Wednesday April 13, 2016
Please give Peter’s Hall housing scheme electricity DEAR EDITOR, We were allocated a plot of land at Peter’s Hall in the year 2013 at a price of $400, 000. We fulfilled the requirement and were given transport last year. Since then, we have been without electricity. This has been a hindrance. This has been a hindrance since electricity is required for construction. Also it aids with security. Electricity is available in nearby housing schemes such as Providence which is separated from my area by a mere main road and a 20 feet canal. The turn-key housing scheme located east of our area also has electricity. Several attempts were made to secure electricity from the GPL but all have been unsuccessful so far. It is hoped that through this letter our appeal will be heard by the relevant authorities Frustrated houselot owners
Dr. Kean Gibson gives her take on the Harmon imbroglio DEAR EDITOR, I was stunned and saddened when I saw the PNC/APNU protestors outside of Kaieteur News and it brought back memories of the PNC era when a perceived wrong was seen as right and we were driven into silence and acceptance by fear. The country is now in a different era with the defeat of the PPP at the last polls. Certain principles have come to the fore – accountability, transparency and good governance. It seems to me that Mr. Harmon and the leadership of the APNU/PNC coalition do not understand that the people voted for these principles. His conduct in the awarding of the contract to Mr. Brian Tiwarie without the apparent knowledge of the Administration, his interference in the affairs of the GRA, and his association with BaiShanLin, compounded by his refusal to explain his actions to the Guyanese people, are in violation of all these principles. He made himself open to the charges. The protest is at best a diversionary tactic as it avoids dealing with the question as to whether Mr. Harmon is corrupt or not. I think the Guyanese people have already made up their minds – and we must not allow the APNU/AFC coalition to take us back to those dark and terrible times. Kean Gibson The UWI
Time for Guyana to move on
DEAR EDITOR, To echo the writer that “Denying the poor while enriching the rich is wrong and ugly,” I would add it is also very disgusting to know what went on during the previous administration under the Mafioso rule of Jagdeo. If we don’t stamp it out soon we are all guilty and can’t blame others. Its time voters vote with their conscience and let us move forward. In the whole Caribbean we are the only one left behind because we are still being racial and don’t want to face the facts. Let’s call a spade a spade Guyanese. An almost similar thing was happening to Canada when Quebec was threatening separation. Now that’s been put to bed, Canada has moved on and it one of the best countries in the world to live in. I am not saying that; it was the opinion of UN survey. Not long ago when I was in England it took us 5 hrs to get home to my sister’s home in Wembley, because the IRA planted bombs and we had to detour. The wrath of the British and The IRA is no longer a threat and life is back to normalcy. Its time Guyanese move on, we have such a beautiful country and we can’t let politics and racialism destroy it. GOD BLESS GUYANAAND GUYANESE EVERYWHERE Norman Tewarie
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THE AFC CANNOT EAT ITS CAKE AND HAVE IT TOO DEAR EDITOR, After having witnessed the media blitz against Minister Joe Harmon on alleged corruption (of which there is so far no real evidence), reputable forensic auditors and letter writers are calling for his removal on grounds of his association with BK and BaiShanLin on that “secret mission” to China. The government and the veterans in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs should have known that diplomatic protocol dictates that he should not have travelled on the same aircraft with the BaiShanLin delegation since we have so many outstanding matters of national importance to resolve. Moreso, we should not appear to be weak and compromising even though we are aware that China is the superpower with the greatest investments in Latin America and the Caribbean in recent times.
The urgent embrace of BK also raise red flags but we do not fully know the Government’s motive; his sizable campaign donation may be partly the basis of the relationship. However, while I hold no brief for Harmon, I would recall the concept of Realpolitik or Political Realism best demonstrated by the United States, the #1 superpower in the Iran Contra Affair where alliances of convenience were formed to meet specific short term objectives. So, the one time military dictator and drug trafficker, Manuel Noriega, of Panama worked closely with the United States Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) “as one of the primary conduits for illicit weapons, military equipment and cash destined for US backed counter-insurgence forces throughout Central and South America”. The United States accomplished its objectives.
For those who are bent on castigating Harmon, permit me to share some more information about the halls of power. Ministers, Heads of Departments, and Directors are all advisors to the President. The Ministry of the President may have considered the optic of seizing BaiShanLin vehicles, at the same time when a GOG delegation was headed to China. Which activity is in the greater long term interest of Guyana? Should we prioritize our diplomatic relationship focusing on the benefits of China’s investments or the short term repossession of assets? Isn’t it more prudent and profitable to later reassess and/or renegotiate the more shady deals of the past government with Chinese companies and their affiliates? I would urge every Guyanese to view President Obama’s you-tube video on his town hall meeting last year
in Jamaica on the question of foreign investments, American and Chinese included, in Latin America and the Caribbean. We should be more strategic in the way we conduct business and foreign investments. As shocking as it may sound, maybe Minister Harmon made the right call but lacked finesse. Finally, Cabinet decisions are meant to be confidential and then issued by memorandum for action by the various officials and departments. Who would have leaked Harmon’s call and why? Who would have passed on the picture to the media and why? It is my conviction that the AFC cannot be both government and government critic at the same time. The can’t have it both ways! With great excitement I await news of the next Cabinet meeting to see the cards of the Coalition. Max Wallerson
Critique of the Guyana Chronicle DEAR EDITOR, When respected academics and conscientious citizens make valid observations and offer sound advice to public entities, it is always necessary to pause and re-assess how the situation is being perceived, and what can be done to alter the trajectory for the better. The hyper-involved social media scene is really the most immediately democratic method the people have of communicating their concerns directly to powerful governing interests, and I honestly believe that despite the pitfalls of knee-jerk reactions, it is an important component of the modern democratic state. The current GNNL board comprises dedicated and
professional individuals who are serious about effecting meaningful improvements at the Chronicle. However, the reality for any organization is that mastheads, colors, and columnists can be shifted, revamped or replaced in a short amount of time, but significant, sustainable changes to the ethos typically require a tectonic shift that can only come about with time. For too long, reporters and editors subjected readers to crudely written, pseudointellectual articles and editorials that, in many cases, had been directed by particular political groups. Our board has clearly and repeatedly communicated that sycophancy, intellectual dishonesty, and bias will no
longer be tolerated. Despite the current board’s efforts, our message is often misinterpreted and misunderstood, and recently an image was altered, perhaps in an attempt to present a polite political narrative. The Board took appropriate steps to sanction these actions and to try to ensure they are not repeated. Our board discovered that a lack of consistent, comprehensive, updated policy guidelines contributed to the feeling that true change is not occurring or even possible. Also, ad hoc departures from prevailing dogma were intended to serve as evidence that the state media had responsibly changed. Although the lengthy
process of collating, organizing and developing sound guidelines and policy is underway, the board’s vision of a better, more transparent and cohesive strategic architecture that adopts the best journalistic practices will take time. Meanwhile, the slow (and clearly rocky, see letter by hack journalist and Rodney commission profiteer/ chronicler in today’s paper) dismantling of an oppressive arm of the state machinery continues. Training and professional development are ongoing as we pursue a culture that understands, respects, and embraces internationally accepted journalism ethics and rejects the vulgarity of a Continued on page 29
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Wednesday April 13, 2016
GuySuCo settles lawsuit with Queens man gets 25 years for former Materials Manager fatal stabbing Guyanese wife For six years, there was a cloud over his name. In March 2010, as the Materials Manager of the state-owned Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo), Aasrodeen Shaw, 62, was sacked after reportedly breaching the entity’s policies on procurement. But it appears that the sacking and the embarrassment from the stories being published were all a punishment by senior officials of GuySuCo for Shaw’s insistence on not breaking regulations and becoming involved in wrongdoing. Yesterday, Shaw disclosed that the corporation had agreed to settle the matter out-of-court, and he wants his name cleared. “I have done nothing wrong and had sued GuySuCo to clear my name.” Shaw said he joined GuySuCo in 1996 as Deputy
Aasrodeen Shaw Materials Manager, but left two years later and returned to Canada to re-settle with his family. During the last year of his tenure, he acted as Materials Manager. In September 2009, GuySuCo offered Shaw the position of Materials Manager, which he accepted. He returned with his family. But six months later,
GuySuCo under the Chairmanship of Dr. Nanda Gopaul decided to terminate his services without notice. “I believe that my dismissal stemmed from my insistence that the procurement rules should be strictly adhered to, as well as for not cooperating with any arrangement to circumvent such rules,” Shaw said. He said that he could not have compromised on his professionalism as a member of the certified procurement bodies in the UK and Canada. After his dismissal, Shaw was prevented from leaving Guyana, especially since he had responded to a newspaper article on his dismissal. The ban was lifted after a court hearing into the matter. Shaw reflected that he and his family suffered immensely during the last six years, during which period he was unable to secure employment in Guyana or overseas because of the publicity on the internet of his dismissal. Prospective employers would in all probability have “Googled” his name and disregarded any application for employment he would have made. “I am happy with the outcome and would like to express my appreciation to the new Board of GuySuCo for agreeing to the settlement.”
New York - A Queens man who killed his estranged wife by stabbing her 150 times in front of their kids was sentenced to 25 years in prison Monday. Oscar Novakovsky‘, 41, of 121st. Street in South Richmond Hill ,attacked Diane Sharma, 32, on January 15, 2012 in front of their three children, who were three, five and nine at the time. Novakovsky left the murder weapon, a knife, protruding from Sharma’s neck. In the previous September, Sharma had got an order of protection against Novakovsky after he tried to strangle her. “This heinous act committed by a husband against his wife in front of their three small children as they cried and pleaded with him to stop while they attempted to pull him off of her was vicious and unimaginable,” Queens District Attorney Richard Brown said. “The children will have to bear the emotional scars of what they witnessed for the rest of their lives.” Novakovsky pleaded guilty in March to firstdegree manslaughter. He told cops that his kids were screaming and trying to pull him off of Sharma, a Guyanaborn woman. It was reported that the man was arrested after Police followed his bloody trail for three blocks. “My stepfather stabbed
Killed: Diane Sharma
Jailed: Oscar Novakovsky
The victim’s parents my mom,” the stricken nineyear-old daughter of Sharma told New York Police. The couple’s two sons, aged three and four, were also at home at the time, but they did not witness the incident. They lived on 117th Street in Jamaica, one of Sharma’s close friends in Guyana confirmed.
Reports are that Sharma and her husband were having marital difficulties for a while. Friends in Guyana said that Sharma had even refused to take photos with the man. The New York Post reported that at the time of the incident, Sharma had taken out a restraining order (Continued on page 18)
Another captured jaguar relocated from E’bo coast A jaguar captured at Lake Capoey, Essequibo has been safely relocated to Georgetown Animal Sanctuary, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) said yesterday. It was the third one in recent times. Residents of Essequibo Coast have set traps after complaining of their animals being attacked. With regards to the latest capture, EPA said that on March 24, 2016, a male Jaguar was caught in a trap set by residents of Lake Capoey, Essequibo. On receipt of this news, an officer from the EPA and a representative of the Ministry of Natural Resources visited
the community to verify the news and to ensure the safety of the jaguar. “The EPA then made arrangements with the Transport and Harbours Department (T&HD) and Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA) to facilitate the safe transport and relocation of the jaguar to Georgetown.” On April 5, officers of the EPA accompanied by a veterinarian travelled to the Lake Capoey Community, secured the jaguar and transported it to the capital city. “The jaguar was relocated to Hyde Park Animal Sanctuary at Land of Canaan
on the East Bank Demerara, Region Four. Jaguars are an endangered species and environmentally important. The jaguar is the largest cat of the Americas weighing up to 100kg (220 pounds) and it plays an important role in maintaining a healthy environment by helping to control the population of smaller animals lower down the food chain.” EPA noted that the number of jaguars entering Region Two communities and attacking livestock has been increasing. The primary reason is to search for food. The region also has been experiencing long dry spells which may have forced regular prey to move closer to water sources. “As the search for food
becomes more difficult, Jaguars may enter communities and stumble upon “easy” food in the form of domesticated animals that are available there.” However, EPA advised that there are preventative measures, which can be taken to deter jaguars from entering into communities altogether. The most effective methods include keeping domesticated animals in wellconstructed pens or corrals at night and using motiontriggered light or loud sounds near the livestock. The surprise effect causes the cat to retreat and search for food elsewhere. Jaguars are legally protected in Guyana under the Wildlife Management and Conservation Regulations (WMCR) 2013.
Wednesday April 13, 2016
Kaieteur News
Greece expects first asylum decisions under EU deal in two weeks
A boy stands next to a border fence on the Greek side of the border as Macedonian police stand guard on the Macedonian side, close to a makeshift camp for refugees and migrants near the Greek village of Idomeni, yesterday. Picture taken from the Greek side of the border. REUTERS/Alexandros Avramidis Reuters - Greece said authorities would start ruling on asylum applications from hundreds of migrants in the next two weeks, in a major test of a new deal to try to control the flow of people desperate to reach Europe. By the latest count, more than 50,000 people, most from Syria, Iraq and Afghanistan, have been stranded in Greece since Balkan countries closed their borders in February to migrants and refugees wanting to cross, mostly on the way to Germany. Many of them are refugees from war, but others are economic migrants. Asylum applications have been piling up since March, when the European Union and Turkey signed an agreement intended to close off the main route into Europe, has seen an influx of over a mil-
lion refugees and migrants since last year. Under the EU-Turkey deal, those who arrive to Greece from March 20 will be screened, registered and detained in holding centres until their asylum applications are processed. Rejected applicants, and those who do not apply, are returned to Turkey. “The first results of the asylum applications will be ready in about 15 days and the next phase of the implementation of the agreement will begin,” government spokeswoman Olga Gerovasili told reporters. Amnesty International has called the situation in Greece “very chaotic,” without enough attention for individual processing and has voiced concerns that the process will be a “rubberstamping exercise” to send people back. So far, around 325 people
who did not request asylum have been returned from the Greek islands under the accord, which the U.N. refugee agency (UNHCR) has condemned and rights advocates say may violate international law. A spokesman for the European Asylum Office (EASO), a partner in implementing the deal, said the time frame was “feasible”. EASO officials have been deployed on the island of Lesbos since last week carrying out “admissibility assessments” of arrivals. Most of the 50,000 stranded in Greece arrived before March 20 and are not subject to being returned under the latest deal. Their fate remains unclear, however some are expected to be moved to other European countries under relocation plan agreed many months ago.
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Wednesday April 13, 2016
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No permanent friends, just permanent interests! The political culture of Guyana is not going to change overnight. But change will also not come unless steps are taken to do things differently from what was done during the time of the PPP. It is a well- known fact that when the PPP was in opposition for 28 years, the business class did not want anything to do with them. The business class is an opportunistic class; they move with the tide. This is exactly what happened in 1992 when the PPP came to power. The
business class had, under the PNC, proffered its loyalty to that party. There was even a group of businessmen who had come together to establish a Committee for the Re-election of the President. The people developed an acronym for that committee. They called it CREEP. Some members of CREEP ingratiated themselves into the camp of the PPP minutes after the party won the 1992 elections. It is not surprising, therefore, to learn that a great many of the businesses who were perceived to be close to
the PPP, after that party’s loss in the 2015 elections, were seen rubbing shoulders with government officials. This is how the business class operates. There are no political loyalties, only business interests. Whoever is in power is going to be courted. There is a perception that the government was aligning itself with supporters of the PPP who have business interests. This is a false perception. The business class’ loyalties are to itself. That is something that both the government and their
supporters are misreading. It is being claimed that the government is getting close to certain business interests who were perceived to be close to the previous government. That perception is wrong. It does not matter which party is in power, it is in the interest of the business class to align itself to the government. The issue is not about friendship. Friendships can be made and unmade. It is about interests. When you are in power the members of the business class cling to you like bees to a
City Hall projects 11% revenue increase this year The Mayor and City Council (M&CC) has foreseen a significant jump in its revenue this year, crediting this to the new revenue collection mechanisms being put in place, and existing money sources that the Municipality is now better able to tap into. This was the view of City Treasurer, Ron Mc Calmon, when he addressed newly appointed Georgetown Councilors during their orientation session at the Cara Lodge last week. The treasurer gave an overview of his department, while acquainting Councilors with the Municipality’s various sources of revenue generation. “We expect our revenue
to increase by 11 percent this year,” he asserted, before outlining various areas where the Council intends to strengthen its revenue collection. For instance, Mc Calmon said, there are 150 properties currently registered with the Municipality that have changed their status from a residential property to a commercial one, but are paying the same meagre rates. “Some of these people are paying $2,000 annually, $1,000 and even $800 for these properties,” Mc Calmon said - with affirmation from some seasoned Councilors who nodded and clapped to the truth of the information. Mc Calmon spoke on the valuation and re-evaluation
of properties to determine the actual sums owed to the Municipality. He noted that better car and bus park management, land leases, revenue from new and rehabilitated vending spaces and revenue collection from container operators, among others will also increase the Council’s fees. In relation to containers, the agency intends to convene a special team to identify those persons offloading containers within the city during the night hours to avoid paying the due sums to the Council. “So we will be working overtime for those persons,” Mc Calmon insisted. After pointing to several
Dem boys seh...
Joe Humble pull a three-card trick This thing bout Joe Humble is a pappy show. De whole country fussing and vex, because in dem eye Joe Humble do something that nobody who was fighting corruption woulda do. He mix up wid people who was robbing de country and as old people seh, when you go to crab dance you must get mud. He come over as somebody who know that de most gun happen is that people gun talk. That is why he still ain’t got nutten to tell anybody. People expect Soulja Bai to act, but de opposite happen. Soulja Bai protecting de man. When people talk, Soulja Bai telling dem that they don’t know wha dem talking about. Well dem boys find out that Joe Humble been to China pun a secret mission. He had to cut a deal wid de Chinee Government who been putting money in de country, but who get stop from fetching out all de logs that dem could. De word is that de Hambassadah carry a note to Soulja Bai from de Chinee Premier threatening Soulja Bai that is either he ease de pressure pun BaiShanLin or give back all de money wha China spend in Guyana. Like a smart President, Soulja Bai tell him to tek de Marriott. De Premier seh that de Marriott ain’t worth de money wha
Brassington seh it build for. So when Joe Humble go to China de other day fuh US$5 million, is not that Guyana deh bad. Is that Soulja Bai did want de small piece to pay de Chinese Premier. But one thing to ee credit, he still tell de Premier that he can’t ship out wood like how he use to; that dem days done. Dem got to build a sawmill. But de other one get some slack. De one who get de airport contract ain’t got to spend money to hire trucks. Dem can use de BaiShanLin trucks, which is like watching massa bull and massa cow. And all this while Joe Humble smiling because he do he job. He pull a three-card trick pun de Chinee Premier. That is why Nigel resign. When he hear that is wha happen he feel shame. Talk half and see who more shame bout Joe Humble.
other existing money earners, the Treasurer said his department is responsible for all of Council’s revenue and expenditure, including those of other departments. Mc Calmon urged the Councilors to work toward strengthening the Council’s financial abilities with strong policies. Despite the projected increase, the Treasurer is of the view that more can be done to increase the agency’s revenue, especially with the number of projects and services that are intended to synchronize the returning Garden City with that of a green city lifestyle.
honeycomb. But when you are out, you are “out like south.” There was once a very wealthy family in Guyana. When the PNC was in power, the patriarch of the family was aligned to the government. When the government changed, a family member was seen to be very close to the new government. This is how business works. There was another family which, when it seemed possible that the PPP could win the 1992 elections, had one brother align himself to the PPP and the other brother to the PNC. The family could not lose. Whichever way the election went, it would win. This was a very smart thing to do. The business class donates to both sides of the political fence during election campaign season. It has always had friends in both camps. It has two sets of envelopes at the wait during campaign time: one set for the opposition and the other set for ruling party. This is the insurance for the business class. It matters not who wins; the business class does not lose. The business class must understand by now that it is being used by the new government. It has been used and it is now being kicked around like a football. It has donated and now that it plans to reap its rewards it is being
told to go to hell, that it is not wanted. This is ingratitude. The business class has always felt that it had to be sycophants to the government. It has always felt that it has to “suck up” to the new rulers. It has played along with this role for decades It is time for the business class to stop being weak. It is time for business persons to stop trying to groom support by ingratiating themselves to the new rulers. They should get the message. They are not wanted. The business class has to get off its knees and not humiliate itself anymore. The business class will not learn. It will sit back and allow itself to be kicked around. Then five years from now, it will give donations to the same parties that have been kicking it around. The business class cannot help itself. It is a sad and tragic case for which there is no hope. Nothing that the business class can do will change what is about to happen. A new group of business tycoons is going to emerge. The present group has to step aside. This is how it has always been. This is how it always will be.
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THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN
Was Joe Harmon referring to me? In an opinion issued through Malika Ramsey, the following words were made in the name of Joe Harmon; “It is the people who elected the Coalition Government and it is the people who decide whether or not that government is performing – not one or two newspaper columnists…” Did Joe Harmon mean me when that emanation came through Ramsey? I did two columns on Joe; “Has power destroyed Joe Harmon” (Friday, April 8) and “Joe Harmon and my wife; the AFC and my country,” (Sunday, April 10). There isn’t even a word much less a line or a paragraph on the issue of corruptibility in those two pieces. There is no note by
me as a columnist that attributes corruptibility to Joe Harmon. In the mood Harmon is and the methodology he operates with, he doesn’t speak in public on political dimensions in which he is in the centre, so I assume he will not publicly state if he was referring to me when he alluded to “one or two newspaper columnists.” If Joe had me in mind when Ramsey transmitted his words, then I should jog his memory. Ordel Glasgow works in Joe’s constituency office at Pouderoyen. She is a friend of mine. I contacted Ordel the very day that Joe was quoted as saying that he will not apologize for his attitude on the salary
increase. For two days, Ordel, who knows Joe well, and I, were trying to get to him to discuss the strategy of an apology. I knew his two cell numbers and his home line. He failed to respond. I then contacted Mark Archer, whom I know well, to convey what I had imparted to Ordel. Mark said he would get in touch with Joe to convey my need to see him. I never received the courtesy of a Joe Harmon call. I cynically referred to that in my last Sunday column, a cynicism I will stand by, because I know if my call was made before Joe became the second most powerful man in government he would have responded. I asked the question in
my Friday column: if power has destroyed Joe Harmon. State power destroys most human beings who bring it into their lives. I am not saying there aren’t exceptions. The history book shows there are. Mandela comes to mind. Gorbachev is there. A former Uruguayan president is there. A former Swedish Prime Minister is included. The exceptions are very few. Throughout my studies of history and philosophy, I have become fascinated with the subject of power. If you study philosophy and history, you fall victim to that obsession, the reason being that power holds the key to understanding the meaning of history (if history has meaning at all – a question my
former history professor at UG, Sister Mary Noel Menezes answered; she believes it hasn’t). No matter how you love, not like but love the Coalition Government, its style of using power is undermining the optimism of the people of Guyana. The examples are horrible and discouraging, of which I will not describe at this time, because this time is not the right time. Some of these examples involved Joe. That is why I want to know if he was referring to me when he spoke of newspaper columnists. Two of those examples, I thought, were misplaced thinking by Joe. I did not write on them, because I have a responsibility not to create divisions within the Coalition Government that would weaken it. Had I said what should have been said, I honestly think a rift would have ensued in the Government, because the public and political observers would have picked up on it If Joe Harmon should call me (the way it appears he called Tiwarie in the past few months), I would tell him that his strategies are arid and ordinary, and they are
Frederick Kissoon disappointing countless numbers of supporters. For all we know, this Coalition may have already lost voters in 2020. First, his silence is incredible. Who are his advisors? Does he take advice from them if and when they tender it? Didn’t Joe Harmon learn from the first imbroglio when he took six weeks to do what should have been done in one day to save his image – apologize for the “no apology to make” statement. Secondly, why attack the press that was so exposing of the PPP venalities that it raised Guyanese consciousness and that has a direct bearing on Joe Harmon coming to power. Thirdly, is he happy with third parties speaking for him (Amna Ally, Malika Ramsey)? Fourthly, did he know beforehand about the picket outside Kaieteur News?
Wednesday April 13, 2016
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Rehab of Haags Bosch landfill access road attracts 17 bidders During the opening of bids at the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB), a total of 17 companies vied for the contract to rehabilitate the access road to the Haags Bosch Sanitary Landfill. The engineer’s estimate was $89.4M. The landfill, which first opened in 2011, is located on the East Bank of Demerara (EBD) and is accessible by the Eccles Industrial Site access road.
In addition, there were bids for repair works to be done on the East Ruimveldt Secondary School fence.
There were two bids for the provision of a new double cab pick-up for the Pesticides and Toxic Chemicals Control Board (PTCCB). Transport and Harbours Department (T&HD) also put out a contract for the acquisition and supply of spares for vessels. Only one bid was opened, but it was certainly substantial. Under the Guyana Power and Light (GPL), there was a sole bid to provide consultancy services to the Power Utility Upgrade Programme’s management strengthening programme. In view of the aforementioned contract for the supply of spares for vessels, there were also contracts for companies to carry out the docking and rehabilitation works on the M.V Sabanto. The M.V Sabanto has run aground in the past, necessitating an inquiry at one point. Finally, a contract for the provision of metrological equipment also went out, on behalf of Guyana National Bureau of Standards. Only bids from foreign companies were opened. There was a similar contract for the M.V. Kanawan.
There was one bid for a contract to dock and rehabilitate the M.D Steve N. This will be executed under the Maritime Administrative Department.
Meanwhile, there was also a contract to provide security service to the Ministry of Social Protection.
Catering establishments also competed for a contract to supply and deliver cooked meals to the night shelter, under the Ministry of Social Protection.
There were also bidders who sought a contract to do repair and maintenance works at the Ministry of Education’s, lot 68 Brickdam office. The engineer’s estimate was $8.8M.
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Wednesday April 13, 2016
New operator of Omai mines experiencing difficulties
The operator of the Omai goldmine, since acquiring the property a few years ago, has reportedly fallen into financial and other problems.
A Canadian company that acquired rights to mine in the Omai property, Region Eight, is apparently in deep trouble, with at least one senior official’s services being terminated this week. According to a Marketwire report, Donald Gordon resigned as Interim CEO and a Director of Mahdia Gold Corp, effective today. Effective Monday last, the services of the Managing Director, Sheik Alan Zaakir, were terminated. The news report yesterday, speaking of the company’s troubles, said that the Board of Directors since the last Annual General Meeting held in August 2014 has received no compensation or funds by any operations from Guyana or from outside investment. As of August 2014, the company owed over US$14M to the Government of Guyana and creditors. “Current payables include $767,319 to former Directors, Officers, Related Parties and Consultants after an amount of $939,928 was deducted from the payables to this group reflecting an assumed reduction in reorganization.” The report said that current management visited the Omai property in August 2014 and although the company had a physical office and a number of employees there was little activity observed. “Reports from the property ceased such that no information was provided as to whether production was occurring and if so, if
sufficient to cover expenses of production and provide any funds to the company.” As a matter of fact, the company ceased trading on March 13, 2013 for failure to file the annual audited and first quarterly statement. The Cease Trade Order followed management cease trade on the CEO for approximately two months which delayed the full cease trade order and was provided under the expectation that the Guyana information would be received. “The current board had no means to attend the property themselves but made regular requests for the Guyana Managing Director to provide reports; however the board remained to ensure the company maintained stability in its board for the purpose of renegotiating the payment terms which were in default.” To restore the company’s trading status it will have to obtain the information from the Guyana operations for the fiscal years ended August 31, 2014, and 2015 along with the intervening quarterly periods as well as file to the most recent quarterly for fiscal 2016. On completion, the company will have to complete a creditor reorganization, secure its ownership of its property, ensure all its continuous disclosure obligations are met, hold its shareholder meetings for the past two years and ultimately seek a stock exchange listing if it can meet listing requirements. The management of the company completed a recent
visit to Guyana at their own expense and observed evidence of significant work in the intervening period though there had been frequent turnover of operators. The company has no official office and only a few security personnel and the Managing Director. “The company has not been kept informed as to agreements in place and results of operations by its Guyana operating entity. Management was able to meet with the local accountants who are willing and capable to update the financial reporting and help provide a monthly reporting system of operations, revenues and expenses.” Following the visit, the company said it has been approached by persons who are proposing to join the board and take control. The inactivity of the Omai property would raise eyebrows as it has been a number of years now that Mahdia Gold has taken possession. Omai Gold Mines was most recently held by Iamgold after acquisition from Cambior Resources. At the time it was built, in the early nineties, Omai was the largest gold mine in South America. In a period spanning 13 years, Omai produced over 3.7 million ounces of gold during a period when the price of gold was approximately US$300 an ounce. Mahdia Gold believed that historical data suggests that Omai still contains significant gold deposits. By 2006-2007, more that 3.7 million ounces of gold was produced.
Duo in court for assaulting cop, theft of gold bangle A bus driver accused of assaulting a traffic officer was yesterday released on $10,000 bail when he appeared before Magistrate Dylon Bess in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts. Terrence Park of 129 Melanie Damishana, East Coast Demerara, pleaded not guilty to the charge which stated that on April 8, at Commerce Street, Georgetown, he unlawfully assaulted Constable Critchlow who is stationed at the Traffic Department of Brickdam Police Station. It was further alleged that on the same day, Park resisted the arrest of Constable Critchlow who was at the time a peace officer acting in execution of his duties. According to court facts,
Park, the driver of a route 44 minibus, was caught by the cop soliciting passengers. The cop attempted to arrest the traffic violator who resisted the officer and held on to him in an effort to fight him off. After seeing the commotion, a large crowd gathered at the scene and the officer called for backup and was able to apprehend his attacker. Meanwhile, in another case, Magistrate Bess sent a 20-year old woman on her own recognizance (self bail) after she appeared before him for allegedly stealing a gold bracelet belonging to her aunt. Celena Doodnauth is accused of stealing the item valued at $100,000 - between April 3 and 4 - at Ruimveldt. The article is the property of
Davie Persaud. Doodnauth, who had no legal representation pleaded not guilty to the charge. Court facts revealed that on April 3, at around 08:00hrs Persaud hid the bracelet inside her mattress and left the home, leaving the defendant and her husband. On April 4, at about 16:00hrs the complainant made checks for her jewellery and discovered that it was missing. The matter was reported to the police, and Doodnauth was arrested. The court heard that the young woman admitted to stealing the bracelet. Bail was granted to her after the prosecution had no objections. Both matters will be called again on May 9.
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Rights Activist worried about “major governance issues” “We have major governance issues,” Women and Children’s Rights Activist, Karen DeSouza, asserted yesterday. DeSouza who is a member of Red Thread, a local NonGovernmental Organisation (NGO), was at the time commenting on her belief that too little information has been forthcoming from Government regarding recent disclosures about Minister of State, Joseph Harmon. Harmon has recently been embroiled in contentious activities including granting local businessman, Brian Tiwarie of BK International, an honorific Ministerial Advisor appointment in midJanuary. Soon after the appointment was publicised by this publication it was rescinded by President David Granger. The Minister of State has also been accused of coming to the rescue of Chinese logging company Bai Shan Lin when attempts were made by the Guyana Revenue Authority to redeem outstanding taxes. Harmon in recent days has also been refusing to speak directly to the media about his reported controversial involvements, but has instead given a report of a visit to China through the Government Information Agency. According to DeSouza, “although we (Red Thread) have not discussed this issue, I believe things would be a lot clearer if the Government or Mr. Harmon himself spoke, and explain what really is going on.” DeSouza’s remarks were forthcoming yesterday even as she along with other human rights activists picketed the eastern side of Vlissengen Road overlooking the Ministry of the Presidency. It has been over a month since a number of NGOs, including Red Thread, Help and Shelter and Grassroots
— as NGOs continue picket action for Minister Lawrence’s reassignment
Rights activists picketing yesterday.
Women Across Race, along with a few private individuals, have joined forces to call for the removal of Minister of Social Protection, Volda Lawrence. This was in the wake of Minister Lawrence’s failure to speak out against an accused child molester. Government had thrown its support behind Winston Harding as an APNU+AFC candidate during the run-up to the recently held Local Government Elections (LGE). Harding was accused of sexually molesting a minor. However, after reports of the sexual molestation accusation surfaced in Stabroek News, a daily newspaper, Government decided to withdraw its support for Harding. He, nevertheless, managed to be successful at the elections and has thus gained a place at the City Council. But ahead of Government’s move to withdraw its support, Lawrence was quoted in some sections of the media saying that the allegation of sexual assault against Harding was in fact a family matter. The Minister’s comment had evoked the
concern of the NGOs and other individuals which saw them spearheading protest action. Speaking on the issue yesterday, Help and Shelter’s Danuta Radzik noted that “we think it is wrong and he (Harding) is now in the Council. We do not think that the Council should have persons who have been accused of child molesting...he was actually charged, we know that, there is record and it is one of those cases that is not completed as yet.” “I think that when you are under investigation, etc., it is inappropriate, it is morally indefensible to have a person in a City Council, and the Minister’s comments were unfortunate, because many of us have fought for many years to make sure that issues of child abuse and child sexual abuse are not treated as family issues and dampened down. “So we don’t intent to go back to those days. So when the Minister said this is a family issue and should be handled through the courts we completely disagree with her, because all it does is emboldens abusers of
Three of five accused...
(From page 7) soon. Prosecutors believe that Dominic Bernard was murdered shortly after he arrived at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) on October 14, 2015. On January 8, a badly decomposed body suspected to be that of Bernard was found in a shallow grave at Nurney, Corentyne, Berbice, by CID ranks from Georgetown and Berbice. They were acting on an anonymous phone call. A ‘Post Mortem’ revealed that he had sustained a fractured skull, as well as a broken neck. In the ensuing investigations, British law enforcement collaborated with local police and this resulted in Thomas, Henry and Sinclair being arrested and the property of the deceased recovered. According to reports, Bernard had arrived in Guyana on October 14, last, for a threeweek vacation with his God brother, Aaron Hing. He was scheduled to fly back to England
on November 5, 2015, but failed to do so. It was reported that his father, Andrew Bernard contacted his Godson (Hing) about his son’s whereabouts after the latter did not return home. However, Hing reportedly told his Godfather that he was unaware that the teen was coming to Guyana. This raised suspicions and the elder Bernard flew to Guyana to locate his eldest child. His visit led to the intensification of the investigations which later resulted in the discovery of the teenager’s body.
children...and it also calls into question the APNU+AFC stance on sexual violence and the Sexual Offences Act,” Radzik stated. According to DeSouza, it is hoped that the protest action would serve to force Government to reassign the Social Protection Minister even as the law takes its course in the matter of involving the allegations of sexual molestation. But given the fact that government has not been taking swift action in some
issues of concern to the public, DeSouza has deduced that “clearly it is business as usual. It appears as if it is party above child care and protection...it is as if they are saying ‘we will close ranks and protect each other, rather than do the hard work of investigating and making sure that children are properly taken care of’. That is what we have seen. We have been seeing this for a long time and the reason Red Thread exists is because this kind of
behaviour is so common,” added DeSouza. The Activist continued by adding that “One would have hoped that this Government that has promised so much would begin by doing things differently, unfortunately it is the ‘same ole, same ole’.” She, however, asserted that “we will continue to speak out and we will continue to stand up until the systems are put in place to protect children and other vulnerable groups.
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Wednesday April 13, 2016
Minister meets RUSAL on critical issues Officials of the Russian company, RUSAL, yesterday met with the Minister in the Ministry of Social Protection, Keith Scott, at his office on Brickdam, Georgetown, to discuss various issues,
including workers-related ones that have been in the public domain for the past couple of years. RUSAL and the Government of Guyana in 2014, via an agreement
founded the Bauxite Company of Guyana Incorporated (BCGI). According to the RUSAL website, the Russian company owns 90 percent of BCGI with the remaining 10
Minister in the Social Protection Ministry, Keith Scott (second from right) and Igor Tolpykin (extreme right) sharing a moment with other representatives of BCGI yesterday. percent belonging to Guyana. In 2006, RUSAL acquired the assets of Aroaima Mining Company from the Government of Guyana and transferred them to the BCGI. The Website states that RUSAL owns licences to develop Linden, Kwakwani and Ituni deposit groups in Guyana. Over the years, workers have been complaining about the “inhumane” conditions, management’s refusal to negotiate and the alleged call for the disbandment of the trade union (s) representing their workers. November 2009 saw close to 60 workers opting to take industrial action demanding increases in wages and salaries; and better working conditions. These workers were reportedly dismissed some time during that period, resulting in the union, the Guyana Bauxite and General Workers’ Union (GBGWU), having to intervene. After management refused to satisfy or negotiate with the union, the CBGWU sought the Ministry’s intervention. The workers, while accusing the former regime of turning a blind eye to their plights, are now hopeful that their rights will be up kept, at least these were the expectations when this publication spoke to about 25 of them last February. It was reported that during the discussions between the union and the company later in 2009, when the issue of salary and wage increase was raised, the General Manager (GM), slammed his palms against the desk, rose up and shouted “I will not discuss wages and salaries”, before walking out. Workers have pointed out that since then the BCGI has been denying workers the right to be unionized. Any efforts by employees to push for union representation, has allegedly resulted in
dismissal or “indefinite suspension”. Workers who were also vocal in support of their fellow workmates were reportedly served dismissal letters which stated, “This letter is served to inform you that the company has lost confidence in you as an employee and can no longer have you continue in employment here at BCGI.” In some cases, workers were reportedly dismissed for “propagandising”. In 2010, five workers were allegedly dismissed after they accused management of cooking meals with expired items. The situation intensified following the recent laying off of three Machine Operators after they refused to operate a “defective” excavator. Yesterday, the Minister told the visiting team that while he has been following the company’s expansion, he has also been following other aspects as well, including the various labour issues that would have arisen throughout the years. Scott said that he would like to see some of these issues resolved. He continued that while he understands that some of the issues would be difficult to address due to the time that would have elapsed, the meeting was set up to find amicable solutions to these said issues. The company’s Human Resources Manager, Igor Tolpykin told the minister that with regards to the dismissed workers, three have returned to the company. Others, he said, have also expressed the desire to return. He assured the minister that he will be providing the opportunity for these workers to come back to be a part of the company again. The Minister told Tolpykin that he understands that it would be difficult for the company to reinstate all the workers, however those
that would not be reinstated, the company should consider offering some sort of “(severance) package” so that their dismissals would not leave a “bitter taste in their (workers’) mouths”. Tolpykin told the minister that the company has been trying hard to keep their workers happy since they provide free amenities and commodities such as electricity, food, water, accommodation etc. The Minister in response informed the official that BCGI’s provisions are not actually “unique” since companies operating in the interior often provide these commodities. The Minister further stated that he is happy to allow the company to have access to Guyana’s national resources; however, the company should also be happy to allow employment to the people of Guyana and at the same time, recognise and respect the laws of Guyana. The minister has earlier offered a copy of a section of the constitution, which clearly states the workers’ rights to be represented by a recognised union. He then urged the company representatives to peruse the document, at their leisure time so that they can have a full understanding of that particular section. Scott also highlighted the environmental protection laws. Tolpykin said that the company sees no need for a union to be between them and the workers since they satisfy all their workers’ needs. He also related that the workers do not want to be represented by a union. However, he promised to allow for negotiations in the future with other trade unions, “but not in an aggressive manner” as he recalls one trade-unionist resorting to inappropriate name-calling.
Wednesday April 13, 2016
Kaieteur News
World Bank helping reduce time it takes to start business here
A World Bank team is here to find ways in which Guyana can improve the speed in starting up businesses. The Ministry of Business has invited a team from the World Bank to provide advice on improving the local business environment. The World Bank’s ‘Ease of Doing Business Index’ ranks economies from 1 to 189, with first place being the best. A high ease of doing business ranking means the regulatory environment is more conducive to the starting and operating of a local firm. The index averages the country’s percentile rankings on 10 topics covered. The World Bank team started its visit to Guyana on Monday and is expected to conclude the stay tomorrow. According to the ministry, during their time here, the team is having several meetings with both government agencies and the private sector. “Their focus is on the 10 pillars of the annual ‘Doing Business Report’. These include trade transactions, access to electricity, credit, land and construction permits, starting a business, paying taxes, enforcing contracts, and resolving insolvency.” The Ministry of Business said it hopes to consolidate from previous reform efforts, current activities and new ideas. “Such improvements can include legislation, administrative procedures, and Information Technology systems, licencing and sharing of information.” In the World Bank Doing Business Index, Guyana is ranked 167th (out of 189 countries)
for access to credit. This makes Guyana one of the most difficult places in the world to get credit, and this has contributed to a final position at 137 out of 189 countries overall in the index. The rankings are determined by sorting the average distance to frontier scores on 10 topics, each consisting of several indicators, giving equal weight to each topic. The distance to frontier score aids in assessing the level of regulatory performance and how it improves over time. An economy’s distance to frontier is reflected on a scale from 0 to 100, where 0 represents the lowest performance and 100, the frontier. For example, a score of 75 in DB 2015 means an economy was 25 percentage points away from the frontier constructed from the best performances across all economies and across time. A score of 80 in DB 2016 would indicate the economy is improving. In this way the distance to frontier measure complements the annual ease of doing business ranking, which matches economies with one another at a point in time. “The Ministry of Business hopes that Guyana’s performance in the Doing Business Index can be significantly improved over the next five years. This will require crossgovernment collaboration on both small and larger reforms, which is expected to create economic growth, development and job creation.”
FALLEN POLE CAUSES INCONVENIENCE
Yesterday a rotten GPL pole fell on a fence in Rewa Avenue, Lamaha Springs. Fortunately no one was in proximity at the time. However, the area’s residents were left without power for the better part of the day.
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Wednesday April 13, 2016
GFC officials are as guilty as their former political bosses for corruption By Kiana Wilburg If a public servant is asked by his boss to carry out an unlawful instruction and he complies, should the public servant be pardoned from sanctions? Or, should he be made to face some form of disciplinary action for giving into “the Mother of all vices”—Corruption? These two questions have engaged some of our local political activists and anti-corruption leaders in the wake of a sobering revelation that was made by former Auditor General, Anand Goolsarran, over the weekend. With all the instances of
corruption he uncovered at the Guyana Forestry Commission, (GFC) Goolsarran made no recommendation for the Board or the GFC head, James Singh, to face any sanction. He had done so in his forensic audit report on the National Industrial and Commercial Investments L i m i t ed (NICIL). Asked to explain why this was not done, Goolsarran told Kaieteur News that he could not find a “single piece of concrete evidence” which actually implicated a specific individual at GFC in the irregularities he cited in his report. The Chartered
- WPA Executive Member Accountant said, “I am aware Government replaced the Board for the Forestry Commission. But I have to say that there was no concrete evidence to show that James Singh, for example, took decisions by himself. “They were made by the former Board. I did not have hard or concrete evidence that there were irregularities carried out single-handedly by the Board.” Goolsarran added, “One can obviously conclude that they closed their eyes to what was going on, but there is no
evidence to tie them down to the decisions made, because what I observed was that there was heavy political influence in the GFC from the former Minister responsible for forestry, Robert Persaud and even Bharrat Jagdeo.” Goolsarran said that based on the documents he saw, the former Board was “pressed to do things” and complied. “I suppose they did it with a heavy heart,” Goolsarran added. “Besides, how does one discipline Board members who are no longer there? I have made it clear that BaiShanLin has failed to fulfill its obligations and Government should pull the plug on the company. It is necessary. “There was indeed political interference in GFC, because we see in a number of cases that BaiShanLin should be writing the GFC Board but is instead writing directly to the former Prime Minister, Sam Hinds, on certain matters.” While Goolsarran holds this view, some are in disagreement. Specifically, University Professor and Executive Member of the Working People’s Alliance (WPA), Dr. David Hinds, said that the situation as explained by Goolsarran shows the nexus between political interference from above and the willingness of managers to bow to these pressures or knowingly collude with the politicians. Dr. Hinds said that what the nation is now learning is how corruption took on a life of its own as it consumed all who were involved. He added that this is how the web of corruption is spun. Dr. Hinds believes that both the politicians and the managers are guilty.
Executive Member of the WPA, Dr. David Hinds He noted that in this instance, the former pressures and the latter enables. The Executive Member of the WPA asserted that based on what the citizenry is hearing from the auditor, this is what was at work at the GFC. The University Professor said that once the politicians got involved in the process, the floodgates were opened. He opined that those at the Commission felt it was now open season and began to engage in their own instances of corruption. In this regard, Dr. Hinds stated that the challenge now is two-fold. “Those who are guilty must be disciplined. There are no ifs and buts about that. Public Servants have to learn to resist the pressures from above to do wrong things. Yes, you may fear losing your jobs, but ultimately you will end up losing your dignity. If Ministers are found to be guilty then they must answer too. These are people who could one day become Ministers again. The second challenge is to dismantle the framework that facilitated the corruption. We are dealing here with institutional corruption.” In this regard, the WPA Executive Member said that it is not just the individuals, but it is the modes of operation which they
Forensic Auditor, Anand Goolsarran institutionalized that have to be rooted out if the nation is to make any headway in stemming the tide of corruption. In his forensic audit report, Goolsarran exposed how the Chinese company made swift moves to gain control of five major companies in the Forestry Sector - Sherwood Forest Inc, Haimorakabra Logging Co., Wood Associated Industries Co. Ltd., Puruni Woods Inc. and Kwebanna Wood Products Inc. Goolsarran noted, however, that there was no evidence that the specific approval of the GFC was granted in relation to the change of ownership/control of these companies. He argued that in the circumstances, the holders of the Timber Sales Agreements should have surrendered their authorizations to the Commission. He emphasized that these companies hold TSAs covering a total of 441,119 hectares. This means that BaiShanLin had access to a total of 627,072 hectares of State Forest. Goolsarran said that since the Forests Act prohibits the transfer of own e r s h i p / control of a forest concession without the s p ecific approval of the Commission, then the five concessionaires that have transferred such ownership or control to the officials of BaiShanLin should be made to surrender their concessions to the Commission for reallocation to other potential concessionaires. Goolsarran also recommended that all state forests owned by the company should be returned to the Commission for reallocation. In addition, he said that the coalition administration should consider terminating the investment agreements with the company and recover the value of the fiscal concessions granted to it.
Wednesday April 13, 2016
Kaieteur News
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US embassy delegation meets Linden’s Mayor, Regional Chairman campus to alleviate the pressure of travelling back and forth. Holland also highlighted the municipality’s need for assistance in the area of sanitation, youth empowerment and early childhood development at the level of daycare. And Member of Parliament Jermaine Figueira spoke of the need for opportunities to foster job creation and entrepreneurship. Figueira stressed the need for grants from the various embassies to support entrepreneurship and agriculture.
Linden Mayor Carwyn Holland (left) appears pleased as his deputy presents Humanitarian Assistance Programme Director Eric Antinucci with a gift. A team from the United States Embassy yesterday paid courtesy calls on both the Region Ten Chairman, Renis Morian, and newlyelected Mayor of Linden Carwyn Holland. Representing the Humanitarian Assistance Programme (HAP) arm of the US Embassy, the threemember team held discussions with the two leaders on ways in which HAP could lend support to the Region and Linden. HAP team members included Director Eric Antinucci, assistant director Gabe Mejia and Project Coordinator, Mark Houston. Antinucci said that the objective of the visit was to discuss issues and problems in the region and to identify possible ways of collaboration. He added that the team is very excited about the prospect of working with the leaders and people of Region Ten. Mayor Holland welcomed the team. He highlighted several areas of assistance, including stimulating the economy to create jobs. He spoke of Linden in its glory days, when people came from all over to work there. Apart from around the
country, people even came from places such as Canada and the USA, to seek employment. He reflected that Linden fed the nation for many years. Holland also alluded to the subsequent decline of the bauxite company, and how that decline affected residents - many of whom were left without jobs. “We started to struggle and were at the mercy of whatever would come down from central Government.” He emphasised that Linden has a lot of skilled people, but they are jobless. DEPENDENCY MINDSET For many years the mindset of the people was not what it should have been, Holland noted. “We have to move from that thinking - that dependency mindset, that we knew we had bauxite and the support of Central government. We have to move from that thinking and move to a position where we are generating our wealth and decrease the dependency on central Government. “Mind you, we are promoting partnerships with Central Government, the Regional Government and the
council - we need the three to work in tandem, in order to develop this town.” Holland pointed to several initiatives which he said he would be “furnishing’ the Embassy with. He added that he would be extending invitations to the various embassies and diplomatic corps to visit during either the Town Week or the fiftieth anniversary celebrations, to come and see the developmental plans of the town. The new Mayor also cited several initiatives that were started in Linden, such as Mashramani- stressing that Linden has talent. “We want to have affordable housing. We want to revive Wismar. We want to overall improve the quality of life for the people. We want to reform education. Holland spoke of the opening up of avenues for young people like himself and stressed, “We need to work from the bottom up.” He mentioned the hardships faced by Linden students who attend the University of Guyana, and posited seeking to get different faculties of the university established in the mining town, or to acquire a
He stressed the need for food security, as most of the food - over 80 percent - comes from outside of the Region. “We can encourage our youth to get involved in agriculture”, Figueira pointed out. As a Town with some of the best athletes, Figueira advocated for athletic scholarships and indoor sports facilities. He described Linden as a unique town where tourism could be developed, but that there is need for assistance. HAP director said that he found the exchanges very informative and would be
taking back all the suggestions, so that they could be looked and determination made on the way forward. He however noted that one of the “quickest’ ways that they could help would be in the form of a medical outreach. The director noted that a lot of resources could be brought in, but that assistance would be sought in the area of housing those resources. “A lot of the things mentioned need a lot of resources, which would take time”, he added.
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Wednesday April 13, 2016
PPP supporters protest Bulkan’s “dictatorship”
PPP supporters protest outside of the Ministry of the Presidency yesterday. Rain was certainly no deterrent to supporters of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) who travelled miles yesterday to protest on the lawns adjacent to the Ministry of the Presidency, against what they believe is a dictatorial move by the Minister of Communities following the recent Local Government Elections (LGE). The protesting assembly displayed placards with slogans including: “APNU/ AFC must let people’s will and laws prevail”, “APNU+AFC slaughtering democracy in Guyana”, “Basil Williams misleads Bulkan”, “The PPP says respect our votes”, “Return
of PNC/R bullyism”, “The People Elect, APNU+AFC can’t select” among others, as they chanted “yes to democracy, no to dictatorship.” PPP Executive Secretary Zulfikar Mustapha, in stressing the need for the protest action yesterday, told this publication that a decision made by the Minister of Communities, Ronald Bulkan - to name Chairpersons, Vice Chairpersons, Mayors and Deputy Mayors in several Local Authority Areas that secured equal votes by PPP and Government candidates at the recent LGE - is without a doubt a dictatorial tactic.
Mustapha related yesterday that when the equality of votes was observed after the elections “we approached the APNU (+AFC) and said let us have a discussion on the way forward. We even proposed to them that we should have rotation in these areas, because in those areas we had pluralities in four (areas)...and you could see that the people wanted their representatives to, at least, govern for sometime too. Everyone could have had a chance...but they went ahead, without our knowledge...arbitrarily and dictatorially Mr. Bulkan went and appointed Chairs, Vice
Chairs, Mayors, Deputy Mayors in all of these areas and all those persons he has appointed were APNU candidates”. Mustapha concluded that Government, through the actions demonstrated by Minister Bulkan, has embraced a dictatorial mode of operation that warrants protest action. PPP supporters, reportedly from Wo o d l a n d s / F a r m , Woodlands/Bel Air, Malgre Tout/ Meer-Zorgen, GibraltarFyrish and Industry-Plaisance, and even some who claimed to be from outside of these areas protested yesterday. The protest action comes even after the PPP was able
to secure an injunction from the High Court to quash the appointments. The matter which was filed by PPP MP, Anil Nandlall, in Mustapha’s name, is slated to be heard on April 20, 2016. The injunction was premised on the basis that Minister Bulkan acted contrary to and in violation of Municipal and District Councils Act, Chapter 28:01. But according to Attorney General, Basil Williams, at a press conference last week, the Chapter in question explicitly outlines that the Minister has the right to make the appointments made for the Local Authority Areas if the councillors cannot arrive at a consensus. He, moreover, deduced that the law was misconstrued and the applicants did not consider it in complete context, given that voters, as prescribed by 16:06 of the local government laws, would refer to the elected councillors. But in justifying yesterday’s protest action, which he said is the first in a series of such actions, Mustapha said that “the people are highlighting the seriousness...they want development at the local level and they want to work with representatives who can help them to develop their communities.” “This (protest) will not be the first...this will be a continuous process. The people will protest in the
streets, we will fight in court, we will fight in Parliament, all our legal means which we could highlight these issues,” related Mustapha. According to him, too, continued protest actions will be determined by further planning since “we are listening to the concerns of the people on the ground.” In protesting mode yesterday, PPP Member of Parliament, Harry Gill, also emphasised that “we are protesting Bulkan’s dictatorship...this man, I think he is unfair and he’s out of control.” The PPP MP recalled that the Minister in a solicited comment to him assured that he would be guided by the legislation in addressing the split vote issue. In further probing, Gill said that “I asked him (Minister Bulkan) what the legislation says, and he was not forthcoming...he said that I would have to wait to see. But this man has made the decision to unilaterally make appointments and we are against that. We feel it is not in keeping with the Constitution and the Rule of Law, and of course the judge agreed with us by suspending his instruction, so we now await a decision by the court in order to proceed.” Gill continued, “We need to have a government that is responsible to the people; we need to have some stability in this country, not the same bullyism that is taking place over and over again.”
Wednesday April 13, 2016
Kaieteur News
AFC tightlipped about Hughes’ resignation …as former chairman champions “better must come” drive
Nigel Hughes “Better must come!” Those are words featured on the Facebook page of Nigel Hughes in the wake of his recent resignation from the Alliance For Change (AFC). Hughes, who portrays himself as a patriotic Guyanese with a desire for genuine change, yesterday issued a brief statement confirming his decision to relinquish chairmanship of the AFC. The statement, issued on his Facebook page read, “On the 11th day of April 2016, I tendered my resignation to the leadership of the Alliance
for Change (AFC). My continuing to act as Chairman of the party had become difficult and untenable. It has been a privilege and honour to have served in the capacity as Chairman of the party. Better Must Come.” Kaieteur News understands that the resignation has to do with the AFC’s handling of the issues involving Minister of State Joseph Harmon. Persons in the hierarchy of the AFC declined to make specific and straightforward comments on the Hughes’ resignation. However, one executive who spoke to this newspaper said, “Nigel has always had independent views and if he feels strongly about something he holds on to it to the end.” The executive said that Hughes felt passionately about allegations that Minister Harmon has been made corrupt and thinks that the AFC should take a firm stand for “what is right.” No executive confirmed whether Hughes’ resignation has been officially accepted.
One member said, “It has been tendered. I cannot say whether it has been declined or accepted.” Kaieteur News contacted Hughes for comments on the short statement he published on Facebook but he indicated that he had nothing more to say on the issue. Hughes said that there is “nothing to add.” However, a keen look at Hughes Facebook page gave perspective. The phrase “better must come” was used quite often. Commenting on the protest staged outside of Kaieteur News on Monday in support of Harmon Hughes said, “Guess the price of an independent view is being branded as opposition. Better Must Come.” In response to support offered to him by one of his friends, Hughes said, “I still believe that Better Will Come.” The Lawyer received tremendous support on Facebook for the “stance you took” and for his sustained call for Constitutional reform. Hughes wife, Cathy remains an executive member of the AFC.
GPSU head cautiously optimistic about... (From page 19) for a significant salary increase anytime soon. The Union said that Jordan’s comments were highly inappropriate, since it came at a time when negotiations had not commenced. The finance minister had announced last month that before the next budget is presented, public servants can expect a “top-up,” but cautioned that expectations for handsome increases need to be tempered. His warning in this regard came on the heels of a report by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), which warned that Guyana must be mindful of its increases in wages when one considers the extent of economic challenges facing the Government. Jordan agreed with the IMF position on the matter. “In the good times, paying exaggerated salaries has serious long and short term impacts. Trinidad and Tobago is feeling the effects of paying salaries which at one time seemed sustainable,” the minister explained. “You either cut salaries or cut employment so to avoid being caught in that situation; one has to be extremely careful and prudent on
matters of wage increases,” he added. The Union said that it shudders to think that the Minister – whether on his own volition or acting on some other directive — might be seeking to infuse an element of unhealthy prejudice into the negotiations with the GPSU on a salary increase for public servants ahead of the start of the negotiations. It added, “What we also find particularly disconcerting, is (his) reported response to a question regarding negotiations for a pay increase for public servants …‘I don’t know about room to negotiate…we will negotiate a salary increase that is sustainable and that we can meet with projected growth’ remark.” The GPSU said that those are not the words of an individual who is amenable to negotiations, but one who comes to the table with preconditions that taint the negotiating environment long before the discourse even begins. Yesterday, the GPSU president said that he is cautiously optimistic that the undertaking to have meaningful negotiations without any prejudice conducted will be respected.
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SERVICES PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY, ETC. – CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 Visa Application: U.S.A, Canada & UK; Guyana passport application. Graphics design, advertisement. Tel: 626-7040; 265-4535. Building Construction: house plans & estimates, floor sanding, lacquering & painting, boat for Santa Mission –Call: 650-4362 Repairs & spare, fridge, freezer, A/C, washers, stoves – Contact Nick: 6831312, 627-3206 INNOVATIVE MARKETING & PUBLISHING INC –TEL: 600-4212: We create A/ works, logos, business cards, posters, etc, placements of ads included.
Male sales assistant: allrounder for PVC products must have Maths/English. Apply @ Key Food Trading, Mc Doom Village. Driver – posses a valid Guyanese drivers license & clean record of safe driving. Contact: 231-4999; 677-0480/ email:irbcguy@gmail.com Experience carpenter, masons & Construction Foreman. Pacific Development Inc 3 Church street, Georgetown. Tel: 2236035
One porter boy to work & Passport, permanent & clean vehicles in the interior. visitor visa application, Call: 678-0565 Professional Immigrant Consultant – Sabita One shop boy to work in shop Immigration Services. Call: in the interior. Call: 678-0565 225-6496; 662-6045 1 Male or female look after Repairs to LED, Plasma, LCD layer birds in the interior. Call: and all other electronic 678-0565 equipment. Ordering of Houselot to buy in Leguan by circuit boards. Abdul the Seashore- Call Kamal: Electronic- Call: 225-0391 614-7147 Repairs at affordable prices: fridge, air conditioner, washing machines, dryers, TV, microwaves & freezerCall: 610-5846 or 661-8158
SALON
FOR SALE
- Make-up Courses with Mac, Bare Minerals, etc. - Cosmetology Courses: $120,000 - Technician Course: $45,000. Call: 647-1773/660-5257
LARGE QUANTITIES OF HIGH PURITY MERCURY (QUICK SILVER) 99.99995% PURITY$19,000 PER POUND CALL: 592-227-4754.
WANTED One live in domestic must know to cook- 25-35yrs $80,000 monthly-Call: 6105043 1 General Domestic must know to cook & Iron, responsible sales clerk, honest & have a passion for fashion. Call: 668-4973
Experienced waitress, female bartenders, bouncers needed at Eden’s Bar & Lounge. Call for appointment 652-0074 Contract cars and taxi drivers (salaries paid). Call: 231-0002; 231-0316 Wanted Accounts Clerk and Pump Attendants. Call/Text or Whatapp: 627-2550
Porters wanted to work @ Grocery Stall in Stabroek EDUCATIONAL market, experienced is an I.A.E Classes for CSEC asset. Call: 226-9800 January/June 2017: One able bodied porter/clerk. Mathematics, English A, Call: 231-2029; 616-5954 Business & Science Subject for Students, Adults & Security officers, age 30 to 45yrs, serious enquiries only. repeaters. Call: 683-5742 Call: 225-0125 Earn a Diploma in Computers, 9 Courses @ Cybertron C o n s t r u c t i o n w o r k e r s : painters, Technology, Vreed-En- f o r e m e n , carpenters. Email: Hoop. Call: 264-3057 constructguyana@gmail.com Computerized Accounting: 4 Courses Excel 2016, 2 Skilled Mason to do fine Qickbooks, Peachtree, POS, work, plastering -$7,000 per Cybertron Technology day. Call: 675-4555 Vreed-En-Hoop. Call: 264- One maid for East Bank area 3057 call 614-4358 TAXI SERVICES Architect: To Design a 4 GR TAXI SERVICE. CALL: Storied Building 30’x65’219-5000; 227-1982 & Contact 614-7147 or email: okamal2016@gmail.com 225-7878 (24HRS)
Wednesday April 13, 2016
3 – Cat 398 Generator, Kato synchronous 1142 KVA, 800W 4 wire voltage 346/600, monitoring panel. Call: 6616161 One 4.236 Perkins Engine (Turbo), one 3.5 HP Tarus Engine. Call: 676-7984
FOR RENT PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 Bel-Air Park: long & Shortterm- Offices, furnished apartments & rooms: Breakfast, AC, hot & cold water, WiFi, security, etc- Call: 623-1575; 686-1805 Apartments for rent @ Nandy Park with free WiFi, recently renovated, 2 bedrooms$70,000. Call: 641-3318 Business place in Madhia 50X60 with living quarter. Contact: 696-8987; 6001086 One prime business place to rent at Mon Repos Public Road. Call: 220-6168; 6181754; 681-1508
One Honda 150cc motorcycle; One LN 170 Hilux manual, gasoline –Call: 6507501, 682-6111 1-80CC Yamaha (Chappy) $200,000 negotiable. 1-5L RZ minibus -$1.2M negotiable. Call: 642-7555; 220-6385 Household Items: everything must go- Fridge, walldivider, wares, dinette set, curtains, plus more items. Call: 688-5446 Great Deals on video games & all gaming consoles. PC, phone games & applications. Delivery also – Call: 6722566; 265-3231 24ftX8ft & 250HP Yamaha Engine with turn system. Parika to Supernaam, excellent condition- $5.2M. Call: 683-8989 German Shepherd Puppies. Call: 682-5664 Spare for washing machine, microwaves, fridges, stoves, timers, gearbox, motors, etc. Call: 225-9032;647-2943;6045198
CAR RENTAL DOLLY’S CAR RENTALCALL: 225-7126/226-3693 DOLLYSAUTORENTAL@ YA H O O . C O M / W W W. DOLLYSAUTORENTAL.COM PROGRESSIVE CAR RENTAL: CARS& SUV FOR RENTAL- $4,000 & UP PER DAY- CALL: 643-5122, 6560087 , EMAIL: PRO_ AUTO RENTAL@YAHOO. COM Aidan’s Car & 4WD Vigo pick up, cheapest rate, low security- Call: 698-7807 Wing’s Car & 4WD Vigo pick up rental- Call: 690-6494 Reliable rentals: Cars, SUV – low rates & security deposits, special rates for long term. Call:227-2322;601-2622
One mobile air conditioner unit 110V 10,000 Btus, price to sell. Call: 227-8448; 6128319 PITBULL PUPS: 6 WEEKS OLD VACCINATED & DEWORMED. CALL: 6670338 Automatic Garage Door opener and swing and sliding, gate operator. Call: 694-2548 Adorable short foot mix puppies. Call: 660-1439 Sheep! Sheep! A flock of sheep (Texana), foreign blood line. Call: 699-6499; 6652139; 442-0299 Mazda RX8, in immaculate condition -$2.8M negotiable. Call: 602-6024 (11am-5pm) Mac book Pro 13inches 2007, Duo core 2.17GHZ, 1 GB Ram, 150GB HD, Mac 05K 10.5.6/ Win7 -$55,000. Call: 621-9604; 694-1748
LEARN TO DRIVE Cybertron BeReady Driving School: $20,000 2 weeks @ Vreed-En-Hoop. Call: 2643057
Semi automatic stationary hydraulic hollow block & paver machine. Specificationhydraulic pump, vibrator conveyer belt. Call: 220-6168; 618-1754; 681-1508
VEHICLE FOR SALE VACANCY Smart choice Auto: 08&06 1 Female cleaner apply @ Premio, 08&06 Allion, 212, Technical Service 18-23 Runx, IST, Fielder. Call: 652- Industrial Site, Eccles. 3820; 665-4529 Cook/baker for the Interior Unregistered bluebird 2007 location, applicants must be model: TV, reverse camera, experienced. Call: 618-2020 dark interior, burgundy $2.3M negotiable. Call: 655- Experienced guest house 3400 manager, security guard, cleaners, cooks, room 1 Toyota Ractis (PVV 3417) attendants- just off Linden 2006 model: navigation, TV, Soesdyke Highway. Call: reverse camera, price 600-0036 negotiable. Owner migrating. Exist for 1 entertainment Call: 666-3745; 260-2400 manager to work @ Club on 1 Nissan Murano, PRR series, Essequibo Coast, must have excellent condition. Call: 628- PR skills. Call: 226-9768 0016; 667-2536 Experienced waitresses One Jaguar XJ6 Sedan Motor needed @ Millenium Mannor Car. Good condition, most Hotel, bring in application to systems working, original 43 Hadfield Street, near Camp parts, price to sell. Call: 227- St. 8448; 612-8319 AT192, 212, Allion, 5-6yrs Experienced domestic unregistered Premio, Hilux maid to work @ Diamond. Surf, BRR, RZ & Pit-bull, 7 Call: 626-8003/ 227-8529 Seater super custom. Cash / Security guards to work with terms- Call: 680-3154 a mining firm in the Interior must have military We buy & sell vehicles for background. Call: 226-9768 cash, also parts available & 30 Seater buses; Extra Cab 1 Cook to work in Kitchen pickups; 2006 Tacoma- Call: in Trinidad, able to cook Indian & English dishes. 680-3154 Call Selwyn Persaud: 0012- Unregistered new model Tacoma, bed covering, crash 868-680-2083 bar, step, alarm, mag rim. Call: One driver, must be 30yrs & 695-6461 or 639-7758 older, will require to assist in running around. Call: 2272322; 601-2622 Washbay boys needed @ Nandy Park E.B.D. Call: 2335227
TO LET 4 Bedrooms House @ Bel-Air Gardens with modern conveniences- $3,200USD monthly .Call during working hours: 231-7839; 227-2322. No agents 3 Bedrooms house @ Bel-Air Park with modern conveniences -$2500 USD monthly- furnished. Call during working hours: 2317839; 227-2322. No agents 4 Bedrooms house @ BelAir Park with modern convenience -$2500USD monthly furnished. Call during working hours: 2317839; 227-2322, No agents. Apartments in Eccles. Call: 225-3234 PROPERTY FOR SALE Transported property @ Lot 12 Vergenoegen East Bank Essequibo. Call: 639-7903 Property @ Lot 87 Albert Street- Call: 669- 8701 One 2 flat concrete 6 bedrooms house in Strathspey, E.C.D, big land space -$14M- Call: 689-5103 Transported property @ Grove $16M negotiable. Call: 625-5461
LAND FOR SALE Land in Diamond area. Call: 628-0016; 667-2536 Eccles -$6M, Herstelling New Scheme, Corner lot (100ftx50ft) $3M, La Parfaite Harmonie -$1.4M. Call: 603-6224; 611-7223 25 Acres prime transported land @ Mahaicony E.C.D can be used for resort, housing scheme or commercial business. Call: 221-2075 50 Acres of Land, Elizabeth Ann Right, Demerara River. Call: 672-3886; 680-5266 1 House lot in Crane Housing Scheme & 1 house & land in La Parfaite Harmonie. Call: 626-4841 Land at La Grange Race Dame W.B.D 37’X780’. Call: 6619111 PROPERTY FOR SALE Transported property for sale in Regent Street between Wellington & Camp Street. Call: 625-1514 Continued on page 29
Wednesday April 13, 2016
Kaieteur News
Page 29
Silence and the truth are not related DEAR EDITOR, I learned that AFC Chairman, Mr. Hughes, has resigned. Signature statement? Protest action? Conscience on display? I say all of these and then some more. Now there is precedent for concerned citizens. This is the hallmark of independent thinking, and an independent spirit. His prior
perch as an insider afforded more opportunity and insight than the regular man-in-thestreet into the intrigues and machinations of government. What was seen and heard is not liked. I have hinted in a nuanced manner (sometimes too nuanced) that the government should take note. Maybe, it will take note now. But is it?
Rejection of the rum industry DEAR EDITOR, There are reports that President Granger celebrated the liquor industry’s contribution to Guyana in the launch of the $500,000 + VAT bottle of rum. According to the Kaieteur News “The President also identified rum as being a “major” contributor to Guyana’s exports; its employment and excise revenue” The report quoted the 20,000 jobs and the 9 billion in taxes. The capitalist defense of the alcohol industry for industry sake in terms of dollars and sense is not surprising. The cost to Guyana Governments over the last 50 years is not much.. after all.. the Government does not really fund any rehab for alcoholics , and provide any support for the lives of those whose lives have been destroyed by alcohol. That is probably when the Ministers of Business and Tourism were at the event.. there were no reports of the presence of the Ministers of Public Health, Social Protection or Public Security. The economists who advise the President probably have no model on which to
value the lives and livelihoods of Guyanese which have been destroyed as a result of consumption of the products of an industry we are told to celebrate. A Guyana Chronicle report notes that the President said that “”Guyana’s Rum Industry thrives because it is committed to high standards and quality assurance; it has devoted the time, the energy, and resources necessary to developing a strong brand.” There was no mention that the rum industry thrives in a culture of addiction, in a culture where the regulatory laws are a joke, and where children are beaten when they try not to buy liquor for adults. The rum industry thrives when the marketing pushes more alcohol consumption, not less, and where there are no public funds to counter the effects of the industry. It is an indictment on our nation that the liquor industry thrives when other major industries are in j e o p a r d y. G u y a n a ’s acknowledgement of its alcohol problem seems as far away as National Unity. Vidyaratha Kissoon
Critique of the...
From page 5 propagandist orientation. We have a long way to go, and, as one observer pointed out, we are essentially trying to transform a 50 year old state albatross into a swan. No easy feat. To be clear: under no circumstance will it ever be amenable for any employee to alter the facts to suit a particular narrative or headline or political orientation. When journalists aim to deceive the populace that they serve, limitless oppression becomes possible at best, and encouraged at worst. We are all too cognizant of the immediate past conduct of this media entity; the same one that applied half-truths, magical facts and a phalanx of anonymous poisonous pen pals who viciously shredded the integrity and character of their fellow citizens. My belief is that the GNNL board should be engaged in providing policy and instituting and practicing good corporate governance, (this is where my effort is specifically concentrated) not vetting and approving letters and articles or manufacturing content to support specific political directorates. Formalized policy and governance guidelines will help prevent willful abuse of the media. No organization or government or individual should function above or without the rule of law, as the capriciousness of human nature can lead us to a slippery slope that we will all eventually slide down. Scheherazade Ishoof Khan
More than a few commentators have warned that the very worst thing that the no longer new administration can do and be is to emulate the previous one. Not in words! Not in posture! Not in deed! Not in style! Not in appearance! And certainly not in tricks! Singly or cumulatively, that is tantamount to the kiss of death. It is not worth the preservation of concentrated power, the presence of prized personnel, the perpetuation of old ways and standards; even when serious wrongdoing is absent. Do something. Do something
meaningful. May I suggest some dilutive action….? Regardless, the question persists: is the government of today listening? It has pretended not to hear; or it is listening with one ear, on occasion, and only if the issue pleases. It is not as contemptuous and in-yourface as the previous people, but it is no less effective for lack of movement, and lack of interest in what the people say, think, believe, and desire. However sliced and diced, what I am observing is a continuation of the same behaviors. At the core, the difference is only in the degree, and it is early days
yet. Now almost every government supporter I have heard from has one commandment that is sacred to him or her: Do not be like predecessor. Do not dare to even think about it. Or in that rawest of Guyanese diction: ‘Dis time nah lang time.’ Citizens are too sharp, too sensitive, and too suspicious. It is the fallout from the ugliness and trauma of long, lost decades. They are too disgusted, and still angry. Like Roberto, the cry is: ‘No mas! No mas!’ Now who is really actually listening over there and up there? Who cares about the
Defence of Harmon that argues he has done no wrong DEAR EDITOR, Please allow me to share a few words on behalf of Minister of State, Joe Harmon. The embattled Minister of State set off a feeding frenzy in the media after it was stated that he appointed Mr. Brian Tiwari as his Business Advisor and then alleged that he directed GRA representatives to stand down when they attempted to seize the vehicles of Bai Shin Lin Company, over nonpayment of import taxes. To date, there have been many public statements calling these actions corrupt and the indictments of Mr. Harmon’s alleged actions seem to be coming from all quarters. A silver lining on this entire affair is that democracy in Guyana seems to be taking hold after years of PPPC oppression and for that we are grateful. The media are engaged, citizens are responding and civil society has made a statement, albeit biased, but I do recognize their right to participate in public discourse and I look forward to this sort of continued engagement to hold all leaders in Guyana accountable. Fair play however, does require that those of us who are interested in presenting a vigorous defense of Mr. Harmon, be allowed to do so and I thank you for allowing me the space for that. Mr. Brian Tiwari’s history of doing business in Guyana is no secret. He is a businessman interested in running a successful company and in providing employment for his more than 100 employees. As far as I know, Mr Tiwari has not been indicated or convicted of any crime. It is also no secret that Mr. Tiwari contributed in a major way to the Georgetown ‘clean
up’ campaign and I am sure that citizens of Georgetown thank him for it. It is no secret that numerous local community organizations have benefited from Mr. Tiwari’s generosity, so his giving is not new and so if indeed the advisor instruments are honorary, then for just the Georgetown clean up effort and its impact on citizen morale, tourism and Georgetown’s business image, one can easily make the case that Mr. Brian Tiwari deserves the honor. Mr. Editor, there will always be people who will disagree with Mr. Harmon’s decision and in a democratic society, that is their right. This discourse I believe is healthy. In reviewing the President’s decision, Mr. Harmon, in hindsight, has already determined that his actions, while in no way corrupt, could be construed to be unwise and therefore, the President having spoken, really leaves Mr. Harmon with no more to say. Editor, Mr Harmon’s decision to delay his statement speaks out loud and clear that he accepts the public criticism and he accepts the decision of our President, David Granger. To date, there has been no proof offered that Mr. Harmon has engaged in any illegal activity. Therefore, there are absolutely no grounds for calling him corrupt. Editor, I will not take much more time to address the GRA issue as Mr. Harmon has not made a statement on that issue, but even if he had reached out to ask for a temporary reprieve for BaiShanLin, it could simply mean that Mr. Harmon did not want to publicly embarrass one of Guyana’s largest business partners over such a small matter.
Are we seriously saying that a multi-million dollar company is unable to pay $100k in vehicle taxes? Mr. Editor, it is said that ‘you get more flies with honey than vinegar’, maybe Mr. Harmon was attempting to find a more effective way for Guyana to recoup her monies while ensuring that Guyana continues her strong relationship with China. My caution to all Guyanese citizens in this budding democracy of ours is to take a little more time to process these issues, China is an extremely important player in investing and assisting developing countries like ours and we must be mindful when we go about bashing Chinese enterprises and nationals without obtaining all the facts. It is interesting also in this new press democracy to note how newspapers can sway national policies and current agenda with innuendoes and unsubstantiated stories and opinions. As I conclude this letter, I note that the AFC has just come out with a release purporting to assume that the Minister of State has more power that he can handle and call are made to reduce same, this is indeed an interesting political chess game being put to one who can certainly play the game very well. This too shall certainly pass and let hope it’s just a blip and not a mountain in this young regime existence. Basil Blackman AA
interests of the people to carve out a higher standard, a different way? A new and truly better way? I submit that it is accurate to state that only the supremely disciplined and confident possesses the inherent virtues, the iron temperament, and the uninhibited purity of vision to desire the unknown and the untried and then go forward to greet that destiny. Is any of this present today? Time will inform if there is some semblance of any of this surfacing in the future. But that is ahead. Now Mr. Hughes has acted by taking the bit between the teeth. There is one last question to table: Is he the only thinking man, the only bold one in this society. As I go, I remember that truth is violated not only by falsehood, but by silence, too. GHK Lall
From page 28
PROPERTY FOR SALE Flat house in Grove, (corner property) 1 Block from main road, price negotiable. Call: 1905-626-2572 House for sale @ 638 Kuru Kururu. Call Gary: 664-2576 Business spot at Diamond Public Road. Call: 628-0016; 667-2536 Brand new 2 storey concrete building in 5th Avenue, Diamond, E.B.D, all modern amenities –Call: 662-9335; 612-3244 2 Storey 45x35 concrete property, lower flat incomplete. Land 65x120 @ Diamond N/S 5th Avenue, E.B.D- Call: 664-5052 House 38X20; land 100X200 all fenced @ 635 Kuru Kururu-$5.5M. Call: 6941090; 661-6073 Property @ Diamond, junior staff compound 100X100 and Bel-Air 60x90. Call: 6781575; email: wynettebritton@hotmail.com Property @ Cummings Street; 4 storey building, club, 8 self contain rooms. Call: 628-0016; 667-2536
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Kaieteur News
Wednesday April 13, 2016
THE VOICE OF THE LIBERAL DEMOCRATS
THE ROLE OF THE DIASPORA - A FRAMEWORK FOR COLLABORATION By Sase Singh INTRODUCTION On April 8th 2016, I was invited as one of the panelists to a symposium in Washington DC to commemorate Guyana’s 50th Independence Anniversary. I must extend my gratefulness to Floyd Haynes, Paul Tennessee and Melanie Smith, and their friends, for bringing us all together to share thoughts on this relationship between the Diaspora and the Locals. I was asked to present my position on this topic – “the Role of the Diaspora – A Framework for Collaboration at a Diaspora Conference” at the symposium that was held at the University of the District of Colombia in Washington DC. The following is an abridged version of my presentation. BACKGROUND According to a USAID Report, the Guyanese Diaspora is sized at some 700,000 persons which is just less than the population at home. That report referred to Guyana as a nation of migrants. Guyana for the last 50 years has failed to unleash its potential for a number of reasons, including the failure of the nation to effectively harness the energies of enough of our brightest and best. The big challenge to our nation as a result of this
migration is that the academic quality of the migrant population is very high. According to a statement from the sitting Minister of Education, more than 80 percent of our university graduates are migrating from Guyana annually. You cannot mould a nation with four out of five of your university graduates not contributing to the process. You just cannot! You cannot grow a developing nation at rates of 6 – 8 percent with an average of 4,000 persons of the best quality permanently and legally leaving Guyana for the United States every year. But the United States is not the top destination for our migrant population. The top destinations, according to a United Nations report, remain Suriname, Brazil, Trinidad, then the UK and the United States, closely followed by Canada. WHAT THE DIASPORA HAS TO OFFER As a collective, our Guyanese Diaspora has much to offer including: 1. Finance using many different types of investment vehicles. 2. Talent in many different kinds of fields. 3. Networks or connections or hook-ups as we call it. 4. Access to new technology. 5. Access to more efficient work ethics. 6. Access to new markets
for Made in Guyana products. WHAT THE DIASPORA BRINGS TO THE TABLE 1. The technical “knowhow” to catalyze Guyana’s needs to urgently industrialize our agricultural base as a revenue generator, especially for foreign markets. 2. Access to knowledge to accelerate the reformation of our justice, security and public service. 3. Access to knowledge to enhance good governance and strengthen public institutions. 4. Partnerships with the private sector, so that it can expand and take its place as the engine of growth. 5. Being one of the key stimulators of human and economic development. SOME SOLUTIONS In its manifesto, the ruling Coalition promised the following in May 2015: 1. An enterprise and economic development policy that provides a level playing field for local entrepreneurs and investors and our huge Diaspora to develop our abundant resources. 2. Diaspora Integration APNU+AFC will implement a series of incentives to attract this talent and their wealth in the development of Guyana. 3. APNU+AFC will establish Diaspora desk offices at its Embassies and High Commissions in New York, Toronto, London and the Caribbean to solicit investments and entrepreneurial and other skills to develop Guyana. The honest answer: not done, not even in progress in some cases. The lessons to be learnt
from this are that the solutions are not being framed in an environment of collaboration. It is more a situation that the policy makers in the Coalition Government think they know it all, and this has caused them to shut themselves off from high quality talent, finance and networks, that has resulted in sub-optimal delivery on the promises made to the people in 2015. WHAT CAN BE DONE THAT CAN MOVE THIS C O L L A B O R AT I O N PROCESS ALONG? 1. Gathering of the data and inventorizing the Diaspora – both the legal immigrants and illegal immigrants as potential investors using a special purpose vehicle such as Diaspora Bonds that will offer greater returns on what is on offer in the developed world. So let us start this process with the North American Diaspora. Also, this Database can serve as an access point to tap skills on a paid consultancy basis rather than exclusively fulltime jobs for those who want to contribute. 2. Inventorize all the Guyanese associated organizations – all the Village Associations, Political Associations, religious organizations, ex-police etc. as mobilisers of contributors to fill gaps in the developmental process. Right now we have a national suicide crisis in Guyana and many Diaspora Groups are committed to helping but their efforts have resulted in many situations where they are literally crawling over each other in a most haphazard, disjointed manner
that may not be delivering the intended outcome for those with the greatest needs. 3. Make available to Diaspora members a special NRG Passport Card - which can be a revenue generator for the Guyanese State. In addition to national pride, these cards offers certain privileges such as access to weekly updates on a Diaspora Knowledge Network, which highlights opportunities such as discount rates on tourist activities, access to advertised vacancies in Guyana, access to tender for the supply of goods and services in Guyana and special access to GO-Invest on all legal investment ideas. This will also grant you automatic invites to an annual Diaspora Conference to be held in one of the major Diaspora population centres, along with invites to National Activities and Conferences, in and out of Guyana, on all major developmental issues. 4. Establish an online Diaspora University as part of UG. This will allow for the Diaspora to fill technical gaps at UG by offering their skills in specialized areas. These classes will be conducted online with a once per semester fully paid stint for the Diaspora participant in person at UG to do direct face-to-face teaching for a full week with the students. The focus will be on the transfer of knowledge in the pure sciences, mathematics, agriculture science and engineering. 5. Establish a Guyanese community welfare fund that will be managed by a team of Diaspora philanthropists who shall be elected every year from contributing
Sase Singh shareholders. These funds will be used to offer scholarships, medical assistance and other social intervention for the at-risk population. 6. Establish a Global Advisory Think Tank that will be a collaboration effort between Guyanese-based policy makers and members of the Diaspora and work on ideas that can help to unleash clogs in the developmental process. For example – how to financially structure the energy model that will transform Guyana from a 90 percent fossil fuel energy producer today into a 50 percent renewable energy producer in 10 years’ time. Ideas on how to structure the Diaspora Bond or framing how to better channel remittances for national development or setting up of a State Development Bank can all be investigated using this Think Tank which will have access to an international talent-base. CONCLUSION This contribution seeks to examine how we can use the best practices from around the world to better construct a framework for collaboration between the Diaspora and the Locals by establishing clear ground rules on how the Diaspora can play a more integrated but non-intrusive growth-related role in Guyana’s human development. Can we do it; yes we can!
Wednesday April 13, 2016
Kaieteur News
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Kaieteur News
MUZZLED
- Cabinet mum on Harmon issue, Ministers reminded of privacy oath Cabinet Members were reminded yesterday of their “oath” to keep discussions private. The caution was issued in light of the fact that Cabinet discussed matters relating to controversies surrounding embattled Minister of State Joseph Harmon. Kaieteur News understands that the Cabinet meeting concluded around 17:30hrs, but much more is to be discussed. Because of this, another meeting is set for tomorrow. But the existing silence is deafening. A source close to the Cabinet indicated that “the Harmon issues indeed came up”. However, it was stressed that the matter was surprisingly not addressed as one of “national importance.” These revelations would come as something of an affront to the Guyanese people. There is every indication that the secrecy which was practiced during previous administrations, and in recent times had totally destroyed the people’s confidence in government, is once again rearing its ugly head. Recent photographic evidence that showed Mr. Harmon posing on a private jet with BaiShanLin’s Managing Director, Chu Hongbo and family, has raised serious questions. The government in a statement that preceded the leaked photo had emphasised that the purpose of Mr. Harmon’s visit was to engage in discussions with regard to the payment of the US$5 million balance owed for the pur-
Minister of State, Joseph Harmon chase of 20 percent of Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GTT) shares by Chinese company, Datang Telecom Technology and Industry Group from NICIL, in 2012. Nowhere in the statement was anything said about any meetings or interaction with officials of the controversial logging company. Harmon has maintained a worrying silence as the media reported on a series of his recent shady actions. The Minister had promised to hold press conferences since his return, but never did. His halting of an official seizure operation involving BaiShanLin several weeks prior was one of the actions that raised eyebrows and attracted widespread condemnation. The operation was being executed by GRA in collaboration with officials from the Special Organized Crime Unit (SOCU). GRA was going to seize a number of BaiShanLin’s vehicles due to the fact that the
company failed to pay the required duties within the legally stipulated timeframe. But during the exercise, Harmon instructed that the vehicles not be removed. Weeks later the vehicles were seized. But government is yet to say how it intends to address the obvious misuse of power by one of its senior ministers. Harmon’s actions have been incongruous with his much-publicised intolerance toward those whom he perceived to be acting against the best interests of the country. He was noted on several occasions lambasting BaiShanLin for its reckless operations in Guyana, as well as the former regime, for its encouragement of the company’s actions. In 2014, he had blasted the former government for its silence about the “corrupt beast” BaiShanLin’s “immoral and abusive acts” and had opined that “there can only be one logical conclusion for that—they are benefitting financially in exchange for allowing the rape to continue. It is only a win-win deal for the parties involved and BaiShanLin’s kickbacks seem to have silenced the (former) government”. Harmon had said that he found it sickening that BaiShanLin had been invited to this country under the pretext that it was going to foster good developments, and all along the true intention was to rape this country of its resources.
Wednesday April 13, 2016
TIGI to grill Harmon on recent controversies Transparency Institute Guyana Inc. (TIGI) will be sending a series of questions to Minister of State Joseph Harmon regarding his involvement in a number of controversial activities. The move to do so comes in wake of President David Granger’s response to statements which were made initially by TIGI. The local corruption watchdog had said that the curse of corruption continues to haunt Guyana even under a new administration. Its conclusion was premised on Harmon’s quiet appointment of Brian Tiwarie of BK International as his personal business advisor and his alleged interference in the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) in halting a seizure operation of a number of vehicles which were owned by Chinese logging company, BaiShanLin. Granger made it clear, however, that the corruption watchdog should have questioned the Minister of State before making hasty comments. It is upon this ground that TIGI announced late last night that it has taken a decision to request a meeting with the Minister of State. In a statement to the press it said, “In response to President Granger, TIGI will make an exception to our policy of using what is publicly available and will write Minister Harmon to request a meeting and to send him a set of questions on the matter at hand.” It continued, “Without fear or favour, TIGI remains committed to working with the government, citizens and other organizations to foster transpar-
ency and to stamp out corruption.” Transparency Guyana went further to highlight sections of the draft Code of Conduct and how it implicates the Minister of State who said that Tiwarie’s appointment was a mere honorific title. He had said, too that similar titles were awarded to “those who have helped us in the campaign and those who have the capacity to help us further.” TIGI noted however that the draft Code of Conduct reads in part, “Public office holders have a duty to … act with propriety on all occasions in accordance with the public trust and confidence placed in them. Public office holders have a general duty to act in the interests of the nation as a whole…. Public office holders are reminded that they owe a duty to the public and must consider themselves servants of the people.” It continues, “A conflict-of-interest situation arises when the ‘private interests’ of the public office holder compete or conflict with the interests of the State. ‘Private interests’ mean both the financial and personal interests of the official and staff or those of their connections, including … other clubs and soc i e t i e s t o w h i c h they belong; and any person to whom they owe a favour or are obligated in any way.” TIGI also noted that the draft Code of Conduct makes it clear that Public officials “should avoid compromising themselves or their office[s] which may lead to an actual or perceived conflict of interest. Failure to avoid or declare any
conflict of interest may give rise to criticism of favouritism, abuse of authority or even allegations of corruption.” It is upon this premise that the corruption watchdog contended that corruption takes many forms. It said that corruption not only includes the more traditional forms of bribery, kickbacks, extortion, nepotism and cronyism, but also abuse of functions, illicit enrichment and trading in influence and patronage which involves rewarding political support with favours, contracts, appointments, subsidies, prestige and other valued benefits. It argued that the draft Code of Conduct and the initial statement from TIGI, reflect an appreciation of the true nature and extent of corruption in Guyana; and the role of public officers who, by virtue of their high profile, are important tipping agents in the quest to dislodge the culture of corruption. TIGI stressed that the failure to embrace the spirit in which the statement was issued is not only inconsistent with the aforementioned draft Code of Conduct, but it represents a missed opportunity to restore confidence in public institutions and offices. Transparency Institute Guyana called on all to take a deeper look at corruption to understand that although some practices have become so deeply entrenched that they seem normal, they constitute corruption. To this end, TIGI said it will launch an education programme that will begin by addressing institutional trust and campaign financing.
Firefighters came under threat during Camp Street Prison blaze Sub- officer of the Guyana Fire Service (GFS), Chriswayne La Rose, yesterday recounted the danger posed to firefighters who were charged with extinguishing the blaze at the Georgetown Prisons. La Rose was testifying before the three-member Commission of Inquiry (COI) ordered by President David Granger. The COI was established following one of the deadliest riots to ever take place within the local prisons. According to La Rose, containing the fire that day was quite risky, given the location. La Rose told the commission that prisoners threatened the firefighters on the ground and at one point the men retreated to “a safe zone,” leaving the firefighting hose behind. When he arrived on the scene on March 3, the fireman said that he observed firefighters already on the ground. He said his job that day was to provide instructions and guidance to them. However, the scene in the compound was quite chaotic and ri-
otous with prisoners cursing and hurling threats and insults at the firemen. He said that the firefighters persisted in face of the threats and insults until there was a breach in the prison wall and some of the prisoners started to climb out of the Old Capital building. The witness noted that the firemen left their hoses and retreated to a safe zone. He said that approximately six prisoners climbed through the hole in the wall and formed a bucket brigade to help combat the blaze that was ravishing the Capital A building. According to La Rose, firefighters then returned to continue efforts to contain the blaze since it was established that prisoners, who climbed out of the block were there to assist. He noted too that prison officers’ efforts to open the door of the burning area continued. After battling the deadly blaze for some time, the officer said that the fire was finally extinguished and the bodies of dead men were being
carried out by prisoners. But before this was done, La Rose told the Commission that he inspected the inside of the torched building. “I observed piles of bodies to the right of the building about five or six. I couldn’t count…they were huddled together and burnt baldly,” La Rose stated. He said that there were bodies on the floor at the back of the building and “even the head of one of the corpses was not attached.” Further under cross examination by Attorney for the Guyana Bar Association(GBA) Christopher Ram and Attorney for the relatives of the deceased prisoners, Dexter Todd, the witness said that conducting work in the prison is always a dangerous task. The witness asserted that although the inmates who assisted with the fire were the ones who broke out of the Old Capital Building, there is always some amount of precaution taken before entering the prisons. “Honestly you don’t really feel
safe in a prison compound,” he added. La Rose said that given the overcrowding and other security factors such as the scenario in which the inmates managed to kick out a wall to escape on the day of the fire is indicative that the prisoners could have busted at any time. Meanwhile, Divisional Officer in charge of the fire service operations, Compton Sparman had earlier faced a series of questions from lawyer Christopher Ram. Ram questioned the fire official about his knowledge of the conditions, protocols and physical arrangement of the prison. The lawyer asked specifically about officer’s knowledge of the Fire Prevention Act and how it applies to the prisons. Asked about the number of exits a n d e n t r a n c e s a t t h e Georgetown Prisons and whether the place held some unique condition to fight fires, Sparman declined to comment. “I don’t want to draw that conclusion because I’m not that officer in charge of inspection of
buildings at this time,” he said. The witness nonetheless agreed that population density in an area increases the risk of fire and loss of life, should a fire occur. Ram then suggested that the conditions, number of occupants and physical arrangements at the prison constitute a fire risk by any measure of the Fire Prevention Act. The officer also declined to comment but noted that the Act is relevant in any part of Guyana. He later explained that the operation was a challenge because there was security risk. Instead of going to rescue persons as in normal circumstances the firemen resorted to only using water to put out the blaze . “The challenge was saving human lives regardless that they were inmates or whoever. They are people.” The Commission comprises Justice James Patterson, Merle Mendonca and retired Director of Prisons, Dale Erskine.
Wednesday April 13, 2016
Kaieteur News
Posing on a jet with persons under investigation is a “reckless move” - Ramjattan
Public Security Minister, Khemraj Ramjattan Numerous questions are being raised in the press over the recent “controversial” decisions made by Minister of State, Joseph Harmon as well as his alleged coziness with the contentious Chinese logging company, BaiShanLin Forest Development Inc. In light of the concerns, Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan believes that his colleague should face the press. Ramjattan made this, among other comments, during a recent interview with Kaieteur News. In addition to this, the Leader of the Alliance for Change (AFC) is of the firm view that it would not only be a “massive error in judgment” but also a “reckless move” for a politician to be on a private jet ride with officials who are under investigation by his country. He made this assertion after being pressed by Kaieteur News to say whether in a “hypothetical” situation if he would have been caught in such a circumstance. Given his response, he was then pressed to say whether he is comfortable with the actions of his Cabinet colleague, Joseph Harmon, who was over the weekend exposed in a similar situation. The Public Security Minister said he is aware that in the Sunday edition of the Kaieteur News, a picture was
Minister of State, Joseph Harmon
Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo
published on the front page which showed Harmon in a photograph posing with officials of BaiShanLin on a private jet. This newspaper understands that Harmon did not inform Cabinet about any meeting or interaction with BaiShanLin officials. The Chinese logging company has been found to be in breach of a number of Guyana’s laws and has failed to honour a number of its obligations as outlined in agreements with the previous administration. The company has also been under the watchful eye of the State Assets Recovery Unit (SARU) which is housed in the Ministry of the Presidency. In spite of this, the Minister of Public Security declined to divulge how he felt about the revelation. Ramjattan was then asked if in light of his ethical beliefs, whether he still feels comfortable with his Cabinet colleague. He said, it is such a “sensitive matter”, he prefers not to answer at this time. The Minister of Public Security made it clear that Ministers should always conduct a life that can hold up to public scrutiny and believes that his colleague should face the press. As for the protestors who
picketed Kaieteur News on Monday to defend Harmon’s innocence, Ramjattan said that he believes that they had a right to do so. He noted, however, that the press has a responsibility to be critical and hold the Government accountable, regardless of how much it embarrasses its members. The AFC Leader said, “This is a position I hold. I believe that people have a right to protest peacefully but I will defend to the death the value of the media and the role it plays in holding the Government of the day accountable.” Ramjattan was reminded of his comments on the campaign trail that the citizenry must not be afraid to “crack the whip and hold the leaders of the day to their word.” He emphasized that this position remains unchanged. Also supportive of Ramjattan’s points was Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo. The First Vice President added that everyone who holds public office should submit themselves to public scrutiny. He said that it requires those in public office to live up to a high standard of conduct.
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Murder of British teen…
Three of five accused granted High Court bail
Granted bail: (from left) Krystal Thomas, Sisanie Henry and Jahmil Sinclair Three of the five persons accused of murdering British teenager Dominic Bernard have been released on bail. Bail in the sum of $300,000 each was granted to 20-yearold Krystal Thomas, Sisanie Henry, 39, and 18-year-old Jahmil Sinclair, by Justice Priya Sewnarine-Beharry, following a successful petition by their lawyers yesterday. The two other prime suspects, Aaron Hing and Stayman George, remain in custody. Thomas is in a commonlaw relationship with Hing, while Henry is Thomas’ mother and Sinclair is a friend. All five were charged on February 1, last, with Bernard’s murder, a week after
the suspected remains of the British teen were discovered in a shallow grave in Berbice. Attorney at law Nigel Hughes had indicated that he would put forward arguments for the case of murder against Krystal Thomas and Sisanie Henry a vendor, to be struck out or quashed by the magistrate. However this move reportedly failed and Hughes moved to the high court, where he successfully secured bail for them. The charge still remains. The trio was ordered to report to the Whim Police Station, Corentyne, every two weeks as part of their condition of bail. Meanwhile, there are reports that the DNA tests conducted on Bernard’s
Killed: Dominic Bernard suspected remains have been completed and are to be brought back to Guyana (Continued on page 13)
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Wednesday April 13, 2016
U.S. presidential rivals Clinton, Sanders tied in support among Democrats – poll Reuters - The top contenders in both the Democratic and the Republican presidential nominating races have roughly equal support among members of their respective parties, according to a n a t i o n a l Reuters/Ipsos poll released yesterday. The results suggest the race to get onto the Nov. 8 presidential ballot is tightening, as candidates prepare for their next state contest, in New York next week. In the Democratic race, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont each had 48 percent support, according to responses from 719 Democrats polled from April 8-12. The two have been tied frequently since February. In the Republican race, celebrity real estate developer Donald Trump had 41 percent support, to 35 percent for Senator Ted Cruz of Texas, according to responses from 598 Republicans. The result was within the poll’s credibil-
Democratic U.S. presidential candidates Senator Bernie Sanders and Hillary Clinton wave before the start of the Univision News and Washington Post Democratic U.S. presidential candidates debate in Kendall, Florida, March 9, 2016. REUTERS/JAVIER GALEANO ity interval. Cruz’s support has risen in recent weeks, making him the first candidate to rival
Trump’s popularity among Republicans since neurosurgeon Ben Carson in November.
Brazil President lashes out at VP over impeachment bid RIO DE JANEIRO – Associated Press - Embattled Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff yesterday called her Vice President Michel Temer the “head of the conspiracy” that seeks to remove her from office in her most direct attack on him so far. Speaking to teachers and students at the Presidential Palace in Brasilia, Rousseff said Temer and Lower House Speaker Eduardo Cunha are working together to gather votes for her impeachment. A lower house commission on Monday put Rousseff one step closer to impeachment after approving a report in favour of her removal. Hours earlier, a 13-minutelong audio of Temer rehearsing a post-impeachment speech was leaked. Rousseff said the recording shows Temer has “arrogance and contempt for the people.” “The mask of the conspirators has fallen,” she said. Rousseff is facing impeachment proceedings over allegations her administration violated fiscal rules to mask budget problems by shifting around government accounts ahead of her 2014 re-election. Opposition parties claim sleight-of-hand accounting
Dilma Rousseff
Michel Temer
moves allowed her to boost public spending to shore up votes. Rousseff has denied any wrongdoing and has not been charged with any crime. Her opponents say the impeachment process is in line with the wishes of the majority of Brazilians, while Rousseff’s supporters call it a blatant power grab by her foes. In another development, a former senator was detained in the latest sweep in a sprawling corruption investigation here. Officials said Gim Argello was placed in preventive detention early yesterday, accused of taking bribes from construction firms involved in
the massive bribes scheme at the state-run Petrobras oil company. The bribes were allegedly in exchange for Argello’s help in keeping the firms’ executives from being called to appear before parliamentary committees investigating the scheme. Federal prosecutor Carlos Fernando de Lima said the illicit funds were then passed on as legal donations to political parties. Lima told journalists at a news conference the practice “has existed for a long time.” He said that “corruption in Brazil is not partisan.” Argello’s aide and another person were temporarily detained in the sweep.
Wednesday April 13, 2016
Kaieteur News
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KK Warriors trounce Grove... U-19 World Champs (From page 39) the match. Poor defending yet again allowed the nippy and nagging Scott to get behind the defending champs backline as he tapped in the squared ball comfortably. Grove tried their best to pull themselves back into the match but every effort was dampened by the energized Warriors as they romped to a big win but more importantly, three points.
Despite losing however, Grove still holds down the number one spot in the points table on goal difference ahead of Herstelling Raiders. Soesdyke Falcons, led by goals from veteran Troy Johnson in the 25th minute, Captain Marvin Joseph in the 41st minute and another seasoned campaigner Collis Messiah in the 58th minute staved off a spirited late surge by Mocha Champs to win 32.
Both of Mocha’s goals were scored by Andel Anthony in the 57th and 67th minute, respectively. Another potentially exciting double header is fixed for this Sunday when Grove will have the chance to restore some lost pride when they oppose Diamond United. KK Warriors and Herstelling Raiders will set the afternoon’s play off at 13:30hrs in the first game and this will be a keen battle.
Wednesday April 13, 2016 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) You can continue to forge ahead if you make a few long distance calls pertinent to closing pending deals. Coworkers may not be completely honest with you; try not to rely on help from others. TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) You can look around for the right place and enlist some of your friends to help you move. Travel and social activity will bring about interesting talks, not to mention contacts. GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Personal problems may be hanging over your head but don't confront the situation. Sudden romantic encounters are quite likely, but discretion will be a must. CANCER (June 21–July 22) You may have problems with those you live with. You are best to concentrate on work. You may have difficulty trying to get your mate to understand your position. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Deception is evident around you. Look into projects that you feel would contribute something to your appearance. Only offer to do the things you have time for. Luxury items will cost you more than you can truly afford. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Update and review your personal investments. The locks, stove, gas, or electric wires may not be secure. Don't point your finger unjustly at others.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Money can be made if you use your ingenuity. Don't be too open or put your faith in unreliable coworkers. SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Keep an open mind when dealing with youngsters. Direct your energy wisely today. Anger will prevail if you expect help from others. You need to do more things that you enjoy. SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) Avoid any over indulgences. Do not be surprised if your partner doesn't understand your needs. Past partners may try to come back into your life. CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) You could make extra cash through creative hobbies. Your time, not your cash, will do a lot more for your relationship. You will encounter those who can help you further your goals if you attend functions that attract prominent people. AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) Your practical approach to life may charm someone who has been observing you. Make changes to your living quarters that will please the whole family. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) You will be full of good ideas, and your choice of activities may bring you enrichment far beyond your expectations. If they don't like the plan, suggest that they contribute a little. Be innovative.
to play in CPL
Bridgetown, Barbados, CMC - Six stars from the West Indies Under-19 squad which won the World Cup earlier this year are to feature in the fourth edition of the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) which starts late June. The young West Indies cricketers, retained after the franchises completed their player rosters for the forthcoming campaign, are Shimron Hetmyer, Alzarri Joseph, Gidron Pope, Anderson Phillip, Shemar Springer and Oshane Thomas. All six players have been retained by their home teamsHetmyer, Joseph and Pope will play for Guyana Amazon Warriors, St Kitts & Nevis Patriots and Wind-
ward Islands Zouks while Phillip, Springer and Thomas will represent Trinbago Knight Riders, Barbados Tridents and Jamaica Tallawahs. ”It was hugely exciting to see so many promising players expressing themselves with an attacking mind-set and it certainly bodes well for the future of the game across the Caribbean,” said CPL International Director of Cricket Tom Moody. ”The CPL is committed to encouraging future generations of players and followers to the game and I have no doubt that West Indies cricket will reap the benefit this season and for many years to
come”. According to CPL regulations, each franchise is invited to select one player from their home country for the fourth edition of CPL. CPL is set to bowl off from June 29 and run until August 7 and Moody expects emerging local talent to make “significant inroads” this season. ”In making their selections, the six franchises analysed and scrutinised in great depth the available talent on display and conducted internal camps to assess the players up close,” said Moody. “It wasn’t a straightforward process, which is testament to the performances of the players”.
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Wednesday April 13, 2016
Rio golfers must be snappy Returning Federer coasts into Monte Carlo third round with alligators lurking
An aerial view of the construction site of the Rio 2016 Olympic Golf venue in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil, July 29, 2015. Reuters/Ricardo Moraes Slow rounds are common in world golf but players competing at the Olympics in August may need to be snappier than usual as they will have alligators, capybaras and other wildlife for company. The new Olympic golf course was built in a spectacular area surrounded by lagoons that are home to several species of wild animals
including alligators, according to local media reports. At least five biologists will be on hand in case the reptiles need to be moved away from players or spectators, said the Folha de S.Paulo newspaper. Authorities are also set to erect signs issuing warnings about the nearby wildlife. Golf is returning at the Rio de
Janeiro Olympics after a 112year absence from the Games and the course was built a few miles from the neighborhood of Jacarepegua, which means Alligator Lagoon. Rivers in local parks are filled with alligators while capybaras, the world’s largest rodents, are also commonly sighted. (Reuters)
Former world number one Roger Federer returned from a 10-week layoff with a 6-3 64 second-ro u n d v i c t o r y against S p a i n ’s Guillermo Garcia Lopez at the Monte Carlo Masters yesterday. The third-seeded Swiss had knee surgery on Feb. 3 and was forced to delay his scheduled comeback in Mi a m i b e c a u s e o f g a s t r o e n t e ritis. Federer, who has failed all 12 attempts to win the first claycourt Masters of the season, was barely bothered by the world number 38. The only glitch he suffered came when he was broken as, leading 5-2 in the second set, he was serving to win. He will next face either G e r m a n y ’s A l e x a n d e r Zverev or Spain’s Marcel Granollers, who was picked in the main draw after fellow Spaniard David Ferrer withdrew with a leg injury. Back in Monte Carlo for the first time since 2013, world
Roger Federer serves to Guillermo Garcia-Lopez of Spain. Reuters/Eric Gaillard number two Andy Murray labored into the third round with a 6-2 4-6 6-3 defeat of
France’s Pierre-Hugues Herbert. (Reuters)
Wednesday April 13, 2016
Kaieteur News
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Ronaldo hat-trick sends Madrid to Champions league semis Cristiano Ronaldo scored a superb hat-trick as Real Madrid overturned a 2-0 first-leg deficit against Wolfsburg to reach the Champions League semi-finals. Wolfsburg arrived in Spain’s capital protecting a healthy lead, but that was wiped out by a Ronaldo double in the space of 86 first-half seconds. The Portuguese swept home the first from six yards before a glancing header levelled the scores on aggregate. Ronaldo’s hat-trick goal came from a free-kick when Wolfsburg’s wall parted. It completed a quite remarkable turnaround by the 10-time champions of Europe and keeps alive a season that looked to be over for Zinedine Zidane’s side after last week’s loss in Germany. Three months ago Real fans were waving white handkerchiefs in a show of anger during the final throes of Rafael Benitez’s shortlived reign. Yesterday, supporters gave the players a standing ovation after a dominant performance saw them advance to the semi-finals for the sixth successive season.
Ronaldo grabbed the match ball at the final whistle and placed it under his shirt as he lapped up the applause from the stands after his fifth Champions League treble - and third of this season. The former Manchester United forward has 93 Champions League goals to his name in 125 appearances - 10 more than nearest rival Lionel Messi. Yet, despite his hat-trick, this was a team effort from Zidane’s side. Sergio Ramos twice struck the woodwork while substitute Jese forced a fine one-handed from Diego Benaglio. Real join Manchester City in Friday’s draw with the winners of Atletico Madrid’s tie with Barcelona and the game between Benfica and Bayern Munich to decide the remaining two places. Real have come alive in recent weeks under Zidane, with a deserved El Clasico win over arch rivals Barcelona one of the highlights of their late season flourish. Yet, as good as Real Madrid were, Wolfsburg were poor defensively after sitting back and inviting pressure.
Ronaldo slots the ball past Wolfsburg goalkeeper Diego Benaglio to score the first goal and start the incredible comeback. Ronaldo was unmarked when he tapped home his first, while his third goal from a set-piece came after the
German wall disintegrated. While Barca will remain favourites to defend the trophy they won last
June, Real are hitting form at the right time and cannot be ignored. (BBCsport)
Kevin de Bruyne strikes as City storm into Champions League semi-finals Manchester City are into the semi-finals of the Champions League for the first time after Kevin de Bruyne’s late strike sealed a thrilling win over Paris StGermain. After a 2-2 first-leg draw in Paris last week, the tie remained in the balance in Manchester thanks to Sergio Aguero’s missed penalty for City in the first half. The home side had Joe Hart to thank for three fine saves at 0-0, notably a ferocious Zlatan Ibrahimovic free-kick that the England goalkeeper clawed to safety. But, roared on by a capacity crowd of 53,039 that supplied an unforgettable atmosphere, City held their nerve at the back before De Bruyne’s decisive strike 15 minutes from time with their only shot on target. The final whistle brought scenes of pure emotion from the fans at Etihad Stadium, who were already in uncharted territory. England’s last remaining representatives in Europe’s elite club competition had never reached the quarter-finals before this season - now they can dream of the final in Milan. First they can look forward to Friday’s semi-final
De Bruyne curled the ball into the bottom right-hand corner from the edge of the box past the helpless Kevin Trapp in PSG’s goal draw, after winning what was viewed as the battle of Europe’s richest clubs with a PSG side who have now fallen at the last-eight stage for four successive seasons. City’s defence has been much maligned this season and their performance in Paris
in particular meant a clean sheet looked a long shot in this second leg. The main reason they achieved one was Hart but, on this occasion, their back four also deserve immense credit. Their full-backs coped with PSG’s wide players,
whether it was wing-backs Maxwell and Gregory van der Wiel in a 5-3-2 formation in the first half, or orthodox wingers Lucas and Angel di Maria in a 4-4-2 after the break. At centre-half, Nicolas Otamendi and Eliaquim Mangala had kept just three
clean sheets in 17 previous games together this season, and one of those was the 17 minutes they played together against Dynamo Kiev in the last 16. But between them they barely gave Ibrahimovic a sniff of goal in open play and
nullified PSG’s main threat until he finally found the net just before the final whistle. Sadly for the enigmatic Sweden striker, the offside flag had long since been raised. Ibrahimovic was not the only striker to draw a blank. His battle with Aguero was much-hyped before the match, notably by City’s own poster campaign to drum up ticket sales, but again this dual of the super-strikers disappointed. Like Ibrahimovic in the first leg, Aguero missed a penalty - and by some margin. After being tripped by Kevin Trapp, the Argentina international fired well wide of the target to the disbelief of the home fans. While Aguero’s influence was then confined to his industry, Ibrahimovic fired in two free-kicks as he attempted to add to his tally of 39 goals from 42 games this season - but Hart saved both of them. Instead it was De Bruyne who would supply the precise finish, with the £55m Belgium forward again showing his worth to City with another fine display since his return from injury. (Mailonline)
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NBA: Kobe Bryant & Golden State Warriors ticket prices soar Basketball fans are paying up to $27,500 (£19,315) to see Kobe Bryant’s final game for the LA Lakers. Bryant, 37, the third-highest scorer in NBA history, will bring his 20-year career to an end when the Lakers face Utah Jazz in Los Angeles today. At the same time, defending champions Golden State Warriors will be going for a record 73 wins when they host Memphis Grizzlies in Oakland, California. Resale tickets for that game are going for up to $15,900 (£11,155). The Warriors are looking to break a record set by Michael Jordan’s Chicago Bulls in 1995-96. The game is a 19,595 capacity sell-out with tickets only available via the resale market. Tickets via official channels start at $336 (£236) and rise to £15,900 for courtside seats on resale websites such as Stubhub. Only resale tickets can be bought for the Lakers’ game
Kobe Bryant (left) could add to his 33,583 points in his final game on Wednesday, while Stephen Curry’s Golden State Warriors are seeking a record 73 wins. at the 18,118-capacity Staples Center too, with prices fetching between $700 (£491) and $27,500 for the chance to see 18-time all-star and fivetime championship winner
Bryant for a final time. The Lakers have issued a fraud alert to fans warning them to only buy from their official ticket exchange, where fans can resell tickets
securely. However, buyers using the official exchange can still expect to pay up to $10,000 (£7,000) to see the game. (BBCsport)
Wednesday April 13, 2016
British cricketer shot dead in Trinidad A young British cricketer has died after reportedly being shot during an armed robbery in Trinidad. Adrian St John, 22, is understood to have died following an incident on Sunday night. Local media reports say that a 24year-old male has been arrested on suspicion of murder. St John, who played for Alleyn Cricket Club in south London and for his university squad at the University of Hertfordshire, was captain of the The Chris Gayle Academy in London, which opened in 2013 to “improve access to good quality education, training and employment for at risk young people in Jamaica and the UK.” Gayle tweeted: “Such sad news to hear. My condolences to his family & friends. Adrian St John was the captain of the academy. #Sigh.” Donovan Miller, programme manager for the Chris Gayle Foundation, said: “I’m really finding it hard to come to terms with it, how someone could do something like that
to such a lovely person.” Miller added that Mr St John had been one of the first members of the Chris Gayle Academy in London. “He wanted me to support him to go to the Caribbean,” he said, “and to kind of push hard with his cricket.” Paul Taylor, head of the Surrey Cricket Foundation, said: “On behalf of Surrey CCC and the Surrey Cricket Foundation I would like to send our condolences to Adrian’s family as well as everyone who knew and played with him at this difficult time. He was clearly a talented cricketer and a very popular guy and everyone at the club was shocked and saddened when we heard this news.” The Foreign Office confirmed it was in contact with authorities in Trinidad following the death of a UK national. According to local media reports, the incident occurred after Mr St John had stopped his car to pick up two friends. He was shot as he drove away after the robbery. (ESPNcricinfo)
British cricketer Adrian St John, pictured at the Chris Gayle Academy © Twitter
Wednesday April 13, 2016
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Shuseki Shihan Frank Woon-A-Tai grades 116 Karate students
9th Dan Shuseki Shihan Frank Woon-A-Tai (seated 5th front row) with the students and other instructors from last Sunday’s Grading exercise. IKD Chairman and Chief Instructor, 9th Dan Shuseki Shihan Frank Woon-A-Tai who is the Founder of the International Karate Daigaku on Sunday last graded over 110 Karatekas of the Association do Shotokan Karate-Guyana (ASK-Guyana) at the YMCA Thomas Lands. He was assisted by 6th Dan Sensei Amir Khouri and the recently promoted 4th Dan Sensei Roger Peroune. Dojo’s from Linden, New Amsterdam, Albion,
Blairmont, Land of Canaan, West Bank Demerara and Georgetown participated. Total KYU Grades promotions: 10 students to White Belt / Yellow stripe (9 KYU); 15 students to Yellow Belt (8 KYU); 29 students to Orange Belt (7 KYU); 09 students to Green Belt (6 KYU); 06 students to Blue Belt (5 KYU); 07 students to Purple Belt (4 KYU); 10students to Brown Belt (3 KYU); 13 students to Brown Belt (2 KYU); 04 students to Brown Belt (1 KYU).
103 13 students to DAN’S (Black Belt). Congratulations were extended to all the students for working hard towards success under the instructions and guidance of Instructors, Clinton Moriah (New Amsterdam), Hazrat Ali (Albion and Blairmont), Laurence Lowe (Georgetown), Amir Khouri and Roger Peroune (YMCA), Parmeshwar Persaud (Land of Canaan).
Meanwhile, Shuseki Shihan Woon-A-Tai is currently holding a special Instructors training session
which commenced on Monday last at the GKC; Tuesday’s session was held at the YMCA while today’s
session is slated for GKC and tomorrow at the YMCA. Sessions are held from 18:00hrs to 20:00hrs.
CONCACAF Announces Schedule of Events for its XXXI Ordinary Congress The Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) yesterday announced details regarding the XXXI Ordinary Congress in Mexico on Thursday, May 12, including the schedule of events and the candidates who are eligible to stand for election to the CONCACAF and FIFA Councils. The XXXI Ordinary Congress will be held at the Intercontinental Presidente Hotel in Mexico City. At the XXXI Ordinary Congress, elections will be held for the following positions. The elections will be conducted by CONCACAF’s Ad Hoc Electoral Committee and monitored by representatives
of FIFA’s Audit & Compliance Committee and FIFA’s Legal Department, as well as three additional election scrutineers to be selected. CONCACAF Council (Former Executive Committee): President (ex officio FIFA Vice-President) • Mr. Victor Montagliani (Canada) • Mr. Larry Mussenden (Bermuda) Vice-President - Central America (UNCAF) • Mr. Rodolfo Villalobos (Costa Rica) FIFA Council (Former Executive Committee): Member – Caribbean (CFU) • Mr. Luis Hernandez (Cuba)
• Mr. John Krishnadath (Suriname) Member - Central America (UNCAF) • Mr. Pedro Chaluja (Panama) Female Member • Ms. Sonia Bien-Aime (Turks and Caicos) • Ms. Joanne Salazar (Trinidad and Tobago) In accordance with CONCACAF’s revised statutes, FIFA’s revised statutes, and related regulations, all candidates listed above are eligible to stand for election following the completion of eligibility checks conducted by Sidley Austin LLP and reviewed and approved by FIFA’s Audit and Compliance Committee for all FIFA offices.
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Kaieteur News
Wednesday April 13, 2016
NSC, GOA supports national Junior Table Tennis Team The National Sports Commission (NSC) and Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) offered their support to the National Junior Table Tennis Team in separate financial contributions to Guyana’s Table Tennis Association (GTTA). The support comes as the GTTA President, Godfrey Munroe managed to convince both institutions that the team is on a quest to bring Guyana regional honours at the 2016 Caribbean Junior and Cadet Table Tennis Championships. Members of the Executive Committee of the GOA, which included President, K. A Juman Yassin, Secretary General, Hector Edwards and Treasurer, Garfiled Wiltshire visited the team at the National Gymnasium, Mandela Avenue yesterday during their final training session before departing Guyana. The GOA President stated he was happy to support Guyana’s junior table tennis talents since he sees them as
Director of Sport, Christopher Jones (second, right) shares a moment with the National Junior Boys’ table tennis team and Coach, after presenting them with a cheque. the future prospects to represent Guyana at Olympic Games. In his brief address to the players, he spoke of the importance of merging
Netball AGM set for April 24 The Guyana Netball Association will be hosting its Annual General Meeting and Elections on Sunday April 24 at 2pm in the Boardroom of
the National Racquet Centre on Woolford Avenue. All members of Netball Clubs and interested persons are invited.
academia and sports and asked the players to give their best in representing the Golden Arrow Head. Former Junior Table Ten-
nis Champion and Caribbean Squash Champion, G a r f i e l d Wi l t s h i r e a n d former cycling champion, Hector Edwards also offered
words of encouragement to the players as Munroe thanked GOA for their support. “We feel the team selected
has a very realistic chance of qualifying for the Pan American Championships to represent the Caribbean Region and has high medal chances at these Caribbean Championships,” Munroe said. The 2016 Caribbean Junior and Cadet Championships is scheduled for April 12-18 in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. The team includes: Boys 18 years and under: Shemar Britton, Kyle Edghill, Elishaba Johnson and Miguel Wong and Boys 15 years and under: Nicholas Roamin. Coach/Manager: Linden Johnson Further of critical importance is that these championships will be used as the qualifier for the Inaugural ITTF Pan American Junior Table Tennis Championships scheduled for Vancouver, Canada in June 2016; where the top four teams from the Caribbean will join four teams from Central America, six teams from South America, USA and Canada.
Heaven banking on Windies T20 stars
GT Beer 4-a-side KO football kicks off tomorrow at Aracari Resort
The buzz is on as popular football teams from the West Demerara District, prepare for battle in the GT Beer 4-a-side knockout Football tournament which will kick off tomorrow night at the Aracari Resort, Plantation Ve r s a i l l e s , We s t B a n k Demerara. Action will get underway at 19:00hrs and will continue on April 17 and 21, before concluding two days later.
Tomorrow night’s play will see Sparta Boss taking on Parfaite Harmony A; Water Street battles against Reggae Boyz; DC Warriors will come up against Fix Time United while Agricola will battle for supremacy against Boom Bang. Team Admiral will compete with Parfaite Harmony B; Traiders tackles Jetty ‘A’; Team Showstoppers will engage Bagotsville; Brothers United will take on Jetty ‘B’; Comfort Ballers oppose Patentia Street Ballers; Stewartville Gunners have vowed to demolish Team Speedboat while Samaroo Dam comes up against Vergenoogen. Corporate support has come from Banks DIH under their GT Beer brand, Tw i s t e r z D i g i t a l A u d i o entity, Tina’s Variety Supermarket and Aracari Resort.
Samuels with JCA and other officials on his return home. Jamaica Cricket Association (JCA) president Wilford ‘Billy’ Heaven hopes the Jamaican members of the West Indies team will make themselves more available to help grow and develop the sport in the country. Speaking shortly after the return of front line batsman Marlon Samuels and fast bowler Jerome Taylor on Tuesday, Heaven said the players were role models who could reignite interest in the sport. The other Jamaican play-
ers who were part of the victorious West Indies World Cup Twenty20 squad were explosive opener Chris Gayle and enterprising all-rounder Andre Russell. Gayle, Russell, and Taylor represent the Jamaica Tallawahs in the Caribbean Premier League Twenty20, while Samuels has played for Antigua Hawksbills and is currently on the roster of St Kitts and Nevis Patriots. ”We are looking towards our Jamaican players on the
West Indies team to be mentors to our cricketers, both male and female,” Heaven said. ”This is so that over time, we can build a good team here in Jamaica that is not only competitive, but can contribute significantly to the West Indies.” Heaven was pleased about Samuels’ possible return to national representation. Samuels, who last represented Jamaica in 2014, has had difficulties representing
the country since new selection policies were introduced with the installation of the last selection panel, headed by Wavell Hinds. That panel also included Wayne Lewis, Delroy Morgan, and Robert Haynes. “Marlon has said to us that he is now ready to play for Jamaica and we are happy for that,” said Heaven, who is expected to name a new selection panel within his new administration. (The Jamaica Star)
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Kaieteur News
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RCB flex batting muscle to crush Sunrisers The sleeping giant that was IPL 2016 sprung to life in a high-scoring clash. Royal Challengers Bangalore blasted the first 200-plus score of the tournament in an emphatic 45-run win over Sunrisers Hyderabad at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium. In doing so, they also bucked the season’s early trend of chasing teams prevailing. AB de Villiers (82) and Virat Kohli (75) provided a visual treat courtesy a fine cocktail of fineness and brute force in a 157-run secondwicket stand, before Shane Watson announced himself by muscling three successive sixes in an over from Karn Sharma. The final flourish was lent by Sarfaraz Khan, who in his typically unorthodox fashion, paddled and reverse-paddled his way to an unbeaten 10-ball 35 as Royal Challengers finished with 227 for 4. Deflated and dejected, Sunrisers went for broke, wiping out 83 for the loss of Shikhar Dhawan in eight overs.
David Warner, who returned to open after a brief flirtation in the middle order with Australia in the World T20, showed why he is one of the most feared white-ball strikers. He muscled three sixes and five fours in a 21-ball half-century before falling into the short-ball trap laid by Watson. The pressure of the required rate eventually got to Sunrisers and the chase went cold as the team lost Wa r n e r, N a m a n O j h a , Henriques and Deepak Hooda in the space of 17 deliveries, meaning they could only muster 182 for 6. Parvez Rasool was the pick of Royal Challengers’ bowlers, returning 1 for 31 in a crafty spell of offspin bowling, even as Watson and Yuzvendra Chahal, the legspiner, chipped away with two wickets. Chris Gayle’s dismissal for 1 in the second over of the match to Bhuvneshwar Kumar, when the ball brushed the thigh pad and deflected onto the leg stump, was a rare moment to cheer for a listless Sunrisers
Virat Kohli goes inside out to pierce the off side field ©BCCI
AB de Villiers smashes the ball over the infield ©BCCI
bowling attack that was further depleted when Ashish Nehra, their pace spearhead, hobbled off the field after just 2.1 overs. That resulted in a batting feast for two men in a murderous mood as Royal Challengers blasted 139 off the last 10 overs. The only semblance of respect from Kohli and de Villiers came early on when Mustafizur Rahman, making his IPL
debut, troubled them with his cutters. Once the job of seeing off his initial burst - a two-over spell - was done, they let loose. Sarfaraz’s unbeaten 44run stand off just 15 deliveries with Kedar Jadhav ensured Royal Challengers had momentum firmly by their side at the break. Shikhar Dhawan’s early wicket to Rasool was a
setback for Sunrisers, but Warner’s muscle kept his team in the hunt as Kohli rang in the changes in a bid to pull things back. Adam Milne’s second spell, in which he had Moises Henriques mistime a pull to midwicket, opened the game up. Once Royal Challengers had one foot in the door, it was a simple matter of forcing it open, which they
did quite easily. In the end, even Ashish Reddy’s big hitting was merely a footnote for Sunrisers in what was a forgettable outing. Royal Challengers Bangalore 227 for 4 (De Villiers 82, Kohli 75, Sarfaraz 35*) beat Sunrisers Hyderabad 182 for 6 (Warner 58, Reddy 32, Watson 2-20, Chahal 2-43) by 45 runs (ESPNcricinfo)
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Kaieteur News
Wednesday April 13, 2016
GCB honors PCL Champions at Gala dinner
Windies U-19s and ladies rewarded for WC success By Sean Devers With pomp and splendor at the Pegasus Hotel on Monday evening the Guyana Cricket Board honored their five championship winning World Cup players and the entire Leon Johnson led Guyana Jaguars team which won the PCL four day FirstClass Franchise for the last two seasons. We s t I n d i e s U - 1 9 Captain Shemron Hetymer, his Vice-Captain Kemo Paul and wicketkeeper Tevin Imlach were Guyanese on the Regional team which won the ICC U-19 World Cup in Bangladesh in February. Fast bowling all-rounder Tremayne Smartt and legspinner all-rounder Shamaine Campbell were the ladies from the land of many waters in the West Indies female team that defeated three-time defending Champions Australia earlier this month in India in the ICC t20 World Cup on a memorable day for West Indies. Later the same evening, inspired by their girl’s success, the Windies Men’s beat England in the final at the same venue as three teams from the Caribbean made a clean sweep of every World Cup held in 2016. Present at the dinner were the Jaguars’ team minus Assad Fudadin and fellow Berbician Devendra Bishoo (both excused), members of the reigning Regional U-19 Champions, President of the GOA, K
J u m a n Ya s s i n , B C B President Anil Beharry, WICB Board Member and Chairman and Managing Director of Banks DIH Limited Clifford Reis, GCC President Lionel Jaikarran, NSC representative James Bond, GCB executives, the media, sponsors, the GCB staff and specially invited guests. Smartt, Campbell and Hetymer were given solid Gold necklaces with the words ‘World Champions’ inscribed on the pendants. All 17 players who played for the Jaguars this season, including their Manager and Coach, each collected a ring with ‘2016’ engraved on it as appreciation for their backto-back four-day titles and unbeaten streak of 17 matches which began in November 2014. The Jaguars suffered their last defeat in PCL cricket against Barbados in the third round of 2014/15 season. Hetymer, who registered his maiden First-Class ton in the final round against Jamaica just after his return from Bangladesh, was also presented with a ring as were his two Windies U-19 teammates Imlach and Paul. The ‘fantastic five’ from the World Cup were each presented with a pair of Serengeti sunglasses by a representative from Gizmos and Gadgets. Jacqueline James, the Marketing Manager of Digicel, who had already made presentations to the trio of U-19 players a month
ago and provided the five cricketers with mobile phones at a ceremony held at 704 Sports Bar when the Guyana Government honored the World Cup stars, was also present on Monday evening. The Jaguars registered a record eight wins in each of their last two seasons. Only two teams have ever won eight matches in a single season. Jamaica achieved the feat twice (2005 & 2012). This was Guyana’s eighth First-Class title but first time that this nation had achieved the feat in consecutive seasons. Johnson joined Clive Lloyd (1975 & 1983) and Roger Harper (1987 & 1993) as the only Guyana Captains to win the title twice after Rohan Kanhai led Guyana to its first title in 1973. Carl Hooper is the only other Guyanese Captain to lift the Trophy in 1998. Johnson thanked the GCB, Cricket Guyana Inc. and sponsors for the support given to his side and expressed delight to have been able to win the back-toback victories for his country. Johnson, the only batsman to score 800 runs (807) this season, encouraged the younger players to take the game seriously and that he is looking forward to the new season. The Jaguars have already begun preparations for the next season which starts later this year. Secretary of the GCB
From extreme right standing, Kemo Paul, Shemron Hetymer and Tevin Imlach. Sitting, Tremayne Smartt (left) and Shamaine Campbell were honored for being members of West Indies World Cup success this year. Anand Sanasie informed the gathering, which was feted with a sumptuous dinner and afforded the opportunity to take photographs with the cricketers, that the WICB is impressed with the Guyanese U-19 trio. ” T h e y h a v e
demonstrated excellent leadership qualities and are all members of the GCB academy system” the WICB Director disclosed. Bond who spoke on behalf of Director of Sports Christopher Jones who is out of the country, commended the players and lauded the
GCB for their efforts in developing the game in Guyana. The NSC member noted that Sports demonstrates true cohesiveness and is one of the few things that can boast of uniting people, especially cricket among Guyanese.
GTC Race Meet will be exciting-Sims Returning from a fouryear haitus due to legal issues surrounding the ownership of the track, horse racing promoter Michael Sims is pulling out all the stops to make his return a memorable one. Sims, one of the leading promoters of horse racing in the 2000s’, speaking with Kaieteur Sport yesterday at its Head office, attempted to assure turfites that the upcoming Georgetown Turf Club (GTC) grand One-Day Horse Race Meet scheduled for Sunday, April 24 in the village of Mocha Arcadia, East Bank D e m e r a r a w i l l be an exciting one that will feature some of the top race horses in
the country. According to Sims, six races are carded for the day with prize monies and trophies totaling in excess of $3million up for grabs. Sims, who was accompanied by Organiser Compton Sancho disclosed that the feature event will be the H & Lower Class which will be run over a distance of one mile with the winner set to receive $200,000, 2nd place $100,000, 3rd place $50,000 and 4th place $25,000. The remaining races on the card include the J & Lower over a distance of six furlongs with the winner collecting $150,000, 2nd place $75,000, 3rd place
Michael Sims
$37,000 and 4th place $18,000. Then there is the K & Lower Class over six
furlongs that carries a first prize of $140,000, 2nd prize $70,000, 3rd $35,000 and 4th $17,000; the L & Lower
over a distance of five furlongs with a first prize of $100,000, 2nd $50,000, 3rd $25,000 and 4th $12,000; the Unclassified with a first prize of $80,000, 2nd $40,000, 3rd $20,000 and 4th $10,000. The Cart horse race over five furlongs will see the winner receiving $60,000, 2nd $30,000, 3rd $15,000 and 4th $8,000. Sims added that the GTC did a countrywide registration where over fiftytwo horses have so far registered and among the sponsors who pledged support are Banks DIH, Nand Persaud & Company, Kris Jagdeo Construction, Attorney-at-Law Poonai,
Mohamed Salim Khan, Jumbo Jet Auto Sales, Denis De Roop, Simply Royal Racing Stables, Justice Cecil Kennard among others. Among the top horses that will be on show are Liquid Lion, Happy Landing, Red Jet, Quancy, Red Regent, Blue Lightening, Champ and Royal Stallion among others. Starting time is 13:00hrs. Meanwhile, the Management of the GTC is inviting all horse owners, grooms and trainers to a meeting on Saturday at 14:00hrs to discuss all issues pertaining to the Meet. The Meeting will be held at the GTC location in Mocha.
Wednesday April 13, 2016
Kaieteur News
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WIFBSC Short Range champs to defend title in Antigua next month Budget of 4.6M being aimed at
The Guyana team along with other shooters on Sunday last before they took to the 600 yards range. Reigning West Indies Fullbore Shooting Council (WIFBSC) Short Range champions; Guyana National Rifle Association (GuyanaNRA) has commenced training in earnest ahead of the next months championships set for the island of Antigua from May 1622. Captain Mahendra Persaud and fellow marksmen began the task of gelling together and getting
into rhythm on Sunday last at the Timehri Rifle Range as they seek to retain the title whi c h t h e y l a s t w o n when the championships were held in Jamaica in 2014. Last year there was no competition in the Caribbean as the West Indies competed at the Wo r l d L o n g R a n g e Championships and Palma Match which were held at Camp Perry in Ohio, USA in August, 2015; eight
Guyanese had made up the 16-member West Indies team. Guyana won the team Long and Short Range Titles (Milex and WIFSC Trophies) for an unprecedented fourth time on Jamaican soil in 2014; however, only the Short Range championship will be contested in Antigua which does not have a Long Range. Captain Persaud noted that practice on Sunday took
on the team format that would be done in Antigua at the 300, 500 and 600 yards ranges. ”The exact format that we would be shooting in Antigua was used at training. We ran the order that we would also be using as we seek to get our form and focus going the way we ought to. I am confident that we will be able to retain the title as the best in the Caribbean.” Wind Coaches are Paul
Slowe, Persaud, Lennox Braithwaite, Ransford Goodluck, Dylan Fields who will all shoot and coach as has been the norm over the years. Lennox Braithwaite is also the defending Caribbean Individual Champion and will be aiming to win this accolade for the fourth year in a row having won in Guyana (2012), Barbados (2013) and Jamaica (2014). Other members of the
squad are Ryan Sampson, Peter Persaud, Terrence Stuart, Sherwin Felicien and Leo Romalho. Training will continue every Sunday. Meanwhile, the Guyana NRA has disclosed that they are faced with a budget of 4.6m in order to make the tour a reality. Letters have already been sent to corporate Guyana as well as the relevant national Ministries soliciting assistance.
STAG / EBFA Senior League
KK Warriors trounce Grove; Soesdyke edge Mocha
Soesdyke Falcons goal scorers from right, Collis Messiah, Troy Johnson and Marvin Joseph. Kuru Kururu Warriors recorded the biggest upset of the Stag / EBFA Senior League to date when they handed defending champions Grove Hi Tech their first loss of the season whilst notching up their second win via a 2-0 score line in the feature match on Sunday last at the Grove Playfield. Sunday’s opening match saw Soesdyke Falcons also recording their second win in four matches when they
overcame Mocha Champs 32. K K Wa r r i o r s , a l s o competing in the inaugural Beach Soccer League wasted little time in establishing that they were out to grind the defending champions as they were players minus three of their starters who were all suspended due to red card violations. Ryan Scott, who has been displaying good form in both the 11-a-side and beach
Ryan Scott of Kuru Kururu Warriors chests the ball in his bid to maintain control against Grove’s Nickolai Matthews on Sunday last. soccer leagues was once again the man who would craft what can be described as huge win for the Linden Soesdyke Highway based side. Scott tormented the Grove defence for the entire 90 minutes with his first goal
scored in the 6th minute when he beat goalkeeper Rondell Alleyne at the near post, the ball squeezing into the back of the nets in the little space provided at the right post. The goal brought jubilation from the KK
Warriors players, reserves and Coach, Dale Roberts. But while they were sitting pretty ahead, the Warriors never lost sight of the task at hand and kept the pressure on the defending champions. Grove did get behind the
Warriors defence on a few occasions but lacked the potency upfront as they were constantly nullified. The Warriors would double the advantage on 30 minutes when Scott fired in his and his side’s second of (Continued on page 31)
t r o Sp GCB honors PCL Champions at Gala dinner
Windies U-19s and ladies rewarded for WC success
The gold rings and chains
The Jaguars squad with NSC member James Bond (right) and GCB executive Anand Sanasie (middle with Jacket) after they collected their rings for back-to-back PCL wins.
NSC, GOA supports national Junior Table Tennis Team
GOA Treasurer, Garfield Wiltshire (second, left) and President, K.A. Juman Yassin (left) hand over the sponsorship cheque to GTTA President, Godfrey Munroe in the presence of the National Junior Boys’ team and coach, Linden Johnson (right). Printed and published by National Media & Publishing Company Limited, 24 Saffon St.Charlestown, Georgetown.Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491 or Fax: 225-8473/ 226-8210