Guyana Chronicle E-paper 5-3-2019

FRIDAY 3rd May, 2019

No.105626

MV Kimbia sails again

… journey to NWD down from 28 to 18 hours, says captain

‘Granny’ gets fouryears 09 for cocaine trafficking PAGE

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15 JAILED: Sandra Angela Profitt

Dr. Cummings new Foreign Affairs Minister … as President Granger swears in new ministers, reassigns others 03 PAGE

… police still on the hunt for ‘Chief Mike’

WANTED: Winston Carto called ‘Chief Mike’

City Hall, garbage collectors reach agreement

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Newly sworn-in Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr Karen Cummings receives her instrument of office from President David Granger (Adrian Narine photo)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 3, 2019

Guyana submits report to EITI Int’l Secretariat

DAYS after Guyana submitted its first report to the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) international body, Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman, has noted that the government’s commitment to openness and transparency is strong.

Trotman was at the time speaking at the ministry’s Main Street annex on Thursday when he announced that the report has been submitted to the EITI International Secretariat. Trotman said that the report, which was published in conformity with the EITI standard, goes beyond “mere reconciliation of payments and receipts to include contextual information.” It includes a summary description of the legal framework and fiscal regime, the sector’s contribution to the economy, production and export data, state participation in the extractive industries, as well as revenue collections. He said it also includes information on sustainability of revenues, licence registers and licence allocations.

Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman, flanked by members of the Guyana Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (GYITI) the Multi Stakeholder Group during Thursday’s press briefing at the ministry’s annex on Main Street (Delano Williams photo) The Multi Stakeholder to include extractive entities sector, nine entities were better management through Group (MSG), the body which made payments over identified while seven par- greater transparency in the of stakeholders which was the materiality threshold of ticipated. He said the total extractive sector. He said formed to overlook the work GYD$75,000,000,” he said. revenue analysed amounted this is the main focus of the of the EITI, agreed on the Trotman also noted that to $2,638,000,000, which government in the process. participating sector and al- the industries studied in- represents 13 per cent of He pointed out that the though the fisheries and for- cluded those from the gov- the total revenue within process aims to having an estry sectors were not man- ernment, oil and gas and the extractive sector. Ac- improved investment clidatory, they were included mining sectors, from which cording to the minister, the mate, examines how to assist in the compilation of the re- 24 entities were identified. report “connects dots and in strengthening licensing, port. “The MSG also agreed He said in the oil and gas points the way forward for record keeping and tax col-

lection systems, and legal and fiscal frameworks. He said too, it points to how reforms and governance can be improved, as well as to promote greater economic and political stability.

Trotman noted that for companies, the report illustrates how to mitigate political and reputational risks as well as creating a level playing field in countries of operation and transparency of payments made to investments makers of a country. It was noted too, that for civil society, the report allows for more information on what is happening in the extractive sector so as to be able to hold the government accountable.

On Monday, the report was handed over to Minister Trotman at the ministry’s boardroom by Deputy Coordinator for the Guyana EITI (GYEITI), Diane Barker. Trotman was presented with a brief summary of the report as the actual report amounts to some 6,000 pages.

He is expected to apprise the President and other Cabinet members about its completion.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 3, 2019

Dr. Cummings new Foreign Affairs Minister

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… as President Granger swears in new ministers, reassigns others

By Svetlana Marshall

PRESIDENT David Granger swore in Dr. Karen Cummings as the new Minister of Foreign Affairs, a position previously held by Carl Greenidge – one of the four dual citizen Government Ministers who recently tendered their resignation in compliance with the Constitution.

The Constitution bars Members of Parliament, and, by extension, Ministers of Government, from being dual citizens. Dr. Cummings, who

a Foreign Minister, explaining that once the position became vacant, it was important for him to fill the void. Dr. Cummings, he said, is best suited. “I felt that, in my considered judgment that she was the fittest person to hold that portfolio, that was the deciding factor,” he told reporters.

Minister Cummings said that, having served successfully within the Ministry of Health, she is ready to take on a new challenge. “The mantra of the Foreign Affairs is to ensure that I protect the

offices to which they now occupy, noting that the “Oath of Office” is not a ceremonial ritual.

“It represents a solemn promise and creates three principal obligations – first, to bear true faith and allegiance to the people; second, to execute the duties of his or her office without fear or favour, affection or ill-will and, third, in so doing, to honour, uphold and preserve the Constitution,” President Granger said.

He noted that Constitution instructs that sovereignty

hold and preserve the Constitution’ binds himself to respect and comply with the Constitution,” the Head of State pointed out. He said the three obligations are sacred even as he laid out his expectation that Ministers will fulfill their obligations at all times.

Noting that he has a duty to ensure that the Government acts in accordance with the Constitution, President Granger said the resignation of the four Ministers from the Parliament of Guyana and their portfolios in the Cabinet

President David Granger (centre) and Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo (third from right) standing among the newly appointed Ministers of Government. From left to right they are: Minister of Business, Haimraj Rajkumar; Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr Karen Cummings; Minister of Public Service, Tabitha Sarabo-Halley, and Minister of State, Dawn Hastings-Williams (Photos by Adrian Narine) was the Minister within the Ministry of Public Health, was sworn in, on Thursday, at the Ministry of the Presidency, along aside the new Minister of Business, Haimraj Rajkumar; Minister of State, Dawn Hastings-Williams; and Minister of Public Service, Tabitha Sarabo-Halley.

In addition to Greenidge, the new ministers are replacing Joseph Harmon, Dominic Gaskin and Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine – all of whom held senior ministerial positions in the Government.

On the side line of the simple ceremony, President Granger told reporters that the country cannot be without

patrimony of the country, ensure that I secure the vital interest of the country and to continue to have international cooperation agreements with other countries,” the Foreign Affairs Minister said noting that though new to Foreign Affairs, she looks forward to learning about the sector, and is ready to serve with distinction.

Moments after swearing in the ministers and re-assigning Minister Simona Broomes and Minister Annette Ferguson as Ministers within the Ministries of Presidency and Communities, respectively, President Granger urged them to uphold the

resides in the people as such Ministers of Government must remain true to their citizens. “The minister, first, by swearing ‘…true faith and allegiance to the people’, acknowledges the source of sovereignty – the people – and pledges loyalty to them in the exercise of that sovereignty. “The minister, second, by swearing to execute his office ‘…without fear or favour, affection or ill-will’ commits to ensuring that his conduct will be free of the vices of malice and partiality and will be motivated by the pursuit of the common good.

“The minister, third, by swearing ‘…to honour, up-

with effect from 25th April, necessitated a rebalancing of the Executive, as such new Ministers were appointed and others reassigned.

“The Constitution [at Article 106.1] establishes a Cabinet consisting of the President, Prime Minister, Vice-presidents and such other ministers” as I may appoint. I was pleased therefore, to issue instruments of Ministerial appointments to the Cabinet in this regard, to the Honourable Dr. Karen Cummings, as Minister of Foreign Affairs; the Honourable Mr. Haimraj Rajkumar, as Minister of Business; the Honourable Mrs. Dawn

New Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Karen Cummings, taking the Oath of Office at the Ministry of the Presidency on Thursday Hastings-Williams as Min- The Guyanese nation can be ister of State in the Ministry assured and can continue to of the Presidency; and the look forward to the smooth Honourable Mrs. Tabitha functioning of their GovSarabo-Halley, as Minister ernment as a result of these of the Public Service in the changes,” President Granger Ministry of the Presidency; said. so they will be joining us in The new Ministers were Cabinet,” he said. appointed in accordance with It was noted that the the Constitution of the GuyNon-cabinet Ministers, Simo- ana t Article 103.2, which na Charles-Broomes, Annette empowers the President to Ferguson and Valerie Ad- appoint ministers “…from ams-Yearwood will take up among persons who are electnew roles in other ministries. ed members of the National Broomes has been reassigned Assembly…or are qualified to the Ministry of the Presi- to be elected as such memdency with responsibility for bers.”

Youth Affairs and not as part The Constitution, Article of the Department of Social 114, mandates, also, that evCohesion, Youth and Sport. ery Minister shall subscribe Ferguson has been trans- to an oath of office“…before ferred to the Ministry of entering upon the duties of Communities from the Min- his or her office, make and istry of Public Infrastructure, subscribe the oath of office.” and will have responsibility Prime Minister Moses for Housing Development. Nagamootoo; Attorney She is replacing Adams-Year- General and Minister of Lewood. gal Affairs, Basil Williams; Adams-Yearwood, who Minister of Public Security, was not present at the simple Khemraj Ramjattan; Minceremony to receive her ap- ister of Agriculture, Noel pointment letter, was trans- Holder; Minister of Social ferred from the Ministry of Cohesion, Culture, Youth Communities to the Ministry and Sport, Dr. George Norof Agriculture, to assume ton, Minister of Commuresponsibility for Rural Af- nities, Ronald Bulkan and fairs. “I congratulate the new Director General of the members of Cabinet and Ministry of the PresidenGovernment and the newly cy, Joseph Harmon were reassigned Ministers, and I among the officials present urge them all to obey, faith- along with the relatives of fully, their ‘Oath of Office.’ the new appointees.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 3, 2019

Venezuela opposition figure facing arrest warrant, says he met with generals CARACAS (Reuters) - Venezuelan opposition politician Leopoldo Lopez, evading arrest in a Spanish diplomatic residence, on Thursday disclosed he met with senior military officials before a failed uprising against President Nicolas Maduro this week.

Suggesting coordination continues with armed forces figures in the campaign to oust Maduro, Lopez said more “military movements” were on the way.

But Maduro sought to show that the military remains on his side by appearing early on Thursday on state television with his defense minister and military operations chief. The pre-dawn military uprising on Tuesday, urged on by opposition leader and Lopez ally Juan Guaido, failed to gain steam as security forces loyal to Maduro cracked down on demonstrators who had taken to the streets in support of Guaido. “The fissure that opened on April 30 will become a crack, and that crack is what is going to break the levee,” Lopez told reporters from Spain’s Caracas diplomatic residence.

He said he had met with commanders and generals from different sectors of Venezuela’s armed forces in his home in the past three weeks. “There we committed ourselves to contribute to the end of the usurpation,” he added. Advertisement Lopez, a firebrand politician and Guaido’s mentor, was arrested during a protest movement in 2014 and transferred to house arrest in 2017. He appeared together with Guaido and dozens of soldiers on Tuesday after escaping his home and before seeking refuge at the Spanish residence.

A Venezuelan court on Thursday issued a warrant for Lopez’s arrest, saying he violated an order that required him to remain under house arrest and restricted his ability to speak publicly. A Spanish government spokeswoman said Madrid had no intention of turning him over to Venezuelan authorities.

Lopez’s surprise escape provided a jolt to Guaido’s movement, more than three months after he invoked the country’s constitution to assume an interim presidency, arguing Maduro’s 2018 re-election was illegiti-

mate. Guaido, the head of the opposition-run National Assembly, has been recognized as the South American country’s legitimate leader by more than 50 countries, including the United States and Spain. Maduro, a socialist who retains the support of Russia, Cuba and China, calls Guaido a U.S.-backed puppet seeking to orchestrate a coup against him.

in the military he had met with, but representatives of the opposition have approached several key figures in the armed forces in recent months, including a high-ranking army general, according to former General Antonio Rivero and another former senior member of Venezuela’s military who spoke on the condition of anonymity.

Guaido has promised amnesty for members of the armed forces who join his cause. In a tweet about the death of a protester at the hands of security forces on Wednesday, he said, “The murderers will have to take responsibility for their crimes” and members of the armed forces were “sworn to protect the people, not a usurper who hides while you watch them kill your brothers.”

Guaido has suggested a general strike as the next step to pressure Maduro, while U.S. officials have said more sanctions are coming to choke off cash flow to Venezuela’s government.

The United States has already imposed sanctions on state-run oil company PDVSA, the OPEC nation’s economic lifeblood.

On Wednesday, U.S. President Donald Trump’s top national security aides discussed a range of possible steps to squeeze Maduro and give eventual economic support to Venezuela if he falls, a senior administration official said. The talks included sanctions, diplomacy and defense options, the official said, adding that there was “significant progress on defense matters” without providing details or saying whether any decisions had been made.

U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has said U.S. military action in Venezuela is possible but diplomatic and economic pressure are the preferred ways to oust Maduro.

In an interview with Brazilian newspaper Folha published on Thursday, Guaido said he did not rule out a foreign military intervention to oust Maduro, but that it would be the “last option” after pressuring for a “free transition.”

Russia said on Thursday it had agreed to continue talks on Venezuela with the United States, while China called for a political settlement via dialogue.

FOUR DIE IN CLASHES Lopez’s comments came after two days of upheaval in the OPEC nation, which is undergoing a hyperinflationary economic collapse marked by shortages of food and medicine.

Tens of thousands took to the streets across the country on Tuesday and Wednesday, heeding Guaido’s call to keep the pressure on Maduro. Clashes with security forces left four dead, along with hundreds injured or detained.

Maduro, in his early morning speech, sought to reject claims by the United States and the opposition that the armed forces high command was prepared to turn against him to allow Guaido to form a transition government and call elections.

ADVERTISEMENT U.S. officials have said Venezuela’s military high command was in discussions with the Supreme Court and representatives of Guaido over Maduro’s exit.

Elliott Abrams, the U.S. special envoy for Venezuela, told broadcaster VPI on Wednesday that Maduro cannot trust his top military leaders.

U.S. National Security Adviser John Bolton on Tuesday said Venezuelan Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino, along with the Supreme Court’s chief justice and the commander of the presidential guard, had told the opposition Maduro needed to leave power. But Padrino stood beside Maduro, who took over from the late President Hugo Chavez in 2013, in Thursday’s address. “Do not come to buy us with a dishonest offer, as if we do not have dignity,” Padrino said.

NEXT STEPS The military is seen as key in Venezuela’s standoff.

Lopez did not detail whom

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 3, 2019

Valerie Yearwood would best serve in Agriculture

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– President Granger

PRESIDENT David Granger said Minister Valerie Adams-Yearwood was transferred from the Ministry of Communities to the Ministry of Agriculture, Department of Rural Affairs in the public’s interest given the allegations of conflict of interest that have surfaced recently.

The Minister ’s husband Godfrey Yearwood was awarded contracts

which time she offered clarification on the matter. “At this point, I am satisfied that she has not committed any criminal offence and she is a fit and proper person to continue to serve in the Department of Rural Affairs in the Ministry of Agriculture,” President Granger said.

Minister Adams-Yearwood had explained that said her husband was awarded contracts through

Minister within the Ministry of Agriculture with responsibility for Rural Affairs, Valerie Adams-Yearwood. by the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) before and after they got married in August 2017, though she was the minister responsible for housing. President Granger said while allegations have been levied against Adams-Yearwood, she has not committed a crime.

“She has not been convicted of any crime and I feel that her services could be used in supporting the Minister of Agriculture with responsibility for rural affairs,” President Granger told reporters on the sideline of a swearing-in ceremony at the Ministry of the Presidency on Thursday.

He disclosed that after the allegations surfaced, he met with Minister Adams-Yearwood during

the official bidding process, even as she denied allegations that she influenced the process to allow for her husband to be awarded the contracts.

“I had no input whatsoever, with regard to the award of these contracts,” Minister Adams-Yearwood said. According to her, she only became aware that her husband had been awarded contracts to build a number of housing units when he informed her.

A d a m s - Ye a r w o o d said her husband, a wellknown contractor for over 33 years, was contracted

by CHPA to construct one duplex unit, two single elevated units and two units for the differently-abled – a total of three contracts.

These contracts, she noted,

were all signed in 2017 with the final one signed in December 2017.

“Prior to that, he was contracted early 2017 along with another contractor to do rehabilitation works at the Linden office to which both contractors were highly commended (publicly) by the CEO, Mr. Lelon Saul,” she posited.

The former Housing Minister had emphasized that all the contracts awarded to her husband were done through the correct and legal process.

“Like all other contractors, every contract that Mr. Yearwood has received was done through the official bidding process. Every contract that was/is engaged in was awarded by the competent authority – the Board of Directors of CHPA, of which I am not a member. Like all other contractors, Mr. Yearwood is subject to the same rules and regulations, without exception,” she said.

Adams-Yearwood was not present at the Ministry of the Presidency to receive her letter of appointment from the President however, last Friday she told reporters that the transfer is not a demotion but rather a promotion. According to she will use the new portfolio to encourage more young people to get involved in agriculture.

“It will focus mainly on empowering youths in the agriculture sector; getting them back to the farms because, outside of oil, agriculture is the way to go,” she said, adding: “I see it as a promotion because I’m going into new and exciting areas and I’m up for the challenge.”

“What is demotion?”

Minister Adams-Yearwood is now replaced by former Minister within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Annette Ferguson.

President David Granger speaking to the press at the Ministry of the Presidency on Thursday (Photo by Adrian Narine)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 3, 2019

Attaining the SDGs

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Y resolution, the United Nations (UN) General Assembly, on September 25, 2015, adopted a report titled “Transforming our world: the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.” This Agenda sets out to transform the economic well-being of the world on a plan of action around five Ps:-People, Planet, Prosperity, Peace, and Partnership.

The reality is that what some may think is a lofty ambition, given that it sets out to make significant transformational shift for economic development in 15 years, is doable in the enabling environment that allows for all participating countries, stakeholders and people to give of their best.

Where previous economic models were conceptualised, developed and embraced by multinational and transnational organisations as they sought to influence not only the political climate on the world stage, but also to be used as tools in exploiting the poor and vulnerable, Sustainable Development takes another focus. Where formerly the world’s economy and, by extension, human development were driven by global forces -- where government took a hands-off or miniaturising role, leaving the private sector unfettered power, which resulted in an economic meltdown about 10 years ago -- systems are now being put in place to avoid similar recurrence.

And whereas the International Monetary Fund (IMF) noted that Global recession was the worst since World War II, and the debates continue in quantifying the economic loss -- whether the recess has ended, when it has ended, and its impact -- learning from the past can result in corrective measures being put in place to guarantee the present and safeguard the future. Experiences of harrowing stories can be recounted of the wrath the recession wreaked. There was the wiping out of wealth, which included health insurance, retirement benefits and savings.

And while countries moved to bail out some institutions on the pretext that these institutions were too big to fail and the negative impact such failure might wreak on the econ-

omy, the small man was basically left to fend for himself.

At home, the failure of CLICO, which was the consequence of the PPP government colluding and allowing the private sector to operate as though it were an authority unto itself, has seen workers’ investments via insurance policies wiped out and the National Insurance Scheme’s (NIS) investments placed in jeopardy.

That the UN has seen the need and has sought to give leadership in shaping a new economic model to advance and protect the well-being of all, augurs well for the planet and human development. The role of the UN in maintaining global peace, collegial human relations and preserving the environment, working to end discrimination, poverty and hunger, resulting in its immersion in ensuring a sound economic model that member states are bound by, makes the future better.

According to the UN, sustainable development brings with it issues of human protection, equality, dignity and progress. It sets out to ensure and guarantee peace by having just and inclusive societies which are free from fear and violence.

Partnership is promoted as critical to maintaining peace in that it allows for the strengthening of solidarity-- domestic and foreign-- in furtherance of common goals.

And given that prosperity for all is hinged on equality for all, this is seen as attainable when persons can enjoy prosperous and fulfilling lives; and that economic, social and technological progress occur in harmony with nature.

Member states are convinced these can all be achieved in a planet that is protected from degradation, including through sustainable consumption and production, sustainably managing its natural resources, and taking urgent action on climate change so that it can support the needs of the present and future generations.

These aspirations were discussed and agreed to by Heads of State and Government, and high representatives come with given commitment to achieve same through 17 goals

and 169 targets, identifying elements in man’s pursuit of happiness. In examining these pursuits, it will be found that these persons will have singular or collective interests based on circumstances and pursuits. And where these exist, such ought to find expression and support, as grounded in the Principal Political Objective of the State (Article 13- Guyana Constitution), wherein power is vested in the people through inclusionary democracy that ensures meaningful participation in the management and decision-making processes on matters that affect their well-being.

And here is where our government has already taken a leading and frontal role in creating, ensuring, and sustaining the enabling environment. This includes the strengthening of institutions such as the judiciary, research and development; policing laws to ensure equality, dignity and opportunities for all, and improving the democratic pillars of society. Helping the justice system to recalibrate its role in making decisions that give society the comfort that justice is universal and will be served regardless, would be a step in the right direction.

The Executive has also given leadership to and demonstrating zero tolerance for corruption, graft and nepotism. Laws, conventions and charters have reigned supreme, and citizens’ rights held sacrosanct. This, no doubt, continues to create the environment for equality and dignity in that all will be held to the same standards and play by the same rules.

As a member state of the UN, ours is the responsibility and vested interest to be aware of the goals sustainable development is driven by, which would lead to making informed decisions and ensuring the enabling environment is created. Given that the UN promotes: “The interlinkages and integrated nature of the Sustainable Development Goals are of crucial importance in ensuring that the purpose of the new Agenda is realised. If we realise our ambitions across the full extent of the Agenda, the lives of all will be profoundly improved, and our world will be transformed for the better.” Together we must achieve!

Please report water leaks to GWI Dear Editor,

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ithout a doubt, over the years I have seen tremendous improvement towards our water system by both administrations and the this present administration under the guidance of Dr. Van-West Charles, going the extra mile to ensure citizens get the best quality portable water.

We have a have a society where many of us fail to see the importance of the works/commitment being undertaken and take things for granted, thus we see wastage of water, damage to the mains etc and as a result, sometime many are affected.

Over four day ago, the Guyana Power and Light staff changed a lantern post at Uitvlugt Sideline Dam, and during the process, the main was damaged and water was gushing

out day and night. At Uitvlugt Pasture, the last street, there is a main running across the drain, and for months now, water is flowing from the connection day and night. Now GWI has their meter readers, contract workers and their own staff walking all around and they bound to see the wastage. Why can't they make a report or a mental note and have this issue fixed?

Editor, over the years whenever I see damaged mains, I know GWI has a hotline, but I usually message them via their Facebook page and the matter gets rectified.

Walking around Uitvlugt I have noticed more than three places where water is constantly running/wasting due to errors from the line/main and I cannot understand why citizens cannot understand the importance of water and try reporting it. Again I would reiterate, the staff traverse all over and many places I would see water wasting and

it's not being fixed. I am no saint, sometimes I leave my tap turn on and water being wasted, it is noting in comparison to what I see happening all over I go. Wastage also causes the road, dam, parapets etc to deteriorate. All of this could be avoided by just one phone call or a message. Over the years, I know as soon GWI receives a report, the issue is addressed. GWI should explore to possibility of charging the staff assigned to areas and having leaks for months and they not reporting it, they cannot depend on the citizen to report alone. It is their interest, they are being paid to do a job, they should be more responsible. Not walking around the place with attitudes alone.

Regards Sahadeo Bates

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 3, 2019

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Jury empaneled for Mocha man’s murder trial A MIXED 12-member jury was, on Thursday, May 02, 2019, empanelled before Justice Navindra Singh, at the Demerara High Court, for the trial of Kenkassie Lynch, who allegedly shot and killed a Nelson Street, Mocha Arcadia, East Bank Demerara resident.

Lynch, 24, formerly of Eccles, East Bank Demerara, was charged with the indictment and is currently on remand.

On Thursday, Lynch denied that, on June 1, 2015, at Nelson Street, Mocha Arcadia, EBD, he murdered 23- yearold Terrence Lanferman.

He is being represented by attorney-at-law Adrian Thompson, while the state is represented by prosecutors Abigail Gibbs, Tuanna Hardy and Teriq Mohammed.

The trial commenced with a series of witnesses on Thursday and continues Today, May

Kenkassie Lynch

3, 2019. A total of 15 witnesses are expected to testify during the duration of the trial.

According to reports, Lynch also implicated a cousin of his, Sedley Liverpool, called ‘Birdman.’ Liverpool was later charged for Lanferman’s murder and is currently awaiting trial at the High Court.

The Guyana Chronicle understands that the shooting stemmed from a feud between

Stop attacking the media

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he Guyana Press Association salutes all retired and active journalists here and in the Diaspora, as we observe this year’s activities under the theme “Media for Democracy. Journalism and Elections in Times of Disinformation.” We thank them for their contributions to the development of Guyana, Caribbean and elsewhere through this noble profession- journalism.

We also salute our technical personnel – photographers, videographers, editors, engineers and technicians, layout personnel, print operators, website and Social Media managerswithout whom our media products will largely remain a secret.

The Press Association sees this year's World Press Freedom Day as one that offers the opportunity for serious introspection. The reality in Guyana is that many media houses in Guyana are politically aligned, resulting in a deliberate blurring of the lines of freedom of expression to achieve self-serving political outcomes for their preferred political parties. This results in disinformation and the cultivation of a culture of bias among journalists. This destroys the essence of the ethical standards and principles that they are expected to abide by in the delivery of news and information.

The executive of the Guyana Press Association unreservedly condemns those media houses and practitioners who maliciously pursue narrow political agenda in the furtherance

of their political handlers.

While freedom of expression is enshrined in the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights and Guyana’s Constitution, the Guyana Press Association urges media houses to consider crafting Social Media Policies to guide especially their editorial staff. This should be seen as a safeguard against them taking private positions, especially on political-related issues that may be construed as the official position of their media outlets. In certain situations, such personal positions can ultimately endanger the personal safety of reporters in the field during elections coverage.

Our Association also calls on our colleagues to research, fact-check and ensure there is balance and fairness through a wide variety of perspectives in your content. Always be mindful of hidden political agenda of even your most trusted sources.

At the same time, the Guyana Press Association calls on primarily politicians to cease attacking media houses when factual stories are written that they do not like. Recent unapologetic and brazen attacks on the media by senior government and opposition politicians do not serve to create a conducive environment for Guyanese to consume journalistic material to allow them to elect representatives of their choice at periodic elections. On the contrary, such attacks, as history as shown

‘Birdman’ and Lanferman, but Lynch reportedly admitted that he alone carried out the shooting.

On the day in question, Lynch allegedly returned to Mocha and met his cousin, after which he visited Nelson Street, located in the same community, to conduct surveillance on Lanferman’s house.

Lynch then returned to ‘Birdman’s’ house, and at

around 19.00 hours, Liverpool allegedly gave him a handgun. The two headed back to Nelson Street on a ‘CG’ motorcycle.

While Liverpool waited in a nearby street, Lynch allegedly went to Lanferman’s residence and knocked on the front door.

Lanferman opened his front door to greet his visitor, only to be reportedly confronted by the gunman.

…GPA urges politicians in World Press Freedom Day message right here in Guyana, resulted in physical attacks by supporters of political parties.

In an era where there is an explosion of various delivery channels of information, there is an even more important and significant role for journalism in which fairness, impartiality and fact-checking are the key watchwords or if you like, hashtags. Indeed, our Association cites the need for human and technical resources to be allocated to utilize existing Social Media tools and develop new ones to deliver accurate and timely information especially on political and electoral reporting. As Guyana enters the period of electioneering, the Guyana Press Association on this occasion of World Press Freedom Day 2019, urges the media to explore available opportunities beyond their routine daily news productions to produce content that explore issues of democracy, peace and reconciliation.

In conclusion, we endorse the position taken by our regional umbrella organisation, the Association of Caribbean Media Workers, that "The challenge is that despite having more access to information than ever before, disinformation is more rampant than ever. Let us recommit as journalists to call out disinformation wherever we see it and embrace the basic tenets of good journalism by giving verified facts without the taint of bias”.

Latin America and the Caribbean need a culture of peace Dear Editor,

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he situation in neighbouring Venezuela is very dangerous. It has led to many clashes between forces loyal to the government of President Maduro and the Opposition. The potential for escalation is great and the consequences for life and politics could be very serious.

What happens in Venezuela would have repercussions on our whole continent. Outside intervention can be both positive and negative. I wish to urge that all efforts must be put to preventing the escalation of violence and to oppose

any type of coup and military intervention.

Any action that could lead to the forceful overthrown of Maduro’s government would renew the culture of military coups and bloody dictatorship in Latin America, reminiscent of the 1960s and 70s. The scars from military intervention in our region hasn’t been totally healed as yet. To move for regime change through violence would only complicate and worsen an already serious situation.

The greatest contribution that external intervention can play is to encourage democratic solutions and promote political negoti-

ations and dialogue, for a peaceful settlement. Any other course, such as economic sanctions, will only worsen the situation and lead to bloodshed and vio-

lence. Latin America and the Caribbean need a culture of peace.

Regards Donald Ramotar

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 3, 2019

Guyana sending large delegation to US offshore conference

A TRADE mission of over 20 businesses in Guyana will represent the country at the world’s largest Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) in Houston, Texas next week.

The conference will be held from May 6-9, 2019 at the NRG Park and is the largest oil and gas offshore event attracting over 66,000 participants last year.

The local mission to the conference is aimed at enabling local businesses to showcase their offerings to overseas investors, therefore developing profitable partnerships.

The activity comes through collaboration between the Guyana Office for Investment (GO-Invest) representing the government and the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI).

A press conference to brief the media on the country’s representation was hosted on Thursday at the Roraima Duke Lodge.

Present were GO-Invest Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Owen Verway and GCCI President, Nicholas Boyer.

Verway noted that the mission will focus on two primary activities which are a booth display with an area for business-to-business (B2B) meetings and a Guyana Night for Information Sharing and Business Networking.

Seated from left are: Public Relations Consultant, Christopher Chapwanya; GO-Invest Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Owen Verway and GCCI President, Nicholas Boyer (Delano Williams photo) The CEO said that the booth will be the largest that GO-Invest has ever had in any trade mission or expo accommodating the over 20 businesses as well as meeting tables for one-on-one B2B meetings.

The exhibition event will showcase thousands of businesses specialising in leading-edge technology for offshore drilling, exploration, production and environmental protection.

Guyana’s participation in OTC is being funded by private sector sponsorship along with approximately 20 percent funding from the Government of Guyana.

Tier One sponsors in-

clude Century Tamara Energy Services Incorporated (CTES);TOTALTEC and HFS Corporate Services Inc. while second tier sponsors are Ramps Logistics, Guyana Telephone & Telegraph Co Ltd (GTT); Machine Tech and Guyana Oil and Gas Support Services.

The Guyana Night will be hosted on May 8, 2019 and is being sponsored primarily by Exxon Mobil Corporation as well as the Government.

“It’s a great opportunity for the local community to be able to network and to do some amount of business development,” Verway said.

“This is a great opportunity for local content devel-

opment from the perspective of businesses developing their knowledge and their capacity.”

He thanked the GCCI for bringing the idea to participate to the table and also thanked former Minister of Business Dominic Gaskin for being receptive to the idea and advancing it beyond its initial stage.

In his remarks to the media, Boyer stated that with the OTC being such a well-recognised and attended conference, it is important for Guyana, which is heading in to oil and gas production, to have representation.

The GCCI is one of the largest business advocacy

bodies in the country with over 240 members.

The business which opted to participate were finalised by the GCCI based on whether they were members of a professional association.

The invitation was extended to all private sector organisations as well as the Bar Association of Guyana.

Boyer said that the intent to participate in the event came out of the GCCI’s Petroleum Sub-Committee which continuously works to increase opportunities for its members in the sector.

“One of the key things that we are aiming for on this mission is firstly education and, secondly, connection and networking.

The underpinning of these two is to promote local content. For us to have local content in this industry we must engage with companies who have experience and resources, whether its equipment or experienced personnel. We need those resources and we need to learn from those companies,” he said.

The GCCI President also thanked the United States (US) Embassy for its coordinating efforts which helped set up some of the B2B meetings to take place.

The businesses participating in the mission include: Roraima Airways; A&S Enterprises Ltd.; Dapper Technology; Guyana Oil

and Gas Support Services; Guyana Oil and Gas Support Chambers; Environmental Management Consultancy; Sterling Products Ltd.; Guyana National Industrial Company; Fohrsight Global Consultants Inc.; Hughes, Field and Stoby; Ramson & Conway & Associates; Guyana National Shipping Corporation; Laparkan Trading; JAPARTS; Rid-O-Pes/ Sandip Disposal; Omni Helicopters International; Guyana Logistics and Support Services Inc.; Massiah Capital; IEM Sales & Services Ltd.; New GPC; Action Invest; Ramps Logistics; Tagman Media; Western Logistics; GTT; Merchant Marine Services Guyana Inc. and CTES. The Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) and the Guyana Energy Department will also be represented at the event.

Boyer said: “I think these companies have taken a bold step in being pioneers to attend this event in a meaningful way and to start to build that connection between Houston and Georgetown not just with the operator and the Tier 1contractors but the businesses that provide services to those large companies of Houston which are now [attempting] to figure out how to provide those services in Georgetown with local partners.”

Free education will bring greater development –– GTUC President PRESIDENT of the Guyana Trade Union Congress (GTUC), Coretta McDonald, has posited that free education will only serve to bring greater development to local communities, as she ledged the union’s support for making tertiary education free once again.

Recently, an informal group of young people have banded together into what is called the “Free University of Guyana Movement”, and have advocated for policymakers to ‘comply’ with the constitution by making UG free, as it was before. This, according to one advocate of the movement, Elson Lowe, is enshrined in Guyana’s constitution.

Article 27 of the Constitution of Guyana states: “Every citizen has the right to a free education from nursery to university as well as at non-formal places where opportunities are provided for education and training.”

“What we’re saying is that we should abide by the constitution, and if the constitution articulates free education then we should have free education,” McDonald told the Guyana Chronicle in an invited comment.

Furthermore, she stressed that the GTUC supports making tertiary education- at UG and at other tertiary institutions- free because it will foster development in local communities. “The thing about it is that all of us are not on the same level and while I might be able to pay the large amounts to send my child to school, but what happens to my brother and my sister who can’t afford that?”

President of the Guyana Trade Union Congress (GTUC), Coretta McDonald [Adrian Narine photo] she questioned.

“This would not only bring about more educated people, but it would bring about greater development in our communities,” she reasoned. “When we offer free education in every community then it is easier for us to manage what is happening in the community and then there will be no brain drain from one community to another.” According to statistics provided by the Bureau of Statistics, only 2.3

per cent of Guyana’s population has a bachelor’s degree.

For developed countries, that figure stands at about 30 per cent. That means, as explained by Lowe, that Guyana is more than 10 times behind where it needs to be.

As such, McDonald opined free education means “making the playing field level” for all citizens whether they are residing on the coast or in the hinterland regions.

McDonald, who is also the General Secretary of the Guyana Teachers Union (GTU), underscored: “The GTUC as well as the GTU fully endorses that move and we are hoping that it is not going to be just talks but we’ll have the implementation very soon.”

On May Day, General Secretary of the GTUC, Lincoln Lewis, called for some of Guyana’s expected oil revenues to be used to provide free education, in keeping with Guyana’s constitution. “We call for the provision of free education from nursery to university as enshrined in the Constitution and if the government and the Opposition believe in respecting this Constitution, then respect this one,” he said.

Coretta however opined that instead of waiting until 2020 for the oil revenues, policymakers should begin creating the avenues to make education free now. “In everything we’re talking about, we’re referring to the oil revenues, but the thing is if we don’t put systems in place from now, when we have the revenues from the oil then we will go elsewhere,” she said.

“We need to start planning and put the plans in place now so when we get the revenues from oil, then we can channel them directly into that.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 3, 2019

President open to working with former ministers

9

–– says Greenidge, Roopnaraine bring wealth of experience

PRESIDENT David Granger said his government is open to working with the three remaining former Ministers of Government who recently resigned as a result of their dual citizenship, but said the “ball is in their court”.

Already, former Minister of State, Joseph Harmon, has been appointed Director-General of the Ministry of the Presidency, and will continue to work with President Granger. Will the other former ministers – Carl Greenidge, Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine and Dominic Gaskin – continue to work in the Public Sector? According to President Granger, it is their choice to make.

Speaking with reporters on the sideline of a swearing-in-ceremony at the Ministry of the Presidency on Thursday, the Head of State said government would do well with Greenidge and Dr. Roopnaraine’s wealth of knowledge and experience.

President Granger said he has had discussions with the former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carl Greenidge; and the former Minister of Public Service and Education, Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine, with the hope of having them continue to assist the government.

“Mr. Greenidge, for example, served under President Burnham and President Hoyte. He has tremendous experience and I hope that he will continue to serve.

It is up to him. Minister Roopnaraine, as well, has brought a lot of experience as an academic… (but) it is up to him,” the President told reporters.

The President repeatedly expressed his hope of the former ministers returning to assist the government in the execution of its functions.

“I would like them to work.

It is not a question of offer, but it is up to them to decide if they want to continue to serve. I would like to have them on board,” he reiterated.

In the case of Harmon, he will assist the President while operating as the Director-General of the Ministry of the Presidency.

“Well his functions are to continue to assist me in the administration of the Ministry of the Presidency. All ministers are my assistants but Mr. Harmon, in particular, will have a non-ministerial role in helping me to manage the Ministry of the Presidency,” the President explained.

He noted that the Ministry of the Presidency

comprises several large departments and commissions including the Department of the Environment, the Department of Public Service, the Department of Social Cohesion, Culture, Youth and Sport and the Department of Energy.

“These are all very large administrative, very huge administrative responsibilities, and I need his assistance in helping me to manage them,” President Granger added.

At a post-Cabinet media briefing later on Thursday, the newly-appointed Director-General said his new position and the appointment and re-assigning of ministers have been done to re-balance the government.

Harmon told reporters that duties and responsibilities as Director-General are being fine-tuned.

“You would appreciate that this re-balancing takes time and also the actual designation of some former ministers and the duties which they perform are still works in progress. I could say to you that one specific responsibility that I have been given is the continuation of Post-Cabinet Press Briefing. In fact, the President has invited me to sit in the Cabinet meetings so that

Granny gets four years for cocaine trafficking

… police still on the hunt for Chief Mike A 55-year-old woman was, on Thursday, May 02, 2019, sentenced to four years jail and fined $9.1M for attempting to smuggle over seven pounds of cocaine through the Eugene F Correia International Airport, Ogle, East Coast Demerara.

Sandra Angela Profitt of West Ruimveldt appeared before Magistrate Rushell Liverpool in the Sparendaam Magistrate’s Court and admit-

JAILED Sandra Angela Profitt

ted to trafficking the drug.

Profitt admitted that on April 29, 2019, at the Eugene F Correia International Airport, Ogle, East Coast Demerara, she had 3.378 kilograms of cocaine in her possession for the purpose of trafficking.

In court, Profitt explained that her son was involved in a car accident and the owner of the vehicle demanded that he be bought a new car because of the damages.

The defendant explained that being a mother, she could not watch her son struggle, so she decided to traffic the drugs.

The matter was prosecuted by Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) prosecutor, Kunyo Sandiford.

According to information provided, Profitt, on the day in question, was sitting in the departure area waiting to board a LIAT flight destined for Barbados when she was intercepted by CANU ranks.

WANTED Winston Carto called “Chief Mike” The suspected cocaine was in six packets, duct-taped to her upper thighs. Sandiford told the court that Profitt cooperated with CANU ranks during investigation and also identified the man who recruited her to traffic the cocaine.

CANU, on Wednesday, issued a wanted bulletin for Winston Carto called “Chief Mike”, Of Lot 193 Greenheart Street, South Ruimveldt Gardens, Georgetown, in relation to the same matter.

He is accused of supplying and recruiting Profitt to traffic the cocaine intercepted at the Eugene F. Correia International Airport, Ogle.

Anyone knowing his whereabouts is kindly asked to make contact with CANU HQ – 227-3507, 226-0431.

I can brief the nation…,” he explained.

The four Government MPs with dual citizenship resigned with effect from April 25, 2019 in keeping with the indications of the High Court and Court of Appeal, that it is unconstitutional for a person who swore allegiance, obedience or adherence to a foreign power or state to be a Member of Parliament.

The former ministers have been replaced by Dr. Karen Cummings, Minister

of Foreign Affairs; Haimraj Rajkumar, Minister of Business; Dawn Hastings-Williams, Minister of State; and Tabitha Sarabo-Halley, Minister of Public Service.

President David Granger has not ruled out appointing an additional junior minister, now that he has re-assigned Annette Ferguson as Minister within the Ministry of Communities with responsibility of Housing. Prior to her transfer, she was a Minister within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure.

According to him, he will continue to assess the situation.

“Well as I said, we are in the process of re-balancing the government and after the next Cabinet meeting, after I’ve had the opportunity to have discussions with the ministers, I can see what assistance they need and if that necessity arises, I will act on the basis of their advice and based on my own considered judgment,” he told reporters.

Matters on MP Mathoo dealt with

CHAIRMAN of the board of the National Communications Network (NCN), Enrico Woolford, said matters relating to Member of Parliament, Donna Mathoo, and the Berbice branch of the television station have been dealt with.

Woolford was, on Thursday, responding to questions posed by the Kaieteur News which has been penning several stories regarding the government MP after she was sworn-in at the National Assembly last Friday. She was asked to proceed on leave in 2017 to facilitate an investigation into the financial affairs of the Berbice Branch

––NCN Board chair

of NCN. Wo o l f o r d n o t e d o n Thursday that Mathoo’s employment at NCN is covered by the Company’s Act. He told the Kaieteur News that as far as the board of NCN is concerned, the matter regarding Mathoo has been settled.

He said that one can make allegations but that does not suggest that it is guilt.”It’s simple logic,” Woolford said.

Mathoo was appointed NCN Branch Manager for Berbice in August, 2015.

In March of 2017, she proceeded on leave to facilitate

Government MP, Donna Mathoo the investigation into the allegations.

Mathoo, who hails from Berbice, was one of four new government Members of Parliament who were sworn-in last week .

10

Housing solution projects –– Minister will not be affected Valarie Yearwood

NEWLY-APPOINTED Minister within the Ministry of Agriculture with responsibility for Rural Affairs, Minister Valarie Yearwood, expressed confidence that the on-going housing solution project, which she started while at the Ministry of Communities will not be affected, following her reassignment.

In an exclusive interview, Yearwood said that many persons, especially those who would have applied and submitted their letters of pre-qualification, among other documents, expressed fear that the project will be affected. In quelling their fear, she said, “I have all confidence and I want to allay their fears, that all the projects, management was and is fully involved in it. My colleague minister who is coming on board, I know that she has vision, she is a woman of vision and these projects are for the people of Guyana as a whole, they are for low and middle income earners. I am confident that she will continue the path and improve on it,” she said.

She said all letters and documents submitted by applicants and are in her domain whether it was at the ‘Public Day’ at the Square of the Revolution’, the housing exhibitions or at any other forum, will be handed over to Minister Annette Ferguson and team.

She is currently working on putting them in the various sections before officially commencing her new assignment.

While the duplex, single flat and elevated units amongst other houses were her vision that became a reality in several communities around Guyana, she said, that vision will be passed on and all Guyanese must be assured that Minister Ferguson ‘is going to continue on the path and even add her bit of it.’

Minister Yearwood, who was appointed her ministerial position in 2016, believes that her tenure was fruitful and brought smiles to the faces of hundreds of persons who were afforded housing units or house lots. One vision she however didn’t get to accomplish is the construction of houses in an established

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 3, 2019

scheme for the differently abled. Yearwood said she was working towards a public-private partnership to see the establishment of a scheme with amenities and facilities suitable for these ones. It would have had rails, parapets, parking, signs, a supermarket and pharmacy and a green space among other facilities needed to make life comfortable for them. She will also share this with Minister Ferguson and affirmed that she can still play a role inviting the private sector to get involved in the project.

For the housing solution projects, houses are still to be built in Amelia’s Ward Linden, Perseverance EBD, Onderneeming Region Three and other parts of the country. Since the project started, 204 units were built at Perseverance, 15 at Amelia’s Ward, 20 units at Experiment West Coast Berbice, and 10 at Onderneeming. Housing exhibitions were held to advertise these modern housing units to the public and the positive responses were overwhelming.

The remaining 45 out of 60 houses are expected to commence soon in Amelia’s Ward.

The flat two-bedroom houses cost $5.3 M, while the elevated ones cost $6.3 M. Funding for these projects were already allocated, Yearwood related.

In addition to the housing units, hundreds of house lots were allocated across Guyana.

Minister Yearwood encouraged persons who have commenced payment on their lands to complete payment earliest and for those who are in possession of titled lands to commence building. “We have too many vacant lands that persons already processed and are titled and years have gone and they still haven’t constructed. The Government would have spent millions of dollars to put in infrastructure in these areas and to put services in place. These lands with high bushes have now become a hazard. There

Minister Valarie Yearwood are security issues, persons are hiding out in them ………………………………….,” she said. She also spoke against the growing practice of squatting and encouraged persons to demonstrate patience with the Central Housing and Planning Authority and Minister Ferguson.

She said this government met over 25, 000 applications in the systems and it was impossible to cater to all of those within one term.

NEW AND EXCITING AREA I like challenges Minister Yearwood said she held her first discussion with the Minister of Agriculture Noel Holder on Monday and is excited to commence this new and exciting territory.

“I like challenges, it will focus on youths and women in rural Guyana and will cover all regions. Apart from oil, agriculture is the next big income earner, so I will be working with youths and women to develop programmes for them to get funding,” the Minister said.

Her main focus will also be to initiate technology to lure the youths into agriculture as they may not be interested in the traditional methods used. She will be looking to assist them with marketing their products as the main objective is to create employment.

Minister Yearwood and Minister Ferguson are two of the four ministers who were ‘reshuffled’ by President Granger last week.

Minister Dawn Hastings-Williams was appointed as Minister of State while Minister Simona Broomes was appointed as Minister responsible for Youth Affairs.

Tabitha Sarabo-Halley has been appointed Minister of Public Service, replacing Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine and MP Haimraj Rajkumar has been appointed Minister of Business, replacing Dominic Gaskin.

Republic records US$117.3M half-year profits REPUBLIC Financial Holdings Limited (RFHL) and its subsidiaries recorded profit attributable to shareholders of the parent of US$117.3M for the period ended March 31, 2019.

This figure was impacted by two significant one-off items, the net impact of which positively increased profits by US$13.9M, the bank said in a statement.

Firstly, the bank in Trinidad and Tobago amended the terms of its post-retirement medical benefits plan in line with the market, resulting in a write-back net of deferred taxes of US$42.6M. Secondly, Barbados reduced its corporation tax rate from 30 per cent to a range between one per cent and five per cent, which resulted in a charge to the income statement of US$28.7M due to the re-measurement of deferred tax assets at the lower tax rate.

The Group’s Chairman, Ronald F. deC. Harford, stated that “On a normalised basis, the group’s core profit was US$103.3M, US$6.0M or 6.1 per cent more than the prior period.”

Mr. Harford went on to say that “Total assets stood at US$12.5B at March 31, 2019, an increase of US$2.3B or 22 per cent over that of March 2018. This increase fol-

lows RFHL’s acquisition of a 74.99 per cent shareholding in Cayman National Corporation (CNC) on March 13, 2019. The CNC acquisition increased RFHL’s asset base by US$1.7B and is expected to enhance significantly, the group’s profitability when its results are included in the year-end financial statements. CNC reported net profits in fiscal 2018 of US$26.2M. We are very pleased to welcome CNC to the Republic Group.

RFHL previously announced the commencement of the process to acquire Scotiabank’s banking operations in Guyana, St. Maarten and the Eastern Caribbean (including Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines).

Over the last quarter, we continued engaging the various regulators, whose approvals are required for the acquisition, through meetings and/or providing information.”

The Board of Directors has declared an interim dividend of US$0.19 (2018: US$0.19) per share payable on May 31, 2019.

Mr. Harford said “We expect to improve on the core profitability achieved for the first half of the year with the acquisition of CNC.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 3, 2019

Fishermen renew call for gun licences … Min Ramjattan says matter under consideration, criteria must be met

By Svetlana Marshall

FISHERMEN, operating out of Georgetown, have renewed calls for government to issue them with firearm licences, after a reported recent pirate attack off the Waini Coast in Region One (Barima-Waini).

Public Security Minister, Khemraj Ramjattan, when contacted on the issue, said though a suggestion was made for fishermen to be licensed firearm holders, there has been no new development.

“I never developed it to any conclusion because they wanted helicopters to go flying when they are fishing, and we couldn’t afford that. But I am not closing off the option for them,” Minister Ramjattan told this newspaper. He explained, however, that having a good character would be an asset.

The issue of licensing fishermen to carry firearms had been discussed with the previous Commissioner of Police, Seelall Persaud; however, with a new Commissioner of Police in place, another round of discussion is needed, according to Minister Ramjattan.

“The previous commissioner had supported that when I had raised that at that point in time, but I don’t know if I will get the support of this commissioner in relation to that because we are doing a number of other things to ensure piracy decline rapidly,” the Public Security Minister said. The Public Security Ministry has strengthened the Marine Branch of the Guyana Police Force.

According to him, piracy has declined significantly in recent times. He dubbed Singh’s contention that many fishermen do not report cases of piracy because little is done as “outrageous.” “Every piracy incident we thoroughly investigate and we have gotten very far with them,” he posited. Nonetheless,

Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan he called on all fishermen to report any incident of piracy. “Once in the maritime waters of Guyana, they have an obligation, that is their civic duty, so that we can get the correct statistics,” he said.

Nonetheless, he assured that the Public Security Ministry will review the request for fishermen to be issued with firearm licences.

Meanwhile, at the Meadow Bank Wharf on Wednesday, 60-year-old Chrishnadat Singh, a fisherman for 45 years, said he has come into contact with pirates five times while fishing in Guyana’s waters, the most recent being on Tuesday, April 23, 2019, at around 10:30hrs.

“We were just below the Waini River, in our territory, doing our routine work, when all of a sudden we see a small vessel. They (the pirates) came and pelt shots at us. We could have died but because of the boat up and down, the gunmen didn’t have a balance level,” Singh told Guyana Chronicle.

According to Singh, the six pirates-- four of whom had guns and spoke Spanish-- ordered him and the six other fishermen to the front of the fishing vessel. “We went in front

and they came over with small pieces of rope and tied us up. And when they finish tying us up, the gunmen came on board and they took every single thing – the glue, the catch, the utensils on board the vessel, the equipment, everything,” the 60-year-old recalled. The pirates, after taking all of the fishermen valuables, reportedly made good their escape. The matter was reported to the Maritime Administration.

At the time of the attack, the fishermen had been out at sea for approximately 10 days, and had already caught more than a million dollars in fish products, according to Singh. He said the equipment and other materials stolen amounted to another million dollars.

“We had to stop and beg for food while coming down south, because the pirates took every single thing we had, so the other fishermen had to give us food,” Singh said.

He said while this recent incident was reported to the Maritime Administration, fishermen are often reluctant to report pirate attacks.

“It is simple, that our Government gives us one gun each on some of the vessels, not all of the vessels, and we could protect ourselves. Not a single-shooter gun, but a pump action (gun). You see, we could keep them off, we don’t want to kill anybody but while they pelt a shot not to kill anyone of us, we could pelt a shot to keep them off also,” Singh proposed. He said once the fishermen have guns, once a team is under attack by pirates, others in close proximity would be able to come to their rescue. He said a system could be put in place to monitor the use of the weapons.

Singh told this newspaper that he never applied for a gun licence but was told by other fishermen that their applications were refused.

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Albouystown businesswoman robbed, killed … police hunting four suspects

AN Albouystown businesswoman was robbed and strangled to death in the wee hours of Thursday morning while her husband was tied up to a chair with duct tape to his mouth and beaten.

Dead is 56-year-old Nalinie Persaud called “Nalo” of 161 James Street, Albouystown, Georgetown.

Reports indicate that the businesswoman was attacked about 03:00hrs Thursday and, during the course of the robbery at her residence by four masked bandits, was killed.

Police said two of bandits, armed with handguns, had attacked the woman and when they escaped, the businesswoman’s lifeless body was discovered with a rope, which was used to strangle her, tied around the neck.

Police confirmed that cash and jewellery were carted off by the bandits who ransacked the premises. They gained entry by ripping out a board from the northern wall of the lower flat of the house. The victim’s husband was assaulted and taken out of the bedroom into the lower flat of the premises, which housed

Dead: Nalinie Persaud called “Nalo”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 3, 2019

The businesswoman lived in the upper flat with her husband and operated her business at the bottom flat. a grocery shop, where he was bound to a chair and duct-taped.

The woman’s body was taken to the Lyken Funeral Parlour, awaiting an autopsy as police continue their investigations. No arrest has yet been made.

“Me and she would talk every day, why did they kill her, why. When people from around here dead we in Albouystown does live with so much of love, everybody does attend the funeral; we does live with love. I am going to miss Nalo, a big rope on her neck she left with, and she came into the world with nothing but love,” one resident said.

Others noted that the businesswoman worked for decades to reach where she is as a respectable woman in the community. The woman’s

son was in shock and unable to speak. He lived in the same yard but in a separate house. His wife, Candacy Rowe, said: “I hear somebody knocking at the house and when I get up, somebody was calling for my husband and when I ask is who, they say is emergency, so when I come out I see the shop opened and she husband tie up.”

Upon checking for her mother-in-law, she discovered her motionless body on the bed in the upper flat.

Rowe noted that they did not hear any strange sounds to indicate that something was amiss.

Residents in the community were shocked upon hearing of the businesswoman’s death, noting that she was very kind to everyone.

Friday 3, May, 2019 04:00hrs–– 05:30hrs

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 3, 2019

US Ambassador meets Linden Mayor, councillors

US Ambassador Sarah Ann-Lynch, on Thursday, met with Mayor of Linden, Waneka Arrindell, her councillors and staff of the Linden Mayor and Town Council where they discussed current areas of collaboration.

Lynch’s team included her husband, Mr. Kevin Healing, New Horizon’s captain, Solomon Bannister and Peace Corp’s official, Wendy Hersheberger.

our abused women and children, not only in Linden, but throughout Region Ten. While the women’s home will assist in providing safe temporary accommodation, the home needs to be transformed into an empowerment centre and assistance is needed in this regard.

In addition, the mayor highlighted her vision to transform Linden into a sustainable town by adopting some of the seventeen sustainable development

US Ambassador Sarah Ann- Lynch greeting Mayor of Linden, Waneka Arrindell, with a hand shake The Mayor expressed gratitude for the assistance and collaboration being garnished from agencies attached to the U.S embassy, particularly New Horizons, Humanitarian Assistance Programe (HAP) and Peace Corps. New Horizons will be constructing two community centres in Linden and a women’s home. HAP has conducted several medical outreaches, have donated to the Linden Hospital Complex in the past and is preparing for a massive two weeks medical outreach in July.

The Peace Corps volunteers are presently working in schools and are assisting the LMTC with its junior mayor project.

The Ambassador asked about challenges the municipality may be encountering so that they may be able to render assistance. Mayor Arrindell highlighted the need to provide relief for

goals that were adopted by the General Assembly of the United Nations in 2015. She stressed the goal of ‘clean water and sanitation’ and related that the aim is to start this practice in schools. Sanitation is one of the main issues in the township and she believes that by creating a clean and sanitary environment in our schools, communities and constituencies will soon follow.

Chairman of the Economic Development Committee, Lawrence Simon, related to the ambassador and team that the township would also appreciate assistance in its aqua-tourism initiative. Linden is the only town through which a main river passes and this needs to be exploited, Simon said.

He spoke of developing a boardwalk among other things.

The ambassador com-

mended the mayor and councillors for their vision and the mayor for remaining active. “We love to partner with you and we will continue to explore opportunities,” she said.

On their way to Linden, the Ambassador stopped at Camp Seweyo to interact with the New Horizon ranks stationed there. She also toured some of Linden’s tourism hot spots.

US Ambassador and team pose with Mayor of Linden, Waneka Arrindell and team

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Man beaten to death at Port Mourant A Haswell, Port Mourant, Corentyne man on Thursday succumbed to injuries he allegedly sustained after being beaten.

The man, identified as Vedenand Sukhra, 56, was found at around 06:00hrs at his home in an unconscious state with his face, eyes and head swollen and bloodied.

He was found by his part-time employer who went in search for him to do some work.

The man was taken to the hospital where doctors battled to save his life, but he eventually succumbed at around 14:30 hrs. Speaking briefly before being detained by the police, Frederick Shaw, also 56, who lives with Sukhra, said sometime around 02:00hrs, a shirtless man entered the house asking for a cigarette. He could not recall whether Dead: Vedeanand he gave him or not, as he Sukhra was heavily intoxicated at the time.

He recalled that moments later, the man proceeded to beat him and kicked him in the chest. He further stated that, as the man was making his way out of the house, he asked who was the man lying on the ground, making reference to Sukhra; the man then proceeded to beat him (Sukhra) in the head and stomped on him. He said since he was in a drunken stupor, having imbibed all day with Sukhra, he fell asleep and was awakened when Sukra’s boss came to get him.

Sukhra worked part-time, helping to set up pyres for cremation. He was a father of five and was a former security guard at the Port Mourant/John’s NDC. Police have since detained Shaw for questioning as the investigation continues. The family of Sukhra is hoping police will get to the bottom of the incident.

They described Sukhra as a friendly man who never creates trouble with anyone.

Wanted bulletins issued for suspects in separate offences THE Guyana Police Force has issued wanted bulletins for Kevin Campbell and Vassie Gordon Barry in relation to questioning about different offences.

Kevin Campbell is wanted in relation to obtaining credit by false pretence, committed on Nalina Rampersaud on March 28, 2019.

Campbell’s last known address is Lot 36 Crown Dam Industry, East Coast Demerara.

Vassie Gordon Barry is wanted by the police for questioning in relation to

Wanted: Vassie Gordon Barry

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 3, 2019

Bill to remove mandatory jail time for ‘ganja’ possession for next sitting

A refined Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substance Control Act is to be laid in the National Assembly at its next sitting.

The current Act has been criticized and persons have been calling for it to be amended. The Government of Guyana has similar sentiments and has taken steps to do the same, as the current laws provide for a mandatory three-year jail sentence. Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan, during an interview with the Department of Public Information (DPI), made the disclosure. In 2015, government Parliamentarian, Michael

Carrington brought the Bill to be debated before the National Assembly. However, Minister Ramjattan said the Bill needed to be refined.

He said that the aim is not to decriminalise the possession of marijuana but rather the idea “is to end custodial penalties for small amounts.” The current Bill has seen many young people being imprisoned for using small amounts of the substance, thereby contributing to the overcrowding of the prisons. Minister of Natural Resources Raphael Trotman is working on the fine-tuning of the Bill.

“I support that kind

of arrangement because when young people go into the lock-ups and jail, they seem to graduate to bigger things and then jail was not easy,” Minister Ramjattan underscored.

He also highlighted that it is very costly to maintain inmates and that prison is not the best thing for our young people. “We want to cut custodial penalties into non-custodial penalties and one attribute we are going to add to that is to have the drug treatment court. So, we are going to tell them that if they want the treatment, counselling, community service, we are not going to prosecute them… if they

do not want to do the community service then we will prosecute them, and of course, they will have to pay their fines because we want them to pay fines instead of going to jail.”

The establishment of drug treatment courts across the country is in full swing to aid in the process.

The courts are meant to reduce the rates of incarceration of non-violent drug offenders.

The minister believes that the new approach is one that will be progressive and help avoid overpopulation in the prisons and preventing the expenditure of taking care of inmates. (DPI)

Main City garbage collectors and M&CC reach agreement THE Georgetown City Council met with the two major city garbage collectors, Puran Brothers and Cevon Waste Management, on Thursday and came to an agreement for both of those contracting companies to continue garbage collection in the

City.

The two Companies ‘pulled’ their services pending payments from the Council totaling some $300M for works done in the City back in 2017.

According to a release from the Council, the two sides met on Thurs-

day May 2, 2019 and agreed that the rates for payment were not sustainable.

A compromise was then reached.

It, therefore, means the companies will re-commence collection of garbage in the City from May 6, 2019.

Govt’ paying keen attention to PPP -hired Mercury Public Affairs Wanted: Kevin Campbell Possession of firearm and ammunition, and possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking, committed on April 27, 2019, at Dazzell Housing Scheme and Alpha Hotel, Ogle, East Coast Demerara.

Anyone with information that may lead to the arrest of the two persons are asked to contact the police on telephone numbers 226-2407, 225-2694, 2292019, 229-2289, 227-1149, 911 or the nearest police station.

DIRECTOR General of the Ministry of the Presidency, Joseph Harmon said the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) Government is paying keen attention to Mercury Public Affairs – the American firmed hired by the Opposition – People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) to help run its elections campaign.

Fielding questions from reporters during post-cabinet media briefing at the Ministry of the Presidency on Thursday, Harmon said the Government has taken note of the move by PPP/C. “When the purported activities of the company is going to address matters internal to Guyana, that is likely to affect the stability

of this country, that is likely to affect the way in which people are dealt with on a daily basis then certainly it is something that we pay very keen interest in,” the Director General said.

The firm is currently embroiled in the probe into alleged Russian interference in U.S. elections. Jagdeo has described the move to hire Mercury Public Affairs as “proactive.”

“We have heard about companies like this and the impact which they have had in the United States, in Trinidad and Tobago, in the United Kingdom, in BREXIT an all of these places, so it is not something that we take very lightly,” Harmon explained.

According to him, it is amazing that the PPP/C can

“actually fork out $34M just like that.”

He said that the people of Guyana are also paying attention. “I think that the Guyanese people would be looking very carefully at what this company is doing in so far as heavy influence,” Harmon said.

The contract was signed on March 5, 2019 by PPP Executive Secretary, Zulfikar Mustapha. According to the contract, the firm will provide strategic consulting and management services specific to issues facing the party in areas of government relations and issues management.

The services according to contract shall include but not limited to representing the party before and arranging meetings with

the Executive Branch and the Congress of the United States, the Organisation of American States and thinktanks in connection with issues relating to the anticipated general and regional elections. Additionally, according to the contract the PPP agreed to pay the firm US$ 150,000, US$100,000 of which had to be paid at the time of the signing of the contract and the remainder on May 1, 2019. The PPP also agreed to pay and reimburse the firm for all business expenses in providing the services for it.

The party also has to pay the lobby firm for all filing fees, costs and expenses paid or incurred related to compliance requirements in any jurisdictions.

MV Kimbia sails again

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 3, 2019

… journey to NWD down from 28 to 18 hours, say captain

THE refurbished M.V. Kimbia will soon commence plying its usual Georgetown to Kumaka, North West District route, following a successful trial run on the Demerara River on Thursday afternoon.

The return of the 38-year-old vessel is seen as a shot-in-the-arm for commuters and other hinterland residents, who had often complained, that even though the route was being serviced by two other vessels including `M.V. Lady Northcote’, they were still encountering difficulties in getting their produce transported either to the city or from the city.

Manning the wheel as the vessel undertook the trial run up and down the Demerara River, was veteran Captain, Gordon Kingston, who has racked up 30-years-ser-

with T&HD and CBCS staffers and invited guests, on board.

According to Kingston, the refurbished vessel can now undertake the journey which it previously did in 28 hours, in about 18 hours now. He was pleased to demonstrate how efficiently all the equipment, including the `jolly stick’ also known as the “magic stick” functioned.

Part of the mandate of the T&HD is to provide quality and safe service to the Guyanese public and according to Harbour Master, Mr. Michael Tennant, an additional 15 to 20 years of service has been added to the vessel, as a result of the rehabilitative works. The vessel had been unserviceable for some four years, as rehabilitative works totalling $488M entailed general

the two engines, repairs to the hull, underwater fittings and the steering and parts were undertaken by the Courtney Benn Contracting Services Ltd (CBCS).

The vessel was in quite a deplorable state when it was taken off the seas, and Benn told the Guyana Chronicle that it is now fitted with two engines which were fully overhauled in Holland by shipping giant, Ballast Nedam. To ensure that they worked perfectly when refitted to the vessel, the company dispatched two technician/engineers, here to oversee the process.

The repairs to the M.V. Kimbia were done by Benn at the Guyana National Industrial Corporation (GNIC) dockyard. Minister Patterson told the media personnel during a tour of the vessel that with the M.V. Kimbia

The rehabilitated M.V. Kimbia undertaking a trial run on the Demerara River on Thursday (Adrian Narine photo) vice, with officials in the likes of Minister of Public Infrastructure (MPI), David Patterson; Minister within the Ministry of Communities, Annette Ferguson; Permanent Secretary in the MoPI, Mr. Kenneth Jordan; Director of MARAD, Claudette Rogers; Chairman of the T&HD Advisory Board, Mr. Basil Blackman; General Manager T&HD, Ms. Marcelene Merchant; Managing Director, Courtney Benn Contracting Services Limited, Courtney Benn; Marine Superintendent T&HD, Derrick Erskine and Shore Chief Engineer, Mr. Compton Connelly, along

docking, the rebuilding of

back in operation, “obvi-

In discussion: Minister of Public Infrastructure (MoPI) David Patterson; Minister within the Ministry of Communities, Annette Ferguson; and Managing Director of the Courtney Benn Contracting Services, Courtney Benn, in discussion onboard the boat (Adrian Narine photo) ously it will promote the frequency by which we can service the North West, that (service) is (now) enhanced.

Besides it is a bigger boat than the other two (Barima and Northcote), so obviously we can get to carry more passengers and cargo, and with the capacity and obviously with more cargo it would be cheaper for the community…”

“We are quite pleased, the boat has been down for about three or four years, it was in a terrible state of disrepair but as you can see we have new engines, new machinery and with good

care and maintenance it can go another 10 to 20 years.

It is all part of the overall package of upgrade of the maritime sector and better service our residents in Region One,” he added.

The minister said he will ensure that a strict maintenance programme is put place, and disclosed that he is already considering undertaking a trip on the boat to experience for himself, some of the issues the residents have been complaining about. He is considering, too, having a suggestion box so that commuters can give a feedback about the service and also, re-establish an inspectorate division that will address issues, such as people being treated unfair-

ly and not being allowed to board according to priority.

Asked about the proposed reduction in travel time, Minister Patterson remarked “it was excellent and I intend to put the captain to the test, as I will very shortly do a trip with the boat to gauge the timings for myself, and ensure that all is well. The faster the boat reaches its destination, the better it will be for the commuters, as it will surely help to bring down the cost of living in those areas.

He noted that Lady Northcote is currently in dry-dock to have the engines among other things examined. Also a new vessel from India is supposed to be here by next year.

Driver fined $60,000 The passenger lounge of the M.V. Kimbia

FLEXTON SLOWE appeared before Principal Magistrate Judy Latchman at the Providence Magistrate Court, on Thursday May 2, 2019.

The Court was told that, on April 25, 2019, Slowe drove Motor Vehicle PVV 8980 in a dangerous manner, on the Bagostown Public Road.

In addition to the charge of dangerous driving, Slowe was charged for driving a vehicle (PVV 8980) which was unlicensed and uncertified.

Slowe pleaded guilty to all three charges and was fined $20 000 for each offence.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 3, 2019

‘Nancy’ dances to keep in shape at 72!

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With her husband of 50 years, Mr. Christleigh Rhodius.

By Telesha Ramnarine

T’s the dancing that keeps 72-year-old Hermina Nancy Rhodius in shape and free from pain. At times, she would just grab her husband of 50 years and start dancing with him. Her love and passion for dancing has always been there.

Mrs. Rhodius did not manage to further education after leaving primary school, as she was sent out of Moruca, Santa Rosa Village to be exact, to help her family earn a living. At just 14, she came to Georgetown and picked up whatever work she could find.

This might explain why she never managed to find the time, too, to take up dancing.

But wouldn’t you know? At the age of 63, she started classes! And she has progressed to the point where she now assists her dance instructor, Mr. Lawrence Drake, to help newcomers learn their steps.

In an interview with The Buzz, Mrs. Rhodius recalled that the first kind of dancing she learned was the traditional Amerindian dance that her great grandmother taught her when she was a child.

In Moruca, she recalled, she would go out to dance on occasion. “In those days, you don’t go alone; mother, father, grandmother, aunt and whoever else comes along. When a gentleman came to ask you to dance, they would ask your mother or father, and then they would bring you back.”

As the years passed, her love for dancing remained with her. After meeting her husband, Mr. Christleigh Rhodius, she again got the

Hermina Nancy Rhodius.

opportunity to go out and dance with him and his friends.

“I always have the radio on, and dancing. One of my sons’ girlfriend came and realised I love to dance, and said to me there is a ballroom school in Queenstown,” Mrs. Rhodius recalled about how she got into dancing at a school.

But when she turned up at the Terpischearam Ballroom Dancing School in Robb Street, she found that the age range of the persons she saw dancing made her feel that she didn’t belong there. “When I looked on the floor, I saw younger people and said to myself, ‘This is not for me; I am too old to go there.’”

But since she loved dancing so much, Mrs. Rhodius conquered the negative thoughts and decided to get registered anyhow. “It was tough at first, but I learned. And in the space of weeks, I learned to waltz. Now, I help along the new students. Whatever I know, I teach them.”

This weekend, nine persons from the school will be graduating, including Mrs. Rhodius’ two granddaughters, Shakira and Sophia, whom she helped at home and at the school.

“Dancing makes me feel good if I am stressed at home. And when the pain in my body is too much, I would start dancing and forget the pain. I dance the pain out. At my age, many complain about different pains, but I don’t have all that. If I’m cooking, I’m there in the kitchen dancing; if I am cleaning or washing, I am dancing. Sometimes I just pick up my husband and say let’s dance. And I always say I will keep on dancing until I can’t go anymore.”

Last April 12 made 50 years since Mr. and Mrs. Rhodius got married, and together they have five children, Frederick, Arthur, Sherwin, Natasha and Mark.

Wilson sisters moving up

By Wendella Davidson

T

Andrea Wilson

HE saying `the sky’s the limit’ can aptly be applied to two young and talented Guyanese women, Andrea and Amanda Wilson, who both began their working careers in the Editorial Department of the Guyana Chronicle newspapers.

Both girls, Andrea working as a graphic artist, and Amanda, the more energetic of the two, as a reporter, exuded charisma and a positive attitude to life, and it came as no surprise when they both migrated, that former colleagues continue to hear and read about their achievements.

Amanda, who is the Managing Director of Green Mango Media, is widely travelled, and has recently been nominated among the this year’s Class of 25 Influential Women Leaders, who have been chosen for their professional accomplishments, leadership qualities and outstanding success, all achieved in service to building a greater Guyana in all sectors. She and the other women will be honoured at a ceremony to be held on May 16 at the Pegasus Hotel.

Andrea, who lives in the British Virgin Islands (BVI) and functions as a television producer and fashion designer, has created a niche for herself with her swimwear collection being showcased in the BVI, and other Caribbean Islands, the United States and Guyana.

Recently, Andrea reported that she was selected along with other international designers to represent OC Fashion Week in Hong Kong at the biggest fashion and lifestyle tradeshows-Asia World Expo.

Another plus for the Wilson sisters was the Amanda and Andrea Wilson Youth Hoops Basketball Clinic and Tour by former NBA player Jermaine Taylor of Houston Rockets and found of The Xperience Outreach Rich Mahler, for promising and young and promising basketballers residing in Georgetown and Linden.

Amanda Wilson

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 3, 2019

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‘SOAK’ returns to Guyana as ‘Sunlight and Pineapples’

‘Parking lot Pimpin’ heads to Berbice tomorrow

By Stephan Sookram

T

HE recent surge of local car enthusiasts modifying their daily driven machines is taking Guyana by storm, and none other than the GT Callouts group has been a force behind this recent ‘car craze’.

The group teamed up with Car Culture GY, GTRidez and a few other businesses to hold a meet a few months back, where persons brought out their best designed cars.

Unlike the shows abroad, this isn’t about ensuring that cars have fancy gizmos that throw steam or transform into something else; it’s about having a daily driven car, keeping it clean, and enjoying simplicity.

The team heads to Berbice on Saturday to Sheet Anchor at Outback Adventures, where they will host their third event in the series.

GT Callouts coordinator Sean Charles told the Buzz, “What we are seeking to do is bring more awareness to the car culture that was already here in Guyana. We want to shed some light on the guys who spend time behind their cars, caring, cleaning and modifying them.

“Our aim is to build awareness for the people that have cars like this and to show people that there are persons who make their cars look good.

“There is a large following surrounding it. We figured that out when we would just go to the seawalls and lime for a bit. A lot of guys would turn up with their sport cars, and even their nicely ‘stanced’ regular cars, and we would have a good time sharing build ideas.

“What parking lot pimpin is doing is basically an organised form of this, where spectators can come out and learn from the guys who have done the builds; ba-

PSTAR Perry out of Trinidad and Tobago

sically a networking of car people who are interested in developing their cars.”

Charles, the former owner of a fully ‘stancedout’ Toyota Corolla, believes that there is potential in all cars to become something above the norm, and that is what the group aims to show.

“Look guys, you don’t have to own a fast car to

be a part of the show. Some guys have fantastic paint jobs, and some really nice rims that accent their cars; others just have a great stock car. It’s about showing up and sharing ideas amongst people who understand us.”

When asked about those that often engage in impromptu street races, Charles said, “We are not for that. That’s why it’s

called Parking Lot Pimpin.

We park and let the stance of our cars show. We aren’t about endangering the lives of the public by reckless driving; we are against that and against drunk driving.”

Automotive Art, under the Crystal brand, has been a huge contributor to the event, with the company promising more giveaways this weekend.

World Travelers Lifestyle, the promotion and travel group that throws the popular pool party ‘SOAK’, has returned to Guyana with a new pool party concept dubbed ‘Sunlight & Pineapples’.

The party which is slated for May 5 at Tower poolside, is said to be one filled with excitement and many surprises for the Guyanese supporters.

With a fusion of Trinidad and Guyana’s culture, the featured lineup of disc jockeys include PSTAR Perry and DJ Jerry West out of Trinidad, and Mighty Mike and Blaxx Bee from Guyana.

To make the party interesting, the group added ten compulsory rules that will ensure everyone’s enjoyment.

Ladies must dress in swimwear or something suitable to get wet in; you must enter the pool to get free shots; do not invite your friend if they are always looking for drama, are but a few of the rules that must be adhere to.

From the social media feedback, one can tell that there’s plenty excitement surrounding the party, and the promoters promise not to disappoint.

All the evening’s activities will be recorded and made into an episode for the group’s popular YouTube Channel.

World Travelers Lifestyle is a travel group consisting of a large number of social media influencers, dedicated to showcasing travel destinations, resorts and countries, through these such parties in various countries.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 3, 2019

Six finalists for Miss India Guyana 02 91

A

s interest in the local pageant scene continues to heat up, last Saturday at the Ramada Georgetown Princess Hotel Poolside Guyanese were officially introduced to the finalists vying for the Miss India Guyana 2019 crown, and the race is going to be a tight one between a stunning six young ladies.

The ultimate winner will be revealed on May 26 when the pageant plays out at the Ramada Princess Hotel Ballroom.

Last Saturday the young ladies stepped out in style, being outfitted in exquisite pieces from Colors of India, and received words of encouragement and empowerment from the High Commissioner of India to Guyana Venkatachalam Mahalingam and Prime Minister’s wife Sita Nagamootoo, who were also in attendance at the event.

The six young ladies represent those still standing after the number was whittled down from 10 semifinalists.

Co-director of the Miss India Guyana franchise, Hashim Alli, explained to The Buzz that the decision was taken to go with six finalists instead of the traditional 10 to ensure pageant night sees the best of the best.

“After having a semi-finalists of ten the decision was taken to eventually reveal six as the finals. One of the main contributor is the fact that the Miss India Guyana platform

is about prestige. This year we saw many pageant oriented girls competing, several came with very heft pageant experience,” Alli said Of the six delegates only one young lady is a newcomer to the local pageant scene.

Leading the list is former Miss Universe Guyana First Runner

up Diana Ahmad; 21 year old Dianna Persaud and 20 year old Hemwattie Seodat are both former Miss World Guyana finalists.

Twenty five year old Sharona Haniff was the 2011 Miss Talented Teen queen; and 23 year old Sandeka Rampersaud was the 2013 Miss Wakenaam

queen. The sole newcomer, and youngest delegate of the lot, is 18 year old Rashena Hanif.

Speaking with Buzz Ahmad said she thought the time was just right for her to jump back into pageantry. After going through and overcoming an emotional period in her life she feels motivated to return to

pageantry to spread her message of self-acceptance.

“In general people tend to see beauty queens as flawless girls who have it all together, who might just smile and wave without a problem in the world.

I want to be a relatable person, I want to inspire, not just smile and wave. I want to be that

The six young ladies who made the cut for the finals of the Miss India Guyana 2019 (Miss India Guyana photo credit)

source of encouragement, to show that no matter what you face, no matter the situation, you can choose to pick yourself up and shine and open new doors for yourself,” Ahmad shared.

Another reason she’s in pageant is because it’s also something she has wanted to do for a long time “Why miss India? Because it’s always been a dream of mine. Since growing up I could picture myself standing tall with this beautiful sari and crown. Miss India gives me the opportunity to not only represent my country, but to share my culture as well,” she noted Alli shared that with this year’s pageant the National team is looking first and foremost to continue to uphold and perhaps surpass the high standard that the pageant has become known for.

He says a lot is still in the works for the pageant night.

“This year will be no different from last year so patrons can come out to great glamour, elegance, glitz that we’re known for. The girls themselves are very eager and looking forward to executing a great event. We will be having a few surprise events, I can’t reveal them just yet until all the I’s are dotted and the T’s are crossed, but it is going to be a night with a lot of excitement, beauty and intelligence all meshed together,” he promises.

Personality of The Week: Blaze Anthonio

’still burning’ – ’The Buzz

Magazine Personality of the week

C

onsistency with artistes in Guyana’s music industry has long been lacking, especially among the youths.

Many give up when the struggles of the local industry hits, but some have been determine to defy the odds.

This week’s personality is the epitome of determination, as he continues to reach beyond the stars.

27-year-old singer and song writer of the popular relatable Guyanese songs, ‘Blow’, ‘In the Parliament’, and ‘Seh no’, Marlon Ashford Simon shared his story with the ‘The Buzz Magazine’.

Simon goes by the alias ‘Blaze Anthonio’, which he said he got from a little boy who witnessed one of his rap battles.

“One day I was doing a

rap battle on the bus park, I was winning, and this young child shouted to me ‘you blaze up the place’. And right there and then I took the name Blaze. Anthonio however, came from my older brother who introduced me to music, whose name is Anthony. And since then Blaze Anthonio became my official stage name and it will remain so,” he said.

Blaze started singing from a young age, after he was introduced to rap music.

He has always been swift in writing lyrics, and his music always entertain the people due to how relatable they are.

He said that he attributes his swiftness in producing his songs, to his creative mind, saying “Everything comes from my head. I have a very imaginative mind that helps me to create stuff. I talk a lot

of nonsense too, but because I have a very creative mind, it doesn’t take me long to write a song on an event. If something happens at 10 and I have all the info by 10:15, I can give you a written song by 11, and have it recorded and released by 12. I have a mind that I can picture stuff happening and even create my own stories in my head.”

The ultimate goal he said, is to reach to the peak of musical existence, and having that hunger and passion to reach there, he said, is his biggest motivating factor to keep pushing.

Though his origin was hip hop, Blaze said he became more versatile with music and this year he plans to produce more soca and dancehall as well as fusions.

Just Wednesday, he released a new song name ‘Pon

De Roundabout’, and already it has caught on to the Guyanese public.

It emerged from a collaborative effort; Blaze wrote the song, Motto Lashley Winter produced the riddim, and AJ records recorded, mixed and mastered it.

This consistency continues to be demonstrated with his passion to reach to the top, and despite the odds, Blaze is confident he will achieve his ultimate goal of being an international superstar.

His music can be found on soundcloud, YouTube Link: https://youtu.be/YSnFg-8FBpQ, Instagram: @ Blazeanthonio.

Anyone wishing to contact him for bookings can do so on: +592-682-3567 or email: blazeanthonio@ gmail.com

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, May 3, 2019

IT’S time for the weekend again people, and it’s time to keep you in the loop with what’s ‘buzzing’ in and around Guyana.

Today

► Nadira and Indranie Shah Dance Troupe presents “Nrityageet 40 Grand Farewell Show” celebrating Indian Arrival for 40 years. It’s going to be the dance theatre show you will always remember, so don’t let your children or grandchildren miss out on this grand farewell of nrityageet! Tickets: $500, $2000, $3000 ► Head down to the Pegasus poolside,

Ignite Bar and Grill every Friday and Saturday for fun, food, and entertainment!

► The Vintage Wine Bar, Restaurant and Lounge presents “Latin Night”. Get two Desperados Tequila Beers for $1000

Tomorrow

► Ultra Saturdays Special

Edition presents “Fire and Ice Vol 2” at District Ultra Lounge, featuring live performances by DJ Kidd Frost and DJ Country Boy. Enjoy Johnny Walker bottle specials, ladies free before 9pm

► It’s time to show off your talent. Aracari

Resort presents Karaoke and Dance this and every Saturday. Enjoy karaoke, dance and dinner, featuring Reyaz Rafeek and Group

► Aura Sky Lounge presents Seductive Saturdays! Doors open at 8pm!

Sunday

► It’s going to be an evening of as the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha presents “Ben Parag in Concert” at the Pandit Reepu Daman Sanskritik Kendra in Prashad Nagar from 7pm. Come out and celebrate 181 years of Indian arrival in Guyana. Tickets: $5000 (Includes dinner) ► More than 20 outstanding singers and some

talented musicians are to be featured at the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha USA Praant’s Taan at the National Stadium

► You’ve been hearing about it for months

now well it’s time for a pool party with a twist.

World Travel Lifestyle will transform Tower Poolside to a concert capital as they presents “Sunlight and Pineapples” . Get your swim suits, put on your flip flops and get ready to smile for the cameras as they shoot the official Guyana episode of their show. Get the room and ticket package for $14,000 Admission: $2000 (limited early bird), $14,000 (Room and ticket package), $55,000 (Cabana Package, admits 10 plus drinks)

► Assemble your drinking buds! This game is going to be intense! It’s the NBA Playoffs Game 4: 76ers Vs Rockets and it’s showing at 704 Sports Bar

► The Vintage Wine Bar, Restaurant and

Lounge presents “Dinner with 70s ad 80s music.

Sundays were meant for 70’s & 80’s!

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday May 3, 2019

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday May 3, 2019

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday May 3, 2019

ODI, Test rankings boost for Windies ahead of World Cup DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (CMC) – West Indies have been handed a pleasant rankings boost ahead of the World Cup, after overhauling Sri Lanka to climb to eighth in the ICC One-Day International charts yesterday.

The Caribbean side gained four ratings points to move to 80 while Sri Lanka remained stagnant on 76, following the annual update which saw the removal of the 2015-16 results and those

between 2016 and 2018 computed at 50 per cent.

For the Windies, the rise comes on the back of their outstanding performance in the recent five-match series against World number one, England, when they snatched a 2-2 tie.

That series result saw them draw level on 76 points with the Sri Lankans last March but remain in ninth spot. They can further solidify their new ranking when they face hosts Ireland and Bangladesh in a Tri-Nations Series in Dublin starting Sunday.

Poor results here, however, especially against seventh-place Bangladesh could see the Windies slip to ninth again heading into the World Cup which runs from May 30 to July 14.

West Indies have spent recent years languishing at number nine and it resulted in them missing out on automatic qualification for the World Cup. England, meanwhile, re-

main the top-ranked side but will need to beat Ireland and Pakistan in their upcoming series in order to enter the World Cup at the summit.

India are second after gaining one ratings point while South Africa have overtaken New Zealand to claim third place, with the Black Caps dropping to fourth.

In the Test rankings, West Indies are now on the heels of seventh-placed Pakistan after gaining five points following the annual update.

The Jason Holder-led unit, who stunned England 2-1 in the recent three-Test series in the Caribbean, are now on 82 points but only two behind seventh-placed Pakistan who dropped four ratings points.

India sit on top the rankings with 113 points but lost three ratings points to see their gap on second-placed New Zealand shrink to two points, after the Black Caps gained three points.

FROM BACK PAGE

Estwick says Gabriel’s ...

and Shannon comes with that.”

Gabriel is the fastest bowler in the Windies pace attack, which also comprises captain Jason Holder, veteran Kemar Roach, Andre Russell, Oshane Thomas and Carlos Brathwaite.

He has not played since the wretched 2017 tour of New Zealand, however, where he went wicket-less from 24 overs in three matches, as West Indies suffered a chastening whitewash.

Estwick believes the Trinidadian has improved a lot since then and will bring something different to the Windies attack.

“He’s a lot more experienced now than when he last played,” Estwick pointed out.

“He’s full of confidence, he’s bowling well so we expect big things from Shannon especially in the role the coach wants him to play.”

West Indies arrived here Wednesday where they take on Ireland and Bangladesh in a Tri-Nations Series starting on Sunday. They face Ireland in their opener on Sunday

before taking on Bangladesh on Tuesday.

Estwick said the series would be critical in terms of assessing teams they would face in the World Cup, including world number ones England who play Ireland in a one-off ODI on Friday.

“It’s all about gathering information. Obviously we play Bangladesh at Taunton a little bit later in the World Cup but it’s also looking at them and looking at England as well …,” he pointed out.

“So it’s gathering as much information as you can and coming up with a game plan that can help you to be successful.”

Following the Tri-Nations Series, West Indies will enter a final one-week preparation camp in Southampton starting May 18 before clashing with South Africa and New Zealand at Bristol on May 26 and 28 in official World Cup warmup matches.

Their World Cup opener is against Pakistan at Trent Bridge on May 31.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday May 3, 2019

Dharry, Beharry on target in G.S.S.F Orinduik Development Shoot DAVID Dharry and Ray Beharry were the best shooters last weekend when Guyana Sport Shooting Foundation (GSSF) hosted its Orinduik Development Inc. Shoot.

Local practical shooters gathered at the Timehri Shooting Ranges to take part in an exciting Practical Pistol match which comprised five challenging but fun stages.

And when the dust settled, Dharry and Beharry were the best.

Beharry with 375.0000 points won ahead of Michael Blake (95.9057 points) and Lancelot Khan (189.4942 points).

In the Limited division Dharry with 325.5765 points won ahead of Johan DaSilva and Pravesh Harry (296.3801 points) The five-stage shoot had

stages named Bookout’s Boogie, Lots of Sand, Stage 95 Max, Fluffy’s Revenge 2 and Alternate.

“Bookout’s Boogie”, a USPSA classifier, required competitors to choose between either an array of metal targets or an array of paper targets, to be engaged from one of two shooting boxes, then proceeding to a second shooting box and engaging the remaining targets.

“Alternate” proved to be perhaps the most challenging stage for the day and consisted of seven paper targets. The shooter’s start position was standing next to the most downrange of two barrels, holding his or her first magazine in the strong hand and a cloth in the weak hand.

The firearm was placed on the same barrel with

Division winners Mr David Dharry (left) and Mr Ray Beharry (right)

the slide locked open. All remaining magazines were placed on the second barrel uprange. Upon the start signal, competitors had to engage the three targets most downrange with the strong hand only, then proceed to the second barrel, make a mandatory reload and engage with his/her weak hand

the remaining targets, some of which forced the shooters to be very wary of the 180 degree safety rule.

“Stage 95 Max” consisted of nine paper targets and one metal target. The targets were placed at challenging distances and angles with some being placed in close proximity to the sometimes dreaded no

shoot targets which, if shot, incurs a penalty of minus ten points. The shooter’s start position was seated on a chair with their backs touching the back of the chair and hands on their knees. On the start signal all targets were to be engaged from within set fault lines.

“Fluffy’s Revenge 2” was the second USPSA Classifier for the day and consisted of two metal poppers and three paper targets. There were also a few of the challenging no shoot targets alternating with the paper targets. Shooters started this stage while facing uprange with wrists above the shoulder. Despite the challenge of having to turn, draw and engage all targets without hitting any of the no shoot targets, most if not all competitors emerged triumphant in their scores.

“Lots of Sand” comprised nine paper targets and four metal falling plates. Targets were placed at varying angles and distances as well as being behind barriers, which were meant to force competitors into movement to be able to engage them.

Even though some of the targets were at challenging distances and required the most movement for the day, competitors could be heard remarking that this was their favourite for the day.

Scores were computed on the go thanks to the use of electronic scoring methods by way of a special application called Practiscore under the efficient eye of designated Stats Officer for the day, Dr Pravesh Harry.

Mumbai Indians secure IPL play-off spot after dramatic finish MUMBAI Indians became the third team to clinch a place in the Indian Premier League (IPL) play-offs after a dramatic Super-Over win over Sunrisers Hyderabad yesterday.

Chasing 163, Hyderabad batsman Manish Pandey had to hit the final ball of the 20th over beyond the rope to bring the scores level at the Wankhede Stadium - and he duly achieved the feat with a glorious drive down the ground.

Pandey finished unbeaten on 71 but was run-out trying to sneak a second from the opening delivery of the Super Over that followed, while

Mohammad Nabi departed three balls later having hit a six, leaving Mumbai needing nine for victory.

Hardik Pandya made the equation even easier by smashing Rashid Khan’s first delivery for six at the start of the Indians’ reply. A single followed before Kieron Pollard hit the winning runs, his flick to deep midwicket allowing them to comfortably pick up the two they required.

Mumbai’s triumph sees them join table-topping Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals in the knockout stages.

As for Hyderabad - who

were without in-form opener David Warner following his return to Australia - they still occupy the final berth for the qualifiers, though four teams are split by just two points in the battle to finish fourth.

STRUGGLING AGAINST THE SPINNERS Quinton de Kock had earlier made 69 from 58 deliveries as Mumbai posted 162-5 after captain Rohit Sharma had surprisingly elected to bat first after winning the toss.

Rohit made 24 at the top of the order but the Indians failed to dominate the Sunrisers’ var-

Guyana to host FIFA ... in terms of fans; you actually get tremendous amount of coverage. Sports tourism in Guyana can really take off, and we’re happy to partner with the GFF ... it can really boost our tourism product with this conference and we’re happy to be on board,” Ramkumar said.

Sinclair noted, “This is a sign that finally sports and tourism are coming together; in fact there’s a strong connection between sports and tourism … because of the substance of the conference and the theme of the conference. It is very important, not just from a sports standpoint, but also by bringing officials,

players, spectators and media to Guyana.”

Meanwhile, Forde, in explaining the importance of the conference, said the full body of the FIFA Development Committee will be in Guyana, where one of the key areas of focus will be the implementation of a comprehensive regional schools football programme.

Forde reminded the gathering of media personnel at the Marriott Hotel that during the visit of FIFA president Gianni Infantino to Guyana in 2017, there was an extensive discussion on a Regional Schools football pro-

gramme with CARICOM Secretary-General, Irwin LaRocque, and the extent it could contribute on the overall development on the game in the Caribbean.

The Development Committee, according to FIFA, shall deal with the Federation’s development programmes and shall devise and propose appropriate strategies, check these strategies periodically and analyse the support provided to member associations, confederations and zonal/regional associations in this regard.

The FIFA Forward Development Programme was first adopted by the FIFA

ied bowling attack. Suryakumar Yadav contributed 23 but Pandya’s hopes of a late onslaught were dashed when he fell for 18, becoming one of three wickets for Khaleel Ahmed.

However, it was Afghanistan duo Nabi and Rashid who starred in the first innings for Hyderabad, picking up combined figures of 1-45 from their eight overs.

Still, it appeared Mumbai had enough on the scoreboard when the Sunrisers still needed 41 from the final three overs.

Warner’s absence at the top of the order has left a huge hole in the Hyderabad line-up.

The left-hander scored 692 runs in this year’s tournament but will miss the rest of the season to prepare for Cricket World Cup. New Zealander Martin Guptill replaced Warner and made 15, while opening partner Wriddhiman Saha hit five boundaries in a breezy 25.

Hyderabad slipped to 105-

NABI, PANDEY LEAVE IT LATE

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FROM BACK PAGE

Congress on May 9, 2016 and it was to become not only a “step change” for global football development and the way we share the success of the FIFA World Cup with our member associations, but also one of the most prominent sports’ development programmes.

FIFA Forward is built to provide 360-degree, tailor-made support for football development in each of our member associations and the six confederations and is based on three principles - more investment, more impact, and more oversight.

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5 midway the 15th over, only for their pursuit to be revitalised by Nabi, who hit two sixes and as many fours in his 31.

His maximum at the start of the final over when 17 were required provided impetus and while he was dismissed by Pandya soon after, Pandey sent the game into additional overs when he thumped a full ball over the rope.

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24

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday May 3, 2019

Global T20 Canada returns for second season … tournament bowls off July 25

By Frederick Halley TORONTO, Canada - The second edition of Global T20 Cricket League, Canada is scheduled to get underway on July 25, with the final set for Sunday, August 11 at the Maple Leaf Cricket Club ground here.

According to Cricket Canada president Ranjit Saini, “Canada cannot wait for the action to begin. We, at Cricket Canada, are committed to providing much-needed opportunity and exposure to

CRICKET Canada president Ramjit Saini

this responsibility. We have a very robust system in place to

America region.”

The league has been conceptualised, designed, developed and managed by Mercuri Talent Management Pvt Ltd, an Indian company, with Cricket Canada, the official governing body for the sport in the country. The two have entered into a 25-year Master Licensing Agreement which covers not just the Global T20 Canada, but also investment in developing the grassroots for the sport in the country.

FLASHBACK: Vancouver Knights celebrate their Global T20 title win over Cricket West Indies (CWI) B in last year’s final.

our Canadian players. We will work alongside the GT20 team to make the 2019 edition even more memorable for the players and fans. On behalf of Cricket Canada, I invite the cricket world to Canada.”

The tournament will comprise a total of 22 matches including the three playoffs games with the opening fixture featuring defending champions Vancouver Knights and Toronto Nationals.

A Cricket Canada release pointed out that promoter and owner of the GT20 Canada, Gurmeet Singh, was upbeat about what one could expect from the tournament. “After a roaring success of season one, where we reached more than 50 million cricket fans across the world, I am looking forward to the second edition of the GT20.

“We promise to deliver a bigger, better and stronger cricketing spectacle this season. I am thankful to Cricket Canada for entrusting us with

produce another world-class cricketing event that reflects the best of Canada.”

Saini disclosed that shortly, GT20 will announce the player registration process along with details of marquee players and the teams' draft roster.

Former West Indies batting legend, Brian Lara, the brand ambassador of the league, said, “I was there to see the first edition of the league and was enormously impressed with the overall quality of cricket. Despite a few hiccups, Cricket Canada and GT20 team delivered an outstanding event.

“The hallmark of the event was a local boy, Saad bin Zafar winning the Man-ofthe-Match in the all-important final in the presence of stars like Chris Gayle and Andre Russell. It proves that cricketers from these countries need these kind of endeavours to prove their talent. I hope GT20 season two will take cricket to greater heights in the North

Cricket Canada is the first Associate member of the ICC to set in motion a Twenty20 franchise league in the lucrative North America market.

Prior to last year’s staging Cricket Canada president Saini said the league had the potential to change Canadian cricket forever. “It is a great challenge and Cricket Canada is ready to deliver a resounding success.”

Saini was also confident that the Global T20 Canada may generate revenues in the “six-figure” range for Cricket Canada in the first season and more in subsequent years.

“Cricket Canada is very excited by the opportunity and we’re looking forward to it.”

The tournament has also had the blessings of Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau who participated in a promotional cricket event at a school in Delhi, India during a visit there last year.

Police youth group adopts ...

FROM PAGE 25

‘maximising green and open spaces’.

The ‘G’ Division Police Force, through its Youth Groups, has been quite active participating in several sporting disciplines including cricket, football, circle tennis,

basketball and volleyball.

Meanwhile the Henrietta ground needs fencing, a pavilion and to be upgraded with additional earth to prevent it from being easily flooded.

The community in

Henrietta meanwhile has welcomed the step to intervene, given the increasing population which is being starved of sporting activities since the ground is in an unplayable condition at present. (Elroy Stephney)

25

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday May 3, 2019

Semenya to run in Doha as storm rages over new IAAF rules

By Nick Said CAPE TOWN, South Africa (Reuters) - Double Olympic champion Caster Semenya will run her last 800-metre today before the International Association of Athletics Federations imposes hugely controversial new rules limiting testosterone in female athletes.

Semenya, who has spent years trying to get the new IAAF regulations thrown out, will compete at the Diamond League meeting in Doha against 2016 Olympic silver medallist Francine Niyonsaba - who recently revealed she had similar difference in sexual development (DSD) characteristics to the South African.

Both must then begin taking medication to lower their testosterone levels if they wish to compete over that distance based on the new rules, which the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) said on Wednesday were necessary to ensure fair competition.

IAAF president Sebastian Coe, speaking in Doha yesterday, said he was grateful to CAS for the verdict.

“It is very straightforward for any association in sport,” Coe told a media briefing.

“Athletics has two classifications - it has age and it has gender. We are fiercely protective of both. We are really grateful that CAS has upheld that principle.”

Coe refused to take more questions, but the case is likely to have far-reaching consequences for women’s sport, and has split opinion around the globe.

Athletics South Africa likened the new IAAF regulations to apartheid, and both it and Semenya’s lawyers have said they could contest the CAS ruling dismissing

South Africa’s Caster Semenya celebrates after winning the women’s 1500m REUTERS/Ibraheem Al Omari

her appeal against their introduction.

Under the rules to take effect on May 8, female athletes with high natural levels of testosterone wishing to compete in events from 400 metres to a mile must medically limit that level to under 5 nmol/L, which is double the normal female range of below 2 nmol/L. Testosterone increases muscle mass, strength and haemoglobin, which affect endurance. Some competitors have said women with higher levels of the hormone have an unfair advantage.

Barring further legal action, Semenya finds herself at a crossroads: Either she submits to the regulations or looks to compete in longer distances.

She claimed the 5000-metre title at the South African Athletics Championships last week, an event not covered by the IAAF regulations, but in a modest time of 16:05.97, well below the qualifying standard for the world championships of 15:22.00.

This potential lifeline means Semenya may not abandon the 800 metres yet, though any advance to the Swiss Federal Tribunal could take months to reach a verdict and leave her career in limbo.

Former sprinter Michael Johnson, who won four Olympic gold medals

between 1992 and 2000, believes the regulations are right for women’s athletics.

“It was always going to be a difficult situation because through no fault of her own she just happens to have this condition,” Johnson told Reuters.

“The IAAF has to make a decision on the line that’s drawn between the female races and the men’s races. I think the decision was based on the fairness of sports, so that there is a level playing field for all of the athletes in any given race.”

Semenya, 28, has vowed to fight on, whichever distance she races in.

“I know that the IAAF’s regulations have always targeted me specifically,” she said in a statement released via her lawyers on Wednesday.

“For a decade the IAAF has tried to slow me down, but this has actually made me stronger. The decision of the CAS will not hold me back. I will once again rise above and continue to inspire young women and athletes in South Africa and around the world.”

Her personal best of 1:54.25 in the 800 metres will make her the quickest in the field in Doha’s Diamond League meet, the first time she will compete over the distance in 2019.

Police youth group adopts recreational ground in Essequibo POLICE ‘G’ Division continues to lead the way in fostering community development and active participation in the field of sports.

In this regard, recently the Anna Regina Legend and Scout Police Youth Group has undertaken to adopt the Henrietta Sports Ground with the intention to transform and maintain the recreational facility.

This is one of several

grounds that the Force, in collaboration with other stakeholders, has been able to build community-related partnerships involving young people.

Former Commissioner of Police, Seelall Persaud, initiated the establishment of Police Youth Groups on the Essequibo Coast which has since grown in stature with over twelve groups being formed in several com-

munities including Suddie, Affiance, Lima Sands and Charity In addition, the Affiance Number 1 and Lima Sands grounds were rehabilitated by the Force with assistance from other donors. In a brief statement, the Police Youth Group declared that the initiative is in keeping with the policy of TURN TO PAGE 24 ►

26

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday May 3, 2019

India, England stay top of ICC rankings following annual update INDIA’S lead over New Zealand in the ICC Test rankings has narrowed to just two points after the annual update yesterday.

In the ODI rankings, England have held on to their top position.

Following the update, series from 2015-16 were removed from the calculations and results from 2016-17 and 2017-18 were weighted at 50%, with series after that weighted at 100%.

Success against Ireland and Pakistan will mean England host the upcoming World Cup ranked No. 1 in the format.

India, who have held the top spot in Tests since October 2016, were on 116 points

before the update but their 3-0 win over South Africa and 2-1 win in Sri Lanka during the 2015-16 season have dropped out of the ranking period, meaning they lost three points.

New Zealand, meanwhile, were on 108 but have had their two 2-0 defeat to Australia expunged from their record, gaining three points to move to 111.

In the only change of positions on the Test table, England have overtaken Australia to fourth position and are on 105 points. Australia are on 98 points after dropping six points they had held from winning four of their five series in 2015-16.

Further down the ta-

Virat Kohli was presented with the Test mace (BCCI photo)

Giles admits Alex Hales could still have been in World Cup squad ALEX Hales would still have been part of the England squad had details of his suspension not become public, director of cricket Ashley Giles has admitted.

It was initially said that Hales was taking time away from the game for “personal reasons”, until the Guardian reported he was serving a 21-day ban for recreational drug use.

“The effect of that (news) breaking has led us to where we are,” Giles told BBC Sport.

“If anyone thinks that is right or wrong, it is the way it had to be.”

The England and Wales Cricket Board has still not confirmed why Hales was removed from the squad, citing confidentiality concerns.

It is for that reason that

the selectors did not know of Hales’ suspension when they named England’s preliminary World Cup squad on April 17, or why captain Eoin Morgan had no knowledge of the sanction until media reports emerged.

OMISSION ‘BREAKDOWN IN TRUST’ “When the team was selected, myself and chief executive Tom Harrison were aware of a situation, but were bound by a duty of confidentiality. We were unable to share that with any of the key people in that environment,” explained Giles.

“Whether any of us considers that right or wrong, that is out of our hands.”

News of the drugs ban broke on April 26 as England gathered for a training camp.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Friday May 03, 2019) COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & the City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Today’s Quiz: (1) Which two teams contested the inaugural IPL final?

(2)

Who was Man of the Match?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

Alex Hales has played 11 Tests, 70 one-day internationals and 60 Twenty20s for England.

Hales was removed from the squad on Monday.

Speaking yesterday, Morgan confirmed that Hales’ omission was agreed in a meeting of senior players because of what he described as a “complete breakdown in trust” between the Nottinghamshire batsman and the rest of the squad.

Morgan then made the feelings of the players known to Giles.

“Eoin was clear on what he wanted,” said former leftarm spinner Giles. “The selectors were unanimous on the decision and fully supported by myself and Tom.” After he was removed from the squad, Hales’ management company released a statement detailing the player’s disappointment at the outcome and claiming he had

been given assurances that the suspension would not affect his participation in the World Cup. “There were also elements of Alex’s statement that weren’t helpful,” added Giles. “There weren’t assurances given on World Cup selection.”

Giles also rejected any suggestion that the ECB hierarchy had acted improperly for failing to disclose Hales’ suspension to his team-mates, selectors or fans.

“To think that myself and Tom have misled, hidden, U-turned or tried to sweep under the carpet is ridiculous,” said Giles.

“We were bound by a duty of confidentiality and we maintained that. Unfortunately, someone else didn’t and a story has broken about an off-the-field incident.

“If in any instance a process or policy doesn’t work, they should come under constant review so that they work better next time around.”

With Hales now free to resume playing for Nottinghamshire, Giles wants the 30-year to return to the international fold in the future.

“He’s a very, very good player and the door isn’t shut,” said Giles. “We want to see some really good behaviour and good cricket.”

(BBC Sport)

ble, the gap between seventh-placed Pakistan and eighth-placed West Indies has been trimmed from 11 to two points.

In order to go into the World Cup as the top-ranked ODI side, England will need to beat Ireland in today’s one-off ODI and then beat Pakistan 3-2 or better at home later this month. If they lose to Ireland, then beat Pakistan 4-1 or better, they will still hold on to their position.

South Africa have overtaken New Zealand in ODIs, moving into third position, while another change in positions sees West Indies moving ahead of Sri Lanka to seventh place. No team has dropped out of

the top 10, and the 10 topranked sides are all taking part in the World Cup. Namibia, Oman and USA were all awarded ODI status at the end of the World Cricket League Division 2 competition and will join the rankings once they have played the requisite eight qualifying matches. Papua New Guinea join the rankings immediately having played several ODIs prior to April 2018, and Netherlands, who already had ODI status, will need to play two more ODIs to achieve a ranking.

The annual update to the T20I team rankings will be made today. (ESPN Cricinfo)

Starc on returning duo Smith and Warner: It’s all rosy

David Warner (left) and Steve Smith

MITCHELL Starc insists the rest of the squad have no lingering issues with Steve Smith and David Warner, as the pair prepare to play for Australia again at the Cricket World Cup. Smith and Warner arrived separately from the Indian Premier League (IPL) for a pre-tournament training camp in Brisbane, joining up with the rest of the 15-man party.

The batsmen were available for the final two one-day games of the series against Pakistan in March but did not feature, meaning they are yet to appear at international level since serving one-year ball-tampering suspensions in the wake of the third Test against South Africa in 2018.

The duo spent time with their team-mates in the United Arab Emirates and Starc, who was not involved against Pakistan due to injury, feels

the group has moved on from the events that unfolded at Newlands.

“It’s onwards, upwards and focussed on the World Cup - it’s all rosy,” Starc told the media.

“We’ve all had our meetings and moved on. The meeting I was involved in, 95 per cent wasn’t about Dave and Steve and the group.

“It was more about where the team was going.”

Left-hander Warner has dazzled in this year’s IPL ahead of his Australia comeback, hitting nine scores of 50 or more to amass 692 runs in 12 innings for Sunrisers Hyderabad.

“He has been on fire over there, along with Steve, so that’s great for him and great for the group,” Starc said of the in-form Warner.

“He’s a world-class player and we’re excited to have him back.”

27

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday May 3, 2019

Hand-in-Hand U-19 Inter-county cricket

Hand-in-Hand U-19 3-day Inter-County

Spooner’s 11-wicket haul leads Demerara to big win

Rain forces draw between Berbice and Select U-17s after Algoo’s 175

By Rajiv Bisnauth

JOEL Spooner returned with a match-haul of 11 wickets to give Demerara a thumping nine-wicket win over Essequibo in round one of the Hand-in-Hand Under-19 Inter-county three-day encounter yesterday at the Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) ground.

The off-spinner, who was adjudged Man-of-theMatch, had claimed 5-10 in the first innings, grabbed 6-54 in the second to finish with a match-haul of 11-64, as Essequibo, after resuming the final day on 155-9, added just one run before they were bowled out.

Fellow off-spinner Pradesh Ballkishun took the final wicket of Mervyn Benjamin, to finish with

Joel Spooner

Latchman Yadram

figures of 4-22 off 10.1 overs.

Scores in the match: Essequibo 75 and 156; Demerara 207 and 25-1.

Set 24 for victory, Demerara lost Adrian Hinds leg-before-wicket to off-spinner Amit Persaud for two, but Robin Williams, who struck four fours in his unbeaten 18, and Sachin Singh (5 not out), sealed the formality in just 4.3 overs.

After the game, Spooner told Chronicle Sport that he was very pleased with his performance, adding that it’s always

nice to contribute to the team.

Coach Latchman Yadram expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance, adding that his players played some good cricket.

He, however, reminded his boys not to be over-confident or complacent as the tournament progresses.

Meanwhile, the second round bowls off tomorrow with Demerara playing the Select Under-17 team at GCC while Berbice, the defending champions, come up against Essequibo at Lusignan.

This year’s tournament is run by Cricket Guyana Inc. who is tasked with handling the logistical and financial responsibilities.

Scenes from the opening night of the Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Linden Championship at the Mackenzie Market tarmac

oppose Presidential, with Barsenal engaging High Rollers at 20:00hrs and Coomacka battling Quiet Storm from 20:30hrs.

The fourth match will pit defending champions Silver Bullets against Retrieve Unknowns from 21:00hrs, while Amelia’s Ward Russians oppose Haynes Hitters at 21:30hrs and Swag Entertainment take aim at Dave & Celina’s AllStars from 22:00hrs.

The tournament is being contested in an initial round-robin format, featuring four groups of four teams. Upon the conclusion of the group stage, the top two finishers will advance to the knockout round.

Group-A comprises Assassa Ballers, Amazings, NK

DEFENDING Hand-inHand Under-19 3-day Inter-County champions Berbice had to settle for a draw with the Select U-17s after rain washed out most of day three at the Everest

Select U-17 spinner Zeynul Ramsammy turned in a valuable performance with both bat and ball on day one.

Berbice won the toss and elected to bat but Ramsammy and Sheldon Charles teamed up to bowl out the defending champions for a paltry 127

Man-of-the-match Alex Algoo receives his award for his brilliant 175 against the Select U-17s.

Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ resumes tonight in Linden ALL roads will lead to the Silver City Hard-Court tarmac tonight when the second group night commences in the Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Linden Championship.

The event was rescheduled due to torrential rainfall on May 1. According to the tournament coordinators, “The Wednesday match-day (May 1), rescheduled due to torrential rain, will now be staged on Sunday at the same venue (Mackenzie tarmac). It was disappointing that no matches were hosted but you can’t control the weather.

“We have to be cognizant of the players’ safety which is paramount in the tournament.

The fixtures remain the same so the teams are expected to arrive at the venue to compete.”

The release further said, “We expect another thrilling night of action to captivate the fans who are expected to descend on the venue in droves.”

The playing area was unplayable and the decision to switch the matches to another date was taken by the coordinators and sponsors.

At 19:30hrs, Wisroc will

By Michelangelo Jacobus

Ballers and Capital Storm, with Group-B comprising Amelia’s Ward Russians, Quiet Storm, Coomacka-B and Haynes Hitters.

On the other hand, Group-C consists of Silver Bullets, High Rollers, Retrieve Unknown and Barsenal, whilst Swag Entertainment, Dave & Celina’s All-Stars, Presidential and Wisroc make up Group-D. The other playing dates are May 5, 10, 17 with the grand finale set for the 24th. Below are the fixtures for May 1 and May 3 matches.

Complete May 3rd-Silver City Hard-Court Wisroc vs Presidential 19:30hrs Barsenal vs High Rollers - 20:00hrs

Coomacka vs Quiet Storm - 20:30hrs Silver Bullets vs Retrieve Unknown - 21:00hrs Amelia’s Ward Russians vs Haynes Hitters - 21:30hrs Swag Entertainment vs Dave and Celina - 22:00hrs Fixtures - May 5 - Mackenzie tarmac Quiet Storm vs Haynes Hitters - 19:30hrs Capital Storm vs Assassa Ballers - 20:00hrs NK Ballers vs Amazings - 20:30hrs Wisroc vs Dave and Celina - 21:00hrs Swag Entertainment vs Presidential - 21:30hrs Silver Bullets vs High Rollers - 22:00hrs

Cricket Club ground.

Berbice began the day on 292 for 4, with overnight batsman, Alex Algoo, looking to build on his unbeaten 119. During the morning session Algoo added another 56 runs before he was sent back to the pavilion by Select U-17 bowler Chandrapaul Ramraj, who eventually ended with figures of 2-104.

Niran Bissu then skittled out both Junior Sinclair (42 off 71 balls) and Jeetender Outar (6), to end with figures of 2-90.

Middle-order batsmen Kevlon Anderson and Seon Glasgow then batted aggressively in an attempt to increase Berbice’s chances of a win, with scores of 53 off 67 balls and 40 off 41 balls respectively. The defending champs eventually declared on 404 for 8, with a lead of 313.

With an enormous target to chase amid impending rain, a draw was inevitable as the Select U-17s team reached 39 for 3 off 13 overs when the rain finally stopped play.

Leon Swamy took all 3 wickets for just 16 runs.

In the first innings Berbice had gotten off to a shaky start in their title defence as

from just 36.2 overs.

Only Garfield Benjamin, who top-scored with 32, Jetendra Outar (22) and Nigel Deodat with 21, got starts.

Leg-spinner Ramsammy captured 3-18 from four overs while Charles’ fast bowling reaped figures of 3-29 (6 overs).

In their reply, Select U-17’s Ramsammy remained rock-solid and scored a resilient 58 while Mavendra Dindyial continued his good run of form by notching up yet another half-century (56) from just 67 deliveries laced with 10 boundaries. However, Berbice managed to restrict the U-17s to 218 all out on day two with Kelvin Umroa snaring 5-55 from 24.4 overs.

With a deficit of 91, Berbice took strike in their second innings and were led by opener Algoo (175) while Kevlon Anderson and Seon Glasgow helped their side to their eventual mammoth total.

The second round of the H-I-H Under-19 Inter-County 3-day tournament will continue on Saturday (May 4) at Lusignan with Essequibo battling Berbice while Select U-17 will face Demerara at GCC.

Guyana to host FIFA Conference on Development … GFF partners with THAG, Department of Tourism

By Rawle Toney THE Guyana Football Federation (GFF) yesterday announced that for the first time Guyana will host the FIFA Conference on Development, May 14-15. It will take place in collaboration with the Government of Guyana, through the Department of Tourism and the Tourism Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG).

President of the GFF, Wayne Forde, at a press conference held at the Marriott Hotel, said the conference will see all 25 members and

six non-members of the Caribbean Football Union (CFU) and possibly several Africans, all assembling in Guyana as part of the FIFA Forward Development Programme.

Also present yesterday were Mitra Ramkumar, president of THAG and Department of Tourism Director-General Donald Sinclair, who both spoke profoundly on the importance of the conference as it relates to their sector.

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ALL IN!

From left: Mitra Ramkumar, president of THAG; GFF president Wayne Forde and Department of Tourism Director-General Donald Sinclair.

(Rawle Toney photo)

ODI, Test rankings boost for Estwick says Gabriel’s Windies ahead of World Cup pace key to Windies attack PAGE

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Fast bowler Shannon Gabriel

West Indies have climbed to number eight in the ODI rankings.

DUBLIN, Ireland, (CMC) – Fast bowler Shannon Gabriel’s pace will be key to West Indies’ attack during the upcoming World Cup, says assistant coach Roddy Estwick.

The 31-year-old has played 18 One-Day Internationals and claimed 23 wickets, and is returning to the setup for the first time in nearly 18 months. In the interim, he has emerged as a lethal weapon in Tests, and Estwick is expecting him to bring the same qualities to the

one-day format.

“He’s got pace and that’s going to be very, very important here in England,” said Estwick.

“The pitches [here] and from the scores going forward that we’ve been looking at already in the [County] season, you see scores of 400 twice at Notts (Nottingham) and that’s where our first game is going to be, so we think that pace is going to be very important

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FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2019