Issuu

MONDAY 27th May, 2019

No.105650

Show of pride, patriotism PAGE

- as Guyana celebrates 53rd Independence Anniversary

Lindeners look ahead with optimism PAGE

Four held in gun, ‘ammo’ find PAGE

Youths from Agricola, surrounding communities empowered PAGE

Dancers perform at Guyana’s 53rd Independence Anniversary celebrations at Durban Park, Georgetown on Sunday (Samuel Maughn photo)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, May 27, 2019

Show of pride, patriotism –as Guyana celebrates 53rd Independence Anniversary By Lisa Hamilton SOME 5,000 youths from across Guyana celebrated the nation’s 53rd Independence Anniversary on Sunday through colourful presentations at a grand cultural display and flag-raising ceremony at the D’Urban Park. Many who gathered in the stands to witness for the packed show cheered upon the arrival of President David Granger and his spouse, First Lady Sandra Granger, and Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo. Prior to the much-anticipated hoisting of the Golden Arrowhead, thousands of youths forming various groups, danced in unison, depicting different aspects of

President David Granger greets Prime Minster Moses Nagamootoo upon his arrival at the cultural display and flag-raising ceremony (Samuel Maughn photo)

Savannah; in cricketer outfits with white bats, hats and teeshirts and in national colours of the Golden Arrowhead. While the choreographed movements filled the arena,

and Master Guide Club of the Seventh Day Adventist (SDA) Church, girl guides, scouts and several schoolchildren. The sight seemed to have

Corps, Malacai Flemming of Mackenzie High School and Demari Grant of Bishops’ High School. This was followed by the singing of the National

Guyanese culture. They hailed from the National Dance Company, the National School of Dance, and schools from all 11 education districts in Guyana. They performed under the theme, “A united Guyanese are we at 53!” and danced in rodeo outfits of the Rupununi

scores of school-aged girls demonstrated maypole dancing with colourful strings, while others performed Karate, an ancient martial art. The cultural parade ended on a high note, following a parade conducted by the Guyana National Cadet Corps, the Pathfinder

renewed a sense of pride and patriotism in the many citizens present, as they cheered the synchronised movement of the marchers. The crowd’s excitement reached its peak when the Golden Arrowhead was hoisted by members of the Guyana National Cadet

partment of Social Cohesion, Culture, Youth and Sport, and the Ministry of Educa-

High School, Christ Church Secondary, North Ruimveldt Secondary, Fort Wellington

Members of the Pathfinder and Master Guide Club of the Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church on the march

Youths enjoying the cultural demonstrations during the ceremony

Girls having fun while maypole dancing

The hoisting of the Golden Arrowhead at D’Urban Park on Sunday

Members of the audience at the D’Urban Park (Samuel Maughn photos)

Anthem by a large choir of youths. Also watching on at the event were ministers of government, members of the diplomatic corps, and other specially invited guests. Altogether, the event was spearheaded by the Ministry of the Presidency, the De-

tion. The schools that participated in the celebrations include Queenstown Secondary, Brickdam Secondary, Tutorial Secondary, East Ruimveldt Secondary, Central High School, North Georgetown Secondary, Richard Ishmael Secondary, St. Mary’s

Secondary, Mackenzie High, North Ruimveldt Secondary, Hope Secondary, Stewartville Secondary and the Berbice High School. The occasion provided an opportunity for youths to showcase Guyana’s diverse cultural heritage and pride in nationhood.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, May 27, 2019

Islamic State: Iraq sentences French citizens to death (BBC) Three Frenchmen have been sentenced to death by an Iraqi court after being found guilty of joining the Islamic State (IS) militant group. The men - named as Kévin Gonot, Léonard Lopez and Salim Machou by AFP news agency - have 30 days to appeal. They were among 12 French citizens captured in Syria by US-backed fighters. In February they were transferred to Iraq for trial. The three are the first IS

suspects from France to be sentenced to death. France has yet to react to Sunday’s court ruling in Baghdad. But when pressed on the issue in February, French President Emmanuel Macron declined to comment, saying it was a sovereign matter for Iraq. Human rights groups have heavily criticised the trials of suspected IS fighters in Iraq. Activists they say the courts often rely on circumstantial evidence or confessions made under duress.

The three men were found guilty of joining Islamic State (IS) (stock image)

WHAT DO WE KNOW ABOUT THE THREE? Gonot, 32, is from south-eastern France. He is believed to have entered Syria through Turkey to join the al-Nusra Front, a branch of al-Qaeda, before pledging allegiance to IS. He was arrested in Syria

with his mother, his wife, and his half-brother in December 2017. A French court has also sentenced him in absentia to nine years in prison. Machou, 41, belonged to an IS cell composed of European fighters that has carried out attacks in Iraq and Syria and planned others in Paris

Monday, May 27, 2019 12:00hrs.-13:30hrs.

and Brussels, according to the Centre d’Analyse du Terrorisme (CAT), a French think tank. Lopez, a 32-year-old from Paris, also travelled with his wife and two children to IS-held Mosul in northern Iraq before entering Syria, CAT quotes French investigators as saying. His lawyer, Nabil Boudi, condemned the trial as “summary justice”. He told AFP news agency that the death sentence had been “based solely on a series of interrogations in Baghdad jails”.

WHY WERE THEY TRANSFERRED TO IRAQ? IS once controlled vast swathes of territory stretching across Syria and Iraq. After years of fighting, Iraq declared victory on its side of the border in late 2017. On the Syrian side, the main offensive was led by a US-backed alliance of Arab and Kurdish fighters, the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). The group captured the last stronghold held by the jihadists in March. An estimated 1,000 foreign fighters - as well as many women and children

- are estimated to be in SDF custody. Iraq has offered to try all foreign fighters held by the SDF. Several hundreds have been transferred for trial by Iraqi courts but none have so far been executed. WHAT HAS HAPPENED TO FOREIGNERS WHO JOINED IS? More than 41,000 people from dozens of countries are estimated to have joined IS in Syria and Iraq - about a quarter of them women and children. Almost 6,000 came from Western Europe. Approximately 850 people from the UK were among them, including 145 women and 50 children. The vast majority of IS militants are believed to have been either killed or captured. It is unclear how many foreigners have died. Researchers suggest at least 7,000 have travelled back to their countries of origin. Those countries have raised concerns about bringing hardened jihadists back and the challenges of gathering evidence to support prosecutions.

Saturday 25, May, 2019

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, May 27, 2019

Venezuela crisis: Delegates to meet for Norway peace talks

Previous attempts at mediation between the two Venezuelan sides have failed

(BBC) Representatives of Venezuela’s government and opposition are returning to Norway’s capital, Oslo, for talks on how to address the political crisis. The meeting, scheduled for next week, was confirmed by Norway’s government, which reiterated its commitment to helping to find a solution. Discussions were held there earlier this month, but the opposition says there were no face-to-face meetings. Venezuela has been in political crisis for months amid a power struggle. Opposition leader Juan Guaidó declared himself interim president in January, arguing that the presidency was vacant because Nicolás Maduro’s re-election last year was “illegitimate”. But Mr Maduro has refused to cede power. WHAT DO WE KNOW ABOUT THE TALKS? Norway’s foreign ministry released a statement saying the “main political actors in Venezuela” would take part in the discussions, as it reiterated its commitment to “supporting the search for an agreed-upon solution” to the crisis. Preliminary discussions, with each side talking separately with Norwegian officials, were held earlier this month. Mr Guaidó confirmed in a statement that his representatives “will talk with both the Norwegian government and with representatives of the regime” in the upcoming discussions. The opposition delegation will be headed by deputy parliament speaker Stalin

Gonzalez and former Caracas area Mayor Gerardo Blyde, both of whom were involved in the initial talks, he said. Venezuelan Communications Minister Jorge Rodriguez and the governor of Miranda province, Hector Rodriguez, are expected to lead the government delegation, after attending the previous round. Mr Maduro thanked Norway on Twitter for its mediation efforts. He said (in Spanish) his delegation was “ready to work on a comprehensive agenda and move towards the signing of agreements.” Previous attempts at mediation between the two Venezuelan sides have failed. However, Norway has in the past successfully mediated in the Colombian armed conflict. DO PROTESTERS SUPPORT THE TALKS? The ruling Socialist Party has publicly endorsed the talks, while Mr Guaidó has appeared more cautious. Many opposition supporters who have spent months trying to push Mr Maduro from power are against the discussions. They argue that the president has previously used dialogue as a stalling tactic to remain in power while living standards have declined. Without directly referencing the Norway talks, Mr Guaidó told supporters on Saturday that the opposition would not repeat past errors. “They will never fool us again with a false dialogue like [in] 2017,” he said. “That’s why today we’re in the streets.”

Young, PM in sync with deportation of criminal migrants (TRINIDAD NEWSDAY) NATIONAL Security Minister Stuart Young maintained yesterday that both he and the Prime Minister are in sync with the registration process for Venezuelan migrants and on the position that criminals among the migrants will be deported. The Venezuelan Migration Registration Process is set to take place in TT between May 31 to June 15, allowing those fleeing economic and political turmoil in their country the opportunity to live and work here for a specified period. Since Young announced the amnesty several weeks ago, there has been an influx of illegal migrants coming through TT’s borders and engaging the efforts the national security forces, especially the police and immigration divisions in the deep south. Earlier this week, 101 migrants, among them pregnant women and children were picked up in the forest in Santa Flora after being dropped off by pirogues. Dr Rowley said that while TT was lending a humanitarian hand, help could not be unlimited. Rowley told the post-Cabinet media briefing last Thursday, that visitors who engaged in any criminal conduct would be deported as the welfare of the people of TT came first. He also said Venezuela had to deal with its own problems. Young, who also gave a statement on the registration process at that briefing, clarified that a statement he had previously made that “no one will be turned away” and which could be contradictory to what the PM said, was taken out of context. He explained yesterday that his position was in sync with that of the PM. He referred to his statement, “Of course the registration centres can only take a certain number of persons on a daily basis so what we will be doing is trying to manage that process. No one is going to be turned away,” did not mean that no one would be turned away from TT’s borders. “This was misused. I maintain that we continue to do all that we can to patrol our borders and uphold the law.”

National Security Minister Stuart Young. FILE PHOTO

He said his statement was an assurance that no one would be turned away from the registration centres. “Yesterday, I reiterated the Prime Minister and the Government’s policy on the Venezuela Migration Registration Process while reassuring citizens that Venezuelans who are ex-convicts and would have committed serious crimes, will not be granted registration status in TT and will be deported. “I stated, at the end of the day, TT continues to respect its international treaty obligations but I am saying here very clearly, that this Government, as you heard the Prime Minister say yesterday, at the end of the day, this Government is very clear that its first mandate and its first priority are to the people of TT. “I hope that this clarifies any misconceptions that there is a difference between the Prime Minister’s position and mine as the Minister of National Security on the issue of the Venezuela Migration Registration Process,” Young said. Only last week, the leader of the notorious Evander gang nicknamed “El Coulon” was among eight illegal Venezuelans held in Point Fortin with arms and ammunition.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, May 27, 2019

Tackling recidivism

NE of Guyana’s major, most destabilising problems is crime. And a serious aspect of this problem is that of a person committing a criminal offence, being sentenced to jail, and going back to a life of crime after being released. The experts call this behaviour recidivism. Recidivism therefore is a pattern of habitual criminal behaviour resulting in a cycle of repeated arrests, imprisonment, releases, and return to crime. The question arises: how do we, as a relatively small society, prevent recidivism? In Guyana, the justice and prison systems focus on punishing offenders for their crimes, often by incarceration, thereby removing them from society for a period of time specified by the courts with reference to law. Our system is geared for general deterrence (preventing crime by instilling the fear of being jailed), and individual deterrence (instilling a fear of returning to jail). Very little, if any thought is given to identifying and addressing the causes of criminal behaviour, and re-integrating convicted persons into society after their release from prison. The lack of focus on social reintegration is significant, because global statistics reveal that 95 per cent of prisoners will eventually be released. Again, how do we prevent them from going back to criminal conduct? While statistics on local trends are difficult to obtain – perhaps due to poor record-keeping – we may infer certain conclusions based on international data.

In the United States, meta-data compiled by academics has revealed that – on average – 43 per cent to 68 per cent of released convicts are re-arrested within three years, and 77% become repeat-offenders within five years. A study by the United States Department of Justice found similar rates across numerous states. Another study by the Urban Institute corroborated those statistics, and identified the primary causes of recidivism to be the individual’s social environment of criminally inclined peers, difficulty of readjusting to life outside prison, trouble re-establishing family ties, and having a criminal record and poor work skills. Substance abuse and mental health were found to be factors: 25 per cent of incarcerated persons had a history of drug dependence, and many convicted individuals had been previously diagnosed with psychotic or personality disorders. Clearly, criminal conduct and recidivism take a toll on societies. The costs associated with incarceration are high, and the psychological toll on the families involved have economic, social, and medical implications, to name only a few. So, how can we reduce the incidence of repeat offences? Statistical evidence gathered by the government of the United Kingdom has shown a direct correlation between, drug-rehabilitation, psychological intervention, education, and skills-training during incarceration and a return to normalcy of convicted persons after they are released. Moreover, the rate of recidivism was most dramatically reduced when post-release

follow-up was introduced. Such follow-up efforts included, drug-counselling, teaching of vocational and industrial skills, making educational opportunities more accessible, offering all-round support, and most importantly, ensuring that the reforming individual obtained employment. When such programmes were implemented in a comprehensive manner, the rate of recidivism fell by 43%. Guyana, having a small population, is being severely affected by repeat offenders. Our efforts, therefore, should be directed towards preventing crime through the implementation of appropriate programmes and initiatives, and tackling recidivism through proven methods and comprehensive strategies. Evidently, there is sufficient data upon which we can base locally appropriate approaches to the problem; there is therefore no need to reinvent the wheel. The evidence suggests that our system of justice must be reoriented towards providing educational opportunities – of all kinds – to incarcerated persons, addressing drug and mental issues, and giving them the skills to return to a normal life. And it must not end there: society must ensure that such persons have access to employment and support. The money which can be saved by the operationalising of effective anti-recidivism policies may be better used in other developmental endeavours. And the social tranquility which would be realised by the successful implementation of such plans would be priceless.

The announcement of the century Dear Editor,

O my utter amazement, I read this week that no other than Mr. Bharrat Jagdeo himself has promised to set up anti-corruption institutions if the PPP gets back into office. Several things are happening here. First, Mr. Jagdeo is clearly playing to the gallery, as he is trying to assure the West, supporters, the middle and the business class that he and the PPP will finally tackle corruption once and for all. Never mind that every single complaint about corruption from every single facet of society prior to 2015 was met with political disdain from the PPP. Never official denials; just disdain and dismissals. Never mind that the PPP, to this day, cannot explain the spectacular wealth that many of its ministers and high officials accumulated in a very short space of time, and the lack of value for money the nation of Guyana got from the several projects, including, of course, the Skeldon Estate and the fibre optic cable project. But I blame the Coalition for, as we say in Guyanese parlance, the “spounce” Mr. Jagdeo now possess-

es, because of its lackluster approach to investigating the vast amounts of theft, graft and nepotism that were the hallmarks of the PPP, especially during Jagdeo’s time. Many of those who stole from the public purse should be in jail. Today, they walk freely, heads held high, and are in turn accusing the Coalition of being even more corrupt than they after 23 years in office. Good heavens! How can this be! Editor, Jagdeo is so hell bent on getting back into power to control the wealth and levers of State that he is not even allowing Irfaan Ali, the presidential candidate, to speak on these issues. Perhaps maybe because Mr. Ali himself is before the courts on corruption-related charges. Mr. Jagdeo is desperate for power, which is his automatic protecttion, given his own unlawful behaviour, so much so that he and his party have spent millions of US dollars to hire an American propaganda firm to help clean up their imag, while attacking that of their opponent. The fact is that the PPP, given their record under Jagdeo, is absolutely no good for Guyana. And the fact is that the job of that propaganda firm is to create fake news, attack and assassinate persons’ characters, spy and even hack into the people’s per-

sonal space to generate an unfavourable image of your opponent. At this stage, only time will tell if this administration’s failure to put ex-PPP big- wigs behind bars for corruption will come back to bite those in power now in their political derrieres. As I rest my case, I remain astonished about the quietude of those running the country now. Not a word of condemnation has come from State House, Congress Place in Sophia, Office of the President, and the PM’s office. Recently I read that former PPP minister Priya Manickchand and PPP stooge Romel Roopnarine were on facebook encouraging and making racist statements to the effect that the Berbice criminals were killed because they were Indians. There has been nothing from the government, Social Cohesion or the Ethnic Relations Commission. This is the reason why Mr. Jagdeo has the gall and gumption to say he will establish institutions to deal with corruption, when corruption is the PPP’s mantra. Regards, Winston Mars

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, May 27, 2019

‘If I live my life again, I would be a firefighter’ −National Awardee recounts life in the fire service

By Navendra Seoraj “THE other firefighters could not hear us, engines were pumping water, our vision was obscured and oxygen was leaving us; we had to make a choice,” said national awardee and veteran firefighter Compton Sparman as he recounted one of his most daring but, ecstatic experiences. The incident about which he spoke occurred in the 1980s, when the old Textile Mill was on fire for days. There he was in the midst of things, trapped with his colleague Jerome Sankar who was panting for breath and hoping that someone would hear their calls for help. After being trapped

for about 10 minutes, it was time for the duo to make a choice. Eventually, Sparman and his colleague decided to jump from one part to another. “We were eventual-

ly rescued…I got some smoke inhalation problems and went to the hospital for some oxygen,” said Sparman, adding that it was time to get back in the game right after

Compton Anthony Sparman

Veteran firefighter Compton Sparman receives the Disciplined Services Medal from President David Granger (Delano Williams photo)

Gov’t did the right thing T Dear Editor,

HE Government of Guyana, represented by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr Karen Cummings, must be congratulated for not only doing the right thing, but also doing the bright thing by voting in the affirmative at the United Nations General Assembly regarding the call for Britain to relinquish control over the Chagos Islands in the Indian Ocean. From 1968 to 1973, Britain forcibly removed the rightful inhabitants of the islands to make way for a

receiving treatment. The now retired firefighter immediately went back to the mill to help extinguish the fire which was raging for days. After serving his

military base. This is the same Britain whose High Commissioners are forever lecturing Guyana and other countries in the Global South on the rule of law, democracy, and human rights. Whether Britain will abide by the ruling of the International Court of Justice and the majority affirmative vote by the UN General Assembly to cede the Chagos Islands back to Mauritius is left to be seen because, in the world of so-called international law, might is right, and the bully gets away with breaking international law time and time again.

As an organisation that is committed to the struggle against colonialism and imperialism, the Organisation for the Victory of the People will always support any measure taken to rid the world of the domination by a small minority of humanity over the billions that inhabit this earth. We therefore applaud the APNU+AFC administration for having the courage to be, in this instance, on the right side of history. Gerald A. Perreira Organization for the Victory of the People (OVP)

ERC unity play ‘I am us’ on three TV stations this weekend

HE unity stage-play, “I Am Us”, produced by the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC), will be broadcast on television during the Independence Anniversary weekend. The play will be broadcast simultaneously on NCN Channel 11 Georgetown, Linden and Berbice from 10:00hrs on Saturday May 25, 2019. HBTV Channel 9 will broadcast the play from 14:00hrs on Independence Day, May 26, followed by TVG Channel 28 from 08:30hrs on Monday May 27. “I Am Us”, which has a mixed cast of almost 40, inclusive of actors, dancers and musicians, represents the hurdles faced by two neighbouring families composed of the two major ethnic groups during an upcoming election. The ERC is encouraging all Guyanese to watch the play and take note of the Commission’s desire to promote tolerance, peace and understanding. Sincerely, The ERC

country for 36 years and being part of many heroic efforts, Sparman was conferred with the Disciplined Services Medal by President David Granger on Friday. “I felt pleased that I spent 36 years in the Guyana Fire Service and I feel pleased that I have been acknowledged,” said Sparman. Sparman, who joined the fire service at the age of 18 in June 1982, never regrets his decision and would even do it all over again if he had the opportunity. “If I live my life again I would be a firefighter, because it brings you

joy when persons are in distress and you could prevent such an occurrence, or if someone calls for help and you could respond,” he said. Since he was little he wanted to be a part of the military or paramilitary because of the excitement and action that follow. “There is a lot of excitement going on and in that excitement you have to be focused and have a control of the situation,” said Sparman. Aside from the seriousness of the job, his belief is that with the amount of heat a firefighter faces, there is no way they can go to hell. Being a firefighter is a noble service profession – one on which average citizens rely heavily in case of emergencies. Firefighters don’t just run into burning buildings, they are often first responders on the scene

of explosions, natural disasters, wildfires, traffic accidents and other catastrophes. The demanding job can take both a physical and mental toll on those who perform it. One of the primary risks of being a firefighter is that of personal physical injury. Firefighters are susceptible to burns, smoke inhalation and crush injuries from collapsing structures. They can suffer from heat exhaustion, as well as long-term, job-related illnesses such as asthma, persistent coughing, heart disease, and cancer and lung damage. Due to the highly physical nature of the job, all manner of bodily harm can befall firefighters in the line of duty. Some physical fallout from the profession may not materialise until years down the road.

Cyclist critical after struck down by soldier A 57-year-old pedal cyclist, Ramlackhan (only name given) was struck down by a vehicle driven by a corporal of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) on Saturday. According to a police report, Ramlackhan of Mon Repos, was hit while riding along the Railway Embankment Road at Vryheid’s Lust, East Coast Demerara (ECD). It was reported that the man was towing someone who sustained lacerations to his right arm. The persons did not seek medical attention. Ramlackhan on the other hand remains in a critical condition at the Georgetown Public Hospital. The police have since conducted a breathalyzer test on the driver, and it was found that his alcohol level was above the legal limit.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, May 27, 2019

Hundreds of Guyanese taught Mandarin – as Chinese lecturer completes tour of duty

By Svetlana Marshall HUNDREDS of Guyanese, for the first time in Guyana’s history, have been formally taught Mandarin – the official language in China -- thanks to 32-yearold Qian Zhao; Zhao dedicated approximately four years of her life to teaching Mandarin Chinese here. Zhao, who is commonly called ‘Connie,’ journeyed to Guyana in September 2015 after completing her Bachelor’s Degree in Bilingual Study of English and Japanese (2011), and a Master’s Programme (2014) at the Dalian University of Foreign Languages in China. She completed her tour of duty recently, and has since returned to China. Before departing these shores, Zhao, during an exclusive interview with the Guyana Chronicle, said the experience of teaching hundreds of Guyanese was remarkable. She began lecturing at the Confucius Institute at the University of Guyana (CIUG) in September 2015, as a result of an arrangement among the University of Guyana, the Dalian University of Foreign Languages and Hanban (Confucius Institute Headquarters). CIUG teaches Chinese language and culture to Guyanese from all walks of life. It is the official Chinese language teaching and cultural centre as well as Chinese-related information centre in Guyana. Zhao explained that while the Confucius Institute was established on

May 19, 2014, it was not until September 2015 on her arrival, that classes in Mandarin Chinese commenced. To date, CIUG offers eight levels of Mandarin Chinese, ranging from “Elementary to Advanced.” Zhao explained that university students have the option of choosing Mandarin Chinese as an elective course, and every semester approximately 300 students, sign up to learn various levels of the language. In September, 2016, Zhao began teaching public service officers, including foreign service officers (FSOs), Mandarin. It was the vision of the then Foreign Minister Carl Greenidge to have the foreign service officers (FSOs) attached to the Foreign Service Institute (FSI), exposed to various languages, among them, Mandarin, given Guyana’s close ties with China. “So far, I already provided Chinese teaching to more than 100 public service officers. So we have done the basic, which is the elementary level and intermediate level for the students,” Zhao explained. It was noted that through the FSI, four levels of the Mandarin are being taught – the first two being elementary and the third and fourth levels are considered to be intermediate. “At the elementary level, we would give detailed and specific explanation about Chinese phonetics and pronunciation system because the Chinese language, when we pronounce it, it is totally different from the English Language. So we should build a very clear outline

Director of the Foreign Service Institute, Ambassador Ronald Austin

and knowledge for the students about the pronunciation,” Zhao explained. Come September, 2019, the Chinese lecturer disclosed that the public service officers will be exposed to Advanced Levels five and six. The classes are taught at the Police Officers Training Centre. PROFICIENCY EXAMINATIONS Zhao said persons practising Mandarin Chinese are given the opportunity to take the Chinese Proficiency Test (HSK) offered in March and September, annually. HSK is an international, standardised exam that tests and rates Chinese language proficiency. It was noted that the proficiency examination has two components – HSK (written) and HSKK (oral). In addition to being exposed to the other levels, come September, FSOs will be tested on their ability to speak Mandarin Chinese. Zhao told this newspaper that on successful comple-

Chinese Lecturer Qian Zhao

tion of the HSK exam, FSOs are given the opportunity to participate in a Summer Camp in Beijing, China. In 2017, 15 FSOs participated in a language camp, while in 2018, only three persons participated. Zhao said she was encouraged by the positive attitudes displayed by both the FSOs, and the university students. “I received a lot of hospitality from my Guyanese friends. I am not going to say I wouldn’t come back, no I wouldn’t say that. I think there is still a possibility for me to return because I really like this place, I like the environment, I like the food, and most of all I like the people here,” she said. Zhao is now going to pursue her doctorate. Zhao’s replacement will arrive in Guyana in August. REMARKABLE JOB Director of the Foreign Service Institute, Ambassador Ronald Austin, in a separate interview with the Guyana Chronicle said that Zhao has done a remarkable

job teaching Mandarin Chinese here, and the institute will forever be thankful. Ambassador Austin said knowing Mandarin Chinese would become an asset within five-10 years. “China is increasingly one of the most powerful and respected members of the international community,” Ambassador Austin said, while adding that the country is likely to have the largest economy within 30 years. According to ‘Focus Economics,’ the U.S. has the largest economy in the world, followed by China. “When it comes to the top national economies globally, although the order may shift around slightly from one year to the next, the key players are usually the same. At the top of the list is the United States of America, which according to Investopedia, has been at the head of the table going all the way back to 1871. However, as has been the case for a good few years now, China is gaining on the U.S., with some even claiming that China has already overtaken the U.S. as the world’s Number 1 economy,” Focus Economics explained. Ambassador Austin said that China would also have a dominant role in international politics. “It would be the first time, in the last 100 years, that you will have a non-English speaking country at the top of the international system. Previously it was Britain, succeeded by the United States. When a country is in that position,

inevitably its culture, language and other morals are transferred to other nations with which their countries would have to associate or conduct relations,” Ambassador Austin explained. In 2018, then Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge signed Guyana onto the Belt and Road Initiative. The Belt and Road Initiative refers to the Silk Road Economic Belt and 21st Century Maritime Silk Road, a significant development strategy launched by the Chinese government with the intention of promoting economic co-operation among countries along the proposed Belt and Road routes. The initiative has been designed to enhance the orderly free-flow of economic factors and the efficient allocation of resources. It is also intended to further market integration and create a regional economic co-operation framework of benefit to all. The Belt and Road Initiative has been listed as one of the largest infrastructural and investment projects in history, covering 73 countries, now a total of 74 with the addition of Guyana as well as 28 international organisations. Ambassador Austin maintained that it is important to know Mandarin. Guyana and China established diplomatic relations in 1972. In keeping with the mandate given by Greenidge, who is now the Ministry’s Foreign Secretary, the Foreign Service Institute is also offering courses in Spanish, and Portuguese.

‘Morning Glory’ takes the crown --at annual Pine Street Nursery’s Independence Pageant

FIVE beautiful and brave little flower girls of the Pine Street Nursery School in Linden on Saturday evening competed in the 8th annual Independence pageant, which this year was themed, ‘I am a flower girl’. The event saw Delegate Number Four, Amelia Wills walking away queen, after an elegant, brave and gracious performance, which no doubt impressed the judges as it did the crowd all night. Wills represented the flower, Morning Glory. and displayed the same strong-willed and persistent character-

istics as the flower. She was, however, given stiff competition, as the other delegates, in like manner, delivered electrifying, jaw-dropping performances, just as Wills, throughout the five segments. These were the opening segment, the tea party wear, the talent piece, and evening gown and intelligence segments. For the talent piece, the flower girls were tasked with describing the flowers they represented. In addition to Morning Glory, the other flowers were the Hibiscus, Daisy, Sunflower and the National

Flower, the Victoria Regia Lily. Emerging as first to fourth runners-up respectively were Delegates Numbers One, Dividica Jerrick, Miss Victoria Regia Lily; Number Three, Kiara Daniels, Miss Daisy; Number Five, Amaiah Edwards, Miss Sunflower; and Number Four, Lethalia Britton, Miss Hibiscus. Wills also walked away with the prize for ‘Best Gown’ and ‘Best Talent Piece’, while Jerrick copped the prize for ‘Best Smile’. Wills’ stunning, red-carpet, yel-

low-and-blue gown, was a jaw-dropper for the crowd, especially after the little queen gracefully strutted her way across the stage while containing the dress’s trail, and keeping her poise, pageantry gestures and splendid walk intact. At the end of the night’s proceedings, all of the delegates went home with well-deserved prizes as they were all adjudged for their efforts. The audience was also kept well entertained with several cultural pieces, including songs, dances and poetry.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, May 27, 2019

Reg. 2 backs call for Coalition’s return to office –at flag-raising ceremony

By Indrawattie Natram THE Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) Administration on Sunday morning laid on an impressive flag-raising ceremony to mark Guyana’s turning 53. The programme proper commenced after the traditional March Past by members of the Disciplined Forces and and the hoisting of the Golden Arrowhead in the compound of the Regional Democratic Council (RDC). The event also saw calls

Independence in 1966. Before delivering his address, Jaikarran called upon prominent members of the Essequibo community, Mrs. Doreen Duncan, businessmen Samad Baksh and Daleep Singh, and PNC Region 2 Chairman Prince Holder to join him on stage as he extended Independence Day Greetings to the people of Essequibo on behalf of President David Granger. ‘HERE TO STAY’ And, speaking of sterling

Attendees at this year’s Independence Day ceremony in Region Two

merce, businessman Daleep Singh also called for unity, saying that although Guyana has gained its independence, there is yet more work to be done in terms of cohesion. He called on Essequibians to put

Members of the Khandiya Dance troupe doing a dance called “Guyana”

for unity and social cohesion from leaders of the three main religious communities, namely the Christian, Muslim and Hindu faiths. And in his address to the gathering, which saw among those in attendance Regional Officials, Commander of ‘G’ Division Khalid Pareshram, schoolchildren and their parents, and residents of the wider Region Two other than villages on the Essequibo Coast, Regional Executive Officer (REO) Mr. Denis Jaikarran said that in observing the day, one must remember the sterling contributions of Linden Sampson Forbes Burnham, founder of the People’s National Congress (PNC) party, the country’s first Executive President. He said that gratitude must be given to the late president for his efforts and struggles for Guyana’s

performances, Mr. Jaikarran said that if one were to look closely at the performance of the Coalition Government since it took office three years ago, one would see the tremendous progress that has been achieved. He said that while many are loathe to admit this, or are too ashamed to do so, the evidence speaks for itself, and is enough to guarantee a return to office of the current adminstration come next elections, whenever it is held, regardless of the circumstances. This vote of confidence of sorts in the Coalition Government was met with a resounding round of applause, signaling that the crowd was in total agreement with the REO that the Coalition is here to stay, and for the long haul as he predicted. In her short but informa-

tive address, Ms. Duncan, a longstanding member of the People’s National Congress (PNC) party, took the audince back down memory lane to what Guyana was like before it gained Independence. “I can tell you the struggles weren’t easy,” she said. “The only way we could continue the progress is for us to work; build and co-operate with each other.” Businessman and Regional Councillor (RDC), Samad Baksh said he vividly remembers attending the very first Independence ceremony in Georgetown. He particularly recalled the pomp and energy, and called on his fellow Essequibians to work together and re-establish that commitment; that will to move Guyana forward. Former President of the Essequibo Chamber of Com-

aside their petty differences and work in the best interest of the county. The programme featured performances from the Khandiya and Mainstay Dance Troupes and the CV

Nunes Primary and Anna Regina Multilateral Secondary Schools. Also participating in the march past this year were students of the Cotton Field Secondary School.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, May 27, 2019

Just one among many FOR every pregnant girl child (12-15 years) who ends up under the protection of the Childcare and Protection Agency (CPA), you can be certain that there are more out there, somewhere in Guyana, enduring sexual abuse and rape. Where is the concerned neighbour or family member who is going to step forward on their behalf, informing the authorities about their predicament? The pregnant teen’s story that follows is as poignant as it is reflective of many young children in local care,

because it poses these questions: What happens to children when their parents do not want them? How does living with this rejection affect their development, and eventually their adult state of mind? Without love, security, protection and hope, these children are left at the mercy of… SHANIA’S STORY (The names of the people in this story have been changed to protect the child’s identity.) From as far back as I can remember, my father drank rum, and when he was drunk, he would cuss and chase everybody. When I was eight

years old, my mother died, and I was sent to live with my grandmother. My aunty took my younger brother (then three), because she did not have any boy children. My grandmother was unable to care for me properly, and for years I was passed between my auntie and uncle and then back to my grandmother. I used to attend school, but not every day. When I did go, my favourite subject was maths. Between 10 and 11 years of age, I started my monthly cycle. It was my grandmother who bought me a packet of ‘Stay Free’ and told me to keep

away from boys. Then one day she sent me back to my father, stating that she is old and unwell, and caring for a child could kill her. By now I was 13 years old, and although I had friends at school and was doing fairly well, my father decided I should leave school and go and work. For $1,000 a day, I had to clean and help out in a grocery shop nearby. I didn’t like the idea, but I did as I was told, even though deep inside I would have preferred to stay at school with my friends. While I was working, my father would cook so there was something to eat when I got home. The only thing I didn’t like was when he asked me for money to buy rum. He kept pestering me as if it was my duty to give him money. One day when I refused to give him money, he packed up my belongings and put me out on the road, and there I stood, crying, with no one to turn to and nowhere to go. A young man passing by saw me crying, and asked me what was wrong. When I told him my father put me out, he said I could come and stay by him. He took me to his vil-

lage where he lived with his sister and her boyfriend, and that became my new home. We took turns cooking, and I settled down with Riley (that is his name) and his family. Riley never mistreated me or ‘knock’ me. He gave me money and took care of me. He told me he was 22 years old, and he would be my boyfriend. That’s when we began a sexual relationship. After a while, we went to live with his mother and sisters in a different village some distance away. His family treated me well; one of his sisters was the same age as I, and one was a little bit younger. Soon after we moved in with his mother, I realised I was pregnant. We spoke about having a child, so we were both happy as my belly got bigger and the baby began moving around inside me. But this happiness was shortlived. While Riley was away working on a dredge in the hinterland, CPA officers visited a nearby community, where they explained about child (sexual) abuse. Riley’s female cousin, who lived there, told one of the officers that I was only 14 years old and pregnant. A CPA officer

came to speak to me about my situation, and eventually I was removed from my community and taken into formal care, pending an investigation into the matter of statutory rape. Shania’s story is one with a series of unfortunate events, which eventually led to her being sexually abused by Riley. Statutory rape is an offence under the Sexual Offenders Act (2010). The law is clear: It is a crime to have sex with anyone below the age of 16. Shania, at 14, is unprepared mentally, physically, financially, morally, intellectually and emotionally for the role of motherhood; she is clearly a misguided child herself. With careful input, monitoring and support from CPA staff, Shania should return to school and work towards completing her CXCs in due course. If you are concerned about the welfare of a child, you can ring the CPA hotline 227 0979 or email childcaregy@gmail.com A MESSAGE FROM THE CHILDCARE AND PROTECTION AGENCY, MINISTRY OF SOCIAL PROTECTION.

Local sportsman Kristian Jeffrey robbed, shot after Buju concert LOCAL motor racer and squash player Kristian Jeffrey was robbed and shot in his right ear early Sunday morning as he was making his way home after the massive Buju Banton concert held Saturday night at the Providence National Stadium tarmac. In a statement provided, Jeffrey detailed that he and a friend attended the concert and at the conclusion of the show, they called a taxi to pick them up from the stadium and take them home. However, owing to the heavy traffic present, Jeffrey noted that they decided to walk to meet the car. “In the vicinity of Agricola, we were accosted by individuals with guns who proceeded to rob us of our possessions, including jewellery, phone, wallet,”

Kristian Jeffrey

Jeffrey said. “During a confrontation I was shot to the right ear.” After the incident, the local sportsman was taken to the Balwant Singh Hospital where he received stitches and further treatment,

before being subsequently discharged. “I would like to thank the doctors who treated me immediately, and family, friends and well-wishers for their support during this time,” he said.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, May 27, 2019

Youths from Agricola, surrounding communities empowered “Today, we are offering jobs on the spot,” he said, adding: “It might not be what you want but it is the beginning stage to get you where you want to go.” Courts Guyana Inc, Gafoors, the Guyana Police Force and Prison Service were among the organisations present in Agricola during the outreach on Saturday.

One young boy engaging with members of the Guyana Police Force on Saturday at the community outreach in Agricola

Children from Agricola look on as one young boy has his eyes tested by a representative of Courts Optical (Delano Williams photos)

By Vishani Ragobeer SCORES of young people in Agricola and surrounding communities benefited from access to employment, training opportunities and health services as National Youth Week 2019 came to a close. The outreach was held at the Agricola Community Health Centre and at the community centre, which are adjacent to each other, making it easier for the young people to access the services. “We’ve done our groundwork in the past and on top of the list of issues facing young people, not only in Agricola but across the country, is unemployment, lack of training opportunities and lack of access to medical services,” said Project Officer at the Department of Youth, Germaine Watson. However, he explained that the department decided to host the outreach in Agricola following a previous

engagement Social Cohesion Minister, Dr. George Norton had with the community. “Through his engagement with persons from Agricola, he thought it best that we come back here because the services are needed here and that’s what really jump started why we came here,” the officer noted. In bringing the services to the community, Watson related that the body engaged with businesses and organisations seeking employees and brought them into the community so that they could begin the process of recruiting young people. He also noted that the youth department offers a number of training opportunities for young people, particularly through the various technical institutes. And with the summer holiday and the new academic year on the horizon, the time was even more opportune to edify young people about opportunities they could benefit

from. The Guyana Industrial Training Centre (GITC) was also there to inform young people of the opportunities available for training and education. “It was an opportunity for young people to reach out and take opportunity of those services that they lack here in Agricola,” Watson said candidly. Last week the community also observed the 172nd anniversary since its establishment and local groups within the community joined hands with the Youth Department to craft the event. “We wanted to make one effort and reach out to members of the community,” Watson said. Agricola Development Association (ADA) President Timothy Blair noted that this group was recently formed with the intention of improving the livelihood of residents of Agricola. According to him, efforts like the community outreach help to develop the community and its people.

National Youth Week was observed from May 18 to 25 and a number of activities were held to commemorate the occasion. “The Guyana National Youth Week seeks to provide a platform for young people to be united and address the many challenges affecting the society at large,” Assistant Director of Youth, Leslyn

Boyce had said at the launch. This year, the theme for the week of activities was “Inspire and build resilient youth”. The events for the week are focused on specific objectives, geared at the overall promotion and empowerment of young people to participate in national and community-focused decision-making.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, May 27, 2019

Lindeners look ahead with optimism - at 53rd Independence Anniversary celebrations

By Vanessa Braithwaite THIS 53rd Independence celebration was deemed one of the most important in the nation’s history, as it marks a turning point on the country’s massive socio-economic horizon, with first oil just ahead. With this aforemost in mind, Guyanese would do well to remember the united

front that was needed 53 years ago, at both the political and ethnic levels, to achieve the independence we enjoy as a country today, and therefore apply that same united front in the transformation of the country into an economic powerhouse of the Caribbean and South American regions. This was the charge left Lindeners who comprised the majority of those in at-

tendance at the community’s flag-raising ceremony just before the traditional hoisting of the Golden Arrowhead on Republic Avenue at the stroke of midnight. It was left by none other than Regional Chairman Renis Morian, who, in delivering the feature address, made the point that the petroleum industry will only liberate us as a town, and a country by

extension, whether socially or financially, if we stand united as a people. That said, he urged Lindeners and those present from other Region 10 communities, to be wary of those whose intention is to tear down, and invest their energies in those that are building citizens up and bringing them together through social cohesion. He urged his audience to use the

Regional Chairman Renis Morian and others look on as the Golden Arrowhead is hoisted

occasion this year to look back and come up with ways they can contribute to the development of their nation through efforts at unification. The regional chairman went on to commend those Lindeners who recently banded themselves into cooperatives, which was a noticeable feature of postindependence Guyana, and helped create that spirit of cooperativism for which Guyanese were noted at the time as they work together for the country to become self-sustainable, and these efforts are reaping success to this day. Presently, Region Ten has several cooperatives, ranging from agricultural to regional development. He urged these cooperatives to intensify efforts of the locally-produced brand, and to support those who are doing so. His address also touched on the need for Guyanese to become a more united nation so as to fight for our territorial integrity, in which political and military forces have renewed their interest. He alluded to the efforts of military officers not so long after we would have gained Independence to safeguard what is ours. Morian expressed that he remains committed to ensuring that what is in store for Guyana benefits the residents of Region Ten, particularly the youths, with whom he is working to ensure they meet

their true potential. Messages of unity were also presented by acting Mayor Leroy James, who likened his address to the words of the national song, Hymn For Guyana’s Children, which has embedded in it potent messages of unity. He urged the residents to reflect on these words when persons propagate messages of division. “There has been many attempts by many forces to divide us as a people, but we must remember we are stronger together... A united Guyana is a strong Guyana,” he said, while urging the audience to display confidence in President Granger and his administration in bringing a good life for all Guyanese. While the event was scarce of regional officials, the residents that braved the inclement weather enjoyed a patriotic programme filled with cultural items depicting Guyana’s nationality. Chairman of the commemoration committee, Charles Sampson gave an in-depth chronological history of Guyana’s pre and post-independence era. They also witnessed the military parade who marched through Republic Avenue, showing off their poise and marching choreography. Taking the salute were the regional officials present and Commander of E’ Division Linden Lord.

Four held in gun, ‘ammo’ find FOUR men, including a teenager, have been detained by the police following the discovery of two unlicensed shotguns aback Number 28 Village, West Coast Berbice on Sunday. The quartet also had in their possession live .38 ammunitions, four canvas bags and a bucket containing a carcass.

At the time of the arrest, the men were in motor pickup (GMM7358) which had a carriage and a boat attached to it. Following the interception, the 47-yearold driver produced an expired firearm licence. The items were lodged at the Fort Wellington Police Station so s to help the police with their investigations.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, May 27, 2019

Carnival Road Parade

A section of the crowd of spectators on Vlissengen Road the second annual Guyana Carnival Road Para

Daniellla Pitsilos (right) and her friend Laura Fatiaki travelled all the way from Australia to be part of Guyana Carnival 2019. They were on the road with the Genesis band (Samuel Maughn photo)

THE second Guyana Carnival Road Parade saw hundreds decked out in colourful costumes and even thousands more lining the streets to soak up the party atmosphere on Sunday.

Streets were alive with colour, excitement and revelry, as participants danced and partied all the way down Carifesta Avenue and into Vlissengen Road, ending at Dâ€™Urban Park. Even light af-

ternoon showers did nothing to dampen anyoneâ€™s spirit or get them off the street. The event saw some tourists coming from at least as far as Australia and the United Kingdom, or as

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, May 27, 2019

e draws large crowd

d that turned out on Sunday to witness ade (Samuel Maughn photo)

close as Chile, Grenada and Barbados, and several overseas- based Guyanese also returning home to take part in the annual event that is still developing. This bears testimony to the fact that the event is indeed growing and becoming integrated into the Guyanese cultural fabric as word continues to spread of what a big experience the event is becoming. “From previous carnivals I met some crew from Guyana and they told me about [the]Guyana Carnival and I was like, you know, it sounds really awesome and Guyana is in South America. It’s a bit different to the Caribbean, but still has that carnival flavour,” noted 30year- old Daniellla Pitsilos, who travelled all the way from Australia to experience her first Guyana Carnival. This year’s Road Parade included two bands for patrons to choose from: the Genesis and Pulse Carnival bands, each offering a number of options to choose from for those wishing to be a part of the experience while decked out in signature exotic apparel. The Road Parade is the climax of the 11-day experience which concludes on Monday and included

a number of pool parties, and soca and Reggae concerts, the biggest of which of course saw the return of Buju Banton to local shores to perform on Saturday night. Running from May 17 – 27, the carnival experience had started out with a Soca Block Party two Fridays ago. Pitsilos said the experience is her birthday present to herself, having celebrated her birthday on Sunday. She shared the experience with her friend and compatriot Laura Fatiaki. The pair was a part of the Genesis Band. While this is their first carnival in Guyana, they’ve shared that they’ve also attended carnival events in Trinidad and Jamaica. Fatiaki’s only uneasiness was that things were a tad bit pricey. “The costumes are really big here, but it’s very expensive I feel. It is expensive compared to Jamaica, but in Trinidad I think it’s around the same. But here you get more bands than you do in Jamaica,” she noted. Nonetheless, the pair of Australians were determined to enjoy their money’s worth and that they did as they danced and frolicked down the road on Sunday. Aside from being a part of the

Road Parade, other Guyana Carnival events in which the pair participated included the Elysium Pool Party at Tower Suites Hotel and the Stinging Nettles concert which featured live performances by Kes the Band and some local artistes. “We went to the Elysi-

um Poolside Party that was amazing; that was so good and after that we went to Kes. We only arrived Tuesday, so we missed a lot of stuff,” Pitsilos said. The pair, who are staying at the home of a friend, said they’re not sure just yet when they plan to leave,

wanting to see how much more of the country they can experience while they’re here. Also out enjoying the day was 26-year- old Charlie Tokeley from the United Kingdom. He also came for the Guyanese experience. “Guyana seems like an

interesting part of the world, so I wanted to have the experience. It’s fun, it’s lively, so I came down to have a look,” Tokeley shared. This is his second year taking in the Guyana Carnival experience, having been here for the inaugural hosting last year.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, May 27, 2019

CH&PA calls out Guyana Times for ‘grossly mischievous’ reporting

THE Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) has called out the Guyana Times for the publication of ‘click bait’ stories which, according to the Authority, has painted its staff as dangerous and threatening. The stance was taken following the newspaper’s May 19, 2019 publication of an article headlined “Heavily-armed men demolish six homes at Anna Catherina … claim to be acting on behalf of CH&PA”. In the article, the newspaper stated that the six West Coast of Demerara (WCD) homes were destroyed by “four armed men”, which the Authority believes can easily suggest that the men were armed

with dangerous weapons. In a release on Sunday, the CH&PA deemed the headline grossly misleading, mischievous and malevolent, stating that it also suggested that the men were potentially conducting an unlawful activity. “On Friday, May 17, 2019, in keeping with the agency’s mandate to address the issues of squatting, the staff of the Enforcement Unit visited the Anna Catherina area to carry out a demolition exercise. This exercise was carried out only after every other effort to get the illegal dwellers to comply had failed,” the CH&PA said. “Demolition of illegal structures was not recently introduced into CH&PA’s

operations. It has been part of the agency, from time immemorial. The team of three men was merely equipped with claw bars, hammers and a sledge hammer. The article is self-repudiating, as it acknowledges that fact. These are the tools used in demolition exercises throughout the country, and for as long as the CH&PA has been in existence,” the Authority went on to explain. Noting that the newspaper has a “growing trend of ‘click-bait’ stories”, perhaps in an effort “to boost poor circulation and sales”, or to misinform the nation, the Authority said: “The article is deceitful, as it deliberately distorts the facts. It is dangerous

because it can incite illegal dwellers to ‘protect themselves’ against CH&PA’s ‘heavily armed’ demolition crew, endangering the lives of our staff in the process. It is disgraceful, because it seeks to sully the image of the agency and work of the staff.” The Authority also sought to remind the public that it does not act without due regard for the well-being of the occupants of structures marked for demolition. It stated that it will continue to execute its mandate in an impartial, lawful and professional manner, and acknowledged that the need for housing solutions for the nation’s citizens still remains, in spite of it’s working assiduously towards allocating land and granting housing units to families. In closing, the agency said, “The CH&PA calls on citizens to desist from

breaking the law. We are in receipt of reports of people being encouraged to ‘go and squat’. We wish to remind all and sundry that squatting is illegal!

We appeal to all Guyanese to let better sense prevail. Heed the voice of reason. Disregard those who are bent on disrupting the peace.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, May 27, 2019

‘Never take independence for granted’ - Guyanese told at flag-raising ceremony in New York

By Tracey Khan GUYANESE residing in Queens, New York, held the first ever flag-raising ceremony in Richmond Hill-- which is referred to as little Guyana -- to celebrate Guyana’s 53rd Independence anniversary. The event saw Guyanese from all walks of life across New York gather in unity to celebrate the progress of their homeland. Several officials from New York’s Senate, Congress and Council were also in attendance and acknowledged the contributions that Guyanese living in the United States are making. “We are a proud people… oftentimes we are divided, but this is the first in Richmond Hill and demonstrates

to the world that we can stand together as a people,” Guyanese-born, New York Senator Roxanne Persaud said. She added that to be able to hoist Guyana’s flag on United States soil is a special moment for the people and commended the organisers, The Lions club of Richmond Hill - South Ozone Park. American Congressman Gregory Meeks, whose father-in-law is Guyanese, said it is important that Guyanese living overseas continue to play their role to build their birthland. He called on Guyanese to never take their independence for granted and do what is needed to preserve it for the future of their children. “It is also significant to never forget who you are and where you came from and

Young mom dies, leaving triplets behind ELEVEN years ago, she created history by being the first mother to deliver triplets at the New Amsterdam Hospital. Last Wednesday, her remains were interred at the Reliance Cemetery in East Canje. Hameeda Bacchus, 43, lost the battle to a range of illnesses, and has left three young daughters behind. Bacchus died at her Betsy Ground Village home last Sunday, hours after telling the triplets, Ashmini, Ashwini and Ashwani, who are fondly referred to as Jennifer, Joanna and Jessica, to stay with their neighbour, Asha. Asha, (the only name given) of Lot 1162 New Area, Canefield Settlement, East Canje had been contributing to the girls’ welfare since their birth on March 14, 2008. But with their mother’s sudden demise, it is not clear whether the middle-aged woman can sufficiently provide for the girls, who are awaiting their National Grade Six Assessments (NGSA) results. A paternal aunt, Sally, who is caring for the girls’ wheel chair-bound older sister and two brothers, suggested that the girls stay with Asha, since, with the help of the relevant government agencies, the pre-teens

can be afforded a better life. Asha expressed concern over their constant complaints of pain in their legs, which their older sister had experienced. Three years ago, their older sister Farzanna, then a student of Canje Secondary School, went to school one day, but hours later was forced to return home because of unbearable pains in her legs. A subsequent surgical intervention allegedly worsened the situation, and as a result, the 15-year-old is now confined to a wheelchair. Since their birth, several individuals and non-governmental organisations have come forward to assist their mother, but over the years, this support has dwindled, except that of the owner of the Church View Hotel. Now the girls have grown, their demands have increased, more so, they are preparing to enter secondary school. Joanna likes Integrated Science, Grammar and Social studies, and fancies becoming a teacher one day, while Jessica, who is only interested in grammar, and loves to play hide and seek, wants to be a banker. Jennifer loves mathematics, and would like to become an entrepreneur when she grows up.

Elected New York officials prepare to cut the anniversary cake

never lose your allegiance to your homeland, because

that’s who you are and what makes you what you are and

we know that what makes this borough and this district good is that people can look back and see the land from which they came and understanding the significance of being a strong citizen and making sure that democracy strives here in the United States, but also back in your homeland,” Congressman Meeks said. Barbara Atherly, Consul-General in New York, said it is an emotional and proud moment to raise the Golden Arrowhead in Queens, adding that it is a time to reflect and work for the betterment of Guyana. Romeo Hitlall, who is the President of the Richmond Hill – South Ozone Park

Lions Club, said they will continue to build from this initiative to make it better and ensure all Guyanese are represented. “Liberty Avenue is a striving commercial district and 90 per cent of the people here are Guyanese and after seeing that ceremonies are held in Brooklyn, New Jersey and other parts of the States, we decided to have it here in Queens,” he added. The flag was hoisted in front of Sybil’s Restaurant, which is one of the most popular Guyanese eateries in the State. A flag-raising ceremony was also held in Brooklyn on Friday and was well attended.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, May 27, 2019

It’s down to the bowling attacks By Ian Chappell Former Australia captain; ESPNcricinfo columnist

IN an era where big bats and big scores, with the occasional monumental battering, have proliferated in ODIs, there are still some seriously good bowling attacks gearing up for the 2019 World Cup. Wicket-taking is going to play a crucial role in deciding this World Cup. Despite the modern gung-ho batting style, this is not an easy contract to fulfil when the tournament reaches the knockout stage. The team that consistently takes wickets -- particularly through the middle overs -- is the one most likely to lift the trophy. Consequently, the best balanced attacks will likely come to the fore, and they belong to England, India and Australia. Until recently, the ingredient missing from a rampant England side was genuine pace. Suddenly, with Jofra Archer a late qualifier and a resurgent Mark Wood, they have an abundance of speed -- to the point where their most reliable wicket-taker in the recent past, Liam Plunkett, could warm the bench. A pace attack of Archer, Wood and Chris Woakes, with Moeen Ali and Adil Rashid providing the guile, and the ebullient Ben Stokes as back-up, is one to be feared. Throw in a deep and powerful batting line-up and the only concern for England is their history of World Cup failures and the tendency to be weighed down by home expectations in the short forms of the game. This is where Eoin Morgan’s calmness as captain will play an important role. If he keeps England focused purely on the job at hand, then the home side will take some stopping. While not possessing the outright pace of England or Australia, India

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do have great variety and a trio of fast bowlers who can be exceptional in favourable conditions. If there’s any moisture in the pitches, then Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami and Bhuvneshwar Kumar are skilled enough to take

or Jason Behrendorff fill the third-seamer role. In the past, Australia have been reluctant to play two front-line spinners in ODIs, and with Glenn Maxwell as a batting all-rounder providing some off-spin, leggie Adam Zampa is likely to be

full advantage. If however, the pitches start to wear and the conditions are dry, then Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal are a dangerous wicket-taking combination. Throw in Hardik Pandya as a handy fast-bowling all-rounder and Virat Kohli has plenty of options. Even with the consistent Josh Hazlewood missing, Australia are blessed with a dominant pair of wicket-taking fast bowlers in Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins. Australia’s success in the tournament will depend a lot on how well either Nathan Coulter-Nile

the first-choice tweaker. After a promising start Marcus Stoinis’ bowling seems to have been large-

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ly neglected lately, but the captain, Aaron Finch, may have to revise that plan in England. Both South Africa and New Zealand are well equipped in the bowling department. South Africa has a terrific pace trio in Kagiso Rabada, Dale Steyn and Lungi Ngidi, and Imran Tahir adequately fulfils the role of wicket-taking spinner. Taking wickets shouldn’t be a problem for South Africa, but the batting looks a little thin and they do have a well-earned reputation for World Cup cock-ups. Most of those hiccups have come at the knockout stage; this time they’ll need to exceed expectations with the bat to get that far in the tournament. New Zealand aren’t as blessed as South Africa with pace, but they do have a pair of bowlers, Trent Boult and Tim Southee, who are deadly if the ball swings. New Zealand have regularly reached the final-four stage of the World Cup and could well repeat that performance; but their batting seems a little too limited to make the final. The 2019 format requires each team to play the other nine, so no one can avoid playing the best, and that helps to make it such an open contest. If England can overcome the weight of expectation that comes with playing at home, their bowling attack has the look of a winner.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, May 27, 2019

Stafanie Taylor struck 75 to help the West Indies defeat Ireland

CMC – WEST Indies captain Stafanie Taylor’s aggressive half-century and a four-wicket haul by Afy Fletcher led them to a comprehensive 64-run win over Ireland in the first of three T20 internationals here Sunday. Taylor ’s knock of 75 from 53 balls was the backbone of the Windies’ eventual total of 139 for four from their 20 overs, after winning the toss and choosing to bat. But it was their disciplined bowling effort which paved the way for an emphatic victory. Only Kim Garth, who topscored with 46 got into double digits, as Fletcher ran through the lower order to help dismiss Ireland for only 75 with eight balls left in the contest. The home side got off to a horrible start when Gaby Lewis lost her wicket in the

Taylor, Fletcher lead Windies women to win over Ireland

first over, bowled by Shamilia Connell. Garth joined Mary Waldron at the crease and the two shared a 31-run stand for the second wicket, the largest partnership of their innings. But when Waldron was run out by Fletcher for six, Shauna Kavanagh went one run later and she was quickly followed by Una Raymond-Hoey for a duck, as Ireland slipped to 34 for four. Soon after, Rebecca Stokell became the first of Fletcher’s victims, trapped leg before wicket for just five. Fletcher also accounted for the wickets of Louise Little for three and Lara Maritz for one, before dismissing Garth, who was the last wicket to fall with Ireland well short of their target. Captain Laura Delany

was unable to bat after being injured. Fletcher finished with the spectacular figures of four for 14 from 3.4 overs, while Chinelle Henry grabbed two wickets. Earlier, Taylor produced a captain’s knock to almost single-handedly guide the Windies to their total. She first shared a 47run, second-wicket stand with Britney Cooper, who made 17 and then posted 75 runs with Shemaine Campbell (20) for the third wicket. Taylor was eventually dismissed with nine balls left, with the score 128 for three in the 19th over. She struck 11 boundaries and one six during her hour-long innings. Henry then struck two boundaries in a quickfire nine to bring the innings to a close on a high.

Holder believes Windies ready for World cup CMC – WEST Indies captain Jason Holder isn’t too concerned about a lack of playing time for his troops following Sunday’s rained out match against South Africa. Only 12.4 overs were possible before heavy showers brought an end to the day’s proceedings, with South Africa 95 without loss. However, Holder said all of the players in the 15-man squad had either played in the Indian Premier League or took part in the recently concluded Tri-Nations Series involving Ireland and Bangladesh. “It was not ideal today with the rain, but it’s out of our control. Obviously, it’s a situation where we need to hope we get some cricket in in the next two days against New Zealand. “We just came from Ireland and playing the Tri-Nation Series there, so we’ve had a lot of cricket leading up to this. Some of the guys have been playing IPL cricket and everyone was playing cricket lead-

ing up to this tournament, so I think we’re all well attuned to the conditions and looking to start the tournament,” Holder said.

“We have to make some slight adjustments in terms of our length. I think generally we were a bit too short and we offered a bit of width

West Indies captain Jason Holder believes his side is prepared for the ICC World Cup

In today’s shortened game, Proteas opener Hashim Amla scored an unbeaten half-century and together with Quinton de Kock scored at seven and a half runs an over. Most of the West Indies’ bowlers were expensive and Holder said there needed to be improvements in that area heading into Tuesday’s final warm-up match against New Zealand.

at times too, so especially in these conditions where the ball doesn’t do as much I just think that you need to be as accurate as you possibly can in terms of holding a line and length and try to create some problems there,” Holder said. “If you stack up some dot balls and stack up some pressure overs together then more often than not you’ll get the wickets you’re looking for.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, May 27, 2019

FROM BACK PAGE

Two significant resolutions passed ‘Super focused’ Edghill ... at GFF Ordinary Congress 2019

THE passage of two significant resolutions was among the many issues addressed when the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) on Saturday 25 convened its Ordinary Congress at the Arthur Chung Convention Centre, Liliendaal. The first resolution, which was unanimously passed, amended Article 10 (b) of the Constitution that had stipulated “the eight Elite Clubs” would form part of the GFF’s membership and replaced it instead with “the Elite Clubs.” This resolution was aimed at curing the defect that occurs whenever a club is relegated and replaced by another one. The resolution further stipulated that there will be a system of promotion and relegation of one club in the Elite League at the conclusion of each Elite League Competition. It also stated that the champion club at the National Association Qualification playoff will be promoted to the Elite League, while the lowest-placed club in the Elite League will be relegated to the Regional Association upon ratification by congress. The second resolution was passed by majority after the presentation of the findings of a GFF-appointed inquiry into the long-festering issues surrounding the sale of hosting rights in the October 12, 2012 Guyana versus Mexico World Cup Qualification match. Other issues addressed in that resolution were the absence of evidence to indicate the reason for sale of hosting rights, and that the decision to play the game in the USA was the collective will of the GFF. However, the investigation did not discover any evidence of criminal misconduct by the GFF Executive Committee (ExCo). The players’ decision to negotiate a profit-sharing agreement outside of their tournament compensation schedule on the eve of the game was inappropriate and was done in bad faith. Additionally, the investigation did not discover any evidence that a binding legal contract for profit-sharing existed between the GFF and the players. In recognition of the country’s progress to that stage of the World Cup qualification process, an ex-gratia pay-

ment of five hundred United States dollars will be made to each player who was registered to play in that October 12, 2012 game. Even though the GFF considers this matter officially closed, the ExCo reserves the right to investigate any new evidence brought to its attention in the future. Apart from the resolutions, President of the GFF, Wayne Forde, in his opening address, thanked all GFF members and the ExCo for their contributions in advancing the game. He indicated that this remarkable period of stability in football has resulted in exceptional progress in every department of the game, on and off the field of play. He outlined the six key goals the ExCo adopted that were responsible for the game to be moving in the right direction. These were: good governance; improved facilities; capacity- building; forging corporate and social relationships; improved financial management; and improved livelihoods for the players. The president also singled out a number of noteworthy achievements during the past year and these included the historic qualification of the Senior Golden Jaguars for the Concacaf Gold Cup. The significant role played by corporate partners such as the National Milling Company of Guyana (NAMILCO); Pele Alumni Corporation; Guyana Beverage Inc.; Ansa McAl Trading; and Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) was also noted. The congress also noted the role of ExCo Member Dion Inniss for overseeing the successful and historic hosting of the FIFA Development Conference on May 14-15 and the Den Amstel Football Club for winning the Stag Super 16 KO tournament; Other issues over which congress deliberated included a presentation by the Director of Competitions, Ian Alves. Alves’s presentation centred on the proposed Federation Cup, slated to commence in August this year, involving all 10 Elite League Clubs plus 14 clubs from Regional Member Associations.

The qualification system had three trials with the top two players from each trial succeeding, before the remaining names were re-drawn for the subsequent round. Although Edghill was seeded number two, just behind Lowe, Lucero Ovelar was favourite to defeat her in their decisive clash. The US-based Guyanese lost the first game 9-11, before she won 11-5, 11-8 and 11-7, but Ovelar battled back to draw even (3-3) at 11-8 and 11-7. The former Caribbean U21 champion kept her composure to win the final game 11-9. ‘SUPER FOCUSED’ “In the match, the goal was to remain super focused and play one point at a time,” the former Bishops’ High School student told the Guyana Chronicle. “Not thinking about the point lost before and the one ahead, just the point I was about to play. In the 7th game, the strategy was to start early, and remain calm and confident and not have doubts about any shot.” Franklin, who lost twice to Guatemala’s Heber Moscoso, first in the round of 16 (4-2) on the first day, before losing to him in the second tournament 4-3, bounced back on day three to defeat players from Costa Rica (4-1) and Bolivia (4-3), before he was defeated by Venezuelan Marco Navas, who qualified for the games. Britton also lost to Moscoso (1-4) in the final round. The Guatemalan also booked a spot to Peru. In the final round, Lowe also fell in a deciding clash against Trinidadian Rheann Chung. Since Lowe and Franklin had lost in the virtual final, they had chances to make the reserves, but they were defeated in their playoff matches against Barbados’ Tyrese Knight and El Salvador’s Monica Mendoza. Twenty-three males from Guyana, Venezuela, Colombia, Bolivia, Panama, Costa Rica, Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, Barbados, St Kitts, Honduras, Guatemala and Barbados and 19 females from Guyana, Ecuador, El Salvador, Paraguay, Ecuador, Costa Rica Trinidad and Tobago, Venezuela, Barbados, St Kitts and Honduras were vying for qualification spots.

Supply beat defending champs in Schools Windball C’ships

Some of the teams that competed in the latest round of games

DEFENDING female champions Timehri Primary School, fell short of Supply Primary when action in the Upper East Bank Demerara 22nd Annual End of School Year (Edward Cobenna Memorial) Primary School Windball Championships, continued recently at the Airport Ground. In the five-over game, Timehri batted first and scored 303, before Supply replied with 33-0. Allison Allicock led her team with 28 runs. Supply made it 2-0, as their male players were able to contain Kuru Kuru Primary in their clash. The eventual winners batted first and scored 74-2 with Deon Scott scoring 35 and Kelion Daniels 20; Kuru Kuru were held at 65-7 after Scott bagged three wickets. Mark La Rose led Kuru Kuru with 16 runs. Timehri Primary males fared better than the female

side, as they got past Hauraruni Primary in their clash. Hauraruni batted first and scored 44-4. Andre Alexander and Isiah Ross scored 20 and 16 runs respectively. Elijah Dhanraj, who finished with two wickets, then played a few shots in the chase to finish with 12. Jason Ceres with 27 runs did the bulk of the scoring in the win (45-1) for Timehri. Hauraruni females ensured that their side went home with a win, when they got past Kuru Kuru Primary. The latter batted first and scored 67-3. Leneza Jeffrey finished with 18 and Natasha Anthony 13. Hauraruni in reply were led by Carlana Alexander, who scored a blistering 33 and Ciara Lindore who added 12 to push their score to 69-1. The competition, which is organised by Allister Munroe, continues on Wednesday from 09:30hrs at the same venue.

CIRCLE TENNIS TODAY Meanwhile, in an effort to revive Guyana’s native game, circle tennis, Minister of Social Cohesion with responsibility for Culture, Youth and Sport Dr. George Norton and Director of Sport Christopher Jones, will host a competition at Parika on the East Bank of Essequibo today. The minister’s first set of matches were played in Region Six at the No. 63 Beach a few weeks ago. Today, the first ball will loop off at 10:00hrs. A team from Region Six and one from Georgetown will travel for the battle. Technical Advisor for Circle Tennis, Munroe, along with his team, which includes the President of the Guyana Circle Tennis Association, will be in charge of the day’s programme.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, May 27, 2019

Sentinel Security Inc on Corona board with AP Invitational ‘quarters’

SENTINEL Security Inc., a returning sponsor of the Aliann Pompey Invitational, has committed to the event in a major way for 2019. Regarded as the biggest track and field event in Guyana, the Aliann Pompey Invitational will pay any female athlete of Guyanese origin $200,000 (USD $1,000) should she break any national record. This fantastic opportunity for the national women was made possible by Sentinel Security Inc and Aliann Pompey was ecstatic about the development. ”Yesterday [Friday] I watched Guyana’s Olympian Aliyah Abrams run 51.63 seconds over 400m and I saw my national record flash before my eyes. It won’t stand much longer - we have a tremendous group of young athletes coming up and believe me, they are thoroughly motivated to rewrite the record books. “I am thrilled that Sentinel Sercurity Inc sees the value in supporting our athletes at this level. One of the principles on which this competition was initially founded is to provide not only a platform for our athletes, but a way for them to make a living from this sport; starting here. At the end of it all, it’s a job. The satisfaction from representing the Golden Arrowhead is incomparable. To be able to earn a living doing so is something we need to do for our athletes, ” Pompey stated.

Executive Director of Sentinel Security, Noreen Gaskin, was nothing but complimentary of the AP Invitational and the development it fosters for Guyanese athletes. “Sentinel Security Inc has always held the vision that supporting the development of sports is not only a corporate commitment, but also vital for the improvement of sports as a whole and athletes in Guyana. “Providing resources to those associated with organising events towards this eventual achievement is a priority. We have always demonstrated this through various and varying efforts, and are particularly thrilled with the initiative of Ms Aliann Pompey. In fact,Sentinel feels that she shares its vision aptly and stands ready to support her in her venture and calls on others to recognise and support her for the development of sports in our nation, ” Gaskin highlighted. Meanwhile, to date, other sponsors singing on with the event are the Guyana Olympic Association; Banks DIH; the Athletics Association of Guyana; IAAF, ConSudAtle; the Ministry of Education; SleepIn Hotel and Casino; Star Party Rentals; the National Sports Commission; Quality Plus Fast Foods; and the Ministry of Communities (Green Generation Guyana). The AP Invitational is set for July 6 at the National Track and Field Centre, Leonora and will feature Guyana’s top athletes.

on tonight

QUARTER finals for the Corona Fustal Tournament is set for this evening at the National Gymnasium. Future Stars will face West Front Road in the first game of the night, with Bent Street going up against California Square. Back Circle take on North-East La Penitence and Sparta Boss play Tiger Bay. Last week, the the cash incentives for the group stage of the Corona Futsal tournament were handed over. Giving brief comments, co-Director of the Petra Organisation, Troy Mendonca, contended that “the tournament has been good so far. All the teams are turning out early and I really want to commend all the players for being on time.” Back Circle (Group A), Future Stars (Group B) and Tiger Bay (Group C) walked away with $30 000 each for topping their respective groups. Sparta Boss (Group A), Bent Street (Group B) and West Front Road (Group C), carted off $20 000 for placing second in the groups, while California Square (Group A), Leopold Street (Group B) and North-East La Penitence (Group C) collected $15 000 for third place. Beacons (Group A), Mocha (Group B) and Tucville (Group C) got $10 000 each.

Eleven medals for Guyanese athletes at regional University Games -Chess team wins bronze in three categories

GUYANA’s contingent to the 17th edition of the University Games for Central American and Caribbean nations, walked away with a number of medals, including two gold, five silvers and four bronze by the eight-member athletic team and a string of third-place finishes by the chess players. The May 20-26 event, which took place in Colombia, had all eight athletes winning medals. Guyana’s females led the charge in the jumps. Ruth Samagoon and Leoni Ad-

ams won gold medals in the long jump and triple jump respectively. Individually, Samagoon added a silver medal in the 200M and a bronze medal in the 100M. In total, the four girls (also included Jevina Sampson and Delina Clarke) finished with silver medals in the 4X100M and the 4X200M relays. Triple jump winner Adams also won bronze in the long jump. The four male athletes: Kevin Paul, Noelex Holder, Jovon Johnson and Shimar

Velloza finished with a silver medal in the 4X400M and a bronze medal in the 4X100M. Paul also won a 400M silver, while Holder finished with a 200M bronze. Meanwhile, the chess team finished third in three time categories against Central American universities. The five UG chess players were the lone Caribbean representatives at the games. The males participated in classical division (with a time limit of 90 minutes), the rapid (15 minutes and 10

Coach Mark Scott and the successful UG athletes

CM Ronuel Greenidge (left) with members of the UG chess team and the team’s interpreter

seconds) and a blitz (four minutes and two seconds). Guyana finished third in all team categories. The UG players were able to finish ahead of teams from El Salvador and Honduras. Costa Rica university students emerged champions in

all three team divisions, while the home team Colombia finished with silver medals across the board. Candidate Master (CM) Ronuel Greenidge, who coached the side, told the Guyana Chronicle that he was pleased with the team’s performance.

Current male chess champion at UG, Davion Mars, scored the most points in each of the categories. The other male players were Andre Jagnandan, Triston Carter and Sidney Nelson. The lone female representative was Anicia Patterson.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, May 27, 2019

Burrowes walks out of GCF stakeholders meeting -no election in sight DESPITE the mandatory date for the Guyana Cycling Federation’s (GCF) elections and Annual General Meeting having been long passed (March 31), there are still no signs or set date for the elections or resolutions to the issues that have been causing discord in the fraternity. The issue of elections has been described as “not relevant” by embattled GCF President, Horace Burrowes. He, at the time of that statement (Wednesday, last

May 22), had announced that Guyana would be hosting the 2019 Caribbean Junior Cycling Championships. Meanwhile, on the same day, Burrowes showed up to the council meeting of the GCF almost an hour late; in a correspondence seen by Chronicle Sport, the GCF had invited members of the council to a meeting on Wednesday, May 22, at Olympic House, Liliendaal, East Coast Demerara. The said meeting, which was slated to begin at

16:30hrs, did not start until 17:22hrs, according to persons who were present. After the opening prayer and remarks by Burrowes about a “Stronger and united GCF 2019,” the meeting got down to “brass tacks” and it was here that licences, insurance and membership dues were discussed. Burrowes tried to expel the Roraima Cycling club, represented by Bryan Allen, on the basis of the club owing three years’ dues.

The correspondence subsequent to the meeting sent by the GCF to members of the council and affiliated clubs.

Rains rob West Indies of warm up ahead of WC

CMC – THE West Indies’ preparations for the upcoming ICC World Cup were foiled by inclement weather, with their first official warm-up game against South Africa being abandoned here Sunday due to heavy showers. The Windies were hoping to use the match as practice, with their opening match of the World Cup against Pakistan just five days away. However, despite the match being restarted after a lengthy delay, the rains came again, forcing the match to end in a no-result. South Africa had progressed nicely to 60 without loss in the tenth over, when the first set of showers came. Two more attempts were also made, but both were short-lived as showers forced the players to seek shelter with the Proteas 95 without loss in 12.4 overs. Openers Hashim Amla, who was unbeaten on 51 and Quinton de Kock, who scored 37 not out, were the batsmen at the crease. It was tough going for the Windies’ bowlers up to that point, with captain Jason Holder’s five overs for 29 runs being the most economical of the five used. The West Indies will play their final official warm-up game against New Zealand at Bristol on Tuesday.

However, Allen duly contested this by producing his receipts and proof of payment for 2016 and 2017. Allen also noted that he had paid his 2018 fees, but did not receive a receipt for that payment; he however pointed out that the GCF Secretary Maria Leung had made a note of it in the GCF minutes of the 2018 AGM, something which Leung confirmed. Despite Leung’s confirmation, Burrowes was adamant that Allen still owed fees and was bent on expelling the Roraima club; following an exchange, Burrowes got up and walked out of the building after ‘adjourning’ the meeting; all of this before the AGM and elections could be discussed.

However, the remaining members carried on the meeting in the presence of the GCF secretary and it was decided by the nine club representatives present that the tentative date for the 2019 AGM and elections would be June 19. According to the GCF constitution, the AGM and elections must be held no later than March 31 of the stipulated term-end, which in this case is 2019. Back in 2016, nine of the 11 clubs affiliated to the GCF had voted to install an Interim Management Committee (IMC) following concerns raised by cyclists and clubs about the performance of the Burrowes executive. At that time, Burrowes

GCF President Horace Burrowes

said he had contacted the International Cycling Union (ICU) and the Confederation Pan-American Cycling International (COPACI) about the latest development and had also sent them a copy of the constitution. Back then, Burrowes had revealed that the two organisations in their replies confirmed that he was the only recognised president of the GCF, adding that he would remain the president until the new elections in 2019, something yet to materialise.

Two significant resolutions passed at GFF Ordinary Congress 2019 Page

The Guyana Football Federation executive committee (ExCo)

Rains rob West Indies of warm-up ahead of WC

Page

Sentinel Security Inc on board with Page AP Invitational 26

‘Super focused’ Edghill qualifies for Pan Am Games SENIOR Sportswoman of the Year (2018), Chelsea Edghil, booked Guyana’s lone qualification spot for the Pan American Games Table Tennis Singles when she claimed a narrow victory on Saturday evening in Guatemala. The 21-year-old, who graduated from Lindenwood University in Missouri, USA with a BSc in Chemistry this month, battled back against a strong Paraguayan

player to win the second leg of the qualification, which earned her a spot at the July-August Games in Lima, Peru. Guyana’s top four players (Christopher Franklin, Shemar Britton, Trenace Lowe and Edghill) all attempted to qualify for the games, and although they played hard and did achieve some success, only Edghill was able to get the important win in the second knockout. SEE PAGE 25

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MONDAY, MAY 27, 2019