Guyana_Chronile_Epaper_10_25_2019

FRIDAY 25th OCTOBER, 2019

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No breakdown in talks

No.105801

SEE STORIES ON PAGE 03

…Lawrence says coalition alive and well …optimistic that thorny issues will be resolved amicably

APNU Lead Negotiator, Volda Lawrence

Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman

...Trotman says no better way than coalition

–– urges colleagues to find common ground

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 25, 2019

Gov’t ramps up emergency works along Mahaicony sea defence ahead of spring tide EMERGENCY works are currently being conducted at heavily-eroded and breached

sections of the Mahaicony sea defence as the Ministry of Public Infrastructure seeks

to, as much as possible, safeguard residents during the overtopping expected during

the coming spring tide.

Executing these emergency flood protection works is the

Sea and River Defence Department which has taken note of the sections of sea defences impacted by the cyclic erosion of the foreshore and natural depletion of the mangrove forest.

In a release on Thursday, the ministry reported that significant overtopping has been occurring at the sea defence embankment within a 3.0 kilometres stretch of shoreline between Fairfield and Dantzig on the East Coast of Demerara.

“The Ministry of Finance recently approved a contingency allocation to support the efforts of the Ministry of Public Infrastructure in executing sea defence construction works at Mahaicony. These resources are being utilised to engage multiple contractors in key construction materials supplies and works execution contracts which will be executed concurrently to achieve faster implementation,” the ministry indicated.

The spring tides are expected from October 25-30, 2019. According to the department, the upcoming spring tide period will be one of the most pronounced for the year and will likely impact a number of vulnerable sections of the sea defence.

The ministry is therefore working to reinstate sections of the earthen embankment by constructing a rock armour facing on the seaward slope as an erosion control measure. The medium-term solution works are being undertaken by A and S General Contractors Inc. which is working at the Fairfield and Broomhall area and BK International Inc. which is working at the Dantzig area.

Four other contractors have been engaged to simultaneously deliver boulders to the work sites along the Mahaicony foreshore by barge, and with trucks via the ECD Highway.

Compromised access dams and the deterioration of the sea defence embankment have increased the difficulty of transporting construction materials.

According to Chief Sea and River Defence Officer, Kevin Samad, the intensity of erosion and the extensiveness of the foreshore impacts have not been experienced in such

consistency along a localised section of Guyana’s coast in recent years. He stated that multiple incidents have taken place whereby tugs and barges have been accidentally grounded while delivering boulders to the site. “These challenges have contributed to delays in the advancement of the works being undertaken,” the release stated.

The Sea and River Defence Department, in collaboration with the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA), is also working to minimise the impact of overtopping on agriculture lands.

NDIA has installed three mobile pumps at Cottage and Dantzig to discharge excess water from the Bellamy Canal into the Atlantic Ocean, which prevents the intrusion of salt water onto adjacent agriculture lands.

Meanwhile, cofferdam works are also ongoing to prevent the flow of excess water to residential areas. In the future, Samad said that adaptation of the sea defences will be required to achieve a more resilient flood protection scheme.

“This overall integrated and strategic approach will require that consideration be given to implementing foreshore stabilisation measures and landward offsets that would enable adequate retention spaces to absorb overtopping discharge when extreme events are experienced,” the release explained.

Samad highlighted that while much progress has been made in reinstating sections of the Mahaicony Sea Defence to a reasonable degree, several exposed sections of embankment still exist. Nonetheless, the ministry has assured that the Sea and River Defence Department will continue to pursue actively, the required measures to mitigate the impacts on flooding on coastal communities.

Even so, residents of low-lying coastal communities are being advised to take the needed precautions during the remainder of the spring-tide period.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 25, 2019

No breakdown in talks

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…Lawrence says coalition alive and well …optimistic that thorny issues will be resolved amicably

By Svetlana Marshall REBUFFING claims that the negotiation on the revised Cummingsburg Accord is now stalled over the naming of a Prime Ministerial Candidate, Volda Lawrence, the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) lead negotiator, said if the APNU and the Alliance For Change cannot strike a compromise at the negotiating table, the matter will be referred to the parties’ leaders for a resolution.

Lawrence addressed the issue hours after the AFC had reported that talks had broken down because the matter of naming the Prime Ministerial Candidate had been repeatedly deferred without any plausible explanation. The AFC is maintaining that it must, in accordance with the existing accord, nominate the Prime Ministerial Candidate, and while the APNU has not rejected the proposal in revising the document, there has been no consensus on the

matter.

Lawrence, who spoke to reporters at her Ministry of Public Health Office, said, contrary to reports, the negotiation, continues. “From the APNU’s standpoint, we don’t see the talks as being stalled at all,” she said.

It was explained that in establishing guiding principles ahead of the negotiation, the two sides agreed that if, during the negotiation, they cannot agree on an issue after extensive deliberations, the matter would be “parked” and other issues would be addressed. At a later stage, it is expected that the controversial matters would come up for discussion with the hope of finding a common ground, the APNU lead negotiator said. “If after discussions we still, as a team, on both sides cannot find common ground, then these matters will be deferred to the two leaders,” Lawrence further explained.

In the case of the Prime Ministerial Candidate, Lawrence said the matter has

been “parked,” but assured that once the AFC’s lead negotiator, David Patterson, returns to Guyana, a meeting would be held to discuss the

APNU Lead Negotiator, Volda Lawrence

way forward.

The APNU lead negotiator is hopeful that both sides will be able to strike a compromise to allow for a draft proposal of the revised Cum-

mingsburg Accord to be sent to the Leader of the APNU – President David Granger and the Leader of the AFC, Khemraj Ramjattan. Failure to compromise on the matters at hand, however, would result in the issues being referred to both leaders for a resolution, Lawrence said.

In response to a question on AFC’s position that Ramjattan must be the Prime Ministerial Candidate, Lawrence said the alliance’s approach in this instance can affect the outcome of the negotiation.

“It is a negotiation, and you don’t come into a negotiation that you are sticking to this and sticking to that, you have to find that common ground,” she said.

Nonetheless, she remains optimistic that the matter would soon be resolved. “I am quite certain that with the two issues, we will be able to work together to find that common ground and if not, we have that opportunity to send it forward to the leaders,” she posited.

She added, “We are no longer at the embryonic stage of the relationship, rather one would term us as duly married, and so I would say to you that we have every confidence in the APNU that between the APNU team and the AFC team, that we will be able to resolve these matters, and if we can’t resolve these matters we will send them up to the leaders.”

According to Lawrence, the negotiating teams have made significant progress in addressing other components of the accord, even those, that had proven to be a challenge.

“We have had amicable and interesting discussions over the meetings which we have had on all the matters. There were other matters which were parked and are no longer parked because we have been able to find consensus and move forward and we are certain that we will be able to find consensus on these two matters, and be able to present to the two Leaders a draft revised accord in a soon

as possible time,” Lawrence said. “We see ourselves in a partnership; we want to ensure that partnership continues. We believe that we still have that opportunity,” Lawrence told reporters.

Notwithstanding the current misunderstanding, Lawrence said supporters of the coalition can be assured that the progress will be made in addressing the issues.

“I want to say to all of our supporters, those of the APNU and the AFC, that this coalition is alive and well, and like in any family, there are times when you have to stop and think again… and I think that we have proven over the last four years that together we can move this country forward. Together we bring different views, and those views are all towards one objective and that is to ensure that we develop Guyana,” Lawrence reassured the coalition supporters.

‘No better way than coalition’

---AFC chairman urges colleagues to find common ground

By Svetlana Marshall WARNING that the electorate could respond negatively to a divided coalition, Chairman of the Alliance for Change (AFC), Raphael Trotman said it is important for the AFC and its coalition partner – the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) – to find common ground as it renegotiates the 2015 Cummingsburg Accord ahead of the 2020 General and Regional Elections.

Trotman made the point in the presence of AFC’s Vice Chairman Catherine Hughes and its Executive Member Dominic Gaskin, who, at the time, were reporting that negotiation on the Cummingsburg Accord had broken down over the appointment of the Prime Ministerial Candidate. AFC is maintaining that it must name the Prime Ministerial Candidate, and its nominee,

AFC Chairman Raphael Trotman

Khemraj Ramjattan, must be accepted. It was during that press conference that the AFC Executives indicated that if the matter is not resolved by the time the National Executive Committee meets on November 2, 2019, a decision will have to be taken on whether or not the AFC will contest the elections as a coalition or an independent party.

“Ultimately the Executive

will make that determination whether or not the AFC goes alone or whether or not it goes as a coalition,” Trotman said but made it clear that a coalition is the better option. “I don’t see a better alternative to the coalition, quite frankly. So I think compromise has to be found on both sides, and we will find a solution to this, and I am confident about that,” Trotman said.

He said the AFC saw “value” in the coalition in 2015, and today, the ethos and value remain the same.

The AFC Chairman said despite the disagreements between the two sides, he believes that matter will be resolved in time. “I believe that in every engagement of this nature you will have moments of disagreement but I believe that ultimately both parties wish, as I said earlier, and desire a coalition. So the pause for me does give us an occasion to seriously reflect on where we were four or five years ago, and of course to look ahead as to where we want to go and bearing in mind the people’s expectation of us,” Trotman said.

He emphasised that in negotiation, there must be compromise. Referencing to the 2018 Local Government Elections, Trotman said based on the results, it was clear that the people were dissatisfied that the APNU

and the AFC had contested those elections independently. He warned to enter the General and Regional Elections as independent parties could be detrimental to both sides. “We are likely to see a reaction that is not in our best interest if we are separate and apart,” he posited.

Trotman is urging the two sides to regroup their

efforts and strive to arrive at a compromise. “I certainly don’t want to be, and I know, none of my colleagues here want to be on the wrong side of history by being involved in a gambling, high stakes, poker game. So we have to do what is best in the national interest,” he said.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday October 25, 2019

UK’s Johnson aims for December election The PM has said he will give MPs more time to debate his Brexit deal, if they agree to a 12 December election.

The prime minister told the BBC he expected the EU to grant an extension to his 31 October deadline, even though he “really” did not want one.

But Jeremy Corbyn said he would not support an election until a no-deal Brexit is “off the table”.

EU leaders are expected to give their verdict on delaying Brexit for up to three months on Friday.

Commons leader Jacob Rees-Mogg told MPs the government would on Monday table a motion calling for a general election.

UK PM Boris Johnson

Under the 2011 FixedTerm Parliament Act, twothirds of MPs must vote for a general election before one can be held.

In a letter to Labour leader Mr Corbyn, Mr Johnson said his “preferred option” was a short Brexit postponement “say to 15 or 30 November”.

But Mr Corbyn said: “Take no deal off the table and we absolutely support a

general election.

“I’ve been calling for an election ever since the last one because this country needs one to deal with all the social injustice issues - but no deal must be taken off the table.

“The EU will decide whether there is an extension tomorrow... and then we can decide.”

Mr Johnson wrote that, in that case, he would try to get his deal through Parliament again, with Labour’s support.

The prime minister added that he “assumes” Mr Corbyn “will cooperate with me to get our new Brexit deal ratified, so we leave with a new deal rather than no deal”.

If, as widely expected, the EU’s Brexit delay is to the

end of January, Mr Johnson said he will hold a Commons vote next week on a 12 December election.

If Labour agrees to this, the government said it will try to get its deal through before Parliament is dissolved for the campaign on 6 November.

Treasury sources told the BBC that the Budget would not now be delivered on 6 November as scheduled.

The prime minister told BBC political editor Laura Kuenssberg: “I’m afraid it looks as though our EU friends are going to respond to Parliament’s request by having an extension, which I really don’t want at all.

“So, the way to get this done, the way to get Brexit

done, is, I think, to be reasonable with Parliament and say if they genuinely want more time to study this excellent deal, they can have it but they have to agree to a general election on 12 December.”

Asked what he would do if Labour refused to vote for an election, he said: “We would campaign day after day for the people of this country to be released from subjection to a Parliament that has outlived its usefulness.”

The prime minister has repeatedly insisted the UK will leave the EU on 31 October, with or without a deal.

But he was forced to send a letter to the EU requesting an extension, under legislation passed by MPs last

month.

MPs voted on Tuesday to back the first stage of the Withdrawal Agreement Bill, putting the deal the PM agreed with Brussels into law - but rejected Mr Johnson’s plan to push it through the Commons in three days.

The BBC’s Europe editor Katya Adler says EU leaders are set to decide on Friday whether to grant the UK a three-month Brexit extension.

Most EU nations back it but France “is digging its heels in”, she adds.

So there could be an emergency summit in Brussels on Monday to allow leaders to reach agreement face-to-face. (BBC)

Thousands evacuated as California wildfire rages About 2,000 people have been evacuated from their homes as a wildfire rages through California's wine

country.

The Kincade fire has engulfed 10,000 acres of land in Sonoma County and is not

yet contained, the state's fire protection department says.

It is being driven by powerful winds and is moving south, a California fire spokeswoman said.

California is still recovering from wildfires last year that killed about 100 people.

The fire is moving some 75 miles (120km) north of San Francisco.

Wind gusts of up to 70mph (112km/h) have affected much of the state, the AP news agency reports.

The winds are expected to die down on Friday but will pick back up again at the weekend.

More than 900 residents

of the town of Geyserville, Sonoma County, have been ordered to evacuate by fire officials.

Many Geyserville residents said they did not have much time to gather their belongings together.

Dwight Monson, 68, told the Los Angeles Times that by the time his family jumped into their cars and headed into the valley below, the flames were already on the far edge of their property.

An evacuation warning has also been issued in the nearby town of Healdsburg.

"This fire is moving fast, please pay attention to evac-

uation orders," state Senator Mike McGuire tweeted.

"CalFire continues to mobilize major resources from throughout NorCal for the #KincadeFire," he wrote on Thursday morning. "Engines, bulldozers and personnel started flowing in overnight and will continue thru the day."

Nearly 180,000 homes are without power after Pacific Gas & Electric shut off power in 15 southern California counties to prevent the risk of any accidental fires.

More than 308,000 customers in seven counties, including Los Angeles, San Bernardino and Ventura, are

under consideration for power shutoffs, according to the Southern California Edison.

About 500 emergency responders are tackling the blaze with support from air tankers and helicopters.

The fire is believed to have started in a mountainous area near Kincade Road and Burned Mountain Road. Its cause is not yet known.

Earlier this month, wildfires razed 4,700 acres north of Los Angeles, California, and forced thousands to flee. (BBC)

Saturday October 11, 2019

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday October 25, 2019

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Bolivia’s Morales claims victory amid fraud claims Bolivia’s incumbent president, Evo Morales, has claimed victory in the presidential election, saying that he has enough of a lead to stave off a run-off next month.

With 99% of the votes counted, his lead was just above the 10 percentage points he needs to win outright.

He said that if his lead were to drop, he would accept the result and go into a second round.

But he also accused rival Carlos Mesa of trying to “steal the election”.

Mr Mesa had previously said that the vote count had been a “gigantic fraud” and had accused Mr Morales of trying to hold on to power illegally.

Electoral observers from the Organization of American States (OAS) have also expressed their concern.

With 99% of the votes counted, Mr Morales had 46.95% of the vote compared to Mr Mesa’s 36.6%, according to the electoral authority’s official website.

That gives Mr Morales a 10.35-percentage-point advantage, just above than 10 percentage points lead he needs to stave off a second round on 15 December. But the electoral authorities have not yet declared a winner and not all votes have been counted yet.

His speech on Thursday

would be slim enough to warrant a second round.

Mr Mesa calculates that

first results of the quick count.

At the time it looked like there would be a run-off,

“We hope that the result of the final calculation will adhere to the will of the voters expressed at the poll,” the OAS electoral observation mission said.

The detailed count - rather than the quick count - of the votes has been proceeding very slowly with Mr Morales steadily widening his advantage over Mr Mesa.

But after the mysterious

delay in the quick count, many Bolivians say they have no more confidence in the electoral authorities.

The vice-president of the electoral board, Antonio Costas, resigned from his post saying the decision by the six-member panel to halt the quick count had been “foolish”.

The United States, the European Union and Brazil have all expressed their concerns and the OAS recommended during an emergency meeting on Wednesday that a second round be held regardless of the result of the first round.

There have been protests and marches, some of which turned violent, in cities across Bolivia ever since the quick count indicates an outright win for Mr Morales.

A number of electoral offices have been set alight and opponents of Mr Morales launched a general strike on Wednesday. There have also been clashes between supporters and opponents of Mr Morales as well as marches in support of the president.

(BBC)

Santiago, and send troops back to their barracks.

But late on Wednesday the powerful Copper Workers Federation (FTC), which had been onboard, called for an end to the strike after agreeing to further talks with the government.

Chile is the world’s largest pro-

ducer of copper, and the unrest is likely to affect the sector.

Chile is one of the most prosperous countries in Latin America but has high levels of inequality, and the unrest has intensified calls for broader economic and social reforms.

(BBC)

Evo Morales accused his rival of being “a criminal” who was trying to steal the election (BBC photo)

sent out mixed messages. On the one hand, he was defiant and called opposition candidate Carlos Mesa a “criminal” and accused him of orchestrating a coup d’etat against him.

He also accused the OAS observers of slandering him by expressing their concerns about the vote count.

The president added that if his lead were to drop below 10 percentage points, he would respect the result and go into a second round.

“If the final result says that there’s a second round, then we go into a second round,” he said. “And if the official count says that there is no round, we’re going to respect that and defend that,” he added.

While Mr Morales, who has comfortably won the past three presidential elections, was always tipped to win the first round, Mr Mesa had hoped the difference between the two

The uncertainty surrounding the vote count triggered protests in a number of cities (BBC photo)

his chances of winning in a second round would be higher, especially if those candidates who did not make it to the second round throw their support behind him.

Whether or not there is a second round could therefore well determine who will govern Bolivia for the next five years.

Hours after polling booths closed on Sunday, the Supreme Electoral Tribunal released the

prompting celebrations in the campaign camp of Mr Mesa.

But then the website with the quick count stopped being updated for 24 hours, prompting electoral observers from the Organization of American States (OAS) to express their concern.

When the quick count was finally updated on Monday evening, Mr Morales had a lead of 10.12 percentage points.

Wage increase fail to quill Chile protest Thousands of workers are taking part in a general strike in Chile as protests against inequality continue even after the government pledged social reforms.

Healthcare workers, teachers and students banged pots in the capital, Santiago, late on Wednesday with police using water cannon and tear gas to disperse crowds.

Four days of unrest have left 16 dead but these marches were mostly peaceful.

Officials said they were investigating claims of violence

The OAS electoral mission called the change “drastic and hard to explain”.

by security forces.

Chile’s National Institute for Human Rights (INDH) said five of the deaths had been caused by the armed forces, and that it had received allegations of torture by security agents.

The protests were sparked in Santiago by a now-suspended increase in metro fares but spread across the country, reflecting anger over living costs and inequality. There have been outbreaks of looting and arson.

On Tuesday, President Sebastián Piñera, a billionaire conservative who has been

criticised for his response to the protests, promised to increase the basic pension by 20% and the minimum wage from $413 to $482 (£374).

He also pledged tax rises on high-earners, a law that would see the state cover the costs of expensive medical treatment and the cancellation of

a planned electricity rate hike.

Wednesday was the first day of a two-day nationwide general strike organised by Chile’s main trade union, CUT, and 20 other groups.

They are demanding that the government end the state of emergency imposed in many parts of the country, including

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday October 25, 2019

Honesty in politics EVERY Guyanese knows the adage, “Honesty is the best policy,” yet, many would agree that some of our politicians are often less than honest, some being less honest than others.

This state of affairs is unacceptable.

Guyanese must not allow people to get away with lying to us, particularly the people who aspire to positions of leadership.

Politicians should be held to account, indeed, they should be held to a higher standard of accountability and transparency, if only because they are the ones who will be in charge of our taxpayer-dollars, and will make decisions that will affect our lives and the futures of our children. Whether a politician is honest is, therefore, a major factor in all considerations, and an extremely important question that every voter should ask. Such considerations and questions become particularly important as elections approach.

We would all agree on what it

means to be honest. Formally, the Oxford Dictionary informs us that to be honest means to be, “fair and just in character or behaviour, not cheating or stealing, free of deceit and untruthfulness, sincere [income should be] fairly earned (making an honest living).”

The dictionary elaborates that honesty means, “The quality of being honest and truthful.” Evidently, to be honest is an admirable quality, and should be an essential part of a leader’s (such as a politician’s) character.

Jean-Jacques Rousseau wrote, “Those who desire to treat politics and morals separately will never understand anything of either.” The philosopher wrote too, “The practice of politics not only can, but must be reconciled with the imperatives of honesty.” Rousseau’s words are important and carry great weight because he was the 18th century Genevan philosopher, writer and composer whose political philosophy influenced the progress of

the Enlightenment throughout Europe, as well as aspects of the French Revolution and the development of modern political, economic and educational thought. In other words, many modern political and moral ideas are based on his work.

As Guyanese are aware, the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), in what was clearly a most despicable, disgusting, contemptible, and most importantly, immoral move, attempted to grab political power at a time when they believed that President Granger was vulnerable because he was unwell.

Of course, we know now – as the PPP certainly has learned – President Granger is as strong a fighter, leader, and servant of the people as he has ever been, throughout his distinguished career. It ought to have been quite an earthmoving awakening for Irfaan Ali and the rest of the PPP. One may refer to the findings of the noted philosopher that ‘politics and morals cannot

be treated separately’, therefore, the immoral moves of the PPP must be considered in the political context. Do we want anyone from an immoral, dishonest party leading us, controlling our tax dollars, and deciding the future of our children, our communities, our regions, and ultimately, our country?

Further, let us always bear in mind that the PPP’s presidential candidate has been accused of lying about his academic qualifications, lying about how he acquired his enormous wealth, and is currently facing 19 criminal charges for allegedly stealing money that belongs to Guyanese citizens. Such a magnitude of accusations of dishonesty against a presidential candidate may be a record-setter in the Caribbean.

On the other hand, the APNU+AFC’s candidate, President David Granger, has served with distinction as the head of the Guyana Defence Force, he has established a successful publishing business,

he has written numerous books, and currently serves as President of Guyana where, in only four years, he has transformed the country from a narco-funded, gun-running, lawless state known for trafficking in persons and suicides, to a civilized, gentle country, now internationally recognised for democratic reforms, environmental awareness, and the rule of law. Further, David Granger has never been accused of immoral or dishonest conduct.

Given those indisputable facts, who should sensible Guyanese trust to lead us, manage our country, defend our territory, and create jobs for our young people? Further, considering that oil revenues are on the horizon, do we not now, more than ever, need an honest leader?

With power-sharing more unlikely, can good governance and prosperity fix our political problem

Dear Editor

WE have always known that our constitution was not to be amended by tweaking single articles along the way as the need arose. Instead, the approach is to overhaul it in one holistic concerted effort. A few have advised that this approach robs the document of its sacredness and stabilizing influence. But we apparently expect a greater national good in running the entire document through a mill, called a constitution reform process.

If complete overhaul is the modus operandi, then we must be systematic.

For starters, we must ask what we want to achieve. Is there any new philosophy, any new framework, to enshrine?

Or are we going to play it by ear by waiting to see the output of public consultations and other discussions?

To decide, we need to take stock. And here the priority question is where are we in achieving the core objective of the previous reform process in 1999/2000, that of guaranteeing that our race or political affiliation would not disadvantage us with regards our human rights and our access to government resources and benefits. Does

this objective remain similarly critical today? Absolutely yes, in my view.

Guaranteeing racial security and political accord must be the central focus of any future constitution reform.

A recap is useful here. To address the core issue before the 1999/2000 project, two competing schools of thought emerged. One argued that without a power-sharing government, nothing else would work. The other advocated that good governance alone (with emphasis on inclusiveness) could guarantee racial security and political accommodation. As we know, the latter approach prevailed.

Accordingly, purpose-built measures were introduced. They included new constitutional commissions (with the accent on the ERC and the PPC), parliamentary oversight committees, and lofty aspirational language on participatory and inclusionary democracy.

Two decades later, has the good governance approach delivered? As no one has methodically analyzed the effectiveness of the 1999/2000 reforms, an impact evaluation is obligatory. It should confront one question: have the good governance measures healed racial insecurity and political disharmony? Subquestions must include: (1)

to what extent have all the 1999/2000 proposals been implemented? For instance, how has Article 13 (establishment of an inclusionary democracy) moved beyond words? (2) To what extent have implemented measures fulfilled their design objectives? For instance, how effective has been the Ethnic Relations Commission? (3) To what extent do people still feel disadvantaged, disrespected, and fearful because of their race and politics?

An impact evaluation of the 1999/2000 good governance measures is valuable for three key reasons. First, to move forward we must know where we are. Second, even under a power-sharing regime, good governance must be optimized. Third, as power sharing in the near to medium future is likely out of reach, the country’s political salvation rests mainly with good governance.

The third reason is pivotal, as it speaks to the country’s most likely political future. It sees no chance for power sharing, as the idea is perceived now to be less needed. The close results of the 2011 and 2015 elections have increased confidence in the main parties that, should any of them lose an election, regaining government is only

one or two elections away. Exclusion from power is now seen as a temporary setback that could be overcome by garnering a few thousand additional votes in the next election. Therefore, permanent minority or marginalized status, the driver of many a demand for power sharing worldwide, has lost potency in Guyana. Expect then no calls from any major opposition party for a unity government, such as those made by Jagan in the 1970s, Hoyte in the 2002, and Corbin in 2010.

The possibility of power sharing now depends on pure statesmanship within the main political parties, a far weaker driving force.

Can good governance in tandem with oil-based economic prosperity, however, extinguish racial insecurity and political discord? Our various racial identities may still undermine the best of efforts. Such identity issues, for instance, still fuel the separatist passions of Quebecers in Canada and Catalans in Spain despite these regions having a large middle class, exceptional governance, and much local political power. In the Guyana context, would (or should) any racial group be comfortable should the government be dominated by another race, even

with quality governance and economic prosperity? Would the “we pon top” mentality still inflame racial rivalry?

Racial identity and pride being what they are, the answer is likely yes. Power-sharing best solves this problem but in its likely long-term absence, can alternative approaches work effectively?

On the political front, then, more than anything else we need a systematic evaluation of 1999/2000 reforms. Such an evaluation must include impact assessments and performance audits of the specially-designed agencies and mechanisms and, most definitely, must include satisfaction and perception surveys of the population. This is a massive undertaking and must be well designed and funded and expertly conducted. Without this knowledge, any fresh round of constitution reforms would be somewhat sightless and abstract. More than that, an evaluation would provide a better sense of the extent to which alternatives to power-sharing can actually fix our core problems.

Regards Sherwood Lowe

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday October 25, 2019

7

Why not ignore the WPA and allow the “dead” to rest in peace?

Dear Editor,

I READ with great amusement Dr Henry Jeffrey‘s Future notes column captioned: “The WPA: the self-proclaimed apologist for the PNCR!”. If the learned doctor/politician had contended that the WPA was a self-proclaimed apologist for the APNU+AFC government, I would have agreed with him 100%. However, since he reduces the coalition to the PNCR, I am forced to question his objectivity and intent.

Jeffrey has been among the

detractors of the WPA since the coalition government came to office. He has dismissed the party as having no electoral or political relevance and then declared the WPA dead. At the same time, he and others are paying keen attention to what we say and do in this critical election period. The obvious question that comes to mind is: why waste time with a party that is dead and politically irrelevant? Given his contention, it would be better for him to use his time to promote the ANUG and seek to consolidate his apparent diminishing influence

No such decision was taken

Dear Editor,

ON 23rd October, 2019, we read reports in the press, attributed to Commissioner Charles Corbin, that the Guyana Elections Commission will proceed to publish the entire list of persons registered during the House-toHouse (HTH) exercise from Thursday, 24th October, 2019.

These remarks were made to the press immediately after the Statutory Meeting of 22nd October, 2019, and the impression was conveyed that the said disclosure was a decision of the

Commission.

We were present from the beginning to the end of that GECOM meeting and we wish to emphasize, most vehemently, that no such decision was taken.

We have already informed the Chairman of GECOM of this misinformation, invited her intervention and registered our objection thereto.

Yours truly, Robeson Benn Bibi Shadick Sase Gunraj Commissioners, GECOM

Tropical forests are the major buffer against climate change Dear Editor TROPICAL forests are the major buffer against climate change, so burning them has a double impact on global heating. The only way to reduce climate warming will be to reverse the loss of natural habitat and reduce burning of fossil fuels. Technological solutions are being developed to scrub the atmosphere of greenhouse gases and replace fossil fuels; they are unlikely to achieve what is needed in the short time available. Their implementation will prove futile if tropical forests and savannas continue to be destroyed.

Protection of tropical habitats and their biodiversity requires international funds leveraged as taxation from the subsidised profits of energy organisations responsible for producing the fossil fuels that create this pollution.

Viable legal mechanisms need to ensure that the funds are exclusively spent in protecting and restoring forests, their biodiversity, and the native people living there. This process will only attain the support of the energy producers and the children marching in the streets if the funds maximise the conservation of forests in ways that minimise government abuse and other forms of corruption.

The recent speeches at the United Nations were drowned out by the more eloquent and vociferous voices of tomorrow protesting on the streets outside.

The initiative outlined here would provide an important first step in reversing the cascade of environmental sins that yesterday’s fathers have heaped upon their children’s future.

Regards Rooplall Dudhnath

in that party [of] which he is a founder member. Why not ignore the WPA and allow the “dead” to rest in peace?

No, he like many of our detractors, can’t do as I asked.

Why? There must be something that is responsible for this contradiction. Jeffrey owes the nation an explanation. However, I am doubtful that given his present political dilemma in the ANUG and the national level, he doesn’t have what it takes to do as I am requesting.

Jeffrey and our detractors vehemently call on the WPA to accept responsibility for missteps and perceived shortcomings of the APNU+AFC coalition government. They do so pointing to the convention of “collective responsibility”.

To which we agree. However, when the WPA invoked the “right of collective defence” they accuse us of all sorts of transgressions. They want the WPA to be accountable for the actions of the government but not defend the government of which we are part.

On this issue of political accountability, I find it difficult to

ignore Henry Jeffrey’s opportunism since he has been an ally of the PPP/C and held a senior ministerial position for a number of years. Throughout that period, he was notably silent on the machinations of the regime and apparently, was devoid of the knowledge of the “dominant ethnic paradigm”. Like Columbus, he rediscovered only after he exits the PPP/C. Neither can I find one letter to the editor or article by Jeffrey calling for power-sharing or constitutional reform when he was with the PPP/C. Yet, he seeks to portray the government’s record on governance as the worst the country ever experienced. On the contrary, in spite of its imperfections, the APNU+AFC coalition and government is not repressive: and is more representative ethnically and politically than the PPP/C in which Jeffrey was a minister.

In his column, he made a futile attempt at contesting what he conceded “...the WPA has, over the years, successfully projected itself as some kind of protector of the national polit-

ical high-ground”. In support of his position, he posted that the WPA is now “into another zone” he offered (4) points. In three [of them] he wrote (in reference to Dr, David Hinds), “He tells us that within the coalition process ‘we are putting WPA’s traditional values (and) its political culture. ‘One must ask where is the WPA’s self-proclaimed multi-ethnic stance in all of this”. Is he saying that our presence in the coalition doesn’t enhance its multi-racial standing/appeal?

I have to admit that I am not certain what he meant by “ in all of this”. Or is he suggesting that the WPA’s presence in the APNU+AFC coalition compromised the party’s historical stance on multi-racial politics? On either score, I beg to disagree.

While the coalition is not the ideal manifestation of multi-racial politics envisioned by the WPA, it is the best the nation has achieved to date.

Our presence in the coalition enhances its appeal and not compromised our historical stance in any fundamental way

– given the country’s political reality post-1992 elections. It is unrealistic to transplant the WPA politics of the 70s and 80s to the current situation. The persistence of racial/political polarization and the absence of a multi-racial constituency objectively places limitations on multi-racial politics. This cannot be overlooked in an objective discourse?

My final observation: Jeffrey, in his polemics, makes an error when he reduces the WPA’s traditional values and its political culture to what he called our historical “multi-ethnic stand”. Doing so is a political fallacy and deception. He is learned enough and politically experienced to know better. But he conveniently chose to demonstrate a lack of a profound understanding, failing to recognize other dimensions of the party’s traditional values and political culture which I will not address in this letter.

Regards Tacuma Ogunseye

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday October 25, 2019

Five homeless in North East La Penitence fire FIVE persons, including a six-year-old, are now homeless following a fire that gutted a two-storey wooden building at Lot 520 North East La Penitence, Georgetown in the wee hours of Thursday morning.

According to Rufina Leitch, the owner of the building lives overseas and the upper flat where the fire started was occupied by two elderly relatives of the landlord who would visit the

The building in the aftermath of the blaze

country for holiday.

Leitch said the entire family was asleep when the fire occurred at around 03:30hrs.

“And we hear a big scrambling and tumbling upstairs, so I say it got to be thief but then is when I hear my neighbour next door run out and holler is fire and when I run out and look upstairs, I saw the blaze,” she said.

Leitch lives with her two

sons, her mother and brother in the bottom flat of the house. Almost all valuables in the upper flat of the property were destroyed and water soaked the lower flat, she said.

Firefighters arrived promptly on the scene and brought the fire under control.

When contacted, Fire Chief Marlon Gentle said the two elderly persons living upstairs, who were identified

as 66-year-old Brenda Tindell and 63-year-old Burnish Bharrat, were rescued by residents in the area who used a ladder to get them to safety.

The two women were treated at a city hospital for smoke inhalation and minor injuries. According to the fire chief, the fire started as a result of a lighted candle in the upper-flat of the house.

New funding opportunities for disability projects discussed at ECLAC workshop ORGANISATIONS working with persons with disabilities (PWDs) in the Caribbean have a better chance to access funds for disability-related projects, following a training workshop conducted by the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) sub-regional headquarters for the Caribbean.

The workshop, which was held on October 23,2019,

at ECLAC Caribbean headquarters in Port of Spain, brought together universal service funds (USFs) administrators and organizations working with PWDs across Dominica, Grenada, Jamaica, Saint Lucia, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and Trinidad and Tobago.

In the Caribbean, there are approximately 1.3 million persons with a disability of some kind and around

250,000 persons with a significant disability. Persons with disabilities (PWDs) face a range of physical, social, attitudinal and institutional barriers that prevent their full and effective participation in society on an equal basis with others. As a result, they experience less favourable outcomes in health, education, employment and housing.

A recent ECLAC study, entitled “Using Universal Service Funds to increase

access to technology for Persons with Disabilities in the Caribbean”, identified several challenges to increasing the effectiveness of USFs in the Caribbean as well as better utilising them to increase access to technology for persons with disabilities. One of these challenges is identifying sufficient projects that target PWDs and their special access needs.

In keeping with the findings of the ECLAC study,

the training demonstrated the latest ICTs available for PWDs and the opportunities they create for people with different types of disabilities, and sought to increase the capacity of organizations working with PWDs to draft project proposals for funding.

The workshop also provided guidance to USFs on how to establish a disability focal point; explained the qualifications, scope of work and targets of the focal point; and

detailed the support necessary to ensure the success of this initiative.

The activity aimed to support Caribbean governments in advancing the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development in its ambition to leave no one behind. It also promoted implementation of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

ECO shaping up for 2020 drilling programme Eco (Atlantic) Oil & Gas Ltd. (ECO) has announced that it is currently reviewing multiple prospects offshore Guyana for further high graded candidates under consideration for a 2020 drilling programme.

In an operational update on Thursday, Eco Atlantic stated that together with its partners on the Orinduik Block, Tullow (Operator) and Total are “currently reviewing a post-discovery drilling strategy and supplemental budget”.

“This includes post-discovery

activities on the two recent oil discoveries, additional exploration research in relation to future well target selection, and costs associated with activities for the further wells being considered for drilling in 2020,” the company stated.

Less than six weeks apart, Tullow Oil, a UK-based oil company, discovered oil twice in the Orinduik Block at the Jethro-One well and the Joe-One well.

Jethro-One was drilled by the Stena Forth drillship to a total depth of 4,400 metres in approximately

1,350 metres of water. It was the first discovery on the Orinduik licence and comprises high-quality oil-bearing sandstone reservoirs of lower tertiary age.

The well encountered 55m of net oil pay which supports a recoverable oil resource estimate which exceeds Tullow’s pre-drill forecast of 100M barrels of recoverable resources.

Meanwhile, the Joe-One exploration well was drilled by the Stena Forth drillship to a total depth of 2,175 metres in water depth of 780

metres.

The evaluation of logging and sampling data confirms that Joe-One has encountered 14 metres of net oil pay in high-quality oil-bearing sandstone reservoirs of upper tertiary age.

On Thursday, the company noted that the Jethro and Joe wells were drilled on budget with Joe delivering for less than $21M gross which is less than half of the cost of the Jethro well.

“Interpretation of the data from the Joe-1 discovery is ongoing.

There is the potential for more resource than previously anticipated, and the reservoir and proven oil charge in the Upper Tertiary sands on Joe?1 provides encouragement in relation to many other Upper Tertiary age locations throughout the Orinduik Block,” the company stated.

It stated that interpretation of data from both the Jethro and Joe discoveries is ongoing with an updated Competent Person’s Report (CPR) to be commissioned once an analysis is completed.

Comprehensive cancer prevention, treatment plan for 2020 THE staffers of the Ministry of Public Health’s Chronic Diseases Unit are working on a Comprehensive National Cancer Prevention and Treatment plan to be introduced in 2020.

This document will be used by the ministry as a guide as they move forward in addressing cancer statistics which pose a major burden on the local population.

Each member state of the World Health Organisation (WHO) has been mandated through a World Health Assembly resolution to emphasise on the development and reinforcement of comprehensive national cancer control programmes that include

Coordinator of the Chronic Diseases Unit, Dr. Kavita Singh

prevention, early detection, improved treatment and palliative care.

Speaking with the Coordinator of the ministry’s Chronic Diseases Unit, Dr. Kavita Singh, it was highlighted that Guyana has never

had such a plan in place.

However, she noted that by mid-2020, a plan will be in place following the implementation of several measures. One of these being the passage of a legislation protecting persons from radiation which causes cancers.

“There are certain things that the country has to do in tandem with preparing a Cancer Control and Prevention plan. One of those would be to pass our legislation as it relates to nuclear safety or radioactive safety. In radiotherapy, the treatment is all nuclear treatment and if there are no safety laws then that cannot be a very good setting for the country,” Dr. Singh

explained.

She added that the International Atomic Energy Agency would have collaborated with stakeholders in Guyana to draft this particular legislation. A training exercise of this nature was held in 2018 which covered different aspects of radiation protection, the International Standards for Radiation Protection and Safety of Radiation Sources, regulatory requirements, as well as the safety and security of sources (including source transportation and radiation detection and measurement).

With this training, local staff working with ionising radiation are now better

equipped to follow radiation protection regulations and guidance to ensure its safe application.

While this takes place, the ministry is also preparing its human resources capacity to be ready for the introduction of the plan. The ministry’s proactive approach is lauded as it puts in place what is needed to effectively roll out the prevention and treatment plan.

Dr. Singh added, “We would have gone on the ground and conducted a situation analysis of what exists in the system and where our gaps are and the gaps are many but the ministry has been very proactive in this

regard in sending persons for training in the areas of Oncology, Radiology and even Radiotherapy, so these are all resources that will return to the country and go towards strengthening our Cancer Prevention and Control Plan.”

According to Dr. Singh, the plan will focus heavily on education and awareness as it relates to cancers and how they can be prevented.

Screening services will also be promoted as the ministry will work assiduously to expand and establish screening and diagnosis services countrywide. Treatment, monitoring and evaluation will follow. (DPI)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 25, 2019

Corentyne man drowns

A young man, who is a soonto-be father for the first time, allegedly drowned after he took a plunge during a routine fishing trip at Topoo Village, East Berbice, Corentyne on Wednesday afternoon.

Joseph Bownauth called “Lloyd”, 22, left just after noon with two friends to go fishing in the GuySuCo pump station canal aback of his hometown, Belvedere, when he disappeared under the water.

A carpenter by profession, he had a love for fishing and decided to try a new area, hoping to get a good catch for his family.

According to relatives, when the trio went to the canal, Bownauth decided to take a plunge from a bridge into the water at around 15:00 hrs.

Reports indicated that when he jumped into the water, he resurfaced and started to “fight up” before going down again; never to resurface.

Known for his many “jokes”, his two friends thought he was ‘pulling one on them’ but after a few minutes went by and he did not

“When mommy and my other sister called, crying, I tell them not to worry, he probably joking and that he at home waiting…. But when I get home and he wasn’t there, I started to worry. Then a little while after, they found the

Dead: Joseph Bownauth

re-emerge from under the water, they realised something was wrong.

They immediately raised an alarm and about three men from the community jumped into the water, looking for Bownauth.

Several other villagers joined the search party and, after about an hour and a half later, they managed to find his lifeless body. Eyewitnesses who spoke with this publication related that Bownauth did

not have any visible marks of violence on his body.

The body was taken to Ramoo’s Funeral Home, where it will be transferred to Fort Wellington for a post-mortem.

Meanwhile, Shermona Bownauth, the victim’s older sister, who spoke with this publication, said when she first heard what happened to her brother, she did not believe as she felt he was at home.

Georgetown communities under flood watch -as expected high tides approach

THE Mayor and City Council (M&CC) of Georgetown is advising the general public to take the necessary precautions during the spring tide period from October 25, 2019, to October 30, 2019. It is predicted that above normal high tides should be expected.

According to a press release from the municipality’s Public Relations Office on Thursday, the council noted that its Engineer’s Department suggests that the following low-lying areas such as Lacytown, Albouystown, Alberttown, Riverview, Alexander Village, Werk-en-Rust, South and North Ruimveldt, and West and East Ruimveldt, may be at risk of flooding.

The release states that this is due to overtopping as a result of surges that rise above the sea defence structures. Therefore, persons must take the necessary precautionary measures.

Additionally, all vendors who operate within the precincts of the Stabroek Market are asked to take the necessary precautions to ensure that their goods are properly secured.

The release says the highest tides are expected on Sunday, October 27, 2019, between 2:55 am to 3:33 pm, at a height of 3.29 meters and on Monday, October 28, 2019, between 3:43 am and 4:13pm, at a height of 3:31 metres. (DPI)

‘Attempted murder’ accused to return to court October 30 ON Thursday October 24, 2019, a 43-year-old taxi driver led his defence, in the attempted murder charge against him, before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan, by saying he was wrongfully charged.

“I am wrongfully charged. I think I should be facing a wounding charge instead of an attempted murder charge because it was a fight.

I will be calling two witnesses”, Morris Carter stated.

At the end of the Preliminary Inquiry (PI), Magistrate McLennan said that she found sufficient evidence against him.

Morris Carter of Durban

Street, Georgetown, was not required to plead to the charge which stated that, on August 27, 2019, at Sandy Babb Street, Kitty, he wounded Matthew Gilbert, with intent to commit murder.

Magistrate McLennan adjourned the matter until October 30, 2019, when Carters’ two witnesses will be called to give evidence on his behalf.

According to information, on the day in question, Gilbert was at the wash bay when Carter approached him.

Carter then asked Gilbert for the remaining $2,000

which he had owed for a $7,000 finger ring he had purchased, but only paid $5,000.

At that time Gilbert did not have the money and asked to clear his debt at a later date. Carter became annoyed and pulled out a pair of scissors and stabbed Gilbert to the left region of his chest.

The injured man was then taken to Kitty Health Center and was later transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital where he received further treatment.

The matter was reported and Carter was arrested and later charged.

body and it sink in that he is no more” she recalled.

The victim’s wife, Zureena Bacchus, who is in the first trimester of her pregnancy, was inconsolable and appeared to be in a state of shock as she stood back

9

against a post at the funeral home with tears streaming down her face.

Bownauth was known to do a little of everything to make ends meet for his family. Police are investigating the incident.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday October 25, 2019

APNU+AFC seeks consensus on PM candidate …AFC adamant that it must name the person

By Svetlana Marshall The Alliance for Change (AFC) said negotiation on the revision of the Cummingsburg Accord between itself and its coalition partner – the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU)–has hit a snag over discussions on the naming of the Prime Ministerial Candidate ahead of the 2020 elections.

But the APNU has since dismissed the claim, saying that the negotiation has not been stalled. Under the Cummingsburg Accord, which brought the two political parties together as a coalition in 2015, the APNU nominates the Presidential Candidate and the AFC, the Prime Ministerial Candidate but as the accord goes under review, there is a push for Prime Ministerial Candidate to be selected by the Presidential Candidate.

At a press conference on Thursday at the Centre for Change, AFC Executive Member, Dominic Gaskin said a lack of consensus on the naming of the Prime Ministerial Candidate has stalled negotiation on a revised Cummingsburg Accord.

“The AFC recognises the efforts of the two parties and their respective negotiating teams and the significant progress that has been

Prime Ministerial Candidate to run alongside the APNU’s Presidential Candidate – David Granger. Gaskin said the naming of Ramjattan as the Prime Ministerial Candidate was in keeping with the Cum-

AFC Executive Member Dominic Gaskin

made…however, the AFC finds it unacceptable that the matter of the Presidential and Prime Ministerial Candidates has been repeatedly deferred,” Gaskin told reporters.

Gaskin forms part of AFC’s negotiating team. According to him, the alliance has advised the APNU that it cannot proceed with the negotiation unless and until the issue at hand is resolved.

In the presence of the AFC’s Chairman, Raphael Trotman and Vice Chairman, Catherine Hughes, Gaskin said that while the alliance remains committed to coalition politics, it will not renege on its position that it must name the Prime Ministerial Candidate ahead of the 2020 General and Regional Elections. Some things, he said, are not negotiable.

At its National Conference earlier in the year, the AFC identified its Leader Khemraj Ramjattan as its

AFC Vice Chairman Catherine Hughes

mingsburg Accord, which is still in effect. That accord will expire on February 14, 2020.

“In response to questions raised by the media, the AFC maintained that the naming of the Presidential and Prime Ministerial Candidates by the APNU and the AFC respectively was a fundamental and non-negotiable tenet of its decision to form a coalition. This position has not changed,” Gaskin stated.

He said while the proposal to retain that element of the accord, which provides for the Prime Ministerial Candidate to be named by the AFC, has not been “outright reject-

ed,” there simply has been no consensus on the matter. “For us, as I said in my statement, this is non-negotiable,” he maintained.

No collision President Granger, the Leader of the APNU, has maintained that the Accord must not collide with the Constitution. “We are not asking the Cummingsburg Accord to supersede the Constitution. We are saying that the AFC should name the Prime Ministerial Candidate and the APNU should name the Presidential Candidate.

After the elections, the President appoints the Prime Minister as per the Constitution.

There is no clash or collision with the Constitution in the Cummingsburg Accord, stipulating that the AFC will name the Prime Ministerial Candidate,” Gaskin said in response to the concerns raised over adherence to the Constitution.

Though stating that compromise is critical in any negotiation, Gaskin said the decision to name Ramjattan as the Prime Ministerial Candidate was made at the party’s highest decision making forum – the national conference – and cannot be reversed.

Is the National Executive Committee prepared to ask the national conference

to revise its decision, the answer is no, according to the Executive Member. “I would ask you why? We have already made a decision. We internally have not had any discussion that points us in that direction and we don’t accept that any other entity, or any other party, shall tell us, or dictate to us who we should choose as our Prime Ministerial Candidate. We are independent party, we have made a decision, we have made a choice, why should we revisit that discussion, why should we, go back to our membership, and say, let’s have another decision, on what basis?” Gaskin reasoned.

NO BACKPEDALLING Gaskin said while the AFC would like to enter the 2020 as a coalition with the APNU it cannot backpedal on its position. “We are very committed to coalition politics, and we stated over and over again that we wish to form coalition with the APNU to contest the next elections. We have our National Executive Committee Meeting on November 2, 2019 and that four months away from the elections date that have been announced, and at that National Executive Committee Meeting we will have to make some very

definitive or clear decisions on how we plan to move ahead, and how we plan to participate in the elections,” he told reporters.

Speaking directly to the party’s supporters, Gaskin said they can be assured that the AFC will uphold its principles and remain an independent force. “The AFC wishes to reassure its members and supporters of its overarching commitment to its founding principles and to maintaining its independence as a political party whether it or out of a coalition,” the Executive Member said.

Hughes, who said that the AFC was not divided on the issue, reminded that AFC remains a vibrant force 14 years after coming into existence. “It is once again important to note that no third political party in the English Speaking Caribbean started its life with the magnitude of gaining six parliamentary seats, first time around in the 2006 elections, as we did, in just a year of its existence… Further no, third party in Guyana has been consistently successful, the second time around. As you know in 2011, the Alliance for Change increased its win to seven Parliamentary Seats,” she pointed out.

More money and brains needed for ocean sustainability Serious investments in ocean sustainability will raise the amount of fish to feed the poor, helping drive progress towards the eradication of hunger which is the lynchpin for achieving the other Sustainable Development Goals, FAO director-general Qu Dongyu said.

“Ocean protection will only succeed if we spend financial and brain power in developing sustainable solutions,” Qu said in a keynote address at the Our Ocean Conference in Oslo.

Our Ocean 2019 is focusing on themes including climate change, marine pollution and security, sustainable fisheries, as well as its traditional focus on conservation initiatives. The conference, started in 2014 by then-US Secretary of State John Ker-

The director-general warned of a “dangerous sustainability divide” as fisheries in developed regions become increasingly sustainable

ry, aims to promote voluntary government pledges to care for the ocean and has since inception generated com-

mitments totaling around $18 billion and 12.4 million square kilometers of marine protected areas.

“Oceans provide us with enormous services,” Qu said, noting that global per capita fish consumption has risen

to 20.3 kilograms a year and that fisheries and aquaculture provide livelihood opportunities to more than 10 percent of the world’s population. “If the ocean fails, it is because we fail ourselves.”

The director-general warned of a “dangerous sustainability divide” as fisheries in developed regions become increasingly sustainable, rebuilding stocks, while those in developing regions are not improving as fast.

One-third of the world’s fish stocks are overfished, and climate change is likely to negatively impact stocks in tropical zones, according to FAO. Oceans should be addressed as a solution, not a problem, Qu said. He urged a new push to invest in sustainable ocean growth and a significant effort to boost

aquaculture, particularly in Africa.

The director-general spoke on a panel on fisheries governance along with Bernard Esau, Minister of Fisheries and Marine Resources of Namibia, and Harald Tom Nesvik, Minister of Fisheries and Seafood of Norway, as well as other experts.

The director-general proposed a commitment to achieve “100 per cent” effective sustainability of our resources from the oceans and noted that FAO will in November host a major symposium in Rome to identify the technical solutions needed to achieve this vision.

Next year’s Our Ocean conference will be held in Palau.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 25, 2019

Boosting fisheries in Africa, Caribbean and the Pacific THE EU, the African, Caribbean and Pacific Group of States (ACP) and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) have signed a €40 million, five-year programme (FISH4ACP) to boost the development of sustainable fisheries and aquaculture in Africa, the Caribbean and the Pacific.

FISH4ACP is an innovative EU-funded programme, devised with ACP and to be implemented by FAO. It will invest in value chains to stimulate inclusive growth, bolster food security and minimise impacts on the marine environment.

The signing took place in Oslo, at the Our Ocean 2019 conference. Representatives from governments, business, civil society and research institutions are attending this global event to promote action for a clean, healthy and productive ocean.

Welcoming the initiative, European Commissioner for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, Karmenu Vella, said: "The focus on all three aspects of sustainability - the economic, the environmental and the social - sets this programme apart. It will enable us to strike a balance between production and protection, to contribute towards fair income distribution; to promote decent working conditions, sound fisheries management and social inclusiveness; and to champion sustainable aquaculture practices."

FAO Director-General, Qu Dongyu said: "We welcome this new, comprehensive value chain approach to the development of fisheries and aquaculture that takes into account all players, at all stages - from net to plate.

This is an innovative approach that will boost economic returns and social equity, and reduce negative impacts on the marine environment."

"Within the ACP countries, there is a sense of urgency to boost our fisheries and aquaculture sectors because they greatly contribute to economic growth, decent jobs and food and nutrition security. We are happy to have our partners on board and launch this much-needed

initiative, which will unlock the potential of fisheries and aquaculture in ACP regions," said ACP Secretary General Dr Patrick Gomes.

FISH4ACP will work with 10 value chains in 10 different ACP countries, aiming to maximise their economic returns and social benefits, while minimising the detrimental effects on natural habitats and marine wildlife.

It will pay special attention to small-scale fisheries because of their potential to deliver economic and social benefits, particularly for women.

In Africa, the programme will support both aquaculture and fisheries value chains.

They include inland and marine fisheries, involving catfish, small pelagics, oyster, shrimp and tilapia value chains from Nigeria to Zimbabwe, and from Lake Tanganyika to São Tomé and Príncipe and the continent's Atlantic shores.

In the Caribbean, FISH4ACP will concentrate on stocks of mahi-mahi and seabob shrimp in the Dominican Republic and Guyana respectively; in the Pacific, it will focus on tuna fisheries around the Marshall Islands, a sector with high potential on both European and American markets.

Fisheries and aquaculture in most of the 79 ACP countries have grown significantly over the last 20 years. However, to ensure sustainable development of aquatic resources for the benefit of communities that rely on them for their livelihoods and food security, many challenges, including market access, value addition, working conditions and the risk of over-exploitation, remain to be addressed.

Over the next five years, FISH4ACP will be yielding multiple environmental, economic and social benefits for the people and the fisheries resources in Africa, the Caribbean and the Pacific, contributing to the UN's 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and in particular Sustainable Development Goal 14 on conservation and sustainable use of the ocean, seas and marine resources.

FISH4ACP is set to kick off in early 2020 with value chain assessments aimed at pinpointing the main

challenges in each of the value chains and helping them explore new markets, reduce waste and losses, improve fishers' working conditions and manage fish stocks at sustainable levels.

Somali fishers carrying their catch ashore

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Friday October 25, 2019

Life imprisonment for men who killed pensioners in 2017

TWO years after two elderly women were killed during an invasion at their South Road and Albert Street home, two men accused of killing them were on Thursday, October 24, 2019, sentenced to life imprisonment with the possibility of parole after serving 35 years behind bars for the gruesome crime.

Imran Khan called Christopher Khan, 25, and Stephen Jason Andrews, 28, both former residents of Albouystown, were charged with the capital offence of murder.

But the men opted to plead guilty to manslaughter.

Particulars of the two charges state that between October 2 and October 3, 2017, at Lot 243 South Road and Albert Street, the duo unlawfully killed Constance Fraser, 89 and Phyllis Caesar, 77, during a robbery.

The men were represented by attorney-at-law Keoma Griffith.

State prosecutor Abigail Gibbs had told the court that Khan and Andrews had broken into the two elderly women’s home at Lot

243 South Road and Albert Street. The men ransacked the home and stole money and valuables.

The women’s hands and feet were bound and mouths gagged. During the home invasion, the women were strangled. After raiding the women’s home, the men then went to Albouystown to split up their loot.

On October 3, 2017, the women’s motionless bodies were discovered lying face down in separate bedrooms at their Bourda home.

Government Pathologist, Dr. Nehaul Singh, gave the cause of death of both women as asphyxiation due

to suffocation and manual strangulation, compounded by trauma to the head.

On Thursday, probation officer Anand Sharma read a report he conducted on the two men, who were both fathers and sole breadwinners for their families.

A relative, from each of the victims, read a victim impact statement in court detailing ways in which the death of two elderly women has affected their lives.

The daughter of Constance Fraser, Margaret Git-

As such, under financial pressure, Khan and Andrews turned to crime due to peer pressure.

The two defendants explained that it was never their intention for the two women to get killed during the home invasion.

With tears in his eyes, Khan begged the deceased family for forgiveness for the hurt he caused and told them that if he could have traded places with the elderly woman he would have.

Andrews, who was cry-

Stephen Jason Andrews (left) and Imran Khan called Christopher Khan

tens, took to the witness stand and told the court that three months after her mother’s death, her sister passed away because she was grieving.

Gittens explained that her mother’s life was snatched away by the two “rascals” sitting in the prisoner docks, who are “cowardly murderers” that opted to take a plea for manslaughter rather than facing a capital offence of murder. She stressed that the pathologist told her that upon examining her mother’s body, it was discovered that all her organs were healthy and she would have lived a long life. Meanwhile, Phyllis’ sister, Joan Caesar in her impact statement reminisced on the memories that she shared with her sibling.

Phyllis was described as having the persona as a "bright light" which has left both families grieving for both women since they were all cousins, who lived together in their little home at Robb Street, but their lives were snatched away.

During a plea of mitigation, the men’s attorney, Keoma Griffith asked the court to consider that his clients were young fathers and sole breadwinners for their family.

He also asked the court to consider that his clients did not have any father figures in their lives to guide them and did not get to finish school.

ing uncontrollably, said that he was unable to sleep and was haunted with memories from that day.

State prosecutor Gibbs asked the court to consider that both of the two defendants had prior brushes with the law. Andrews, who had served three years’ imprisonment for break and enter and larceny, was charged with the murder of 70-year-old Dulcie Trim, called Teacher Dolly, on May 18, 2008, at her Friendship, Buxton, East Coast Demerara home.

He was found not guilty by a 12-member jury at the High Court in 2013.

Khan had served 18 months for larceny and, subsequently, three years for escaping from police custody.

Using their skills, Gibbs said, the men broke into the pensioners’ home and even admitted in their caution statement to breaking into their home previously.

While quoting from the verse from the bible John 10:10, Gibbs said “The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy” Justice Kissoon, after considering the background of the case and the plea of mitigation, while also placing weight on the previous brushes Khan and Andrews had with the law, sentenced them to life imprisonment with the possibility of parole after serving 35 years behind bars.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 25, 2019

Man to serve 22 years for manslaughter, wounding

AFTER throwing himself at the mercy of High Court Judge Jo-Ann Barlow, Athlone Pitt, called ‘Buddy’, was, on Wednesday, sentenced to 22 years’ imprisonment for the gruesome murder of his wife, and also for wounding another woman during an attack in 2016.

Pitt, 45, formerly of Chelsea Park, Mahaica, East Coast Demerara, had, two weeks ago, opted to plead guilty to the lesser count of manslaughter.

He admitted that, on June 1, 2016, at Mahaica, East Coast Demerara, he unlawfully killed his wife Candacy Pitt, called “Cindy.”

On Wednesday, when Pitt re-appeared in court for sentencing, he further confessed to another charge which read that, on June 1, 2016, at Mahaica, he wounded Brenda Thomas.

State prosecutor Sarah Martin told the court that the day before Pitt killed his wife, while she was at work as a security guard at Bygeval Secondary School, he told her, “This is the last day you would work here.”

Martin explained that Pitt had accused his wife of “having another man.”

On June 1, 2016, Pitt went to the school armed with a knife and cutlass and went on a chopping spree, during which he killed his wife and injured her cousin, Brenda Thomas. After committing the heinous act, Pitt turned himself in to the police and handed over the murder weapons.

Before sentencing, Pitt’s probation report was presented in court by Probation Officer Marcus, who is attached to the Ministry of Social Protection.

Marcus told the court that Athlone and Candacy began dating in 2003, and got married soon after. Pitt, who was once employed as a truck driver and carpenter, was described by his relatives as a loving, caring and family-oriented person.

However, when the probation officer spoke with persons in the area, it was revealed that Pitt began drinking, then was soon jobless. This, the villagers said, resulted in deterioration of his mental state.

He became depressed, frequently talked about committing suicide and had even attempted to take his own life.

Pitt, the probation officer said, told her that during the first seven years of marriage with his wife she was loving to him. But he then noticed that his wife’s attitude towards him changed and she became hostile.

According to Marcus, there were rumours circulating that his wife was cheating and that he was being teased

about it by his friends.

Relatives of Candacy Pitt, the probation officer said, had indicated that they knew how Athlone treated his wife and when they talked to her, their advice would fall on deaf ears because she loved her husband. Some family members claimed that Pitt had infertility problems and it was rumoured that his wife was seeking other relationships in order to get pregnant.

Pitt told the probation officer that he felt victimised and out of jealousy and rumours, he killed his wife.

Based on the report, the probation officer recommended psychiatric intervention for Pitt.

Attorney-at-law Adrian Thompson, during a plea of mitigation, told the court that his client is remorseful for the pain he had caused his family. Thompson also asked the court to consider that Pitt did not waste the court’s time and had thrown himself at its mercy.

The judge before sentencing considered the force which Pitt used to kill his wife, severing her arm during the attack. She also received injuries to her neck, back, shoulder, and other places about her body.

She also cited several cases in which husbands were jailed for killing their wives; these included Lloyd Anthony McLeod, who is serving a life sentence.

Justice Barlow then sentenced Pitt to serve 22 years for killing his wife and eight years for wounding Thomas. The sentences will, however, run concurrently. The judge also ordered that Pitt be exposed to counselling for his depression and anger The Guyana Chronicle had earlier reported that the couple shared 13 years of marriage which ended in bloodshed on June 1, 2016.

At the time, Candacy Pitt, 31, was on duty at the school located behind her residence.

According to a police report, she worked as a security guard at the school and was attacked about 21:45 hours by her husband at her workplace where she was dealt multiple chops about her body.

However, the police noted that he first attacked and chopped her cousin, security guard Brenda Thomas, 51, of Chelsea Park, who had denied him entry into the compound to see his wife. Mrs. Pitt and her cousin Thomas were both on duty at the time of the attack.

They were rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital where Mrs. Pitt was pronounced dead on arrival, while Brenda Thomas was admitted.

During the time of the

Candacy Pitt and her husband in happier times.

incident, when this newspaper spoke with the dead woman’s mother, Evonne

Andrews, the latter said her daughter had begun working almost two months before

Athlone Pitt also known as ‘Buddy’

(the incident) at the school as a security guard. She explained that her daughter

who lived in a neighbouring building would spend most of the time with the family.

“Her husband was a lazy drunkard who hardly worked. He was a driver.

I can’t remember the last time when he worked; he would normally be drinking all over the place and would threaten her whenever she is over here,” Ms. Andrews, a mother of three, said.

However, the couple never sought counselling, Ms. Andrews said, but her daughter would attend church and hope for the best.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 25, 2019

‘Lady Coco’ returns for Agri-Tourism Expo 2019

The re-vamped ‘Lady Coco’ has returned to the spotlight. On Tuesday evening, the monument was unveiled for the Agri-Tourism Expo and Business Forum being held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre.

Also unveiled was the official logo of the event.

Attending the opening was Minister of Business, Hon.

Haimraj Rajkumar; Permanent Secretary attached to Ministry of Agriculture, Delma Nedd; Director-General at Department of Tourism, Donald Sinclair, among other representatives.

In brief remarks, Sinclair noted that when the monument was first unveiled in 2016, it represented a “tree of life”, today he said it could

be considered as the “mother” behind the agri-tourism initiative.

“Lady Coco has given birth to the expo which plays an integral part of the introduction of an Agri-Tourism Sector in Guyana… It took a long time to construct Lady Coco and it took even longer time to refashion her and she is now back in business,” the

[In the photo, from left] Minister of Business, Hon. Haimraj Rajkumar with Debra Mattias cutting the ribbon along with Permanent Secretary attached to Ministry of Agriculture, Delma Nedd and Director-General at the Department of Tourism, Donald Sinclair

Tourism Director-General said.

He also congratulated the three local artists – Gerald Gittens, Edward Lashley and Stanislaus Rodrigues, for the time spent restoring the monument.

Chief Technical Officer of the Ministry of Agriculture, George Jervis, said the unveiling of the monument and logo “will serve as a permanent reminder of the start of our journey towards the development of the industry… Agri-tourism offers

farmers the possibility of diversifying and generating additional income through activities to supplement their agriculture income and maintain the viability of farms and rural communities.”

According to Jervis, the Agri-tourism sector can become the most transformative sub-sector in the country’s economy, paving the way for other potential areas such as culinary tourism and health and wellness tourism among others. It was disclosed, following the conclusion of the

expo and business forum, that the monument will be permanently erected in the compound of Ministry of Agriculture.

It is expected that with first-ever Agri-Tourism Expo and Business Forum, the thrust for the merging of tourism and agriculture will be a positive boost for both the farmers and the tour operators. The event is being held under the theme “Linking agriculture and tourism for a Green Economy.” (DPI)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 25, 2019

City Constabulary short of staff

-- chief constable bemoans robberies at Stabroek Market Square CHIEF Constable Andrew Foo has said that while the City Constabulary Department is unable to have the kind of police presence it would like at Stabroek Market Square, it will continue to work closely with police in ‘A’ Division to deal with the crime rate.

Speaking with Guyana Chronicle on Thursday, Foo noted that there has been an “upsurge” in robberies at the Stabroek Market area, but lamented that the Constabulary Department, the security arm of the Mayor and City Council

(M&CC), is deficient when it comes to resources. Foo believes that a strong police presence would deter robbers from the area.

Two members of the gang of young men, who gained popularity on social media recently for robbing a man of his phone, were apprehended, charged and placed before the courts.

Most of the work carried out by the constabulary officers is intelligence-led, Foo noted. According to him, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) is playing the lead role on

Stabroek Square because it has the kind of resources required.

The Constabulary, on the other hand, is highly short on staff and also needs equipment.

The Chief Constable informed that as the holiday period approaches, a ‘Christmas Policing Plan’ is usually rolled out which sees the Constabulary receiving additional resources from various sources. This plan, which comes out

by December 15 of every year, would see the officers being able to “dominate the ground”, Foo explained.

Meanwhile, a group of

young men, ages 10 to 19, continue to ‘wreak havoc’ on the Stabroek Market Square as they continue to operate within a network while committing robberies.

Around the Christmas season, the main areas for crime are around Stabroek, especially at the ‘Hospital’, Kitty, Sophia, East Coast and East Bank Demerara bus parks.

“Intelligence on TURN TO PAGE

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Chief Constable Andrew Foo

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 25, 2019

Soldiers participate in domestic violence seminar

SCORES of Guyana Defence Force (GDF) ranks recently participated in a seminar on domestic violence spearheaded by the Dorcas Mending Hearts Ministry (DMHM) at Base Camp Ayanganna.

The forum, held under the aegis of the Joint Services Welfare Committee (JSWC),

focused on the legal aspects of the Domestic Violence Act, and arising from the discussions were a number of questions that sought to clarify several issues addressed by the act.

A similar seminar was held at Base Camp Stephenson last Wednesday and other seminars are scheduled to be

conducted at the Coast Guard and at Base Camp Seweyo during November.

The Dorcas Mending Hearts Ministry has several ongoing projects aimed at empowering women and victims of domestic violence by providing them with lifeskills training. The ministry has also helped a young man

Soldiers discussing aspects of the Domestic Violence Act

from Sophia to start up a business.

The ministry’s services are provided in accordance with the belief that once people are empowered, they will be able to make better

choices and those could lead to domestic violence soon becoming a thing of the past.

All services of the Dorcas Mending Hearts Ministry are offered for free and include, free legal advice

and representation, lifeskills empowerment training, social, psychological and medical interventions to victims of domestic violence regardless of gender, religion or race.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 25, 2019

City Constabulary ... the ground has revealed that there is a gang of young men who are wreaking havoc on the bus parks,� Public Relations Officer, Debra Lewis had said some time ago. The juveniles have been reportedly snatching cellphones and handbags from unsuspecting citizens; in some cases robbing persons seated next to a mini-bus window. The gang is said to also be preying on school children.

The Constabulary had in the past warned persons against walking with large sums of

money, walking along lonely stretches of areas, and pulling out their expensive phones in public squares. It had also encouraged members of the public to stop a constable if they feel that someone is trailing them.

The Constabulary has responsibility for the prevention and detection of crime in Georgetown and has similar powers and privileges of the GPF. It also has authority to prosecute persons for offences such as assault, disorderly behaviour, urinating in public

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places, using indecent language, encumbering the pavements and so forth.

The department provides security for municipal markets, day-care centres, kokers and City Hall buildings, among others.

Providing security alone takes up much of the department’s resources, Foo had once told Guyana Chronicle.

The Enforcement Unit, which deals with itinerant vending and other breaches of the laws, is also very small and short of staff.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 25, 2019

Quality tests in 2019 for fertiliser, paint

By Rabindra Rooplall

STARTING next year, all fertilizers and paints imported and manufactured will be tested to ensure quality and adherence to requisite standards, according to Agriculture Minister, Noel Holder.

The minister made this disclosure during the commissioning of a $321M Pesticide and Toxic Chemicals Control Board (PTCCB) Pesticide Laboratory, on Tuesday.

The building housing the

laboratory is equipped with state-of-the art machinery and was constructed to the tune of $85.5M. The minister explained that farmers have complained of the importation and sale of substandard fertilizers, and, as such, testing will commence in the new year.

He said that, in agriculture production, pesticides (fungicides, insecticides and herbicides) help farmers to improve their crop yields by controlling the negative effects of pests and diseases.

“FAO estimates that be-

tween 20 and 40 per cent of global crop yields are reduced each year due to the damage caused by plant pests and diseases. However, when utilised above recommended rates, some of these chemicals can cause serious health problems such as damage to the nervous system, lungs, the reproductive system, the immune system and possibly cancer,” he said.

Meanwhile, internationally, he said this week is observed as ‘Poisoning Prevention Week’ and the focus is on eliminating lead in paint.

Chemists Morris Solomon explaining the operations of one of the many equipment to Agriculture Minister, Noel Holder and CEO of NAREI, Dr. Oudho Homenauth during a tour of the facility

The $85.5M building that houses the pesticide laboratory (Delano Williams photo)

This is vital to prevent exposure, particularly in children, leading to intellectual disability and death.

“Regulations to eliminate lead in paint contribute directly to the achievement of the sustainable development goals on good health and well-being,” Minister Holder said.

He explained that the laboratory is critical for improving human life and well-being nationally and the re-opening of the laboratory is a direct intervention to ensure access to safe food.

“The laboratory is dedicated to fulfilling the requirements of the Food Safety Bill. The investment in this facility provides for the analysis of pesticide residues in foods and of formulated pesticide products that are also imported and used in agriculture sector in Guyana,” the agriculture minister said.

Further, Minister Holder said as Guyana aims to tap into new market opportunities, it must have the quality of infrastructure required to test for and certify the level of chemical residues, water quality and wholesome products intended for export.

Additionally, the minister said the management of pesticide is an important component of sustainable agriculture and the green economy.

“The Agriculture Ministry widely promotes agriculture practices associated

with Integrated Pest Management (IPM), increased use of bio-pesticide and other green chemistry initiative and other best practices in pesticides management,” Minister Holder noted.

Chairman of the PTCCB, Dr. Leslie Munroe said the previous facility was built in 2008 and it was a very small structure that could have caused contaminations between different tests. As such, he said, a larger facility was needed.

Dr. Munroe said that, over the years, staff would have been trained locally and internationally by specialists.

“We currently have four chemists in the system and everyone would have had special training equipment and we would have invited persons, versed in the equipment we have, to have persons trained,” he said.

He explained that the laboratory was closed in 2017 to commence the massive expansion to separate the two laboratories (formula and residue), each having its own staff.

“Our intention is to deliver a quality product to our clients and to do that we have the equipment and we will continue to train staff because if you don’t train staff you are going to be stuck,” Dr. Munroe explained.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 25, 2019

Get onboard with ‘smart classrooms’ – Min. Henry urges regional counterparts

MINISTER of Education Dr. Nicolette Henry has urged education ministers from across the region to introduce ‘smart classrooms’ in their respective countries, to increase the level of education delivery.

Minister Henry participated in the two-day 38th meeting of the Council for Hu-

National Centre for Education and Resource Development (NCERD), Minister Henry said the initiative represented a high point for the ministry, as it is now embracing a 21st-century teaching tool.

The minister said the initiative would yield improved satisfaction for teachers and better outcomes for students.

man and Social Development (COHSOD), which opened on Wednesday at the Secretariat of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).

“I encourage other colleagues who have not yet embarked on smart classrooms and other similar initiatives to explore that possibility,” Minister Henry said during her welcoming remarks on Wednesday morning.

She said Guyana has been enjoying the successes of the initiative, which sprung from “fruitful and valuable partnerships” with local, regional and international partners.

The brainchild of the Ministry of Education, the “Smart Classroom” initiative was launched back in 2017, and has since been impacting public schools all across Guyana, including institutions in far-flung hinterland communities. At the launch at the

She said the ministry stands by its vision, which is to modernise education, to eliminate illiteracy and strengthen tolerance. In so doing, the introduction of smart classrooms is one avenue being pursued.

“During my training, I certainly recognised that there were large gaps as it relates to our current curriculum and education delivery – not only in Guyana but in the entire [Caribbean] Region,” Minister Henry had said.

As policymakers in education, Minister Henry said governments must continue to establish a supportive policy framework to build partnerships and drive programmes necessary for the improvement of service in the delivery of education.

The Ministry of Education’s Smart Classroom programme is receiving support from the Organisation

Lacytown, other communities under flood watch THE Mayor and City Council (M&CC) of Georgetown is advising the general public to take the necessary precautions during the spring tide period from October 25, 2019, to October 30, 2019. It is predicted that above normal high tides should be expected.

According to a press release from the municipality’s Public Relations Office on Thursday, the council noted that its Engineer’s Department suggested that the following low-lying areas such as Lacytown, Albouystown, Alberttown, Riverview, Alexander Village, Werk-enRust, South and North Ruimveldt, and West and East Ruimveldt, may be at risk for

flooding.

The release states that this is due to overtopping as a result of surges that rise above the sea defence structures. Therefore, persons must take the necessary precautionary measures.

Additionally, all vendors who operate within the precincts of the Stabroek Market are asked to take the necessary precautions to ensure that their goods are properly secured.

The release says the highest tides are expected on Sunday, October 27, 2019, between 02:55hrs to 15:33hrs, at a height of 3.29 metres and on Monday, October 28, 2019 between 03:43hrs and 16:13hrs, at a height of 3:31 metres. (DPI)

of American States (OAS).

She encouraged the ministers to also build collaboration and network to foster best practices.

Meanwhile, Minister Henry said young people

across the region should be given the support they need to allow them to be active participants in the acquisition of knowledge and life skills. (DPI)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 25, 2019

High Tea

at Parc this weekend ―empowering women through fashion, beauty

DENISHA VICTOR

T

ASHAKA KING

HE Parc Rayne is slated to be transformed Sunday into a one-stop beauty and style extravaganza called High Tea at Parc.

Hosted by Pieces & Things, High Tea at Parc, which will be held from 14:00hrs to 18:00hrs, is a tea party event that will feature in-depth styling and skin-care tips, updates on holiday trends, a makeup tutorial by Renee Chester of BROMELIAD.rnc, and natural-hair tips by Denisha Victor of Koko.

In an interview with The Buzz, proprietress of Pieces & Things, Ashaka King said she is excited about the event but nervous as well, since this is the first major event being held under the Pieces & Things brand. She said that the idea for the event was given to her two years ago by a prominent journalist who felt that, given her influence in the local fashion industry, she was well placed to give Guyanese women fashion and styling advice.

“One of the major complaints customers would say is that ‘You have such nice things, but we have nowhere to go with them.’ The niche of my boutique is for us to dress up; it is a celebration and expression of fashion, but the day-to-day life of the average Guyanese woman is very casual. So there was also that disparity, and so I created the event,” Ashaka said.

She said that the Tea Party setup was chosen due to its rarity in Guyana. Initially, she wanted to host a Brunch, but felt that it was an overdone concept. “Tea is so prim and proper and just the idea of tea, you think fantasy and hats and fashion. So, after being advised by Jonas Bridal House, who is doing décor, we decided on a tea party,” she said.

Ashaka stated that she is also honoured to have the likes of Renee Chester and Denisha Victor having an input in the event, given the influence they have in their fields.

“I have known Renee Chester for quite some time.

If you are into beauty, you know she is a trailblazer in the industry, because of her work ethic and dedication to the craft. And there is no fashion without beauty; it is all about a finished look. And for the woman who

RENEE CHESTER wants to look good, she is going to want to know about makeup. Renee actually taught me, and some of her tips have stayed with me.”

Talks with Victor started, Ashaka said, after thinking about the natural hair movement in Guyana, and just how many women here invest in their hair.

“I think Denisha is very innovative, and captivates it best in terms of servicing the curly girl/natural-hair girl outside of selling the products, and her interest in it. And, being a curly girl herself, that’s how I reached out to her,” she said.

More than just style, women will also be treated to a presentation by Sacred Flower, who will touch on vaginal steaming and female healthcare. She dubbed the event a learning experience, where women can gain tips and advice on all aspects of their self-care and appearance.

“Women have gotten a bit better, and the time is now, because now people are accepting that there is growth to be had. Two years ago, it may not have been as welcomed as it is now. Women are more fashion conscious now. Sometimes Guyana is late to catch on, but when we catch on, we catch on fast,” Ashaka said, adding: “It is no longer reserved for certain types of people; everyone wants to look better. Now women are embracing their femininity longer. We are no longer boxing ourselves into being just wives and mothers; we are owning everything that we are and celebrating it, and this is what this event is about.”

Despite her nervousness, Ashaka is looking forward to learning from the experience, and added that persons are curious to know what the show will have in store them. Sponsors of the event include Ansa McAl, Cavicchioli, Always, Olay, Lipton Tea, BROMELIAD.rnc, Koko, HJ TV and What’s Happening Guyana.

TICKETS FOR HIGH TEA AT PARC COST $10,000.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 25, 2019

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All roads lead to LBI tomorrow night ―for the annual Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha Diwali Fair

Flashback: A float from last year’s motorcade

By Indrawattie Natram

HE Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha’s largest motorcade is set for tomorrow at the LBI Community Centre Ground.

This year, over 30 floats from around the country are expected to participate in the annual event. They are scheduled to assemble at the Shri Krishna Mandir in Campbellville at 18:00hrs, and set off at 18:45hrs, making their way along Sandy Babb Street, Kitty, and into Vlissengen Road, before heading east along the seawall/Rupert Craig Highway to the final destination at LBI. According to President of the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, the organisation is encouraging persons to line the route, especially the seawalls by 18:00hrs to view the majestic and spectacular Diwali motorcades 2019.

She said that the procession will be accom-

T

panied by the singing of bhajans and tassa drumming, and the beautiful illuminations and depictions related to the festival of Diwali.

The motorcade will begin moving along the seawall at 19:00hrs. Persons can use Conversation Tree, UG Road, and Pike and Sheriff Streets to get on to the southern carriageway of the seawall road. Parking will be permitted on the southern side of the road, and spectators can just step across to the northern seawall and have a great view of the floats.

The grand cultural programme will commence at 19:00hrs, at the LBI Community Centre Ground, where admission is free.

There are strict no alcohol and no gambling policies both at the venue and the surrounding area.

The lineup of artistes on the programme include top Guyanese singers Sookrane Boodhoo, Rekha Singh, Artie Sookhai Khellawan, Suraj Singh, Richie Hansraj,

Naveen Rooplall and other guest artistes, along with Dharmic Nritya Sangh and the Farishtey Dance Troupe.

Tonight there will be two motorcades; one at the Oceanview Mandir compound on the ‘West Coast, and the other at the

A typical Diwali float

Diamond Tarmac on the ‘East Bank’. Both events are being hosted by the Praants of their respective communities, and are slated to commence at 18:30hrs. Admission

is free.

The Sabha would like to express its appreciation to all the sponsors who came on board to support this year’s Diwali Motorcade.

This is the 45th year for the hosting of the Diwali Motorcades in Guyana. The event coincides with the celebration of Diwali, The Festival of Lights.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 25, 2019

‘Capteevated’ set to launch ‘BRAFF’ ―@ Sports Hall tarmac tomorrow

Capteevated Founder, Shawn Copeland

‘CAPTEEVATED’, a popular local Online clothing company, is hosting the Guyana launch of the brand tomorrow at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall tarmac in the form of a grand neon-themed party titled, ‘BRAFF’.

Founder of the company Shawn Copeland told ‘The Buzz’ that Capteevated was created to bring a Caribbean touch to fashion.

“Capteevated is a clothing company geared towards providing persons with the latest and trendiest clothing and fashion items unique to our West Indian style and culture,” Copeland said, adding: “The company, still in its startup phase, was conceptualised in 2016 when I noticed tht mainstream clothing lacked a certain ‘Caribbean’ flair and started adding my unique style to items such as hats and t-shirts.”

The company has since built a loyal customer base of more than 4,000 individuals on its Facebook page and another 4,500 on its Instagram account.

One of the ‘Capteevated’ fanny packs

“In what can be termed a soft launch of the brand, the company, in collaboration with various Popular local promoters rocking their ‘Capteevated’ tees partners and sponsors, will be hosting a grand NEON party, BRAFF, on October 26th at the Cliff Anderson Sports hall teevated’ giveaways.

Of course, being that the event is a neon-themed party, tarmac. Tickets cost $1,000 up to today. It’ll be more on the patrons are expected to clad themselves in bright neon day of the event, so get your tickets now,” he said.

Explaining the concept behind BRAFF and what persons colours. Tickets can be purchased from various locations, can expect at the party, Copeland said that in keeping with the including Grill King on Mandela Avenue; King Fish on Jamaican/Dancehall moniker synonymous with ‘bragging’ William Street, Kitty; White Castle Fish Shop on Hadand ‘showing off’ as a manner of positive self-expression and field Street, Werk-en-Rust; Wayne’s Beverage Paradise at positivity, patrons can expect non-stop vibes from a slew of Bourda Market; Digicel at Stabroek; and QC Boutique on Guyana’s top DJs, trendy lighting effects, and various ‘Cap- Duncan Street, Newtown.

'Pop Up Shop’ opens tomorrow at Pegasus T WELVE unique small businesses owned by Guyanese women will participate in the ‘Pop Up Shop’ that is being hosted by the Sonia Noel Foundation for Creative Arts this weekend.

Many of the business owners have just returned from the Florida International Culture Trade and Expo, and are now bursting with new ideas and new products that they would like to offer at the mini fair.

The event is billed for the Pegasus Hotel in Kingston, Georgetown. Fashion icon Sonia Noel told the Buzz on Thursday that she is grateful to the management of the said hotel for allowing them to put on the ‘expo’ at that venue for free.

The event will run from 09:00 to 21:00hrs, and will allow for persons to register for the 2020 Women in Business Expo. Patrons will also be able to enjoy a 5 to 25 per cent discount on products and services.

Since the month of October is dedicated to breast cancer awareness, part of the proceeds from sales will go to the Giving Hope Foundation, Noel said.

The expo, providing an opportunity for small businesses to be supported, is aimed at

promoting women primarily.

“You can get outfits for the holiday season; sample various types of cakes that you can order, massages, super affordable make up products, etc,” Noel pointed out.

There will also be a book signing on Saturday with Noel, Ediclia Bastardo and Dr. Latoya Gooding. “Meet these two phenomenal women at the book

signing tomorrow at the Pop Up Shop at the Pegasus and get some insight on why you should write your story because someone is waiting to read,” Noel said.

Meanwhile, the Women in Business ‘expo’, which is expected to be launched early next year, is also the brainchild of Noel, who said there are no words to describe her feelings

as she continues to witness the positive effects that the expo has been having on women from all across Guyana.

Included in the midst of the over 50 women who have been participating each year are those who are the sole breadwinners of their families; youths; single parents; and even housewives who carry on small businesses to support their families.

Sonia Noel (centre) along with Ediclia Bastardo and Latoya Gooding will be on hand for the book signing tomorrow

Noel and some of the local businesswomen who participated in the just- concluded

About five years ago, Noel realised that there were many business owners who simply did not have the capital for advertising. “So I thought of creating the platform to give them a jumpstart, and from Year One to Four, the testimony is amazing. We’ve really been achieving our objectives,” Noel recalled in an interview with this publication.

“I feel so blessed to be part of these lives. I don’t have enough words to describe the feeling that comes from being a part of something so inspiring, and knowing that I am helping to add value to lives. This is not about me, but I believe I am being used as a vessel by God to help these individuals,” she said.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 25, 2019

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‘Hits & Jams’ opens logo and theme competition ―to celebrate 20th Anniversary

E

NTERTAINMENT and promotion company, ‘Hits & Jams’, is preparing to celebrate their 20th Anniversary in 2020.

Speeding ahead of time, the company has opened a competition for young creatives to input entries into a logo and them competition.

Being in existence for two decades and taking the position of Guyana’s most established entertainment entity, Hits and Jams is encouraging persons to join their celebration by creating a logo and theme that reflects the company’s goals and objectives.

The competition is open to everyone, and has no specific

age or nationality requirements. If you are a creative or innovative person, then this competition is for you, as you can win yourself US$500.

Interested persons are asked to send their entries to: hitsandjams2020@ gmail.com, or visit the office at 206 Lance Gibbs Street. The deadline for entries is December 2, 2019.

The company says its goal is to provide high-quality entertainment in the form of promotional events, concept parties, concerts, pageants and other social affairs.

It is the first entertainment firm to have excelled in the industry, taking entertainment to newer heights, and broadening the horizon for upcoming promotional agencies.

In addition to this, Hits and Jams is actively involved in operating both television and radio programming after being granted rights to broadcasting licence in Guyana.

Now they have worked their way to being the leading broadcasting station in Guyana.

‘Kast’ takes cancer awareness to ‘The Duke’

L

OCAL talent company, Kast Talent Management is hosting for the second year, a cancer awareness concert which is slated for Sunday in the conference room at The Duke on Duke Street, Kingston.

The concert, titled ‘Care Her’, is being hosted in collaboration with the Heart to Heart Foundation, and is being used to bring about awareness of cancer and how

persons can fight the disease.

Company founding director Khamisi Slowe told ‘The Buzz’ that Kast was created to help create opportunities and showcase the talent of young creative minds in Guyana. He said that activities such as the concert are held throughout the year to give young people a chance to express themselves and use their skills and talents for the greater good.

Sunday’s event is one such activity that will see members of the company using their individual skills to raise awareness of cancer through the Arts. A combination of poets, models, artistes, and musicians will all be performing at The Duke on Sunday.

The show will also incorporate motivational speeches from cancer survivors. At a low entry cost of $1,000, the event will commence at 19:30hrs sharp.

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FRI-25 October, 2019 02:00hrs ~ 03:30hrs

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East Bank register bonus win after Rutherford’s ruthless 154

By Clifton Ross

EAST Bank all-rounder Sherfane Rutherford smashed the highest individual score of the Jaguars 50 Overs League - a breathtaking 154 which helped his franchise seize a 35-run win over Essequibo in yesterday’s final.

Round 7 saw the two sides locking up in front a goodsized crowd at the Everest ground and which only got bigger as the match progressed. The mammoth 318 all out made by East Bank was built on Rutherford’s ruthless aggression.

In the innings which was littered with 11 fours and 13 massive sixes (the most in the League’s 50 Overs history), the left-hander Rutherford spared no one, as he raced to his whirlwind century off just 96 balls and made his innings look like a stroll in the park.

His sixth-wicket partnership of 145 with Ronaldo Alimohamed (42) broke the back of the champs who were under pressure in a big match but did not buckle. They made a spirited effort to reach another 250-plus score this season, but painstakingly fell short by a meagre deficit.

The chase saw hero Quintin Sampson, who, throughout the tournament has built a reputation on his power-hitting, rack up more than 300 runs after he defied the scorecard pressure and early loss of wickets, to clobber

four fours and five sixes in his lower-order, top-score of 67 which kept his team’s hope alive.

His heroics, coupled with knocks from captain Anthony Adams (5x4, 2x6) in the next best score of 64 and a runaway innings of 45 from 20, by David Williams, helped take Essequibo to 283 before they were bowled out in 46.2 overs.

Some of those who tried to launch a comeback were Nokta Moses (24) and all-rounder Ricardo Adams (22) who managed starts but departed with less than 100 on the board, thanks to strikes from Trevor France who was the pick of the lot with 3-35.

The tourney’s leading run-scorer Kemol Savory stroked three fours in his composed 45 which kept the team afloat amidst the drama. The left-hander looked set on another 50 but had his stumps disturbed by part-timer Trevon Griffith (2-54).

Sampson then came out like a man possessed and commenced his onslaught which lasted 39 balls. His fearless power-hitting turned the tides against East Bank, but Rutherford had other plans as he denied the batsman a possible hundred after he seemed on course for three figures.

His dismissal brought Williams and Adams to the middle as the two plundered the bowling before Alimohamed knocked over the former. Williams, muscled four relief

New Zealand captain Williamson to miss England T20 series (REUTERS) - New Zealand captain Kane Williamson will miss next month’s home Twenty20 series against England due to a hip injury, New Zealand Cricket (NZC) said today.

Fast bowler Tim Southee will lead the Black Caps in the five matches against England starting in Christchurch on Nov. 1.

“We’ve been monitoring the injury for a while now and it’s the same issue that ruled him out of the final test against Bangladesh back in March,” New Zealand coach Gary Stead told the NZC website here.

“It’s disappointing timing for Kane at the start of an ex-

citing Kiwi summer, but we feel it’s the right decision with a busy season ahead.”

Fast bowler Blair Tickner was named in the New Zealand squad after making his debut against India this year.

New Zealand host England in a two-test series starting at Tauranga on Nov. 20.

T20 squad: Tim Southee (captain), Trent Boult (games four and five), Colin de Grandhomme, Lockie Ferguson (games one, two and three), Martin Guptill, Scott Kuggeleijn, Daryl Mitchell, Colin Munro, Jimmy Neesham, Mitchell Santner, Tim Seifert (wicketkeeper), Ish Sodhi, Ross Taylor, Blair Tickner.

sixes and three fours but missed out on a half-century when Alimohamed knocked his stumps back.

The skipper continued to show his all-round ability and kept the board ticking as he brought another fifty this season from just 49 balls. ‘Bugsy’ Griffith’s magic arm then yielded another wicket. Rutherford easily mopped up the tail without any resistance to help his side to a confidence-boosting win.

When play began in the morning East Bank, batting first, ran into a hostile Sampson who showed his skills with the ball to snap up three wickets with his medium pace, while spinner Akinie Adams grabbed the wickets of Trevon Griffith (19), Matthew Nandu (20) and skipper Vishaul Singh (34)..

Rutherford stole the show with his batting and his choice selection which saw him reach his 50, 100 and 150 with boundaries. When he departed the fun and the flow of boundaries around and out of the venue ended, but the damage done was too severe as the champs still came up short in the end.

At the presentation ceremony, Savory was awarded the tournament MVP award for his 336 runs and 18 dismissals while his teammate Ricardo Adams bagged the Most Wickets Award for ending the league with 20 victims.

New Zealand captain Kane Williamson reac

Inaugural Matarkai Female District Games kicks off tonight with double-header

THE first-ever Matarkai Floodlight Football Female District Games, organised and promoted by Port Kaituma Football Foundation (PKFF), in collaboration with National Sports Commission (NSC), will kick off tonight with a double-header.

The event, which is expected to attract several top

female football sides, concludes on October 26 after the grand finale at Fitzburg ground in Port Kaituma, Region One. The winning side will pocket $100 000, while runners-up will collect $50 000.

The maiden event will see 2019 National Heritage Games semi-finalists Sebai Invincible Talons FC, PK United FC, Oronoque FC and Matthews Ridge FC battle each other on the opening night.

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Some of the females who will be in action are Sebai’s Star striker 18-year-old Feona Benjamin, PK’s Verita Caesar-Jeffrey, Oronoque’s Zorina Baptiste and Matthews Ridge Janice Moses.

According to PRO of PKFF, Sherlon Rodrigues, the two days of competition, which is scheduled to commence at 19:00hrs, is mainly geared at reviving the female football rivalry amongst teams, from Matarkai, with

the aim of recognising individual talents and skills on the field, so that players can be recommended to the Guyana Football Federation (GFF).

“It’s PKFF vision to see female footballers from Matarkai included in the GFF Lady Jags team”.

Meanwhile, tomorrow, a lone T/20 friendly hardball cricket competition between Ronaldo Rodrigues X1 and Hercules X1 is also on the card which is scheduled to

begin at 10:00hrs. There is also the annual Pinktober Cancer Awareness Walk, organised by Sharmain Henry, which will get underway from Airstrip, Citrus Grove at 16:00hrs to Fitzburg.

Residents are encouraged to wear pink and join the walk. On the final night, there will be a friendly football match between Five Star FC and Fitzburg FC, which is scheduled to kick off at 20:00hrs while the female football final will seal the

maiden event.

According to Rodrigues, “The PKFF would like to extend our gratitude to National Sports Commission; Mr Enoch Benjamin, AREO Matarkai; Mr Ignatius Adams, DEO; Mr Orlando Thorne, Chairman NDC; Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry, Banks DIH, International Imports and Supplies, Marlon Boyer, Platinum General Store and Three Brothers Sports Bar.”

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Australia look to make statement a year ahead of T20 World Cup

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 25, 2019

Rohit to lead India in T20s against Bangladesh as Kohli rests

Australia head coach Justin Langer during nets.

(Action Images via Reuters/Paul Childs)

MELBOURNE, Australia (Reuters) - With the T20 World Cup the only piece of major silverware missing in Australia’s bursting trophy cabinet, Aaron Finch’s team will look to make a statement in the series against Sri Lanka and Pakistan a year before hosting the global tournament.

Australia kick off their home summer at Adelaide Oval on Sunday with the first of three Twenty20 internationals against 2014 world champions Sri Lanka, with matches to follow in Brisbane (October 30) and Melbourne (November 1).

The hosts then turn their attention to the 2009 champions Pakistan in another three-match series starting in Sydney on November 3.

The series will give the teams a preview of playing conditions ahead of next year’s T20 World Cup in Australia and a chance for new players to push their credentials.

Australia fast bowler Kane Richardson will be among the fringe players looking to impress in front of his home-town crowd in Adelaide on Sunday.

“I don’t think there has been so much T20 in a calendar year with a lead-up to the (one-day) World Cup and another one close by,” 28-year-old Richardson told reporters in Adelaide yesterday.

“I am ready to go.”

Richardson, who played the last of his nine T20Is against England over a year ago, is competing against Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, Billy Stanlake and Andrew Tye for one of the fast bowling slots.

The series will give locals the first glimpse of former cap-

tain Steve Smith and David Warner playing a full international on home pitches since their ball-tampering bans.

Smith, fresh from a brilliant Ashes with the bat in England, is set for his first T20I in three-and-a-half years, while the hard-hitting Warner will pad up for his first since February, 2018, a month before the Newlands scandal erupted.

The world’s top-ranked batsman in Tests, Smith shelved T20Is in 2016 to ease his load but was busy during his 12-month international ban playing the shortest format in overseas competitions.

“Hopefully I can get the tempo of the game straight away and have a good few weeks with the Australian team,” he said earlier this week.

Opener Warner will also have something to prove in the wake of a miserable Ashes where he averaged 9.50 with the bat in the drawn series.

However, his Ashes struggles came after his stellar form in T20 cricket at the Indian Premier League (IPL) and during Australia’s semi-finals run at the 50-over World Cup in England.

He will look to build confidence with runs in the T20Is before next month’s two-match Test series against Pakistan starts in Brisbane.

“Obviously it’s the first time in my career I have been under a bit of pressure and I hadn’t scored runs,” Warner told broadcaster Fox Sports’ season launch yesterday.

“I play all three formats and I have to put my best foot forward to what I do.”

Ivan Madray T20 first division T20 tourney tournament bowls off tomorrow THE Berbice Cricket Board (BCB)-organised Ivan Madray T20 first division tournament bowls off tomorrow as the board seeks to complete all of its planned tournaments for 2019.

Eleven first division teams - West Berbice, Police, Blairmont, Tucber Park, Rose Hall Canje, Young Warriors, Albion, RHT NAMILCO Thunderbolt Flour, Upper Corentyne and Skeldon would participate in the tournament which would be played on a knockout basis.

The tournament is being played in memory of the late Ivan Madray who on May 2, 1958 became the third Berbician to play Test cricket after John Trim and Rohan Kanhai.

Madray’s nephew, Chandradat Chintamani is sponsoring the T20 tournament in memory of the Berbice legend who passed away on the April 23, 2009. Defending champions, Young Warriors have drawn the bye for the first round.

Teams are reminded that walkovers shall be granted

half-hour after the scheduled start of play at 13:00hrs while captains who are not present to spin the toss at 12:45hrs shall forfeit the right to do so. The BCB also expects all teams to be properly attired in coloured uniform.

FIXTURES FOR SATURDAY: 1. Albion vs Police - Albion 2. West Berbice vs RH Canje - West Berbice 3. Blairmont vs Port Mourant - Port Mourant 4. Tucber Park vs Skeldon - 69 5. RHT Thunderbolt vs Upper Corentyne - Area ‘H’ 6. YWCC - Bye. Monday October 28: 1. Winner of 1 vs Winner of 4 - 1 Venue 2. Winner of 6 vs Winner of 2 - 6 Venue 3. Winner of 3 vs Winner of 5 - 5 Venue.

Rohit Sharma

MUMBAI, India (Reuters) - Rohit Sharma will lead India for the Twenty20 internationals against Bangladesh at home next month, with regular captain Virat Kohli rested for the three-match series, the country’s cricket board (BCCI) said yesterday.

Kohli will, however, return to lead the side against Bangladesh for the two Tests, starting from November 14, with the hosts eyeing their 12th consecutive Test series victory at home.

World’s top-ranked side India retained the squad that whitewashed South Africa 3-0 at home recently. Kohli’s men lead the points table for the recently-launched World Test Championship, having scripted five wins in as many matches.

Mahendra Singh Dhoni continued to be out of the Twenty20 squad, raising questions on the long-serving wicketkeeper’s future in limited-overs cricket.

There has been speculation Dhoni might retire after struggling in the World Cup in England where India were knocked out in the semi-finals.

Subsequently he was left out of the squad for the limited-overs series against West Indies and South Africa.

Rishabh Pant has been earmarked as Dhoni’s successor but the 22-year-old has faced flak for letting the team down with his penchant for throwing away his wicket with rash shots.

India selectors added Kerala wicketkeeper-batsman Sanju Samson, who has played a lone T20 in 2015, to the squad to keep the pressure up on Pant ahead of next year’s T20 World Cup in Australia.

“We’re looking at younger options after the World Cup, so you can understand our thought process,” chief selector MSK Prasad told reporters. “We definitely had a chat with Dhoni and he also endorses our view of backing youngsters.”

Mumbai all-rounder Shivam Dube earned his maiden callup to the T20 squad with strong performances in domestic cricket.

Squad: T20 - Rohit Sharma (captain), Shikhar Dhawan, KL Rahul, Sanju Samson, Shreyas Iyer, Manish Pandey, Rishabh Pant, Washington Sundar, Krunal Pandya, Yuzvendra Chahal, Rahul Chahar, Deepak Chahar, Khaleel Ahmed, Shivam Dube, Shardul Thakur Test - Virat Kohli (captain), Rohit Sharma, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Hanuma Vihari, Wriddhiman Saha, Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Umesh Yadav, Ishant Sharma, Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 25, 2019

Panthera Solutions donate $300,000 to RHTY&SC Charity Programme

“WE at Panthera Solutions are very impressed with the high standard of work of the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club, MS, (RHTY&SC) especially your efforts to keep youths away from social ills. As a new company in Guyana, we are determined to be a responsible corporate entity and we feel privileged to be associated with your dynamic organisation.”

Those were the words of Panthera Solutions General Manager, Andrew Dinsdale, as he handed over a financial contribution of $300 000 towards the 2019 Christmas Charity programme of the 10 cricket teams of Guyana’s leading youth sports club.

Club Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster who accepted the donation on the club’s behalf stated that they have started early preparations for the Charity programme as the teams wanted it to be the best ever.

The RHTY&SC and its cricket teams since 1991 have hosted a Charity programme during the festive season with the main objective of making a positive difference in the lives of the less fortunate, elderly and children from single parent households.

Foster stated that the club

strongly believes that no one should go hungry, naked, lonely or unloved during the most festive period of the year and as such it hosts the multi-million dollar programme during the period December, 1-24.

Annual Christmas Village from December 21 to 24, in the compound of the Rose Hall Town Primary School. The village would see the transformation of the school compound into a dreamland for children

33

India’s Kohli expects ‘healthy’ dialogue with new board chief

ists to the township.

Foster expressed gratitude to Panthera Solutions for its support and disclosed that the donation would be used to purchase toys and items for the food hampers project. He assured the Saurav Ganguly (left) and Virat Kohli

By Sudipto Ganguly

Panthera Solution’s General Manager Andrew Dinsdale hands over donation to RHTY&SC Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster in the presence of Project Manager, Ray McLean

This year’s programme would include the distribution of 500 food hampers, 5 000 Christmas toys, visits to orphanages, Christmas party for less fortunate kids, luncheon for less fortunate families, distribution of clothing, footwear, educational materials, special gifts for senior citizens and breakfast for old-age pensioners.

The main project would be the hosting of the 6th

with thousands of fairy lights, decorations, a 20foot Christmas tree, trampolines and bouncy castle among other niceties.

The long-serving RHTY&SC executive stated that the main objectives of the very popular Christmas Village are to promote social cohesion, promote the true tradition of Christmas, to provide clean entertainment for children and attract tour-

company that the Christmas programme would be well organised and would achieve all of its objectives.

The ten cricket teams are Poonai Pharmacy Under-12 and Under-13, Farfan and Mendes Under-15, Bakewell Under-17 and Second Division, Pepsi Under-19 and Intermediate, Metro Female, NAMILCO Thunderbolt Flour Under-21 and First Division.

MUMBAI, India (Reuters) - India cricket captain Virat Kohli said yesterday he expects a healthy and professional discussion with Sourav Ganguly, a day after the newly appointed board chief termed the batting mainstay the “most important man” for the game in the country.

One of India’s most successful captains, Ganguly took over the reins of the world’s richest cricket board on Wednesday from a court-appointed panel which governed the game in the country for nearly three years.

The 47-year-old promised full support to Kohli to make India the best team in the world and said he will sit down with the captain to chart the way forward.

“I am going to meet him now,” Kohli told reporters at a promotional event in Mumbai. “I have met him before to discuss a lot of things. I am looking forward to a good discussion.”

Ganguly, who played 113 Tests and 311 one-day internationals, helped India emerge from a damaging match-fixing scandal in 2000 and led the side to 21 Test wins.

The former left-handed batsman said there will be “mutual respect” between him and Kohli, who was handed Test captaincy abruptly at the start of 2015 when long-serving skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni retired from Test cricket midway a series.

Kohli already has more Test wins than Dhoni while leading in fewer matches and the world’s top-ranked Test side have won 11 consecutive series at home. India also lead the points table for the recently-launched World Test Championship.

“He (Ganguly) is someone who has played a lot of cricket before, who knows the situation we are in, what the team needs, the requirements of Indian cricket,” Kohli said.

“So you need a good, professional, high-level discussion. It will be a healthy discussion because I am playing currently and he has played before, there will be an understanding of these things.

“I have had good discussions in the past with him and I expect the same this time.”

Manchester United finally win away but Roma frustrated

By Martyn Herman LONDON, England (Reuters) - Manchester United claimed their first away win in any competition since March, as they beat Partizan Belgrade 1-0 in the Europa League yesterday but AS Roma were denied by a stoppage-time equaliser from Borussia Moenchengladbach.

In the early kickoffs on match-day three there were also wins for Wolverhampton Wanderers, AZ Alkmaar and Young Boys.

While United have made a dismal start to the Premier League season and sit 14th they at least top Europa League Group L after two

wins and a draw from their three games. They also ended an 11-match streak without a win on the road.

A 43rd-minute penalty

by Anthony Martial was enough to earn the points in a fevered atmosphere in the Serbian capital but welcome as the points were for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side, it was not a performance to quicken the pulse.

Apart from Martial’s spot kick conversion United failed to register another attempt on target. AZ Alkmaar are two points behind United in second place after thrashing Astana 6-0.

Borussia Moenchengladbach scored in the fifth-minute of stoppage time to snatch

a 1-1 draw at AS Roma who had led from the 32nd minute through Nicolo Zaniolo.

The German side’s substitute Lars Stindl held his nerve to convert from the spot after Chris Smalling, on loan from Manchester United, conceded a penalty.

Roma lead Group J with five points from Istanbul Basaksehir who beat Wolfsberg 1-0 to join the Austrians on four points with Moenchengladbach bottom on two.

Wolves came from a goal down to beat hosts Slovan Bratislava 2-1 in Group K - a match played in front of 20 000 children and a handful of away fans after the match was ordered by UEFA to be played behind closed doors

because of racist incidents.

Andraz Sporar’s deflected shot put the home

claim their second win and move into second spot a point behind Braga who

Manchester United’s Jesse Lingard celebrates after the match. (REUTERS/Marko Djurica)

side in front but Wolves hit back through Romain Saiss and a penalty by Raul Jimenez after the break to

won 2-1 at Besiktas.

Espanyol continued to put their dire La Liga form behind them as they

won 1-0 in Bulgaria against Ludogorets, a result that keeps them unbeaten and top of Group H with seven points.

Rangers held on for a 1-1 draw in Porto in what is turning out to be a tight Group G. Luis Diaz’s piledriver put Porto ahead but Alfredo Morelos levelled before the interval.

The Scottish club held on, and are level on four points with Porto behind leaders Young Boys on six, after a 2-0 home victory over Dutch club Feyenoord who are bottom with three.

In Group I, pacesetters Gent and Wolfsburg both have five points after a 2-2 draw in Belgium.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 25, 2019

‘We are moving on’ - India’s chief selector on MS Dhoni

By Vishal Dikshit

MS Dhoni’s days as India wicketkeeper seem to have ended, going by the statements of MSK Prasad, the chairman of selectors, on Thursday while announcing India’s T20I and Test squads for the Bangladesh series at home.

Dhoni did not feature in the T20I squad - he’s already retired from Tests - and while Prasad didn’t say Dhoni had been dropped, his answer was unambiguous: “This is our clear thought process that post-World Cup we are focussing on Rishabh Pant only.”

When prodded again - he was asked the Dhoni question four times - Prasad said: “I made it very clear post the World Cup that we are moving on. We are giving opportunities to youngsters and see that they establish themselves in the side. With Rishabh Pant doing so well and even Sanju Samson coming into the side (as back-up wicketkeeper), I am sure you must be understanding our thought process.”

Prasad also said that

Dhoni had been spoken to about his future and the former India captain “also endorses our view of backing youngsters”.

When asked if Dhoni could make a comeback by returning to domestic cricket, Prasad did not give a conclusive answer again. “That is purely his personal call,” Prasad said. “Going into domestic cricket, getting his touch back, or thoughts about retirement, everything is purely his personal (decision).

We’ve already laid the roadmap for future, I’m sure you can see in the way we are selecting the teams.”

Prasad’s comments came after the selection committee meeting at the BCCI headquarters in Mumbai, which was also attended by the board’s newly elected president and secretary, Sourav Ganguly, and Jay Shah. Also present at the meeting were India captain Virat Kohli and his deputy in the limited-overs formats, Rohit Sharma.

Although Prasad’s panel is already focussed on Pant, Ganguly has said he will speak to both Dhoni as

well as Kohli on the matter. Upon taking charge as BCCI president yesterday, Ganguly pointed out that “champions” like Dhoni “do not finish very quickly”.

lack of conclusive answers from the selection committee did not help matters. After picking the squad for the West Indies tour, Prasad had said Dhoni had “expressed

Mahendra Singh Dhoni (left) and Rishabh Pant

Incidentally, this could be the last time Prasad’s selection panel picks a team, with the contracts of some of the selectors including Prasad running down.

There was speculation that Dhoni might retire post the World Cup, but he didn’t.

But questions about his future continued to do the rounds as he opted out of the West Indies tour in August and was then missing from the T20I squad that played South Africa at home last month. The

his unavailability” and “when he is fit and available, then we’ll see”.

A few days later it emerged that Dhoni was going to spend two weeks with the Indian Army in the first half of August.

The next time Prasad’s panel met, to pick the T20I squad for the South Africa games, they chose not to hold a press conference, which added to the speculation around Dhoni.

Meanwhile, Pant played

all three formats in the Caribbean and the T20Is against South Africa, though he too sparked debate over his shot selection and batting methods following a run without substantial scores.

India’s new batting coach Vikram Rathour said, “Of course he needs to sort out his game plans a little more; bring a little bit of discipline to his game.” Head coach Ravi Shastri said that Pant had “let the team down” with his shot selection and captain Virat Kohli suggested his decision-making needs to improve.

Prasad confirmed that India will stick with Pant, though. “post-World Cup I’ve been very, very clear on this, that after the World Cup we started backing Rishabh Pant and we will still back him and see that he progresses well,” he said. “Of course, he might not have had the best of the matches that we expected of him, but still we can only make a player by backing somebody.

“We are very, very confident that he will come out

successful and this is our clear thought process that post-World Cup we are focussing on Rishabh Pant only.”

When asked if the selectors were going to give Pant a fixed number of series before looking at other options, or perhaps falling back on Dhoni, Prasad said sternly: “I have already answered, we are backing Rishabh Pant.”

Samson’s form as a batsman and the fact that he had been picked as India’s backup wicketkeeper might close the doors on Dhoni further.

In the recent Vijay Hazare Trophy, Samson smashed an unbeaten 212 off only 129 balls against Goa. The fact that he will turn 25 next month will also sit well with Prasad’s vision of looking to young players.

If Dhoni’s international career is indeed over, his knock of 50 in the World Cup semi-final loss to New Zealand, when he batted until the penultimate over to nearly see India through, would have been his last.

(ESPN Cricinfo)

Scorpions focus squarely on winning: Coley Bermuda batsman banned K I N G S T O N , J a m a i c a will have to go through the in a competitive group sched- strengthened by the incluover reckless behaviour (CMC) – Without a domes- likes of last year’s champions uled for Warner Park and sion of the West Indies pair tic 50-over title in nearly a decade, Jamaica Scorpions will have a single focus when they contest the Regional Super50 next month.

“It is a tournament, so the main objective must be to win,” said new head coach Andre Coley who has returned to his native franchise following two years with Windward Islands Volcanoes.

“I don’t believe that development plays a significant part at this level in this kind of tournament, so the main objective must be to win, but if we can have consistency in all areas and we are able to show adaptability against the different opposition, that would be a plus.”

Any route to their first championship title since 2011

Combined Campuses and Colleges with whom they have been grouped with in Zone A.

Leading batsman Jermaine Blackwood

Scorpions will also clash with Barbados Pride, invitational side, Canada and hosts Leeward Islands Hurricanes,

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Friday, October 18, 2019)

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Conaree Sports Complex in St Kitts.

Coley said it was important not to take any team for

ANSWERS TO YESTERDAY’S QUIZ: Courtney Walsh-519 wickets (132 Tests) Rashid Khan-20 wickets (3 Tests) TODAY’S QUIZ: What is the highest individual Test score by a WI player to date?

What is the highest individual Test score by an Afghan player to date?

ANSWERS IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE

granted but to focus on consistency, especially with each team playing eight games.

“In this format, it is important we respect the opposition, taking into consideration the environment in which we will be playing,” he explained.

“In this version, any team that plays consistently well on the day will win the game, so it will be about taking one game, one opposition at a time.

“The reality that we play each other team twice will give an indication and an opportunity to perform, so we are looking to take it one opposition at a time relative to the conditions.”

Scorpions have been

of Jermaine Blackwood and Rovman Powell, with Andre McCarthy who scored heavily during the last Super50 campaign also included.

Veteran left-arm spinner Nikita Miller, Scorpions’ leading wicket-taker last season, has now retired and joined the coaching staff but Coley still believes the franchise will carry a threat in attack.

“Our depth is reflected in our batting. We have the likes of Rovman Powell, who will captain the team, Jermaine Blackwood, Nkrumah Bonner and Andre McCarthy who has done well in the tournament in recent times,” he said.

“We also have decent lower-order batting, so the strength in our team will definitely be the batting. We have capable bowlers to form a solid bowling attack, even though it is young, but we believe we have enough skill in that department to be competitive.”

Group B of the Super50 will be staged in Trinidad and Tobago and comprise last year’s losing finalists, Guyana Jaguars, Windward Islands Volcanoes, West Indies Emerging Players, United States and hosts Red Force.

The tournament runs from November 6 until December 1.

Bermudan Deunte Darrell

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (CMC) – Bermudan Deunte Darrell missed Bermuda’s ICC T20 World Cup Qualifier match against Scotland yesterday after he was handed one suspension point for breaching Level 2 of the ICC Code of Conduct, officials announced.

The 27-year-old batsman was found to have breached Article 2.21 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which relates to “conduct that brings the game into disrepute”, following his reckless behaviour during the Group A match against Namibia on Wednesday.

Bermuda, yet to earn a point after four successive defeats, lost the game by six wickets.

In addition to the suspension point, three demerit points have been added to Darrell’s record.

The incident happened in the eighth over of Bermuda’s innings as Darrell left the field after being adjudged lbw. He threw one of his batting gloves in the direction of the opposing team, hurled his bat at the advertising board and then threw his second glove in the direction of his own team in a very aggressive and intimidating manner.

Bermuda, on the verge of elimination, needed to beat Scotland and leaders the Netherlands, and hope other results go their way if they are to remain in the running for one of six places for qualifiers at next year’s T20 World Cup in Australia.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 25, 2019

Fourth EBFA/Ralph Green U-11 League semifinals on tomorrow

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Bermuda eliminated but go down fighting against Scotland

EBFA Ralph Green action will be contested at the GFF National Training Centre ground.

THE two places in the final of the 4th edition of the East Bank Football Association (EBFA) Under-11 League, sponsored by USA-based Guyanese Ralph Green will be filled following tomorrow’s semifinals at the Guyana Football Federation (GFF), National Training Centre, Providence, EBD. The first semifinal will see the unbeaten Vurlon Mills Academy, who topped Group ‘A’ of the playoff stage, face the second-placed team from Group ‘B’, Kuru Kururu Warriors, from 09:30hrs.

Mills Academy accumulated the most points (13), made up of four wins and one draw, and are the only team not to concede a goal so far in the tournament, which has seen a total of 28 matches and two walkovers.

While Mills Academy will start as favourites to advance to the championship match, the young Kuru Kururu Warriors from the Linden/Soesdyke Highway will fancy their chances of also advancing by defeating their opponents.

They have racked up three wins, one draw and a loss in securing 10 points and have all to play for

tomorrow. The second semifinal from 10:00hrs will feature defending champions Timehri Panthers, who ended second in Group ‘A’, and Group ‘B’ winners Riddim Squad.

Like Mills Academy, Riddim Squad have also played undefeated to date, winning three matches and drawing two for their 11 points. Panthers’ lone defeat came at the hands of Vurlon Mills Academy, in their first match of the competition and ever since have clawed their way back into contention.

Both these teams have a +4 goal difference, Timehri scoring eight and letting in four while Riddim Squad have scored six times and conceded twice. Whatever happens tomorrow, only two teams would be advancing to the final with the respective losers battling in the third/fourth place match on Saturday November 2, next.

Prizes will go to the top two teams in the form of replica trophies while medals will be presented to the third and fourth place teams. There would also be six individual awards (plaques) being presented to players and the Best Coach.

FIFA Club World Cup

China to host first edition of expanded tournament in 2021 CHINA will host the first edition of the expanded FIFA Club World Cup in 2021, with FIFA president Gianni Infantino describing it as “the first real and true (Club) World Cup”.

The competition, which currently features seven teams, will be expanded to 24 teams from June 2021.

Top European clubs have previously said they will boycott the tournament.

“The new (tournament) will be a competition anyone who loves football is looking forward to,” Infantino said.

Qatar will stage the final two editions of the seven-team tournament. The 2019 competition begins on December 11, with Liverpool entering at the semi-final stage a week later.

In March, the European Club Association (ECA) expressed concern about expanding the tournament.

ECA board members, including Manchester United’s executive vice-chairman Ed

Woodward, signed a letter saying they were “firmly against any potential approval of a revised CWC”, adding that no ECA clubs would take part.

year over proposals to allow extradition to mainland China.

Human rights group Amnesty International said China had an “atrocious

council meeting in Shanghai, Infantino said the decision to hold the tournament in China was “historic” and would further develop the club game in

Real Madrid won the 2018 edition of the FIFA Club World Cup.

FIFA has previously been criticised for staging events in countries with poor human rights records.

There have been mass protests in Hong Kong this

human rights record” and FIFA must “use its considerable influence to push for human rights improvements”.

Speaking at a FIFA

Asia.

“It is the first real and true World Cup where the best clubs will compete,” the Swiss-Italian said. (BBC Sport)

English County star Delray Rawlins goes on the attack during his top score of 46 yesterday.

(Photo courtesy ICC Media)

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (CMC) – Bermuda produced their highest total of the tournament, but became the first team to bow out of the ICC T20 World Cup Qualifier after losing by 46 runs to Scotland here yesterday.

Sussex all-rounder Delray Rawlins kept Bermuda in the hunt after Scotland posted 204 for four – the highest total of the tournament – by smashing three sixes and four fours in his exhilarating 21-ball 46 before being caught on the mid-wicket boundary sweeping a low full toss.

Kamau Leverock, Bermuda’s best bowler earlier with two for 39, took Bermuda past their previous tournament-best 149 for seven against Singapore by hitting three sixes and three fours in an unbeaten 43 from 24 balls at number seven.

But there was little support from any of the other batsmen.

Bermuda, who won the toss and elected to field at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, had Scotland 55 for two in the middle of the eighth over, but Calum MacLeod, who was dropped twice, led the charge in the second half by smashing 74 from 37 balls with nine fours and two sixes before he fell to the final ball.

Earlier, opener George Munsey hit 51 from 41 balls with three sixes and three fours, adding 76 for the third wicket with MacLeod, who then took the game away from Bermuda by adding 73 for the fourth wicket with Richie Berrington (34 not out).

Bermuda’s final game will be again the Netherlands, second after losing to new Group A leaders Papua New Guinea, on Saturday.

Bermuda captain Rodney Trott said Bermuda had enjoyed the tournament, despite losing all five games so far, and promised to give the Dutch a run for their money.

“We’re going to give it our all,” said Trott, who replaced Dion Stovell as captain halfway through the tournament.

Third-placed Scotland have had issues of their own having lost two from four, going into the televised game and had off-spinner Tom Sole suspended from bowling by the ICC because of an illegal action just hours before the game.

Oman top Group B as the 13 teams still in the hunt battle for six places as qualifiers for next year’s T20 World Cup in Australia.

Sinclairs, Sukwah steer Lower Corentyne to 2019 Jaguars 50 Overs title

MVP Junior Sinclair is all smiles as he receives his prize for a good all-round performance.

The victorious Lower Corentyne team after being crowned champions AN MVP performance from Junior Sinclair, led Lower Corentyne to a commanding 201run win over Upper Corentyne, dethroning Essequibo, as they were crowned champions yesterday at the Young Warriors ground.

Lower Corentyne piled up 366 for 9 thanks to the powerhouse batting order led by Adrian Sukwah, who scored a brilliant 98 before wick-

etkeeper Jason Sinclair stroked 56 with the younger Junior Sinclair scoring a classy 57.

The run fest was too much for Upper Corentyne who could reach only 135-7, after playing with a shortened quota of players.

The Veerasammy Permaul-led team were fearless throughout the tournament, handing defending champions Essequibo their first loss in round 5 before gaining incredible momentum

which played a key role in their win.

Upper Corentyne opener Alex Algoo continued his fine form hitting a top score of 56 but he found little support as Sinclair returned to bag 4-39, putting a halt to the inevitable chase.

Jason Sinclair was given the award for most dismissals in the tournament, ending with 20 dismissals to help his team secure another title within the ranks. (Clifton Ross)

Inaugural Matarkai Female East Bank register bonus District Games kicks off win after Rutherford’s tonight with double-header ruthless 154 Page 31

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National Heritage Games semi-finalists, Sebai Invincible Talons FC, will look to continue their dominance

Kemol Savory sweeps the awards ceremony this season, claiming the MVP and Most Runs Awards.

Sherfane Rutherford receives his Man-of-the-match award from Cricket Guyana Inc. (CGI) executive Anand Sanasie.

Fourth EBFA/Ralph Green U-11 League semifinals on tomorrow 35

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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2019