K
AIETEUR NEWS
Guyana’s largest selling daily & New York’s most popular weekly
Tied to her bed and strangled four years ago… Tuesday Edition
Police crack another cold case
April 02, 2019 - Vol. 12 No. 15
Online: www.kaieteurnews.com Price $80
…as two confess to killing elderly Albouystown businesswoman
Online readership yesterday 109,675
Manganese company ordered to halt exploration more Chinese workers brought out two test positive for Leptospirosis Dead: Oneil Deyounge and Sheshyka Ettienne
AG's Chambers lack expertise to fine tune oil laws - Hughes Guyana still owes Kuwait US$27M despite US$50M write-off on a US$10M loan
Hefty fines for oil spills will keep companies in check - Dr. Mangal
Couple perishes in bike-jeep collision Body in car trunk… Business Minister Bulletin issued for Dominic Gaskin wife of fuel dealer resigns as MP - sources murdered in 2009
WANTED: Milaimi Alli
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Kaieteur News
Tuesday April 02, 2019
DEAD: Sheshyka Ettienne
Couple perishes in bike-jeep collision
A
horrific accident involving a jeep and a motorcycle on the Amelia's Ward Hilltop just after eight o'clock last night, has claimed the lives of a young Linden couple. Dead is Sheshyka Ettienne, a registered Nurse attached to the Linden Hospital Complex and her fiancĂŠ Oneil Deyounge, a driver attached to the Bauxite Pensioners Association. Deyounge had reportedly just picked up Ettienne from work and was taking her home in Amelia's Ward, when a speeding white Jeep Sport
Wrangler slammed into them, in the vicinity of the Amelia's Ward bus shed. The horrendous scene proved to be too much for relatives and friends who wailed uncontrollably. One friend exclaimed, "this life is a funny thing, the two of them just pass me down the road, now dey dead!" Sheshyka's death is a double blow for the Ettienne family who only last Saturday buried her Grandfather. The driver of the Jeep is in police custody.
DEAD: Oneil Deyounge
Kaieteur News
Tuesday April 02, 2019
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Hefty fines for oil spills will keep companies in check - Dr. Mangal By Kiana Wilburg
F
rom all indications, Guyana remains w o e f u l l y unprepared for addressing an oil spill. For example, the National Oil Spill Contingency Plan remains in draft stage for more than a year. In spite of this state of affairs, local authorities still have a chance to keep oil companies in check by having hefty fines for such disasters imposed via laws/regulations as soon as possible. This was recently noted by Oil and Gas Consultant, Dr. Jan Mangal during an exclusive interview with Kaieteur News. The former Presidential Advisor said, 'Right now, Guyana is far from being prepared for spills, judging by the focus on amateurish public relations exercises in local water parks. But Guyana cannot
become prepared overnight. There will always be a risk of oil spills with oil production. This risk can be reduced but it cannot be eliminated.” The Consultant continued, “Reducing the probability of spills and having the assets to clean-up large spills is expensive. Companies will only apply the needed resources if they know their own profitability and viability are at stake. Guyana can incentivize the oil companies to perform by imposing laws with significant financial consequences for oil spills and other damage. Hence Guyana should focus on imposing such laws.” Dr. Mangal added, “But sadly, the government will probably get ExxonMobil itself to help draft these laws, judging by how the government hired E x x o n M o b i l a ff i l i a t e d persons to draft the local content guidelines (instead of using independent
consultants like Mr Anthony Paul). I worry that the government and large swaths of Guyana have been influenced and captured by ExxonMobil.” Further to this, the Oil and Gas Consultant said that one also has to acknowledge the fact that the nation's track record with the environment is quite atrocious. In this regard, Dr. Mangal commented, “Look at gold mining, especially river dredging. Most of our major rivers have been severely damaged. And this damage is close to us, it is visible, has been happening for decades, and our country is the 'land of many waters', but still we accept this damage.” The consultant commented that the nation probably has laws to protect the rivers but these are not being enforced due to corruption, and the fact that citizens have not bothered to hold their public servants to account.
Oil and Gas Consultant, Dr. Jan Mangal
NATIONAL OIL SPILL PLAN Since 2016, calls have been unending for Guyana to have in place, a National Oil Spill Contingency Plan. To date, this document is still to be completed. In the meantime, offshore drilling activities are poised to accelerate this year. According to a report that was produced by Financial Analyst, Jenny Xenos, of
Body in car trunk…
Bulletin issued for wife of fuel dealer murdered in 2009
P
olice yesterday took their first step to have the wife of slain fuel dealer Ramzan Alli returned from overseas to be questioned for his murder. In a bulletin issued yesterday, police stated that Milaimi Alli is wanted for questioning in relation to murder committed on Ramzan Alli between 11th and 12 t h July 2009 at Coldingen, East Coast Demerara. It gaveMrs. Alli's age as 50, and her last known address as Lot 29 Good Hope, East Coast Demerara; G o r d o n S t r e e t K i t t y, Georgetown and 107-15 110 Street, Richmond Hill, Queens, New York, USA. Anyone with information that may lead to the arrest of Milaimi Alli is asked to contact the police on telephone numbers 2262407, 225-2694, 229-2019, 229-2289, 227-1149, 911 or the nearest police station. All information will be treated with the strictest confidence. Crime Chief Lyndon Alves had confirmed that Mrs. Alli is in the US. He had said that police would first
WANTED: Milaimi Alli
MURDERED: Ramzan Alli
REMANDED: Sadeek Mohamed Mitchell
issue the bulletin before seeking to have her extradited. Police had detained Mrs. Alli and others back in 2009 after her spouse was slain, but no one was charged. Investigators appeared to have solved the case last week, after arresting and charging taxi driver Sadeek Mohamed Mitchell for Alli's murder. The prosecution had told the court that Mitchell, of Foulis, East Coast Demerara who was arrested last
Tuesday, had provided police with a caution statement in which he admitted to killing Alli. He is said to have acted on a woman's behest. Ramzan Alli, 45, was discovered dead around 08.00 hrs on Sunday, July 12, 2009, in the trunk of his rental car, which was on the Coldingen Railway Embankment Road. While his limbs were not bound, a plastic bag was duct-taped over his head. A post mortem revealed that he died from suffocation
compounded by blunt trauma to the head. Police sources said that Alli was slain at his Good Hope, East Coast Demerara home. The body was then placed in a rented car and transported to the Coldingen Railway Embankment Road. The killers were reportedly directed to murder their victim on the same day that a religious service was planned for his brother, Akbar Alli, who was gunned down on July 24, 2008.
Canaccord Genuity Corporation which is based in Canada, offshore Guyana is expected to see about 14 wells being drilled. In an Industry Update report, the author stated that up to nine wells will be drilled on the prolific Stabroek Block, two of which are currently drilling. The Stabroek Block is operated by ExxonMobil's subsidiary, Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL), Hess and CNOOC. Furthermore, two wells are slated for drilling on the Orinduik Block which is under the licensed control of Tullow Oil, Total and Eco Atlantic. One well is planned for the Kanuku Block by Repsol and Tullow Oil. The Corentyne Block also has one well planned for drilling by its operators CGX and Frontera Energy. The Canje
Block will also see one well being drilled by ExxonMobil, Total JHI and Mid-Atlantic. IDB URGES The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) is of the firm view that Guyana should have a national oil spill contingency plan in place before oil production commences in 2020. In its special report, the IDB noted that Guyana's CARICOM sister, Trinidad and Tobago, which has been in the petroleum industry for more than a century, has taken the wise move to safeguard its sector with a national oil spill plan. That plan was updated and passed by TT's Cabinet in January 2013. The IDB said that with TT's new plan, “deep-water drilling operators will now be required to demonstrate accessibility to a containment lap system to arrest a subsea blow out event…” The IDB believes that Guyana can take a page from Trinidad's book and get its own plan in place soon. Several months have passed since the first round of consultations was held on the draft national oil spill plan. The document was submitted to Cabinet but it is still to be made public and finalized. Leading the work on the oil spill plan is the Civil Defence Commission.
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Tuesday April 02, 2019
Kaieteur News
Kaieteur News Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana. Publisher: GLENN LALL Editor: Adam Harris Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210
EDITORIAL
Social media curbs War has been declared. It is gathering force and coming from multiple fronts, some surprising, but still welcomed. It is war for Facebook (internet) curbs. If ever there was an idea and move whose time is ripe, this is one. It is one powered by tragedy and ballooning incivility, malice, and ugliness. There is relevance and implications for Guyana. First, from New Zealand, the word has surfaced of targeting Facebook and Instagram. This will be through tougher guidelines on hate speech; speech that is linked to white nationalism will be banned. This is the kind of hard, unambiguous language demanded to rein in what has become a runaway problem, where people are bent on inciting hatreds, intensifying divisions, and doing so through the extreme of wanton violence. Second, and also from online global news agency afp.com “Australia, Ireland, and Germany were all wrestling with the issue of dealing with extremist material on social media…” In fact, down under matters have been taken a step further in that “Australia has warned social media executives that they could be jailed for failing to quickly take down extremist material.” These are steps in the right direction, and the people in charge have to be saddled with some accountability, through holding their feet to the fire. The objectives are simple and should appeal to the civil and right thinking: to limit harmful content “while preserving a free, open, and secure internet.” It is sure to provoke a firestorm about freedom of speech and police state and the rest. No matter, there has to be determination and perseverance to bring order and decency to what does bring out the worst in the many comforted by anonymity. Third, and upping the ante, on March 28, Reuters reported in an online headline that, “Facebook charged with racial discrimination in targeted housing ads.” The story expanded to say that, “The US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) charged Facebook Inc. on Thursday with violating the Fair Housing Act, alleging that the company’s targeted advertising discriminated on the basis of race and color.” Again, this is a step in the right direction that highlights a longstanding problem in the United States. Fourth, and in one that should be of particular interest to Guyana, especially at this tense hour, there was this online BBC article of March 28, “Chad - where social media has been cut for a year.” The story focuses on intensifying pressure for the government to reverse this ban. According to the report, “Chadians were using social media to organize anti-government protests.” In the process, it was seen as a real threat to government, hence the restrictions to “Facebook, Twitter, and WhatsApp.” It could be argued that the Chadian government overreached and in a very heavy-handed manner. There may be need for revisiting what seems to be a blanket ban. The content has to be better policed, and with people held responsible through known and enforced sanctions, including ultimately total curbs. The latter has to be the last resort. Fifth, and articulating similar themes, Facebook’s own Mark Zuckerberg has gone public in recognizing the problem and pleading for help. In a story dated March 30, the BBC reports that, “Mark Zuckerberg asks governments to help control internet content.” He is asking a lot, “stronger laws around the world to protect the integrity of elections” and laws that not only apply to candidates and elections, but also to other “divisive political issues.” In Guyana, that means RACE, INSTIGATIONS, DIVISIONS. Guyanese: listen. Zuckerberg is asking for common laws, common rules, industry-wide standards. It is high time for what is a wonderful thing to be managed better. In Guyana, reports are of violence involving an educational facility’s head, of unauthorized nude photos, and of occasional racist content. Spells trouble at any time, never more so than now. There must be better control. Sensible, reasonable, and fair and balanced controls. This cannot wait.
The 34-seat problem DEAR EDITOR, Numerous contributors have submitted letters in these columns stating that the constitution of Guyana at Article 106, does not say that an absolute majority is needed to pass a no confidence vote, so the matter ends there, unless it was the intention of the framers of our constitution that it would be 34 votes necessary to legitimize a no confidence vote. The main framer of our constitution Dr. Shabadeen is still alive and I believe living in Jamaica, so why did no one ask his opinion yet? I for one would be very happy to hear it. But to take this matter to the next level, which was the
way my friend Sir Fenton Ramsahoye always looked at these issues, here we have a situation where a simple majority of 33 seats allow the party with that number of seats to form the government and rule the country, in addition all decisions of the house including the budget are made along this same 33 vote of 65 seats being a majority, if we mutilate that situation by pleading now that 34 votes are actually necessary, all subsequent decisions of the house will now have to face this application of an absolute vote whether it is so written or not in the constitution, unless it is a law which specifically states that a simple majority will allow the
passage. In the extant case, why does it need 34 votes of 65 to remove government from power? If this is passed, will it not open the path for the claim that no government can be formed unless it occupies 34 seats in the National Assembly i.e. an absolute majority? And I again want to point out the Jacob Rambarran case, which is still languishing sub-judice in the Appeal Court, where Fenton Ramsahoye on behalf of Rambarran has pleaded that even though GECOM must declare the leader of the list with the most votes; the President, it does not give him the right to form a government. All the declaration of
GECOM means is that in any alliance with a smaller party to gain control of the parliament and form the government, of all positions which the two parties will share the only post which will not be negotiable will be President, since only GECOM can make that declaration. The problems this makes in time are enormous, is it not? For example, will anyone be able to form the government and rule if they do not have a majority of 34 seats in our National Assembly instead of the current 33? Will this very government sitting in power now, not be illegal since it will now require an absolute majority of 34 seats to control the house and pass laws? Tony Vieira
Our leaders must act in the interest of Guyana DEAR EDITOR, APNU+AFC demands all must respect the courts. Their demand follows the rulings of the appellate court that the No-Confidence Motion (NCM) is not valid because 33 is not more than 32, in accordance with the APNU+AFC-inspired revision of mathematical rules, now shockingly endorsed by two judges of the Guyana Court of Appeals. Yet, it is this same APNU+AFC which refused to honour the rulings of the Chief Justice on December 31st when she ruled that the NCM was valid. Moreover, simultaneously as APNU+AFC is demanding honouring the split-decision ruling of the Appellate Court on the NCM, in itself is dishonouring the rulings of both the Chief Justice and the Appellate Court that dual citizens must not continue sitting in the Parliament. Since December 21st 2018, therefore, APNU+AFC has been breaching the laws of Guyana, pronouncing that everyone, excepting APNU+AFC, must honour the courts and parliament. This is utter hypocrisy and lawlessness. Only bullies and dictators behave this way. These are times, which demand our political leaders ascend to the greater good, acting in the interest of Guyana and the Guyanese people. There is a grave political crisis hammering the economic and social welfare of every Guyanese citizen. Yet, APNU+AFC behaves as if they have a divine right to power, disavowing every tenets of our constitution and disregarding the judiciary. Their arrogance, hypocrisy and bully tactics daily bring greater stress and stagnation in our country. Freedom and democracy are under siege once again in our country.
David Granger and APNU+AFC continue to bully and subvert the most important institutions, which guarantee Guyana’s freedom and democracy and ensure justice. The Constitution is under constant attack and subversion. Parliament, APNU+AFC’s personal playground, functions at their whims and fancies, and even mathematics is not safe. GECOM, totally compromised, is now a creature of APNU+AFC. The Judiciary is under assault and, for many of us; it has succumbed to APNU+AFC’s authority, disavowing the law. The recent decisions of the Appeals Court relating to the NCM, clearly with no legal basis and evidently a political decision, must shock and frighten everyone. On January 31, 2019, the Chief Justice in the High Court made three decisions. First, that the NCM of December 21, 2018 in Guyana’s Parliament was valid, that based on this decision, the Government must set a date for elections
and GECOM must conduct those elections. Second, that MP Charandass cast a valid vote and that all 65 votes were valid. Third, that dual citizens in Guyana’s Parliament henceforth must resign their seats and that no one is eligible to sit in Parliament while a dual citizen. APNU+AFC was bound by these decisions to comply with immediate effect. APNU+AFC refused to respect these decisions, disregarding the rulings of the Chief Justice, based on the spurious argument they had lodged an appeal. Like bullies and dictators, they created their own laws. After the Court of Appeals handed down its split, majority 2 to 1 decision, APNU+AFC wasted no time that same evening to demand everyone respects one of the court’s decisions. In the instance of the Court of Appeals decision, while demanding everyone respects the court decisions, APNU+AFC itself has chosen to respect only that part that was in its favour -
the part that says the NCM is not valid because 33 is not more than 32. APNU+AFC vigorously embraced the ruling on this one matter because they envisaged it as giving them a lifeline to stay in Government. It immediately announced it will resume Parliament and Cabinet meetings. Cabinet is already meeting, as if the NCM did not happen. Parliament is set to meet on April 11, with APNU+AFC boasting all its dual citizen MPs will be there. While demanding everyone respects the court’s decision on the NCM, APNU+AFC ignores and disrespects the court’s decision on the other two matters - that dual citizens cannot sit anymore in Parliament and that all votes cast in Parliament on December 21 were valid. Basically, the Courts of Appeal unequivocally declared that in any sitting of Parliament as of immediate effect no MP can be dual citizens. The High Court and the Court of Appeals, in (Continued on page 6)
Go-Invest should not only be plying for investment DEAR EDITOR, Grow our own food to feed the nation is not a new concept. If I remember correctly, Forbes Burnham tried to make Guyanese understand that we need to source more goods and services locally rather than to rely on overseas goods and services. There is nothing wrong in producing rice flour. What was wrong is in the implementation and marketing of the product. The PNC tried to force Guyanese to adopt rice flour by banning wheaten bread as opposed to
letting the demand for rice flour pick up naturally. Just like there is nothing wrong in President David Granger’s assertion that we need to grow plantain and make plantain chips. Where we differ is in the implementation as I believe that people need to be shown how to make plantain chips on a small commercially viable scale. There are other cottage industries that can take hold in Guyana. Examples are jams, fruit juices, fruit salads, concrete brick making, honey,
etc. But, people need to be SHOWN how to do these things which is where GoInvest comes in. Go-Invest should not only be plying for investment. It should become a “technology demonstrator” in that it needs to show people how to do things nationally. It can do the necessary research work then show people how to – say- make jams or concrete bricks (NATIONALLY). Mr. President, we are on the same page where cottage (Continued on page 5)
Tuesday April 02, 2019
On the frontline DEAR EDITOR, Years ago, there was a popular column in the Newspapers titled – ‘Things that bother me.’ The ambiguity gleamed some statements on the question of ‘Dual Citizenship,’ bothers me. It is unnecessary for me to state that I may be the only Founder Member of the People’s National Congress alive today. As a teenager, I joined the anti-colonial struggle led by our two political giants, Dr. Cheddi B. Jagan and Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham and experienced the trials, tribulations and triumphs that won us Independence in 1966. There is no one alive I challenge who has made a greater personal sacrifice than myself for the ascendancy and viability of the People’s National Congress and I remain a solid and unshakable supporter of President David Granger and the Coalition Government. After Independence, through Republican status, we were led by men and women who were patriots committed to the welfare of Guyana and to no other State always ensuring even as we collaborated with countries around the world that we never lost sight that Guyana’s interest should always be paramount. In this context, our Leaders must know that our commitment to Guyana must neither be compromised nor put in doubt. The question of Members of Parliament and in particular Ministers holding dual citizenship became a public issue recently and the Chief Justice determined that and having allegiance to a State other than Guyana is a violation of the Constitution
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Kaieteur News
and I add inconsistent with the oath of office. For me, the decision of the Court on this matter is almost otiose. For me, the greater concern is the fundamental question of loyalty and commitment to a cause and country. The following three declarations tell through yesterday, hold true today and forever: a) If you chase two rabbits, you will get neither. b) You cannot serve two masters at the same time and c) If you try to ride two asses at the same time, you will end up on your own ass. There can be no vacillation, no procrastination and no sand dancing on this issue. I have spoken with friends at home and abroad and in an attempt to attenuate this procrastination they have referred to the evil deeds and injustice of the other political group should they get into office. I speak as one who has felt the full blunt of the cruelty of humanity and injustice that the other side is capable of. My wife lost a job, some of my children were denied
opportunities they were qualified for but be that as it may, being a Member of Parliament and in particular a Minister of the Government is accepted that you must face the vagaries, fall outs and fortunes of high office. Today, perception is important as we saddle up for the Election derby. We must be confident that we will overcome all obstacles and that Guyana beckons great things ahead. Let me add this caveat, many of us in Guyana have friends and family who are citizens in the Caribbean, South America, North America and Europe. Those of us who stayed at home did so on the assumption that by our work, family and friends they returned to Guyana – the Eldorado to be realized. I end by reminding us of our world famous Guyanese artiste Eddy Grant’s song – ‘Living on the Frontline.’ Let our Ministers and Members of Parliament, be brave, be confident and do nothing to let the side down. Why wait for 11th April? You are on the Frontline. Hamilton Green
Go-Invest should not only... From page 4 industries are concerned just at different paragraphs. Your belief is that just by saying, “grow plantain and make plantain chips” the unemployed will turn up in their droves to become entrepreneurs. My understanding is that
you need to have a business unit to “show” people how to make plantain chips on a small commercially viable scale as the unemployed tend to not have the required skills nor the finances to grow plantain and make plantain chips. Yours faithfully Sean Ori
Our democratic stability rests on commitment to and respect for the rule of law DEAR EDITOR, The rule of law, especially in new and fragile democracies, Guyana being a case on point should not be underestimated or taken for granted. It is law through rules and institutions that creates democracy and puts limit on a democratic majority government. Thus, law cannot be understood in isolation from the rest of human culture, and this close relationship is especially significant in the ways that societies construct their fundamental legal order. When we speak of democracy, we are referring to a set of rules and institutions that afford the people an opportunity to involve in their government through elections, referenda, legislatures, etc. These rules and institutions are themselves legal creations. However, unless they are formalized in law, they are likely to be unstable, obscure, and inaccessible to the populace. The written constitution establishes these rules and institutions in a way that makes them difficult to change, and in time, these rules and institutions come to be regarded as integral to the
experience of the country. In some cases, these rules and institutions are the product of statutes created by legislatures or regulations issued by executive or administrative agencies. Either way, the rules and institutions are constitutional in that they fundamentally establish the democratic order. In turn, this fundamental legal ordering creates democracy through shaping the structure and operation of government. However, for a democracy to be successful, it must not merely revolve around and focus on contests for power and control through elections. Instead, a stable democracy must rest on a culture rooted in the rule of law, which provides norms that limit the power of those who win elections. It should always be kept in mind that while winning allows those in power certain legally defined prerogatives, losing should not subject the minority faction(s) to the untrammeled will of those in government. Therefore, while the constitution creates some of these limits, even these depend on the cultural disposition of the citizens to
follow the rules. In closing, examples abound that democracy works best when the citizens broadly embrace a network of norms regarding the limits of political power. In other words, for democracy to work, citizens must generally support the constitutional regime even when they lose particular political battles. However, this can only happen when the populace, and more so, those entrusted with governing the sociopolitical and economic affairs, understand and respect the fundamental legal ordering that limits democracy through shared culture and the rule of law. To expect adherence from one group/faction when the other, in this case the government, flouts the rule of law is farfetched in our emerging democracy. Those who wield power must set the example. In essence, the most fundamental commitment of those in power should be to the law that both creates and limits democracies. Sadly, however, such commitment to and respect for the rule of law is lacking in Guyana. Yours faithfully, Ronald Singh
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Dis Boy Seh to Dem Boys DEAR EDITOR, Dem Boys in de Waterfall Paper seh a lot, but they need to member dat every rope gat two ends and they never called to get Guyana Goldfields end of the rope, when deh seh, “dem shareholders and Guyana Goldfields cussin one anodda.” Dem aught to be careful wid who dey get their information from because nah all skin teeth is laugh. Dis boy is a serious boy and woulda not put two feet into Guyana Goldfields river without knowing how deep de river is. We are a serious company tryin to do de rite tings, de rite way. We are declaring all gold and de government of Guyana is at de mine as de gold is pored. We are not sheddin dem Guyanese workers. We have 729 Guyanese employees and more dan 300 contractas at de mine site and hope to hire more. I invite dem boys to come and visit de mine in person because if yuh eye nah see, yuh mouth nah must talk. I promise you it is not de “Government of Guyana gettin play like a yo-yo.” I think dem boys will find dat nah every crab hole get crab and dem boys bein fed rotten crab by someone. We are a partna in Guyana’s development and have nuttin to hide from no one including de Waterfalls paper. We take members of de press and de government to the mine regularly. For my friends in the diplomatic community and other foreigners, below is a translation of the above paragraph in English, plus one other paragraph with additional information you should read. To the Guyanese, I apologize for my less than perfect Creolese and
Tuesday April 02, 2019
Kaieteur News
encourage them to listen to both sides of the story. This Boy, Says to Dem Boys Dem Boys at Kaieteur News say a lot, but they need to remember that there are two sides to every story and they never contacted Guyana Goldfields to get our side of the story when they printed, “The Shareholders of Guyana Goldfields Are Cussing One Another.” They should be careful with who they get their information from because not everyone who smiles at you is your friend. I am a serious person and I would not join Guyana Goldfields without knowing the full situation. We are a serious company trying to do the right things, the right way. We are declaring all gold and the Government of Guyana is on site as the gold is poured. We are not letting employees go. We have 729 Guyanese employees and more than 300 contractors at the mine site, and we hope to hire more. I invite Dem Boys to come and visit the mine in person because you should not talk bad without first getting all the facts. I promise you, it is not the Government of Guyana that “is getting played like a yoyo.” I think that Dem Boys will find that not everything turns out to be as you expect it to be, and in this case Dem Boys are being fed misinformation. We are a partner in Guyana’s development, and we have nothing to hide from anyone, including Kaieteur News. In fact, we regularly take members of the press and the government to visit the mine and its operations. The Kaieteur News also ran an article on Sunday that implies that Guyana Goldfields is somehow taking advantage of the
Government and people of Guyana with tax concessions as part of our investment agreement. We are not taking advantage of anyone. We are a publicly traded company in Canada in good standing with all laws and regulations. Yes, we are a for-profit business and the business of a business is to make money for its owners, which in our case are our shareholders. If you look at our publicly released financial information, you will see that for 2018, the Government of Guyana received US $14,983,000 in royalties and the company’s net earnings were US $5,367,000 after expenses. Government getting almost three times more than the company’s profit without investing a cent. Not a bad deal anywhere. Mining in remote areas is not cheap and the cost of transporting, feeding, and caring for 750 employees and more than 300 contractors, almost 1,000 who are Guyanese, is not cheap and all of this money is spent with more than 255 local suppliers, contractors, and companies. We pay payroll taxes on all these employees. We pay VAT on our local purchases. We have been here for 22 years and made no money for the first 19 years, yet we invested well over US $200 million of our money to get the mine operational. In fact, in total we have invested more than US $400 million. There is no company in Guyana that could have done this in this remote part of the Essequibo, which is threatened by a foreign power to the west. Concessions like VAT exemptions for Foreign Direct Investment in remote areas are very normal throughout the world; and frankly without such incentives, the jobs and contributions to the economy these investments bring likely would never materialize. Again, we are a serious publicly traded company that is under attack by a group of dissident shareholders. We look forward to the vote on May 22. Nuff Nuff Seh. Perry Holloway, Sr. Vice-President, Guyana Goldfields
Causes and Effects DEAR EDITOR, Everyone in this beautiful country of ours will agree that for the past three months, almost the entire population is gripped with confusion, stress, and uncertainty. Now it is obvious that some things went wrong, and still remain wrong. In school, we learned that where there is an effect, certainly there is a cause. Now the fact remains that if the cause is not identified, and removed, then the effect will always remain, or keep coming back, like a recurring decimal. With all the intelligent people, Layers, Judges, Parliamentarians, etc. we all remain curiously awaiting a verdict to be handed down by a court (CCJ) in a foreign country, about forty times smaller than Guyana downright shame, and disgrace. In order for us to identify the cause, we need to look carefully, at the facts and figures:On the 21st December, 2018, a No Confidence Motion (NCM) was passed against the APNU/AFC Government, by the National Assembly, and clearly announced by the Speaker of the House. The Chief Justice, in the Supreme Court, confirmed, and ruled that the motion was valid. Two out of three Judges, rule in the Court of Appeal, that the NCM was not valid. In my opinion, these two judges are clearly saying that the National Assembly, the Speaker of the House, the Constitution, and the Chief Justice in the Supreme Courts, are all No Good, and not fit for purpose, because they over ruled everything that was already done legally. This is certainly one of the major causes of the whole confusion because these two Judges tried to fabricate a new type of mathematical formula, and invoke the new word “absolute”. A few days ago, I heard someone saying that, “he thinks that when the Guyana Constitution, was designed, and written, there was no absolute Vodka in Guyana”, so the word absolute was never mentioned in the constitution. Everywhere in Guyana,
and around the world, whenever there is a competition, or games or anything else, if there are two parties or group contesting, when everyone party gets one, or more than one, more than the other, then that party becomes the winner, and the other party loses. Only in our Court of Appeal, the two Judges ruled that 34 is needed as a majority of 65 that means, one party has to get three more than the other party to win. All our school children know better than that. Shame! Judges in Guyana are mandated to use the constitution, and the written Laws of Guyana, as their tools, when making a decision, or ruling. They have no right adding words to the constitution, or trying to amend it. This must always be done by the competent Authority, in the House of Assembly. Now the other basic cause of the problem: - The President and Government Ministers, clearly refuse to accept the rulings of the National Assembly, the Speaker of the House, the Constitution, and the Chief Justice’s ruling, in the Supreme Court. In 2014, when we had a similar situation, with the PPP in power, there was no such confusion, or problems, everything was done orderly, until 2015, when APNU/AFC assumed power with thirty three seats as a majority. The two Judges in the Court of Appeal did not tell them, that they had to get thirty four seats as a majority. I also think, it is very stupid for the Government to
even mention, or say anything about Charrandass’ dual citizenship, because Charrandass was elected to sit in Parliament by the same Government. Not the PPP, and they used the same Charrandass’ vote for almost four years, to pass whatever they want. On the night of the NCM, if the same Charrandass had voted for the Government, he would have been a good person. Now because he used his good judgment and voted against the Government, he became the illegal Judas. Now where is the Government democracy? The PPP Leader clearly announced that they will not go back to Parliament, with any members, who have dual citizenship, because the constitution ruled against that. A senior minister of the Government clearly announced that, they are going back to parliament, with all their members, including those with dual citizenship, regardless of the constitution or ruling. Now it is very clear, for everyone to see, and know, who is democratic, and who is dictator. Last year, Minister Volda Lawrence clearly announced that she will employ, only people, who are PNC members. Is this fair? Where is the Human Rights with their big mouths? Now everyone can use their better judgment, and see: - The Basic causes of all the Confusion. Respectfully Eddie Singh Lethem, Region 9
Our leaders must act... From page 4 effect, have resigned all dual citizens and the political parties must replace them immediately. APNU+AFC’s defiantly responded that all its present MPs will sit in Parliament, no matter who says what. Shamefully, APNU+AFC argues that its failure to comply with the Chief Justice ruling was because it had appealed the rulings. Its argument for its continued non-compliance with both the high Court and the Appellate Court on dual citizens is that it has appealed the case to the CCJ. Yet it has ignored the fact that the NCM invalidation by the Court of Appeals in Guyana is under appeal at the CCJ and the case process has already started. It is a reprehensible manifestation of Animal Farm, “we are all equal but some are more equal than others”. This is sheer hypocrisy, but more importantly, it is APNU+AFC at it most extreme manifestation of being a big, bad bully. Dr. Leslie Ramsammy
Kaieteur News
Tuesday April 02, 2019
PAGE 07
Businessman's son Guyana still owes Kuwait shot, robbed of millions US$27M despite US$50M on Regent Street write-off on US$10M loan Selwyn Prescott examines the bike his son was riding.
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ne of the busier sections of Regent Street, Georgetown, was in pandemonium close to noon yesterday, when two bandits on a motorcycle shot and robbed the son of a popular businessman, making off with millions of dollars in cash. Shot twice in the lower left abdomen was 26-yearold Selson Prescott, son of businessman Selwyn Prescott of Pressy Enterprises Photos Studio, located on Regent Street. Relatives were tightlipped about the actual amount the gunmen managed to steal from the injured man, but did disclose that he had gone to the bank to do a monthly customary withdrawal, with the amount being in the millions of dollars. The young man was said to be riding near the intersection of Regent and Wellington Streets, around 13:30hrs, after making a cash withdrawal from a commercial bank in the vicinity, when the incident occurred. Vendors on Regent Street who witnessed the incident were furious and one woman wept while relating what she had seen. The eyewitness said she just froze at what was unfolding before her eyes. “My goodness, I never saw anything like this in my entire life….. They must have been trailing this poor young man all the time…I was looking in the very direction at the said time, and all I see is this motorcycle
speed across the road from the pavement and slam into this other motorbike travelling in the Stabroek direction. Next thing I hear is, blam….gunshot!!!...And the man who get shot fall off he bicycle. Ah don't know where the second man appear from, but they started pulling at a bag the man who fall down had on his shoulders, and cussing up real bad… But he put up a good fight, suh the tall man pull out a gun and fire two shots, and everybody run fuh cover. De man dem shoot scream out in pain and is then dem pull away the bag from he… Dem vagabonds then jump on pon de motorbike and speed up Wellington Street…” Another eyewitness said he had observed one of the men lounging on a parked motorbike parked close to the pavement, but thought maybe he was just liming like many males would do on Regent Street. “I see this man park up on a bike, looking quite normal, but he was there for quite a while. I can remember he was talking on his phone a few times. I suspect he had someone trailing the man that they shoot. But wha worrying me is how dem know the man going to the bank fuh draw money…If yuh ask me, this look like an inside job” The injured man was r u s h e d t o Wo o d l a n d s Hospital where he was admitted immediately. Relatives at the hospital
were very saddened at the development. They reflected that this was the second time in a fiveyear period that they have been robbed in the same manner. Some of the employees at the Pressy Photo Studio expressed their concern about it being an inside job, since they are wondering how the robbers could have received information of a withdrawal to be made at a commercial bank on Regent Street. Relatives said that in the first robbery they had cooperated with police at the Brickdam Police Station and supplied information and video footage of the incident, but nothing had come out of that matter. They said after making repeated inquiries with the police they eventually gave up. Last evening Selwyn Prescott (father of the injured man) informed that his son was still hopitalised and was being prepared for surgery. He said that X-rays revealed that the bullets were further in the stomach than expected, and as a result, required immediate surgery. He said that when he left the hospital at around 17:35 hrs, his son was still conscious and was able to talk to relatives. Vendors who operated within the vicinity of the Guyoil Gas Station on Regent Street were outraged, insisting that there was an urgent need for more police presence and patrols in the busy shopping area.
I
n 1975, Guyana took a loan from the State of Kuwait, through the Kuwait Investment Authority for US$10.3M. At the end of 2017, nonpayments saw that US$10.3M rise to a massive US$77.5M, a significant sum for Guyana. Yesterday, the Ministry of Finance said it has managed to get Kuwait to write off US$50M. According to the Ministry of Finance, a Bilateral Debt Settlement Agreement was signed by Minister Winston Jordan on March 18, 2019, with the State of Kuwait, through the Kuwait Investment A u t h o r i t y, t o c a n c e l US$50,739,255.67 of Guyana's debt to that country. “This debt cancellation will reduce Guyana's
external debt and allow the country to expand its development agenda, as funds saved under this agreement would be allocated to social projects within the context of the National Budget,” according to the Ministry of Finance. The agreement, which came after a tough negotiation process, paves the way for greater cooperation and the strengthening of cordial ties between the two countries, it was stressed. Commenting on the agreement, Minister Jordan said that it is the result of renewed efforts by his Ministry to engage Guyana's non-Paris Club bilateral creditors in negotiating debt relief that is acceptable and sustainable. The remaining amount of
US$26,853,585.23 will be settled through a comb i n a t i o n o f c a s h payments, to be made over nine years, and a debt swap arrangement, which will be worked out in due course. Guyana's debt to Kuwait originated from a Loan Deposit, contracted in 1975, from the Central Bank of Kuwait for Kuwaiti Dinars 3.0 million (US$10.3 million at that time), for balance of payments support to the Bank of Guyana. The debt accumulated massive arrears over the past four decades, at high market interest rates, the ministry said. As at December 31, 2017, the debt to Kuwait had grown to US$77,592,840.90, comprising principal arrears of US$9,940,500 and interest arrears of US$67,652,340.90.
Kaieteur News
PAGE 08
Tuesday April 02, 2019
Manganese company ordered to halt exploration - more Chinese workers brought out - two test positive for Leptospirosis
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ublic Health o ff i c i a l s h a v e ruled out Swine Flu (H1N1), Zika, Chikungunya, Dengue, Influenza A and B, as possible causes of the recent spate of illnesses and death in Matthew's Ridge. “Thus far there has been no evidence of person to person transmission of infection. It is noted that only persons who were directly exposed to one common area became ill,” the Ministry of Public Health said in the statement yesterday. The Ministry said that it has instructed the mining company to halt further exploration until the Ministry of Public Health and a team from the Occupational Health and Safety Department of the Ministry of Social Protection advise further.
Chinese workers being brought out yesterday from Region One
“The Ministry of Public Health along with partners will continue to monitor the situation closely until resolution.”
On Saturday, it was announced that one Chinese worker had died with seven air-dashed to the city from Matthew's Ridge, Region
One, where a manganese mining has restarted. The mining area had been closed for decades, with suspicions that workers contracted something while working in areas that had been closed off. Yesterday, eight more workers were brought out. According to the ministry, as of Sunday, a response team comprising EPA, Surveillance, EH, doctors and nurses, was dispatched to Region One to support the efforts taken in the region to address the illnesses. The ministry said that the fortified health response focused on providing uninterrupted health services to the residents of Matthew's Ridge and on conducting health assessments of all persons working in the mining area. “The decision was taken to transfer all the patients with the acute respiratory illness, rash and fever to our tertiary institution GPHC
where critical care can be provided should the need arise. While the specialists continue to work on the seven patients admitted on Saturday, results have shown that two patients tested positive for Leptospirosis which is known to be spread by direct contact with rat urine or feces. Further tests are being conducted locally and samples will be sent overseas with support from PAHO and CARPHA to get further tests done to rule out other possible infections.” According to the ministry, it is taking all necessary precautions to
ensure staff and members of the community at Matthew's Ridge are kept safe. A few of the patients are being accommodated at the West Demerara Regional Hospital. Last week, there was g o o d n e w s , w i t h 11 3 Guyanese already having been employed with Guyana Manganese Incorporated (GMI), the local company formed by Bosai Minerals to head its operations at Matthew's Ridge. Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman, and Minister of Public Affairs, Dawn (continued on page 18)
Emergency workers waiting at the Ogle Airport.
Kaieteur News
Tuesday April 02, 2019
PAGE 09
Finding the right persons for the job
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he political parties and coalitions which have traditionally administered Guyana have looked for the right persons in the wrong places. They have come into office and have tried to find competent persons from amongst their loyalists. The PNC ruled Guyana for twenty-eight years. During that period, it pursued a deliberate strategy of dominating the administrative space in the country. It wanted its own supporters and loyalists in the critical posts within the public sector. It also began to stack the public service with party supporters, the
only qualification for many being a party card for who they knew in the political directorate. When the PNC jointed with the United Force in 1964, there were already persons sympathetic to the government in senior positions within the public sector. The PNC destroyed the credibility of many of those persons by turning them into political stooges and lackeys. Some of these persons went as far as defending the shameless rigging of the 1968 and 1973 elections. They were so blinded by their loyalty to the PNC that they could not see how the dishonest
positions they took undermined whatever semblance of respect and professionalism they had left. The PNC superseded many professionals with incompetent political hacks whose only qualifications were their political loyalty to the ruling party. Professionals within the public service who were bypassed for promotion or surpassed by political appointees migrated and kept their peace. Even now, they speak about their humiliations in private. They left Guyana because they could not stomach it anymore. The PPP also did the same
Dem boys seh...
Guyana borrow small and got to pay big
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verybody does borrow. In fact, de banks does encourage people to borrow. Some of dem banks does tell people not to use dem own money. “Why use your money when you can use ours?� Dat is a question dem bank does ask people. Dem boys know one thing. When something sound nice, it got teeth. Kuwait lend Guyana US$10 million way back in 1977. Dem was de days when Guyana did promise to raise de public servants pay but didn't have money. It easy to borrow but it hardto pay back. Even to dis day people does come to you to borrow money and promise to pay back in a week. De week does come and gone and dem don't even talk to you. When
dem see you, dem does hide and you don't ever get pay. Dem boys does seh dat is de easiest way to get rid of people who think dem smart but dem have people who does be bare face and come to borrow again. Guyana didn't pay back one cent to Kuwait. If it think Kuwait woulda forget because it got oil, dem mek a big mistake. Every year Kuwait put interest pon de loan. Imagine by dis year, dat same US$10 million tun US$77 million. When Guyana borrow de money, de exchange rate was li'l more than $2 to one US dollar. Today is more than $200 to de US dollar. Guyana got to pay through its nose. Dem boys seh when you see people money and you think you smart dat is how you does end up in trouble. Dat does
happen to some li'l gyal and Guyana end up like dem li'l gyal. De only thing is dat it didn't have to give nutten. Jagdeo didn't pay de loan because he she, he didn't borrow no money. Was Burnham, and Kuwait must go to Burnham fuh de money. Indeed Burnham dead and gone but he borrow and is we children and grandchildren who got to pay it back. Kuwait not bad-minded. It tell Guyana to keep US$50 million of de US$77 million dat it owe. But even then, Guyana borrow US$10 million and got to pay back US$27 million and it better pay de money because there will be gnashing of teeth. Talk half and what sweet in you mouth does be bitter elsewhere.
when it came into office in 1992 with a 60,000 majority. Many professionals left also during their time in power. Change is inevitable whenever a new government takes office. But you do not throw out the baby with the bathwater. People can always be replaced, but the damage done to morale and professionalism cannot be undone. APNU+AFC has dismissed or terminated the contracts of many persons since they came to office in May 2015. There have been cases of personal and political vindictiveness. The government has replaced those persons in most instances with loyalists. The problem is that many of those who have been given jobs are pushy people with assertive personalities, but who do not always have the talent for the specific job they have to undertake. Some of the newbies are earning fortunes, but are inexperienced for the posts they hold. They are at sea on the job. These political appointees have bypassed other persons who worked
within the system and who were waiting for promotion. Instead, they are seeing a repeat of what the PPP did: put its own political appointees in office. If this trend is not brought to an end, the exodus of skilled Guyanese will continue. The government should not employ persons with limited experience to assume authority over skilled professionals who are qualified and experienced. Persons cannot be picked only for their trustworthiness. This is going to set this country back and demoralise the public service. Donald Trump once advised that employers should examine what someone brings to the job. What were their achievements in the field in which they worked? And are they going to be able to replicate that success in their new job. If someone has just a little experience and no great achievement in a particular field, then that person should not be given preference over someone with a solid track record of achievements and
who is experienced. Due diligence, even on loyalists, must be done. There are persons lining up for jobs with the new government. Some of them were living overseas. There should be a competitive process for filling vacancies. You cannot simply go around and appoint persons to positions. There is no guarantee that you will get the best person for the job this way. There are a lot of fortune hunters out there looking to capitalize on the insecurity of the present government. Some of them are pushy and self-confident, but behind that veneer there is nothing but hot air. There is no talent and no expertise. The government has to beware of these types. Contaminating government with such individuals will lead the coalition down the same road to disaster as the PNC and the PPP governments of the past.
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PAGE 10
Tuesday April 02, 2019
THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN
Split in AFC becomes ugly, tragic and farcical
I
t was Hegel who wrote that all great historical facts repeat themselves. Marx, who studied Hegel, critically added to that outlook of Hegel by saying “history repeats itself, first as tragedy, then as farce.” If there is any quote from a great philosophical mind that is applicable to Guyanese politics, it is this one from Marx, and it describes neatly, the rotting carcass of the AFC. At the time of writing Khemraj Ramjattan and Raphael Trotman are in a furious confrontation over the replacement of Dominic Gaskin in Parliament. One of Ramjattan's supporters was chosen on Sunday afternoon, but by nighttime, he was replaced with a Trotman
supporter, Donna Mathoo, of NCN in Berbice. Let's apply Marx to the AFC. In 2010, the AFC imploded. Raphael Trotman reneged on the agreement that the presidential slot would rotate from Trotman in 2006 to Khemraj Ramjattan in 2011. How the AFC survived that crash remains inexplicable. But the damage that was done became the AFC's permanent Albatross. The AFC in 2010 became racially split. The rich diaspora Indians who left Ravi Dev's outfit named ROAR, joined the AFC and conspired to defeat Trotman's attempts to become the presidential candidate. The AFC became a microcosm of Guyana – Indians supporting
Ramjattan, Africans endorsing Trotman. I had access to the AFC's email string and saw how the ex-ROAR people waded into Trotman using unvarnished language, replete with overt racist descriptions. It was too much for Trotman. He selfexiled from the AFC. The AFC became under the financial control of the ex-ROAR people. They funded the AFC's 2011 campaign, going to the idiotic and vulgar level of using one of their own diaspora members to head the campaign. He was paid US$4000 monthly and was put up at the Pegasus for the entire campaign. It was sickening, because this gentleman had no political experience or political knowledge of
Guyana whatsoever. How did I know this? I was i n v o l v e d i n t h e 2 0 11 campaign, and knew the gentleman when he worked at Fogarty's before migrating. During the 2011 battle, Sheila Holder, the AFC's prime ministerial candidate died. Trotman accepted to fill that gap. But it was never the same between Ramjattan and Trotman, and the racial split that began in 2010 had cemented itself. After the 2015 election, Trotman was not given a cabinet portfolio in the initial naming of AFC ministers. At a press conference in February 2017, Trotman told the media his cabinet position was awarded to him by the President himself. This newspaper contacted the AFC and Minister Harmon for a comment, but both parties denied presidential involvement. At the 2017 Vreed-enHoop congress, Trotman challenged Ramjattan for leader of the party and won by two votes. Again the voting was split racially, with the Ramjattan faction
claiming that there was delegate suppression. Gobin Harbhajan of Region 6 AFC told this columnist his name was mysteriously omitted from the Region 6 AFC list as a delegate. We come now to history repeating itself in a farcical way. Unless the PNC changes its mind, the covenant between APNU and the AFC is for the PM slot to come from the AFC, and because of Guyana's racial reality, it has to be an Indian. There was only one choice, Ramjattan. Nagamootoo agreed to that. In February last year, Nagamootoo went to the US for three months for cardiac rehabilitation and came home also with mental rehabilitation. He decided he wanted to run as PM again. This gave the Trotman syndicate another opportunity to oppose Ramjattan. It has set in motion a huge fight between the Ramjattan faction and the Trotman school. It is taking on sordid dimensions. One must recall at the last AFC executive meeting, Trotman told the press the AFC will run again with Nagamootoo. It was met with wild anger from the followers of Ramjattan The AFC has RMCs – regional management committees – for each of the
Frederick Kissoon 10 Regions in Guyana. To secure their own delegates for the upcoming congress in a few weeks' time, the two factions are going around Guyana selecting RMCs and calling the process an election. Whichever faction is in power in a particular RMC, the other side cancels it and selects their own people. The object is to stack the congress with delegates that will decide who will get the PM slot. Two weeks ago, the Trotman faction selected their RMC for Region 7. The Ramjattan faction cancelled it and appointed their own RMC. The Trotman faction is about to dissolve it. In Region 6, the Ramjattan group in February installed their own RMC headed by a Ramjattan supporter, Sudesh Orelall. Two weeks ago, the Trotman faction removed Orelall and appointed their own people, headed by Lindon Jones. Last week, the Ramjattan group dissolved the Region 6 RMC and a big physical altercation ensued between the Ramjattan boys and the Trotman brigade. The story ended up in the police station. Remember what Karl Marx said.
Tuesday April 02, 2019
Kaieteur News
PAGE 11
Kaieteur News
PAGE 12
$8million building commissioned for nursery classes at Mainstay/ Whyaka
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he Amerindian community of M a i n s t a y Whyaka will now benefit from a more effective delivery of Nursery Education, now that a building designated for a nursery class was commissioned within the community just last Friday. The $8 million building was commissioned and declared opened by the Regional Executive Officer
[REO] of Region Two, Denis Jaikaran. The community's To s h a o , M r. M i l t o n Fredricks during his brief remarks said that Nursery Education within the community wasn't always as organized as it is today. Fredricks explained that he grew up without the chance of attaining a nursery or secondary education. He went on to say, “Because of the education I
Tuesday April 02, 2019
The newly commissioned building of the Mainstay Lake Nursery Class
received from the Mainstay Lake Primary School I was able to build on it graduate from it; obtained university education and was able to serve more than 45 years as a secondary school teacher.” This publication understands that the Mainstay Primary School and the Mainstay Nursery previously shared the same building. In the year 2010, h o w e v e r , t h e
Mainstay/Whyaka community was blessed with Princeville; the present HousingScheme. According to the Nursery Head mistress acting, Miss. Gem Fredricks, the establishment of the Housing Scheme rapidly increased the school's enrollment, which she said made the expansion necessary. The HM acting added, “It was sometimes unbearable due to the lack of adequate
space, after numerous requests were made for our separate building to accommodate the secondary class. We are extremely happy that finally we have this building officially opening.” Regional Education Officer acting, Ms. Nichola Matthews underlined that fact that “Environment is important, since it enables a child to manipulate and construct their own learning in their own space.”
REO Jaikaran also pointed out that the building will ensure that the community's nursery aged children will benefit from a spacious environment that is conducive to learning. The REO went on to say, “Parents do not have to endure any stress or strain now that the children of both primary and nursery have to share the same building… It is good, because the nursery programme can be effectively delivered.”
Subryanville Hotel shooting…
Pathologist yet to testify as court not in possession of PM report
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ive months later, the post mortem report into the death of 30-year-old Jason De Florimonte, of 96 Fifth Avenue, Subryanville, who was shot dead last August, is yet to be presented in court. F o r t y - f i v e y e a r- o l d Erwin Bacchus, also of Fifth Avenue, Subryanville, is currently on remand for the offence. He appeared before Principal Magistrate Judy Latchman in the Providence Magistrate's Court. Bacchus is being represented by Glenn Hanoman and Nigel Hughes. The matter is prosecuted by special prosecutor, attorney-at-law Dexter Todd, who was assigned by the DPP. He is expected to
Erwin Bacchus call Dr Nehaul Singh, the pathologist who conducted the post mortem, to testify in the preliminary inquiry. On the previous occasion when the matter was called,
Dr. Singh could not begin giving evidence as the post mortem report was not present in court. The DPP's Chambers has indicated that the report was sent to the prosecutor, and this will be disclosed today in court. Following the disclosure of the statement, Dr. Singh is slated to testify on Friday. Bacchus was not required to plead to the indictable offence which stated that on August 4, last, he murdered De Florimonte. His lawyers are contending that their client was trying to defend himself after he was attacked by De Florimonte who was at the time allegedly armed with a knife and a rolling pin.
Kaieteur News
Tuesday April 02, 2019
PAGE 13
$14M mini-koker in Anything can go wrong Charity 50% completed Works being executed on the mini-koker at Charity
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he $14 million Mini-Koker that i s b e i n g constructed within the developing community of Charity, Essequibo Coast is more than 50% completed. Once completed, it is anticipated that the heavily commercialized community will see an increase in drainage efficiency. Prior to execution of the project, the site was visited by the Regional Executive Officer of Region Two, Mr. Denis Jaikaran, along with the regional Engineer and other key regional
employees. According to the REO, the project falls in the region's 2019 budget and will be executed as soon as possible. This publication understands that the MiniKoker, which is pegged at some $14 million, will be placed on the Charity Water front between the Farmer's wharf and the Charity Marketing Centre. This location, experts believe, will allow the Charity Community to be effectively drained into the Pomeroon. Over the past years, the
Charity Community has been prone to flooding, leaving both government and business operations, along with residents affected. The REO pointed out that upon completion, the project will allow flooding to be reduced tremendously in the charity area. Since a collaborative approach will be taken towards the executing of the project, Jaikaran has given assurances that the miniKoker will be sustained through the efforts of the community.
T
his car PRR 7738 crashed into a culvert last Sunday along the Massy access road, Providence, East Bank Demerara. Witnesses said that the car's interior caught fire, sending its
occupants running for safety. The passengers and driver were said to have suffered minor injuries and were taken to the Diamond Regional Hospital to seek medical attention. (Guyanese Critic photo)
Kaieteur News
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Tuesday April 02, 2019
Business Minister Dominic Gaskin resigns as MP
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inister of Business, Dominic Gaskin, has reportedly resigned as a parliamentarian amid a raging debate over politicians and the issue of
dual citizenship. On Sunday, Gaskin, the son-in-law of President David Granger, reportedly met with top executives of his party, the Alliance For Change (AFC) which is the
- sources smaller faction of the Governing Coalition. Sources said that Gaskin,
who was born in the United Kingdom, reportedly opted to keep his dual citizenship and offered to resign as a Member of Parliament for the government. Kaieteur News was told that the AFC decided to accept the resignation. He will likely be replaced in the National Assembly by Donna Mathoo, a senior official of the party, who heads up the NCN operations in East Berbice. Yesterday, Minister Gaskin declined comment, and would not entertain questions denying or confirming. Former AFC leader, Khemraj Ramjattan, the current Minister of Public Security, also said he had not comment. “I am surprised that we are discussing this matter,” he said. However, several sources confirmed that it happened. The resignation would come after the High Court
Business Minister Dominic Gaskin earlier this year ruled that persons who have sworn allegiance to foreign powers, holding two passports, are in breach of the Constitution of Guyana. The ruling was sparked by a historic, shock noconfidence vote that was tabled by the Opposition and deemed carried by the House. The vote, by government parliamentarian, Charrandass Persaud, according to the Constitution should have triggered early elections
within 90 days. However, the Government has challenged the legality of the vote in court with the fact that Persaud had dual citizenship. Hours after that vote, Persaud, under the protection of the Canadian High Commission, left Guyana for that North American country. Government is also challenging the 33 votes that were carried, arguing that for such a vote, an absolute majority is needed.
CJIA 'Red-cap' killed in freak accident with two minibuses
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'Red-cap' porter at the Cheddi Dead: Jagan International Airport is Collin dead after a horrific accident Bourne Sunday night on the Soesdyke Public Road, East Bank Demerara. Dead is Collin Bourne, 22, of Timehri Prison Road. According to friends of Bourne, he was at work on Sunday. He lived nearby the Timehri prisons and would normally ride to work. According to police in a statement, they are investigating a fatal accident which occurred about 22:15hrs Sunday on the Soesdyke Public Road, East Bank Demerara. Police said that involved in the accident were minibuses PHH 3467, BVV 5802 and motorcycle CH 6758. Bourne, of Lot 91 Timehri Prison Area, was said to be riding the motorcycle. “Enquiries disclosed that minibus PHH 3467 was proceeding south along the eastern carriageway reportedly at a fast rate of speed whilst minibus BVV 5802 and motorcycle CH 6758 were proceeding in the opposite direction with the cycle in the rear, when the latter (cycle) overtook BVV 5802 and while on the eastern carriageway collided with minibus PHH 3467,” the police statement said. As a result of the impact, the cyclist fell onto the western carriageway in the path BVV 5802 and was struck. He was picked up in an unconscious condition and taken to the East Bank Demerara Regional Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival. Police said that the drivers are in custody assisting with the investigation. They were breathalysed and the driver of PHH 3467 was found above the legal limit. The damage to one of the minibuses and the Bourne was said to live with remains of the motorcycle. (Guyanese Critic photos) his parents.
Tuesday April 02, 2019
Kaieteur News
PAGE 15
PAGE 16
Kaieteur News
Tuesday April 02, 2019
AG's Chambers lacks expertise to fine tune oil laws - Hughes
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r o m i n e n t Attorney-at-Law, Nigel Hughes, is of the firm view that the Attorney General's Chambers does not have the expertise to fine-tune the technical laws needed for the oil sector. As such, he is recommending that some serious restructuring take place. Hughes said, “Clearly there has to be a restructuring of how we approach legislation. The Attorney General's Chambers would not be equipped to provide the level of specialized knowledge that is needed not only in oil and gas, but in many areas which are required for the preparation of robust international accepted best practices.” The Attorney-at-law a d d e d , “ I n t h e Communications sector, for example, I don t think they have the expertise for that. So clearly we have to revise the structure that exists, so that in each of these ministries they have highly qualified legal persons who can advise the minister and department heads.” Hughes said that Guyana has long gone past the era where the Attorney General's Chambers can be everything to everyone. He categorically stated that it does not have the capacity to fulfill such a role. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has also called for Guyana to improve its approach towards legislative reform as it relates to the oil sector. In fact, the Government of Guyana received a crucial report from the UNDP in 2016, which outlined the legislative and institutional weaknesses that would affect the success of the emerging oil sector. Three years later, there has been no movement from the government on the report
Attorney-at-Law, Nigel Hughes that was written by Anthony Paul, Principal Consultant of the Association of Caribbean Energy Specialists Ltd. The report notes that there are several laws and regulations, which need updating. These include: the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission Act; the Mining Act; the Petroleum Exploration and Production Act, No. 3 of 1986; the Petroleum Exploration and Production Act Regulations, 1986; the Petroleum Exploration and Production Act, 1998, Chapter 65:10; the Environmental Protection Act; and the Occupational Safety and Health Act, Chapter 99:01. In the report, Paul said that the legislative and institutional frameworks in Guyana are, not surprisingly, unprepared for managing the petroleum sector in its current phase of development. The Principal Consultant said that both the legislative and institutional frameworks and their component parts are critical for successful management of the resource. He opined that given the pace of change, Guyana is at risk of losing very significant value unless the gaps identified are closed rapidly.
Kaieteur News
Tuesday April 02, 2019
PAGE 17
Tied to her bed and strangled four years ago‌
Police crack another cold case ‌as two confess to killing elderly Albouystown businesswoman
I
n the early hours of June 19, 2014, 65y e a r - o l d businesswoman Sumintra Dinool, of Barr Street, Albouystown, reportedly heard a rapping at her front door. It is said that Mrs. Dinool was security conscious, but, perhaps assuming that a son who lived with her, had returned, she opened that door, and let death in. The elderly woman reportedly found herself staring at three young men from the same community. The intruders reportedly dragged the old woman back to her bedroom, where they gagged her, tied her to her bed, and strangled her. The killers then ransacked the house before carting off money, electronic items and other valuables. They were never caught. But a few weeks ago, detectives returned to the case, and last week, acting on information, they took a 27-year-old Cooper Street, Albouystown resident into
The house in which the elderly woman was slain
Murdered in her home: Sumintra Dinool custody for Mrs. Dinool's murder. This individual was freed just last year on an attempted murder charge. They have now arrested an alleged associate of the suspect. This suspect was recently released from prison on a narcotics charge, according to sources.
Kaieteur News understands that the two men have provided information which implicates them in the robbery/murder. Detectives were reportedly told that the two men and an accomplice rapped at the old woman's door, then killed her after she
let them in. The woman's son, 42year-old Shah Dinool, had reportedly said that around 04.00 hrs on June 19, 2014, he came home, after being out the entre night. Mother and son lived at the property. He allegedly opened the front door with his keys, but
did not notice anything amiss until he went into his room and found it ransacked. He said he became afraid and decided to check on his mother, and found her gagged and dead in bed. Her hands and legs were bound with telephone cords and tied to the rails of the bed.
The son immediately contacted his father, Sheik Dinool, who lived a few houses away. Together with another son, the men went back to the house. They also notified the police. Robbery appeared to be the motive since electronic (continued on page 19)
Kaieteur News
PAGE 18
Tuesday April 02, 2019
Masquerade band creates two-hour - Drivers infuriated; Vreed-en-Hoop traffic chaos in West Dem Police refuse to intervene By Alex Wayne
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t was all chaos on Sunday - with steamy cuss-outs and prolonged traffic congestion - when a group of Masquerade Dancers and band members, literally took c o n t r o l o f t h e We s t Demerara Public Road (from Goed Fortuin to Vreed-enHoop) disrupting the flow of vehicles for almost two hours . This infuriated drivers and pedestrians alike who were desperately trying to get across the Demerara Harbour Bridge. Horns were honking continuously, as drivers attempted other almost impossible alternative routes, adding to the already chaotic and rowdy scenario. When traffic ranks at the Vr e e d - e n - H o o p p o l i c e station were contacted to intervene, one Constable
rudely retorted that he was off duty and could not deal with such an issue. He also ruled out a reporter's suggestion that he make contact with available traffic ranks to rectify the situation. Investigations revealed that a popular masquerade dancer from the 'Westside' had died and was cremated on Sunday last. As such, a popular masquerade band leader from the West Demerara had taken it upon himself to gather dancers
Onlookers were appalled at how very young some of the dancers (at right of photo) were
The traffic build-up Sunday on the West Demerara Public Road.
from several villages to 'celebrate the man's death', as the dancers related. They admitted that they had sought no police permission to engage in such an activity, and mouthed that “money gat fuh mek” when chided by onlookers for the confusion they were causing
on the road. Mothers looking on were horrified that some of the dancers darting in and out among the vehicles appeared to be no more than nine or ten years of age. Viewing the maddening spectacle, one woman belted out in anger…”My goodness is what really going on hey. Look at how dis big man get dese lil children dancing pon dis road obstructing traffic. Where are the mothers of these children that allow this dreadful thing…. Look at how some ah dem drivers almost running them over… And where is the police when they are most needed” There were at least two teenage girls among the dancers. Onlookers particularly
feared for the young dancers who seem terrified in some instances. Even if they were, they had no choice than to obey the harsh bellowing of the band leader who kept shouting “Y'all go out deh and dance fuh yuh money…” Vehicles were weaving all over the place as the drivers swerved to avoid hitting the dancers. And spectators were continuously ridiculing how the dancers were rudely demanding cash and dancing directly in the path of the vehicles. Even as this was going on, police officers at the nearby Vreed-en- Hoop station were observed chatting in the Enquiries Department.
Manganese company... From page 8 Hastings-Williams, visited the region to get a first-hand look at what has taken place thus far. GMI/ Bosai had set a timeframe of July 2019 to develop the mines, plant and factories to begin extracting the mineral. “During the first phase of construction, the mined ore processing plant, washing plant, warehouses and
factory will be established.” The company says it is investing approximately US$100M in this stage of development. Guyana Manganese Incorporated purchased four prospecting licences that cover an area of 45,729 acres, exploration results, mineral agreement, certain properties and infrastructure from Reunion Manganese.
Kaieteur News
Tuesday April 02, 2019
PAGE 19
Muslim scholar appeals “severe” sentence for rape of boy, 9 L By Feona Morrison
awyers for Muslim scholar Neezam Ali, who was convicted and sentenced to 45 years' imprisonment two weeks ago for raping a nine year-old boy, have filed an appeal against the conviction and sentence with the Court of Appeal in Kingston, Georgetown. In the appeal filed last week Tuesday, March 26, by lawyers Latchmie Rahamat and Glenn Hanoman, Ali argues that the sentence imposed on him by Justice Navindra Singh was too severe in all the circumstances of the case. According to the lawyers, “The learned trial judge utilized a mathematical formula in passing the sentence of 45 years that is without legal basis and failed to take into account established sentencing guidelines and passed a sentence that was inconsistent with the current sentencing practice.” It is the lawyers'
contention that in passing sentence, the trial judge failed to explore the possibility of ordering a probation report and to take other relevant factors into consideration. It is their view that counsel (Stanley Moore) who represented Ali during the trial, failed to adequately mitigate the sentence. Arguing that there was bias on the part of a juror, the lawyers have argued that, “There was a real possibility that a bias of a member of the jury affected the impartiality of the jury and the fairness of the trial and the failure of the juror to disclose that he attempted to forcefully shut down the Masjid run by (Ali) shortly after his arrest, constituted to a material irregularity at the (Ali's) trial, resulting in a miscarriage of justice.” In relation to the above ground, Ali, in his Notice of Appeal, said he desires to call one Robin Andrews of Lot 303 Section 'D' Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown as a witness. Andrews had testified during
Cops crack another cold... From page 17 equipment, including a flatscreen television set and other items appeared to be missing. However, some money was reportedly found in the slain woman's bedroom. Investigators were reportedly baffled at finding no visible sign of forced entry to the home. The father had reportedly expressed the view that Mrs. Dinool had known the killer. She had
owned stalls in the Vendors' Arcade and was said to have been security conscious. The victim had reportedly been living at the Albouystown property for about 46 years and had never been robbed. Husband and wife had been divorced for some time. The cracking of this case comes a week after the solving of the murder of fuel dealer Ramzan Alli, slain almost ten years ago.
the trial. The lawyers further argued, “Contrary to Article 144 (2) of the Constitution of Guyana the learned trial judge (Navindra Singh) erred in law when he refused to accede to the request of the appellant for a short adjournment to ensure the attendance of the legal representative of his own choice, Ms. Latchmie Rahamat, who was lead counsel for the appellant, resulting in a miscarriage of justice. That on the date fixed for trial, Ms. Rahamat was undergoing a major surgical procedure.” Ali's lawyers are calling for the verdict of the jury to be set aside on the ground that Justice Singh failed to put his case adequately to the jury and misdirected the jury with regard to the medical evidence presented in his defence. In this regard, the lawyers are contending that the verdict of the jury was unreasonable with respect to the evidence adduced at the trial. Furthermore, the lawyers have argued that the right of their client to a fair trial was irretrievably and adversely affected by the failure of counsel to take full instructions from Ali and to thereafter object, among other things, to the admission of evidence of prejudicial nature, resulting in a substantial miscarriage of justice to the prejudice of him. On March 14, last, Justice Singh sentenced Ali to imprisonment after a 12member jury found him unanimously guilty of the crime. Between December 5, 2011 and December 31, 2011,
he engaged in sexual penetration with a child under the age of 16 by abusing a position of trust while being an Imam at a Turkeyen Masjid. It is alleged that the act occurred in a storeroom located in the Masjid and then at Ali's home. In passing sentence, Justice Singh underscored that based on the evidence, it was clear that Ali took advantage o f a n underprivileged child. The Judge also took into consideration where the act occurred and the fact that Ali smiled at the victim who had pointed him out in court. Some seven years ago, Ali, also known as 'Mufti', whose last known address is said to be at South Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown, was charged after it was alleged that he raped nine boys, who took Quran and Arabic lessons from him. The victims alleged that Ali had penetrative anal intercourse with them while they were attending classes at the Masjid. Following a preliminary inquiry before Magistrate Alex Moore, Ali was committed to stand trial for the offences in 2013. Shortly after Ali's committal in 2013, his then lawyer, Nigel
Hughes, filed an action in the High Court to have the committal overturned. However, this was rejected by the court. His application was made on several grounds, including that the Magistrate acted in excess of his jurisdiction when he failed to consider the expert opinion of Dr. Walter Ramsahoye, who testified that it was impossible for Ali to commit the act, since he is impotent. This statement was the essence of Ali's defence, one which he claimed was ignored by the prosecution and the Magistrate. But Magistrate Moore noted that police witness, Inspector Hatty David, testified that Dr. Ramsahoye's opinion was formed from information provided by Ali, and was not one which came as a result of doctors treating and attending to a medical condition, which Ali reportedly suffered, over a period of time. However, in 2017, the matter was sent back to the Magistrates' Court based on a directive from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). Then, it was reported that the medical reports and birth certificates of the nine
Muslim scholar, Neezam Ali boys involved in the case had allegedly disappeared. In addition to remitting the matter to Magistrate Alex Moore to re-open the paper committals, the DPP also issued a directive to the Guyana Police Force to obtain certified copies of the original documents. Kaieteur News understands that those files were reconstructed. The following year, Magistrate Moore, again committed Ali to stand trial. Ali is still to be tried for eight more counts of child rape at the next session of the Demerara criminal assizes which opens this morning at the High Court in Georgetown, according to information published by the DPP.
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Tuesday April 02, 2019
Demerara Criminal Assizes Parliament should be guided - 155 sexual open this morning by court ruling on dual offences cases for trial citizenship - Former Speaker
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T
he April session of the Demerara Criminal Assizes is scheduled to open this morning at the High Court in Georgetown. Of the 259 cases listed for trial, 155 are for sexual offences including rape, sexual activity with a child under 16 years, carnal knowledge of a girl under 15 years, buggery, incest by male, sexual activity with a child by abusing a position of trust, and indecent assault on female. Among those to be tried for sexual offences include Muslim scholar Neezam Ali and former Bishops' High S c h o o l t e a c h e r, C o e n Jackson. Last month, Ali was sentenced to 45 years' imprisonment after a jury found him unanimously guilty of one of nine
Coen Jackson indictments for sexual activity with a child by abusing a position of trust. Ali was found guilty of engaging in anal penetration with one of nine underage age boys who took Quran and Arabic lessons from him at a Mosque located on the
East Coast of Demerara. Meanwhile, Jackson is accused of having sexual contact with one of his underage students. The incident is said to have occurred at D'Urban Street, Lodge, Georgetown, during December 2010 and May 2011. Jackson was charged and placed before the Magistrates' Court and was released on $300,000 bail pending trial. The cases will be tried in the specialized sexual offences courtroom. The courtroom which is housed in Court 6 is equipped with two screens and a digital audio recording system for easy access to transcripts of the proceedings. Members of the public and reporters are barred from (continued on page 22)
ormer Speaker of the National Assembly, Ralph Ramkarran, believes that Parliament should be guided by the court's ruling on the matter of dual citizenship. In an invited comment on the issue, the Senior Counsel alluded to the ruling of the Chief Justice in which she said in her decision on January 31 that “if you have dual citizenship you are in breach of Article 155” of Guyana's constitution, but under Article 156 (1)(b) “you have a discretion to vacate the office, but she also adds that if anyone is going to challenge the validity of the member to remain in the House, they could only do that by way of an Election Petition.” Ramkarran noted that an Election Petition is filed 28 days following the elections. “So therefore, the time has passed for the filing of such a petition.” Ramkarran's comments come days after the Appeal Court upheld the Chief Justice's decision on the issue of dual citizenship. Both the government and opposition side of the House have since expressed differing views on the subject. Government spokesman and Minister of State, Joseph Harmon, has said that the ruling Coalition would not be removing its dual citizenship Members of Parliament (MPs) yet, and they will all
be present in the National Assembly at its next sitting on April 11. The Opposition People's Progressive Party has said it would not be attending sittings of the National Assembly until the Caribbean Court of Justice Guyana highest Appeal Court - rules on the matter. Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo yesterday clarified that although those holding dual citizenship in his party will stay away from the House sitting, they will not resign. However it is Government's stance on the issue that has been questioned. Outspoken Attorney-atlaw and Political Commentator, Christopher Ram has, among other things, called the move by the ruling party “disgraceful, unbelievable (and) contemptuous.” The attorney believes that it is the Speaker of the National Assembly who has ultimate power in the Public Buildings, and the related Ministers are demonstrating gross disrespect towards him by pushing the Constitution aside. Ram said that it shows (utter) contempt and disregard for the Constitution by people of the stature of Carl Greenidge (Foreign Affairs Minister); (so) it's hard to say how much lower we as a country can
Former Speaker of the National Assembly, Ralph Ramkarran get,” “They have committed a criminal offence, because to swear to an oath falsely is a criminal offence, and this is something maybe the Commissioner of Police (Leslie James) ought to be looking into,” Ram declared. He noted that article 155 (1) of the Constitution of Guyana states: “No person shall be qualified for election as a member of the National Assembly who (a) is, by virtue of his own act, under any acknowledgement of allegiance, obedience or adherence to a foreign power or state. Following the court r u l i n g i n F e b r u a r y, A t t o r n e y s - a t - l a w, A n i l Nandlall and Sanjeev Datadin, both of whom (continued on page 22)
Kaieteur News
Tuesday April 02, 2019
PAGE 21
'Guyana Goldfields is good for Guyana' - company paid US$15M in royalties last year – Senior VP Senior Vice President, Perry Holloway.
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u y a n a Goldfields Inc., the Canadian operator of Aurora Mines, in the Cuyuni, Region Seven, is defending its contributions here, insisting yesterday that it is a serious publicly traded company that is under attack by a group of dissident shareholders. In a Letter to the Editor responding to a story carried last Sunday by Kaieteur News that raises questions about how a Peruvian contractor received millions of dollars in duty free concessions, the company said that since coming here two decades ago, it has invested over US$400M. In fact, says Perry Holloway, Senior VicePresident, according to the company's publicly released financial information, for 2018 the Government of Guyana received US$14,983,000 in royalties while the company's net earnings were US$5,367,000 after expenses. This means, Holloway said, that Government is getting almost three times more than the company's profit without Guyanese having to invest a cent. “Not a bad deal anywhere. Mining in remote areas is not cheap and the cost of transporting, feeding, and caring for 750 employees and more than 300 contractors, almost 1,000 who are Guyanese, is not cheap and all of this money is spent with more than 255 local suppliers, contractors, and companies.” Holloway is a former US ambassador who retired a few months ago but decided to take up an offer to work with the mining company which since beginning commercial operations in early 2016, had become the largest single producer of gold. However, the company is facing a major threat by a
number of shareholders (including from founder, Patrick Sheridan), who are accusing the current Board of Directors and management of not making the right decisions. The “dissident” shareholders are claiming that Guyana Goldfields may have misrepresented a few key figures. Guyana's share of the gold or royalties is eight percent. It is estimated that since 2016, Guyana collected the equivalent of 40,000 ounces or about US$48M. In return, the company received about US$50M in concessions in the last three years alone, according to government officials. According to Holloway in his letter, the company also makes other significant contributions to Guyana. “We pay payroll taxes on all these employees. We pay VAT on our local purchases. We have been here for 22 years and made no money for the first 19 years, yet we invested well over US $200 million of our money to get the mine operational. In
More than US$400M was spent to develop and operate the Aurora mines, the company said yesterday.
fact, in total we have invested more than US $400 million. There is no company in Guyana that could have done this in this remote part of the Essequibo, which is threatened by a foreign power to the west.” Holloway insisted that c o n c e s s i o n s l i k e VAT exemptions for foreign direct investment in remote areas are very normal throughout the world. “…and frankly without such incentives, the jobs and contributions to the economy these investments bring likely would never materialize. Again, we are a serious publicly traded company that is under attack by a group of dissident shareholders.” “I am a serious person and I would not join Guyana Goldfields without knowing the full situation. We are a serious company trying to do the right things, the right way. We are declaring all gold and the Government of
Guyana is on site as the gold is poured. We are not letting employees go.” Holloway also denied that the company is taking advantage of the Government and people of
Guyana with tax concessions which is part of its investment agreement. “We are not taking advantage of anyone. We are a publicly traded company in Canada in good
standing with all laws and regulations. Yes, we are a for-profit business and the business of a business is to make money for its owners, which in our case are our shareholders.”
PAGE 22
Tuesday April 02, 2019
Kaieteur News
Man chopped by one-legged assailant
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Ronald Seebachan, a onelegged man was yesterday made to answer a charge in which he is accused of allegedly chopping a man about his body during a heated argument that ensued between them. The accused pleaded not guilty to the charge after it was read to him by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan in the Georgetown Magistrates' Courts. It was alleged that on March 29, 2019 at Aranka Aragua Junction, Seebachan unlawfully and maliciously wounded Lester McKenzie. Seebachan, who was not represented by an attorney, told the court that he is 34 years old and resides at No.4 village West Coast Berbice. He further informed the court that he is a mechanic in the interior. Police prosecutor Gordon Mansfield had no objections to bail for the defendant; however he asked that if same was to be granted, conditions should be attached. According to the prosecutor, on the day in question the parties got into a heated argument in which the accused allegedly armed himself with a cutlass and dealt the victim several chops about the body. The court also learnt that the victim is out of hospital and was informed of the court date to be present, but he failed to show or have anyone appear on his behalf. Prosecutor Mansfield went on to say that during the ordeal, McKenzie retaliated and as a result the defendant also received injuries. However, Seebachan refused to give a statement in rela-
Ronald Seebachan
tion to that. After listening to the prosecutor, Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan granted bail in the sum of $70,000 under the condition that Seebachan is to report to the Aranka police outpost every Friday pending the outcome of the matter. The matter was adjourned until April 11, 2019 at the Bartica Magistrates' Court, where the accused is expected to appear for his next hearing.
Parliament should be guided... From page 20 argued the case filed against expelled Alliance For Change (AFC) parliamentarian Charrandass Persaud, told the media of consequential effects such a decision can have on other Members of the National Assembly. Both lawyers noted that the future of MPs holding dual citizenship may be uncertain. Nandlall pointed out that in a scenario where the life of the Parliament should be extended, the decision can have dire effects for persons in that peculiar position. “Let us assume that we have to extend the life of parliament, for whatever reason, because these ruling persons
Experienced - shop worker/ handyman & couple for interior & G/Town. Age 18-40 yrs. Tel: 231-0363 Call between 8:00am - 4:30pm Monday From page 20 Friday entering the courtroom during Cashier/waitress, night trial stage in keeping with supervisor, assistant cook. some of the best practices for Apply within 172 Sheriff prosecuting sexual offences Street or call 225-7933 cases. Entry is only allowed when the jury returns after deOne ice machine operator liberation, followed by the needed. Call 223-7165 sentencing stage. Also in the session, there Porters. Apply with written are 55 cases for murder, 17 for application @ Best Buy attempt to commit murder and Food Supplies, Lot 1E 13 for manslaughter. Dennis & Middleton Street, There are also a few more Campbellville cases for wounding with in-
who are in that peculiar circumstance should not be sitting in the Parliaments. And this has nothing to do with elections. Of course, at an election, leaders of the lists must henceforth have to ensure persons placed on those lists comply with the constitutional provisions as it relates to dual citizenship.” The court ruling is based on questions posed by Compton Reid, a private citizen, who challenged the noconfidence motion against the Government on the grounds that Charrandass Persaud, who voted with the Opposition, has Canadian citizenship— by virtue of his own actions.
Demerara Criminal Assizes... tent, abduction with intent to hold for ransom, robbery under-arms, trafficking in narcotics, obtaining money by false pretence, conspiracy to commit a felony, conspiracy to commit murder and accessory after the fact to murder, among others. This is according to the list published in the daily newspapers by the Registrar of the Supreme Court of Judicature (High Court), Mrs. Sueanna Lovell.
Kaieteur News
Tuesday April 02, 2019
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130,005 tonnes of rice harvested for first quarter …36% of crop harvested so far A s government continues to invest to sustainably develop all stages of the rice production chain, farmers across the country are expressing their satisfaction as harvesting figures for the first rice crop of 2019 have proven favourable. While harvesting is only 36 percent complete, the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) has reported that a total of 200,008 tonnes o f p a d d y, w h i c h i s equivalent to 130,005 tonnes of rice have been harvested as of March 28th, 2019, according to the Ministry of Agriculture yesterday. GRDB's General Manager, Nizam Hassan, made this disclosure as he lauded the efforts of farmers and the extension officers in ensuring that the industry p r e v a i l s a m i d s t e v e rgrowing challenges. “Despite the challenges of access to water in some areas, we were able to cultivate 88,147 hectares of farmland, which is 7,112 hectares more than the last or autumn crop of 2018. Some Regions did extremely well and we congratulate our rice farmers for their efforts, hard work and commitment to the sector,” Hassan said. Farmers in Baiboo/Cane Grove and Golden Grove/Mahaica, Region Four have completed 69 percent of their harvesting for this crop with a total of
8,460.33, 59,710.93 and 67,249.63 metric tonnes of paddy respectively as of March 28th. With harvesting ongoing, GRDB hopes to achieve its 2019 first crop production target which is 520,000 tonnes on paddy by the end of the harvesting process. Farmers across the country are currently receiving favourable prices, as paddy ranges from $2400 to $3300 per bag or $36,912 to $50,754 per tonne. 276,100 bags of paddy harvested so far - an equivalent to 17,538 metric tonnes of paddy. Additionally, harvesting figures illustrate that farmers i n R e g i o n Tw o h a v e completed 61 percent of harvesting, with those in La Belle Alliance-Windsor Castle harvesting 196,125 bags of paddy and those in Queenstown-Reliance harvesting 151,330 bags of paddy thus far. Overall, a total of 47,049 metric tonnes of paddy have been harvested in this Region. Agriculture Minister Noel Holder has lauded the efforts of Guyana's rice farmers in ensuring continued success of the industry, noting that they continue to express commitment to the sector's growth and development. He also urged farmers to
continue to apply the advice of the extension officers in executing the six-point practice to ensure maximum production and productivity is achieved. According to the subject Minister, while Government has been implementing key policy initiatives to ensure the industry prevails, it is necessary for all players within the industry to play their part. "We have been doing exceptionally well when it comes to production and productivity, but it is the farmers who deserve the applause for always returning to the fields and doing what needs to be done during every stage of the crop cycle,” Minister Holder said. Other Regions like Three, Five and Six have reportedly harvested
Former GWI supervisor slapped with 18 counts of fraud
A
f o r m e r supervisor of Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) was yesterday hauled before the court and slapped with 18 counts of fraud. Dexter McKenzie, 48, is accused of converting monies entrusted to him by the said company to his own use and benefit. The monies were in the form of cheques and were to be paid to five persons between May and October 2018. The first three charges alleged that from May 2018 to August2018,atVlissengen Road, Georgetown, McKenzie, while being entrusted by GWI with Republic Bank cheques valued at $213,720 for Shane Samuels, fraudulently converted same to his own use and benefit. The next four charges alleged that from May 2018 to October 2018, at Vlissengen Road, Georgetown, McKenzie, again being
entrustedbyGWIwith Republic Bank cheques, valued at $285,036, for Collette Clarke, fraudulently converted same to his own use and benefit. Moreover, the next three charges alleged that between the periods of May 2018 to July 2018, at Vlissengen Road, Georgetown, McKenzie, while being entrusted by GWI with Republic Bank cheques valued at $148,500 for Dexter France, fraudulently converted same to his own use and benefit. F o u r m o r e c h a rg e s alleged that from July 2018 to October 2018, at Vlissengen Road, Georgetown, McKenzie, while being entrusted by GWI with Republic Bank cheques valued at $263,090 for Lana James, fraudulently converted same to his own use and benefit. Finally, the last four charges alleged that between June and July 2018, at
Vlissengen Road, Georgetown, McKenzie, while being entrusted by GWI with Republic Bank cheques valued at $232,020 for Randy, fraudulently converted same to his own use and benefit. McKenzie pleaded not guilty to all the charges after they were read to him by Principal Magistrate Sherdel Isaacs-Marcus in the Georgetown Magistrates' Courts.The accused informed the court that he resides at Lot 146 Sixth Street, Alberttown, Georgetown. The father of three had worked in the GWI's Customer Service Department. Police prosecutor Adunni Inniss had no objections to bail and same was granted to the tune of $102,000. The magistrate then instructed McKenzie to return on April 15 for statements into his matter, as she adjourned the hearing.
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Tuesday April 02, 2019
Tuesday April 02, 2019
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Kaieteur News
As ever, expect the unexpected in Formula One LONDON (Reuters) Formula One has been criticised for being altogether too predictable in the past but not so far this season, even if Lewis Hamilton returned to the top of the podium in Bahrain on Sunday. With two surprise winners in two races, and those cast in allegedly supporting roles acting more like leading men, it has been a case of buckle up and expect the unexpected. Ferrari the fastest and favourites? Champions Mercedes on the back foot? Sebastian Vettel v Hamilton in a battle of champions? Valtteri Bottas and Charles Leclerc playing second fiddles? Those pre-season predictions are not necessarily wrong, there are 19 races still to go, and the same three top teams as ever
Pic - Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton celebrates after winning the Bahrain Grand Prix race. (REUTERS/Thaier Al-Sudani) have been the ones on the podium. But things have just not panned out according to the script so far. Bottas, the Finn who
could not win a race last year and went away with ‘Hamilton’s wingman’ ringing in his ears, is leading the championship after winning in Australia (plus fastest lap)
for Mercedes and finishing second in Bahrain. Leclerc, the 21-year-old Ferrari newcomer, is ahead of four-times champion team mate Vettel in the standings and has beaten him to both a pole and a podium place. There are already some, with decades of experience to back them up, who see the Monegasque as more of a threat to Hamilton’s hopes of a sixth world championship than old rival Vettel. “There’ll be moments on rainy days or challenging days when Sebastian Vettel’s experience might just pay off but honestly... it won’t be long before Leclerc is the main man there,” said Sky Sports commentator Martin Brundle. Ferrari arrived in Australia as the fastest team in preseason testing but Mercedes
India win... Tuesday April 02, 2019 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) There is power in your words today, and a great deal of emotional self-confidence, Aries. Things may be moving quite rapidly, but you certainly have the strength and swiftness of mind to keep up. TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) This is a good day for you to get out of the dirt and into the air in order to gain a fresh, new perspective on a situation, Taurus. GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Don't twiddle your thumbs today waiting for someone else to make the first move, Gemini. There is apt to be a burning restlessness inside you that's anxious to get things done.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Don't let things bother you, Libra. Have confidence that you're on the right track. Your strong will and erratic habits will prove quite effective on a day like today SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Find a wide-open field to frolic in today, Scorpio. Pick (or buy) some wildflowers and put them in a vase on your kitchen table. Small things can bring a great deal of sunshine and hope SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) Tap into the electrifying energy of the day that encourages social interactions and activities, Sagittarius.
CANCER (June 21–July 22) Keep yourself open to all the possibilities that the day brings, Cancer. You'll be surprised at the incredible opportunities that come your way
CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) Picking up a hitchhiker on the side of the road may at first seem quite risky, Capricorn, but could actually prove to be a rewarding and enriching experience. Dispel the myth of the "dangerous stranger," in which there is always fear of something
LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Make sure there is an equal amount of give and take in your day, Leo. Sometimes when you love someone, you just want to keep giving
AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) Take off to the stars today, and keep your mind and heart open to all the possibilities that can come when you have faith in yourself and the work you do.
VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) You may be at a point in which you just want to stop and rest, Virgo. This is the time to do so. You deserve a break, so take this day and have fun. Be social with large groups of people
PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) The masculine and feminine sides of your personality should be working together well today, Pisces. The key is to keep the energy moving. Try not to stagnate on any one issue.
From page 29 Australia edging England for fourth by decimal points after both finished on 104 points. The inaugural World Test Championship will begin in August. This will feature nine Test nations competing across 27 series and 71 Test matches to reach the ICC World Test Championship Final in 2021, where the first World Test champions will be crowned. India captain Virat Kohli said: “Retaining the ICC Test Championship mace once again is something we are all really proud of. “Our team has been doing well across formats but it gives us extra pleasure to come out on top of the Test rankings. We all know of the importance of Test cricket and of how only the best can prosper in the format. “Our team has a lot of depth and I am sure this will stand us in good stead once the ICC World Test Championship commences later this year. That is again something we are really looking forward to as it adds more context to Test match cricket.” Australia were the maiden winners of the mace in 2002 and held it for the first eight years. India have now won it five times in total, with England claiming it for one year in 2012 and South Africa winning in three successive years from 2013.
went away as one-two winners all the same. In Bahrain on Sunday, there was no question that Ferrari were fastest after dominating every practice session and all stages of qualifying. Mercedes walked away as one-two winners again. Pole position has yet to produce a win. YOUNG CONTENDER For Hamilton’s 74th career win to come as a surprise says much in itself but even he was stunned to take the lead after a power unit problem in the closing laps denied Leclerc a welldeserved first victory. The arrival of a confident young contender, who is seemingly free to race his team mate, only adds depth to a championship yet to establish a clear pecking order both between teams and drivers.
The same extends further down the paddock. Renault-powered McLaren are doing better than the French manufacturers’ own works team, and have 19year-old rookie Lando Norris riding high while more experienced Spanish team mate Carlos Sainz has yet to score. Australian Daniel Ricciardo, a double race winner with Red Bull last year, is another with a blank to his name after two races while Renault team mate Nico Hulkenberg has banked six points. Expect that situation to change in two weeks’ time in Shanghai, when Ferrari are also sure to be strong and Formula One could easily see a third different winner in three races. Whether that man is Vettel or Leclerc remains to be seen.
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Simmons talks about Bravo, Pollard being blacklisted Trinidad and Tobago Guardian For-mer West In-dies Crick-et Coach Phil Sim-mons will be avail-able to coach the West In-dies team again if need-ed af-ter Ju-ly 15th, 2019. Speak-ing from over-seas dur-ing the I-s-ports ra-dio pro-gramme on i95.5fm with host An-dre Er-rol Bap-tiste on Sat-ur-day night, Sim-mons stat-ed, “At the mo-ment I am con-tract-ed to Afghanistan and there can be no talk about West In-dies crick-et. I’m fo-cused on Afghanistan and how we get ready for the Crick-et World Cup start-ing in May.” He con-tin-ued, “But af-ter the Fi-nals on Ju-ly 15th, my con-tract is up with Afghanistan, but no-body knows the fu-ture, but my whole aim now is to win the World Cup so af-ter 15th Ju-ly, let us see what hap-pens. But every-one who knows me un-der-stands how much I love the re-gion and how hard it has been for me over the last three years deal-ing with that mat-ter. I am just glad it is over and my name has been cleared. Most im-por-tant-ly, the apol-o-gy from the new Pres-i-dent Ricky Sker-ritt goes a long way in clear-ing up a lot of the talk un-der the pre-vi-ous ad-min-is-tra-tion. I be-lieve that this shows that this new team is about the in-ter-est of crick-et and not about them-selves.” Sim-mons, who made his Test de-but in 1988 and played 26 Test match-es for the West In-dies, spoke about the many ills he ex-pe-ri-enced
Former West Indies coach Phil Simmons, left, newly elected West Indies president Ricky Skerritt and vice president Dr Kishore Shallow in Antigua last week. as West In-dies coach and de-spite his suc-cess with the team win-ning the ICC World T20 fi-nal on April 3rd, 2016, re-called a num-ber of sit-u-a-tions he had to en-dure. He said, “I re-mem-ber the for-mer pres-i-dent telling me that we could not pick cer-tain play-ers (named called Dwayne Bra-vo and Ke-iron Pol-lard) be-cause they passed him straight and did not say any-thing, how they had no man-ners, team se-lec-tion was just
too per-son-al. In fact, he said un-less they play for Trinidad and To-ba-go, they should not play for the West In-dies. This was al-so echoed at the se-lec-tor ’s meet-ings.” “In fact, un-der Court-ney Browne, team se-lec-tion processed was changed where-by he made all the fi-nal de-ci-sions on the com-po-si-tion of the team and said that is how it was. It did not mat-ter the cap-tain or the coach ideas. The
im-pres-sion giv-en was that this was a new di-rec-tive from on top and the team was named by him and you had no choice,” stat-ed Sim-mons who ex-celled at Zim-bab-we, then Ire-land with re-mark-able suc-cess and last year he led Afghanistan to vic-to-ry in the World Cup qual-i-fi-er and in-flict-ing a fi-nal match de-feat against the West In-dies, since leav-ing the West In-dies in con-tro-ver-sial fash-ion as coach. Sim-mons, a for-mer crick-et-ing all-rounder, ex-plained that he was sur-prised and hurt by two re-cent de-ci-sions which hev re-called. He said, “Dur-ing my time, four years ago, I had a 45 minute ar-gu-ment with Browne over the se-lec-tion of Chris Gayle, with Browne say-ing he (Gayle) was too old and should not be se-lect-ed and at the time. I said that de-spite his back con-cerns he was more than good enough, now fast for-ward and Chris Gayle was called back to as-sist the West In-dies to qual-i-fy for the World Cup. Then, four years ago when Richard Py-bus was the Di-rec-tor of coach-ing, said to me that the West In-dies play-ers in the IPL must re-turn home for a 10 day camp and that was the way it had to be, and I said to him the play-ers had con-tracts and got No Ob-jec-tion cer-tifi-cates, but now Py-bus is the coach and there is no rule like that for the play-ers in the IPL, they can play out their terms and that is how it should be all the time. It was
tough, but now I feel I am in a bet-ter place en-joy-ing the crick-et and just hav-ing fun.” Sim-mons, who played 143 ODIs af-ter his de-but in 1987, be-lieves that a full-strength West In-dies team will have to be among the favourites to win the World Cup,” If the best West In-dies play-ers are se-lect-ed, then the West In-dies have to be among the favourites to win. He said, “Dwayne Bra-vo I be-lieve he is in a good space now en-joy-ing his crick-et and it is up to him to de-cide to come back, but I know he is hap-py and en-joy-ing his crick-et. Giv-en all that has hap-pened in West In-dies crick-et and the com-ments by Mar-lon Samuels on Sports-max, I hope that the re-ports on West In-dies crick-et gov-er-nance are put to prop-er use this time around, and there is a prop-er dis-cus-sion with a view to en-sur-ing we get it right for the sake of West In-dies crick-et.” Sim-mons, who start-ed his firstclass ca-reer in 1983, said he was sur-prised last Sun-day when he heard the news that Dave Cameron had lost. “I was very hap-py for all of those that love West In-dies Crick-et. How many per-sons know who is in charge of the Eng-land Crick-et Board and how many Pres-i-dents are on tele-vi-sion or busy tweet-ing. West In-dies crick-et can look for-ward to Ricky Sker-ritt and Dr Shal-low, and that is the pos-i-tive go-ing for-ward.”
Lekhnarine ramps up the top spot in Inaugural Ramps Logistics golf tournament A fabulous Saturday, perfect temperatures and a significant turnout of golfers all eager to claim bragging rights in the inaugural Ramps Logistics Guyana Inc. golf tournament, finished with a shootout that left just one golfer at the top of the leaderboard - Massy Gas Managing Director, Lekhnarine Shivraj. Meanwhile, Ramps Logistics Director, Marisca Jordan, on hand to present the prizes along with reputable fashion designer and author Sonia Noel, noted that, “Ramps Logistics is committed to the development of golfing in Guyana, and to adding our influence and support so that world class standards, similar to those held by Ramps Logistics, would be realized in optimum time at the Lusignan Golf Club.” Played under the Medal Play 3Flight system, prizes were awarded winners for 1st and 2nd Best Net in each Flight, in addition to a Best Gross score, Longest Drive, and Nearest The Pin. The overall Best Net scorer was the tournament Champion. In the 0 – 14 Flight, fierce battles continued amongst the top players with Patrick Prasad edging Club President Aleem Hussain by one shot to take the Best Gross score honors. However, due to a last minute adjustment of the flight
format by the Captain, it was journeyman David Harry who pulled off the upset in the flight by shooting a net 69 to beat out Aleem Hussain and Patrick Prasad who tied with net 72 where Hussain’s betterback-9 score gave him the net edge. Winners in this Flight were: D. Harry (69/14) – 1st; A. Hussain (72/10) – 2nd; P. Prashad– Best Gross (81/72/9), and Nearest The Pin; and Richard Haniff (77/10) – Longest Drive. In the 15 – 20 Flight, Lekhnarine Shivraj shot a low net score of 67 to emerge winner in his flight as well as the Tournament champion only one shot better than second place finisher Mahindra Bhagwandin. Winners were: L. Shivraj (67/16) – 1st; M. Bhagwandin (68/20) – 2nd; followed by Satrohan Tiwari (71/15). In the Third flight (21 – 28), Maxim Mangra continued his winning ways beating Brian Hackett on a countback after both players tied for a net 71. This is the second week in a row that Mangra has played exceedingly well on the back9 to put himself in the Winners’ row. In this Flight winners were: M. Mangra (71/28) – 1st; B. Hackett (71/ 21) – 2nd; followed by Eion Blue (75/ 28). In 2015, sponsor Ramps Logistics Guyana Inc. - of 23 Brickdam, Stabroek, Georgetown; Tel: 592-223-3770; Website: w w w. r a m p s l o g i s t i c s . c o m ; Email:info@rampslogistics.com–
Winners pose with the sponsor and guest. From left: M. Bhagwandin; M. Mangra; D. Harry; A. Hussain; Ms Sonia Noel; Ms Marisca Jordan of Ramp Logistics; R. Haniff; L. Shivraj; P. Prashad and B. Hackett. ”was granted a unique opportunity by ExxonMobil to provide customs brokerage, handling and shipping as well as managing their shore-based operations both in Trinidad and Guyana.” (KN –Jun 2018). Since starting operations, Ramps has achieved several local and regional awards, including a 2017 Award from the Guyana Shipping Association for Advancement of Local Content, and the Exporter of the Year Award in 2017 from Trinidad and Tobago. Ramps has operations also in Houston, Miami and Suriname. Club President Aleem Hussain
noted that “while the Ramps tournament marks the LGC’s 14thtournament in the first quarter of the year, it shows great and increasing interest in the game, a commendable effort of support from within the business community, and a remarkable effort by the Executive and Grounds staff to maintain the Course in superb condition.” He noted that the 2nd quarter is very promising too in that already several major tournaments are in the line-up with Banks DIH, Assuria General, Macorp, Torginol Paints, AmericanChamber of Commerce,
The Lusignan Open, President’s Cup and Easter Classic all set to happen in the next few months. Easter picnickers are reminded that the Course is in excellent condition for the Easter holiday when thousands of kite-flyers are expected to descend on the grounds to enjoy a safe and secure atmosphere, filled with music, food, and laughter over three days. Please call 220-5660 or visit the Club to make your request to be a part of the Easter action as soon as possible since space is limited.
Tuesday April 02, 2019
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Kaieteur News
Police Commissioner B/Day Inter-Division T20 cricket
‘A’ beat TSU & ‘F’ defeat ‘D’ Division in latest action
Rodwayne Ward seemed a bit lucky to have Lennox Andrews LBW at Eve Leary yesterday. By Sean Devers It was another day of entertaining cricket at Eve Leary yesterday as day nine action in the Commissioner of Police Birth Anniversary Inter-Division and Branches T20 cricket Tournament produced wins for ‘F’ and ‘A’ Divisions. In the morning game ‘F’ Division beat ‘D’ Division as Leon Crawford (2-10) and Devon Joseph (2-27) combined to restrict ‘D’ Division to 125-9 as only Rawle Simboo (16) and Boshnarine Lalbachan (15) offered fight. They were replying to the 159-9 from 20 overs made by ‘F’ Division as Quinton Sampson reached the boundary two times and cleared it twice in his 32, while a blistering 27 with three sixes and a four to power ‘F’ Division an easy victory. After the play started late in sultry conditions on a slow track and rough and parched outfield, Crawford who hit five boundaries including a six in 28 before Ward removed
Micheal Jobe (13) and Ward seemed lucky to have Lennox Andrews caught behind although the ball appeared to only brush the pad on its way to the Keeper to leave ‘F’ Division in some trouble. However, Sampson played some good shots before the left-handed Brandon Frank, who hit three sixes and a four in his explosive 27 from nine balls, launched a brutal attack on Simboo hitting him for three sixes and a four in an over which lasted 15 balls and costed 32 runs to push his team past 150, which was, in the end too much for ‘D’ Division. In the afternoon game which also started late, TSU were led by a pugnacious 35 from the lefthanded Jomal Jarrick and 31 from Gillis, while Skipper Eon Rodrigues (19) and Daniram Gopaul and Dillion Allicock with 17 each, helped their team reach a respectable 144 all out in 19.5 overs. After Darson LaRose had Fiaz Sattaur (1) caught behind at 4-1 Rodrigues was
removed at 35-2 by offspinner Kevin Leitch before bowling Gavin Jagnarine for a duck one run later. Gopaul (17) had his stumps sent cartwheeling at 49-4 but Gillis and Allicock carried to the score to 99 when Gillis was bowled by Deron Crandon before two wickets tumbled to leave the score on 102-8. Jarrick dumped Patrick Morris for two fours and a six in an over which leaked 19 before he was stumped off of Crandon to end the innings. Crandon had 3-18, while Leitch and the lively LaRose took two wickets each for ‘A’ Division who achieved victory with 18 balls to spare thanks to an unfinished halfcentury partnership between Leitch who ended on 25 not out from 26 balls with two sixes and two fours and Jason Heliger, who made an unbeaten 21 that saw ‘A’ Division to 147-4 in 17 overs. Quacy Kendell (25) and Raul Browne (20) had earlier put together 39 for the first wicket while Kyle Micheal,
Quinton Sampson gathers leg side runs at Eve Leary yesterday.
All eyes on the ball as it sail out of the ground from the bat of Jamel Jarrick yesterday. who hit three fours and two sixes, also contributed to the victory. Off-spinner Yamesh Tularam, who bowled slowly, forcing the batsmen to make the pace, removed the first three batsmen; Kendell and Browne, the brother of former West Indies ODI pacer Barrington Browne and exGuyana batsman Robin Browne, before sending back Kerwin Christian (9) to end with 3-13 from four overs. The competition continues today and tomorrow with two matches each day before the Quarter Finals begins.
Andy Gillis goes big in his 31 at Police yesterday.
GFF Elite League Season 4
Den Amstel is lone winner in three weekend matches Den Amstel won a close battle against Buxton United and was the only team to collect full points in three matches that were played on the weekend when the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Elite League Season Four continued. In the feature match on Sunday afternoon at their home ground, Den Amstel were held to a goalless first half by the visiting Buxtonians. The home team however would rally to break the deadlock in the 73rd minute when the experienced Kester Jacobs breached Buxton United’s backline as well as goalkeeper Darren Harris to score. It turned out to be the winning strike as the home team collected a hard earned three points, points which were not easy to come by in the other matches. In Sunday afternoon’s earlier match at the same venue, Western Tigers and Victoria Kings
battled to an exciting 2-2 draw. Randolph Wagner had given Western Tigers the lead in the 17th minute to which Victoria Kings responded through a Randy Stoby goal in the 24th minute to even things up. Four minutes after equalising, the Kings would take the lead when Trevor Fraser’s shot found the back of the nets, relegating Omar Jones in goal to a spectator. But the Tigers would find the neutralizing goal compliments of Colin Nelson in the 52nd minute to ensure
that they were able to share the spoils, equally. Saturday’s lone match-up at the Mackenzie Sports Club Ground in Linden produced a goalless stalemate between home team Milerock FC and the Guyana Defence Force which was reduced to 10-men on the stroke of full time when Jerome Richardson was booked for the second time having drawn his first in the 60th minute. The GDF ground, Camp Ayangana will host a double header on Friday evening from 17:00hrs when Den Amstel throws down the gauntlet to Western Tigers which will be followed by a clash between home team GDF and Victoria Kings. On Sunday, Police Sports Club Ground, Eve Leary will entertain two more matches, Santos will open against Buxton United from 18:30 hrs with Police welcoming Milerock in the main attraction.
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Tuesday April 02, 2019
Kaieteur News
Linden Town Week Mayor’s Cup Football
Capital FC and Blueberry Hill score 2-0 wins on opening night There were 2-0 wins by Capital FC and Blueberry Hill United over Amelia’s Ward Panthers and Hi Stars respectively, when the first ever Linden Mayor’s Cup football championship began as part of the annual Linden Town Week activities at the Mackenzie Sports Club ground Sunday night. Before the opening game featuring Capital FC and the Amelia’s Ward Panthers, Mayor of Linden Waneka Arrindell did the ceremonial kick off of the tournament which followed a march past of the teams. The twelve-team championship is being played on a knockout basis and already through are the top four Linden clubs Eagles United, Net Rockers, Haynes and Lewis Winners Connection and Botafago. They are awaiting
opponents form the first round to play in the quarterfinals. The Capital FC were able to dump the Panthers as they got their first goal through Johnny Waldron who was able to latch on to a ball which was seemingly coming out after a play had developed down the right flank. His ripper from just the right side of the six yard box would send the Capital FC into the lead in the 32nd minute. When the first half whistle was sounded Capital FC remained in the lead 1-0. Late in the second half that score would double, this time through Andre Mayers who would control a pass and take on the defender and slip the ball past the goalkeeper going to the far post in the 70th minute. The victory would eventually read 2-0 for the Capital
Scorers for Capital FC at left Johnny Waldron and Andre Mayers. FC. Game two on the opening night saw a similar result this time for Blueberry Hill United. Both goals, however, came in the second half with the first coming in the 61st minute as Mark Andrews
would find his intruding teammate Roydell Archer who would get just inside the 18 yards box to bang home and score making it 1-0 for Blueberry Hill. With a bit more composed
At left Roydell Archer and Wayne Wilson scored for Blueberry Hill. look, the Blueberry Hill would get another goal when Andrews was hacked down just inside the Hi Stars half. The resultant free kick by Wayne Wilson would go just under the cross bar to score
and give the Blueberry Hill a 2-0 score. On Friday Coomacka will clash with Silver Shattas at 19.00hrs and the second is between a Milerock B side and Topp XX from 21.00hrs.
Academy of Contemporary Martial Arts conducts first grading exams The Academy of Contemporary Martial Arts conducted its first grading examination on Saturday last at the Perth Union Burial Society Hall in Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara. Ezekiel Abel, Aaron Bourne, Naipaul Persaud, Chad Bourne and Dhanraj Dyal were all successful and were awarded the rank of yellow belt. Their chief instructor
Dellon Hyman was also drilled and was successful in completing his grading exam following which he was given the title of Master (5th Dan black belt). The examiners were the head of the ACMA Master Audre Murray, Grandmaster Michael Cromwell, Master Terry Williams and Doc Christopher Norville. The Academy would like to express gratitude to its
supporters. Meanwhile, Naipaul Persaud and Dhanraj Dyal excelled in their first tournament, which was held on Sunday at the National Gymnasium, Dyal won the freestyle kata, while Naipaul finished second in freestyle and placed third in the team kata. Master Hyman finished second in traditional and freestyle.
Dhanraj Dyal (left) with Master Dellon Hyman (c) and Naipaul Persaud.
Annandale Secondary, Business School, Patentia Secondary triumph The students along with the examiners and Master Dellon Hyman (2nd from left front row).
Annandale Secondary, The Business School and Patentia Secondary recorded victories when the Goodwood Racing Service Inter Secondary Schools Super Six round robin Tapeball competition commenced on Saturday last at Durban Park. Annandale Secondary defeated Patentia Secondary by 47 runs. Batting first,
Annandale Secondary scored 116-2, while Patentia Secondary responded with 69-4. The Business School took first strike against LBI and made 126-2, while LBI mustered 71-3 in reply. In other matches, Patentia Secondary made 74-3, taking first strike, while Queenstown Secondary got to 31-4 in reply. Annandale Secondary
drew the bye to the final, while the Business School and Patentia Secondary will clash in the semi final. In the female segment, Patentia Secondary beat Queenstown Secondary to win the Trophy Stall prize. The competition will conclude on April 6 and it is being organised by Holy Family Club and Georgetown Tapeball Academy.
Tuesday April 02, 2019
PAGE 29
Kaieteur News
Guinness street phenomenon returns to East Coast April 12
Jumbo Jet Triple Crown final leg
Valentina in the running to claim Triple Crown prize
Action in the East Coast Guinness competition promises to be keenly contested. Last year saw fans attendance exceed previous years and this trend is anticipated to continue when play in this year’s East Coast Zone of the highly exciting Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Competition’ commences on April 12, at the Haslington Market Tarmac. Once again, the Organisers have planned a programme that is certain to make the fan experience a memorable one for fans along the East Coast corridor and those hoping to get a glimpse
of what has become the most electrifying outdoor event in the sport. The early word emanating out of the respective communities that will be competing in the three-day competition is that defending champions Uprising will not have it easy this time around since teams have already begun preparations to challenge for the title. However, the reigning champs who had to qualify last year and subsequently became the only team to do
so and win the title outright, have vowed to successfully defend their crown. This time around they will join seven other automatic qualifiers, while eight teams will have to enter the qualification process which will be conducted on Sunday, April 7, at the Haslington Tarmac. The full list of automatic qualifiers are Uprising, Paradise-A, BV-A, Melanie-B, Buxton Diamond, Mahaica Determinators, Victoria Church Yard and Belfield Warriors.
GCC overcome MYO to set up final date with ECC
Valentina sprinting to victory during the second leg of the Jumbo Jet Thoroughbred Racing Committee’s Triple Crown. (Emmerson Campbell photo) All roads will lead to the Port Mourant Turf Club in Corentyne, Berbice on Easter Sunday for the final leg of the Jumbo Jet Thoroughbred Racing Committee (JJTRC) Triple Crown, which at its conclusion will see over $20million in cash and prizes being doled out. The Triple Crown race promotion pro v i d e s a bonus of $500,000 for whichever horse can complete three consecutive victories and come this April 22nd, Valentina; three-year-old Guyana Bred, will be the only animal in the running for the triple crown bonus. Valentina was bred by Africanist (USA) and Today’s My Day (Trinidad & Tobago)
and is owned by Inderjeet Chattergoon of the Jumbo Jet Racing Stables while her trainer is Nasrudeen Mohamed Jr. In her three career starts, Valentina has now notched two wins and one second place finish. Ironically, in her only loss, it was at Port Mourant Turf Club where she will be looking to earn the first Triple Crown win in Guyana. A release from the organisers of the event revealed some exciting news of additional work being done on the Port Mourant Turf Club track inclusive of the construction of a shoot to start the one mile race. The document read, “This way the horses will have a level and exact one mile start.
The start of the seven & 3/4 furlongs race was usually used for the one-miler before due to the fact the mile was on the turn and a race cannot start on a turn.” The feature race on Easter Sunday will attract a total prize purse amounting to almost $2million with the winner of that C Class and lower race pocketing $1million. The winner of the threeyear-old Guyana bred race, which Valentina will be looking to complete her triple crown in, will pocket $400,000, the F Class winner; $350,000, H Class; $300,000, I Class; $250,000, J class; $230,000, K Class; $220,000, L Class; $200,000, L Class and lower; $140,000.
India win Test Championship title for third successive year Saheed Gittens The second semi final of the Georgetown Cricket Association New Building Society second division 40-over tournament culminated on Sunday night last at the Demerara Cricket Club. Georgetown Cricket Club won the encounter against Muslim Youth Organisation by one wicket to set up a final date with Everest Cricket Club. MYO opted to bat and managed 176 all out in 36.1 overs. Vinash Rampersaud struck 47, while Rudolph Singh made 28, Shafiek Ishmael 25 and Richard Latif 20. Bowling for GCC, Carlos La Rose claimed 3-16, Devon Lord 3-45, Gavin Singh 2-24 and Stephon Wilson 229. GCC encountered some nervous moments before they eventually won the game in 31.3 overs as they finished on 177-9. Ronaldo Ali Mohamed struck seven fours and three sixes in a top score of 67, while Timothy McAlmont
Ronaldo Mohammed scored a half century as GCC beat MYO by one wicket made 21. Bernard Bailey and Stephon Wilson were unbeaten on nine each when victory was achieved. Saheed Gittens bagged 5-32 and Timur Mohamed 2-37. Everest CC beat Police by 56 runs in their semi final match which ended on Saturday night at the said venue.
India lost to England 4-1 in 2018 but beat Australia 2-1 away in a four-match series in 2018-19. (Getty Images) BBC Sport - India secured the Test Championship title for a third successive year and with it the million dollar prize. Virat Kohli’s team, who in January
recorded their first Test series win in Australia, finished with 116 points, eight points clear of New Zealand. South Africa were third with (Continued on page 25)
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Tuesday April 02, 2019
Kaieteur News
Inaugural Kares Engineering Teen Challenge
Tina Praimchand and Eli Armstrong are inaugural female and male champs
Tina Praimchand about to complete her third round of 10 burpee box over to end as the best. Following three rounds of passionate rivalry against each in the blistering Sunday mid afternoon sun, Tina Praimchand and Eli Armstrong emerged as the inaugural female and male Kares Engineering Teen Challenge Champions. This first time competition
formed part of the undercard at the 5th Annual Kares Engineering sponsored Fitness Challenge which was contested on Sunday last at the National Park where Dillon ‘The Beast’ Mahadeo successfully defended his title for the fourth consecutive year, while 17
year-old Surinamese Ava Zalman became the new queen of fitness. But, not to be outdone, the five female teen competitors and the six males had their fans and relatives in the stands cheering them on as they worked to complete the task of doing 50 skips, 20
Aurora Knight Riders record massive win over Crown 11 in South Essequibo T/20 cricket An aggressive half century by the powerfully built Besham Dahasrat could not prevent Aurora Knight Riders from recording an emphatic 7 wicket victory over Crown 11 when play in the South Essequibo T/20 cricket competition continued last Sunday at the Affiance Cricket Ground. Winning the toss and opting to take first strike in scorching heat, Crown 11 quickly found themselves with an early setback when opener Ramlochan Nankishore was taken at long on off spinner Deoraj Dindyal for 3. Dindyal struck again when he induced Anil Persaud (12) to an easy return catch in the 4th over. Shanon Jagmohan (26) and Dahasrat then tried to repair the innings with a commanding 67 runs third wicket partnership with Dahasrat in particular quick to jump on anything short or full. When Jagmohan was bowled by left arm spinner Garfield Phillips in the 11th over, Ramsingh Taijbally and Dahasrat continued to play maturely with Taijbally playing the anchor role. However, when Dahasrat was run out by skipper Saieef Ally for his entertaining 66 which included 5 fours and 6 maximums, the run rate quickly declined as Crown 11 found themselves at 131-5 off their allotted overs. Bowling for the Knight Riders, Dindyal grabbed 2-21, Phillips 1-32, while rising teenage sensation Imtiaaz Ally had 1-20. Needing 132 for their third consecutive victory in the competition, the Knight Riders’ openers started their reply aggressively with the right handed Mohamed Timur Gafoor neatly caressing pacer Ramlochan Nankishore for three consecutive boundaries in the first over, much to the appreciation of the vocal fans in the stands. Ramsingh Taijbally who operated from the southern end had Deoraj
Male Teen winner, Eli Armstrong during his squat routine. squats and 10 burpee box over thrice, the fastest. Tina Praimchand was the first female to complete the routine followed by Kyla Sills and Sara Sanmoogan in that order. The other two female competitors were Proverbseight Jones and
Ashley Martelly. When the boys took center stage immediately after the girls, Eli Armstrong emerged as the best, completing his workout well ahead of his rivals. Quacy Semple settled for the second place with Alex Arinda coming in third,
followed by Ranvir Gorakh. The other male teens were Raynauth Gorakh and Bevon Gobin. All the competitors were rewarded with cash compliments of Kares Engineering apart from receiving water bottle and umbrellas.
GABA/Let’s Bet Sports knockout tournament
Kobras wrap up First Division Championship The Guyana Amateur Basketball Association (GABA)/Let’s Bet Sports First Division Knockout Championship concluded on Saturday last at the Burnham hard-court on Middle and Carmichael Streets where Kobras Basketball club defeated defending champions, Plaisance Guardians. Kobras won the tip-off
and played as a unit to finish the first quarter ahead, 24-14. The Guardians upped their momentum in the second quarter to have a four-point lead, but it was a futile effort as Kobras outscored Guardians to lead 36-32 at the half. What looked like a possible victory for the East Coast side turned out to be the last quarter they would win as Agricola based Kobras
struck in the third quarter giving away only a few points to extend their lead to 57–44, heading into the final period of play. Once in front, Kobras never looked back and they eventually won the championship match by 18 points, 87-69. Earlier in the night, Eagles defeated Pepsi Sonics to take third place as they won 69-55.
Black returned as Achievers Youth and Sports Club President
Timur Gafoor Dindyal comprehensively beaten and bowled for 4 at 25-1. Ravi Beharry batting at number 3 hammered a quick fire 16 off 8 deliveries before he was unlucky to be given out LBW to Nankishore with the ball clearly kissing the bat unto his pads. The level headed Garfield Phillips and Gafoor then teamed up and continued to bat positively until Gafoor (34) was brilliantly caught by Nankishore running back from long on off the impressive Taijbally. Anand Manniram and Phillips then guided the Knight Riders to victory with 4.3 overs to spare. Phillips was left hanging on 36, while Manniram was unbeated on 27. Taijbally was the pick of the bowlers with 2-37, while Nankishore claimed 1-28.
The Achievers Youth and Sports Club of West Berbice, held its Annual General Meeting on Friday last at the Bush Lot Sports Club, where they reviewed last year’s performance on and off the field and discussed plans for 2019/2020. The organisation also held its election for office bearers and David Black returned as its President and Keon Joseph who served as the treasurer for the past five years is now the Vice President. Ms. Carol Nurse and Ms. Stembio Williams returned as Secretary and Assistant Secretary respectively, while the Treasurer is Shamar Angel. Vickash Singh will serve as the Assistant Treasurer and the Public Relations Officer is
David Black
Keon Joseph
Jayden Samuels. Angel has also been named Captain of the U19 team and Kayambo Small his deputy. Collis Noble and Samuels are the Captain and Vice Captain respectively of the club’s U17 team, while Ayinde Rogers is the Captain
of the U15 team and Ezekiel Rogers his deputy. Renata Liverpool will skipper the club’s female side. The executive will be meeting shortly to look at a special programme in observance of the club’s 22nd Anniversary in July.
Kaieteur News
Tuesday April 02, 2019
PAGE 33
GMR&SC Drag Championship
Round two promises to be an epic showdown There is much speculation on what the date for round two of the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC) Drag Championship will be but what is known is that the anticipated meet will be worth the wait. O n T h u r s d a y, t h e executive committee of the club will hold a meeting and then and there at the Thomas Lands and Albert Street Office, the date will be decided. On March 23 last, round one of the Championship had seen what was described by many devout drag racing fans, as the biggest turnout they have ever witnessed at the South Dakota Circuit’s Drag Strip and this was influenced majorly by the investment of the GMR&SC and their sponsors along with the competitors who pour millions into their machines. Last season, the GMR&SC had set out to construct a launch pad to allow more powerful cars to compete at full potential along with extending the drag strip from 1000ft to a full quarter mile; a project that cost in excess of $30million, and just a week before the new drag season got underway the project was completed. Platinum sponsor of the club, Mohamed’s Enterprise, had contributed handsomely once again to the project, while the contributions of BM Soat Auto Sales, Motor Trend Service Centre, Delco Ice F a c t o r y, Tr a n s - P a c i f i c Motor Spares, Supreme Ventures, Air Services Limited, PowerLine Auto, C y r i l ’s Ta x i , O m e g a Brokers, E-Networks, Prem’s Electrical, Miracle Optical, Choke Gas Station and Super Bet, R. Kissoon Contracting Services and Top Brandz Distributors were also vital to the project and event’s success. Adding to the hype of
round one was the acquisition of the former record breaking Ekanoo/Magnus Nissan GTR, by Team Mohamed’s racing that are yet to concede a loss at the drag strip at Timehri, fueled excitement amongst the racing community. The white GTR, the third of its kind in Team M o h a m e d ’s f l e e t o f machines was not so long ago the fastest GTR in the world, setting a time of 7.3 seconds across the quarter mile at a top speed of 206mph. Although there was no need for the machine to compete despite some transmission issues, its sister, the GTR Goliath, kept the Team’s flag flying high after outsprinting Peter Daby’s RX-7 in the final of the unlimited class. Mad Max returns The club has set out to create a safe space for everyone to compete and thus had a major call out for novice riders to come out and compete both in circuit and drag races, and at round one for both events there was decent turnouts by the bikers. However, in the drags, none of the competitors found it easy getting past Mark ‘Mad Max’ Menezes, who had taken a one year hiatus from the strip, as he dominated in both the 600cc and 1000cc classes. International competitors The first round saw a few competitors from Suriname with Eric Watchman (14 seconds) and Raymond John (13 seconds) being able to leave ‘the land of many waters’ with victories and round two may see a larger invasion with competitors from the twin island republic of Trinidad and Tobago (T&T) also showing interest. Whichever date is chosen for round two, it will be full of excitement. The leaders in the respective time brackets after round one of the championships are as follows:
Syed Mobarakhali’s Toyota Verosa was awarded ‘best burnout’.
Fans at the starting line to see Derrick Jaisingh’s machine’s power.
16 seconds - Vicky Persaud 15 seconds - Ramesh Persaud 14 seconds - Eric Watchman (Suriname) 13 seconds - Raymond John (Suriname) 1 2 s e c o n d s - Av i Samaroo 11 seconds - Damian Persaud 10 seconds - Peter Daby Unlimited – Terrence Cox (Team Mohamed’s) 600 cc bikes - Mark ‘Mad Max’ Menezes 1000cc bikes - Mark ‘Mad Max’ Menezes
Grace Kennedy on board Bartica Easter Regatta 2019
G
race Kennedy is one of the early corporate entities to partner with the Town Council of Bartica for the 2019 edition of the Annual Bartica Easter Regatta. The company, through its Marketing Assistant, Mr. Dennis Heywood recently handed over its sponsorship package to Town Clerk Ms. Stephie Allen in the office of the Mayor, Gifford Marshall. “We are happy to be here and to make whatever contribution to the successful hosting of the Bartica Easter Regatta.” Ms. Stephie Allen, Town Clerk (ag) of Bartica expressed appreciation to Grace Kennedy for their contribution stating that it would be well utilised.” Alluding to the fact that this is the first time that the Town Council would be coordinating the Bartica Easter Regatta, Allen promised that the event would be the best ever.
Ms. Stephie Allen, Town Clerk (ag) (3rd left) receives the Grace Kennedy contribution from Grace Kennedy’s Marketing Manager Ms. Tina Seabra in the presence of Marketing Assistant, Mr. Dennis Heywood (right), Mayor Gifford Marshall (left) and BEF Marketing Assistant, Mr. Dennis Heywood and BER Organising Secretary, Ciana Persaud. Organising Secretary of the Regatta Committee, Ciana Persaud informed that this year’s event would be epic as they plan to have more compact events. “We’re looking forward
to the pageant which is going to be on the 21st of April, the 22nd is the Regatta racing and we hope to have more than fifteen thousand patrons this year at the regatta. You will come for the party and
stay for the fun.” Regatta Sports action was set to get underway last evening at the Bartica Community Center ground w i t h Vo l l e y b a l l f r o m 18:00hrs.
t r o Sp GABA/Let’s Bet Sports knockout tournament
Kobras wrap up First Division Championship
Let’s Bet Sports’ Joel Lee hands over the check and championship trophy to Kobras’ skipper Carlos Edwards.
Inaugural Kares Engineering Teen Challenge
Tina Praimchand and Eli Armstrong are inaugural female and male champs
Tina Praimchand is all smiles on the podium along with 2nd placed Kyla Sills (left) and Sara Sanmoogan along with the other two competitors.
Male Teen Challenge winner Eli Armstrong is flanked by 2nd placed Quacy Semple and Alex Arinda on the podium. The other competitors stand in front.
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