Guyana_Chronicle_Epaper_07_05_2019

FRIDAY 5th July, 2019

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No.105689

New GECOM chair 'soonest'

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–– following meeting with President, Opposition Leader

Rastafarians pleased with 11 proposal on 'ganja' PAGE

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but continue lobby for decriminalisation of the weed for religious purposes

––– teams from both sides to ‘hammer out' names before formal submission

Cabinet continues until CCJ 14 orders otherwise Money changer, teen daughter 02 killed in robbery PAGE

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President David Granger and Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo, before their meeting on Thursday, on filling the post of chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (Ministry of the Presidency photo).

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Money changer, teen daughter killed in robbery

POLICE in ‘C’ Division are hunting a duo who shot and killed a businessman and his daughter Thursday afternoon, as they were entering

their property at Better Hope, East Coast Demerara.

Dead are Aaron Latchman and his teenage daughter, Ariana Latch-

man of Lot 58 Robert Road, Better Hope.

The two had just returned from the city when the robbers pounced on them.

Eyewitnesses say the bandits approached the businessman and demanded cash and valuables but he refused and a fight started between him and them.

A number of shots were fired and both Aaron and Ariana Latchman were shot multiple times before falling to the ground.

The bandit then secured their loot and made good their escape.

During the escape, money reportedly fell out of the bag containing

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday July 5, 2019

Dead: Aaron Latchman and daughter, Ariana Latchman the bandits’ loot and was picked up by a nearby vendor.

The father and daughter were picked up and rushed to a city hospital where they were pronounced dead on arrival.

Police are working on the theory that the two might have been trailed from the city to their address by the two bandits who killed them.

Meanwhile, the vendor who picked up the money which fell from the bandits’ bag was taken to the police station and is likely to be placed on bail, as police await legal advice on whether to charge her.

Residents described the now deceased as quiet and decent people and are calling on the police to bring the perpetrators to justice.

Cops at the crime scene on Thursday

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday July 5, 2019

New GECOM Chair 'soonest' -- following meeting with President, Opposition Leader -- teams from both sides to 'hammer out' names before formal submission

By Svetlana Marshall PRESIDENT David Granger and Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo exited a high-level meeting on Thursday with an agreement to have their respective technical teams hammer out the names of persons for the post of GECOM chair.

This will be done ahead of the formal submission of the final list to the President by the Opposition Leader and both sides expressed optimism that the process will be completed within days.

The Opposition Leader will kick start the process by resubmitting the 18 names from the three lists that were previously rejected, once those persons are still interested in the post.

At the high-level meeting at the Ministry of the Presidency, President Granger was accompanied by Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo; Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjat-

Opposition Leader was not only cordial but ended on a successful note with several agreements reached on the process that would result in the nomination and appointment of a chairman of the Elections Commission.

The meeting dealt primarily with the appointment of a chairman for the Elections Commission – a posi-

means to be adopted for the nomination and appointment of chairman of the Elections Commission. We feel that unless, and until the chairman is appointed, work of the Commission will not be able to go ahead as quickly as possible,” President Granger told reporters at the Ministry of the Presidency.

He said both parties

President David Granger and Leader of the Opposition Bharrat Jagdeo on Thursday met and agreed to have the process of appointing a new chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) concluded in the shortest possible time. Both leaders were accompanied by senior functionaries within the government, in the case of the President, and in the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) in the case of the Opposition Leader (MOTP photo)

President David Granger addressing reporters during a press conference at the Ministry of the Presidency shortly after his meeting with the Opposition Leader. He was accompanied by the director-general of the Ministry of the Presidency, Joseph Harmon. (Photo by Adrian Narine)

agreed that the Opposition Leader would be allowed to submit the names of persons previously submitted for consideration, and that he too can suggest names.

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo proceeding to the meeting with the President and his delegation (Photo by Adrian Narine)

tan; Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Basil Williams; Minister of Social Protection, Amna Ally; Minister of State, Dawn Hastings-Williams; Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence; Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman; and Director General of the Ministry of the Presidency, Joseph Harmon. The Opposition Leader’s team consisted of Anil Nandlall, Irfaan Ali, Bishop Juan Edghill and Gail Teixeira.

Moments after the meeting ended, President Granger, in the company of the director-general, told reporters that his meeting with the

tion which recently became vacant after the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) ruled that Justice (Ret’d) James Patterson’s appointment as chairman, in October 2017, was unconstitutional.

The President and Opposition Leader were advised by the court to meaningfully consult and arrive at a consensus before a list of six nominees is formally submitted for consideration by the President. The process as outlined by the Court was initiated with the meeting.

“So our discussions lasted just about an hour, were clearly focused on the means, not the nomination, the

PROGRESSIVE “I think it is a move forward towards the appointment of the chairman of the Commission, and I am confident that once there is a chairman of the Commission, who enjoys the confidence of both the Opposition and the Government, the Commission, itself, will start to function much more smoothly,” the head of state reasoned.

He noted that the Elections Commission, in recent times, was unable to function effectively due to major disagreements and constant walk outs.

“So I hope that is all water under the bridge and Guyanese could look forward to having credible elections in the shortest time possible,” he posited.

While President Granger could not state when they will conclude, he expressed the hope that they can arrive at a decision within days.

The Head of State said the appointment of the chairman of GECOM will be in

keeping with Article 161 (2) of the Constitution of Guyana. That Article states that the Commission’s chairman “shall be a person who holds or who has held office as a judge of a court having unlimited jurisdiction in civil and criminal matters in some part of the Commonwealth or a court having jurisdiction in appeals from any such court

or who is qualified to be appointed as any such judge, or any other fit and proper person, to be appointed by the President from a list of six persons, not unacceptable to the President, submitted by the Leader of the Opposition after meaningful consultation with the non-governmental political parties represented in the National Assembly.”

“We are also bound now by the interpretation of the Caribbean Court of Justice, which has spoken twice on the issue of elections, and it was really in obedience to the last injunction by that Court that I decided to meet with the Leader of the Opposition to decide on a way forward,” TURN TO PAGE

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GUYANA CHRONICLE FRIDAY July 5, 2019

Iran summons UK ambassador in tanker seizure row Iran has summoned the British ambassador in Tehran to complain about what it says is the illegal seizure of an Iranian oil tanker.

British Royal Marines helped the authorities in Gibraltar seize the ship because of evidence it was heading to Syria in breach of EU sanctions.

Spain's acting foreign minister said the seizure of the ship - Grace 1 - was at the US's request.

An Iranian foreign ministry spokesman said detaining its tanker was illegal.

Gibraltar port and law enforcement agencies detained the super tanker and its cargo on Thursday morning with the help of the marines.

The BBC has been told a team of about 30 marines, from 42 Commando, were flown from the UK to Gibraltar to help, at the request of the Gibraltar government.

The team boarded the Panama-flagged ship from a helicopter by rope. No shots were fired.

A defence source described it as a "relatively benign operation" without major incident.

However, Iran's foreign ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi was later quoted as saying the UK's ambassador in Tehran, Robert Macaire, had been summoned over the "illegal seizure" of the tanker.

In a brief interview for Iranian TV's Channel Two,

The oil tanker is suspected of carrying crude oil to Syria

Mousavi said the seizure was "a form of piracy" and did not have any legal and international basis. He called for the tanker to be immediately released to continue its journey.

He added that "the move indicated that the UK follows the hostile policies of the US, which is unacceptable for the Iranian nation and government".

Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt said the swift action by the authorities in Gibraltar and the Royal Marines would deny valuable resources to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's "murderous regime".

Gibraltar said there was reason to believe the ship was carrying Iranian crude oil to the Baniyas Refinery in the Syrian Mediterranean port town of Tartous.

The refinery is a subsidiary of the General Corporation for Refining and Distribution of Petroleum

Royal Marines disembarking Grace 1

Products, a section of the Syrian ministry of petroleum.

The EU says the facility therefore provides financial support to the Syrian government, which is subject to sanctions because of its repression of civilians since the start of the uprising against President Assad in 2011.

The refinery has been subject to EU sanctions since 2014.

This latest row comes at a time of escalating tensions between the US and Iran.

The Trump administration - which has pulled out of an international agreement on Tehran's nuclear programme - has reinforced punishing sanctions against Iran. Its European allies have not followed suit.

Also last month, the US accused Iran of attacking two oil tankers with mines just outside the Strait of Hormuz - an accusation denied

by Iran.

Days later, an unmanned US drone was shot down by Iranian forces in the Gulf.

Iran said it had violated Iranian airspace and would send a "clear message to America". The US insisted the drone had been over international waters. President Donald Trump tweeted: "Iran made a very big mistake!" (BBC News)

Wednesday July 3, 2019

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28, June, 2019

A 05, 15, 03, 01, 23

8, 3, 2

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7, 6, 8 01, 04, 08, 05, 11

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GUYANA CHRONICLE FRIDAY July 5, 2019

UN accuses Venezuela of using death squads

The UN has accused Venezuela of a strategy of instilling fear in its population to retain power, removing opponents with a "shocking" number of alleged extrajudicial killings.

Victims are arrested and shot, with crime scenes manipulated to suggest they resisted police, a report says.

The UN urges Venezuela to end the "grave violations of economic, social, civil, political and cultural rights".

Nicolรกs Maduro's administration has not yet officially responded to the report.

Venezuela has in the past dismissed human rights allegations as "lies".

Maduro is locked in a political battle with opposition leader Juan Guaidรณ.

Guaidรณ, head of the country's National Assembly, declared himself interim president in January and has the backing of more than 50 countries, including the US and most of Latin America.

Maduro retains the loyalty of most of the military and important allies such as China and Russia.

Some four million people have fled Venezuela since 2015, according to the UN, amid a severe economic crisis that has resulted in high unemployment and chronic shortages of food and medicine.

The report is scheduled to be presented to the UN Human Rights Council on Friday.

It is based on "558 interviews with victims and witnesses of human rights violations and the deteriorating economic situation" from January 2018 to May 2019.

Its most damning findings relate to the number of deaths the Venezuelan government has ascribed to

plant arms and drugs and fire their weapons against the walls or in the air to suggest a confrontation and to show the victim had 'resisted authority'".

It adds that the UN "is concerned the authorities may be using FAES and other security forces as an instrument to instill fear in

The report comes after UN rights chief Michelle Bachelet visited Venezuela

The government is accused of neutralising opponents to remain in power

resisting arrest.

That figure for last year was 5,287, with another 1,569 up to 19 May this year.

Referring to these figures as "unusually" and "shockingly" high, the report says: "Information analysed by Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights suggests many of these killings may constitute extrajudicial executions."

The UN says witnesses reported how the Special Action Forces (FAES) "manipulated the crime scene and evidence. They would

the population and to maintain social control".

The BBC's Imogen Foulkes in Geneva says the report paints a dark picture of Venezuela, in which unmarked black vans arrive in poor neighbourhoods, masked officers get out, round up young men and shoot them.

The lengthy report also covers areas such as economic and social rights, and social programmes and policies.

Problems of access to justice - which the report says the government has asked for help with -- are

also tackled.

A separate section covers the rights of indigenous people, and migrants and refugees.

The UN concludes it believes "there are reasonable grounds to believe that grave violations of economic and social rights, including the rights to food and health, have been committed in Venezuela".

On accusations of torture it says detainees have been subjected to "one or more forms of torture or cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment, including electric shocks, suffocation with plastic bags, water boarding, beatings, sexual violence, water and food deprivation, stress positions and exposure to extreme temperatures".

A navy captain arrested over an alleged plot to assassinate President Maduro died in custody with his lawyer alleging it was as a result of torture.

The death sparked outrage, coming just days after the visit to Venezuela by UN human rights chief, Michelle Bachelet.

Local media say the official autopsy reported that the body of Rafael Acosta, 49, had showed signs of having been subjected to extreme force, had been starved of oxygen and had suffered severe beatings and electrocution.

Two men, Lt Ascanio

Tarascio and Sgt Estiben Zarate have been charged with murder.

President Maduro has intensified a crackdown on the opposition since a failed military uprising against him in April led by Guaidรณ.

Since the failed rebellion, described by Maduro as part of a US-orchestrated coup, many opposition MPs have lost their parliamentary immunity and some have been arrested.

While Guaidรณ's parliamentary immunity has been lifted, he has so far not been jailed, even though he recently said he did not rule out the use of military force to oust Maduro from power. (BBC)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE FRIDAY July 5, 2019

DNA at last: the crime game-changer NO jurisdiction that is very serious about combatting serious acts of brutal crime, cannot do so without possessing cutting edge modern technology, such as forensic science, as a means of not only solving the particular criminal case, but achieving the most important goal of catching the perpetrator(s), and bringing the guilty to justice.

And standing at the heart of this ultra-modern approach to 21st- century crime fighting is the use of deoxyribonucleic acid, commonly known as DNA. There is no forensic laboratory that is considered complete, and worthy of its description, without the presence of this game-changer for crime solving.

We recall the initial operationalising of the Guyana Forensic Science Laboratory(GFSL) in 2015, with the excited expectation of DNA

capabilities being the pivot of its scientific operations. It was a legitimate expectation, which was promised by the then PPP/C government, given the numerous cases of unsolved crimes, and the resort of having to access the services of foreign labs for assistance, which obviously cost the State huge sums, as well as putting a brake on whatever investigation was being done, as a result of the time taken for the return of the relevant results.

Recently, this inexplicable omission was finally remedied with the installation of this all- important forensic technology, at a cost of US$465, 000. Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan alluded to the fact “that as technology advances, forensic scientists are able to analyse smaller biological samples to develop

a DNA profile”. He also said, “through the adaptation of technologies and scientific approaches, the safety of citizens increases and not only will criminals be caught, but many persons who are innocent will also benefit”.

Of course, one must agree with the GFSL Director’s view that the GFSL is now a “national pioneer for human identification”, given its ability to do comparing and matching evidence to suspects; “paternity testing”, and “‘family mapping or testing”, using their DNA for identifying a suspect. Among the procedures that will be used for DNA analysis include “swabbing of the mouth, semen and vaginal sampling, hair, blood and touch DNA”.

However, these important capabilities which stand at the heart of the entire gamut of utilising DNA for enhancing the effectiveness

of crime-fighting will have to be supported by “quality service” which will pave the way for “international accreditation”, thus making the GFSL “marketable”, and financially “viable”. Also very important, as well, and a critical centre piece of DNA functions, is the establishment of a national data base, which, according to the Director of the forensic institution, will be part of its “expansion” plans, but which will require “legal intervention and amendments to the laws of Guyana and the Police Act”.

Equally, too, it should be emphasised that to make the intervention of DNA analyses into the dynamics of the local crime scene a very successful undertaking, crime scene investigation will have to be greatly improved, with zero space for half measures or sloppy sleuthing. For it is

a given that the more evidence that is collected, and in a comprehensive manner, the greater the chances for conviction. To this end, the Director has outlined the laboratory’s intention of crime scene training programmes for police officers.

Although there have been some successes in solving a number of “cold cases’’, especially over the past four years, there are still those that remain unsolved, not because of lack of professional efforts, but as a result of the missing attribute of DNA, which has the unique ability of placing the suspect/ perpetrator at the scene of the crime. One can extend this to the instances of rape, where either the predators remain unidentified, or even when charged and placed before the courts, escapes judicial sanction because of his denial.

The introduction of DNA will

certainly close this loophole.

With the introduction of DNA, supported by competent investigation, these gaps will now be plugged, with exponential numbers of murder suspects being arrested, charged, and suffer the judicial consequences. The same, too, for sexual predators. It is an irrefutable fact that since its introduction in 1985, that DNA has become an indispensable crime-fighting tool, because of its unambiguous identification of criminals.

Its successes have been unchallenged, standing as a more than equal response to those murderers, rapists, and crooks, as well as those males who have tried to deny paternity; and equally, absolving those persons who are innocent.

No controversy surrounding works on West Ruimveldt ground Dear Editor PLEASE refer to article captioned Controversy surrounds 7.7million allocated for works to West Ruimveldt ground, published in the June 9, 2019 edition of your Newspapers.

As we ruminate on the matter concerning the West Ruimveldt ground, it has become imperative that the inaccuracies contained in this missive be corrected.

First, the caption Controversy surrounds 7.7 million dollars allocated for works on the West Ruimveldt ground. This caption is not only erroneous but also misleading. As far as the Georgetown City Council is aware, there is no

controversy surrounding the works being done at this location or any other City-managed project.

Editor, please permit me to briefly recall the history of this project to provide clarity; the sum of 7.7 million dollars was allocated by the Ministry of Communities for the rehabilitation of the West Ruimveldt Community grounds which included repairs to fence and resurfacing of the ground. The project also entailed repairs to two bridges in the community contiguous to the West Ruimveldt area.

These were based on proposals submitted by Councillor Trichria Richards, one of the Councillors for constituency #13; the focus of the project is to restore and rehabilitate

the recreational facility for use by youths in the community.

It must be noted the tender process initiated was consistent with procurement policy, which states that three quotations should be submitted to the finance committee of which the committee selected the most suitable tender.

The article stated that a contractor was paid and the ground was left half-done, this is far from the truth of the matter, since the City Engineer’s Department has assigned an officer who oversees the project and submits reports as the projects progress.

In addition, a project of this nature is done in sev-

eral phases, each phase is examined to determine if the contractor adheres to the contractual agreement specified.

Also, the engineer inspects to ensure that the quality of work delivered is consistent with the scope of work articulated in the contractual agreement.

Once the engineer is satisfied with the works done by the contractor, he informs the City Treasure by way of a written report. The engineer is the one who recommends payment to the contractors based on his inspection, it must be noted that at no point in time are Councillors involved in the payments of monies to any contractors; we want to make this pellucid. All monies assigned to

projects are paid through the City Treasurer’s Department; the authorized section as prescribed by law to receive and make payments on behalf of the Council. The Municipal and District Council Act Chapter 28:1 section 78(1) states that The Treasurer shall be the Chief Finance Officer of the Council of which he is the Treasurer and shall be primarily charged with the responsibility for all matters of finance and accounts of the Council.

Also, there is a clause in the agreement which holds the contractor accountable if he deviates from the signed agreement. Due to the inclement weather condition and the nature of the soil, the contractor is unable to

proceed with the works at this time, this is based on the recommendations of the City Engineer assigned to the project, who is the professional in this area and provides the necessary advice and guidance.

It must be noted that this incumbent, the Mayor and Councillors of the City of Georgetown, seeks to uphold, reiterates its focus on principles, transparency, and accountability at every level and on every project.

Therefore, the suggestion made in this missive that the project is controversial, is misleading.

Debra Lewis Public Relations Officer

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GUYANA CHRONICLE FRIDAY July 5, 2019

A plea for Sanity and Good Sense to Save Guyana Dear Editor THE last few days presented a troubling omen which, if there is no varying away, will take us along a rocky road to self-destruction.

The succeeding generation will curse us. We heard the Jagdeo recent ‘feral blast’ about the government giving away large tracts of land to its supporters after the December No- Confidence Motion, with an insinuation of race.

We noted the responses by Messrs. Charles Ceres, Eric Phillips and Trevor Benn. They were accurate and instructive.

The first named reminded us of our history. This is very important. If we don’t know all of our past experiences, then we will be unable to understand the present and therefore be illequipped to forge a safe future.

Quite rightly, Mr. Ceres, as did Walter Rodney, reminded us that it was the blood, sweat and tears of the Africans during slavery which made our entire Coastal belt habitable.

Later, their descendants as ‘Pork-Knockers’ opened the interior and gold mining areas.

Allow me this caveat, we must neither forget nor ignore the hard work and the culture of deferred gratification by the Indian indentured labourers.

These Immigrants made great sacrifices.

The truth is the two majority groups today must accept the absolute need to work together to vindicate the horrors of slavery and even though under improved conditions, the challenges of Indentureship.

As Dr. Yesu Persaud quipped some time ago, we came in different ships but now we’re in the same boat. What caused the problem need to be recited often if we are to bravely lead and bequeath to succeeding generations, a united, safe and prosperous country.

Earlier, we had the colonial divide and rule policy; this divisive condition was put somehow on the back burner, when the Waddington Constitution gave every man and woman at 21,the rights for the first time to vote, therefore to elect a government that truly represented the masses. At the helm of this new deal were our two heroes, Dr. Cheddi Bharat Jagan, an American-trained dentist and Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham, a brilliant British-trained

lawyer. The new government elected with a substantial majority in 1953 was rudely booted out by Her Gracious Majesty’s Government.

The reason advanced was that the PPP leaders were leading the Country to become a Communist State. This, of course, was during the Cold War hysteria.

The events after the suspension of the 1953 Constitution are well known --the two leaders taking a different approach to navigate a tricky international situation. What sort of bridge to build over troubled waters?

When the PPP split came at its Congress, it marked the significant turning point in our social and political history. At that time, the Chairman of the PPP was L.F.S Burnham.

When the split came, the two senior Afro Guyanese leaders came out in support of Dr. Jagan while the two top Indo Party leaders came out in support of Forbes Burnham.

As a ‘young Turk’ in the Party, I sensed that this alliance rang alarm bells in certain quarters. There were those who saw division along racial lines as being beneficial to them, a cynical and narrow approach. This can be discussed at any other time.

The result was that certain elements within the PPP Jaganites camp came out with that carrion call of “Apan Jaat,” meaning vote for your own race.

Since then, this has been a heavy burden the people of Guyana has been saddled with for generations. A Sad and Sorry Situation.

I remain optimistic that, notwithstanding those who seem determined to maintain this brutish breach, that we will overcome and fulfil the aspiration of the architects of our Independence, of ‘One People, One Nation, One Destiny.’

To put an end to the charade of two PPPs (Jaganite, Burnhamite) after the Elections on 12th August, 1957, some of us met and agreed to launch the People’s National Congress with the leader being LFS Burnham; the Chairman-- Dr. Joseph Prayag Latchmansingh and General Secretary-- Jai Narine Singh, Lawyer.

The time has come for the PNC and the PPP to sit, talk and find a ‘modus vivendi.’

The truth is all of the other political groups have come

out of the belly of either the PNC or the PPP. The only way to save Guyana, therefore, is for the PPP and the PNC to talk. Notice, I dismiss the civic component of the PPP and the reform label of the PNC. We need to remind this generation that the PPP-PNC tussle, with its ethnic edifice, led to the madness of Maginot Lines, mayhem, the loss of life, the destruction of property and the dislocation of families.

Out of this at one time, came the request for partition.

It was out of a serious concern when it appeared that we would not live as one people. In any event, one asked after partition, where would the Basdeos live?

Mother-- Afro-Guyanese; father-- Indo Guyanese; where would the Ordersons live?

– mother-- Indo Guyanese; father-- Afro Guyanese; where would the Santantones live and where would the buffianos live and where would the mulattoes live? and the other delightful douglas. Today, let us first forget the niceties of the Courts and the rulings of the CCJ and deal with the gut issues.

The constitutional and political pundits have already consumed too much of our time, money, energy and patience. I said consumed and I dare not say wasted – have us?

Guyana must now come first.

With the help of a few elders and the very young must craft a menu of measures that will provide the guide for governance. It must be like the commandments, an agreement that all those who govern must be scrupulous and any deviation from the rules of propriety must warrant the immediate removal from office - Ministers, Administrators, Managers, Mayors, etc.

Next, the State should avoid the tedium of lengthy, sometimes, unreliable trials.

We must now invest money in up-to date lie detectors with trained personnel so that once a report is made accusing a high official, that official must be required promptly to take a lie detector test.

A public official need to be accountable to the public.

This would put an end to both bizarre and credible accusations.

As a precursor, I recommend this: all charges and accusations, whether before the

Courts or other for a, be put on hold and we agree to a period of amnesty, subscribing to the notion that forgiveness can characterize the road ahead and

that the vilest sinner can return to be in the fold of goodness with God’s grace.

I am sending this letter also to the political leaders,

hoping they have no difficulty considering seriously the above.

Kind regards.

Hamilton Green

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday July 5, 2019

Progression on the issue of marijuana

CABINET’s approval of the proposal to remove custodial sentences for 30 grams or less of marijuana is a step in the right direction towards reducing the high number of youths imprisoned for cannabis sativa (marijuana), and the age-old distress of overcrowding in prisons.

The July 2, 2019 decision of Cabinet marks the “first of several steps that government intends to take” in this regard.

President David Granger has always held the belief that persons ought not to be incarcerated for possession of small quantities of the plant for personal use. Despite the many challenges involved with bringing about the change, he has long indicated the interest.

Each year, and for many years, scores of Guyanese both young and old have been thrown in jail for the simple possession of a “joint”.

In 2016, during the handing over of the Camp Street

Prison Riot Commission of Inquiry report, the President stated that no President would be happy to see large numbers of young people spend so much of their lives incarcerated.

According to the Guyana Times of July 05, 2016 he indicated that the Government would “direct its efforts towards ensuring the country becomes a safer place” and “expressed hope that fewer children, men and women

will end up in the country’s prisons.”

For the first time, a quantity for consideration has been named by Cabinet.

The Ministry of the Presidency has explained that the draft amendments of the Narcotics Drug and Psychotropic Substances (Control) (Amendment) Bill 2015 were presented to Cabinet on 30, April 2019 and, following the necessary process, has now Inmates of the Camp Street Prison during a past protest.

Marijuana

been made public.

“This is the first in a series of actions that has to be taken to ensure the proposed changes are enacted. Before a Bill is sent to the National Assembly, it has to be approved

by Cabinet. If there are any changes, it is sent to the Attorney General’s Chambers.

However, once the final draft has been approved by Cabinet, it is added to the National Assembly’s Order Papers, read, debated and then voted on.

The approval of the proposal therefore does not render it law; it is simply the first step,” the Ministry explained.

It matches the intention of the President who stated in 2016: “We would want to have a good debate on whether a person should be sent to jail, given custodial sentence for possession of such a small quantity of marijuana when it is clear that it is only for personal use and not for trafficking.”

The year before, the Bill to remove custodial sentences for possession of small amounts of marijuana was brought to the National Assembly by Alliance For Change (AFC) member, Michael Carrington.

At the time, Carrington had emphasised that the Bill was not about legalising cannabis but about reducing the “hundreds of people in Guyana” sentenced to jail for three years or more for “smoking a joint” or being in possession of small quantities of cannabis.

Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan has since indicated that the Bill needs to be refined.

CONTRADICTIONS However, it is perplexing that while the Government and the Opposition --- in a rare instance --- see eye-to-eye on the marijuana issue, the Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo still believes that the recent move of the Government is “another promise that was broken.”

Both parties do not support the production, sale, export or the general decriminalization of marijuana but want custodial sentences removed for small quantities.

Yet, a release from the PPP on June 02, following the government’s announcement, stated that the “David

Granger-led Coalition has had over four years to address the issue of removing custodial sentences for possession of small quantities of marijuana” but “failed to do so”.

The Party instead highlighted its own efforts in its 2015 manifesto to include the need for the reviewing of the possession of small quantities of marijuana.

However, some are questioning the worth of the PPP’s recent push for the same when from 1993 when Jagdeo became a Member of Parliament and from 1999 to 2011 when he served as President, he made no notable efforts to champion the cause.

Even more interesting is his previous ‘cold’ approach to the marijuana issue prior to the 2015 elections.

This is evident in his statements made in July 2011 at the launch of the International Year for People of African Descent (IYPAD).

“This marijuana business… I think it will outlive my presidency, there will be no change in the law whilst I am here,” then President Jagdeo told members of the media.

Earlier in the ceremony, President of the Guyana Rastafari Council, Ras Leon Saul had lobbied for consideration to lift the prohibition on the substance which the Rastafari community values as a “sacrament.”

In 2014, the Kaieteur News reported that the then PPP Government disregarded CARICOM’s urging for the setting up of a National Marijuana Commission and could not state when discussions on the matter would be held.

“It remains illegal here and up until those change, we will actively pursue those who cultivate and supply it,” former Home Affairs Minister, Clement Rhoee had told the media.

In December 2015, with a change of government, the local Rastafarian organisations engaged Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Basil Williams on marijuana laws and human rights violations.

It was the same year that Carrington had tabled the Bill in the National Assembly for debate.

In 2018, speaking to the topic once more, the Regional

Commission on Marijuana made recommendations for the decriminalization of marijuana across CARICOM Member States but in controlled and regulated amounts.

As a result, President David Granger indicated that amendments will be made to the Act to allow for the removal of jail time for the possession of small amounts of marijuana.

“We are moving towards the removal of custodial sentences for the possession of small amounts of marijuana,” he told Guyana Chronicle “We are not moving towards encouraging the industrialisation of marijuana production. I think that is a little premature in the context of Guyana, and we have vast landscape in comparison with some of the Caribbean Island states, we have challenges for enforcement and challenges for control of that land space, and it will be very difficult for Guyana to embark on that course at the present time.

So we are moving towards the removal of the custodial sentences, we are not moving towards the encouragement of the use of marijuana.”

This is still the position of the government but the Ministry of the Presidency has made it clear that it is only the proposal that has been approved thus far; possession is still illegal.

Furthermore, should the proposal be eventually agreed upon, it is not that the possession of the quantity of marijuana will be legal but “custodial sentences for 30 grams or less of marijuana” will be removed.

The government believes that this position maintains the goal of reducing those incarcerated in relation to the possession for small quantities of marijuana for personal use and moves steps closer towards ensuring “Rastafarian brothers and sisters who require [marijuana] for use in their worship and sacrament” are considered.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday July 5, 2019

GTM records growth in premiums for 2018 …income pegged at $1.9B THE Guyana and Trinidad Mutual Fire Insurance Company Limited (GTM), at its 94th Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on Wednesday, reported that the company has recorded a growth of $133.76M in insurance premiums written.

This was announced by Chairman of the Board of Directors, Ram L. Singh, who was also re-elected to serve in the same capacity for the ensuing year.

Singh pointed out the challenges the company would have had over the past year, the main one being the increase in provisions for actuarial liabilities.

“There was a significant increase in provisions for ac-

tuarial liabilities amounting to $610M, due mainly to the continued decline in returns on investments other than in shares in other companies,” he said.

“Regrettably,” he further added, “if the continued absence of investment opportunities with acceptable returns persist, coupled with unrealistic limitations on the amounts than can be invested outside Guyana, your company may in future need to take drastic actions to arrest unfavourable movements in policyholders’ liabilities.”

Despite the challenges, however, GTM was still able to see progress.

After payment of reinsurance, Singh said the compa-

New GECOM... the head of state said.

The director-general of the Ministry of the Presidency said the leaders have agreed that the process of appointing a new chairman will be completed within the shortest possible time.

“In fact, the President indicated that he would like this process to be completed within days. So what that means, is that the two sides will have to be engaged in what the CCJ calls hammering out the names of persons to arrive at a list of six, which the Leader of the Opposition will present to His Excellency and from which he will choose one person to be named the chairman of the Elections Commission,” Harmon explained.

Harmon said both the President and Opposition Leader agreed that the process must be a consensual one as laid out by the CCJ. He too noted that the Opposition Leader will submit a list of eligible persons within the shortest possible time.

“This exchange of names or this submission of names will also include any suggestion which the President has for inclusion on that list.

And once the two sides sit and agree on the list of six, then that is the process that we (will) move forward, that list of six will then go to the President for him to choose,” the director-general further explained.

During the meeting, there were two suggestions placed on the table – a small group of advisors to the President and Opposition Leader en-

gage in preliminary discussions on the names and weed out those which will not find favour either way, or two, the President and the Leader of the Opposition sit and hammer out the names by themselves. “So there are two approaches and we expect that the Leader of the Opposition will write and submit his list of names,” Harmon posited.

ENCOURAGING Outside of the Ministry of the Presidency, the Opposition Leader said too that the meeting was one of progress.

“Both sides agreed, the President and I that this matter is so important that it should be settled in the matter of days, so we are hoping that with good faith, negotiations on both sides that we can resolve the matter of the new chairman of GECOM, within a matter of days,” he told reporters.

He added: “We agreed that both sides with smaller groups will get together to try and hammer out the names.”

Jagdeo reiterated that while the Constitution stipulates that after consultation with Opposition parties in the Parliament he must submit a list of six names to the President, he is not adverse to the President suggesting names of persons for the position.

“So the CCJ ruling did not change the Constitution, and the Constitution of Guyana says six names must originate from the Leader of the Opposition and it must be done only through consultation with the non-gov-

ny’s net premium growth was $121.67M over 2017. Taking into account income from investments and currency translation, the total income was $1.93B or $124M more than the previous year.

An annual actuarial valuation was completed for the year ended December 31, 2018.

“I am pleased to advise that your company’s solvency ratio improved from 318.3 per cent at the end of December 31, 2017, to 467.9 per cent ; that is for every dollar of liability; your company has $3.67B in assets to cover that liability. The total capital required to cover liabilities as recommended by the Consulting Actuary was $1.18B FROM PAGE 3

ernmental political parties in parliament. We are prepared to consider names if the President were to suggest those names in an informal process that hopefully would start with a smaller team over the next couple of days,” the Opposition Leader said.

He noted that he will start the process by resubmitting 18 names appropriately adjusted for persons who may not want to have their names resubmitted. “So we will use those names as a starting point,” he posited.

“Should we not agree on all six names coming from those 18, then we will be supplying additional names. Of course, the President is free to suggest names but at the end of the day we will have to make a determination that they are acceptable to us,” Jagdeo said.

The two sides are expected to meet again soon on the matter. Meanwhile, President Granger, when asked whether Justice (Ret’d) Patterson would be placed up for consideration, said he wished not to treat with that matter.

“Justice Patterson is part of Guyana’s electoral history; I don’t want to go back with that,” the President said.

Nonetheless, he said Justice (Ret’d) Patterson while Chairman of GECOM steered the Commission forward. “I am quite satisfied with his performance, the CCJ ruled and I am not going to go back to that issue,” President Granger said.

and your company has total available capital of $4.35B… The Total Company Surplus grew from $3.06B to $4.61B, a growth of $1.55B or 50.64 per cent,” Singh proudly announced.

Another challenge faced by the company that was highlighted at the meeting is policy retention. However, Singh said GTM has adopted a business retention strategy that encourages policyholders to withdraw cash values or surrender the policy bonus as opposed to surrendering their policies outright due to financial constraints.

“In preserving the policy, a policyholder maintains the

financial security for his or her beneficiary or beneficiaries while rebuilding the cash value should he or she require cash in the future.

As a result of our efforts, the majority of payouts under the line item ‘Surrenders’ are in fact withdrawal of cash and bonus surrenders,” Singh explained.

In the Statement of Financial Position, he noted that as of December 31, 2018, the company’s asset base grew by $2.47B. This represents a growth of 23.97 per cent over the previous financial year. This growth was credited to the increase in value of non-current assets

and improved share values of local companies in which GTM invested.

Singh expressed gratitude to the company’s valued policyholders for their unwavering support and loyalty over the years, and to the other directors on the Board who would have committed to the company.

He said that he is happy to be re-elected as Chairman and has no doubt about the support that will be received to ensure that the company moves forward.

Following the formal meeting, several staff members were recognised for differing achievements.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday July 5, 2019

Atlanta-based entrepreneurs investing in Linden businesses

By Vanessa Braithwaite THE Linden business community is expected to benefit from investment opportunities as the Linden Mayor and Town Council (LMTC) was able to partner with Atlanta-based Guyanese investors, who answered their call for help in this regard.

With Linden being pregnant with investment opportunities, LMTC, through its Economic Development Committee, has rallied for assistance from the diaspora and the Libra Management Group, which is an Atlanta-based NGO, has responded positively.

Chairman of the Committee, Lawrence Simon, related that the first means of investment will be the Linden Pitch Tank project, which will give potential or new investors in Linden, the opportunity to pitch their ideas for invest-

ment and will benefit from up to $2M, to do same.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Libra Management, Stacey Mollison, related that she, along with two other entrepreneurs, invested in the pitch tank initiative which aims at strengthening businesses having difficulty to grow and develop. She said Libra Management has realised there was a need for investment in Linden.

She also noted that there is a disconnect from persons her age group to the native land, hence, the reason she started Libra Management, because she sees it as a means of giving back to Linden.

A team of up to 15 successful business owners is also expected in Linden on July 19 and will spend a period of one week, to tour Linden and get a better overview of the investment sites and opportunities.

An entrepreneurial train-

ing session will also be conducted during this period, a conference with the Linden Chamber of Commerce along with other exercises in keeping with business and investment is slated for this period.

Libra Management CEO, Stacey Mollison

neurial development. He said Libra is very passionate about Linden and its development.

Linden Economic Development Committee Chairman, Lawrence Simon

The overall aim, Simon outlined, is to improve the economy of Linden through diversification and entrepre-

"For you to develop any country, or town or community, you have to develop the economy and that is why the Linden Mayor and Town Council, in its desire to develop Linden in this regard, is seeking out partnerships; public, private and in the diaspora to assist us in this regard, knowing too that we are cash-strapped and have limitations in this regard," Simon noted. These investments will either be direct, through potential or established businesses, he related.

The committee is encouraging all entrepreneurs and potential entrepreneurs to

take this opportunity seriously.

"We think it's a good initiative to pep up some businesses in Linden; this is the first of a lot of things to come and we encourage persons to get on board and see where it takes them," he said.

The pitch-tank contestants will be tasked with submitting a one-page summary of their business proposal to Libra. Five of them will be shortlisted to present their business plan to the team of entrepreneurs.

The winner will receive up to $2 M to invest in his/her business.

Driver killed as truck turns turtle on Linden/Lethem trail THE driver of a truck died Thursday afternoon when the vehicle toppled along the Linden/Lethem trail while ascending an area called 'Devil's Hill' located between Mabura and the Kurupukari Crossing.

Dead is Anil Persaud. He is said to be 35, of Norton Street, Lodge, Georgetown.

Porter Dexter Robert and

two other occupants of the vehicle, Shevrin Sutherland and Carlos Romerio-- a Venezuelan-- sustained injuries and were admitted to the Linden Hospital Complex for treatment. Reports are that about 14:00hrs on Thursday at Devil's Hill, the vehicle- -a motor lorry bearing registration BBC 9430--was proceeding north ascending

the hill and, while at the approach at the top of the hill, the trailer, which was loaded with 20 and 40 feet logs, began to descend. The driver attempted to engage the gears of the truck and attempted to make a right turn; however, the vehicle turned over, pinning him inside.

Police investigations are ongoing.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday July 5, 2019

Rastafarians pleased with proposal on 'ganja' … but continue lobby for decriminalisation of the weed for religious purposes

… PM says initiative aimed at cutting prison overcrowding approval of the proposal, it would be good to know when the amendments would come up for debate and approval in the National Assembly. He noted that Government has long indicated that the laws would be amended to remove custodial sentences for

President of the Guyana Rastafarian Council, Ras Simeon Selassie; Former Vice President of the Guyana Rastafarian Council, Nicole Cole; Chairman of the Rastafari Core Group and General Secretary of the Guyana Rastafari Council, Ras Khafra Messdjehuti and Member of the Guyana Rastafarian Council Louis Jordan. (Photo by Delano Williams)

By Svetlana Marshall THE Guyana Rastafarian Council, though pleased with the steps being taken by the Government to remove custodial sentences for persons found with up to 30 grams of marijuana in their possession, remains firm in its position that Rastafarians should be allowed to practise their religion without limitation, and that includes the use of the herb.

Government has insisted that the proposed amendment to the law is to address the overcrowding of the prison system by youths for small quantities of marijuana possession. Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo said the decision by the government has its genesis in the overcrowded prison the coalition Government inherited and its subsequent efforts to reduce it. He noted that this issue became starker following the 2017 Prison riot. He said President David Granger had appointed him to lead a delegation which included Attorney General, Basil Williams and Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan to meet with the then Chancellor, Carl Singh to explore ways of addressing the prison overcrowding.

Mr. Nagamootoo stated that, during their discussion, it became known that many of the young people who were incarcerated were caught with small amounts of Marijuana, but because of the law mandatory custodial sentence was imposed on them. “It was under those circumstances our administration sought to find

a way to deal with this issue and we felt that a first step would be to remove custodial sentences for 30 grams or less of marijuana.”

Meanwhile, in an exclusive interview with Guyana Chronicle on Wednesday, President of the Guyana Rastafarian Council Ras Simeon Selassie said Cabinet’s decision to approve the proposal to amend the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substance Control Act to remove custodial sentences for possession of up to 30 grams of cannabis, was long overdue.

“The Rastafarian Community is a nation of people that hold the sacramental use of the herb as a practice, a practice or a culture outwardly and there is more to be done to make sure that the Rastafarian Community is free from this violation.

However, I give thanks that the Government’s interest, this day, lies in such a concern for the Rastafarian Community,” Ras Simeon said.

He noted that while the proposed amendment is intended to prevent persons from going to jail if found with 30 grams or less of marijuana, it is the belief of the Council that the Rastafarian Community should be exempted from the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substance Control Act all together.

“The Rastafarian Community must be exempted from custodial sentence. We must be free to use marijuana as a sacrament and this is with no apologies,” Ras Simeon told this newspaper while urging that the Govern-

ment follow in the footsteps of Jamaica.

In Jamaica, the Dangerous Drugs Act was amended in 2015 to decriminalise the use of small amounts of cannabis. According to the Laws of Jamaica, possession of two ounces or less of cannabis is not an offence, and in the case of use for medicinal purposes, it is authorised once prescribed by a licensed health professional. Notably, the Rastafarian Community in Jamaica is allowed to smoke marijuana for sacramental purposes but this must be done within registered places of Rastafarian worship.

“I speak on behalf of the nation of Rastafarians and we must be exempted from these laws that violate our human rights,” Ras Simeon said.

Chairman of the Rastafari Core Group and General Secretary of the Guyana Rastafari Council, Ras Khafra Messdjehuti told Guyana Chronicle that the announcement made by Government on Tuesday that amendments will be made to the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substance Control Act leaves many unanswered questions.

‘If someone is found with 30 grams of cannabis what would be the fine? What would be the overall penalty? What kind of community service would be required, if any at all?’ – were among questions Ras Messdjehuti asked as he tried to analyse the announcement made by the Government.

The General Secretary of the Rastafarian Council said while he is pleased with the

possession of small amounts of cannabis but to date that has not been done despite repeated promises. He also expressed disappointment that after repeated consultations with the Rastafarian Community since 2015, the Government did not take

the bold step to exempt the community from the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substance Control Act. He, like Ras Simeon, underscored the use of ganja by the Rastafarian Community TURN TO PAGE 16 ►

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday July 5, 2019

Non-interference, non-intervention –– CARICOM remains committed to principles on Venezuela’s situation

By Navendra Seoraj VENEZUELA’s economic situation has been noted by countries and institutions across the world, mainly because it has severely affected the people of the nation, who have been fleeing and seeking refuge, particularly in the

Caribbean.

The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) although divided on some issues pertaining to the situation in Venezuela, share the common view and principle of non-interference and nonintervention.

Despite not wanting to get directly involved, CARICOM

is calling for dialogue between the Nicolás Maduro-led Government and Opposition Leader Juan Guaidó.

“The issue of non-politicisation of aid and a peaceful resolution are also part of the principles,” said CARICOM General-Secretary, Irwin LaRocque, during a press briefing

on Tuesday.

Each member state, whether it recognises Gauido or Maduro, follows the principles which have been set out by CARICOM. Outgoing chairman of CARICOM, Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis, Timothy Harris said engagements, in the

attempts of resolving the situation in Venezuela, have clearly demonstrated that there is a role for CARICOM to play.

“It is also now quite clear that our principled stance enunciated from the outset and our approach are being accepted by other parties,” said Harris in his remarks at the opening ceremony of the 40th Regular Meeting of CARICOM Heads of Government at the Royalton Hotel, St. Lucia, on Wednesday.

“Venezuela is our neighbour and our member states are being affected

Secretary General of CARICOM, Irwin LaRocque

the refugees entering the country,” said LaRocque.

He said refugees have been moving up the chain of islands, but the region remains united on its principles. The issue of refugees is not unique to the region, since there are similar cases in the Middle East and other parts of the world.

According to Dialogo Digital Military Magazine, Venezuela is experiencing a large-scale economic crisis. In late May, the Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Venezuelan Central Bank Nevis, Timothy Harris published figures for the first time since 2015, showing the country’s economic by the crisis... for us this is situation and confirming the not a geopolitical game of collapse of the Venezuelan chess, it is a situation creating real hardships for millions of economy.

The new statistics showed people right on our doorsteps, inflation is out of control and fostering instability in our alexceeded 130,000 per cent in ready fragile economies and 2018 —the highest mark in exacerbating criminal activiVenezuela’s recent history, but ties,” Harris lamented.

He said in that regard, it much less than the 929,000 per must be made clear that CAR- cent the Central Bank estimatICOM plays a role of “honest ed in 2018.

Data showed a 52 per cent broker” in the situation and the contraction of the Gross Dostakes are high.

The undermining of the mestic Product between 2013 Caribbean as a zone of peace, and 2018, which represents the disruption of tourism and a decline of the Venezuelan trade, uncontrolled migration economy by more than half in and socioeconomic problems, five years.

These numbers confirm compounded by illegal trade in arms, cannot be whisked away. that the Venezuelan economy Chairman of CARICOM has been spiraling downward and Prime Minister of St Lu- for years. Other data show cia, Allen Chastanet said the severe drop in oil exports community cannot run away from the country that defrom the impact Venezuela is pends on oil and has the larghaving, especially as it relates est oil reserves in the world, to the security and immigration from $85 million in 2013 to in nearby countries. $30 million in 2018 — when “We are already seeing Nicolás Maduro took office. the consequences from what is This demonstrates a decline going on there... we are seeing that far precedes the first it in Trinidad and Guyana but, U.S. sanctions imposed in mostly in Trinidad in terms of August 2017.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday July 5, 2019

Lindeners tap New Horizon medical services

By Vanessa Braithwaite

THE US Army's New Horizon is hosting a two-week medical outreach in the mining town of Linden, providing a range of services to residents there.

The outreach, which officially commenced on Tuesday, has already seen hundreds of Lindeners flocking the Egbert Benjamin Conference Centre to benefit from the services being offered.

The outreach is themed 'The Medical Readiness Training Exercise (MEDRETE) and will conclude on July 12.

New Horizon is partnering with the Ministry of Public Health and the Linden Mayor and Town Council with support from non-governmental organisations to bring this initiative to Linden.

Services available include veterinary, dentistry, general

surgeries conducted by New Horizon obstetrician-gynaecologists at the Linden Hospital Complex.

The surgeries merely consist of removal of fibroid and hysterectomies.

The members of the surgical readiness team, in answering a call from the Ministry of Public Health, decided to come on board to provide same, given the prevalence of these medical conditions in Guyana.

New Horizon is also constructing a women's home

A Lindener receiving an eye checkup during the outreach

medicine, OB/GYN, paediatrics, pharmacy, physical therapy and optometry. Medication is also provided for each of the various services offered.

This is one of many medical outreaches hosted in Linden over the last two years.

Only last month, 39 women from Linden were beneficiaries of gynaecology-related

Camex denies owing NIS

--admits being 'a few days late' on occasion

Proof provided by Camex Limited for payment of its National Insurance Scheme (NIS) contributions

CAMEX Limited has denied owing the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) “months or even a month” of contributions after the entity published a list of 21 businesses and individuals which, together, are in default “tens of millions” in their payments.

Camex Limited, represented by its Managing Director, Terrence Campbell, stated that Camex Restaurants, Camex Security and RobCar are put together companies and can be “a few days late” on occasions, but do not owe months of contributions. He wants an apology from the entity and Director on the NIS Board, Mervyn Williams.

The companies listed in the Sunday, June 30, 2019 newspaper were: Camex Ltd; Courtney Benn Contracting Service Ltd; Fly Jamaica Airways Ltd; New Thriving Chinese Restaurant; Strategic Action Security Services; Brian Chase and

Ingrid Chase Mining and Trucking Service; Hopkinson Mining Security Services Inc.; Kwakwani Utilities Inc.; Camex Security Services Inc.; Shivraj Investments Ltd.; Universal Group of Companies Inc.; Guyana Football Federation; Awad N. Boodhoo General Store; Atlas Security Service Inc.; Amazon Security and Investigation Services and Sentinel Security Inc..

Meanwhile, the individual names on the list were: Rudolph Kissoon; Dwayne Ferdinand; Ravin Singh; Wilfred Success and Wazir Hussain.

They were all asked to make “urgent contact” with the Scheme’s Public Relations Officer (PRO) or to visit the NIS’ office on Brickdam and Winter Place, Georgetown.

Speaking with the newspaper, Williams had underscored that the decision to make the names public came from the level of the Board and is intended to alert the employers of the importance

of making timely payments.

Businesses and individuals are expected to make contributions on or before the 15th day of every month for the preceding month. Williams explained that when contributions are paid late, it becomes very problematic for the beneficiaries and the NIS which often times receives the blame for challenges experienced as a result.

Furthermore, the Board’s Director added that companies lose out on opportunities for tendering and the supply of goods and service when they are unable to receive their Compliance Certificates which are dependent on the contributions. Even more important was his reminder that it is an offence for companies to fail to pay their contributions by the due date while those who refuse to pay altogether can be prosecuted under the Laws of Guyana.

and three community centres in Linden in an effort to contribute to community development.

Mayor of Linden, Waneka Arrindell, expressed appreciation on behalf of the Linden Mayor and Town Council for the major assistance in the areas of health and community development received from New Horizon as well as the Humanitarian Assistance Programme (HAP). All of these projects are part of the New Horizon 2019 initiative.

According to Colonel Kenneth Bratland, Commander of all US Forces attached to New Horizons, over 500 airmen are expected to be in Guyana to participate in these projects.

At the sod-turning exercise for the women's home, US Ambassador Sarah Ann Lynch indicated that the initiative speaks volumes of the US commitment to build and sustain enduring relationships with its partner nations.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday July 5, 2019

Cabinet continues to meet …as gov’t awaits clarity from CCJ on consequences of No-Confidence Motion

CABINET remains an active organ of the Government and will continue to be until and unless the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) advises otherwise, Director-General of the Ministry of the Presidency, Joseph Harmon, said on Thursday.

The Director-General

said while the CCJ validated the December 21 No-Confidence Motion against the government, it did not rule that Cabinet must resign with immediate effect as was done in the High Court when Chief Justice Roxane George-Wiltshire delivered her judgement.

“We have seen nothing in

the ruling of the CCJ which says that the Cabinet should not meet, and in fact, Article 106 (7) speaks to the President and the government remaining in office,” Harmon said. At the time, he was responding to a series of questions posed at a press conference at the Ministry of the Presidency.

Director-General of the Ministry of the Presidency, Joseph Harmon

While Article 106 (6) of the Constitution states that “the Cabinet including the President shall resign if the government is defeated by the vote of a majority of all the elected members of the National Assembly on a vote of confidence,” the DirectorGeneral said, the rulings of the CCJ have conflicted with the country’s constitution, and as such clarification has been sought.

He explained that the Government, in its submissions to the CCJ on the consequential orders that should flow from the June 18 landmark judgements, asked that the court clarify whether Cabinet should meet pending the conduct of General and Regional Elections. “So we await the clarification from the CCJ on that matter,” he posited.

Clarity, on the part of the CCJ, is expected to be given on Friday, July 12, 2019, when it makes the consequential orders in the No-Confidence

Motion and Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) Chairman appointment cases.

“We expect that in its ruling on the 12th of July, that the CCJ will clarify these matters.

As it stands right now we have seen nothing that says that the Cabinet should not meet,” the Director-General maintained.

“It is our duty as a government to govern and, therefore, every single day that we are in government, we have to execute the mandate of governing and ensuring the people’s business is taken care of,” he told reporters.

Noting that the Parliament of Guyana has not been prorogued, Harmon assured reporters that the National Assembly will continue to meet, and bills, motions and other documents will continue to be laid before the House for consideration. “(We) will continue to perform those functions until such a time that there is a clear decision that says you should not do it,”

Harmon said.

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo and the Parliamentary Opposition – the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) has accused government of illegally occupying office. The Opposition has called on foreign companies not to engage the government during this period, but the Director-General said that ‘call’ has had little effect on international business relations with Guyana. Government, he made clear, will not be threatened or intimidated by the Opposition.

“We have not been advised by any of the foreign companies that operate in Guyana that they feel threatened by any such statement and that as a result of that, they have decided not to do something they had decided they will do.

“We have a president, we have a government that is functioning and it is the responsibility and duty of this government to ensure that an environment is there which allows for foreign companies to operate in this country, and operate under the conditions of peace,” Harmon said.

The High Court, in January, had ruled that while Cabinet ought to have resigned with immediate effect following the passage of the No-Confidence Motion, the President and Government should remain in office, in accordance with the Constitution, until a new president is sworn in.

Berbice businessman hospitalised from beating during robbery A businessman is hospitalised following a robbery attack at his Shieldstown, West Bank Berbice home at around 22:30hrs on Wednesday.

Reports indicate that Malcolm Madray, 57, a retailer of rice products, was attacked by two villagers as he entered his yard while returning home with his assistant, Adrian Persaud.

Persaud had moments before exited the vehicle to open the gate for the truck to enter the yard. But after doing so, Madray exited his vehicle and was covering the vehicle’s tray, which con-

tained rice and bran with a tarpaulin, when he felt a lash to his head.

According to him, the two perpetrators are known to him as they live a short distance from his home.

The brothers were dressed in black and were armed with a hand gun and an iron bar respectively.

After hitting him several times with the iron bar, the gunman held on to his right side pants pocket and a scuffle ensued during which Madray was shot to his left side, causing him to collapse.

While on the ground, the bandits removed $560,000

from his person. The money was garnered from the daily sales.

In the meantime, Persaud, on seeing what had transpired, ran to the nearby Blairmont Police Station and made a report.

Police subsequently arrived at the scene and took the injured man to the Fort Wellington Hospital where he was seen and examined by a doctor before he was transferred to the New Amsterdam Public Hospital where he remains a patient.

The suspects remain at large as the investigations continue.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday July 5, 2019

Formation of regional private sector body closer to fruition

By Navendra Seoraj IN an effort to improve the implementation of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Single Market and Economy (CSME) and promote inclusion, the community, with assistance from private sector organisations, will be looking to soon introduce the CARICOM Private Sector Organisation (CPSO).

Heads of Government and members of the private sector were engaged in deliberations on the topic during the first day of the 40th Regular Meeting of CARICOM Heads of Government in Saint Lucia at the Sandals Grande St. Lucia Hotel, on Thursday.

The CSME is an arrangement among the CARICOM states for the creation of a single, enlarged economic space through the removal of restrictions, resulting in the free movement of goods, services, people, capital and technology.

Among the major beneficiaries of the CSME are the

citizens and members of the private sector.

One of the members of the organising committee of the CPSO, Vice President of Suriname’s Rudisa Group of Companies, Warsha Torilal-Sardjoe said the main focus of the meeting was to set up the CPSO, which is a private sector organisation of the Caribbean.

She said the heads of government and the private sector examined how the organising body and member states involvement should be.

“It was a very positive meeting, everybody is committed and now all that needs to be done is for us to go back to member states and there is a final push to get this off the ground,” said Sardjoe.

Their intent is to get all private sector organisations from across the Caribbean involved because the aim is to be as inclusive as possible.

“This group will ensure that businesses get their voice across and it will make sure that international business is done properly within the Caribbean,” she said, adding

Friday, July 5, 2019 - 05:00 hrs

Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Mottley

Rudisa Vice-President, Warsha Torilal-Sardjoe

that the momentum is high and every stakeholder is committed.

Unless there is a major catastrophe, nothing should block the implementation of the CPSO, said Sardjoe.

Through the CPSO, the private sector will also be able to address non-tariff barriers and improve the movement of labour across the Caribbean.

Chairperson of the Prime Ministerial Sub-Committee on CSME and Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Mottley, had initiated talks about the CPSO and had underscored the importance of the regional private sector becoming a type of associate institution of CARICOM, saying it would be good for the Caribbean.

The prime minister, in June, said it was ironic that after more than four decades of CARICOM’S existence, formal steps were now being taken to ensure the labour movement and the regional private sector’s formal participation in the regional organisation.

Another member of the organising committee of the CPSO, Chief Executive Officer of the JQ Charles Group of Companies, Gordon Charles, said Mottley had decided to reach out to large companies across the region in order to get the initiative off the ground.

Charles said after being contacted, the organising committee had hired a regional consultancy firm to guide them through the process, in order to ensure that every area is covered.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday July 5, 2019

Guyana Goldfields working to resolve issues which led to strike action GUYANA Goldfields is in “active discussions” with the Ministry of Labour to resolve issues which led to an ongoing strike action by workers at its Aurora gold

mines.

A company official reported last evening that while the discussions are ongoing, Guyana Goldfields continues to work with all parties in-

volved with the intent to find a resolution at the earliest opportunity and resume production as quickly as possible.

During Wednesday’s post-Cabinet press briefing,

Director-General of the Ministry of the Presidency, Joseph Harmon, revealed that the Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman and officials from the Ministry of Social Protection’s Labour Department are engaging representatives, “to see how best they can address the issues that are affecting the performance of the company”. “We trust that they will be able to find some common ground so that the company will continue to produce and continue to provide employment for the people who work there,” he added.

On Wednesday, Guyana Goldfields announced that it had suspended operations at its Aurora Mine, owing to industrial unrest by workers. In a release, the Canadian mining company said a portion of the workforce employed by the company’s wholly-owned subsidiary, AGM Inc. (“AGM”), has blocked delivery of ore to the

mill. “As a safety precaution, the company has decided to temporarily suspend operations until a resolution is reached with the striking workers, and is in the process of evacuating all non-essential personnel from site, including the striking workers.”

The company said it believes the stoppage was the result of a misunderstanding concerning the management

and relationship between AGM and certain open pit mining contractors. Work on the underground exploration decline remains unaffected. Guyana Goldfields Inc. is a Canadian-based mid-tier gold producer primarily focused on the exploration, development and operation of gold deposits in Guyana, South America.

Rastafarians pleased ...

FROM PAGE 11

for sacramental purposes.

“What we have been calling for is the respect of the human and constitutional rights of the Rastafarian Community. This is a sacrament and the laws of Guyana make provision for the religious community to exercise their religious practice. So this Act has been violating our human rights for decades and we have been calling on the Government to basically exempt the Rastafarian Community from prosecution under this Act,” Ras Messdjehuti explained.

Former Vice President of the Guyana Rastafarian Council Nicole Cole also expressed her disappointment about the non-exemption of the Rastafarian Community from any law intended to prohibit the use of cannabis.

“We are guaranteed rights under the Constitution of Guyana and apart from that the 1997 Prevention of Discrimination Act makes it a crime to discriminate against a person because of their religion. This is our religious right you are talking about.

You are saying that everybody else has freedom of worship; the Rastafarians are not entitled to that right which is guaranteed under the constitution,” Cole reasoned.

On July 23, the Rastafarian Community will celebrate

the birth of His Imperial Majesty Haile Selassie but there remains a concern that the police can disrupt their celebrations and haul Rastafarians before the courts for use of ganja.

“We are going to beat our drums and burn our herbs and we want to ensure that the police will not run in, dismantle, arrest, beat because you are burning your spliff, observing your religious rights. What guarantee does this new reform give to the Rastafarian Community?

Nothing! It is like giving us basket to fetch water,” Cole told this newspaper. Louis Jordan, a member of the Guyana Rastafarian Council echoed similar sentiments.

According to the proposed bill seen by Guyana Chronicle, Section 4 (A) (i) and Section 4 (B) (ii) of the Narcotic Drug and Psychotropic Substances Control Act 1988 are being amended to remove the requirements for imprisonment for anyone found in possession of cannabis. Section 5 (2) (e), which addresses the issue of quantity, is being amended to increase the quantity of cannabis that attracts jail time.

In the Explanatory Memorandum signed by Government Member of Parliament Michael Carrington, it was explained that the bill is in direct response to the expe-

rience faced by many young Guyanese who have been incarcerated for small quantities of cannabis resin.

“This experience has further revealed that many of the young persons who have been remanded and incarcerated as a result of being charged with offences which involved relatively small quantities of cannabis or cannabis resin, have been exposed to persons who have been accused of and have been involved in much more serious violent offences. The social intercourse afforded by the incarceration has resulted in regrettable contamination and education of many young persons in criminal behavior and anti-social tendencies,” MP Carrington explained.

He noted that as a result of the current statutory provision, persons found with 15 or more grams of marijuana for personal or medical use, have been jailed for three or more years. “The proposed amendments will remove the mandatory imprisonment of persons who have been accused of having in their possession relatively small amounts of cannabis and cannabis resin. The amendment will also increase the quantity which will constitute a trafficking in cannabis or cannabis resin to one thousand grams,” the Member of Parliament noted.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE FRIDAY July 5, 2019

Gov't outreaches have reaped benefits ...reconnecting with communities

Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence with students of the President’s College during a brief walkabout before the community meeting

Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo greets a child as he arrived at Golden Grove Primary School

GOVERNMENT outreaches are a more hands-on way for ministers of government to be apprised of and resolve the issues that affect citizens.

It also allows them to inform residents of plans for their communities and the country as a whole.

On Wednesday, Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo spearheaded a visit to the village of Golden Grove on the East Coast of Demerara (ECD).

Residents of Neighboring villages, Haslington and Nabaclis were also engaged. Other ministers on the outreach were: Public Health Minister, Volda Lawrence, Minister of State, Dawn Hastings-Williams, Minister within the Ministry of Communities, Annette Ferguson and Minister within the Ministry of Agriculture, with responsibility for Rural Affairs, Valerie Adams-Yearwood. The Prime Minister noted that while critics may think of the administration’s efforts to meet the people as a waste of time, the exercise of taking the government to the people has reaped benefits.

“Some have said it is publicity… I refute that I say that this is part and parcel of our method of governance,” the Prime Minister noted. He also added that taking the government to the people is a form of “grassroots democracy” and encouraged persons to be frank with the government. At the meeting, issues related to housing, agriculture and job and business opportunities for youths were raised.

One of the young farmers in the village was concerned about better drainage and irrigation facilities in Nabaclis and surrounding communities as more young men and women are returning to the farmlands.

Other concerns surrounded the accessing of house lots from the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA). Minister with responsibility for Housing,

Annette Ferguson said that the ultimate goal is for every person in need of housing to be provided with one. However, the government, through the CH&PA is working in a concise and timely manner to process all applications and ensure all issues are addressed.

“I want to make it clear that your government and President David Granger are indeed committed to solving all the housing issues. I can boldly say that this government inherited a huge backlog of over 40,000 applications. What happened in the past was that persons were allowed to apply for house lots when the reality was there weren’t house lots available,” Minister Ferguson explained.

She added that the CH&PA is now in the process of developing housing areas and clearing the backlog.

Meanwhile, Minister Lawrence pointed out that within a short four-year period, the government has delivered on several priority projects campaigned on in 2015. She gave assurance that the government will continue to deliver as the plans in store will benefit all Guyanese.

Even as the government is working, there have already been programmes in some sectors that are already taking form and will be materialised within the shortest possible time. One such is the resuscitation of farming in villages along the coast. “One of the things the president would like to see is the farmlands in the villages reactivated. I can tell you this because when I was appointed the minister responsible for rural affairs in our initial conversation, this is one of the visions he shared [with me],” Minister Adams-Yearwood disclosed.

The government outreaches will continue during the month of July. (DPI)

Minister within the Ministry of Communities, with responsibility for Housing, Annette Ferguson interacts with residents

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GUYANA CHRONICLE FRIDAY July 5, 2019

Cabinet notes millions in contracts …targeting development in various sectors

CABINET has noted the award of several contracts by procurement agencies, to develop and enhance the various sectors, and better the lives of the people of the country.

Director General of the Ministry of Presidency, Joseph Harmon, announced on Thursday, at a press briefing, that among these contracts, schools, roads, health centers and Bourda market, will be

rehabilitated. In fact, he noted that Wakapoa Secondary School in Wakapoa Mission, Lower Pomeroon River, will receive huge extension, as M. Sukhai Construction Services was awarded a contract in excess of $23M to complete same.

Additionally, Gormain D’aguiar Construction was awarded close to $24M to carry out repairs to Sand Creek Secondary School,

South Central Rupununi, in Region Nine. As it relates to road upgrades, Harmon noted that Nismes Old Road, West Bank Demerara will be rehabilitated. Puran Brothers Disposal Inc. was awarded this contract, with a sum in excess of $29M. For the health sector, close to $30M was awarded to M&P Investment, to construct a Health Centre at Supply. This will allow for

easier access to healthcare by persons in the area.

The Regional Democratic Council, Region Ten, will receive a new 2019 Water Ambulance; Meditron Inc. was awarded close to $18M to supply and deliver same.

This ambulance will be used to transport patients from the riverine communities of the Berbice River, from De Veldt to Kwakwani. The Ministry of Communities is responsi-

Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Sydney Allicock, (right) and Deputy Mayor Alfred Mentore (second from right) taking note of concerns of vendors from Bourda market earlier this year.

The school in Wakapoa that will be extended

ble for the projects.

Earlier this year, a team of senior government officials, including Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Sydney Allicock, Minister of Social Protection, Amna Ally, then Minister of Business, Dominic Gaskin, Minister of Education, Dr. Nicolette Henry conducted a meet-and-greet with the vendors and consumers at the market. The visit allowed the ministers to: get a first-hand assessment of the conditions under which the vendors are operating, listen to their

issues and recommendations.

Emerging from that, stall-holders and vendors plying their trade at the Bourda Market, were assured that their issues will be resolved in the shortest possible time. The first phase of the promise has been realized as Harmon said that Builders Hardware General Supplies & Construction was awarded in excess of $32M to carry out major rehabilitation works to the Market at Bourda, Georgetown.

Man in court for allegedly buying stolen items MAGISTRATE Faith McGusty, on Wednesday July 03, 2019, granted $75,000 bail to a 21-year-old man who was accused of robbing a woman.

Simeon Truman appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court and denied the charge when it was read to him.

Particulars of the charge stated that on June 21, 2019, at DeAbreu Street, Kitty, Truman, while being in the company of others, robbed Karen Adams of her hand bag, cell phone with sim card along with an umbrella. The items valued $77,000.

Truman’s attorney, Tiffany Jeffrey, during an application for bail, told the court that her client was wrongfully arrested since he had bought a cell phone

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday July 5, 2019

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More rainfall predicted

THE Hydrometerological Office in the Ministry of Agriculture has forecasted that more heavy rainfall will occur over the weekend.

In addition, citizens are advised that the above normal high tide will be in effect and will continue until Monday, July 8, 2019.

According to a three-day advisory by the department, today Friday, there will be intermittent and continuous rain, coupled with thunderstorms. The rainfall is expected to measure between 40.0 mm (millimetres) and 60.0 mm.

On Saturday morning, moderate to heavy rain measuring between 40.0 mm and 65.0 mm, is expected. The prediction for Sunday, however, is early to mid-morning showers, amounting to between 0.0 and 20.0 mm.

Residents are therefore asked to take the necessary precautions, as the weather conditions may produce water accumulation or flooding in vulnerable areas and mudslides in the hilly ones.

Heavy rains, which started last weekend, saw several main thoroughfares and wards in the city being inundated with water by mid-morning on Monday.

Several yards in communities were covered with water and some residents living in the lower flats of buildings had reported that flood waters

had seeped into their place of abode.

Both the mayor and City Council (M&CC) and the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (ND&IA) have reported that all of the drainage pumps in the city are in working order. However, while a great amount of water was able to be drained off the land, it did not happen as quickly as the authorities would have wanted.

The indiscriminate dumping of garbage by callous residents resulted in some drains, canals and the mouth of sluices being blocked with plastic bottles and other debris, thus preventing the water from flowing freely, the M&CC reported.

Compounding the issue is the fact that above normal high tide is being experienced, and when this occurs, the doors of the sluices that allow water to be drained into the Demerara River cannot be opened.

Meanwhile, the Mayor, councilors and other officers and workers of the city have been working assiduously and round-theclock, in an effort to drain as much water off the land in an effort to alleviate the discomfort of the affected residents.

Bent St. man in court for 22 grams of cannabis PRINCIPAL Magistrate Faith McGusty, on Wednesday, released a 28-year-old vendor on $40,000 bail on a drug trafficking charge.

Akeem Northe of Camp and Bent streets, Georgetown, appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court and denied that on July 2, 2019, at Stabroek Market, he had 22 grams of cannabis in his possession for the purpose of trafficking.

Northe’s attorney, George Thomas, told the court that the cannabis was not found in his client’s possession but on

the ground.

Thomas further told the court that his client did not give any oral or written statement to the police admitting ownership or knowledge of the cannabis.

Police Prosecutor Annalisa Brummell made no objection to Northe being granted his pre-trial liberty.

Magistrate McGusty released Northe on $40,000 bail and adjourned the matter until July 24, 2019. He was also ordered to report to the Brickdam Police Station every Monday.

-residents asked to take precaution

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 5, 2019

Ganesh Kasinath’s got the GTT +Star power

―and he’s tone deaf to what the naysayers have to say about it

T

WENTY-four-year-old Ganesh Kasinauth, from the Ancient County of Berbice, won the hearts of the public as he was voted GTT +Star Singing Competition’s winner.

In an interview with ‘The Buzz’, this new Guyanese star talked about his life’s journey and how overwhelmed he is with the person he has become.

At just 17, Kasinauth lost his father, and took on the responsibility of taking care of his family as the eldest of three siblings. He got a job that helped him to be a provider, but from a very young age, he said, he’d always wanted to be a singer because he had great admiration for Atif Aslam, who is a playback singer of Hindi music.

“From small, I always wanted to become a singer, but I started singing at age 19.” Ganesh said, adding: “I started singing just like that; I haven’t had anyone to train me. I first sang at mandirs, then village shows, weddings, birthdays, my work concerts, and ‘expo’. This later created more opportunities. I performed at Pepsi concerts, shows in Bartica, Dharmic Sabha events. I performed in shows with Ravi ‘B’ and the Karma band, Nishad M, Neval Chatelal, Pritivi Bheem, Bunty Singh, Pooran Seeraj, Shakti String band and many more.”

He said that he decided to compete in the GTT competition just the day before the audition in Berbice, after his mother encouraged him to give it a shot. But he never expected he would

The star and his mother and two siblings

win. “I didn’t expect that I would become the winner, since there were a lot of talented contestants in the competition. I just did it for the love of singing… I felt overjoyed when I was announced winner; it’s a feeling that I can’t explain. I am very happy and blessed to be the winner,” Kasinauth said.

CROWD’S DISBELIEF Following the announcement of the winner, much disbelief rippled through the audience and social media. Many persons were of the view that Kasinauth should not have won.

This view, however, has not fazed the young star, as he believes everyone has a right to their opinion.

“I marketed myself through social media,” he said, “and my followers supported me.

No contestant or judge had anything to do with the actual results of the competition. **Also, GTT had nothing to do with the outcome of the results; it was left up to the Guyanese people to select who they thought was the better contestant. The person with the most votes is the winner, and that happens to be me. So, with the negativity stirring on social media, I have nothing to say about that; everyone is entitled to their opinion. I would just like to say to Guyanese that I will represent my country to the best of my ability, and make all of them proud,” Kasinauth posited.

He said that his plan for the future is to develop his singing

career, become an international artiste, represent his country, and to have his own concert and albums.

“My advice is that dreams do come true. So, if you have a dream, go for it. Put all your effort and time to the talent that you have, and become much more better. In anything you do, just don’t do it for yourself; do it for your country, and for the love of it,” Kasinauth said.

People can get access to his music through his YouTube channel, “Ganesh Kasinath” and his Facebook “Ganesh Kasinath”.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 5, 2019

Buju Banton

G

RAMMY award-winning Reggae artiste, Buju Banton is expected to energise Geneva, Switzerland, when he makes his appearance as one of the main acts in this year’s ‘Border Splash’ benefit concert.

The event, set to be held at the SEG Geneva Arena on July 31, is being hosted by the Danger Zone Music Group, and was designed to commemorate the 400-year anniversary of the first African-American arrivals in Virginia.

The event is hoped to educate people through the use of music by focusing the attention of the Hip-Hop, Dancehall, and Reggae worlds on cross-border issues of peacemaking, environmental awareness, and emergency preparedness.

Corin Smith, events coordinator, told The Gleaner that Buju Banton has embraced the show’s core values, and that he is looking forward to him hitting the stage next month.

“We are thankful that Buju himself has embraced our aspiration to have Reggae used to promote transatlantic

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Buju to perform at ‘Border Splash’ in Switzerland unity at a time when people need to share the burden of world citizenship more than ever. Buju has arrived at the forefront of the Reggae industry at a very pivotal moment in pop culture, not just in the Caribbean, but throughout the western world. His personal story is symptomatic and revelatory of the common struggles we are facing for identity, liberation, and redemption,” Smith said, adding: “People are intrigued by this idea that Reggae is embracing hot-topic issues like climate change, status of refugees, emerging immigrant and gender identities, and disaster preparedness. We are enjoying very strong responses to the fact that we are launching a movement in Switzerland that is genuinely designed to ‘heal the world’, starting with Reggae music in the first year that it has been acknowledged as a UNESCO cultural treasure.”

He also said that Buju Banton, who has been on his Long Walk to Freedom tour since March, is anxious to perform in Switzerland.

“Buju has given this campaign very careful consideration, because it brings a new dimension to his tour. He

told us he’s ‘got it’. We are expecting great things from each other; and for the fans, from this collaboration,” Smith said.

“The excitement around Buju’s tour is electric, because Reggae music has come of age as the voice of the people. We are humbled to have been able to capture the spirit of the times in the announcement of our campaign.”

Other Reggae artistes booked for the show include Eek-A-Mouse, Richie Spice, Etana, Rygin King, and Major Mackerel.

The organisers say that the Border Splash concert series is being undertaken to raise funds for ‘green’ bonds that help to build future-proof villages in vulnerable communities that are becoming increasingly susceptible to hurricane risks and rising sea levels.

(Jamaica Gleaner)

“ W H A T ? ? ” ―reaction after the announcement of GTT+Star winner

A

FTER a six year hiatus, Gt&t Jingle and Song Competition returned with a different twist which ended with much controversy on Sunday night.

The local phone company rebranded their competition ‘GTT Plus Star Singing Competition’, and alluded that they were in search of a person with star qualities to give them a boost in their musical career, with recording opportunities, and brand ambassador positions, and of course, the grand million dollar cash prize.

The competition attracted thousands of talents from all across Guyana, but was later filtered down to 11 contestants.

These 11 were said to be the best in the competition and gave the judges a tough time deciding the best to put through.

However, this time around, the judges had no say in deciding the winner of the competition; instead the decision was placed solely in the hands of the people. Persons had to text and

vote for their favourite contestant, and whoever got the most votes was declared winner.

From the social media popularity and her exceptional vocals, one would have thought the entire Guyana would have voted for Delisha Wright. Trailing close behind her were Kellon Rover, Lerone Souvenir, Josephine Mitchell and Mikael Sam. But a shockwave ran through the crowd on Sunday when Delisha was announced fourth place, Lerone, third, and first and second place went to Ganesh Kasinauth and Tonaina Samaroo.

Persons took their rant to social media expressing grave disbelief in the results of the competition. On GTT’s posts on their facebook page, and the live stream video from the night of the Finale, the comments were distasteful.

Many persons disagree with GTT’s decision to have the winner be decided on votes.

One of the judges from the competition, Saiku Andrews did a live video after seeing the reactions of people. He lamented that the people decided the winner, and not GTT. He stressed that if person’s so wanted Delisha or another contestant to win, they should have voted to ensure that.

But the attacks continued. Persons said that instead of talent, it was based on popularity and money, because the winner was dependent on whoever was more popular or whoever had persons with the most credit to vote.

To date, this is still a hot topic on social media, and GTT has not responded to any of the negative reviews.

However, the other contestants took to their facebook pages that they are thankful for the experience and this is not the end of the road for them.

The winner also said that he too was shocked but he is happy that the people supported him.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 5, 2019

Personality of The Week...

Selector André W

HILE entertainment comes in many forms, music is one of the most common accross the globe. The young, old and in-between enjoy music of different genres as a form of entertainment.

This week’s personality is not a maker of music, but a creator of music mixes that entertain the relevant crowd.

André Sargeant, popularly known as ‘Selector André’, has been passionate about music and entertainment from a very young age.

In an interview with ‘The Buzz’, André said that his love for the industry dates way back to his primary school days. He said that he was an athlete, specifically in the areas of sprint running and cricket.

During his years of training, he said, he would always have music in his ears as a means of comfort. His collection of CDs started since then.

When André started secondary school, his music career spiked. He told ‘The Buzz’ that he played for school parties throughout his secondary school years, and in 2005 added ‘Selector’ to his name, and started playing with different sound systems, as he realised that was where his passion lies.

“I realised I liked what I’m doing when I was supposed to write back Maths at CXC, because when I wrote it, I got a Grade 4. I was attending classes, and I also had my first play-out in a next country. And I put that play-out over writing back my Maths. Up to this day, I still have that Grade 4,” André jocularly said.

He said that music kept him going through all these years, and he will remain committed to the art, because it is what he loves, and truly enjoys doing.

Though inspired by many, especially others in the the industry, André said his true inspiration comes from ‘The Most High’.

“My inspiration comes from God firstly, ‘cause I grew up in the church with a praying mother, and the love of music makes it better. I always like listening to the radio and watching music videos, and seeing and listening how the DJs do their thing,” the young Selector said.

His advice to other youngsters like himself is to always pray and follow their heart, and don’t give up.

“Things don’t always happen with the same speed that you might expect it to happen with. So, chase your dreams, and always practise, because practice makes perfect.”

Franale’s ‘Hip Hop and Poetry Nites’

F

RANALE’S ‘Hip Hop and Poetry Nights’ saw yet another successful execution last Wednesday evening at 704 Sky Lounge.

Over 35 young Guyanese singers, rappers, poets and dancers got the rare opportunity to express themselves through their art to a large and supportive audience.

The performances were

all exceptional, and persons in the audience were well entertained, as they enjoyed the electrifying ambiance that was created.

This platform was created five years ago by Franale Holder, a young Guyanese Hip Hop artiste who saw the need to create more opportunities for not just herself, but other talented Guyanese youths as well.

She told ‘The Buzz’

that upon realising that there aren’t any platforms in Guyana that support Hip Hop and R&B, she worked towards creating one of her own.

Now, five years later, Franale’s Hip Hop and Poetry Nites continue to be

successful, and many young Guyanese talents are being developed and exposed.

“It has been a challenge over the years to pull the show off, but more people started paying attention and came on board to support and expand my vision, in

―a cradle for young home-grown talent

whatever forms they can.

And I’m proud to say that growth has also been seen in each artiste that I have been working with,” she said.

“Their vocal abilities, styles and skill sets have heightened, and I am very proud to be a part of that process.

More artistes are beginning to have confidence in their abilities to do music or poetry on a professional level,” Franale told ‘The Buzz’.

Persons can join the experience the last Wednesday of every month at 704 Sky Lounge.

Poet, Renata Burnett in her zone

Clinton Duncan and A’Tayjah performing their ‘mashup’ ‘Franale Holder’

Anasha Dutchin delivers from the heart as she performs her piece

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 5, 2019

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

TODAY

● 592 Movements and 592 Spot present Guinness Fridays at 592

Spot and Night Club at the corner of John and Norton Streets.

● Start your weekend the right way! Party all night as 704 Sports Bar presents “DJ Fridays” with the best mixes by DJ Acalanche. Enjoy Build-YourOwn-Bucket specials from 17:00 – 19:00hrs. Throw back in the great ambience and indulge in the delicious food, great drinks and the best vibes. ● The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry will be launching the 10th edition of its Business Guyana Magazine at the Pegasus Hotel. Delivering the feature address will be Doug McGhee of ExxonMobil and Dr. Justin Ram of the Caribbean Development Bank. Event starts at 18:00hrs, inclusive of a cocktail hour. Programme starts at 19:00hrs. Cost: $12,000. ● Head on down to the Pegasus poolside’s Ignite Bar and Grill every Friday and Saturday for fun, food, and entertainment!

TOMORROW

● Get ready for an adrenaline-charged afternoon of racing, featuring the best of Guyana’s speedsters with 6 categories! GT Motorsports is back with another Georgetown Grand Prix, starting at 16:00hrs. See competition in the 60cc Kids Cup, 125cc Juniors, Seniors and Masters; Easy Cup Super; and Easy Cup Rookie. Admission: FREE! VIP: $6000! ● Ready, set, go! The Aliann Pompey (AP) Invitational returns for its fourth edition at the National Track and Field Centre in Leonora. See the best of Guyana’s athletes take on their Caribbean and international counterparts in heated competition. Tickets: $1000.

● Hynosis Entertainment, Rick Kid, and Hotskull present PJ Party called, ‘Pill and Hennessy’ at Club Blue Iguana.

Music by Gully Ras Diamond, DJ Magnum, Top Striker, Selector Scatta, and DJ Jazzy. ● The National Drama Company of Guyana presents a BBQ and Chill at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall tarmac in aid of supporting the company’s travel to Trinidad for CARIFESTA XIV. Head out and enjoy excellent food, drinks, music, and a great atmosphere. ● Tatiana presents “Platinum All Black” at Platinum Night Club in Bartica.

Music by DJ Bajan, Notorious, and Unity Sound. ● It’s time to show off your talent. Aracari Resort presents Karaoke and Dance this and every Saturday. Enjoy karaoke, dance and dinner, featuring ‘Reyaz Rafeek and Group’. ● Aura Sky Lounge presents Seductive Saturdays! Doors open at 20:00hrs!

SUNDAY

● Xtra Beer presents a “Creek Bacchanal, Vehicle Sound-Off and Ladies Tick Tock Dance-Off” outside of Aziza Acousa on the Soesdyke-Linden Highway. Performing live is gonna be Bobo, “Mr. Tick Tock”, featuring Jamaica’s Bobby Cush, Gully Ras and Diamond, DJ Magnum, DJ Fresh, and Platinum Sound. ● It’s “Ball Game Sundaze” at the Kitty Seawall (Next to the Monument), then head down to Club Blue Iguana. Music by Notorious International and Platinum Sound. ● Marvelous Entertainment presents Marvelous Sundays at its new location 592 Spot and Night Club (John and Norton Streets). Ladies free all night. Music

by Stereo Sonic, Fusion and Boom DJs. ● G-Money in association with Leprechaun Entertainment present “Simmer Sundays” at Club Privilege (Main Street, Georgetown). Free entry for first 50 ladies. Throw-back music and finger foods. Music by One Drop from NY, DJ Denzil, Selector Dexter, and a special guest DJ and one-man band.

Youths spiraling out of control in T&T A S the crime situation in Trinidad and Tobago continues to leave many on the twin island with a bitter taste in their mouths, another local artiste has stood up in protest, using his platform to draw attention to the problem. RKG’s new single, ‘Flatline’, comes on the heels of a recently-released track by Gospel singer, Jaron Nurse, that deals with the same issue of crime.

Drug abuse and gang warfare are plaguing the country.

RKG says he had been in the studio, prepared to lay the vocals for another ladies anthem

when something struck him.

“I suddenly felt like I needed to contribute something positive,” he said in a chat with EBUZZTT. The song speaks about a young man who got caught up with guns and was murdered. The second verse speaks about a young woman who got caught up with a gangster. She also died. The track’s message deals with the inevitable consequences that face people who choose negative lifestyles.

RKG’s new single, like that of Jaron Nurse and so many previously-released tracks by so many positive artistes, is but a drop in

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―RKG takes a stand

the bucket, considering the magnitude of the problem in T&T. “The mission with this song in particular is to get people in authority to endorse the campaign, ‘Flatline’ #nowarzone- let’s do a campaign. Crime is something we can’t stop, but we have to reduce it.

We have to find ways and means to reduce it,” RKG said. The single, out now, cleverly masks the positive message in melodies that are typically associated with music by artistes like Dancehall’s Vybz Kartel, Alkaline and Popcaan.

(Ebuzztt.com)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 5, 2019

Canadian Racing Tips Woodbine Race 1 Where’s The Widget Race 2 Captain Sydney Race 3 Synergized Race 4 Metadata

Race 1 Alasaayil Race 2 Wantagh Queen Race 3 Sams Last Ghasp Race 4 No Regrets Race 5 Royal Asset Race 6 Monhegan

American Racing Tips

Race 7 Sky Full Of Stars

Belmont

Race 8 Royal Charlotte Race 9 Mrs. Orb South Africa Racing Tips Fairview 08:25 hrs In The Sky 09:05 hrs One Destiny 09:40 hrs Voices Of Light 10:15 hrs Always Dancing 10:45 hrs Zalika English Racing Tips Sandown 08:50 hrs Swiss Knight 09:20 hrs Liberty Beach 09:55 hrs Riot 10:25 hrs Royal Line 11:00 hrs Jazeel 11:35 hrs Ship Of The Fen 12:05 hrs Club Tropicana Chelmsford City 12:25 hrs Subjectivist 13:00 hrs Tarseekh 13:30 hrs Aluqair 14:05 hrs Nahaarr 14:35 hrs Beauty Of Deira 15:10 hrs Dandy’s Beano 15:40 hrs Champagne Marengo Haydovk 12:50 hrs Mr Coco Bean 13:20 hrs Pendleton 13:55 hrs Vee Man Ten 14:25 hrs Lola Paige 15:00 hrs Warning Fire 15:30 hrs Reputation 16:00 hrs Laurier Irish Racing Tips Bellewstown 12:10 hrs Marchons Ensemble 12:45 hrs Yuften 13:15 hrs Sunset Nova 13:45 hrs Wild Bob Cat 14:20 hrs Eight And Bob 14:50 hrs Lethal Steps

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 5, 2019

Mexico, USA to face-off in CONCACAF Gold Cup final on Sunday

DEFENDING champions, the United States, set up a blockbuster CONCACAF Gold Cup final against rivals Mexico after beating Jamaica 3-1 on Wednesday night.

Goals from Weston McKennie and Christian Pulisic sent USA through to Sunday’s decider following a weather-interrupted semi-final in Nashville.

After McKennie’s early opener, Wednesday’s game was stopped for one-and-a-half hours due to lightning, but USA were not to be denied when the clash resumed in the 16th minute, with Pulisic doubling the lead seven minutes into the second half.

USA did concede their first goal of the tournament as Jamaica substitute Shamar Nicholson set up a nervy finale with 21 minutes remaining but Pulisic capitalised on another rebound to make sure of the result in the 87th minute.

It was a rematch of the 2017 final won by a Bruce Arena-led USA and the hosts burst out of the blocks and were relentless in attack, with Jamaica goalkeeper Andre Blake preventing a certain goal by somehow denying Paul Arriola from point-blank range in the fourth minute.

But USA were not to be denied five minutes later as Bradley picked out Reggie Cannon before Jozy Altidore laid the ball onto the oncoming McKennie, who fired past Blake.

However, USA’s momentum was abruptly halted by a lengthy delay due to severe weather in 16th minute and the temporary suspension aided Jamaica.

Jamaica emerged from the delay with renewed energy and looked far more threatening, while the United States were disjoined and lacked rhythm.

The half-time interval provided USA with the chance to re-

group and the Americans did just that as they moved 2-0 ahead through Chelsea-bound Pulisic in the 52nd minute.

Morris latched onto a McKennie pass and managed to get a shot off, with Blake only parried the ball straight into the path of Pulisic, who tucked away the rebound.

After Gyasi Zardes wasted a great chance for USA, Jamaica’s Nicholson headed a Leon Bailey cross into the net to pull a goal back for the 2015 and 2017 runners-up, only for Pulisic to pounce on another rebound with three minutes remaining.

After the pain of missing the 2018 World Cup, USA’s rebuild under Berhalter continues to gather pace. Mexico stand in the way of back-to-back Gold Cup triumphs in the first final showdown between the nations since 2011.

It was a fine team display by USA. Not short of critics, veteran midfielder Bradley was cool and calm in possession with his passing a clear highlight. Schalke’s McKennie, meanwhile, showed why he is so highly rated with a goal and a couple of defence-splitting balls.

JAMAICA CAN HOLD HEADS HIGH For much of the game, Jamaica were outclassed. But the Reggae Boyz, despite limited resources compared to their USA counterparts, made it tough for the six-time champions just like they did in the 2017 final.

USA will look to retain their crown against Mexico in Chicago on Sunday, while Jamaica can look ahead to the CONCACAF Nations League – starting against Antigua and Barbuda on September 6.

Corporate Guyana, Government of Guyana encourage support for 4th AP Invitational

SOME of Guyana’s top athletes will match their strides with the rest of the world tomorrow, when the fourth annual Aliann Pompey Invitational is held at the National Track and Field Centre at Leonora, from 15:00hrs.

Athletes from over 20 countries will converge on the country’s lone synthetic track to compete in the country’s most lucrative track and field meet and yesterday several sponsors expressed their delight at being able to support the event, which is the brainchild of former two-time Commonwealth Games medallist and Olympian Aliann Pompey.

“We have Aliyah Abrams, Travis Collins, Emmanuel Archibald, Winston George and a few others who are ranked in the top 50 in the world; so it would be remiss if I don’t mention that we have a lot of Guyanese competing this year and that’s because we are that good,” Pompey said during a press conference yesterday, which was hosted at the National Racquet Centre in Georgetown.

“The Guyanese athletes have come a long way; for years I’ve been at the Olympic Games where it was just me; and that’s not the case now. We have a great group of athletes,” the 2002 Commonwealth Games 400m gold medallist explained.

President of the Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) Aubrey Hutson pointed out just how important the AP Invitational is to local track and field athletes.

He said, “The AAG is honoured to partner with Aliann in this venture because it speaks of the growth of track and field in Guyana and we’re going to ensure when the athletes go out on the track that day that the results are authentic, that the

meet runs on time and all the other technical aspects are held to the highest possible standard because all the results from this meet are going to be honoured by the IAAF.” Meanwhile, Banks DIH, who has supported the AP Invitational from its inception, through their communications manager Troy Peters, said that the company, which has a long history of supporting sports and its development in Guyana, was more than happy to continue their unwavering sustenance for the meet.

Peters, a former well-known reputable sports journalist and sports administrator, said his company “anxiously awaits tomorrow’s event, I was there last year and I can’t wait to get back there because we’ve seen an event that has grown; every year it’s getting better. We’re seeing some top athletes trying to be a part of the event and we’re quite happy that Aliann has seen it fir to return home to organise such an event.”

Meanwhile, Director of Sport, Christopher Jones, said the Government of Guyana recognises the importance of the AP Invitational and will continue to support the meet.

“We recognise that once we continue to lend support to these events, a few years from now the Aliann Pompey Invitational will be the meet that happens in Guyana, that persons regionally and internationally will come to compete and be part of. It is part of our commitment to provide an environment in which our athletes have opportunities to compete,” Jones said.

Persons are being encouraged to take advantage of the 50% discount on tickets, since at the gate tomorrow, patrons will have to pay $1 000. Tickets are available at the AAG’s Light Street office.

Ricola Gym ready to spring surprise … National Novices starts tonight THE Ricola Gym will be making their second appearance in two years at the annual Andrew Lewis National Novices Boxing tournament, which punches off at the National Gymnasium at 19:00hrs this evening.

Ricola slipped in attendance at the annual tournament, following the death of head coach Donald Allison over a decade ago. Allison’s place was temporarily taken by Paulette Nurse who kept the gym afloat for a while. Then came former world-rated featherweight Clive Atwell who has injected new blood into the gym which is located in Agricola.

Atwell has performed nothing short of magic in a short space of time and is in the process of completing a total revival of the gym.

When the bell rings tonight Ricola Gym will throw down the gauntlet to reigning Novice champions Guyana Defence Force, Forgotten Youth Foundation, Young Achievers, Harpy

Eagles, Rose Hall Jammers, Pocket Rocket and Vergenoegen Boxing Gym. Since switching from boxer to coach approximately one year ago, Atwell has reaped success especially during 2019.

His charge, welterweight Shemar Beaton, made his international debut with a knock-out victory in Dominica in April and one month later secured another gold medal for Guyana at the Brian Lara 50th Birthday competition in Trinidad and Tobago.

Atwell’s gym has grown in members and popularity since then and with such a dedicated coach may soon reclaim its place as one of the leading gyms in the country.

For now, all attention is fixed on the National Novices and springing a few surprises. The National Novices competition is organised by Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) and will run until Sunday.

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Kerber suffers shock loss to lucky-loser Davis LONDON, England (Reuters) - Defending champion Angelique Kerber was dumped out of Wimbledon yesterday as she suffered a stunning 2-6, 6-2, 6-1 second-round defeat by American world number 95 Lauren Davis.

Defending champion Angelique Kerber

German Kerber, a threetime Grand Slam champion, raced through the first set before the match turned wildly on its head and Davis, who needed a lucky-loser spot to play in the tournament, lost only three more games.

After taking the second set, the 25-year-old Davis turned the screw on

Court Two and wrapped up victory in an hour and 55 minutes when fifth seed Kerber netted.

The American had previously been a top-30 player but had fallen to 252 in the world by the end of 2018, before beginning a rapid rise back up the rankings.

Davis was the more aggressive, outhitting Kerber with 45 winners to 13, and breaking the German’s serve eight times in the match, to set up a thirdround meeting with number 30 seed, Carla Suarez Navarro.

The contest had started well for Kerber as she broke for a 4-2 lead in the first set then again to love in the eighth game to clinch the opener.

Yet after a visit from the trainer, Davis turned the encounter on its head.

After the second set began with three breaks of serve, Davis held to get her nose ahead, 3-1, and broke again for a 4-1 lead.

After failing to convert her first two match-points at 5-1, Davis made no mistake with the third when a strong return forced Kerber to net.

Serena survives Fourth of July test from Slovenian student

By Pritha Sarkar

LONDON, England (Reuters) - For the second time in four days a Wimbledon champion called Williams found herself being whipped by high school teenager, but in the end it was Serena Williams who dished out the punishment as she stormed to a 2-6, 6-2, 6-4 second-round win over Slovenia’s Kaja Juvan yesterday.

The 18-year-old Juvan appeared to have been inspired by 15-year-old Cori Gauff’s sensational firstround win over Serena’s elder sister Venus, a fivetime winner at the All England Club, as she came out swinging to break Serena twice in the opening set.An ugly smash into the net not only handed Juvan the set but it also left an angry Serena staring at the ball in disgust - and if looks could kill, the ball would have turned to dust.

But if the Court One fans feared that it might be a case of “Gone on the Fourth of July” for America’s most decorated tennis player - they

had obviously not kept tabs on the career of an athlete who is chasing a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam title.

The 37-year-old missed easy slam dunk smashes, she belted the ball wide while on break point and glared down on the net after yet another of her shots got tangled up in bottom of the black mesh.

Serena Williams

But despite producing more unforced errors (26) than winners (25), she put on a winning show for her friend Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex, to seal a place in the third round against Germany’s Julia Goerges.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 5, 2019

A look at England’s previous record in major tournament semi-finals

By Kathryn Batte, PA ENGLAND have reached the World Cup semi-finals after beating New Zealand by 119 runs at Chester-le-Street on Wednesday.

Here, PA looks at England’s record of reaching the knockout stages of major tournaments.

CWC 1975 – Semi-final v Australia, Headingley, Leeds England reached the semi-finals in the first edition of the CWC but were defeated

by Australia. In what is still the best World Cup performance to date by a bowler, Gary Gilmour took six for 14 with England bowled out for 93 after having fallen to 37 for seven. Australia also fell to 39 for six before Gilmour hit 28 runs from 28 balls to seal a four-wicket victory.

CWC 1979 – Semi-final V New Zealand, Old Trafford, Manchester New Zealand elected to bowl after winning the toss and England quickly fell to 38 for two. However, 53 from Mike Brearley and 71 from Graham Gooch lifted England’s innings with the final score reaching 221. New Zealand’s John Wright hit 69 but the loss of wickets hampered their efforts. After failing to hit the

required 14 runs in the final over, England went on to play the West Indies in the final but lost by 92 runs.

CWC 1983 – Semi-final v India, Old Trafford, Manchester

England faced Australia in their first Champions Trophy semi-final and elected to bowl.

Darren Gough took three for 48 as Australia reached 259 for nine. England’s Michael Vaughn hit 86 in reply, as the

Gary Gilmour (bottom left) took six for 14 against England (PA Images)

England won the toss and elected to bat but restrictive Indian bowling led them to be bowled out for 213. In response, India’s Yashpal Sharma and Sandeep Patil made half-centuries as they reached their target in 54.4 overs, winning by six wickets and subjecting England to another semi-final defeat.

ICC Champions Trophy 2004 – Semi-final v Australia, Edgbaston, Birmingham

target was reached after 46.3 overs with England notching 262 for four. The West Indies awaited in the final but England went on to lose by two wickets.

ICC Champions Trophy 2009 – Semi-final v Australia, SuperSport Park, Centurion, South Africa After defeat in the 2004 semi-final, Australia claimed revenge over their rivals. Tim Bresnan hit an impressive 80 but England were all out for

257. The Aussies made their victory look easy, losing only one wicket as they reached their target with Shane Watson hitting 136 not out. Australia went on to beat New Zealand by six wickets in the final.

reached their target in 16 overs leaving them to face Australia in the final.

After another fine Pietersen performance, linking up for an 111-run partnership with Paul Collingwood, England claimed

Eoin Morgan was dismissed by Australia’s Shane Watson during the 2009 semi-final (Gareth Copley/PA Images)

ICC World Twenty20, 2010 – Semi-final v Sri Lanka, Beausejour Stadium, Gros Islet, St Lucia The third edition of the World Twenty20 tournament took place 10 months after the second due to the cancellation of the Champions Trophy in 2008. Sri Lanka were all out for 128 as Stuart Broad took two for 21. After a score of 42 from Kevin Pietersen, England

their first International Cricket Council (ICC) world championship.

ICC Champions Trophy 2013 – Semi-final v South Africa, The Oval, London England elected to bowl after winning the toss and James Tredwell took an impressive three for 19 in seven overs as South Africa were bowled out for 175. Jonathan Trott’s 82 was the top score

for England as they reached their target – losing only three wickets in the process. They went on to face India in the final at Edgbaston but narrowly lost by five runs.

ICC World Twenty20 2016 – Semi-final v New Zealand, Feroz Shah Kolta, Delhi England won the toss and elected to bowl with New Zealand reaching 153 for eight from their 20 overs. England replied as Jason Roy scored the second-fastest half-century for an English player in a World Twenty20 match as he reached the landmark off 26 balls. The target was met after 17.1 overs as England progressed to the final where they were narrowly beaten by the West Indies.

ICC Champions Trophy 2017 – Semi-final v Pakistan, Sophia Gardens, Cardiff After qualifying for the semi-finals by winning their first two group games, England faced Pakistan in Cardiff. Joe Root hit 46 as Hasan Ali took three for 35, with England reaching 211 before they were bowled out.

Pakistan lost only two wickets as they reached their target in 37.1 overs after Azhar Ali finished with 76.

They went on to beat rivals India by 180 runs in the final.

BCB honours Berbice U-19, female senior teams THE Hilbert Foster-led Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) recently honoured their Berbice Under-19 male and senior female Inter-county teams for winning their respective championships.

The female team members were presented with trophies and medals by Her Worship Winifred Haywood, Mayor of New Amsterdam while Region Six Vice-Chairman Dennis Deroop handed over trophies and medals to the Under-19 team.

The two MVP Erva Giddings and Junior Sinclair each carried home a $20 000 bicycle, compliments of the BCB and A. Ally & Sons of New Amsterdam.

Foster praised the two teams for making the county proud. Foster stated that the board was disappointed with the 2019 Inter-county results having ended up as runners-up at the Under-15, and Under-19 one-day tournaments.

He stated that while no excuse was acceptable for the results in 2019, BCB was concerned that Demerara enjoyed home advantage and almost all of their matches versus Berbice are played at one venue.

Foster stated that despite great odds including the non-financial assistance from the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB), Berbice continued to produce players for the West Indies at a remarkable rate.

Two Under-15 players, Isai Thorne and Rampersaud Ramnauth would be touring England shortly with West Indies team while Kevlon Anderson and Kevin Umroa are in the Caribbean Under-19 training squad.

Shemaine Campbelle and Shimron Hetmyer are in the senior West Indies teams while Romario Shepherd is in the ‘B’ team to face India ‘A’.

Five Berbicians, Hetmyer, Shepherd, Anthony Bramble, Veerasammy Permaul and Clinton Pestano

The Berbice Under-19 team with Regional Vice-Chairman Dennis Deroop

would also be shortly playing for the Amazon Warriors in the CPL 20/20 while Sheneta Grimmond and Shabika Gajnabi have been involved in the West Indies Training Camps.

Special mention was made of coaches Winston Smith, Andre Percival and managers Sylvia Autar and Neil Rudder for the roles they played in the success of the teams.

Foster urged the players to remain focus on their games and to work harder to improve themselves on and off the cricket field.

Foster, who has hinted that he was not interested in another term as BCB president, stated that is very important for both officials and cricketers to work together for the development of Berbice cricket and urged the senior cricketers in the Ancient County to give back more to the game that has made them famous and wealthy.

The Berbice female team posed with New Amsterdam Mayor Haywood

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 5, 2019

33

Toronto Blizzards waltz to NYSCL Pro Cup title

By Frederick Halley

LAST year Royal Canadian Masters (RCM) created history, becoming the first team from Canada to win a softball title in or out of the country when they captured the Pro Cup (Over-50) title, played as part of the New York Softball Cricket League (NYSCL) annual Independence Cup. Last Sunday, the feat was repeated by the Toronto Blizzards, who in a masterful display defeated New York Hustlers by seven runs in a pulsating final, played at Seaview Park, Canarsie, Brooklyn, New York.

Urged on by a contingent from across the border and facing their toughest opponents in the final, the players from the land of the Maple Leaf ensured that their ardent fans received a 152nd Independence anniversary gift.

Playing unbeaten in the three-day tournament, Toronto Blizzards were indebted to a marvellous 118-run second-wicket partnership between former Canadian international player Desmond Chumney (80) and former Guyana batsman Jaimini Singh (36), after they were rocked back at 24 for two in the fourth over, losing the key wickets of skipper Shiv Seeram (14) and Sunil Dhaniram (one), both former Guyana players.

From thereon, it was the Chumney/Singh show, with the former being the aggressor, belting four fours and five towering sixes while Singh’s knock contained four fours.

The entertaining and face-saving partnership was broken in the 17th over, Singh going caught off Linden Longhorne at 142 for three while Chumney departed shortly after, bowled by P. Beaton.

Roger Federer

Federer had never lost a Grand Slam match to somebody as low as Clarke in the rankings and, despite the Briton putting up a brave fight in the second set, the huge gulf in class ensured the Swiss never had to get out of

with the fifth and sixth deliveries of his third over and one with the first ball of the fourth.

Surprise package Mohan Harirar also chipped in with two in his first of two overs, finishing with two for 15.

The victorious Toronto Blizzards celebrate their victory (Pictures courtesy of John Ramsingh)

The rest of the batting floundered as Toronto Blizzards were restricted to 162 for eight in the allotted 20 overs with Longhorne finishing with the impressive figures of three for 26 from his four overs.

Two run-outs didn’t help the visitors’ cause.

New York Hustlers started disastrously, losing L. Fraser (one), via run-out while the other opener N. Robertson (0) went caught-and-bowled by the wily Satrohan ‘Blade’ Balkarran in the first over as

Federer crushes Clarke to reach Wimbledon third round

LONDON, England (Reuters) - Roger Federer dashed home hopes of an outlandish upset at Wimbledon by easing into the third round with a 6-1, 7-6(3), 6-2 win over Britain’s world number 169 Jay Clarke yesterday to reach the third round.

they slipped to two for two.

The experienced Ken Sanichar (31) and Quayyam Farrouq (23) mounted a third-wicket recovery stand which yielded 60 runs, but once the two were separated,

second gear.

Chasing a ninth Wimbledon title, Federer blasted out of the blocks, winning the opening set in double quick time, before Clarke got a foothold in the contest, holding serve throughout the second set to force a tiebreak.

The home crowd began to sense the beginnings of an upset when Clarke secured a mini-break on the Federer serve, but it was a fleeting advantage, with the Swiss taking the set and breaking early in the third.

The 20-year-old Clarke handed Federer match-point with a double fault and the 20-time Grand Slam champion wrapped up the contest when the Briton sent a backhand wide.

“I really enjoyed myself.

The tank is full. I came here with a lot of confidence. The first few matches haven’t been very taxing physically.

You try to win your matches regardless of the score, if you win them in straights, that’s better,” Federer said.

New York Hustlers slid to 65 for five in the 11th over.

Longhorn, in a fine allround display, rallied the lower-order almost singlehandedly, spanking an aggressive 46 (five fours), sharing an important 58-run sixth-wicket partnership with Ronald Evelyn (15 not out) as New York Hustlers fought their way back into the game.

The home team was, however, undone by a hat-trick from Mike Kisten (three for 34) who grabbed two wickets

With 15 needed in the final over and only one wicket remaining, captain Seeram entrusted the over to his most experienced bowler in Balkarran who conceded six runs before last man Ashraf Ally failed to make his ground, attempting a second run as New York Hustlers were dismissed for 155 in 19.5 overs.

The semi-final saw Toronto Blizzards win by 38 runs over NYSCL, reaching 192 for five in 20 overs and dismissing the

home team for 154 in 19.1 overs. Seeram 59 (five fours), Chumney (38 not out) and Singh (28) were the principal scorers while Tony Fernandez spanked three fours and five sixes in his 62 for the losers.

Valuable Player (MVP) award while Chumney copped the man-of-the-match for the final.

The highest individual score (85) trophy went to Deochand Ramjattan of Rockaway Pro; most wickets (nine) to Lang-

MVP Shiv Seeram collects his award from a sponsor

The consistent Seeram had earlier started the tournament in emphatic fashion, smashing six fours and five sixes in 84 and sharing a 159-run second-wicket stand with Sunil Dhaniram, whose 57 included six fours and four sixes, the two rolling back the years.

Opponents Orlando Masters were left high and dry at 92 for five when their overs expired.

Seeram, who totalled 212 runs in his five innings, the most by any player, was the obvious choice for the Most

horne of NY Hustlers; best bowling figures in a game (four for 10) to Ronald Evelyn of NY Hustlers while Mike Kisten of Blizzards received a monetary prize for his hattrick.

Toronto Blizzards owe their formation to businessman Nasrudeen Baksh, an ardent enthusiast and supporter of the Ontario Masters Softball Cricket Clubs (OMSCC) and were managed by Azeem Khan who is also the OMSCC president.

National Schools Basketball Festival

Kwakwani boys, Marian Academy girls make strong start KWAKWANI Secondary School U-14 male team and the Marian Academy female side registered commanding wins when action in the National School Basketball Festival U-14 and Girls Developmental Division tipped off on Tuesday afternoon at Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.

In the U-14 group play, the Berbice River secondary school, who are into the U-18 semi-finals, proved that their junior players are also competitive by whipping St Stanislaus by 41 points (50-9).

Gevon Ross powered himself to a double-double with 14 points and 15 rebounds, while Kelon Phillips added 10 points and Matthew David nine points with six rebounds.

Jamie Bascom led Saints with five points and seven rebounds.

St Rose’s High also claimed an emphatic win when they locked down the Youth Basketball Guyana (YBG) Cluster 27-10. Wayne Williams led the winners with nine points seven rebounds, while Tevin Nedd added seven points.

In the other U-14 clash, Bishops’ High School got past Marian Academy 15-12. Matthias Arrindell pulled down 12 rebounds to go with five points for Bishops’.

Jaden Pooran and Trevor Rose led Marian with four points, six rebounds and four points, five rebounds respectively.

GIRLS’ DIVISION Marian Academy’s female side shut down St Stanislaus College in their clash.

Led by guard Kelliann Sauers, the side romped to a whopping 29-point win (31-2).

Sauers finished with 14 points and Angelique Foo six points.

Kwakwani Secondary females team also looked solid by defeating a relatively strong Queen’s College team by a 27-19

margin. Holly Grimmond and J. Trim led Kwakwani with eight and seven points respectively. Queen’s College were led by the in-form Naomi Barkoye with eight points and whopping 21 rebounds.

The YBG-organised Festival is sponsored by Edward B. Beharry and Company Ltd, The National Sports Commission, Banks DIH, ExxonMobil and Bounty Ltd.

Marian Academy, who won the Georgetown and East Coast Regional last month, registered a 31-2 win over St Stanislaus College on Tuesday

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 5, 2019

Peru end Chile’s Copa America reign, to reach first final in 44 years PERU ended Chile’s hopes of winning a third consecutive Copa America title as they reached a first final since 1975, with a comfortable semi-final victory on Wednesday night.

Edison Flores and Yoshimar Yotun scored first-half goals and Paolo Guerrero added a late third for Peru, while Chile missed an injury-time penalty.

Peru meet hosts Brazil in the final on Sunday, after they beat Argentina 2-0.

“We’ve come through some tough moments in the Copa and we deserve to be in the final,” said Peru coach Ricardo Gareca.

Peru’s performance came one match after they were thumped 5-0 by Brazil in their final group game and Gareca, 61, added: “We managed to overcome the huge adversity that this defeat was, and that was hastily judged and provoked a wave of harsh criticism.”

Chile squandered a number of chances - including the late penalty with Eduardo Vargas’ attempted ‘Panenka-style’ spot-kick saved by in-form Peru goalkeeper

Peru celebrate with their fans at the final whistle

Pedro Gallese.

Peru, who beat 15-time winners Uruguay on penalties in the quarter-finals, opened the scoring in the 21st-minute when winger Flores nodded in from a corner.

Left-back Yotun volleyed in a second before the break, to punish a mistake by Chile keeper Gabriel Arias.

Guerrero completed the victory in injury time over a Chile side ranked 16th in

the world, five places above Peru.

Chile manager Reinaldo Rueda was unable to explain his side’s performance, following their penalty shootout win over Colombia in the quarter-finals and said Peru “surprised” them.

“I don’t know what factors could have influenced these first 20 minutes that made the difference,” said the Colombian.

“Mentally we wanted to play the final without dealing first with this step and Peru surprised us.”

Chile had been aiming to win a third title on the bounce, a feat not achieved since Argentina managed it from 1945 to 47.

The Copa America final takes places at Rio’s Maracana Stadium on Sunday, July 7 at 21:00hrs BST. (BBC Sport)

E-Networks secures exclusive rights for 2019 Hero CPL

E-NETWORKS Inc. – Guyana’s leading TV service provider - yesterday announced it has secured the exclusive market rights to the Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL) T20 2019 tournament, which will be broadcast live from September 4 to October 12, 2019, from International Media Content Ltd (IMC) – the parent company of SportsMax. Sporting fans in Guyana can look forward to enjoying ‘The Biggest Party in Sport’ in uninterrupted, crystal- clear high definition quality on E-Networks sports channel, E2.

E-Networks is proud to provide the best in sports to its viewers, who have come to expect the most extensive coverage of all the popular sports in the region through its unrivalled line-up of sports channels.

E-Networks will also make every effort to ensure maximum coverage to all Guyanese through our partners. Under the tagline, ‘More Ways to Watch’, E-Networks will be providing several options to its subscribers to view the T20 tournament, including via its satellite service, DreamTV Satellite, which is available countrywide.

The company also indicated that in the coming months, it will be offering special promotions in time to view the CPL coverage.

First started in 2013, the Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL) has grown to a digital viewership over 200 million fans, making it one of the fastest growing leagues in world cricket.

Guyana’s Terrel Ondaan signs with Ligue 2 club

German’s Restaurant fuels Capital FC Guyana’s Terrel Ondaan

GUYANA’S Terrel Ondaan will move to France from the Netherlands, after inking a deal with Ligue 2 side Grenoble Foot 38.

Ondaan debuted for Guyana in an International friendly against Bermuda when he came on as a second half substitute.

The Golden Jaguars lost the game 1-0 in a lead-up to their 2019 CONCACAF Gold Cup campaign.

“I am happy with this step,” the 25-year-old winger said, on the club site of Grenoble Foot 38. “This club belongs at the highest level and I hope we can return to the Ligue 1 with my experience.”

In the 2009/10 season, the French club last played at the highest level. Last season the team finished ninth in Ligue 2.

Ondaan comes over from Telstar, where he scored 13 goals and seven assists in the Kitchen Champion Division last season. Before his time with the Witte Leeuwen, the 25-year-old ‘Amsterdammer’ was active for Willem II, Excelsior and PEC Zwolle.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER Clinton Urling of German’s Restaurant presents the cheque to captain of Linden’s Capital FC, Andre Myers, while Dameion Forrester and members of the club share the moment (Photo: Sean Devers)

IN an act of benevolence on Wednesday afternoon, German’s Restaurant made a monetary contribution to Capital Football Club, one of the country’s new football clubs, based in Linden.

A cheque valued G$100 000 was presented to the club’s skipper and national junior player, 17-year-old Andre Myers, by businessman Clinton Urling at a simple ceremony, witnessed by national beach footballer Keon Sears and goalkeeper Norbert Sansculotte.

Also present were Regional Secretary Dameion Forrester and Seon Holland, brother of the club’s president and former Linden Mayor and boxing promoter, Carwyn Holland.

Urling posited that football and sports in general bring com-

munities together, forge unity, develop good health and help to reduce crime, among several other benefits.

He said German’s Restaurant will continue to support any initiative that helps to develop communities.

Forrester, speaking on behalf of the Region 10 club, thanked Urling and German’s Restaurant for the contribution to the newest football club in Linden. He stated that the club is also involved in community development work through several projects.

The club is also on the verge of assembling a female team, Forrester reported. Currently, Capital FC has three teams, namely Under-17, Under-20 and a senior group, who will compete in the Super Cup starting Sunday.

(Friday, July 05, 2019)

COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL- Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD- 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) (1) (2)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz: David Warner (AUST) David Williams

(1)

(2)

Today’s Quiz: Who is the only man to make his ODI debut in a World Cup match and promptly made a century?

Put these in order beginning with the man who has taken most wickets in World Cup tournaments to date: Anil Kumble, Brett Lee, Shane Warne, Imran Khan

ANSWERS IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, July 5, 2019

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Windies sign off on World Cup fiasco with victory LEEDS, England (CMC) – West Indies survived a small scare in a scratchy 23-run victory over minnows Afghanistan here yesterday, as they bade farewell to a disastrous World Cup campaign that yielded an abundance of frustration and a mere two wins.

Behind half-centuries from the young brigade of Shai Hope (77), Evin Lewis (58) and Nicholas Pooran (58), West Indies piled up 311 for six off their 50 overs after opting to bat first at Headingley.

The total should have assured them of a straightforward win against the World Cup debutants with eight chastening defeats in as many matches but instead, West Indies were forced to sweat before finally overpowering the plucky Afghans for 288 all out off their 50 overs.

Eighteen-year-old Ikram Ali Khil stroked an entertaining 86 and Rahmat Shah struck 62, putting the Caribbean side under pressure in a 133-run, second-wicket stand.

And even when seamer Carlos Brathwaite (4-63) knocked over Rahmat in the 27th over, Afghanistan still appeared on course to challenge their target thanks to a breezy 31 from Najibullah Zadran, in a 51-run, third-wicket partnership with Ikram.

However, Brathwaite and seamer Kemar Roach (3-37) then

sliced through the middle and lower order, quelling resistance from Asghar Afghan who struck 40 off 32 deliveries, as Afghanistan lost their last eight wickets for 99 runs.

They ended the tournament winless and at the bottom of the 10-team standings, with the Windies above them in ninth on five points.

With six defeats in their previous seven outings, West Indies desperately needed victory to salvage some dignity but started poorly when veteran opener Chris Gayle wafted at a wide ball from seamer Dawlat Zadran (2-73) and nicked a catch behind for seven in the sixth over with the score on 21.

Hope then anchored the first of two successive half-century stands when he put on 88 for the second wicket with Lewis, to lift the Windies past the 100-run mark without further loss.

The right-handed Hope faced 92 balls and struck six fours and a couple of sixes while the left-handed Lewis recorded an identical boundary count in a 78ball knock, before holing out to wide long on in the 25th over off leg-spinner Rashid Khan.

Shimron Hetmyer arrived to stroke a cavalier 39 from 31 balls in a 65-run stand with Hope, as he tried to raise the scoring rate which languished at just over four runs per over at the half-way mark of the innings.

The left-hander had hammered three fours and a pair of sixes when he pulled Dawlat to short mid-wicket in the 35th over at 174 for three.

Seventeen balls later, Hope hoisted off-spinner Mohammad Nabi to deep mid-wicket in an attempt to sustain the tempo, as West Indies lost two quick wickets for 18 runs.

In need of a real jump start at 200 for four at the start of the 40th over, West Indies got it through Pooran and captain Jason Holder (45), the pair putting on an entertaining 105 runs for the fifth wicket which allowed their side to gather 111 runs from the last 10 overs.

Pooran, on the back of a maiden international hundred on Monday, lashed six fours and a six off 43 deliveries while Holder punched a four and four sixes in a cameo 34-ball innings.

Both fell in the final over with West Indies just short of the 300run mark but Brathwaite (14 not out) blasted two fours and a six off the last three balls of the innings to leave the winless Afghans with a daunting run chase.

Roach then put West Indies firmly on top when he had captain Gulbadin Naib caught at forward square leg for five, tugging a short ball in the second over with as many runs on the board.

But Ikram and Rahmat came

together to raise hopes of an Afghanistan victory in an attractive partnership helped significantly by the Windies ragged out-fielding.

The left-handed Ikram struck eight fours in his 93-ball stay at the crease, reaching his maiden international half-century with the second of two boundaries off left-arm spinner Fabian Allen in the 21st over.

Rahmat, meanwhile, notched 10 fours off 78 deliveries to account for his maiden World Cup half-century and 15th in ODIs. Put down by Sheldon Cottrell in the deep off Brathwaite in the 25th over, Rahmat perished to the same bowler 14 balls later, caught

by Gayle at short extra cover off a leading edge.

Ali Khil kept the Afghans’ hopes alive but once he missed a sweep at off-spinner Gayle and was lbw in the 36th over, things fell apart. In the same over, Najibullah found himself short at the non-striker’s end attempting a second run and when the experienced Mohammad Nabi was taken at deep cover by Allen for two in the 38th over, Afghanistan were wobbling on 201 for five.

There was no easy wrap up for the Windies, however, as Asghar smashed four fours and a six and number 10 Sayed Shirzad, a pair of fours and sixes in a 17-ball 25 as Afghanistan went down fighting.

Man-of-the-Match Shai Hope (right)

SCORECARD

WEST INDIES innings C. Gayle c wkp. Ikram Ali khil b Dawlat Zadran 7 E. Lewis c Mohammad Nabi b Rashid Khan 58 S. Hope c Rashid Khan b Mohammad Nabi 77 S. Hetmyer c sub. (Noor Ali Zadran) b Dawlat Zadran 39 N. Pooran run-out 58 J. Holder c Dawlat Zadran b Sayed Ahmad Shirzad 45 C. Brathwaite not out 14 F. Allen not out 0 Extras: (lb-4, w-9) 13 Total: (6 wkts, 50 overs) 311 Fall of wickets: 1-21, 2-109, 3-174, 4-192, 5-297, 6-297.

Bowling: Mujeeb-Ur-Rahman 10-0-52-0 (w-2), Dawlat Zadran 9-1-73-2 (w-1), Sayed Shirzad 8-0-56-1, Gulbadin Naib 3-0-180, Mohammad Nabi 10-0-56-1, Rashid Khan 10-0-52-1 (w-2).

AFGHANISTAN innings Gulbadin Naib c Lewis b Roach 5 Rahmat Shah c Gayle b Brathwaite 62 Ikram Ali Khil lbw b Gayle 86 Najibullah Zadran run-out 31 Asghar Afghan c Holder b Brathwaite 40 Mohammad Nabi c Allen b Roach 2 Samiullah Shinwari c Hetmyer b Roach 6 Rashid Khan c Holder b Brathwaite 9 Dawlat Zadran c Cottrell b Brathwaite 1 Sayed Shirzad c Allen b Thomas 25 Mujeeb-Ur-Rahman not out 7 Extras: (lb-2, w-10, nb-2) 14 Total: (all out, 50 overs) 288 Fall of wickets: 1-5, 2-138, 3-189, 4-194, 5-201, 6-227, 7-244, 8-255, 9-260.

Bowling: Cottrell 7-0-43-0 (w-3), Roach 10-2-37-3 (w-1), Thomas 7-0-43-1, Holder 8-0-46-0 (w-2, nb-1), Allen 3-0-26-0, Brathwaite 9-0-63-4 (w-3, nb-1), Gayle 6-0-28-1 (w-1).

POINTS: WEST INDIES 2, AFGHANISTAN 0.

Junior karters to steal the show at National cricketers depart for Second GT Motorsports Grand Prix Regional Under-17 tournament

By Stephan Sookram

THEY may be some of the smallest racers out there but the X30 juniors will be the definite show stealers at this weekend’s GT Motorsports Grand Prix Round 2.

Most of the youngsters in this class moved up from the Sunburst 60cc Kids’ Cup last year and stole the show at round one. Things are expected to be no different for this weekend’s round two.

Their close-quarters high intensity racing kept fans on their feet for their last round, with Nathan Rahaman, Zack Persaud

and Rayden Persaud each securing a win.

Add Jeremy Ten-Pow and Paige Mendonca, who had a bad weekend during round one, as well as Faraud Mohamed and there is sure to be a dog-fight for the top spot.

The five have all definitely enjoyed the benefit of the three-round Caribbean Junior Karting Academy Trophy (CJKAT) earlier this year.

But this time around, every point will count. The winner of this year’s X30 junior will get a seat on the international scene.

The top X30 junior overall winner will get a fully

sponsored drive during the 1st weekend of January at the AMR Motorplex Karting Challenge in Homestead, Florida.

When contacted, the GT Motorsport owner Vishok Persaud confirmed the announcement.

According to Persaud, the package will include kart, airfare and hotel for the competitor at the Motul-sponsored event.

After the first round, Nathan Rahaman (61 points) holds a slim lead over Zachary Persaud (60) with Rayden Persaud (50) in third.

Zachary Persaud (79) leads the X30 juniors class heading into the second round of the GT Motorsports Grand Prix this weekend. Nathan Rahaman (71) is second with Rayden Persaud (26) third

The National Under-17 team and management before they departed yesterday afternoon to compete in this year’s regional tournament in Trinidad and Tobago

THE Guyana National Under-17 cricketers departed yesterday afternoon to hunt for honours in this year’s Regional Under-17 tournament, which will be played in Trinidad and Tobago from July 4 to 15.

The squad, who benefitted from exposure in the GCB Under-17 and Under-19 Inter-county tournaments and also a four-day pre-tournament camp, appeared high in confidence and well prepared for their competitive regional encounter.

The Under-17 championship title is the only one that has eluded Guyana, since the closest the Guyanese have come to winning the title

was in 2016 when Guyana placed second after their final game against the host nation, Trinidad and Tobago, was rained out.

In this 50-over tournament Guyana will face its five other regional counterparts – defending champions Barbados, Jamaica, Leeward Islands, hosts Trinidad & Tobago and the Windward Islands – in a round-robin format where each team will face the other once. The team to accumulate the most points at the end of the five rounds will be crowned champions.

Barbados are the defending champions while Guyana

finished third in 2018.

Guyana will open their challenge against Trinidad and Tobago at Couva, Leeward Islands will play Jamaica at Brian Lara Stadium and defending champions Barbados will match skills with Windward Islands at Gilbert Park.

The full squad reads: Matthew Nandu, Sarwan Chitnarine, Marvan Prashad, Mavendra Dindyal, Niran Bissu, Zeynul Ramsammy, Andre Seepersaud, Sheldon Charles, Azizi Christiani, Chandrapaul Ramraj, Jagdesh Dowlatram, Chaitram Balgobin, Avinash Rajkumar and Ajay Gainda.

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United States Jozy Altidore and Jamaica’s Shaun Francis battle for possession of the ball in the CONCACAF Gold Cup semifinal match on Wednesday night at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tennessee

Mexico, USA

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to face-off in CONCACAF Gold Cup final on Sunday Corporate Guyana, Government Ricola Gym ready to spring surprise s of Guyana encourage support ice v o N for 4th AP Invitational 31 nal o i t a N ight Page

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Aliann Pompey (centre) is flanked by sponsors, AAG president Aubrey Hutson and Director of Sport Christopher Jones, following yesterday’s press conference

Ricola Gym boxing coach Clive Atwell

Windies sign off on World Cup fiasco with victory 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

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FRIDAY, JULY 5, 2019