Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 11 05 2017

GDF officer on Atlantic voyage with Argentina

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THURSDAY, MAY 11, 2017

Price: $80

New rules for broadcasters No. 104909

(VAT Inclusive)

…GNBA regulations mandate adequate time for public service …create three special zones Page 3

Only 4 years of tax refund …for SM Jaleel after CCJ five-year statute of limitations ruling

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Guyana Airways to pursue Guyana/ Cuba flights Dataram’s wife jailed for 9 months Man confesses to killing wife in Crabwood Creek Page 8

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HESS oil exploration commits to Guyana

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Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of HESS Corporation, John Hess presented President David Granger with two HESS model vehicles. (Ministry of the Presidency photo)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, May 11, 2017

HESS oil exploration commits to Guyana – President meets with CEO, other officials OIL production in Guyana must be aligned with the Government’s green agenda, President David Granger said during a meeting with John Hess, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of HESS Corporation – the exploration company that holds a 30 percent interest in ExxonMobil’s offshore drilling operations in the Stabroek Block.

The CEO was accompanied by HESS’ President and Chief Operating Officer, Greg Hill; Executive Vice

President at ExxonMobil Exploration Corporation, Mike Cousins; Country Manager, Rod Henson and outgoing Country Manager at Esso Exploration and Production Guyana, Jeff Simons. Exxon’s Public and Government Affairs Manager, Kimberly Brasington and Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman were also present at the meeting held at State House.

During their discussions, President Granger told the visiting delegation that while

the country is eager to have oil production come on stream, it must be done in the

From left: Esso Exploration’s Public and Government Affairs Manager, Ms. Kimberly Brasington; HESS’s President and Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Greg Hill; Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of HESS Corporation, Mr. John Hess; President David Granger; Executive Vice President of Exxon Mobil Exploration Corporation, Mr. Mike Cousins; Country Manager, Esso Exploration and Production Guyana, Mr. Rod Henson; Minister of Natural Resources, Mr. Raphael Trotman and Outgoing Country Manager, Esso Exploration and Production Guyana, Mr. Jeff Simons.

context of Guyana’s ‘green’ development trajectory and as such protection of the environment is critical.

“We are very concerned about the preservation of the environment… We want the extractive industries to

be developed in a sustainable way,” the President was quoted as saying in a release from the Ministry of the Presidency.

Meanwhile, Hess said that the corporation is investing billions of dollars in Guyana

and that they are committed to ensuring that this is done in a transparent manner.

“We are committed to your country. We are committed to being here…. HESS is a long-term investor and we are very proud of the partnership with ExxonMobil and Nexen [Nexen Petroleum Guyana Limited] as well….

We hope this development of Liza first and hopefully other prospects will transform your country and we will try to help you the best way we can to ensure that oil wealth is spent in the best way possible,” he said.

He noted too that his company has been placing tremendous attention to its social responsibility. It was on this note that he assured the Head of State of their willingness to work with the Government to address priority areas.

“We are ready to work together to help you with your vision for the country to ensure that the oil treasure really becomes the people’s treasure,” he said.

Founded in 1933, the Hess Corporation is a leading global independent energy company engaged in the exploration and production of crude oil and natural gas.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, May 11, 2017

New rules for broadcasters …GNBA regulations mandate adequate time for public service

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…create three special zones

BROADCAST agencies licensed under the Broadcasting Act of 2011 will be mandated to broadcast public service programmes for a total of up to one hour daily, according to the draft broadcast regulations.

According to the draft document, broadcasting agencies are going to be mandated to air these public service programmes between 06:00hrs and 22:00hrs free of cost as required by the Minister.

Additionally, the hour referenced above does not include any address to the nation by the President or his designate, in accordance with the law, emergency notices or disaster warnings issued by the Civil Defence Commission, the Guyana Police Force, Guyana Fire Service, the Minister of Public Health and the Government generally by any agency duly authorised by law.

“The broadcasting agency may designate separate or repeat of same may include any public announcement which is urgent and of national significance…[and] shall provide to the Authority – with a fixed schedule; or a rotation of time slots, it intends to set aside to broadcast public service broadcast programmes.”

The Broadcast Authority has the power to direct a broadcasting agency to adjust or vary its schedule under paragraph (3) for public service programmes to ensure that the distribution is spread across various time slots and the agency is required to broadcast the words “this is a public service announcement or programme issued by…” at the conclusion of all public service broadcast

programmes.

Moreover, the Authority reserves the right to direct a broadcasting agency to broadcast emergency notices or disaster warnings for any length of time and regularly during peak or prime advertising time periods, depending on the nature of the emergency and having regard to public safety.

An agency reserves the right to file a complaint with the Authority within 24 hours of it being asked to broadcast a programme free of cost if, in the agency’s judgment, it is not considered a public service broadcast programme.

“The Authority shall investigate and determine a complaint and issue a ruling that the programme can be reasonably considered a public service broadcast programme and direct the broadcasting agency to air the programme free of cost; or be granted an interim order to broadcast as a public service broadcast programme, and where the programme is not so considered as provided in Section 9 (a) above, order payment of regular programme cost for broadcasting the said programme; any broadcaster found by the Authority to have arbitrarily refused to broadcast a public service broadcast programme without a complaint being determined by the said Authority shall be deemed to have breached his licence and shall be sanctioned.”

All general guidelines on advertisement and programmes shall be published in the Official Gazette. Additionally, the draft regulations make provision for hate speech and states that “broadcasting authorities shall not broadcast advertise-

T H E W O R K I N G P e ople’s Alliance (WPA) on Wednesday announced the death of Tchaiko Kwayana, wife of former politician Eusi Kwayana.

Kwayana, an American by birth, lost a battle with cancer and died on May 6, 2017,while in the United States of America. In a statement to the media, the WPA said the party’s fraternity is deeply saddened by her death and expressed condolences to her husband and children.

“The untimely demise of Sister Tchaiko is also a great loss to the party at home and abroad. The historic role she played in the struggle of the African community and the Guyanese nation predated the formation of the WPA,”

the statement said.

According to the WPA, Kwayana’s activities here had its genesis in the work of the African Society for Cultural Relations with Independent Africa (ASCRIA) in the late 60s and early 70s and her decision to come to Guyana was influenced by her work and struggle in the African community in the USA as well as the African diaspora and Africa.

“Tchaiko or Sister Tchaiko as she was fondly called was among the early wave of activists who responded to the appeal made

by ASCRIA and the Pan African Secretariat -- which at the time operated in Guyana -- for Africans in the diaspora to come to Guyana and participate in the political

Chairman of the Guyana National Broadcasting Authority (GNBA) Leslie Sobers recently handed over to Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo the advice for the new regulations to better enforce provisions of the broadcasting authority.

ments or programmes which contain hate speech, racial incitement or terror threats.”

BROADCASTING ZONES Meanwhile, there will be three broadcasting zones, namely, the primary, secondary and tertiary broadcasting zones and those who apply for licence to broadcast within each specific zones must place his antenna in a manner to ensure that his broadcasting coverage does not exceed the broadcasting zone; he is licensed to serve and a viable signal in terms of clarity of picture and sound is delivered to all areas of the zone in which the person is permitted to broadcast.

Persons desirous of applying for a licence have to apply to the Guyana National Broad-

casting Authority (GNBA) and pay a non-refundable application processing fee of $25,000, while each applicant applying for a licence to broadcast in a broadcasting zone shall pay a non-refundable application processing fee of $10,000.

According to the draft regulations, should a broadcasting authority’s signal reach multiple zones with the permission of the Authority, that agency shall pay a licence fee for each additional zone in which its signal is propagated.

“A person shall apply in Form 3 in Schedule 1 and pay an application processing fee of $50,000 to the Authority to amend or vary his licence to broadcast in one or more additional zones not mentioned in the licence.”

The Authority reserves

the right to grant or refuse or vary the licence for a person to broadcast in one or more additional zones. Should the Authority grant permission to the person to broadcast in one or more additional zones, the Authority shall amend or vary the terms of the licence accordingly.

“Upon being assigned an additional zone, the person shall make the first payment of licence fee for each additional zone on a pro-rata basis from the date of issue until the 31st December following, and payment of the licence fee for an additional zone thereafter as set in Section 7 (b) in respect of each financial year and made annually in advance on the 1st January of each year.”

Moreover, each person should, on or before June 30 annually, submit to the Authority its fully audited accounts for the preceding calendar year.

BROADCASTING SERVICES Meanwhile, in the case of broadcasting services, the Authority shall issue to a person a licence which identifies one of several broadcasting services: Commercial – which is offered by a person whose gross revenue is expected to be at least 80 per cent of income through the sale of airtime, advertisement, or a combination of both; non-commercial – which is offered by a person whose funding derives from an organisation or donors as set out in the person’s business plan and in the case of renewals, a business plan, as well as audited financials by a chartered accountant.

Community broadcasting

service is offered by a person, organised as a trust, managed and controlled by a Board elected from among members of the community in the geographic area to be served.

“Any company or trust which holds a commercial television or radio licence cannot be licensed to operate a community service. A broadcasting agency that offers community broadcasting service shall provide programmes which reflect the cultural, religious, language and demographic needs of the people in the community; and where there are surplus funds derived from the running of the community broadcasting service, invest those funds for the development of community broadcasting.”

The draft document states that where the Authority makes a decision to grant a licence to a person, that person shall be assigned a frequency in accordance with a table identified in Schedule 2, upon payment of licence fee to the Authority.

“The broadcast licence shall normally take effect at the start of each financial year from the 1st day of January to the 31st day of December; providing that a broadcast licence issued for the first time after the commencement of the ensuing financial year shall be prorated from the date of issue to the 31st day of December and thereafter as set out in Section 7 (c),” the document stated.

Guyana Chronicle understands that the document is to be handed over to the Office of the Chief Parliamentary Counsel for vetting after which it is to be sent to the National Assembly for passage.

and worked to advance its cause.”

Meanwhile, the Party noted that Kwayana’s commitment to the liberation of the Guyanese masses was exemplified by the role she played in the group “Women Against Terror”when on several occasions she was caught up in confrontations against the supporters of the administration.

“She did not escape the violence that was unleashed against the political opponents of the government in the period of the seventies and eighties and received a sound beating on North Road in the vicinity of Bourda Market on September 17th, 1983 while participating in a protest demonstration for the recognition of demo-

cratic and human rights in Guyana.”

As a result of what has been described as political victimization and economic difficulties,she was forced to return to the USA to seek employment to maintain her children. Years later she was joined by her husband Eusi.

“Even in that difficult period of adjustment she continued to pursue her cultural, educational, political and community work as she nurtured her family. Her life was one of devotion to family, the African Nation and Humanity in every part of the globe.

Her star shines brightly in our continued struggle for true emancipation.”

Kwayana will be laid to rest on Tuesday, May 16 in Atlanta,Georgia.

WPA mourns death of Eusi Kwayana’s wife

Tchaiko Kwayana

process, which at that time was being led by the Forbes Burnham administration.”

Since her arrival, Kwayana was immersed in the struggles of the African community and Guyana as a

whole, and according to the WPA,“her commitment to our people and country was a lifelong endeavor.”

“From the moment she answered the call to serve to the time of her death, she remained unwavering in her support of the Guyanese struggle for liberation, racial pride, political and racial reconciliation and the empowerment of women and children and the elderly,” the statement added.

She played an integral role in the organisation’s work to promote “cultural revolution” while in ASCRIA and sought to re-awaken African self-consciousness. “As a member of Ascria, Tchaiko supported the political decision for the formation of the WPA

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, May 11, 2017

HIV life expectancy ‘near Trump ‘considered firing Comey since taking office’ normal’ thanks to new drugs [BBC] - President Donald deputy attorney general said Trump had been considering firing former FBI Director James Comey since he was elected, a White House spokeswoman says.

Sarah Huckabee Sanders told media there had been an “erosion of confidence” in Mr Comey over the last year.

The administration maintains he was removed on Tuesday for his handling of the Hillary Clinton emails inquiry. But US media report Mr Comey recently asked the Justice Department for more resources for his Trump-Russia inquiry. The US Senate Intelligence Committee has invited Mr Comey to testify next week.

The White House is rejecting calls to appoint a special prosecutor to investigate allegations the Trump campaign colluded with the Kremlin in last year’s US presidential election.

“We don’t think it’s necessary,” Ms Huckabee Sanders said on Wednesday. “No one wants this to be finished and completed more than us.” In a farewell letter to staff, Mr Comey wrote: “I

On Wednesday, Mr Trump also met Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov (L) and Russian Ambassador Sergei Kislyak

have long believed that a President can fire an FBI Director for any reason, or for no reason at all.

“I’m not going to spend time on the decision or the way it was executed.”

He signed off: “Working with you has been one of the great joys of my life. Thank you for that gift.” The White House insists it was because of how he handled the investigation into Mrs Clinton’s use of private email while she was secretary of state.

But many are sceptical that the FBI director would be fired because of actions that have been widely at-

tributed for Mr Trump’s shock election victory. The White House spokeswoman said Mr Comey had committed “atrocities, circumventing the chain of command” within the Justice Department.

The White House said the “final catalyst” was Tuesday’s letter from Deputy Attorney General Rod Rosenstein recommending Mr Comey be fired for “serious mistakes”.

Mr Rosenstein faulted Mr Comey’s decision last July to announce the Clinton emails case was closed, and for revealing in October - 11 days before the election - that the inquiry had reopened. The

Mr Comey’s conduct had “usurped” the then-attorney general.

Unnamed White House officials briefed Reuters news agency that Mr Trump finally lost patience with the FBI director last week over a perceived act of insubordination.

They said Mr Comey had refused to preview for top presidential aides his planned testimony to a 3 May Senate hearing on the Clinton email issue. The president stood by his actions on Wednesday during a surprise meeting with Nixon-era Secretary of State Henry Kissinger. Mr Trump said Mr Comey was fired “because he was not doing a good job”.

His remarks preceded a meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and Russian Ambassador to the US Sergei Kislyak his first with any Russian official since taking power.

Mr Trump later tweeted: “Dems have been complaining for months & months about Dir. Comey. Now that he has been fired they PRETEND to be aggrieved.

Phony hypocrites!”

Thursday, May 11, 2017 Friday, May 12, 2017 Saturday, May 13, 2017 Sunday, May 14, 2017 Monday, May 15, 2017

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[BBC] - Young people on the latest HIV drugs now have near-normal life expectancy because of improvements in treatments, a study in The Lancet suggests.

Twenty-year-olds who started antiretroviral therapy in 2010 are projected to live 10 years longer than those first using it in 1996, it found. Doctors say that starting treatment early is crucial to achieve a long and healthy life.

Charities say there are still too many people unaware they have the virus. The study authors, from the University of Bristol, said the extraordinary success

Antiretroviral therapy combines three or more drugs which stop the HIV virus from progressing

of HIV treatments was a result of newer drugs having fewer side effects and being better at preventing the virus from replicating in the body. It is also more difficult for the virus to build up a resistance to the most recent drugs.

Improved screening and prevention programmes and better treatment of health problems caused by HIV are thought to have helped, too. But many people with HIV still do not live as long as expected, especially those infected through injecting drugs.

Antiretroviral therapy involves a combination of three or more drugs which block the normal progress of HIV (human immunodeficiency virus).

They have been called “one of the greatest public health success stories of the past 40 years”.

The researchers looked at 88,500 people with HIV from Europe and North America who had been involved in 18 studies.

They based their life-expectancy predictions on death rates during the first three years of follow-up after drug treatment was started. They found that fewer people who started treatment between 2008 and 2010 died during this period compared with those who began treatment between 1996 and 2007.

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The expected age at death of a 20-year-old patient starting antiretroviral therapy (ART) after 2008, with a low viral load and after the first year of treatment, was 78 years - similar to the general population. Dr Michael Brady, medical director at the Terrence Higgins Trust, said the study showed how much things had changed since the start of the HIV epidemic in the 1980s.

But he said it also meant people aged over 50 now represented one in three of all those living with HIV. “As it stands, the healthcare, social care and welfare systems

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simply aren’t ready to support the increasing numbers of people growing older with HIV.” “We need a new model of care to better integrate primary care with HIV specialist services, and we need a major shift in awareness and training around HIV and ageing, so that we’re ready to help older people live well in later life,” he said.

Prof Helen Stokes-Lampard, who chairs the Royal College of GPs, said: “It’s a tremendous medical achievement that an infection that once had such a terrible prognosis is now so manageable, and that patients with HIV are living significantly longer.

“We hope the results of this study go a long way to finally removing any remaining stigma associated with HIV, and ensuring that patients with HIV can live long and healthy lives without experiencing difficulties in gaining employment and - in countries where it is necessary - obtaining medical insurance.”

She said steps were being taken to increase appropriate HIV testing by GPs. The proportion of people with undiagnosed HIV has fallen steadily over the past 20 years. But one in eight people with HIV is still thought to remain undiagnosed.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, May 11, 2017

Man confesses to killing wife in Crabwood Creek THE circumstances surrounding the death of 55-year-old housewife Charmonie Charlie, known as “Peelo” of Grant 1803 Crabwood Creek, Corentyne, Berbice, took a massive twist as the husband confessed to stabbing the woman, who had initially told relatives that she stabbed herself.

Commander of ‘B’ Division, Ian Amsterdam told Guyana Chronicle that 64-year-old Rishie Lakeraj confessed to the murder; he was taken for a psychiatric

evaluation on Wednesday and was found to be of sound mind. The man was subsequently taken back to the police station, where he was grilled about events that led to the death of his wife. During the interrogation, he reportedly confessed to inflicting the stab wound the woman’s lower abdomen during an argument at around 09:00hrs on May 5 at their home.

During the initial stages of the investigation, a police press release had stated that the woman had told relatives that she stabbed herself with

The house where the couple lived

a knife to her lower abdomen.

She was treated twice at a Corentyne Hospital and sent home.

According to reports, the duo was involved in an argument, which reportedly stemmed from the woman’s

drinking habit. Her sister-inLaw, 49-year-old Tamaini Lakhraj, who lives next door, had told the Guyana Chronicle that the woman informed her [Lakharaj] that she stabbed herself and they made efforts to take her to the hospital, but the woman refused to seek medical attention.

Police have confirmed that this version of the story is being investigated as this appears to have been a deliberate attempt to cover up the incident.

According to the relative, after the pain became intense,

Charlie was rushed to the Skeldon Hospital some 12 hours after the incident occurred.

“On Saturday night at around 11’0 clock then abee carry she and when abee reach there [the hospital] them give she one injection and a tablet to drink and sent her away,” the relative recalled.

Lakhraj related that the hospital officials could have taken more interest in the woman’s condition and save her life. According to her, the officials at the hospital did not examine the wound.

Venezuela protests: ‘Resist until I die’ [BBC] - Venezuelans angry with the government of President Nicolas Maduro have been taking to the streets almost daily since the beginning of April.

Despite dozens of people being killed in protest-related violence, the demonstrations show little sign of abating.

Here, demonstrators explain their reasons for protesting, and what they hope will come out of their efforts.

‘We’re fighting for our children!’ - María Alvarez, 57, breast cancer survivor: There’s no freedom of expression here in Venezuela.

There’s no freedom of any kind. On top of that you have shortages of medicines, of goods.

This crisis is affecting my entire family. We have gone from being middle

“La Muerte” (alias meaning death) worries government agents will come looking for him if he shows his face

class to being much lower down. Every day we’re worse off and our children don’t have a future. They’re killing our children [at the

protests].

I’m here as a mother, not just for the sake of my own children but for the sake of all Venezuelan children and

youths who are being unjustly repressed because this dictatorship wants to take over the country. The government portrays the opposition as terrorists. We’re really tired of this and that’s why we’ll keep protesting.

There are people who think that just another march won’t change anything but I don’t think that’s true. I believe that if all of us gathered here think that way, we can achieve something.

I will continue marching as long as my health allows it. I’m a breast cancer survivor - I’ve just come from my check-up and I’m fine, so I will carry on fighting for my

children, for my country!

‘I will resist until I die!’ ‘La Muerte’ (alias, meaning death), 27, market vendor I’m on my 32nd day of protest. I’ve been here every day, resisting. I’ve been unemployed for two months because of the situation this country is in. The firm I used to work for left Venezuela.

I have two children. Now I do “bachaqueo” [buying and selling goods on the black market] to feed them.

We’re here to put an end to the dictatorship in Venezuela, so that our children can grow up in a free Venezuela!

The people of Venezuela have been supporting us,

they bring us food and water.

They know we’re not going to abandon them, we’re the resistance of Caracas, we’re the resistance of Venezuela!

I carry a homemade shield on which I’ve painted the map of Venezuela. I wear a mask because the Sebin [Venezuelan intelligence service] is looking for us.

The police come to search our homes and take us away if they find us. They’ve already taken some of my friends. A few friends have been killed.

More than 30 people have been killed in 35 days of protests. And we’re fighting for them!

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Editorial

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, May 11, 2017

Crime is down

CRIME is high on citizens’ agenda, given the fear of loss of possession, lives and loved ones. Agitation, from various sections of the society to confront crime headon is driven by genuine concern, though some will note the occasional political partisanship raising its head. The Guyana Police Force, under the policy direction of Vice-President and Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan, has given the society the assurance that measures will be taken to curb and eliminate criminal activities.

The minister’s approach to confronting crime is dissimilar to his predecessor, former Minister of Home Affairs, Clement Rohee.

He has demonstrated a preparedness to listen to diverse views, evident with Guyana re-kindling relationship with the United Kingdom where the officers have been the beneficiary of technical support such as in training. This

has contributed to improving the force’s crime fighting techniques and public campaigns.

The steady decrease in serious crime, complemented by government’s intention to activate legislation to address white collar crime, is sending a strong message to all and sundry that criminal activities will not be tolerated. Also bolstering decrease is the different approaches in the developmental policies.

Whereas Mr. Rohee demonstrated inclination to crime fighting as a political tool, lending perception it was designed to gain or acquire support of one group at the expense of others, the minister’s approach is using crime statistics, across the spectrum, in targeting reduction.

Holistic approaches to crime fighting means that communities and areas of prevalent criminal activities could be better targeted and resources directed. It is fair to say that having analysed the two strategies of the

incumbent and predecessor, the non-divisive approach has thus far been yielding better results. In our polarised society crime is used as a wedge and where the media often report criminal acts, aiding society’s awareness, the best measure is the statistics.

Police report for the first quarter shows a 4 percent decline in serious crime compared to the same period last year. In 2016 there was a 16 percent decline in serious crime compared to 2015.

Where media do not cover every crime, as reported to the police ,these statistics become useful in gauging the police successes or lack thereof in crime fighting.

Three other aspects in crime fighting that may be overlooked are that of the police public relations policy, community/police relations, and increase police presence. Where in the past the police earned the ire of the citizenry with the manner they handled in-

formation and treated with the public, there have been improvements. Reportedly, the Force had contracted the service of a professional public relations firm to provide training and education.

The recognition of public discontent and effort to win the public’s confidence cannot go un-noticed.

The physical presence of more police in the community, forging relations with the people as protector not adversary, is improving community/police relations, which is necessary to confidence-building and intelligence-gathering. This is also made more effective with the police launched of a “WhatsApp Group,” linking it with stakeholders in society.

The Police’s motto is to Serve and Protect, when it is seen that actions are taken to do just that, such stand to improve its relationship with the public. What could be construed as a strong message to the police and society

is that the APNU+AFC government will not tolerate excesses and brutality, which arguably is a contributory factor in the subsiding of extrajudicial killings and by extension the police earning the people’s trust. The aggressive campaigns to curb the spate of road accidents, deaths, injuries and damage of properties, resulting in the depletion of the nation’s human resources and financial loss by the affected, are noted.

According to police statistics there has seen a 19 percent decrease in fatal accidents, 16.3 percent in serious accidents, 27 percent decrease in minor accidents, and 23 percent decrease in

damage accidents compared to the corresponding period (April) last year.

The clear delineation of duties and respect for same between the policymaker i.e. the minister, and the technical people, i.e. the Commissioner of Police and his team, have aided better policing. The acknowledgement of this demarcation demonstrates greater respect for the competency of the technical people, boosting confidence among officers that their actions will not be subject to political intrusion as in the past, but to that of laws and standard practices guiding their work.

Criticisms of Linden Town Week not constructive Dear Editor,

THERE seems to be a new norm and culture of criticising those fulfilling their civic duties; criticism however is not bad until it loses its constructive component. Then it becomes counterproductive and simply hints at defamation with a malicious intent by those who provide no substance, better insight nor angles on perspective. I say this in relation to recent non-constructive criticism about the Linden Town Week.

As an advocate for youth development, a native Lindener and an advocate for the Town Week and its ability to contribute to Linden’s development, I am

saddened by remarks made by a section of persons that there was a paucity of child-friendly activities, after a group of young persons toiled through trials and tribulations to present a product with special considerations for children.

These allegations are most erroneous and fallacious at best.

I can see any better reason behind these masked untruths than an attack for personal credit and a claim for success by Mr Shareef Major. It seems as though Mr Major is only trying to tear down and discredit others to make himself look better, or to try and gain access to the franchise. I am however not surprised at these comments, since the history of Mr Major

doesn’t permit me to expect anything else.

The truth is that Vybz Entertainment like any other company has their strengths and some weaknesses, but in a nutshell they deliver and they delivered a product that everyone had a chance to enjoy over a 10- day period.

Mr Major claimed that Linden Town Week 2017 was nothing but parties and there were no activities for children on the calendar and that was a complete fabrication. I myself was so upset that I could not take my five-year- old daughter to see the freestyle dance competition, which was held on the Amelia’s Ward Bus Park. I was able to take her to the ‘Skip to my Lou’, which was greatly

supported and enjoyed by kids and adults. There was also a kids’ concert; a kids quiz; a day of sports with relays and cycling; a day of swimming; a Teen Zone; and not forgetting, an explosive opening ceremony, which was kids-dominated and so many other non-fete activities, all in 10 days.

For the mature audience that preferred non-fete activities, there were other events such as the Jazz Festival, which was very well planned and executed; a food festival and games night, where domino and other board games were played. The community had a chance to compete and win cash and prizes.

Local and out-of-town persons were given FREE spots to showcase local

products in the form of an exhibition to promote small businesses and create self-employment in the community and so much more. So I challenge you, Mr Major and your entire team of promoters, to be honest and understand that trying to blow out someone else’s candle won’t make yours shine any brighter.

I am also challenging you, Mr Major, to let the public know what you have done for the Linden community over the years you had the biggest football tournament. The Town Week that you are trying so hard to be given control over again after you had it and then did not want to do it anymore, claiming that, “it was a waste of time,” now that a young, imper-

fect, but dedicated, hardworking group has taken it on, invested money and is building it into a significant product, you are trying to disrespect and discredit them in an effort to regain possession of the franchise once more.

Gain possession by your own merits, not by bringing the other organisation down.

Mr Major and the entire K&S organisation, I just want to warn you that the Linden community might be humble, but not stupid people and they’re not going to let you trick them with slick talks and hidden political agendas.

Regards LINDEN RESIDENT

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, May 11, 2017

Container of medical supplies donated to GPHC

THE GEORGETOWN Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) has received a ‘shot in the arm’ with the donation of one 40-ft container of pharmaceuticals and medical supplies to the institution, just in the time of need.

The donation, emanating from Heart to Heart International in the United States of America, was handed over to the GPHC’s Chief Executive Officer, Allan Johnson by Food for the Poor’s Chief Executive Officer, Kent Vincent in the FFP’s compound at Blue Mountain Road, Festival City on Wednesday.

CEO Allan Johnson (left) receives a token from CEO Kent Vincent of Food for the Poor (right).

The 18 panels of supplies include pharmaceuticals, medical equipment, theatre equipment, syringes, sharps and needles, laboratory supplies and other assorted medical items.Mr

Johnson expressed gratitude for the donation and assured that they would be used for the benefit of the patients.

Acknowledging that the hospital has regularly received donations from the

Caribbean pleased with feedback from recent self-esteem workshop Dear Editor, THE Caribbean Voice, in collaboration with the Guyana Pandits’ Council, held a youth workshop focused primarily on self-esteem and alcohol and substance abuse. The workshop was held on Sunday April 23rd, 2017 from 15:00hrs to 17:30 hrs in the late Pandit Gowkarran Sharma’s Bhavan (building behind the Diamond & Grove Vishnu Mandir, Public Road, East Bank Demerara).

The workshop saw a total of thirty-one (31) participants with age ranging from sixyears-old to 56-years-old.

National Coordinator, Mr Nazim Hussain, represented the Caribbean Voice with much enthusiasm and positivity, as he gave his introductory and closing remarks. National Youth Coordinator, Ms Keshni Chandanie Rooplall, graced the event and offered, as well, her famous self-esteem presentation.

East Bank Demerara sub-group members, Trainer Ms Ibi-Mina Edwards gave highlights on what it means to be emphatic and why we should all practise emphatic communication; Ms Meena Baljit gave her remarks on substance abuse based on scientific information / research conducted by the

National Institute on Drug Abuse, U.S.A.; Surendra Bipiah did a very impactful overview on alcohol abuse and Ms Sunaina Boodhoo aided in the registration and distribution of informative handouts prepared by the Caribbean Voice. Regional Coordinator for the East Bank of Demerara, Dan Ali, also presented an introduction on drug abuse, enlightening the audience on concepts and definitions that may seem new to them.

The Caribbean Voice extends it gratitude towards many individuals and organisations that made the execution of the event a success.

Pandit Rudranauth Sharma, President of the Guyana Pandits’ Council, who gave us the permission through Priest-in-charge of the Diamond and Grove Vishnu mandir, Pandit Gopinauth Prashad, to use the very comfortable and accommodating Bhavan named in honour after the late Pandit Gowkarran Sharma.

Lighting, electricity, tables, chairs, fans, water, and the washroom facility were some of the utilities and comfort provided for us to accommodate the audience.

Pandit Gopinauth Prashad, Priest-in-charge of the Diamond and Grove Mandir, who assisted a great deal in

the preparation of the Bhavan, such as cleaning, setting up of chairs and tables, and managing the facility to ensure safety and comfort; Mr. Paras Prashad of Prashad’s Medical and Pharmacy for preparing delicious meals for everyone; Triple A sound systems and Meena Baljit for ensuring the items needed to prepare the food was available; Molly’s General Store and Demerara Distilleries Limited (DDL) that ensured there was enough beverage to keep everyone hydrated; Eye-Max Optical for providing the utensils needed to distribute the refreshments to everyone; the continuous support of Ms Ibi-Mina Edwards of A1 Innovative Business Services; WR Reaz of Team MMR; and also Mr Nazim Hussain of the Variety Show and Galaxy 21 Communications.

The Caribbean Voice is pleased with the motivating and excellent feedback received from the audience on the event and we hope to have many more such events in the future – not just on the East Bank of Demerara, but across all regions in Guyana.

Regards, DANIEL ALI Regional Coordinator The Caribbean Voice

Some of the 18 panels displayed outside the container in FFP compound.

not-for-profit institution, he also mentioned that this shipment is the largest received at any one time.

Meanwhile,Mr Vincent said that the FFP is always willing to assist where there is

need and has been assisting hospitals on a regular basis.

He said the West Berbice Hospital at Fort Wellington is slated to receive a big donation this Friday as well.

Other state medical in-

stitutions receiving medical donations from FFP, according to FFP’s Field Officer, Compton Giddings, include: Linden Hospital Complex; Suddie Hospital; Baby Heart Foundation; Skeldon Hospital and Foot Care Centre.

Giddings recalled that in 2014, FFP gave a brand new theatre to West Demerara Regional Hospital and on another occasion donated a brand new X-Ray machine to Linden Hospital Complex. Other items donated to the GPHC on a regular basis include suction-pumps, orthopedics and the like.

Edghill concerned about citizens’ rights Dear editor, I WRITE to express grave concerns about the rights of citizens of our country.

On May 9, 2017 I attended the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court, accompanying my colleague Mohabir Anil Nandlall, who is presently before the court.

At the hearing, the special prosecutor hired by the government said to the court that no statements were available, since the investigation was incomplete and statements are yet to be taken in the matter. He however assured the court that this exercise will be completed sometime on May 26 and requested May 29 for continuation of the matter. This is what I heard in court myself. A number of questions immediately came to mind and I would hope by way of this letter more informed Guyanese can enlighten me and other members of the public.

1. If there are no statements and the file is incomplete, on what basis was Mr. Nandlall charged?

2. If it is true that charges are to be based on evidence contained in statements, on which the prosecution would

rely by calling witnesses to testify at the appropriate time, am I wrong to conclude that the charge against Mr. Nandlall therefore has no basis in evidence?

3. Why wasn’t the case dismissed immediately after this information became available to the Court, Is this the way our citizens are treated every day in our courts and is this normal?

4. If this charge is not evidence-based, would it be wrong to conclude that it was instituted capriciously or was driven by some other consideration?

5. What role, if any, the professional and independent offices of the DPP and the police legal advisor played in recommending the charge against Mr. Nandlall, in the absence of statements in this matter?

6. Would I be wrong to conclude, like so many other Guyanese, that in the face of the above-unanswered questions, that the charge against Mr. Nandlall has to do more with politics and political witch-hunting executed by the APNU/AFC government?

Editor, after leaving court I was able to access the Kaieteur News daily with the

screaming headline, ‘’over 200 persons blacklisted from leaving Guyana – SOCU’’.

As a citizen of Guyana, I have acted to ensure that the fundamental and constitutional rights of Guyanese are upheld and not violated. I have since written to the public authority, namely the Chief Immigration Officer (the Commissioner of Police), under the Access to Information Act of 2011, requesting the identity of these resident Guyanese, who have been blacklisted.

This trampling on the rights of citizens must be rejected in all forms. In the face of such travesty of justice, silence is not an option. Article 144 of the Constitution of Guyana guarantees that a man is presumed to be innocent until proven guilty. I call upon all law enforcement and judicial authorities to uphold the constitution and to resist political pressure and instructions in any form or fashion. Citizens should speak up and don’t wait for you to become the next victim. Let’s stop this madness now.

Regards BISHOP JUAN EDGHILL

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, May 11, 2017

Only 4 years of tax refund …for SM Jaleel after CCJ five-year statute of limitations ruling

By Svetlana Marshall THE decision of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) to institute a fiveyear period of limitation within which companies or persons can seek redress for the settlement of cases involving the unlawful collection of taxes, which contradicts the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas is a “watershed ruling,” according to the Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister, Basil Williams.

The Government of Guyana’s legal team included Williams, Dr. Claude Denbow S.C, Ms Donna Denbow, Attorney-at-Law and Ms Judy Stuart-Adonis from the Attorney General’s Chambers. Hans Lim-A-Po of Suriname represented S.M. Jaleel.

In handing down its judgment on Tuesday in the case – SM Jaleel and Guyana Beverages Inc. v the State of Guyana - the CCJ ordered Guyana to pay a collective sum of Environmental Tax for the period March 7, 2011 to August 2015 together with a four percent interest per annum. Ahead of the judgment,

the companies had argued that Guyana had breached the principles of trade liberalisation and free movement of goods envisioned by the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas (RTC) –the treaty which established the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME). As such, they were claiming a refund of the environmental taxes imposed on the companies during the period January 1, 2006, to the date of repeal of the Act in August, 2015.

But in its ruling, the CCJ barred Claimants by way of “laches” from claiming beyond a period of five years, based on a submission made

by Guyana. “The Court finds that a period of five years is neither too long nor unduly short for a claimant to commence proceedings.

The court considers that this time limit will protect states from being vexed by claims relating to long-past incidents about which their records may no longer be in existence and as to which their witnesses may well have no accurate recollection,” the CCJ explained.

Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister, Basil Williams

It noted too that the specified period will encourage claimants to file their suits in a timely fashion. “This 5-year period permits adequate access to justice and is consistent with both international and regional standards.

It will run from the time that the claimant knew or at the very least reasonably should have known that the Defendant State was in breach of the treaty,” the CJJ further explained.

WATERSHED When contacted for a

reaction on Wednesday, the Attorney General said: “This is a watershed ruling for Guyana and the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) Government, given the five year limit the court has imposed on claimants in these matters.”

He added: “Guyana could have been condemned to repay large sums of monies, which were unlawfully collected by the PPP Government. What the ruling has done is that people can’t sit on their rights and wait years after knowing of a breach before make a claim now that the court has imposed the limits.”

It was noted that this is the first time that “laches” was used with regards to Guyana. For the CCJ, it was a win-win situation for both SM Jaleel and its subsidiary and the State of Guyana.

“The Claimants (SM Jaleel and its subsidiary Guyana Beverages Inc) have substantially succeeded on their claims. As the Defendant (the State of Guyana) has succeeded on a part of their laches defence, the Court awards the Claimants 70 per

Guyana Airways to pursue Guyana/ Cuba flights – new airline to apply for certification

By Alva Solomon NEW airline, Guyana Airways Corporation (GAC) is preparing to apply for certification to ply the Guyana/Cuba route.

At the same time, as part of its long–term plans, the company has invested heavily in setting-up the airline in recent months and when the country’s aviation status is upgraded to Category One rating of the US Federal Aviation Administration, it plans to serve direct flights between Guyana and North America.

The company is awaiting a favourable response from the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) regarding its plans to establish its operations here. According to reports reaching this newspaper, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the new airline, Dr Colin Abrams, a Guyanese, wrote to the GCAA and informed the aviation body of its in-

tentions to apply for an air operators certificate (AOC) to operate flights to Cuba in June.

Abrams, a former Guyanese Olympian and renowned pilot, flies with Delta Airlines in the US and piloted Delta’s flights into Timehri when that airline operated here. It is against this backdrop and the fact that there is no established international carrier that the operation came into fruition.

This newspaper understands that the GCAA informed the airline at the last minute that the aviation body did not have bilateral

arrangements with Portugal, the country where the airline has established lease agreements for its two Airbus jumbos. This has been seen as a set-back to the company, but the firm remains hopeful that its plans will be realised to the benefit of the travelling public.

The airline expects to become operational by mid-year. It has already commenced work on the establishment of a corporate office on Duke Street, Kingston Georgetown.

The name Guyana Airways is synonymous with the travelling public here and overseas, since it bears similarities to the former flag carrier which operated years ago. GAC later went bankrupt and eventually faded, even after successor, Guyana Air 2000 tried to keep the airline afloat.

In mid-2016, the new company under the Facebook name “Guyana Airways Returns 2016,” ap-

peared on social media and several persons welcomed the idea of a new airline, which plans to service direct flights along the lucrative Guyana-North American routes, including New York and Miami, using two luxurious Airbus 340 aircraft.

The company is a privately held entity, incorporated in Guyana and the United States. The board is chaired by Abrams, who is also a qualified medical doctor. The airman has reportedly given up his medical business in the US to pursue the airline venture.

For years, Guyanese here and overseas have been calling on the authorities to invest in an airline to serve key international routes under flag-carrier status. This is against the backdrop of delays and customer-service issues regarding other carriers which operate into the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA).

cent of their costs pursuant to its powers…,” the CCJ stated.

However, the CCJ, as in the case – Rudisa Beverages and Juices N.V and the Caribbean International Distributors Inc. v The State of Guyana, maintained that Guyana, under the PPP administration had breached Article 87(1) of the RTC by imposing an environmental tax on imported non-returnable beverage containers, which qualify for Community treatment. As such, Guyana was mandated to pay the companies the aggregate sum paid by the Claimants by way of environmental tax from March 7, 2011 to August 7, 2015. Additionally, the country was required to pay interest on the sums payable by the judgment at the rate of 4 per cent per annum from the date of judgment.

It is also mandated to file with the Court on or before November 9, 2017 a report on its compliance with the orders given. “All of this happened because of the ineptitude of the PPP Government,” Williams said.

Rudisa Beverages had taken the PPP Government

to court over the “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 PPP Government of Guyana time to repay US$6M – which the two parties agreed to – by January 31, 2016. 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.

‘Satan’ jailed for 5 years in absentia ORIN Glasgow known as ‘Satan’ was sentenced to five years imprisonment, in absentia, after he was found guilty of an armed robbery charge.

Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan handed down the sentence to an absent Glasgow of Agricola, East Bank Demerara (EBD), at the end of the trial, which was held in the defendant’s absence. The 22-year-old was on bail during the trial but never turned up to court.

The charge against Glasgow stated that on December 30, 2016 at Bagotstown, EBD, while being armed with a gun, robbed Felicia Gilchan of a quantity of items valued $130,000.

In her ruling, the Chief Magistrate stated that the

prosecution had presented substantial evidence and she therefore found the accused guilty of the offence.

The matter was prosecuted by Police Inspector, Alwyn Moore.

The magistrate imposed the maximum penalty of five years imprisonment.

According to reports, Gilchan is a businesswoman and operated a store at Bagotstown. On the day in question, an armed Glasgow stormed into the woman’s business place and relieved her of the items.

Glasgow, who is no stranger to the court, is also before another Magistrate charged with three robbery-related matters, which all occurred in the Bagotstown area.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, May 11, 2017

‘Significantly’ cheaper housing – ‘Greenheart’ promises to keep costs down using ‘green’ technology THE Canada-based Greenheart Tree Energy Guyana Inc. says that the cost of its ‘green’ homes is expected to be significantly cheaper than that of regular houses.

That is once the company is able to operate a factory that will help produce material useful to the construction of the structures.

Guyanese businessman, Esmonde Klass, who is the chief executive officer (CEO) of the company, has partnered with overseas agencies to introduce a new building material to the Guyanese market called magnesium oxide (MgO) wallboards.

The material is said to have personal and environmental benefits, but the CEO has not yet revealed the current cost of building such a home

for locals.

In an interview with the Guyana Chronicle, Klass said he is unable to give the cost per unit of the environmentally-friendly housing at this point, since his company had incurred external costs that include, among other things, the importation of the ‘green’ material.

SIGNIFICANTLY LESS Based on the financial criteria provided by the Ministry of Housing for the construction of houses for low, middle and higher-income earners, “Greenheart” says that for example, if a lowbudget homeowner purchases a low-income house from the company, they could pay significantly less, once the factory is operationalised.

It was noted that Ministry of Housing’s price range for low-income homes is between $5M and $7M. “Greenheart” is among many other contractors building homes for the Ministry of Housing’s upcoming housing exhibition. Klass said that the company would be able to offer a definite price for the units closer to the event.

The Guyanese-owned company is insistent, however, that the new material is a viable product to be incorporated into the local construction industry, given its numerous benefits.

“The factory that we intend to build,” he said, “is for the construction of the magnesium oxide (MgO) ‘green’ panels, insulation and trusses for the homes.”

The current state of the house as the roof is being completed

He said the company will not actually manufacture the magnesium boards, but rather the composite panels, using Structured Insulated Panels (SIP) technology.

SIPs, Klass said, are 21st Century, high- performance building materials that are used in the construction of floors, walls and roofs for residential and light commercial buildings.

The panels are made by sandwiching a core of rigid foam plastic insulation between two structural facings, he said.

OVERSEAS PARTNERS “Greenheart” has partnered with LS Tech-Homes SA and Royal Europa. LS Tech-Homes SA is the owner of the technology that is used

in the construction of the homes. Said Klass, “GreenHeartTree Energy Guyana Inc. will negotiate the rights to use this technology in their homes.”

Royal Europa, on the other hand, is the company that will be supplying all the exterior fittings, doors, windows and fences, in addition to other materials for the homes. They will also set up and deal with assembly, once the manufacturing plant is established.

Klass explained that because magnesium oxide (also called magnesia) boards are environmentally-friendly, they’re ideal for persons who suffer from allergies and other related illnesses. The material is also fire-proof, and would take as long as 20

to 30 minutes to start decomposing under intense heat.

Houses made of magnesia boards, he said, come prefabricated, and can be assembled in two days.

They’re pieced together, raised and anchored, thereby making expansion easier as opposed to houses made of concrete or wood, which have to be first destroyed or dismantled before anything can be done. In the case of this new-fangled technology, all that needs to be done is simply raise the particular MgO board and remove it so as to get down to business.

Klass said that the product is internationally approved and is said to be just as reliable or even better than common materials used for domestic structures.

A crane being used to put the pieces of the house together

State ordered to produce camera footage in 2014 robbery/murder

By Michel Outridge JUSTICE Navindra Singh has ordered the Prosecution to make every effort to produce a copy of the footage from the Close Circuit Television cameras (CCTV) footage to the court which depicts images of the suspects involved in the 2014 robbery/murder of a dredge owner.

Justice Singh made the order on Wednesday as the ‘Traffic Light’ murder trial continues in the Georgetown High Court. The trial Judge gave the order after Detective Corporal, Derwin Eastman continued his testimony in which he was grilled as to whether he can obtain a copy of the footage he viewed of the suspects who allegedly carried out a daring daylight

robbery/murder at the junction of Regent Street and Vlissengen Road, Georgetown, in the vicinity of the Botanical Gardens on August 18, 2014.

In July 2015, Travis McDougal was committed to stand trial for murder along with pork-knocker, Jermaine Otto who was one of the prisoners that perished in the deadly Camp Street prison fire, following riots in March last year.

Meanwhile, the police witness told the court that the helmet which was found after a search was conducted at a house at East Ruimveldt, Back Circle,was placed in an evidence-bag after which he affixed his initials.

He was asked if he can identify the said purple helmet and he replied in the affirmative, stating his

Travis Mc Dougall

initials and date are affixed to it. The Prosecution then made an application for same to be marked, tendered and admitted as evidence in the trial.

Eastman related that after the search of the house in which others were present, he arrested McDougal

and put the allegation to him that he robbed Ashokkoemar Ragghu of a firearm, a quantity of money and cellphones with a total value of $4M and in the process shot and killed the businessman.

When asked by State Prosecutor, Tuanna Hardy how the accused reacted after the allegation was put to him, Eastman said he looked relaxed and had no marks of violence on the exposed parts of his body.

The police witness stated that a police vehicle was used to transport the accused to the Brickdam Police Station on August 21, 2014 and while he [Eastman] was on patrol duties, he received information on the whereabouts of Jermaine Otto called “Fungus.”

Eastman told the court that the party of cops went to East Ruimveldt area called “Warlock” and arrested Otto. However, under cross examination

by defence attorney, Nigel Hughes, the witness admitted that he cannot produce the footage from the CCTV camera, which allegedly show the images of those involved in the crime.

Eastman told the court that he went to Rubis Gas Station on Vlissengen Road and Eping Avenue, where he saw CCTV cameras mounted on a pole; as such he went to Police Headquarters, Eve Leary where he viewed the footage.

Hughes then asked Eastman if anything prevented him from producing the footage, to which he said “no” but stated that he did not have a copy to present in court on Wednesday.

Eastman added that he took photos of the images while he was viewing the footage;however,he also could not provide same in court.

At this stage, Hughes asked the Judge for the Prosecution to produce the footage in court. Meanwhile, another police wit-

ness, Inspector Coreen Marshal took the stand on Wednesday and testified that she conducted an identification parade where the accused was placed in a line-up with seven other men of similar features and clothing. According to Marshal, McDougal was picked out by one of two witnesses. The trial continues in the Georgetown High Court on Thursday at 09:00hrs.

Ragghu and his wife Shyrazadi Ragghu were in their motorcar, PGG 8291, when they stopped at the traffic light at Vlissengen Road and Regent Street. Two men rode up on a CG motorcycle at the driver’s side and one of them grabbed a haversack containing $4M, but Shyrazadi held on to the haversack when she was shot in the thigh. Her husband was shot in the chest and was pronounced dead on arrival at the Georgetown Public Hospital.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, May 11, 2017

Revocation of Land COI

Motion to rescind inquiry challenges nothing – says Allicock

By Alva Solomon AN OPPOSITION motion which wants government to consider revoking the Commission of Inquiry (CoI) seeks to discuss the “non-existent,” Minister of Indigenous People’s Affairs, Sydney Allicock has noted.

Allicock made the notion on Monday evening when the National Assembly debated the motion which was moved by Former Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Pauline Campbell-Sukhai. The motion calls for the revocation of the CoI surrounding the claims by Amerindian Land titling, the individual, joint or communal ownership of lands acquired by freed Africans and any other land titling in Guyana.

The Fourth Vice-President

Minister of Indigenous People’s Affairs, Sydney Allicock

told the National Assembly that the “motion sees and seeks to discuss the non-existent,” noting that it “challenges nothing.”

He said that the motion’s

existence appeared synonymous with moves by executive members of the National Toshaos Council (NTC). He noted that four days before the motion came up for debate in the National Assembly, two leading members of the NTC sought to debate the “non-existent situation,” while representing the arguments of the Opposition.

According to him, the Opposition is unhappy with its current state in the National Assembly, sitting on the opposite side of the House. “This motion helps to cement their places in the Opposition beyond 2020,” he said.

Allicock noted that the information contained in the motion is causing unease within the indigenous community as he reiterated calls for its

withdrawal. He noted too that clauses in the motion piloted

by Sukhai, which centers on the Amerindian Act of 2006,

PPP Parliamentarian, Pauline Campbell-Sukhai

suggests that period being the beginning of all things relevant to land titling.

He spoke of the history of land-titling in Guyana as it relates to the indigenous people. He said that before independence, the late Stephen Campbell, the first indigenous Guyanese legislator, embarked on a journey to ensure Amerindian rights lands are secured.

He said that post-independence Guyana did not lose sight of the issue.

Allicock said the former PPP government, while in office managed to add 28 villages to those which received land titles, taking the overall figure to 105. He noted however, that there is little mention by the PPP of the remaining 77 villages of the 105.

He called for the withdrawal of the motion, and called on Sukhai to retreat into political retirement. Sukhai noted on Monday evening that the motion is based on the premise

of Amerindian land titling and claims. She said that land titling should have “no place in the current established COI on lands.”

During her presentation, she explained each clause of the motion, noting in one clause that it is explained that the mandate of the CoI could undermine the legitimacy of Amerindian land rights and lead to the dispossession of land titles and future land titling.

She said that the CoI is being “sprung upon the indigenous people,” noting that she was dissatisfied and disappointed in the establishment of the inquiry. According to her, the Executive sought no audience or dialogue with the Indigenous people or their representatives, including the NTC. Sukhai called on the government to re-examine the CoI. The debate on the motion will continue on June 15 when the National Assembly meets again.

Toshao seeks financial aid to ferry Teen remanded son’s remains to Hinterland on drug charge A HINTERLAND village captain is contemplating his next move as he attempts to secure airfare to transport the remains of his son to Kopinang in Region 8.

Toshao Alvin Nazio told the Guyana Chronicle on

Wednesday that his 33-yearold son, Orin Lazio, a father of one, passed away at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) on May 4. He said his son suffered from lung cancer and he lost the battle with the infection

after several months during which he endured severe pains.

Alvin Lazio noted that his worry continued after his son’s death when he was told by a domestic airline at the Eugene F Correia Airport

at Ogle that it would cost approximately $300,000 to take his son’s remains into Kopinang by air. He said the large sum is relevant to the use of a two-engine aircraft as opposed to a single-engine charter.

Lazio said that he visited the Ministry of Indigenous People’s Affairs seeking assistance on Tuesday and he received a sum of $30,000 while on Wednesday he visited the Ministry of Social Protection where he received a sum of $50,000. He said that he will use the money to make up the total which is beyond his pockets. His son’s remains are lying at the GPHC mortuary Anyone who wishes to assist Lazio can contact him on mobile number 603-7849.

A TEENAGER of Westminster Parfait Harmonie, West Bank Demerara was remanded to prison by City Magistrate Fabayo

Mark Gravesande (Demerara Waves photo)

Azore on Wednesday for the illegal possession of 193 grams of cannabis for the purpose of trafficking.

Mark Gravesande, 18, pleaded not guilty to the charge, which alleged that he had the illegal substance in his possession on May 8, 2017 at Lombard Street,

Georgetown.

The unrepresented teen told the court that he was waiting for a minibus to go by his mother, who lives at Westminster Parfait Harmonie, when he was approached by an individual named ‘Jermain.’

Gravesande further explained that Jermain lives in the same area with him and the man handed him a haversack to take home and he inquired what was inside.

“When the man give me the bag five minutes later the police hold me and search the bag…is till when they search the bag then I know that drugs was inside,” Gravesande pointed out.

Police Prosecutor, Simone Payne objected to the accused being released on bail and cited the nature, gravity, prevalence and penalty of the charge.

Bail was denied and the teen was remanded until May 31.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, May 11, 2017

Post Mortem of Special Father, sons in custody for murder of wanted man Constable points to suicide – Commander THE FINDINGS of a post mortem (PM) into the death of Special Constable Shendal George, 29, of Lima, Essequibo Coast,revealed that she died of perforation of the heart and spine due to a gunshot that could have been self-inflicted due to close contact.

This is according to ‘G’ Division (Essequibo Coast) Commander, Stephen Mansell, who told Guyana Chronicle that based on the post mortem results, it can be said that the Constable committed suicide.

The Special Constable, who was performing duties on May 4, at the Caricom Rice Mill on the Essequibo Coast, was found lying dead in the washroom of the said

Dead: Shendal George

facility moments after she left her post.

Investigations revealed that the victim, who was armed with a service revolver and six rounds, was performing duties at the main gate (front) of the Caricom

Rice Mill, when she left her post and was later discovered motionless in a toilet in the said compound with a suspected gunshot wound to her throat.

Her firearm, along with five live rounds and a spent shell, was found next to her.

She was taken to the Suddie Hospital where she was pronounced dead on arrival.

Commander Mansell said himself and other senior ranks of the Division paid a visit to the Constable’s family where they met her mother and other relatives. He said the police also hosted a wake Tuesday night and a representative from the force Chaplaincy programme was also there with the grieving relatives.

A FATHER and his three sons are in police custody following the death of Clinton Walks, the man who was found chopped to death on May 7 in Uitvlugt, West Coast Demerara.

A post mortem examination done on Wednesday noted that the cause of death was multiple incise wounds.

The police are also reviewing surveillance footage they obtained to aid the probe into the death of Walks.

Walks, also known as ‘Bongo,’ 36, of Lot 3 Bus Shed Street, Uitvlugt, West Coast Demerara, was found lying in a pasture. According

to police, Walks had been sentenced to 18 months in jail in 2015 for the offence of break and enter and larceny, and he was wanted for several similar offences, including simple larceny committed in his village. Having no steady employment, Walks did odd jobs around the village, and lived alone in a house on a family property. He was the youngest of seven children.

Residents in the area said he had had many brushes with the law, and may have met his end because he had broken into one property too many.

“The man was a pest,” one resident said. Meanwhile, his

father, George Hunt, said he would not swear for his son even though he lived in the same yard by himself in a separate building. But he was “a hustler”, the elder Hunt said of his late son, adding that although he lived alone and had regular brushes with the law, he was a father of three.

Other relatives said that “Bongo” was a law onto himself, and did not have a close relationship with family. His sister, Julia Hall, is of the belief that her brother was attacked and killed at another location before being dumped in the street where he lived.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, May 11, 2017

Police seize firearms in Police seeking legal advice in death of separate incidents POLICE this week recovered two firearms in separate incidents. Ranks arrested a logger of Phase ‘2’ Amelia’s Ward, Linden on Wednesday after an unlicensed Taurus revolver was found in a pen containing scrap metal.

Reports indicate that an Assistant Superintendent, a Sergeant and a party of policemen - acting on information received - visited the logger’s home and conducted a search.

When the search was completed,a box containing 20 .32 rounds were found and a further search in a pen with scrap metal at the back of the yard unearthed a .32 Magnum Taurus Revolver.

The gun was loaded with rounds and concealed in a black plastic bag among the scrap metal.

The logger was told of the

Better Hope teen

The gun found on Vlissengen road

offence, cautioned and arrested. He is in police custody at the Mackenzie Police Station as investigations continue.

Meanwhile, ranks of ‘A’ Division are searching for two suspects who escaped from them on Tuesday, dropping their firearm in the pro-

The Taurus Revolver seized in Linden

cess. According to the police,at about 09:30 hrs, ranks on a motorcycle, conducting patrol on Vlissengen Road, observed the suspects proceeding in front of them on a CG motorcycle without the rear registration number plate and summoned them to stop.

However, instead of doing so, the pillion rider quickly took out a firearm from his waist and tossed it in the parapet and they sped away. The ranks promptly retrieved the weapon which was found to be a .380 pistol with five live rounds and went in pursuit of the men but without success. The weapon and ammunition have since been lodged.

POLICE are seeking legal advice to institute a charge against a Better Hope, East Coast Demerara man who is accused of killing his 18-year-old son, Commander of ‘C’ Division,Senior Superintendent Kevin Adonis has confirmed.

Azeez Khan, a labourer of Lot 8 Better Hope, East Coast Demerara (ECD) died on May 5 at the Georgetown Public Hospital, one day after being rushed there in an unconscious state. At the time, the 40-year-old father claimed that the youth had fallen from a ladder at his place of work.

However, a post-mortem examination found that the young man died from hemorrhage, due to blunt trauma

Dead: Azeez Khan

to the head.

The father was called in for questioning by the Police and after being told of the findings of the post mortem, he reportedly admitted to hitting his son across the head with a piece of wood during an argument.

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Gov’t delivers on campaign promise – goes back to Bethany, urges toshao to be more proactive in community’s affairs GOVERNMENT has delivered on a campaign promise to residents of Bethany to return, once elected to office, and address the many challenges they face.

That promise was made good last Sunday when Vice-President and Minister of Indigenous Peoples Affairs’, Mr Sydney Allicock led a team to the indigenous village, located approximately seven miles up the winding

Supenaam River.

The team included Regional Executive Officer, Mr. Rupert Hopkinson; Member of Parliament, Mr Hemraj Rajkumar; and several regional councillors.

The two residents who were the most vocal were Mr Banes Thomas and Ms Ramona Thomas, a midwife. The latter was primarily concerned about contractors going to the village unannounced, as was

the case just recently when one of the contractors and a team of workmen went to repair the Health Centre’s roof.

“We would see a contractor just come and start measuring; and I am responsible for the Health Centre,” Ms Thomas said.

“I would like to at least hear from the contractor what they are about, and not just walk in without saying anything to anybody. I would Part of the gathering at Sunday’s meeting between Bethany residents and the minister

like to see that changed,” she added.

And while the Health Centre’s roof has been successfully replaced, she also pointed to the need for special attention to be paid to its water system, toilet facilities, yard maintenance, and the provision of a cleaner, among other things.

A request was also made for the provision of fuel to the village on a needs basis to offset costs associated with transporting the sick to the hospital.

Of greater concern to residents, however, is the need for more consultation on projects being executed in the community.

“Many times villagers are not consulted on projects done in the village, and I believe that we, as a village, should be involved in whatever project is going on here, whether it’s being spearheaded by the region or the Ministry,” said Mr Thomas.

One of the reasons he raised the matter, Thomas said, is that many times, projects being executed there are done in a haphazard manner, since there is very little community involvement.

MORE PROACTIVE Having heard residents out, Minister Allicock told them that while it is the government’s intention to pay equal attention to each and every village, toshaos need to be more pro-active by disseminating information to the villagers, which will greatly help with alleviating some of the concerns they may have.

“There are 115 indigenous villages across the country, and we have to engage all of them,” he said.

“And since you are easier to access, you are at the centre; and so you are at an advantage, where you can get everything that can help

you move forward. Use the opportunity to get what you want,” he charged Bethanians.

On the issue of contractors going to the village unannounced, Minister Allicock called on the toshao to have it addressed immediately.

The REO agreed, saying that if villagers are to take ownership of projects being executed in their communities, they must be properly briefed as to what those projects entail.

Parents and teachers also sought the minister’s assistance with the provision of school furniture, since, according to Acting Headteacher, Miss Rhonda Grant, the school is woefully short on that particular commodity.

In response, the REO asked those residents who have the skill to produce furniture to take up the challenge, as it will boost the village’s economic prospects.

Other requests for intervention included supporting a school-feeding programme, and establishing a secondary department within the primary school, since, according to one single-parent, it would ease the financial strain on her of having to send her child to school on the coast daily.

A boat builder, one Mr. Fiedtkou, promised to provide the village with a boat and an outboard engine to transport secondary school children to and from school from the beginning of the new school year.

An issue that has been plaguing the village for more than two years, the minister heard, is the several failed attempts to regain control of the village’s Community Centre which is currently in the hands of a resident and former councillor.

The minister asked the REO to look into the matter, with the expectation that he would put it to rest.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, May 11, 2017

GDF Officer on first Atlantic voyage with Argentine counterparts THE Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Midshipman, Worren Mars is currently participating in a training programme on the Argentine Naval vessel, the “FRAGATA A.R.A. LIBERTAD”. This is the first time that a GDF officer is crossing the Atlantic Ocean with Argentinian counterparts.

The training programme forms part of a military cooperation between the Governments of Guyana and Argentina in the framework of bilateral relations between the two countries.

The ship left Argentina

in March on its forty-sixth voyage with a crew of over 300 men and women. It is expected to sail through the Western Hemisphere and across the Atlantic Ocean visiting the ports of Fortaleza, Brazil; Veracruz, Mexico; Charleston, United States; Miami, United States; and Den Helder, Netherlands.

They crew will disembark at Wilhelmshaven, Germany, on June 29.

Participating officers will have the opportunity to share experiences with Argentine counterparts from the Military Naval Academy, along with military personnel from

other countries, through academic activities, conferences, exhibitions on ports to visit, and protocol and cultural events. They will also be trained in navigation in international waters, as well as through channels, coves, gulfs and other waters with a narrow passage, and in access to ports.

In 2014 and 2016 GDF Midshipman Elveart Michael Andrews and Sub-Lieutenant Carlos Moore were part of the forty-fourth and forty-fifth annual Voyage of the “Libertad” in South America.

The “Fragata Libertad” made its first journey to Guyana

Argentine Naval vessel, the “FRAGATA A.R.A. LIBERTAD” on the Atlantic Ocean

Convicted drug lord’s wife jailed for 9 months THE reputed wife of convicted drug lord Barry Dataram was sentenced to nine months imprisonment on Wednesday for smuggling contraband into the Mazaruni Prison.

Anjanie Boodnarine, 21, of Lot 7, Patentia Housing Scheme, West Bank Demerara, was found guilty by Magistrate Christel Lambert at the Bartica Magistrate’s Court.

Boodnarine was on trial for smuggling a pack of cigarette for Dataram on March 31, 2017 at the Mazaruni Prison.

In April, Boodnarine appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan and was released on $150,000 bail after denying the charge; the matter was then transferred to the Bartica Magistrate’s court for trial.

According to reports, Boodnarine was reportedly

in the process of attempting to sneak in a quantity of cigarettes in a sealed packet of ‘cheese sticks’ when she was caught by prison officials during a mandatory check of the contents.

Dataram is currently serving a five year sentence at the Mazaruni Prison for cocaine possession, and an additional 48 months for forgery. He was also sentenced to three years imprisonment after he was found guilty of possession of ammunition.

In 2016, Boodnarine was charged with possession of ammunition after one hundred and eighty .223 rounds of live ammunition were found in her Diamond, East Bank Demerara home. She was also charged for having 129.23kg of cocaine in her possession for the purpose of trafficking.

Anjanie Boodnarine

However, Boodnarine and Dataram absconded to Suriname mere days before the trial Magistrate made her ruling in the drug possession case.

The couple, however, was arrested and extradited to Guyana, where they were slapped with forgery related charges and Boodnarine was eventually freed.

on July 16, 2011, and subsequently on July 6, 2012.

Bilateral relations between Argentina and Guy-

ana were established on October 6, 1972.

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‘Green Machine’ optimistic of good cresult against Barbados – coach

By Rawle Toney THE Guyana Rugby Football Union (GRFU) yesterday named its 23-man squad for the May 13 engagement against Barbados in the Land of the Flying Fish.

Guyana, the Rugby Americas North (RAN) 15s South Zone champions, will begin their title defence quest at the Garrison Field, in a game the team’s head coach Kenneth Grant-Stuart said he is optimistic of a positive result.

The last time Guyana faced Barbados, the Guyanese ruggers walked away 39-5 at the National Park, but this time around, Grant-Stuart said he’s expecting a tough match-up from the ‘Bajans’, especially given the fact that they will be playing at home.

“We all know Barbados are a team with size, so that’s their strength. Everyone knows Guyana rely heavily on speed and agility; so we’re working on some strategy for when they try to contain tha,” Grant-Stuart told Chronicle Sport.

Known as the ‘Green Machine’, Guyana’s national rugby players are more popular for their success in the game’s shorter version – Sevens – but are also a force to be reckoned with in 15s Rugby.

Grant-Stuart pointed out that he’s pleased with the composition of the

squad, adding, “We have Vallon Adams coming in as well as Ahmed Isaacs.

They’re both playing in the USA and only last week had competition. We have both speed and toughness to match Barbados, so as it relates to the squad, we’re good. Just fine-tuning some stuff before we leave.”

Guyana’s 15s ruggers will wing out for Barbados tomorrow, ahead of their showdown on Saturday. The Guyanese will return home on Monday.

The Green Machine will then face foes Trinidad and Tobago at the National Park Rugby Field on June 10 in a rematch of last year’s South Zone final. The last time the two countries met, Guyana walked away 23-18 winners.

The Green Machine are the current runners-up to Mexico in the Regional RAN 15s Championships as well as Current RAN 7s Caribbean Champion.

Squad:: Ryan Gonsalves (captain), Richard Staglon (vice-captain), Avery Corbin, Peabo Hamilton, Ronald Mayers, Godfrey Broomes, Dwayne Schroeder, Sean Phillips, Vallon Adams, Ahmed Isaacs, Rondel McArthur, Jason Tyrell, Allain Crawford, Kevon David, Jamal Angus, Troyton Braithwaite, Patrick King, Joseph Rahaman, Cyon Kitt, Toby David, Osie Mckenzie, Rickford Cummings and Blaise Bailey.

Gayle apologises for dismal RCB season OUT-of-form West Indies batting star Chris Gayle has apologised for the dismal performance of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in this season’s Indian Premier League (IPL).

RCB have found themselves at the bottom of the table fol-

lowing a wretched campaign to date that has seen the team, which made an appearance in last year’s final, win just two of 13 matches played. The Virat Kohli-led side, who are already out of playoff contention, currently sit at the bottom of the table.

Gayle, whose struggles have at times typified the team’s underperformance, scored just 152 runs in eight matches he played, at a strike rate of 121.66, his second lowest in all IPL seasons.

“I cannot be happy with my performance and with my team’s performance as well.

It’s been disappointing,” Gayle said.

“Apologies to the fans. We all are hurt. It’s amazing how they (fans) still come to the stadium and support us. I hope to do better next year,” he added.

The big left-hander, who was dropped for a few games, wasn’t the only player to underperform as batting stars Kohli and AB de Villers also had poor seasons. RCB will conclude this year’s sojourn in the tournament on Sunday with a game against Delhi Daredevils. (Sportsmax)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, May 11, 2017

Finger pointed at Infantino after FIFA ethics heads ousted

By Simon Evans

MANAMA, (Reuters) - FIFA has given no explanation for ousting the two heads of its Ethics Committee, but the move has led some to point the finger at president Gianni Infantino and left those hoping for reform at world football’s governing body feeling uneasy.

FIFA’s decision not to renew the mandate of chief ethics investigator Cornel Borbely and chief ethics judge Hans-Joachim Eckert - the men who banned former FIFA head Sepp Blatter and Michel Platini from the game - came at Tuesday’s meeting of its ruling council.

None of the council members had time to explain the decision to the media on their way out of the meeting, instead hurrying onto a bus to go for dinner at a five-star hotel in the Bahraini capital.

There some spoke off the record about an admin-

FIFA president Gianni Infantino

istrative hiccup, with the Ethics heads having forgotten to put forward their nominations, while others suggested the pair were too costly for the organisation.

There was also talk that the Ethics Committee was seen as too ‘Euro-centric’. Eckert is German and Borbely is Swiss.

These arguments were dismissed by the pair themselves, however, when they spoke to media yesterday in a sparse

room overlooking the venue for FIFA’s congress today.

They warned that the move would lead to valuable knowledge and experience being lost as their replacements, Colombian investigator Maria Claudia Rojas and judge Vassilios Skouris of Greece, will start from scratch on “several hundred” cases.

FIFA’s list of nominations for committee heads also indicated the removal of Miguel Maduro, a former

Mishra fires Delhi to victory after Iyer heroics AFTER a career-best 96 from Shreyas Iyer, Delhi Daredevils needed successive boundaries from Amit Mishra in the final over to get past Gujarat Lions with two wickets to spare.

The victory puts Delhi above their opponents in the Indian Premier (IPL) points table, but both knew before the toss their chances of reaching the knockout stages had already gone.

Iyer’s impressive knock proved decisive but Delhi needed the experience of Mishra to guide them to a third win in four games - a run they hope to continue in the final two matches.

Gujarat lost Dwayne Smith (8) and Suresh Raina (6) cheaply early on but Ishan Kishan (34) and Dinesh Karthik (40) ably supported Aaron Finch in setting a competitive total.

Finch has struggled to fire for the Lions but he was in good nick yesterday with a superb 69 off just 39 balls - an innings that included six boundaries and four maximums.

Shreyas Iyer makes room and cuts the ball square during his career-best 96.

A total of 196 looked to be a competitive one and Delhi stuttered early on, as Sanju Samson (10) and Rishabh Pant (4) were dismissed cheaply, the latter paying the price for not grounding his bat and he was run-out by Raina.

Unfortunately for the Lions a second win on the trot was not forthcoming as Iyer played a starring role in the middle order - the 22-yearold exceeding his previous T20 best by 10 runs.

Despite Iyer’s resistance, wickets continued to fall but a quick-fire 24 from

Pat Cummins brought them to within touching distance of victory.

Cummins holed out to Smith in the deep in the penultimate over and when Iyer was cleaned up by Basil Thampi (1-43) with four balls remaining it looked like Gujarat could snatch the win.

H o w e v e r, M i s h r a came to Delhi’s rescue with a boundary through mid-wicket and another at fine leg - although the winning run came courtesy of a mis-field in the deep.

(Omnisport)

government minister in Portugal, who had been head of the Governance Committee, which had a key role on reforms.

Rumours of the changes had been circulating for a while but, typically of the FIFA world, had been dismissed as gossip just a few weeks ago.

In late March, FIFA general secretary Fatma Samoura told Switzerland’s Tages-Anzeiger newspaper there was no basis to reports that Borbely and Eckert would be axed.

German FA president Reinhard Grindel, a member of the Council, said he had received a similar message when he checked with Samoura’s office on Monday this week if anything was planned against the Ethics Committee heads.

“I asked the day before at the office of the General Secretary if there were any announcements that Borbely and Eckert will be displaced and they said no, they had no information.”

Nevertheless, Grindel, who defended his compatriot Eckert at the meeting, had no doubt who was behind the decision.

“You have to ask Infantino why he made this proposal,” he said. “It is a decision of the president.”

But Infantino himself has been silent on the reasons behind the moves.

“The concern is that it is a purge for reasons of self-interest from the FIFA president,” said reform campaigner Jamie Fuller of campaign group ‘New FIFA Now’ who compared the Swiss to his compatriot Blatter.

“The decisions of the Council and so many actions of Mr Infantino’s administration are no more trustworthy than his predecessors,” he said.

On the other hand, at least one supporter of Infantino defended Tuesday’s decision, with CONCACAF’s Canadian president Victor Montagliani rejecting Borbely and Eckert’s view that

their replacement marked the death of reforms.

“With all due respect to their opinions I don’t believe that at all .... Yes, the ethics committees are very important but it’s not like we replaced them with non-independent people,” he said.

“It’s been way overblown from a hype perspective. Maybe it’s my Canadian background; I’m a little uncomfortable when judges start speaking in the media, either during their tenure or even after their tenure. I think that is quite unprofessional, quite frankly,” he said.

Montagliani was talking after a press conference promoting the bid of three CONCACAF members - the United States, Canada and Mexico - to host the 2026 World Cup. The men in charge of FIFA’s ethics campaign may be out of a job, but the business of football’s global body continues.

Rain, Azhar keep Windies ...

Continued from back page intent, twice depositing Chase over the ropes – first over long on and then over mid-wicket – in successive overs.

Rain delayed the resumption by nearly 40 minutes and when play finally got underway, only two overs were sent down before the adverse weather returned to drive players from the field again, with Pakistan on 75 without further loss.

When play finally got underway again under clearer skies following the scheduled tea break, the Windies missed a chance to put Pakistan on the back foot when wicketkeeper Shane Dowrich dropped a chance off Azam on 28 after the right-hander edged leg-spinner Devendra Bishoo behind, in the third over after the resumption.

He made the most of the opportunity, gathering his fourth Test half-century in his ninth outing, all told spending 124 balls at the crease and striking three fours.

Operating in the fourth over of a new spell, Joseph got the breakthrough when he had Azam caught at first slip by Kieran Powell after the 22-yearold batsman tried to pull out of a stroke but managed instead to nick the ball into the cordon, leaving Pakistan on 139 for two.

Azhar, unbeaten on 36

Azhar Ali nails a cut during his unbeaten 85 on the opening day in Dominica.

at lunch, had earlier brought up his 26th half-century in Tests, an hour after tea when he stroked Bishoo through point for a couple.

He then cashed in on loose balls from Holder, clipping the lanky seamer to the fine leg boundary and steering him over slips for another four, in an over that leaked 10 runs.

Azhar also slapped Gabriel behind point for his fifth four to move into the 70s before slog-sweeping Chase to the ropes at mid-wicket to ease into the 80s.

He has so far put on 30 with Younis who is yet to reg-

ister a boundary in 44 balls at the crease.

The three-match series is tied 1-1.

SCOREBOARD PAKISTAN 1st innings Azhar Ali not out 85 Shan Masood c Holderb Chase 9 Babar Azam c K. Powell b Joseph 55 Younis Khan not out 10 Extras: (b-1, lb-4, nb-3, w-2) 10 Total: (for 2 wickets, 69 overs) 169 Fall of wickets: 1-19, 2-139.

Bowling: S. Gabriel 19-6-32-0 (nb-3, w-1), A. Joseph 14-4-39-1, R. Chase 10-3-27-1, J. Holder 14-4-30-0 (w-1), D. Bishoo 120-36-0.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, May 11, 2017

Real survive early Atletico onslaught to reach final

By Rik Sharma | MADRID, Spain (Reuters) - Real Madrid survived an early Atletico Madrid onslaught to reach the Champions League final, 4-2 on aggregate yesterday and set up a mouth-watering clash against Juventus.

Atletico roared into a two-goal lead in the semi-final second leg with a Saul Niguez header and Antoine Griezmann’s penalty, but Isco notched in the 42nd minute for Real who saw out the game calmly to lose 2-1 on the night and ease into the final.

Real, who won the first leg at home 3-0, have now eliminated Atletico from the competition in four consec-

utive seasons, including the 2014 and 2016 finals.

Zinedine Zidane’s side can become the first team to retain the Champions League title when they face his former club Juventus in the final in Cardiff on June 3.

“It’s special, for sure, (Juventus) gave me everything,” Zidane told reporters. “But I’m with Real Madrid, another club of my life. It will be a beautiful final.”

Atletico’s final European game at the Vicente Calderon before they move stadiums will be remembered for the fantastic atmosphere the supporters created as they tried to help their team overcome their arch-rivals.

Real Madrid’s Cristiano Ronaldo celebrates after the match. (Reuters/Sergio Perez Livepic)

But Simeone’s men could not break their European curse against Real.

“The first 20 minutes of this magic night at the Calderon will be remembered

forever,” the Atletico coach said. “We have to be proud of the players. They kept hope, showing we weren’t talking for the sake of talking but because we believed.”

Driven on by the deafening Calderon, Atletico started well, creating more danger in the opening minutes than they managed in the entire first leg before Saul nodded home Koke’s corner in the 12th minute.

When Raphael Varane brought down Fernando Torres four minutes later and Antoine Griezmann converted the penalty, the comeback seemed a real possibility.

But Real, who last failed to score 61 games ago, were not to be denied. Karim Ben-

zema’s sensational solo dribble on the left byline took out three Atletico defenders and he cut the ball back for Toni Kroos to drive a shot at goal.

Jan Oblak made an excellent save to keep the German at bay but Isco was on hand to poke home from close range and give Real a precious away goal.

Atletico continued to press but Navas pulled off a fine double save to deny Yannick Carrasco and Kevin Gameiro.

Cristiano Ronaldo thought he had added a second for Real but it was harshly ruled out for offside and the visitors calmly kept possession in the closing minutes to stay on course for a 12th European Cup.

FORMER National Under-15 opening batsman Mark Williams has been appointed captain of the Essequibo Under-19 squad to contest this year’s inter-county tournament which is scheduled to start on Wednesday, May 17, in Georgetown.

The squad also includes talented all-rounders Joshua Jones and Sheldon Charles, both having represented Guyana at the youth level.

According to a release from the Essequibo Cricket Board, the squad was encamped at the ECB Hostel and was involved in three days of organised practice

matches before their departure for the tournament, which will involve the three counties along with the national Under-17 team.

The 15-man squad reads:- Mark Williams captain, Sachin Persaud, Kurt Lovell, Adrian Campbell, Mark Ramsammy, Joshua Jones, Quinton Sampson, Beesham Moses, Leslie Allen, Sheldon Charles, Mahindra Persaud, Chanderpaul Mohabir, Kellen Davis, Joel Fortune and Azeem Habib.

The manager is Loaknauth Persaud while Andy Ramnarine will serve as coach. (Elroy Stephney)

GCB donates brush cutter to EBCA Williams to captain Essequibo U-19 Inter-county squad

GCB Territorial Development Officer, Colin Stuart, (right) hands over the brush cutter to representatives of EBDCA in the presence of cricketers from the East Bank District.

THE Guyana Cricket Board (GCB), through its structural development programme, presented a Honda brush cutter to the East Bank Cricket Association (EBCA).

The brush cutter was given for the purpose of maintaining training and playing

facilities. In this case, the target location is the EBCA jurisdiction.

The GCB hopes that this contribution will assist the EBCA in delivering their duties and responsibilities in a more efficient manner, and that the players will be the main beneficiaries of such a

donation.

This timely and valuable contribution is a demonstration of the GCB’s continued effort to collaboratively organise, develop and promote cricket in Guyana.

President of the EBCA, Anand Kalladeen, who is also a member of the GCB

executive, was very instrumental in formulating a strategic ground development plan.

The donation of the brush cutter was derived from such a plan, where this valuable donation is expected to be of tremendous benefit to the EBCA.

Rising Stars Track Club’s 5K and 10K Health run set for May 21 THE Rising Stars Track Club, in collaboration with the Office of the President and the Guyana Community of Service, will stage an Independence 5K Health and Fitness Walk as well as a 5K and a 10K run on May 21 beginning at 16:00hrs from Square of the Rev-

olution.

According to race organiser Leslie Black, all participants will receive a souvenir medal as well as a T-shirt.

The 5K and 10K run will however see the top performers receive trophies and cash prizes.

Interested persons are

asked to contact telephone numbers 673-8829 or 6687897 The event is being sponsored by Beverage giant Banks DIH Limited, Antartic Maintenance and Repairs, E-Networks, Ansa McAl, Toucan Industries Inc., Ming’s Products and Services, Metro

Office and Stationery Supplies, Car Care Enterprises and Auto Sales, Star Party Rentals, Wartsila, Corona Extra, BK Inc., S & L Electrical, Real Value Supermarket, Payless Variety Store, Office of the President, Kevin Jeffrey and Ministry of Indigenous People’s Affairs.

Captain Mark Williams

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, May 11, 2017

Manohar to continue as ICC chairman until 2018 (REUTERS) - India’s Shashank Manohar has withdrawn his resignation as chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC) and will complete his term which ends in June next year, the governing body said yesterday.

A lawyer by profession, Manohar had resigned in March citing personal reasons, having been elected unopposed on a two-year term as the ICC’s first inde-

India’s Shashank Manohar to complete his term as ICC chairman.

Blairmont CC to hold GCUC fundraiser on Sunday

THE Blairmont Cricket Club will be hosting its inaugural Umpires Cup fundraiser on Sunday at the Blairmont Community Development Centre ground, in aid of the Guyana Cricket Umpires Council (GCUC).

The day’s event will feature 10/10 cricket, involving D’Edward Super Kings, Blairmont Blazers, Shieldstown Rangers, Young and the Restless, Bmont Titans and No 48 Challengers.

There will be a dominoes competition, checkers and volleyball.

Interested individuals for dominoes and volleyball can contact Shabeer Baksh on telephone numbers

628-6767 and 6275215 for more information.

Other attractions include BBQ sales, tassa drumming, ice cream giveaways, live commentary and a cartoon character walk around.

The GCUC will be seeking to send six members including president Dhieranidranauth Somwaru and former international umpire Eddie Nicholls to an umpire convention in Jamaica from July 1 to 8.

Participants of the convention will come from Canada, USA, and the Caribbean cricket territories. The cost per person is estimated to be US$1 680.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Thursday May 11, 2017) COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPAMY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) PAK vs ENG, Karachi, 1972-73 (2) George Headley-223 (WI vs ENG, Jamaica, 1930) Today’s Quiz: (1) Put these in order beginning with the man who has scored

most Test runs against Pakistan: Shiv Chanderpaul, Desmond

Haynes, Gary Sobers, Carl Hooper (2) Which two teams have reached the IPL final but have

never won the title?

ANSWERS IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE

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pendent chairman in May last year.

After being persuaded by the ICC board, the 59-year-old later deferred his resignation, saying he will step down after the annual conference in June, when administrative reforms of the governing body would be complete.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) today confirmed Shashank Manohar will continue to function as

the Independent Chairman of ICC until the end of his elected term which is June 2018,” in a statement.

Former Indian cricket board (BCCI) president Manohar has led the governing body’s move to reverse the 2014 decision which effectively put India, England and Australia in control of the game’s finances and administration.

At last month’s meeting in its Dubai headquarters, the

ICC board voted for a new financial model and governance structure to address the imbalance.

The BCCI was the only board to oppose the new financial model and was one of the two that voted against a revised constitution, which will allow the ICC to include additional full members in the future.

The decisions will have to be ratified at the ICC’s annual conference in June.

SCA 2017 to get underway this weekend … Added incentives for participating players

By Frederick Halley TORONTO, Canada - Despite the somewhat unseasonal weather and what is expected to be soggy outfields, occasioned by last weekend’s consistent showers, the Scarborough Cricket Association (SCA) 2017 season is set to get underway here on Saturday with matches in the premier, first and second divisions.

The Elite League, which was introduced in 2016, commences on Sunday while the women go into action on Sunday, June 4.

Still battling with the loss of one of its premier venue, Ellesemere, which according to SCA president Shiv Persaud affected the T20 competition and the regular season playoffs last year, the SCA is aiming for a September ending instead of what took place in 2016 when it was forced to extend the season to October.

The introduction of the eight-team Elite League in 2016 which followed a six-year dominance by Hawaiian Arctic Cricket Club (HACC) in the Premiere League, also saw a changing of the guard with Victoria Park Cricket Club (VPCC) enjoying a fruitful season and emerging as the undisputed champions.

VPCC, which included former Guyana Under-19 all-rounder and captain Eugene LaFleur made light work of Scarborough Cricket Club (SCC) in a lopsided final, played at the Ashtonbee ground, after earlier disposing of HACC in the previous weekend’s semi-final encounter, which was played at the same venue.

It was also a second consecutive final defeat for SCC following their loss to HACC in the 2015 Premiere League final.

While Victoria Park were celebrating in grand style, Toronto Cricketers were also marking their entry into the Elite

League with a hard-fought 29run win over archrivals Islanders in the Premiere League final, played on the adjoining ground.

VPCC are expected once more to feature the bowlers who were responsible for the destruction of both SCC and HACC - leftarm spinner Parth Desai and leg-spinner Shailesh Patel, who spun webs around their opponents. Their batting hinges on LaFleur, Krunal Patel, Shailesh Patel, Anand Erramilli and Aashin Patwari.

HACC, who are aiming to bounce back into the reckoning this year, will see a new player at the helm, with former Guyana

HACC rack up a whopping 618 for six in their allotted 50 overs.

He is also a useful off-spinner.

Among the other batsmen, who are expected to feature prominently are former Guyana and West Indies B team player Krishna Arjune, Hanif, Azhad Amidon, Reyaz Prahalad, who missed most of last year because of injury, Damodar Daesrath, Zaheer Allard, Farook Hussain and Looknauth Ramsuchit. Former Guyana and West Indies One-day player Royston Crandon is also expected to be available for some matches.

Among the bowlers expected to feature are left-arm spinner

ship honours following defeat in last year’s final.

An added incentive for clubs this year is the SCA’s stated intention of approaching Cricket Canada, the governing body for cricket here with a view of exploring the way forward regarding players’ eligibility to represent Canada.

The SCA’s decision was sparked after its women cricketers were shunned by Cricket Canada when their scheduled game against the touring MCC women’s team was called off a few days before it was scheduled to be played last September, prompting president Persaud

FLASHBACK: Victoria Park Cricket Club players and officials celebrate their Elite League triumph last season.

wicketkeeper/batsman Azib Ali Hanif taking over the reins from long-standing skipper Hemnarine Chattergoon who announced his retirement at the end of last season.

However, while one Chattergoon is leaving, another in the form of his brother, former Guyana Under-19 opener Harrinarine Chattergoon is returning after a one-year hiatus.

It will be recalled that Chattergoon holds the record for the highest individual score in the Premiere League, a record-breaking 268 against Durham in the 2015 which saw

Imran Khan, who claimed the most wickets last year, Allard, Daesrath, Bim Bodhoo and Chattergoon.

Not to be outdone, the other clubs, Ambassadors, Maple, Superstars/Islanders, Highland Creek and Toronto Cricketers are all raring to go in what should be a highly contested Elite League.

It also promises to be keen rivalry between defending champions Kaisoca and Superstars for supremacy among the four women’s teams, with the latter vowing to dethrone their opponents and regain champion-

to declare that although his members were disappointed and heartbroken, they became more united.

Reflecting on the 2016 season, Persaud disclosed that there were many areas “that we have started planning and exploring to build on our successes in 2017, for example, structuring our junior division for Under-13, Under-16 and Under-19; contesting regular season finals at different times during the season and allowing our women cricketers to play at different venues and possibly games under lights.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, May 11, 2017

Over sixty athletes named in the Guyana squad for SA Junior Championships … Encampment and training began last weekend

A SQUAD of a whopping 65 athletes, drawn from 11 different clubs, has been put together by the Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG for next month’s South American Junior Championships, set for the National Track and Field Centre at Leonora from June 3 to 4.

The squad will be led by the athletes who recently represented Guyana at the CARIFTA Games, including gold medallists Compton Caesar, Chantoba Bright, Claudrice McKoy, Natrena Hooper, and silver medallist Anfernee Headecker.

The list includes several athletes from clubs outside of Georgetown, apart from Linden. The squad includes Super Upcoming Runners’ athletes from Berbice, while Region One athlete Ricky Williams is listed as representing athletes from Mercury Fast Laners Club.

CARIFTA Boys 100m gold medallist Compton Caesar

The team also includes at least two overseas-based athletes in Hooper and Guyana Defence Force’s Collia Rowe.

A one-month intermittent encampment, began last weekend, May 5, and will conclude on May 28. The athletes will be housed at the National Gymnasium, Mandela Avenue.

CARIFTA Games gold medallist Chantoba Bright

They are being trained by a number of coaches including Anson Ambrose, Johnny Gravesande, Julian Edmonds, Christopher Gaskin, Moses Pantlitz, Robert Chisholm, Rawle Griffith and Quincy Clarke, as well as Kenisha Headley.

Looking to use homeground advantage, the AAG

CARIFTA Games gold medallist Claudrice Mckoy

hopes to have maximum participation at this international meet. Guyana will be allowed two athletes per event. The competition comprises 41 individual and four relay events.

However, meeting a maxi-

CARIFTA Games silver medallist Anfernee Headecker

mum quota of three athletes in all the events will pose somewhat of a problem for the local side, since Guyana does not traditionally train for or participate in several athletic events.

Guyana will be challenged to field athletes in the

hurdles as well as the pole vault, steeplechase, hammer throw, decathlon and hepthalon events. Notwithstanding this, Guyana over the past few years made a few small strides in the participation of hurdles events.

Manager for the team, Cornel Rose, told Chronicle Sport that the issue is being looked at, and that by next weekend an assessment will be done to know if Guyana will be able to find athletes for these non-traditional events.

“We’re trying to, but based on what we see (next) weekend here, we will be able to make a definite decision on that. The coaches are working on that,” Rose explained.

Moreover, not all of the athletes on the long list may necessarily make up the final team, as the athletes “will be required to meet set guidelines for further selective process,” according to Rose.

Afghan selectors opt for experience Johnson to participate at CONCACAF Targeted Advanced Referee Programme in squads for Windies tour KABUL, Afghanistan (CMC) – Afghanistan selectors have opted for experience in two squads chosen to tour West Indies for three One-Day Internationals and Twenty20 Internationals next month.

Captain Asghar Stanikzai, Najibullah Zadran, Mohammad Nabi and Gulbadin Naib, all fixtures in the national side’s set-up in recent years, have been included in both squads for the June 2-14 limited overs series.

“The West Indies are an experienced team and the Afghanistan Cricket Board has done its best to select experienced players for the series,” said chief selector Nawroz Mangal.

Missing, however, is Afghanistan’s leading batsman and opener Mohammad Shehzad who was recently banned by the International Cricket Council after testing positive for the banned substance clenbuterol in January.

In his absence, Stanikzai will shoulder much of the responsibility of the batting. He has been in good form this year with a first-class hundred and an ODI hundred against Ireland last March.

The ACB also said the squad would spend just over two weeks in India preparing

Asghar Stanikzai will carry the burden of the batting.

for the West Indies assignment.

“The team will travel to India on May 11 and will have training sessions for 15 days so that they are further prepared for the matches against West Indies,” Mangal confirmed.

The T20I series will be played at Warner Park in St Kitts June 2-5 with the ODI series set for the Darren Sammy National Stadium in St Lucia from June 9 to 14.

Afghanistan open the series with a one-day tour match in St Kitts.

SQUADS: ODI – Asghar Stanikzai, Noor Ali Zadran, Javid Ah-

madi, Usman Ghani, Rahmat Shah Zarmati, Nasir Jamal, Mohammad Nabi, Samiullah Shenwari, Gulbuddin Naib, Rashid Khan Arman, Shafiqullah Shafaq, Shapoor Zadran, Amira Hamza Hotak, Dawlat Zadran, Afsar Zazai, Farid Malik.

T20I – Asghar Stanikzai, Noor Ali Zadran, Javid Ahmadi, Usman Ghani, Mohammad Nabi, Samiullah Shenwari, Najeeb Zadran, Gulbaddin Naib, Rashid Khan Arman, Shafiqullah Shafaq, Shapoor Zadran, Amira Hamza Hotak, Farid Malik, Dawlat Zadran, Karim Janat.

GLADWYN Johnson will be Guyana’s representative at the May 11-14 CONCACAF Targeted Advanced Referee Programme (TARP), scheduled for Dallas, Texas.

A release from the GFF states that Johnson will be among nine participating referees; four of whom will be from the Caribbean Football Union (CFU) region (Cuba, Jamaica and Trinidad & Tobago).

“It’s a blessing for me to be a part of this prestigious course and to be around all the top assessors, instructors and referees in CONCACAF. It’s always a great learning experience towards my becoming the best referee I can be. Upon my return, I will share the information acquired with my fellow referees so that our standard of refereeing in Guyana would improve,” Johnson said.

The Elite referee, who has been a referee for six years and is in his first year as a FIFA referee, added that his participation in the TARP is a “great achievement” for him and he is thankful to CONCACAF, the Guyana Football Federation (GFF), his employers at the Guyana Sugar Corporation – GuySuCo (Blairmont Estate), his wife and family for the support provided.

“We have the potential

Gladwin Johnson

here. Persons need to commit themselves to the programme, said Stanley Lancaster, Head of GFF’s Refereeing Department.

“When given the opportunity, they need to showcase their skills and true potential so that they can be recognised because CONCACAF and FIFA are continuously looking for talent that the Caribbean possesses.

Based on information received, they have seen that potential in Gladwyn, hence the reason for his selection,” Lancaster added.

Asked about the impact Johnson’s participation will have on the national programme, Lancaster pointed out “this will definitely be a boost to the local programme as it should serve as encouragement to other national referees.”

“Gladwyn, in his first year as a FIFA referee as of January 2017, has already participated in three appointments and now is in this course – what we term as CONCACAF World Cup – the Gold Cup seminar, followed by the Gold Cup in June.

“So, it’s a plus for the local officials once they look at it in a positive way to see that this step can be accomplished by anyone. It requires commitment, adaptation to the training, reading, interpreting and applying the knowledge and maintaining a high level of fitness,” Lancaster noted.

The course will focus on physical fitness testing, practical and technical training and classroom and field sessions, including video tests.

The physical fitness testing is a requirement for FIFA World Cup referee participation.

According to CONCACAF, the TARP will be conducted simultaneously with the CONCACAF 2017 Gold Cup Pre-Tournament Referees Course and though participants will most likely not be match officials of the named tournament, they will participate in the group phase of the tournament and serve as fourth officials and replacement referees as required.

Over sixty athletes named in the Guyana squad for See SA Junior Page 27 Championships

‘Green Machine’ optimistic of good result against Barbados – coach … GRFU names 23-man squad

Green Machine head coach Kenneth Grant-Stuart (first from left) takes his team through training yesterday. (Samuel Maughn photos)

See Page 23

Green Machine captain Ryan Gonsalves at practice yesterday

Rain, Azhar keep Windies at bay on opening day ROSEAU, Dominica (CMC) – West Indies were frustrated by rainy weather along with half-centuries from Azhar Ali and Babar Azam, as Pakistan got the better of the exchanges on the opening day of the decisive third Test here yesterday.

Rain, which savaged the post-lunch session, allowed for only 69 overs at Windsor Park, but Pakistan kept their wits about them to navigate the interruptions and reach 169 for two at the close.

Azhar was eyeing his second century of the series unbeaten on 85 while veteran outstanding right-hander Younis Khan, in his final match in international cricket, was on 10 not out.

Babar Azam struck a solid 55 but perished in the final session to be just one of two wickets to fall in the truncated day’s play.

He and Azhar added 120 for the second wicket after left-handed opener Shan Masood fell cheaply in the opening session for just nine.

The right-handed Azhar, who struck a century in the Kensington Oval Test last week, has faced 219 balls in a patient

knock and struck seven fours and two sixes.

He now also requires 77 more runs to pass 5 000 runs in his 60th Test.

It was his enterprise which ensured Pakistan a productive first session after they were sent in by West Indies on a sluggish pitch offering precious little to the faster bowlers.

He and Masood looked at ease against new-ball bowlers Shannon Gabriel and Alzarri Joseph and West Indies turned to spin from as early as the ninth over, with the move paying dividends.

Chase, who beat Masood a couple of times with ones that spun, struck on the stroke of the first hour when he had the batsman edging a defensive prod low to captain Jason Holder at second slip with the score on 19.

However, Azhar and Azam then denied West Indies any further success, batting purposefully to guide Pakistan safely to lunch at 70 for one.

Azhar, in particular, showed positive

Turn to page 24

Younis Khan, playing his final Test, walked out to a guard of honour from Jason Holder and his men. He stayed unbeaten on 10, as Pakistan closed the day at 169 for 2. (AFP)

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THURSDAY, MAY 11, 2017