THURSDAY 8th August, 2019
' No.105723
President to meet GECOM today SEE PAGE 03
P
President David Granger presents Miss Kelly Pollydore with a commemorative coin during their meeting at State House
Over 150,000 persons registered so far -as GECOM expands teams for house-to-house registration
Sacked public servants 09 reinstated PAGE
PAGE
02
resident David Granger on Wednesday met nine-year-old F.E. Pollard student Miss Kelly Pollydore at State House. Miss Pollydore had written to the Head of State requesting a meeting with him to discuss her plans to one day become President. She had also requested that he give special consideration to scheduling the meeting on August 7, her mother’s birthday, as a gift to her mother who is a single parent and who would be accompanying her. In addition she asked for a computer to assist her with her studies. President Granger met with Miss Pollydore, her mother Ms. Leandra Benjamin and her grandmother, where she revealed her intention to attend President’s College in preparation for her future role as President. President Granger encouraged the girl to remain focused on her goals and to pursue her education as it is the key to unlocking her success. The Head of State then took the group on a guided tour of State House and presented Miss Pollydore with a personal computer and a commemorative coin.
Rice farmers eye bumper second crop …over 90,000 hectares of paddy sown, 500,000 tonnes to be harvested
PAGE
10
2
GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday August 8, 2019
Over 150,000 persons registered so far -as GECOM expands teams for house-to-house registration
OVER 150,000 persons have been registered so far through the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM)’s ongoing house-to-house registration process. Since the process started on July 20, 2019, some persons have been cooperating while others, who were motivated by the political opposition, have been refusing to register and in some cases trying to disrupt the process. Despite the challenges which the commission has faced, the process has continued and Public Relations Officer of GECOM, Yolanda Ward, said the registration exercise has been going well. “Well so far yes we still have challenges in terms of persons refusing to register but persons who are getting registered have been going through the process smoothly,” said Ward during an invited comment on Wednesday. She said at the end of last Saturday, the figure was at 116,000, but that has since climbed to 150,000. The response has increased despite the challenges, she said, adding that for the week there has been no significant report
of GECOM officials being attacked or harassed.
residents who are allegedly not in agreement with the
gradually ramping-up those numbers to reach that anticipated amount,” said Ward. Director-General of the Ministry of the Presidency, Joseph Harmon, also said that the house-to-house registration process has accelerated although Attorney-at-Law,
Director General of the Ministry of the Presidency, Joseph Harmon
GECOM had called on the Guyana Police Force to protect workers of the commission who were being attacked by residents of various communities. The commission, in a press statement, had said it had engaged the police force to provide surveillance in communities and to assist with security of its field staff. Over the last few days, a number of enumerators were attacked and injured by dogs which were intentionally loosed by their owners. “They received dog bites which were instigated by
registration exercise,” said GECOM. It was also reported that some persons are using threatening language, instilling fear and providing misinformation that the staff will not be paid for their service. Although that has been the case, GECOM has moved to increase its teams. Initially the process started with 1,000 teams in the field, but now they have increased that to 1,332 teams. “That is going to be increased further… the initial plan was to have approximately 1,800 teams so we are
George-Wiltshire will hand down her decision in the matter on Wednesday, August 14, 2019 at 13:30hrs. It appears as though GECOM is also awaiting the ruling to move forward, since it has set its next statutory meeting for August 15. “Depending on what information is given to the chief justice she will take whatever steps are necessary…we respect that there is a hierarchy of courts, but we trust that we will not have to go all the way,” said Harmon during a post cabinet press
'
By Navendra Seoraj
Public Relations Officer of GECOM, Yolanda Ward
Christopher Ram, challenged the constitutionality of the process. He challenged the process on the grounds that it is in violation of Article 106 (6) and Article 106 (7) of the Constitution, and the letter and spirit of the judgment and consequential orders of the CCJ in the consolidated appeals. Ultimately, he wants the court to rule that the national registration exercise is illegal and of no effect. The Chief Justice, Roxane
Guyanese citizens by birth, descent, naturalisation or registration, 14 years and older by October 31, 2019 or a citizen of a Commonwealth country living in Guyana for a period of no less than one year preceding the qualifying date, are all eligible for registration' –– GECOM
briefing on Wednesday. He believes that houseto-house registration is important because it will ensure that there is a clean Official List of Electors (OLE). GECOM said the countrywide exercise is in keeping with a decision of the
commission on February 19, 2019 and in accordance with Order No. 25 of 2019 dated June 11, 2019. “Registration is a legal requirement according to the National Registration Act, Chapter 19:08 and therefore all eligible persons are mandated to register. Houseto-house registration is a new registration exercise and therefore all eligible persons must register, even if they were previously registered,” GECOM asserted. According to the commission, upon conclusion of this exercise, a new National Register of Registrants Database (NRRDB) which is reflective of the current Guyanese population will be created. Subsequently, the OLE will be extracted for the purpose of conducting General and Regional Elections. “Guyanese citizens by birth, descent, naturalisation or registration, 14 years and older by October 31, 2019 or a citizen of a Commonwealth country living in Guyana for a period of no less than one year preceding the qualifying date, are all eligible for registration,” GECOM stated. It has urged residents to have the relevant documents required for registration ready and be on the lookout for GECOM’s Registration Officials in their area.
GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday August 8, 2019
President to meet GECOM today
President David Granger today will meet with the Guyana Elections Commission to get an update on that body’s preparations for elections and to assess its needs. The meeting has been billed as a crucial one even as GECOM continues to move along with its house-to-house registration exercise. So far some 150,000 people have registered and GECOM has indicated that it has expanded the field staff to accelerate the process. Today’s meeting with GECOM will be the second such forum the President would have with the elections body following the passage of the no confidence motion back in December last year. President has insisted that it is for GECOM to advise him on its state of readiness to conduct elections. The meeting is also coming just over a week since the appointment of Justice Claudette Singh
as the new chairperson of GECOM. During his address at the swearing-in ceremony President Granger declared that the Elections Commission is no “plaything,” and its independence must be respected. The Head of State, in his address, said Article 62 of the Constitution of Guyana, has mandated the independence of the Elections Commission and clearly outlines its responsibility, that is, to independently supervise elections in accordance with the provisions of Article 162. According to Article 162 (1), GECOM shall exercise general direction and supervision over the registration of electors and the administrative conduct of all elections of members of the National Assembly; and shall issue such instructions and take such action as appear to it necessary or expedient to ensure impartiality, fairness and compliance with the pro-
visions of this Constitution or of any Act of Parliament on the part of persons exercising
fair, credible and timely elections are essential elements of a democratic state. The
system and for the efficient execution of elections,” President Granger said. Justice Singh’s appointment had come less than two 'The appointment of Justice Claudette Singh means that the Elections Commission has a Chairman again after a hiatus of a bit more than a month. It is now properly constituted and can continue to prepare for the conduct of free, fair, timely and credible elections. It fulfills the Caribbean Court of Justice’s ruling, in relation to Article 161(2)' ––President David Granger
President David Granger presenting Justice Claudette Singh S.C, CCH, with her letter of appointment as Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM).
powers or performing duties connected with or relating to the matters aforesaid. “These are exacting duties and responsibilities. Free,
Elections Commission is not a plaything. Its independence is a condition for engendering confidence and ensuring public trust in the electoral
months after the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) invalidated the appointment of Justice (Ret’d) James Patterson on the basis that the process was flawed. In the eyes of the CCJ, the Chairman of the Elections Commission ought not to be appointed unilaterally, and it therefore
3
challenged the President and the Opposition Leader to arrive at a consensual list of nominees before an appointment is made. President Granger said: “The appointment of Justice Claudette Singh means that the Elections Commission has a Chairman again after a hiatus of a bit more than a month. It is now properly constituted and can continue to prepare for the conduct of free, fair, timely and credible elections. It fulfills the Caribbean Court of Justice’s ruling, in relation to Article 161(2),” the President said. Renewing his commitment, the President said the State stands ready to provide necessary assistance to the Commission to enable it to conduct elections in the shortest time possible.
‘Gov’t will not resign’ …President advises Opposition Leader President David Granger has advised the Leader of the Opposition, Bharrat Jagdeo, that neither he nor his Cabinet will resign. The President issued the advice, in response to a letter sent to him by the opposition leader on July 20, 2019. In that letter, Jagdeo had asked the President to issue a proclamation dissolving the 11th Parliament and fix a date for the next General and Regional Elections. The elections, Jagdeo said, must not be held beyond September 18, 2019. The opposition leader had also called for the resignation of the President and Cabinet, on the basis that a no-confidence motion was successfully passed against the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) Government. In a letter on July 26, 2019, the President informed the opposition leader that he was awaiting the advice of the attorney general. On Wednesday, Director-General of the Ministry of the Presidency, Joseph Harmon, disclosed that the attorney general has since advised the President, and a response was issued to the opposition
leader. “The President has advised the leader of the opposition that neither he nor his Cabinet will be resigning, and that the Constitution provides for the President and government to remain in office until such time that a new President is sworn-in,” the director-general said. But the President’s advice to the opposition leader comes as no surprise because he had long indicated that he will proclaim a date for elections when the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) advises him that it is in a state of readiness to facilitate credible, free and fair elections. In a televised interview recently, President Granger said the government, through the National Assembly, has financially equipped GECOM to prepare for elections; however, a date cannot be set until the elections commission indicates that it is capable of conducting credible elections. In the High Court last week, GECOM’s attorney, Stanley Marcus, reiterated the Elections Commission’s position that it cannot facilitate credible elections by September 18 as being
demanded by the opposition. He had earlier stated this position to the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) after it had validated the no-confidence motion against the government – a move that triggered the need for early elections. GECOM had indicated that it cannot conduct elections on an expired List of Electors’, and house-tohouse registration has become necessary to produce a new and credible list. That countrywide exercise is currently ongoing, and according to statistics coming out of GECOM, approximately 150,000 persons have been registered to date. It is expected to be completed on October 20. However, in the interim, Marcus said the government and the parliamentary opposition – the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) – must return to the National Assembly and extend the time for elections in accordance with Article 106 (7) of the Constitution. Outside the courtroom, Marcus told reporters that the opposition is focusing only on the three-month period stipulated for the conduct of elections following the suc-
cessful passage of a no-confidence motion, as stated in Article 106 (6), while ignoring the proviso in Article 106 (7) which allows for an extension by a resolution supported by two-thirds of the members of the National Assembly.
President David Granger
Leader of the Opposition, Bharrat Jagdeo
For his part, President Granger has repeatedly stated that he must await the advice of GECOM before proclaiming a date for elections. “At this stage, only the elections
commission has the authority to run elections, not the Executive, not the National Assembly, not the President; and I am going to abide by whatever decisions the elections commission takes with regard to the preparation of the list. I will abide by the advice of the elections commission on when to call elections. Right now it is only the elections commission that could determine the time and the form of elections, and I am prepared to abide by their decisions,” President Granger had said.
His position is one which was taken by Jagdeo when he was serving as President of Guyana in 2006. In an address to the nation, the then President had said: “The law says that GECOM shall define the form of verification of the list or may decide on verification and will decide on what form it will take. Not the PPP, not the PNC, not any party, GECOM. That’s a constitutional body, independent just like the courts.”
4
GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday August 8, 2019
US mass shootings: Trump visits Dayton and El Paso (BBC) US President Donald Trump has arrived in Texas as part of a visit to two cities traumatised by mass shootings that took 31 lives. Hispanic people were targeted in an apparent hate crime when a gunman in El Paso shot dead 22 people on Saturday. Mr Trump himself has been
accused of stoking hatred against Hispanic people. He came to Texas from Dayton, Ohio, where he had visited a hospital to meet survivors of a shooting in which nine people died. Mr Trump said before leaving Washington that he was concerned about "the rise of any
Texas Governor Greg Abbott greeted the president
group of hate... whether it's white supremacy" or any "other kind of supremacy". But the Democratic congresswoman who represents El Paso, Veronica Escobar, is
refusing to meet him, saying his "racist and hateful words & actions" had caused pain to her community and her country. The El Paso shooting is being treated as a possible hate
crime. Much of the city identifies as Hispanic and the suspect is thought to be the author of a text posted online which said "this attack is a response to the Hispanic invasion of Texas". The text echoed some of the US president's language, with Mr Trump having frequently used the term "invasion" to describe the situation on the US-Mexico border. Police have still to establish a conclusive motive for the Dayton attack but say they have uncovered evidence "that the shooter was exploring violent ideologies". Attempts by Mr Trump and others to link the shootings to mental illness have been criticised by healthcare professionals. On Wednesday, the president said he did not "want guns in the hands of sick people" and was "looking to do background checks". What is the mood in El Paso? Mr Trump and his wife Melania were met at the airport by Texas Governor Greg Abbott and El Paso Mayor Dee Margo
before being driven away. They are due to visit first responders, hospital staff, victims and families at the city's University Medical Center. In the city, Ms Escobar and Democratic presidential hopeful Beto O'Rourke attended an "El Paso Strong" rally, where Mr O'Rourke said the president was "vilifying" immigrants. Earlier, he accused Mr Trump of "inspiring" the attack in his native city through his "racism". Mr Trump had mocked the candidate's childhood Spanish nickname "Beto". As the president was travelling to El Paso Joe Biden, the frontrunner in the race for the Democratic presidential ticket, also attacked Mr Trump, accusing him of fanning "the flames of white supremacy". What did Trump say in Dayton? The shooting happened in a part of the city popular for its nightlife at 01:07 local time (05:07 GMT) on Sunday.
08 August, 2019 11:00hrs ~ 12:30hrs
Saturday August 3, 2019
01 03 08 09 26 28 10
H
August 2, 2019
06, 05, 18, 16, 13
9, 4, 4
4, 8, 7
01, 03, 04, 06, 08
03 05 08 09 12
GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday August 8, 2019
Mexico robbery: Armed gang seizes gold coins from mint (BBC) Armed robbers have stolen commemorative gold coins worth more than $2m (£1.6m) from Mexico's mint. Two men threatened guards at a branch of the Casa de Moneda in Mexico City before grabbing more than 1,500 coins from a vault, police said. They fled on motorcycles before police arrived. No-one was injured. The gold coins, known as "centenarios", were first minted in 1921 to mark the centenary of Mexico's independence from Spain. According to Mexican media, the same Casa de Moneda branch was broken into last year during renovations. In the latest robbery, the two men - one carrying
a firearm - burst into the branch on Tuesday morning. Police said they had overpowered a guard, seizing his gun, before one of the robbers headed straight to the vault - which was open. Investigators suspect some employees of the mint could have been involved in the raid, La Vanguardia reported. The coins, which are highly sought after, bear Mexico's coat of arms on one side and on the other a design featuring Mexico City's Angel of Independence monument backed by volcanoes. Their production was suspended in 1931 but because of demand more have been minted since 1943.
5
Committee established to evaluate refinery bids
CAL forges closer TT, Curaçao ties (TRINIDAD NEWSDAY) CARIBBEAN A ir l ines (CAL) communications manager Dionne Ligoure said the airline's new service to Curaçao represents another milestone for CAL as it strives to close the gaps in the region and bring its people closer together.
The former Petrotrin refinery at Pointe-a-Pierre.
(TRINIDAD NEWSDAY) GOVERNMENT has appointed a ten-member committee to evaluate the bids for the sale or lease of the former Petrotrin refinery at Pointe a Pierre. The refinery was shuttered last November. TPHL is the parent company of Guaracara Refining Co Ltd, the holding company created to manage the refinery assets. In a release today, Trinidad Petroleum Holdings Ltd said the evaluation committee will be led by Ministry of Finance permanent secretary in the Ministry of Finance Vishnu Dhanpaul and will evaluate all bidders participating in the Guaracara RFP (including bidders in Stage 1 and Stage 2). The committee will make a recommendation to the Cabinet on the preferred bidder. Government has said that it hopes
to have an operator by the end of the year. The appointment of the Committee will remove any requirement for TPHL’s board of directors to conduct the evaluation and selection, since the committee will assume full responsibility for the selection of the preferred bidder, the release said. Consequently, the Government has indemnified the board from any liability that may stem from the decisions and/or actions of the committee, it added. Members of the evaluation committee are: Vishnu Dhanpaul, chairman; Anthony Chan Tack; Claire Gomez-Miller; Joseph Remy; Ian Welsh; Selwyn Lashley; Dale McLeod; Sandra Fraser; Sahid Hosein; and Terrance Bharath.
Ligoure made these comments at a function at the Netherlands Ambassador's residence at One Woodbrook Place, Port of Spain, on Tuesday night. Ligoure said the success for this route will continue once all the stakeholders keep working together. "That is what we intend to do." CAL launched its Curaçao service on August 2. The flights will run twice weekly, on Mondays and Fridays, leaving Piarco at 11.55 am, with return flights from Curaçao at 2.35 pm. This is the third new route CAL has launched in the last year and a half. Last January, it added flights from Trinidad to Cuba; last March, from St Vincent to New York; and last May from Barbados to Kingston, Jamaica. The new Curaçao flights provide seamless connections to and from Barbados, Grenada, Guyana, New York and other destinations.
Ligoure also said the service provides better opportunities to promote tourism, trade and culture. She observed the latter was important with Carifesta taking place in TT this year and a large Curaçao contingent coming to the festival. David Mitchell of Boarding Pass Travels said CAL's flights to Curaçao align perfectly with the company's strategies to market the Netherland's "ABC" (Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao) islands in the Caribbean to the rest of the world. Mitchell was part of a contingent of Dutch media personnel who came to TT recently and visited several tourism sites such as the Asa Wright Nature Centre and the Pitch Lake. According to its website, Boarding Pass Travels offers a variety of travel-related products and promotes travel to destinations such as Colombia, Suriname, Costa Rica, Cuba and the United States. Dutch charge d'affaires Cor Stouten echoed the sentiments of Ligoure and Mitchell, saying CAL's flights between TT and Curaçao were another milestone in the close collaboration on economic progress and tourism between the two countries.
6
GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, August 8, 2019
Opposition activism
T
HE opposition People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), as part of its activism, has been raising among other issues, corruption, discrimination and lack of respect for the constitution under the APNU+AFC administration. Leader of the Opposition, Bharrat Jagdeo, is leading the case against the coalition, supported by some members of the private sector and other splinter political groups. It is generally accepted that a militant Opposition can contribute to good governance through its vigilance of Government’s management of the State, development and execution of policies and programmes. Where the Leader of the Opposition and his team do such it would be consistent with its expected role. That being said, it should be said there is something unusual about Guyana’s politics and politicians. Those new to politics or now paying attention could be enamoured by the PPP/C’s militancy and, without having the benefit of history, may be quick to conclude that that party’s management of the State’s business was exemplary compared to now, which couldn’t be farther from the truth. Under the watch of President Jagdeo (1999-2011), claims of discrimination were widespread and evident. In 2010, Jagdeo filed a private lawsuit, claiming libel and asking the court to award compensation of $10 million against Kaieteur News and columnist Freddie Kissoon for his article: “King Kong sent his goons to disrupt the conference.” The suit contended that the said article was “malicious, irresponsible
and inflammatory, calculated and designed to excite racial hostilities amongst the people of Guyana with false and manufactured allegations.” Giving evidence on this matter, Head of the Presidential Secretariat Dr. Roger Luncheon, when questioned as to the absence of Africans as heads of foreign mission, replied that there existed no qualified person. In 2003, Dr. Kean Gibson’s academic work ‘The Cycle of Racial Oppression in Guyana’ was brought before the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) by the PPP/C-aligned Indian Arrival Committee, and calls made for the book to be banned. Trade unionist Lincoln Lewis, who accused the Jagdeo government of being involved in economic genocide within the African community, in laying out the case of treatment of African workers, was taken before the ERC by Rashid Osman- now deceased, an act orchestrated by the Jagdeo government. During the said period, in excess of 400 young men, primarily Africans, were executed by police and vigilante squads. Under the Coroner’s Act, anyone meeting death under unnatural circumstance(s), an inquest ought to be held to determine cause of death and who may be responsible. This law was never activated which, under the law, constitutes a denial of the right of those executed. Indians, who indicated support for a political party outside of the PPP/C, and any party it considers supportive of it, the machineries of the party and State were mercilessly used to go after them. This behaviour currently manifests itself as seen whenever Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo raises any issue, the party and
Leader of the Opposition seek not to address the content of the PM’s statement but ruthlessly go after his person. He who professes to be protector and defender of the laws, people and values needs to be careful of his conduct. And whereas Jagdeo and the PPP/C have a right to raise issues of the rule of law and corruption, they equally have corresponding responsibilities to also avoid the things they condemned. The laws are not only made for the APNU+AFC government, but also the PPP/C in Opposition and in the Executive. It was under the PPP/C’s management that Guyana had acquired the infamous status by Transparency International as the most corrupt English-speaking country in the Caribbean. Forensic audits of State agencies have revealed the level of mismanagement that had occurred during that period. There were heightened allegations—some not without justification—of racial tensions and conflicts, groups targeted for exclusion based on geography, political association, and identity. Imbalances in budgetary allocations and resources directed to, or taken away from, regions where the PPP did not control, were noted. The narco-economy was allowed to flourish, which Professor Clive Thomas noted, represented a significant percentage of the economy. The criminalised state was also coined, because in addition to the narco-economy, corruption was pervasive. Dissent and alternative views were not treated as a right or opportunity to engage or review. This was the record of the PPP in government.
RACIST ATTACKS ON HAITIANS A welcome pledge CGIDINCONDEMNS GUYANA BY OPPOSITION PPP, OTHERS by President Granger O Dear Editor,
I
Dear Editor,
FIND the recent statements made by His Excellency concerning using some of the profits received from the oil to fuel free nursery to tertiary education, to be one that will be especially welcomed by all current and prospective university students. This pledge by our dear president, however, is constitutionally long overdue, since it was clearly outlined in Article 27 of the Constitution of Guyana that, “Every citizen has the right to a free education from nursery to university...” So while we rejoice at the fact that the Constitution will finally be heeded, let us not shy away from the naked truth that free tertiary education should have been a continued norm in Guyana throughout the years, irre-
spective of the government. As a current university student who is still in line to be a beneficiary, should this promise come to reification, I would be able to use the money intended for university tuition to invest in something that would further aid my development when I have completed my university degree. As someone who recognises that it is important to invest in the future, having the financial endowment to do so because of free tertiary education is nothing short of a gift from God in the form of the enforcement of Article 27. This turn of events would surely bring about peace of mind, and pocket, not only to me but also to my mother who would occasionally have to “brace” me for a while after I would have shelled out thousands of dollars each academic semester for cours-
es and miscellaneous items. Free tertiary education would lay the bricks to my growth, development and empowerment as I invest what would have been the intended tuition into something that would complement my academic achievements. Aside from free tertiary education being a foot off of the throat of many pockets, I sincerely believe that the applications, academic performances, and success rates would skyrocket. This may be attributed to the fact that those youths who would have been apprehensive about or reluctant towards attending tertiary institutions because of the tuition would finally be able to do so, as they would now have the financial liberty to pursue their dreams. Regards, Ronella Harris
ver the past week, several United States government officials and lawmakers contacted the Caribbean Guyana Institute for Democracy (CGID) to express outrage about the racist and xenophobic attacks on Haitians in Guyana by opposition and People’s Progressive Party (PPP) leader Bharrat Jagdeo; Private Sector Commission spokesman-Kit Nascimento; the Guyana Times newspaper and other misguided Guyanese. It is unfortunate that the bigotry being spewed by these persons has stained Guyana’s image internationally. CGID assures US- elected officials that these racist sentiments are from a rejected few, and in no way reflect the view of the majority of Guyanese. Haitians are nationals of a sister Caricom state. They are entitled to free movement within the Caricom region in accordance with the revised Treaty of Chaguaramas as well
[as] the Caricom Single Market and Economy (CSME). They, therefore, have a right to visit Guyana, seek employment, establish businesses and pursue a better life in Guyana, just like Guyanese have done in other Caricom countries for decades. All of Caricom and the world have now seen how racist Guyana’s opposition People’s Progressive Party (PPP) and other elements in the Guyanese society are. The PPP governed Guyana from 1992 to 2015. During this period, that party operated a brutal ethnocracy that marginalised African Guyanese. They strategically shut out Guyanese blacks from operating major businesses, purchasing and leasing state lands and tied a noose of subjugation around their necks to suffocate their economic livelihood. While in government, the PPP used the vast majority of the resources of the state to empower the ethnic collective which forms its political base. Moreover, the United Nations found that PPP regime com-
plicit in the extrajudicial killing of over 400 young, black men. The prejudice of the PPP and other Guyanese racists is directed at all people of colour. It is within this context that the attacks against Haitians in Guyana must be viewed and condemned by all in Caricom and the international community. The majority of Guyanese welcomes our Haitian brothers and sisters, and look forward to their visits and business to boost Guyana’s tourism sector and economy. Haiti has a rich culture and history. It is the first nation in the Western Hemisphere to gain republic status. The entire region can learn from the extraordinary experience of this resilient nation and its indomitable people. “ “Sak pase” to our Haitian brothers and sisters! Regards Rickford Burke President, Caribbean Guyana Institute for Democracy (CGID)
7
GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, August 8, 2019
GECOM is not a game –once committed it is serious work that can’t be walked out of
Dear Editor,
P
PP-nominated commissioners of GECOM has had some good times walking out of the business of the Commission, and in the face of the Guyanese people, some of whom placed them there to deal with serious business. Their reasons ranged from one thing after another, for this is how they chose to deal with such matters; this is how they saw it fit to handle the affairs of at least a large portion of the populace who expected them to deal with situations they were confronted with on their behalf. However, the matter of the people’s business is still at hand and how they would deal with it going forward now is anybody’s [guess]. The fact is that when confronted with what seemed to be some ‘stumbling block’ in the process of their work, the best option at hand for them was to ‘walk out’. They seem to have no other strategy. Could this be an interpretation of how they would deal with matters of government, by walking out if they cannot have their way? Is it all about the control of power – my way or the highway? These PPP-nominated commissioners walked out over former GECOM Chair-
man, Justice James Patterson’s placement of advertisements for workers to conduct house-to-house registration, instead of sitting down and hammering it out. They also walked out after they insisted on discussing house-tohouse registration instead of election, which was not on the agenda. There was also a walk-out after saying that poll preparations were not on the agenda. Likewise, another walkout occurred as a result of two letters sent by HE President David Granger to the Commission. The PPP commissioners claimed that there was some confusion over the mails, which they said they only got because their General Secretary exposed it at a press conference. They felt that that, too, necessitated a walk-out. Further, the two men and one woman again walked out when, according to them, the then Chairman of GECOM, James Patterson, made a decision to have the Public Relations Officer present at every statutory meeting. This, too, could not be dealt with in another manner. COMMITTED TO THE JOB Retired Justice Claudette Singh, after spending more than three decades working and making serious decisions
in the public domain, has not had her reputation damaged for any reason. Though referred to as the ‘Iron lady’ and the ‘hanging judge’, she was always respected by both her legal colleagues, as well as the public at large. It might, therefore, be safe to add that she is not prepared to have her reputation spoilt now by anyone. When asked why she has accepted this ‘controversial and challenging’ position, she told the media, “The leader of the opposition and the president repose their confidence in me, and they both felt that I was the most suitable person, and they asked me for the sake of the country, and that is why; nothing else… There was consensus. Had there been no consensus, I would not have taken the position. And that was just it,” she stated. The retired Justice went on to say that among her priorities would be “Endeavouring to have free, fair and transparent elections in an ‘inclusive’ atmosphere.” Further, she said, “I believe in sitting down and hammering it out… When I was on the bench, I was called the ‘Iron lady’; I was called the ‘hanging judge’, so what’s the difference? I am just hoping that I would do something for Guyana, because there is only one way: In accordance with
No agreement signed yet between Giftland and GPL Dear Editor,
G
IFTLAND has been receiving many warm wishes and congratulations on the announcement a few months ago by the Office of the President that a Power Providing Agreement (PPA) was about to be signed, putting an end to the constant power cuts which have been plaguing the East Coast due to the lack of generating capacity. We have also heard numerous concerns as to why there are still occasional power cuts to the East Coast region. We wish to state that no PPA has been signed to date, and this will explain why power cuts continue, due to the lack of required power-generating capacity. The last information reaching us was that GPL requires justification as to why they should buy from us, apparently cheaper cost, as no liability or commitment and readily available
power supply to make up the deficiency are not sufficient reasons. Giftland has been in discussion during the last three years with GPL and wishes to debunk the propaganda that we cannot supply the required power at the time slots required. We stand by our statement that a dedicated 3MW is available, and we can supply up to 4.5MW as required. We are not sure what further justification is required to show why this can withstand any scrutiny. As stated, our prices are competitive and better than power supplied by GPL’s diesel generators. The supply is available without any expenditure to GPL; without commitment for long-term supplies. We look forward to some response as to why this Agreement cannot be concluded. Regards, Roy Beepat Chairman Giftland Group
the law; in accordance with the Constitution and nothing else.” THE PROCESS AND OUT After an interesting month or so of spirited negotiating by representatives of the APNU+AFC and the PPP, eventually President Granger and the Leader of the Opposition, Bharrat Jagdeo came to a conclusion. This, the President said, was in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution, the interpretation of the CCJ, and the agreement of Justice Singh. Guyana has moved a great step forward! “The appointment of Justice Claudette Singh means that the Elections Commission has a Chairman again after a hiatus of a bit more than a month. It is now properly constituted, and can continue to prepare for the conduct of free, fair, timely and credible
elections. It fulfills the Caribbean Court of Justice’s ruling in relation to Article 161(2),” President Granger said. However, at this stage, Guyana awaits some very important decisions, and the [GECOM Chair] should be allowed to do her work, without even some amount of ‘apparent’ interference. ANXIETY VS. PATIENCE Guyanese are curious; they are looking and waiting with bated breath the outcome of this particular general election. We have never had one like this before. Many thought that the last such election was very interesting, thought-provoking, motivating, served as a stimulant; all words that make each one a repetition; but this one is all of those and much more. There are some who would be glad for the elec-
tions to happen like yesterday, with results same day so that they can get it over and done with. The ‘anxiousness’ of the whole thing is like ‘a weight-and-a-half’. However, in that same breath, some of those same people would prefer to wait it out; a sort of ‘mixed reaction’. One way or another, there will be a conclusion to this. The Opposition Leader, while positing that Justice Singh’s Chairmanship of GECOM is a good thing, at the same time he is continually encouraging non-cooperation to the legal process of house-to-house registration by his supporters. While this is happening, he is obviously trying to deny them that constitutional right to place their vote at the up-coming very important general elections. Regards, Margaret Burke
8
GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, August 8, 2019
UN echoes SRDC’s concern over discrimination faced by Indigenous women in Guyana Dear Editor,
T
HE South Rupununi District Council (SRDC) welcomes the Concluding Observations on Guyana by the UN Committee on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women released on 22 July, 2019. The Committee’s Concluding Observations are timely and incorporate many of the SRDC’s recommendations for government action to address discrimination against Indigenous women. The SRDC’s recommendations were made in a shadow report submitted to the Committee and presented by SRDC representative, Immaculata Casimero, during the Committee’s 73rd session in Geneva. The SRDC recognises the government’s implementation of programmes for women’s development as an important step; however, as our representative, Ms. Casimero noted to the CEDAW Committee, the government’s efforts often do not reach our communities. We are pleased that the CEDAW Committee shares our concerns, and we hereby urge the government to adopt the recommendations of the CEDAW Committee and collaborate with the SRDC and other Indigenous organisations
in order to bridge the gap between the hinterland and the coastal areas. Immaculata Casimero, an SRDC representative and women’s rights activist travelled to Geneva where the mentoring programme, From Global to Local, organised by the International Women’s Rights Action Watch, worked with her to prepare a presentation to the CEDAW Committee. Ms. Casimero provided important inputs into the CEDAW review process, and also gained significant experience. “The programme fully prepared me to give an oral statement before CEDAW. I learned about how the human rights system operate, where CEDAW fits, and how CEDAW can be used to advocate for women’s rights. Being able to work with women from other countries has been a life-changing experience, where I felt motivated and encouraged to do more for the women in my territory. Listening to the experiences and challenges shared by women from other countries, I built my courage and self-confidence, knowing they are all working on a common goal in advocating for women’s equality and equity, which I can then voice for vulnerable women,” she stated. Ms. Casimero’s oral pre-
sentation and private discussion with the CEDAW committee members helped shape the Concluding Observations finally issued by the Committee. Ms. Casimero briefed the committee members on the many issues affecting Indigenous women and girls in our territory, and also on issues affecting women nationally. The Committee incorporated the SRDC’s concerns and recommendations, as raised by Ms. Casimero, in the constructive dialogue between them and Guyana, and later into the Concluding Observations. Notably, the CEDAW Committee called on the government of Guyana to amend its laws to guarantee the rights of indigenous women and girls, including to guarantee our rights to our traditional lands and territories; to guarantee our right as indigenous women to consultation and free, prior, and informed consent to policies and legislation affecting us; to improve the access to services for indigenous women, particularly for victims of gender-based violence and sexual offences; to increase livelihood and job opportunities for indigenous women; and to accelerate educational and awareness raising efforts to eliminate discriminatory stereotypes against women and particularly indigenous
women. We quote a few of these recommendations here: * Expedite the approval of amendments to the Sexual Offences Act and create dedicated sections and/or time slots for the treatment of the sexual offences in courts in the hinterland, including in mobile courts…; * Expedite the implementation of the essential services package for victims of gender-based violence, establish shelters and crisis centres for victims of gender-based violence in all regions of the State party, allocate sufficient resources to ensure their effective functioning and enhance the provision of accommodation, rehabilitation and reintegration measures for victims, especially in the hinterland; * Carry out nationwide education awareness-raising campaigns, including in indigenous languages and on the local radio, about the risks and criminal nature of trafficking as well as the available support services… * Accelerate women’s, especially indigenous women’s, full and equal participation in political and public life…; * Take targeted measures … to improve access for women, and especially indigenous women and women with disabilities to the formal employment sector;
* Guarantee the consultation of rural and Amerindian women and girls in the development and implementation of policy and legislative measures, including through organizations representing them, district and village councils…; * Amend the Amerindian Act (2006) and other relevant laws, using a gender-sensitive approach, with a view to ensuring that the rights of Amerindian communities to their lands, territories and resources are fully recognized and protected, in accordance with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples; * [G]uarantee that rural and Amerindian women (i) can fully contribute to the development of the country through its Green State Development Strategy, (ii) have given their free, prior and informed consent before initiating any development, business, agro-industrial or extractive projects affecting their traditional lands and resources … (iii) can take advantage of adequate benefit-sharing agreements, and (iv) are provided with alternative livelihoods…. The SRDC additionally emphasize; highlights the need for the Government to improve access to justice in indigenous communities; to use verified data collection to determine
the effects of mining on indigenous women and to combat the negative impacts of mining; to implement programs, in conjunction with indigenous communities and indigenous women, to assist with adapting to climate change and fighting the resulting food insecurity; to increase capacity-building efforts not only on CEDAW and women’s rights but also on sexual and reproductive health and on the negative impacts of gender stereotyping; and to address the issue of rising numbers of teenage pregnancies. We refer the Government of Guyana to our shadow report for more detailed concerns and recommendations on how to address them to ensure that indigenous women in Guyana can actually enjoy their rights protected under CEDAW in their day to day lives. The SRDC urges the Government of Guyana to respect its treaty obligations, to implement the recommendations made by CEDAW, and to work collectively with the SRDC, other indigenous representative institutions, and indigenous NGOs to ensure that indigenous women can fully enjoy the rights recognized under CEDAW. Regards The South Rupununi District Council
A simple futuristic vision for a modern Guyana Dear Editor,
B
ELOW are some of my suggestions and deliberation on Guyana’s Oil Wealth and the way forward for a prosperous and United Guyana for all. 1. First and [of] utmost importance: we need a hydroelectric power plant; in this way, the cost of everyday necessity [will] skyrocket downwards. For example, we must made to pay 10% for electricity, water, internet on what we are paying now, and able to afford air-conditioning, electric stove for cooking, etc, to drastically improve our living conditions at a very low cost; electricity is the utmost power, not man, regardless man invented it. 2. Three solid bridges across the three main rivers-- Berbice, Demerara and Essequibo. This [will] help in integration and faster services and access to more lands. Government still has to collect tolls on these bridges, but a small amount reasonable to the citizenry of Guyana. 3. Our own oil Refinery: so we can maximise on oil
Revenue by way of transparency and by products. 4. Roads: all-weather roads from Georgetown to Lethem and from Crabwood Creek to Orealla 5. A piece of land, free of all charges and expenses, to be given to every Guyanese from ages 18 to 60yrs who [are living here permanently [and] who doesn’t own a transport title; this must be a priority and [treated] urgently. 6. Duty free concession for a vehicle to be given to each Guyanese citizens living here from the ages between 18yrs to 60yrs; one concession in their lifetime regardless of vehicle size and engine capacity. 7. Borders to be properly secured: stringent measures to [be] put in place this; should be a top priority on the list of security measures. 8. Agriculture hub: this is more important for, after oil money, we want a piece of fertile Guyana where you create a smart agricultural hub for agricultural produces, strictly for export markets with the highest technology for cattle, poultry, crops, manufacturing assemble
plants, etc. We must create for this part of Guyana we choose, to have access to Air, Sea and Land transportation. This modern agricultural hub, with its plants etc, must cater for 400,000 thousand workers when completed and handed over to Guyanese graduates to own, operate and manage. Guyanese can payback for it by way of arrangement with government. Government must concentrate on collecting taxes; not to own, manage or run any business sector. Lastly, on agriculture: most nations build their foundations on agriculture since ancient times before anyone dreamt of oil and now our world population is growing at a fast rate, we have seven billion of us and growing on planet earth; we will have more and more mouths to feed. There is no substitute for freshly grown food but now there is a lot of renewable energy sources sprung up, so solar, wind, hydroelectric dam and electric vehicles and so on. In time, fossil fuel will be obsolete, so we have an all-weather climate and land, we have to utilize the money in that direction for
a sustainable future for our children and grandchildren and future generations to come. God gave us a chance, so we need to utilize the oil revenue in a bliss[full] way so we Guyanese can prosper and carve out the path for our future children of Guyanese generation to tread on our path we have left behind for them. 9. National assembly members should be 18yrs to 60yrs year old; let young and fresh and active brain take over; over 60 years-go home, retire and enjoy your golden years ahead and reminisce [on] your past achievements. 10. The President of Guyana should be able to run for more than 2 terms; this should [be] left open, let the citizens of Guyana decide by their vote. 11. Income tax should [be] reduced to 10 per cent; this way the citizenry will have more spending power and put more energy and zest into the population. 12. Citizenship: Guyanese citizens living here solely for the past 20 years and above and between the ages of 18yrs to 60yrs must
be given the right to sponsor one person in their lifetime-any foreign nationals into Guyana with certain criteria for the potential immigrant etc, deportations for any criminal activity they may commit here etc. And the sponsors remain responsible for the immigrant until certain years living here and gain citizenship stipulated by the government. Not the government must bestow Citizenship to any foreign nationals; it must [be] left solely on the citizenry. 13. Scholarships to be given to the 100 top students every year; every single penny paid by the state until they finish their studies and return to Guyana and commence work here with the state for a specific time determined by the state. 14. Banks: more foreign banking institution should be encouraged to invest in Guyana; more competition is good for the people of Guyana; lower interest rates and other benefits etc. 15. Rehabilitation of all public buildings into concrete structures. 16. Build the bridge between Guyana and Surina-
me; this will be the final connectivity in the western hemisphere 17. The remaining oil blocks that is not tendering out shall remain till the government formulate an agreement that is conducive to both parties, the government and the potential tenants and mainly the Guyanese populace. With all these things implemented, Guyanese will have a life worth living and a land of paradise on earth given our meagre population with the enormous wealth in its path. Furthermore, Guyanese will not need any cash incentive or hand out from oil money; they will become self-sufficient and independent gradually. Which government implements these hard core projects, they have a vision for Guyana and with these measures, the benefits of oil prosperity will trickle down to each and every single Guyanese living here; you don’t have to be a rocket scientist to comprehend this. Regards, Sarvanand J. Persaud
9
GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday August 8, 2019
‘Stop the hate against the Haitians’ – urges Prime Minister Nagamootoo PRIME MINISTER Moses Nagamootoo has called on the political opposition to “stop the nonsense” and “hate against the Haitians”, saying that the situation of the CARICOM nationals should not be used as a political football. The prime minister made the call during an interview with veteran broadcaster, Phyllis Jackson on The Voice of Guyana and NCN Ch11 live on Wednesday. “Do not use Haitians as scapegoats in your quests for political power and do not incite our people against the Haitians,” the prime minister said while calling out the opposition People’s Progressive Party for its support of such cause. He said that in earlier periods and because of eco-
nomic circumstances, Guyanese had left their homeland and travelled elsewhere for betterment and had catered for their families. “I had initially gone to England hoping that I could study there; I didn’t survive any length of time in England, economic circumstances forced me back, but the issue is people would migrate from lower to higher economies and that is the reality in the world,” the prime minister said. Noting that people are not only leaving the Caribbean to head to North America, the prime minister said persons are also leaving to go to the Middle East, Australia and New Zealand, wherever economic opportunities present themselves. The prime minister ex-
plained that Haitians are Caribbean citizens and they are “our brothers and sisters in the Caribbean and they have a right to move anywhere that they perceive that they could have a better life because that is dialectics of movements in the world.” He said Guyanese have suffered the indignities of being branded in the Caribbean and placed on special benches while underscoring that Haitians are visiting Guyana to seek opportunities or use it as a gateway for opportunities in other countries. Nagamootoo said accusing Haitians of being trafficked and bringing disease to the country is totally irresponsible. He said the political opposition and their friends are accusing Haitians of visiting
Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo
Guyana and doing a disappearing act and they are being registered to vote in the next elections. “This is racism, this is
xenophobia, this is instilling hatred against one set of people against another and we have seen where this has taken the world, we knew what happened to Jews in Germany when they were blamed for everything negative in Germany, they were exterminated,” the prime minister reflected. He said even in tribal politics in Rwanda, such hatred led to genocide. “Why are we bringing that backward, racist culture, we see what is happening in the United States, hate crimes being committed every single day.” He explained that Guyanese are generally hospitable people, but certain elements in the political opposition, because of their lust for power, will do every and anything in order to create perceptions that can facilitate a means to their elections to office.
Sacked public servants reinstated
…inquiry finds dismissal unlawful THE President David Granger Administration has ordered the immediate reinstatement of three public service employees, after the Lance Carberry Board of Inquiry found that their dismissal was unlawful. Minister of the Public Service, Tabitha Sarabo-Halley had dismissed the three Department of the Public Service employees – Andrew Grant, Gail Williams and Andre Dazzel – in June, 2019 shortly after she had taken office. It was not long after that President David Granger directed that a Board of Inquiry be established to advise the State on the veracity of charges of corruption, misconduct and improper behaviour against named staff. On Wednesday, Director- General of the Ministry of the Presidency, Joseph Harmon, while responding to a series of questions posed by reporters during a post-Cabinet press briefing at the Ministry of the Presidency, disclosed that the Board of Inquiry headed by Human Resource Consultant Lance Carberry, concluded its work.
Its findings and recommendations were sent to President Granger and have since been adopted by him.
that the letters of termination be immediately withdrawn,” the director-general disclosed. On July 25, 2019,
Minister of the Public Service, Tabitha Sarabo-Halley
Minister of State, Dawn Hasting-Williams had presented the instrument of appointment to Lance Carberry at the Ministry of the Presidency last June, paving the way for the inquiry to be conducted
“The board found that the letters to the three public servants were unlawful and having regard to its observations and findings, recommended
it was determined that they be reinstated with immediate effect and “restored to their respective positions” within the Department of the Public
Service. “[They] will continue to enjoy all benefits and allowances they previously enjoyed prior to the purported termination of their services,” he added. It was explained that it was not within the remit of the Public Service Minister to dismiss staff – that responsibility lies with the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of the Presidency, Department of the Public Service. At the time of the dismissal, there was no permanent secretary (PS); however, Karen Van Sluytman was appointed PS on August 1, 2019.
As such, the board recommended that the Public Service Minister be advised on the rules and procedures, and all indications are that this has since been done. “The minister has been advised of the need for due process and the rules of the Public Service with respect to employment, discipline and dismissal of public servants,” the director-general said. According to him, the three public servants are being briefed on the issue and with a permanent secretary now in place, swift implementation of the recommendations are expected, according to Harmon. According to the government, the inquiry was done to the highest professional standards. The alleged dismissal of the officials occurred at a time when there are concerns that the daughter of former Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Dr. Frank Anthony, will no longer be required to serve Guyana after obtaining a scholarship to study medicine overseas.
The prime minister said the opposition is breeding insecurities against the races in order to attract votes. “Our routine lives are not contaminated by prejudices, it is those that want to infect and inject into our minds, this dirty wicked concept of distinction on the basis of race and ethnicity and for a purpose that is for political office. Well, I don’t believe Guyanese will be persuaded to adopt a culture of hatred,” Nagamootoo said. The prime minister said that the saying “do unto others as you would have done to yourself,” should be applied when dealing with everyone. He said the Haitians should be received with compassion since their country has gone through horrible periods of natural disasters and even dictatorship.
Man charged with inflicting bodily harm granted bail CHIEF Magistrate Ann McLennan on Wednesday, August 7, 2019, granted $170,000 bail to a man who was accused of inflicting grievous bodily harm, during a fight at a bar. Quincy St Jules appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court and pleaded not guilty to the charge which stated that, on July 20, 2019, at Seepaul’s bar, Alexander Street, Kitty, he inflicted bodily harm on Haffi Skane. Police prosecutor made no objection to bail, and told the court that, on the day in question, Skane and St Jules were at Seepaul’s Bar when they got into an argument, and St Jules became annoyed and started to kick and beat Khan all over his body. Skane was later taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation where he was treated. Magistrate Ann McLennan granted St Jules $170,000 bail and adjourned the matter until August 14, 2019.
10
GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday August 8, 2019
North Georgetown Secondary gets E-Library IN the new academic year, the North Georgetown Secondary School (NGSS) students will benefit from an electronic library, compliments of the school’s alumni. This donation, a gift worth some $9M, commemorates the school’s 50th anniversary. The tablets for the library were handed over to the school’s administration at a simple ceremony on Wednesday. An official ceremony will be held on September 17, 2019. NGSS past student and Coordinator of NGSS 50, Rear Admiral (rtd) Gary Best, said the project is a collaborative effort between NGSS Guyana, NGSS North America (NA), the Education Ministry and the National Data Management Authority. NGSS NA provided the tablets and accessories for the E-library, while NGSS Guyana built the space, provided Internet via fibre optic-cable, network connection and education content. He also pointed out that NGSS NA, over a period of one year, hosted fund-raising activities to offset the expenses for their donation to the school. Another member of the alumni and NGSS 50 committee, Jacqueline Squires, told the small group of people that without the contributions of the alumni, the E-library would not have
been possible. She said it was important for them to give back, since they all will forever be grateful for the role NGSS played in moulding their futures. “The time we spent at North not only provided academic enrichment, but also significantly contributed to our social and emotional development and created in us a sense of community that is second to none. We developed lifelong friendships and memories that continued to sustain us even in our darkest moments. We can never express enough gratitude for these experiences that were in many ways, pivotal to the successes we have achieved,” Squires said. She said by giving back, they are hoping to create outstanding current and future students of North Georgetown Secondary School. “Of equal importance is our hope that current and future ‘Northies’ will find it significant as they purpose to create heights through, honesty, industry and cooperation, and in so doing, contribute significantly to the development of our nation. Today, I charge the benefactors of this library to use it with pride and purpose, and honour the knowledge that students who sat in the same classrooms as they do today, and walked the same halls as they, and are investing in the acquisition of their knowledge and charging them to
make good of our investment,” Squires admonished.
light that often times when someone become successful,
said, “because then I get to say, No, I went to a better
Part of the North Georgetown Secondary School Alumni at the handing over of tablets for the school’s E-library (Adrian Narine photo)
Deputy Headmistress, Minerva Stoby, said the school is grateful for the donation and that the students will be excited come September. “I can assure you that it wouldn’t be left as a white elephant [and] will be put to use. And I hope the students see and feel the zest that was put forward in investing in them and that the Alumni didn’t go to QC or one of the top schools, but made their mark right at NGSS,” Stoby said. Rear Admiral (rtd) Best also used the forum to high-
persons tend to say, “So you went to QC?” “I love the question,” he
school, North Georgetown Secondary School,” Best said.
He also shared that the room will run for 24 hours, and they are aiming to give it a feel and appearance like an Apple or Samsung store. This, he hopes will aid in encouraging the students to continue improving their performance. Best told the Guyana Chronicle that he believes the world has gone past the digital age and the E-library for NGSS is keeping abreast with the advancing world. In addition to that, the advantages are numerous, as he believes that the children would be more encouraged to read and do research because the process will be made easier through the E-library. Only two tablets were brought over to the space to do the handing over ceremony; however, Best said about 30 or more tablets will be available from September.
Rice farmers eye bumper second crop …over 90,000 hectares of paddy sown, 500,000 tonnes to be harvested OVER 90,000 hectares of paddy have been sowed thus far for the second crop, General Manager of the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB), Nizam Hassan has said. He told the Guyana Chronicle that the target was initially 85,000 hectares, but it was revised due to the fact that the rice sector had surpassed its target of 88,500 hectares for the first crop. As preparations for the second crop get underway, farmers have started sowing in all the rice- growing regions. According to information from the GRDB, 12,553 hectares have been sown in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), 8,669 hectares in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), 3,791 in Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica), 40,910 in Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice) and farmers in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) have sown 24,470 hectares. Hassan said they are looking to harvest over
General Manager of GRDB, Nizam Hassan
500,000 tonnes of paddy at the end of the second crop. The GRDB believes that inclement weather might affect the crop to some extent. The total projected target for this year is almost one million tonnes of paddy, as 522,255 tonnes was the target for the first crop. It was reported that the performance of the rice industry continues to improve rapidly with earnings for the first quarter of the
year reaching US$41.7 million, about 2.15 times the US$19.3 million which was earned in the corresponding period last year. According to information presented by Hassan, Guyana exported 103,024 tonnes of rice from January-March 2019, more than twice the 49,629 tonnes exported during the same period last year. Agriculture Minister Noel Holder had lauded the efforts of Guyana’s rice farmers in ensuring the continued success of the industry, noting that they continue to express commitment to the sector’s growth and development. He also urged farmers to continue to apply the advice of the extension officers in executing the six-point practice to ensure maximum production and productivity is achieved. According to the subject minister, while government has been implementing key policy initiatives to ensure the industry prevails, it is necessary for all players within the industry to play their part.
11
GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday August 8, 2019
Major crime and violence mitigation seminar opens today A NATIONAL consultation with stakeholders from the business and public sectors (primarily the Ministries of Education and Public Security) in Guyana to agree on crime and violence prevention mitigation training in primary schools will be held from 8-9 August 2019, at the Roraima Duke Lodge, in Georgetown. The consultation is an activity of the Crime and Violence Project component of the CARIFORUM–EU Crime and Security Programme under the 10th European Development Fund, the CARICOM Secretariat said in a release. This programme’s approach to tackling crime and security focuses on drug demand and supply reduction, crime prevention, and social development, and capacity-building of law enforcement and security agencies. The two-day consultation in Guyana is the fifth of five consultations. Similar ones were held in Antigua and Barbuda, Jamaica, Saint Lucia and Suriname. It is a follow-up to the rapid assessments of the risks, threats and protective factors in primary schools and related communities, which were undertaken in Guyana earlier in February and March 2019, as well as additional studies conducted also this year in relation to mitigation of drug use in secondary schools in selected member states.
States between 2.8 per cent and 4 per cent of GDP. (Chaaban, 2009). In July 2014, CARICOM Heads of Government approved its Community Strategic Plan for 2015-2019. That plan iden-
Minister of Public Security, the Honourable Khemraj Ramjattan
It also builds upon a Pilot Project to reduce youth-onyouth violence, particularly in secondary schools across five member states under a CARICOM/Spain Project which ended in 2017. The findings of that assessment indicated the need for focus to be also placed on primary schools. The specific objective of Crime and Violence and Mitigation Training is to build the capacity of primary school teachers and counsellors for evidence-based interventions to address crime and violence in primary schools through data collection, analysis and designing and implementing relevant crime and violence prevention and mitigation strategies in the member states. In addition to mitigation
training, the initiative will inform the formulation of an Action Plan which identifies the way forward for Guyana in this particular thematic area. Given the pervasiveness of school violence, an assessment of the threats, risks, resilience and protective factors in relation to school-based gang-related violence, bullying, aggression and other forms of deviant behaviours is critical for identifying targets for preventive interventions among students. Crime and insecurity remains one of the principal obstacles to social and economic development in the Caribbean Region. Conservative estimates place annual direct expenditure on youth-related crime and violence in five CARICOM
Teen charged with stealing cellphone AN eighteen-year-old was, on Wednesday August 7, 2019, granted $15,000 bail, after he was accused of stealing a phone. Chris Pollard of Durban Street, Georgetown, appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court and pleaded not guilty to the charge. It is alleged that, on August 5, 2019, at Croal Street, Georgetown, he stole
a Samsung phone valued at $35,000, property of Saskia Pestano. Police prosecutor, Gordon Mansfield, objected to bail and told the court that, on the day in question, the virtual complainant (VC) was in a route 40 minibus and was seated at a window, using her phone. Pollard went to the bus window, pushed his hands and grabbed the VCs’ phone and made good his escape.
The matter was reported to the Stabroek Police Outpost; Pollard was subsequently arrested. He was searched by the police and the item was found in his possession. Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan granted Pollard $15,000 bail and adjourned the matter until August 27, 2019.
tified six strategic priorities; and deepening crime prevention initiatives and programmes is an area of focus in the strategic priority of building the social resilience of the community. The consultation’s brief of-
ficial opening at 08:30hrs at the Roraima Duke Lodge, in Kingston, Georgetown, to which the media are invited will be headlined by Minister for Public Security, the Honourable Khemraj Ramjattan.
12
GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday August 8, 2019
‘Silent revolution in hinterland’ …Gov’t MP details progress in bridging gap between coastland and hinterland
…talks up autonomy of village councils By Tamica Garnett WITH the Hinterland Employment and Youth Service (HEYS) training almost 4000 youths and creating some 2000 businesses, the introduction of radio and internet in bridging the connectivity gap and over 300km of roads developed, government has greatly bridged the gap between the coastland and hinterland over the past four years. This was shared by adviser to the Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs and Member of Parliament, Mervyn Williams, during a radio interview on 107.1 FM radio, on the “Straight Up Live” show, earlier this week. Bridging the development gap between the coastland and the hinterland has been a focus of President David Granger since his ascension to office in 2015, a section of his wider vision for the decentralisation of essential services and development across the country. “Development is accelerating across Guyana’s hinterland,” Williams conveyed. Williams backed his statement by outlining several infrastructural repairs conducted over the past few years. “This government has invested in the repairs and
community radio stations that feed into the national network. “These connections, they allow our people to not only experience what is happening outside of their scope of life but communicate with each other in their first language. It helps with the revitalisation of the Indigenous Languages, it helps with the maintenance of the
ours,” Williams said. DECENTRALISATION According to him, much emphasis has been placed on letting the villages decide on their own projects and be integral in the development of their communities, as opposed to having central government mandate what initiatives should take place.
path to place free power and the self determination of Indigenous People above and beyond. We have eradicated the practice we found where [central government] goes into a village and decide okay you need a benab here’s $1 million build a benab, or you need an outboard engine here buy an engine,” Williams noted.
Member of Parliament, Mervyn Williams
maintenance of over 300km of hinterland roads; repaired, maintained or reconstructed some 57 airstrips across Guyana hinterland. There was the recommissioning of the MV Kimbia, which traverses the Georgetown to the Region One route. Villages now have access to internet, and radio stations are now available via several hinterland areas,” Williams outlined as he spoke of the “silent revolution in the hinterland.” He added that Madhia, Mabaruma, Aishalton, Lethem are now equipped with
A product of the HEYS programmer: Natasha Rodrigues of St. Ignatius Village Region 9 opened a block-making business with her grant
Indigenous culture and that Indigenous culture is taking up its rightful place of pride in this beautiful country of
“It’s about self-determination now, it’s not about dictatorship. Our administration has embarked on a deliberate
“We have moved away from that and we have said to Indigenous leaders you need to craft your own developmental agenda, put together your own proposal and if you need technical support, the ministry has offices that can render that support.” Towards the aim of taking their development into their own hands, President Granger tasked the villages to craft a village improvement plan. “It is a 10-year plan that spells out what the village envisages its development to be over this 10- year period. So far 43 villages have completed their plan and others are working on theirs. Coming out of that, we have been able to roll out the HEYS project which has in fact over the four years trained some 4000 Indigenous People in a wide array of skills, from catering to forestry, tour guiding, furniture manufacturing, fabric construction, and all these different things,” Williams related. EMPOWERING RESIDENTS HEYS is one part of President David Granger’s 2015 Hinterland 10-Point Plan of Action, first presented at the National Toashaos Council 2015 Meeting. Some $702.698M has budgeted in the 2019 National Bud-
get for Amerindian Development Projects, including HEYS, bringing the total spent on initiative since 2017 to $2.810B. Some $1.176B was spent in 2017 and $931.777M spent in 2018. The HEYS programme involves one year of vocational and entrepreneurial training for participants, who are given a monthly stipend during the training, and a one-off $50,000 grant, at the end of the programme, to invest in their business. “A whole wide range of different things are now happening. When you go into these different villages, it’s amazing,” Williams said. “Some people have opened up shops, some became caterers, some people are producing furniture, some people are going into precious stones, there’s the tomato business of Paramakatoi which is employing a number of farmers. There’s organic tomatoes being processed and there’s the sun dried tomato salad dressing.” The hinterland region has also seen much development in the area of telecommunications. “Seventy one communities have benefitted from [the installation of] Wifi. Smart classrooms are moving in. In Kabakaburi, Minister Cathy Hughes visited the site where the satellite dish has been mounted and we’re happy that the school is benefiting from free Wifi, that’s going to be extended to the entire village,” Williams shared. Government has also directly invested in school children through the 5B’s initiative, which speaks to bus, bicycles, boats, breakfast and books. Additionally, to make tertiary education easier on hinterland students, who have to travel to the coastland to access that level of education, earlier this year the government commissioned a new $186M dormitory for tertiary hinterland students, at Liliendaal. “That facility envisions young people in larger numbers accessing tertiary education, for those who have difficulty finding place to stay in Georgetown. It is a remarkable intervention. It’s the kind of intervention that can make Indigenous People proud of our President because they are now seeing the plans come together. It’s not just a one-off intervention, it’s an entire plan falling into place. The plan for Guyana’s hinterland is coming together,” Williams said.
13
GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday August 8, 2019
32nd batch of Peace Corps volunteers sworn in By Rabindra Rooplall TWENTY-NINE new Peace Corps volunteers were on Wednesday sworn in by the US Ambassador to Guyana, Sarah-Ann Lynch, after two and a half months of training. The ceremony, the 32nd of its kind, was conducted at the ambassador’s residence in the presence of First Lady, Sandra Granger; Education Minister, Dr. Nicolette Henry; Minister of State, Dawn Hastings-Williams; Minister within the Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs Ministry, Valerie Garrido-Lowe, other government representatives and members of the diplomatic corps. Ambassador Sarah-Ann Lynch, in her remarks, said she was once a Peace Corps volunteer and over the past 57 years, more than 230,000 volunteers have served in 141 countries, often in very difficult assignments and sometimes dangerous conditions. The envoy said before heading out to their posts, volunteers acquire a new technical skill; learn a new language or dialect and they learn to understand a new culture. “Luckily, Peace Corps training is among the finest the United States has to offer. And, I am not just saying this because I'm surrounded by Peace Corps staff up here. The Peace Corps has devoted itself to developing state-of-the-art training and truly knows how to set the volunteers up for success,” Ambassador Lynch said. Underscoring the three main goals of the Peace Corps, the US envoy said firstly they provide necessary assistance to the interested nation; secondly, to promote a better understanding of Americans to other people; and thirdly to promote a better understanding of other peoples to Americans. She explained that the Peace Corps Guyana has contributed to the Peace Corps vision of world peace and friendship since 1966 with close to 1,400 volunteers who have served, lived, and worked alongside the Guyanese people, sharing their aspirations, helping them address their challenges, and celebrating their achievements. The US envoy said the Peace Corps’ special ingredient in Guyana and globally is a people-to-people approach to learning, reinforcing, and building capacity at the community level. Underscoring that 53 years later, volunteers are still serving the people of Guyana,
having lived and worked in all 10 regions, the envoy said from her time in Guyana she has had the pleasure of interacting with the Peace Corps programme and its volunteers and fully concur with the well-deserved recognition the post receives. She explained that 10 Peace Corps volunteers will work in the education sector, 10 on environmental issues and nine in the health sector. “You are being posted to eight of Guyana's 10 regions, and 40 per cent of you will be serving in some of the neediest Indigenous communities. Your long-awaited arrival almost doubles the number of serving volunteers in the country,” the US ambassador said. Meanwhile, Minister Garrido-Lowe called on the volunteers to immerse into the culture of Guyana, even learning the Indigenous Languages for the persons dispatched in Regions Seven and Nine. She explained that the Peace Corps volunteers are always known for helping the communities they serve. Minister Hastings-Williams said the Guyana Government is grateful for the help of the Peace Corps volunteers in building capacity in various communities in their respective field. “The government looks forward to village councils, community democratic councils, non-governmental organisations, advocacy groups, among others, are some of the bodies that Peace Corps volunteers can partner with in order to assist with the eco-friendly project drafting and writing, community outreaches, sensitisation programmes, youth development and wildlife activities amongst others,” the minister of state said. Henry said by the time the Peace Corps volunteers would have completed their stint, they would have forged a bond with Guyanese that will always be a part of their lives. “I believe that Guyana has benefitted from this opportunity in a large way and while we may never be able to adequately compensate, we most certainly welcome, embrace and thank you for your service. I urge you to feel free to explore and enjoy what we have to offer so that the exchange may be balanced in every aspect as you interact with teachers, students, parents and communities,” the education minister said. The new volunteers make up the 32nd group of Peace
First Lady Sandra Granger (Seated in the centre) flanked by US Ambassador to Guyana, Sarah-Ann Lynch and Peace Corps Country Director, Kury Cobham with the 32nd batch of Peace Corps volunteers (Samuel Maughn photo)
Corps volunteers to serve in Guyana since 1995; representing 19 out of the 50 US States, with ages ranging from 21 to 54 and coming from diverse ethnic backgrounds. In March 1961, President John F. Kennedy created the Peace Corps to provide human resource and technical assistance to developing countries that requested support. The Peace Corps was first active in Guyana from 1966-1971. The agency later returned in 1995 upon the re-invitation of President, Dr. Cheddi Jagan. Since its establishment, more than 900 American volunteers have supported numerous communities throughout Guyana.
14
GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, August 8, 2019
Gov’t reiterates its commitment to…will remain in interim mode consult with opposition on critical matters ITERATING its commitment to remain in interim mode until the swearing in of a President following the conduct of General Elections, government, on Wednesday, said it will consult the opposition on critical matters that could have implications on the future governance of the country. But Political Scientist, Dr. David Hinds, said the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) Government should not restrict itself but, rather there should be a period of shared governance until elections are held. At his post-Cabinet press briefing at the Ministry of the Presidency, the Ministry’s Director-General, Joseph Harmon, said Cabinet, in accepting the June 18, 2019 decision of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), agreed that government will transition into an interim mode, in accordance with the consequential orders of the CCJ laid out on July 12, 2019. “By convention, normal business of government will continue albeit on a different footing by virtue of its interim status,” Harmon told reporters. “In its interim mode, the government shall, exercise restraint by not engaging in any initiatives that are likely to be considered controversial such as embarking on new policy initiatives,
programmes or projects including the signing of new international agreements or embarking on new, major infrastructural projects,” he added. However, he said government, in cases of national importance and interest, will consult with the opposition before taking certain actions that may have future implications on the governance of the country under
of security, the maintenance and rehabilitation of public infrastructure, the maintenance of systems for public health delivery, housing and education, and other routine government functions, the director-general explained. Added to that, it will continue to implement projects and programmes, approved by the Parliament of Guyana, particularly in cases in which contracts
Director General of the Ministry of the Presidency, Joseph Harmon
a new administration. The director general explained that if a new decision will impact the functioning of a new government, it would become necessary to meet the opposition and decide whether that decision can be lawfully taken. Government, however, will continue to ensure the smooth functioning of the country. In its interim state, the government will attend to matters that are considered urgent, and in the public’s interest, such as matters
have been signed and works commenced prior to the interim period. “Cabinet further agreed that the government maintains its full array and range of powers that is Executive, Statutory and Common Law. The ministers shall continue to exercise jurisdiction and responsibility for all ministries, agencies and departments that are within and under their portfolio,” Harmon reported. He made it clear that all public service rules remain
Plaisance hairdresser jailed, fined for cocaine possession
VANESSA Harper, who was charged with possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking,was jailed for three years and six months and fined fifteen million dollars ($15,000,000.00) when she appeared on Wednesday before Magistrate Sunil Scarce at the Providence Magistrate’s Court. Harper, a hairdresser of Plaisance, East Coast Demerara, is accused of having on Friday, May 15, 2018, at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, 5.567 kg of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking. Harper was at the time an outgoing passenger on a flight to New York. The court was told that Harper was found carrying the drug in two suitcases when she was searched by members of the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit of the Guyana Revenue Authority. At Wednesday’s hearing, a probation report was expected on the matter. Attorney at Law Dexter Todd, who represented the accused in his closing arguments, indicated that the court should consider the fact that Ms. Harper has young children , therefore the length of sentencing should be considered. During the Magistrate’s ruling Ms. Harper was remorseful and was seen at times, wiping her face with her rag.
in force and applicable, and the Guyana Police Force, the Guyana Defence Force and other arms of law enforcement are expected to continue to perform and execute their statutory duties and responsibilities, by enforcing the law, and lawful instructions received. “In addition, it was clearly understood that the interim government is the government and is empowered
together with the opposition, thereby allowing the opposition to co-govern. “So rather than saying let’s have a caretaker government that is not empowered, let’s have a government that is empowered with the understanding that on these big crucial matters, that you are telling this government it shouldn’t proceed with, all they need to do is to get together with
Political Scientist and WPA Executive, Dr. David Hinds
to ensure the welfare of all citizens, maintain law and order, manage and deliver public services, command the police and army, ensure peace and security and attend to routine functions and administration,” he stated. Cabinet, in its discourse, iterated that the guidelines for its interim status were based on the internationally-accepted conventions related to the role and functions of interim governments. But Political Scientist and Executive Member of the Working People’s Alliance (WPA), Dr. David Hinds, said government ought not to be in a restrictive mode. “I think the government has adopted that position but my own view, is that at this crucial point in our history, we do not need a restricted government. We need a government that is empowered, because we are dealing with very, very important matters,” Dr. Hinds told the Guyana Chronicle in an interview. He opined that government should be allowed to function as per norm; however, when addressing matters of significant importance, it should do so
the opposition and agree on a way forward,” Dr. Hinds reasoned. He recalled that the WPA, upon realising that the 1990 elections could not have been held by the constitutionally mandated date, approached to the then President, Desmond Hoyte, and suggested that there be shared governance. The late President Hoyte endorsed the proposal but the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) rejected it from the start. “We suggested to them (PPP), look, for the period from December 1990 to whenever elections are held, let’s approach the PNC (People’s National Congress) and have a power sharing government with Mr. Hoyte continuing as president and the PPP/C Leader as a Prime Minister. The PPP said the PNC would never agree to it but they said WPA if you want to, you can go on a wild goose chase, and when we went to the PNC, Mr. Hoyte readily agreed,” he recalled. Against that background he said nothing is impossible in the political arena. “My preference would
have been for us to have a government with full powers to operate and the opposition consulted. I see no reason why we shouldn’t have the contract with the harbour bridge. That thing is crucial and caretaker or non-caretaker things like that should not be held up,” he told this newspaper. In urging collaboration between the government and the opposition, Dr. Hinds said it would be in the best interest of the PPP/C to return to the National Assembly with government and extend the period for the holding of elections, in accordance with the Constitution. “Now, if the PPP fails to go to Parliament and extend the life of the government, the government continues. It is not in the PPP’s interest, except they are looking to ‘bruk-up’ the country and cause war. If they do not go, the government remains; the doctrine of necessity would apply. I cannot understand why they keep saying that they wouldn’t go and extend the life of the Parliament, because there is nobody that could physically put those people in jail and all those kinds of thing, the government remains,” he reasoned. The political scientist said civil society must do better to cause the leaders of the country to act in the best interest of the country. “Those civil society organisations, the churches, the trade unions, the private sector commission and all these organisations, they are the ones who should step in – and not to be lecturing GECOM – that is not the role of civil society,” he said. He added “civil Society’s role is to mediate the partisan fight… Your role is when a society is on the edge to mediate. I think if those organisations were to come together and meet the two leaders together and said this is a model we should use, I think at least make the leaders think, and I don’t think it is too late,” Dr. Hinds told this newspaper.
GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday August 8, 2019
15
Reg. Nine NGSA top students get ‘push start’ -- Minister Allicock spreads ‘free education’ message to hinterland youth
By Vishani Ragobeer THE top performers at this year’s National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) from Region Nine were given a ‘push start’ from the Government of Guyana and corporate entity, Ansa McAl, to assist their pursuit of secondary education. The top student of the region is Alana Lewis, who scored 515 marks and secured a position at the Bishop’s High school. She was followed by Kateri DaSilva, who scored 504 marks and is heading to the St. Roses High School; Ethan Gursahai with 501 marks and is going to the St. Joseph’s High school; Tikilisha Vanlong, Annai Secondary school; Jayden Spencer, St. Ignatius Secondary; Shawna Smith, Matt James and Osuna La Rose, all heading to the Aishalton Secondary school; and Tianna Gomes and Allnie Rebeiro, both heading to the St. Ignatius Secondary School. Presenting these students with tokens was Fourth Vice President and Minister of Indigenous People's Affairs, Sydney Allicock. Minister Allicock also highlighted that the 10 top students, alongside three other students from the region, will be receiving scholarship support as they engage in their secondary school life. Addressing these students, he congratulated them on the successful completion of one phase of their academic journey and urged them to make use of the opportunities offered to them so that they can continue to excel in the future. “The government has invested and we will continue to invest in education,” Minister Allicock said, adding: “It is
the President's greatest dream to have an educated nation where each and every person, especially the youth, excelling to the max level.” The vice-president said that in 2015, the pass rate for the region was 13 per cent but this year, it stands at 45 per cent. Cognisant of that, the minister contended that the children have excelled, as the government knew they would if they were given more resources. The minister reminded of the government’s 2030 vision for the education system, which will see curriculum reform taking place to enhance the quality of education delivered to all citizens. As part of enhancing the education system, he noted that the Education Ministry is currently focused on enhancing education at secondary and tertiary education by expanding access to these, particularly to bridge the disparities that exist with the hinterland communities. “That is a tall order and will require support from many stakeholders,” he posited. And in this vein, he told the top achievers that they are the ones who are “setting the pace” for other students, and have to be committed to being the best that they can be to foster growth in the country. FREE EDUCATION The vice-president also told the gathering of students and parents of the coalition government’s mission to restore free education from nursery to tertiary. According to Article 27 of the Constitution of Guyana: “Every citizen has the right to free education from nursery to university, as well as at non-formal places where op-
Fourth Vice President and Minister of Indigenous People's Affairs, Sydney Allicock (Vishani Ragobeer photo)
The top performers at this year’s National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) from Region Nine with Fourth Vice President and Minister of Indigenous People's Affairs, Sydney Allicock; Deputy Regional Executive Officer of Region Nine, Audrey Gomes (seated at left); and Regional Education Officer, Keane Adams (Vishani Ragobeer photo)
portunities are provided for education and training.” Currently, there is only free public education from nursery to secondary. President David Granger, on Emancipation Day, said the coalition government will be working towards restoring free education in accordance with the Constitution. Minister Allicock gave high praise to the President for making this commitment and said: “That is something that we can all be proud of because it is an opportunity and we should not lose that opportunity.” He also noted that free education would give hinterland youth, in particular, enhanced access to education opportunities. This is in tandem with the recently commissioned $186M dorms at Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown, which will cater for hinterland tertiary students.
“The government is working in every single possible area to get you the best possible opportunity to get you to what you want to become,” Minister Allicock said, but said young people have to contribute to the country’s development. He reminded that with the oil industry coming on stream, there will be a “rapid development” taking place in Guyana. This, according to him, will require a competent and educated workforce since there will be much competition for employment. Moreover, the minister also encouraged the Region Nine youths to begin thinking of ways to sustainably use the ‘oil money’ to help keep the environment intact. He lamented that the vast reserves of freshwater, which is a valuable global asset, is one natural resource that ought to be preserved. Deputy Regional Executive Officer of Region Nine, Audrey
Minister of Indigenous People's Affairs, Sydney Allicock presenting Region Nine’s Top Student, Alana Lewis with a token (Vishani Ragobeer photo)
Gomes, also gave brief remarks at the awards ceremony. She made known that the next five years of the children’s lives can determine where they go in life and that they should make the best of the opportunities presented to them.
GPL actively engaging Giftland on power providing agreement THE Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL) is actively engaging the Giftland Mall on the possibility of a Power Providing Agreement (PPA) between the two entities. This was according to Chairman of GPL, Rawle Lucas, in a telephone interview with the Guyana Chronicle, on Wednesday. It was reported that government, through the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, had taken measures to ensure that blackouts are reduced. Part of those efforts included pursuing power purchase agreements with Giftland Mall and Banks DIH Ltd. for five megawatts each, during peak hours. “GPL has been speaking
to Giftland on the matter...as far as I know GPL is actively engaging Giftland on the matter,” said Lucas. Lucas was asked to respond to a letter, from Chairman of the Giftland Group, Roy Beepat, which stated that no PPA has been signed to date and that will explain why the power cuts continue. “I am not sure what Giftland’s challenges are…I am really surprised…there have been ongoing conversations between the two entities,” said Lucas, reiterating that there have been active discussions between GPL and Giftland. Beepat, in his letter which was published on August 7, said the last information reaching the entity was that
GPL requires justification as to why they should buy from Giftland. “Apparently cheaper cost, as no liability or commitment and readily available power supply to make up the deficiency are not sufficient reasons,” said Beepat. Giftland has been in discussion during the last three years with GPL, and has debunked the claims that they cannot supply the required power at the time slots required. “We stand by our statement that a dedicated 3MW is available, and we can supply up to 4.5MW as required. We are not sure what further justification is required to show why this can withstand any scrutiny. “As stated, our prices are
competitive and better than power supplied by GPL’s diesel generators…The sup-
Chairman of GPL, Rawle Lucas Chairman of the Giftland Group, Roy Beepat
ply is available without any expenditure to GPL; without commitment for long-term supplies,” said Beepat. GPL’s Chief Executive
Officer, Albert Gordon, in June, had said the two significant potential suppliers – Banks DIH and Giftland – use heavy fuel oil and have the capacity to boost the power grid. Banks DIH installed a 10MW to boost their operations and Gordon
said discussions were held with the company to provide GPL with power. He said while the beverage giant was not too enthusiastic, the power company is still hopeful. He said the power from Banks DIH would be required mostly for the evening. That is also the case with power from Giftland and he added that there are legal constraints regarding the sourcing of power from the latter. ”There are some legal constraints which the government is assisting us to work through,” Gordon said regarding Giftland, noting that there is also a price issue to be ironed out.
16
GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday August 8, 2019
Linden women honoured for sticking to agriculture
Minister within the Ministry of Agriculture Valerie Patterson-Yearwood addressing the women
WOMEN in agriculture have been recognised as hard workers who tend to their crops from sunset to sundown, rarely with a day off. They are still tasked with regular women’s duties of nurturing their children and managing their homes. Recognising their hard work and the role they play in developing Guyana's agricultural sector, was Minister within the Ministry of Agriculture, Valerie Patterson-Yearwood, who on Wednesday, hosted a Women in Agriculture Appreciation Day exercise in Linden, to honour these women for taking on such a herculean task. Scores of women farmers, poultry rearers, apiculturists, cattle rearers, agro-processors and those involved in other forms of agriculture, journeyed to the mining town from rural villages as far as Buxton on the East Coast of Demerara and Stewartville on the West Coast of Demerara to participate in the activity. "Farmers work long hours to support their families....however unlike other jobs that are usually entitled to days off and vacations and holidays, you women don't know that and when you work in your farms or your chicken pens, when you finish you still have to go home and cook, look after the children and the husband...for this reason, today we recognise the hard work and efforts made by our females in agriculture and join with you to celebrate women in agriculture 'day off.' You can be assured that your efforts and contribution to community development is promoted and appreciated." Those encouraging sentiments were expressed by Minister Patterson- Yearwood in her address and she commended the women for being part of the growing percentage of citizens who are gravitating towards agriculture. Agriculture is a very important sector, which drives economic growth from the village level, all the way to the national level and also contribute to the reduction of poverty. "Women continue to override the many challenges, they do it by creating innovative solutions to some of these problems....therefore, it is important that our country recognises the significant contributions that women make towards the development of agriculture in rural communities and in the
country holistically," she affirmed. Much emphasis needs to be placed on empowerment and growth of women in agriculture and the minister pledged her commitment to ensure that this is done, as this was the portfolio bestowed upon her by President Granger. Guyana is on the cusp of becoming a self-sufficient nation and more women are encouraged to take up the mantle in this very demanding and lucrative sector, where overwhelming opportunities abound. There are opportunities for funding, training and other forms of support, through the Ministry of Agriculture and other ministries, to ensure women's efforts in agriculture reap success. The women were then treated to a funpacked day of food, laughter and entertainment; several women also left with hampers filled with products made in Guyana. Myrtle Gentle, a farmer in West Watooka, expressed gratitude to the minister for hosting such a programme, as she has indeed not had a day off in months. Gentle said she works from sunrise to sunset tending to her cash crops and her poultry, as it is the sole means of earning for her family. "If the minister loose us a little early, I might be tempted to go back in the farm, that is how I am, so I am very thankful for the day off and the time to relax, because I don't get it at all," she said Ronnel Mingo, a large-scale poultry farmer also expressed appreciation for the event as it was not only an expression of appreciation for her contribution in agriculture, but it also gave her the oppourtunity to network and build camaraderie with her counterparts, not only in Linden, but across Guyana. Joining them were regional officials: Regional Chairman Renis Morian, Regional Executive Officer Orrin Gordon and Mayor of Linden Waneka Arrindell, who underscored the many strides made in Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Upper Berbice) in the area of agriculture. The women who were present from Linden, were also given the assurance that they will receive the needed assistance.
A section of the women in agriculture who were present at the event at Watooka House
17
GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday August 8, 2019
Passenger admits to killing taxi driver in Mocha over fare HOURS after a taxi driver was killed in Mocha Arcadia, East Bank Demerara (EBD) on Tuesday night, police arrested the passenger who allegedly stabbed the driver to death after a confrontation over an additional payment of the fare. Owen Lynch, 34, a taxi driver of 3521 Stevedore Housing Scheme, Georgetown, was stabbed to death at approximately 21:45hrs Tuesday night on Cemetery Road, Mocha Arcadia, EBD. Lynch is the father of two children, ages six and 10 years old. A 48-year-old mason of Cemetery Road, Mocha Arcadia, EBD, was arrested on Wednesday and later admitted to stabbing the taxi driver. He allegedly told police that the driver attacked him with an ‘ice pick’ and he retaliated by stabbing him with a knife that he had in his possession. Enquiries disclosed that the taxi driver was plying his trade with motor car
The miner then used his cell phone to contact a taxi service and upon arrival of vehicle, the mason joined the taxi to head home. However, during the journey, the mason noticed that the driver was taking an unknown route to his destination and asked him to take him to his friend’s home in Cummings Lodge instead.
Dead: Owen Lynch
PRR 3313, a black Toyota IST from Swift Cab at Lot 6 Dennis Street, Turkeyen, Sophia when the dispatcher of the taxi service sent him to a shop in Sophia. There, the taxi driver picked up the 48-year-old mason at a shop in ‘B’ Field Sophia. Reports indicate that the mason was imbibing alcoholic drinks with a gold-miner at the shop and after a while he requested to head home.
Mabaruma man accused of raping Venezuelan woman CHIEF Magistrate Ann McLennan on Wednesday remanded a 21-year-old fisherman to prison for allegedly raping a Venezuelan woman. Jomal Bunbury, also called ‘Pang’ of Hosororo Village, North West District, appeared before the Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan and was not required to plead to the charge; the matter was held in camera. Particulars of the charge state that on August 3, 2019, at Hosororo Stretch, North West District, Bunbury engaged in sexual penetration with the 26-year-old woman
without her consent. The chief magistrate remanded Bunbury to prison until August 20, 2019, and transferred the matter to the Mabaruma Magistrate's court. According to reports, on August 3, 2019, the victim was at a party and was escorted home by Bunbury. It is alleged that the man broke into her home and raped her. Bunbury escaped after the alleged rape and the matter was reported to the police. An investigation was launched and Bunbury was arrested and positively identified by the victim.
Rupununi rancher killed with bow and arrow
A KARAUDANAWA Village, South Rupununi rancher was on Monday killed by a 50-year-old man with a bow and arrow. Dead is Pius Ernest, 32, who was allegedly killed by a farmer at Karaudanawa Village, on the day in question about 22:00hrs. "An Investigation so far revealed that the suspect saw
his spouse in the company of Ernest[deceased] at a location in the village and he armed himself with a bow and arrow and fatally shot him in the upper part of his body," a release from the police stated. The suspect has since been arrested and is assisting with the investigation.
When he stopped off at his friend’s house, the miner encouraged him to return to the taxi and head home, relating that the driver was safe and knew what he was doing. “They had agreed to $1,500 as the fare but due to the driver taking him to his friend’s house, the driver increased the fare to $2,000. When the driver reached
Cemetery Road, Mocha, the mason said that the driver demanded more money but he refused and exited the car and began walking towards his home when the driver attacked him with an ice pick,” police said. The mason, who, was armed with a knife, decided to defend himself, firing several stabs at the driver,
leaving him on the roadway bleeding. The driver was later discovered motionless on Cemetery Road, Mocha Arcadia with multiple wounds about his body. Police found an ice pick at the scene. The body was taken to Lyken’s Funeral Home and is awaiting post-mortem examination.
18
GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, August 8, 2019
GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, August 8, 2019
19
20
GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, August 8, 2019
GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, August 8, 2019
21
22
GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, August 8, 2019
23
GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, August 8, 2019
Trophy Stall backs Nand Persaud Sprint Classic Horserace Meet this Sunday AS race day fast approaches, Trophy Stall is on board the Nand Persaud Sprint Classic Horserace Meet. The event is set for this Sunday (August 11) at the company’s racing facility, No.36 Village, Macedonia Estate, Corentyne, Berbice. The meet, which is being promoted by the Sky Plus Incorporated Promotion Group, will see Trophy Stall put up the trophies for the events with full sponsorship for the Jockey category. Over 45 horses have registered so far. The presentation of the trophies was done yesterday at Trophy Stall’s Port Mourant Branch, Corentyne. General Manager of Trophy Stall, Ramesh Sunich, made the presentation to General Manager of the Nand Persaud Group of Companies and Event Coordinator Mohendra Persaud. Seven races are on the day’s
American Racing Tips Saratoga Race 1 Cuddle Kitten Race 2 Reata’s Reward Race 3 My Amanjena Race 4 Potomac Race 5 Perpetrate Race 6 Bye Bye Nicky Race 7 Morning Breez Race 8 Fetching Race 9 Belgrano Race10 Dakota’s Dude South Africa Racing Tips Vaal 08:40 hrs Winter Watch 09:15 hrs Boundless Sleep 09:55 hrs Bondiblu 10:30 hrs Lasair 11:05 hrs Blanco English Racing Tips Haydock 09:00 hrs Classic Charm 09:30 hrs Lord Of The Lodge 10:00 hrs Molls Memory 10:30 hrs Global Destination 11:00 hrs Throne Hall 11:30 hrs December Second 12:00 hrs Blue Medici Brighton 09:10 hrs Tarrzan 09:40 hrs The Blue Bower 10:10 hrs Mamillius 10:40 hrs Mister Chaiang 11:10 hrs Multamis 11:40 hrs Confrerie 12:10 hrs Wiley Post Sandown 12:40 hrs Artic Sea 13:10 hrs Vasari 13:45 hrs Native Tribe 14:15 hrs Mokammal 14:45 hrs Golden Force 15:15 hrs Quarry Beach Irish Racing Tips Leopardstown 12:15 hrs Cormorant 12:50 hrs High Altitude 13:20 hrs Baladiya 13:55 hrs Latrobe 14:25 hrs Quote 14:55 hrs Cuban Surfer 15:25 hrs Halimi
card with over $4M in cash, trophies and other incentives up for grabs. The feature E and Lower 4 furlongs event is for a winning purse of $300 000 and a trophy. Expected to race are Score’s Even, Simple Side, Golden Dancer, TNT, Golden Blue Echo among others. Uprising Star, War Story, Dazzling Girl and Awesome Bandit are among those in the 2-year-old Guyana-bred event for the winning prize of $150 000 and trophy, over 660 yards.
The J Class event has a number of entries while the K Class race will feature the likes of Touch the Cash, The Rock, Touch Down and Irish Boy. Among those down to battle it out in the L class male race are Cool Mood, Awesome Banner and Plane Land. The event for female L Class animals will see the likes of Pinky, Promise, Royal Progressive and Wonder Girl. The non-earners from the above two L Class races will then compete for a top prize.
Apart from Trophy Stall, other major sponsors include Ansa McAl through its STAG Beer Brand, 4R Bearings and Belts, NPG Packaging and Plastics INC. The Champion jockey, trainer and stable will be rewarded with trophies and other incentives, compliments of Trophy Stall. Interested persons can make contact with Mohini on 6004728 or Amanda on 618-5966 for more information. The Coordinator is Mohendra ‘Mohin’ Persaud.
24
GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday August 8, 2019
Rems, Carr Tec start quest for OSCL double knockout titles By Frederick Halley
TORONTO, Canada – Two new champions will be crowned when the curtain comes down on the Caribbean Sensation/Nirad Lall-sponsored 10/10 softball final at the Ashtonbee ground, Scarborough here on Saturday. Both Division One champions Dant and last year’s opponents Sunshine are no longer part of the Ontario Softball Cricket League (OSCL) while Division Two winners Cougars have been booted out of the tournament. The stage is therefore set for a showdown between Rems and GT Bannas in Division One while Carr Tec and Enmore battle in Division Two. These games are scheduled for Ashtonbee Numbers One and Two grounds respectively. The Consolation finals pit Rebels against Caribbean Sensation/Better Hope at Ashton-
bee Reservoir Number Two while Ramblers and Wakenaam clash at Ashtonbee Reservoir Number One. With Rems and Carr Tec also in next Saturday’s Paul & Sons 15-over final, both teams are aiming for the ‘double’ and on present form will start as firm favourites to lift the 10/10 titles. Rems, who are being led by Richard Dias, have been playing brilliantly recently, knocking out the highly-fancied Mercenary in the semifinal. They have been boosted with the presence of ‘imports’ in Chien Gittens, Surujpaul Deosaran, Krishna Deosaran and Eyaaz Mohamed. Gittens, in particular, has been performing excellently since his arrival in Canada, earning two significant manof-the-match awards, the latest being last Saturday when he slammed a boundary-studded undefeated 103 for Demerara Legends in the Ontario Masters
Chien Gittens
Trevon Garraway
Rovendra Mandolall
Softball Cricket Clubs (OMSCC) Inter-county final. His all-round performance in the annual OSCL Independence feature also saw him win a ticket to any part of the Caribbean, compliments of Caribbean Airlines. Among the other top players in the Rems lineup are Anil Mahadeo, Ian ‘Russian’
Baldeo, Azam Haniff, Gopie Beharry, Yohanlall Sooklall and the wily Pradeep ‘Polo’ Singh. Former Guyana national player Trevon Garraway, a no mean all-rounder, is at the helm of GT Bannas and despite starting as rank underdogs, will be aiming to upset the powerful Rems combination. They had
the luck of the draw, having reached the final without bowling a delivery. Garraway will be looking for support from former Guyana Under-19 player Kevin George and Raja Pooran among others. Unbeaten in the season to date, Carr Tec will be pinning their hopes on former Guyana
FIFA dragging its feet in Afghan sex abuse scandal, says coach BERLIN, Germany (Reuters) - World soccer’s governing body FIFA has been dragging its feet and needs to urgently widen the investigation into a sexual abuse scandal involving Afghan women players, national coach Kelly Lindsey said in a letter to FIFA boss Gianni Infantino. In June the former president of the Afghanistan Football Federation (AFF), Keramuddin Keram, was banned from football for life after FIFA’s ethics committee found him guilty of abusing his position and sexually abusing female players. Keram, also a former FIFA Standing Committee member, was accused by at least five Afghan female football players of repeated sexual abuse between 2013 and 18. He was also fined one million Swiss francs (£847,806.40 or $1.03M). But Lindsey and Khalida Popal, the team’s programme director, said in their letter that several other individuals had been named by the players as being directly or indirectly linked to the case and no action had been taken against them. Victims and whistleblowers were in fear of repercussions, they said. “... the accounts and evidence provided to you
Afghan national coach Kelly Lindsey
named other individuals as well, and referred to a widespread culture of abuse, with complicity at all levels of the AFF,” they wrote in their letter to Infantino dated August 6. “The accounts mention numerous other individuals, including senior individuals in ongoing positions of power, who committed sexual and physical abuse and/or failed to report abuse even though they knew or ought to have known of the abuse and/or sought to cover up abuse. “This, and the apparent inaction from FIFA since these concerns were raised, has allowed that culture of
abuse to continue to thrive in the AFF.” FIFA did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani ordered an investigation after Britain’s Guardian newspaper reported in November 2018 that senior figures linked to the Afghan women’s team had alleged that some players had been molested by officials from the federation. According to the Guardian, the alleged abuse took place inside the federation’s headquarters in Afghanistan as well as at a training camp in Jordan in February 2018. FIFA, which began its investigation in December when it suspended Keram, said he had breached ethics code rules on protection of physical and mental integrity and abuse of position. The national women’s team was formed in 2010. Some conservative-minded Afghans oppose women playing sports. Afghanistan is ranked as one of the most dangerous countries for women and allegations of sexual contact outside marriage can have deadly consequences.
Under-19 and Essequibian player Rovendra Mandolall, who is also the leading run-getter with 388 runs and a highest score of 123. Support is expected from Avinash Singh, the big-hitting Rawl Scott and Terry Mathura. Enmore, under the astute leadership of Shiv Persaud, possesses players the quality of former youth players Eugene LaFleur and Shawn Perreira and are expected to give a good account of themselves. The Consolation finals are also expected to be electrifying encounters with Rebels and Caribbean Sensation/Better Hope battling for bragging rights as will Wakenaam and Ramblers. The final, which also forms part of the Ontario Softball Cricket League (OSCL) family fun day and All Stars feature, is expected to attract a large crowd including kids of members of the league.
There should be consensus support for Bissoondyal Singh as DCB president I WAS indeed pleased, likewise relieved, that finally the Demerara Cricket Board (DCB) will be having its election of office-bearers on 2019-08-11 following a Court Order. The prolonged absence of a legitimate Board certainly would have stymied the development of cricket in the county. Additionally, there were dire consequences to the effect that a faction of the DCB suffered tremendously, since players from that faction were denied selection, either to the Demerara squad or in other instances from the national set-up as well. It was quite evident therefore that only a few of the vast pool of budding cricketers were given the opportunities - an un-
acceptable motive that seemed deliberate. In all of this, the East Coast Cricket Board (ECCB) and the Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA) stood out admirably in the face of defiance, rejection and deprivation of funds to ensure their constituents were playing competitive cricket and being exposed to coaching programmes on a regular basis. It is in this context therefore that Mr Roger Harper and Mr Bissoondyal Singh should be highly commended for their astute leadership and perseverance of the highest order. At this critical time too and with the new dispensation of Cricket West Indies (CWC), I am of the firm conviction that
Mr Bissoondyal Singh will be the ideal candidate for the post of president of the DCB with his wealth of institutional knowledge, vast experience as an administrator and generally someone who has the confidence of the majority of stakeholders, who would like to see a transformation in the local cricketing landscape and who will lead the fight in ensuring that our cricketers, umpires, scorers, grounds men etc. are deserving of elevation at the highest level. I therefore would appeal for consensus in electing Mr Singh on Sunday. Yours respectfully, Elroy Stephney
Travis Head hits unbeaten 109 against Worcestershire
TRAVIS Head hit an unbeaten century to help Australia dominate his former club Worcestershire on day one of their tour match at New Road. Head, who played for Worcestershire in 2018, made 109 not out from 173 balls as Australia declared on 266-5. In response, Worcestershire lost both openers without scoring to Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood.
Australia, who won the first Ashes Test, had reduced the hosts to 31-3 at the close. Head's main support in Australia's innings came during a century-partnership with Usman Khawaja, who went on to make 57, while opener Cameron Bancroft scored 33 before being bowled by Josh Tongue. Batsmen David Warner and Steve Smith, and bowlers Pat Cummins, James
Travis Head scored 109 off 173 balls at New Road.
Pattinson, Peter Siddle and Nathan Lyon, were all left out of the side ahead of next week's second Ashes Test against England at Lord's, which begins on Wednesday. (BBC Sport)
GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday August 8, 2019
25
Focussed Aussies determined not to squander early edge AUSTRALIA have a recent track record of letting good starts slip in Test series away from home, but Tim Paine and Justin Langer are determined to avoid a repeat in an Ashes series. The single-minded focus of Australia men's coach Justin Langer and captain Tim Paine will ensure Australia do not squander their Ashes series lead and repeat the same mistakes the Test side had made in recent history. That's the pledge from Langer, who spoke on Monday evening after his charges drew first blood in the five-Test Ashes with a remarkable come-frombehind 251-run win at Edgbaston. But the stirring win in Birmingham led by Steve Smith, Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon will count for nothing if Australia become complacent and let England back into the series with a victory of their own at Lord's next week. In the past two years, Australia's Test side had burst out of the blocks on away tours only to let slip their advantage and return home as losers. In February 2017, Australia stunned world No.1
India with a 333-run win inside three days in Pune before the hosts regrouped to win two of the next three Tests to take out the series 2-1. A year later, Mitch Starc's nine-wicket haul was the catalyst behind Australia's 118-run win over South Africa in Durban. A loss in Port Elizabeth immediately followed before the events of Cape Town rocked Australian cricket. A huge loss followed in Johannesburg to seal a 3-1 defeat. And last October, under the leadership of Langer and Paine for the first time, Australia dug deep to draw the first Test against Pakistan in Dubai but failed to back it up, losing the second Test and the series in Abu Dhabi. While those results have come in the past twoand-a-half years, Langer knows what it's like to jump the gun with an emphatic win only to surrender a high-profile series, such as the 2005 Ashes in England. On that unforgettable tour 14 years ago, Australia won the first Test at Lord's and celebrated by singing the team song in the deserted home team dressing room. That move came back to
haunt Langer and his teammates as England rallied behind inspirational all-rounder Andrew Flintoff to produce an upset in one of the greatest Ashes series ever. It's why when asked how Australia will avoid the complacency of previous tours, Langer said it had already been addressed less than an hour after the win in Birmingham. And that he and Paine will be making sure their troops do not slip up, having fought so hard for the early Ashes ascendency. "We're aware of those (series losses after leading) so the boys have already talked about it a bit," Langer said. "We talk about our values … I say it very seriously. Humility is one thing - very important, professionalism, mateship. You'll see plenty of mateship in the change room right now which is half the reason we play the game. "Keep being honest about where we're at, we've still only won one Test match. "And we've got a captain who is that focussed in there, and he's the best wicketkeeper in the world. "You've just seen it. You've seen those catches today. He's the best wicket-
Director of Sport makes good on promise to windball winners
Director of Sport, Christopher Jones, (centre) with teachers and students from the winning schools.
IRECTOR of Sport Christopher Jones made good on a promise of backpacks to the male and female winners of the recently concluded Allister Munroe-organised Al Sport and Tour Promotions/National Sports Commission 22nd Annual End of School Year Primary Schools Edward Cobenna Memorial Windball Cricket Champions Trophy. At a simple meeting at the National Sports Commission Boardroom yesterday, Jones presented the backpacks to the 2019 winners Ketley Primary School (females) and
the Winfer Gardens Primary School (males). In the female final last month, Ketley Primary won their first major windball title after they defeated Sophia Primary in the grand finale. In that game, Sophia lost the toss and were sent in to bat. The eventual second place finishers stroked 63-2 from their allotted overs with Kiazianna Thompson leading the attack with 20. In reply, Tia Fowler had smashed four sixes in a top score of 36. Fowler, who was later named the Player-of-the-Tournament had also picked up a wicket.
Winfer Gardens also won their first Edward Cobenna Memorial Windball title last month. The East Street School defeated West Ruimveldt Primary in their final. West Ruimveldt batted first and scored 81-2. Jonathan Andries (32) and Vikash Asram (22) led the attack for the eventual second-place finishers. Winfer Gardens, in reply, reached 82-4 in the final over to win the title. Shane Prince had struck 38 to lead the charge.
South Africa celebrate victory over Australia in Johannesburg in 2018. (Getty)
keeper in the world. "He's a brilliant leader, a great bloke but I thought tactically he was superb. He is so focussed in this series; so there is no way he is going to let it slip and I guarantee you, I'm not going to let it slip either." Paine was short and to the point when summing up the
win in Birmingham as Australia move to Worcester for a three-day game to prepare for the second Test at Lord's. "There are still four Tests to go and we aren't here to win the first Test at Edgbaston – we're here to win the Ashes."
Sri Lanka names Ratnayake interim coach, Hathurusingha's future unclear (REUTERS) - Former fast bowler Rumesh Ratnayake has been appointed Sri Lanka’s interim coach ahead of their home Test series against New Zealand, Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) said yesterday. SLC refused, however, to clarify whether head coach Chandika Hathurusingha had been sacked. Hathurusingha, appointed in December 2017, has been criticised for the team’s poor recent performances, including this year’s Cricket World Cup in which Sri Lanka were knocked out in the group stage. “We’ve been watching the coach’s performance for over a year-and-a-half. Based on that we’ve taken this decision,” SLC president Shammi Silva told reporters. “I was also in the board that recruited Hathurusingha, and we’ve made some mistakes. But if we are to do right by cricket in (the) future, we have to correct those mis-
Former Sri Lanka fast bowler Rumesh Ratnayake
takes.” Silva said Hathurusingha had been sent an explanatory letter and SLC would wait 14 days for his response. He refused to explain the issues with the coach, saying it was a “legal matter”. Hathurusingha confirmed he had received a letter. "As far as I'm concerned, my contract with SLC is still there," Hathurusingha told ESPNcricinfo here. "The letter doesn't say anything about termination of contract or anything like that." Sri Lanka play New Zealand in a two-Test series starting on August 14.
Pakistan not renewing head coach's contract
PAKISTAN will not renew the contract of head coach Mickey Arthur, who is a potential replacement for England's outgoing Trevor Bayliss. South African Arthur, 51, has been in charge since May 2016 and led Pakistan to the 2017 Champions Trophy title. However, they failed to reach the semi-finals of this summer's World Cup. Bowling coach Azhar Mahmood, batting coach Grant Flower and trainer Grant Luden will also leave their roles, the Pakistan Cricket Board has announced. PCB chairman Ehsan Mani thanked the four men for their "unwavering commitment", adding: "It was time for new leadership. The PCB remains committed to its fans and followers and we will do our utmost to ensure we make decisions that continue to move Pakistan cricket forward in all formats." England's World Cup-winning coach Bayliss is stepping down when his contract expires after this summer's Ashes series against Australia. The 56-year-old Australian will take charge of Sunrisers Hyderabad in the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2020. Arthur, who has also coached his home nation and Australia, has been spoken to by England as a potential successor. (BBC Sport)
26
GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, August 8, 2019
Hetmyer, Giddings, BCB cop major awards
Pollard urges Windies batsmen not to surrender six-hitting strength GEORGETOWN, Guyana (CMC) – Kieron Pollard said West Indies would continue to work on reducing their dot ball count but stressed that power-hitting would always remain a key element of their arsenal in Twenty20 Internationals. West Indies were once again guilty of failing to rotate strike as they suffered another humbling 3-0 whitewash at the hands of India, after losing the final T20I by seven wickets here Tuesday. They recorded 56 dot balls in their total of 146 for six, slightly less than the 79 they registered in the opener in Florida last Saturday, when they struggled to 95 for nine off their 20 after again batting first.
Sentinel Security Operation Manager Cedric Brown poses with the five awardees
WEST INDIES players Shimron Hetmyer and Erva Giddings easily copped Berbice Sportsman- and Sportswoman-of-the-Year Award while the vibrant Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) was named Sports Association when the Gregory Gaskin Memorial Berbice Sports Awards ceremony was held recently. Organised by the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, MS (RHTY&SC) with sponsorship from Sentinel Security Ltd, club secretary Hilbert Foster stated the Awards started in 2014 as a tribute to the late Gregory Gaskin, former Chief Executive Officer of Cops Security Ltd. Hetmyer was chosen based on his outstanding performances for Guyana and the West Indies along with the Guyana Amazon Warriors T20 team. Giddings easily copped her award, based on her outstanding performances for Berbice and Guyana with her left-arm swing bowling and useful batting. President of the Berbice Volleyball Association (BVA) Levi Nedd has won the Sports Personality-of-the-Year Award. Nedd has been an inspiration to the continued development
of the game in the Ancient County. Additionally, he served as coach of the powerful Port Mourant Training Centre volleyball team and Guyana volleyball team. Long-time Guysuco grounds-man Roger McDonald was honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award for his long and dedicated service to the development of sports. McDonald is highly respected for not only his dedication to his job at the historic Albion ground but also his words of advice to youths involved in sports. Foster hailed the continued sponsorship of Sentinel Security and hailed its CEO, Mrs Noreen Gaskin, as a true friend of the club. Sentinel Operation Manager Cedric Brown stated that his company was delighted to sponsor the award in memory of the late Gregory Gaskin. He urged the five awardees to uphold their high standards and he praised the work of the club. Hetmyer was unable to attend the ceremony due to West Indies duties while Levi Nedd had work commitments but was represented by his son. Hetmyer’s mother collected his award.
592 Lager to power ‘592 Street Kings’ Tournament launch set for August 19 … Georgetown’s best 16 teams to participate
ANSA McAl, through its 592 Lager Beer brand, will be throwing its support behind the ‘592 Street Kings’ streetball tournament which is set for September after the official launch on August 19. The tournament, which will see 16 of Georgetown’s best street-ball teams vie for some $675 000 in cash, will be played across three nights (September 7, 14, 21). Fans will witness 19 high-octane matches. All three match nights will be staged at the D’Urban Park tarmac (Square of the Revolution). So far street-ball juggernauts Gold is Money, Sparta Boss, Leopold Street, Tiger Bay, Broad Street, Albouystown, LA Ballers, Future Stars and Sophia are confirmed for the tournament. It will be a straight knockout competition with eight games on night one (September 7). The eight winners will advance to the quarter-finals on night two (September 14). The winners of the quarter-finals will then advance
to the semi-finals which will be played on the same night while the losers will be eligible for the Plate section. On the final night fans will see the semi-finals and final of the ‘Plate Section’ along with the third-place
playoff and final. Meanwhile, 592 Lager Brand Manager, Seweon McGarrell noted that this collaboration with the organiser is his brand’s way of giving back and helping to develop athletes at the grassroots
592 Beer Brand Manager Seweon McGarrell hands over the sponsorship package to tournament coordinator Michelangelo Jacobus at the Ansa McAl head office
level. “Our brand was brought out with the intention of targetting our grassroots communities across Guyana. This tournament is just one of our ways of giving back to these communities and the youths. We want to give the young street-ballers a chance to showcase their talent and to be crowned the 592 Street Kings of Street Ball in Georgetown,” McGarrell stated. At the tournament patrons will have chances to win prizes and 592 merchandise. Although in its inaugural stage, the 592 Street Kings tournament has plans to move to the outlying areas of Guyana following the Georgetown leg of the competition. In its inaugural year, ‘592 Street Kings’ will pocket $300 000 while the runners-up will collect $150 000. The third-place finishers will grab $100 000 while fourth-placers will receive $75 000 and the winners of the ‘Plate’ section will collect $50 000.
West Indies big-hitting batsman Kieron Pollard
“It’s a work in progress,” Pollard said. “Obviously we can look at that area as one of the areas which we need to improve on, which I totally 100 per cent agree with but then when you look at the boundary count in terms of the other teams I think we’re way ahead. “So sometimes you have to play (to) your strengths and continue doing what you’re strong doing and try to work on your weakness. It was a concerted effort today to try, when we got a boundary to work it around (afterwards) but as I said it’s a work in progress. “It’s not going to happen overnight but you don’t want to take away our natural instincts of hitting the boundaries and clearing the boundaries as well.” Returning to the squad for the first time in nearly a year, Pollard made his presence felt in the series despite West Indies’ poor display, especially with the bat.
The 32-year-old struck a run-a-ball 49 in the first match to drag West Indies out of trouble at 33 for five in the sixth over and repeated the effort on Tuesday, striking a top score of 58 – his second T20I half-century but first in seven years – to again rebuild the innings from a difficult position of 14 for three in the fourth over. One of the veteran players in the squad along with off-spinner Sunil Narine, Pollard said it was important he played vital roles for Windies going forward. “The maturity level is there, so sometimes you have to come and show it on the field,” the Trinidadian told reporters. “Coming on to a cricket field you try to give your best all the time. Sometimes it doesn’t work, sometimes you perform (sometimes you don’t) – that doesn’t mean you’re not mature, that doesn’t mean you’re not improving. Sometimes things don’t work out as you planned. “For me personally, it’s just about coming out to get through a game, try to finish a game and hopefully, let the experts who play a lot of cricket in the stands continue to judge.” Pollard was handed a promotion to number four in the series and revelled in the new-found responsibility. Of note was his knock in the first game where he grafted almost throughout, to shepherd the Windies innings. Reflecting on the innings, Pollard said it was critical he adjusted his game to suit the requirements of the team. “Sometimes when your back is against the wall and you have no choice, you’ve got to go forward but that’s what the team required at that point in time,” he explained. “I’ve played all my life and all my cricket, playing for what the teams wants and if my role is to come and do that, I come and try my best to do it. If it’s to come and hit sixes first ball, I’ll do that. “So nothing is going to change – when I step on that cricket field, I’ll give a hundred per cent no matter where in the world I play.”
CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Thursday, August 8, 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) (1)
ANSWERS TO YESTERDAY’S QUIZ: Australia won by 251 runs Steve Smith (AUST)
TODAY’S QUIZ:
Put these in order beginning with the man who has played most T20 Int’ls for the WI to date: Kieron Pollard, Marlon Samuels, Chris Gayle, Dwayne Bravo (2) Which India bowler has claimed most T20 Int’l wickets to date? How many?
ANSWERS IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE
27
GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, August 8, 2019
API in GBA’s corner for Junior Caribbean Schoolboys Boxing Championship WITH the Junior Caribbean Schoolboys Boxing Championship quickly approaching, Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) gained another sponsor. Through their Premyum line of products, Associated Packers Industry (API) threw their support in the corner of the GBA. At the simple ceremony, Deputy CEO of the company, Marissa Bujan, presented a quantity of food-based products, including milk, corn, oil and rice to Assistant secretary/treasurer of the GBA, Stacy Correia.
To this end, Correia noted that the gesture will aid GBA’s efforts to pull off another successful championship. She revealed; “We currently have 20 (local) boxers encamped at the Gymnasium, and we just want to say thank you (to API) and we would like and hope that you would continue with your support.” Meanwhile, API’s Bujan noted; “We are proud to support such an event. We always support the idea of young people behind sport and we find it very impera-
Deputy CEO of API, Marissa Bujan (left), presented some Premyum products to assistant secretary/treasurer of the GBA, Stacy Correia
tive for their development.” The championship which will span three days (August 16-18), is set to be staged at Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH) and will feature youth boxers from Guyana, Barbados, Grenada, Cayman Islands, Dominica, St Lucia, Puerto Rico, Venezuela and Trinidad & Tobago. Already on board are E-Networks, Massy Distribution and COURTS Guyana. The Championship will box off at 18:00hrs daily and ringside tickets cost $1 500 each, stands $500 and season tickets $4 000.
Gowtham hat-trick, Holder burst leaves contest wide open
TA R O U B A , Tr i n i d a d , (CMC) – Off-spinner Krishnappa Gowtham’s hat-trick, coupled with fast bowler Chemar Holder’s late burst, brought to life
an otherwise dull rain-hit day and left the third fourday “Test” intriguingly poised heading into Thursday’s penultimate day. The 30-year-old
Gowtham claimed the wickets of Raymon Reifer (5), Holder (0) and Miguel Cummins (0) as West Indies A, replying to India A’s 201, crashed to 194 all out in their
Barbados brush aside Leewards to clinch CWI Under-19 title
KINGSTOWN, St Vincent (CMC) – Barbados comfortably disposed of Leeward Islands by five wickets to win their third match of an unbeaten campaign and clinch the CWI Under-19 Championship here, Tuesday. Playing in their final round match at Park Hill, Barbados easily chased down their target of 107, to end on 21.5 points.
Opting to bat first, Leewards slumped to 39 for six in the 14th over as seamers Ramon Simmonds (3-10) Matthew Forde (2-13) carved through the top order, before Anderson Amurdan top-scored with a patient 33 off 72 balls with five fours to ensure his side reached triple figures. In reply, Barbados fared little better early on as they
The successful Barbados Under-19 side
Windward Islands, who also played unbeaten, finished second 16.8 points after their final match against Jamaica was rained off without a ball bowled while dethroned champions Guyana finished third on 14.6 points after edging Trinidad and Tobago by one run. Barbados entered the final round atop the standings and made all the right moves especially after restricting Leewards to 106 all out in the 39th over.
found themselves tottering on 47 for five in the sixth over after Paul Miller (2-14) and Antonio Fernandes (2-24) took two wickets apiece to wreck the top order. However, Forde returned with the bat to hit a fine unbeaten 40, in an unbroken 62run, sixth-wicket stand with Antonio Morris (24 not out) to see Barbados over the line. Forde, batting at number seven, struck seven fours in a 20-ball cameo.
At Arnos Vale, Guyana managed to finish their campaign on a high note in a thrilling finish after successfully defending a competitive total. Asked to bat in a contest reduced to 48 overs, Guyana got 42 from Kevlon Anderson and 30 from Junior Sinclair as they got up to 149 for five. Sachin Singh perished without scoring with a single run on the board but Anderson and Sinclair put on 74 for the second wicket. When both fell in the space of 10 balls with three runs added, Alphius Bookie (25) and Seon Glasgow (24) added a further 51 for the fourth wicket. In reply, T&T lost wickets in clusters before being dismissed for 148 with two balls remaining. They were two down for 20 in the 11th over before Leonardo Francis (24) and Aaron Nanan (23) posted 47 for the third wicket. However, both departed in the space of 15 balls with 11 runs added, leaving Mbeko Joseph – who top-scored with 41 off 61 balls – to engineer small partnerships of 25 for the fifth wicket with Joshua James (15) and 26 for the sixth with Avinash Mahabirsingh (12) to get his side close. T&T finished fourth on nine points after winning just once while winless Jamaica were fifth on 6.6 and Leewards last on 4.9 points.
first innings at the Brian Lara Stadium. Gowtham ended with six for 67 while seamer Umesh Yadav supported with two for 29, ensuring India A secured a slim seven-run lead.
Left-handed opener Jeremy Solozano
Left-handed opener Jeremy Solozano snatched his share of the headlines when he carried his bat for an unbeaten 69, while Sunil Ambris struck 43 and Jermaine Blackwood, 22. Holder then produced yet another fiery spell, claiming two for 14 as India A stumbled to the close on 23 for three – a lead of only 30 runs. He removed Priyank Panchal for three in the fourth over, lbw on the back foot to one that came back and in his next over, hit the other opener Abhimanyu Esawaran (6) in front. Four balls later in the next over, Mayank Agarwal played back to pacer Miguel Cummins and lost his offstump for five. Resuming earlier from their overnight 23 for one, West Indies lost nightwatchman Akim Fraser (1) in the second over of the day for one, plumb lbw to Umesh with just one run
added to the total. And when Umesh found Brandon King’s (8) outside edge for wicketkeeper Wriddhiman Saha to take a low catch to his right, the hosts were reeling further at 36 for three. Solozano then repaired the damage, first in a 66-run fourth wicket stand with Ambris and then in a fifth wicket stand with Blackwood worth 32. The left-handed Solozano faced 208 balls in 4-¾ hours and struck seven fours while Ambris played freely with five fours in a 63-ball knock before playing around a straight one from seamer Dhivam Dube and falling lbw. Blackwood, too, was going well with three fours in a breezy 19-ball innings but
attempted to force Gowtham through the off-side, found himself cramped for room and played on. On 134 for five, West Indies A were then dismantled by Gowtham who ripped through the middle and lower order. He had captain Jahmar Hamilton caught at the wicket for nine, essaying an uncertain defensive prod while pacer Avesh Khan removed Yannic Cariah for 17 to a catch at the wicket, trying to keep out a sharp, full length delivery. Gowtham’s hat-trick then arrived when both Reifer and Holder played down the wrong line and were bowled, and Cummins missed a heave and was adjudged lbw.
SCORECARD
INDIA A 1st Innings 201 West Indies A 1st Innings (overnight 23 for one) M Hodge b Gowtham 15 J Solozano not out 69 A Frazer lbw b Umesh 1 B King c wkp Saha b Umesh 8 S Ambris lbw b Dube 43 J Blackwood b Gowtham 22 *+J Hamilton c wkp Saha b Gowtham 9 Y Cariah c wkp Saha b Avesh Khan 17 R Reifer b Gowtham 5 C Holder b Gowtham 0 M Cummins lbw b Gowtham 0 Extras: (lb1, w2, nb2) 5 TOTAL: (all out, 72.4 overs) 194 Fall of wicket: 1-23, 2-24, 3-36, 4-102, 5-134, 6-150, 7-179, 8-194, 9-194, 10-194. Bowling: Yadav 16-4-29-2, Avesh Khan 14-6-34-1, Gowtham 23.4-5-67-6, Nadeem 13-3-28-0, Dube 6-0-35-1. INDIA A 2nd Innings P Panchal lbw b Holder 3 A Easwaran lbw b Holder 6 M Agarwal b Cummins 5 S Gill not out 5 S Nadeem not out 2 Extras: (lb2) 2 TOTAL: (3 wkts, 9 overs) 23 Fall of wickets: 1-3, 2-14, 3-14. Bowling: Cummins 5-2-7-1, Holder 4-2-14-2. Position: India A lead by 30 runs with seven second innings wickets intact.
Windies, India
turn focus to ODI series … First game on today at Providence stadium 24
Windies ODI captain Jason Holder
By Rajiv Bisnauth WEST INDIES will turn their attention to a friendlier format when they take on India in the first of three One-Day Internationals starting today at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence. The home series has been a bleak one so far for the hosts, having suffered a 3-0 whitewash in the preceding T20 series but they will be banking on their strength in order to make amends. Thoroughly outplayed in the shortest format, West Indies hope the return of the talismanic Chris Gayle will bolster them. Gayle during the World Cup had announced that the home series against India will be his last. Left-handed opener John Campbell, Roston Chase and all-rounder Keemo Paul have all been recalled to the 14-member squad for the matches which will be contested today, and on August 11 and 14 at the Queen’s Park Oval in Trinidad and Tobago. During a pre-match press conference yesterday at the Providence stadium captain Jason Holder said his team will be looking for an improved performance, adding that India will definitely come hard at them. “We want to put the World Cup behind us now and hope for an improved performance in this ODI series,” Holder said. On the other hand, India return to the format that gave them a heartbreak in the not-too-distant past, but the Men in Blue are said to have an upper hand over the hosts, given West Indies’ pathetic run in the 50-overs format
in past years and their ICC ranking. India are placed only below current world champions England in the ICC team ODI rankings while West Indies are 9th in the list, better placed only than newcomers Afghanistan and Ireland. West Indies haven’t won a bilateral ODI series since August 2014. They also haven’t beaten India in their last eight series against them. Chris Gayle needs 11 runs to go past Brian Lara as West Indies’ leading run-scorer in ODI history while Virat Kohli is 19 runs shy of pipping Javed Miandad as the player with the most ODI runs against West Indies. Match-time is 09:30hrs. West Indies squad: Jason Holder (captain), Chris Gayle, John Campbell, Evin Lewis, Shai Hope, Shimron Hetmyer, Nicholas Pooran, Roston Chase, Fabian Allen, Carlos Brathwaite, Keemo Paul, Sheldon Cottrell, Oshane Thomas and Kemar Roach. India squad: Virat Kohli (captain), Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer, Manish Pandey, Rishabh Pant (wkp.), Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kedar Jadhav, Mohammed Shami, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Khaleel Ahmed and Navdeep Saini.
Trophy Stall 23 backs Nand Persaud Sprint Classic Horserace Meet this Sunday
Veteran opener Chris Gayle … needs 13 runs to surpass Brian Lara as the leading West Indies run-scorer in ODIs
Page
General Manager of Trophy Stall, Ramesh Sunich (right) presents trophies to General Manager of Nand Persaud Group Of Companies and Coordinator of the Sprint Classic meet, Mohendra Persaud
Aliyah Abrams through to Women’s 400m final in Peru
Guyana’s Aliyah Abrams (wearing #6) competes in the Women’s 400m semi-final during the 2019 Pan Am Games in Lima, Peru. (Photo: Luis Acosta/AFP/Getty Images)
ALIYAH Abrams became Guyana’s brightest star at the Pan Am Games in Lima, Peru, having become the first Guyanese to qualify for a final in a track event, during a dismal performance from the athletes representing the ‘592’ in Track and Field. After Brenessa Thompson and Emmanuel Archibald failed to make it out of the qualifiers in the 100m, and Jenea McCammon did not finish the Women’s 110m hurdles, Abrams clocked 52.92 seconds in heat one of two in the women’s 400m. In her qualifiers, Abrams, whose Personal Best in the event is 51.13 seconds, set on June 8, finished 5th behind Jamaica’s Shericka Jackson (51.99s), Cuba’s Roxana Gomez (52.04s), Jaide Stepter of the USA (52.19s) and Canadian Cheresse Constantine (52.92s).
Abrams will compete in the final today, while Thompson will look to bounce back from her poor performance in the 100m, when she takes the field in the 200m. Winston George will also be on show today in the Men’s 200m. Meanwhile, Archibald, Guyana’s National record-holder in the Long Jump (8.12 metres), finished 11th in a field of 13 jumpers in the Men’s Long Jump at the Pan Am Games. Archibald,, who only made three attempts, leaped a distance of 7.21 metres, in the event that was won by Cuba Juan Miguel Echevarria (8.27 metres). Juan Miguel Echevarria is the current World Indoor Champion and the 2015 Junior Pan Am Champion. Jamaican Tajay Gayle was second (8.17 metres) and Uruguay’s Emiliano Lasa Sanchez came third with a distance of 7.87 metres.
API in GBA’s corner for Junior Caribbean Schoolboys Boxing Championship 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
Page
27
THURSDAY, AUGUST 8, 2019