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, February 3, 2017

Western Tigers, Santos battle for top prize of $2M and STAG trophy Santos FC after their semi-final win over Riddim Squad

WHEN the championship kicked off on December 14, 2016 with 20 teams from five associations it was anybody’s guess as to which two teams would have been contesting the final. Well, as it has turned out, City sides Western Tigers and Santos, two clubs with a rich history on and off the field will battle for the top prize of $2M and the STAG Nations

championship trophy. It has been an extended journey due to the fact that the tournament had to be postponed due to consistent rainfall during the Christmas season. The third-place match tomorrow features the Guyana Police Force against Riddim Squad, another all-Georgetown affair, with the winners set to receive $500 000 and

the losers, $300 000. Both Western Tigers and Santos comprise a number of young and exciting ball-weavers who no doubt would be going all out to ensure that their combined efforts deliver the winning prize for their club. But only one will walk away as winners. Fans can be assured of a riveting finale. Western Tigers downed Police, Pouderoyen, and Flamingo on their way to the final while Santos took care of Riddim Squad, Uitvlugt and Herstelling Raiders en route to their final date. This match would be a test for each team’s defence as well as their forwards as they must defend to the utmost, even as they come up with strategies to be effective in the attacking third. The Tigers were pushed to the hilt in their semi-final

match against arch rivals Police but held their nerves to beat the lawmen via sudden kicks from the penalty mark. Prior to that match, they were relentless against Pouderoyen, the match ending 9-1 while they were equally dismissive in their win over Flamingo, 8-0. Santos have not been that efficient goal-wise but have been dominant; they needled Riddim Squad in their semi-final showdown, got past Uitvlugt 3-1 while trouncing Herstelling Raiders 4-0. The Tigers start with the advantage of taking the crown but Santos will not be intimidated and are equally hungry for success as they both aim to start the year on a high. And what better way than a cheque for $2M compliments of Ansa McAl. Randolph Wagner will lead the Tigers along with

Western Tigers arrest Police in their semi-final clash.

Rensford Coleridge, Shamar Wilson, Darren Benjamin, Anthony Sancho, Andre Webber, Dwayne McLennon, Joshua Britton, Troy Carrington, Jamal Pedro and Jorell Tyrell. Santos captain Samuel Hunte will again lead from the front and would hope to stand firm as he marshals the defence with the hope that Job Caesar, Keith Cains and

Delon David will hold their own when it comes to scoring goals. Players who would be shouldering responsibility are Sheldon Profitt, Trevor Lewis, Omar Jones, Orin Yard, Ryan October and Lionel Holder, among others. The third-place match tomorrow kicks off at 19:00hrs and would be followed by the final.

Bishop, Yadram give Windies U-19s Levi’s Stadium to host Gold Cup final their first Super50 success NORTH SOUND, Antigua (CMC) – Spinners Joshua Bishop and Bhaskar Yadram combined to stun English County Kent and hand West Indies Under-19s their first success of the Regional Super50, with a 28-run victory here yesterday. In pursuit of 155 for victory at the Vivian Richards Cricket Stadium, Kent were in control at 76 for two before suffering a sudden collapse and losing their last eight wickets for 51 runs, to be bowled out for 127 off 34.5 overs. Captain Sam Northeast got 37 and opener Sean Dickson, 20, but they were the only two to get into the 20s. Sixteen-year-old left-arm spinner Joshua Bishop snatched four for 44 from his 10 overs while off-spinner Yadram claimed three for six from just five overs, the pair picking up seven of the last eight wickets to fall as Kent tumbled to their second defeat of the tournament. Asked to bat, the Under-19s also suffered a collapse to be bowled out for 155 off 46.3 overs. They were well placed at 83 for one but lost their way to surrender their last nine wickets for 72 runs. Opener Matthew Patrick topscored with 45 while Yadram chipped in with 29 and all-rounder Keemo Paul, 20 not out. Shian Brathwaite’s poor run continued with 12 but Patrick struck two fours and a six off 79 balls as he put on 60 for the second wicket with Yadram.

Once the pair were separated the innings went into decline, however, and only Paul hung around to eke out precious runs at the end. Ivan Thomas was the best bowler with three for 39 while fellow seamer Darren Stevens (2-17) and off-spinner Adam Riley (2-30) both finished with two wickets apiece. Kent got a decent start of 36 from Dickson and Daniel Bell-Drummond (13) before both fell in the space of three overs. Bell-Drummond was caught at fine leg by Patrick off fast bowler Obed McCoy in the ninth over while Dickson perished to a catch at square leg, also by Patrick, off leg-spinner Mikyle Louis.

Northeast, who faced 61 balls and counted three fours, propped up the innings in a 35-run stand with Stevens (18) which temporarily put Kent on top. But once Bishop and Yadram got stuck in, Kent crumbled quickly.

Bhaskar Yadram

SCOREBOARD

UNDER-19s innings S. Brathwaite c Ball b Thomas 12 M. Patrick c Ball b Riley 45 B. Yadram run-out 29 E. Stewart lbw b Riley 9 K. Kallicharan b Coles 4 A. Athanaze c Hunn b Thomas 9 K. Paul not out 20 J. Bishop c Thomas b Hunn 3 M. Louis b Stevens 1 T. Alleyne c Ball b Stevens 4 O. McCoy c Northeast b Thomas 0 Extras: (lb-3, w-15, nb-1) 19 Total: (all out, 46.3 overs) 155 Fall of wickets: 1-23, 2-83, 3-92, 4-103, 5-113, 6-127, 7-135, 8-136, 9-148. Bowling: Thomas 8.3-0-39-3 (w10), Coles 8-1-28-1 (w-3, nb-1), Hunn 10-0-38-1 (w-1), Stevens 10-1-17-2 (w-1), Riley 10-0-30-2.

KENT innings D. Bell-Drummond c Patrick b McCoy 13 S. Dickson c Patrick b Louis 20 S. Northeast c Bishop b Paul 37 D. Stevens c Brathwaite b Bishop 18 A. Blake c Brathwaite b Bishop 13 A. Ball b Bishop 0 A. Rouse b Bishop 2 M. Coles b Yadram 0 A. Riley c Paul b Yadram 12 M. Hunn not out 1 I. Thomas c Athanaze b Yadram 2 Extras: (b-1, lb-1, w-6, nb-1) 9 Total: (all out, 34 overs) 127 Fall of wickets: 1-36, 2-41, 3-76, 4-92, 5-92, 6-94, 7-95, 8-124, 9-124. Bowling: McCoy 5-1-20-1, Paul 6-0-27-1 (w4, nb1), Louis 8-0-281, Bishop 10-1-44-4 (w1), Yadram 5-1-6-3.

MIAMI, USA (CMC) – California’s Levi’s Stadium has been named to host the final of this July’s CONCACAF Gold Cup, the confederation announced on Wednesday. The venue, located in Santa Clara, will be one of 14 venues across 13 cities to host matches in the biennial July 7-26 tournament. Levi’s Stadium, which played host to the opening game of last year’s historic Copa America Centenario, will now host the final of the confederation final on July 26. “Levi’s Stadium has quickly earned a place among America’s top stadiums in terms of atmosphere, amenities and fan experience,” said CONCACAF president Victor Montagliani. “We’re proud to now bring the Final of the Gold Cup – the region’s top competition for national teams – to the Bay Area, building on the resounding success of the Copa America Centenario opener,

which drew record crowds last year.” Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz heads the list of Caribbean sides for the Gold Cup, with Curacao, French Guiana, and Martinique also having qualified. French nation Haiti

face Nicaragua in a playoff next month to determine the final spot in the 12-nation showpiece. Two years ago, Jamaica were good enough to reach the final of the competition before losing to eventual champions Mexico.

Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz reached the final of the CONCACAF Gold Cup two years ago. CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Friday February 03, 2017) COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Kent Spitfire & WI Under 19 (2) CCC Marooners & ICC Americas Today’s Quiz: (1) How many matches are scheduled of the CWI Nagicor Super 50 Tournament? (2) When and where is the final game scheduled to be played? ANSWERS IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, February 3, 2017

Demerara Mutual contributes $2.5M to final phase of NSSCL …says primary interest is the development of young people

By Rajiv Bisnauth WITH their primary interest firmly towards the development of young people, the Demerara Mutual Life Assurance Society Limited yesterday underlined their commitment with the contribution of $2.5M to the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) for the final phase of the National Secondary Schools Cricket League (NSSCL), which is in its second year. The significant partnership between the two allies took place in the boardroom of the insurance company on Robb Street, where the company’s Executive Marketing Manager Clarence Perry handed over the cheque to president of the GCB, Drubahadur, in the presence of other GCB executives and the media. Perry in his remarks told

Demerara Mutual Life Assurance Society Limited Executive Marketing Manager Clarence Perry (third left) hands over the sponsorship cheque to GCB president Drubahadur in the presence of Colin Stuart (extreme left), GCB treasurer Anand Kalladeen (second left) and Marketing Manager Raj Singh. the gathering that the company is pleased to be on board, with the continued develop-

ment of cricket at the school level. “As a sponsor our pri-

BANKS DIH Limited will bring the energy and excitement back to rugby with the Inaugural Guinness VII’s tournament set for tomorrow at National Park’s rugby field. Launched yesterday at the company’s Thirst Park office, the tournament will feature in excess of $300 000 in prizes and will see action in both male and female divisions. According to Guinness Brand Manager Lee Baptiste, the initiative which was in the pipeline since 2016 was birthed following a recent trip to Ireland, the home of Guinness. He added that “Banks DIH as customary is paving the way to promote the sport and to improve on the spectatorship of the sport. We want to ensure that we grow the sport throughout the length and breadth of Guyana; as a spectator sport and as a national sport also.” Meanwhile Guyana Rugby Football Union (GRFU) president Peter Green was on hand to thank the sponsors, adding, “It gives rugby more than a chance; it gives rugby the opportunity now to display at a national level. Competition manager Kenneth Grant- Stuart contended that the tournament is expected to feature the top names in clubs with some overseas players coming in ahead of Sunday’s game. Secretary Petal Adams said her push for the inclusion

of female teams has been realised and Saturday’s tournament will present a chance for other women to see how the game is played. The male competition will feature five teams in Pepsi Hornets, Yamaha Caribs, Police Falcons, the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) and a newly-formed club the Panthers, which features ex-UG students. The winning team will pocket $150 000. The Falcons have brought in two brothers from Trinidad and Tobago namely, Jeron and Leon Pantor. On the distaff end, the Pepsi Hornets and Yamaha Caribs will do battle.. In the opening fixture of the evening, the Yamaha Caribs will play GDF while the Pepsi Hornets go toe-to-toe with the Panthers There will also be novelty events for fans.

mary interest is really to see development of youths, and particularly in the field of

cricket,” Perry stated. He added, “As you know for every West Indian, cricket is something we cherish and we see this as an investment towards the overall goal of developing our young talents, and hopefully these young men can go on to represent us nationally, and also internationally, and once again return West Indies to where it used to be.” Drubahadur hailed the partnership as another huge step in fulfilling one of GCB’s mandates, which is to promote and develop cricket at the school level. He added that the GCB is aware that the wider student participation in the sport is vital for the development of cricket, both locally and regionally. The GCB president assured the insurance company that the game will be played, with the maximum amount

of discipline, adding that the image of the company will not in any way be tarnished. GCB Marketing Manager Raj Singh dubbed the partnership a productive and decisive exercise, since close to $15M was budgeted for the completion of the tournament. Meanwhile, the board’s Territorial Development Officer, Colin Stuart, in an invited comment after the presentation ceremony, indicated that the NSSCL structure has been absorbing young talent while ensuring that at the school level enough quality cricket is played countrywide. He also stated that the NSSCL has enabled the GCB’s coaching personnel to identify and groom young talents. The final phase of the tournament will commence on Monday.

Guinness VII’s comes at opportune 2017 IPL auction delayed until late February time - GRFU president By Stephan Sookram

Guinness Brand Manager Lee Baptiste hands over a ball to a female player to signal the launch of the Inaugural Guinness VII’s tournament while Banks DIH staff, GRFU executives and players look on.

THE IPL 2017 player auction is likely to take place in the third week of February following a delay from the originally proposed date of February 4. Although the BCCI has not issued a final date yet, franchises understand it would be anywhere between February 20 and 25. Last November the IPL Governing Council decided to schedule the IPL 2017 tournament between April 5 and May 21. At that time, the player auction was slotted in tentatively for February 4 but that was ruled out as soon as the Supreme Court of India dismantled the BCCI house at the start of the year by removing its president Anurag Thakur and secretary Ajay Shirke and imposing various restrictions on the remaining eligible office-bearers at the board. Although the BCCI management under its chief executive officer Rahul Johri was ready to stick to the timelines drawn last November, the court’s delay in appointing the committee of administrators put the IPL decisions on the backburner. However, with a four-member committee of administrators taking charge on Monday, the IPL is back on the priority list. The com-

mittee of administrators met with the BCCI management team to discuss the immediate decisions that need to be taken concerning IPL. “The Committee of Administrators (COA) met the concerned BCCI officials today (yesterday) to take stock of the urgent and important matters mainly concerning the successful conduct of IPL 2017,” a BCCI media release said. “The committee of administrators assured the franchises that it was overseeing the preparations for IPL and the ‘operational timelines’ will be sent out shortly.” On their part, the franchises have remained patient throughout the delay. Officials at several franchises said the main reason behind their confidence was the court had always made sure that cricket was never affected, both domestic and international. Also, the delay in the auction, one franchise chief executive officer said, would be an advantage because teams could scout for domestic talent in the ongoing Inter-State T20 tournament which finishes on February 18. If there is one thing the franchises are keen to get their hands on is the player roster - the final pool of players that will enter the auction. Normally the franchises get

the roster two weeks ahead of the auction. “If we get the roster we can start making a shortlist of players we are after, as then we come to know their availability which is always a big determining factor on which players teams pick,” one franchise CEO told ESPNcricinfo. This will be the last year of IPL before teams overhaul their rosters for the 2018 season. All existing player contracts will expire after IPL 2017 and it is expected most players will go under the hammer at the mega auction ahead of the 2018 season. There has been no decision yet on the player retention rules though. The current cycle of broadcasting rights, currently held by Sony Pictures Network India (SPNI), will expire after IPL 2017. Last September, the BCCI had announced that the next cycle of IPL rights would be sold via an open tender process. Eighteen companies including Facebook and Twitter bought the invitation to tender document for television and digital rights. The bids were meant to be opened on October 24, but the Lodha Committee deferred the process until the BCCI complied with the court order of July 18 last year. (ESPN Cricinfo)

Demerara Mutual contributes $2.5M to final phase of NSSCL See P

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Milerock stunned, Western Tigers overpower Eagles 1-0 See Story on Page 34

A Milerock player clears the ball from the area during Wednesday evening’s match against eventual winners Grove Hi-Tech in this year’s Limacol round-robin knock-out football tournament. (Adrian Narine photo) See Story on Page 34

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Gold medallist Usain Bolt of Jamaica bites his medal. (REUTERS/ Alessandro Bianchi)

One of the Colours/Guinness Greatest in the Street football West Demerara organisers collects the trophy from the Colours representative in the presence of Banks DIH executives. (Cullen Bess-Nelson photo) 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 FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2017