Guyana_Chronicle_Epaper_12_06_2019

FRIDAY 6th December, 2019

' No.105843

ICJ to move ahead

without Venezuela

SEE STORY ON PAGE 02

…as country fails to defend claims that court lacks jurisdiction to hear border case …President confident of Guyana getting a favourable judgement in a very short time

Gov’t inherited a 'bad hand'

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...President says PPP left behind massive debts, marginalisation and a divided Guyana

Canadian fugitive nabbed

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…as he tries to obtain driver’s licence

700 graduate from GTI SEE STORY ON PAGE 21

Some of the graduates of the Government Technical Institute (Carl Croker photo)

14,000 land titles distributed over 4 years

– Min. Bulkan reveals

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– $6B invested in infrastructural upgrades in gov’t housing schemes

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, December 6, 2019

ICJ to move ahead without Venezuela

…as country fails to defend claims that court lacks jurisdiction to hear border case …President confident of Guyana getting a favourable judgement in a very short time

By Lisa Hamilton VENEZUELA has still not informed the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on whether or not it will be putting forward oral arguments on the court’s jurisdiction to adjudicate the matter with regards to the case filed by Guyana – Arbitral Award of 1899 (Guyana v Venezuela).

Guyana’s Foreign Sec-

retary, Carl Greenidge told this newspaper on Thursday that this information would have been placed on the ICJ’s website had it taken place, but when he last checked, there was no such change.

He reiterated that Guyana is not waiting on Venezuela to move forward with the matter and its lawyers on the case are preparing themselves for the court proceedings ahead.

The oral hearings will

be held in The Hague from March 23-27, 2020. The hearing will determine whether the court has jurisdiction over the case filed by Guyana on March 29, 2018.

By that case, Guyana seeks to obtain, from the court, a final and binding judgement that the 1899 Arbitral Award, which established the location of the land boundary between then British Guiana and Venezuela, remains President David Granger

valid and binding, and that Guyana’s Essequibo region belongs to Guyana, and not Venezuela.

Contending that the ICJ lacks jurisdiction to adjudicate in the matter, Venezuela has failed to submit its Counter-Memorial on Jurisdiction – in response to Guyana’s Memorial on April 18, 2019 – a date which was fixed by the court. Nonetheless, the Spanish-speaking country was given the opportunity to contribute to the process and a deadline to do so by November 28, 2019.

The Foreign Secretary has said that if Venezuela indicates to the ICJ that it will not submit oral arguments, the case will go on unhindered.

“Whether or not Venezuela participates, I wouldn’t put it as being immaterial, but it does not frustrate the work of the court. The work of the court will proceed, whether or not they participate,” Greenidge said in November.

Foreign Secretary, Carl Greenidge

President David Granger, too, is looking forward to the ICJ’s final ruling on the matter as he said on Thursday, as a guest on Hits and Jams 94.1 BOOM FM, that the country remains very confident that the right judgement will be given. “We hope that we will get a judgement and we are very confident of getting a favourable judgement in a very short time. This has been a ‘monkey on our backs’ for half a century,” he said.

Guyana was keen on pointing out that for efforts over more than half-a-century, including a four-year Mixed Commission (19661970), a 12-year moratorium (1970-1982), a seven-year process of consultations on a means of settlement (19831990), and a 27-year Good Offices Process under the UN Secretary-General’s authority (1990-2017), all have failed to end the controversy.

After an international panel issued the 1899 Arbi-

tral Award, Venezuela and Britain demarcated British Guiana’s border with Venezuela. Though both Venezuela and Britain had accepted the Arbitral Award in 1899, Venezuela, some 63 years later, rejected the award. On February 17, 1966, the Geneva Agreement was signed by the Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and the Government of Venezuela, thereby establishing a Mixed Commission with the task of seeking satisfactory solutions for settlement of the border controversy. Guyana gained independence in May 1966 with Essequibo an integral part of the state.

In September 2015, President David Granger called upon the then UN Secretary-General, Ban Ki moon, to have Venezuela’s contention that the Arbitral Award of 1899 is “null and void” TURN TO PAGE

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, December 6, 2019

Gov’t inherited a ‘bad hand’ ...President says PPP left behind massive debts, marginalisation and a divided Guyana …coalition has done its best in just four years to turn around the decline

By Lisa Hamilton AS Guyanese prepare to head to the polls next year, President David Granger has been speaking about some the challenges faced by his administration – one of which is he said was the inheriting of a number of woes from the former PPP Administration which have somewhat curtailed the pace at which the government wanted to move.

As a guest on Hits and Jams 94.1 BOOM FM programme Hot Seat on Thursday, the President listed some of these as the sugar industry which was drowning in debt; the failed $1.3B Fiber Optic Cable Project; the low-producing Skeldon Sugar Factory; uncooperative Regional leaders; expensive debts to the court and poor law enforcement management. “These were expensive burdens that we had to bear,” the President said. His account detailed that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) left a “bad hand” behind which was a major draw-back to development for Guyana although the coalition has done its best, in just four years, to turn around the decline.

In 2015, when the President Granger-led administration came into government, it wasted no time in calling for Local Government Elections which have since been held twice in four years after a 23-year hiatus. This move did not only remove the Interim Management Committees that were running the municipalities of Guyana, but also created an avenue for new townships to be formed. However, the President noted that even with new leaders which were elected by the people in each Region, members of the PPP/C refused to work along

with central government for the development of their communities.

RESISTANCE FROM PPP MEMBERS

from the former state of community development in Guyana which the Head of State said saw varying degrees of assistance given to villages based on their politi-

Chief Education Officer (ACEO), Leslyn Charles, had pointed out that the majority of school drop-outs were males and the secondary school graduation rates of males were below 30 per cent. In 2008 the Stabroek News reported that between 2004 and 2007, 13,844 students dropped out of the primary school system, representing four per cent of the national population.

President David Granger

“[There was much] resistance that we got from the Chairmen of the regions which were elected on the PPP ticket, particularly Region One, Region Two, Region Three, Region Five, Region Six and Region Nine.

This is serious because here we placed a lot of emphasis on the development of the regional system to give people in those areas a better quality of life but those chairmen who were elected on the PPP ticket refused to corporate with the Minister of Communities. He would invite them to meetings, they wouldn’t come. He’d give instructions, they wouldn’t obey,” he said.

The President surmised that it was almost as though the PPP aimed at waging a civil war in the country which has been a major obstacle to regional development. This is not different

cal choice. “The PPP divided the country into green villages and red villages. The green villages were the PNC villages and the red villages were the PPP villages. That is a form of discrimination and we’ve overcome that now. We’re trying to provide services to all communities,” he said.

“A lot of people, all over the country, suffered because of the discriminatory practices of the Jagdeo regime…Mr. Jagdeo, he knows truthfully where the emphasis of public expenditure had its greatest impact and it was not in African communities. I’m not going to quarrel about who is rich and who is poor; he knows what he did.” Another challenge expounded upon by the President was the school dropout rate which he stated was “extremely high”.

In 2014, then Assistant

According to the Chief Planning Officer of the Ministry of Education, Evelyn Hamilton, the situation was much worse, particularly in primary and secondary schools in hinterland areas like Regions One and Nine where rates were more than triple. The President said that the drop-out rate has been reduced while the government is also tackling unemployment and youth empowerment through avenues such as the Guyana Youth Corps which was years ago absorbed by the National Service which was discontinued by the PPP. “The PPP shut down the National Service which meant that a lot of young people did not get the opportunity to seek employment…many of those who looked forward into going in to the National Service to get an opportu-

ICJ to move ahead without ... force included Ankoko Island, the Cuyuni occupation (1966); the sponsored Rupununi uprising of 1969; the Leoni Decree – the attempt to seize territorial sea (1968); assault on Eteringbang outpost 1970 & innumerable subsequent military

OPPORTUNITIES FOR YOUTHS This was complimented by projects such as the Linden Enterprise Network (LEN); the Hinterland Em-

Former President and now Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo

FROM PAGE

settled with finality by judicial process, as per the Geneva Agreement.

There have been several incidents involving military force, coercion and bullying by the Spanish-speaking country against Guyana.

Military Force and the threat of

nity to resume their education, their training, were just abandoned because the PPP shut down the National Service. It was my job to reestablish the Guyana Youth Corps,” he said.

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acts; the military seizure of Technics Perdana — seismic survey vessel of Anadarko in 2013; and most recently, the attempted boarding of seismic vessel, Ramform Tethys on December 22, 2018.

ployment and Youth Service (HEYS) programme; Sustainable Livelihood and Entrepreneurial Development (SLED) which help youths to acquire funding to start their own businesses.

Some of the other efforts he noted which have helped to turn the tide were improved wages, increased pensions and increases of the income tax threshold; four new towns; taking the Venezuela dispute to the court; upgrading the capacity of law enforcement and improved telecommunication, water and infrastructure facilities.

Speaking to one aspect, the President said: “We’ve improved wages for working people in a dramatic fashion.

A teacher who might have been earning maybe $34,000 at the start of our Administration is probably getting well over $70,000 now.

Ordinary working people are better off.”

Meanwhile the creation of four new towns in Guyana, in different Regions and all within just one year, leads to economic development by encouraging infrastructural extension, investment, information and innovation.

In other efforts to bridge the gap between the hinterland and the coast, the President said that the quality of education in schools have been improved country-wide with improved performances experienced in the hinterland and coast.

Earlier this year, the Nasdaq Stock Exchange named the fastest growing economy in the world while the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has predicted that Guyana’s economy could grow as much as over 80 per cent in 2020. “I think, as a whole, the country has avoided some of the pit falls of other Caribbean countries and we have been able to guarantee good economic return consistently,” the President said, adding: “We inherited and very bad hand and that is why next year in the General and Regional Elections we’re confident that we will be able to continue what was started in 2015.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 6, 2019

Bright Christmas for Prosville residents

By Vanessa Braithwaite

THE festive season has just gotten brighter for the Wismar, Linden community of Prosville, and this will be the brightest December residents would experience within the last 15 years, as their homes are now glowing with electricity.

Ministers of Public Infrastructure David Patterson and Jaipaul Sharma taking a first glimpse of a street light pole in Andyville

The Government of Guyana, through the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, has expended $24.6M on installing

electricity in Prosville, and the overjoyed residents, at the simple commissioning ceremony on Thursday, were high in praise that one of their dreams has become reality.

These sentiments were expressed by chairman of the Prosville Community Development Council (CDC) Andrea Agard. In her brief remarks, which were made in the presence of both junior and senior Ministers of Public Infrastructure David Patterson and Jaipaul Sharma, Agard reminisced on the dark days of Prosville and how the community suffered tremendously during this time without electricity.

Those who suffered the most were students and business persons. Agard said it was the Coalition government that made their dream a reality, and that Minister Patterson has stood by his word that the community will no longer be the Land of the Forgotten.

“After living in the community for more than 15 years, what we fought for all our existence has finally become a success… Honourable David Patterson, who promised us that we are not in the Land of

the Forgotten and his promise is now a reality,” she said.

Regional Chairman Renis Morian posited that moves such as these reflect that the government does not stand on empty promises, especially to the local people, and is working towards the greater good for the greatest number and not for itself and cronies.

“So we didn’t go and just put a big house in a place called Pradoville,” he said. “We looked to the ordinary people; those persons with needs. Step by step, brick by brick, we are working assiduously to make the needs of those persons fulfilled.” Morian said that with the community now lit, he is looking forward for better results from students at both the primary and secondary level.

A RIGHT The project was facilitated by the Linden Electricity Incorporated (LEI), and its Chairman, Tracey Johnson, told residents that it is not a mere gift to the people, but it is their right that was given to them. He explained that the project cost millions of dollars, and it is just the beginning of the many good things that the

06 December, 2019 - 01:00hrs - ~02:30hrs

community will benefit from when the Coalition government returns to office. “Promises are things of the past,” Johnson said, adding: “Whenever we see a situation and we say we are going to fix it, we fix it. We have given you light today; We will give you road and we will give you water.”

In his feature address, Minister Patterson highlighted that the project is not just a mere election gimmick, but was long in the making and that it is only now that the process, which started over a year ago, has come to fruition.

“That came as an instruction directly from the President to provide the good life for every citizen of this community.

And Prosville, you are a good citizen and a good community and you do deserve this,” he said.

ONLY A START The minister told the residents this is only a start, so they should remain optimistic, as massive infrastructural development will come to their community.

In fact, to loud applause, Patterson made a commitment to the residents to provide street lights for the Christmas season. The community presently sources water from stand pipes.

These transformations must occur, he said, since, with the construction of the Linden to Lethem Road, Prosville will become prime real-estate prop-

erty, and many persons will be flocking there for both residential and commercial land, given it is in close proximity to the road. He encouraged the residents that while they must be their brother’s keepers, they must safeguard it from persons who are not willing to adhere to principles and practices of the CDC. Municipal Councillor Norvil Fredericks related that now that Prosville is on the regularisation radar, it will be deemed a part of the municipality of Linden, and will benefit from all the services of a regularised community, such as drainage cleaning and garbage collection.

Prosville, the neighbouring Community to Andyville, is located in the One Mile Extension Area, and has approximately 300 households. It was established in 2004 with just a few families. Together, the residents fought for the provision of electricity and water. Andyville received electrification in March 2019.

Present at the commissioning ceremony were Member of Parliament Jermaine Figueira; Regional Vice-Chairman Elroy Adolph; representatives from the Linden Electricity Incorporated; the Linden Utilities Services Co-op Society (LUSCL); and regional and municipal councillors among other regional officials.

Saturday November 30, 2019

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 6, 2019

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Public Service Department gets new PS

THE Department of Public Service, Ministry of the Presidency has a new Permanent Secretary, in the person of Ms. Soyinka Grogan, appointed effective December 2, 2019.

Ms. Grogan holds a Masters’ Degree in Social Work.

She joined the Public Service as a Student Affairs Officer in 1997 and held a number of other senior positions prior to being appointed Manager, Scholarships Administration in 2014 where she worked until her current appointment.

During a brief meeting with Staff at the Department’s Waterloo Street location on Thursday, the newly appointed PS expressed gratitude for the appointment and the cooperation received by staff. She committed to and encouraged staff to work

to make the public service a better sector.

Present at the meeting was Minister of Public Service, Hon. Tabitha Sarabo-Halley, who also encouraged all present to work steadfastly to improve the delivery of ser-

vices in keeping with the mandate of the Public Service, the department said in a release. Ms. Grogan has replaced Karen Vansluytman-Corbin who had only recently been appointed to the post.

New Permanent Secretary in the Department of Public Service, Ms. Soyinka Grogan

Linden business owners band together to remain competitive THE newly-formed Linden Business Group which comprises of more than 50 business owners in Linden has taken a decision to work together rather than against each other, so they can benefit from a level playing field.

The group believes that this is a perfect approach to tackle the growing competition of foreign and outside businesses. This unanimous decision was taken at a very candid and informative meeting held on Wednesday evening.

Present was the Minister of Business, Hemraj Rajkumar; Minister within the Ministry of Agriculture, Valarie Yearwood, who holds the hat of director of the Linden Enterprise Network (LEN) and representatives from the Small Businesses Bureau, Go Invest, LEN, Citizen Bank and Republic Bank.

One of the bleeding concerns of the local business operators is the growing presence of foreign businesses in the town, which they deemed as a deterrent to the local economy.

Chairman of the group, Garfield Shepherd, piloted the call, which was accepted by all and sundry, to network, not for individual good, but for the good

disburse in the Linden, we are coming to the end of the year and we need to get the money into your hands,” she said.

She also urged the business

you don’t have to go and sell like everybody else.”

SBB Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Dr. Lowell Porter, urged the business owners to

at a location demarcated opposite the Wismar Market. This park is expected to bring great transformation the town, bring increased sales to the Wismar

Minister of Business, Hemraj Rajkumar addressing members of the Linden Business Group

of the economy of the township. To push this forward, the group has already commenced implementing a database of each business operator and this will enable them to pool their resources together to purchase goods and supplies from one supplier, rather than to access same from second and third parties, which will have a domino effect on prices.

Shepherd mulled that each group of businesses will access finances collectively, purchase collectively and share information, so that the wealth will be disbursed collectively. He urged the excited business owners to let honesty be the key and in the long run, the benefits will be bountiful.

This move was endorsed by Minister Yearwood, who urged the business owners to keep

their prices competitive since that is one of the major reasons competitors are having the upper hand in the town. She also urged them to be aggressive towards what they want to achieve since it is for the better good of the town.

LEN IS PREGNANT WITH MONEY Yearwood, who is also a director at LEN, urged the business owners to fully utilise the funding available for business loans at LEN. She said a significant amount of the monies made available, through government funding, is sitting in the bank.

Now that LEN has raised the ceiling from $1M, she urged them to have this money disbursed into the town. “The money is not there to build interest in the bank, it is to

A section of the gathering of business owners at the meeting

owners to be innovative and to think agro-processing, which is in keeping with the President's vision.

“We have more sellers than buyers.... maybe you have fruit trees and want to make some jelly, you can come and get a loan to add to that and bring your business to reality. Lindeners, we have so many resources,

take advantage of the local help desk located at the Linden Mayor and Town Council. Similar encouragement and advice were given by the other lending institutions present.

At the meeting, the business owners were also asked to share their ideas for development. One of these was the construction of a Mahdia Park

Market vendors and by extension, much benefit to the entire business community of Linden.

The Business Group promises to continue holding engagements with regional and government officials to have their concerns aired and to make the necessary representation for each member.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 6, 2019

The failed Skeldon factory and the PPP THE Skeldon sugar factory, commissioned in 2010 and considered the country’s largest investment (US$200M), was described as a modern, state-of-the-art facility in which the future of the sugar industry was placed. In justifying the need for this factory, the then People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Administration informed the nation that Guyana was operating at a competitive level in the international marketplace; and the European Union preferential price, while being reduced overtime, would eventually be eliminated.

The decision to undertake this major investment was made by a few persons. The money invested was, at the time, bigger than the National Budget, and the investment was done without discussion/consultation with

stakeholders, including the Parliament -- the nation’s most representative and highest decision-making forum.

From the onset, including conceptualisation of the idea, the factory was plagued with problems.

The Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo), which owns the Skeldon sugar factory, is a state company, which means it belongs to the people of Guyana. Conscious of this ownership and role, it is not unreasonable to have expected that the administration at the time would have sought to have had national discourse and parliamentary consensus on undertaking this investment. Instead, the nation was subjected to a narrative that said non-support for this investment meant being against a specific race. This tactic effectively prevented sane and constructive discussions surviving in

the public sphere.

In effect, what the PPP/C achieved was having a blank cheque to do as it like, without feeling it had to be held accountable by the people and the checks and balances in governance being enforced. In so doing, a few made decisions on the cost of the mill, where it would be sourced, and the contractor assigned to the project. When difficulties arose, these said persons presided over the withdrawal of money from the Consolidated Fund for various reasons.

The capacity of the Skeldon mill, from its inception, had shown the availability of land to produce the required canes to sustain it was not there, which not only pointed to poor decision-making, but lent to the perception of unethical practice. Outside of the PPP/C Administration’s failing to respect the fact that an investment of

such magnitude required the broadest consultation and support, building a factory for a capacity that could not be met, along with failure to put measures in place to meet that capacity, gave rise to suspicion. The technical problems that had confronted Skeldon resulted in millions of dollars being channeled to correct deficiencies, of which various continue to surface, resulting in underperformance. On one hand, the canes were not there to meet capacity; and on the other, the factory was plagued with technical difficulties which, in both instances, saw money being thrown behind what is clearly a bad investment. It is against this background that the opposition’s promise to revive the sugar industry must be viewed with suspicion and according to General Secretary of the GTUC, Lincoln Lincoln Lewis, they must not be trusted.

Lewis has correctly put it that it was during the PPP administration that sugar’s fortune changed drastically, and it proved incapable of salvaging the industry. When presented with the opportunity to diversify and retool with financial support offered from the European Union, the PPP blew it and, according to Lewis, “The nation witnessed a scatter-shot approach in decision-making.” Frankly put, the PPP never had a plan to turnaround the fortunes of the industry, which they managed for 23 years. It is hardly likely they have one now despite all the talks of caring for sugar workers.

Responding to the Belle Vue farmers’ story Dear Editor,

IT is with a sinking heart that I respond to a letter under the caption “The Belle Vue Farmers’ Story” purportedly under the hand of Shyam Balkarran and published in the Kaieteur News of November 23, 2019.

First, when I joined the management team of the Ministry of Labour as it was in 2014 and under whose superintendence of the co-operative function of Government fell, I encountered serious issues pertaining to the Belle-Vue-Farmers’ Co-operative Society. After several years of engaging all interested parties and stakeholders, the contentious issues were resolved through the conduct of an Annual General Meeting in December 2018 at which a Committee of Management was elected by the legitimate members of the society.

During the years of engagement by the Ministry of Labour – now Ministry of Social Protection – all interested

parties were given hearings and opportunities to be heard before any and every decision was made, and I must say that in every instance, the ministry was guided by the rules contained in the Co-operative Societies Act, Chapter 88:01. I have consulted the “Pocket Oxford Dictionary and Thesaurus” which defines the word Rule as “a statement of what must be done or not done.”

This definition in my opinion confirms to the nature of laws and their associated regulations which, inter alia, help managements to function with integrity but not without flexibility. In this regard and in view of the fact that many co-operative societies were previously penetrated by certain individuals with less than honourable intentions, including those linked to money laundering, all personnel in the Co-operative Development Unit of the ministry constantly keep in focus Section 21 of the Act which reads as follows; “In order to be qualified for membership of a

Co-operative Society a person, other than a registered society, must, at the time of application: be resident within or in occupation of land within the society’s area of operations as described by the rules”.

The operation of this section of the law undoubtedly means that no one residing outside of Guyana can properly be a member of a co-operative society in Guyana. During the course of addressing the issues which plagued the Belle-Vue ‘Co-op Society’, a gentleman who responded to the name of Balram Balkarran or B. Balkarran interfaced with this ministry purportedly as a member and representative of the members of the society.

It was eventually discovered that Cde. Balkarran was not residing in Guyana, but in Canada. Never-the-less whenever he sought an engagement with the ministry’s officials, he was always facilitated in the interest of finding an amicable solution to the issues which prevailed and even those

which emerged, along the way.

Over the years, the ministry in conjunction with the legitimate members of the society would develop workable solutions which were acceptable to the stakeholders.

However, whenever Cde. Balkarran visited Guyana he would instigate some individuals to contest the decisions which were mutually arrived at and which were working smoothly. He would not only encourage them to seek an overturning to decisions, but also encourage them to boycott meetings called by the Ministry to ventilate their grievances.

Some of them as is evidenced in the excerpt below have concluded in a letter dated March 26, 2019 that Mr. Balkarran had misled them.

EXCERPT OF LETTER OF MARCH 26, 2019.

“We the undersigned hereby agree to settle all pending matters with the Belle-VueCane Farmers Co-op Society in regards to illegally occupying the co-op lands. Please be

informed that we were misled

by Balram Bulkarran for occupying the Belle-Vue-Co-op Lands.

THANK YOU Sdg (six members)” The letter, from which the above excerpt was made, was written after the December 2018 Annual General Meeting, at which the current Management Committee was elected.

As far as I am aware, the current Management Committee is functioning well enough to the satisfaction of the members and the ministry. Accordingly, I hereby submit that even though Mr. Balkarran is not a legitimate member of the society, he was never-the-less heard in every instance that he requested that treatment. I am of the considered opinion that the Ministry of Social Protection has done everything humanly, morally and legally possible to resolve the issues which hindered the functioning of the Belle Vue Co-op Societiety for years.

We cannot afford to allow

any individual who has no standing in the matter to obstruct perpetually, the smooth functioning of the society. I have observed that in all previous correspondences from Mr. Balkarran the initial B or the name Balram was used as a First Name but in the letter under review the First Name used is Shyam, which is a name by which he is also known in Belle Vue before he migrated to Canada. That is his ‘call’ name. Finally, I believe that the ministry has already expended vast amounts of resources in addressing this matter which should now be considered closed, without any further treatment. To do otherwise, would be subscribing to an abuse of authority and goodwill, which it can ill afford.

Further I say not.

Regards, Mr. Francis Carryl Consultant

Opposition behind latest move to encourage sugar workers to strike Dear Editor, I READ with utter disbelief that sugar workers had gone on strike for an increase in wages and salaries. This is coming on the back of reports from GuySuCo, that part of the reason it had struggled to survive and thrive in the past was the fact that more than 60 per cent of its expenditure had to be apportioned to wages.

So some of the estates, which were losing large chunks of cash to old equipment, poor crop

cultivation and other forms of inefficiencies, were closed, leaving the current ones that we know are in use, still functioning. Or so we are told.

I therefore wonder if the company will, in fact, be able to meet the increases given the state of the sector, the frequent strikes and demands for even more wage increases. Mr. Editor, some middle ground has to be reached here quickly as the workers and their unions must be aware that the situation in the industry is not getting better but rather worse. The same is true in the other coun-

tries producing sugar, except Belize I am told.

I also think that the years of unreasonable demands by the two unions over the decades for higher wages and salaries have pushed the expenditure and cash flow situation to such a high level that even if today’s demands for increases are reasonable, these would, in fact, amount to being unrealistic as the wages situation has simply gone too far.

I also wish to posit that the opposition might be behind this latest move to encourage

a workers strike as they might be making comparisons to the recent wages hike for public servants by the government. One thing we know here is that no commercial undertaking can survive with a wages bill above 50 percent much less in the 60s, heading to 70 per cent.

That would be time to leave that very same industry.

Regards, Winston Mars

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 6, 2019

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The statue must be removed from its present location

Dear Editor,

Claudeston G. Massiah’s call for the removal of the statue of Queen Victoria from in front of the Supreme Court is timely. Organisation for the Victory of the People (OVP) has long advocated for the statue to be removed and placed on the grounds of the British High Commission or at the Haags Bosch dumpsite.

Another idea being floated is that it should be placed in a museum that exhibits colonial relics that will serve to remind each generation of the horrors of the colonial project.

The statue was resurrected by former Mayor of Georgetown, Compton Young, from

the eastern end of the Botanical Gardens, where it had been placed after being removed from the grounds of the Supreme Court by Forbes Burnham. With explicit permission from the counter-revolutionary and reactionary Desmond Hoyte, Young placed the statue in front of City Hall. It was later removed from that location by the PPP regime and placed right back in front of the Supreme Court.

This statue is an affront to our ancestors – Indigenous, African and Indian, and our sovereignty, whatever little is left of it. To those who are proclaiming that Queen Victoria abolished slavery, I refer you to the letter by Patricia Com-

missiong (KN, 3/11/19) which clearly debunks this false narrative. For the record, I would like to add that the primary factor in the abolition of slavery was that of African agency. Africans resisted enslavement from the moment they were captured and it was their continuous and well organised resistance that eventually made their enslavement untenable. Any attempt to trivialise and minimise the role of our captured ancestors in their own liberation reeks of racism and the historical erasure that accompanies it.

All those who played a part in returning this statue to where it stands today, and all those who are now calling for it to remain there, are guilty of

pandering to the British Government and their representatives in Guyana. Something is wrong with the psyche of those who insist that this statue must remain in its present location simply because it is part of our history. They are making the absurd argument that this white supremacist, Queen Victoria, must retain pride of place in front of a building which is supposed to uphold justice, something that was denied our ancestors under her reign.

The brutal repression that she presided over, from India to Zululand, is well documented.

What exactly are we celebrating with this statue – crimes against humanity? Adolf Hitler is part of German history does that

mean that a statue to honour him should be placed in front of Germany’s law courts?

Colonisation is a part of our history, however, the way we read and remember that history is very important.

Our rejection of the racism, injustice and terrorism that characterised the colonial project of the past and those historical figures like Queen Victoria who presided over these crimes is imperative.

If we as a people truly understood the horrors of our past, the statue would never have been reinstated after Burnham dislodged it. And if we do not truly understand our past, how then are we to successfully resist attempts

by the ABC/EU countries to trample on our independence and right to self-determination in the present? It is self-defeating to demand respect and our right to independence, while at the same time we ourselves persist in preserving and giving pride of place to the symbols and images of our past oppression and subjugation. The statue must be removed from its present location.

Regards, Gerald A. Perreira Organisation for the Victory of the People (OVP)

Community failed domestic violence victim Dear Editor,

Notwithstanding the proven fact that Lennard Allen, a former community policing chairman, was a known imbiber of alcohol, and that such a habit may have influenced his brutal behaviour towards his former partners – all dead – there was full evidence that he possessed a natural disposition for savage treatment of his female partners, which he had no compunction in dispensing with all the bestial ferocity at his disposal, as he slowly destroyed both their physical and mental lives, eventually to a lifeless pulp.

In the case of his reported first partner, she was never any good after he broke her hips; she physically lingered

until death. It is the classic accrual cost of domestic violence, in terms of a mother’s loss to family, extending to if she had been gainfully earning.

In the second instance, which eventually resulted in Allen being charged for murder – he is known to have on occasions, beaten his partner with such extreme cruelty, often forcing her to flee naked on to the streets. This is a man who was unconscionable and who treated women, not as partners, but as appendages to do his every bidding; failing which the consequences were predictable, as displayed in the physical assault of his second partner whom he battered with a bicycle bar, because her cooking did not please his palate, for nine barbaric hours, as witnessed

by a neighbour. I will deal with the issue of the neighbor subsequently.

One must agree with the learned trial judge’s conclusion of Allen’s profile – that he is a serial abuser, is absolutely accurate, given the facts before the court.

It was therefore reasonable, just, and within the law, for the Madame prosecutrix to have called for a punishment that suited the gravity of the crime. From a totally layman’s understanding, this was interpreted to mean that given the monstrous brutality Allen exacted on his poor, defenceless victim, and notwithstanding that he entered a manslaughter plea for a sentence that can range up to life.

Her position is one which I support, especially that of the convicted accused past

record, that can be taken into account when found guilty at the time of sentencing.

Further, on a layman’s comprehension as to the 19 years given, it would seem that it bore only relevance to the specific case in respect of which such sentence was given. However, its judicial punishment for that kind of savagery ought to have been equal in weight, serving as a condign warning and deterrent for those of similar pre-disposition. One is of the view that in contrast to its other twin - evil half of domestic violence, sexual abuse, physical abusers brought before the court, and have not been feeling the full wrath of the court. But, one supposes that punishment in such instances may have to consider the circumstances

of the case?

Finally, one must come to the community aspect of this very cruel and callous act, in which a witness testified that for nine hours he had witnessed the brutal beating to death of the victim. My immediate reaction to this unbelievable act of disinterest, which is really the traditional – “I mining meh own business’’ attitude, was one of total disbelief.

This witness should have been roundly reprimanded by the court for the kind of cold-heartedness and advised on an entirely new approach to a social issue that must no longer be seen as a ‘private or domestic matter’; but instead one that must concern every citizen, and every community, because of its pervasiveness; its unchecked regular-

ity, and its death toll. This is apart from the maimed injuries like those of Lennard’s first victim, which reportedly took her to the Great Beyond.

Even if not totally defeating the scourge of this social brutal behavior, the involvement of every citizen in any manner, whether as mediator, or notifying the authorities of a female being at risk because of intimate partner violence, is an absolute. The community, through the selfish and inexplicable behavior of that neighbor cum witness, failed the victim.

Regards, Carla Mendonca

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 6, 2019

Electricity returns to Port Kaituma RESIDENTS of Port Kaituma, Region One, rejoiced on Thursday evening as electricity was restored to the community, Chief Executive Officer of Power Producers and Distributors Incorporated (PPDI), Dr. Aaron Fraser has confirmed.

The Ministry of Public Infrastructure, through its agent –

PPDI, had successfully transported the replacement engine to Port Kaituma, Region One. The replacement engine arrived a few months after the community has been experiencing fluctuating power outages.

The Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson, sought to address this by replacing the old

engine, to have residents resume their normal course of life as soon as possible.

The district has been without reliable access to electricity for over a month and last week residents protested the Port Kaituma Power and Light Inc. (PKPL), the company that provides electricity to the community.

The replacement engine that was installed at the power station

Winners of…presented ‘Ride with Sujata’ promotion unveiled with motorcycles and other prizes

THREE motorcycles, along with several hampers and gift cards, were presented to several persons who participated and won in the Continental Group of Companies ‘Ride with Sujata’ promotion.

According to the company’s secretary, Mr. M.S. Ally, the Continental Group of Companies has been producing Sujata Curry Powder and several other products for over 60 years in Guyana.

Ally added that while the company has evolved, its products are still authentic and of good quality.

He stated that the company recently moved away from the traditional plastic bags and introduced the barrier proof plastic which helps retain the aroma and ingredients of the curry powder and other products, to give buyers the

best quality.

Ally commended the winners of the promotion for their unwavering support and urged them to remain the loyal customers that they are.

“We want to commend you for using Sujata Curry Powder and I hope you continue to use Sujata Curry Powder,” he stated.

Mr. Denis MacDonald, who sells home-made icecream, stated that he uses Sujata Custard Powder which has the main ingredient when making ice-cream and is elated to know that he won something from the company’s promotion. “I feel wonderful, it’s the first time I win something and it’s not about the price, it’s the quality and I’m happy Mr. C. Brijnandan, Officer Manager of the Continental Group of Companies and Mr. M.S. Ally, Secretary of the ContiI’m riding with Sujata’s nental Group of Companies along with the winners of the promotion bike,” MacDonald stated.

Contract out for reconstruction of Wardapau Bridge Dear Editor

THE Ministry of Public Infrastructure (MoPI) wishes to respond to an article published by Stabroek News on Wednesday, December 4, 2019 under the headline ‘Aishalton residents say rotting bridge putting travellers in danger.’

The ministry would like to make it clear that it does not bear any responsibility for the aforementioned bridge under its Hinterland Department, according to the ministry’s Senior Hinterland Engineer, this bridge falls under the purview of the Regional Democratic Council in Region Nine.

Additionally, our Senior Hinterland Engineer made contact with Region Nine’s Regional Executive Officer

when it was communicated that a contract was already awarded for the construction of the Wardapau Bridge in Deep South Rupununi which links South Rupununi with the town of Lethem.

Based on the information received, construction works are expected to commence soon on the bridge, according to the ministry’s Region Nine Engineer. The ministry therefore requests that the media makes contact with Region Nine’s Regional Democratic Council for more information.

Best Regards, Ms. Krest Cummings Senior Public Relations Officer Ministry of Public Infrastructure

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 6, 2019

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Canawaima remains grounded …Suriname authorities give conflicting report on status of repair work

By Wendella Davidson THE anticipated return of the Guyana-Suriname ferry, MV Canawaima, to the Moleson Creek-- South Drain (Nickerie) route on Dec 01, 2019, did not materialise as the vessel remains on the mudflat on the Suriname shore.

A source on the Guyana side with knowledge about the vessel’s operation, told the Guyana Chronicle that their Surinamese counterpart had earlier communicated that all the needed repairs on the vessel had been completed and only a trial-run had to be done prior to resumption.

The repairs entailed the installation of a new engine and securing of the engine foot, among other works.

But to the dismay of a

The Canawaima ferry remains grounded in Suriname

team of local engineers from the T&HD and the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD) that conducted a `spot visit’ to South Drain where the vessel is moored on the mudflat, it found that the report given was totally untrue, also that the ferry was “ far from ready “ to resume operations.

Businessman donates road safety items to police force SHAHAB Hack, a businessman of Georgetown and a staunch Road Safety advocate, has donated in excess of 12 traffic wands and 15 reflector vests to Regional Police Division Four (B) (Eccles-Moblissa) on Thursday.

Receiving on behalf of the division was Commander, Senior Superintendent, Kurleigh Simon, in the presence of his traffic officer, Assistant Superintendent, Jermaine Harper.

The commander noted that the donation from a member of civil society was timely.

Gratitude was expressed to Hack for the donation and his continued support for the police and road safety.

In an invited comment, Hack said there was an increase in fatal accidents within that district and he was motivated to assist.

“I have seen the level of enforcement being stepped up, the road madness and lawless need to stop and if drivers don’t change their behaviour they will suffer, and there is always room for improvement,” Hack said.

President David Granger

recently insisted that more must be done to prevent deaths, disabilities, injuries and damage to property on Guyana’s roadways as he finds “deeply distressing” the number persons who have lost their lives in road accidents recently and in the past.

In a message to the nation on Wednesday, the Head of State noted the “insane increase in road fatalities” have been caused primarily by speeding, driving under the influence of alcohol, inattentive driving and driving on roads which are congested or unsafe for other road users.

Even as the president urged road users to observe the Guyana Police Force’s (GPFs) code of behaviour – care, caution, consideration, common sense and courtesy – as they utilise the roadways, he pointed out that some of his own proposals made at the launch of Road Safety Month, on November 4, 2015. The three-point approach includes stricter enforcement of existing traffic laws; increased road safety education; and improved road signs and infrastructure.

“I cannot understand how it was reported that the vessel was ready to be taken on a trial-run, when, among other things, the engineers found that the foot of the engine is not even bolted down. Also, they found no evidence of some other repairs being undertaken was done,” the source said, adding that it

is the first time that repairs are being undertaken on the MV Canawaima without the involvement of the Guyanese engineers.

It is the opinion of the source, however, that because of the type of work to be effected on the engine, the vessel should be taken into a dockyard where it can be hoisted to allow for the proper aligning of the engine foot before it is secured.

Under the joint bilateral agreement, all cost incurred by the vessel would be jointly shared, but it was noted that while an audit is done by the Guyana side of its operations up to 2018, there is no documentation to show that such an inspection has ever been done at the Suriname end.

The source said that when-

ever repairs are done on the vessel, a bill, which does not contain much details, is sent to the Guyana side so that they can make their payment.

“If we are talking of progress, everyone needs to be involved and all aspects must be consolidated; not one side doing an audit of their operations and the other having nothing to show for years,” the source added. Reports are that the MV Canawaima began encountering mechanical difficulties in 2018 and when the problem intensified, the service of a tug-boat was sought. However, on May 26, 2019, a decision was taken to suspend the service.

With no service in place for over three months, individuals and others wanting to conduct business from

either side,were greatly inconvenienced, before a decision was eventually taken to have the T&HDowned MB Sandaka fill the void by way of a charter agreement between the T&HD and management of the Canawaima. The operational costs for the use of the Sandaka will also be shared equally between Guyana and Suriname.

It was during the period with no ferry operating the route that the importance of the ferry link between the two territories was realised. Meanwhile, the MV Sandaka will not operate on Christmas Day, Boxing Day or New Year’s Day, all national holidays.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, December 6, 2019

41 persons in Lethem benefit from Juvenile Justice Act training A TWO-DAY training seminar for police and village leaders, on the Juvenile Justice Act, concluded on Wednesday at the Indigenous People's Conference Hall in Lethem.

The seminar was facilitated by director of Juvenile, Justice William Orrin Boston.

The training was geared at sensitising the participants on the purpose of the Juvenile Justice Act which is to rehabilitate, educate and reintegrate juvenile offenders.

The seminar also highlighted the various ways that a juvenile must be dealt with once he/she came into conflict with the law. It also emphasised the various measures of diversion.

The participants of the Juvenile Justice Act seminar held in Lethem

The training was welcomed by Commander of the Region Nine Division, Superintendent Keithon King, and his Deputy, Woman Assistant Superintendent, Peter-Fernandes .

The commander thanked the officials for providing the participants with the opportunity to understand the importance of the Juvenile Justice Act, the reason for the

said Act and implementation where practicable.

There were 41 participants, including ranks from Lethem and the other outlining stations, as well as toshaos and various village representatives.

The Juvenile Justice Bill was passed in April 2018. It seeks to address infractions of the law, involving juveniles, from a standpoint of

reformation and diversion.

It also decriminalises offences such as truancy and wandering and deals with issues of youth sentencing.

The Act is also aimed at providing a framework where professionals are in the forefront, supporting juveniles rather than the police and prison wardens.

Man accused of attempting to bribe CANU Officer granted bail MAGISTRATE Ann McLennan, on Thursday December 5, 2019, granted $100,000 bail to a 44-year-old man accused of bribing an Officer of the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU).

Vibert Marks of Independence Street, La Grange, appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates' Court and pleaded not guilty to the charge, when it was read to him.

Particulars of the charge stated that, on November 18, 2019, at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), he corruptly offered a CANU officer $100,000 as a reward for forbearing to investigate him (Marks).

Attorney-at-law, Glenn Hanoman, who represented Marks in the matter, asked for the matters involving him (marks) to ‘stay together’ since they originated from the same incident. He also asked that his client be released on reasonable bail.

Police prosecutor Neville Jeffers told the court that, on the day in question, Marks was at the CJIA, on his way to the United States of America and, when his suitcase was being checked in, a darkish object was found in the corner of the suitcase.

Jeffers added that a Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) officer then asked Marks what the object was and Marks said that he was carrying 20 ounces of gold. A further search was conducted and a large quantity of raw gold was found. Marks then attempted to bribe the rank. The latter report-

Vibert Marks

ed the incident.

An investigation was carried out and Marks was arrested and charged.

Magistrate McLennan, after listening to the prosecutor, released Marks on $100,000 bail, and ordered that Marks reported every week to the Headquarters of the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU). The matter was adjourned until January 6, 2020.

Marks was also charged, weeks ago, for possession of 974.13 grams of raw gold valued at $7,332,416.00, without being the holder of an export licence. He was released on $200,000 bail.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, December 6, 2019

Overseas-based Guyanese reaching out to GECOM for uncollected ID cards

WHILE the period for persons to collect their Identification (ID) Cards from the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) has been extended, the Guyana Chronicle was made aware that persons now residing overseas have been contacting the commission about their whereabouts.

The newspaper was made privy to a letter sent to the commission recently from

conduct the house-to-house registration exercise – before its conclusion – which would create a new National Register of Registrants Database (NRRDB).

Think lightly of these unknowns and the possibility remains for voting under the pretense of persons now dead.

The matter has been levelled by citizens and polling day staff at several of Guyana’s past elections.

persons who had not collected their ID cards – some from as far back as 2008 – to do so or at least state their existence within 21 days. The newspaper was informed the commission is once again considering causing the names to remain on the Official Voters List but highlighted for greater scrutiny. They’ve considered that the placement of a supplementary list on Elections Day could cause

one Roy Thakurdyal, who is no longer in the country.

“I’m checking the list of ID cards not uplifted I saw the names of Alice and Roy Thakurdyal on the New Amsterdam list. My wife and I have been residing in Canada since 2008,” Thakurdyal said.

As of December 2, 2019, the total number of ID cards collected stood at 805 out of over 18,000 who have not collected their ID Cards in several years for unconfirmed reasons. Commissioner Vincent Alexander had stated that some of the highest numbers of collections came from Parika, Georgetown and Whim.

On a previous occasion, he said that he is not surprised that this number is very low, as he had long suggested that a number of these people may either be deceased or overseas.

He explained that the concern is less about the failure to collect the ID Cards, and more about the failure of the persons in question to present themselves as existing.

The concern is even greater for those who may verywell be dead.

A commission member, who wished not to be named, told the newspaper recently that there are many unrecorded deaths in Guyana, especially in riverine and out-of-town areas, where dead persons are burnt without death certificates.

The General Registrar’s Office (GRO) can only bring to the attention of GECOM the deaths it has knowledge and proof of. This is just one of several reasons that some on the commission had stressed the need for GECOM

Minister of Social Protection, Amna Ally, has noted that in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo), persons were moved by certain political affiliates from the neighbouring town of Bonfim in Brazil, to Lethem, with the aim of having them vote as residents.

She noted that this is only one example and similar illegalities have occurred in places such as Coomacka, Hosororo, Wainaina and Mabaruma.

Even at the recent Local Government Election, the People’s Progressive Party (PPP/C) withdrew from contest in the Wakenaan Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) after it was found that a number of its nominators placed on the list were either dead or non-resident to the area. In November, Region Five (Mahaica/Berbice) APNU+AFC representative, Carol Joseph, was able to find 93 dead persons on the Preliminary List of Electors during the claims and objections period.

With such a NRRD some 11 years old, the commission has more so promoted Section six (6A) of the National Registration Act which states that: “The Elections Commission shall use the Official List of Electors from the 2001 General and Regional Elections as the base to commence continuous registration provided that at any stage the commission may undertake such verification as necessary by a means to be determined by the commission.

This is why the commission initially made the call for

confusion.

Meanwhile, regarding cross-matching, back on December 3, 2019, commissioners had updated that the information from the 370,000 transactions from the houseto-house exercise showed that some 60,000 forms did not “attract a hit,” meaning that they were new names not on the NRRD. However, through its own efforts, the commission found that 17,000 persons, who were presumed to be new, were already on the database. Therefore, from the 43,000 persons, the Guyana Chronicle was informed that some

23,000 were persons under 18, while the remaining 20,000 are still undergoing

a side-by-side match by the company to determine the number of new registrants.

More information on this is expected to be presented in the coming week.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, December 6, 2019

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, December 6, 2019

Change Guyana seeks votes in Linden

Young Lindener, Ryan Dey

YOUNG Lindener, Ryan Dey, has endorsed political party, Change Guyana, noting that Linden is thirsty for development and not much has been done in two decades.

Dey’s endorsement occurred on Thursday at Change Guyana's weekly press conference at the Pegasus Hotel.

“I believe that this group of successful businessmen have the experience and economic plans needed for my fellow Guyanese brothers and sisters to not only live, but thrive. Mr. Badal’s life story is truly inspirational, a story of perseverance and strategy of hope and success,” Dey said.

Further, he also said the party’s PM candidate, Nigel Hinds, has served with distinction and selflessness while his dedication in the basketball arena is exceptional.

“They epitomise my view on leadership. In talks with Mr. Badal and Mr. Hinds, I understand their frustration, not only with the previous

government but the current government,” he said.

He said Linden is starved of development and much needs to be done, especially when sources of employment are needed.

Dey, who holds a degree in Forestry and is a national rugby player, was critical of how past and current governments have treated the forestry sector and youths in sports.

“As a Lindener, as a sportsman, as a youth, I feel like both the two parties have failed me. Looking at Linden, I can’t help but ask what has happened to a beautiful town. Both parties are one of the same, corruption and backward movement,” he protested.

Meanwhile, after a recent visit to the mining town of Linden, businessman and Presidential Candidate of Change Guyana, Robert Badal, decried the economic state of the region.

Badal said he was disturbed with the level of underdevelopment in Region 10.

Man sentenced to three years for stealing MAGISTRATE Dylon Bess, on Thursday December 5, 2019, sentenced a 26-year-old man to three years in prison for stealing.

Yudhister Samjawan of Third Street, Alexander Village, appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court and denied the charge, when it was read to him.

The Magistrate stated that he found sufficient evidence against Samjawan to indicate that he was guilty of the offence.

Particulars of the charge stated that, on October 4, 2019, at West Ruimveldt, Georgetown, he broke into the dwelling house of Yanti Stephens and stole a phone

valued at $35,000, one female underwear valued at $400 and $50,000 cash.

According to information, on the day in question, Stephens was awakened by a noise, and, upon checking, she observed Samjawan crawling in her house. Stephens raised an alarm and Samjawan made good his escape in a nearby trench.

The court heard that the police arrived shortly after and found Samjawan in the trench. A search was then conducted on his person and the female underwear was found in his left side pocket. He was arrested and charged.

He said for years, nothing significant was done by the two major political parties to improve the lives of people of Linden; a town with major economic prospects.

“Linden and Region 10 is a case of broken promises, and it is the same tale all across rural Guyana. The tale of the role of race in the politics of Guyana,” he added.

Change Guyana plans to address this frustration among Lindeners and outlined its plan for doing so.

Prime Ministerial Candidate, Nigel Hinds said among the party’s plans for Linden and the wider Region 10 area is to establish a university campus, an aluminium plant, wood processing TURN TO PAGE

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, December 6, 2019

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, December 6, 2019

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Abusive sisters slapped with 10 charges

THE two Berbice sisters who were seen in a video verbally abusing police officers at the Rose Hall Town Outpost were, on Thursday, placed on bail after they were slapped with 10 charges.

Yashmanie Ramsew, 22, called “Tina” and her elder sister, Hemwatttie Singh called “Mona” of Lot 3, Number 35 Village, appeared before Magistrate Peter Hugh at the New Amsterdam Magistrate’s Court where the offences were read to them.

Ramsew was slapped with six charges: assaulting a Peace Officer; resisting a peace officer; disorderly behavior; dangerous driving; failure to stop at an accident, and failure to report an accident. The alleged offences occurred on December 3, at the Rose Hall Police Outpost.

She pleaded not guilty to all six counts. Bail was granted in the sum of $30,000 for the dangerous driving, $10,000 for resisting a peace officer and $10,000 for assault of a peace officer. Selfbail was granted for the other three charges. The duo were represented by Attorney-at-Law, Saphier Husain.

Meanwhile, Hemwattie

“Mona” Singh was granted bail in the sum of $50,000

on the charge of disorderly behaviour.

Hemwattie “Mona” Singh and Yashmanie “Tina” Ramsew make their way out of the New Amsterdam Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday

after the charges were read to her. The charge stated that on December 3 at Port Mourant Public Road, Singh assaulted Peace Officer, Umkar Sukhnandan, who was executing his duty.

Singh was placed on $30,000 bail for damage to property. It was alleged that she damaged a Samsung Galaxy cellphone valued at $100,000, property of a police officer. Singh was also granted bail in the sum of $10,000 for assaulting a peace officer; $10,000 bail for resisting a peace officer and was placed on self-bail

She pleaded not guilty to the charges and told the court that she was beaten at the police outpost by a female officer. The young lady claimed that due to the alleged assault, she was hospitalised for two days.

Police Prosecutor, Rudolph Poliah objected to bail for the women for the offences of assaulting a peace officer and resisting a peace officer on the grounds of the seriousness and prevalence of the matter. He told the court many times officers are faced with disrespect during the execution of their duties and

that such occurrences/incidents are becoming a ‘habit’ when a person is confronted.

He noted that the file is complete and they are ready to proceed with the trial.

The two women, in their defense, told the court that they did not refuse to cooperate nor did they assault any police officer. They noted, however, that they were both assaulted by a policewoman at the outpost. The magistrate made a note while adding that he expects an investigation into the allegations.

On December 3, it is alleged that Ramsew drove motorcar PTT 5628 and reportedly struck a parked vehicle on the Rose Hall Public Road. She drove away but her vehicle was subsequently intercepted at Port Mourant by a police patrol and was directed to the Rose Hall Outpost. There the outburst occurred.

A breathalyser test done on Ramsew revealed that she was below the legal alcohol limit. The matter will be called again on January 6 and 7 at the Whim and Albion Magistrate’s Court.

Chicken smugglers shoot at cops, one arrested AGENTS of the Guyana Revenue Authority Enforcement Arm were up to press time, Thursday evening, grilling a man who was detained by the police as the ranks responded to a report of suspected smuggling activities on the Belfield foreshore, East Coast Demerara.

Detained is 28-yearold Reeaz Ali, a barber by profession, of 145 Marshan Street, Annandale, East Coast Demerara. Guyana Chronicle was told that the man, along with others, was loading several bags of smuggled chickens from a boat at the foreshore into a minibus when the police arrived and interrupted the illegal operation.

As the police arrived, they came under fire from a man who was inside the boat. Guyana Chronicle was told that as the police arrived on the seawall, they noticed five men-- three on the mudflat, one next to a minibus, GEE 8771, and another in the boat. The man in the boat reportedly

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, December 6, 2019

Man sentenced to four years in prison and fined $27.6M for drug possession MAGISTRATE Ann McLennan, on Thursday December 5, 2019, sentenced a 35-year-old man to four years in prison and fined him $27.6M for trafficking a large quantity of marijuana.

Jairam Lallman of Fort Ordnance, Housing Scheme, East Canje Berbice, appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court and pleaded guilty to the charge when it was read to him.

Particulars of the charge stated that, on December 2, 2019, at Mandela Avenue, behind the Botanical Gardens, Georgetown, he (Lallman) had, in his possession, 46 kilograms 59 grams of cannabis, for the purpose of trafficking.

Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) Prosecutor, Narissa Leander, told the court that, on the day in question, at around 20:25 hours, CANU ranks, acting on information, intercepted motor car PFF 3516 which was driven by Lallman. A search was conducted and ranks found a quantity of leaves, seeds and stems suspected to be narcotics, in the truck of the car.

Leander stated that Lallman was then taken to the station, where he was later arrested and charged, and, while in custody, Lallman gave an oral and

Jairam Lallman

written statement detailing how he came to be in possession of the drugs.

The prosecutor added that Lallman indicated to the ranks that he borrowed his brother’s car after he received a call from his cousin, who is called ‘Truck’, and he proceeded to Abary.

While at the location, he met with two East Indian men who handed over the narcotics to him. He then returned to Georgetown where he met with his cousin. His cousin who was driving a white primeo told him to follow behind and it was then that CANU ranks intercepted his vehicle.

Magistrate McLennan, after listening to the prosecutor, sentenced Lallman to four years in prison and fined him $27.6M.

Farmer accused of murder remanded to prison

The smugglers’ truck that was detained

opened fire on the ranks who were forced to return fire while taking cover. They then began advancing in a tactical manner, according to police sources, but the three men who were on the mudflat managed to make their way onto the boat; the boat then speed off.

The police then turned their attention to the other man who was at the minibus and he was detained.

Some of the smuggled chickens

A search of the bus found that there were more than eight bags of chickens, suspected to have been smuggled and which they men managed to get into the bus before the police arrived. The man was detained and escorted to the Cove and John Police Station where he was processed and then handed over to the GRA officers.

Police sources said that the

chickens weighed some 830 pounds. The investigations into this matter are ongoing. None of the police ranks was injured in the incident. Three weeks ago, a joint operation by a number of agencies to tackle a smuggling operation in Mahaica Creek resulted in a CANU rank being shot and injured even as those who attacked the ranks managed to escape.

MAGISTRATE Faith McGusty, on Thursday, December 5, 2019, remanded a 26-year-old farmer to prison on a murder charge.

Marcus Jacquin of Mabaruma appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court and was not required to plead to the charge, when it was read to him.

Particulars of the charge stated that, on November 30, 2019, at Kumaka Waterfront at Mabaruma, North West District, he murdered Cleveland James.

According to information, Jacquin and James were known to each other and, on the day in question, around 20:00 hours, James was sitting at a boat landing in the company of his reputed wife and three-year-old daughter when they heard Jacquin

coming out of his yard cursing.

Jacquin then threw a beer bottle in the direction of James and his family and an argument started. James and his wife decided to walk away when Jacquin pushed James in his back twice and an argument ensued. Jacquin then picked up a wood and dealt James a lash to his neck.

James was picked up and taken to the Mabaruma Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival. An investigation was launched and Jacquin was arrested and later charged.

Magistrate McGusty remanded Jacquin to prison and transferred the matter to the Mabaruma Magistrate Court for hearing on February 18, 2020.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, December 6, 2019

CDEMA, EU launch 11th EDF on natural disaster THE Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA), along with the European Union, has launched the 11th EDF Natural Disaster Facility in the CARIFORUM Programme.

This initiative aims to contribute to the reduction of the vulnerability to disaster risks, and to promote the sustainable development from the countries of this region, the EU said in a release. The launching of this initiative was held on 3rd December 2019, in the framework of the 11th Caribbean Conference on Comprehensive Disaster Management, an event hosted by CDEMA in collaboration with the Government of St Maarten.

This conference, under the theme “The Road to Resilience Checkpoint 2019 Safeguarding Our Communities, Livelihoods and Economies”, gathered the most relevant decision-makers and disaster- management professionals, contributing to improve capacities and partnerships to fight climate change and strengthen disaster management strategies.

The launching ceremony of the 11th EDF Natural Disaster Facility in the CARIFORUM was presided over

by Honourable Prime Minister of St Maarten, Ms. Silveria Jacobs and by His Excellency, Fernando Ponz Cantó, Ambassador Plenipotentiary of the European Union (EU) to the Cooperative Republic of Guyana with Responsibility for the Dutch OCTs. Mr. Ponz Cantó emphasised the EU's commitment to reducing vulnerability in the Caribbean Region, including the potential impacts of climate variability and change. He also referred to the importance of the participation of the Dominican Republic Government in this mechanism, as it increases the cooperation and share lessons learnt among all the countries and territories of this region.

Representatives of hu-

manitarian organisations from different countries of the region participated in this event. Outstanding was the intervention of Mr. Ronald Jackson, Executive Director of CDEMA, who highlighted the impact and result of the actions and projects financially supported under the 10th EDF Natural Disaster Risk Management (NDRM) Project, as well as the fruitful cooperation between the implementing partners of this programme along the period 2014-2019.

The Natural Disaster Risk Management Programme is an initiative of the African Caribbean and Pacific Group of States, funded by the European Union to support DDR and CCA activities in the Caribbean Region. The Programme’s main goal is to help reduce vulnerability to the long-term impacts of natural hazards and the potential impacts of variability in climate change. The new phase of this Programme took place this December 2019 for a period of five years and with a funding of 14 million euros. Its executive partners are the European Union, the Emergency Management Agency, the Caribbean Development Bank and the Government of The Dominican Republic.

The Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) is a regional inter-governmental agency for disaster management in the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). The Agency was established in 1991 as CDERA (Caribbean Disaster Emergency Response Agency) with primary responsibility for the coordination of emergency response and relief efforts to Participating States that require such assistance. It transitioned to CDEMA in 2009 to fully embrace the principles and practice of Comprehensive Disaster Management (CDM).

Change Guyana seeks ... factory and furniture factory there.

Hinds said the party will see that there are incentives for foreign and local investors and a concentrated effort will be made to keep graduates in Region 10 by bolstering economic activity.

He said there will be major infrastructural development with the Linden to Lethem highway becoming

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a reality.

“This is not another broken promise; we want to change Region 10 from being an economically depressed community. The previous promises for development were plenty but lacked implementation,” he added.

Hinds also blasted the two major parties for failing to keep their campaign promises.

(CDM) is an integrated and proactive approach to disaster management and seeks to reduce the risk associated with natural and technological hazards and the effects of climate change to enhance regional sustainable development.

EU Ambassador, Fernando Ponz Cantó, addressing the launching ceremony of the 11th EDF Natural Disaster Facility in the CARIFORUM

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, December 6, 2019

Canadian fugitive arrested trying to obtain driver’s licence

A 27-year-old Guyanese, Benvolio Francois Caitanya, who is wanted by Interpol for several offences in Canada, was arrested on Thursday afternoon by agents of the Guyana Revenue Authority while attempting to obtain a driver’s licence at the agency’s

Camp Street office.

Benvolio Francois Caitanya is wanted in Canada for ‘unauthorised possession of a firearm, pointing a firearm, possession of a weapon, use of firearm during the commission of an indictable offence, discharging a firearm with intent to wound,

endanger life, conspiracy to commit murder, occupying a motor vehicle with a firearm, attempted murder and failure to comply.

In September, Benvolio Caitanya was charged along with another man for conspiracy to forge documents and uttering forged docu-

ments. The court was told back then that in February and September of this year, the two conspired to forge a driver’s licence in the name of him, Benvolio Valenski.

He and his co accused were also charged with forging a Guyana National Identification Card and were Captured fugitive: Benvolio Caitanya

also charged with presenting false documents to the Central Immigration and Passport office in order to obtain a new passport under a new name of Roy Anthony Sewnarine.

Benvolio Francois Caitanya was granted bail in the sum of $300,000 while his co accused was granted bail in the sum of $200,000.

However, at the time that he was charged and placed before the court and also had his pre-trial liberty, local law enforcement had not done the due diligence check that would have allowed them to become aware that Benvolio Francois Caitanya was an international fugitive. Benvolio Francois Caitanya is identified on Interpol’s list with Identification Number 175422369 with his birthday listed as December 21, 1991

and Georgetown, Guyana listed as his place of birth.

At the time of his detention, he had in his possession a Canadian Identification Card. He was identified after the systems at the Guyana Revenue Authority picked up that he had been redflagged by Interpol.

Commissioner General of the Guyana Revenue Authority, Godfrey Statia, confirmed the development and stated that the fugitive was immediately handed over to the police who were informed as soon as the systems picked up the alert. He further stated that the Guyana Revenue Authority does receive alerts from Interpol and the United Nations and those data are immediately entered into the system so that if those persons are encountered, they can be immediately handed over to the relevant authorities.

Sources over at the Guyana Police Force confirmed that Benvolio Francois Caitanya is in the custody of the Criminal Investigations Department and is being processed.

Up to press time, it was unclear if the Canadian High Commission, locally, was briefed about the development.

North West boat captain died from fractured spine – autopsy

FORTY-FOUR-year-old Cleveland James who died Saturday last at the Kumaka waterfront at Mabaruma, North West District, was killed as a result of a fractured spine caused from blunt trauma to the neck, an autopsy revealed.

The post mortem was done at the Mabaruma Regional Hospital Mortuary.

James was a boat captain of Hobediah Village, North West District.

Reports are that James and another man were involved in a heated argument, after a young man, called

Dead: Cleveland James

“Marcus”, hurled an empty bottle close to the victim’s daughter.

Reports are that James approached the young man following that incident.

In a haste, the assailant grabbed a piece of wood and struck James to his head. He collapsed and died shortly after.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, December 6, 2019

14,000 land titles distributed over 4 years – Min. Bulkan reveals

– $6B invested in infrastructural upgrades in gov’t housing schemes OVER the last four years, the Coalition Government, through the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) has delivered some 14,000 land titles; a representation of close to 4000 titles per annum.

This was revealed by Minister of Communities, Ronald Bulkan, on Thursday.

Providing an overview of his ministry’s work, which includes housing and water, Minister Bulkan said the allocations are a great achievement for both the government and citizens. “It means that these persons or families have a legal instrument, easier to secure mortgages for the construction of their homes.

Equally and significantly, the length of time it now takes for the delivery of a title has been significantly reduced to under three months from six months,” he told the Department of Public Information during a “one-on-one” inter-

Minister of Communities, Hon. Ronald Bulkan

view.

The government also pumped some $6B into the upgrades of 31 housing schemes across Guyana that were left bare by the previous government. Out of the 55,000 house lots established during the previous administration, almost half of that amount was left undeveloped.

Minister Bulkan stated that

GBTI, Red Cross collaborate on Christmas project

Staffers at the Guyana Bank of Industry and Commerce (GBTI) display some of the 130 gifts collected as a result of the Red Cross `Wreath of Smiles’ project

THE Guyana Red Cross Society, under its `Wreath of Smiles’ project, has collaborated with the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI) to put smiles on the faces of several less-fortunate children in the Haruni community, on the Soesdyke/Linden Highway for the Christmas holidays.

The gifts will be distributed next Wednesday.

According to GBTI’s Marketing and Communications Officer, Ms Nadia De Abreu, the banking institution has, at the request of the Red Cross, for a number of years been assisting in putting smiles on the faces of

some 150 children between the ages of one and14 years.

She said it has been a pleasure for the bank to be a part of the Christmas activity. It has been doing so over the years, adding that the response has been heart-warming. She expressed appreciation to the staff for warmly reaching out to the children who are in need.

The project starts with the Red Cross sending 135 gift cards to GBTI, each containing the name, age, and gender of a child and each tag is hung on a huge,

more than 28,000 of those lots were undeveloped. He reminded that the Coalition Government inherited a “difficult hand” for the provision of housing for Guyanese in need.

From the $6B, over $2.9B was spent on the construction and upgrades of roads, while another $2.7B billion was spent on the provision of electricity. “What it speaks to is that the emphasis seems to be on the allocation of a house lot, characterised largely by inadequate infrastructure.” He said, despite the huge invest-

ment made on the inadequate infrastructure, the budgetary requirement to complete the infrastructure was some 16B. Due to the upgrades, the administration was also able to establish 10 new housing schemes, from which more than 4,600 house lots were allocated. These include Recht-Door-Zee in Region Three, Parcels one-three at Providence, Phase four Providence East Bank Demerara, Non Pariel, Peters Hall, La Penitence, Amelia’s Ward, Region 10, Experiment in

Region Five, Onderneeming, Region Two, and Prospect in Region Four.

Minister Bulkan revealed too that the ministry’s initiative of providing built units to Guyanese has seen more than 354 persons making purchases. “What it meant was that the governmental investment in infrastructure, instead of being invested in areas in low occupancy, it justified the considerable subsidies made by the state in the development of new areas.

The minister assured

that hinterland communities have not been neglected.

The Hinterland Housing Programme under the Sustainable Housing partly funded by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) has seen 270 families benefitting from grants to build their homes. An additional 72 families were able to access funds to have their roofs replaced. Some $3.1M was invested in the programme. (DPI)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, December 6, 2019

Multilingual Rondha-Ann Lam is TCI presidential candidate THE Citizenship Initiative (TCI) has announced Rondha-Ann Lam as its presidential candidate for the elections in March 2020.

Lam, a mother of three, is an educator with 20 years experience and a founding member of TCI. Lam holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree with distinction from the University of Guyana, majoring in Literature and Linguistics, with a minor in Communications. She also holds a Diploma with dis-

tinction in Teacher Training Certification from Cambridge University in the UK, and speaks five languages.

A release said the TCI presidential candidate will be leaving her post as Head of Department of English at Marian Academy at the end of this month.

She will be leading a small team of TCI members and executives engaging with members of the diaspora in the upcoming week before returning to finalise the launch

of the party’s website and development plan.

Rondha-Ann Lam said in the past seven weeks since she was tasked with delivering the feature address at the launch of the Citizenship Initiative as a contender in next year’s elections, she has discovered just how much of a blood sport politics can be in Guyana.

“In simply taking the decision to become deeply involved in national politics as leader of a fledgling political party, I was offered a choice

between going forward on the path I had chosen or continuing my teaching career of two decades.

“It was one of the hardest decisions I’ve had to make, one that came with the one human thing that Roosevelt did not mention as natural to the arena – tears. In a little over 20 days, I will part ways with a career that I have built for over 20 years because our politics is not mature enough to allow me to serve both the people of our country and continue to serve TCI Presidential Candidate, Rondha-Ann Lam

the children I have given all of my adult life.

For the man in the arena of Guyanese politics, the challenges to overcome are many – the critics, the compromised gladiators, the vested interests, the bestial violence, and often the people themselves,” she said.

According to Rondha-Ann Lam, these challenges multiply themselves for the woman in the arena. For the woman in the arena, mere ambition is not enough, she said, pointing out that she will have to prove three things in sufficient quantity, namely integrity, intelligence and courage.

The TCI leader said when another female presidential candidate, Dr. Asha Kissoon emerged from a newly-formed party two weeks ago, she waited with bated breath for the impact of what should have been celebration of the breaking of a glass ceiling to be felt in Guyana.

“I wrote a message of congratulations from TCI to her and posted it on our Facebook page. What we saw instead, particularly from supporters of the status quo, was a degradation of her qualifications (a mere doctor) from some men, and discussions about how she’d manage a whole country during her menstrual cycle, surprisingly from women.

“I am a trained and educated teacher; I speak several languages; I have spent a life

in service educating the children of this country; I am a leader of a new political party made up of competent young people who have unanimously selected me for a great responsibility. What I expect this will boil down to is that I will be called a mere teacher leading a group of amateurs wanting to lead the army, the police force, manage the resources of this country and the 700,000 strong people of this motherland.

“As an executive of a newly launched political party, I have watched as we faced the same accusations of political adventurism that every single party in this country no doubt faced in the beginning, from the original PPP in the 1950s, to the WPA in the 1970s, and the AFC in 2006. We have answered those criticisms with policy and will continue to do so when we launch our development plan earlier this month,” she said.

As a woman leader in a newly-launched political party, the TCI leader paid homage to the brave women who went before her decades ago, women like Janet Jagan, Christina Raj, Jane Phillips Gay, and Jessie Burnham.

She expressed solidarity with young women in the political leadership of parties now, women like Dr. Kissoon, Thandi McAllister, Tabatha-Sarabo Halley and Priya Manickchand.

“When I return next week, we will begin our very necessary conversation on policy that deals with constitutional reform, with public integrity, with equitable economic growth and diversification, with a transformative education system, with national reconciliation and with leadership in international affairs,” Rondha-Ann Lam said.

GBTI, Red Cross ...

Christmas Tree that is attractively decorated and on display in the foyer .

Bank employees and even persons visiting to conduct business, are encouraged to select a tag and purchase a gift for the child whose name, age and gender is written on the tag. While there is a ceiling cost to the gifts, the donors are asked not to include guns or weapons as gifts.

The donor, after purchasing the gift, is required to have it wrapped and returned to the bank by a particular

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date and it is placed under the Christmas Tree.

On Thursday, Ms Samesta Martin-Forde, a field officer attached to the Red Cross , spearheaded the collection of the beautifully-wrapped gifts. She expressed gratitude, on behalf of the organization, to the banking institution for their selfless act over the years.

In addition to being presented with the gifts, the children will also be provided with snacks, Martin-Forde added.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday, December 6, 2019

700 graduate from GTI Seven hundred students, on Thursday evening, graduated from the Government Technical Institution (GTI) with 78 per cent passes.

An approximate number of 406 students wrote the Guyana Technical Education Examination and gained an overall 78 per cent pass rate.

The Land Surveying Department emerged as the Most Outstanding Department for the academic year 2018/2019, with an overall pass rate of 95 per cent.

This year, the institute also gained six out of seven awards at the National Awards Ceremony hosted by the Ministry of Education in October 2019.

Deputy Vice-Chancellor of University of Guyana, Dr. Barbara Reynolds, in her keynote address at the ceremony held at the National Cultural Centre, urged the graduates to not only aim to be great leaders, but to also be great followers , as it is the man behind that makes the man ahead. “I’m intrigued by the fact that in 2019 most people talk about leadership, I hear criticisms of leaders ship all the time...for us to have leaders we must have followers and it seems to me

Deputy Vice-Chancellor of University of Guyana, Dr. Barbara Reynolds

The Valedictorian, Mr. Feezal Dhanny, receiving one of his many awards

therefore that there is a high probability that most of us will end up being followers,�

Dr. Reynolds stated.

Dr. Reynolds added that

An outstanding student, Travis Johnson, collects his prize

for every leader that we have they never tell you the number of followers who is much more than leader, it suggest

not everyone will become leaders and for those who will be leaders, they will have to pass the baton to another. However, it is up to the individual to decide what or who they will follow to emanate a positive impact.

Dr. Reynolds urged the graduates to consider the role of a follower before they can become leaders, since before one can become a good leader he or she must be a great follower. She added that it is now up the graduates to

there is no shame in being a follower as followership is just a role and not a destination; she further stated that

decide who or what they will follow.

The Valedictorian, Mr. Feezal Dhanny, pursued studies in the Building Department and read for a Diploma in Building and Civil Engineering which he passed with a Distinction. Dhanny stated that while he had is fair share of challenges, he would not be where he is without the support of his family, friends and academic adjudicators.

The young man, who intends to build a career in Building and Civil Engineering, urged his fellow classmates to use the skills and knowledge to their abilities not only for their self-development but for their loved ones and the country.

A section of the graduating class assembled at the Nation Cultural Centre

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday December 6, 2019

Over 100 Queens crowned in Randy Madray designs!

By Gabriella Chapman

THE name Randy Madray has much weight in the fashion world. In fact, for years, it has been ringing in the ears of pageant girls, fashion gurus, and persons within the creative arts industry, as the “winning designer”.

Randy Madray is a young fashion guru who has made his name not only in the local industry, but worked his way to regional and international fame.

Notwithstanding the above, the local fashion industry has been growing over the years, with many young people stepping out with new and unique pieces as their form of contribution to art and the industry.

However, Madray is one who we believe needs to be commended for his commitment, consistency, and multiple contributions to putting Guyana’s name further than local.

In a sit-down with the young creative, he told his story of how this all started for him.

In his younger days, Madray said he always felt that for someone to become something, it would either have to be a doctor or a lawyer, but then after falling in love with pageantry and dresses, he realised while in First Form of high school that a Designer was what he wanted to be.

“It’s kind of surreal now, but growing up as a child, I was always a ‘book-worm’; I was always good in academics. And I went from West Ruimveldt to Queens College. We had a one-bedroom house, and everybody had to sleep in that one room.

We didn’t come from a family who had everything, but we would always look at Miss Universe, Miss USA and Miss Universe Guyana whenever they show it,” he said. “We never missed the shows, so I was always excited about the evening gowns and the costumes and those sorts of things. And I think I fell in love with that. I wasn’t sure then, because you know that going to Queen’s College, there’s this stereotype that you need to be this body and that body. But later on, after being exposed to art, because QC is very big on art being compulsory, I decided that this is what I want.”

BIG START In 2009, when he was just 16 years old, Madray made his debut on the fashion scene. He represented his school in a competition called Fashion, Arts & Creativity by Talented Students (FACTS), which was the brainchild of Michelle Cole, the late Trevor Rose, and Natasha Martindale, and he won the competition.

That’s where his career started as a local designer.

By 2014, Madray had already made his name as a prominent Guyanese designer, and the business and his career were progressing. That same year, however, he said he challenged himself when he was asked to design for Alicia Bess, who was going to represent Guyana at a regional pageant in Sint Maarten named PJD2. Bess, he said, wanted a neon green dress that he wasn’t confident about, but challenged himself and created a piece to please his client. And it all came together in the end.

Alicia Bess won the pageant and got the prize for Best Gown. This, he said, was his first regional pageant, and a first for his “Best Gown” reputation.

“And after that pageant, then came St. Kitts; I was designing for the queen. And that year, everything just started to flow. We had Anguilla, and everything started to roll and roll. And over the years, everything became habitual. And then, eventually, we went regional,” Madray said.

of loving art. And so, I can’t work if I’m not inspired.

So every piece I have created are my inspirations,” Madray said.

CULTURAL INFLUENCES What is also notable about his career is that Madray uses his skills to bring to life many things from Guyana’s culture. He said that he is passionate about Guyana’s folklore, and when allowed to design for a local queen to represent on the international stage, he ensures that unique things about Guyana are placed to the forefront.

Just last year, he designed for Miss Earth Guyana, Xamiera Kippins, and her National Costume was the Ole Higue. Kippins won the Gold Medal at the international pageant for Madray’s Ole Higue creation.

This piece, he noted, is his favourite creation to date.

There are many more things that can be said about Madray, but he stressed the importance of remaining humble and focused on developing your craft.

Staying true to that belief, he said to expect a lot more wins coming from his brand, and expect to see him dabbling in pretty much every form of art. In fact, he will be designing a line for Guyana Carnival 2020’s Genesis Band, and some of his pieces will be launched on Sunday, and at the launch party at MovieTowne.

Randy Madray with some of his local Queens

LOVE OF PAGEANTRY Even though he is widely known for designing for pageant queens, the young creative said that he is pretty much versatile in every form of fashion, but pageantry is at the top of the charts for him.

“I absolutely love pageantry. And one thing a lot of people don’t know is that I have a team, and we have been working for quite some time, where we have been working with girls to go beyond creating outfits for them, to the point of coaching and grooming and ensuring that they are ready for pageants. And that shows my love for pageantry. I think my true love came from the fact that we can have a beauty ambassador that represents Guyana; that goes with the idea of fashion, which is something I like,” Madray told The Buzz.

In fact, he said that since his brand has gone regional, over 100 queens were crowned in a Randy Madray piece, and he is working on putting together everything to present his wins to the public.

Though it may seem like it has been raining gold and diamonds for Madray all the time, he said that there are many challenges in the industry, but perseverance is key. A lot of setbacks were necessary in order for him to grow.

“The most important thing I’ve learnt from the industry is to remain humble, but at the same time know your worth… And I would always say you are your competition. To remain relevant, you have to understand that you cannot sit and look at somebody else’s work and say, Okay I’m going to do one that is better than this,” he said. “For me, I know what I’m capable of, and I know that I do my research. And I don’t work unless I’m inspired; and that is important.

If you work uninspired as an artist, and fashion is a form of art, it means that your job is not genuine.

You’re pretty much doing it for more selfish reasons.

When, in fact, the true reason should be the pleasure

The winning neon green dress worn by Alicia Bess that made Randy Madray’s debut to the regional pageant market

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday December 6, 2019

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South Africa’s Dynamq Sound to compete at Armageddon Clash 2020 THE country’s biggest Turbo Brand, which will be Sound Clash, Armageddon, the official Energy Drink of was officially launched on Armageddon Clash 2020.

Sunday last in Mango Lane, Speaking on behalf of East Ruimveldt, and judgthe Guyana Beverages Inc., ing from how things went Brand Manager Raymond down, ‘clash’ fans will be Gavinda stated that the comin for a treat come January pany is aware of the impor25, 2020 at the National tance of supporting cultural Park. values within Guyana and **With $1 million up providing a platform for local for grabs, the event this talents to grow and develop. year will feature, for the He noted that ‘Armagedfirst time, South Sudan’s don’ provides the perfect Dynamq Sound, which won platform for this to happen, the 2018 ‘US Rumble’ and and to further the growth of 2019 ‘War in the East’ sound the brand among the audiclash, while making a second ence. appearance will be the Pain Other businesses that & Sorrow 2019 Champion, Organisers, sponsors and some of the competing sounds at the launch of the Empire Media Inc. ‘Kanabis Sound’ of Antigua. have committed to sponsorArmageddon Sound Clash Guyana’s Notorious Ining the event thus far are: ternational Sound, back-to6Vibes, Coles Screen Printback Armageddon Chaming; and Maad 97.5 FM. Champion), will look to defend home turf. ing that the large attendance at its ‘Clashes’ pion, Trinity Sound (Destination Badda Tickets for the Clash will go on sale Coordinator for Armageddon Clash was testimony to the transformation that Dan Guyana Champion), Exodus Nuclear 2020, Keston Tyrell of Empire Media Inc., soon, and patrons will be able to cash in has taken place in the industry.

(Turbo Sounds of Steel Champion) and stated that Empire Media Inc. was excited Armageddon 2020 is being dubbed the on the early-bird tickets at $1,500, where, Firehouse International (Art of War 2019 to host the biggest Clash in the world, add‘War of all Wars’ because of the calibre of if you buy two you will get one free (while sounds that will be participating, as Tyrell stocks last).

Empire Media Inc. can be reached explained that the ‘Clash’ will feature six champion Sounds in one night on one stage on Instagram and Facebook, using the business’s name on WhatsApp at 862competing for $1M. According to Tyrell, Empire Media 233-0494; email on empiremediainc1@ Inc. is pleased to have onboard again this gmail.com or you can simply call 680year the Guyana Beverages Inc. and their 6720.

Hungry? Come have breakfast with Vanilla!

IN the recent past, many may have noticed that local artistes are raising the bar with their quality of music, and Melissa “Vanilla” Roberts is high on top of that list.

She has proven herself a force to be reckoned with following her most recent hit song, “One Voice”, a song which speaks to unity of the Guyanese people.

Vanilla feels that her success is all thanks to her fans, and come January 25, 2020, she will be giving back to them through her ‘Breakfast with Vanilla’ project where four lucky fans will be treated to a date with the Guyanese songstress at Kosmos Grill and Lounge.

In a press release sent out by her team, Vanilla stated that the venture will allow her fans to be part of her world, by affording them an opportunity to connect with her to learn a little of what she has been up to lately, especially in the world of film and music, and to let them know that there are opportunities right here in Guyana within the arts industry, if they work hard for what they want.

To be eligible to win a chance for that special moment with the Guyanese Soca Queen requires just three steps: Follow Vanilla on Instagram (@iamvanillagy), tag three friends, and include #iam592 in your posts. The #iam592 for Vanilla reminds her that she has and will always be a proud Guyanese, and that you should be a proud Guyanese too. In the words of Vanilla, “Always shout to the world who you are, ‘A Proud Guyanese’!”

Melissa “Vanilla” Roberts shot to fame back in 2005 with her single, ‘Koc It Up’ and ‘54321’ which featured Ice under the Kotion Rythym Medley video attached to Kross Kol-

or Records label and continues this day. Fast forward to 2019, she has released five songs, is all set to release new music videos for her singles “Goodie Goodie” and “Lang Time”.

As the 2020 Mashramni season approaches, she is asking that her fans stay tuned!

The Breakfast with Vanilla promotion ends at midnight on January 4, 2020.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday December 6, 2019

Guyana Carnival 2020 set to launch on Sunday AFTER two years of success, Guyana Carnival is returning next year, and is anticipated to be another successful year for the team. Wasting no time to build the momentum for what is probably now one of the most anticipated time of the year for local Guyanese and those in the Diaspora, the team will be launching Guyana Carnival 2020 at the MovieTowne parking lot on Sunday.

With the gates opening from 18:00hrs, a packed show awaits patrons as the launch party is themed ‘Soca in the parking lot’. It will feature local Soca sensations Brandon Harding, Lil Colwin, Kardiac, and more.

Headlining are Patrice Roberts and Nadia Batson out of

Patrice Roberts

Nadia Batson Trinidad.

While the artistes may be a main attraction at the event, the highlight of the launch is the sneak peek patrons

will get of the costumes for Guyana Carnival 2020. The costume bands Genesis and Unique Costume Band will be displayed on Sunday.

Miss Berbice 2019

Shmael King reigns supreme!

A VIBRANT, confident and bubbly aspiring lawyer who hails from East Canje was crowned Miss Berbice 2019 last Saturday at the Third Annual Women Empowerment Pageant which was hosted by Royston Drakes Production.

Competing against four other delegates for the coveted title, Shmael King emerged victorious on her journey to the crown.

The 18-year-old from the developing community of Fort Ordinance, Canje, said she will use the platform given to her to impact and effect change, especially in the lives of youths who are suffering from depression and mental health issues,

Persons will get a preview of what will be available for them to revel in come 2020.

The Guyana Carnival experience grew to be one that is a major tourist attraction, and also one that many Guyanese look forward to as well.

The team has already been keeping the people updated, via social media, about what awaits them for Carnival 2020.

The launch on Sunday, however, will give a firsthand experience, and persons are asked to come out to be a part of that experience. General tickets cost $2,000, while stagefront costs $5,000. And they can be bought at That Look Boutique, Shoppers Pharmacy (Movietowne), Exclusive Styles, and Hits and Jams Box Office.

Miss Berbice 2019

a personal issue to her.

She stated that she is grateful and elated for the opportunity given to her by the Miss Berbice Pageant team to be an activist on the ground which will serve as a source of inspiration to her peers.

King is a first-year Social Work student at the University of Guyana Berbice Campus and an aspiring Attorney-at-law.

She is building the foundation as she makes the necessary financial preparations for her legal journey.

When asked about reasons for pursuing law, King explained that she wants to ensure that the vulnerable in society have better access to the justice system. Further, she stated

Shmael King (seated) flanked by the other competitors of the Miss Berbice 2019 pageant, along with 2018 Queen Rameshwarie Jairam (first left)

that she has experienced legal injustice through the eyes of her mother, who was a victim of domestic violence.

Her advice to youths is to be true to themselves, and always strive for excellence in every endeavour.

After crowning her successor, Rameshwarie Jairam said her one-year reign has been excellent, and gave her many opportunities to move forward and make greater steps as she continues to be an advocate for women’s empowerment. It also created a bigger stage to use her voice, and be a role model for other young women.

Placing in the top two were Sunesha Murray, First runner-up, and Shaquilla Sharpe, Second Runner-up, while Sheleza Sattur was given the Miss Impression award for her outstanding community work, and voted Miss Congeniality by her fellow delegates.

Annanda Anthon was voted Favourite Online Contestant and grabbed the People’s Choice Award and Miss Catwalk as she impressed the judges with her striking long legs and elegant posture across the stage on the night of the pageant.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday December 6, 2019

‘Elemental’ for the Courtyard Mall this Sunday

DESCRIBING herself as a person who breathes Art and Culture, 23-year-old Godlyn Lyte is hosting her debut fashion show in Guyana at the Pergola Restaurant at the Courtyard Mall on Robb Street on Sunday, December 8, 2019.

‘Elemental’, as the show is dubbed, will take the form of a pop-up shop and fashion show, where persons attending are encouraged to come dressed in their ‘element’.

In an interview with ‘The Buzz’, the young creative said that this idea has been in the oven for quite some time, as she was working on her pieces and her confidence to release her work to the Guyanese public.

Lyte said that she was born in Guyana and attended school here up to First Form, before migrating to the US. Having been exposed to different cultures and lifestyles broadened her creative mind, which she said was already developed since she was a child.

Being the daughter of two artists, Lyte said her creativity comes naturally. Even though she said that she dabbles in all forms of art, such as painting, jewellery, clothing, etc, she is passionate about her African Culture.

As such, regardless of the art form, most of her pieces scream Afrocentrism, and can be labelled unconventional. This is

also part of the reason why she believes her pieces will stand out in the industry.

“I just find ways to create things that represent me, because I don’t like doing things that other people do. So I had to try and fail, until I created a style I haven’t seen before, and try to develop it to be of good quality so it sits well,” she told ‘The Buzz’.

Lyte said that she believes that the local public is still not open-minded when it comes to art and fashion.

“We still have such closed minds; we’re not open to seeing things from different perspectives. And we’re not open to understanding why a person may produce this kind of work, or what they’re channeling, or what they’re trying to tell the public with whatever painting or design. We just have one idea of things, and just like to stick with that one idea until it has been certified by foreigners,” she said.

“Support your own first; believe in what they’re doing first; give them the chance to show you that they have what it takes to actually take it to that level that we want to

One of Godlyn Lyte’s paintings

see it. Help them get to the point we all want to be.”

Given the aforementioned, Lyte said that she doesn’t want her fashion show to be like the typical. In fact, she wants persons to dig in their wardrobe, or look for a piece that they love and think that persons will look at them differently if they wear it to an event.

“The idea is to get persons to jump out in the eccentric part of them, fashion-wise, and come and enjoy the atmosphere and the setting, while still having the fashion show and access to the availability to some of my pieces,” Lyte said.

The show starts at 14:00hrs, and ends at 19:00hrs. Tickets cost $3,000, and can be bought at the venue, or you can pay at the gate.

Godlyn Lyte in one her creations

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, December 6, 2019

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, December 6, 2019

Regional four-day cricket bowls off from January 9 …Trelawny Stadium in Jamaica to host two regional four-day matches after 11-year break

C R I C K E T We s t I n d i e s (CWI) has scheduled the fifth-round match between Jamaica Scorpions and Leeward Islands Hurricanes from February 13 to 16 at the venue, along with the sixth-round match between the Scorpions and Guyana Jaguars from February 27 to March 1.

CWI director of cricket, Jimmy Adams, said the stadium is scheduled to stage a Twenty20 International in two years’ time and this was part of the process to get the ground in shape.

“It will be good to see the Trelawny Stadium hosting regional cricket again after so many years with this effort from the Jamaica Cricket Association (JCA)to build its capacity in western Jamaica,” said Adams.

Only one West Indies Championship match has been played at the ground in the past, when current West

Indies team operations manager Rawl Lewis led Windward Islands to a three-wicket victory over Jamaica in 2009.

The ground has staged five other first-class matches – two involving international teams touring the Caribbean, and three involving West Indies A and counterparts from Sri Lanka and England.

The stadium was completed in 2007 before the ICC Cricket World Cup 2007 West Indies and can seat 25,000.

Adams said he was excited about the forthcoming West Indies Championship season and working with the new West Indies senior selection panel – under chairman Roger Harper – to identify the next wave of players to stake their claims for the West Indies Test team.

“A new season is always an occasion for optimism as we expect performances from both established and rookie

players within the system,” said Adams.

“I’m sure the new Selection Panel under Roger Harper will be keen to cast their eyes over this competition which will wrap up our 2019-20 cricket season.”

Guyana Jaguars are the five-time, defending champions of the Championship.

They open the tournament on the road, when they travel to Antigua to face Leeward Islands Hurricanes at the Vivian Richards Cricket Ground in a day/night contest played with a pink ball.

The Championship marks a decade since CWI were the first member of the ICC, cricket’s world governing body, to play a pink-ball match in its first-class competition, when Guyana and Trinidad & Tobago played from January 15 to 18, 2010.

Pink-ball matches have now become a standard part of the Championship and each team will play two of these

games – home and away – under the tournament format.

The other first round matches feature: Trinidad & Tobago Red Force battling Scorpions at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Trinidad, and Windward Islands Volcanoes tackling Barbados Pride at the Arnos Vale Cricket Ground in St. Vincent.

MATCH SCHEDULE (Play in all matches start at 10 am daily, except where indicated) ROUND 1 January 9 to 12 Hurricanes vs Jaguars – Vivian Richards Cricket Ground, Antigua (2 pm daily) Red Force vs Scorpions – Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Trinidad Volcanoes vs Pride – Arnos Vale Cricket Ground, St. Vincent ROUND 2 January 16 to 19 Scorpions vs Volcanoes – Sabina Park, Jamaica Pride vs Jaguars – Kensington Oval, Barbados Red Force vs Hurricanes – Brian Lara Cricket Academy

ROUND 3 January 23 to 26 Jaguars vs Red Force – Guyana National Stadium, Guyana (9:30 am daily) Scorpions vs Pride – Sabina Park Volcanoes vs Hurricanes – Daren Sammy Cricket Ground, St. Lucia (2 pm daily) *********************** ROUND 4 February 6 to 9 Jaguars vs Scorpions – Guyana National Stadium Hurricanes vs Pride – Warner Park, St. Kitts Volcanoes vs Red Force – Windsor Park, Dominica ROUND 5 February 13 to 16 Scorpions vs Hurricanes – Trelawny Stadium, Jamaica Pride vs Red Force – Kensington Oval Volcanoes vs Jaguars – Grenada National Stadium, Grenada ****************** ROUND 6 February 27 to March 1 Scorpions vs Jaguars – Trelawny Stadium, Jamaica Pride vs Volcanoes – Kensington Oval Hurricanes vs Red Force – Warner Park

ROUND 7 March 5 to 8 Red Force vs Pride – Brian Lara Cricket Academy Volcanoes vs Scorpions – Grenada National Stadium Jaguars vs Hurricanes – Guyana National Stadium ROUND 8 March 12 to 15 Red Force vs Volcanoes – Brian Lara Cricket Academy (2 pm daily) Hurricanes vs Scorpions – Vivian Richards Cricket Ground Jaguars vs Pride – Guyana National Stadium (2 pm daily) ****************** ROUND 9 March 26 to 29 Pride vs Scorpions – Kensington Oval (2 pm daily) Hurricanes vs Volcanoes – Vivian Richards Cricket Ground Red Force vs Jaguars – Queen’s Park Oval, Trinidad ROUND 10 April 2 to 5 Jaguars vs Volcanoes – Guyana National Stadium Scorpions vs Red Force – Sabina Park (2 pm daily) Pride vs Hurricanes – Kensington Oval

City, United head into derby with renewed confidence

By Simon Evans

MANCHESTER, England (Reuters) - A week ago there was little about tomorrow’s Manchester derby to whet the appetite but after statement performances from both teams it suddenly has the feel of ‘must watch’ football again.

Manchester City had lost their mojo - their draw at Newcastle United the latest in a series of below-par performances which suggested not only that their title hopes were fading but that Pep Guardiola might need to think about a rebuild of his side.

Manchester United’s draw at home to Aston Villa was a listless display which brought questions, from some quarters, about whether Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was the right man to lead them back to full competitiveness.

But on Tuesday, in a 4-1 dismantling of Burnley at Turf Moor, City looked like City again and above all they looked like a Guardiola team again - passing crisply, moving with purpose, dominating possession and deadly near goal.

On Wednesday, United, inspired by a confident and talented Marcus Rashford and with Scott McTominay powerful in central midfield, deservedly beat a Tottenham Hotspur team managed by their former boss José Mourinho.

What makes tomorrow’s game at the Etihad fascinating is that while sixth-placed United may trail City by 11 points, the same margin that Liverpool have over Guardiola’s team, Solskjaer’s side have been at their best in the biggest games.

United have beaten Chelsea, Leicester City and Spurs at Old Trafford and they are the only team to have taken points off Liverpool, with a 1-1 draw at home in October.

Mourinho himself noted that United are well equipped for games where they aren’t expected to be on top for long stretches.

“They are not afraid to be with a defensive approach, they are not afraid to be at home, to take their time, to be in control of the emotions of the game. They are lots of young people

with lots of energy and good mentality,” he said.

“When they are winning matches, they are comfortable in this situation of low block and a giant dominating in the air and being fast in counter-attack.”

There are plenty of teams who have tried such an approach against City, however, and found that Guardiola’s side are well capable of dismantling their defence and limiting their counters.

The derby then will be a much better indicator of City’s ability to recapture their best form than half-hearted Burnley provided. But whatever the outcome, Juergen Klopp’s Liverpool will expect to have their lead intact.

The European champions, who crushed Everton 5-2 in Wednesday’s Merseyside derby, travel to Bournemouth tomorrow with Eddie Howe’s side having lost four straight games and picked up just one win since the start of October.

Second-placed Leicester, on a run of seven straight wins, are at Aston Villa on Sunday.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, December 6, 2019

Guyana’s Shemar Britton wins T&T’s 2019 RMSL Super Singles Men’s table tennis title GUYANA’S Shemar Britton secured a hard-fought title when he won the 2019 edition of the Trinidad and Tobago Reliability Maintenance Services Limited (RMSL) Super Singles Men’s Table Tennis Championships.

The championships which attracted over 60 players started with the group and knockout stage, November 30 – December 2, and climaxed on the evening of Wednesday December 5, 2019 at the National Racquet Centre, Orange Grove Road, Tacarigua, Trinidad and Tobago.

Players were pitted against the top-ranked players in Trinidad and Tobago, based on results in tournaments held in 2019 and those who advanced from the group and knockout stages, Each player was eager to stamp authority on the yearend championships to end the season on a high. A a result the contest saw some very close, tense, exciting, gruelling and thrilling matches.

Britton entered the tournament just coming off victory with a silver-medal performance with Guyanese teammate Joel Alleyne in the WASA Open Team championships and champion in winning

the Trinbago Men’s Singles Open in October 2019.

Britton, a Tokyo 2020 Olympic prospect, described the victory in this championships as one of his hardest ever. He was stretched to the limit in securing four wins and one loss to finish as the player with the highest aggregate.

On his way to victory, the Guyanese defeated Derron Douglas via a 3-2 margin, Aaron Edwards (3-0), Jessie Dookie (3-0), Arun Roopnarine (3-2), while his only defeat in the tournament came at the hands of Aaron Wilson (2-3).

Regarded as one of the top players in the Caribbean, Britton who is the Caribbean U-21 male champion 2018, Caribbean bronze medallist, men’s singles and silver medallist, will break from studies on December 18, when he will return to Guyana for a short period, with plans to commence training and play in high level competitions in either Germany or China, with a view of preparing to qualify for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.

The Latin American qualification event for Tokyo 2020 Olympics is scheduled for April 2020.

Region 2 copped 40 medals at National Schools Track and Field Championship THE Department of Education (DoE) and the Region 2 Administration have expressed delight at the performances of the Region’s athletes who participated in the recently concluded National Schools Cycling, Swimming and Track & Field Championship held at the National Track and Field Centre at Leonora.

Region 2 copped 40 medals including 13 gold, 14 silver and 13 bronze, primarily in the track and field events. The Region also set new National records in the field events of discus, shot put, long jump, javelin and in the 400-metre track events.

Among the new record-holders who all achieved gold were Annastacia Clarke in discus and shot put, Seon Lam – shot put, Kevin Boyce – long-jump, Quincy Sampson – javelin, Eurica Blucher – shot put; and Nicholloyd Cameron in the 400 metres.

Cameron, who attends the Charity Secondary School, also received gold in the 200 and 800 metres races. He also achieved gold in the team’s 1500 medley race, placing him as the Region’s most prolific gold medallist.

Josh Smith also copped 2 silver medals in the field of swimming as well as Alicia Venture 2 in high jump and Roy English 2 in discus and shot put respectively.

In a brief statement, Regional Education Officer Ms Nichola Matthews on behalf of the Department of Education expressed heartfelt thanks to the Regional Executive Officer Denis Jaikaran (Sr) for his unwavering support which contributed immensely to the individual and collective success of the team.

Region 2 over the years has produced a number of outstanding athletes in the likes of Prince Holder, Julian Holder, Colin Roach, Reonna Cornette, Linden Johnson and Professor Kimani Nehusi among others. Meanwhile the DoE will hold a presentation ceremony shortly to honour the athletes.

Sri Lanka name experienced Mickey Arthur as head coach COLOMBO, Sri Lanka (Reuters) - South African Mickey Arthur has been appointed Sri Lanka’s head coach on a two-year contract, the country’s cricket board (SLC) said yesterday.

The 51-year-old former first-class cricketer has enjoyed a more illustrious career as a head coach with the national teams of South Africa, Australia and Pakistan.

SLC appointed former fast bowler Rumesh Ratnayake as interim coach in August after a fallout with head coach Chandika Hathurusingha, who was criticised for Sri Lanka’s exit at the group stage of the 50-over World Cup in England.

“We are very happy and pleased that we have been able to obtain the services of Mickey,” SLC sec-

retary Mohan Silva told reporters. “He’s a wellknown personality who has been the head coach of a number of countries.”

Districts.

He took charge of a mercurial Pakistan side in 2016 and led them to the 2017 Champions Trophy

Mickey Arthur has been appointed Sri Lanka head coach on a two-year contract

SLC president Shammi Silva said Hathurusingha was no longer on the payroll of the board but did not provide further details.

Arthur was recently released from his short-term Twenty20 contract with New Zealand side Central

victory in the 50-over format and the number one ranking in the world in both Tests and Twenty20 internationals.

Pakistan, however, decided not to renew Arthur’s contract following the team’s failure to reach the

semi-finals of this year’s 50over World Cup in England.

“It had been three very good years with Pakistan and I needed a little bit of time away. The Sri Lankan job became available and I started discussions,” Arthur said.

“I looked at the talent that’s available and that’s the key motivating factor ... to help these young players fulfil their potential.”

In his first assignment as Sri Lanka coach, Arthur will return to Pakistan this month for the two-match Test series, starting December 11.

Zimbabwean Grant Flower will join his support staff as the batting coach while Australians David Saker and Shane McDermott will be bowling coach and fielding coach respectively, the SLC added.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, December 6, 2019

Bodybuilding Federation, Government outline plans for 2020 and beyond G U YA N A A m a t e u r Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation (GABFF) president Keavon Bess and Assistant Director of Sport, Melissa Dow-Richardson, strengthened ties for 2020 and beyond, as the government continues its

support of the fraternity.

Bess, along with Mr Guyana/2019 CAC gold medallist Kerwin Clarke, made a courtesy call on Wednesday at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, Main Street; where the Federation boss presented Dow-Richardson

with a financial manifesto on behalf of the Federation for its future endeavours.

The document outlined three major areas of work which the Federation plans to strengthen heading into the new year.

Those designated ar-

GABFF president Keavon Bess presents the financial document to Assistant Director of Sport, Melissa Dow-Richardson with CAC gold medallist Kerwin Clarke (far right) in their company

eas include continued support for international representation by the weightlifters with more emphasis being directed towards lightening the financial load with regard to the athletes’ competition in the 2020 CAC tournament set for Colombia.

The final request was a major one, as the GABFF is keen about Guyana successfully winning a bid to host the 2022 CAC Championships. Guyana once hosted a successful CAC back in 2004 and the federation head was firm that Guyana can repeat such a momentous feat; which will equally boost Tourism in this contemporary time.

Regarding the overall support of the bodybuilding guild, the Assistant Director of Sport pledged full support on behalf of the Government. She specified that once transparency and good bookkeeping are upheld, the government will continue to invest in bodybuilding as well as other sports in Guyana.

(Clifton Ross)

NZ spinner Patel links with England team as coach WELLINGTON, New Zealand (Reuters) - Former New Zealand off-spinner Jeetan Patel has been appointed on a short-term coaching contract for the England cricket team for their tours of South Africa and Sri Lanka.

The 39-year-old Patel has retired from his almost two-decade first-class career with Wellington in New Zealand to take up the spin bowling consultant role with the England team.

He had been working with the England side during last month’s Twenty20 series against New Zealand.

“The opportunity to take up a role with England is one that doesn’t come around often and one I simply can’t turn down,” Patel said in statement on Wednesday.

“I’ve been hugely privileged to be able to represent Wellington for almost 20 years.

“I’m so fortunate to be able to come back and play year-on-year and see this group grow, this environment I’m leaving is in great shape to be able to help these guys do that.”

Patel made more than 300 appearances across all formats with Welling-

ton and also carved out a successful career with Warwickshire in England.

He made his one-day international debut in 2005 against Zimbabwe and his Test debut against South Africa the following year.

Former New Zealand off-spinner Jeetan Patel

Patel took 65 wickets in 24 Tests, the last of which was against South Africa in March 2017.

He will play his last game for Wellington in New Zealand’s domestic Twenty20 competition on December 18 before joining the England squad ahead of their first Test against South Africa at Centurion that starts on December 26.

England tour Sri Lanka next March.

Patel has one year left on his contract with Warwickshire.

FIFA’s Infantino proposed as IOC member, but not Coe - Bach

By Karolos Grohmann

LAUSANNE, Switzerland (Reuters) - FIFA president Gianni Infantino has been proposed for International Olympic Committee (IOC) membership, but World Athletics head Sebastian Coe will have to wait due to a conflict of interest, IOC president Thomas Bach said yesterday.

IFA president Gianni Infantino

Olympics has been without membership ever since the departure from the IOC of its respective former presidents Sepp Blatter and

Lamine Diack in 2015.

For years, membership of the IOC for the heads of soccer and athletics was seen as almost automatic.

Yet the two international federations have been left out in the cold as they struggled with widespread corruption and doping scandals which tarnished their images. Diack, who has denied wrongdoing, faces a corruption trial in France in January.

Bach said Infantino had been proposed for election at its next session in January along with International Tennis Federation chief David Haggerty and Japanese Olympic Committee president Yasuhiro Yamashita.

World Athletics chief Coe, however, had not been proposed due to a conflict of interest.

“We wanted him (Coe) to become an IOC member as president of one of our most important Olympic sports,” Bach said. “Since then we

are in close consultation with him and since then we have addressed the risk of a potential of conflict of interest he may have.”

Apart for his role at World Athletics, Coe is also Group Chairman of consultancy firm CSM which also works with the IOC. “CSM is consulting various organisations and stakeholders including having contractual partnerships with the IOC itself.”

Bach said Coe had informed them that he could not immediately resolve this situation but was working on it. Bach said Coe could become a member at its session during the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.

“He is hopeful to address it in a couple of months. Then that would mean the door is still open for Tokyo.”

The IOC elects new members at its sessions once candidates are vetted by the Olympic body.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, December 6, 2019

Edghill participates in Finland Open Table Tennis Championship

G U YA N E S E C h e l s e a Edghill’s bid to participate at the Games of the XXXII Olympiad in Tokyo, Japan next year will see the sensational table tennis player having to go through a stringent qualification process.

However, as part of her Olympic Qualification preparation, the country’s current National sportswoman-ofthe-year will be participating in the Finland Open Table Tennis Championships.

The championships, a ITTF-sanctioned world circuit event, served off yesterday and will conclude on December 9, and will include many players from Europe.

Coming off her recent qualification and participation in the 2019 Pan American Games Lima, Peru, Edghill attended the championship in Finland with her coach Tony Rato of Portugal

and will compete in women’s singles events.

According to the Guyana Table Tennis Association (GTTA), her participation represents the first time a player from Guyana will be participating in a Senior World circuit event.

Chelsea Edghill

Meanwhile, GTTA in a release said following her participation in the Finland tournament, Edghill will travel to Romania to train and play in competitions before returning to Portugal to prepare for other key en-

gagements.

This tournament, GTTA noted, is also geared towards assessing the progress made in the implementation of several new elements of her game in high-level competitive environment and picking up valuable ranking points.

“Part of her identified road map for Olympic training and possible qualification, based upon our limited budget, entails participation in the German and Portugal Open, continued training Portugal, training in China, participation in the Caribbean Championships leading up the continental qualification event to Tokyo 2020 competition in Teams, Singles and Mixed qualification and is scheduled for April 2020,” the GTTA added.

Edghill, a former junior Olympian, and recent graduate from the Lindenwood University with a Degree in

Chemistry, has an extensive resumé with several junior sports women’s titles.

She is the national champion, Caribbean women’s U-21 champion, Caribbean women’s doubles champion, Caribbean women’s bronze medallist, several collegiate tournament wins, Caribbean Cadet and junior champion, Caribbean women’s team silver medallist 2018 and 2019, and is currently training and playing in Portugal under the tutelage and guidance of coach Tony Rato; Portugal’s junior coach and as a member of the Lusitania de Lourosa table tennis Club Portugal.

“The GTTA would like to extend thanks to the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) for assisting Chelsea in her quest for possible Olympic qualification,” the release said.

Newcastle dig deep for victory at Sheffield United

All systems in place for tomorrow’s ‘massive’ Rio Indoor Streetball quarter-finals

TOURNAMENT coordinators Three Peat Promotions declared that all systems are in place for the staging of the quarter-final section in the inaugural Rio Indoor Streetball Championship, tomorrow, at the National Gymnasium, Mandela Avenue.

According to an official release, “All systems are in place and structures have been improved for a thrilling quarter-final section which is expected to set the trend for the remainder of the elimination round and which will captivate the large crowd that is expected to descend on the venue.”

The release also pointed out that “the excitement and anticipation for the knockout section is at fever pitch. Although the tournament is in its maiden campaign, it has been very competitive, with several teams more than capable of securing the coveted title and the $1M first prize which is the largest ever to be awarded for a community streetball championship.”

The quarter-final matches will pit Rio All-Stars against Future Stars. This promises to be a titanic clash. This will open the evening’s proceedings at 20:00hrs. The second match will pit Leopold Street against Gold is Money, which is another chapter in the storied rivalry between the established giants. This will occur at 21:00hrs.

In the third match, tournament favourites Sparta Boss will oppose East Coast Demerara giants Beterverwagting (BV) at 22:00hrs. This will be followed by the feature clash between the formidable Back Circle and heavyweights Bent Street 23:00hrs.

The organisers are of the view that the tournament has certainly elevated the standard and the manner in which Streetball is viewed.

They stressed that “the intention is for several other tournaments to be staged in a similar light which will add to the growing phenomenon. This is the only way for the quality to be sustained and eventually improve.

“At the moment, the quality is at an all-time high and the players, sponsors and fans are directly responsible for such a realisation. After all this format is fixated and focussed on the players, fans the communities that they emanate from.”

The grand finale will occur on December 14 at the same venue.

LABA/YBG Linden U-19 Basketball in Linden

Raiders and Royals win again

Newcastle United's teammates. Jonjo Shelvey celebrates scoring their second goal with teammates (REUTERS/Andrew Yates)

SHEFFIELD, England (Reuters) - An early header

by Allan Saint-Maximin and a controversial Jonjoy Shelvey goal gave Newcastle United a smash-and-grab 2-0 win at Sheffield United in the Premier League on Thursday.

French forward Saint-Maximin fired the visitors ahead in the 15th minute and Shelvey netted in the 70th after Andy Carroll, who nodded the ball into his path, was initially ruled offside, only for a VAR check to let the goal stand.

The VAR review confirmed Carroll was onside but Shelvey raced clear and steered the ball past goalkeeper Dean Henderson after the linesman had raised his flag and the home team’s defenders went with the on-pitch decision.

While the freakish goal is likely to stir up more debate on the use of VAR, the evening’s plaudits will go to Newcastle goalkeeper Martin Dubravka who pulled off a string of superb saves to keep the Blades at bay.

Saint-Maximin got on the end of Javier Manquillo’s cross against the run of play as Dubravka kept frustrating the home side, having denied Oliver McBurnie and Enda Stevens before he palmed away a ferocious Oliver Norwood free kick.

Dubravka tipped over a close-range McBurnie header and with the home team’s onslaught fizzing out, Shelvey took advantage to confirm United’s first league defeat in eight games and lift Newcastle into mid-table.

RETRIEVE Raiders and Victory Valley Royals won their second-round matches on Wednesday night to remain unbeaten when the Linden Amateur Basketball Association/Youth Basketball Guyana Under-19 Club championship continued Wednesday night at the Mackenzie Sports Club hard court.

Playing in the first game of the night, Retrieve Raiders continued their good showing this time scoring a

Emmnauel Larose

comfortable 41-29 win over Kings after taking the initiative 17-10 at lemon-time.

Once again Kareem Roberts in the middle got a game-high 12 points as T. Grannum finished with nine points. Kings’ best shoots were Jaden Rise who got 10 points and Tevon Belle with seven.

In the second game Victory Valley Royals continued with another dominant display when they won by a whopping 54-16 against the hapless Amelia’s Ward Jets.

This time Emmanuel Larose with 14 points led their charge while Kobe Tappin continued his fine showing netting 12 points.

The Jets’ valiant effort came behind L. Benjamin’s four points.

Wi t h G u y a n a a n d Grenada men playing a goodwill basketball series from tonight through Sunday there will be no basketball this weekend at the MSC hard court.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, December 6, 2019

Cornwall, Brooks enjoy ICC rankings boost

Off-spinner Rahkeem Cornwall

Batsman Shamarh Brooks

LONDON, England (CMC) – Off-spinner Rahkeem Cornwall and Shamarh Brooks have both stormed up the respective International Cricket Council (ICC) rankings, following outstanding performances in the inaugural oneoff Test against Afghanistan last week.

The 26-year-old Cornwall has been rewarded for his 10-wicket match-haul by jumping 63 places in the bowling rankings to 47th. He claimed 10 for 121 as West Indies crushed Afghanistan by nine wickets inside three days in Lucknow.

Cornwall’s effort, in only his second Test following his debut last August in the Caribbean, saw him become the first West Indies spinner to claim a 10-wicket match-haul on the subcontinent.

The 31-year-old Brooks, meanwhile, rose 68 places to 62nd in the batting rankings, following his excellent 111 in the first innings – his maiden Test hundred in his third outing.

Cornwall and Brooks led several of their teammates who enjoyed upward movement in the latest rankings released Wednesday.

Left-handed opener John Campbell moved up 24 spots to 74th following his maiden Test fifty – a fluent 75-ball 55 in the first innings – while wicketkeeper Shane Dowrich leapt nine places to 41st after scoring 42 also in the first innings.

Off-spinner Roston Chase, who claimed three wickets in three overs in the Afghanistan second innings, has moved up five places to 34th.

Captain Jason Holder was rewarded for his five wickets in the match, jumping one spot to a career-best third spot in the bowling rankings behind Australian seamer Pat Cummins and South African speedster Kagiso Rabada, who occupy the top spots.

The 28-year-old’s movement has also seen him consolidate his top ranking in the all-rounders charts. At 35th in the batting rankings, he is the highest-ranked West Indies player with Dowrich next best.

India captain Virat Kohli has returned to the summit of the batting rankings, eclipsing Australia stroke-maker Steve Smith.

GFSCA Under-15 team to participate in USA Open tournament

GUYANA and West Indies Under-15 all-rounder Mavendra Dindial is among 14 players included in the Guyana Floodlights Softball Cricket Association (GFSCA)-sponsored team, set to participate in the third annual USA Open tournament scheduled for December 20-23.

The tournament, organised by the Cricket Council of the USA, will be contested in three categories – Under-13, Under-15 and Under-17 - and will be played at the International Cricket Council (ICC)-approved venue, Central Broward Regional Park & Stadium, Lauderhill, Florida.

According to the organisers, registration is open for teams and players with the top ten players guaranteed scholarships. The games will be broadcast live on MAQ Television.

The promising and talented Dindial was part of the West Indies Under-15 squad who toured England last August under Cricket West Indies (CWI) High Performance coach Graeme West.

He also represented Guyana in the regional Under-17 tournament, played in Trinidad and Tobago the previous month and was a permanent fixture in the Demerara Under-15 and Under-17 sides.

al tournament in Trinidad and Tobago and was also a member of the Demerara Under-17 and Under-19 Inter-county teams.

All-rounder Gainda, a product of Ogle Sports

Mavendra Dindial

Romeo Dindial

Other notable inclusions are left-arm spinner Zachary Jodha, Arun Gainda, Romeo Deonarain and Alvin Mohabir who led the successful Demerara Under-15 team to victory over defending champions Berbice in this year’s Inter-county tournament.

Jodha was part of Guyana’s Under-17 team which participated in the region-

Club, donned colours for the Select Under-17 side in this year’s Under-19 Inter-county tournament while the versatile Deonarain made useful contributions with both bat and ball while he was a member of Demerara Under-15 Inter-county team. He also plays for the Demerara Cricket Club (DCC).

The team will be man-

aged by former Guyana and West Indies captain Ramnaresh Sarwan with Omechand Deonarian serving as assistant manager. The coach is former national player Hubern Evans while the physiotherapist is Dave Anand Mohabir and Lalta Gainda the technical assistant.

The 14-man squad reads: Alvin Pradeep Mohabir, Nicholas Mukesh Shiopersaud, Gabriel Vivian Rookhum, Arun Gainda, Zachary Alexander Jodha, Romeo Deonarain, Nityanand Mathura, John Errol Persaud (Jr), Mavendra Dindial, Jonhatan Brayden Vang Lange, Dave Doobraj Mohabir, Ravindra Rovin Singh, Stephon Sankar, Premkumar Permaul.

Meanwhile, the GFSCA squad will take on Blairmont Blazers Youths in two T20 practice matches on Saturday, December 17 at the Blairmont ground, West Bank, Berbice.

The first game is scheduled to get underway at 09:00hrs.

Joseph returns to competitive cricket after prolonged absence

By Elroy Stephney FORMER senior inter-county captain and arguably Essequibo’s best batsman of any era, Dinesh Joseph, has returned to playing competitive cricket after a prolonged absence due to illness.

Former senior Essequibo captain Dinesh Joseph

The elegant and technically sound opening batsman is one of only five Essequibians to score an inter-county century when he fashioned a superb 110 in 1996 against the powerful Demerara bowling line-up, that included Reon King, Colin Stuart, Neil McGarell, Keith Semple and Gavin Nedd. The other centurions were Jeff Jones, Ramcharran Singh, Troy Cornelius and Ramesh Narine.

Joseph has now joined Cotton Field Strikers who are currently playing in the Central/South Essequibo-sponsored T20 League.

When contacted by Chronicle Sport, Joseph expressed delight at returning to the game he once dominated in the county.

“I was just eager to get back on the field after being on the benches for so long,”

he remarked with a smile.

The 38-year-old may have gone past his prime, but according to him, ‘I still have a lot of cricket left in me and I want to rub shoulders with the younger players and share some of my experience,” he added.

‘I am still hitting the ball nicely and with more time at the crease I will return to my usual best’ he confidently contended.

Joseph recalled that scoring an inter-county century was his most memorable moment but he also rated his majestic double hundred (201) against North Essequibo as one of his finest innings too.

Many across the country felt that Joseph was unfortunate not to have represented Guyana at the national level since he was one of the most consistent opening batsmen during his prime.

Asked why he deserted the game while still young and fit, he remarked “Firstly I was frustrated with the selectors since I didn’t know how else to convince them, given that I was scoring runs against both Demerara and Berbice. I decided then to just walk away for a while since the signs were clear that I was not on the radar of the selectors.”

Joseph then became ill and was hospitalised which curtailed his return to competitive cricket until recently when he fully recovered. Fans across the Essequibo Coast will be pleased with his return and will want him to replicate some of those famous innings that he had recorded around the country.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Friday, December 06, 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)

ANSWERS TO YESTERDAY’S QUIZ: (1) Shane Warne-708 wickets (145 matches) (2) Glen McGrath-380 wickets (249 matches) TODAY’S QUIZ: (1) Who has taken most Test wickets for Pakistan to date?

(2) Who has taken most ODI wickets for Pakistan to date?

ANSWERS IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, December 6, 2019

Bartica stakeholders unite in support of GFF Super 16 Cup debut in Bartica KEY stakeholders in Bartica are all in unison with Guyana Football Federation (GFF) as the train has already been set in motion for the grand return of competitive football to the community later this month.

The stage is set for a terrific time when the GFF Super 16 Cup touches down for what is anticipated to be an exciting head-to-head battle between the top team in the community, Rivers View Football Club, and GFF Elite League team, Western Tigers, on Saturday December 21 at the Bartica Community Centre ground.

Seeking to ensure that all the i’s are dotted and the t’s crossed, president of GFF, Wayne Forde, led a federation team that met with Regional Chairman Gordon Bradford; Regional Executive Officer (REO) of Region 7, Erwin Ward; Mayor of Bartica, His Worship Gifford Marshall; and president of the Bartica Football Association, Alden Marslowe; among others. The meeting took place in the office of the REO. The stakeholders expressed delight at being selected as one of the venues for the GFF Super 16 Cup and promised to pull out all

‘I will die trying to defend my title against Joshua,’ says Ruiz Jr

the stops to make the experience of all a resounding success.

They also articulated their appreciation to the GFF president for bringing football back to Bartica and assured him of their support in making this event a memorable one. Specific areas of responsibilities were also covered.

BFA president Alden Marslowe also assured the president that the association and the Bartica community will do all that is needed to ensure that River’s View FC will deliver a spectacular performance, come December 21.

GFF president Wayne Forde (left) during the meeting with Bartica stakeholders

NAMILCO commits to GFF Super 16 Cup third-place prize of $500 000

THE National Milling Company of Guyana Inc. (NAMILCO), still in its 50th Anniversary Year, is continuing its rich tradition of investing and empowering Guyana’s sportsmen and women.

Federation, Wayne Forde, in the presence of Finance Director Mr Fitzroy McLeod and Chief Engineer Mr Ralph Hemsing.

In presenting the cheque, Sukhai noted that his company, one of the main partners

Forde-led administration. We continue to see more than enough positive and tangible signs. So therefore, it was without hesitation that we have once again committed to sponsoring the third-place prize of $500 000 for the

Andy Ruiz (J)r knocked out Anthony Joshua on June 1 and AJ activated a rematch clause (Getty Images) (REUTERS) - World heavyweight champion Andy Ruiz Jr has said he fulfilled a lifelong dream when he triumphed over Britain’s Anthony Joshua in June and he would “die trying” to defend his belts in the title rematch in Saudi Arabia tomorrow.

Mexican-American Ruiz produced one of boxing’s biggest upsets when he dethroned the previously undefeated world champion Joshua, with a seventh-round stoppage at New York’s Madison Square Garden.

“I have been doing this since I was six and it is finally paying off,” Ruiz told the BBC. “There is no way I am going to let these belts go, I will die trying.

“It has been a roller-coaster and now that I made the dreams come true, there is no way I will let these go.”

Joshua has trimmed down ahead of the second WBA, IBF and WBO title showdown with an eye on taking the contest deep into the latter rounds, saying he expects a “marathon, not a sprint”.

The Briton has also been taking advice on his training regime and diet from former world heavyweight champion Wladimir Klitschko in his bid to reclaim the title at the fight dubbed the

‘Clash on the Dunes’.

“I may be less than 17 stone (107.95 kg),” Joshua said. “I’m punching loose and heavy - rhythm and flow.

“Before, I was trying to benchpress a house. I used my body to get where I needed but then I started realising the sweet science of the sport. I am punching like a horse kicking backwards right now.”

Ruiz, however, said he would not ‘underestimate’ Joshua and that he had his own strategies to counter the former Olympic champion.

“I know he lost weight and that he will try and box me around,” Ruiz added. “So it’s my job to prevent that. “(In the June bout) I was the one who had the strength, the one backing him up. When I jabbed I pushed him away.”

Joshua believes this will not be the last time the two fight each other and predicted a third bout in the future if Ruiz was up for it.

“This ain’t going to be the last time I see Ruiz in the ring,” Joshua said. “We make for good fights.

“I think there’s definitely gonna be a knockout and that is what people want to see, bloodshed and knockouts.”

Managing Director of NAMILCO, Bert Sukhai (2nd left), hands over the cheque to GFF president Wayne Forde in the presence of NAMILCO’s Ralph Hemsing (left) and Fitzroy McLeod

In the latest gesture of tangible investment, Managing Director, Mr Bert Sukhai has committed his company to sponsoring the third-place prize of $500 000 for the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Super 16 Cup which is set to kick off on Sunday, December 15 at the Police Sports Club ground, Eve Leary with a double-header.

At the company’s, Agricola, East Bank Demerara head office, Sukhai handed over a cheque to cover the third-place prize to president of Guyana Football

of the GFF, was more than delighted to be once again making a tangible donation to the federation in its continuing efforts to build a solid foundation for the sport.

Sukhai was quick to point out that this sponsorship is a continuation of his company’s multi-million, five-year NAMILCO Flour Power Under-17 Intra Association League which is in its second year.

“There’s no doubt in our minds that the sport continues to make tremendous positive strides under the Wayne

GFF Super 16 Cup. “We know that the teams will be coming out strong to give themselves the best possible chance of winning this prestigious competition and we, at NAMILCO, wish each team the best. We would also be discussing with the GFF other ways of collaborating to make the experience on each game day during this tournament a memorable one for the fans also.

Forde, in response, expressed profound gratitude on behalf of GFF to Sukhai

and his team for their unflinching and committed support towards empowering citizens of Guyana, noting that the reach of NAMILCO is far beyond the field of play.

“As a corporate citizen, NAMILCO is truly a fine example of the tremendous impact corporate Guyana can have on the lives of young people. They have made the largest financial commitment to Guyana’s football development in the history of the sport.

In 2016 the National Milling Company signed a $30M agreement with my administration for the Flour Power National Intra-Association U-17 annual Boys League.

I would like to express my heartfelt thank you to Mr Bert Sukhai and his hard-working team for their generous and continued support for the work of the GFF.” Sixteen clubs (the top eight GFF Elite League clubs and the top eight Regional Member Association clubs) will contest this year’s competition; the defending champions are GFF Elite League club, Den Amstel.

The opening double-header will see Milerock versus Pele from 18:30hrs on December 15, with the main clash between Guyana Police Force and Timehri Panthers from 21:00hrs.

Grenada, Guyana ready for Goodwil basketball series …Game one set for tonight at ‘Sports Hall’

Guyana Chronicle photographer Delano Williams was at Palm Court last evening and captured the Grenada National Basketball Team members upon their arrival for the three-day Goodwill Basketball series at Cliff Anderson Sports Hall. Also, sitting from leftt are Guyana head coach Junior Hercules, GOA president K.A Juman-Yassin, GABF president Michael Singh, Grenada head coach Naka Joseph and GNBA treasurer Rondel Johnson THE National Basketball teams of Grenada and Guyana will begin their three-game (December 6-8) Goodwill series tonight at Cliff Anderson Sports Hall, with jumpball time set for 20:00hrs.

The two coaches, Junior Hercules (Guyana) and Naka Joseph (Grenada), speaking at the pre-game press conference held at Palm Court, echoed each other’s comments on the need for more goodwill series between Caribbean nations, in an effort to keep the sport alive in the region outside of the usual Caribbean Basketball Confederation (CBC)

Championships.

President of Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation (GABF), Michael Singh, also cited the need for more goodwill basketball tournaments to be played, pointing out that with 2020 being a busy year for the sport in the Caribbean, it will give National federations a chance to assess their local and international talent pools.

Meanwhile, K.A Juman-Yassin, president of the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA), who assisted GABF with funding for the event, said that like in every discipline, interna-

Guyana head coach Junior Hercules (L) and his Grenadian counterpart Naka Joseph with the symbolic trophy which will go to the winner of the Goodwill Series tional tournaments for exposure are required and necessary if athletes are to develop their respective talents and abilities.

Travis Belgrave, Akeem Crandon, Yonnick Tappin, Timothy Thompson, Dominic Vicente, Shaine Webster, Nikkoli Smith, Ray Victor, Terron Welch, Marlon Chesney, Jamal Gilkes and Michael Turner are the members of Team Guyana, who will also have, apart from Hercules as the head coach, assistant coach and manager Dennis Clarke and physiotherapist Akeem Fraser.

Region 2 copped 40 medals 35 at National Schools Track an Field Championship PAGE

Shemar Britton collects his prize for his Tournament win from Mr Edwin Canes, General Secretary Trinidad and Tobago Table Tennis Association

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Guyana’s Shemar Britton wins T&T’s 2019 RMSL Super Singles Men’s table tennis title

Regional Education Officer Ms Nichola Matthews

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

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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2019