Guyana chronicle e paper 03 31 2017

Page 21

Johnny Rockets opens

More oil No. 104869

FRIDAY MARCH 31, 2017

Price: $80

(VAT Inclusive)

Page 3

–– ExxonMobil discovers 82 feet oil reservoirs at Snoek Well

The Stena Carron operating on the Snoek well where it encountered 82 feet (25 metres) of high-quality, oil-bearing sandstone reservoirs

‘Listen to Man confesses to killing wife, the people’ Page 8

…President tells Mayors

dumping body

Page 8 Lilwantie Ballack

Procurement body probes $605M drug purchase Page 16

2

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday March 31, 2017

Man sentenced to death for killing wife

By Jeune Vankerick

FORTY-SIX-year-old Devindra Hansraj, called ‘Dog Man,’ was on Thursday sentenced to death after being found guilty of killing his common- law wife Maharani Udairaj, called ‘Sherry,’ at their home at Grant 1780 Crabwood Creek, Corentyne, on December 18, 2014.

The court marshal made the pronouncement after the jury returned the unanimous verdict of guilty to the charge of murder. The court was asked to stand as the sentence was passed.

The verdict left relatives of the accused shocked, while

family members of the deceased were pleased with the outcome. Earlier, the jury had returned to the court room, stating there was a 7/5 in favour of the prosecution; however, after being advised by Justice James Bovell-Drakes, they returned to the deliberation room and returned with the verdict 40 minutes later.

The convict stood speechless and his eyes were seemingly filled with tears as the marshal was ordered to take him away, while his relatives lingered in the courtroom deciding their way forward.

State Prosecutor Ms Orintha Schmidt, who opened her case on January 4 last, had relied heavily on the

Devindra Hansraj called ‘Dog Man’ circumstantial evidence of Yogeshwari Ragubir called Mala, a neighbour and the caution statement attributed to the accused. In her evidence the witness Ragubir, said, she was watching television in her home about 17:00hrs, when she heard a noise coming from the back room of her neighbour’s house.

She recognised the voice of the accused and that of

his now deceased wife. The accused’s voice was heard daily .They was quarrelling, she told Justice James BovellDrakes and the mixed jury.

Subsequently, the witness went to sit under her house and whilst there she heard ‘Sherry’s’ screams at various levels from a high pitch to very low. Minutes later, the accused, who looked normal, was seen walking out of the yard. He had returned to the yard before walking out again, seconds later with a phone and a yellow envelope in his hands.

In his caution statement, Hansraj said, “Officer, my wife ‘Sherry’ is having a relationship with a man who live two houses away. I asked her to stop and she still continue behind my back. Her sister asked me to allow Sherry to go with her to Georgetown.

She left to go to her sister at about 15:00hrs to sleep at her home, so that they could travel early the next day. ““On December 18, 2014, I telephoned her. She said she was at Balwant Singh Hospital. I asked her to speak to her sister, but was told that she

was vomiting.”

After she returned home, and was questioned about her whereabouts, the woman responded: “Is she business.”

Consequently, the accused claimed he could not take her actions anymore and opted to leave, but was prevented from doing so by the knife-wielding woman.

“She said if I leave she will bore me and kill me. I tell she I leaving and she rushed up to me with the knife to bore me, I held her. I tried to take away the knife. And the knife bore her neck. I told her, see what you do. I tried to stop the bleeding, but it was too much. I became scared and I left her lying on the floor. I threw the knife in the trench.

I did not bore her. The knife was in her hand when I held her hand with the knife,” he concluded.

Meanwhile, Zamaludeen Khan, the owner of the property, recalled returning to the lower flat of the two-storey building, when he observed that his front door was open and on checking inside, noticed that blood was dripping from the upper flat.

Maharani Udairaj called ‘Sherry’ After summoning the police, he went to the upper flat where he saw the body of ‘Sherry’, clad only in her underwear lying face down in a pool of blood. There was a wound to her neck. In his evidence, Government pathologist Dr Vivikanand Brijmohan said the woman died due to a severed artery to the neck, resulting in shock and haemorrhage

Duprey wants to renew relations with Guyana –– says debt owed to Clico Guyana will be alleviated over time

CHAIRMAN of C.L. Financial,Lawrence Duprey said he would like to renew his relationships with Guyana and has offered an apology to Guyanese for the collapse of CLICO Guyana.

He expressed these sentiments during a meeting with Finance Minister Winston Jordan last Thursday, a release from the Finance Ministry said.

Duprey, who was accompanied by several company officials,said CL Financial will try to make amends for the approximately US$40M debt owed mainly to the National Insurance Scheme.

Duprey, the majority shareholder of CL Financial also informed Minister Jordan that his company is interested in investing in several areas here, including providing solar

energy at competitive prices, affordable housing, clay brick and solar for housing as well as introduce a financial model that will generate savings and alleviate poverty.

Minister Jordan,in response,informed Duprey that he will apprise Cabinet of their discussions.

“He also advised Duprey that future engagements could be conducted on parallel

tracks: discussion on recovering moneys owed by CL Financial and investment in Guyana,” the release said.

Both the finance minister and Duprey and his team agreed to a follow-up meeting.

Meanwhile, Bank of Guyana Governor, Dr. Gobind Ganga will be consulted to determine the status of all outstanding matters relevant to CLICO Guyana.

More oil

3

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday March 31, 2017

–– ExxonMobil discovers 82 feet oil reservoirs at Snoek Well

U.S. oil giant ExxonMobil Corporation has announced another major discovery of oil here at its Snoek well offshore Guyana, confirming some 82 feet of high-quality, oil-bearing sandstone reservoirs.

The news comes amid intense preparations by the Guyana Government, who recently appointed a petroleum advisor and a meeting with President David Granger and officials of the oil company.

ExxonMobil in a statement said drilling targeted similar, aged reservoirs as encountered in previous discoveries at Liza and Payara.

“The latest discovery at Snoek demonstrates the continued success we have achieved in this technically complex play, which is just part of the significant exploration province offshore Guyana,” said Steve Greenlee, president of ExxonMobil Exploration Company, in a statement.

According to the statement, ExxonMobil affiliate Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Ltd commenced drilling of the Snoek well on February 22, 2017 and encountered 82 feet (25 metres) of high-quality, oil-bearing sandstone reservoirs. The well was safely drilled to 16,978 feet (5,175 metres) in 5,128 feet (1,563 metres) of water on March 18. The Snoek well is located in the southern portion of the Stabroek Block, approximately five miles (9 km) to the south-east of the 2015 Liza-1 discovery.

Following completion of

the Snoek well, the Stena Carron drillship has moved back to the Liza area to drill the Liza-4 well.

“As we continue to evaluate the full potential of the broader Stabroek Block, we are also taking the necessary steps to ensure the safe, cost-efficient and responsible development of this worldclass resource, which can provide long-term, sustainable benefits to the people of Guyana,” said Greenlee.

The Stabroek Block is 6.6 million acres (26,800 square kilometres). Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited is operator and holds 45 percent interest in the Stabroek Block. Hess Guyana Exploration Ltd holds 30 percent interest and CNOOC Nexen Petroleum Guyana Limited holds 25 percent interest.

Meanwhile, in a statement Government said it welcomes the announcement made by ExxonMobil about the recent discovery of oil-bearing sands in the offshore Stabroek Block at the Snoek well. “The government is satisfied with the steady and safe progress being made in the execution of the exploratory work programme and congratulates the captain and crew of the Stena Carron for the continued good results of their endeavours. The news of another find offshore Guyana is a source of great pride and pleasure for all Guyanese,” the statement read.

“The Government of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, through the Ministry of Natural Resources,

will continue to work with ExxonMobil and its partners in the exploration and development of resources in the Stabroek Block of the Guyana Basin, even as it continues to engage and update the citizens and important stakeholders about the preparations for petroleum production and other related activities.”

VISIT TO SNOEK WELL Only last week Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo, boarded the giant oil rig, Stena Carron, which was conducting the exploratory drilling operations on the Snoek well. The prime minister was accompanied

by Vice-President, Sydney Allicock; Minister within the Ministry of Natural Resources, Simona Broomes, and Joanna Homer, Legal Officer.

According to a release from the Prime Minister’s Office, the 11-compartment, Norway-owned drill ship has done advanced feasibility drills at the billion-barrel Liza wells, which is some 10 miles from the Snoek well, the latest in the string of oil finds in Guyana.

The Guyanese delegation met Rig Manager Kenny Ward, Operations Manager Allan Mathieson and Drilling Superintendent Billy Jack Lawson. They explained various aspects of the new oil find and revealed that pipes have already been laid to connect with the oil well at the site.

Various specimen and qual-

President Granger sits with Minister of Natural Resources, Mr Raphael Trotman; Presidential Advisor on Petroleum, Dr Jan Mangal and another Government official during the meeting ity tests are also under way.

They also displayed the rig’s computerised system to monitor oil extraction and safety issues.

Also on the tour were Doug McGehee and Kimberly Brassington, Operations Manager and Director of Government Affairs of Esso Exploration & Production Guyana Limited, the local incorporated company of ExxonMobil.

ExxonMobil has announced massive finds of high-quality, oil-bearing sandstone in Liza 1, 2 and 3 and the nearby Payara reservoirs that made Guyana the latest petroleum frontier. ExxonMobil has given a preliminary schedule of oil production in 2020.

TRANSPARENCY President Granger during

Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo; Minister of Indigenous People’s Affairs, Sydney Allicock and Minister within the Ministry of Natural Resources, Simona Broomes, along with officials of ExxonMobil on the oil rig

a meeting with ExxonMobil’s Executives on Wednesday, assured of Government’s commitment to the development of Guyana’s oil and gas sector in an atmosphere of transparency and trust so that the Parliamentary Opposition and the people of Guyana are fully involved in the process and views the development of a petroleum industry as one of natural interest and involvement.

The President said that it is important that there are regular and accurate announcements on matters pertaining to the development of the sector. “We are committed to the norm of transparency… so that we can move forward at a domestic level, not only in an atmosphere of transparency, but trust, so that all Guyana would see this not as a short-term bonanza; so that Guyanese will see this as a national industry….In this regard, we are walking step by step as the developments

take place offshore and the developments in terms of our legislations within our regulatory framework in terms of the passage of information to various stakeholders in Guyana and the diaspora,so that we can create an environment which is stable and secure,” the President said.

President of ExxonMobil, Stephen Greenlee,said that the discussions with President Granger were very fruitful and that they look forward to a strengthened,productive and transparent relationship.

“It was a very positive meeting. We are all very happy that we have such a cordial relationship with the Government; a very productive and transparent relationship,” he said.

Other executives present at the meeting were Mr Mike Cousins, Executive Affairs Manager and Mr Rod Henson, Project Executive (Guyana Country Manager effective May 1)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, March 31, 2017

Venezuela court takes over Congress, rivals cry foul

Opposition leaders branded Venezuela’s socialist President Nicolas Maduro a “dictator” on Thursday after the Supreme Court took over the functions of Congress and pushed a lengthy political standoff to new heights.

There was swift international condemnation of the de facto annulment of the National Assembly, where the opposition won a majority in late 2015 amid an unprecedented economic crisis that has seen Maduro’s popularity plummet. The head of the 34-nation Organization of International States (OAS), Luis Almagro, said the Venezuelan court had dealt the final blows to democracy in the country and accused Maduro’s “regime” of carrying out a “coup.”

Brazil, Argentina, Mexico, Colombia and Chile expressed strong concerns while Peru withdrew its envoy after what it termed a rupture of democracy in the OPEC nation of 30 million people. Venezuela’s top court had already overturned most National Assembly decisions since the opposition win.

Then late on Wednesday, it explicitly stated it was assuming Congress’ role in a ruling authorizing Maduro to create oil joint ventures without the previously mandated congressional approval.

“As long as the situation of contempt in the National Assembly continues, this constitutional chamber guarantees congressional functions will be exercised by this chamber or another chosen organ,” the court said in its ruling. The contempt charge stems from vote-buying accusations against three lawmakers from southern Amazonas state. Even though these legislators no longer sit, the court said parliamentary leaders had not handled their case legally.

Critics of Maduro say it is all an excuse for him to consolidate power and muzzle the opposition amid a severe recession, soaring inflation and acute shortages of food and medicine. Maduro, a 54-year-old former bus driver and foreign minister, was narrowly elected in 2013 to replace late leftist President Hugo Chavez. He has accused Washington of leading

a push to topple him as part of a wider offensive against leftist governments.

Stung by the rebukes around Latin America, Maduro’s government condemned what it described as a “rightwing regional pact” against it on Thursday. “We reject the Peruvian government’s rude support for the violent and extremist sectors in Venezuela,” Foreign Minister Delcy Rodriguez said in a series of tweets. Leaders of Venezuela’s Democratic Unity opposition coalition renewed their demand for early presidential elections and accused Maduro of duplicating Peruvian leader Alberto Fujimori’s notorious 1992 closure of Congress.

“Nicolas Maduro has carried out a ‘coup d’etat’ ... this is a dictatorship,” said

National Assembly President Julio Borges, before tearing up a copy of the Supreme Court ruling at a news conference in the gardens of the legislature. “This is trash from people who have kidnapped the constitution, rights and freedom of Venezuelans ...

The National Assembly does not recognize the Supreme Court.”

President Donald Trump declared war on members of his own party on Thursday by threatening the political careers of conservative Republicans who helped torpe-

do healthcare legislation he backed, but was quickly told the lawmakers will not bow to “bullying.”

In a Twitter post, Trump took aim at the Freedom Cau-

PROTESTS The opposition promised new street protests starting from Saturday - but that tactic has failed in the past despite marches that have drawn hundreds of thousands of protesters. Last year, the opposition pushed for a referendum to recall Maduro and force a new presidential election, but authorities thwarted them and also postponed local electoral

races that were supposed to have been held in 2016.

Maduro’s term in office ends in January 2019.

Around a dozen opposition lawmakers trying to march to the Supreme Court on Thursday clashed with National Guard soldiers and pro-government supporters lined up to stop them. “If the international community stays firm, demanding elections, we are sure the government will have to turn back,” another opposition leader Henrique Capriles said.

“We insist on a democratic solution.” Spooked by the opposition’s warning that investment deals bypassing Congress would not be valid, foreign oil companies were closely following the political showdown. As Venezuela tries to raise funds for bond

payments and a reeling economy, it has sought to sell stakes in oil fields. State oil company PDVSA recently offered Russia’s Rosneft a stake in the Petropiar oil joint venture, sources with knowledge of the proposal told Reuters.

“We want to make perfectly clear to all the oil companies that any strategic alliance (that did not go through Congress) is null,” Borges said on Thursday.

While some investors could see the Supreme Court sentence as giving them the green light to invest, others are increasingly worried about Venezuela’s murky legal framework. “There is reasonable doubt about the legality of all this,” said a source at a foreign oil company. (Reuters)

cus, a bloc of the most conservative Republicans in the U.S. House of Representatives, indicating he would try to defeat them in next year’s congressional elections if they continued to defy him. “The Freedom Caucus will hurt the entire Republican agenda if they don’t get on the team, & fast. We must fight them, & Dems, in 2018!” Trump said on Twitter.

Because Trump faces unified opposition by Democratic lawmakers, he cannot afford to lose many Republicans as he tries to get his legislative agenda through Congress, including healthcare, tax cuts and infrastructure spending. But keeping Freedom Caucus members happy without losing the votes of Republican moderates has proven tough.

Representative Justin Amash, a Freedom Caucus member from Michigan, shot back immediately at Trump in remarks outside the U.S. Capitol. “Most people don’t take well to being bullied,” Amash told reporters. Asked if Trump’s comments were constructive, Amash added: “It’s constructive in fifth grade.

It may allow a child to get his

way, but that’s not how our government works.”

Since launching his presidential bid in 2015, Trump has shown little reluctance to assail fellow Republican political adversaries as well as Democrats, often in scathing terms. Trump, a real estate magnate who touted his skills as a dealmaker in his White House campaign, previously accused Freedom Caucus lawmakers of snatching “defeat from the jaws of victory” with their opposition to Republican healthcare legislation he supported to replace Democratic former President Barack Obama’s 2010 Affordable Care Act. Trump went farther on Thursday. He equated members of his own party with the opposition Democrats, reflecting the extent to which he felt betrayed by the conservative lawmakers after the collapse of his first major legislative initiative.

Republican House Speaker Paul Ryan told reporters, “I understand the president’s frustration,” adding that he shared the frustration. Ryan said he was encouraging Republican lawmakers “to keep talking to one another.” (Excerpted from Reuters)

Trump declares war on Republican conservatives

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, March 31, 2017

Extradition order signed for eight Jamaicans accused of lottery scamming

An extradition order has been signed by Justice Minister Delroy Chuck, clearing the way for eight men who are wanted in the United States for lottery scamming.

Chuck signed the surrender warrants on Wednesday three weeks after a local court ordered their extradition.

According to Chuck, the papers will be served on the Tower Street Correctional Centre where

the men are being held, following which they can be released to the US authorities. The men facing extradition are Jason Jahala, the ex-policeman, his co-accused Alrick McLeod, Dahlia Hunter, O’Neil Brown, Xanu Ann Morgan, Dario Palmer, Karae Gray and Kimberly Hudson.

They have each been indicted on one count of conspiracy and attempting to commit wire

fraud, 48 counts of wire fraud, 15 counts of mail fraud, and one count of money laundering in the state of North Dakota in the United States. They are alleged to be part of a criminal organisation headed by Lavrick Willocks, which manifested in 2009 in Jamaica and elsewhere.

The authorities al lege the sophisticated schemes masterminded

by Willocks swindled more than 70 mostly

elderly Americans out of more than US$5.6 million. He was initially charged in October 2012, but he evaded police until being arrested in a hotel here in November of last year.

The police say they found more than US$10,000 in cash in

his room, along with electronics and jewellery. Willocks, who was extradited to the US in January, has pleaded not guilty to charges of conspiracy, wire fraud, mail fraud and money laundering in US District Court in North Dakota.

Meanwhile, the

lawyer appointed by the court to represent Willocks has withdrawn from the case.

The attorney, John Goff, filed a motion earlier this week saying that he can no longer communicate effectively with his client.

(CMC)

PM Mitchell calls for clarity on US policy 63 candidates nominated ahead towards the Caribbean of May 24 general election

Ahead of the May 24 general election, 63 candidates were nominated on Wednesday for the 19 electoral districts across this British Overseas territory. At the close of Nomination Day activities, Supervisor of Elections Wesley Howell said nominations went smoothly at all venues.

“I am pleased with the efficient operations during the whole nominations process today and I thank the Elections Office staff for their diligent prepara-

tion and hard work so far,” Howell said at a press conference late Wednesday.

He added that 38 Election Office staff members registered the nominations on Grand Cayman,Cayman Brac and Little Cayman.

This is the first time that electors will be voting in single-member electoral districts, with each voter having only one vote. Of the 63 candidates nominated, the majority – 36 candidates, were nominated as independents. The ruling

Peop le’s Progres sive Movement nominated sixteen candidates; while the opposition Cayman Democratic Party nominated eleven candidates.

The next major task for the Electoral Office is preparing the mobile and postal ballots. According to Howell, voters were already applying for postal voting and the office would be printing ballots as soon as the qualification of candidates was cleared. (CMC)

Grenada’s Prime Minister, Dr. Keith Mitchell has called for clarity regarding the policy of the United States towards the Caribbean.

Mitchell issued the call on Thursday as he participated in a World Bank conference – “The Caribbean Dilemma”, examining the socio economic situation in the Caribbean. “The reality is that we need to be very clear on the fundamental US policy at this time,” said Mitchell during a panel discussion.

The Grenadian Prime Minister also said engagement on a regional level with the Donald Trump administration “is crucial”.

“With no discussion on issues such as deportation,

we won’t’ have the level of security in the region that is needed. We need our big brother in the north to come to terms with us. I am praying that we will see this.”

Mitchell said the region is taking the initiative to have engagement with the United States. “But I must admit that the steps we are seeing so far are not looking good.” Meanwhile, Prime Minister Allen Chastanet of St. Lucia, who is also attending the conference, said there are mutual benefits towards working closely with the United States. “None of us are begging, I want to make that very clear. The only region in the world that the US has a trade surplus with – is the Caribbean and that’s

not going to change. It’s to their mutual benefit. Look at these little dots (in the Caribbean)….. physically, we are actually bigger than Mexico – there is a mutual benefit to all of us to be able to work together and to get them (the US) to work on some policies,” he said.

The conference titled “The Caribbean Dilemma” is part of the Americas Conference schedule hosted by the World Bank in collaboration with the Miami Herald. The conference aims to highlight the common challenges being faced by small economies and seeks to identify shared solutions to generate sustainable growth in the region. (CMC)

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Editorial

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, March 31, 2017

The organic industry THE organic industry is worth U.S. multi-million dollars and is growing as customer demand increases. The World of Organic Agriculture Statistics and Emerging Trends 2016 Report, notes that retail sales for food and drinks reached US$80 billion in 2014.

North America and Europe, which comprise a third of the world’s organic farmland, are responsible for over 90 percent of the sales. What is instructive in this report is the potential for such an industry in Guyana, given our vast landmass (83,000 square miles).

Guyana is not only within the reach of North America, but also benefits from the European Union/ CARIFORUM Trade Agreement. This agreement allows us preferential access and treatment to enter what is evidently a booming market. Where this country has high unemployment, pervasive poverty, human capital flight and the retired looking for economic opportunities, with visionary focus, leadership, and implementation, the sky is the limit for country and citizens.

The demand for organic vegetables, milk, meat, eggs, fruits, peas, beans and rice, to name some, is growing.

There is also focus on increasing organic cotton production, given its benefits in areas such as breathability, and durability. In 2014, certified organic cotton was produced by 19 countries, but 97 percent of that product came from only five countries, among which Guyana was not named, though she has the potential to be. The report also shows that between 2004/2005 and 2009/2010, cotton production increased nine-fold as interest accelerated for more sustainable textile production.

Digging deeper into the report,one finds that Guyana has no pride of place in land dedicated to organic farming.

Grenada, Haiti, Barbados and Jamaica, fellow CARICOM

member-states, of smaller landmass are represented as countries engaged in structured organic farming. It would be recalled that Kimbia, in the Berbice River, during the Guyana National Service (GNS) period produced cotton, legumes, peas and beans, and reared poultry and livestock.

The foundation may still be there, but definitively within our midst lies the institutional memory, the most noted being retired Major-Generals Norman McLean and Joe Singh.

Organic farming is not a passion or pastime, but an important element in addressing health and longevity. It is about working towards the reduction, and if possible, elimination, of preventable diseases and medical bills. This industry can open the way for massive production of goods and services, and creating new avenues for employment and economic opportunities.

Organic foods are being pursued through methods of using renewable resources that are free of chemicals and that are not toxic. To meet the needs of producing such foods requires a re-education programme which targets the separation of garbage, where items such as ground provisions, fruits and vegetables peelings/waste are gathered to be used in the production of compost.

Compost can be used in fertilising the farms; replacing imported chemical fertilisers and saving the country scarce foreign exchange, as it creates local economic opportunity.

There is also the element of trapping liquid waste from the sewage which, if effectively applied, can produce liquid fertiliser and compost that can be used in major farms, here again minimising importation.

Pursuing and advancing the industry has to be seen as an element in the Government’s national thrust in creating a green economy, since the fertilisers primarily used on our farms are chemicals. These chemicals adversely impact the

ecosystem and people’s health. Countries that are engaged in organic farming have seen the State providing direct and indirect investments to support the shift. An instance is the state of Goa in India, where the government has given financial and technical assistance and identified the lands.

Indirect investment from the state can also be in playing a leading role in public awareness and training.

With the required economic and cultural shift, citizens cannot only produce organic products for their own consumption, but be capable of selling the surplus in the international market. Thus, it is encouraging news that in the 2017 National Budget, G$20.6B has been earmarked for the agriculture sector. Finance Minister Winston Jordan said the Government proposes to diversify the sector and open up the Intermediate and Rupununi Savannahs. Resources are to be set aside for research and services in the hinterland regions in the production of crops, accommodation and laboratory facilities, including research, to support food security in the Region. If would be in Guyana’s economic interest should some attention be given to this new and growing industry. Evidence of its potential and the availability of the main resources, human and land, to make it possible are unquestioned.

PM Nagamootoo stood tall Dear Editor, I READ with disgust the attack on Prime Minister The Hon Moses V Nagamootoo in a letter by one “Lisa Ally” appearing in KN (29/3/17).

I listened to the prime minister’s speech with rapt attention and felt proud that he stood tall before an international audience and delivered extemporaneously, a brilliant exposition on the issue of oil and gas,

and exhibited such great knowledge about the issue.

Prime Minister Nagamootoo addressed the matter of “resource curse” that has affected many oil- producing states and assured that the Granger-led Government would support legal and institutional mechanisms to ensure that our oil and gas industry will not be contaminated by corrupt practices.

He referred to the ongoing efforts to start a

process of constitutional reform to avoid authoritarian rule, and to strengthen the integrity law to help combat sleaze and corruption among public officials. It should be noted that the context within which the prime minister was speaking, was that of “pervasive corruption” under the previous Jagdeo-led government and the abuse of constitutional requirements for the spending of public funds.

There was nothing

“misleading” about what the prime minister said.

The writer referred to the D’ Urban Park Stadium and claimed that money went into “private pockets.” I recall that the opposition had raised this matter in the National Assembly, and full disclosures were made. This project, now a symbol of national pride, is unlike the secret, shady deals made by the Jagdeo regime.

As regards the Sussex Street bond project, full

disclosures were also made in the Parliament and it led to a minister being removed from the health sector. It would be admitted that the project had left much to be answered, but in the end, it was not covered up.

I know that the prime minister is more than able to defend himself as he had been the target of all types of mischievous attacks and character assassination. But this I know: this man’s

hands are clean as he has repeatedly stated and remains for me a model of what an honest politician/statesman should be. I cannot say the same about many who had paraded as leaders in the past, but are now the subject of criminal investigations for misappropriation of state assets and are busy trying to hide under “immunity.”

Regards Earl Hamilton

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, March 31, 2017

Region Two REO must be commended for sound leadership Dear Editor

Region Two is gradually being transformed with the continuing structural developments that are evident, especially during the past year. While there remain serious challenges, some of which are endemic, Mr Rupert Hopkinson, the Region’s Regional Executive Officer (REO) has admirably exhibited his managerial skills in defusing tensions, building partnerships among various stakeholders and creating an atmosphere of inclusivity among his workforce and the public.

He has managed to gradually enhance the physical landscape in many villages and especially in the township of Anna Regina. This has resulted in promoting cleanliness, beautification of historical and institutional sites and even promoting the region as a tourist destination, given the creation of attractive parks.

He has also placed significant emphasis on infrastructural development, especially in the critical areas of agriculture, health and education. Several sluices that provide irrigation to farmers are either being built or re-

habilitated, hence rice yields are preserved from being damaged. Facilitating dams are also being maintained, so that access to the fields is less burdensome. While rice farmers continue to be agitated by the fluctuating price of paddy, their yields continue to increase because of the administration’s resolute activism in combating flooding, managing the conservancies and providing technical services on a regular basis. In this regard, more rangers and overseers have been deployed to the lands and they are now responsible for timely interventions and effective reporting, which rarely existed in the past. Contractors are now closely monitored for the proper cleaning of canals and trenches. They are paid only when the task is satisfactorily done and done in keeping with the specification of the contract. Previously, there were instances whereby contractors were paid even before signing the contract, while in other cases the work was poorly done.

The REO has clearly demonstrated his intention towards prudently accounting for taxpayers’ money and has demanded transparency in every conceivable project that has been undertaken by

the administration. There have also been improvements in the physical structures of both the Suddie and Charity Hospitals, as well as the delivery of key health services. Additionally, more trained doctors are available, including at various health posts and in the rural areas.

Other health posts are also being built in new housing schemes and which can provide similar services as the main hospitals. Given the instant demand for health services and the importance of maintaining a healthy society, an administrator was recently placed at the Charity hospital to manage the institution, which is a timely intervention by the REO. The Charity hospital not only provides health care to the coastland, but to the Pomeroon districts as well, hence the importance of it being properly managed. I have also been impressed with the cordial and intimate relationship between the Department of Education and the administration, which is quite a positive development. Both the Regional Education Officer and the REO have been tirelessly cultivating an environment to accelerate learning among all schools with the timely

Instead of taxing, we should be thankful for private education in Guyana Dear Editor ONE cannot help being moved by Swami Aksharananda’s incisive letter in the media (SN, 29/3/17) in which he exposed the apparent contradiction between President Granger’s praise for the education provided by private schools and the harsh taxation policy being pursued by the Minister of Finance, “as he sought to justify the 14% tax on students” while pronouncing on “the sins of private schools.”

I am at a loss to fathom such denigration; how can Guyanese reconcile this with the fact that were it not for the valiant efforts made by the numerous ‘pioneers of private secondary education’ in colonial British Guiana, the army of professionals who laid the foundation for an independent, functional Guyana would not have

been around; (think of, for example, R E Cheeks, J C Luck, R Ishmael in Georgetown or J C Chandisingh, Rudra Nath, A A Ramlochand in Berbice); and while we are in this context, I cannot help thinking, with all humility, of my own involvement as the first Principal of Hindu College initiated by another Swami, viz Swami Purnanda Ji ). Of course, none of this would have been possible if the parents, many of whom were virtually destitute, were not themselves convinced that education was the most powerful vehicle in their journey to socio-economic and personal development.

Today’s parents are no different from long ago; they also have to gird their loins, make many sacrifices and difficult choices in favour of private education, because they are disillusioned with the offerings of free public

education; they have learnt not to ‘look a gift horse in the mouth’ and are prepared to go the extra mile in pursuit of the best available education for their children. This is not to knock our public school system or teachers; but the realities are obvious to the parents who, realising that there is no second chance for their children, are prepared to ‘go the extra mile.’ It is therefore most disheartening for them to now have to tighten their belts and go even further by having to pay an education tax.

I support the call from our revered Swami Aksharananda Ji for an immediate reconciliation between the apparently divergent approaches taken by our President and Minister of Finance.

Regards Nowrang Persaud

delivery of learning materials and other resources which are motivating the teachers and gaining results. In fact, head-teachers are now responsible for managing their own imprest accounts on behalf of the school, which is another innovative concept of the REO. Previously, the administration was responsible for purchasing all stocks for schools which in many cases were not delivered in a timely fashion and it would have affected the schools. The mantle is now on the head-teachers to deliver without hindrance. I have also seen the construction of the Aurora Primary School, which is one of the best structurally designed schools in the country. Additionally, the REO has engineered the restoration of the Regional State House which was previously unfit to host Government officials or conferences and was in a state of disrepair. The building has been completely transformed, including the surrounding environment and which was done at no additional cost to the State. This indeed

is a major achievement of Mr Hopkinson’s prudent management of the administration’s limited financial resources and his stewardship towards recognising and placing significance in the value of institutional instruments. He has even modernised the administrative offices and improved the conditions under which the staff operate.

It is therefore no coincidence that the many initiatives that have been undertaken by the REO have been providing desirable results and that his continuing efforts to administer good leadership are being recognised. It is to the REO’S credit too that significant progress has been derived from the administration’s constant engagement with multi-stakeholders in every aspect of the region’s development, which is a key component of promoting democracy and due process in finding solutions. He has certainly demonstrated good judgement, having made accessible abandoned buildings

which were rehabilitated and are now being used by non-governmental organisations such as the women of substance group and the Guyana Veteran Legion Essequibo Chapter. These organisations in turn are providing social services as well as economic and educational opportunities in the villages in which they are stationed. Assistance has also been given to staff members, churches and other civic establishments who may require used materials, transportation or other facilities in a time of need. There is also the move to encourage the equitable distribution of contracts, especially to small contractors, many of whom are now empowered to provide competent services. His passion is unwavering and therefore Region Two is poised to become a progressive, dynamic and transformational coastland under his leadership.

Regards Elroy Stephney

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‘Listen to the people’

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday March 31, 2017

… President tells Mayors

By Svetlana Marshall

ASSURING that Local Government Elections will be held in 2018, President David Granger on Thursday called on local government organs to be inclusive and effective in the execution of their mandates while representing the masses.

The Head of State made the call seconds after swearing in the newly elected and re-elected mayors and deputy mayors at State House in the presence of Minister of Communities, Ronald Bulkan; Ministers within the Ministry of Communities, Valerie Adams-Patterson and Dawn Hastings-Williams; and Permanent Secretary of that Ministry Emil McGarrell.

He said town councils

Democratic Councils are at the regional level. The mayor and Town Councils and the Neighbour Democratic Councils form part of the local level.

All organs, President Granger emphasised, must work in harmony for the good of the nation.

“All three levels must work together if we are to deliver the quality of life that our citizens desire and our citizens deserved,” he said, noting that leaders whether at the local, regional and/ or national levels should not refuse to cooperate because of their political affiliation or geographical location.

“All three levels must work together for the common good,” he emphasised.

Additionally, in the

RESTORED When the historic Local Government Elections were held for the first time in more than two decades on March 18, 2016, the representative characteristic of Town and Neighbourhood Democratic Councils were restored, he said.

In addition to Georgetown, New Amsterdam, Corriverton, Linden, Rose Hall and Anna Regina, the Local Government Elections brought into effect three new towns: Mabaruma, Bartica and Lethem.

It is the Government’s intention to have a capital town in every region providing critical services in the areas of health, public service, education, security, business, sports and communication,

Mayor of Georgetown Patricia Chase-Green taking the oath of office before President David Granger He noted too that Councils should execute their duties in a democratic manner, and as such, the views of all council-

that the Constitution mandates that Local Authorities become inclusive in the management of their communities.

“The Constitution states Local Government is a vital aspect of democracy and shall be organised so as to involve as many people as possible in task of managing and developing communities in which they live,” he said.

“I urge you therefore to ensure that all of the citizens in your towns and in your wards and in your constituencies are aware of the decisions that you are taking which in the final analysis affects them.”

President Granger flanked by the mayors and deputy mayors of the nine municipalities. Seated in front from left to right are: Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Communities, Emil McGarrell; Minister of Communities, Ronald Bulkan; President David Granger; Minister Valerie Adams-Patterson and Minister Dawn Hastings-Williams

BE EFFECTIVE A council’s effectiveness will determine its future when Local Government Elections are held again in 2018. As a result, he said it is important for municipalities to be effective in the execution of their duties.

Patricia Chase-Green, the Mayor of Georgetown; the

are an important part of the tripartite system of Government, explaining that the Government is at the helm of the system representing the nation as a whole, while the Regional

eyes of the President, Local Government organs should embody three basic characteristics: representative, inclusive and effective.

among others.

“People from outlying areas must be able to look at the capital town as the centre of all of these services,” the President posited.

ors must be considered during the decision- making process.

“Inclusiveness is a key concept and requirement of Local Government,” President Granger added, pointing out

Mayor of New Amsterdam, Kirt Wynter; the Mayor of Corriverton, Krishnand Jaichand; the Mayor of Linden, Carwyn Holland; the Mayor of Rose Hall, Vijay Kumar Ramu; Mayor of Anna Regina, Rabindranauth Mohan; the Mayor of Bartica, Gifford Marshall; Mayor of Lethem, Carlton Peter Beckles; and the Mayor of Mabaruma, Henry Smith were the nine mayors who were sworn in.

The deputy mayors who took the oath, many of them for a second time, were Lionel Jaikarran (Georgetown), Winifred Yearwood (New Amsterdam), Jamna Ghamandi (Corriverton), Waneka Odetta Arrindell (Linden), Dave Budhoo (Rose Hall), Darshan Persaud (Anna Regina), Kamal Persaud (Bartica), and Maxine Welch of Lethem.

Internal elections for local organs are held on an annual basis in keeping with Section 28 (2) of the Local Government Act Chapter 28:02 and Chapter 28:01 of the Municipal and District Council Act.

Man confesses to killing wife, dumping body

By Nafeeza Yahya THE Black Bush community is in a state of shock as investigators are combing the area looking for the remains of a 43-year-old woman whose husband has reportedly confessed to killing her over seven months ago.

The woman, Lilwantie Ballack, of Lot 17 Mibicuri North, Black Bush Polder, was last heard from in August 2016, a few days before her 43rd birthday on September 3rd. According to her daughter Darshanie Devi Ballack 20, her father visited her on the 6th September 2016 at her

Sunildatt Ballack Friendship Village, Corentyne home and told her that Lilawantie won’t be able to

attend their wedding reception on the 11th September since she is leaving for the United States the next day.

“Daddy come on the 6th and say mommy send the ring for the reception but she nah gun make it because she gah fly out the next day.”

She continued that while she thought it was strange that her mother was leaving without seeing her before the reception, she did not think anything of it. However, after a few weeks of not hearing from her, they began enquiring from relatives overseas if she had visited them since this was her second trip. “After a couple weeks pass and

Lilwantie Ballack she nah call, me call me mamoo (Uncle) who she bin stay by the last time to see if she

deh there, but he say he na see she and he start fuh look fuh she but he tell we nobody nah see or hear from she.”

Devi related that relatives started to get worried and whenever they contacted other relatives they gave different accounts from what her father had said. She further related that two months after her mother allegedly went missing her father took a 22-year-old woman as his common law wife.

It was not until Wednesday the 29th March after visiting the office of the prime minister in Region Six that an official report to the police was made

after being advised by the prime minister’s representative, Gobin Harbajan.

Police acted swiftly and arrested the father 45-yearold Sunildatt Ballack the said day.

According to police, at first he denied having any knowledge about the woman’s whereabouts, but after being repeatedly interrogated, he reportedly confessed on Thursday to killing his wife and disposing of the body somewhere in Black Bush Polder. Up to press time ranks were in the Black Bush Polder area searching for the woman’s remains.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday March 31, 2017

Carmen Jarvis passes away … President, PM hail contributions to Guyana

DESCRIBING her as a stalwart who made outstanding contributions to Guyana’s Education System even before independence, President David Granger said Ms Carmen Jarvis, an iconic Guyanese, will surely be missed.

The former Secretary-General of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) passed away Wednesday evening in the United States (U.S.) at the age of 91.

to the relatives of Ms Jarvis, especially her two daughters, Jennifer and Alison, President Granger recalled that it was only last October that the renowned educator launched her autobiography in the form of a book, “From Seedtime to Harvest.”

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo said Mrs Jarvis has left a matchless legacy as a cultural ambassador, an educator and female exemplar. “I feel honoured to have known her and worked with her whilst she served as Guyana’s Sec-

President David Granger receiving a copy of Ms Carmen Jarvis’s autobiography: ‘From Seedtime to Harvest,’ during the launch last year. (File Photo) “She was our country’s representative to UNESCO and in this regard, she was able to give Guyana great prominence in the world, particularly for heritage sites,” President Granger told reporters at State House on Thursday.

In expressing condolences

retary- General to UNESCO. She championed our cause for assistance in culture and education. It is a double loss that her successor, Mrs Inge Nathoo, also passed recently,” Mr Nagamootoo has said.

He noted that over the years, his acquaintance with Ms Jarvis “became, for me,

Carmen Jarvis a mother-like figure, a grand lady who was full of charm, who always had a gracious smile and who led an extraordinary life. I am sincerely thankful for her contributions to Guyanese society.

My deepest sympathies to her children and other relatives.”

In her years of teaching, Ms Jarvis was employed at Queen’s College before being appointed Headmistress of The Bishop’s High School, where she served for 27 years.

In 1979, she was offered the post of Secretary-General of the Guyana National Commission of UNESCO, which she accepted. During her tenure there, she attended and participated in every General Conference between 1980 and 2003 and had made meaningful interventions in every commission, even in cases where she was the sole delegate from Guyana. She was one of the longest-serving and also one of the most respected individuals to hold the post of Secretary-General and was awarded the Aristotle Medal by

UNESCO. Ms Jarvis was also responsible for Guyana being elected on the Executive Board of UNESCO twice, from 1983 to 1987 and from 1993 to 1997.

She played an integral role in Guyana once being elected to the Man and the Biosphere International Council and several times to the Council of the International Programme for the Development of Communication (IPDC).

In 1983, she was appointed the first woman Chairman of the National Library Committee. She also served on the Council of the University of Guyana for some 14 years.

In 1981, she was awarded the Golden Arrow of Achievement for long and outstanding service in Education and Social Work.

In 1998, Ms Jarvis was awarded a second national award, this time, the Cacique Crown of Honour for her outstanding service in Education and Social Work.

Pharmacy for Albouystown Clinic

By Telesha Ramnarine THE new Albouystown Clinic is being repaired to include a pharmacy and a chronic illness clinic, among other services.

The City Council had made a decision in the past that should the clinic fail to be reopened by March 31, someone from the Engineer’s Department would be held culpable and will be disciplined.

City Engineer Colvern Venture,at the Council’s most recent statutory meeting, asked for a week’s extension to finish the original works that were budgeted for, citing issues with the procurement

of materials.

Constituency 10 Councillor Malcolm Ferreira,however,moved a motion to give the Engineer’s Department two more weeks to have the project completed failing which, disciplinary action will be taken.

Majority of the councillors voted in favour of the motion. The clinic, to be operated from Monday to Friday, is therefore expected to be back in operation by April 14.

Chief Health Visitor for the Georgetown Municipality Welfare Centres,Berris Springer,said the chronic illness clinic will cater for hypertensive and diabetic patients,as well as others who

would normally go to the Georgetown Hospital’s outpatient department.

Other new services include daily dressing, voluntary testing and counselling for HIV and VIA,which screens for precancerous cells.

“We will also have a pharmacy there so that people can access their medication right there for free.”

According to Springer, previously there were two washrooms at the facility to cater for staff and the public, but another will now be added for men’s use only.

Mayor Patricia ChaseGreen described the new facility as one that will work as a ‘one stop shop’, thus

reducing the need for residents to go to the Georgetown Hospital.

Town Clerk Royston King informed councillors that the Ministry of Public Health is assisting with the additional works and services.

Finance Committee Chairman Oscar Clarke said the project was already budgeted for and if the Ministry wants additional facilities installed, the Ministry will have to bear the cost.

The Albouystown Clinic is one of the largest in the City and serves not only Albouystown, but Charlestown, Riverview, Alexander Village, Independence Boulevard and Middle Road, and La Penitence.

President confident AG, judge issue will be resolved PRESIDENT David Granger has said that he is confident that the issue between the Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister, Basil Williams and High Court Judge, Justice Franklin Holder, will be resolved.

“I am very confident that the matter will be resolved,” President Granger told reporters at State House on Thursday.

The Head of State said he has asked for an explanation, and the Attorney General has since responded. In due time, the President said he will respond to Minister Williams and the Chancellor of the Judiciary (ag), Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards.

He told reporters that it is important to hear both sides before jumping to conclusions. “I want to hear both sides. We heard one side in the media [and] I have asked the Attorney General for his side,” President Granger said.

On Wednesday, the Attorney General laid the blame at the feet of Attorney-at-Law Anil Nandlall, while assuring that he and the judge will resolve the matter.

In a letter to the Acting Chancellor of the Judiciary on March 24, 2017, Justice Holder called for a genuine and meaningful apology to be made by Williams in open court. The issue had come to the fore when Nandlall claimed that Williams threatened to kill Justice Holder, causing the judge to walk off the bench – an allegation which has since been denied by the Attorney General.

In the letter, Justice Holder explained that he left the bench because of an alleged statement made by Williams. The Attorney General reportedly said, “I could say what I want to say and however I want to say it, I have always been like that.” The judge said he found the statement to be egregious.

“Immediately after hearing these words, I rose from the bench and went into my chambers. I did not adjourn the matter, nor did I give any instructions to the parties,” Justice Holder mentioned in his letter of complaint. Justice Holder said he felt disrespected.

In a statement issued Wednesday by the Attorney General’s Chambers, Minister Williams thanked Justice Holder for exposing what he described as the iniquity of Nandlall, even as he empathised with the High Court Judge “for the unrelenting torture he was subjected to that morning by Nandlall.”

The Attorney General is contending that he may have been a victim of “transferred frustration.” “The Attorney General believes that, after nearly three hours of ‘barracking’ by Nandlall, any reasonable person could fall prey to ‘transferred frustration.’ Perhaps his detaining the Learned Judge again as he was preparing to leave the Bench, seeking clarity on whether the witness’ answer of ‘no’ was recorded, induced certain misapprehensions in the Judge’s mind in all the circumstances and the Attorney General became the victim of ‘transferred frustration,’” the statement said.

However, it said that the Attorney General “is not unprepared to work with the Learned Judge to resolve what was a fleeting engagement after the business of the day was completed.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday March 31, 2017

Barr Street bridge to open Monday

–– after being out of operation for a year

By Telesha Ramnarine THE bridge at Barr Street, Albouystown, Georgetown, which has been out of operation for a year has been completed and tested and is likely to be officially opened on Monday.

The new $18M bridge has been redesign by Chung’s Global Construction Firm.

The Barr Street bridge serves as a key alternative to the La Penitence Public Road for vehicles coming from the East Bank of Demerara and heading to Central Georgetown.

The closure of the bridge contributes to a severe buildup of traffic in contiguous areas, and many of the streets in Albouystown are too narrow to accommodate two-way traffic.

Constituency 10 Councillor, Malcolm Ferreira, told the Guyana Chronicle on Wednesday that he believes that the vehicle tonnage allowed to cross the Albouys Street bridge, which is the one just next to Barr Street, should be reduced as it has already been cracked in the middle.

The Albouys Street bridge has been under pressure and a call has also been made to close it off completely since it is a looming danger.

At the Council’s most recent statutory meeting, the City Engineer’s Department was tasked with producing an in-depth report on the actual state of the Albouys Street bridge so that the correct decision can be taken on the way forward.

Just recently, Councillor

Ferreira, had warned City Hall of impending danger that can result from the current state of the Albouys Street bridge.

“That Albouys Street bridge; an old, clay-brick type structure, is cracked in the middle. At any moment, God forbid, it could collapse. We wouldn’t want that to happen.

It could be dangerous,” he expressed.

He added: “There could be a dangerous precedence if we leave such a bridge to be opened to the public. It has a big split in the middle of it. We ask that you check it out for us so we can move forward with the proposals.”

Town Clerk, Royston King, in response, had observed that all of the bridges along Sussex Street have to be looked at and that there are

The completed bridge at Barr Street, Albouystown, Georgetown other areas that are in desperate need of support as well.

“There are many other areas. There are some areas that

we have completely neglected, while we’ve been giving support to others,” he stated.

Cummings Lodge and

Lodge are among the areas that work has to be concentrated, King pointed out.

Berbice Chamber calls for privatisation of GuySuCo

MINISTER of Finance, Winston Jordan last week met with senior representatives of the Berbice Chambers of Commerce to discuss how the region can respond to the challenges of the changing local and global economy.

Prominent among the issues discussed were the future of Guysuco, rice markets, SARA Bill and some aspects of the tax reform measures of Budget 2017, a Ministry of Finance release stated. According to the release the Chambers’ representatives led by President M.S. Raffic admitted that Guysuco ‘is a burden on taxpayers and (it) must be privatised as soon as possible’, but they were keen to advise that Government must critically examine alternatives to both employment and the industry so as to ensure that the livelihoods of employees and the gains made by communities are not jeopardised. They suggested that ethanol production

Minister of Finance Winston Jordan, Junior Finance Minister, Jaipaul Sharma and Bank of Guyana Governor, Dr Gobind Ganga pose with representatives of Berbice Business Chambers can be explored as an alternative.

Minister Jordan in response assured them that Government is indeed examining strategies through which Guysuco can become viable again as it is presently heavily in debt which is compounded by the loss of preferential

markets and prices. The representatives expressed unease with the SARA Bill but were advised to document their concerns about the Bill at a general level and a specific level, highlighting the provisions that they find worrisome so that it can be discussed at

Bar owner shot by security guard

THE police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting of Wilfred Tennyson, 20, a businessman of 37 Adventure, Essequibo Coast, which occurred about 01:00hrs Thursday at the said address by a supernumerary constable attached to a security service.

Police said the investigation has revealed that the male suspect, who was armed with a handgun belonging to the security firm with which he works, left his place of duty and ventured into the victim’s shop (Licensed Liquor Restaurant) where they engaged in

a playing pools; the suspect was said to be imbibing during that process.

Later, an argument erupted after the victim won a game and the suspect allegedly whipped out his firearm and shot the victim to the right side of his abdomen. The victim was taken to the Suddie Public Hospital where he is being treated. His condition is regarded as stable.

The suspect who is 32 years and hails from Adventure, Essequibo Coast, has since been taken into custody and the firearm lodged.

Cabinet.

During the discussions too, Minister Jordan announced the reactivation of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) Private Sector Subcommittee meetings which will be chaired by Minister within the Ministry of Fi-

nance, Hon. Jaipaul Sharma.

He also extended an invitation to the Chambers for a quarterly meeting with them but added that his door is always open to discuss any issues under his remit that may arise during the interim, the release added. A similar

invitation was extended to the Private Sector Commission in August last year.

The meeting was chaired by the Minister of Finance.

Also in attendance were Minister Sharma and Commissioner General Godfrey Statia.

Granny shoots hotel labourer

A TWENTY-THREE -year-old maintenance worker of Alpha Hotel, Ogle, East Coast Demerara and of Manchester Village, Corentyne, Berbice, is nursing a gunshot wound after being shot about 06:50hrs Thursday at his place of employment.

Police said enquiries disclosed that the victim, Brandon Collins, was clearing vines from the hotel’s fence when he was asked to remove by the owner of a house that sepa-

rates the two lots, which he ignored.

The shooter, a 69-year-old woman who is the licensed holder of a small-calibre weapon, allegedly armed herself with her firearm and discharged a round at the victim which struck him in the abdomen.

He was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital where he was admitted in a stable condition. The woman was taken into custody and her firearm lodged. She is assisting with the investigation.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday March 31, 2017

Land rights CoI ready to go to work THE seventh commissioner of the Lands Commission of Inquiry, Paulette Henry,was sworn-in on Thursday

by President David Granger at State House.

Henry, who was unavoidably absent when the President swore in the Chairman of the Commission,Reverend George Chuck-A-Sang and the other Commissioners earlier in the month, vowed to faithfully execute her functions without favour, affection or ill-will and to honour, uphold and preserve the Constitution of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana.

The other Commissioners are David James, Carol Khan-James, Professor Rudolph James, Lennox Caleb and Berlinda Persaud.

The COI was established by the Head of State to examine and make recommendations to resolve issues and uncertainties surrounding the individual, joint or communal ownership of lands, along with Amerindian land titling issues.

During the initial swearing-in ceremony for the Chairman and Commissioners, President Granger had attributed to Guyana’s massive land space while pointing out that Guyana and Suriname have a collective land mass that is greater than Germany or Japan.

Geographical data show that the size of Guyana (83000.4 square miles) and Suriname (63,251.6 square miles) give a combined total of 146252 square miles, as compared

to Germany with 137,983 square miles or Japan, the world’s third largest economy, being 145,932 square miles.

The President had also urged the Commission to execute its duties with due diligence, pointing out that land represents economic stability and cultural, material and even spiritual identity for some people.

“They have almost a sacred duty not only to the Indians and the Africans, for generations to come, to ensure that we go forward into the future without disputing what God has given us bountifully; the land of this great country. You have taken an oath. You have sworn to execute your functions without fear or favour, affection or ill will and I pray to God you will do that, not for yourselves,not for the Government,(but)for our children and the people of this country,” President Granger said.

He had acknowledged that the land rights issues are far from settled but expressed the hope that the Commission will pave the way for many of these issues to be resolved.

Residential lands, agricultural lands and lands used to extract natural resources have been for too long in controversy with a yet undefined boundary established between mining and indigenous lands in hinterland areas, while small miners too are constantly being ousted from lands belonging to medium and large scale miners. It is anticipated that the Commission

will provide the required recommendations to effect the necessary changes.

11

Commissioner of the Lands Commission of Inquiry (CoI),Paulette Henry,taking the oath of office before President David Granger at State House

12

GWI drills two new wells on Linden Highway

By Shirley Thomas

MANAGING Director of the Guyana Water Inc. (GWI), Dr. Richard VanWest Charles on Wednesday commissioned two wells and water systems along the Soesdyke-Linden Highway, signaling the end of water woes, and the realisation of a share of the ‘good life’ for residents of the villages of Sand Hills and Waiakabra.

The wells, valued at more than $52 Million and drilled by contractor Andrew Webb, are now fully in operation and will be working 24 hours per day,GWI officials told the appreciative and equally enthusiastic residents and other stakeholders assembled at the two venues for the commissioning ceremony.

Among those gathered to celebrate the watershed moment in the life of the communities were: Minis-

ter within the Ministry of Communities, Dawn Hastings Williams; Chief Executive Officer of GWI, Dr. Van-West Charles; Eugene Gilbert, National Director, Community Development Council; Community Development Field Officer, Derick Boyce;Region 10 Members of Parliament, Jermaine Figueira and Audwin Rutherford; Members of GWI Corporate Management team; Regional Managers, contractors and others.

Meanwhile, scores of residents, including teachers, health workers,and representatives were also gathered.

For both communities, it was their first access to clean, potable and piped water --the first for Sand Hills in 45 years and the first for Waiakabra since the village was settled in 1956. Dr. VanWest Charles who addressed both commissioning, noting the long periods the residents were without water,

admitted that previously the Linden Soesdyke Highway did not fall within the administrative responsibility of the GWI, hence it was virtually a ‘no man’s land’ for the GWI. However, in 2015, things changed and so the boundaries of GWI are now the boundaries of the regional administration, hence the East Bank Regional Office is now responsible for the development of the Highway;hence the intensity in seeking to have the residents of the highway served.

“But more particularly,” Dr. Charles said, “President David Ganger has identified the principles of Equity,hence it is our remit or responsibility to ensure that all citizens have access to water and good quality water.”

The well at Waiakabra also serves the communities of Hill Foot on the Soesdyke Linden Highway, which also has another well, so that

Duo freed of Laing Avenue murder A MURDER charge was dismissed against two men on Thursday by city Magistrate Dylon Bess after insufficient evidence was provided by the prosecution during the Preliminary Inquiry (PI).

Negus Lamaizon, of Lot 51 D’Urban Street, Georgetown and Samuel McIntyre walked out of the Georgetown Magistrates Court as free men after the magistrate dismissed the charges at the end of the PI. The matter was prosecuted by Sergeant Tracy-May Gittens; Lamaizon was represented by Attorney Lyndon Amsterdam, while attorney Adrian Thompson represented McIntyre.

The men were jointly charged with the capital offence,the details of which stated that on August 1, 2016, at Lot 89 Laing Avenue, Georgetown, they murdered Malik David known as ‘Orin.’

A total of 12 witnesses were called during the PI to testify and according to Magistrate Bess, none of the witnesses during their testimony actually saw the two men discharge any rounds or inflict injuries

to David on the day in question.

In his ruling, Magistrate Bess said that his role in the PI is to look at the evidence and make an assessment to deter-

Freed: Negus Lamaizon mine whether a prima facie case was made out against the accused and not to determine whether they are guilty of the offence.

As such, based on the evidence presented during the trial, the matter was dismissed due to lack of evidence.

Meanwhile, two more men

were also charged with the same offence and are before Magistrate Judy Latchman.

David, a taxi driver, was gunned down in front of his Lot 89 Laing Avenue, Georgetown home around 15:00hrs, in the presence of his reputed wife and other relatives. The 33-year-old was pronounced dead at the Georgetown Public Hospital, shortly after one of five men came out of a car and pumped several bullets into him. The police had recovered a number of 9mm bullet casings at the scene.

According to reports, David had had several confrontations with an Agricola, East Bank Demerara (EBD) resident, whom he had bailed out of jail some time last year.

David and the individual were involved in a heated argument again, since the Agricola resident had refused to return the $150,000 David had paid to have him released.

After the argument, the Agricola resident went away, but later returned with four other men in two vehicles and executed the former murder accused.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday March 31, 2017

there will always be a backup in times of eventuality.

Satisfied with the accomplishment of the GWI in this regard, Dr. Charles told the people of Waiakabra: “I am happy to say … It is safe to say that your government has committed to this project $51 Million to ensure that you have access to potable water. And we want to ensure that the schools in particular and health facilities will have access and that the service will be taken care of.”

The Managing Director said that the GWI has a new water quality department that will be monitoring the quality of water across the country and particularly in communities such as these so as to ensure that the water is safe from bacteria and other organisms and impurities. He mentioned too, that there is collaboration with the Ministry of Education to ensure that the black

tanks which store water are cleaned on a regular basis and disinfected on a regular basis.

Dr. Charles called on the community to be vigilant against those who are seeking to be destructive, adding “This is your well. This is here to serve the community and I want you to take care of it, as we at GWI work with you to ensure that there is growth in the community and there is sustainability as well.” The wells are operated by solar system and training has been undergone by personnel to ensure the system is run efficiently and effectively.

Essentially, Dr. Charles said that the venture all started out with an invitation from the CDC who made the request for water to be supplied to the two villages, adding that in so doing they are helping to promote sustainable goals which demand that all communities have

access to water of quality.

Reiterating his thanks and appreciation to all stakeholder, the Managing Director concluded: “I want to define this as our journey to equity of access.”

Meanwhile, Minister within the Ministry of Communities, Dawn Hastings Williams recalled meeting with the residents soon after her assumption to office in 2015, during which time the request for water was raised. “And today I am very pleased to be coming here to commission a new well and to deliver safe potable water to this community.”

She added that 500 residents in Waiakabra will benefit from this intervention at a cost of $51M. For the well at Sand Hills, the cost was much less, since there was appreciable collaboration among the contractor, GWI and the community, a GWI technical official said.

Wanted man caught –– charged with murder of fisherman

AFTER almost seven months on the run from the police, a 47-year-old-man was on Thursday charged with the murder of a fisherman, whose lifeless body was found in a sandpit in

Murder accused : Monilall Sarjou called ‘Deportee’ #68 Village, Corentyne, last August.

Monilall Sarjou, called ‘Deportee’ of #67 Village, appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan at the Georgetown Magistrates Court and was not required to plead to the capital charge of murder.

It is alleged that between August 22 and August 24, 2016, at #68 Village,

Corentyne, Sarjou murdered 28-year-old Levan Chanderpaul.

He was represented by Attorney-at-law, Leslie Sobers, who explained to the court that the police do not have evidence to connect his client to the crime.

However, the chief magistrate remanded Sarjou until April 19, 2017 and transferred the matter to the Springlands Magistrates Court.

Ranks in Georgetown had received information that the prime suspect was still living at the #68 Village and arrested him last week.

The suspect had run and left his car behind in 2016, when detectives approached him for questioning. According to information received, the 28-year-old fisherman was last seen entering the deportee’s vehicle.

His body was later found in a sandpit a short distance from his home. His hands were bound behind his back and he was clad in only his underwear.

Chanderpaul’s mother, Mala, had explained that her son had lived with her and his father, Kushipaul.

On the day in question, he left home on August 22, 2016, and promised to return

within two hours. His partly decomposed body was subsequently found.

When the discovery was made, investigators had speculated that the fisherman was beaten elsewhere and

Dead: Levan Chanderpaul his body dumped in the pit, since they found no signs of blood or evidence of a struggle near the sandpit.

Chanderpaul was well known in the community and was charged numerous times with various offences, including piracy.

A post- mortem revealed that the victim died from shock and haemorrhage and that his skull was fractured.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday March 31, 2017

UG commissions $74M lecture theatre

THE University of Guyana (UG) on Thursday commissioned a spanking new $74M lecture theatre with a capacity to accommodate some 350 students, at the Turkeyen Campus, Greater Georgetown.

The building is located between the Cheddi Bharrat Jagan Lecture Theatre and the Centre for Information Technology.

UG Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ivelaw Lloyd Griffith, said the university is in transformation mode, embracing multiple constituencies to assist in teaching, research and connectivity to further develop the campus.

He thanked the Ministry of Education for its financial support and underscored the need for Public-Private Partnerships to take the university forward.

Professor Griffith also urged the students to see the new buildings as their own.

“I am making a plea to the students and the staff to see this as ours, to take care of it, every time we have to spend money to repainting something after two months, it is money that is not available for something else; every time we have to replace stolen equipment, its money not available for something else,” he said.

Professor Nigel Harris said the building is designed in a friendly setting that students will enjoy and will enhance the quality of their education.

He explained that Guyana is on the cusp of change, as the oil and gas sector unravels with resources and possibilities.

“The ability to capitalise on what is possible is one that we have to tend to in every possible way… resources may later become available not only to transform the infrastructure of the university, but the people who also come

here as links are being built,” professor Harris said.

He said the new building is the first step of great things to come.

Education Minister, Dr Rupert Roopnaraine, said upon completion of the Commission of Inquiry into the education system, relevant changes will be made based on the findings to assist in the further development of education.

The minister said students need strong motivation and there is need for curriculum reform at the nursery level to the Cyril Potter College of Education.

University of Guyana Students Society President, Ron Glasgow, who also spoke, thanked the Education Ministry for its role in making the theatre a reality.

He said on campus there is a need for more lecture theatres and the university has the land to do so.

UG Vice Chancellor, Professor Ivelaw Griffith cuts the ceremonial ribbon to commission the lecture theatre in the presence of Professor Eon Nigel Harris, Education Minister, Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine, students and staff of the university

Pastor guilty of carnal knowledge THE pastor of the Prophet of God Church was on Thursday afternoon remanded to prison after a 12-member jury found him guilty of carnal knowledge of a girl under age 15.

Pastor Josiah Baptiste was visibly in shock as he was led away to prison until April 24, 2017; he is slated to return to court on that date at 09:00hrs for a probation report followed by sentencing. The verdict was unanimous and the forewoman told the court that the jury found him guilty after deliberating for more than three hours. Baptiste on June 15, 2007, had carnal

knowledge of a girl under the age of 15 years which took place in the county of Demerara.

Ten witnesses were called to testify in the matter .

Baptiste was represented

by Attorney-at-Law Maxwell McKay and Folio Richards, while the state prosecutors were Shawnette Austin and Tameika Clarke.

Relatives who were at the High Court praying and singing hymns were observed crying on Thursday, after the judge announced that Baptiste was found guilty and would be remanded.

Pastor Josiah Baptiste at the High Court on Thursday (Michel Outridge photo)

The lecture theatre commissioned on the Turkeyen Campus

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday March 31, 2017

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday March 31, 2017

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday March 31, 2017

Procurement body probes $605M drug purchase … to submit findings to National Assembly

AMID a public outcry over the recent purchase of some $605M worth of emergency drugs by the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, the Public Procurement Commission (PPC) has opened an investigation into the issue and is inviting members of the public with relevant information to submit same as part of the probe.

In a statement the constitutional body said it noted the recent statements in the media about procurement of pharmaceuticals

for the public health sector and in keeping with its functions as detailed in Article 212(AA). (1) of the Constitution, it has commenced an investigation into the procurement of pharmaceutical and other medical supplies, specifically by the Guyana Public Hospital Corporation.

“In this regard, the Public Procurement Commission is in the process of collecting and reviewing relevant information from various stakeholders within the national procurement system and will conduct

interviews and examine documentation as deemed necessary,” the statement read. The Public Procurement Commission said it is committed to a completely transparent and objective investigation, and invites members of the public who may have pertinent information to make written submissions to the Chairman, Public Procurement Commission at Parliament Office, Public Buildings by 12th April 2017. “Since the subject of this investigation is of national interest and has resulted in significant

public concern, the Public Procurement Commission will submit its findings to the National Assembly.”

Meanwhile, Minister of Public Health, Ms Volda Lawrence,who is at the centre of the controversy regarding the drug procurement,recently told the media that she had ordered the Board of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) to launch an investigation into the matter, which she described as the expediting of the purchase of critically needed drugs and medical supplies. Lawrence said the reason she had ordered the investigation into the matter is to put to rest speculation in some quarters that she had overstepped her bounds when she took the decision to fast-track the purchase of the drugs, rather than wait for the requisition to go to tender as is the norm.

The minister had explained the immediacy of the need to source the drugs expeditiously, as was done, telling reporters that having learnt of the shortage of drugs at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), she summoned its Chief Executive Officer and Chairman,among other officials to a meeting to ascertain the level of the crisis, so that together they could remedy the situation as early as possible. She said that based on their meeting, she learnt from the medical officials that the institution was short of over 200 types of drugs, and that this was as a result of delinquent suppliers who had indicated their inability to fulfill their contractual arrangements.

“This has created a gap,

Chairperson of the PPC, Carol Corbin and in order to fill that gap, the hospital was buying these drugs from private institutions,” Minister Lawrence said, adding: “And that is quite alarming to me; that put a strain on the hospital to be able to dispense the services, and hence there was now a crisis.”

She said that having learnt what she did, she immediately called for a drug inventory, which found that there was a shortage of a whopping 287 drugs. It was at this stage, the minister said, that she engaged the medical officials on the fastest way to source these drugs, since the 2017 tenders had not gone out as yet. “We looked at a two-week period in order to address the issue,” she said, “and we decided that what we can do is look at the shortlist of companies and ask them to bid on the items.

“Subsequently, I was informed that the documents were prepared, and that the four companies had uplifted them, paid for them and bid for the items.

“Then I received a call one morning indicating that

there was a contract for ANSA McAl in the sum of $600M-plus; I asked that that be pulled. I said I would like to see it; that I wanted to know why.”

In response to her queries, the minister said, she was told that Trinidad company, ANSA McAl was the first to respond to the bid for that amount of drugs, and because they were given a twoweek deadline, and again because of their having to fly the drugs in from Europe, it would take the costs to $605M. Lawrence said it was imperative that the drugs were needed for chronic illnesses such as hypertension and diabetes. Minister Lawrence has made it clear that she was not involved in the “process” for the procurement of the emergency drugs. She said as minister she “is not involved in the process of procurement.

“The minister is involved in declaring that there is an emergency and declaring the need for us to implement whatever mechanisms are in place.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday March 31, 2017

NY hospital wants to help baby Ovir

By Telesha Ramnarine

BABY Ovir (Lloyd Ovir Griffith), who has been diagnosed with cancer at just two years old, is on the verge of receiving help from a hospital overseas, which has since written to his parents.

Thanks to an article published in the Sunday Chronicle dated Sunday, February 19, 2017, the Saint Judes Children’s Hospital in New York became aware of Ovir’s cancer illness and now wants to help him.

The boy’s mother,

Baby Ovir’s doctor at the Georgetown Hospital is now in the process of completing paperwork to forward to the New York hospital.

Ford is hoping that the doctor will act with haste, so that the process can be expedited.

In the meantime, Ovir’s parents are working on securing a passport for the child and after all paperwork has been completed, they will approach the United States Embassy for visas.

Ford said that local actor Chris Gopaul will help

“I took him to the hospital thinking it was an abscess. They did an ultrasound and then advised me to go private and do another ultrasound. I went to Woodlands and did it and took it back to Georgetown and then the doctor transferred me to Surgical Clinic,” explained Ford.

She recalled that it was on last December 11 that she went home and was playing with her son and watching a movie, when all of a sudden, his eyes started rolling up and he started throwing up the milk he had just drunk.

Ovir and his loving mom, Amanda Amanda Ford, updated the Chronicle on Thursday that the swelling of Ovir’s tummy went down after his first cycle of chemotherapy and that he is playing as normal and doing reasonably well.

The happy mother said she received a letter from the hospital overseas inviting a parent to accompany baby Ovir for treatment there.

Apart from the hospital, she said her brother-in-law who lives in England, also saw the article and called the family to ask why he had not been informed of Ovir’s condition. He is now ready to help financially.

her find the right person to help her fill out the passport form. Gopaul has been supporting the family.

Baby Ovir had quite a normal birth, but at around two weeks old, a relative told his mom that she did not like how he was breathing. Ever since then, it has been constant trekking to the hospital after doctors said that Ovir had asthma.

HARDNESS IN BELLY AREA Then one day, Ovir’s babysitter drew to the attention of his mother, that there was a certain hardness on the left side of his belly area.

“So I get afraid, picked up a little purse with some money and run out the house without even a pamper. I rushed him to Emergency and they admit him from then. They admit him for throat infection and fever and then the doctor said it’s a mass.”

Since then, Ovir’s parents were sent to get an MRI done at the Cancer Institute, and the Ministry of Public Health bore half the cost. They then had to pay to do a CT scan.

“The doctor didn’t like what he see in the report and they take him back to Cancer Institute and punctured his belly, where they take out something and

the father [Mr Lloyd Griffith] take it to Woodlands Hospital and had to pay $60,000 for that.”

Ovir’s mom works as a ward maid at the Georgetown hospital and had remained at her son’s side on a 24-hour basis while he was there.

“I don’t go home. I stay right here, work, bathe and sleep on two chairs. I hardly get to sleep because I’m here with him all the time. I play with him, make him happy and I feed and leave him for work and check him every two hours. I don’t know the last day I see my house,” the caring mother related.

After baby Ovir had finished the first cycle of chemotherapy, he was taken home to rest. The parents can be reached at telephone numbers 672 1381 (dad) and 686 7033 (mom).

Two-year-old Lloyd Ovir Griffith

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday March 31, 2017

Making dreams reality –– young aspiring entrepreneurs to get help from Gov’t

By Shauna Jemmott PRESIDENTIAL Advisor on Youth Empowerment,Aubrey Norton,has said youths who successfully completed the Financial Literacy and Small Business Training Programme facilitated by his office will be assisted with accessing resources to make their business dream a reality.

Norton was at the time addressing the 23 participants,who successfully completed the five weeks programme,at a ceremony hosted at the Ministry of Education Department of Culture, Youth and Sport Resource Centre.

He said though youths are regularly seen as ‘a problem’, Government considers investment in their development as profitable.

“The Ministry of the Presidency sees young people as a human resource to be developed but too regularly young people are dealt with as if they are a problem. We do not believe they are a problem, we believe they are a human resource to be developed and once they are given the requisite training, then they will achieve their objectives,” the presidential advisor said.

His department has conducted several training for youths, including pro-

The graduates and facilitators of the Financial Literacy and Small Business Training Programme (Photo by Samuel Maughn) grammes in leadership, mentoring, counselling and early childhood education, to demonstrate that youths are resources to be developed and not neglected.

Norton also said Government recognises the high rate of unemployment and every effort is being made to address the situation.

While Government is not in a position to provide enough jobs to stop unemployment, it has adopted the responsibility of empowering them through training and wants them to become entrepreneurs.

“What Government can do is to, apart from providing some of the employment is

to facilitate the training of young people so that they can become entrepreneurs and they themselves become creators of employment,” Norton pointed out.

And on that note, he said great attention is being placed on helping small entrepreneurs to properly manage their finance.

“This certificate in itself is not the end. It cannot be the end… at present you’re being certified. You’re given a piece of paper which says you have the capacity or you would have looked at the content of the course. It becomes qualification where you can operationalise it and put it into practice and to use

it… so that you can achieve your objectives,” the youth empowerment advisor said.

He advised the participants of the course to see their certification as a first step in their journey to becoming entrepreneurs and not to be discouraged by early failure.

“Don’t see early failure as the end. See it as a challenge to learn more, to be surmounted and to get up and to go again until you receive your objective of becoming a young successful business person,” Norton said.

According to Norton, a combination of education and business can be a powerful tool to enable a better life.

“I believe if education is combined with business we will produce much better quality businessmen. I’m not saying that businessmen are not good quality. The combination of education and business skills is the kind of combination that will do Guyana well.”

He charged the students to develop self-discipline and make sacrifices in order to ensure the success of their businesses.

Meanwhile, programme facilitator,Patsy Russell congratulated the participants and acknowledged their high quality project proposals.

GLSC poised to implement sustainable land management project THE Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission (GLSC) is anticipating government’s approval of its proposal, so that it can implement the national sustainable land management and development project by the end of July 2017.

Policy Analyst at the GLSC, Durwin Humphrey, told the Guyana Chronicle in a recent interview that the commission had held consultations with several key stakeholders in the land management and development process during a sustainable land management and development workshop, which concluded March 2 at the Guyana Marriott Hotel.

The ‘Sensitisation and Validation Workshop on Sustainable Land Management and Development Project Concept’ organised by government through the Commission in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), also concen-

trated on land desertification.

The GLSC is the guardian of public lands in Guyana and the National Focal Point Agency to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), with an obligation of preparing an aligned national action plan to serve as the guiding framework for implementing action to combat desertification/ land degradation and promote sustainable land management.

The commission, FAO of the United Nations, Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) and several other agencies and institutions met at the workshop and combined recommendations into a detailed project proposal document which is under review.

GLSC is in constant communication with consultants to forge a cooperative effort and ensure the process is being made expedient, Humphrey said.

“What we have now is a consolidated document to be

finalised. That’s the project document. We have consultants which have been contracted to work on this document and when the document is completed, it will be posted to the Guyana REDD+ Investment Fund (GRIF) site for additional review,” Humphrey noted.

According to Humphrey, comments by the consultants will be taken into consideration and will be consolidated with the document for a complete proposal. It will then be submitted to the GRIF steering committee and if approval is granted, the project will be implemented.

In its bid to accomplish sustainable management and development of Guyana’s lands, the GLSC has embarked upon several projects, including improving public land administration, alleviating poverty and promoting national development, according to the guidelines outlined in the United Nations Sus-

tainable Development Goals (UNSDGs).

The workshop looked at drafting a policy to govern land use and management, and it is expected that recommendations will be made for one collective land-law document combining several land acts.

During his speech at the opening of the workshop earlier this month, Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo had called for the harmonization of several laws addressing lands to be incorporated into one comprehensive legal document for the effective and sustainable management and development of lands in Guyana.

The prime minister explained that he had read through several national legal documents and realised that more than 15 of the Acts addressed land management in Guyana. He believes a comprehensive version of these laws is necessary through a

land management commission or committee, and advised the gathering at the workshop that they consider his recommendations in making land laws easier to understand.

“And so one of the functions I believe should be a challenge to those in this workshop and beyond this workshop would be to harmonize our laws, bring them together. Make Guyana appear that we have one set of laws that address our national asset which is our land resource,” Nagamootoo said.

Meanwhile, Humphrey told the Guyana Chronicle that the Lands and Surveys Commission will certainly make an effort to make such recommendations a reality. “… We will be lobbying for the change in legislation which will offer some sort of solution to the fragmented approach that we’ve witnessed to land management in Guyana. It’s all about information- sharing

Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission Policy Analyst, Durwin Humphrey and policy cohesion. These are things that we will be championing through this project and in the long term, through the Lands and Surveys Commission,” Humphrey said.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday March 31, 2017

New GCCI President on mission to improve conditions of local businesses

NEWLY elected President of the Georgetown Chambers of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Deodat Indar, has said that he has a vision to transform the landscape for doing business in Guyana.

Indar is known for his drive and commitment in achieving whatever he sets his mind to accomplish, the GCCI said in a release. Controller and the Company Secretary at Sterling Products Limited, a member of the Beharry Group of Companies, Indar has been working with that company for the past 12 years.

As the new leader of the business umbrella body, Indar plans to renew the strategic focus of the GCCI to propel

its members down a path of greater success. He is supported by a new, vibrant 21-member council and a mix of experienced and skilful executives.

Mr Nicholas Boyer as newly elected vice-president attended and graduated from the University of Virginia in 2005 with a BA in Economics and then he earned his Masters of Science in Finance and Masters in Business Administration from the University of Maryland in 2010. Mr Timothy Tucker, Junior Vice President, Managing Director of Rid-O-Pes ; Mr Kester Hudson , Managing-Director –Dapper Technologies and Mr Robin Muneshwer , a well-known businessman as Treasurer.

Apart from fulfilling the Constitution of the Chamber and among the things he hopes to achieve are a growth in membership, improved competitiveness of businesses via training and development sessions, resilient partnerships with local and central government, and a strong collaboration with the other private sector representative bodies.

With Guyana on the verge of becoming a major oil-producing nation, Indar also plans to design an approach with his team to provide fair representation for its members as well as to prepare and provide businesses with the requisite tools and skills in order to be suppliers and beneficiaries of the oil and gas

industry.

Indar’s vision is to improve the advocacy by the Chamber in relation to the barriers to doing business competitively in Guyana. In fact, the GCCI is currently engaged in a fact- finding exercise to determine and update itself on the issues affecting members in order to develop solutions to the various problems in managing their businesses and sustaining jobs. Research is also being undertaken to identify the factors contributing to the foreign exchange market challenges.

“We know there are problems with foreign currency and we want to find out the extent of these problems. When you have a transaction that used to

take you half a day to do and is now taking three weeks, it’s a serious problem,” Indar said, noting that the assessment will seek to determine the extent of the situation.

Indar is a Fellow Chartered Certified Accountant (FCCA), Certified General Accountant (CGA) and Certified Internal Auditor (CIA). He has been awarded the Chartered Professional Accountants (CPA) of British Columbia, Canada, in June 2015. He also holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree from the Business School at the University of East London (UEL). The business executive is a known public speaker in areas of risk management, internal control,

Deodat Indar fraud, IT risk, IT governance and corporate governance.

He also serves as an Advisor in Finance and Economics to some private sector organisations in Guyana and as an Investment Consultant to some local companies.

High Court trial for duo charged with ‘Ghetto Flex’ murder TWO men have been committed to stand trial in the High Court for the murder of 22-year-old Senasie Lewis, who was gunned down outside the Ghetto Flex night spot in Albouystown in 2015.

This decision was made by city Magistrate Fabayo Azore on Thursday at the conclusion of the Preliminary Inquiry (PI) against Clive Forde [no age and address given] and Keiron Taylor, 21, of Charlestown,Georgetown.

by Assistant Superintendent Stephen Telford.

According to reports, Lewis of Pineapple Street, East Ruimveldt, Georgetown, was riddled with bullets by gunmen outside the night spot; he was reportedly shot nine times by armed men, who had approached him on foot. The men immediately escaped after the execution in a waiting car that was parked on Sussex Street.

Three other persons were injured in the shooting.

Forde and Taylor are jointly charged with the murder of Lewis, who was shot and killed on September 4, 2015 in front of the night spot located at the corner of Albouys and James Streets, Albouystown.

The magistrate during her ruling said that after reviewing the evidence in its entirety, the court found that there is enough evidence against the two accused for the case to be tried before a judge and jury.

The matter was prosecuted

M.V. Kanawan suffers hiccup in Essequibo River PASSENGERS onboard the M.V. Kanawan were in for a frustrated ride on Wednesday afternoon after the vessel lost power and later ran aground along the route from Good Hope to Parika.

Reports are that the vessel departed Good Hope on the Essequibo Coast soon after its scheduled 16: 00hrs departure time and midway along the trip, the vessel’s engine lost power.

According to a passenger, the vessel was drifting along the river and soon after, it ran into some bushes causing passengers to become anxious.

Videos posted on social media showed the vessel between several mangrove branches as passengers walked anxiously around the vessel.

The ferry as it is stuck in mangrove trees after its engines failed (Ann Maria DaSilva photo) A source at the Transport and Harbours Department (T&HD) told the Guyana Chronicle that the MV Kanawan was later towed by

another ferry to Parika.

In the past, the vessel had experienced engine problems while en-route and at the port at Parika.

Man gets 10 years for raping child ALVIN Rudder was on Thursday sentenced to 10 years imprisonment after a 12-member jury found him guilty on the first of two counts of sexual activity with a child, a family member.

He was before Justice Navindra Singh in the Georgetown High Court, who handed down the 10year sentence after the forewoman had declared that the jury found him guilty on the first count and not guilty on the second count.

For the first count, the verdict was in the proportion of 11 guilty and 1 not guilty and the second count

was in the proportion of 10 not guilty and 2 guilty.

When asked by the judge what he would like to say to him, Rudder, who was on the brink of tears, said, “Your Honour, I neva do it. I don’t know nothing about it.”

The accused was unrepresented by an attorney, while the state was represented by Tuanna Hardy and Siand Dhurjon. According to the indictment, Rudder on two occasions – April 9, 2012 and between July 1 and 31, 2013 in the county of Demerara, engaged in sexual activity with a child, a family member.

Alvin Rudder

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, March 31, 2017

Sinach coming to spread the word!

--As ‘Heavenly Light’ takes worship ‘to a higher level’ GUYANA get ready! Internationally-acclaimed Nigerian gospel singer, Sinach is coming your way!

The “I Know Who I Am” composer will be live in concert at the “Open Heaven Worship Experience” come April 18 at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall on Homestretch.

Well known by almost every church across Guyana, her worship-inspired compositions have been popular not only with the Christian community but the secular one as well.

According to her website, she’s “an award- winning songwriter, vocalist and one of the most anointed international worship leader of our time.” Now Guyanese will have the opportunity to experience and judge her for themselves.

The concert was officially launched earlier this week at the headquarters of iRide, one of the major sponsors.

The event is being organised by Serenity Holdings, headed by Pastor Richard Hoyte of the Heavenly Light World Outreach Fellowship.

“I don’t want to say this

is going to be a concert,” Pastor Hoyte declared. “This is going to be a worship experience!

“We decided to take our current worship to a higher level, hence this awesome experience! We’re expecting a massive turnout!”

As he went on to say, the hosting of the event is not just about worshipping, but to also help to spread the positive messages that Christianity represents at a

time when society needs help more than ever.

“We have seen the way in which the nation has suffered resulting from low morale and the infestation of evil within our society, moreso among our youths,” Pastor Hoyte said, adding: “We want to highlight the benefits of Christian living; see if we can deter them from violence and alcoholism in society.”

The event, he said, is not

restricted to just the Christian community, but open to the entire public, a point reiterated by iRide Manager, Melissa Davy. “iRide looks to support anybody who is doing anything positive in the community, and I would encourage persons of all religions to come out to the show, because we believe that through this concert, Guyana will experience a lot of healing and this concert is all about uniting Guyana,” Davy said.

Come April 18, the concert gets off to a grand start at 19:00hrs, and Sinach is expected to hit the stage by 20:30hrs.

Tickets for the experience are $2000, and are available at the Guyana Bible Society; Royal Foundation; Bold Expressions Barber Shop; Kester D Music Store; Pastor Sills in Linden; Apostle Wilbert Daniels in New Amsterdam; Apostle Paul Murasalim in Coriverton; John Benn at the New Life Transformational Outreach on the West Bank; and the Kaneville Full Gospel Church on the East Bank.

The Lion and the Jewel for NCC THE National Drama Company (NDC) will next week stage a local adaptation of the African play, The Lion and the Jewel at the National Cultural Centre.

The play, which is written by Africa’s first Nobel Prize winner, Wole Soyinka, is being staged specially for students as part of the current Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) syllabus.

This adaptation is being directed by Nicholas Singh and Ayana Waddell, and will be staged on April 4 and 5 at 13:00hrs. Speaking with The Buzz, Nicholas said that coming off of the success of staging Derek Walcott’s Ti Jean and His Brothers in October last year in observance of Education Month, the NDC decided to keep the momentum going in the aim

of providing a visual experience for Literature students.

The play chronicles the conflict between Baroka, the lion, and the modern-day Lakunle over the right to marry Sidi, the titular ‘Jewel’.

Baroka represents the traditional Nigerian culture, while Lakunle represents westernisation as he attempts to modernise the community and change its social conventions for no reason other than the fact that he can.

UNIVERSAL THEMES “The themes in the play are universal, even though it is set in a Yoruba Village, and the students will be able to identify with the content,” Nicholas said, adding: “With every generation, there is a struggle with the younger generation against older traditions. And you see

it here with Guyana; as the world continues to be modernised, you see that fight with what is morally and socially acceptable.”

Nicholas said that in directing the play, attention was paid to portraying the material in a very mature manner, while using pantomime and other techniques to add to its appeal.

“We didn’t go for a minimal set; we tried to be more realistic, so we used tribal influences and lots of traditional dances and songs,” he said.

“We shifted away from the script a bit in order to incorporate some of our own interpretations, but we think that the students will enjoy it,” he added.

Meanwhile, NDC President, Tashandra Inniss said that the company believes that its staging of CSEC

plays is an important venture, as it will play a central role in helping students to better understand and appreciate the subject material.

“It also showcases the importance of theatre, and how theatre can serve as a medium for education, so we are taking up the mantle to provide this assistance to students,” Tashandra said.

“For this reason, it is important that we receive a great amount of support, in every aspect, from the relevant authorities in order to develop theatre arts and a greater appreciation for Literature in Guyana,” she added.

Tashandra is also part of the cast for The Lion and the Jewel, which includes Linden Isles, Keon Haywood, Esther Hamer, Kimberly Fernandes among other NDC members.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, March 31, 2017

Lyttle signs with Sony VINCENTIAN soca star, Kevin Lyttle, who last year scored a chart-topper on Billboard’s Tropical Songs table with “Midnight”, featuring Latin artiste, Nengo Flow, has signed a deal with Sony Music subsidiary, Ultra Records.

This is the second major label deal for Lyttle, who signed with Atlantic Records in 2004, following the success of his platinum single, “Turn Me On”, featuring Spragga Benz.

The partnership will see Sony/Ultra and Lyttle’s Tarakon Records releasing four projects, including the singer’s fourth album.

Tarakon Records was formed in 2007, and had a distribution deal with Universal for Lyttle’s second album, “Fyah”.

A former customs officer and radio deejay, Lyttle was

encouraged by his family to pursue music at an early age, and performed at local events.

He recorded “Turn Me On” as a soca ballad in his native St Vincent and the Grenadines in 2001. The song was a minor hit throughout the Caribbean.

A remixed version of “Turn Me On” was officially released in the United Kingdom with dancehall artiste, Spragga Benz three years later.

The song reached Number Two in the UK, spending seven weeks in the Top 10.

It became a worldwide hit, reaching Number Four in the United States, Number Three in Australia, and making the Top Five in several European countries.

Lyttle’s self-titled debut album followed in July 2004, and was certified gold in the United States.

Liquid releases Kartel latest album ZJ Liquid has released the long-anticipated Vybz Kartel “Black and White” album.

The 13-track album, produced by Liquid and Don Corleon, features hits from as far back as 2003 during the time that H2O Records was founded.

“When I decided to venture into production, I had my objectives lined out, and I was determined to make my mark in the music industry,” Liquid said.

“Over the years, I had the opportunity to produce a few of Vybz Kartel’s hits, which I have now compiled into an album,” he added.

The album was released earlier this month. The inspiration behind its title is Kartel’s change in physical appearance over the years.

The album features singles such as Fix Up, Hello Motto, Live Your Life, Big Man Thing, Old Before Young,and Tek Love.

ZJ Liquid also shares that this album will give the general public a better understanding of who he is as a producer, as many fans tend to pay more attention to his disc jockey persona.

“Many fans see me as a DJ first and producer after; they know I am in production, but they are not aware of the altitude to which I take it,” he said, adding: “This album will help them to recognise what instrumentals were produced by me, as well as which of their favourite Vybz Kartel tracks I produced over the years.”

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Christopher Martin for Bartica Regatta

CHRISTOPHER Martin and D-Major out of Jamaica are primed to set Bartica ‘ablaze with excitement’ at the Easter Regatta slated for Saturday, April 15.

Joining them at the mega-concert will be the local ensemble, Universal Melodies, featuring Zion Kid. The much-talked-about concert will be held at the Bartica Community Centre Ground, where the excitement will continue on Sunday, April 16, when some of the biggest names in powerboat racing will be placed under the spotlight.

The Power Boat Races will see Dave Scott, José Jardine, Sean Belle and the Bartica Racers throwing down the gauntlet on Neil and Clint Gonsalves and the Pomeroon Posse.

It promises to be a day of fun, thrills and excitement.

Later in the evening, eight of Bartica’s beauties will vie for the coveted Miss Bartica Regatta Crown 2017, again at the Community Centre Ground.

Last weekend, the delegates were paired with sponsors at a sashing ceremony on Sunday evening at the Bartica Regatta Pavilion.

According to gtvibes.com, the delegates and their respective sponsors are: Shyan Beaton, Ms. Eldorado Trading; Shania Thom, Falls Service Station; Lakeshia Christian, Zhonhao Inc; Candia Paul, Top Brandz International; Crystal Williams, Jags Aviation; Nalini Baptiste, Captain Prince Transportation; Leah Smith, Universal Melodies Band; and Gabriella Chapman, Ms. Aruwai Resort White H2O.

Johnny Rockets open for business BOASTING quality service, the local franchise of American original burgers, shakes and fries, Johnny Rockets, officially opened its doors to members of the public on Thursday morning at its 27 Hadfield Street, Georgetown, location.

The ribbon was cut by the co-owner and one of her two

Co-owner Ameir Ahmad with his daughter in the ribbon-cutting ceremony to declare the business open on Thursday while his wife, Preeta Mangar, her other daughter and relatives look on.

daughters, after which members of the public made their purchases in the spanking new fast food outlet.

Johnny Rockets prepares fresh burgers, fries and shakes with all natural ingredients, some of which are imported. According to co-owner Preeta Mangar, they have 60 persons in their employ. Their investment has run into

millions of dollars and they are here to provide a high standard of service to customers. She related that they have a variety of foods and for the opening, they have a special in which customers will get a free refill of soda. The business offers 100% halaal beef and chicken, prepared fresh in front of the customer and has been in existence since 1986.

Employees of Johnny Rockets serving customers on Thursday following their opening to members of the public.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, March 31, 2017

A tall order HUMAN cultural heritage is driven by several elements, such as religion; creeds that drive daily habits, from rituals of prayer; hygiene and culinary tastes; to the ego and our prejudices.

Pivotal to all this is our pursuit of livelihood. We interact with the norms presented to us, and they become the normalcy of acquiring sustenance.

For example, lets flashback to past humanity. The Viking could not see his raids to other villages outside of his world from a moral point of view; the very religion that engulfed him forbade that. He could only reach the heaven of his Gods if he died in battle; Valhalla was forbidden to cowards, as modern human right tenets would be interpreted in that day.

Here in Guyana, in our time, say the past 50 years or so, some two generations were brought up according to that which replaced the colonial culture of British Guiana, with popular ‘isms’ like socialism which included youth training organisations like the Guyana Youth Corps, the National Service, and the Pioneer Corps; learning a different history, and to appreciate the peculiar customs of the various peoples thrown together to shape the tapestry of the Guyanese being.

All this is, however, engulfed by the governing politics; its mechanisms and mannerisms that both inspire and depress, for, always, there are opposing opinions driven by values diverse in principle and empathy.

CULTURE OF POLITICS

The culture of politics can overwhelm purer progressive priorities, for politics, like all principles, has both a benevolent and a malevolent side. We have witnessed this in Guyana: The surge for ‘Power’; the descent to micro-management; the lack of leadership qualities to intercept the criminalisation of the State; and at critical times succumbing to

its lure.

This existed through the Jagdeo years to the final months of 2015; a strange fraternity of a political culture, where mediocrity, indifference and the callous loyalty to power were evident.

In the absence of any moral strength or enlightened ability to manage it, the nation descended to a situation whereby it was every man for himself. As one businessman put it: “Wheh you see wrong, I see opportunity.”

The current politics does not believe in micro-management, as the City Council will learn. This I know, because I have worked with persons at the highest levels of this administration before it existed, and the criteria was accountable excellence rather than micro-management.

I can share a tale or two about micro- management.

Back in 2011, Denis Ward, a colleague of mine, came to me with a proposal that I should consider taking the $1M that then President Jagdeo was offering as an initiative to produce a short film, since I had unpublished scripts.

“Why not the Department of Culture?” I enquired. I didn’t like the scenario, as, some weeks before, Jagdeo had usurped some other minister, eclipsing that person’s presentation. So I declined.

When Jagdeo was leaving office, an artist complained that they were being coerced by a certain group, a legacy of the Roger Khan era, to go to the Stadium at Providence and perform to show appreciation for Jagdeo.

I must admit, I laughed at him. I told this artist that I didn’t envy his ‘court jester’ role. No president had ever demanded this before; this was the ego of micro management and it was pathetic and despiseable.

ONE WITH A DIFFERENCE

The present system differs vastly, in that it has demonstrated, as evidenced, that it requires delegated and designated officialdom

to perform within the borders of their mandate, and to demonstrate initiative, justice and imagination with a social conscience, because the State IS THE PEOPLE. But the stark reality is that the current state is not alone, for it carries in its bosom many of the functional trolls of the past system in its workforce; some with political loyalties cemented by the criminalised state and the daily practice of runnings.

Two recent events indicate a movement by the present state to correct its own instruments of public management.

The first was the Minister of State publicly admitting that it was the “miserable performance in public infrastructure spending” that caused the shuffling of permanent secretaries; that based on investigations, there was some element of wrongdoing in some cases. No cover-up; no loyalty; no pat on the shoulder!

The second was the alarming exposé as to the quality of nurses we have these days, with more than two-thirds of them failing their competency test. Who designed the criteria that employed such an imbalance in an extremely sensitive sector, where the slightest error could mean certain death?

But the latter scenarion could very well be credited to another disclosure made by the Minister of State, in that just about 6.1% of the budgets before 2015 were allotted to Education, in contrast to the 17.2 % in this new dispensation. Then, if so be the case, where did we expect to get excellent nurses or their teachers from?

We have to remember the exodus of teachers in the late 90s; yet, no attempt was ever made during that period, as revealed by the budgetary allocations, to remedy the situation. **No one can say that we are unaware that Guyana In 2017 does have a literacy problem among our young, under the past regime they were induced to the macabre

option of becoming ‘Gunmen’ body guards of both untouchable top criminals and their political affiliates, back then they had nothing to fear from the Police, should they break the law.

CHANGING WORLD

Today we live in a changing world external to Guyana, whose shadow is falling back on us. The cash flow of governments cannot be generated by selling 82% of pristine forest lands to a foreign nation as was done by the past regime to the Chinese, with the promise of selling our fishing rights,

--adjusting to new governance if re-elected, for kick-backs.

If not that, then what? Sheer stupidity?

The resources have to be protected; local businesses have to be encouraged and guided to sensibly sustain and prosper through our national resources. Demands that were not anticipated now have to be addressed. New employment; facilities to deal with drug-related mental disorders; the burden to provide adequate housing, a definite source of stress stemming from a housing sector corrupted by ‘runnings’ and ‘drug money’ and monies gained from bribes and money laundering schemes.

These problems can only be faced by a political management completely opposite

to the past. No doubt, the temptation of billions of dollars schemed from the State through theft will lure some from the present regime; the historical precedents exist.

As terrible as the Nazi regime was, it placed the SS commandant of a concentration camp before the firing squad for the theft of murdered prisoners’ valuables.

To inspire this generation that the wrongdoings of the past were reprehensible, then both SARU, for public theft, and The Hague, for genocide, must become common cultural references of change, as well as the shaping of the new economy, which must leave no potential unattended.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, March 31, 2017

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Man on trial for assaulting son

By Jeune Bailey -Vankeric

‘CULU Culu’ singer, Savage is in Guyana this weekend, and he’s making two stops before he heads out, including headlining the after show at the Miss Region 3 Culture Pageant and After-Show!

The Miss Region Three pageant is sure to see the crowd as it gets ready to set the standard for West Side beauty pageants!

Over at the Tower Poolside, they’re trying to shake things up a bit with their Friday after- work lime!

And, of course, no weekend in Guyana can go without a little bit of soca somewhere, so Palm Court is promising you the soca party of all soca parties.

Meanwhile, it’s going to be another Sunday of excitement over at ‘The Circuit’ in Timehri! So, go forth and ‘weekend’ until you drop!

TODAY

Ladies, this one’s for you! Get ready to talk! About everything! as Java Coffee Bar and Association of Women Entrepreneurs present “Women’s Open Mic”.

It’s going to be an evening of celebrating women, their lives, their stories.

Conversation begins at 19:00hrs.

Get ready for the newest addition to the Tower Suites Poolside after-work lineup: HOTT OFF DE GRILL! They’re firing up their BBQ grills at the poolside to cook all meats! Choose from their succulent selection of delicious meats and sides! Any combo of any three meats and one side for just $2000 per serving!

Sky Entertainment and Club 704 present “Culu Culu Invasion” with a live performance from ‘Mr. Culu-Culu’ himself, Savage Savo straight out of Jamtown!

Music by DJ Breeze and DJ Tallest! Ladies free B4 22:00hrs! Admission: $2000.

TOMORROW

The Leonora National Stadium is set to come alive with the the Miss Region 3 Culture Pageant and After-Show.

See eight ‘West-Side’ beauties battle for regional supremacy, and then stay on to enjoy the after-show with live performances from the “Culu Culu” singer, Savage, alongside Real Proof and Mark Batson!

When last you went to a party and heard music until you sweat? The kind of party that made you kick off your shoes and have a great time?

Well, “Soak me with Soca” is set for Palm Court, and promises to be just the kind of party you need to be at!

All the hottest Soca songs, from Mash to Carnival! Soca vibes by Fusion and the BOOM DJs all night long!

Your access has been granted this Saturday at Club Privilege!

Ladies, you’re FREE to enter before 22:30hrs, and to enjoy a FREE COCKTAIL on Entry! Admission? Only $2000 fellas, so bring your girls out!

Music by Hits and Jams 94.1 BOOM FM DJ and DJ Marlon!

SUNDAY

The South Dakota Circuit is the place to be when the National Race of Champions goes down!

GUYANESE, get ready to be treated to an exhibition of the first bit of professional Drifting!

On show will be Suriname’s Oliver Tjin Liep Shie, who will pilot the Honda, and Argill Wreed, who will be at the helm of the Verossa!

A MOTHER testified Tuesday of going to the New Amsterdam Hospital Intensive Care Unit on the night of May 7, 2015 and seeing her 10-yearold son writhing in pain and saying: “Mummy, my whole skin burning!

Help me!”

On trial is the child’s father, Devindra Somawaru, who allegedly threw a flammable liquid on him before setting him alight at their Gangaram, East Canje, Berbice home on the night of May 7, 2015.

Somawaru has been indicted on a charge of attempted murder, in that he caused grievous bodily harm to the child, Rickey Resaul Somawaru, with intent to murder him.

Further, the State has presented an alternative case of causing grievous bodily harm with intent, contrary to Section 57 [a] of the Criminal Law [Offences],Act Chapter 8.01.

The accused, who is unrepresented by counsel, has pleaded not guilty before Justice James BovellDrakes and a mixed jury.

Testifying, Shanta Bridgepaul, the child’s mother, recalled on Tuesday that after she and the accused had separated, Rickey, their eldest son, went to live with him.

The reason the child was sent to live with his father, Bridgepaul said, was because he had failed to return home one day after school. At the time, she said, she and Rickey were living on the Corentyne Coast.

As a consequence of his infraction, a report was made at the local office of the Child Protection Agency, where, following a meeting with both parents, it was decided that the child should be temporarily placed with the father.

NIGHT CALL

She recalled that it was between 21:00 and 22:00hrs on the night in question when she received a call saying that Rickey was in the hospital.

She said that after the medical practitioners had done all they could to as-

suage the child’s pain that night, sleep had to be medically induced. The following day, he was transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, where he remained for five weeks.

On August 31, 2015, Rickey was taken to the United States of America, the mother said, where he was admitted to the Shriners Hospitals for Children in Boston, Massachusetts.

At the time of his admission, the witness said, her son was unable to use his neck or arms, and his mouth, which had remained permanently open.

One of his ears, she said, was also sealed off.

MUCH IMPROVED

And while his neck and arms are much improved, he still needs to undergo corrective surgery for the next 10 years, with yearly visits to Shriners’ during the July/August period.

Before commencing his cross-examination, the accused, who is representing himself, said he, too, is saddened by his son’s pain and suffering, as he was very much a part of his conception.

Asked how she knew that it was he who had done the deed, Bridgepaul replied, “Our son said, ‘Ma, daddy throw all the methylated and scratch the matches.’”

Pressed further by the accused into saying what she thought of him after the child told her that, the witness replied, “I was concerned about Rickey and his pain; I could not think of you!”

Bridgepaul said she believed her son’s story even though she was not there when it happened.

Responding to a certain line of questioning from the jury, the woman said: “While my son lived with his father, I visited him at his school, bought his text books, and catered for his extra lessons.

“Rickey never indicated that he was abused previously by his father.

However, since the incident, he cannot function like a normal person.”

SCREAM IN THE

NIGHT

Another witness, one Ravendra Singh, said he awoke the night after hearing someone screaming out his name.

On venturing out into the street of his Gangaram home, Singh said, he saw Rickey, the accused’s son, sitting under the landlord’s bottom-house with burns on his stomach and back.

The witness testified that in the presence of the accused, the child said his father had thrown methylated spirits on him.

Singh said that after calling in a report to the Reliance Police Station, a neighbourhood police rank came and together they took the injured child to the Reliance Station before taking him to the New Amsterdam Hospital, from where he called the child’s mother.

Roxanne Pedro, a social worker attached to the Burns Care Unit of the GPHC, testified that on May 12, 2015, she interviewed the victim and thereafter witnessed a statement being taken from him by Detective Corporal Michael Peters.

The witness said that at the time of the interview, the victim, Rickey Somawaru,had healing scars on his face, torso, chest, both hands and thighs. He also had what in medical terms is called a “contracture”, whereby his neck was tilted to one side.

Responding to questions from the accused, Pedro said she had asked the victim how he came by his injuries, and that he’d later given her an unsigned statement.

She subsequently explained that while she is not employed as a law enforcement agent,it is mandatory that she take statements which are kept as records.

The social worker recalled that for the five weeks the pre-teen was hospitalised, she visited him five days weekly, during which time she counselled him, as he needed support.

The prosecution’s case is being presented by State Prosecutrix Orintha Schmidt.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, March 31, 2017

Shadab stars again ...

From back page the United Arab Emirates last September.

Shadab, who claimed four wickets for seven runs on debut five days ago, finished with four for 14.

Sent in, Pakistan rallied to 132 all out from their 20 overs, despite an innings which never really got off the ground.

Shoaib Malik top-scored with 28, Babar Azam got 27 while tail-ender Wahab Riaz produced a cameo 10-ball 24 at number 10, to get the visitors up to a competitive total.

Off-spinner Narine (3-22) and seamer and captain Carlos Brathwaite (3-37) finished with three wickets apiece while leg-spinner Samuel Badree was brilliant in taking two for 14 from his four overs.

West Indies started well when Badree bowled Kamran Akmal without scoring off the fifth ball of the game but Babar and Ahmed Shezad (14) added 41 for the second wicket to stabilise the innings.

When three wickets perished for 10 runs off 17 deliveries, Pakistan were revived by a 36-run, fifth-wicket stand between Shoaib and captain Sarfraz Ahmed (12).

But with Pakistan poised for a strong finish, Shaoib and Sarfraz fell in successive overs to Brathwaite and Narine respectively with no runs added,

as four wickets tumbled for eight runs in another cluster.

Struggling at 95 for eight in the 17th over, Wahab arrived to lash a four and a pair of sixes - with 16 runs coming in the penultimate over from rookie seamer Kesrick Williams.

In reply, West Indies lost Evin Lewis for three in the second over with the score on 10, run-out by Imad Wasim’s direct throw from mid-on but Samuels and fellow Jamaican Chadwick Walton, who made 21, added 50 to put the innings back on course.

Samuels appeared in exquisite touch, stroking five fours and two sixes - consecutive blows off left-arm spinner Imad Wasim - in a silky 35-ball knock while Walton faced 25 deliveries and counted two fours.

The rot began when Walton tried to turn a googly from Shadab and was bowled leg stump and Lendl Simmons followed in the next over for one, lbw to Hasan Ali off the second ball he faced.

Stuttering at 65 for three in the 10th over, West Indies needed a hero but found none.

Kieron Pollard suffered a rush of blood, missed a charge at Shadab and was stumped for three in the 11th over and Rovman Powell was bowled next ball, completely deceived

SCOREBOARD

PAKISTAN innings Kamran Akmal b Badree 0 Ahmed Shehzad c Brathwaite b Narine 14 Babar Azam c wkp. Walton b Brathwaite 27 Shoaib Malik c Pollard b Brathwaite 28 Fakhar Zaman c Holder b Badree 5 Sarfraz Ahmed c Samuels b Narine 12 Imad Wasim c Brathwaite b Williams 4 Sohail Tanvir lbw b Narine 4 Shadab Khan run-out 13 Wahab Riaz c Holder b Brathwaite 24 Hasan Ali not out 0 Extras: (w-1) 1 Total: (all out, 20 overs) 132 Fall of wickets: 1-0, 2-41, 3-43, 4-51, 5-87, 6-87, 7-91, 8-95, 9-131.

Bowling: Badree 4-0-14-2, Holder 4-0-32-0, Williams 4-1-27-1,

Narine 4-0-22-3, Brathwaite 4-0-37-3 (w-1).

WEST INDIES innings E. Lewis run-out 3 C. Walton b S. Khan 21 M. Samuels c S. Ahmed b S. Khan 44 L. Simmons lbw b Hasan Ali 1 K. Pollard stp. S. Ahmed b S. Khan 3 R. Powell b S. Khan 0 C. Brathwaite b W. Riaz 15 J. Holder not out 26 S. Narine run-out 9 S. Badree not out 0 Extras: (w-7) 7 Total: (8 wkts, 20 overs) 129 Fall of wickets: 1-10, 2-60, 3-65, 4-76, 5-76, 6-81, 7-114, 8-128.

Bowling: Imad Wasim 4-0-28-0, Sohail Tanvir 4-0-29-0 (w-1), Hasan Ali 4-0-35-1 (w-1), Wahab Riaz 4-0-23-1 (w-1), Shadab Khan 4-1-14-4.

by another googly from Shadab.

The major turning point came in Shadab’s following over, the 13th of the innings, when he knocked over Samuels with the final delivery of his spell, having the veteran stroke-maker caught at the wicket edging a googly.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, March 31, 2017

FIFA reveals proposed slots for 48-team 2026 World Cup

By Brian Homewood

ZURICH, Switzerland (Reuters) - FIFA an nounced its proposed slot allocation for the expanded 48-team World Cup yesterday, including an automatic place for Oceania, 16 places for Europe - up from 13 - and a sixteam inter-zonal playoff tournament for two more spots.

The proposals will be submitted to the FIFA Council at its next full meeting in Bahrain in May for a final decision, FIFA said.

Under the proposal, made by the FIFA Bureau, for the enlarged tournament beginning in 2026, Europe would get 16 direct places, Africa nine, Asia eight, South America six, CONCACAF six and

UEFA president Aleksander is satisfied with the proposal Oceania one, totalling 46 teams.

The host nation would qualify automatically and its slot would be taken from the allocation of its confederation.

In the most innovative part of the proposal, the two remaining places would be

Foreign Affairs Ministry tapeball tourney billed for Sunday TEAMS registered to play in the Foreign Affairs Ministry Sports Promotion six-over knockout tapeball tournament will now compete against each other on Sunday, April 2 at the National Cultural Centre tarmac.

At stake are trophies, medals and cash prizes.

The winning team will

receive $25 000, while the second- and third-place finishers will receive $15 000 and $10 000 respectively.

According to coordinator James Lewis the next competition is billed for April 9. Lewis can be contacted on 628-1656 or 666-5857 for further information.

Noble House second division final this weekend THE rescheduled Georgetown Cricket Association’s (GCA) Noble House Seafoods second division final is billed for this weekend at the Georgetown Cricket Club ground.

The final, which was scheduled for last weekend, was postponed due to the unseasonal rain. Transport Sports Club will do battle against GNIC. Umpires Ryan Banwarie and Javed Persaud will be on duty with

Mikoo Yisrael as the reserve umpire.

Play starts at 11:00hrs on both days.

Meanwhile, the Carib Beer first division T20 tournament continues this weekend with three matches.

On Saturday GDF will oppose GYO at DCC, while Malteenoes will host Everest. On Sunday, Malteenoes will host to GDF. Those games are scheduled to start at 13:30hrs.

decided by a six-team playoff tournament which would take place in the World Cup host nation, possibly in the

November before the finals, FIFA said.

That tournament would include one team from each confederation, except UEFA, and an extra one from the continent of the host country.

FIFA decided in January to increase the tournament from 32 teams to 48.

The current allocation is 13 places to Europe, five to Africa, four to Asia and South America and three to CONCACAF. Asia, South America, CONCACAF and Oceania also get a place in two inter-zonal playoffs.

The proposal shows how football has grown around the world over the last 40 years.

As recently as 1978, when the World Cup had only 16 teams, Africa and CONCACAF were given only one place each while Asia and Oceania had to share one place.

According to the FIFA world rankings, the top nine teams in Africa currently include Burkina Faso, who have never played at a World Cup, and Democratic Republic of Congo, who took part only once as Zaire in 1974.

CONCACAF’s top six include Panama and Haiti while St Kitts and Nevis are seventh. Asia’s top eight include Uzbekistan and Qatar while China are ninth and Syria 10th.

Asia’s top eight include Uzbekistan and Qatar while China are ninth and Syria 10th. UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin said in a statement that he was “satisfied” with the proposal.

“We feel that UEFA will be fairly represented with a total of 16 national associations competing in the new format of the World Cup,” he said.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, March 31, 2017

GUYANA FOOTBALL FEDERATION INC. (GFF)

Extra Time

THANK YOU LINDEN!

To our brothers and sisters of Linden, I will be forever thankful for the generous and passionate display of support you poured out upon our beloved heroes, THE GOLDEN JAGUARS. The electrifying and picturesque atmosphere you created on Tuesday night, was indeed a welcome reminder of what football truly means to the people of Linden and I am honoured to have been given the privilege to be at your service in the name of Football.

The Executive Committee is committed to restoring the prominence of Linden Football in every possible way. There can be no denial of the extraordinary contribution Linden has made to the beautiful game over the years and it is therefore only fitting that we all avail ourselves of this opportunity to acknowledge and pay homage to your exemplary service.

I take this opportunity to

SCENES FROM THE INTERNATIONAL FRIENDLY BETWEEN THE GOLDEN JAGUARS AND MARTINIQUE HELD ON TUESDAY, 28TH MARCH AT THE MSC GROUND, LINDEN

WAYNE FORDE – PRESIDENT, GFF

say a special thank you to Mayor Carwyn Holland, the Management Committee of the Mackenzie Sports Club and the Executive Committee of the Upper Demerara Football Association. Thank you all for coming together and demonstrating the awesome power of working together.

God Bless You.

UPCOMING ACTIVITIES: Sunday, 19th March, 2017 VENUE: GDF Ground, Camp Ayanganna • STAG ELITE LEAGUE (Season 2)

DATE: Sunday, 2nd April, 2017 VENUE: Buxton Ground ADMISSION: $500.00 GAME #1: Monedderlust FC vs Buxton United FC @ 16:00hrs

GAME #2: Victoria Kings vs Frut Conquerors FC @ 18:30hrs

Lucky patrons will win prizes compliments of Church’s Chicken, Jialing, Impressions, GFF and Ansa Mc Al • Start of the GFF-Pele Alumuni Frank Watson Intra-Association National U-15 Tournament – April, 2017 • Restart of GFF-NAMILCO ThunderBolt Flour Power National U-17 Tournament – April, 2017

NEXT EDITION:

Friday, 31st March, 2017

PRODUCED BY THE GUYANA FOOTBALL FEDERATION INC. (GFF) AND DESIGNED BY THE GUYANA CHRONICLE

For further Information or should you have questions/comments , please contact: General Secretary Guyana Football Federation (GFF) 17 Dadanawa Street, Section “K” Campbelville, Georgetown TEL: +1 592 227 8758 ext. 102 FAX: +1 592 225 2096

e-mail: gff@networksgy.com WEBSITE: www.gffonline.com FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/GuyanaFootballFederationInc INSTAGRAM: www.instagram.com/guyana_football_federation_inc/ SOUNDCLOUD: https://soundcloud.com/guyana-football-federation-inc LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/guyana-football-federation-inc TWITTER: @GFF_Inc_

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, March 31, 2017

Victoria claim third straight Sheffield Shield title By `Brydon Coverdale VICTORIA have completed a hat-trick of Sheffield Shield titles for the first time in the state’s history, wrapping up a third consecutive triumph by playing out a draw with South Australia in Alice Springs.

The Bushrangers were in control for virtually the whole match and on the final day set the Redbacks an unrealistic 524 for victory. Play was called off late in the afternoon with South Australia on 6 for 236.

It was the second straight year that South Australia had reached the final and hoped to break a two-decade Sheffield Shield drought, only to be thwarted by Victoria in the decider both times.

Last year, South Australia had enjoyed the significant advantage of hosting and thus required only a draw to secure the title, but Victoria had managed to

Victoria celebrate their third successive Sheffield Shield title. (Getty Images) pull off a victory in the final at Glenelg.

Victoria’s three-peat was all the more remarkable for having come under three different coaches: Greg Shipperd steered them to the 2014-15 title, David Saker

had the reins in 2015-16, and Andrew McDonald was in charge this year. They also had to overcome the challenge of playing all three finals outside the state - in 2014-15 they had “hosted” Western Australia in the final

at Bellerive Oval in Hobart.

It was just the third time in the past fifty years that a state had won a hat-trick of Shield titles: Queensland did so from 2000 to 2002 and Western Australia from 1987

to 1989. Prior to that, only New South Wales had ever managed as many as three consecutive titles: they had claimed a remarkable nine straight Shield titles from 1954 to 1962 and had also achieved six in succession from 1902 to 1907.

The fifth and final day began with Victoria on 6 for 254, already with a more than sufficient lead of 454.

But needing only to draw to win the title the Bushrangers batted on until they were dismissed for 323. That meant a fanciful target of 524 for the Redbacks, who clearly could not win. But a Victorian victory seemed possible when James Pattinson struck twice in the first three overs.

However, South Australia captain Travis Head scored a defiant century to hold off the victory push, finishing unbeaten on 137 when he and Victoria’s stand-in leader, Cameron White, agreed to call off

play. Fawad Ahmed - one of only three men to play in all three of Victoria’s hattrick of final triumphs along with Rob Quiney and Daniel Christian - finished with 3 for 81.

Victoria spinner Jon Holland was named player-of-the-match for his first-innings demolition of the Redbacks, in which he claimed 7 for 82. Holland also picked up one wicket in the second innings, which meant he joined Chuck Fleetwood-Smith, Stuart MacGill, Bill O’Reilly and Tony Lock as the only spinners to claim 50 wickets in a Shield season (not counting Colin Miller, who combined spin and pace). (ESPN Cricinfo) Most consecutive Shield titles 9 - NSW (1954-1962) 6 - NSW (1902-1907) 3 - WA (1987-1989) 3 - Qld (2000-2002) 3 - Vic (2015-2017)

ICC mulling bid for Olympic inclusion in 2024

By Alan Baldwin LONDON, England (Reuters) - The time is right for cricket to return to the Olympics and a decision on applying for inclusion in 2024 will have to be made within months, the head of the sport’s governing body said yesterday.

The founder of the modern Olympics, Frenchman Pierre de Coubertin, was enthusiastic about cricket, a sport dominated by Britain and former British colonies such as Australia and India,

but it has only once featured in a Games - in Paris in 1900.

“We need to make a decision by, I guess, July of this year so that we can submit an application by September,” Dave Richardson, chief executive of the International Cricket Council (ICC), told reporters.

“And of course it’s not what cricket wants; it’s whether the IOC wants us.”

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) will choose between 2024 bid cities Paris and Los Angeles at a meeting in Lima in

September, with new sports also under consideration.

Baseball and softball are set to return in Tokyo in 2020.

Richardson said it did not matter which city won the bid.

“Both (cities) would ... probably be opportunistic for us, especially the U.S. option, but also in Europe,” he said at the SportsPro Live conference at Wembley Stadium.

“You’d have to spend a little bit more money on cricket pitches in France than in the U.S. but it’s not impossible.”

BENEFITS “I think the majority of the members, and certainly myself, think the time is right,” Richardson added.

“I think we’ve come to the conclusion that the overall benefit to the game of helping to globalise it and grow will outweigh any negatives.”

Richardson said any approach would be for cricket’s shortest Twenty20 format.

The IOC had already made clear that there were limitations on athlete numbers, which would mean a

competition of six to eight national sides at elite level.

There have been concerns that Olympic inclusion could damage the sport’s own events, while clearing the calendar at a busy time of the cricket year would be another headache.

The problems that golf suffered, with many top players not attending, could also count against cricket. Golf returned to the Games last year in Rio for the first time since 1904.

England and West In-

dies could not compete as such. Britain represents England and the other home nations at the Olympics, while Jamaica and other Caribbean nations compete individually. However, India would have a real medal chance.

“The benefit is not so much about which teams go to the Olympics,” said Richardson. “It’s more than once your sport is an Olympic sport, it provides access to government funding in countries where they need the money.”

Smith’s conduct praised by Indian legend Gavaskar AUSTRALIA captain Steve Smith has earned high praise from India legend Sunil Gavaskar for his conduct in the hard-fought Test series against India.

Smith was involved in several flashpoints throughout the series, but still scored 499 runs at more than 71 with three centuries from the four Tests Smith and India counterpart Virat Kohli had a running verbal battle during the second Test in Bengaluru, and was engulfed in controversy after looking towards the dressing room when contemplating calling for a review.

A judiciously cropped photograph caused outrage in the India media which accused the Australia captain of celebrating Kohli’s dismissal by grabbing his shoulder to mock his injury in Ranchi, only for the uncropped version to clearly

show the hand on his shoulder was a teammate’s.

And in Dharamsala a camera trained on the skipper in the dressing room caught his spontaneous reaction to a claimed catch being overruled by the third umpire.

The captain took the opportunity at the series end to apologise for letting his emotions get the better of him at times throughout a heated Border-Gavaskar Trophy series.

“I’m proud of my performances in this series,” Smith said after Australia lost the series 2-1 on day four in Dharamsala.

“I set myself very high standards and I wanted to lead from the front with my performances in this series.

“I’ve been very intense and in my own little bubble and at times I’ve let my emotions and actions just falter a little bit and

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Aussie skipper Steve Smith and his deputy David Warner arrive at the post-match presentation on the 4th day in Dharamsala.

I apologise for that throughout this series.

“That’s a big stride for me moving forward and something I can really learn from and grow as an individual and as a leader.”

The sentiment was well received by the Indian legend whose name is on the trophy.

“Steve Smith is a big man

to admit that he has made a mistake,” Sunil Gavaskar said on India news channel NDTV. “My respect for him has gone even higher for admitting that he was wrong.”

Another former India cricketer in Aakash Chopra agreed, adding: “Not only a great batsman but Steve Smith is a very good human being.”

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34

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, March 31, 2017

National Secondary Schools cricket tournament …

Berbice, Essequibo clash in final at Bourda today BRACING for what promises to be an exciting final of the National Secondary Schools cricket tournament today between Berbice and Essequibo Combined teams, the spinners will hold the key for success considering the spin-friendly conditions at the Georgetown Cricket Club ground.

Spinners have enjoyed the conditions on offer throughout the tournament, and are likely to again play the lead roles in today’s clash.

Both teams boast a number

Sheldon Charles

of match winners. The Berbice side includes nine players with national youth experience; middle-order batsmen Kevlon Anderson and Garfield Benjamin, wicketkeeper Junior Sinclair, all-rounders Seon Glasgow, Leon Swammy and Geevon Shultz, and left-arm orthodox spinners Kelvin Umroa, Nikeen Noble and Nigel Deodat.

The squad also includes off-spinner Melvin Singh, Marvan Prashad, Alex Algu, Antonio February, Dinanauth

Jason Sinclair

Persaud, Christopher Harry and Nicholas Heywood.

On the other hand, the Essequibo Combined team will depend heavily on skipper Orlando Jailall, Bomesh Ramdahin, Sheldon Charles and Badesh Parsotam. The remaining of the squad reads: Lance Roberts, Sevon Bess, Romario Stephen, Hemil Lam, Devendra Mohan, Sherlon Anthony, Mahendra Dindyal, David Chalitar, Jermin Gill and Arnol Adams.

The Georgetown team will come from Ashmead

Nedd, Sachin Singh, Alphius Bookie, wicketkeeper/ batsman Yudister Persaud, all-rounder Dwayne Dick, and former West Indies Under-15 fast bowler Qumar Torrington.

The other members are Dequan Bamfield, Juspice Jones, Adrian Hinds, Joel Spooner, Osapho Greene, Nkosi Beaton, Devon Allen, Wayne Bollers, Daniel Paul and Ghamshan Premsham.

The game is scheduled to start at 09:30hrs.

support and encourage them to keep on supporting the club in 2017 and beyond.”

Holding spent six seasons at the East Midlands county during the 1980s, taking 224 wickets at an average of 24.57. He recorded 13 five-wicket hauls with a best of seven for 97 against Worcestershire.

He remains one of the icons of West Indies

cricket and one of the finest fast bowlers Test cricket has seen, having picked up 249 wickets from 60 Tests at an average of 23.68.

Since retiring from the game, Holding has become a respected television analyst.

Only last summer, he returned to the club to open the new media and business centre at the Derbyshire ground.

Windies legend Holding named new Derbyshire club president LONDON, England (CMC) - West Indies pace legend Michael Holding has been named as the new president of Derbyshire, the County club he represented with distinction during his illustrious playing days.

The 63-year-old was formally appointed at Wednesday night’s Annual General Meeting of the club and joins incoming chairman Ian Morgan

Jamaica and West Indies pace legend Michael Holding

who replaces the hugely successful Chris Grant.

It is a great honour to be asked to be president of Derbyshire County Cricket Club and I am looking forward to the year,” Jamaican Holding said.

“I enjoyed immensely the few years I spent at Derbyshire and I always enjoy returning to the club. On my last visit, in September, I saw all of

the facilities, all of the improvements and the infrastructure which have gone into the club.

“I am sure that the progress made off the field and around the ground will transfer on to the cricket field and that we will see some good results this summer.

“I would like to thank all members and supporters for their continued

Marques, Khan confident ahead of GBBC’s ‘Locked and Loaded’ April 9 boxing card

DEXTER `De Kid’ Marques and Imran `Magic’ Khan are both confident of securing wins when the Guyana Boxing Board of Control stages its `Locked and Loaded’ boxing card at the Giftland Mall, Liliendaal, East Coast Demerara on April 9.

Marques, who has been out of action for just over a year and will be coming up against Venezuela’s Luis Alberto Requena Zarraga in the feature 10-round flyweight contest, said he will be ready for the April 9 showdown and is confident of victory.

Marques (15-2-0) while

being absent from the ring for just over one year stepped up preparation for his upcoming bout two Sundays ago at the Andrew `Six Head’ Lewis Boxing Gym and sparred 10 rounds with three amateur boxers. He also did some work on the heavy bag.

Marques last entered the `square jungle’ in February 2016 against Requena’s countryman Freddy Beleno and this was two years after his fight against Jamaican Rudolph Hodge whom he defeated. Marques had fought Hodge in 2014 and was absent from the ring

until 2016.

Khan, on the other hand, who made his professional debut in 2015 and who stopped David Thomas in the second round on his debut, lost his next two fights to Quincy Gomes in February and August of last year.

However, he said he is more prepared for his encounter against Keeve Allicock whom he will face in a six-round lightweight encounter.

Khan said after losing to Gomes in his last fight, he had wanted to quit the sport, but he and his oppo-

nent live in the same community (Albouystown) and every day he will hear Allicock saying that he (Khan) cannot beat Allicock, so he changed his mind and decided to take the fight and prove his point.

Khan said come April 9, the ambulance will have to come and collect Allicock from the venue when he is done with him. But Allicock was quick to respond, saying the ambulance will come to the venue, but it will be to collect Khan on a stretcher and he (Allicock) will actually be in the ambulance, but not as a patient, but

DEXTER `De Kid’ Marques to accompany Khan to the hospital.

Meanwhile, the other

fights on the night’s card will see Edmond De Clou tackling Winston Pompey in a super middleweight contest over six rounds.

The other segment of the Pro-Am card will feature three amateur fights.

The opening bout brings together Rewinne David in a junior lightweight contest over four rounds.

Kelon Isaacs and Euel Augustin in a 3-round junior welterweight bout and Stephan Gouveia will face Jackford Joseph in a three-round welterweight contest.

General Services to face Mines in basketball final

By Joe Chapman

CHAMPIONS General Services stopped Plant Operations 52-43 and will make their title defence against Mines, who swept away Plant Maintenance 43-32, tomorrow night in this year’s BOSAI Minerals Group (Guyana) in Inter-department basketball championship at the Mackenzie Sports Club hard court.

Playing in what was a virtual semifinals last Saturday night, the reigning champions General Services, who won

when the last tournament was played in 2015, sped to a 30-20 half-time advantage after taking the initiative 17-14 when the first quarter ended.This was mainly through Jamal Bethune who racked up 15 points, Domain Webster 10 and Theodore Tappin and Clive McCalman with eight each for the winners who also were in control at the end of the third quarter 41-26.

Quincy Datson was the best player for Plant Operations with a game-high 18 points as Omisi Williams added 15 in a losing cause.

To reach the final, Mines took care of Plant Maintenance with a solid 43-32 win after taking control 15-11 when the first quarter ended but the Maintenance guys levelled things - 19 - at halftime.

However, Mines went into overdrive and were up 33-26 at the conclusion of the pivotal third quarter before cruising to win 43-32.

Mines got their victory through the scoring of former junior national Marlon Pollydore with 10 points, Marvin Russell nine and Carl Isaacs

and Melroy Ross each netted six points.

The best efforts were from Plant Maintenance’s Marl Louis who scored 12 points and Orin Scott eight.

Saturday night’s final will also feature female shootout from the free throw line, threepoint shooting by the Chinese nationals and the local managers. This activity will precede the third-place and final games.

The first game starts at 19:00hrs when Plant Maintenance and Plant Operations meet then the final between General Services and Mines

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Friday March 31, 2017)

COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) NZ vs AUST, Auckland, 2005 (2) Stephen Fleming (NZ); Ricky Ponting (AUST) Today’s Quiz: (1) Who faced the first ball in the first ever T20 International

match? Who delivered it?

(2) Who won the Man of the Match Award in the first ever T20

International game?

ANSWERS IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE

35

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, March 31, 2017

Over $1M in cash prizes on offer for Boyce/Jefford Relay Festival

By Tamica Garnett

OVER $1M in cold hard cash will be up for grabs at this year’s edition of the Boyce and Jefford Relay Festival and Family Fun, which will feature an addition of two new relays and two cycle races and an increase in the cash prizes.

The event, which is set for April 30 at the Police Sports Club ground, Eve Leary, was officially launched yesterday morning at Palm Court Restaurant, with remarks from the organisers Edison Jefford and Colin Boyce, representatives from a few of the sponsors: STAG Brand Manager Lindon Henry, Director of Sport Christopher Jones, and Palm Court Manager Sasha Lewis.

This year marks the second edition of the annual event which began last year.

Jefford noted that the organisation was even more encouraged to continue the event after last year’s turnout.

“We exceeded all expectations last year, where we filled the Police Sports Club ground to capacity.

At yesterday’s launch: (from left) are Boyce and Jefford Organisation co-Chairman, Edison Jefford, Director of Sport Christopher Jones, Palm Court Manager Sasha Lewis, STAG Brand Manager, Lindon Henry.

This year we expect similar patronage from sports fan and enthusiasts,” Jefford said.

This year the event will see two additions - 4x200m and 4x400m mixed relays - which will involve teams

Kohli softens stance on relationship with Australians (REUTERS) - India captain Virat Kohli believes his postmatch comments in Dharamsala regarding his friendship with Australian players has been “blown way out of proportion” and clarified they were directed only at a couple of individuals.

The hard-fought series witnessed plenty of acrimony, the most notable being Kohli’s criticism of counterpart Steve Smith for gesturing towards his dressing room for guidance on whether to review an lbw decision in the second Test at Bengaluru.

Immediately after India clinched the series 2-1 with Tuesday’s win, Kohli said he would not regard any Australian cricketer as a friend “ever again”, going against the good will he felt towards the tourists prior to the first Test.

“My answer at the post-match conference has been blown way out of proportion,” the feisty 28-year-old, who is also captain of the Royal Challengers Bangalore Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise, said on his verified Twitter account yesterday.

“I did not categorically say the whole Australian team but only a couple of individuals. I continue to be in good terms with the few guys I know & who I’ve played with at RCB & that doesn’t change.”

Kohli’s Bengaluru-based Twenty20 side includes Australians Shane Watson, Travis Head and Billy Stanlake, while pacemen Mitchell Starc and Kane Richardson also played for the team under his stewardship last season.

Australia captain Smith will lead the Pune-based team in the popular tournament starting on Wednesday while compatriot David Warner leads champions Hyderabad and Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell will skipper the Punjab side.

Kohli is facing a race against time to be ready for the start of the tournament as he continues his rehabilitation from the shoulder injury that forced him to miss the fourth and final Test against Australia.

each comprising two males and two females. These two events will add to the other eight events already on the card of the annual event.

The other events are the 4x100m, 4x400m, sprint medley, and dis-

tance medley male and female relays.

A total $500 000 in prize money will be doled out in the races, with each race carrying a $50 000 purse divided up with $25 000 for first place, $15 000

for second and $10 000 for third. This marks a growth from the $40 000 per race last year.

The two cycle races will also carry prizes of $50 000 each with the same breakdown. The two races will be a male Devil-takesthe-Hindmost and a female 2 000m.

Complementing the races will be the dominoes, cricket and football competitions, as well as two novelty events. There will also be a ‘Kid Zone’ with bouncy castles, trampolines, face-painting and other attractions. This year will see the introduction of four gate prizes ranging from $20 000 cash to household hampers.

“All in all you can see that this year there is additional entertainment.

Apart from the main events we had some other activities to entertain a wider cross section of spectating public. And we are encouraging one and all to come out. The gate prizes alone would encourage persons to buy more than one ticket,” Boyce said, as he urged patrons to come

out in support.

Henry and Lewis also commended organisers for catering to a wide cross section of patrons.

“There’s no better way to come together and have some fun than through sports, and that’s the reason for this event. And when you come together to have fun there’s no better way to do that, than with STAG, and that’s the reason for this collaboration,” Henry said with a smile.

“The package that is offered in this event is the reason for STAG being on board with the event. There’s the track event, the football, there’s some grassroots stuff, there’s some high end, there’s the cycling, and for those who are not athletic there’s the dominoes game.

No doubt there is something in here for everybody. We could agree that this is a recipe for a fun event.”

The event is being sponsored by Ansa McAl under their Lucozade Energy Drink and STAG brands, the National Sports Commission, Jude Cycle Shop, and Star Party Rentals.

Kendall Union Sports Club holds awards and presentation ceremony

President Albert Budhoo (fourth left standing) poses with awardees at the conclusion of the Kendall Union awards and presentation ceremony.

THE Kendall Union Sports the-year Vishal Goberdhan,. for the coming year and the and Sport.

Club (KUSC) recently held most improved player Rakesh future.

Improvements to the genits inaugural awards and Kallicharran and most disciThe club has two cricket eral infrastructure at the venpresentation ceremony at plined player Devan Persaud. teams and a volleyball team ue including ground-clearing, the club’s headquarters at Long-serving awards who participate in competi- cleaning, painting the pavilNo. 19 Village, East Coast, were presented to Anil tions. ion, erecting new gate and Berbice. The club awarded Beharry, Harripaul GuyAmong some of the im- sign and providing running outstanding and long-serv- anand, Deodat Guyanand, mediate plans, according to water at the facility are also ing members for their con- Rudolph Baker and Shivlall Budhoo are: the drafting of top priorities for the club. tribution to cricket.

Budhoo thanked memSerkissoon. a constitution for the club, Those receiving awards President of the club, getting the club registered bers of the club, sponsors were: Joshua Tayah – ‘A’ Albert Budhoo, in his re- with the Berbice Volleyball and the business and genTeam player-of-the-year, Fa- marks highlighted some of Association (BVA) and the eral community for their zil Gobin, ‘B’ team player-of- the achievements of the club Ministry of Education’s De- support and encouragement the-year, Under-19 player-of- during the year and plans partment of Youth, Culture during the year.

Over $1M in cash prizes on offer for Boyce/Jefford Relay Festival n tory o See S 35 e g Pa

Shadab stars again in Pakistan’s dramatic three-run win … Windies slump to a fifth straight T20 defeat

Shadab Khan celebrates with teammates during the 2nd T20I match between West Indies and Pakistan at Queen’s Park Oval, Port of Spain yesterday.

Pakistan wicketkeeper Sarfraz Ahmed watches as Marlon Samuels cuts for a boundary in his top score of 44.

(Photos by WICB Media/Randy Brooks of Brooks Latouche Photography) PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC) - West Indies were flirting with crisis after plunging to a fifth straight Twenty20 defeat, as Pakistan took an unassailable 2-0 lead in the four-match series with a dramatic three-run victory here yesterday.

Chasing an uncomplicated 133 for victory at Queen’s Park Oval, West Indies saw their run chase unravel spectacularly, with 18-year-old leg-spinner Shadab Khan once again proving their nemesis with another man-of-the-match four-wicket effort.

The hosts were cruising at 60 for 2 in the ninth over behind Marlon Samuels’ top score of 44 but Shadab’s introduction saw four wickets tumble for just 16 runs off 29 deliveries, leaving the innings in strife on 81 for six in the 13th over.

But needing 14 runs from

the final over, Sunil Narine (9) lifted the Windies hopes when he hammered the first two deliveries of the over from seamer Hasan Ali for boundaries.

Things then took a turn for the worse, however. Narine missed a swat at the third ball and even after Ali sent down

a leg-side wide next delivery, the left-hander failed to connect with the fourth ball, leaving West Indies requiring five off the last two.Narine was run-out off the fifth ball and Jason Holder, who finished unbeaten on 26 off 17 deliveries, could only muster a single off the final ball.

The defeat followed the Windies’ opening debacle at Kensington Oval in Bridgetown last Sunday when they lost by six wickets, and comes against the backdrop of an embarrassing 3-0 whitewash to Pakistan in

Turn to page 30

Cameron, Nanthan back at WICB helm ST JOHN’S, Antigua Almost four years to the date, Whycliffe ‘Dave’ Cameron and Emmanuel Nanthan were again elected president and vice-president respectively, of the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) on Sunday, March 26.

The unanimous decision was taken by all 12 of the cricket delegates of the region. Cameron and Nanthan were the only two nominees for the posts this time around.

The two were first elected on March 27, 2013 and at that time they had opponents.

Four years and two elections later, the team has managed to make some strategic changes and adjustments.

Among them, one of the most important was maintaining a surplus for two consecutive years – the year which ended

September 30, 2015, the board reduced its accumulated deficit and ended with a surplus of US3.4 million. Last year, a surplus of US$3.5 million was achieved with an accumulated surplus of US$1.578 million.

Cameron noted in his report to the Annual General Meeting that “we cannot over emphasise the need for financial stability in cricket, as without that kind of stability, all the other development plans cannot occur.”

The president added that despite the tighter financial management “the board has invested in more development tours and the addition of the A Team tours is an example.”

Another important achievement is the fact that the WICB has managed to achieve best prac-

tices by producing audited reports within the given time for the past three financial years. The president praised the Audit Risk and Compliance and the Finance Committees for the tidy work they have done throughout the period.

The region will be hosting the Women’s World Twenty20 Championships in November 2018 and there is a comprehensive programme which is being put together as the Women will try to defend their World Twenty20 title.

The president has advised that a public relations strategy will be deployed so that all West Indians can rally around our WI Women’s Team as they seek to defend their title on home soil. It will be a big event and we need all hands available to help as we seek to raise

Whycliffe ‘Dave’ Cameron and Emmanuel Nanthan were the only two nominees for president and vice-president this time around. the profile of women’s cricket in the region; have a successful tournament and a win for our women’s team.”

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The Women’s team will also be looking to win their 1st World Cup in the UK later this summer and all plans are

in place to achieve this with the regional Women’s competition being played in April in St Vincent and the Grenadines.

In moving forward, the president and the team will have the new strategic plan which will facilitate improved performances at the regional and international level and explore a more robust governance system.

The strategy revolves around the rebranding of Cricket West Indies; the development of our commercial arm – Windies Inc, and the creation of a development foundation to finance cricket development in the region.

This was presented at the Board of Directors and Annual General Meetings in Barbados on Saturday and Sunday, March 25 and 26.

FRIDAY, MARCH 31, 2017