Guyana_Chronicle_Epaper_01_17_2020

FRIDAY 17th January, 2020

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‘GDF better equipped’ No.105882

SEE STORY ON PAGE 03

…President says force can now adequately respond to threats

…cites improved budgetary allocations by more than 72.7 per cent

…chief-of-staff says Coast Guard to be boosted in light of oil sector

President David Granger takes the Presidential salute from members of the Coast Guard at the opening of the Annual Officers' Conference of the Guyana Defence Force Thursday morning

Process of awarding 02 Three arrested in contracts started long before cannabis bust at December 31 – Harmon John Fernandes wharf

PPP ‘candidate’ invades school, assaults teacher

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–– Education Ministry, union condemn beating of teacher

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, January 17, 2020

Process of awarding contracts started long before December 31 – Harmon

By Svetlana Marshall BRUSHING aside claims by the Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo, Director-General of the Ministry of the Presidency, Joseph Harmon, said all contracts awarded by the Government after December 31, 2019 a,re legal.

Jagdeo has been accusing the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) Government of illegally signing contracts on the grounds that they are being signed although the 2019 Fiscal Year has ended. According to him, the $826M contract signed earlier last week between the Education Ministry and the contracting company BK International Incorporated will not be honoured, should the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) return to Government.

But on the sideline of the Guyana-Defence Force’s Annual Officers’ Conference at State House on Thursday, the Director General said all contracts signed in 2020 are legal. He explained that the contracts were awarded based on provisions made in the 2019 National Budget for the execution of development projects.

Harmon was keen on noting that process of awarding the contracts was initiated months before the

2019 Fiscal Year came to an end.

“It actually requires at the first stage for the Permanent Secretaries in the Ministries to identify in their budgetary allocations these contracts. After that there is an evaluation committee that actually responds to a tender which is put out to the public for contractors to bid for these contracts.

That evaluation committee does its work, makes its recommendation, and it goes to the National Procurement and Tender Board Administration. When the National Procurement and Tender Board Administration makes its recommendation, it is sent to the Minister of Finance for him to present it to the Cabinet for noting,” Harmon explained.

He said once those processes are completed, the contracts are signed by the Permanent Secretaries and the contracting companies. Jagdeo, Harmon told reporters, is cognizant of this fact.

“Mr Jagdeo is fully aware of that having been a Minister of Finance himself and therefore what I think he is trying to do, is to create a situation which is seeking to say that we are acting illegally. These are funds which were allocated in the 2019 budget and so this is not new monies that we are looking for, this is not something that is hidden. These

Director-General of the Ministry of Presidency, Joseph Harmon

are award of contracts that were publicly tendered,” the Director-General said.

In Region Two, there have been reports that the Regional Executive Officer (REO), Denis Jaikaran, had declined to sign off on a contract, which was awarded on December 31, 2019, for the construction of a secondary school on the Essequibo Coast valued at more than $500M. His concern was based on a warning by the Auditor General that REOs and Permanent Secretaries should desist from engaging in the last-minute signing of contracts for 2019.

But Harmon told reporters that once a contract was properly awarded, it is for the REO to execute. He posited that the development of education should

be supported by all and sundry.

“You are creating an environment in which our students, our children can learn better. We are creating an environment in which teachers can perform better and we are creating an environment in which we can put all of the necessary facilities so that our children get the best possible education,” he said.

As the country enters this decade of development, the Director-General said major emphasis will be placed on education. During the signing of the multi-million-dollar contract for the construction of the first secondary school in Yarrowkabra, the Education Minister, Dr. Nicolette Henry had said that the project represented things to come in the Decade of Development.

The school is expected to be completed in 12 months and will have the capacity to accommodate 600 students – accommodating children from Yarrowkabra and neighbouring communities on the Linden-Soesdyke Highway. The amenities of the school will be those of a modern outfit that features Information Technology and Science laboratories, Allied Arts Departments, a library, auditorium, and, of course, classrooms.

Teen accused of larceny granted bail

ACTING Chief Magistrate Sherdel Isaacs-Marcus, on Thursday, January 16, 2020, granted $50,000 bail to a teenager accused of larceny.

Roberto Perez, 18, of Kumaka, appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court and, through an interpreter, pleaded not guilty to the charge.

Particulars of the charge stated that, on January 11, 2020, at Aquaro Airstrip, he broke and entered the dwelling house of Juan Marie Ferreira and stole one mattress valued at $16,000, a wallpaper valued at $12,000, a DVD player valued at $ 8,500, two mosquito nets valued at $ 6,000, a table model stove valued at $22,000, a table valued at $ 4,5000, a solar blub valued at $18,000, a bulb valued at $ 13,000, and a light valued at $33,000.

Roberto Perez

Police prosecutor made no objections to bail being granted to Perez and asked the court for conditions to be attached. The prosecutor added that all the articles were recovered after Perez’s younger brother took the police to the area where the articles were hidden.

Acting Chief Magistrate Isaacs-Marcus granted Perez $50,000 bail and ordered that he must report to the Aquaro Police Station every Monday until the completion of the matter.

The matter was adjourned until January 17, 2020.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, January 17, 2020

‘GDF better equipped’ …President says force can now adequately respond to threats …cites improved budgetary allocations by more than 72.7 per cent

By Svetlana Marshall COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF of the Armed Forces, President David Granger, said the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) is better positioned to identify and deter threats to Guyana’s territorial integrity and the national patrimony, now that it has been regularised, reorganised and recapitalised.

In his keynote address during the opening ceremony of GDF’s Annual Officers’ Conference at State House on Thursday, the Commander-in-Chief, while noting that illegal appropriation and exploitation of the country’s resources undermine national sovereignty, said the Defence Force has been responding to four formidable threats facing the country. Illegal incursions, piracy, illegal exploitation, and natural disasters remain grave threats for the country that is on the verge of becoming one of the world’s leading oil producing nations.

“First, the interruption of economic activity in the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) has been a grave threat in the recent past. The country’s maritime zone now is the scene of a surge of economic activity; petroleum production has commenced and exploration is continuing,” the Head of State pointed out while underscoring the importance of protecting the EEZ from illegal incursions intended to intimidate investors or interfere with production. The 2013 Venezuelan military seizure of Teknik Perdana, a seismic survey vessel attached to Anadarko and the attempt in December, 2018 to board the seismic vessel Ramform Tethys are just two of the recent illegal incursions experienced by Guyana.

Incidents of piracy, President Granger told the government, military and police officials, seated under the Baridi Benab, remain a major concern. Highlighting the fact that the Fish Industry contributes to the national economy and food security, he said the country’s fishing grounds, and those who are employed in it, must be protected.

ILLEGAL MINING The third threat, he said, is that of illegal mining and invasions by criminal gangs. “…illegal miners from other states have entered our territory, occasionally, to exploit our mineral resources unlawfully and steal our wildlife.

Incursions into our territory

by illegal miners and wildlife raiders must be resisted in order to protect our natural resources. Criminal gangs, known as ‘sindicatos’, have been known to invade mining camps, blockade rivers and commit murders. The country’s frontier communities and their residents are

but effective Defence Force while counting on the cooperation of citizens in the event of a challenge to its territorial integrity,” President Granger explained.

TECHNICAL CORPS Improvements in the technical corps – particularly the

he told those present. Defence cooperation has also resulted in donations of equipment, training and participation in military exercises with friendly states. Such partnerships, he reasoned, has enhanced cooperation in combatting transnational crime and managing disasters.

Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President David Granger

the mobilization and training of reserves,” he explained.

JUNGLE TRAINING As it relates to training, he said the Force has re-focused its attention on operations in

President David Granger, Vice President and Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan; Chief of Staff, Brigadier Patrick West; and Officers of the Guyana Defence Force pose for the traditional ‘family’ photo. Also in the photo are: Minister of Finance Winston Jordan, Attorney General Basil Williams and Director-General Joseph Harmon. (Photos by Delano Williams)

vulnerable to attacks from these armed gangs,” the Commander-in-Chief said as he painted a vivid picture of the situation. Natural hazards, such as floods and drought that inflict destruction, distress and even death, are also cause for concern.

In light of those concerns, the Commander-in-Chief said the GDF has repositioned itself to better identify and deter threats to territorial integrity and the national patrimony.

“The past five years have witnessed the Force’s regularisation, reorganisation and recapitalisation,” he told the officers, while adding that “the Defence Force today is fit for role.”

He explained that the promulgation of a defence doctrine, the strengthening of the technical corps, the pursuit of defence cooperation with friendly countries and the implementation and organisational restructuring have improved the Force’s readiness to respond to threats.

“The Force’s overarching defence policy – the doctrine of Total National Defence – implies that all the elements of national power – diplomatic, economic, military, political, social and technological – will be employed to reinforce defence and promote economic development. This doctrine means that the nation must depend on an affordable

Air Corps, Engineer Corps, Signal Corps and Coast Guard – have enhanced the Force’s agility and capability, he related, while adding that the Air Corps’ fleet was augmented with the acquisition of light reconnaissance aircraft. Added to that, the Signal Corps benefitted from the acquisition of new communications equipment and training while the Engineer Corps received equipment to improve its responsiveness to climate hazards and promote greater stability and climate resilience in frontier communities particularly in the South Rupununi.

“The Force’s recapitalisation programme has been boosted by increases in Central Government’s budgetary allocations. The Force has received financial resources to improve its capabilities.

Budgetary allocations increased by more than 72.7 per cent from G$ 8.04 B in 2014 to G$13.9 B in 2019,”

As part of its policy to augment the Reserve, GDF has increased its Militia to nearly 1,500 persons from a low of 125 in January, 2015.

The presence of the Militia in the administrative regions has resulted in a timely response to threats and emergencies.

The Force’s institutional reorganisation policy, he said, has resulted in a more resilient architecture for the high command with the restoration of the appointments of Adjutant General, Inspector General, Quartermaster General and Commandant of the Militia.

“These changes allowed dedicated superior officers to pay undivided attention to discipline, recruitment and soldiers’ morale; to the improvement of soldiers’ living conditions; to the maintenance of a high state of operational readiness and to inter-operability with fraternal hemispheric armies and Caribbean defence forces and

the jungle, rivers and savannahs and to improving logistical support to soldiers in the field, in difficult weather and terrain, for long periods.

“The promotion of greater training in long-range jungle operations will ensure a more versatile force. It will better equip our Defence Force to help to protect the country’s biodiversity, mineral resources and the integrity of our environment,” he reasoned while disclosing that the Decade of Development will incorporate policies to better equip the Defence Force to protect the country’s natural resources, on land and at sea.

Generally, the Commander-in-Chief said the Force, today, is a superior organisation to what it was five years ago. “Public confidence in its

capabilities has been restored.

National defence, as a consequence, has improved. These improvements will continue over the next ten years,” he assured the military officers.

The Head of State also used the opportunity to brief the men in uniform on the transformative changes the country will undergo over the next 10 years. Under his leadership, Guyana is poised to become a Petroleum State, a Digital State, a Green State and an Education Nation.

During this period, President Granger said, the Defence Force will experience greater investments aimed at its continuous retooling and strengthening, and expansion of the Militia.

“The Coast Guard’s fleet and personnel will be increased, continuously, to provide greater security of economic activity in the EEZ,” he assured the officers, while explaining that “technological improvements will allow for better surveillance and policing of our maritime zone.”

Given the circumstances, the Commander-in-Chief said the Officers’ Conference 2020 should consider the Defence Force’s role in strengthening border and maritime defence and in ensuring the economic development of the country.

Chief-of-Staff of the Defence Force, Brigadier Patrick West; Vice President and Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan; Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Basil Williams; Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan; Director General of the Ministry of the Presidency, Joseph Harmon; and Commissioner of Police, Leslie James were among the officials present at the opening of the conference.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, January 17, 2020

Russian parliament backs Putin’s pick for PM after ‘January Revolution’

MOSCOW (Reuters) The Russian parliament overwhelmingly backed President Vladimir Putin’s surprise choice for prime minister on Thursday after what one daily called a “January revolution”, a major political overhaul that some say could set Putin up as leader for life.

The State Duma, the lower house of parliament, gave its backing to Mikhail Mishustin, a 53-year-old with almost no political profile, endorsing his nomination with 383 votes of 424 cast. Nobody voted against him; there were 41 abstentions.

Mishustin, who has headed the country’s tax service

and played ice hockey with Putin, said he would name his cabinet in the near future. Putin signed a decree appointing him prime minister soon afterwards. His elevation is part of a sweeping shake-up of the political system announced by Putin on Wednesday, which led to the resignation of Dmitry Medvedev as prime minister along with his government.

The changes are widely seen as giving Putin, 67, scope to extend his grip on power once he leaves the presidency in 2024. He has dominated Russian politics, as president or as prime minister, for two decades. The sudden and radical overhaul cements Putin’s control of the transition pro-

Mikhail Mishustin, who was nominated by Russian President Vladimir Putin as the candidate for the post of Prime Minister, delivers a speech during a session of the State Duma, the lower house of parliament, in Moscow, Russia January 16, 2020.

REUTERS/Evgenia Novozhenina

cess and is seen by some as an attempt to reduce intra-clan infighting between now and 2024.

The abrupt departure of Medvedev’s government also allows Putin to show he is responding to public discontent after years of belt-tightening and an unpopular pension age hike. Medvedev, head of the government since 2012, has been a lightning rod for Russians’ frustrations as he

has played steward to an economy buffeted by a 2014-16 downturn, Western sanctions and swings in the price of oil, Russia’s life blood. Real wages have been falling for over five years and have gradually eroded the government’s popularity ratings, raising the prospect they could start bleeding into Putin’s own ratings, analysts and critics of the Kremlin said. That was seen as a concern for the Kremlin ahead of a parliamentary election next year and as something that could make a smooth transition for Putin harder to achieve. “There were large suspicions that if this stagnation continued and everything remains as it is, then the make-up of the new (parliament) would be considerably less friendly toward the Kremlin,” said Vladimir Tikhomirov, chief economist at the BCS Financial Group.

Critics have long accused Putin, a former KGB officer, of plotting to stay on in some capacity after his term ends to continue to wield power over the world’s largest nation, which is also one of its two leading nuclear powers.

The constitutional reform proposals, which he set out on Wednesday and suggested should be put to a referendum,

would give him the option of taking an enhanced role as prime minister after 2024 or a new role as head of the State Council, an official body he said he was keen to build up.

PUTIN TO “RULE FOR LIFE”?

Opposition politician Leonid Volkov said it looked as though Putin was digging in.

“It’s clear to everyone that everything is going exclusively toward setting Putin up to rule for life,” he wrote on social media. The Kommersant business daily on Thursday called Putin’s shake-up “the January revolution”. The proposals looked, Kommersant wrote, like the start of many more changes to come.

Under the current constitution, which sets a maximum of two successive terms, Putin is barred from immediately running again for the presidency in 2024, but his supporters find it hard to imagine Russian political life without him. Putin remains popular with many Russians who see him as a welcome source of stability, even as others complain that he has been in power for too long and that their pensions and standard of living are being steadily eroded.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, January 17, 2020

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Study finds high level of confidence in the integrity of CCJ

PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, Jan 15, CMC – A study conducted by a German-based agency has found that there is a high level of confidence in the integrity and independence of the Trinidad-based Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ).

The study, conducted by the Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), the German corporation for international co-operation, also commended the CCJ, which was established in 2001 to replace the London-based Privy Council as

the region’s highest and final court, for its institutional design, organisational capacities and the competencies of the staff.

The CCJ which has both an Original and Appellate Jurisdiction, also functions as an international tribunal interpreting the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas that governs the 15-member regional integration system. The Judicial Integrity Scan study was based on the Bangalore Principles of Judicial Conduct which aim to establish standards of judicial integrity internationally. Additionally,

the Scan utilised Article 11 of the United Nations Convention against Corruption as a benchmark of good governance and integrity.

GIZ is a German federal organization that supports the German government in achieving its objectives in the field of international cooperation for sustainable development. It has in the past supported and continues to support the Judicial Integrity Group which developed the Bangalore Principles to promote compliance with judicial integrity standards.

The study found that the

CCJ had a high level of compliance with the Bangalore Principles in several respects, including having a Code of Judicial Conduct; the monitoring of its Judges’ compliance with this Code and the high level of public access to the Court’s hearings and judgments.

It noted that all hearings at the CCJ are live streamed and that this ensured a high level of transparency in Court decision-making. GIZ were also impressed with the manner in which judges were recruited and noted that the Regional Judicial

and Legal Services Commission (RJLSC), the institution that appoints the CCJ judges “guarantees a free and independent selection of judges based on ability and integrity, with the best candidate being selected among applicants”.

The study did suggest, however, that to further ensure that the CCJ is compatible with other courts of a similar nature, measures could be established for unsuccessful applicants to be given the opportunity to file a competition complaint as part of the selection process to the Court.

The study also considered that in order to strengthen public confidence in the CCJ, a gender balance among the judges should be sought in the future. Overall, the GIZ applauded the CCJ for being an independent and accessible institution, creating a distinct benefit for the people of the Caribbean as it continuously exemplifies “great transparency and openness”.

Bolivia exiled ex-president Morales retracts call for ‘armed militias’ LA PAZ (Reuters) - Bolivian former President Evo Morales retracted his call for the organization of militias in his home country on Thursday after the comments sparked outcry from its interim government.

“A few days ago, my words about the formation of militias were made public.

I retract them. My deepest conviction has always been the defense of life and peace,” Morales said in a statement tweeted from Ar-

Former Bolivian President Evo Morales

gentina, where he is living in exile. Morales told Reuters on Sunday that Bolivians had the right to organize and defend themselves, without firearms, from what he said

were attacks by Bolivia’s interim government, which he says took power in a coup late last year.

At the time, he confirmed that he was the voice in a recording played on Bolivian radio calling for creation of armed militias “as in Venezuela,” but said he meant slingshots rather than guns.

The comments prompted Bolivia’s interim government to send a letter to Argentine Foreign Minister Felipe Sola, asking that Argentina

disavow the comments made

by Morales.

“We have not received an answer yet, but in fact there has been an indirect response, implicit, in the warnings that the government of Mr. Fernandez has given to Mr. Evo Morales, warning that he should lower the tone of his statements and should not make the kind of threats that clearly border on crime,” Bolivia’s acting foreign minister, Karen Longaric, told journalists in La

Paz on Thursday.

A spokesman for Argentina’s foreign ministry declined to comment on whether the government had spoken to Morales about his comments. Morales, a former coca farmer who led Bolivia for almost 14 years, fled his home country in November after political unrest sparked by his controversial election win. After initially going to Mexico, he moved to Argentina, where he has continued to play a key and vocal polit-

ical role with his Movement for Socialism party ahead of new elections called for May 3.

Argentina’s center-left Peronist President Alberto Fernandez, who was inaugurated on Dec. 10, has previously supported Morales’ rights to speak freely, though granting him asylum has created tensions between his new administration and the United States.

World Bank pessimistic about Haiti’s economic growth PORT OF SPAIN, Haiti, Jan. 16, CMC – The World Bank has expressed pessimism about Haiti’s global economic outlook after negative growth in its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of – 0.9%

in 2019.

According to the World Bank, this negative trend should continue this year and in 2021 before a rebound in 2022.

The World body also said that in

addition to Haiti, two other economies will record negative growth in their GDP – they are Argentina and Nicaragua, however it is predicted that their economies should rebound in 2021.

World Bank analysts say that Haiti is the only country in the Latin America and Caribbean region to record a contraction in its GDP. The analysts also noted that growth in Latin America and the

Caribbean in 2020 should reach an average of +1.8 per cent , while that of global growth will amount to +2.5 per cent. The Dominican Republic remains the leader in the region, followed by Panama.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, January 17, 2020

Sir Clive Lloyd

WHEN the news broke that former Guyana and West Indies cricket captain Clive Lloyd was knighted by Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II in her recent New Years Honours List, many Guyanese and West Indians expressed their delight. Lloyd, and his former teammate, Barbados and West Indies opening batsman Gordon Greenidge were the two West Indian players on the esteemed list of individuals. Although most Caribbean countries have gained independence from Britain, and Guyana went one step further by becoming a republic, knighthood is still held in high esteem in the region.

From the legendary Frank Worrell and Learie Constantine, and the incomparable Garfield Sobers to Lloyd and Greenidge, West Indian cricketers have been recognised by the Queen for their contribution to the game that West Indian philosopher and thinker CLR James describes as one that goes “beyond the boundary”.

Clive Lloyd’s recognition is richly deserved. His name is synonymous with an era of West Indian and world cricket that stands out in the annals of cricket history, a period when West Indies dominated the sport for almost two decades. It is still the longest period that any team has dominated a team-sport.

Lloyd was the captain of the West Indian team for most of that period, from the mid1970s to the mid-1990s. He is hailed as the

architect of the strategy that set in train that era of dominance.

When he was named captain in 1974, the West Indies team had endured a prolonged period of decline, following the exploits of the Worrell-Sobers teams of the 1960s. He was given a very young and inexperienced team that was brutalised by the rampaging Australians in 1975-76. With a pair of lightning-fast fast bowlers in Dennis Lillee and Jeff Thompson, the ‘Aussies’ humiliated the West Indies with a 5-1 defeat. Lloyd vowed that the West Indies would fight fire with fire, and recruited a cadre of fast bowlers that would become the envy of the rest of the cricketing world. They were aided by a string of great batsmen, led by the imperious Vivian Richards and Lloyd himself.

The Lloyd era was remarkable, not just for the sheer skill of the players in every department of the game, but more importantly, it was a team imbued with a deep sense of nationalism. The players had a keen understanding of history and the Caribbean’s place in that history. They embodied James’ thesis that cricket for the Caribbean was not just a sport; it was a medium of political struggle and cultural liberation, or what Professor Hilary Beckles calls “Liberation Cricket”. One remembers when, in 1976, the then England captain promised to make the West Indies team grovel, how that statement ignited a political response from the team, which cor-

rectly interpreted it as a cultural insult laden with racial overtones.

As captain, Clive Lloyd was a master tactician. Yes, he had a talented team to work with, but the manner in which he marshalled his troops became the new standard for West Indian captaincy. His was an aggressive approach that was not reckless. He never backed down from a challenge, and trusted his players to express themselves in periods of challenge and crisis. The Clive Lloyd team believed they were unbeatable and unstoppable. Lloyd instilled that sense of confidence in his players, that they were equal human beings endowed with the skills, temperament and the capacity to absorb the energies of the people they represented.

In addition to being a great and inspirational leader, Lloyd was an equally great player in his own right. He remains one of West Indies’ greatest batsmen. His record speaks for itself. But it was the manner in which he scored his runs. Throughout his long career, he was known as one of the world’s most attacking batsmen. He hit the ball with tremendous power, especially off the backfoot, a skill that is matched only by Sir Clyde Walcott of the ‘Three Ws’ fame.

He was a handy bowler, starting as a leg spinner and later becoming a decent medium pacer. But the world will remember Clive Lloyd as perhaps the greatest outfielder of his generation. The “Super Cat”, as he was

known, was a sensation at cover-point where he saved so many runs for his teams. When injury curtailed his speed in the outfield, he became an equally great slip fielder, a skill that was an asset to the fast bowlers under his command.

As we salute Sir Clive, we also remember his contributions to the game after he retired. As a manager selector and ICC official, he brought the same thoughtful approach to his job. Many younger players credit their development to his mentorship. He is still active, and continues to give back to the game that made him the legend he his. Despite his fame, Sir Clive has remained a humble man. He is still the ordinary boy from Queenstown who conquered the world. His comments on learning of his knighthood tells it all: “It was a surprise, because I devoted over 50 years of my life to the great game of cricket, which has contributed vastly to my upward mobility in life. So, to be recognised and honoured for playing a sport which is so enjoyable, is a most pleasant surprise. I dedicate this to my parents, who taught me never to give up; to never let all the negative talk define you. I’d also like to acknowledge the players from the West Indies and Lancashire, who were all contributing factors to my success.”

I pray for a fair Elections process, with a list that is not bloated Dear Editor,

I note with interest the expanded role the Carter Centre intends to play in our upcoming General and Regional Elections.

On the face of it, every right thinking Guyanese should welcome individuals and groups offering to help by sharing their experiences and affection.

However, I boldly express a view held earlier.

It is this involvement, monitoring or intervening by external elements in important matters such as National Elections could be interpreted as a negation of what true Independence and sovereignty means.

It is and has always been my view, that if we are truly independent, is incumbent that our leaders and people be able to demonstrate the characteristics of maturity and have the intellectual strength to navigate through every troubled water.

Elsewhere, there are issues affecting powerful nations related to the question of “interference” in National Elections. These have made headlines. Guyanese should draw lessons from the underlying principles of what involvement or interference by external agencies, really means.

Sensible people with responsible Leaders must be able to identify the problems and difficulties and talk, talk and talk to find a modus vivendi.

When the Carter Centre became involved in Elections, you recall that there was abroad, the belief, that the mantra of the Carter Centre was regime change. In 1992, it is apt to be reminded that many voters whose names appeared on the posted Voter’s List in certain areas turned up on voting day to discover that their names were not on the list being used by the Staff of the Returning Officer.

There were three such examples in the Polling Division in Lodge, where I was a registered voter. It was clear that some lists given to the Elections Officers for use at some Polling places were compromised.

In the case Lodge Housing Scheme where this flaw was observed I complained to Mr. Rudy Collins, then Chairman of the Elections Commission.

He immediately dispatched the Senior Elections Officer, Mr. Stanley Singh who confirmed and was satisfied that the three names that did not appear on the list given to the Election Officials were there on the original list posted at the ground floor of the Enterprise Primary School in Lodge.

Mr. Singh removed that list which had the names of the three persons and suggested that that list be used since it appeared to be the authentic list, which was posted up earlier and seen by the Community. The Elections Officer informed Mr. Singh that the instructions were to use the list supplied to them that morning and no other.

It is no secret, that some of those lists were printed late the evening or early Election Day. In fact, in one Polling place in West Demerara, the list arrived after the official opening of polling (600 a.m).

The situation referred to above was replicated in other parts of Georgetown and we should recall there were near riots on Election Day in the City due to the frustration of persons who had earlier seen their names on the list posted, and names had disappeared on the list being used.

At the instance of the then President Hoyte, certain functionaries of the Carter Centre and Dr. Reid, they proposed and apparently accepted that persons finding themselves in this dilemma should be allowed to vote using a “Tendered Ballot.”

This was intended to appease the angry disenfranchised. Of course, a “Tendered Ballot” is not counted. Mr. Editor, you recall my strong

objection to this recommendation and deemed it the response of a school-boy to a serious and vexatious situation.

My other concern was that the Carter Centre personnel seem to concentrate their scrutiny in areas, which were known PNC strongholds and seem to cast a “Nelson’s eye” in certain of the areas.

I mention the above because I sincerely hope that GECOM and the contesting parties ensure that equal attention is paid to each and every area throughout Guyana by these foreign observers. If these “friends” cannot with equal fervor cover all areas in Guyana, and I state each and every area, it would be difficult to extend a warm welcome to them.

People who come from certain States of the USA will appreciate my concern expressed, for it was Abraham Lincoln, 16th U.S President who said “To sin by silence when they should protest makes cowards of men.”

I pray for a fair Elections process, with a list that is not bloated.

Regards Hamilton Green

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, January 17, 2020

Bharrat Jagdeo has failed the sugar workers, their families and communities

Dear Editor

Response is made to GAWU General Secretary Seepaul Narine’s letter, “The current Administration’s attitude and level of openness towards the sugar industry is bleaky” (KN 15th Jan 2020) My letter (GC 13th Jan, 2020), ‘Jagdeo has failed his constituents’ expressly stated “It is not being said that the Coalition Government has done a stellar job in handling the sugar industry.” What this statement means is that the government has not done a stellar job. That Seepaul seeks to twist my statement suggesting that I said the government has done a “stellar job” is mischievous and dishonest. Having set that aside, attention is turned to the other

extant issues.

I stand by my position that Bharrat Jagdeo, as President and Leader of the Opposition, has failed the sugar workers, their families and communities. This position has been arrived at after careful study of his handling of sugar in both constitutional offices.

As President he pumped over US$200 million into the failed Skeldon Factory, a debt we are now saddled to repay. It was during his administration preferential prices for sugar changed and the opportunity offered by the European Union (EU) at diversification squandered.

It does not suggest shrewdness in decision-making ignoring the reality that sugar producing countries were entering the EU and Guyana, a

non-member, would find it difficult to sell its product to the same people at the price we’re producing.

Further, whatever explanation was put forward as to the functioning of Diamond, it cannot be denied it was the Jagdeo government that closed the estate. His government thereafter converted those lands into housing. But those who toiled there, under harsh conditions, were given no special consideration for house lots. Anybody who knew Cheddie Jagan knows he would have offered the affected workers first preference to ownership.

Talking about what Khemraj Ramjattan et al purportedly said about sugar cannot deflect from the Jagdeo PPP management of the industry. The fact remains the PPP

has always projected itself as the friend and champion of these workers and its current leadership has done nothing more than betrayed them and their families.

You would have never heard under the Jagans any threat to de-recognise GAWU who is considered the industrial arm of the party. In December 2010 President Jagdeo threatened GAWU with de-recognition for standing up to GuySuCo on the workers’ behalf.

As Leader of the Opposition all he did was talk the talk but never walk the walk for sugar workers.

He spent a lot of time accusing the government of not caring for these workers but never laid before the government and or nation a plan to show he cares. Jagan would not

have done this.

This nation is well aware the management of GuySuCo is refusing to engage the sugar unions in collective bargaining to address increased wages and salary. Minister of Finance Winston Jordan commenting on this matter recently, reportedly “stressed that the union must sit with management to come up with a deal for satisfactory pay packages” (SN-Dec 6, 2019: Granger, Jagdeo differ on way ahead for sugar).

Said newspaper on 9th December 2019 reported, “GuySuCo’s Chief Industrial Relations Manager Deodat Sukhu, has said that the financials of the company shows that it cannot afford to pay an increase.

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The PPP has been backpedalling on a number of issues Dear Editor A KEEN political observer would not fail to recognise that there has been backpedalling by the Opposition Leader and General-Secretary of the PPP/C Bharrat Jagdeo on a number of issues of national importance. The most recent took place at the party’s Albion rally when Jagdeo stated, that President David Granger has, “dictatorial tendencies.” This was reported in the Stabroek News, Jan 13th 2020 edition in an article captioned, “Jagdeo flays Granger for dictatorial tendencies – at Albion rally.”

Before examining the opposition leader’s contention, it is pertinent that I list a few examples of Jagdeo and the PPP/C backpedalling on positions they took since the election season began with the successful no-confident motion.

These are as follows: (1) when Professor Clive Thomas predicted that the country will get huge revenues from the oil and gas discoveries, the opposition’s response was, “the revenues will be insignificant.” Now they have changed their tune, faced with the overwhelming evidence in support of Thomas’s contention.

(2) When the professor

and the WPA called for cash transfers to Guyanese households, that is, one million in Guyana dollars annually, Jagdeo and the PPP/C claimed that the economics of Thomas was flawed. And now they have included cash transfers in their manifesto.

(3) The PPP suddenly changed their hostile opposition to ex-military officers involvement in politics with Brigadier Mark Phillips as PM candidate.

(4) Jagdeo/PPP/C accused the Guyana Elections Commission of the intention to rig the elections: now comes the successful Nomination Day process that received high praise from the international community, Jagdeo said he is confident that GECOM will deliver credible elections.

(5) Now the PPP is no longer committed to the re-opening of closed sugar estates of which they were previously highly critical.

The above examples are sufficient to establish the premise of my argument.

Let me return to the central theme of the letter. Jagdeo’s stated position at the Albion rally is that Granger has dictatorial tendencies.

Subsequent to the no-confident motion, Jagdeo and the PPP/C had deemed President Granger a dictator. Now, in a significant shift, he says

that Granger has “dictatorial tendencies.” In political terms this is important. The President is now not a dictator, but has inclinations of being so. This new articulation by Jagdeo puts the President in a better light, since he is now seen like presidents worldwide, who are often accused of having dictatorial inclinations.

Put another way, having dictatorial tendencies may be a red flag, but it is far from crossing the “line.”

What is responsible for this about turn and its political significance? Given that the opposition leader was addressing supporters in his party stronghold, his new description of Granger if not a

slip of the tongue, is a major victory for the President and the APNU+AFC coalition in this election season.

Politicians and commentators must be trying to understand what is driving this new articulation by Jagdeo?

My sense is the PPP/C‘s leadership is faced with the reality of real politics. They are preparing in the event they lose the elections in having to deal with Granger as President post-elections and are thus resetting the political engagement. In other words, Jagdeo and the PPP/C are doing so to facilitate post-elections realities. At the Albion rally, the PPP/C’s leader is quoted as saying the PPP will be in

power for “…20,30,40 years in the future.” Jagdeo while engaging in his fantasy of election victory knows too well that the government to hold office after the elections will most likely be an APNU+AFC government.

As recent as their election launch at the Kitty rally, the PPP/C called Granger a dictator. A few days ago at Albion in Berbice, their stronghold, Jagdeo modifies the party’s position. If he had done so in Georgetown or Linden,

coalition strongholds in political terms, it would not be significant, since it could be seen as a tactical adjustment in the context of being in APNU+AFC territory. On the other hand, doing so in Berbice signals a retreat by the PPP/C leadership and an attempt by Bharrat Jagdeo to reposition his party’s politics for post-election survival.

Regards Tacuma Ogunseye

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, January 17, 2020

PPP ‘candidate’ invades school, assaults teacher –– Education Ministry, union condemn beating of teacher THE Ministry of Education (MoE) and the Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU) will be supporting the instituting of criminal charges against the attackers of the St Agnes Primary teacher, who was assaulted on Wednesday by alleged candidate of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), Sherwin Dalrymple and others.

The ministry also noted that it will be working towards measures to prevent such occurrences in the future. In a widely discussed viral video of the incident,

the party submitted its List of Candidates to the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM). “These people no good,” noted commenter, Kerry Sandiford, as she and others questioned the type of individuals the party associates with.

The MoE and GTU released a joint statement on Thursday denouncing the situation. “The MoE, in collaboration with GTU, wishes to react to the unfortunate and absolutely abhorrent incident which took place at the St. Agnes Primary School [on] January 15. At no time

People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) member, Sherwin Dalrymple, who allegedly assaulted a teacher last Thursday, is seen here in one of the party’s poster leading the procession

Dalrymple, of Campbellville, and an employee of Sleep Inn International Hotel, is seen circling and kicking the teacher, and pulling her hair, as someone in the background eggs him on.

The incident took place in a classroom of the Georgetown public school.

At least two young students of the school were witnesses to the entire episode of the assault, as seen in the video. In one of the posters for the PPP/C, Dalrymple is seen leading the party’s procession on Nomination Day, January 10, when

and under any circumstances would any form of violence in schools be condoned, especially when our students and teachers are involved,” the statement said.

“Any criminal act perpetrated by any parent or other person of the public on teachers, students or any member of the Education sector ought to be meted out with the fullest extent of the law. The Ministry has taken the position to assist victims in their pursuit of criminal proceedings against perpetrators in instituting the appropriate criminal charges. The

A screenshot of People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) member, Sherwin Dalrymple, from the viral video

Ministry and GTU offer their full support towards the prosecution of these assailants.

The public is assured that as investigations are underway, some crucial decision will be taken and instituted in an effort towards ensuring that incidents of this nature would not be repeated.”

The assault developed from a meeting between the teacher and parents to discuss another assault situation, whereby Dalrymple’s child, in similar fashion to his father, is said to have kicked another student, who was severely injured and had to be taken for medical attention.

“The police need to make examples of both of them; no wonder the child they are grooming allegedly kicked the other child in the school.

He’s doing what he’s used to seeing around him,” another commentater noted.

That assault between the students took place on Tuesday. The injured student’s parent had to seek private medical attention for their child. The head of the school had arranged a meeting, on Thursday, between the injured child’s mother, and the other student’s parents.

Dalrymple and his wife, and an aunt of their child went to the school and is alleged to have verbally abused the teacher during the discus-

sions, before his wife charged at her and began to physically assault the teacher, according to witnesses. The teacher subsequently retaliated.

In the video, the aunt is seen being restrained by another teacher, at the door of the room. The teacher and parent have since made reports to the police and sought medical attention.

The assault comes just months after another teacher, of the Winfer Gardens Primary School, was also assaulted by a parent, so severely that she required stitches for a head wound. The MoE and GPF are said to be investigating both incidents. With the GTU and MoE still in discussions for a new threeyear agreement, which would include negotiations for salary and other issues, GTU General Secretary had noted that in light of the severe risks teachers face, the Union will be lobbying for a risk allowance. ““In this new proposal, we’re asking for risk and emotional allowances for our teachers. We’re asking for that because we’re recognising teachers across this country, they’re exposed to all sorts of things,” GTU General Secretary, Coretta McDonald had said.

Tullow takes US$1.5B write-off due to disappointing drilling results TULLOW Oil plc (Tullow), which has interests in two blocks offshore Guyana, has taken a $1.5 billion write-off due to a reduction in the Group's long-term oil price assumption, disappointing drilling results in Guyana and the licence costs and write-down of value in other countries.

In a release on Wednesday, Tullow’s Executive Chair, Dorothy Thompson said that the company’s Board and Senior Management are nonetheless confident that the opportunities exist to improve operational performance, reduce our cost base, deliver sustainable free cash flow and reduce its debt.

“Tullow expects to report pre-tax impairments and exploration write-offs of c.$1.5 billion (c.$1.3 billion post tax) primarily due to a $10/bbl reduction in the Group's long-term accounting oil price assumption to $65/bbl and a reduction in TEN 2P reserves,” the company stated.

“Exploration costs written off are predominately driven by a write-down of the value of the Kenya and Uganda assets due to a reduction in the Group's long-term accounting oilprice assumption from $75/ bbl to $65/bbl. The remaining write-offs include Jethro, Joe and Carapa well costs in Guyana as a result of drilling results and Kenya Block 12A, Mauritania C3, PEL37 Namibia and Jamaica licence costs due to the levels of planned future activity or licence exits.”

On Guyana’s end, earlier in January, the UKbased company made another oil discovery offshore Guyana at the Carapa – 1 well in the Kanuku Block

Bharrat Jagdeo has failed the ...

Sukhu, who heads the GuySuCo’s negotiation team, related that the cash-strapped corporation does not have the revenue or cash flow to pay workers the requested increase” (GAWU hopeful of wage hike offer from gov’t). He further said that “position was made known to union representatives,” but this does not constitute collective bargaining. Collective bargaining entails sitting at the table, negotiating by examining various options with a view of arriving at resolution to the impasse.

Mr. Jagdeo has not taken a strident posi-

tion to GuySuCo’s violation of Sect 23 (1) of the Trade Union Recognition Act and its transgressing of the workers’ constitutional right (Article 147). Were he committed to those workers’ welfare he could have sought engagement with the Minister of Finance and President with a view of having this issue addressed and some form of remuneration granted.

Sugar workers held a special place in Dr. Jagan's heart. As Leader of the PPP and Opposition he would have taken strident positions on this matter, including calling out

GuySuCo and exhausting the political channel to secure resolution. Jagdeo has taken a different approach. His is one that seems to have made a calculated deduction that there is more political value in having the workers' grievances and economic dislocation unattended.

We must ask to what end or whose benefit.

In the last four plus years the Opposition has not aggressively pursued sugar workers' interest. Unapologetically I say Cheddie who fought all his life for the welfare of these workers would have ensured, at the political level, the atmosphere was

but the find was below predrilled estimates.

The Carapa prospect was initially estimated as a 200-million-barrel cretaceous target but the well drilled encountered approximately four metres of “good quality oil”.

It marked the company’s third oil find in Guyana --- after the Jethro-1 well and the Joe-1 well --- but the company said that would plug the well and abandon it.

“Expectations were high going into this,” David Round, an analyst at BMO Capital Markets had stated. “There will be a level of disappointment about the size.”

Tullow’s shares fell as much as 20 per cent as the news added to the doubt surrounding the company’s commercial viability of previous discoveries in Guyana which were found to contain heavy oil.

An initial analysis of the oil at the Jethro-1 well and Joe-1 well in the Orinduik block had showed that the finds are heavy crude with high sulphur content unlike the preferred light, low sulfur crude found in the Liza field operated

by ExxonMobil and its partners.

However, on Wednesday, Thompson stated that “fundamentals of our business remain intact” noting that the Board and Senior Management remain confident of the long-term potential of its high-quality exploration portfolio.

Tullow has a 60 per cent operated interest in the Orinduik block and a 37.5 per cent non-operated interest in the Kanuku block

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07

created for engagement between management and union. He would have doggedly pursued the arriving of an agreement at the negotiation table. Whereas Jagdeo is no Cheddie, it is not unreasonable to expect he would have learnt a few things from his predecessor, particularly the art of deal-making as it relates to politics and industrial relations.

Regards Lincoln Lewis

9

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday January 17, 2020

Three arrested in cannabis bust at John Fernandes wharf

A DRIVER and two porters were arrested, Thursday, at John Fernandes terminal at Back Road, Mandela Avenue, after the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) moved in and seized a quantity of cannabis that was destined for Suriname.

CANU’s Deputy Head, Leslie Ramlall, told Guyana Chronicle that the truck was parked at the John Fernandes terminal on the Back Road, Mandela Avenue and a quantity of narcotics was delivered to the truck driver.

He said the truck, GPP 4226, was carrying fertilizer formula that was destined for Berbice with the intention of having the narcotics taken to Suriname.

“At this time, we suspect it to be the overseas compressed cannabis commonly known as the poppy weed. In terms of quantity and persons who it might be connected to and all

CANU ranks escorting the three suspects and the bags of compressed cannabis into the agency’s headquarters

CANU Deputy Head, Leslie Ramlall

of that, we are still investigating,” Ramlall said.

He said CANU continues to be the leading agency in the fight against narcotics trade in and out of Guyana.

CANU, Ramlall said, has the suspects under its radar as investigations continue.

18 cops received marking machine training EIGHTEEN ranks from the Guyana Police Force received certificates after completing a two-day training in marking and registration of small and light weapons using the Micro-percussion Marking Machine.

The main objective of the training is to counter illicit proliferation and trafficking of small arms and light weapons and their ammunition and the Impact on Latin America and the Caribbean.

The training, funded by the European Union, was coordinated by the Organisation of America States.

It commenced last Tuesday and was conducted by Instructors Johanna Garcia, Alin Wilson and the Regional Project Co-

ordinator, Carlos Orozco Somoza.

The ranks that received the training are: Deputy Superintendent, Clifton Davis; Inspector, Winston Williams; Sergeant, Andy Gillis; Corporals Elijah Carruthers, Marley Vyphius, Kellon Thomas and John Persaud; Lance Corporal, Ackeem Bacchus; Special Lance Corporal, Jamaal Thornhill; Constables Kenrick Drayton, Ron Profitt, Steffon Duke, Randy Chesney and Shawn Grey from the Tactical Services Unit and Special Constable, Anthony Dean; Constable, Shemroy Peters; Corporal, Noel Adams from the Information Technology Department and Corporal, Timo Pollard from the Communication Department.

Alin Wilson (seated from left) and Johanna Garcia (seated at extreme right) with ranks who participated in the marking machine training

LED lights boost safety along Linden highway -- says residents

AFTER waiting for decades, the road to Linden from the Soesdyke junction is now being made visible for night time travel with energy-efficient LED lights. This groundbreaking development has caught the eyes of many living along the highway.

Small business owner, Sharon Holder, who resides in Kuru Kururu, where the first sets of lights were placed, noted her satisfaction with the project.

“Since I come on the Linden Highway, it’s about 18-19 years now and I always know it without light … So, it’s a good thing for me and all the residents in the area,” the businesswoman told DPI. Christian Mootilall, one of the fruit vendors within the same vicinity, also commended the lighting project that illuminates the Kuru Kururu portion of the highway.

Speaking to DPI, Mootilall said the project is “a very good one” and expressed his desire to see the entire highway outfitted with lights.

Further along the highway in Linden, taxi driver, Ron Higgins, who has been plying the Linden-Georgetown route for more than 10 years, said the lights enable road safety.

An emotional Higgins remarked, “there are a lot of accidents that happen, drivers knock down people and drive away and all these things. So, with the lights now, you would have a better chance to see people [using the road].”

Another taxi driver, Vandyke Orna, who prides himself

Vendor, Christian Mootilall praised the energy-efficient LED light project (DPI photo) Vendor, Christian Mootilall

as being one of the most seasoned drivers with approximately 28 years’ experience on the highway, observed that the lights will both ease discomfort and enhance business.

According to Vandyke, “when there weren’t any lights, I used to work but I had to focus more. So, now the light is there, it’s not going to put me a lot under of pressure to observe what’s in the corner or in my way.”

Under the Public Infrastructure Ministry, lights are being installed along the densely populated areas of the highway. Some of these areas include Kuru Kururu and Bamia. During the rehabilitation of the highway, the entire length from Soesdyke to Linden will be outfitted with lights. (DPI)

Accused rapist freed

ROMAL Jewan, was, on Thursday, January 16, 2020, acquitted from a rape charge, after being found not guilty by a jury, following a retrial at the Demerara High Court.

Jewan of Zeelugt, East Bank Essequibo, was on trial before Justice JoAnn Barlow at the Sexual Offences Court of High Court, Georgetown, for allegedly raping a 13-year-old girl on September 7, 2012.

The jury returned 11 not-guilty and 1 guilty verdict and Jewan was acquitted of the charge.

In October 2019, Justice Simone Morris-Ramlall had ordered that Jewan be retried

Romal Jewan

at the next practical sitting of the Demerara Assizes since the jury was unable to reach a verdict.

10

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, January 17, 2020

GDF to ‘beef-up’ maritime capacity ...chief-of-staff says investment in Coast Guard now crucial in light of oil sector

By Svetlana Marshall CHIEF-OF-STAFF, Brigadier Patrick West, while concurring with President David Granger that significant resources have been injected into the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) to transform its operation, said ocean patrol vessels, helicopters and off-road vehicles are needed to support adequately, the country’s emerging Oil and Gas Sector.

Brigadier West, in his address during the opening of the Annual Officers’ Conference at State House, said now that Guyana is an oil producing nation, the Guyana Defence Force must be better poised to tackle challenges that may arise so as to maintain safety and security.

“As the force continues this transformative process, ocean patrol vessels for the coastguards are necessary, helicopter for the air corps and more off-road vehicles are also necessary in order to ensure that at the force, we have the capability that is required to support an emerging oil nation,” the Chief-ofStaff said.

President Granger, in delivering the feature address, said his administration will continue to channel resources into the Defence Force, thereby enabling it to respond

to the needs of the Oil and Gas Sector. He said, as the country enters the Decade of Development 2020-2029, his administration will invest in the continuous retooling and strengthening of the GDF, with significant emphasis on the Coast Guard, whose primary responsibility is to safeguard the country’s maritime zone inclusive of the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

Brigadier West, however, was the first to admit that the Defence Force is now better equipped when compared with previous years.

“Our personnel are better resourced than in the preceding year and I am pleased to report also that we have a more active military education programme as well as an academic programme,” he told those present.

In providing a comparative analysis of the force’s performance, the Chief-ofStaff reported that in 2019, major emphasis was placed on human and infrastructural development.

“2019 saw an increased operational posture of the force, inclusive of active and integrated patrolling.

The plan for 2020 will see an increase in the number of patrols as well as the areas to be covered further expanded across our land and sea spaces,” Brigadier West said.

Chief-of-Staff, Brigadier Patrick West (Delano Williams’ Photo)

In 2019, the Defence Force trained 2,272 or 73 per cent of its ranks locally – an increase of 15 ranks when compared to 2018. In 2017, 61 per cent of the Defence Force received training.

Part of that 2019 figure presents the first batch of officers, who graduated with Associated Degrees in General Studies, having completed a two-year designed Standard Officers’ Course. Added to the 2,272 trained locally, some 317 ranks received regional and international training in 2019 compared to 197 in 2018 and 147 in 2017.

Of that number, 11 military personnel are currently in China undergoing STEM-related studies.

“The figures I alluded to, represent the force’s thrust to ensure that our ranks are adequately trained. We have

Outgoing Peace Corps director calls on First Lady

FIRST Lady, Mrs. Sandra Granger, on Wednesday afternoon, received a courtesy call from outgoing United States Peace Corps, Country Director, Ms. Kury Cobham, and the organisation’s Director of Programming and Training, Ms. Yemi Oshodi, at her State House office.

Ms. Cobham, who has

held the post Country Director since January 2017, will complete her tour of duty at the end of January 2020. During the meeting, she said the Peace Corps and the Office of the First Lady share many common interests, especially in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), Literacy and Health

and Family Life Education.

She noted that the two entities have shared a very pleasant relationship over the years and expects same to continue and mature into very meaningful collaborations.

Mrs. Granger thanked Ms. Cobham and wished her well in her future endeavours.

to ensure in 2020 that we continue to invest in training and the development of our human resources,” he told the government, military and police officials present.

Education and training aside, Brigadier West reported that the Defence Force, in 2019, established an Engineering Services Department, and increased its fleet of aircraft to include Sky Vans, Islanders and a Beechcraft.

Pilots, he said, underwent training in the U.S. Administratively, during 2019, major focus was placed on troop accommodation, and improved quality of life and improved services. In moving forward, the Chief-of-Staff said there will be greater planning, accountability, adherence to procurement policies and better management of budgetary allocations and

resources. “We will continue to embrace international bodies, propose bilateral and multilateral cooperation so as to provide the necessary assistance for the attainment of our goals,” he added.

The conference was held under the theme, ‘Effective Transformation for Total National Defence.’

Official records of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) show that in a period of two years, under the Granger-led Administration, $2.5B in equipment were donated by China, while the force’s budgetary allocation was increased by 74 per cent.

In less than four years, more than 400 men and women in uniform, from the defence force, have been granted scholarships to pursue higher education.

According to the records seen by the Guyana Chronicle, between 2017 and 2018, the Chinese People’s Liberation Army contributed $2.5B in engineering and other equipment to the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), thereby, boosting the force’s capacity to respond to the needs of the country.

Buses, patrol boats, bulldozers, an excavator, water tankers, fuel tankers, tipper trucks and off-road ambulances were among the equipment donated. Added to that, technical and military officers

from the People’s Liberation Army conducted a series of training sessions with the GDF troops, on the use of the equipment.

Aside from the contributions made by external forces, the government has ramped up the GDF’s financial resources. In 2013, the GDF received approximately $7.2B. The following year, the Defence Force was allocated $8.044B; however, from then to now (2019), it has seen a 74 per cent increase. According to the force’s records, in 2019, it received $14.019B, of which $12.977B was allocated for recurrent projects and programmes, and $1.042B for capital expenditures.

Since 2015, there has been significant recapitalisation of the Air Corps. The force’s hangar, offices and operation centre have undergone rehabilitation, while a passengers’ lounge with modern facilities (baggage scanner) has been constructed. Notably, the GDF has acquired four fixed-wing aircraft – two Britten Norman Islanders and two Shorts Sky Vans.

Additionally, added to its fleet is a Beachcraft King Air 350 Corporate aircraft.

In the pipeline are plans to acquire four rotor-wing aircraft by the end of 2020.

‘Shawny’ sentenced to life imprisonment for 2017 murder HIGH Court Judge Justice Jo-Ann Barlow sentenced 31-year-old Shawn Harris called ‘Shawny,’ to life imprisonment, with the possibility of parole after serving 20 years, for the 2017 murder of Sunil Singh called ‘Grey.’

The sentence was handed down on Thursday, January 16, 2020 at the Demerara High Court.

Singh was killed, by Harris, in the vicinity of the Blue Martini nightclub in Owen Street, Kitty on February 5, 2017.

Harris was represented by attorney-at-law Maxwell McKay, while the State was represented by prosecutors Shawnette Austin and Sarah Martin.

The Judge explained that there was a possibility that Harris could be rehabilitated, if given the chance. However, the court also considered that Harris escaped from Lusignan Prison and also had

Shawn Harris called ‘Shawny’

prior convictions. He was ordered to undergo counselling.

According to reports, patrol ranks went to the Blue Martini Nightclub and closed the club about 02:45hrs on February 5, 2017, after which they left.

However, shortly after, according to Charles Valenzuela, an employee of the nightspot, three men arrived and wanted to enter the club.

At that point in time, the young man informed them that the club was closed and that resulted in an argument,

during which one of the men stabbed Valenzuela to his left arm.

Singh, who was present at the time, intervened and was trying to make peace when the suspect dealt Singh a ‘lash’ to his head.

Singh then reportedly ran north into Railway Street, Kitty, and was pursued by his attacker, who caught up with him and stabbed him several times.

Both Singh and Valenzuela were rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, where Singh was pronounced dead; Valenzuela was treated and sent away.

In 2016, Harris was released from prison after serving a sentence for drug trafficking. He had also served time for the Bank of Baroda robbery committed at Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara, on January 22, 2016.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, January 17, 2020

GAICO plugs $$$ into Anira Foundation

FIRST LADY, Mrs. Sandra Granger, on Wednesday, received a monetary donation from GAICO Construction and General Services Incorporated, which will go towards the work being done by the Anira Foundation.

The company’s Managing Director, Mr. Komal Singh and the Business Development Director, Mr. Khishan Singh, presented the cheque during a meeting with the First Lady in her State House office.

Mrs. Granger, a Director of Anira Foundation, a not-forprofit company which was officially launched last December, expressed her appreciation to GAICO for the kind gesture. The First Lady said she is thankful that the company recognises the impact of her work.

In an invited comment, Mr. Khishan Singh said that GAICO admires the efforts being made by Mrs. Granger to assist vulnerable persons and it is happy to contribute to her cause. GAICO is a locally-based company which provides construction, marine, oil and gas and geo-technical services. (Ministry of the Presidency)

First Lady, Mrs. Sandra Granger collects a cheque from GAICO’s Business Development Director, Mr. Khishan Singh. The monetary donation will go towards the work being done by the Anira Foundation

First Lady, Mrs. Sandra Granger (centre) with Managing Director of GAICO, Mr. Komal Singh (left) and the company’s Business Development Director, Mr. Khishan Singh (right).

Guyanese youths and their expectations of the ‘Mother of all elections’ WITH the momentum of Guyana’s regional and general elections picking up, several persons have been weighing in on their expectations for this season.

Many young persons have related their varying expectations across their social media platforms. The Guyana Chronicle interviewed several students of The University of Guyana(UG) to gather their views on what is being called “the Mother of Elections”. The students expressed their views of the electoral process so far, as well as their expectations post-election March 2020.

International relations student, Luanna Moore, gave her opinion on the current status of the electoral process, calling on the varying political parties to have a change in their modus operandi. “Don’t be on your campaign trails telling people what the other parties haven’t done, tell them what you will do, what you can do and what you will try your best to do, that’s what we want to hear, that’s what the people want to know about, that’s what you should use to get the people to vote for your party, not vote for me cause this one didn’t do this, or that one didn’t do that,” Moore said.

Further she stated that for post-Election 2020, she would like to see the involvement of youths at a higher level. She explained that although many of the representatives of the varying political parties are boasting programmes and initiatives that would ‘benefit’ youth, she feels that there is a divide when older persons are placed in charge of those initiatives and programmes, as they, the older persons, would be somewhat detached to the plight of the younger persons, due to difference in experience.

“The older persons are so indifferent to the issues that young people face that sometimes when you ask them [a] question on policies and so on, that they would use to alleviate these issues, they do not even have answers to it, and this is just because they cannot relate to these issues, because of the change in time from when they would have been a young adult,” Moore explained.

Further Moore stated that she is looking forward to all of the political parties maintaining a level of order and respect as they campaign further into the election season.

“I cannot trust a politician to have respect for me, if they can’t have respect for the person running for the same office as them. If they’re out here name calling and dragging each other through the dirt, I wouldn’t trust them to be my leader,” she said.

Moore further pointed out that these offices are supposed to be the highest offices in the country and that the persons who are vying for them should possess a certain level of respectability.

Another student, Donovan Cupid, said that he observed that the citizens of the country are somewhat blurring the line that govern an individual’s right to express their political views.

He explained that his understanding is that anyone can have trust in the policies of whatever political party they choose and that, that must not divide the country. He stated that he has noticed that persons have not been respectful of their fellow citizens’ rights to freedom of choice. “Solidarity and unity, that’s what we should all be striving for,” he said, and added that this is pivotal to any country’s development, stating that after the election, regardless of what party wins, the country

still has to press on and that that can only be achieved through unity.

Cupid further stated that he believes that the systems are in place to facilitate a free and fair elections saying, “As I see now, I would like to believe that GECOM is very prepared and the electoral bodies, as well as the electoral observers, are in full force in Guyana, such as the Carter Centre as well as the Ethnic Relations Commission are standing to make sure that this election is free and fair, as well as the ABC countries, which consist of America, Britain and Canada.”

The Guyana Chronicle interviewed a third student, Courtlee Rodrigues, who said that he was expecting to see three things from this election season, those being free and fair elections, change of approach in how the parties are operating, the inclusion of youths, mental and physically disabled persons and minority groups.

“I expect free and fair elections. I expect a certain degree of respect that we haven’t seen over the years because the political climate, in my opinion, it has been changing constantly and there are more youths involved now, I would like to believe, than there was in the history of Guyanese politics.

I would like to see the youths involved. I expect to see the youths more involved and I expect for a platform to be given to youths, and people living with disabilities as well. Third thing I expect coming out from this election would be an air of mutual agreement to inform the process and not the old-politics approach,” Rodrigues explained.

Rodrigues further stated that he had noticed several of the parties employing what he called ‘colonial method’

politics to divide and rule the people of the country so as to serve their own agenda.

“It’s the same method that was used in the colonial era to say that this person is that, don’t side with them, it’s been quite some time and we haven’t been able to work it out. And we also see high levels of racial levels and it can be said that this is being perpetuated from the very

top of our society and it’s very sad.”

Rodrigues further made the comparison of the country pre 2015 elections and current day stating that since that time, persons have moved away from being completely dependent on government intervention for their livelihood and that they have moved toward becoming their own

entrepreneur, and toward educating themselves toward better opportunities.

He contends that whatever the outcome of the March 2020 elections, in his estimation the citizens of the country would still have to avail themselves to varying opportunities that would enable them to benefit from the wealth that Guyana has to offer.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday January 17, 2020

GGMC collaborates with MoPT to address stakeholder challenges ACTING Commissioner of the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC), Newell Dennison, on Wednesday, January 15, 2020 signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Ministry of Public Telecommunications’ (MoPT) Industry and Innovation Department.

According to a release from the ministry, this collaboration is specifically to host a GGMC-specific Hackathon during this first quarter of 2020.

Dennison noted that his agency is intent on enhancing the quality of services the Commission provides to its clientele, stakeholders, customers and the public service.

MoPT said it sees an opportunity through the collaboration to involve more of Guyana’s young ICT skills to resolve public service delivery issues.

The release said Mr. Dennison signed the Agreement along with MoPT’s Permanent Secretary, Derrick Cummings, GGMC’s Deputy Commissioner, Dianne McDonald, and MoPT’s Training Coordinator, Donnella Collison.

In brief remarks, the Commissioner said that everything is being done by GGMC to ensure the mining sector continues to develop. He noted that the sector will grow faster

GGMC Commissioner (acting) Newell Dennison and Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Derrick Cummings, exchange signed copies of the MoU in the GGMC’s Boardroom From left: PS MoPT Derrick Cummings, GGMC Commissioner (acting) Newell Dennison, and Training Coordinator, Donnella Collison

and more efficiently with the integration of Information Technology designed to capture and analyse data through a dedicated, user-friendly online platform.

Minister of Public Telecommunications, Cathy Hughes, had said in a recent interview that every MoPT event results in a working

product which addresses community and national challenges. “The most recent is the online Farmers’ Market which was developed by Innovative Systems, winner of the Ministry’s 48-hour Hackathon in 2017. That app has been in refinement since then, and was first introduced to the Guyanese public during the Caribbean Telecommunications Union’s (CTU) Roadshow held in Guyana in

2018,” the release reported Minister Hughes as saying.

MoPT and InnoSys have since been training National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI) Extension Officers, field staff in the Ministry of Agriculture and the New GMC, and farmers in the uses and benefits of the farm produce online market platform. The release said too that supermarket owners and large-scale food producers have also been familiarized with the app.

Essequibo newspaper vendor died from gunshot wounds-- autopsy finds THE autopsy conducted on Sham Bharrat Chunnilall Mannilall, 48, a newspaper vendor of Queenstown, Essequibo Coast, revealed that he died as a result of multiple gunshot injuries.

The autopsy was conducted on Thursday by Government pathologist, Dr. Nehaul Singh at the Suddie Mortuary.

Family members, still distressed over the entire ordeal, said they are satisfied with police actions that have led to three persons being remanded. The wife of the deceased, Rita Terbeni, said they are currently preparing for Mannilall’s funeral.

The community of Queenstown has also organised a candlelight vigil Friday night to remember the deceased.

On Wednesday, three young men were charged for the murder of the newspaper vendor. They were brought before Magistrate Faith Mc Gusty at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court where they were not required to plead to the capital offence.

Those charged were Carlton Carter, his brother Carl and Delhoya McKenzie.

The charge read that on January 10, 2020, at Queenstown, Essequibo Coast, they murdered Mannilall during the course or furtherance of a robbery. The matter was transferred to the Anna Regina Magistrate’s Court for January 29, 2020.

Dead: Sham Bharrat Chunnilall Mannilall

The trio will remain on remand.

According to a police report, on the day in question, around 20:00hrs, Mannilall and his the family were about to enter their Queenstown, Essequibo Coast home when they were confronted by two masked men, both wearing helmets and armed with a handgun and a cutlass.

Subsequently, the firearm was discharged hitting Mannilall to his chest, shoulder and the right side of his abdomen, after which both men fled the scene.

Mannilall was rushed to the Suddie Public Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival. The police subsequently launched an investigation, as a result of which the trio was arrested and charged.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, January 17, 2020

File on ‘wedding house’ killing submitted to DPP

-- two expected to be charged A FILE has been submitted to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) as police seek to charge two men for the murder of Rudendra Persaud, 26.

He died from injuries received during a scuffle Sunday last at a Non Pareil, East Coast Demerara (ECD) wedding house.

The file was submitted on Thursday. Both suspects were detained on Tuesday after turning up at police stations with attorneys.

One of the suspects was identified as 20-year-old Errol Thapordeen, called “Buffy”, of Enterprise, East Coast Demerara. Police had issued a wanted bulletin for his arrest.

Police said Rudendra Persaud was injured during “disorderly behaviour at the wedding house”. Persaud, 26, of Foulis, ECD, succumbed while receiving medical attention following the incident.

The man was at his cousin’s wedding celebrations when a gang allegedly began to attack some guests. It is alleged that he had intervened in a fight that started between the men and some guests.

Police said Persaud had left for home and was later found lying in a pool of blood.

Relatives told Guyana Chronicle that no one knew how the incident started but the relatives of the bride and groom were in the yard and on the road at the wedding house

when they observed a commotion some distance away on the road.

Prior to that, the mother of the dead man, according to his aunt, was constantly looking for him in the wedding house to ensure that he was okay.

“We had a bar out there and so we selling. I was busy, then my sister come one time and say you see Boyo? So, I said yes, look he stand up over that one side, that is right, opposite the neighbor. So she go and she talk and see he and she come in back,” the aunt of the deceased told this publication.

The woman said she was alerted to a fight on the road but was not aware that it was someone who was part of the wedding involved.

“Meh sister and brother-inlaw said where Boyo deh again and my sister said you better go and see if is he gone till at the end so, because watch them get a set of boys deh, deh got a fight there like and with a set of stick in dem hand,” the aunt recalled.

She said while her sister went in the direction of the strange young men, she remained at her wedding house but sent her husband behind her sister and brother-in-law to see what was happening.

“So she said now watch how them boys this a beat people pickney hay and that is not right…”

The woman said the boys also attempted to hit her but she indicated to them that if they

Man accused of murder found guilty of manslaughter

Trevor Amsterdam called ‘Sougie’ and ‘Soldier’

THIRTY-SIX -YEAROLD Trevor Anthony Amsterdam was, on Thursday, January 16, 2020, sentenced to 19 years’ imprisonment by Justice Sandil Kissoon at the High Court after he pleaded guilty to the charge of manslaughter.

Amsterdam called ‘Sougie’ and ‘Soldier’ was charged with murder, but opted to plead guilty to the lesser count of manslaughter.

He admitted that. on November 10, 2015, at Bagotstown, East Bank Demerara, he unlawfully killed Jermaine ‘Lapsy’ Simon.

The Guyana Chronicle had earlier reported that Simon and Amsterdam had

Jermaine ‘Lapsy’ Simon

a feud over a woman and other gang-related issues.

It is alleged that Simon was shot by Amsterdam but subsequently died while receiving treatment at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation.

Two days after Amsterdam allegedly killed Simon, his home went up in flames.

Simon, before his death was wanted by the police for the murder of 19-year-old Ryan Sooklall called ‘Plyboard’, who was gunned down in a Providence, East Bank Demerara shop on March 1, 2015, by members of his own gang.

Sooklall was shot in the back and was pronounced dead at the Diamond Diagnostic Centre.

Arrested: Errol Thapordeen

wanted to enjoy themselves, they could come at the wedding house but that no fighting should take place.

However, within seconds, the violence again erupted.

Dead: Rudendra Persaud

“By then that the music boy came out and ask what wrong, if y’all alright and by the time he said that, wood start pelt pon he bla dam bla dam ah him face and meh hold meh

sister hand and me meh push meh neighbour and meh seh y’all come on, y’all move out, move, come leh awe go, them boys them dis ignorant,” she further explained.

The commotion also caused the groom to leave his bride and went to inquire what was going on and he too received a lash on his hands.

After the family and guests returned to the house, the mother of Rudendra Persaud again began inquiring about her son.

This time, she said something seems wrong and she

decided to return to the location where the gang of boys was.

After she returned to the location, she pleaded with the boys not to hurt her and said that she was just looking for her son as she was not finding him.

“One of them said ‘oh aunty, ah you son you a look for’, he said watch one boy lay down there, he get lash and lay down there.”

When the woman saw her son, she raised an alarm.

He was rushed to the hospital where he succumbed.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, January 17, 2020

Alleged sexual assault by senior officer under investigation

-- administrative decision shortly, police commissioner says COMMISSIONER of Police, Leslie James, said the Administration of the Guyana Police Force will make a decision shortly on the allegation that a senior member of the force sexually assaulted a female journalist. He said in the interim, the senior officer has been relieved of his duties.

“He (the accused) was stood down from his actual duties and an administrative decision would be made shortly,” the police commissioner told reporters, when approached on the matter on the margins of the Guyana Defence Force’s Annual Officer’s Conference at State House on Thursday. The Guyana Chronicle has been informed that the senior officer is attached to the force’s headquarters, Eve Leary, Georgetown.

The alleged sexual assault reportedly happened on November 25, 2019, but was not reported to the Guyana Police Force until this month. Reports indicate that

the incident reportedly took place after the journalist approached the officer seeking information on an operation he oversaw.

Since the filing of the report, the police have obtained a statement from the victim, and a medical examination has been conducted. The result is pending, the police commissioner said.

The commissioner of police also confirmed reports that a number of senior officers were aware of the incident before an official report was lodged. “We are not officious, we respond base on reports. Indeed the alleged victim spoke to a number of officers prior to her making an actual report. She apparently was undecided, that much I would say at this point,” James told reporters.

He maintained that the matter is under active investigation by the Guyana Police Force.

UG pledges to serve marginalised communities

PROFESSOR Paloma Mohammed, Deputy Vice-Chancellor with responsibility for Philanthropy, Alumni and Civic Engagement (PACE) and Chair of the Transitional Management Committee, University of Guyana (UG) and her team have pledged to ensure the development of marginalised communities.

This was related on Thursday at the launch of the Caribbean School of Data (CSOD) at the University of Guyana’s Turkeyen Campus.

As such, PACE is currently focused on crafting and supporting sustainable programmes towards the development of communities with inequalities and ensuring that the “University influences those communities positively and instrumentally.”

In 2020, Professor Mohammed said the team has a number of literacy and numeracy programmes that they are working on including a Mathematics and Science project.

“This is an advanced Math and Science programme for students just getting into secondary schools, where we’re going to bring them into the university com-

munity over five semesters... and expose them to advanced Maths and Science methodologies and concepts,” she explained.

The creation of a football programme is also in the pipeline. For this project, the sport will be used to teach Mathematics and positively work with youths at the primary level in schools in and out of the Georgetown area.

The programme will also provide mentorship for students to assist them with homework, as well as social and emotional issues.

Additionally, Professor Mohammed stated that they are currently working on the ‘University of Guyana’s Blueprint to 2040’, which includes the objective of seeing at least one individual in each household graduate from the University.

“It is our architectural design map of what the University in the future – 20 years from now – is going to look like. One of the fundamental lynchpins of that blueprint is our IT infrastructure and this aspirational goal that we would like at least to see one graduate… per household in the country.” (DPI)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, January 17, 2020

‘I AM US’ - Promoting Unity and Solidarity Among All Guyanese WHAT are WE fighting for? We all have the same colour Blood in our veins – an Excerpt from the Movie ‘I AM US’ The Ethnic Relations Commission premiered the Guyanese written, directed and produced movie ‘I AM US’ on January 16, 2020.

The screen adaptation of

to show Guyanese not to ‘build fences’, but rather to break them down and live together harmoniously, and practice the nation’s motto, ‘One People, One Nation, One Destiny’.

Minister of Social Cohesion, George Norton, stated that the movie comes at a time when the country is

Minister of Social Cohesion Dr. George Norton at the Premier of ‘I AM US’

the popular stage play, was developed by the ERC in an effort to spread the message of unity and togetherness, especially in the current political climate of the country.

The play, which was written

by Guyanese writer, Neaz Subhan, showcases several of the social issues that Guyanese encounter around the election season. Issues such as racism, neglect of the ‘minority races’ and discrimination, were among some of the issues highlighted by the writer’s portrayal of Guyanese families and friends in the height of an elections season.

Chairman of the ERC, Reverend Dr. John Oswald Smith, stated that the main takeaway the ERC wishes for persons who have had the opportunity to view the movie, is that they must be open to working together to foster harmony among the main six races in our nation.

“I trust that this movie will enable all of us to become ambassadors for peace and that we will try to ensure that we all live in harmony in this dear land of Guyana, we are all Guyanese, it doesn’t matter the strain of our hair, we are all Guyanese,” Dr Smith said.

He further stated that the idea behind the movie was

facing ethnic division in the current political climate, and expressed that the moral being portrayed will give the Guyanese citizens the chance to have a look at how division affects the development of the country.

“There is no secret that elections in Guyana usually come with some form of tension and that is unfortunate, and if we are to be brutally honest with ourselves, most of it centres on racial hostility. I believe the airing of ‘I am us’ showcases the efforts of the department of social cohesion towards fostering peace and maintaining harmony within our borders, not just during elections, but especially at elections time. I am happy that ‘I am us’ does not sugar coat the challenges that comes with our elections. It is an honest portrayal of what we witness and in many cases, even what we become at elections time.

It is my hope that this film would promote introspection and inspire behaviour changes in our society,” Dr Norton said.

Minister Norton further reminded citizens that the country will continue to function post-election 2020 and that they should not allow this season to push them to create a divide that

Chairman of the ERC, Reverend Dr. John Oswald Smith

will not be easily mended.

He explained that a country divided cannot progress and achieve its true potential.

The Ethnic Relations Commission encourages members of the public to take advantage of the free viewing of the movie ‘I AM US’ at the Caribbean Cinemas at the Giftland mall beginning January 17 to January 24 2020.

Several of the persons at the premier related that the message being promoted by the movie is one that could be used to change the way Guyanese act during the

election season.

The Guyana Chronicle interviewed one of the viewers of the movie, Karen Van Sluytman, who stated, “I believe that the movie is sending a clear picture, it portrays how we as Guyanese act during this political season and how that division can hinder the progress of the nation.” She said that she would encourage as many members of the public to see the movie and to get the chance to have what could be seen as an eye opener.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, January 17, 2020

First Googlesponsored data school launched GUYANA is now the third Caribbean country to benefit from a regional initiative to enhance digital literacy among marginalised youth populations.

The Caribbean School of Data (CSOD) is an initiative of Google and the Caribbean Open Institute (COI) which is to be launched in seven Caribbean countries.

CSOD aims to train at least 1,500 youths in each of the selected countries within two years.

The launch of the school in Guyana took place at the University of Guyana’s (UG) Turkeyen Campus on Thursday. The other collaborators in the project are the University of the West Indies’ Mona School of Business Management and Slash Roots Foundation.

Dr. Maurice McNaughton, the Director of the Centre of Excellence and Innovation at Mona campus, stated that the training programme was imperative as today’s world was largely reliant on technology.

“When we talk about the digital economy, it is not a question if the digital economy is coming. It is here,” the director asserted.

Dr. McNaughton continued, “our interactions whether in commerce, whether an economic activity or social activity, is taking place through digital interaction.”

He added that the importance of data could not be overlooked even in Guyana’s new oil economy.

“One of the things that fuel the digital economy is data. Data is considered as the oil that fuels this digital economy, in as much as oil is a dominant resource in the physical economy. Digital literacy is imperative.”

According to the director, the programme’s curriculum is unique as it allows students to access course materials on mobile devices. It also includes facilitator-led sessions and others that present students with real-life situations to practice their skills.

He noted that the programme was also designed to provide internships and employment opportunities for the trainees.

UG’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Chair of the Transitional Management Committee, Professor Paloma Mohammed, said that the university, and more specifically her department, Philanthropy, Alumni and Civic Engagement (PACE), would be especially interested in the programme.

She related that they were working on the ‘University of Guyana’s Blueprint to 2040’, which is a guide to what the university should look like and accomplish within the next 20 years.

“One of the fundamental lynchpins of that blueprint is our IT infrastructure and this aspirational goal that

we would like at least to see one graduate, […] per household in the country.”

“When you think about how that could work, the idea of how you get to people to train them, how you reach them, how you sustain them and how you make them employable is what that aspiration is about. So, seeing this worked out in this way is something that we’re very interested in,” Dr. Mohammed said.

She added that her office would donate $1M toward the development of the CSOD project.

The training programme will cover several key areas such as Foundations of Being Digital, Productivity Tools for Digital Workers, Social Media and Web Applications, Data Fundamentals, and Critical Thinking and Problem Solving. (DPI) Photo saved as people Caption: From left: Lenandlar Singh, Senior Lecturer, Department of Computer Science, UG; Penelope DeFreitas, Head, Computer Science Department, UG; Professor Paloma Mohammed, Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Chair of the Transitional Management Committee, UG; Dr. Maurice McNaughton, Director, Centre of Excellence & Innovation, Mona School of Business Management, UWI; and Dr. Troy Thomas, Dean Natural Sciences Faculty, UG (DPI photo) (From left to Right) Lenandlar Singh, Senior Lecturer, Department of Computer Science, UG; Penelope DeFreitas, Head, Computer Science Department, UG; Professor Paloma Mohammed, Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Chair of the Transitional Management Committee, UG; Dr. Maurice McNaughton, Director, Centre of Excellence & Innovation, Mona School of Business Management, UWI; and Dr. Troy Thomas, Dean Natural Sciences Faculty, UG.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, January 17, 2020

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Oil--says market expert optimistic Guyana will succeed in O&G sector leaders aware of potential dangers, putting mechanisms in place for success

By Navendra Seoraj

GUYANA is a fledgling petro-state, which started production of oil on December 20, 2019, and despite the imminent challenges the country will face in the years to come, Oil Market Expert and President of RAPIDAN Energy Group, Robert McNally believes that Guyana will “surprise on the upside.”

In expressing his optimism about the country’s future in the global oil and gas industry, McNally said: “everyone seems to be aware of the challenges and there are also outreach and help that is coming to the country…I am, therefore, optimistic that Guyana is going to surprise on the upside.”

Speaking at the Centre for Local Business Development (CLBD)’s first “Join the Conversation” exercise on Thursday, the oil expert said, Guyana, unlike other countries, will be able to absorb and build on the experience from countries, which have failed and succeeded in the management of their oil and gas sector.

“Guyana has the benefit of many decades of failure and some successes in other countries with their oil…some are next door in Venezuela and then there are successful countries like Botswana and Norway,” said the oil expert, adding that there are a lot of international organisations and a lot of people, who have seen the failure of some petro-states and do not want to see Guyana repeat those mistakes, so they are assisting.

McNally being cognisant of the elections period, was optimistic that in addition to international assistance, local leaders will be able to capitalise on all the benefits that will flow from the sector and will also be able to overcome the potential challenges. He believes that both leading political parties have a similar, productive and progressive attitude about how to handle the oil wealth.

“And it is for those reasons I am optimistic about the country’s success…I didn’t meet anybody who says this is going to be an easy ride…there will be ups and downs and those challenges include making sure you preserve your gorgeous beauty and other industries, and also avoid the Dutch disease,” said the oil expert .

He commended the coalition APNU+AFC government for already putting mechanisms in place to ensure that potential challenges are avoided. Among the things he acknowledged was the establishment of the Natural Resource Fund (NRF), which is geared at ensuring that the country’s resource wealth, benefits both current and future generations. The NRF Act incorporates oversight, accounting, reporting and auditing mechanisms to promote prudent, transparent and accountable management of oil revenues.

“The general approaches we have seen from political leadership across the spectrum, makes me optimistic that Guyanese leaders and businesses are aware of the dangers and are putting in place the mechanisms for a more successful experience,” said McNally, adding that these are grounds for optimism that are often overlooked.

ExxonMobil and its partners have racked up 15 commercial oil discoveries in the Stabroek Block, the last being the Mako-1 well southeast of the Liza field, which added to the previously announced estimated recoverable resource of more than 6 billion oil-equivalent barrels.

The Liza Phase 1 project, which started production, is expected to produce up to 120,000 barrels of oil per day at peak rates utilising the Liza Destiny FPSO. It is expected to generate over $7B in royalty and profit oil revenues for Guyana over the life of the project.

In talking about Guyana’s find, McNally said: “Guyana is enormously fortunate because not only did it find an enormous quantity of crude, but the quality is superb…Guyana’s crude is medium and this tends to produce very valuable products, which we call middle distillates and those include jet fuel, heating oil and now the big ships have to start using this cleaner and lighter oil.”

Though the quality is “superb,” he said what will determine the amount of revenue that Guyana sees from the “astounding” new finds will be the “crazy” global oil market than anything else.

“What Guyana needs to understand as a brand new oil producer and a big one, is that in addition to all the other issues we talk about, the resource curse and so forth, is that oil prices can be prone to wild swings and one must be cautious in assuming any given price will be the price you could base revenues off of for the next 10-15 years,” McNally explained, adding that oil is a long game and leader have to think “long term.”

WILD SWINGS The oil market expert said oil prices are prone to wild swings but those wild swings were always unacceptable to the industry and government because oil is known as the “life blood” of modern civilisation.

In the past, groups have attempted to suppress the volatility. Those groups included the Texas Railroad Commission, John D Rockefeller Standard Oil and most recently, the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC).

The continuation of the effort to stabilise the prices will be determined in March, 2020 when some “OPEC +” countries such as Russia and Saudi Arabia will meet and decide whether to continue collective cuts to keep oil prices from falling.

“One of the problems they are dealing with is Guyana, whose new oil supply is coming on to an already market…

Guyana is starting to register on the OPEC market screen,” said McNally, noting that if OPEC + is unsuccessful in early March, the price of oil could fall from $64 to $30 or lower in a few months and then the Guyanese would have to reckon with less money.

Bloomberg had recently reported that OPEC’s latest forecasts suggested a weaker outlook for global oil markets this year as surging supplies from competitors from Norway to Guyana threaten the group’s efforts to defend crude prices.

According to Bloomberg,

the organisation and its allies -- which together account for about half the world’s oil output -- are embarking on a fresh round of production cuts as another year of booming rival supplies threatens to unleash a new glut.

Last year, while alluding to OPEC, Bloomberg noted that Guyana’s reserves would make it OPEC’s 12th-largest member after Angola. At the time of the compilation of the report, US oil giant ExxonMobil had projected that there were 5.5 billion barrels of oil equivalent resource in the Stabroek Block based on the finds to date, however, that figure that was upgraded to six billion barrels.

Guyana’s economy, with a

Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of $3.63B, a growth rate of 4.1 per cent in 2018 and 4.6 per cent in 2019, is expected to further grow by 33.5 per cent and 22.9 per cent in 2020 and 2021 respectively. This was according to the NASDAQ Stock Market.

Those projections climbed in a report from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), which stated that Guyana’s GDP is expected to grow by approximately 86 per cent this, almost twenty times more than the projected growth for 2019.

The Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) had also forecasted a staggeringly high growth rate for Guyana

for next year. ECLAC noted that Guyana’s growth rate is pegged at 4.5 per cent for this year, while next year it will be 85.5 per cent.

A report from Bloomberg stated that with such figures, Guyana’s GDP will grow fourteen times as fast as China’s next year.

In addition, the oil sector is projected to grow rapidly, accounting for around 40 per cent of GDP by 2024 and supporting additional fiscal spending annually of 6.5 per cent of non-oil GDP on average over the medium term, which will help meet critical social and infrastructure needs.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, January 17, 2020

‘Guyana in new era of empowerment’ …Bulkan credits this to restoration of local governance elections

By Lisa Hamilton LOCAL Government in Guyana has been elevated to another level through which communities and their leaders have been empowered to make decisions, which benefit the unique needs of their region.

This was the observation of Minister of Communities, Ronald Bulkan, on Wednesday, as he addressed a large audience of members of local government during the first-ever Local Government Awards Ceremony. Speaking to those who gathered at the Arthur Chung Conference Center, Minister Bulkan reminisced on the fact that it was only some four years ago that the ministry was created with responsibility for community development, housing and local government. He noted that it represented the fulfilment of a promise made by the President David Granger-led coalition which campaigned with the assurance that it would restore the rights of local democratic organs as is enshrined within the Constitution.

While in opposition, President Granger and members of his government picketed the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), and other government offices, demanding that the over two-decade hiatus from local democracy be ended and that Local Government Elections (LGEs) be called forthwith. These picketing exercises did not bear fruit and the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) administration refused to call LGEs. In 2015, when the President Granger-led administration came into government, it wasted no time in calling these elections, with the first being held in March 2016. This move did not only remove the Interim Management Committees that were running the municipalities of Guyana, but also created an avenue for new townships to be formed; it is the President’s vision that

post March 2020.

Bulkan expressed regret that the system had been ignored for years and developmental decisions for communities as far out as the hinterland are not being

people, where ever they live, to elect candidates to become councillors; persons living within the jurisdiction, who would be aware of the issues within their respective areas,” he said.

Minister of Communities, Ronald Bulkan addresses the gathering at the Local Government Awards Ceremony

every region be managed by a capital town.

Bulkan said that the evidence now shows that Guyana has entered a new era of empowerment, one which sees young councillors and mayors being respected for the value they hold as leaders in their communities. He stressed that the government is serious about decentralisation and is

privy to the speeches of President Granger would hear him speak with pride not only about the reintroduction of this system, but of the broadening as well as the deepening.”

The broadening and deepening Bulkan spoke to was in reference to the administration’s creation of four new towns in the last few years

Mayor of Bartica, Gifford Marshall receives an award on behalf of himself and town for leadership in implementing the ‘green agenda’. The award is presented by Minister of Communities, Ronald Bulkan

Members of Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCS), Municipalities, Regional Democratic Councils (RDCs) who received awards take a photograph with Minister of Communities, Ronald Bulkan (center, back) (Carl Croker photos)

proud not only of its achievements in this regard, but of the men and women who have helped to push the progress.

“We are proud of our achievements and accomplishments,” Bulkan said.

“Those of us who are

and nine new Neighbourhood Democratic Councils in several regions. The minister said that while at least three regions are still lacking a capital town, it is the government’s plan to correct the same during their second term

made by individuals sitting in an office on the coast. “We are happy with the efforts that have been made by this administration and we believe that we have done the right thing because the intention of this system is to allow

To Local Democratic Organs which continue to resist corporation with central government for political reasons, Minister Bulkan said that he will continue to exercise patience with these individuals with the hope of a turn around. “To those organs that are resistant or reluctant to accept or embrace the Central Government, we will continue to be patient with you but it is our hope that during our next term, we will have less and less councils [who hold on] to that mindset because it is only through cooperation and collaboration, working hand in hand with central government, that you can be in the best position to be able to do more for the residents of their respective areas,” he implored.

During the ceremony, several persons from NDCS, Municipalities, Regional Democratic Councils (RDCs) and the Ministry of Communities received awards for their longstanding years of service.

Awarded from the NDCs

were: Glennis Castello – 30 years; Myrtle Christian – 27 years; Chandroutie Bhagwandas – 25 years; Danieram Singh – 25 years and Samuel Sooklall – 25 years. Awarded from Municipalities were: Diane Critchlow – 35 years; Ackloo Ramsudh – 33 years; Audrey Nelson – 31 years; Sherry Jerrick – 24 years and Narendranauth Sukhram – 23 years. Those receiving awards from various RDCs were: Maureen Ward – 30 years; Ismay Joseph – 30 years; Hardat Harduwar – 20 years; Denis Jaikaran – 42 years and Orrin Gordon – 15 years.

From the Ministry of Communities were: Margaret Richmond – 43 years; Grace Adams – 23 years; Kristy Jack-Marshall – 22 years; Puran Persaud – 21 years; Royston Lyttle – 20 years; Marcia Mitchell – 13 years and Mohamed Asif Khan – nine years.

Awarded in the category of outstanding municipalities were the Mayor and town of Bartica for leadership in implementing the ‘green agenda’, and the Mayor and town of Lethem for improvement in solid waste management.

At the ceremony, Minister Bulkan also received a surprise award for his outstanding leadership and dedication in his role of transformation of the local government system.

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Emil McGarrell, also received an award for the same cause.

Meanwhile, Mayor of Linden, Waneka Arrindell, also presented the minister with an award for the Key to the City and Capital Town on behalf of the Guyana Association of Municipalities (GAM). GAM also presented McGarrell with an award for his hard-work and unwavering service to the development of local government.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday January 17, 2020

‘Kady Kish’ eyeing Soca Monarch 2020 title CARIB Soca Monarch plays a major part in our Mashramani celebration year after year. This is the competition of competitions, where Guyanese artistes are challenged to battle for the ultimate title of Soca King or Queen.

This competition has also created the opportunity for our local artistes to make a name for themselves. We have had local stars like Michelle ‘Big Red’ King, Adrian Dutchin, ‘Jumo’ Primo, Brandon Harding, Stephen Ramphal and many others who made a career out of the Soca Monarchy.

This year, it is already looking to be a heated battle between these local big- names. But amongst them all, ready to take on the sharks is young Kishana Stewart, who goes by the alias ‘Kady Kish’.

This 22-year-old Soca sensation has entered the competition for the very first time,

with a groovy rendition called, ‘Soca, my religion’.

Kady told ‘The Buzz’ that the Soca Monarchy has always been a stepping stone for most Guyanese, and “I was always spectating as a child. However, now that the Ministry of Culture is even promoting the newcomers and their songs so vigorously to not only increase knowledge of the artiste but to increase crowd participation during preformances, I just had to find myself into the competition with the hopes that my fellow Guyanese will know more about Kady Kish.”

Explaining the inspiration behind her song, she said, “The lyrics speak for itself. It is the diary of my feelings for Soca. Also, this festive time on the Guyanese calendar always brings citizens of all cultural backgrounds together in a most energetic and invigorating way. Although the competition is challenging,

I trust that my hard work and appeal to the crowd is enough to put myself on the map for the Soca Monarch title 2020.”

A s a first-timer going up against giant names in the industry, Kady says she believes that she can win the hearts of people.

Even if she doesn’t win, she hopes that her fan-base will increase, and more doors of opportunity will open as she continues to pursue her singing career.

“My quirky and jovial personality is dis-

played on stage, and even in my lyrics, so if the audience listens, they can feel very close to me through my songs. I rally to win, but this competition alone helps me to be known by my Guyanese people. And in my heart, I truly want SEE PAGE 22

Guyana to host first-ever Miss Guyana Culture Queen pageant FOR the first time, Guyana will be hosting a national pageant to select Guyana’s representative to the Annual Caribbean Culture Queen Pageant slated for August 2020 in St. Kitts and Nevis.

Under the directorship of Guyanese-born international fashion designer and Pageant Guru, Randy Madray, the Miss Guyana Culture Queen aims to promote, market and preserve the diverse culture and tourism of Guyana.

This year, Miss Guyana Culture Queen will be selected through a national pageant from a lineup of carefully selected quarter-finalists. Applicants will complete a well-structured application Online, after which a panel of the pageant, fashion and other related professionals will select which applicants will move on to the interview round. From the interviews, the quarterfinalists will be selected to begin the 2020 national pageant.

The pageant in itself will feature a preliminary interview and the coronation event. On Coronation Night, delegates will compete in national costume, performing talent, swimwear, evening gown and interview. At the end of the production, Miss Guyana Culture Queen 2020 will be crowned and begin preparation for the regional leg of the competition.

Last year, Arian Dahlia Richmond was selected by a team of professionals within the fashion and pageant industry as Miss Guyana Culture Queen 2019, and took on the task of representing Guyana at the Miss Culture Caribbean Queens 2019 Competition. With her grace, poise, and confidence, Arian competed with notable models in the Caribbean, and secured the first-runner up position. She also won several accolades, such as Miss Photogenic, Miss Congeniality and Best Country Promotional Video, produced by local videographer Anthony Indar.

The Miss Guyana Culture Team will comprise a brilliant team of creatives, professionals and local and international pageants, beauty and fashion experts. Applications are currently open, and the pageant seeks young women between 18-26 years old who are of great physical health, and possess the passion, drive and determination to showcase Guyana’s rich culture and tourism. Applicants can sign up via the “Sign Up” button on the Miss Guyana Culture Queen Facebook page, or via the link provided on the @missguyanaculturequeen Instagram platform.

The application deadline is February 28, 2020.

Reigning Miss Guyana Caribbean Culture Queen, Arian Dahlia Richmond

ABOUT THE PAGEANT The Miss Caribbean Culture Queen Pageant is held annually in celebration of the Nevis Culturama Festival.

The idea of Culturama was conceived in February 1974, during a meeting of the Nevis Dramatic and Cultural Society (NEDACS). The main point discussed during this meeting was the general decline in the customary folklore troupes on parade during the then Christmas Festival. It was felt that much of the customary indigenous Christmas traditions and activities were dying, and that there was an urgent need to revive these traditions, so that they can be handed down from generation to generation, thereby ensuring the posterity of Nevis’ rich cultural heritage. The Miss Caribbean Culture Queen Pageant was added to the Culturama calendar in 2006 for the first time, and it has given Culturama some regional recognition, because it has received participation from up to 10 different regional countries.

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Creating a different sound wave

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday January 17, 2020

--in the local music industry

YOU may be familiar with the famed line “A nice snowcone from Uncle Jerry or Dougla, have sip on this I-cee or Busta” or probably “Ease off, gimme some breeze” from the single that placed him on the local music scene.

Many might know this young artiste who goes by the name “Kush”.

However, Kareem “cKush” Lewis is a 23- year-old local entrepreneur, poet and rapper. Kareem described his childhood as a peaceful and adventurous one, which was faced with varying challenges due to growing up in a single-parent household. “I’m ‘dougla’, so I’m Indo and Afro-Guyanese. My stage-

name plays an important role in keeping me secured to my roots, as Cush is mentioned in the bible, and was prevalent in African culture. The Cushites were known to be one of the most civilised and intelligent dynasties, from the lineage of Ham. Kush, however, is mentioned in Indian culture, with regards to the sativa plants. The name simply represents higher knowledge,” Lewis posited. If not in the studio, one would find Kareem either in the fields, enjoying a game of football with his friends, writing poetry, nurturing his other online business, promoting events or simply reading a novel.

DISCOVERING AND PER-

FECTING HIS ART “I discovered my gift in secondary school when one of the drama club teachers requested a calypso compilation for Mashramani. Me and two of my friends composed lyrics for a song and the crowd reacted seemingly well. Ever since then, I started writing almost every day with aid from my brother, who would also dabble a bit in writing hip hop music”, Kareem expressed.

It was the advice and critiques from his older brother and cousin that created an atmosphere where Kareem would take music and furthering his career seriously.

“My first song ever recorded was on an iPhone voice re-

corder, remixing Lil Wayne’s Single, with a Guyanese creole twist, that was only played amongst friends and family. Before I was quite nervous and would make countless mistakes, now it’s easy as 123, I would step up to the mic and flow smoothly”, he noted.

It was also expressed by Kareem that where he sees himself and career in the future, is solely dependent on the grace of the Almighty, his work ethic and the number of people who joins his musical journey (fan base). “At my current pace, I am working at further improving my skills and working alongside other artistes, towards putting Guyana on the map with its own sound ”.

Recording, he described as a struggle at times, due to the fees for a recording session being a bit on the pricey side, which also includes payments for mixing /mastering.

ART OF MAKING ART ( AOMA) While his inspiration is from the likes of famous Artistes like Lil Wayne, Kendrick Lamar, Folk Songs, Popcaan and Vybz Kartel, Kareem’s biggest inspiration

stemmed from himself “I have more confidence in myself as an artist, since I’m a completely different artist from those who are out there. My sound is different”.

With recently dropped freestyle single FACS (Fire At Camp Street), he currently has over 12 projects in the works with his debut album AOMA (Art of making art ) slated to be released as soon as the paperwork for the album is finalised.

“I’m approaching the business aspect of my music career while reflecting the lifestyle of

where I’m from and my culture. This album has an entirely different sound from our customary Guyanese music. It’s something new, it’s something diverse”, Kareem conveyed.

He further implored young and upcoming artistes to be their true and most authentic selves, eliminate all distractions, to practice being independent, to make research a vital part of the process and to understand music as a business, once there are intentions to use it as a form of income.

‘2 to 2’ coming to Jumo’s Club 592 soon GUYANESE own ‘Jumo’ Fitzpatrick Primo, well known as ‘Mr. Rubber Waist’, wants to bring back the days at Club 592 when people would turn up just for an after-work lime, and even a party.

With this in mind, within three weeks he will be launching a new initiative at the club, called ‘2 to 2’, which will see special arrangements in place for those who want to visit the venue from 2pm to 2am daily.

The 38-year-old Soca artiste opened Club 592 last year at Lot 23 John and Norton Streets, Werk-en-Rust, Georgetown, and opens from Wednesday to Sunday.

However, with the launch of ‘2 to 2’, the facility will be open seven days a week.

“We will have different specials, from different brands of drinks, ‘cutters’, entertainment, karaoke; you can watch sports.

It’s a full entertainment hub after- work lime,” Jumo told the Buzz on Thursday.

The club, once known as the ‘Weddy-Weddy Night Club’ and ‘Passa Passa,’ has both indoor and outdoor facilities.

“On Wednesdays, we have dancers from various places showcasing their skills. It’s a nice atmosphere on a Wednesday night; we have Banks Thursdays, where we have Banks Beer specials (five Banks [beers] for $1,000). We have Guinness specials on Fridays, and Saturday is ladies night,” ‘Jumo’ said, adding: “Back in the days, people used to come from work and have an after-work lime. Not everyone wants an outdoor setting, so we created an indoor setting with music and karaoke; we want to bring back those days. So if you don’t go out late at nights, you can come early and still get the same vibe that you would get in the club.”

‘Jumo’ also plans starting the ‘592 Grill’ so that he can be able to provide whatever ‘cutters’ his customers enjoy.

He also has the ‘592 studios’ where he does his own recordings. “For this year, we will be looking to work with new artistes, once you have the talent, dedication, humility,” he said. “It’s not talent alone; you have to be humble and dedicated,” he added.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday January 17, 2020

Tough competition ahead

--for 2020 Chutney Monarch participants SOME 17 singers are set to contest this year’s Mashramani Chutney Monarch Competition, with many promising that defending champion Steven Ramphal is going to have his work cut out for him, if he’s looking for back-to-back titles.

This year’s listing sees the return of all of last year’s Top Four finishers; some other seasoned industry competitors and a few newcomers, including the controversial Mona of Berbice (real name Hemwattie Singh), who grew in popularity when a video of herself and sister being detained at the Rose Hall Police Station went viral last month.

The 17 singers will go headto-head in the semi-finals on

Defending Chutney Monarch, Steven Ramphal

Chutney Monarch first-timer, Tony Cuttz (right)

February 9 at the Skeldon Heritage Park, where only the top 10 competitors will make it into the finals, which, this year, is set for February 23 at the Better Hope Ground on the East Coast of Demerara.

Outside of that, citizens can expect their favourite singers making appearances at some of the various Mashramani pop-up concerts being held across the country, while rehearsals are scheduled for January 26 at the Seawall Bandstand.

Aside from Ramphal topping the 2020 list is two-time Chutney Monarch, Bunty Singh, real name Chait Mohanlall, and former Chutney Monarch Pooran Seeraj, both from Bath Settlement; and Arijit Singh.

Ramphal’s defending entry is “Jo Sangeet Main Gaata”, another Hindi-English mix like his “Rang Ke Bhare Main Bhool Jao”, which saw him to victory last year. Going up against Ramphal’s song, is Bunty’s “She Want Me Be She Raaja”, while Seeraj’s catchy “Roti and Dhal” has been heating up the airwaves, and Arjit is coming with “Sangeet Bhaaje”.

The competitors are once again battling for the $1M firstplace spot, and one year’s bragging rights. As with last year’s prizes, second-place finisher will

take away $600,000, while third place will pocket $400,000, and fourth place will win $200,000.

“It’s going to be a rough competition, but at the end of the day, it’s not just about the competition; it’s about promoting our Guyanese culture,” said Ramphal, who has been performing in the competition since 2014.

Ramphal, who is also Guyana’s 2019 Soca Monarch runner-up, is once again in that competition this year, recently releasing the video for his song, “Be The Same”, which he entered that competition with.

He’s been an annual feature since then, rising to third place in 2018, before finally copping his first title last year.

The video for his 2020 song has already racked up 3,000plus views on Youtube since its release, and Ramphal has been busy garnering interest for the single, including it in events he has been performing in over the past few weeks.

“It’s a very inspirational song. The English meaning is ‘Let The Music That I Sing Truly Unite us’,” he said, adding: “It’s a song promoting love, unity and harmony, and it’s telling people that the music I sing is about love and unity.”

Bunty’s “She Want Me be She Raaja” tells the funny story

of a faithful man rejecting the advances of a mischievous young lady, with his video release set for tomorrow.

“I am really confident about gaining a good space this year,” Bunty said. “I go for first second or third, but win or lose, I still see myself as a winner, and see everyone as a winner. But I’m really confident of taking the crown this year,” she said in closing.

Among this year’s newcomers is 32-year-old Tony Cuttz, real name Remesh Brijnauth, who is entering the competition with a number called, “Neighbour Roti”. Notwithstanding that it’s his first year in the Chutney Monarch competition, Cuttz said he has been in the singing business some six years.

“I start singing in church, singing gospel. I play the piano as well. Living in Trinidad for 12 years, Chutney and Soca is a big deal there, so I decided to go out there, do different music such as Chutney and Soca. Then I move back to Guyana two years ago,” he said.

Cuttz decided to try his hand at the competition after taking in the level of competition that was on display at last year’s event. He thinks he has what it takes to take that crown, or at least put up a serious fight in the race.

Two-time Chutney Monarch, Bunty Singh (centre) is ready to get back the crown (photo credit Bunty Singh)

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Kady Kish eyeing...

FROM PAGE 19

my fan-base to stem from the people closest to my heart,” Kady told ‘The Buzz’.

In addition to this competition, Kady is a vocalist in the Heatwave Band. Since her induction into Heatwave, the band has had its first release, “De stage”, in which Kady has a lead part. She

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday January 17, 2020 culture and diversity. performed on several shows Below are the lyrics: throughout 2019, especially during the ‘Mash’ season.

INTRO: Her song, ‘Soca Baby’ has

also been buzzing since its Warm up release a few months ago.

We charge up Young Kady is hoping Soca my religion that the Guyanese public can Come mek we warm up become acquainted with her Charge up my religion song, as it speaks a lot to our

Ah feeling myself again in the band Masquerades flouncing everywhere Every year, I’ll be there Whether rain or sun it won’t change my mind I going to push it back Get ready for the bacchanal And when you see me danging Don’t you even tell Give me Soca ‘cause I’m not sober, It’s my religion, I behaving bad

CHORUS: So everybody get wild Soak somebody with water Spray somebody with paint Take off your clothes Create a bacchanal

Whine up… Look how they whining up Wuk up… Look how they whining up Wave up… Look how they waving up Create a bacchanal

VERSE#2 Something special when you feel... Ah know you feel it too The music raising up your pores I love to see my people jump in love And unity, It fills my soul Carry on this bacchanal Get ready to jump, ready to wave ready GT posse, misbehave One love, yes one culture Grab yo flag, let’s celebrate together I going to push it back Get ready for the bacchanal And when you see me danging Don’t u even tell give me Soca, ‘cause I’m not sober It’s my religion, I behaving bad

CHORUS: So everybody get wild Soak somebody with water Spray somebody with paint Take off your clothes Create a bacchanal

Whine up… Look how they whining up Wuk up… Look how they whining up Wave up… Look how they waving up Create a bacchanal ×4

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Cricket legend Basil Butcher given hero’s send-off, as Guyana said final goodbye ‘He became a great cricketer because he was a great human, Basil made me the man I am today’ - Dr Vincent Adams

By Clifton Ross THE pews at Christ Church were filled to capacity, just as the legendary batsman had filled seats during his playing days for Guyana and the West Indies, as Guyana paid their final respects to the late

champion batsman, Basil Butcher.

Yesterday morning’s service was mixed with emotions; notably joy and a bit of sadness. However, the sensations created the perfect atmosphere as an outpouring of heartfelt tributes from a number of Butcher’s close relatives, friends and all those who at some point were impacted by the cricket great.

Among the notable attendees were Prime Minister (acting) Khemraj Ramjattan, Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) president Fizul Bacchus, former West Indies fast bowler Charlie Griffith, secretary Anand Sanasie, former national player Mark Harper, former Guyana and West Indies off-spinner and head selector Clyde Butts, and Cricket West Indies (CWI) chief selector Roger Harpers.

Dr Vincent Adams described Butcher as a legend on and off the field The feature address was delivered by former teammate and personal friend of Butcher, Director of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Dr Adams who was the first player from Linden to represent Guyana at the first-class level and he credited his late friend for making him who he is today.

“Words don’t do justice, Basil came into ny life when I was 14 and he made me the man I am. It was difficult but rewarding as I got time to reflect on the moments I spent on and off the field as he shaped my life and others around him,” said Adams.

Adams recalled jovially one time when he had gotten out for 65 and, returning to the dressing room, was stopped by an incoming Butcher who told him that he does not think he wanted to make a hundred.

He said Butcher, whom he referred to as ‘Skipper or Butch’, then calmly suggested that since he did not know how to make a ton, he

was going to show him how to get the job done. Then he did. The legendary batsman then proceeded to make a huge century, thus backing up his words.

“Basil was able to adjust to life and cricket, as he was also a philosopher. In the Guyana team at 18, my ambition was to play for West Indies but shortly after playing for Guyana, I got into a car accident and he told me to stop walking around moping. He then urged me to get an education, as it will never forsake you even after your cricket career is over”.

“Basil then called the University of Guyana (UG) Chancellor and told him about me and how I was ready to start. The next day we went, I enrolled and the rest is history but that shows how everything he did transcended cricket,”.Adams said SONS RECALL FATHER BEING A MAN OF PRINCIPLE Clairmont, one of Butcher’s sons credited his father for being a good man off the cricket field. He urged those to embrace his father’s morals which he lived by and to remain strong during this time.

Some laughter was introduced when another son Basil Jr, recalled how strict and stubborn Butcher was.

He hailed his father for being a philosopher and always telling him ‘How much you put in, you get out’, adding that his father was a man of integrity and firmly against injustice.

Roland Butcher hails relative for being a great servant to cricket Barbados-born ex-England, Middlesex and Tasmania batsman, Roland Butcherm said he was humbled to have been related to the cricket legend.

Roland, who played 3 Tests for England in the 80s, said he was a bit sad that he had not gotten close

to Butcher when he was younger but was grateful for the bond they shared when he got older.

Roland added that he will carry on the Butcher Clan legacy and thanked Basil for his contributions to cricket. He was happy to be in Guyana to help celebrate the life of the man who he said was one of the greatest servants internationally, in the Caribbean, Guyana and West Indies.

CWI president Ricky Skerritt sends regards via Roger Harper Harper first gave his own tribute then on the behalf of CWI president Skerritt, who was attending a meeting overseas. CWI was saddened

by Butcher’s passing and credited him for being the ‘backbone’ of a star-studded West Indies team back in the days when he played alongside the legendary Sir Garfield Sobers, Rohan Kanhai, the late Sir Conrad Hunte, and the late Sir Frank Worrell.

Harper said that it was the consistency of Butcher, who made timely contributions when the flamboyant players failed and was dubbed ‘the glue of the team’, delivering his best performances under pressure.

In closing, the CWI head selector extended sincerest condolences to the family, adding that Butcher lived life like how he played cricket.

“He was run-out and did not give his wicket away, so let’s celebrate his time and life as we are extremely grateful because West Indies cricket is better because Basil Butcher played it,” ended Harper.

Following the service, relatives and friends saw the casket of their fallen hero go through the symbolic bat arch to the hearse.

The body was taken to the Good Hope Cremation Site on the East Coast Demerara for the final rites.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, January 17, 2020

Gauff, 15, to face Venus Williams again in first round of a Grand Slam AMERICAN teenager Coco Gauff will again face Venus Williams in the first round of a Grand Slam after the pair were drawn together at the Australian Open.

Gauff, 15, announced her arrival on the biggest stage by beating 39-year-old Williams, a seven-time Grand Slam singles winner, at Wimbledon in July.

Britain’s Johanna Konta, seeded 12th, will play Tunisia’s Ons Jabeur.

In the men’s draw, British 30th seed Dan Evans meets American Mackenzie McDonald in Melbourne.

Evans, 29, is playing in his first Slam as Britain’s leading male player and could face Serbia’s defending

Tennis prodigy Coco Gauff (left) has been drawn against Venus Williams in the Australian Open first-round.

champion Novak Djokovic in the third round.

Djokovic, who is aiming for a record-extending eighth title, does not have

the easiest opener after being drawn against Germany’s world number 37 Jan-Lennard Struff.

The first Grand Slam of

the year begins on Monday with the top half of the women’s draw and the bottom half of the men’s draw in action.

Gauff’s match against Venus Williams seems certain to feature in the first night session on Rod Laver Arena with Djokovic, Roger Federer, Serena Williams, 2019 women’s champion Naomi Osaka, Konta and Evans among those also playing on day one.

Swiss great Federer has been drawn in the same half as second seed Djokovic, meaning the pair could meet in the semi-finals.

Federer, 38, starts against American Steve Johnson and has a favourable-looking draw, although Bulgaria’s Grigor Dimitrov - who mem-

orably beat the Swiss in the US Open quarter-finals in September - and Canada’s exciting talent Denis Shapovolov are potential opponents before the quarter-finals.

Spanish top seed Rafael Nadal plays against Bolivia’s Hugo Dellien in the first round, with the possibility of a blockbuster fourth-round match against Australia’s Nick Kyrgios.

The pair have not always seen eye-to-eye and met in a dramatic second-round match at Wimbledon last year, where Kyrgios tried to rattle Nadal with constant complaints about the Spaniard’s slow play.

British number two Cameron Norrie plays Frenchman Pierre-Hugues Herbert in his

opening match, while Kyle Edmund - who reached the semi-finals in Melbourne two years ago but has dropped to 69th in the world - has a tough opener against Serbia’s 24th seed Dusan Lajovic.

Russian fourth seed Daniil Medvedev, looking to win his first Grand Slam after reaching the 2019 US Open final, has been pitched against dangerous American floater Frances Tiafoe, who reached the quarter-finals last year.

Australia’s world number 21 Alex de Minaur pulled out yesterday with an abdominal injury aggravated at last week’s ATP Cup. (BBC Sport0

Medvedev has thrown a curve ball, says McEnroe (REUTERS) - Russian Daniil Medvedev is the most likely player to break the Grand Slam stranglehold of the “big three” when the Australian Open starts in Melbourne next week, according to John McEnroe.

The 23-year-old’s quirky style propelled him to four titles and a Tour-leading 59 match wins in 2019 and McEnroe says he provides different challenges to the old guard.

“These younger players need to accept that they need to keep adding to their game, doing something different,” McEnroe, who will be part of ESPN’s coverage team, said in a conference call.

“That’s why Medvedev has

Russia’s Daniil Medvedev in action during his semifinal singles match against Serbia’s Novak Djokovic. (REUTERS/Ciro De Luca/File photo) had the success, because he’s

thrown a curve ball at these

top guys that they weren’t anticipating, almost like he was going back to the 12 or 14 and unders and pushing the ball.

“No one expected to see that from him. It’s been a very effective tool mentally to me.”

Medvedev reached the U.S. Open final last year and pushed Rafael Nadal to the limit after a stunning fightback from two sets down. That final showcased the Russian’s dexterous game to the full, combining an incredible ability to soak up punishment before counter-attacking with searing power.

His run to the final at Flushing Meadow was quite a rollercoaster as he not only took on opponents but gave

the boisterous New York crowd a run for its money.

In one match on the Louis Armstrong Stadium against Feliciano Lopez he was booed by the crowd, then showed them the middle finger, before ‘thanking’ them for their hostility in an on-court interview, saying he fed off their energy.

“That’s one of the gutsiest things that I’ve seen - when he was embracing the booing, and that type of stuff. That took a lot of cojones, as they say,” seven-time Grand Slam champion McEnroe said.

Even at the start of the final against Nadal, some of the crowd were unforgiving of Medvedev, but by the end he had won them

over with a courageous battle against the odds.

Nadal’s win meant the last 12 Slams have been won by either himself, Novak Djokovic or Roger Federer while a log jam of rising stars forms behind them.

Medvedev will be seeded fourth in Melbourne and is a possible semi-final opponent for Nadal.

“You’ve still got to put those guys ahead of the other guys.

They just know how to get it done,” McEnroe said. “But Medvedev to me is the guy who has the best chance of winning it right now. He showed a gear that we haven’t seen at the U.S. Open.”

BCCI drops MS Dhoni from central contracts list MS Dhoni is no longer a centrally contracted player with the BCCI. His name didn’t feature in the 27 contracts handed out by the Indian board yesterday.

He last played for India during the World Cup in 2019, following which there has been suspense over his future. In 2019, he had been awarded a Grade A contract, which brings a retainer of INR 5 crore (US$700,000 approx.).

Top-order batsman KL Rahul made the jump from Grade B to A this time around, getting an increment of INR 2 crore (US$280,000 approx.).While Dhoni has not played any professional cricket since the World Cup, India coach Ravi Shastri has said more than once

MS Dhoni’s performance will divide opinion tomorrow and in days to come. (Getty Images)

that Dhoni could come into contention for the T20 World Cup in Australia later this year if he does well in the IPL. Others to lose contracts were Ambati Rayudu, Dinesh Karthik and Khaleel Ahmed.

There weren’t many other massive changes from the contracts

list from last year. Test opener Mayank Agarwal, who made his debut in Melbourne in a delicately poised series and immediately impressed, was the big gainer, entering the list at Grade B, which comes with a retainer of INR 3 crore (US$420,000 approx.). Test wicketkeeper

Wriddhiman Saha, who had dropped to Grade C due to injuries, came back to join Agarwal in Grade B. Other new names in the contracts - as of now - included limited-overs specialists Navdeep Saini, Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur, Shreyas Iyer and Washington Sundar.

They all entered the system at Grade C, which comes with a retainer of INR 1 crore (US$140,000 approx.).

The A+ grade, which includes players who feature in all three formats, remained unchanged with Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Jasprit Bumrah retaining their INR 7 crore (US$980,000 approx.) fee. The injured Hardik Pandya, who has played only T20Is since the

World Cup, retained his Grade B contract.

These contracts are for October 2019 to September 2020.

The total number of retainers has come down from 29 to 27. The recommendations for these contracts are made by national selectors, based on a combination of performances in the previous year and the roles players are expected to play in the contract period.

If someone outside of this list gets an India cap during the period, he becomes eligible to get a Grade C contract. According to BCCI rules, a player needs to play a minimum of two matches to be eligible to earn a Grade C contract.

BCCI’s central contracts list for 2019-2020

Grade A+ (INR 7 cr): Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah Grade A (INR 5 cr): R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Shikhar Dhawan, Mohammed Shami, Ishant Sharma, Kuldeep Yadav, Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul Grade B (INR 3 cr): Umesh Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Hardik Pandya, Wriddhiman Saha, Mayank Agarwal Grade C (INR 1 cr): Kedar Jadhav, Manish Pandey, Hanuma Vihari,, Navdeep Saini, Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur, Shreyas Iyer, Washington Sundar. (ESPN Cricinfo)

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, January 17, 2020

29

Stokes-Pope partnership steers England to 224-4

By Mark Gleeson

PORT ELIZABETH, South Africa (Reuters) - Ben Stokes survived several scares but featured in a 76-run late afternoon partnership with Ollie Pope as England reached 224 for four wickets at close on the opening day of the third Test against South Africa yesterday.

England’s talisman, named International Cricket Council Cricketer-of-the-Year on the eve of the Test, will resume on 38 runs at St George’s Park today along with the 22-year-old Pope, who is unbeaten on 39.

Their partnership unshackled England and handed them a good platform to potentially go on and make a significant first-innings total.

South Africa laboured on a lifeless pitch which offered little for their seamers but did allow Keshav Maharaj to probe continuously with his spin. He bowled 30 successive overs,

SCOREBOARD ENGLAND 1st innings Zak Crawley c Rassie van der Dussen b Anrich Nortje 44 Dominic Sibley c Dean Elgar b Kagiso Rabada 36 Joe Denly lbw Keshav Maharaj 25 Joe Root b Kagiso Rabada 27 Ben Stokes not out 38 Ollie Pope not out 39 Extras: (lb-8, nb-3, w-4) 15 TotalL (four wkts, 90.0 overs) 224 Fall of wickets: 1-70, 2-103, 3-134, 4-148.

Bowling: Vernon Philander 11-5-15-0, Dane Paterson 15-146-0, Kagiso Rabada 17-3-48-2 (w-2, nb-3), Anrich Nortje 154-52-1 (w-1), Keshav Maharaj 32-11-55-1.

Ollie Pope struck seven fours in his unbeaten 39

across three sessions, to finish with figures of 1-55.

England’s plan for the openers to occupy the crease, tiring out the bowlers and softening the ball, was diligently on course as they reached 61-0 at lunch.

But 15 minutes into the afternoon session, Dom Sibley (36) was the first wicket to fall as Kagiso Rabada had him

caught at backward square leg.

Zak Crawley went next just six runs short of a maiden Test half-century in similar fashion, to a sharp diving catch by Rassie van der Dussen off Anrich Nortje’s bowling, as the runs began to dry up and the pressure mounted.

The score progressed slowly to 117-2 at tea after which Joe Denly, who made

25 off 100 balls, was dismissed leg-before-wicket to Maharaj following a review, which showed the ball clipped his pad before hitting his bat as he played back to the spinner.

Captain Joe Root, who won the toss at the start of the day and elected to bat, was then castled by a delivery from Rabada that stayed low and hit the top of his

off-stump. He was out for 27, given a screaming send-off by the feisty Rabada, whose 17 overs yesterday delivered figures of 2-48.

Stokes lived a charmed existence in the early part of his innings with South Africa twice unsuccessful with reviews off Maharaj’s bowling.

There was also a difficult potential catch missed by Pieter Malan at silly mid-off and a

better chance to Faf du Plessis at slip off debutant Dane Paterson, that fell agonisingly short.

But Stokes rode his luck to leave England in a strong position and better satisfied than their hosts after the first day. “It was very attritional cricket but in the end a good day that puts us in a good position,” Crawley said.

The four-match series is level at 1-1.

Judge orders Rio Olympic Park closed over security concerns RIO DE JANEIRO (Reuters) - A lack of security has prompted a Brazilian judge to order the closure of the Olympic Park used to host several events at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics.

The Park, which housed the aquatic complex, the tennis courts, the velodrome, and three arenas used for sports that included fencing, handball and basketball, has been used only sporadically for concerts and other events since the games ended in August 2016.

The federal judge ruled that “any events in the Olympic

installations” be prohibited until fire authorities provide authorisations that “attest to the safety of the areas.”

“The panorama, made up of areas progressively damaged from a lack of care and the presence of thousands of people, are ready for tragedies,” the ruling said.

The area teemed with visitors during the 2016 games but have since been abandoned by local authorities, the judge added.

Local media published pictures of missing manhole covers and paths with crooked paving

stones overtaken by weeds.

In a statement sent to Reuters, the federal government said it already had safety certificates good until March 2020 and would appeal the decision.

The 2016 summer games were the first to be held in South America.

Officials considered the games a success, but many Rio residents complain authorities overspent on facilities and have not kept them in good condition or let the local population take advantage of them.

ICC U-19 Cricket World Cup bowls off today … South Africa look to shine on home soil SOUTH Africa will be hoping to get their second hosting of the ICC U-19 Cricket World Cup off to the perfect start when they face Afghanistan in the opening match of the tournament.

The young Proteas are strong favourites for Group D and will be aiming for their second title after reigning supreme in 2014, 16 years after first playing hosts to the world’s best.

But thoughts of another victory will have to wait a while yet, with United Arab Emirates, Canada and Afghanistan set to provide stiff opposition in Potchefstroom, Bloemfontein and Kimberley.

Former U-17 Cricketer-ofthe-Year Bryce Parsons has the honour of captaining his country on home soil and has been described as a ‘natural

leader’ by head coach Lawrence Mahatlane.

The team also includes 19-yearold Gerald Coetzee, who took part in the previous tournament in New Zealand and has already played franchise cricket for the Knights as well as for Jozi Stars.

“There is a lot of flexibility with some special talent around; I am personally excited about this group and I am sure they will make the nation proud,” said head coach Mahatlane.

Opponents Afghanistan will be no pushovers in the January 17 opener in Kimberley, with this their sixth successive appearance at the U-19 World Cup having made their breakthrough in 2010.

Opening batsmen Ibrahim Zadran and Farhan Zakhil are the standout stars for the boys in blue.

A tally of 929 runs in 13 matches, including three centuries and five half-centuries, makes 16-year-old Zakhil one to watch, with Zadran also playing a major part in helping Afghanistan reach the semifinals last time out.

Zadran also brings some muchneeded experience to the side, having already made his senior international debut in all three formats of the game.

Afghanistan have become regular attendees at Youth level but for UAE, this is just their second appearance in the U-19 World Cup. Hosts in their previous appearance six years ago, this time they will compete on merit having qualified through Asia Division 1 – largely thanks to Player-of-theTournament Aryan Lakra.

Bryce Parsons of South Africa (left) and Farhaan Zakhiel of Afghanistan. (ICC Media Zone) A flawless record of five wins achieve this and feel really good from five matches sealed their when all the hard work we put progression, with captain Lakra in paid off.” man-of-the-match in the final Their first challenge will come in three matches of the qualifying the form of Canada, who edged event. past rivals USA by five wickets “It is a great feeling to qualify for to secure their own place at South the World Cup,” he said.

Africa 2020.

“We had really worked hard to The two countries were locked

on three wins apiece heading into their winner-takes-all final match, with Canada prevailing to qualify for the seventh time in their history.

The decade has seen plenty of improvement too, finishing 16th on their debut before coming fourth eight years later – a welcome progression with both events taking place in New Zealand.

Captain Ashton returns as one of four players in the squad who also featured at New Zealand 2018, but Canada’s Group D rivals will have to look out for 18-year-old Raqib Shamsudeen.

The slow left-arm orthodox bowler was near-unplayable in qualifying, with a quadruple wicket maiden against Argentina just one of the fine performances that saw him take ten wickets and concede just seven runs in the opening three games. (ICC)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, January 17, 2020

BCB/Ivan Madray Memorial T20 Tournament

Albion, Rose Hall Town NAMILCO set to battle in Sunday’s final ARCH rivals Albion Community Centre Cricket Club (ACCCC) and Rose Hall Town NAMILCO Thunderbolt Flour will clash in the final of the 2019 Berbice Cricket Board (BCB)/Ivan Madray Memorial T20 tournament.

The potential thriller will be played at the No.69 Vikings cricket ground in the Upper Corentyne area and would be used as a fundraiser

for the BCB. The tournament is being sponsored by Upper Corentyne-born business executive, Mr. Chandradat Chintamani in memory of his uncle, former West Indies leg-spinner Ivan Madray.

Over the last decade, arch rivals Albion and Rose Hall Town have dominated cricket at all levels and have played each other in numerous finals.

Tomorrow, they will face off in the finals of the BCB/ RHTYSC, Busta Champion of Champions 40 overs tournament at the Area H Ground before clashing again on Sunday at the No69 Ground for the Madray’s T20 title.

The match would involve most of Berbice finest players but RHT NAMILCO Thunderbolt Flour (RHTNTF) will be missing the services of an injured Clinton Pestano,

Kevin Sinclair and Kevlon Anderson who is with the West Indies U-19 team.

RHTNTF will be led by national all-rounder Eon Hooper and he would be supported in the batting order by Junior Sinclair, Khemraj Mahadeo, Surendra Kissoonlall, Albion would also be affected by the absence of Devendra Bishoo, Veersammy Permaul and Anthony

Bramble. Support, however, will come from Kandasammy Surujnarine, Adrian Sukhwa, Sharaz Ramcharran, Rajiv Ivan, David Latchaya and Jonathan Foo. President of the BCB, Hilbert Foster, and sponsor Chandradat Chintamani are expected to distribute prizes after the match.

Madray was the third Berbician to play Test cricket for the West Indies after the

legendary John Trim and Berbice greatest-ever cricketer Rohan Kanhai.

Madray, a product of the historic Port Mourant Cricket Club played two Test matches in 1958 before migrating to the United Kingdom. He later died on the 23rd of April, 2009 at the age of 74 years.

Global Spare Parts & Auto Sales tourneys on this weekend GOLFING action returns this weekend with two tournaments, sponsored

by Global Auto Spares & Sales.

The tournament will be to celebrate the grand opening of its, Campbellville office.

Manager of the new branch, Imtiaz Singh, said the company offers the widest range of used and reconditioned spare parts along with affordable 24-hour towing services.

CEO of Global – Hardeo

‘Curry’ Ganpat - has been a staunch supporter of the Lusignan Golf Club since becoming a member in 2019, and has vowed to continue his support of the work and vision of the Club.

“I have seen for myself

(1)

98 Tests; 405 wickets

(2) Sir Frank Worrell; Sir Clyde Walcott & Sir Everton Weekes Today’s Quiz: (1)

Which two played a similar number of Tests?

Clive Lloyd, Carl Hooper, Colin Croft, Lance Gibbs, Rohan Kanhai (2) Test?

Where & when did Colin Croft play his first Answers in tomorrow’s issue

Saturday’s event will feature three Flights with prizes for first and second in each Flight, along with special recognition for Longest Drive and Nearest to the Pin. It is expected to be a grand tournament with the

return of many members who are all honing their shills in anticipation of the Copa Airlines Invitational scheduled for January 25.

GCB set to unveil new ‘Alvin Johnson Practice Facility’ in Parika

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Friday January 17, 2020) 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:

what president Aleem Hussain has personally done for the sport and this Club and I am proud to stand with him and help to achieve the vision he has for Lusignan Golf Club, “ said Ganpat.

Tee-off is at 12:30hrs.

FOLLOWING the official opening of the Shiv Chanderpaul Practice Facility, Tuesday, Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) will now unveil its latest project - a similar facility to be officially opened at Salem, Parika.

The commissioning of the newest practice venue on the West Side, set to be named the ‘Alvin Johnson Practice Facility’, comes days after GCB opened the

Shiv Chanderpaul outdoor, all-weather venue at Everest Cricket Club (ECC).

Essequibo is currently one of the strongholds in cricket these days, given the likes of talent in Keemo Paul, Ronsford Beaton, Anthony Adams, Kemol Savory, Joshua Jones, Kevon Boodie and others who have represented Guyana or the West Indies in recent times.

The Cinderella County has also been dominat-

ing the local GCB Jaguars Franchise league, winning both the 50-Over and 3-Day domestic titles over the past few seasons. Having a new all-weather facility right in the Essequibo franchise’s backyard could only see a fitter, more dangerous crop of players coming out of the county.

Recently, GCB secretary Anand Sanasie during the commissioning at Everest, said that the board’s

main goal is to ensure that facilities such as the Shiv Chanderpaul and now Alvin Johnson Practice venues are erected across the country; with the upgraded LBI facility being the next big practice venue to be revealed.

Meanwhile, the opening ceremony for the commissioning of the Alvin Johnson Practice Facility will commence at 13:30hrs at Salem, Parika.

Race 6 Cavaradossi

English Racing Tips

09:45 hrs Getaway Fred

Newcastle

Irish Racing Tips

Race 7 Call Paul

Lingfield

10:15 hrs Port Of Mars

11:15 hrs Forsee

Dundalk

Race 8 Syuy Town Baby

08:30 hrs Prince Rock

11:20 hrs Just A Thought

13:00 hrs Wild Shot

South Africa Racing Tips

09:00 hrs Jungle Capers

11:55 hrs Tudors Treasure

11:45 hrs Sweet Marmalade

American Racing Tips

Fairview

09:35 hrs Cliff Wind

Musselburgh

12;15 hrs Vive La Difference

Aqueduct

08:15 hrs Kentucky Blue

10:05 hrs Reckless Endeavour

Tabou Beach Boy

12:45 hrs Double Martini

Race 1 Dutchmen Forever

08:55 hrs Coyote Creek

10:40 hrs Terri Rules

09:55 hrs High Noon

13:15 hrs Big Les

Race 2 Cape Cod Diva

09:30 hrs Luna Wish

11:10 hrs My Target

10:25 hrs Smart Lass

13:45 hrs Never Dark

Race 3 Walkoff

10:10 hrs Ambra

11:40 hrs Rhubarb Bikini

11;00 hrs Weather Front

Race 4 Microscope

10:45 hrs Duet

Chepstow

11:30 hrs John Williams

14:15 hrs Wasntexpectingthat

09:10 hrs Big Meadow

12:00 hrs Chuvelo

Race 5 Nicky Scissors

14:45 hrs She’s Easyontheeye

13:30 hrs Art Of America 14:00 hrs Maslai 14:30 hrs Munaajaat 15:00 hrs Able Jack 15:30 hrs Abby Hatcher 16:00 hrs Dark Vader 16:30 hrs Tommy Taylor

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, January 17, 2020

31

Chanderpaul keeps Jaguars afloat with unbeaten 66 despite Roach’s 4-28

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (CMC) – Opener Tagenarine Chanderpaul’s defiant half-century kept champions Guyana Jaguars afloat after seasoned Test seamer Kemar Roach grabbed four wickets to undermine the innings, on the opening day of their second round encounter here yesterday.

Sent in, the visitors reached the close on 209 for eight, with the left-handed Chanderpaul unbeaten on a marathon 66.

Kevin Sinclair chipped in with 43 batting at number

Tagenarine Chanderpul has hit an unbeaten 66

eight while Chris Barnwell stroked a fluent 32, but Jaguars found the going difficult especially after losing key batsmen cheaply.

In fact, they were wob-

bling inside the first hour on 14 for three after Roach, who finished with four for 28, knocked over the top order in an incisive opening spell.

However Chanderpaul, batting in the same obdurate spirit that characterised his father, Shivnarine’s 164-Test career, carried his side in a painstaking innings spanning just over 6-½ hours, 274 balls and including eight fours.

Test left-arm spinner Jomel Warrican supported with two for 17 from a frugal 13-over spell while part-time medium pacer Jonathan Carter picked up two for 31.

Sent in, Jaguars were in trouble as early as the third over when Roach removed Chandrapaul Hemraj (4) and captain Leon Johnson (0) in successive deliveries both caught at the wicket by Test gloveman Shane Dowrich.

And when left-hander Vishaul Singh found himself in a tangle and skied one to cover for six in the ninth over, the Jaguars innings lay in strife.

Chanderpaul then found an ally in Barnwell to add 53 for the fourth wicket, one of two half-century stands which underpinned the in-

nings, as Jaguars dragged themselves to lunch on 61 for three.

Barnwell, unbeaten on 29 at the break, perished in the second over following the resumption when he drove loosely to Shayne Moseley at mid-off, after striking four fours in a 55-ball knock.

Barbadian Raymon Reifer then joined Chanderpaul to add a further 33 for the fifth to keep Pride at bay but had scored 20 off 35 balls with three fours when he missed a full-length delivery from Carter and was adjudged lbw at 100 for five.

Carter also removed Anthony Bramble cheaply for eight as Jaguars slumped to 108 for six but the key stand came when Chanderpaul and Sinclair combined to add 81 for the seventh wicket and frustrate the hosts.

The 20-year-old Sinclair struck six fours and a six in a knock off 103 balls which lasted nearly 2-½ hours, and his efforts saw Jaguars reach the tea interval at 134 for six.

However, he was one of two wickets which fell to Warrican in the same over in the final session, as Pride further tightened their grip.

Pollard urges attention to detail ahead of St Kitts T20 double-header ST GEORGE’S, Grenada, (CMC) – Captain Kieron Pollard has urged his side to pay attention to the small details and improve their bowling discipline, as they seek to come from behind and win the three-match Twenty20 series against Ireland.

Labelling those areas as the “one percenters”, Pollard said doing the small things properly was often the difference between winning and losing a cricket match, and said the Windies had been guilty of not paying attention to these details.

West Indies slumped to a narrow four-run defeat

NEED TO DO BETTER: Captain Kieron Pollard wants West Indies to improve on the small things.

to Ireland in Wednesday’s opening T20 International here, to leave themselves with the challenge of winning the next two matches

in St Kitts at the weekend in order to avoid a third straight T20 series defeat.

“The attitude of some of the guys in the field - that cost nothing. It’s just a matter of showing up for 120 balls and again, the discipline was out the window again with the wides and no-balls,” Pollard pointed out. “(There were problems with) backing up and misfielding and when we’re batting, not having that urgency running between the wickets.

“We know we’re a good power-hitting team but again when the singles are there, when the twos are there we need to run hard between the

wickets and not just settle for one.

“We saw that when Ireland were batting – they hit the ball to a fieldsman and they ran and that is something we didn’t do. At the end of the day, it’s all a learning experience. I was very, very disappointed we didn’t get over the line because we were in the chase for most of the way.

He added: “But it was good to see the batsmen coming out with that sort of intent and that sort of intensity. We have a couple things to speak about (as a team) and now we move on to St Kitts.”

West Indies were under

pressure from early as Paul Stirling (95) and Kevin O’Brien (48) smashed a record 93 inside the first power-play, before going on to add 154 for the first wicket.

Though West Indies eventually pulled the scoring back, they found themselves chasing 209 which proved insurmountable, as only opener Evin Lewis with 53 and Pollard with 31, managed to really get going.

“Ireland came out and came hard and they took the initiative in the first 10 overs or so but I thought the bowlers really came back well when we decided to bowl

one side of the wicket and tried to execute our skills,” Pollard said.

“I thought Hayden Walsh in all the carnage that was taking place – he bowled four overs on the trot – was consistent with his line and length as well.

So there are still some positives in the bowling aspect but we need to execute our skills properly.”

He continued: “Batting-wise, all the way through we were in with a chance but in the last overs we let it slip.”

Marian Academy’s National Schools Mixed Relay Championship set for January 25

AS part of their Caribbean Secondary Examination Certificate (CSEC) School-Based Assessment (SBA), Marian Academy’s fifth form Physical Education students have planned a National Schools Mixed Relay Championship, on

Sunday January 25 at the Police Sports Club ground, Eve Leary, from 09:00hrs.

The Championship is a CSEC class project that was planned and will be executed and documented by the Physical Education students preparing for this year’s CSEC

Examinations.

Open to all schools, the championship will see students compete in the 4x100m, 4x400m, 800m, 1500m medley, all being U-14, U-16, U-18 and Open boys and girls.

While some school

would have already received invitational letters, schools desirous of participating can contact Marin Academy’s physical education teacher, Keith Smith, on 675-5566 or 659–0560.

Relay action at Police Sports Club ground, Eve Leary

Hodge, Smith hit half-centuries as Volcanoes reach 314 for five KINGSTON, Jamaica (CMC) – Kavem Hodge and veteran opener Devon Smith fashioned half-centuries as Windward Islands Volcanoes produced a solid batting display, to keep Jamaica Scorpions in the field for the entire first day of their second round fixture at Sabina Park.

Asked to bat here yesterday, Volcanoes finished the day on 314 for five thanks mainly to Hodge who struck 88 and Smith who carved out 72.

For the exception of cap-

tain Sunil Ambris (7), every Volcanoes batsman managed a start. Twenty-year-old Emmanuel Stewart was unbeaten at the close on 46 and was partnered by Keron Cottoy on 29.

Former captain and Test batsman Kirk Edwards had earlier also struck 29 while Desron Maloney chipped in with 26.

Seamer Derval Green was once again the hosts’ best bowler with three for 58 as the attack struggled to break down Volcanoes.

Kavem Hodge

It was Smith and Maloney who set the tone by posting 43 for the first wicket to deny Jamaica any early success.

And even after Maloney fell

after hitting five boundaries in a breezy 31-ball knock, Smith and Hodge then put their side in a commanding position courtesy of a 130-run stand.

All told, the 38-year-old Smith faced 152 deliveries in nearly three hours at the crease and counted nine fours, completing his 60th first class half-century in his 211th game.

The 26-year-old Hodge’s knock, meanwhile, spanned 171 balls in just over 4-½ hours and included 12 fours.

When Smith was bowled by pacer Marquino Mindley, Hodge put on a further 44 for the third wicket with Edwards, who punched two fours and a six in an attractive 48-ball knock before falling in the fourth over after tea, flirting with a side ball from Green and going caught behind.

Scorpions then enjoyed their best period of the day when Ambris followed 10 balls later, also caught at the wicket off Green as Volcanoes stumbled to 242 for five.

However, Stewart quickly dashed the hosts’ hopes of a further breakthrough, pairing with Cottoy to add 72 in an unbroken sixth-wicket partnership.

Stewart, who scored a half-century in the last round against Barbados Pride, has so far faced 94 balls in a shade over 1-¾ hours and counted six fours and a six.

32

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, January 17, 2020

Cricket legend Basil Butcher given hero’s send-off, as Guyana said final goodbye ‘He became a great cricketer because he was a great human, Basil made me the man I am today’ - Dr Vincent Adams

PAGE

27

Former teammate, mentor and friend of the late Basil Butcher, Dr Vincent Adams, during his tribute at Christ Church yesterday. (Carl Croker photo)

Paul bearers which included some national cricketers guide the casket of the late Basil Butcher to the hearse as with cricket bats forming an arch (Carl Croker Photo)

CONCACAF Women’s U-20 World Cup qualifying tournament … Lady Jags head coach looking to go all the way

By Rawle Toney DR IVAN Joseph, head coach of Guyana’s women’s U-20 team, believes that Guyana have what it takes to go all the way in the February 22–March 8 CONCACAF U-20 Women’s Qualifier tournament in the Dominican Republic.

Dr Joseph, speaking with Chronicle Sport, said the composition of the team is one that is capable of coming out of Group D, where Guyana are placed alongside Mexico, Puerto Rico and Nicaragua.

The Lady Jags will kick things off on February 23 when they come up against Nicaragua, and will then suit up against Puerto Rico on February 25, before facing Mexico on February 27 in their final Group D game.

“We have a great group of players who have been training in anticipation of the championship in February,”

Lady Jags head coach Dr Ivan Joseph

said Lady Jags coach.

He added that he was “lucky enough to have several of our players playing football in the United States universities, a few in Canadian universities and a few who have been playing yearround with their clubs. On top of that, what we’ve done also is put together several of our top players in an indoor league, so they’ll have continuity of our system.”

Stressing on the difficulty of putting together a squad

worthy enough of not only competing at the Championship, but also qualifying, Dr Joseph opined, “I would be lying to you if I said it was an easy task, pulling together a national team that’s from multiple countries, from the Diaspora; but the good news is that we’re all committed to the same thing and trying to get better and get fit.”

However, with the absence of any meaningful and continuous female football programme in Guyana, Dr

Joseph said, “I’m nervous that our Guyana-based players, who don’t have the same level of playing meaningful games, may be missing a step off of speed, but we’ll do the best we can.”

The Canada-based Lady Jags coach hinted that the team, with the addition of some new players, will have more depth than the one he featured who played undefeated during the preliminary round of matches, hosted in Guyana last year.

Printed and Published by Guyana National Newspapers Limi ted, Lama Avenue, Bel Air Park, Georgetown. Telephone 2 2 6- 3243-9 (General); Editorial: 2 2 7- 5204, 2 2 7- 5216. Fax:2 2 7- 5208

He told Chronicle Sport, “People will see a stronger team than the one we fielded this summer. The only prohibiting factor is that we need to get some games in before the tournament.”

CONCACAF announced earlier this week, that their Council had determined that Costa Rica and Panama, as host countries of the World Cup, will automatically qualify to the World Cup and will no longer participate in the 2020 CONCACAF Women’s Under-20 Championship, meaning that the two remaining slots in the World Cup will be determined via the 2020 CONCACAF Women’s Under-20 Championship.

For the group stage of the 2020 CONCACAF Women’s Under-20 Championship, to be played at the Felix Sanchez Stadium and Panamericano Stadium, in Santo Domingo and San Cristobal, respectively, Guyana (topranked team in qualifying

Group A) and St Kitts & Nevis (top-ranked team in qualifying Group B) will be replacing Costa Rica and Panama for the group stage of the final championship.

In Group C, the United States, Honduras, Dominican Republic and Cuba will go head-to-head, while Group E is set with Canada, Jamaica, Guatemala and El Salvador and in Group F Haiti, Trinidad and Tobago, St Kitts & Nevis and Cayman Islands.

For the Round-of-16, Bermuda (third-place finishers in qualifying Group A) and Barbados (third-place finishers in qualifying Group B) will occupy the positions vacated by Guyana and St Kitts &Nevis.

All knockout round matches (round of 16, quarterfinal, semifinal and final) will be played in a single match elimination format, with the finalists qualifying for the FIFA Women’s U-20 World Cup 2020.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 17, 2020