Guyana Chronicle E - Paper 24 02 2016

No. 104472

WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 24, 2016

Price: $80

Patriotism returns - as giant Golden Arrowhead soars

(Vat Inclusive)

Page 11

Thousands packed the Jubilee Stadium at Durban Park to witness the historic hoisting of the 50-foot Golden Arrowhead as Guyana celebrated 46 years as a Republic yesterday (Cullen Bess-Nelson photo)

Biker dies Balram Persaud in Hope smash-up passes on

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- President bestows MS on outstanding groups Page 3

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 24, 2016

Scenes from yesterday’s historic flag-raising ceremony

‘Job well done!’ President David Granger seems to be saying as he greets Chief-ofStaff of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Brigadier Mark Phillips after the formalities.

At right is First Lady, Mrs Sandra Granger

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo and his wife, Mrs Sita Nagamootoo as they were about to leave at the end of the ceremony

Members of the GDF and GPF during the procession (Photos by Cullen Bess-Nelson)

The Golden Arrowhead making its ascent

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 24, 2016

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- President bestows Medal of Service on outstanding groups

By Tajeram Mohabir AMID much fanfare, 12 civil society groups from across Guyana were bestowed the Medal of Service

by President David Granger in recognition of their inspirational and outstanding contributions to national development.

The lively but dignified occasion was graced by acting Chancellor of the Judiciary Carl Singh; retired army officers; members of the arts and community development, among others of civil society, and held at the Arthur Chung Convention Centre, Liliendaal, Greater Geogetown.

With a drum roll, a gentle walk down a narrow aisle, a bow of respect to His Excellency President Granger, representatives of the 12 groups, one by one, on the call of the name of their group, in a stately manner, got up and strode to the President, who warmly received and honoured them.

The groups honoured on Tuesday, Republic Day, were the African Cultural and Development Association, the Central Assembly of God Church, the ER Burrowes School of Art, the Guyana Islamic Trust, the Guyana Veterans Legion, the Makushi Research Unit, Mings Products and Services Limited, the National Dance Company of Guyana, the Roadside Baptist Church Skills Training Centre Inc, the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club, the South-Central People's Development Association, and the Theatre Guild of Guyana.

The Investiture Ceremony was in keeping with a promise by President Granger to honour men, women and organisations who/which have made outstanding contributions in promoting peace, social cohesion and national development.

The Medal of Service honours associations, corporations, organisations and other groups for their sacrifice, selflessness, success and service to their communities, country and society.

President David Granger; Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo, his wife Sita Nagamootoo; and acting Chancellor of the Judiciary Carl Singh with the awardees (Ministry of the Presidency photo) Addressing the distinguished gathering, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces and Chancellor of the Orders of Guyana, President David Granger, said national awards are a supreme symbol of Guyana’s statehood.

GREATEST GIFT

The Theatre Guild's oldest surviving member, Daphne Rogers, is all smiles as the organisation is awarded for its outstanding work in the field of theatre arts (Ministry of the Presidency photo)

“They are the greatest gift that a grateful nation can offer. Awards are the embodiment of the spirit of our people; a spirit which is manifested similarly in our National Anthem, our National Flag and our inspirational National Motto – One People, One Nation, One Destiny,” he said.

National symbols are ordained by the Constitution of the Cooperative Republic of

Guyana, this country’s supreme law, and are cherished

by Guyanese.

“Their significance is not to be devalued. The Medals of Service which you received will not de-

preciate with the balance of trade. The parchment with which you have been presented will not disintegrate with age. The acclaim (Please turn to page eight)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 24, 2016

Mars recalls chocolate in 55 countries It covers mostly countries in Europe and does not extend to the US, where Mars is based.

The company has not said how many bars are affected or how much the recall will cost.

The UK’s Food Standards Agency (FSA) advised consumers not to eat the affected products and to contact Mars’ consumer care team on 0800 952 0084, recall@uk.mars.com or by post at Mars R1, FREEPOST, Mars Consumer Care.

Mars is one of the world’s biggest food companies, with 29 chocolate brands including M&M’s, Galaxy, Twix, Bounty and Maltesers. It also makes Wrigley gum, Uncle Ben’s Rice, Dolmio pasta sauce and Pedigree pet food.

The company is one of the largest privately-owned businesses in the US and had global sales of US$33B last year. (BBC)

CHOCOLATE maker Mars has ordered a recall of chocolate products in 55 countries.

In the UK, the products affected include funsize Mars and Milky Way bars and boxes of Celebrations.

In the Netherlands, Mars and Snickers bars were also affected.

It comes after a customer in Germany found bits of plastic in a Snickers bar in January. The plastic was traced back to the Mars factory in the southern town of Veghel in the Netherlands.

A Mars Netherlands spokesperson said: “We cannot be sure that this plastic was only in that particular Snickers. We do not want any products on the market that may not meet our quality requirements, so we decided to take them all back.”

The recall only involved products manufactured at the Dutch plant.

Obama in Guantanamo closure push THE White House has presented to Congress a plan to close the Guantanamo Bay detention facility, one of the President’s long-standing goals.

He wants to transfer the

remaining 91 detainees to their home countries or to US military or civilian prisons.

But Congress is deeply opposed to terror suspects being held on US soil and is expected to block the move.

The prison costs US$445M (£316M) to run annually and closing it was a 2009 promise from President Barack Obama.

Human rights campaigners have repeatedly complained about the prison in

Cuba, which has held 780 detainees since it opened in 2002.

The President told reporters on Tuesday it undermined national security.

“This is about closing a chapter in our history,” said Mr Obama. “It reflects the lessons we’ve learned since 9/11 - lessons that must guide our nation going forward.”

But Republican presidential candidate Marco Rubio

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was scathing in his criticism, saying Guantanamo prisoners do not belong on US soil.

“These are literally enemy combatants,” he said, adding he would ship terrorists straight to Guantanamo “to find out what they know”.

It estimates the move would save up to $180M (£128M) a year in cost savings.

The President, who will complete his second and

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final term in January, said it was important not to pass the problem on to his successor.

“Keeping this facility open is contrary to our values. It undermines our standing in the world. It is viewed as a stain on our broader record of upholding the highest standards of rule of law.’’

Guantanamo Bay is located on an American naval base in south eastern Cuba.

Former US President George W Bush opened it to accommodate foreign terror suspects after the 9/11 attacks on the US. One of the key com-

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plaints from human rights groups is that many detainees have been held there without charge or trial.

White House officials said they could not give any names of people being held, but the New York Times has its own list.

The Obama plan does not specify where in the US detainees would go.

But the Pentagon has considered 13 different locations in the US, including seven prisons in Colorado, South Carolina and Kansas, and six other places on military bases. (BBC)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 24, 2016

TT pollster finds momentum leaning to JLP THE February 25 General Election will come down to 14 marginal seats, which a new poll conducted by Trinidad- based political scientist Derek Ramsamooj shows is leaning towards the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP).

According to Ramsamooj, the privately commissioned poll conducted between Nomination Day (February 9) and the past weekend, before the JLP-and the govern-

ing People’s National Party (PNP)-hosted major rallies in Half-Way-Tree and Montego Bay, respectively, found that 51.76 per cent of electors in these marginal seats would vote for the JLP and 48.24 per cent for the PNP. “The political momentum at this point is leaning favourably towards the JLP forming the next Government. However, the winning of an election is based on the resources — financial and

human — and the [effectiveness] of the election machinery [on Election Day],” said Ramsamooj.

He warned, however, that any “unforeseen error” by either of the political parties in the next 48 hours will be a political disaster. Ramsamooj said he and his team interviewed 1,859 people for the poll, which has a margin of error of plus or minus four per cent.

“It has a 95 per cent con-

Peru oil spill pollutes Amazon rivers AT least 3,000 barrels of crude oil have been spilled in an Amazonian region after leaks from Peru’s main oil pipeline, the state oil company said.

The oil has polluted two rivers that at least eight indigenous communities rely on for water, the government and indigenous leaders said.

Petroperu has promised a full clean-up and is also providing food and water.

The company said the first leak was triggered by a landslide but the cause of the second rupture was unclear.

The oil has poured into the Chiriaco and Morona rivers in northwestern Peru, the government’s environment watchdog, OEFA, said.

The spill is affecting the Achuar community and heavy rains have hampered efforts to contain it, local indigenous leader Edwin Montenegro said.

The oil has spilled into two nearby rivers MORE ON PERU’S ACHUAR Peru’s Health Ministry has declared a water quality emergency in five districts and OEFA officials said Petroperu could face fines of up to US$17M (£12M) if the spills were found to have affected local people’s health.

In a statement, OEFA said the spills were “not isolated cases” and ordered the company to replace parts of the pipeline and improve maintenance.

Petroperu President Ger-

man Velasquez also denied reports the company had paid children to clean up the thick sludge.

However, Velasquez said he was considering firing four company officials, one of whom may have allowed children to collect oil.

The company was evaluating the 1970s-built pipeline to prevent future spills, he said.

The leaks have stopped the transportation of up to 6,000 barrels of oil a day.

(BBC)

A supporter of the People’s National Party (left) and a Jamaica Labour Party supporter display unity on Nomination Day factors would influence fidence level,” Ramsamooj and current Prime Minister. told the Jamaica Observer.

At the same time, when them to vote, 74.44 per cent He said that when Jamai- asked if Prime Minister Simp- of respondents said leadcans were asked who would son Miller deserves another ership; 71.37 per cent the make a better Prime Minister, term, 52.02 per cent said ‘no’ competence of candidates; 53.47 per cent said JLP Lead- and 41.41 per cent said ‘yes’. 69.74 per cent national iser Andrew Holness and 46.53 Some 6.51 per cent, he sues; and 61.30 per cent per cent Portia Simpson Mill- said, responded that they loyalty to party. (Jamaica er, the President of the PNP did not know. Asked what Observer)

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Editor-In-Chief

Nigel Williams Sunday Editor

Neil Marks

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

Editorial

The water cannon

IN 2010, the Government of Guyana, under a PPPled administration, approved the purchase of one Armoured Riot Water Cannon Truck.

According to the report of the forensic audit done by the professional auditing and accounting firm of Nizam Ali and Company, this purchase was made at the behest of then Minister of Home Affairs, Mr. Clement Rohee. This minister, it has been revealed, had advised his Cabinet colleagues that the Police Force needed the machine to engage in crowd control for the 2011 General and Regional Elections.

It has been learnt that the minister was never so advised by the police of the need for this machine, nor was the Force engaged in any consultation of this sort.

Further, Assistant Police Commissioner David Ramnarine is of the view that this vehicle is unsuitable for crowd dispersal here.

The purchasing cost for the vehicle ($20.8M) vis-avis what the public has been told was its price ($37M), coupled with the $1M already spent on repairs and needed maintenance costs, points to the importance of this audit.

This audit allows the tax-paying public an insight into how their money was and is being spent; and the process, or lack thereof, elected and appointed officials engaged on the people’s behalf.

While Mr. Rohee has insisted there was consultation with the Police Force through then Police Commissioner Henry Green -- who is now deceased and can tell no tale -- what holds our interest is the belief that a water cannon was needed.

A water cannon is considered one of the most barbaric methods to disperse a crowd. Those familiar with African-American Civil Rights struggles of the 1950s and 1960s -- to ensure the universality of the US Independence Declaration that “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal” -- saw the resulting barbarity of this machine. The velocity of water this machine spews at its targets often results in injuries. Known, too, is that the water cannons, ferocious dogs, and guns failed to kill the people’s spirit or suppress their desire. It took a while, yes, but the USA Government, through laws, policies and programmes,

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 24, 2016

Guidelines for Local Government Councils Dear Editor, GIVEN that there has been no local democratic renewal in Guyana for almost two decades, Guyanese understandably have numerous questions about local government. Unfortunately, this state of affairs lends itself to the spread of misinformation.

With that in mind, the Ministry of Communities continues its public education campaign. Please note the following facts: Structure and composition of councils Local government councils are composed of two elements: an elected council, headed by a Chairperson in the case of an NDC, and a Mayor in the case of a town (municipality). There is also an appointed body of administrators headed by an overseer (NDC) or a Town Clerk (municipality). The appointed element carries out the directives of the elected element.

How are councils constituted?

Half of the number of councillors

of each local authority area (NDC or municipality) are elected through Proportional Representation (PR). The remaining half, called the constituency candidates, are elected through the FirstPast-The-Post system. The total number of councillors in a given local authority area is two times the number of constituencies in that area.

How will NDC Chairs and CoChairs as well as mayors and deputy mayors be elected?

In the case of municipalities, mayors will be chosen from among their number by councillors on an annual basis. The people do not directly vote for a Mayor.

NDC Chairs and Co-Chairs will similarly be chosen from among themselves by the newly elected councillors. The manner of such elections is specified by law.

Laws or Acts that govern: (a) NDCs – The Constitution of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana and the Local Government Act, Cap 28:02.

(b) Towns or municipalities – The Constitution of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana and the Municipal and District Councils Act, Cap 28:01.

General — other vital information for governing those councils: The Local Government Commission will be a constitutional commission composed of eight (8) members.

The Commission will have responsibility for the day-to-day management of local government organs.

Additionally, the Commission will be responsible for regulation and staffing – hiring and firing – of the organs.

The Commission must also oversee, monitor, investigate and examine the actions of the councils, as stated in the Act. The Local Government Commission will be an autonomous body, under the Act. Yours faithfully, MARK DACOSTA. For the Ministry of Communities

Stag Stage 4 was good, but…

Dear Editor, STAG Stage Four has come and gone, and I am quite sure that with the level of support, the organisers must be extremely pleased with the returns on their investment in 2016.

I did not go for the first two nights, but went particularly on the final night to hear and see the lyrical genius Bunji Garlin and his Vikings Band in concert.

Arriving at what was constantly being dubbed a J’Ouvert Party, patrons were treated to a variety of pulsating Soca music, paint, and powder.

In keeping with our stage show culture, the main acts did not come on

until very close to midnight, the first being Lyrical. Bunji Garlin, though, came on a few minutes to 01:00h.

Be that as it may, no one seemed too bothered -- a free concert, cheap beer, and great music; who cares? However, one thing bothered me, and it was when the DJ seemed to have drifted off on a frolic of his own, and started playing Dancehall music at this J’Ouvert/Soca Party, much to the disgust of the more perceptive patrons.

One wondered if perhaps that particular DJ did not realise that a party of that nature has no room for Dancehall, or any other genre for that matter. The organisers of Stag Stage

has put in place systems to nurture and ensure equality for all races.

Reportedly, the first truck-mounted water cannons were used for riot control in Germany in the beginning of the 1930s, which was during Adolf Hitler’s leadership. The horrid stories of Hitler’s Nazi government, including the millions of Jews who were either decimated or displaced from their homes on his watch, and the resulting World War II, are known. It should be of concern that the Government of Guyana, given these historical antecedents, thought it fitting to import and use such a machine on its citizens.

Ours is a history that includes struggles by our forebears against slavery, indentureship and colonialism. It also includes struggles of the working class and other groups for equal rights, justice and fair play. It is a history marked with violence by the oppressors against the oppressed. In spite of the violence, it never tempered the will or killed the determination of the people to be free and improve their conditions of living. If violence did not prevent such

must be very careful to ensure that there is not a recurrence of such a DJ faux pas at another of their Soca shows. Also, there is need for more security to efficiently and effectively handle the many skirmishes that seem to be characteristic of the stage front.

In fact, violent altercations should not be a feature of such activities.

Nevertheless, Bunji Garlin and his Vikings Band did not disappoint, even though I have seen and heard them in much better form before.

Yours faithfully, RICHARD FRANCOIS

pursuits and aspirations, it was either foolhardy thinking or a desire to live in a dark period that would move government to procure a machine that would result in injuries and loss of lives of citizens and destruction to properties.

Where everyone has descended from those who fought to free this country from domination (political, economic and cultural), and in that we are living under laws that guarantee rights and freedoms, a government that governs best is a government that pays heed to these inalienable principles, and works with all its citizens to ensure they are not suppressed.

It is left to be seen what will happen to the water cannon, and to what use, if any, it will be converted.

Decidedly, Guyana does not need a water cannon to resolve differences among groups, or prevent any group from enjoying what’s guaranteed in law. Further, it is the responsibility of the Police Force to offer such groups protection in conjunction with ensuring non-participants and properties are safeguarded.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 24, 2016

Carvil Duncan should resign from constitutional bodies Dear Editor, IN GUYANA, four daily newspapers carry issues and stories, also photographs, on the front pages that the editors believe are the most important; and for that very reason, Mr. Carvil Duncan’s and Mr. Aeshwar Deonarine’s photographs have been featuring on the front pages.

On Wednesday, 3rd February, 2016, on the front page of Kaieteur News, printed in block letters, read the following: ‘Following Criminal Charges Carvil Duncan status on Constitutional Bodies Questioned’ I turned to page 14 and read the entire article -- some of the paragraphs more than once -and reflected on the numerous public servants, the employees from the private sector, and other employees who were accused of the offences of fraud, larceny by clerk or servant, and embezzlement; and who never admitted to the crime they were accused of, but yet were arrested, locked up and taken before the courts even before the police had completed their investigations. Once before the court, the prosecutor would ask for substantial bail, and may even ask that the accused person’s passport be lodged with the police, which to my mind may be a reasonable request, depending upon the circumstances.

Well, I have always had an interest in trade union-related issues, and I feel that Mr. Duncan is right up there with the best we have ever had or have, and that list includes Joseph Pollydore, Leslie Melville, Selo Baichan, Richard Ishmael, Lincoln Lewis, George DePena, Komal Chand and many others; but it is beyond the comprehension of the average thinking people how he can justify his decision not to resign from these very important commissions on which he sits.

He is Chairman, Public Service Commission; member of the Judicial Service Commission and Member of the Police Service Commission.

The importance of these Commissions cannot be overstated because they deal with the dispensation of justice and the day-to-day aspects of people’s

lives.

By his own admission, he is saying that he did sign certain documents in order to receive almost one million dollars, and also for Deonarine to receive nearly twenty-eight million dollars! Whether he may have misunderstood his role or functions, only he alone can say.

In the justice system, there are three popular phrases or slogans we hear: (1) innocent until proven guilty, (2) Justice delayed is justice denied, (3) The right to be heard; and while I fully subscribe to all these doctrines, it has to be applicable to all, not only to the rich, the privileged, those who are led to believe that they are powerful, and those with political connections. But to each and every citizen of this country, we all must openly agree that had a class one clerk been accused of stealing, by whatever means or way, one hundred thousand dollars ($100,000), or worse two hundred and eighty thousand dollars (G$280,000) the cases would have been dealt with differently.

Someone needs to tell me where are the equal rights and justice for all.

Mr. Duncan, by refusing to resign from these constitutional bodies, has in no small way eroded the confidence of the people these commissioners need to enjoy. But I rather suspect that he and other persons out there may be saying that if a Member of Parliament who is before the court charged with stealing hundreds of millions of dollars has not resigned, then why should I. There are times, I believe, when you must jump before you are pushed.

As for Mr. Deonarine, how his case was dealt with reminds me about a certain policeman.

Here is a man accused of stealing close to ($28,000,000) twenty-eight million dollars from the state; admitted to having signed so as to pay himself money owed to him (a statement that is rebutted by the Board of the Guyana Power and Light); transferred this sum abroad; was sent to bring back same, or was allowed to travel abroad, by not having his passport seized; and

has not returned. Now we are asking Interpol to having him arrested for us.

Well, as for the policeman in question, I do not want to use an adjective to describe him, but in my time as a recruit of the Police Training School at Eve Leary, we were told many stories about that man. The one that would readily come to the minds of my squaddies’ and me is that that policeman arrested a man and was taking him to the police station on his bicycle.

The man purposely caused his cap to fall off his head so he could ask this policeman for permission to go for same. His request was not granted; the policeman told him to remain where he was and hold his bicycle while he goes for the man’s cap. The cap was retrieved, but when the policeman turned around, neither the arrested man nor his bicycle was there.

Sincerely, ARCHIE W. CORDIS

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 24, 2016

One killed in minibus, motorcycle crash

By Shauna Jemmott

A 27-year-old man died yesterday after the motorcycle he was riding collided with a Route 50 minibus on the Hope Public Road, East Coast Demerara.

Kevin Nieuenkirk, of Victoria, East Coast Demerara was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital in an unconscious state, and died while receiving treatment in the Emergency section.

Police at ‘C’ Division

on the East Coast Demerara said the accident occurred around 10:30 hours yesterday. The minibus, driven by a man who lives at Plantation Hope, West Coast Berbice, was travelling with family members, and he alleged that he was negotiating a turn when the motorcycle careened into his path and the collision occurred.

Police said they were still investigating the matter.

When the Guyana Chronicle visited the home of Nieuenkirk’s family, a num-

ber of mourners had gathered quietly in the yard. His mother, Nathalie Nieuenkirk managed to contain herself, while an uncle arrived in tears.

Nieuenkirk said her son lived at Golden Grove with his fianceé, but visited her yesterday morning. She said he pushed the motorcycle, and accompanied her halfway to a shop before they parted. That was the last she saw him.

“I was going to the shop; I cross the trench, and he go

Dead motorcyclist, Kevin Nieuenkirk where he had to go. Not even an hour after, I heard that he got in an accident,” the grieving mother stated.

She said she travelled to the scene a few miles away,

but he had already been taken to the Nabaclis Health Centre, where he received oxygen before being transferred to the Georgetown Hospital in an ambulance.

When she arrived at the hospital, he had already died.

Nathalie said her son’s hand and foot appeared to have been broken, and she noticed blood oozing from his ears.

The man’s reputed wife, Hulicia Williams, said he’d left their home earlier that morning to visit his mother, and while she was at their shop at Nabacalis, a man appeared and told her that her husband was involved in an accident, and was at

the Nabaclis Hospital. She hurried there.

Williams told the Guyana Chronicle that Nieuenkirk was a cool person and a good husband. They’d lived together over a year, and run a business jointly at Nabaclis Hospital Road.

While the Chronicle was at the Victoria home, Nathalie Nieuenkirk was overheard telling someone: “Family must live good; you don’t know what would happen. Not even an hour, and my son gone.”

He has left to mourn his mother, reputed wife, and siblings Adrian and Sherryann, among other relatives.

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of this congregation is not to be discredited. National Awards constitute an important institution of the State. It is my personal obligation, as Chancellor of the Orders of Guyana, to discharge my duty to our deserving citizens and to pay respect to those to whom respect is due. We are the trustees of the traditions which sustain society. That is the custom of our people. That is the convention of good government. That is the culture of a good society,”the President said, as he commended the awardees.

RESPECT FOR OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTIONS He added: “National Awards are a reflection of the respect and reverence of a grateful nation. We know that you have laboured over a long period of time. These awards, indeed, were reserved for those who have distinguished themselves in the service of the nation.

“We applaud your accomplishments. We appreciate the outstanding service that you have rendered. We commend you for your commitment to the common good.

“Guyana encourages you to continue, through precept and example, to serve your country and community. Civil society and non-governmental organisations are deserving of admiration and emulation by the nation, particularly by young Guyanese,” the President told the august gathering.

Guyana on Tuesday celebrated its 46th Republican anniversary. The Republic Act of 1970 ended the incongruity of having the Queen of Great Britain as the Queen of Guyana.

It also ended the British honours system of Knights, Dames, Commanders, Companions, Officers and Members of the British Empire, the Empire of which Guyana was a part for some 150 years.

The termination of the imperial system of awards provided the opportunity for the initiation of a national system.

“It is fitting, therefore, that this day – the anniversary of our Republic – should be selected as the day on which the State honours citizens and groups of distinction,” the President said.

Justice Carl Singh, in brief remarks at the opening of the programme, said the process of selecting the awardees was fair and transparent, and emphasised the point that national development is more than economic development.

National development, he said, should be measured based on strides in education, the arts, business and manufacturing, sports, cultural development, healthcare, and community relations, among others.

A section of the gathering at Tuesday’s investiture ceremony (Ministry of the Presidency photo)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 24, 2016

Reflecting on Ronald Waddell

The drama of life’s stage when actors truly die

By Barrington Braithwaite COWARDS shout that artists have no place in the world of politics; trembling, they warn, “Mind your own business,” secluded in the shadows. But politics envelopes and smothers all, without discrimination. Art has, throughout the human timeline, always pronounced on politics, as I have elaborated in a past article. Drama has profoundly reflected the events that invoke themes of laughter and grief, touching our pulses and adding clarity to perceptions otherwise clouded by deceptions cast upon the mass to shield the ‘evil’ of the guilty confederation. It was not the PPP who had allegedly initiated the culture of extrajudicial killings, but they had protested when Keith Caesar of ‘Tiger Bay’ was fatally shot in the early seventies. When in power, extrajudicial killings escalated drastically, and even more so under the Jagdeo Presidency. I knew Ronald Waddell before the 1990s, but we came together as conscious grown men with the killing of ‘Jermaine Wilkinson’ in La Penitence Street Albouystown by Corporal Beresford in 1996.

This would be one of many protests as the body count of young Afro-Guyanese men would rise to at least two or three a week. By 1999, the narco-backtrack business class had risen, many of them were allegedly empowered through the ‘policing groups’ and were responsible for multiple extrajudicial killings, this time with a racist bias. I was in ACDA, and with the ’Justice for Jermaine Organisation’, protested with a small group of citizens with foresight, which included the GHRA, PNC, WPA, a few Christian groups; that was about it.

That period, however, was the prologue; the jail break on February 23, 2002 unleashed the contents of our Pandora’s Box. With the jail break, Ronald Waddell entered upon a stage of shadows with a cast of characters that included several deceitful sub-plots.

This play was directed by Mephistopheles and whatever other title we wish to address

that intelligent force that lacks principle, humanity, compassion, and the character to understand that it lacks these very values that constitute the building blocks of anything admirable. Ronald visited me and said to me we have got to do some-

PNC had become ineffective, the PPP had lacked the vision to manage the society; many were too keen themselves to embrace Faustian pacts, and were contemptuous of the non-PPP constituency. So, after the death of police officer Leon Fraser, attributed to

Ronald Waddell

thing about what was happening. Through a mutual acquaintance, he had met Dale Moore, whom I knew when he hung around ‘Stone Love’ and had worked with the then political system in the 2001 elections, and thought best left alone.

These escapees were heavily armed, not particularly hiding from the police, and were visiting places as if they knew something no one else knew. Ronald agreed with me that these escapees were not particularly the substance that revolutionaries were shaped from. I became afraid then, because whoever took them out of prison also knew this.

They were expendable, that is why they were taken out of prison to do what they had to do before being disposed of.

They had to be re-oriented, had to be instilled with some conviction, the best criteria was evaluated, the fact that they were been manipulated by political powers that would use them and dispose of them, the evidence of Linden London and dozens of others, were convincing parallels. There were political accusations and drug cartel loyalties; at times, the drug cartels were not distinguishable from the political covens. Both ACDA and the

Dale Moore, the persecuted grass roots masses adorned this group their heroes. They were confronting the thugs of the Target Squad on their own turf and winning. The real pivot on this macabre stage was the kidnap of a Cartel boss, who was held prisoner a few houses away from a senior Government politician. His rescue and the bloodletting that followed, then the revelation through this Cartel boss of another ‘Death Squad’ headed by the very senior politician, this exposure had filled the stage with the triumph of clarity beyond rumour and speculation. Now stood before all the grotesque two-headed beast, that of Roger Khan and his political alter ego.

Waddell remained to that point the voice for those who were burying their sons and daughters. Revelations would reveal that even the wise were misled, there was no Buxton conspiracy, and that he Waddell was no ‘Secret Commander of events’.

He was, however, a conduit of events, speaking to the minds and arousing convictions against the common foe of the two-headed ‘beast.’

He had committed the same crime as Courtney Crum-Ewing and significant others,

who were forced to flee the abysmal nature of the cult that preached the deceit of division and mindless obedience to the primitive superstitions of ‘Dem’ and ‘Abbe Dese’.

Ronald Waddell knew how the absence of education and rational thinking had damaged and destroyed many from the ‘Nigger Yard’ system of the colonial era, the deprivation of spirit and self-esteem still persisted. We had witnessed how ‘wants’ can overcome needs and cause one to lose one’s soul. Before him lay many people who had no positive spiritual and world view of self, so he warned against the businesses who supported the Phantom killer squads. But in the end it

had to be someone veiled in treachery, who had befriended him, someone he would have trusted, to call him out that faithful night.

Waddell had visited me with Ras Kali only days before. He had related that certain Cartel members had told him who wanted him dead, and it was imminent, [this is knowledge that most likely is in the Roger Khan Case files]. He was invited to go stay in Buxton among other options, but to that point he was undecided, it was almost sunset so he left, the last time we would see each other, with both of us alive. The voice was silenced, so the deceptions could persist, but Ronald Waddell had done too good a job, we had witnessed

an unprecedented ‘EVIL’ destroy our homeland; and even as the curtains came down, we bid our friend Rest In Peace. We conclude with the vow “A luta continua....A Vitoria e certa” Waddell 57, was killed in January 2006. According to reports at the time, a dark-coloured car took the gunmen to the scene, where they were apparently watching Waddell’s movements from the seawall. According to reports, as soon as Waddell stepped into his car, two gunmen ran across the road and opened fire on the vehicle. They then ran back across the road, jumped into their car and sped away east along the highway.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 24, 2016

Multi-million-dollar mental health facility on the cards A MENTAL Health Secretariat, projected to cost some $16.3M, is to be established on Quamina Street, Georgetown, Public Health Minister Dr. George Norton disclosed late Monday night during consideration of the 2016 Budget Estimates.

The announcement of this multi-million-dollar project was roundly applauded by former Health Minister, Dr. Bheri Ramsaran, who served under the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) administration.

The A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) government is aggressively tackling the issue of suicide in Guyana, which is also a mental health issue.

The government is focusing on early intervention.

WORLD’S HIGHEST Guyana has the highest estimated suicide rate in the world, and according to data from the Americas, suicide rates first peak among young people, remain at the same level for other age groups, and rise again among older men.

Data gathered over the last five years indicate that most of the cases are concentrated in coastal areas of the country, particularly in the East Berbice-Corentyne Region Six area, which has the highest rating at 30.9%; Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), which comes a distant second at 22%; followed by Regions Four (Demerara-Mahaica), Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) and Five (Mahaica-Berbice) at 19.7%, 13.4% and 8.8% respectively.

Regions One (Barima-Waini), Seven (CuyuniMazaruni), Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) and Nine (Upper

Takutu-Upper Essequibo) have together accounted for just over 4% of the cases, but recent evidence suggests that the figure may be higher.

However, mental illness is not limited to depression or suicidal thoughts, according to Head of the Psychiatric Unit at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), Dr. Bhiro Harry, who told the Guyana Chronicle that common forms of mental illness include anxiety, depression, substance use disorders and psychosis, better known in Guyanese parlance as “The Mad-man Syndrome”. Of the lot, psychosis makes up about two per cent of all mental illnesses globally.

NO ONE IMMUNE Revealing that no one is immune from mental illness, Dr. Harry said every day, cases of mental illness are diagnosed globally, with 98 per cent of the diagnosed cases being common in people who appear sane.

This condition can be caused by a combination of environmental, psychological and genetic factors, he said, adding that sometimes, it is the psychiatric manifestation of a physical medical illness such as a thyroid disease or a low calcium level.

Additionally, the use of licit (such as alcohol) and illicit (such as marijuana and cocaine) substances can cause mental illness.

According to the American Psychiatric Association, some of the early signs of mental illness include withdrawal, drop in functioning, problems with thinking and concentration, increased sensitivity, apathy, nervousness, sleep or appetite changes, and mood changes.

E’bo folk urged to vote in LGE

ATTORNEY-General and Minister of Legal Affairs Basil Williams on Saturday and Sunday encouraged residents of the Essequibo Coast to vote in the upcoming Local Government Elections (LGE).

Williams met with residents of Anna Regina, Dartmouth, Queenstown and Good Hope, and spoke of the importance of LGE. “The aim of the local government elections is to empower you to participate and make decisions for yourselves in your communities from your level,” he said. “You can make demands at a higher level to ensure your communities are fitted

Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs Basil Williams speaking over the weekend to residents on the Essequibo Coast

with proper roads, electricity, garbage-disposal systems, etc.

“You will have the ability to decide on businesses for your communities and you can even invite investors,” he told villagers.

Additionally, the Attorney-General explained the LGE process, noting that it was “a microcosm of national elections.” He told the residents that by voting for their peers, it would be easier for communities to achieve their goals and he explained that those elected would represent their respective constituencies.

Williams encouraged the residents to use LGE as a step towards the APNU+AFC’s mantra of “a good life for all

Guyanese”.

Meanwhile, residents of the four communities visited were given an opportunity to speak of issues affecting their communities with panels comprising the Attorney-General, the Regional Executive Officer, the Chairman of the Regional Committee of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNC/R-Region 2) and Chairman of the Alliance For Change-Region 2 (AFC). Issues raised included transparency in tendering processes, illegal occupation and possession of land, rice-farming, licensing and police brutality, a statement from the Ministry of Legal Affairs stated.

Patriotism returns

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 24, 2016

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- as giant Golden Arrowhead soars

By Jasmaine Payne THE word “patriotism” could barely do to describe the level of pride and joy which filled the hundreds of Guyanese who flocked the Jubilee Stadium for the Republic Day Flag Raising Ceremony yesterday.

The ceremony, which was held at 17:00 hrs, was an interesting change to the early- morning affair usually held at the Public Buildings.

This time of day created the perfect setting for all to indulge in the mighty energy which enveloped the crowd during the raising of the gargantuan 50 x 30 foot Golden Arrowhead.

During the five-minute ascension up the 200-foot pole, one could not ignore

the feeling of massive pride to be Guyanese at that very moment. As the wind whipped the Golden Arrowhead through the air while it rose to its peak, the crowd cheered and chanted “Go Guyana, Go!” HIGH SPIRITS This feature event, coupled with continued renditions of national songs by the choir and the marching band, comprising of Guyana Defence Force and Guyana Police Force officers at the short ceremony, brought patriotism to an all-time high.

Spirits were so high that in fact even a scuffle erupted among the hyped-up crowd. Ironically, this occurred during the rendition of ‘Let us cooperate for

Guyana’, but clearly they missed that message.

Nevertheless, thanks to speedy police response, the ruckus quickly died down and allowed for the audience to continue in the enjoyment of this symbolic event.

Following the close of the proceedings and the departure of President David Granger -- who, along with Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo had been greeted with excess praise and applause upon arrival -- many rushed to the centre of the field to make memories at this now historical location.

Meanwhile, members of the government and other officials expressed the same sentiments that had been clearly articulated by the audience throughout the ceremony.

Minister of State Joseph Harmon was beaming with pride while giving comments about the event. He mentioned that the ceremony was streamed live to different parts of the world, and he was sure Guyanese abroad felt just as touched

by the event as those here to witness it. “I feel a real sense of joy and satisfaction that this project could come to this point, and it’s going to get better, because, for our Jubilee celebration, things will be even grander.

“So tonight, I want to

share with all Guyanese this sense of pride and accomplishment; that we can do things in Guyana with our own effort, and make sure that all our people are happy. I'm seeing lots of happy smiling

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 24, 2016

Patriotism returns From page 11

Part of the massive crowd at the ceremony

faces here, and that’s what we want to see,” Harmon said.

He credited the size of the flag alone as being partly responsible for the smiles on people’s faces, and stated that this is a sign of things to come for Guyana.

“When we spoke about ‘a good life for all Guyanese’, these are some of the things that the President envisaged,” Minister Harmon said, adding that President Granger was personally behind this project. “I am very proud of it,” he said. “This is the true spirit of Mashramani: A Celebration after hard work. I can say ‘Happy Mashramani’ to all Guyanese, because we have done it; we have worked together and this is what we have produced.”

PERSONAL SIGNIFICANCE Minister of Telecommunications and Tourism, Cathy Hughes, echoed Harmon’s sentiments, but added that the event also had much personal significance. “As the flag was going up,” she said, “I had my little cell-phone camera, and I was trying to wipe away a tear; it made me feel so proud. One of the things that added to it, too, was the national songs.

“Valerie Rodway, who wrote a lot of our national songs, is actually my grandmother’s sister; so I was standing here, hearing these songs and looking at where I am personally in terms of my job in trying to create a new Guyana.

“I looked at the flag going up: It’s bold; it’s beautiful.”

She, however, admitted feeling some disappointment at the absence of the Opposition, as she had hoped that they would look past their political disparities for this particular occasion.

“It’s sad that we can't transcend some of the differences in the name of Guyana,” she said, adding: “But, guess what! Those of us who believe in working to change this country, we will go ahead. And we keep inviting people on board; we keep saying that this country is not for any one particular party that happens to be in power. I feel strongly about changing that; we move forward. It’s a good start to make.”

SAVOURING THE MOMENT Captain Gerry Gouveia, who was also among those who lingered after the ceremony had concluded, was busy capturing every moment of the soaring flag on video. He said his feelings for the event stem from his years in the National Service and the army. “This flag made the hair on your skin stand up. Forty years ago, I was in the National Service and in the army; and this afternoon, being here and experiencing the precision and patriotism, it was a very emotional afternoon,” he said.

Gouveia said the occasion also honours the people who “lived and died” and otherwise sacrificed for the flag, and commended President Granger for taking such an initiative. “This allows us to experience a historic moment like we’ve never seen in the history of Guyana; maybe probably equivalent to the first night in 1966. But this was amazing! The energy and emotion of Guyanese and people like myself who served the flag for many years, it was a very touching afternoon,” he said.

The emotion which the simple, yet historic event evoked in all those who witnessed it, undoubtedly created high expectations for things to come.

Above all things, one could not help but ponder whether the size of the flag itself somehow signifies the greatness of the hope for a brighter future in Guyana,

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 24, 2016

Route 44 minibus operators 'doing their own thing'

By Michel Outridge EVEN though the minibus fare structure was stabilized with agreement from all parties involved, the Enterprise/Georgetown operators are still over-charging commuters; and in addition, they are overloading their buses during the peak hours.

The regular fare is $160 from Georgetown to Enterprise, but operators are allegedly charging $200 per commuter and are placing five persons in a seat; and when commuters object, they are allegedly victimised and verbally abused by some of the rogue drivers and conductors.

The Guyana Police Force (GPF) Traffic Department says it has no say over fare structures, but its officers can enforce the law when it comes to overloading and loud music in minibuses.

The traffic cops urged that members of the travelling public take note of the licence numbers of defaulting minibuses and make a report to the police. Commuters can simply use technology, such as their smart phones, to make recordings or take photos, which will be admitted as evidence of minibus operators’ wrongdoings.

In addition, the way some minibus drivers and conductors smell, coupled with their unkempt appearance, leaves much to be desired; and their attitude when dealing with the elderly and children is so distasteful, commuters have complained.

Some of these minibus operators reportedly don’t even wait until the older folks are seated in the bus before they drive off, and school children are allegedly packed up like ‘sardines’.

The route 44 minibus operators only work up to a certain time in the evening, and they have their special customers; but during the period between 13:00 hrs and 14:00 hrs, they pick up anybody, it is said.

According to the president of the United Minibus Union, Eon Andrews, this very group is not interested in being a uniformed and disciplined group like the UG/ Industry operators. Andrews said he has since received reports that they are choosy in selecting passengers, unlike the Melanie/Victoria route minibus operators. He explained that he was aware that the routes 32 and 42 minibus operators were behaving in the same manner, and said plans are on stream to meet with them to formalise a plan of operation.

Andrews told this publication that the UG/Industry operators are an orderly group of more than 60, and they are engaged in social activities and other developmental projects which are of benefit to the group.

He said he wished other route minibus operators could follow suit. He stated that the park system initiated by the Mayor and City Council was welcomed and it had restored some degree of order at some parks.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 24, 2016

Jamaican ‘jerk’ with a Guyanese flavour BASHIES Jamaican Grill and Bar officially opened its doors for business Friday night at the corner of Sheriff and Garnett Streets, Georgetown. It underwent months of preparation under the stewardship of businessman Orin Gilkes.

The Guyanese-born entrepreneur, who’s lived some years in Jamaica, brought home his business after de-

ciding that Guyana needed genuine Jamaican jerk chicken, pork, fish, grilled steak and salmon among other dishes.

He told this newspaper that he had brought with him one of two Jamaican chefs who really knew the art of ‘jerking’ any meats using seasonings which were uniquely Jamaican.

A very humble and up-

beat Gilkes said his business was truly Guyanese with a Jamaican twist, and once you visited, you had to return.

At the opening on Friday night, invitees had a chance to sample all the dishes, and did so with the choice of beverages.

Gilkes had the support of many friends, including several local artistes such as Natural Black, Jumo Primo and Casual

Some of the dishes which will be on sale daily at the newly opened ‘Bashies’ Jamaican Grill and Bar (Photos by Michel Outridge)

Armstrong among others.

The business has five staffers and it offers a wide variety of meats which are prepared under strict hygienic

conditions.

Gilkes said his business was the ‘real thing,’ and indeed it seemed to be, with its cozy atmosphere and modern

furnishings.

Bashies Jamaican Grill and Bar is opened for business, and is the newest place to be.

Natural Black with some ‘Bashies’ members of staff on Friday night at the opening

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 24, 2016

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 24, 2016

I’m a bad modern-day feminist

By Akola Thompson

OCCASIONALLY, when I am short of things to do, I browse through the TED website and listen to talks on varyious issues. Last week I came across a TED talk by Roxane Gay titled: “Confessions of a bad feminist.”

It was a funny, thought-provoking talk up to the first three minutes, after which I realised that what she really meant was that she is a good “modern-day” feminist. She joked that when she was younger she “had strange ideas about feminists as being hairy, angry, man-hating, sex-hating women – as if those were bad things.”

Gay basically said that she is a ‘modern-day feminist’, as distinct from what you might presume is just a plain, regular feminist. One might be obliged to think that the two are not mutually exclusive, but I disagree. The current mainstream feminism as is seen and perpetuated by Gay and others I believe has thwarted the very ideals they were founded upon.

As such, feminism is often given a bad name, so that when one identifies as a feminist, people immediately think of you as being a man-hating, vitriol-spewing, angry lesbian. So, unfortunately, whenever I identify myself as a feminist now, I feel the need to make the distinction between the feminism I respect and the current branches of it now in popular culture.

“No, no,” I’d say, “I’m not that man-hating, pitch-fork type, I’m the type that believes in the equality of the sexes. Yes, we still exist.”

Modern-day feminism has, in my opinion, become extremely narrow-minded and dogmatic, very much like organised religion. Modern feminists have thwarted the ideals of feminism to sync with their own limited worldview, one that has spread through perpetuation via a mass and uncritical following.

In the media, and even on my newsfeed, I see modern-day feminists throwing around the word “misogyny” very loosely.

These days, a man smiling at a woman could be deemed as being chauvinistic. I am definitely not saying that misogyny is not real, because we have all had our encounters with it, but as a feminist, I do not feel the need to label every man a misogynist because of what another of his sex might have done. I do not see a smile as being belittling, but friendly. If he made rude mouth gestures then maybe he would earn that title.

At the rate modern-day feminism is going, I would not be surprised if I woke tomorrow and was greeted by an international debate stemming from some bourgeoisie soccer mom in New York stating that the gender signs on bathroom doors encourage separation of the sexes and, as such, we must do away with these archaic symbols. If we decide to eliminate the differences that make us men and women, what we are essentially doing is fabricating an ideology with absolutely no benefits.

Feminism taught me that men and women are equal in both rights and responsibilities. This means that if a woman

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 24, 2016

I’m a bad ...

From page 16

rapes a man, she should be held to the same level of accountability as her male counterpart who rapes a woman. Therefore, when I hear of a man getting raped, my first reaction is not to suggest that he is a man and he probably wanted it, my first reaction is to suggest that the law books be changed to reflect our changing societies in which the definition of rape has widened.

It taught me that men must be included, as that is the only way we as a race can successfully move forward. That is why whenever I see, read or hear about modern feminism events which were attended by a majority of women, I get bothered.

There is no way we can further equality between the sexes if men feel as if they are excluded and merely see us as an angry misandrists’ club.

Maybe what we need is a fourth wave of feminism. This will serve to wash away the deafening, wrong ideals of modern-day feminism, which refuses to step out of its comfort

Wednesday February 24th, 2016 - 05:00 hrs Thursday February 25th, 2016 - 05:00 hrs Friday February 26th, 2016 - 05:00 hrs

zone of university classes of gender studies and feminist groups.

We are becoming too aligned with on-the-surface feminism as those we revere seek to cement their fame further by standing for a popular cause. This was particularly seen with Beyoncé, a product of western masculine capitalism, who once performed in front of the word “feminist,” but has rarely ever done anything concrete that might reasonably suggest that she is an actual feminist.

I miss (and missed) the feminism that broke down barriers and allowed us into construction, allowed us to question the belief that women should not wear pants, and allowed us to question levels of patriarchy.

Now, feminism has become a mission creep in which the new-agers have become obsessed with culture and how people think, speak and create. As a result, intolerance blossoms

as they move into cultural realms in an attempt to remove barriers for women. It is a good demand, yes, to break down barriers for women, but when one tries to control and depict how art and culture reasonably depicts women, then this is an illiberal demand; one I do not believe they have the right to make and this has nothing to do with them being women.

Instead of trying to control cultural thoughts and creations as in music, paintings and so on, I want to see modern-day feminists go back to what they began advocating for. Fight for equal representation of women in parliament and in the government; fight against female mutilation and inequitable gender hiring. I want to see feminists fight against the forced trafficking of women, men and children. What I do not want them to do is fight for the silencing of men because it is their belief that men have had their time to speak.

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Body of Brazilian found in shallow grave The body of a Brazilian national was on Sunday last found in a shallow grave at Muruwa Backdam, Konawaruk River.

Police said that at about 16:15h, the decomposing body of Brazilian national Maria Souza Da Silva, 43 years, was found in the shallow grave. The scene was visited by police ranks during Monday as ranks step up their investigations.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 24, 2016

Denied bail on robbery charge TWENTY-four-year-old Leroy Williams made an appearance before City Magistrate Judy Latchman on Monday to answer a robbery charge.

Williams, of D’Urban Backlands, pleaded not guilty to the charge that was read to him, which stated that he stole a gold chain valued $138,000, property of Lisa Kishore on October 3, 2015 at Croal Street, Georgetown.

The Police Prosecutor told that court that Kishore positively identified the defendant, and that there was a concern for her safety if the man was released.

Williams was denied bail, and the matter adjourned to March 11.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 24, 2016

Assistant Commissioner Balram Persaud dies

By Leroy Smith ASSISTANT Commissioner of Police, Administration, 54-year-old Balram Persaud, has died.

Persaud succumbed yesterday morning at the Dr. Balwant Singh Hospital, where he was receiving treatment for injuries he sustained in a vehicular accident on February 05, 2016 along the West Bank Demerara public road.

Persaud’s death came as a surprise to many persons in the security sector, as well as those who were responsible for his treatment, since, according to his latest assessment, he seemed to have been on the road to recovery.

However, immediately after his accident, doctors had indicated that his chances for survival were 50/50.

Sources close to the now dead senior police officer had indicated to the Chronicle newspaper that while he had begun speaking late last week, his words were not clear. However, the fact that he had actually begun to speak was a great improvement compared to his state when he was admitted to the hospital.

One medical practitioner who spoke with the Guyana Chronicle indicated that when there were cases where persons had internal bleeding, sometimes some amount of the blood would turn to clot and make its way around the body. Once that happens in the region of the heart, then the person would most likely succumb.

A MYSTERY Balram Persaud’s case now remains a mystery, since there were no statements taken from him or anyone who might have witnessed the accident on the night in question. The police were unable to secure a statement from Persaud, since he could not speak, and when he did attempt to do so, his words were not clear.

Traffic Chief, Superintendent Dion Moore, had indicated to this newspaper shortly after the accident that although Persaud was still in the hospital, they went ahead and launched an investigation into his accident.

The Traffic Chief had said that when he visited the scene of the accident

and examined the vehicle that Persaud was driving at the time of the crash, it had appeared that the vehicle had suffered a blowout upon

complications. He underwent a massive heart surgery several years ago.

His death comes after that of Commissioner of

Dead: AC Balram Persaud impact. Persaud had run into a utility pole.

Balram Persaud was due to head into retirement by mid-year. At the time of the accident, he was on annual leave.

During his life as a policeman, he served as divisional commander in two police divisions, and also served in an administrative capacity at Force Headquarters, Eve Leary.

EMBROILED He was embroiled in a matter several years ago, when his driver reportedly shot a man in the head at the Stabroek Market area after an altercation between the man and Persaud’s wife.

As a result of that incident, he was transferred out of the police division where he was serving, and moved to the Force Headquarters, while his driver was charged and placed before the courts.

That matter against the driver, who was at the time a Police Sergeant, was dismissed last year by the High Court.

Balram Persaud, despite that incident, has been regarded as one of the better commanders of his time. He got the job done, and was also able to bring the crime situation in the Police ‘D’ Division down tremendously after he was transferred there from ‘C’ Division.

Persaud did not always enjoy good health, and was admitted to hospital on two occasions for heart-related

Police, Henry Greene and Assistant Commissioner of Police and ‘A’ Division Commander Derick Josiah, both of whom died as a result of road accidents.

Greene, for his part, was heading to the city from Parika when he slammed into a delivery truck, while Josiah died after his vehicle hit a utility pole when the driver swerved to avoid colliding with another vehicle.

In that case, the assistant commissioner was heading to attend to presidential duties.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 24, 2016

Hunt charges women to engage civic participation WITH the increasing fight around the world for gender equality and the involvement of women in governance and other key positions in society, Guyanese women have been charged with the idea that “progress for women and progress for democracy goes hand-in-hand.”

Expressing his views was US Charge d‘affaires Bryan Hunt, yesterday during the opening ceremony of the Guyanese Women’s Roundtable (GWR) three-day conference, held under the theme “Guyanese women’s civic engagement.”

Hunt underscored that more women were getting involved in the public service, given that studies had shown that countries would be better governed by women.

With a non-partisan approach, he made mention of the fact that the US was in support of all Guyanese, and not just a particular political party or a section of the country. As such, all women were urged to get involved.

This year, the GWR charged women to begin engaging on Section of the gathering yesterday

Mr Hunt during his address

the topic of cohesion and civic participation, hence the added programming, partnerships and resources unique to any other conference.

According to head of the Caribbean People International Collective Inc. (CPIC), Roslyn Wade, “There is a growing sense of urgency to renew civic engagement across many sectors of society. Business leaders recognise that corporate community investments in human capital are essential to our social as well as economic progress.”

As well as the fact that, post 2015 general and regional elections, there have been many changes in the communities and it was the GWR’s turn to play a role.

The women’s roundtable feels that this is a propitious moment to capitalise on the resurgence in civic engagement in order to make inroads on critical issues that press upon the communities, regions, and the country in its entirety, said Wade.

During its sessions over the next three days, the forum will seek to encourage equality for peace and democracy by

increasing the role of Guyanese women in civic participation; teach women about the tools necessary for living together peacefully and with respect for differences; understand the gender perspective on peace building and political decision-making; and explore the role the GWR must play in the process of equality, democracy, civic education and civic participation of women.

“It is incredibly important that we take advantage of the amazing window of opportunity that is open before us now… an opportunity like this to sustain a longer term growth of our civic engagement comes along once in afar, thus we need to support and nurture it,” said head of the CPIC. Hence, in partnering with the Office of the Prime Minister, Social Protection, United Nations Development programme and the US Embassy, organisations that align with their core beliefs of connecting women and encouraging civic participation and empowerment, the women intend to execute a successful programme.

National parties have no part in LGE – Hughes says at launching of BIGA

By Rabindra Rooplall NATIONAL parties have no place in Local Government Elections (LGE), says Alliance For Change (AFC) Chairman Nigel Hughes, who contended that if any politician says to a citizen they are splitting the votes, “ask them which votes are you splitting, since at the local level every single citizen is represented”.

Hughes expressed these views during his feature address at the historic launch of the Bartica Independent Green Alliance (BIGA) party on Tuesday at TTS-CH5 Compound, 1st Avenue, Bartica.

BIGA will be running for Bartica’s nine constituencies, and is only aiming to look at the interest of developing Bartica into a green town as proposed by President David Granger. The party has no

plans to graduate to national politics.

Hughes said local parties aim to represent each and every citizen in the county and citizens should not be intimidated by loose talks from politicians about what Central Government would and would not do, since that section of governance already has its mandate.

Stating that he is present at the launch as a citizen and not as a represen- Prominent Attorney-at-Law tative of any party, Hughes Nigel Hughes during his said, “Unless you control address at the launch of the your own mind and you are Bartica Independent Green truly free to think and act Alliance, which will be conas you see fit, you are not testing the March 18 Local independent. That doesn’t Government Elections only apply nationally from the queen, but it applies He said each and every at the local level, because presentation made at the unless you act and think in launch was a testimony toyour own best interest, then wards what the people of you will never be in control Bartica truly stand for, since of your own destiny.” it was intelligent, innova-

tive, community-based and futuristic.

“I have heard the best exposition and articulation of a vision for a community here in Bartica, and I have campaigned throughout this country…” he noted.

In offering his recommendation to complete the plans for Bartica, Hughes said that a museum should be set up for the rich history of the community, which has experienced many sacrifices throughout its development.

CENTRAL INVESTMENT HUB Noting that Bartica will not just be a town, but a city, he said in 10 years the district has the potential to become the hub of Guyana for all investments. “You must have a vision for the future, because you may be condemned to repeat the mistakes of the past.”

Adding that the wealth that is extracted out of the region is second to none, the prominent attorney said it’s not just the gold, but it’s the stone, the aggregate and the forestry which can be used to build a city.

Underscoring that the town should be made attractive for international investments, Hughes said Bartica should have the best waterways, air transport, high speed ICT hubs, communication facilities and all other facilities needed for investors looking for a logical option.

In simplifying what LGE is about, Hughes said local development is a community’s plan, and no outsider can represent that plan better than persons from the community.

“You must be committed at this level to ensure all the policies are carried in the interest of Bartica.”

He advised BIGA candidates that many of the larger parties or politicians may claim to have the answers for Barticians’ development, but the way to test that is to challenge these parties or officials to a public debate and let the people of Bartica decide who has the best and most realistic plan for their future.

“The days of political campaigns, where cussing down and bad behaviour is tolerated are over. When you fought for the change you fought for a different day, since you’re sick and tired of the low talk; sick and tired of people talking about your history and past. This is the time to say we are in control of the change, not you,” the attorney said to loud applause.

“We must realise that citizens that lead by example are the ones that should be followed,” he told the launch.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 24, 2016

Balram Persaud hailed as ‘dedicated professional’

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Story and photos by Leroy Smith PRESIDENT David Granger, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, yesterday hailed deceased Assistant Commissioner of Police Balram Persaud as a police officer who was very competent, and had a wealth of experience.

The President was at the time commenting on the passing of the senior police officer, who succumbed to injuries he had sustained from a two-week-old accident.

According to the Head of State, Persaud has had a very long history of service to the Guyana Police Force and people of this country. He himself, he said, has been dealing with him more often, whenever he’s had the occasion to perform the functions of ‘Top Cop’ at meetings, and more specifically the National Security Committee.

“He displayed a wealth of knowledge and experience, and his advice at these meetings was always valued,” President Granger said, adding that the now deceased police officer was a very senior element within the organisation, and his relationship with the community and his duties performed were exceptional.

The President said that Assistant Commissioner of Police Balram Persaud would be greatly missed.

Meanwhile, for Commissioner of Police Seelall Persaud, the death of his colleague was not only untimely, but a sad occasion for his family, the Force, and the country, since his condition seemed to have been improving of late.

He said it was very heart-breaking for him to see a man who has served the country so well and in a dedicated manner die just months before heading into retirement,

Please turn to page 22

Balram Persaud, back in 2015 when he performed the functions of Commissioner of Police, in the company of ‘A’ Division Commander Clifton Hicken, visiting the relatives of a lad who was shot in the mouth by a police cadet officer in East La Penitence

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Balram Persaud hailed ...

From page 21

The late Assistant Commissioner of Police Balram Persaud in discussion with then ‘B’ Division Commander Brian Joseph, Traffic Chief Hugh Denhert and ‘G’ Division Commander Kevin Adonis during a security seminar at the Grand Coastal Inn, East Coast Demerara back in 2014

making it impossible for him to enjoy the benefits that he so rightfully deserved.

Persaud extended special sympathy to the very young family of Assistant Commissioner of Police Balram Persaud.

Relecting also on the interactions he had with him while serving as Head of State was former President, Donald Ramotar who told the Guyana Chronicle that Balram Persaud was always professional in his engagements.

He said that he not only

Assistant Commissioner of Police Balram Persaud, fifth left, among other senior police officers, and then Commissioner of Police Leroy Brumell at the commissioning of the ZARA Computer Lab at the Guyana Police Force Officers Training College performed exceptionally as a police officer, and while he was known to be a firm senior officer, he would always find a way to balance police work with community relations.

Noting that the loss of Persaud is a great blow to the Guyana Police Force as well as his immediate family, Ramotar seized the opportunity to extend his condolences to the relatives, friends and those other persons who were close to the now dead senior cop.

The Guyana Chronicle also sought and got a comment from another colleague of AC Persaud’s, former Commissioner of Police Leroy Brumell, who said, “Persaud was a very dedicated guy who did his duties to the best of his ability.” He too, noted that Persaud’s passing comes at a very serious time within the Guyana Police Force, and when the organisation is still going through that process of bridging the gap between itself and the communities it serves.

The former ‘Top Cop’ said what is even more hurtful is that although Persaud would have worked so many years and dedicated most of his life to Guyana, his death comes at a time when he was preparing to head into retire-

ment and he would not be around to enjoy the benefits for the years of service that he provided to this great country.

Brumell said that Persaud has some very young children, and he is now even more concerned for those children who are now without a biological father, as he also stressed that Persaud also served as a father to many within the Guyana Police Force.

Chairman of the Police Service Commission, Omesh Satyanand, in his tribute, said he feels the pain of the Guyana Police Force and more so the family of the late policeman in this their time of grief.

He said the Service Commission is also saddened by the passing, as it reflects a void now being left within the Police Force coming just one week after the commission had made steps to ensure that strength of the organisation, especially at the management level, was what is required.

He described the contribution of Balram Persaud as outstanding, and expressed the hope that the Guyana Police Force would take the necessary action, once the time of mourning has passed, to ensure that the void left by the deceased senior police officer is filled in a timely manner.

Balram Persaud, left, and Commissioner of Police Seelall Persaud back in July 2015 as they prepared to take the salute at the annual Guyana Police Force Anniversary Route March

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 24, 2016

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$773.6M to fight HIV, TB, malaria

By Svetlana Marshall GOVERNMENT has set aside $773.6M to fill the gap left by the Global Fund which was designed to fight AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria.

Public Health Minister Dr George Norton made this disclosure to the Parliamentary Committee of Supply on Monday as he defended the $19.021B budgeted for the Public Health sector.

“Mr Chairman, what we have here is the absorption of

some cost previously funded by the Global Fund which ended in 2015 for the Tuberculosis (TB), the National AIDS Programme Secretariat (NAPS) and the Vector Control Programme,” he explained, while alluding to Programme 432: Diseases Control – Line Item 6221:Drugs and Medical Supplies.

Approximately 25 patients will benefit significantly under Public Health Minister this initiative, with the govDr George Norton ernment to fund second-line medication for seven patients under the NAPS. “It is anticipated that the Global Fund will support 10 other patients,” said an optimistic Norton. Over the next three years, he said, the Public Health Ministry will increase its support for a larger pool of patients. Of the $773.6M, approximately $220M will be spent on malaria, while $100M have been set aside to treat persons living with diabetes.

However, under Capital Expenditure, Global Fund is providing $280M for the provision of HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria interventions.

In addition to provisions made under Diseases Control, $61.6M have been budgeted for the procurement of drugs and medical supplies under Programme 431: Policy Development and Administration; $360M under Programme: 433: Family Health Care Services; $120.8M under Programme 434: Regional and Clinical Services; $2M under Programme 435: Health Sciences Education; $400M under Programme 436: Standards and Technical Services; and $5M under Programme 437: Disability and Rehabilitative Services.

With millions of dollars set aside for the procurement of drugs and medical supplies, People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Member Dr Frank Anthony requested of the Public Health Minister an explanation of the procurement process being used.

OPEN, COMPETITIVE BIDDING Minister Norton, in response, said drugs and medical supplies will be procured using primarily an open and competitive bidding system. However, it was explained that the procurement of drugs and medical supplies remains substantially a centralised process, with the exception of minor purchases that include medical gases, snake bite kits and small emergency supplies.

The Health Minister explained that allocations will be distributed across the regions; however, procedurally, the funds will be warranted back to the Ministry of Public Health from the regions to facilitate centralised procurement and the benefits of economies of scale and requisite quality controls.

The Regional Executive Officers will send the agreed sums to the Ministry of Public Health for the purchase of drugs and medical supplies for the facilities across the regions.

But Dr Anthony was not satisfied with the answer given, and as such, pressed for more. “Am I to understand that the future procurement of…$773M that there will be no sole sourcing?” he asked.

“No sir, no Mr Speaker, we can’t give that assurance,” Dr Norton said in return. However, he made it clear that the Public Health Ministry is pushing for the issue of sole sourcing to be “a thing of the past”.

The new system being used for the procurement of drugs and medical supplies ultimately breaks the monopolistic arrangement which existed under the People’s ProPlease see page 25

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 24, 2016

Accused of having gun and threatening to kill A MECHANIC was on Monday remanded to prison after being charged with threatening to kill a woman and having an unlicensed gun and ammunition in his possession.

Thirty-year-old Ronald Seebachan, of West Coast Berbice pleaded not guilty to the three charges read to him by city Magistrate Judy Latchman.

The charges stated that on February 21, 2016, at Aranka Junction,Seebachan threatened to kill Kendall Williams.

Seebachan, was also charged for having one unlicensed .38 revolver and two 9mm live rounds of ammunition in his possession, without having the necessary licences for the gun and ammo.

Police Prosecutor Kerry Bostwick objected to bail on the basis that no special reasons were offered to the court in relation to the firearm and the ammo. He also stated that the safety of the virtual complainant was paramount, since Seebachan had threatened to kill her.

The matter was adjourned until Friday, when Seebachan will make his appearance in court.

Allegedly admits stealing ‘magic mat’ NINETEEN-year-old Ellison Johnson of Lethem, a miner, appeared before Magistrate Judy Latchman on Monday to answer a charge that he stole a magic mat, which is used for trapping gold.

Johnson pleaded not guilty to the charge which stated that he stole the mat valued at $50,000, property of Seon David on February 20, 2016 at Aranka Backdam, Essequibo.

Police Prosecutor Kerry Bostwick objected to bail on the grounds that Johnson had admitted under caution to the police that he stole the item. He further stated that other charges were being investigated and were likely to be brought against him.

Johnson was denied bail and is to appear before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan on Friday for assignment of the case.

$773.6M to fight ...

From page 24 gressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C). The PPP/C administration, according to the Public Health Ministry, sold 90 per cent of its shares in an entity it owned and controlled, only to turn back and buy drugs from the same entity which has become a private enterprise. It was said that the health sector was burdened with buying drugs from a single source, because the procedure of prequalification was decidedly skewed in favour of the NEW GPC. However, the new bidding document is designed in a manner that allows companies of all sizes to participate in an open and competitive process.

Medical supplies and pharmaceuticals will be placed into lots, allowing companies, if they so desire, to bid for particular lots. Already, more than 35 of the new bidding documents have been sold.

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Regional journalists told:

Journalism should be free from political interference

By Ravin Singh in Barbados

MANAGING Director of MEDIAROBERS and regional journalist, Julian Rogers, on Tuesday opined that one of the pillars of Journalism is that it should be free from political interference and be geared towards keeping the public informed.

Rogers, who hails from Antigua and Barbuda, was one of the four presenters who addressed 68 media workers and law students on Tuesday at the Improved Access to Justice in the Caribbean (IMPACT) Justice Media Law workshop, cur-

Andrew Smith, Lecturer, University of Technology, Jamaica rently being held in Barbados. According to Rogers, whose presentation focused primarily on ‘educating the public about its rights’, the media has a responsibility to keep the public informed, though it is acknowledged that this is not achieved without challenges.

“We have a responsibility to keep the public informed,” he said, adding, “how we do that is up to us, and it is a challenge.” But while this is an unavoidable challenge which media practitioners must face, he noted, at the same time, Journalism should be free from political interference.

Seasoned in journalism, the MEDIAROBERS Director reflected on the colourful history of Guyana, referring to the fact that the media did not have the liberty in the post-colonial era to function independently, given that it was state-owned. In a regional context, he explained, the environment was one wherein there was great challenge in terms of ideology.

And noting that Journalism is a “business [which] started in tough times,” Rogers acknowledged that many practi-

tioners, in historic times, sacrificed their time, efforts and resources for the advancement and development of the media fraternity. “Modern media practitioners owe them the credit,” he said.

Weighing in on the role of journalists, Rogers supported the journalistic principle that the least important opinion is that of the journalist. However, he noted that the editor is the only person who is afforded the opportunity to take a position on an issue.

“The position of the editor stands out from the position of people from other spheres of society,” he told the attendees.

Julian Rogers, Managing Director, MEDIAROBERS, Antigua and Barbuda But when these positions are adopted, Rogers explained, they are usually complemented with “editorial challenges” which include, but are certainly not limited to, threats to journalists and withdrawals of ads from the media outfit.

Supporting Rogers’s contention in a subsequent presentation was Lecturer at the University of Technology, Jamaica, Andrew Smith, who, speaking in a balanced tone, highlighted that journalists have a responsibility to seek out the truth in the interest of the public, since it is the public’s rights to know.

But beyond that, he said, journalists both directly and indirectly carry several other responsibilities, including judgement -- not to publish something that they are uncertain of; not suppressing information; not using dishonest methods to obtain information, recordings, images, or documents; not manipulating this data or have them manipulated by a third party with a view to their falsification; and not plagiarizing.

Additionally, Smith noted that journalists are to rectify any published information that is revealed to be factually incorrect; respect professional secrecy; not reveal the sources of any information obtained in confidence; and respect peoples’ privacy insofar as the public interest does not demand otherwise.

Turning his attention briefly to freedom of infor-

mation, which should be allowed in all jurisdictions in the Caribbean, he explained that this contributes to government openness and is an important instrument used to prevent and combat corruption. Additionally, it is used as a tool to address poor governance through informed debates, he said.

Not limiting his presentation to responsibilities of journalists and freedom of in-

formation, the university lecturer told media practitioners that the most basic right of anyone is freedom of expression, which is enshrined in Article 19 of the United Nations (UN) Declaration of Human Rights.

Article 19 of the UN Declaration of Human Rights reads: “Everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression; this right includes

freedom to hold opinions without interference and to seek, receive and impart information and ideas through any media and regardless of frontiers.” And while journalists have a duty to permit freedom of expression of all parties included in a news story, Smith was keen to note that “we’re journalists, not public relations (PR) officers.”

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Govt nails Teixeira’s lies in letter to Norway

THE Ministry of Finance has slammed the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) for misleading the public in a missive it wrote to the Norwegian Government, complaining about the Guyana Government’s stance in regard to the current construct of the Amaila Falls Hydro Project.

In a statement issued on Monday, the ministry said it has noted with concern a letter signed by PPP Chief Whip Gail Teixeira to Per Fredrik Pharo, Director of Norway’s International Climate and Forest Initiative, and has deemed the missive a misrepresentation of the truth. The ministry said Teixeira, in seeking to defend her party’s “farming out” of Guyana’s forests during its time in government, has resorted to her familiar formula of faulty arguments in a vain attempt to score cheap political points and hoodwink the Government of Norway and the Guyanese public by misrepresenting the statement made by Minister of Finance Winston Jordan during his presentation of Budget 2015.

Teixeira also accused the APNU+ AFC Coalition of “continued lies and attacks on the integrity of the Guyana/Norway

Minister of Finance Winston Jordan

PPP Chief Whip, Gail Teixeira

partnership on climate change and forests.” However, the ministry said, in peddling this accusation, Teixeira pointed to a statement by Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman that the PPP government had shared out all of Guyana’s productive forest resources, as well as statements by Minister of Finance Winston Jordan in his August 2015 Budget Speech, when he said it would be a downright criminal act of deception were we to proceed with Amaila Falls.

Jordan had said, “Mr. Speaker, this Government is well aware of the importance of clean, reliable and affordable energy for development and the improved welfare of our people. As such, we are prepared to explore every avenue to reduce the cost of energy – including examining the Amaila Falls Hydroelectric Project.

The problem, Mr. Speaker, is that, as currently configured, it would not only be irresponsible, but a downright criminal act of deception were we to proceed with the Amaila Falls.”

The ministry said that Teixeira deliberately omitted Continued on page 29

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Govt nails Teixeira’s ...

From page 28 the words, “as currently configured”, noting that the minister’s words, in their entirety, clearly convey that the design and approach to the Amaila Falls Hydro Power Project as conceptualised by the previous government, has far-reaching financial implications that would have to be borne by the nation. These very implications have been ventilated by many analysts, some in this very newspaper!

Further, in disputing the minister’s statements that the Amaila Falls Hydro Power Project would cost the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) US$2.6B over 20 years, Ms. Teixeira asserts that it will in fact save GPL US$2B over the same period, without mentioning the basis for this claim that holds little water (no pun intended), especially given the current environment of depressed fuel prices globally.

During that same presentation, the Minister of Finance made it clear that the identification of Amaila Falls as a potential site for hydropower dates back some 40 years, and that the Government welcomes the diversification of our energy matrix to include clean, sustainable, and affordable sources;

but that it must make financial sense!

He also said, “We know now that, as configured currently, the cost of financing Amaila is too high, and that unless the price tag can be substantially lowered, we cannot proceed. In this opinion, we are strongly supported by the experts at the Inter-American Development Bank, who had considered the project to be too risky to attract the Bank’s financing.”

The ministry said this position of the government was reiterated in its communication to the Kingdom of Norway in December 2015; during the COP21 Meeting in Paris; and more recently, during the Minister’s rebuttal to wind up the debate on Budget 2016. “Further, this position has been buttressed by interactions and meetings between the Minister of Finance and Mr. Gerard Johnson, General Manager of the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB); between the Minister of Finance and the President of the IDB (during a meeting in Washington for the re-election of the President of the IDB); between President Granger and the President of the IDB (during side meetings at the UN General Assembly in 2015); and during the meeting among the Minister of Finance, the IDB and the representatives of the Kingdom of Norway, in Paris in December 2015,” the ministry stated.

It added: “In fact, arising from the discussions of the last meeting in Paris, it was agreed that Norway would engage an

international consultant for a final review of the Amaila Falls Project. To date, Norway has proposed a nominee to undertake the review, but the Government of Guyana has requested the submission of three reputable, independent, international consulting firms from which one would be selected by the Government of Guyana to conduct the review.”

According to the ministry, Teixeira’s letter, while riddled with inaccuracies and omissions, is a clear attempt to diminish Guyana’s relationship with Norway and halt the funding received under the Guyana REDD+ Investment Fund (GRIF) and other investments.

The ministry said, in saying: “The PPP will have no choice but to support Norway putting on hold projects and funds…

“Ms. Teixeira is trying to sabotage the economy, now recovering from the machinations and contretemps of her party in the pre- and post-elections period. Neither she nor her party will succeed in this latest puerile and unpatriotic attempt at interrupting the growth trajectory that we have set for the economy. The APNU+AFC Government continues to value the relationship with the Government and Kingdom of Norway, and is committed to pursuing a sustainable and green development path to the Good Life for All Guyanese.”

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SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS Durbanville 08:50 hrs Prudence Prevails 09:30 hrs Five Star Rock 10:05 hrs Kryptonite 10:40 hrs Catkin ENGLISH RACING TIPS Doncaster 10:00 hrs The Unit 10:30 hrs Lou Vert 11:00 hrs Mount Haven 11:30 hrs Benbens 12:05 hrs Paint The Clouds 12:40 hrs Ballycrystal 13:10 hrs Rather Be LINGFIELD 10:20 hrs Little Indian 10:50 hrs Mukaabra 11:20 hrs Guards Chapel 11:55 hrs Malhama 12:25 hrs Faster Company 13:00 hrs Ferryview Place AMERICAN RACING TIPS Gulfstream Park Race 1 Deer Dog Race 2 Forever Afleet Race 3 Securitiz Race 4 Avalancha Race 5 Star Charlie Race 6 Derby Day Kitten Race 7 How You Race 8 Moegan Avenue

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 24, 2016

Aussies sweep Black Caps, claim no.1 Test ranking AUSTRALIA returned to the summit of Test cricket after seeing off trans-Tasman rivals New Zealand by seven wickets in Christchurch today.

Needing 131 runs to win in pursuit of New Zealand’s 201, the result was never in doubt as Australia chipped away at the target with ease on the fifth and final day of the second Test to sweep the series 2-0 against the Black Caps.

Resuming at 70-1, Usman Khawaja (45) and Joe Burns (65) were the only wickets to fall on Wednesday, as Steve Smith (53 not out) and Adam Voges (6

not out) helped the Aussies dethrone India as the number one Test nation shortly after lunch at Hagley Oval.

It was not the international farewell New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum had hoped for in his 101st and final Test.

Although, the retiring skipper did have a helping hand in dismissing Khawaja as the Kiwi bowling attack toiled tirelessly at Hagley Oval.

The Australians never looked in any real danger, except for Burns being struck on the helmet following a bouncer in a nervy moment.

Khawaja - an outside of chance of posting a fifth-consecutive century - added 26 runs to his overnight score before he was caught by McCullum at slip off the bowling of Tim Southee (1-30).

That wicket brought Smith to the crease and the Aussie captain teamed up with Burns, who added a half-century to his first-innings ton, before he was clean bowled by Trent Boult.

Burns’ walk back to the pavilion only delayed the inevitable as the tourists posted the remaining 17 runs after the break, with Voges hitting the winning boundary.

Steven Smith muscles one through the off side during his unbeaten 53.

SCOREBOARD NEW ZEALAND 1st innings 370 (B. McCullum 145, C. Anderson 72, B. Watling 58) AUSTRALIA 1st innings 505 (J. Burns 170, S. Smith 138, A. Voges 60; N. Wagner 6-106) NEW ZEALAND 2nd innings (o/n 121-4) T. Latham c Nevill b Pattinson 39 M. Guptill c Nevill b Pattinson 0 K. Williamson b Bird 97 H. Nicholls c Smith b Pattinson 2 B. McCullum c Warner b Hazlewood 25 C. Anderson b Bird 40 B. Watling c Burns b Pattinson 46 T. Southee c Smith b Bird 0 M. Henry b Bird 66 N. Wagner not out 3 T. Boult c Pattinson b Bird 0 Extras: (b-2, lb-14, nb-1) 17 Total: (all out, 111.1 overs) 335 Fall of wickets: 1-8, 2-66, 3-72, 4-105, 5-207, 6-210, 7-210, 8-328, 9-335.

Bowling: J. Hazlewood 34-11-92-1, J. Pattinson 26-8-77-4, J. Bird 17.1-5-59-5, N. Lyon 17-3-42-0, M. Marsh 17-4-49-0 (nb-1).

AUSTRALIA 2nd innings (Overnight: 70-1; Target: 201 runs) J. Burns b Boult 65 D. Warner c Watling b Wagner 22 U. Khawaja c B. McCullum b Southee 45 S. Smith not out 53 A. Voges not out 10 Extras (lb-4 nb-2) 6 Total (for 3 wickets, 54 overs) 201 Fall of wickets: 1-49 D. Warner,2-113 U. Khawaja,3-179 J. Burns To bat: M. Marsh, P. Nevill, J. Pattinson, J. Hazlewood, N. Lyon, J. Bird Bowling: T. Boult 17 - 1 - 60 – 1, T. Southee 7 - 2 - 30 – 1, M. Henry 9 - 1 - 33 - 0(nb-1), N. Wagner 18 - 4 - 60 - 1(nb-1), C. Anderson 3 - 0 - 14 - 0

Tridents owner a ‘defaulter’

VIJAY MALLYA, the Indian entrepreneur who recently paid the reported franchise fee of US$2M for the Barbados Tridents in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), and United Breweries Holdings (UBHL), the company he heads, have been declared “wilful defaulters” by three Indian state-owned banks.

According to the Indian media, the charge was laid last week by the Punjab National Bank (PNB), the United Bank of India (UBI) and the State Bank of India (SBI). UBHL stated last week it was “in consultations with its legal counsel” with a view to challenging the indictment in

the Delhi high court.

It is not known what impact the matter might have on the 2016 CPL, scheduled for June and July. Damien O’Donohue, the chief executive officer, said at the players’ draft earlier this month the support of Mallya along with the government was critical to the Tridents’ continuation.

Efforts yesterday to contact him at his base in Ireland were unsuccessful.

The Indian Economist commented that Mallya was “known for his flamboyance and hosting lavish parties even when his companies have been declared defaulters by lenders”. (Nation News)

Smith fires Islamabad to title win AFTER a spectacular display of fireworks lit up the start of the final of the inaugural Pakistan Super League in Dubai, Dwayne Smith produced the cricketing equivalent of it, firing Islamabad United to the title.

He struck 73 off 51 balls, 52 of them through boundaries. Smith’s effort came after Quetta Gladiators had put up a challenging 174 with fluent half-centuries from Ahmed Shehzad and Kumar Sangakkara. Islamabad captain Misbah-ul-Haq, who had termed the PSL almost like a “World Cup” at the toss, sealed the victory with a flick past midwicket and sparked off wild celebrations.

Smith, who had struggled to get the ball off the square during his 37-ball 19 in the third qualifier against Peshawar Zalmi, got into his shot-making stride right away on Tuesday night, cracking fours off his second and third balls.

He then followed it up

with a brace of fours in the next over, off spinner Nathan McCullum, who was bowling for the first time in the tournament. Nathan managed to bowl PSL’s only centurion Sharjeel Khan, who had been added to Pakistan’s World T20 and Asia Cup squads, for only 12, but Smith continued his slap-happy strokeplay and raised a fifty off 32 balls.

Smith was dismissed when he sent a top-edge to Kevin Pietersen to backward point in the 16th over, but Brad Haddin, whose knock was a more measured one, remained unbeaten on 61 off 39 balls, his third fifty of the tournament.

Islamabad ultimately won emphatically with six wickets and eight balls to spare.

They had begun on a positive note as well with fast bowler Mohammad Irfan striking in the first over to dismiss opener Bismillah Khan for a duck. Pietersen, playing his third T20 final this season after the Ram Slam and Big Bash

League, promised much before holing out to deep square leg for 18; Asif Ali completing an excellent catch.

Sangakkara and Shehzad then married power and timing in an 87-run partnership, highlighted by Sangakkara’s extra-cover drive for six off Mohammad Sami, for the third wicket.

The pair ensured that Quetta motored past 100 by the 13th over.

Sangakkara, however, was caught by Imran Khalid at long-on off Russell for 55, in the 15th over. Sangakkara’s exit set in motion a flurry of wickets as Quetta lost four wickets in four overs at the death. Anwar Ali swung wildly and connected a six before he became Russell’s third victim.

It meant that Russell went past Wahab Riaz to finish as the tournament’s leading wicket-taker with 16 scalps. Grant Elliott lifted the last ball of the innings for a six but Quetta’s joy was short-lived.(Espn Cricinfo)

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Prince Ali wants delay in FIFA vote, appeals to CAS

By Ossian Shine LONDON, England (Reuters) - FIFA presidential candidate Prince Ali bin Al Hussein has appealed to sport’s highest tribunal over his request for transparent voting booths and independent scrutineers at Friday’s election for the head of the global soccer body.

Prince Ali’s lawyers said they had requested a suspension to the election - setting up legal race to resolve the issue before the vote can take place.

Ali, whose request for transparent booths was rejected last week by FIFA, is unhappy with the arrangements for a vote expected to set a new tone of transparency for an organisation mired in the past in secret dealings.

“As a consequence, we are now seeking provisional measures before CAS to suspend the coming election on Friday February 26,” his lawyers said.

The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) did not address the request for a delay in its statement, but said it would decide on a request by Ali for “provisional measures” by tomorrow.

With the governance of the world’s most popular sport at stake, and the conduct of ballots for the hosts of the next two World Cups already being called into question in criminal investi-

FIFA presidential candidate Prince Ali bin Al Hussein gations, all eyes will be on how the election is carried out as well as the result.

Having rejected the Jordanian prince’s offer to make transparent booths available to the congress, FIFA has said it would instead ask voters to leave their mobile phones outside while choosing between the five candidates.

Ali wants the transparent booths to ensure delegates do not photograph their ballot papers. This would prevent delegates coming under pressure to produce evidence of their vote to interested parties.

Prince Ali’s lawyers said that requesting delegates to surrender their phones was “not sufficient”.

“FIFA remains silent upon the measures to enforce it and sanctions associated with it,” it said.

The CAS statement said: “Prince Ali seeks an order that FIFA be directed to use transparent voting booths, as well as independent scrutineers, in order to safeguard the integrity of the voting process and to ensure the vote is conducted in secret.”

FIFA and Ali himself were not immediately available for comment. Acting FIFA president Issa Hayatou said in a letter to the member associations on Monday that he was confident this week’s Extraordinary FIFA Congress in Zurich would start the process of restoring the global soccer body’s credibility.

FIFA’s 209-member national associations (FAs) each hold one vote at the

election where Ali is among five candidates standing to replace outgoing President Sepp Blatter, who is banned for eight years. He denies any wrongdoing.

Ali and Jerome Champagne, one of his rivals, both

say that continental federations, who do not vote, hold undue influence over the FAs. However, as long as the voting is secret, FAs can ignore pressure to vote as a block without being found out.

Ali’s lawyers said FIFA

had objected to their demand for an expedited appeal hearing to deliver a verdict before Friday’s vote, prompting them to ask CAS, sport’s highest court, to suspend the election.

NOTABLE DATES

GAIRY ST CLAIR GAIRY St Clair was 30 years old when he defended the World Boxing Organisation (WB0) featherweight title against southpaw American Shamir Reyes on February 24, 2005. The fight was held in Northbridge, Western Australia.

Referee Brad Vocale stopped the bout at 44 seconds of the 12th and final round to hand St Clair his 16th stoppage in 41 fights. Two fights later the orthodox

Guyanese fighter joined a small and elite group of local boxers when he won a world title.

On July 29, 2006 St Clair defeated South African Cassius Baloyi to win the International Boxing Federation (IBF) and International Boxing Organisation (IBO) junior lightweight titles. The event was a crowd-pleasing affair which saw Baloyi bleeding profusely from a cut over the left eye in round eight.

St Clair started his professional career in 1994 and came up against the best in the business in a career that is not yet over. His list of tough opponents includes Diego Corrales, Leonard Dorin, ‘Vicious’ Vivian Harris and Amir Khan among others. After a short stint in the USA, St Clair shifted camp to Australia in 2001.

Dalchand Rambharose Inter-Secondary School U-15 cricket

Tikaram bowls Black Bush Secondary to big win A BRILLIANT bowling effort from off-spinner Ajai Tikaram spearheaded Black Bush Secondary School to an outright victory over Central Corentyne Secondary School in the latest round of the Dalchand Rambharose Inter-Secondary School Under-15 cricket competition.

At the Mibicuri ground, Central Corentyne, decided to bat first and were bowled out fort 57 in the first innings, Tikaram ending with 6-16.

Yuvraj Munessar support-

AJAI TIKARAM ed with 3-25.

In reply, Black Bush Secondary declared their first innings at 122-7, with

Shazam Mohamed hitting 40 and Ezekiel Rebeiro 22. Bowling for Central Corentyne, Shemroy Simpson, Rawle Johnson and Jamal Hickman all picked up two wickets apiece.

Facing a deficit of 65 runs, Central Corentyne, batting a second time, were bowled out for 40, to lose by an innings and 25 runs. Doing the main damage again was Tikaram, who took 6-12, to end with match figures of 12-28. Totaram Ramnarine took 3-20.

PCL Points Standings after 7th round matches TEAMS Guyana Barbados Jamaica

MAT 7 7 7

Trinidad & Tobago Windward Islands Leeward Islands

WON 6 4 3

LOST 0 1 4

TIED 0 0 0

DRAW ABAN 1 0 2 0 0 0

7 7 7

2 1 1

3 4 5

0 0 0

2 2 1

PTS 107 90 60 0 0 0

56 41 36

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 24, 2016

37

Juventus rescue Champions League hopes with 2-2 draw TURIN, (Reuters) - Juventus staged a superb comeback from two goals down to rescue their Champions League hopes and secure a 2-2 draw against Bayern Munich in their last-16 first leg yesterday.

Thomas Mueller pounced on a deflected cross to put the visitors ahead in the 43rd minute and Dutchman Arjen Robben doubled the lead early in the second half before goals from Paulo Dybala and substitute Stefano Sturaro drew the hosts level.

Bayern had looked to be cruising to their third straight win at Juventus with close to 70 percent possession in the first hour.

Yet last season’s finalists, who have been in superb form in recent months, refused to surrender, and staged a scintillating second-half comeback to leave the tie open after a frustrating finish for the Germans.

Bayern, the 2013 champions, shot out of the blocks in search of a quick goal and were almost rewarded when former Juve player Arturo Vidal’s powerful volley forced 38-year-old keeper Gianluigi Buffon to palm his effort round the post.

Mueller then missed an excellent chance when he failed to tap in from two metres out after Robert Lewandowski had set up his team mate with a superb assist.

The Germany international, however, proved why he is such a prolific goalscorer, when he was in the right place to slot in from 10 metres for his sixth goal in seven Champions League matches this season, after Juve failed to clear a ball in the box.

Robben doubled their lead after the break with his first goal of the year, a trademark move by the Dutchman, who cut inside from the right and curled a left-footed effort into the net.

Dybala, however, made the most of a bad Philipp Lahm clearance to beat Manuel Neuer on the hour and inject new life into the hosts’ performance and trigger a frantic Juve search for an equaliser.

Juan Cuadrado almost got it minutes later but Neuer calmly stood his ground to block the Colombian’s shot.

The keeper, however, could do nothing when Sturaro beat his marker to slide in and level in the 76th minute.

Hurricanes, Volcanoes draw enthralling encounter

THE Leeward Islands Hurricanes and the Windward Islands Volcanoes played to an enthralling draw in their WICB Professional Cricket League (PCL) game at the Addelita Cancryn Junior High School in Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas on Monday.

After rain almost made the first day impossible, the two teams put on impressive first-innings batting displays that meant there was no way of deciding between the teams.

Batting first, the Hurricanes romped to 327 all out from 106.4 overs of batting on the back of Rahkeem Cornwall’s 97 and good knocks of 41, 47, and 46 from Nkrumah Bonner, Orlando Peters, and Jahmar Hamilton respectively.

A century from Kavem Hodge (105), Devon Smith’s 85, Jerlani Robinson’s 47, Sunil Ambris’ 56 and Kyle Mayers’ 58 led a fightback ending at 389 all out.

Staring at a lead RAHKEEM CORNWALL of 62, the Volcanoes did not bat as well in their second innings, but made it to 171 for eight before play ended.

Liam Sebastien was the best of the bowlers in the Windwards’ second spell of bowling with figures of four for 49.

The draw means the Windwards and the Leewards remain fifth and sixth in the tables with 41 and 36 points respectively.

The Guyana Jaguars on 107 have given a little ground to the Barbados Pride on 90 while the Jamaica Scorpions, in third on 60, are a whisker ahead of the Trinidad and Tobago Red Force on 56. (Sportsmax. com)

38

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 24, 2016

Messi’s late double destroys Arsenal

By Martyn Herman LONDON, England (Reuters) - Lionel Messi proved a thorn in Arsenal’s side yet again as his late second-half goals, including a penalty, gave Barcelona a 2-0 win at The Emirates in the first leg of their Champions League last-16 tie yesterday.

The Spanish holders’ feared attack had been well shackled by a disciplined home side for much of the evening, but a lightning break after 71 minutes saw Argentine Messi teed up by Neymar to score past keeper Petr Cech for the first time in his career.

Messi, who netted four goals against the Gunners in 2010 and a double a year later in knockout round wins, doubled Barca’s lead seven minutes from time when he beat Cech with a penalty, having been tripped by Arsenal substitute Mathieu

when he should have scored at the end of the opening period and Neymar was denied by Cech after being played in by Andres Iniesta.

Starved of the ball for long periods, Arsenal still posed a threat though and ter Stegen did well to keep out Olivier Giroud’s closerange header from a Mesut Ozil cross.

Arsenal grew in belief

Lionel Messi celebrates scoring the second goal for Barcelona. (Reuters/Toby Melville) Flamini.

Arsenal relied on counter-attacks and had chances, most notably from Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Olivier Giroud, but they now have a daunting task to turn the tie around in the Nou Camp.

Barca’s frontline of Luis Suarez, Messi and

Neymar had scored 91 goals in all competitions this season but for the first 20 minutes they were subdued in an electric atmosphere.

Arsenal should have taken the lead midway the first half when Hector Bellerin’s scuffed shot fell for Alex Oxlade-Chamber-

lain in front of goal but he scooped his effort straight at goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen.

The Catalans began to move through the gears though and either side of halftime wasted two glorious chances.

Suarez headed Dani Alves’s dinked cross wide

BCB shows appreciation to Hetmyer THE Berbice Cricket Board recently honoured young Berbician Shimron Hetmyer, who led the West Indies Under-19 team to their first-ever ICC Youth World Cup title in Bangladesh.

A release from the board stated that “the BCB is proud of you, Shimron Hetmyer, for your achievement of leading the West Indies Under-19 team to their first-ever Youth World Cup title.

As a board, we try our best despite the challenges faced to fulfil our mandate and we continue to produce outstanding players

Shimron Hetmyer receives his plaque from BCB secretary Angela Haniff.

for Guyana and West Indies teams.

“Your former Under-19 team mate Gudakesh Motie is excelling at regional senior cricket already. The board is confident that soon both of you will be wearing the maroon colours. We wish to encourage you to continue to be humble, work hard and stay focused,” the release added.

The board also took the opportunity to congratulate the other two Guyanese Tevin Imlach and Keemo Paul.

They will soon be presented with plaques by the BCB.

but it cost them dearly as they committed players forward and got stung.

With 19 minutes left Suarez and Neymar combined in devastating fashion and the Brazilian set up Messi who steadied himself and picked his spot to beat Cech.

Suarez then hit the post when he should have scored before Messi struck again, this time with a calmly struck penalty.

UDFA division one league continues tonight with double-header

By Joe Chapman MILEROCK, currently positioned at number three, should be eyeing to reach the top of the points standing when they play Botofago today at 20:30hrs in the Upper Demerara Football Association’s Division One League championship.

The other encounter of the double-header at the Mackenzie Sports Club ground is between Net Rockers and Eagles United in the first game at 18:30hrs.

Milerock are on 10 points, three adrift of the current leaders Topp XX and a win could see them climb from their 10 points to occupy the lead jointly with Topp XX. In the latest round of matches played last Friday at the MSC ground, first-half goals decided the winners.

Topp XX maintained their hold of the podium position with a 4-0 drubbing of Botofago as Keon Halls netted in the 5th minute, Monty Simon in the 20th, Travis Waterton in the 34th and Tyric McAllister in the 42nd minute.

On the same night, Silver Shattas moved into the second position with 12 points, one behind Topp XX as they brushed aside Milerock 2-0 due to goals from Dellon McAllister in the 2nd minute and Damion Williams in the 36th minute.

This Friday the championship continues with two more matches. At 18:30hrs Hi Stars face Amelia’s Ward Panthers and at 20:30hrs, Silver Shattas meet Topp XX. At present Topp XX are leading with 13 points from six completed matches in the team championship with four wins, one loss and one draw, Silver Shattas remain the only unbeaten team with 12 points from six games played with three wins and three draws, Federal Winners Connection and Milerock have ten points from six games with three wins, two losses and one draw.

Hi stars are on eight points from five games with two wins, one draw and two losses. Net Rockers are on seven points with six matches played having two wins, three losses and one draw, while Botofago are on six points from two wins and two defeats with Blueberry Hill, Eagles United and Amelia’s Ward Panthers each on four points with five games played for one win, three losses and one draw each.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday February 24, 2016

Leal crowned overall winner in Forbes Burnham Memorial cycle road race TEAM Evolution, led by Raul Leal, occupied the top three positions of the annual Forbes Burnham Memorial cycle road race which concluded yesterday with the staging of the second and third stages of the event.

Leal’s team mates Marlon `Fishy’ Williams and Orville Hinds placed second and third, while Team Alanis’ Paul DeNobrega placed fourth, Shaquil Agard was fifth and Junior Niles sixth.

Leal, who covered the three stages of the event in an overall time of five hours 55 minutes .05 seconds, won the first stage which was held in Berbice on Sunday and was fourth in the second stage yesterday morning.

In the final stage yesterday afternoon, Leal finished second.

The first stage started in New Amsterdam, Berbice, proceeded to Rose Hall Town and returned to the place of origin for the finish.

Michael Anthony, another Team Evolution cyclist placed second in that stage while Williams, Agard, and Romelo Crawford occupied the other top positions respectively.

In stage two which started at Kara Kara, Linden Highway and finished on Homestretch Avenue, Hinds won ahead of Niles and Crawford respectively. Leal was fourth, Raphael Leung fifth and Williams sixth.

Stage three got underway from the National Cultural Centre, Georgetown and proceeded to Belfield, East Coast Demerara before returning to finish outside the Chinese Embassy, Mandela Avenue.

In that stage, Hinds won ahead of Leal, Williams, Leal and DeNobrega in that order.

In yesterday’s final stage, Anthony was first to break from the pack but was soon joined by Leal and Agard.

Hinds followed soon after and in company with Williams, connected with the leaders and together they opened a huge gap and were never caught.

However, on the downward journey, Williams made a move at Buxton, East Coast Demerara. Hinds then jumped Leal who responded and connected but the leaders extended their lead until the finish.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Wednesday February 24, 2016) COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) &AUDREY’S TASTY SNACKETTE-176 Charlotte Street, Georgetown (Tel: 226-4512)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz:

(1) Desmond Lewis & Jack Noriega (2) 215-Chris Gayle (WI vs ZIM, Canberra, 2015) Today’s Quiz: (1) Who scored a double-hundred when Sir Gary Sobers made a triple-century?

(2) Who led the WI in their first ODI game at home?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

39

Team Evolution’s trio! Orville Hinds (right) raises his hand in triumph as he crosses the finish line. At left is overall winner Raul Leal while teammate Marlon ‘Fishy’ Williams is just behind.

Leal crowned overall winner in Forbes Burnham Memorial See story cycle road race on page 39

GSA president pleased with junior team’s commitment

By Stephan Sookram PRESIDENT of the Guyana Squash Association David Fernandes has commended his junior team who competed at the St Vincent & The Grenadines Junior Squash Open 2016 (part of the World Squash Federation Junior Circuit Event) which was held in that country last weekend.

The team, accompanied by manager Fernandes, coach Garfield Wiltshire, and chaperone Juanita Fernandes,. returned with three gold, five silver and three bronze medals In an invited comment, the GSA boss said, “Everyone played very consistently. I was pleased with the level of commitment and determination showed by all of our players.”

He added, “We now will be preparing for the up-

The victorious Junior squash team pose with their Squash Open 2016 coming Caribbean Junior tournament has given us the championships to be held in opportunity to gauge where the Cayman Islands during we are and the areas, both the month of July and this technically and tactically,

spoils after the St Vincent & The Grenadines Junior that our juniors need to work on in order to be fully ready for this tournament.”

Winning gold were Tay-

lor Fernandes who defeated Larissa Wiltshire in the Girls Under-19 final 3-1, Makeda Harding who played unbeaten

to win the Girls Under-15 round-robin event and Shomari Wiltshire, who defeated Alex Stewart (Barbados) 3-0 in the Boys Under-13 event.

The silver side of things featured Larissa Wiltshire in the Mixed Under-19 event, losing to Jason Doyle (St Vincent) in the final 3-0, Larissa Wiltshire in the Girls Under-19 event and Makeda Harding in the Girls Under-17 final losing to Thandi Myers (St Vincent) by 3-1.

Shomari Wiltshire also picked up silver in both the Boys Under-15 and 17 finals, losing to Kai Bentick (St Vincent) by 3-1 and 3-0 respectively.

The bronze medal winners were Taylor Fernandes, Mixed Under-19, and Daniel Islam, Boys Under-15 and Under-19.

‘Jackie Chan’ credits win to all-round effort

By Stephan Sookram

Gregory ‘Jackie Chan’ Richardson blocks a Surinamese defender during his side’s 2-0 win at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence on Sunday.

(Samuel Maughn photo)

GOLDEN Jaguars skipper Gregory ‘Jackie Chan’ Richardson has credited his team’s 2-0 win over the Surinamese side to an all-round team effort and good understanding within the playing unit.

Richardson, whose double on either side of the break spearheaded the win, contended that the team stuck to their game plan during the encounter on Sunday evening at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence.

“Tonight we played as a unit because we were training on one thing; to just keep our organisation and everything else is going to fall in place. As long as we keep our organisation then everything else will fall into place; our control and

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everything else. It’s just discipline on the field,” said the Skipper.

Turning his attention to the composition of the team, which featured some youngsters, the skipper contended that this augurs well for the future of the sport, adding, “We’ve got some good youngsters. They speak to me and I speak to them.

They understand the game and I show them how the game is played.

It’s very simple.”

“We have a good league, it’s going strong. The youngsters are playing well in the league and we are choosing them to be national players to represent the country and they are doing a good job,” continued Richardson, who also praised the organisation of the STAG Elite League.

On a more personal note, the long-time player who has had a rough history with the administration of the game told the media, “People always think about me wrong but I showed them tonight and proved them wrong.”

With the Caribbean Football Union Championships just around the corner, the skipper believes that the country has a ‘roaring’ chance of bringing home the bacon, adding that, “It’s just a good team we have now with the local players and when we get the rest of players, we will have a good team coming up for the Caribbean Championship.”

The Jags have been drawn in Group 5 for the March 21-29 tournament with their opponents being Puerto Rico and Anguilla.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2016