Wednesday April 20, 2016
Kaieteur News
Camp St. prison is a major nat’l disaster DEAR EDITOR, The media report that prison officers are fearful of their lives and that the prisoners have taken over the Camp Street Prison is not surprising. The truth is the prison system in Guyana is nasty, brutish and rotten and successive governments just keep talking about improving them, but so far, they have done nothing substantial to stop the rot. The Camp Street prison has deteriorated to deplorable and inhumane conditions, even unfit to house animals let alone human. The seventeen lives lost in the March 2016 riots at the Georgetown prison should send a strong message to the government that the rehabilitation of prisoners and the construction of a new prison with modern facilities are urgently needed to prevent such incidents in the future. However, the government has stubbornly refused to build a new prison. It is a national disgrace to have approximately 900 persons in the Camp Street prison that was built in 1832 to house 350 inmates many of whom are on remand for many years on various charges. How can this country boast of upholding justice when the presumption of innocence and the rule of law are denied to prisoners, some of whom may be innocent? The inordinate delays of trials at the Courts show that the justice system is archaic and incompetent and is plagued with serious problems that are
affecting its overall performance. Meanwhile, prisoners are made to suffer under a system for which they have no control over. Apart from the construction of a new prison, the government should also seriously contemplate the rehabilitation of prisoners under the motto “human before inmates.”This should be the mindset that goes into any consideration of building a new prison. Prison reform is desperately required to prevent a return of prisoners to prison. However, there is a deafening silence among prison authorities surrounding the idea of restorative justice, which should be a sensible approach to treat those who run afoul of the law. At the heart of the rehabilitation program should be the meting out of justice for prisoners in a more humane manner, thereby helping them to change their lives and become law abiding citizens rather than being alienated in prison. Unfortunately, the present prison system put “inmates before human” and this is evident in the inhumane conditions and treatment that inmates have to endure for years waiting for a trial date. The current prison conditions and the cumbersome judiciary have served only to breed hate, mistrust and hopelessness in the minds of many prisoners. It is for this reason that prisoners continue to direct their anger and frustration towards prison officers who represent the authority and the society.
The prison system is so primitive that the safety and security of prison offers have become the unwitting targets of prisoners in a system over which they have no real control. These problems can be overcome with the building of a modern prison and the rehabilitating of prisoners. But unfortunately, the government will wait until another riot takes place and lives are lost before it starts looking desperately for solutions. Seventeen prisoners had to die before a Commission of Inquiry was established to investigate problems at the prison. Many believe that a new prison is needed to replace the outdated Camp Street Prison which was built more than 180 years ago. If the government is not serious about reforming the prisoners, the system will continue to produce more desperate, barbaric and hard core criminals. Rehabilitating prisoners is far more humane as opposed to putting them in jail indefinitely. This is by no means a support for those who broke the law, but rather an impassioned plea for a more sensible and humane approach that will eventually reduce the level of criminal behavior in society. Building a modern prison will create a more secure environment for prisoners and prison officers. It is better to pursue restorative justice and prison reform and construct facilities that cater to human development and not inmate lock-up. Observer (name supplied)
The diaspora is vital for Guyana DEAR EDITOR, Following its victory on May 11, 2015, Guyanese in the Diaspora congratulated the newly elected Coalition Government, especially Mr. Granger on his elevation to the Presidency. But it was not long after that many of the Coalition supporters in the Diaspora became disappointed with the Government for not creating a Diaspora Department and appoint a Member of Parliament for Diaspora affairs as promised during the election campaign. Notwithstanding the lofty rhetoric at the swearingin-ceremony of the President, one would have thought that Diaspora affairs would have been on the top of the government’s list. But it appears not, even though the leaders of the Coalition promised to make the Diaspora the eleventh region and a legitimate constituency in the future. In light of these
comments, it made sense that the only way to do this was to establish a Diaspora Department as an extension of the government. In this way, the Diaspora would be served by people who have their interest at heart, and would work exclusively and tirelessly to advance the country. They would have been involved in the political processes and as such, they would help in the development of the country and thus create a better life for all. The New York Diaspora has always been considered the fund raising mecca for the political parties in Guyana. The 2015 election campaign was no different as members of the Diaspora opened their purses and wallets and gave generously to the Coalition. Some even took time off from work and others have sacrificed their families to join the Coalition campaign in Guyana. Not only has the
government ignored the various groups in the Diaspora which supported it during the election, it has also reneged on its promise and has not created a Diaspora department or appoint a Member of Parliament for Diaspora Affairs. One of the reasons put forth by the Government is the lack of resources which to many is a slap in their faces. To be frank, the government, especially the leadership has disappointed many of its supporters in the diaspora who have worked extremely hard to help the coalition win the election but only to be neglected by the government. For almost three decades, the diaspora has and continues to contribute approximately 20 percent of the country’s foreign currency by way of remittances to support relatives. Given its limited resources, the government should implement policies regarding investments,
targeting members of the Diaspora. And, where expertise or consultants with requisite skills are needed but unavailable in Guyana, members of the Guyanese Diaspora must be given first preference to fill vacancies on Boards and other positions in the government. There might also be the need to hire personnel from the Diaspora for consulate and other diplomatic positions. Since taking office, the government has not reached out to its constituency in the New York Diaspora and the possibility exists that it will not do so. It has not responded to e-mails or letters from various organizations either. Had the Continued on page 29
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An enumeration of President Granger’s mistakes
DEAR EDITOR, On May 16th 2015 the nation watched as President David Granger was sworn into office as the 9th President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana. For many who witnessed their country deteriorate under the combined weight of authoritarianism, and massive corruption from previous administrations, this was a welcome change. Brigadier Granger is considered by most Guyanese a “good man” and the right man for the right time. He will stamp out corruption, restore order and preside over the transformation of Guyana into a modern nation where each individual can realize his/her fullest potential. This was the hope of many Guyanese at home and abroad. Almost one year since that swearing in, this new found hope is beginning to wane as the Guyanese people once again brace themselves for a return to business as usual. Almost one year later an embattled President Granger appears somewhat out of his depth. With the exception of a successful clean up campaign and a few slogan type solutions, “Boat, Buses, & Boots” etc. the President who was elected to transform and give hope to Guyana seems to be offering more of the same. — Jobs for the boys, a few sweetheart deals for some of the old guard and several large no tender contracts. In so far as his appointments are concerned, it seems as if party loyalty, family ties and personal relationships trump experience, knowledge and ability. In other words meritocracy has been subordinated for familiarity. Certainly in politics in general and more specifically in a multi party coalition, one understands the need for compromise and accommodation, but Mr. President compromise and accommodation should not be at the expense of the nation’s business. From inception to date the president appears to leading from behind as such he has found himself awkwardly defending and explaining away one embarrassing situation after another ;beginning with the 50 % salary increase for cabinet members. This was done in order to prevent ministers from becoming corrupt say one of his advisors. Then he had to walk back and temper the expectations of the public based on the results of the forensic audits. Once again he failed to take control of the narrative until after the fact. Then there was his flip flop on the Rodney COI Report. he now says the report is flawed. Then there was the case of an alleged child molester on the ballot for APNU in the recent LGE. Again the President is looking into the matter and he will get back to us. Finally there is what appears to be at best an unholy alliance between Joe Harmon, Brian Tiwarie, and BaishanLin. Once again the President comes out after the fact and offers the feeblest of explanations. His response - nuanced, and lacking in sincerity and moral conviction. Each of these incidents separately are themselves cause for concern, but when taken together as a whole, they undermine the President’s moral authority, and lends a certain uneasiness about the leadership of a man who is considered by most Guyanese,” a decent chap”. It is time to re calibrate Mr. President Yvette Short
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Wednesday April 20, 2016
Kaieteur News
Deputy Prison head rejects damning accusations at COI Deputy Director of Prisons, Senior Superintendent Gladwin Samuels yesterday categorically rejected claims that he had given the orders which led to the death of 17 inmates of the Georgetown Prisons. The men perished in a fire during what was described as one of the worst prison riots in the nation’s history. Those victims and at least eight other injured inmates were allegedly trapped in raging flames in the Capital ‘A’ Block of the Camp Street Prison. Following the incident, several damning accusations of misconduct were leveled against Samuels, a prison official with years of experience under his belt. The Deputy Director was sent on leave with immediate effect, in light of a number of alleged transgressions against prisoners. Yesterday, Samuels testified before the Commission of Inquiry (COI) established to look into the incident. During his testimony before the threemember tribunal at the Ministry of the Presidency’s Department of Public Service on Waterloo Street, the prison official firmly dismissed claims by the
inmates that he had instructed that the men be left inside the building to burn. The Deputy Director‘s evidence in chief was led by Attorney for the joint services, Selwyn Pieters. Samuels supplied the commission with information on his qualifications and experience, including all his training as a prison officer. He told the panel that he currently holds a Degree in Social Work and is about to complete his Masters in Public Management. Thus, the official claimed his strict style of management at the prison would have led to the untrue accounts given by prisoners, but ultimately his goal is to make the prison a better place. In response to questions by Attorney Pieters, Samuels said that there are prisoners who know the truth about the March 3 incident, but many might be afraid of being attacked and victimized by their fellow inmates for telling the truth in his defence. The witness noted that in his opinion such persons would only come forward if they are offered permanent residence in the United States and were allowed to stay there for the remainder of their lives. Recalling the day of the
- says officers did best to rescue inmates tragedy, Samuels said that he had left Georgetown for Mazaruni Prison the previous day, but the acting Director of Prisons informed him of the growing ruckus at Camp Street and instructed him to return to Georgetown, since his efforts were needed in the operation. Samuels recounted that upon his return to the Georgetown Prison Compound, he noticed a number of inmates had been moved from Capital B section, where they were confined after a riot and fire occurred on the previous night. He recalled members of the task force struggling to remove a prisoner who protested, and a hole in the partition wall which separated Capital A and Capital B blocks of the prisons. He said that prison officers worked relentlessly to put out the first fire in the building. But after that fire was extinguished, prisoners at Capital A block became extremely riotous and began to protest also. Samuels noted that shortly after, thick black smoke and fire was emanated from the cell. The official testified that efforts were immediately made to unlock the doors of Capital A and let the prisoners out, but the attempts were futile. According to the witness, after efforts to use the keys to unlock the doors
Deputy Director of Prisons Gladwin Samuels testifying yesterday at the COI
failed, a civilian worker attached to the prison was instructed to use a power cutter to cut the lock, but this method was also unsuccessful. The witness told the tribunal that the man complained the metal was too hot for him to cut through. Samuels said that sometime after the fire department arrived and began their efforts with the assistance of prison officers. At this point, he recalled, prisoners began shouting that he (Samuels) was the cause of the men’s demise; they accused him of commanding the other officers to lock the doors while the men perished
inside. Samuels said that he left the prison yard after police’ A’ Division Commander Clifton Hicken told him that it was best he left the compound to ease the rising tension. Samuels was adamant that he did not allow the men to perish in a fire and further noted that no tear gas was used during the riot nor did any of the prison officers, including himself, use their firearms. He claimed that the untrue accounts submitted to the commission and published in the media have significantly damaged his reputation and shed a negative light on his immediate family members.
“Persons who know me would give a different account of me”, Samuels emphasised. The prison official claimed that his efforts prevented many revolts within the prison; some of the riotous outbursts being led by Collis Collison whom he described as “the usual ring leader”. Samuels also spoke of attempts by prisoners to sneak in guns, ammunition, marijuana and other contraband into the prison yard. He explained that the items are thrown over the prison fence and recalled one case in which a prisoner had concealed two large packages of marijuana in his anus in an attempt to sneak it into the jailhouse.
Wednesday April 20, 2016
Kaieteur News
Schools urged: Stay vigilant against ISIS influence Trinidad Express - Given that terrorist group ISIS is actively recruiting people to join its cause, Minister in the Education Ministry Dr Lovell Francis has advised principals to be vigilant regarding who was being allowed onto the school’s compound. Regarding the issue of nationals who aligned themselves to ISIS to fight and then return to the country, Minister Francis said the Ministry of National Security was mandated with the task of monitoring everybody who came back. Speaking with reporters Monday at Naparima College, San Fernando, he said principals were being asked to take note and ensure the kind of people who was coming onto the school compound and what influence they can have on pupils. “That is something that is a National Security issues and then it becomes an issue for the Ministry of Education. It is difficult to stop influence. There are so many ways to influence. What we have to do is ensure that our schools as institutions provide a doctrine or a mantra to a student that is stronger than anything negative they can get from somewhere else. There are so many ways to spread influence, between the parents, the State, schools. We have to ensure that we provide something that is able to capture the minds of our young people better than any kind of radical thought,” Francis said. He said programmes to
Dr Lovell Francis counter these influences were being considered. Francis said the State was still deliberating the distribution of laptops in schools given the economic strain this country is facing. Francis said the Ministry was in the process of reviewing data with the best interest of the pupils in mind. He said: “The laptop is something we are still thinking about, how best to implement. Everyone is aware of the fact that we are facing very, very difficult economic times, added to that the evidence we have been able to collect, the questions, the reach, the significance impact of the laptop. The Ministry is still in the process of sorting that out as what is the best way forward, to use the scarce resources to have the biggest impact on our stu-
dents.” Francis also distributed nine refurbished computers to communities that are in need of exposure to Information Technology. The computers were refurbished by the Restore a Sense of I Can (RSC) organisation. Francis commended the Naparima College for hosting the event attended by 58 schools. He said the initiative presented by the RSC was “tremendously” impressive. He applauded the five upper six pupils who worked on the computers and the social consciousness that they were taught, to care for others. He said they need to be encourage, emphasised and praised their good deeds. He also said it was innovative considering the “structural adjusting” in the economy.
Cuba’s President Raul Castro retains top Party post BBC News - Cuba’s President Raul Castro will remain the country’s Communist Party chief for another five years. Mr Castro, 84, is due to step down as president in 2018, but in Cuba the role of Party secretary is considered just as powerful as president. The leader proposed at the weekend that 60 should become the maximum age for joining the Party’s central committee. Cuba has an ageing leadership - Mr Castro’s deputy in the Party, Jose Ramon Machado Ventura, is 85. Raul Castro took over the presidency from his older brother Fidel in 2008 due to Fidel’s ill health, and introduced a limit of two five-year terms for leaders. During the five-yearly Communist Party Congress at
Raul Castro the weekend, he told delegates that there should be a cap on the age of future members. He suggested 60 as the maximum age to join the central committee and 70 to be a top leader, but said that there should be a five-year transition period for such rules to apply.
The BBC’s Will Grant, in Havana, says that this congress may be the last to be presided over by the country’s original revolutionaries, and that the prospect of fresh blood is broadly welcomed by the Cuban public.
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Kaieteur News
Wednesday April 20, 2016
Wednesday April 20, 2016
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Kaieteur News
APNU is whistling a different tune these days The coalition must not take the Guyanese people for granted. Guyanese people are tolerant, but certainly not stupid. The government must not believe that Guyanese active memory is only confined to current events. Guyanese have the memory of an elephant. They remember, all too well, things in the past. They remember what was said, when it was said, and who said it. They remember also what was promised, who promised what, and when it was promised Guyanese do not forget easily. Guyanese thrive on their capacity to remember things in the distant past. Some Guyanese have the faculty of remembering things before they were born. Guyanese love to look back at the past. They do it every day. Whenever the government is criticized, the supporters dig deep into their memory bank to find out something similar that the PPP did.
Guyanese love an oldtime story. Every Guyanese has his or her own collection of nostalgia. Guyanese may conveniently omit to recall certain things such as the excesses from 1977 onwards. Guyanese may block out from their thoughts certain things which they are ashamed of, but do not erase it from the database in their brains. Guyanese have good memories. They remember all too well when the APNU had been highly critical of certain companies operating in the forestry sector. Guyanese remember how the same APNU had accused these companies of enjoying sweetheart deals, and of being given too many concessions. Guyanese remember all too well that APNU had promised to investigate these deals. Guyanese also remember the concerns that were expressed about the exportation of logs from Guyana. They remember who said what.
Guyanese voted for change because of what was said. They expected that action would have been taken to address some of the criticisms of the activities of foreign investors in Guyana. Guyanese remember well that when the new government came in, it gave an ultimatum to certain companies that they must begin to do processing of logs rather than export them. Guyanese remember that the companies were given deadlines by which they were expected to establish wood processing plants. It was said that if the deadlines were not met, that action would be taken, since the failure to establish the wood processing plants constituted a breach of those companies’ agreements with the government. Can somebody tell me whatever happened to those deadlines? This is not skinteeth story. What happened to the deadlines that were given to the foreign investors to set up their wood
Dem boys seh...
LEECH CAN’T STICK PUN SOULJA BAI
Soulja Bai open he eye when he see corruption refusing to go away and spreading like a cancer or de spirogyra. That is de word Joe ShanLin use to describe Bai ShaLin, de syndicate wha he now join and sleeping wid. Yesterday, Soulja Bai show that he in control. He chase Joe ShanLin, Landan and knock out Babby Vee from de D’Urban Park project and give it to Fattasen. He tell dem boys he smell Jagdeo, that scamp, and he see some leech. From de time Donald and Jagdeo lose de election, all dem leech wha did hang on pun dem start fuh fall off like if you spray Baygon pun de scamp and de dumb one. Everybody know that once a leech fall off it got find somewhere else to go. That is exactly how dem find Joe ShanLin and couple others. Dem boys gun call de names pretty soon. Dem boys hear when dem leech fall off that scamp and de dumb one, dem mek a ting fuh jump on pun Soulja Bai before Joe ShanLin. But little did they know Sandra Gyal
does put a lot of coconut oil pun Soulja Bai skin. Not even hair does stay on. Dem leech couldn’t mek it. Dem boys happy to hear that he strengthening de anti-corruption arms at every level, and in every area. Dem boys also hear Sandra Gyal tell ee to mek sure he put he own arm inside Ohh Pee, because a lot of this starting to happen right in there. De nation want to see action. People does call dem boys every minute asking when Soulja Bai gun keep he promise and jail some people. De forensic audit already find nuff criminality. Money missing, assets disappear and still Soulja Bai ain’t doing nutten. De ABC countries ask him if he want help and he still to accept de offer. Guyana can’t handle another Jagdeo and Donald govt. De people have had enough. And enough is enough. De whole of Guyana saying suh, including dem boys. Talk half and hide Soulja Bai sleeping pills.
processing plants? Those deadlines have passed. What actions have been taken against the defaulting companies? Why were no actions taken? The public needs to know. The public does not want any bluffing. The public wants to know whether the government has been saying one thing and doing another. The seizure of luxury vehicles by the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) is a tax matter. The GRA will be called upon to justify the lawfulness of its actions. The actions by the GRA
have nothing to do with any attempts on the part of the government to right what APNU described when it was in the opposition. The actions of GRA were not part of any review of these deals made by the PPP with foreign investors. The Guyanese people must ask themselves why it is that state-owned agencies headed by persons perceived to be sympathetic to the government were subject to so-called forensic audits, but to date not one of the major investment agreements between the PPP government
and foreign investors has been investigated. Why? Those who have convenient recall are the ones who are going to be fooled in this country. Those who try to conceal the past are the ones who are going to feel betrayed by the government. APNU must explain how it preached one thing when it was in opposition, but now it is singing a different tune that it is in the seat of government.
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Kaieteur News
Wednesday April 20, 2016
THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN...
Should Lennox Cornette’s cornice be taken away? Cynicism is gushing out of my head when I read that 17 years ago Mr. Lennox Cornette forged the signature of his boss at GT&T and therefore had to leave. From the views of some in the media, the argument is that he should not be the CEO of NCN because of that indiscretion 17 years ago for which he wasn’t charged. Since criminality is not involved, then Cornette’s case brings moral judgement into focus. I don’t know Lennox Cornette at all. He was a student of mine about twenty years ago at UG, and since then I have not spoken to him or do I think I ever saw him. With this controversy, I know that he was employed at a few prominent places I was surprised that Enrico Woolford lost out. My initial reaction was which candidate could beat out Woolford, but I am not familiar with Cornette’s curriculum vitae. My personal attitude is that I would not deny a qualified professional a management position in 2016, if 17 years ago he forged his boss’ signature where he worked. I have to see a very
Frederick Kissoon scholarly and erudite polemic to convince me to accept the death of that person’s professional career. And even so, I doubt I would accept it for two reasons. First, even with a criminal record, many countries have a limitation period where the record is removed from the system for very innocuous crimes. It means then that, officially, you have no criminal record As a spin-off from this, why should one’s career be at an end after serving time for a crime that does not involve pedophilia, rape, homicidal robbery etc? If an accountant served his time for
wounding during a drunken brawl, can’t he be redeemed and continue to contribute to his profession? This country has produced a curious citizen with a unique record. He held four different statuses in the realm of law. First, he was a defendant, charged with stealing a bicycle tyre when he worked at Booker’s Stores in 1955. He was defended by one of the top lawyers of the day, B.O. Adams. This young man went on to become a lawyer, establishing a formidable reputation as a brilliant defence attorney. He was also a prosecutor and a judge. That is a unique record. He is still alive, extremely wealthy and in demand. Did his court matter in 1955 hold him back? In the case of Cornette, he wasn’t even charged. The second reason why I would reject an intellectual defence for taking away Mr. Cornette’s cornice is because Guyana does not have a code of moral correctness (there is such a guideline as adumbrated by that genius
of a philosopher, Immanuel Kant), never had one and doesn’t look like it will have one in the future. The question then becomes compelling; who has the moral (not legal) authority to take away Cornette’s cornice? Additionally in the context of Guyana’s depraved record of immoral c o n d uct from the sixties onwards, why isolate Cornette to use as an example of moral reclamation? I will now become provocative. If I agree with those who want Cornette’s NCN crown to be withdrawn, then they must withdraw other crowns. This is where I find this society’s hypocrisy to be obnoxious, repugnant and sick. The new government
could easily argue that all that went on before May 2015 was not the immoral world they shaped and that they want to start a new culture. And they can do so by using the Cornette forgery issue as the new standard. Sounds good! But what if there are others whose acts are more egregious than Cornette’s? I know a CEO in the public sector who was appointed a few months ago, who was fired by President Desmond Hoyte for dishonesty in public office. I could give more examples. I worked at UG for 26 years. I know who is who at that place, and no moral righteousness exists there. I know of many more
acts of indiscretion by people who are now in the public sector, appointed after 2015, including a deportee expelled from the USA on a serious conviction. Just a footnote; I read a letterwriter reminding us that Royston King was charged for a criminal offence. He is the Town Clerk. The Americans have a nice way of reacting to an absurd situation. They w o u l d s a y, “Are you kidding me? I like that expression but I prefer my Caribbean lingo – “Maan yuh gat to be joking.” Mr. Cornette should not be the CEO at NCN, all because he forged a paper 17 years ago? “Maan yuh gat to be joking.”
Wednesday April 20, 2016
Kaieteur News
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Contractors vie to rehabilitate Region Three roads During yesterday’s opening of bids at the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) there were bids for the rehabilitation and construction of roads under the miscellaneous roads project, in Region Three. This project is being executed by the Ministry of Public Infrastructure. The bidding was done in lots, and the engineer’s estimates ran as follows; for lot six, $136.7M; lot seven, $46M. And the estimate for the third and final lot, number eight, was $16.9M.
There were also bids to supply beds at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC)’s Intensive Care Unit (ICU). In a recent, highly publicized incident, a woman and her baby were photographed on the floor of the maternity ward. This incident served to highlight the fact that for years, the GPHC has had to contend with a bed shortage.
Also under the MPI, there were bids for the rehabilitation of the No. 66 steel truss bridge at Corentyne, Region Six. The engineer’s estimate was $31.1M. Bidders also vied for a contract to provide security services at the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) registration offices in Region one, two, seven, eight and nine, for 2016.
Under the Ministry of the Presidency‘s Department of Public Service, there was a similar security service contract.
Under the Ministry of Public Health, there was also a contract for the printing and delivery of brochures, posters and clinic aides.
For the Ministry of Public Security, there was a contract for consultants who would design an institutional and operational framework for a communications and information command centre. This would be for the Guyana Police Force.
And finally, under the National Parks Commission, there was a contract to rehabilitate a fence at the Botanical Gardens. The engineer’s estimate was $13M.
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Kaieteur News
Anti-Money Laundering amendments for May 4 sitting of Nat’l Assembly Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo, leader of Government business in the National Assembly, says that amendments to the AntiMoney Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AMLCFT) Act are high on the agenda for the May 4, 2016 sitting of the National Assembly. Prime Minister Nagamootoo in an invited comment to the Government Information Agency (GINA) said that the AMLCFT Act will undergo changes to meet the new demands for enforcement, seizures and confiscation of assets used in money laundering and to answer to those organisations which Guyana reports. The Prime Minister said that the amendments are essential and urgent, “so we will bring back our AntiMoney Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism law for further amendments.” There are also a number of other bills on the agenda, more specifically a bill dealing with a comprehensive approach to insurance operations in Guyana. “We must be able to have in one legislation a set of prescriptions that would make insurance companies serve the intentions they have been set up to serve, and not to leave areas for scamming,” the Prime Minister said. This legislation is critical, since insurance companies need a domain in which they can operate in Guyana. The government considers this legislation an important one. “Also on the cards are measures to deal with the telecommunications sector to
refine the Bill,” the Prime Minister stated. The issue of tobacco smoking, advertising and promotion in Guyana will also be addressed; the Prime Minister anticipates that this will generate some concerns from the public. “This will be open to public consultations before a special select committee of the National Assembly,” he said. Wildlife legislation and others dealing with animals and the fishing sector are also on the legislative agenda. Prime Minister Nagamootoo pointed out that Government has taken a decision to present policies to the National Assembly. “We have decided that we will circulate a white paper on the national youth policy that will be done shortly, because many political parties have promised a national youth policy, but have never delivered so we have one that is available now. A national land reclamation policy will be presented, as well, which will comprehensively deal with issues of land, land distribution, land preservation and land reclamation. In the long-term, there are several pieces of legislation that will be introduced by Government in the National Assembly; among these are witness protection legislation, campaign financing and reform of broadcast legislation. Members of the National Assembly are currently on a recess to facilitate capacity building sessions for staff of the Parliament and also to facilitate Government Ministers attending international meetings and fora.
Bandits rob, terrorise... (From page 3) when she was awakened by her eldest daughter’s screams. Mrs. Narine said that she immediately realised that intruders were in the house. “I came out (of the bedroom) hollering, because I knew what had happened,” she said. On running into the hallway, she was confronted by a masked man with a cutlass. Two other men with handguns held her eldest daughter and mother. They also brought the 18-year-old daughter from her bedroom. She said that the robbers immediately ordered them to hand over their cell phones, and also disabled the landline. They then began demanding money and jewellery, while repeatedly asking about the whereabouts of “the man for the house.” One of the robbers struck the eldest girl with his firearm. They then ordered the women, including the 18-year-old, to lie on the floor. The men spent about an hour ransacking the rooms, and also eating, before escaping with money, jewellery, the victims’ cell phones and other valuables. Detectives later lifted a number of fingerprints from the scene, but up to press time, had made no arrests. In the wake of the robbery, Kaieteur News publisher Glenn Lall said that he was putting up a $1M reward for information that would lead to the arrest of the perpetrators. He can be contacted on telephone number 624-6456, and assured that the identities of those providing information would be kept confidential.
Wednesday April 20, 2016
Wednesday April 20, 2016
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Kaieteur News
Forensic audit report reveals…
BaiShanLin never did any Environmental Impact Assessment
BYABENAROCKCLIFFECAMPBELL If one wants to open and operate a small sawmill, that person is required to carry out an Environmental Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) within the intended area of operation. However, BaiShanLin, the largest logging company in Guyana which has shipped out way over US$8M worth of logs is yet to conduct such a study. Despite all the logging and exportation, BaiShanLin does not have an actual licence to export logs. What the company had was a State Forest Exploration Permit (SFEP) which expired last year and is pending renewal. As part of its agreement for the grant of the SFEP, BaiShanLin was required to do a number of things including to carry out an ESIA before any extraction could begin. It was also to prepare a business plan and do a forest inventory. However, the forensic audit report into the operations of Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC) highlighted the fact that BaiShanLin is yet to honor any of those obligations. The auditor, Anand Goolsarran, reported, “It was discovered that at the expiration of the SFEP 01/2011,
on November 2014, the company did not honour its obligations. BaiShanLin contended that it faced a number of constraints, including passing through eight concessions and the need to repair/ upgrade roads; and that it had since been able to access the area. As a result, on October 1, 2014, BaiShanLin requested an extension of one year to fulfill these obligations under SFEP 01/2011 as well as to set up the wood processing facility.” Kaieteur News has been able to confirm that as of yesterday, no ESIA has been handed in. Nevertheless the new government, under the stewardship of Minister of State, Joseph Harmon, is looking to foster even more relations with BaiShanLin. The operations of BaiShanLin can, and has been proven to have significant negative impact on the environment. In June 2014 BaiShanLin submitted an application to the EPA seeking environmental authorization to undertake large scale logging and sawmilling. According to a published public notice, the company asked for the authorization for several areas including the Left Bank Essequibo River, Right Bank Berbice River, Right Bank Essequibo River, Left
Bank Corentyne River, Left Bank Lysles River, River Bank Berbice River and Right Bank Powis River, including Regions Nine and Six. It was noted that the project would entail, felling, timber extraction and transportation to a processing facility. They would also be doing grading, construction of roads, skid trails, bridges, culverts and camps with other ancillary facilities within the concession. The EPA stated that it fully recognized that the impending works could have “significant impacts” on the environment. Thus, in keeping with the Environmental Protections Act of 1996, it asked BaiShanLin to conduct an Environmental Impact Assessment. On Redd-monitor.org, it was stated that in November 2012, Chu Wenze, the Chairman of Chinese logging company BaiShanLin, gave a presentation outlining his company’s plans for Guyana at the World Congress in Taicang, China. The company’s plans have threatened Guyana’s proposals to reduce deforestation and forest degradation. Former Region Ten Chairman, Sharma Solomon, had on many occasions raised concerns about the impact of BaiShanLin’s operation in the region, particularly Region Ten.
BaiShanLin was in Guyana since 2006. In 2014—eight years later— Solomon said, “(Bai Shan Lin is) far advanced in (its) operations and it has still not done an ESIA to see what impact it would have on the people in the region.” “We have always expressed concerns about BaiShanLin’s ability to comply with standards and regulations; we have always complained about that.” He used as example the processing plant that the company has established along the Soesdyke/ Linden Highway and without compliance from any statutory agency, the company removed over 47,000 tonnes of loam to build the base of the plant, “in the process destroying and disrupting the lives of the people of Moblissa.” According to Solomon, in the process of building the plant, the company completely destroyed the farm to market road. It was only when the people threatened to shut down the company that any action was taken. “The company never did well for social corporate responsibility,” said Solomon. The Environmental Community Health Organisation (ECHO) staged several protest against BaiShanLin. Concerns were grounded in the fact
Managing Director of BaiShanLin, Chu Hongbo
GFC boss, James Singh that the company appeared to be posing environmental risks to Guyana with its “exploitive logging activities.”
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Kaieteur News
Wednesday April 20, 2016
Columnist maintains Chronicle guilty of censorship A debate has once again ensued over the alleged censorship in the state-owned media. This time, it is between Government and one of the columnists of the Chronicle Newspaper, Dr. David Hinds. In his recent writings, the University Professor contended that based on certain factors, it seems as though the Chronicle newspaper continues to be used as an instrument of dictatorship. The Professor of Caribbean and African Diaspora Politics said that the paper has to move beyond reprinting Government press releases and populating the pages with the faces of Ministers. “The rest of us matter too. As a columnist, I have had my experiences of censorship. On two occasions, my column was not carried because they were critical of the government. In other instances, sections of my columns which criticized the government have been deleted,” Dr. Hinds said. He reflected that the Chronicle has historically been an instrument of dictatorship, but it cannot continue in such a manner. Dr. Hinds noted that the coalition administration came to power as a change agent and as such, the state-owned media must reflect that promise. The coalition administration is however admonishing in the strongest terms, the accusations of censorship in the state media. In fact, it finds these comments to be
University Professor, Dr. David Hinds “irresponsible and baseless.” In a statement to the media, it intimated that such claims are wholly false and an attempt to damage the image of the Coalition Government. The Government said that it is trying to repair democratic institutions, including state media, which had been left in a shambolic state under the previous administration. The Coalition Government recalled that it has established independent and professional boards for the major state media entities and has noticed that persons with strong political and social views outside of the state media staff have been enlisted as paid contributors. The Government reiterated its commitment to the free media that
provides for national coverage that remarks about the Walter Rodney is not driven by partisan politics. COI (Commission of Inquiry).” It said, “For the first time in many The University Professor years, state media have been continued, “So the Office of the carrying articles and reports critical Prime Minister (PM) is saying that I of the government while providing am lying or that the non-publication extensive positive coverage to the of the articles did not amount to opposition. Allegations of censorship. In that regard, one can censorship in state media have no deduce that the Office of the PM basis in reality or fact.” endorses the non-publication of the After noting the Government’s articles.” statements, Dr. Hinds said that he Instead of addressing the charge feels nothing but disappointment. of censorship, Dr. Hinds asserted He said that the comments that the release portrays him which were released by as an enemy of the the Office of the government who is Prime Minister, attempting “to amount to damage the image “When will we nothing more of the Coalition stop equating than a tacit Government.” all criticism of approval of the He said, “As actions of the far as I know, govt. with wanting Chronicle. He Kaieteur News to undermine emphasized that columnist, Freddie nowhere in the Kissoon and I are it?” release was there a the two public direct explanation as commentators who to why two of his columns have commented on this were not published. issue. I have lived under two Dr. Hinds noted that both authoritarian governments in articles were subsequently carried Guyana and remember being the by other sections of the media. He victim of this very charge by both added, “So I must assume they were of them. When will we stop this not libelous. One article questioned nonsense of equating all criticism of whether it was true that the government with wanting to government was about to hire two undermine the government?” former Ministers of the PPP Dr. Hinds stated that for one to government, and I expressed my charge himself and Kissoon with disapproval of such a move. The wanting to undermine the other article expressed my government must be the biggest joke disapproval of the President’s of the year.
Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo He expressed, “But it is a joke that I do not take lightly, because when you begin to compile a list of enemies of the government and the state, you are beginning to walk down the road of dictatorship. This is a very bad sign. I don’t have to remind the country of the role that some of us played in helping to create the conditions that propelled this government to power.” The University Professor said he is sure that some of those who may have authored the release of the statements were missing in action during that time. He hopes that the Prime Minister dissociates himself from the release. He said that the release Continued on page 15
Wednesday April 20, 2016
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Kaieteur News
Burnt elderly couple’s employee Accused freed of Haslington toddler’s AMONG TWO DETAINED murder An employee of Mohamed and Bibi Munir was among two people in custody yesterday as detectives stepped up efforts to track down the individuals who deliberately set the elderly couple’s Good Hope, East Bank Essequibo home alight while they were still inside. Police sources said that the detained employee is a handyman who lives in a street behind the Munirs’ property. He was reportedly arrested at his home. An official said that the employee was detained based on information that investigators have obtained, but declined to state what those leads might be. Kaieteur News was told that another resident is also in custody. Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum confirmed that an employee is being questioned, but declined to say whether investigators are treating the case as a murder/robbery or a deliberate plan to kill the rice-farming couple. Ranks from the Force’s Major Crimes Unit are spearheading the investigation. Mohamed Munir, 75, and his wife Bibi Jamila Munir, 69, perished shortly after 23.00 hrs on Sunday, after being trapped in a raging fire that destroyed their heavily-grilled, two storey house. Their badly burnt corpses were retrieved from the debris after the fire was finally extinguished. Eyewitnesses said that the blaze started in the upper flat and that the entire flat was engulfed within minutes. While some residents said that they had
DEAD COUPLE: Mohamed and Bibi Jamila Munir
heard gunshots, post mortem examinations performed on the victims showed that they had died from severe burns. Residents, and a passing family who were among the first on the scene, could only stand by helplessly, listening to the elderly couple’s screams, which
eventually ceased as the flames overwhelmed them. Police have received reports from at least one female neighbour, who said that she saw two people in the couple’s verandah before the fire broke out. The neighbour also claimed to have heard Continued on page 29
The murder charge against Kevin Rankin was dismissed yesterday after a mixed twelve member jury declared him not guilty of killing his two-year-old niece, Kamini Phillips. The verdict was unanimous. The former accused threw both hands in air and yelled “yes” following the jury’s pronouncement. The freed man quickly exited the courthouse and raced along South Road with members of family in pursuit. Rankin had faced weeks of trial for the gruesome murder of two year-old Phillips. The toddler was allegedly sodomised at Haslington, East Coast Demerara, (ECD) on October 21, 2013. Initial reports had indicated that the child was left in the care of her then 16year-old uncle (Rankin) when she passed away. According to reports, Diane Graham, the mother of the former accused had left him at a relative’s home with the toddler, while she conducted errands. The woman returned sometime later and learnt of the baby’s demise. The child was initially taken to the CC Nicholson Health Centre at Nabaclis, East Coast Demerara, before she was pronounced dead at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation. Following a summing up of the trial by Justice Priya Sewnarine–Beharry and hours of deliberation by the panel of jurors at the Georgetown High Court yesterday, Rankin called “Lil Man,” of Haslington South, ECD, was declared a free man. The case was presented by State Prosecutors Narissa Leander and Tuanna Hardy. Rankin was represented by Defence Attorney Sandil Kissoon. In his closing address, Kissoon had argued that the prosecution‘s case was flawed. The lawyer noted that no photographs of the home or alleged crime scene were produced to the court and the police never took any statements from
FREED: Kevin Rankin eyewitnesses or neighbours. However, State Witness, Pathologist Dr. Nehaul Singh, revealed that an autopsy carried out on the body of the two-year-old indicated that she had suffered sexual penetration to her anus. He said that Phillips had fresh blood in her rectal area, in addition to abdominal trauma inclusive of internal bleeding to her liver and spleen. According to Dr. Singh, the toddler also suffered concussions to the head and neck which are consistent with a hit or fall. He noted that the child could have been pressed down, which restricted her breathing and the flow of blood in her chest cavity. Under cross examination by defence counsel, the doctor nonetheless admitted that the damage to the infant’s chest cavity could have been caused during administration of Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) by an untrained individual. Additionally, Rankin, while leading his defence, told the court that he had nothing to do with the death of his niece. He claimed that he did not harm her in any way, but that she was taken to a relative’s home to play when she became sick. According to Rankin, the child complained about chest pains and became unresponsive. The accused said that the child was not breathing and his cousin, Kimani Primo, had administered CPR.
Columnist maintains... From page 14 chronicles a list of positive changes in the state media since the new government came to power. Dr. Hinds said that he does not deny this. He noted, however, that the institution of reforms does not automatically lead to the absence of censorship. The columnist said that he will continue to offer critical analysis of the actions of the government, because that is part of his professional work and political activism. Dr. Hinds asserted that his critique of the government is grounded in deep love and support. He said that he will still defend the administration against any unfair attacks, as he still believes that it offers Guyana the best hope of overcoming its myriad challenges.
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Kaieteur News
Wednesday April 20, 2016
Wednesday April 20, 2016
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Kaieteur News
‘Nasty Man’ professes innocence in gun-related charges …alleges police victimization Yesterday, the prosecution wrapped up its case against 25-year-old murder accused Delon Henry who is before the court on charges of illegal firearm and ammunition possession. It is alleged that on October 2, 2015 at Agricola, East Bank Demerara, Henry, also known as ‘Nasty Man, had a .38 revolver in his possession, when he was not the holder of a firearm licence. It was also alleged that on the same day, at Agricola, he had eight .32 rounds of ammunition in his possession without being the holder of a firearm licence. He pleaded not guilty to the charges. Henry, of Houston, East Bank Demerara, was also called on to lead a defence and chose to give an unsworn testimony. He told Magistrate Fabayo Azore that he was innocent of the charge and that he was being victimized by police. “I’m innocent of this charge. Mr. Eastman dem come round and arrest me. I is not a mad man to go murder a man…dis is victimization. Dey (the police) aint do no proper investigation.” The defendant told the court that on September 28, 2015, he was at his friend ‘Ziggy’ in Brutus Street,
Delon ‘Nasty Man’ Henry Agricola. He said that he was teasing the friend about his police friend, Corporal Derwayne Eastman, which led to a misunderstanding. As a result, Henry recalled that he picked up a bottle and lashed his friend to the head. Henry stated that later on that day he was arrested. According to the defendant, he was warned by Corporal Eastman to leave the
“lil boy” (Ziggy) alone. “Eastman told me that if I don’t leave the lil boy alone…what coming to me I gone get.” Henry related that Eastman later informed him that he was wanted in connection with a murder that occurred at ‘Warlock’ in East Ruimveldt. He also claimed that one of the officers knocked out his front teeth at the time of his arrest. Henry declined to call witnesses to support his case. Testifying on behalf of the prosecution was Sergeant Eon Jackson. Jackson is attached to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), Ballistic Section, at Eve Leary, Georgetown. The court heard that he is an expert in firearm and ammunition examination, and that to date he has examined over 2000 firearms and 10,000 ammunition of various calibre. The police witness testified that two days after
Henry was charged, he received two envelopes -one containing a .38 special rusty revolver and the other eight .32 auto ammunition. Sergeant Jackson told the court that he discharged two of the ammunition using the rusty revolver. He recalled, “…And I found the revolver to be a firearm in working order. I disassembled one of the .32 ammunition and I applied flame to a small portion of the cover charge which ignited. And I found the .32 ammunition to be live ammunition. The firearm and ammunition were admitted into evidence after it was identified by the witness. Under cross examination, the sergeant was asked by the defendant if he had tested the firearm for gun powder. In response, the witnesses explained to the court that firearms are only tested for
gunpowder when it is alleged that ammunition was discharged. Jackson told the court that when the firearm and ammunition exhibits were handed over to him, he was not aware that the defendant had been arrested for a shooting. Police Prosecutor, Corporal Simone Payne declined to cross examine the police officer. This matter has been
adjourned until April 29. On April 5, Henry was committed to stand trial in the High Court for the murder of Dexter Griffith which occurred on September, 29, 2015, at East Ruimveldt, Georgetown. According to reports, Griffith, 36, a popular ‘Back Circle’ footballer was shot nine times about the body by two gunmen. Griffith was found in a drain by his mother, Lavern Griffith.
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Kaieteur News
Wednesday April 20, 2016
US-based experts talk about detecting autism ...share knowledge with local educators
While increasing efforts are being made through the Ministry of Education to tackle subtle and not so subtle conditions that could hamper children’s learning abilities, there is always more that can be done. But this need for more to be done is certainly not unique to Guyana. This assertion was recently made by Neuropsychologist, Dr. Marc Steed during an interview with this publication. Dr. Steed was at the time speaking specifically to the condition of autism. Autism is a mental condition, present from early childhood, that is characterised by great difficulty in communicating and forming relationships with other people and in using language and abstract concepts. “There is always more that we can do...whether we are in Guyana or whether we are in the United States, there is always more that can be done. There are always things that we can do better to understand children with autism and help them have a good quality of life,” said Dr. Steed, who operates out of the Utah State Hospital. He and his wife, Professor Katie Steed, are parents of an autistic child, and they understand all too well the challenges associated with caring for such children.
“We always feel like there is more we can do, but I think we are doing better today than we were doing yesterday or even better than we were doing five years ago, so that we can continue to improve,” said Professor Steed. The United States-based Dr. Steed and Professor Steed, together shared their expertise with local educators during recent working sessions at the National Centre for Educational Resource Development (NCERD). And according to Professor Steed, the local educators are eager to make a difference in the lives of children who are faced with various mental challenges including autism. “They truly want to know what they can do, because they really care about these students and they have hope that they can make a difference.” But it is not always easy to detect conditions such as autism, according to the experts. She moreover, pointed out that a checklist is often used to determine whether a child is suffering from the mental condition. “There might be as much as twenty-five different things on the checklist...and we want to be careful when assessing children. We want to be
careful, because there are individual things that a child might have, but not because a child has one would mean that that child has autism. But if they have maybe eighteen of those things constantly, and not just during the course of one day, then we might have an issue,” Professor Steed asserted. Among the signs manifested by a child suffering from autism is the inability to make eye contact, Professor Steed disclosed, even as she added that this sign alone does not confirm that a child is autistic. She, however, reiterated that “it might make us start to be concerned, but we would need to have multiple things on that checklist.” Dr. Steed also made it clear that the things on the checklist must not only be identified, but also manifest with some degree of severity. “It has to be severe enough to impact somebody’s quality of life. So if not making eye contact with someone is severe enough that it prevents them from having friends or having social relationships, you might want to look for other characteristics that might suggest that there are some problems,” said Dr. Steed. With the support from the experts, local educators will be better poised to help detect signs that may suggest that those in their care have conditions such as autism or others that accentuate the need for special education.
Welder remanded for murder of Mocha mechanic
Kenkassie Lynch
Terrence Lanferman
A welder was yesterday remanded to prison on a charge of murder. Kenkassie Lynch, 21, of 110 CC Eccles, East Bank Demerara, is alleged to have killed mechanic Terrence Lanferman on June 1, 2015 at his Lot 27 Nelson Street, Mocha Arcadia home. Police Prosecutor, Corporal Bharrat Mangru, told the court that on the day in question, around 19:30 hrs, gunshots were heard coming from Lanferman’s home. He said that after the shots ceased, the mechanic’s lifeless body was found on the floor, with several gunshot wounds. The prosecutor said that Lanferman was rushed to the hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival.
According to Mangru, the accused confessed to the crime. Police investigations are complete and Magistrate Fabayo Azore set June 1 for the commencement of a preliminary inquiry. According to reports, Lynch was arrested last Wednesday and reportedly confessed to police that he and his cousin plotted the crime. Lanferman was shot dead by a lone gunman who had come and knocked at his door. At the time of the shooting, Lanferman was the only person at home in the bottom flat of the two-storey house he shared with his mother. He sustained gunshot wounds to the neck and chest.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), Member States have been urged to include the needs of individuals affected by autism and other developmental disorders in policies and programmes related to child and adolescent health, and development and mental health. This, WHO has outlined, means increasing the capacity of health and social care systems to provide
services for individuals with autism spectrum disorders and for their families, and shifting the focus of care from long-stay health facilities towards non-residential services in the community. It also means improving health surveillance systems to capture data on autism disorders and ensuring countries are better able to diagnose and treat the condition. Autism spectrum disorders comprise a range of
development disorders which include: autism, childhood, disintegrative disorder and Asperger’s Syndrome. According to the Centres for Diseases Control and Prevention, about one in 68 children have been identified with autism spectrum disorder. Efforts are gradually being made here in Guyana to identify and treat this condition, mainly through collaboration between the Ministries of Education and Public Health.
Wednesday April 20, 2016
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Kaieteur News
GRA roasts Jagdeo over describing DDL settlement as “scandalous”
The Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) yesterday roasted the former President of Guyana, Bharat Jagdeo, who was cited in a daily newspaper labelling the agreed upon settlement between the Authority and the Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL) as “scandalous” The GRA stated yesterday that the entity does not encourage discussions about taxpayers’ issues or information in the public domain therefore, the authority said that it found the former Head of State’s comments disappointing, since he “would seek to expose the business of a taxpayer as well as attempt to have information on other taxpayers disclosed, even though he knows that these are violations of the oath of secrecy that the GRA is mandated to protect.” The Authority said that it also finds it astonishing that, given the “history of violations of taxpayers’ privacy that occurred under his government’s stewardship, which Guyanese found repugnant, that he would want to encourage the GRA to continue to operate along those unacceptable lines.” Notwithstanding, the GRA said that it wishes to point out that the matter has engaged the attention of the Courts since 2002 at great cost to the national coffers and tax payers. “Mr. Jagdeo is attempting to reconstruct the 14 years of failure by his government to
Former President, Bharrat Jagdeo bring this matter to an end. After almost 14 years with no satisfactory outcome insight, the GRA exercised its right to settlement in order to avoid more years of litigation and the consequent loss to the national coffers, as DDL was likely to take the matter to the CCJ (Caribbean Court of Justice); that settlement was calculated based on what the law permits.” GRA said that it is important to note that Jagdeo’s formula upon which he based his speculations about the consequences of the negotiated outcome, shows that the government actually gained a profit of G$231 million under the scenario he proffered. “Mr. Jagdeo is fully aware that once a debt owed exceeds one year, its value must be discounted for every
year it remains uncollected. During that 15-year period of litigation and based on the interest rate of 10 percent that he chose, his G$5.3 billion would have been worth G$1.3 billion to the government after 15 years.” The GRA continued that it finds Jagdeo’s objection to its efforts to have an amicable relationship with taxpayers, including those in the business community, “troubling”. “The tone of his views as reported in the newspapers present taxpayers as if they are to be enemies of the State. It is therefore, important for the GRA to reiterate that it views taxpayers as partners in the development of Guyana and therefore, explores all avenues available to have taxpayers honour their tax obligations without prejudice and at the same create an enabling environment for legitimate businesses.” The statement concluded. In recent reports – DDL announced that it had reached an amicable settlement with the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) in a longstanding dispute over Consumption Tax that began in 2002. This settlement follows an extended legal battle between DDL and GRA arising out of the Consumption Tax assessment levied against the company by then GRA Commissioner-General Khurshid Sattaur in January 2009, in the sum of $5,392,020,753. The assessment was immediately challenged in the
High Court by DDL through its lawyers Miles Fitzpatrick, S.C. and Timothy Jonas. The company announced that after intense negotiations, both parties were able to arrive at consensus to fully and finally settle all claims by the GRA and liability by DDL for both Consumption and Excise tax up to March 9, 2016 in the sum of $1,500,000,000. This sum is payable over 12 months. DDL, in good faith, effected the payment of $100,000,000 in compliance with the settlement terms. But Jagdeo in a statement said that while the assessment was from 2002 to 2006, the settlement was only arrived at on March 9, 2016. It means that DDL had used this money for 15 years
and according to the Opposition Leader, if one were to calculate interest on this sum, at a rate of 10 per cent per annum, using only the past 10 years, the liability would amount to $10.6B. According to Jagdeo, the settlement also writes off all possible liabilities in respect of Excise Tax up to March 9, 2016, so if the same situation obtains with regards to the Excise Tax, between 2006 and 2016, then the liabilities would run into tens of billions more. Jagdeo, a few days ago, stated that the settlement has opened the door for other companies to seek refunds on taxes paid.
“There have already been reports in the Private Sector of other major companies consulting lawyers about this possibility. Management officials from a major local alcohol and beverage producing company have made it clear, in the past when I was President, that the company would be seeking a refund depending on the outcome of the DDL matter. If this company were to conservatively use DDL’s case to advance a call for a refund of taxes it paid, this could result in the treasury balance being further diminished,” Jagdeo was quoted as saying.
Missing bridesmaid’s body found... (From page 19) to get to the body and had to be restrained by a police rank. Kaieteur News understands that as recently as one week ago, Hackett’s “childfather”, who is reportedly in Mahdia, had issued threats of killing her over custody of their son who recently turned three years old. Relatives of the murdered woman also stated the man’s mother and sister knew of the threats, and they were also alleged to have issued threats to Hackett. Kaieteur News understands that investigators at Turkeyen had contacted their counterparts at Mahdia on Sunday, with a view to locating Hackett’s child father, after she went missing. According to reports, the police at Mahdia quickly detained the man and questioned him, but he reportedly denied knowing about her whereabouts. He reportedly gave all assurances that he wouldn’t do anything to harm Simone Hackett, claiming that the last contact he had with her was at 18:00 hrs on Saturday, and that the bearer of the package was a friend he knew from a previous job in the gold mines.
He stated that the friend, “Dexter”, hails from Pomeroon, Essequibo, and that after he called Hackett to pick up the package, he tried calling “Dexter”, but the individual’s cell phone was turned off. Police subsequently released him, as Hackett had not been officially missing for more than 72 hours. The now dead woman was scheduled to be the maid of honour at her sister’s wedding on Sunday. The wedding went on nevertheless, but under a cloud of despair and uncertainty. Yesterday Hackett’s distraught father Gerald Hackett lamented the fact that he had just “given away” one of his daughters and now he will be burying another. “I care fuh me children. I always say let they bury me before I bury them. Was a wedding fuss, is a dead now,” he cried. He too believes that his daughter’s childfather could shed some light on how she died. “Is he caused her to go out to pick up the package, so I think the police need to look at the child-father; that’s my take on it,” Gerald Hackett told members of the media.
Burnt elderly couple’s employee... From page 15 Mrs. Munir screaming that ‘bandits’ were in the house. Shamiza Khosial said that she was up at around 23:00 hrs, when her son told her that there were people fighting at the Munirs’ residence. On peeping outside, Mrs. Khosial said that she saw two people on the couple’s verandah. She also heard the Munirs screaming for help. “The place was dark and I see two persons on the verandah and then I started to hear they (the couple) shouting that bandits were in the house,” Khosial said. The woman said that she also heard Mrs. Munir apparently calling their family friend, businessman, Shiraz Ali, to tell him that bandits were on the property. She also said that she saw the couple thrusting their hands through their grilled-up bedroom window. Khosial said that shortly after, she saw “a ball of fire” in the living room area and within minutes the entire property was engulfed in flames. The woman said that
the victims were trapped in their bedroom, since the window, like other areas in the house, had grill-work. Businessman Shiraz Ali said that Bibi Jamila Munir had contacted him by phone to say that bandits were in the house, while pleading with him to help. Ali said he arrived in about seven minutes, but by then the entire property was in flames. Among those first on the scene was a family that was heading to Parika, East Bank Essequibo by bus on Sunday night. One family member recalled that they were passing Good Hope when they saw flames emanating from the upper flat of a house. “We started blowing the (vehicle’s) horn, but nobody looked out. We start shouting ‘fire, fire,’ and knocked on the gate, and finally, the next door neighbour looked out and two other people came to us.” He also recalled that the Munirs front gate was not bolted, and two young men climbed over the gate. Seeing that the flames were spreading to the neighbour’s house, the man
and others helped the family to remove their valuables from the property. Another young man from the group said that he entered the Munirs yard and it was then that he heard someone screaming in the top flat. Mr. Munir, who was in his bedroom, flung some keys through the bedroom window and told those trying to rescue them to drive one of his tractors out of the yard. This was done, and Mr. Munir began shouting for the neighbours to use a second tractor to pull down the grill from the bedroom window. The young man said that he suggested that they hitch a length of chain to the tractor and to the grill, but by then the flames had begun to engulf the entire upper flat and the heat was immense. “Then he (Mr. Munir) say that his wife not breathing anymore, and after awhile he (too) stopped talking.” Some of the couple’s children have flown in from overseas and Kaieteur News understands that the victims are to be laid to rest today.
PAGE 28
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We seriously pay cash for land on La Parfaite Harmonie, Eccles, Herstelling, Uitvlugt, Farm, Zeelugt. Call: 603-6224; 611-7223 Attractive live in waitressCall: 327-0252/674-4665 Experienced driver/dispatchers with mini bus hire car license- Call: 645-0025 Live in waitress to work in a bar @ Berbice- Call: 6046606; 692-4649 Live in family: husband duties – driving, welding & mechanical; wife-domestic, good accommodation rates. Call: 227-1830 One seamstress/tailor to work. Call: 641-5720; 223-1599
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1 general domestic, must know to prepare Indian & English dishes to work in BelAir. Call: 227-0373
- 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.
Earn certificate in: cosmetology, nails, wig designs or hair cutting, etc. Register Now! Call Abby: 6665241; 619-7603
1-80CC Yamaha (Chappy) -$200,000 negotiable. 1-5L RZ minibus -$1.2M negotiable. Call: 642-7555; 220-6385 24ftX8ft & 250HP Yamaha Engine with turn system. Parika to Supernaam, excellent condition- $5.2M. Call: 683-8989
FOR RENT PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 Apartments for rent @ Nandy Park with free WiFi, recently renovated, 2 bedrooms - $70,000. Call: 6413318 New Grandville Park furnished from bedrooms house to rent, all modern amenities. Call: 332-0115; 663-9289 Three bedrooms flat on 347 East Street for rent, residence or business. Call: 223-4565; 672-3161
Wanted land to buy: La Parfaite Harmonie, Tuschen, Providence and Eccles. We pay cash! Call: 604-6724
1 Male cook -$100,000$110,000 monthly, workers for land dredge, 1 operator. Call: 694-2310 between- 8:30-4:30
TOURS
GR TAXI SERVICE. CALL: 219-5000; 227-1982 & 225-7878 (24HRS)
Tibetan Terriers, Dachshund, English cocker spaniels, Huskies and Mastiffs available, shepherds available by weekend. Call: 680-6426 1 Week Sale! Dell/HP computers with 19" flat screens -$45,000, lap tops $55,000 @ Future Tech. Call:231-2206; 644-6760 One XE limited vintage sprinter, very good condition, female driver. Call: 223-0654 One truck chassis without axle for sale. Call: 618-9010 French Muscovy Ducklings. Call: 670-2608 $20 per coconut without peeling- Call: 677-7626
1 Bottom flat to rent- Call: 220-3353
150cc Elite motor cycle$150,000, 2" water pump $35,000 (new). Call: 261-5389; 678-3848 MS 310 Chainsaw Sthil $50,000, 400 watt plant, grow lights -$25,000. Call: 2615389; 678-3848 VEHICLE FOR SALE
CAR RENTAL PROGRESSIVE CAR RENTAL: CARS& SUV FOR RENTAL- $4,000 & UP PER DAY- CALL: 643-5122, 6560087 , EMAIL: PRO_ AUTO RENTAL@YAHOO. COM DOLLY’S CAR RENTALCALL: 225-7126/226-3693 DOLLYSAUTORENTAL@ YA H O O . C O M / W W W. DOLLYSAUTORENTAL.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
TAXI SERVICES
Spare for washing machine, microwaves, fridges, stoves, timers, gearbox, motors, etc. Call: 225-9032;647-2943;6045198
1-2 Bedrooms bottom flat apartment located 1 Nouvelle Flanders W.C.D. Call: 674-4929; 662-0187
1 Domestic Cleaner able to repair vegetarian meal. Apply in person @ Alabama Trading, Georgetown Ferry Stelling, Stabroek.
Wanted to buy land: house & land countrywide, also we buy & sell use vehicles. Call: 604-6724
Suriname Tours: Labour Day Weekend April 29, 2016May, 2nd 2016 & Indian Arrival Weekend May 5th8th, 2016. Call: 663-5171; 6927270; 639-2663; 223-0056
FOR SALE
Porters wanted to work @ Grocery Stall in Stabroek market, experienced is an asset. Call: 226-9800
1 Sales clerk between 2125yrs, living on the West Coast/ West Bank must have at least 5 CXC subjects. Call: 623-7914
PEN PAL Christian male seeking female companion with good background, ages 4555yrs old. Interested person call: 610-9341
SALON
Wanted Accounts Clerk and Pump Attendants. Call/Text or Whatapp: 627-2550
Rupo Arch Welding, Fabrication & Construction Services @ Soesdyke E.B.D. Call: 658-4334 or 603-9633 for genuine & reliable service
Repairs at low cost: Fridges, air- conditioners, washing machines, TVs, microwaves, freezers- Call:6294946 or 225-4822 We repair fridge, freezer, AC, washer, dryer-Call: 231-0655; 683-8734. Omar
Wednesday April 20, 2016
Kaieteur News
Reliable rentals: Cars, SUV – low rates & security deposits, special rates for long term. Call:227-2322;6012622
VACANCY Hair, nail, barber stations for rental; (experienced persons & clients) all rounder hairdressing – Glam & Go Beauty Salon. Call: 638-1106 1 Female cleaner apply @ Technical Service 18-23 Industrial Site, Eccles. Exist for cashiers and sales clerks at Nirva Supermarket. Apply in person with written application. Call: 227-5771 Experienced bartender and cleaners. Call 225-8572 between 7am-9am Admin assistant, CXC Grades 1-3 Computer literate. Apply @ HR Supervisor, Survival 173 Sheriff Street, C/Ville, GT. ACCOUNTS CLERK, qualification CXC Accounts Grades I/II, familiar with QuickBooks POS & Accounts. Email application:info@guygas.com
1 Toyota Premio PNN series with AC, alarm, CD Deck, 17" Mag rims, price negotiable – Call: 618-5509 AT192, 212, Allion, Premio, Hilux Surf, BRR, RZ & Pitbull,Pajero Junior: Cash / terms- Call:680-3154 We buy & sell vehicles for cash, also parts available & 30 seater buses; Extra Cab pickups; 2006 Tacoma- Call: 680-3154
La Parfaite Harmonie -$1.2M, $1.3M, $1.4M, & $3M, Eccles -$5.5M, Herstelling Cornerlot (100ftX50) -$3M. Call: 6036224; 611-7223 Titled 70’x100’ land @ Eccles, E.B.D for sale at $4.5M Tel : 624 2857 Eccles -$5.5M, 430 Acre of faming with 20,000 fruits trees and three houses$1.5M USD. Call: 604-6724 La Parfaite Harmonie-$1M, $1.2M & $1.6M, Tuschen$2.5M & $3M, Providence $5M, $4M, Eccles-$5.5M, terms available. Call: 604-6724 La Parfaite Harmonie-$1.6M, $1.3M & $1M, Tuschen -$3M & $2.5M, Sandpit -$85M, Kitty -$19M, Providence $5M & $4M. Call: 604-6724
Security – apply in person to Alabama Trading Georgetown, Ferry Stelling, Stabroek Male site engineer with 2yrs experienced and above, road & bridge. Call: 261-2280 Male construction engineer, 28-40yrs: 3 project experience; know auto cad and prepare method statement, quantity survey. Call: 261-2280 One driver Expediter must have a lorry license- Contact # 223-5273 1 Female clerk -$25,000 weekly. Call: 231-8053 Food Distribution Company looking for salesperson with driver’s licence, experience & police clearance. Call: 2318344 or 231-8529 One Trainee A.C, Refrigerator, Technician –Call: 231-0655 Cashier for supermarket-Call: 624-0033 & in store securityCall: 680-3863
One Toyota IST 2007 Model, PRR series, female driven, in excellent condition. Call: 6736250 One Toyota Hilux 4X4 pickup 2L diesel engine, in excellent condition. Call: 6480111 or 645-0240
LAND FOR SALE 1 House lot in Crane Housing Scheme & 1 house & land in La Parfaite Harmonie. Call: 626-4841
PROPERTY FOR SALE Flat house in Grove, (corner property) 1 Block from main road, price negotiable. Call: 1905-626-2572 Brand new 2 storey concrete building in 5th Avenue, Diamond, E.B.D, all modern amenities –Call: 662-9335; 612-3244 Property @ Cummings Street; 4 storey building, club, 8 self contain rooms. Call: 628-0016; 667-2536 House for sale in West Ruimveldt -$9M & South Ruimveldt Park. Call: 662-4975 Transported property @ Grove $16M negotiable. Call: 625-5461 Buddy’s House Scheme E.B.D: 6 six bedrooms -$36M, Diamond A.A -$27M, New Hope, Swimming Pool -$35M – Call: 225-1017; 623-6136
LEARN TO DRIVE Soman Son & Outar Driving School at Maraj BuildingTel:644-5166; 622-2872; 6150964; 689-5997
Two storey concrete building @ Schoonard, owner migrating within 3 weeks (42X26). Call: 6254052; 617-5004; 643-8069 Property @ Lot 87 Albert Street- Call: 669- 8701
EDUCATIONAL I.A.E Classes for CSEC January/June 2017: Mathematics, English A, Business & Science Subject for Students, Adults & repeaters. Call: 683-5742
New Road V/Hoop-$70M, $17M, La Parfaite Harmonie $6M, $4M, $5M, $20M, CI $6.5M, Rice land (5 acres) $16M. Call: 604-6724 1- flat 3 bedrooms property @ Diamond, 19th Avenue $12M. Serious enquiries only. Call: 697-0036 (Continued on page 29)
Wednesday April 20, 2016
Those were the days at City Hall DEAR EDITOR, Years ago, when the Georgetown City Council was a well run organization under the likes of great and honest Town Clerks E. A. Adams and Elmo Mayers, City Treasurers Cyril Ramalho and Patrick Robinson and City Engineer Weihgan Young, the City Engineer’s Department had primary responsibility for the maintenance of all streets and municipal parking lots under the jurisdiction of the Capital City. The Council’s road maintenance and park’s section’s responsibility included but were not limited to:
· Pothole Repairs · Paved Surface maintenance · Dirt road maintenance · Street sweeping · Alley grading · Tree limbs overhanging to streets or sidewalks · Trees and shrubbery in median islands · Repair of missing or damaged street names signs or other informational signs (not traffic control signs) · Reports of street light problems (not traffic signal malfunctions) Indeed there was an officer that was
specially delegated to go around each night and identify which street lights were working and which were not so that they could be reported to the Guyana Power Company to be fixed or replaced. What has happened to all of this? All of these proper systems and structures have been cast aside and replaced with nothing. We do not see the City involved in any road building or maintenance, but they seem to be waiting for central government to carry out this task of theirs, and for which property owners are paying their taxes for. Deodarie Putulall
Same old story with the new power holders DEAR EDITOR, Something is wrong. I am willing to admit that the problem might reside with me, even though I doubt it. Why is it that personnel for high profile, sensitive positions come with taint? Not with faint taint, but heavy baggage that is found to be acceptable. Forgery; forged qualifications (or lack of); and a convicted molester come to mind. There might be others. This reduces codes, protocols, and standards to so much meaningless paper, and to deceiving the Guyanese people. The old people had to hide a man who had a history (Amaila Falls); backpedal on a fellow from Toronto (Solid Waste); and do a reverse sweep on a barrister based in London
(judiciary). Now along comes the new folk doing their best to imitate their predecessors with similar shoddy practices, and near identical questionable people. Editor, I hear of due process complied with, procedures adhered to, and every manner of sound corporate practice followed. All of this is acknowledged. But no one should take us for fools; naïve maybe; politically non-pragmatic perhaps; but ignorance is out of the question, and needs other ready heads on which to find a home. There is something called (an HR, multi-sector dance) prearrangement, pre-selection, and premeditation. All of this is at work in these instances, including the latest one at NCN. It extends from advertising to interview to decision: the deal is already done. It
is going through the motions with the winner known. It is a longstanding official farce. These are one-horse races, no matter how crowded (or academically pedigreed and so forth) the field. The conclusion is foregone. Now I have no issue with government appointing people it trusts and from within the fold. That much is recognized, understood, and even accepted. But do not present damaged goods, and tell me about process and caliber. Surely, there has to be others in the same fold (here or over there) equipped and competent and clean. Repeat: clean enough to be unveiled to the Guyanese public. If this is the best that we have to offer, I will take the retired Colonel every day of the year. GHK Lall
Magistrate Leron Daly under fire DEAR EDITOR, The recent brouhaha concerning the Colwyn Harding rape case smacks not only of Guyanese misdirected sense of protesting when it is vitally necessary, but also deals a black eye to the justice system and its representative Magistrate Leron Daly. At the court hearing on March 30, it is stated that the legal representatives of the two sodomizers, actually police constables made applications that the charges be dismissed on account of paucity of evidence, and in the interest of time wasting of the court due to prolongation of the matter. The defendant had been absent during previously scheduled hearings. In 1923 a leading English case Chief Justice Hewart in R v. Sussex Justices, ex parte McCarthy brought into everyday parlance the often repeated aphorism “ not only must justice be
done; it must also be seen to be done. Having thus said any presiding Magistrate knows that a safe working rule would be to apply this saying without fail in each and every case over which he presides. Seemingly, the attorneys appear to be in better control of things than the Magistrate and had their wishes granted. Cowboy Country or Boys and Girls Club one may ask? This magistrate should face some sort of investigation/ sanction/ reprimand or the like from the Bar, lest her actions be interpreted as being indicative of current law dispensation in Guyana. How much lower can the Bar go, as this magistrate has certainly not only dropped it a shockingly low level, but has also made it a laughing piece. It is of fundamental importance that not only should justice be done, but above all should undoubtedly be seen to be done. Perhaps the Magistrate
The diaspora is vital for... From page 5 government reached out to the more than 250,000 of its supporters in the Diaspora, the possibilities would have been endless. It would have given them a sense of involvement in the country’s future development prospects; and creates the energy of political togetherness and unity which the diaspora has not had under the former administration. But they say in politics it is who you know and who knows you. The Minister of State has found time to reward Brian “BK” Tiwarie but not the thousands of APNU supporters in the Diaspora who
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the Minister seems to have forgotten. Appointing a few as ministerial advisers without any guidelines is meaningless because no one seems to know what to do with the “honorific” titles. Guyanese in the Diaspora are simply tired of being disrespected and are fedup of the phoniness shown to them by the government. Many have become apolitical, which means that they are no longer involved or interested in politics. This development will likely remain intact unless the government realizes that the Diaspora matters. Diaspora watcher (name supplied)
needs to be reminded lest he finds himself in dire straits. Let me fast forward to the two perpetrators, or more aptly described the individuals fingered in the assault, Constable Devin Singh and Roselle Tilbury-Douglas, and endeavor to penetrate their innermost thoughts regarding the fortuitous coincidence that made them face such a bumbling magistrate. Colwyn Harding will forever be reminded of the trauma he suffered at the hands of those who pledged to protect and serve. Like the magistrate, their displayed behavior is depictive of the darker side of the Police Force. Their inhumane behavior like so many of their peers has irrevocably demonstrated to the public that they are not up to the job, and as such should not be protected anymore. I am hereby calling For the following: a review of the case, on the Bar to investigate Magistrate Daly, with possible recuse if deemed necessary and appropriate, for the public to speak out about this grave violation of human right and dignity, letting their voices be heard not only in Guyana but worldwide, for the Head of the Police Force to deal swiftly and harshly with the accused members of their ranks, sending a strong message of deterrence to others with similar propensities. One may say that they (ranks) are not guilty until proven otherwise. Yes, that may be so, other than the perforated anus, those who are wise know that the victim is undeniably incapable of such self-injury. Support the Colwyn Harding Support Group as this case must not be swept under the rug. You asked for Change so make undoubtedly sure that you get what you asked for. Keep on the trail. Yvonne Sam
In support of former footballers DEAR EDITOR, I am heartened that the Guyana Football Federation has issued a press release which was published in your newspaper (01. 04. 16). This was related to a claim by former national player Godfrey “Poulis” Norville that the Wayne Forde led administration have ceased monthly financial assistance to himself and Birdette Marshall, another former national player both of whom are visually impaired This claim was also published in the previous day’s edition. However, before I attempt to divulge the harsh but sad realities of the situation, may I most definitely that it’s not an obligation but rather a concession, which is what “Poulis” and others of his ilk must fully comprehend. Any incoming administration/executive of an organisation, first and foremost, deals with inherent debt (s) as a front burner issue and concessions later”. In a fragile economy such as ours, where sponsorship/ donations on an annual basis can’t match GUY $50 M over a 4 year period much less on an annual basis compatible to the annual grant facilitated by FIFA of US$250,000. Compulsory monthly expenses consisting of utility bills, salaries, stipends, mortgage, maintenance and purchase of other items etc have to be dealt with. Additionally, the occasional servicing of equipment and annual auditing Fees can’t be overlooked. As a consequence, I would agree that a more holistic approach is needed with all affiliates participating, at an appropriate forum (General Council Meeting), with the issue subjected to brain storming with additional names with various ailments/ disabilities forthcoming. By having such an exercise within the Annual Budget of Expenditure, a fixed sum for a number of former national players will be budgeted. Once again “Poulis” must fully comprehend this and possibly put forward a strong case for retroactive payment. Meanwhile the issue of players’ identification cards for former nationals, forty (40) years and over with a minimum of ten (10) International matches, must also be a priority, to be facilitated at the General Council Meeting. Administrators, Coaches and Referees all of whom have served the nation’s football with distinction in the
past must be entertained. In the area of coaching, Peter “Michelin” Gulliver and Alan Walker readily come to mind. So too are George Grimes and Clifton Bobb for refereeing. Administratively, the list would be long, but all former Presidents of the GFF cannot be overlooked. Special mention must also be made of Lawrence “Sparrow” Griffith, Alan La Rose, Duane Lovell, Marlan Cole, Troy Mendonca, Oliver Hinckson and I. In leaving me for last, I must say for long and dedicated service, at times beyond the normal call of duty, spanning a period of 28 years (1982-2010) is truly deserving of a pass. If the powers that be decide otherwise, then with that being their option it would be respected and I will continue to stay away. Least before I forget, Klass’ gesture of goodwill being the GFF President at the time was mostly self-funded. While former Director, NSC, Neil Kumar also contributed financially to Poulis on behalf of the Commission. Lester Sealey
From page 28
TO LET Executive apartments @ Queenstown -$1000US; Prashad Nagar -$1000US, LeRessouvenir -$2300US, office spaces. Call: 225-1017; 623-6136 4 bedrooms apartment $80,000 monthly rental. Call James: 609-3426 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.
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Wednesday April 20, 2016
Kaieteur News
THE VOICE OF THE LIBERAL DEMOCRATS...
A dredged Demerara River is vitally important for Guyana By Sase Singh INTRODUCTION In July 2015, the Minister of Finance, Mr. Winston Jordan, at the Shipping Association of Guyana (SAG) Annual General Meeting, pledged to partner with that organization to use a special purpose vehicle (SPV) to dredge the heavily-silted Demerara River “in the shortest possible time”. I cannot find any evidence of this SPV ever being established or any ongoing dredging activities since that promise was made almost a year ago. This ought to be of great concern to the business community as they continue to be left with this great handicap. THE COST TO GUYANA FOR THIS LAPSE Port Georgetown is almost at the bottom of the global shipping infrastructure ladder, and is known as an ordinary service port, not a sub-regional hub like Port of Spain in Trinidad or a global hub like Kingston, Jamaica. There is a clear reason for this situation – the Demerara Harbour is under-maintained and there are no concrete and bankable project plans on the table to design, construct and finance a deep-water harbour in Guyana. Therefore, we can only expect abnormally sized small ships to dock in Port Georgetown. The channel has a chart datum draft of about 7.4 metres and is expected to have a pier draft of some 6 metres in most places. Today, most piers and even the channel have lost much depth due to siltation and a very poor maintenance schedule. This only directly contributes to the Guyanese business community becoming even more uncompetitive and further marginalized. Every serious port authority around the world is upgrading to cater for bigger ships, because if one looks at the global order books
for new ships since 2011, some 77 percent of the cost of doing trade with Guyana. But since that order book is for ships that have a capacity then – Nothing! larger than 6,000 TEU ((Twenty-Foot In the 2014 PPP Budget, there were funds Equivalent Unit); the bigger “boys and girls”. allocated for this venture, but these were not According to the latest available public used. Then again in both the 2015 and 2016 data, Port Georgetown struggles to Budgets passed by this Coalition Government, accommodate ships that are sized larger than there were funds set aside for dredging 2,600 TEU, and the situation continues to get activities, but again, it was all words and no worse by the day. This situation need not be; action. Mr. Desmond Sears, an experienced save an except for Guyana shipper was quoted in the press having a very poor record of as saying that “local producers maintaining the Demerara have lost markets in the Harbour. Caribbean because cargo This exposes a real vessels could take out only developmental challenge, as a limited volumes of cargo”. result of this policy and Many others in the execution paralysis coming out shipping sector have spoken of the Maritime Administration out against this “inflexible Department (MARAD), the muddle” from the two shipping regulators in the respective governments, but it Ministry of Public all fell on deaf ears. Infrastructure, since its But when we expected a formation about a decade ago. breath of fresh ideas and We have not had any policies from the new systemic and sustained government, all we have gotten dredging schedule during most is fewer progressive ideas, less of this period, and this has only public policies, more aloofness translated into Port Georgetown and apparently less technical Sase Singh being pushed further to the talent. margins as a failing port system. Absolute silence and no Every year it becomes more expensive to action seem to be the order of the day on this do business with Port Georgetown and the issue, with no care for the adverse impact on pool of ships available to offer efficient service legitimate businesses as a result of the to this port continues to decline. The end condition of Port Georgetown. What is even result translates to a suffocation of the local worse is that the trickle-down effect continues business community. Are we really serious to adversely impact the entire economy. Is about new investments? this how we plan to run this country? THECOMMITMENT
POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS
Credit has to go to former Minister Robeson Benn for coordinating, in February 2013, a national concept paper for the improvement of Port Georgetown. The path set out by that paper did have great ideas at reducing the challenges for port users and
There was always a plan to establish a Private-Public Organization (PPO) under the Companies Act, (the SPV), which was going to be established to raise the capital from many sources to dredge the Demerara River navigational channels. Score Card – Not Done! One cannot find one concrete action from the Ministry of Public Infrastructure on this matter. What is even more disgusting is that MARAD seems to be totally asleep at the wheel. Clearly the leadership of MARAD does not have their feet in the right place and thus
cannot stand firm on this issue to enhance the competitiveness of the trading sector. So as a top priority, the private sector should have lit a fire under the slothful attitudes inside MARAD and called on the relevant Minister to put those funds approved in the 2016 Budget to work. To the credit of the Minister of Finance, he has caused some G$200 million to be placed in the 2015 and 2016 Budget for dredging activities, but without a work plan from the MARAD, he cannot release those funds. Since those budgets, there have been zero updates and I am being advised, there is no work plan in place. So can the business community expect relief? You be the readers be the judge. The Steve N, the primary dredger in Guyana, is over 25 years old. We were advised that the Coalition government is in negotiation with the UK Government to secure financing to acquire a new and bigger dredger to add to the fleet. Again, no updates! As background information, I was advised that the current bill to fix the channel is around US$10 million, which is very possibly if this SPV is established. We can learn much from the Surinamese, who in 2012 issued an international tender to dredge the Surname River and has successfully concluded that job. This initiative needs leadership. CONCLUSION The time is long past for us to not have a comprehensive, overarching investment strategy for the Demerara Harbour using this private/public model. We can charge a small fee as a partial cost recovery initiative towards the rehabilitation of the Demerara Harbour but unless the SPV is in place, we are wasting time. This situation demands leadership. This is an economic emergency that has been recognized since the PPP’s time, but because of a lack of strategic high-level intervention, not much was done. So today Port Georgetown continues to actively add to the cost structure that makes doing business with Guyana pretty uncompetitive. For that exclusive reason, the economy and the people continue to lose.
Wednesday April 20, 2016
GGMC drags foot in collecting outstanding $2B from Mahdia Gold
An overhead shot of the Omai site, Region Eight. Almost five years ago, Canadian-owned Mahdia Gold Corp. acquired a large portion of the Omai gold mine property, in Region Eight, following proposals from a number of investors to the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC). The property is believed to still hold a large deposit of gold with Mahdia Gold’s intention to capitalize. However, the c o m p a n y a p p e a r s t o be in trouble now, owing the Government of Guyana almost $2B (US$10M) for the acquisition of the property. There are burning questions why the GGMC and previous administration under the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) failed to move in and collect the monies, or at the very least ensure that the company met its obligations. Although Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman, was not immediately available for a comment yesterday, a GGMC official indicated that a report is being prepared for the minister on the Omai property and Mahdia Gold. GGMC had written former Minister of Natural Resources, Robert Persaud, asking for advice on the monies owed by Mahdia Gold, but no action was taken. Last week, the company sacked its Managing Director, Sheik Alan Zaakir, with Donald Gordon, the Interim Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and a Director of Mahdia Gold Corp, tendering his resignation. Yesterday, Mahdia Gold published a notice in Kaieteur News, warning that Zaakir, its previous manager, is not authorized to conduct any busi-
ness on its behalf. The company also issued a statement naming Michael Smith as the new director and CEO. He is tasked with the day to day operations of the company, both in Canada and in Guyana. A number of other appointments were also announced. The new CEO in the statement yesterday said that the challenges facing Mahdia are manageable. “We know what work lies ahead, and we now have a very capable and motivated team prepared and able to do what is needed to regain our trading status. With a world class asset, our goal is to secure and manage our cash flow from on-site partnering operations, while rebuilding the confidence once invested in the Company by the government and people of Guyana — as well as our valued shareholders.” Mahdia Gold said that it will work closely with GGMC to ensure that obligations are met for the future. “I pledge to all of our stakeholders that Mahdia’s new management will work to move the company forward, but also attend to stakeholder concerns of the past. We are working with regulators and Government Authorities in Canada and Guyana to uncover actions that caused the company, and the Omai mine, to fall into its current position. We continue to feel very encouraged by the prospects of bringing the Omai mine back to life again and are committed to ensuring the strongest team is working to represent our shareholders.” As of August 2014, the company had owed over US$14M to the Government
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of Guyana and creditors. A report from the company last week 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
Sacked Managing Director: Sheik Mohamed Zaakir 31, 2014, and 2015, along with the intervening quarterly periods as well as file to the most recent quart e r l y f o r f i scal 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. 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.
US Human Rights Report 2015….
Killings by Govt. or its agents highlighted Arbitrary killings by the government or its agents was the most significant human rights problems in Guyana as identified in the 2015 Human Rights Report of the Department of State of the United States of America. Additionally, the report cited allegations of government corruption, including among police officials and laws that discriminate against women and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex persons as other human rights violations in Guyana. It also mentioned lengthy pretrial detention as a major cause for concern. According to the report, there was also a lack of independent and transparent procedures for handling allegations of abuses by security force members. Prosecutions when pursued were extremely lengthy, and convictions rare, leading to a widespread perception that security force members and government officials enjoyed impunity, were also highlighted in the report, which was recently released. ARBITRARY OR UNLAWFULDEPRIVATION OF LIFE There were several reports the government or its agents committed arbitrary or unlawful killings during the year. In July a member of the police anti-smuggling unit shot and killed Charles Caesar while attempting to arrest him. Police reported that Caesar was suspected to have smuggled illegal goods into the country and attempted to run away to avoid arrest. While the report did not mention it, the killing of Courtney Crum-Ewing last March, which is widely
believed to be politically linked, is still engaging police investigators. Crum Ewing was gunned down in the Diamond New Scheme on the East Bank of Demerara, while he using a bull horn, urging residents to vote against the then ruling People’s Progressive Party/ Civic at the May 11, 2015 General Elections. DISAPPEARANCE There were no reports of politically motivated disappearances. The report also touched on torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment. According to the report, while the law prohibits such practices, there were reports, nonetheless, alleging mistreatment of inmates by prison officials as well as allegations of police abuse of suspects and detainees. Prison and jail conditions, particularly in police holding cells, were harsh and potentially life-threatening due to gross overcrowding, physical abuse, and inadequate sanitary conditions and medical care. The report referred to a Guyana Prison Service report that as of October, there were 1,944 prisoners in five facilities with a combined design capacity of 1,640. A total of 963 prisoners were in Georgetown’s Camp Street Prison, designed to hold 550 inmates. Overcrowding was in large part due to a backlog of pretrial detainees, who constituted approximately 11.3 percent of the total prison population. This situation was recently highlighted when a prison riot erupted, leading to the tragic deaths of 17 prisoners in the Camp Street facility. The US State Department (Continued on page 32)
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Kaieteur News
Badal wants GRDB boss sacked
The pressure is mounting on Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) General Manager, Nizam Hassan. Robert Badal, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Guyana Stockfeeds Inc (GSI), is calling for his resignation or removal. According to Badal, Hassan’s actions are frustrating rice exports and the implementation of reforms which are necessary for the industry. He has called for Hassan to be replaced by someone more capable. Badal, also the owner of Pegasus Hotel, was referring to Hassan’s refusal to release GSI’s customs shipping bill in order for it to ship two containers of parboiled rice to two Jamaican customers. The delay in such shipments, it was noted, would mean the loss of the Company’s market in Jamaica. GSI has been shipping rice to its customers at US$595 per tonne since last October. According to Badal, the GRDB has settled with Jamaica on a price of $650 per tonne but has not shipped a grain of parboiled rice at that price since the agreement. Badal was adamant that the GRDB is not a rice miller, nor should it make agreements on behalf of millers and direct millers’ prices which are entirely market based. He is calling on Minister of Agriculture, Noel Holder, to implement reforms in the workings of the GRDB, including the removal of Hassan and the hiring of someone who could implement reforms in the interest
CEO of Guyana Stockfeeds and Pegasus owner, Robert Badal
GRDB General Manager Nizam Hassan
of the rice industry. There has been heavy criticism from other quarters against Hassan’s management of the GRDB, including from the Guyana Rice Producers Association (GRPA) and the RPA- Action Committee (RPA-AC). Two agreements were previously signed between the GRDB and two Jamaican companies; the Jamaica Rice Milling Company Limited and Musson (Jamaica) Limited. Both companies had agreed to import a total of 80,000 tonnes of rice from Guyana this year. In defence of the agreement, GRDB had said, “The agreements seek to organize the supply of rice to the Jamaican market and prevent under-pricing and under invoicing by suppliers. The agreement allows the Jamaican companies to buy rice from licensed rice millers/exporters from Guyana. Minimum orders of 1,500 tonnes
will be given to mills for export.” This defence has not gone down well with some involved in the rice industry, with RPA-AC co- Chair Dr. Turhane Doerga describing the deal as detrimental to Guyana. In addition, a crescendo of criticisms came the GRDB’s way when it organized a deal for the supply of urea fertilizer. In response to the criticism, the GRDB had stated that discussions were started with suppliers overseas and a contract was entered into with HDM labs, because of the “perceived urgency” in the industry caused by the loss of the Venezuelan rice market last year. However, the opposition People’s Progressive Party (PPP) had accused the entity of making the deal under the table. PPP Member of Parliament and General Secretary of GRDB, Dharamkumar Seeraj, had also described the deal as a direct contravention of the laws, norm and conventions. The issue has generated much controversy, with HDM labs even threatening local newspaper Guyana Times with a $200M lawsuit after it carried an article deemed as defamatory. Reports have since emerged that the deal, worth over $400M, has collapsed.
Wednesday April 20, 2016
Town Clerk stresses importance of security personnel -reveals plan for canine section at City Council Security has been placed high on the agenda of the Mayor and City Council of Georgetown (M&CC). In fact the issue is one that has been gaining the keen attention of Town Clerk, Mr. Royston King. At a recent meeting, which was convened by King and attended by senior managers of the Council, security guards attached to the municipality were privy to plans to introduce a canine section to help bolster the security capabilities. According to King, “the Council would put in place a new canine section to provide support and complement the work of the security division.” “You are a valuable asset to the Council,” King assured the security guards, who were also allowed to voice their concerns on matters affecting
them. The guards were very vocal and brought to attention a number of urgent issues that must be addressed, and which will help them to be more efficient. King underscored that the security personnel provide critical services to the Council and save the Council millions of dollars annually. “I thank you for your loyalty to this Council and for doing a job that many would refuse,” he added. At the end of the interactive forum, the Town Clerk pledged to ensure that the security staff is properly uniformed and that they are adequately equipped to carry out their duties effectively. He also committed to ensuring that the security section is adequately equipped with batons, torch lights, radio sets, and other neces-
sary equipment. Currently the security staff of the City Council forms part of the unfixed establishment and has an abundance of women, the majority of whom are mothers to young children. This state of affairs was revealed at the recent meeting, during which King stated that the protocol would be improved to allow more security personnel to be on locations. Added to this, he disclosed that the physical aesthetics would be enhanced with adequate lighting and fencing. And to offer some level of support to the several female security guards with children, it was proposed that the Council should have a night care service to provide assistance to those required to work night shifts.
Woman killed in Mandela Ave. accident A 27-year-old East Ruimveldt woman became the third road fatally for the week when she was struck from the motorcycle she was being towed on, by a car, on Mandela Avenue yesterday afternoon. Shauna Rice was the pillion rider on a motorcycle ridden by the father of her son
when they were struck by a vehicle reportedly driven by a member of the Guyana Defence Force. Rice was at the time looking for her son, who was removed from her home without her permission by a relative. She was pronounced dead on arrival at the hospital, while the rider of the motorcycle
sustained injuries and is presently hospitalised in a seriou s c o n d i t i o n . T h e driver of the car is in police custody assisting with investigations. Last Sunday, two persons perishe d w h e n t h e i r motorcycle was hit by a sport utility vehicle on the East Bank Demerara Public Road.
Killings by Govt. or its agents... (From page 31) said that while the prison service offered rehabilitation programmes focused on vocational training and education, such programs did not a d e q u a t e l y a d d r e s s the needs of prisoners with substance abuse problems. Officials held offenders 16 years of age and older with the adult prison population. In most cases, officials
held juvenile offenders aged 15 years and younger in the New Opportunity Corps (NOC), a juvenile correctional centre that offers primary education, vocational training, and basic medical care. It was reported in April, however, that a 15-year-old girl was ordered by the court to be placed in the NOC, but instead she was held for weeks in a detention centre
at a police station and was subsequently sexually assaulted by a male constable, according to the report. On a good note the US State Department report noted that the Guyana government generally observed the rules regarding arbitrary arrest and detention. (See more in subsequent articles)
Wednesday April 20, 2016
Kaieteur News
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Kaieteur News
Wednesday April 20, 2016
Brazil’s leader warns of instability in impeachment bid Brasília (AFP) - President Dilma Rousseff warned yesterday that the impeachment process against her will harm Brazil’s stability and suggested that sexism played a part in efforts to oust its first female head of state. The 68-year-old leftist leader pressed her case against what she calls a “coup” attempt, insisting that there was no legal basis to remove her from office. “This will not bring political stability. Why will it not bring political stability? Because it breaks the foundation of democracy,” Rousseff said at a news conference with foreign journalists. Rousseff is close to losing her job as the Senate prepares to schedule a vote on whether to open an impeachment trial, expected in midMay, after the lower house of Congress overwhelmingly approved the measure last Sunday. The political crisis is among a slew of challenges besetting Latin America’s biggest economy: A deep recession, a massive corruption scandal at state oil giant Petrobras, the fight against the Zika virus and preparations for the Rio Olympics in August. When asked whether the fact that she’s Brazil’s first woman president influenced the impeachment process, Rousseff said: “I believe that it is a big component.” She said she heard misogynist comments from a businessman suggesting that a woman under pressure can be “hysterical and unbalanced.” “They’re not satisfied that I’m not nervous, hysterical or unbalanced,” she said, recalling that she survived torture as a member of a guerrilla group under the military dictatorship in the 1970s.
Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff speaks during a news conference at Planalto Palace in Brasilia yesterday. (AFP Photo/Evarist Sa) “There’s a level of great prejudice against women mixed up in all of this. Great prejudice,” she said, adding that she faced “a treatment that certainly would not be given to a male president.” Looking tired, Rousseff struck an emotional tone when she said it was “lamentable” that lower house deputy Jair Bolsonaro — a rightwing populist who praises the military dictatorship of 1964-1985 — dedicated his pro-impeachment vote Sunday to Carlos Alberto Brilhante Ustra, a colonel accused of overseeing torture during the regime. While Rousseff struck back at critics, the Senate was to open formalities by reading the 12,000 pages of the impeachment papers alleging that her administration took unauthorized state loans to mask government budget holes during an election year. The president denied committing any crime, saying that her government used accounting practices that are common in other countries
and were used by her predecessors. Senators must now agree on the composition of a special impeachment committee. A vote on launching the trial is expected to take place by May 11. A tally by the daily Folha de S. Paulo showed that 48 senators are in favour of impeachment, more than the simple majority needed in the 81-member chamber to start proceedings. Rousseff would then be suspended for six months during the trial. She would be replaced by Vice President Michel Temer, a former ally of the centrist PMDB party who turned against her. A two-thirds majority will be needed to permanently remove her from office, which would leave Temer at the helm until her term ends in late 2018. This “is an attempt at circumventing elections by a group that would not be able to get itself elected,” Rousseff said.
Wednesday April 20, 2016
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Kaieteur News
Banned umpire who worked at U.S. Kenya parliament Open suspended for 10 years passes anti-doping bill (Reuters) A Croatian umpire who officiated at the U.S. Open while serving a 12-month suspension has been banned for 10 years, the International Tennis Federation (ITF) said on Tuesday. Denis Pitner was suspended by the ITF last August, but went on to work as a linesman at the U.S. Open in September, due to what The United States Tennis Association (USTA) said was a “flaw” in their system. The ITF said in a statement that Pitner had now been banned until 2026 after
being found guilty of offences, including his failure to notify the USTA that his certification had been suspended prior to the U.S. Open. He was also found guilty of misrepresentation in officiating at the 2016 Qatar Open and in an application to officiate at Wimbledon. Pitner was originally suspended after sending information about a player to a coach during a tournament and regularly logging on to a betting account from which bets were placed on tennis
matches. The USTA said in February that Pitner had already picked up his accreditation to work at the U.S. Open before they were notified of his ban. They said they would be investigating why his credentials to work at the tournament were not later canceled. Tennis launched an independent review panel (IRP) last January after widespread allegations of corruption in the sport. It will take at least a year to complete its investigations.
(Reuters) Kenya’s parliament has passed an anti-doping bill, required to avoid a possible ban from the Rio Olympics, and President Uhuru Kenyatta is expected to sign it into law this week, officials said on Tuesday. The law, demanded by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), will criminalise doping in a country famed for its middle and long distance running excellence but which has been tainted by several doping cases in the recent past. Up to 40 Kenyan athletes have failed doping tests since
2012, the biggest name among them being former three-time Boston City Marathon and Chicago Marathon champion, Rita Jeptoo, now serving a ban. “The bill was passed today and will await presidential assent, which we expect to happen any time this week,” Martin Mutua, head of media in parliament, told Reuters. Mutua added that there were several amendments, the most notable of which was clause 29, which deals with prosecution. “Arrests and prosecution
of people associated with doping will fall under Inspector General and not Compliance Officers as was envisaged by the bill. Being a sovereign state, we cannot allow other agencies to handle this sensitive aspect,” said Mutua. The WADA had extended the deadline to May 2 for Kenya to approve the law criminalising doping. Kenyatta said last week he would certainly sign the bill into law to ensure that Kenya was not barred from the Rio Olympics, which run from Aug. 5 to 21.
West Indies Legends call for... Wednesday April 20, 2016 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) You will have extra energy; put it to good use. Don't let your anger consume you and don't allow important matters go unattended to. TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) You are best to avoid joint ven t u r e s , a n d w h a t e v e r you do, don't lend to friends or relatives. You can learn from those who have had similar experiences. Difficulties may be encountered while traveling in foreign countries. GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Don't let others take advantage of your good nature. You can get ahead if you work diligently behind the scenes. Try to mix business with pleasure while traveling. CANCER (June 21–July 22) You will be encouraged to get involved in a moneymaking venture. You can get into weight loss programs or go out and change your image with a new look in clothing, hairstyle, and attitude. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Don't reveal anything about your personal life to those who may use such information against you. Uncertainties about your personal life are probable. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) You will do your best work on your own. Be aware of deception when it comes to your position, and be sure not to jump to conclusions. Be sure to use your charm and diplomacy when dealing with potential new clients.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Don't jump into investments too quickly. Don't lend or borrow. Be sure to take time for old friends or relatives you don't get to see that often. SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Your emotions are soaring and if you don't get your way, look out world. Try not to attempt to do something unless you are fully intent on following through with the plans. SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) You will be subject to pushy individuals if you get involved in uncertain organizations. Travel will be good if you are seeking knowledge. Use some diplomacy to get your point across delicately. CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19) You may find that someone you live with may be irritable; you're best to leave them alone. Relatives may play an important role in your personal life. You will do best to entertain those you wish to close deals with. AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) You can make headway if you share your intentions with someone you care about. Avoid lending money or belongings to friends. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Make changes around your house and plan to do some entertaining. Sudden changes will occur through communications with friends or inlaws.
(From page 36) fought so hard to build and achieve disappear right before our eyes because of the actions of inept Board members and an incompetent Board.” The Legends’ wish-list
Crandon half century propels... (From page 37) and Jermaine Tyndell 4-10. At Fairfield, the home team overcame Enterprise B by eight runs. Fairfield took first strike and managed 1397. Wasim Mustapha stroked 51 and Leon Targoonchandra hit 38 and Richard Chatura 23; N. Ulla and D. Persaud and S. Ramkumar took two wickets each. Enterprise B got to 1317. N. Ulla made 35, L. Dindyal 27 and D. Persaud 22; Motelall Chatura picked up 3-27.
· Immediate resignation of all current WICB directors. Establishment of an interim board. Formation of a new board structure. · All sponsors of West Indies cricket to make good governance a condition for financial support.
· The ICC to understand that the dysfunctional management and poor leadership of the WICB are harming the game. · CARICOM to appoint an independent auditor to carry out a detailed forensic audit of the Board.
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Wednesday April 20, 2016
Kaieteur News
Spinners, Uthappa lift Knight Riders to top of table ESPNcricinfo - Another dominant bowling performance followed by another effortless chase led Kolkata Knight Riders to their third win of the season, thrashing Kings XI Punjab by six wickets in Mohali to go on top of the table. Knight Riders’ bowling depth was perceptible as their spinners ripped through Kings XI, in a sub-par batting performance, to keep them to 138 for 8. In the chase, Robin Uthappa’s quickfire fifty effectively sealed the game. In 13 games this season, 12 have been won by the chasing team. Put in to bat, Kings XI lost Manan Vohra early when he flicked Morne Morkel to deep square leg but M Vijay looked in rhythm, scything drives and cuts before failing to pick a googly from Piyush Chawla. A slow start was made slower by the questionable promotion of Wriddhiman Saha to No. 4, who struggled in his 14-ball 8. Shaun Marsh, though, held one end up despite struggling for fluency. The stage was set for either of David Miller or Glenn
Maxwell to fire their side back into the contest, but Knight Riders’ experienced bowling attack strangled their strong middle order. With two lefthanders batting - Marsh and Miller - Gautam Gambhir turned to Yusuf Pathan for the first time this season. The move reaped rewards instantly when Miller edged Yusuf’s first ball and Uthappa took a sharp catch. Maxwell soon resorted to a switch-hit off Sunil Narine, but Kings XI’s season was summed up when he hammered it to extra cover. Narine’s remodeled action returned two wickets in a frugal spell with an economy rate of 5.50. In a format where teams target implausible numbers during the second half of an innings, Knight Riders’ spinners ensured Kings XI could only rebuild after leaving them at 94 for 5 in the 15th over. In between, Marsh used swift footwork to accumulate runs and was particularly effective square of the wicket, on both sides. He got to his fifty in the last over with a sweetly-timed lofted drive over long-on. Along with Kyle
Sunil Narine releases a delivery, Kings XI Punjab v Kolkata Knight Riders, IPL 2016, Mohali, April 19, 2016 ©BCCI Abbott, he took Andre Russell’s first over - the last of the innings - for 18 to lift Kings XI to 138.
With that total, Kings XI needed a miraculous start to have any hope, but Uthappa and Gambhir pushed Knight Riders closer to the target with nine boundaries in a 65-run Powerplay, the most productive in this season. The seamers, Sandeep Sharma and Kyle Abbott, were inconsistent but when they did find their lengths, Uthappa was able to clear the infield with lofted strokes on
Robin Uthappa’s first fifty of the season helped Kolkata Knight Riders to their third win © BCCI the up, on a pitch offering even bounce and carry. Uthappa eased himself to his first fifty of the season off just 24 balls but his pre m e d i t a t e d s w e e p r e s u l t e d i n h is dismissal, as he played around a full delivery from Pardeep Sahu. Gambhir looked set for another fifty before a leading edge w a s a c r o b a t i c a l l y taken by Glenn Maxwell,
running in from deep midwicket. Axar Patel removed Manish Pandey and Shakib Al Hasan, but Suryakumar Yadav and Yusuf took Knight Riders home with 17 balls to spare. Scores: Kolkata Knight Riders 141 for 4 (Uthappa 53, Gambhir 34, Sahu 2-18) beat Kings XI Punjab 138 for 8 (Marsh 56*, Narine 2-22) by six wickets.
Stag Beer on board GTC Race Meet this weekend The Georgetown Turf Club (GTC) April 24 Race Meet received a significant boost yesterday when Ansa McAl under its Stag Beer brand pledged its support for the upcoming event which is scheduled to be held, at the Mocha Race Track, East Bank Demerara. Stag Beer Trade Representative Richard Singh handed over a cheque for an undisclosed sum to Organiser Michael Sims, at the Company’s Head Office in Beterverwagting, East Coast Demerara. Sims, who has been one
of the top racing promoters for sometime, before migrating to Canada, is making a return to the sport and he thanked the Company for its assistance, which according to him is a timely one. Singh in his response said the Company was pleased to be a s s o c i a t e d w i t h t h e event and wish e d t h e Organiser every success, adding that their contribution is part of assisting in the further development of the sport. Meanwhile, six races are carded for the day with the
KMTC Gymkhana on May 8 Kennard Memorial Turf Club of Bush Lot, Farm, Corentyne will be hosting a Gymkhana on May 8 starting 12:30 hrs. Events include Horse, Donkey and flat races, cycle
races. Additional entertainment will be provided by Diplomatic Links Sound System and admi s s i o n i s $ 5 0 0 (adults) and $300 for children.
H & Lower over a distance of one mile classified as the feature event and among the horses registered is Glamour Queen. The race carries prize monies worth close to $400,000 with the winner set to receive $200,000, runner-up $100,000, 3rd place $50,000 and 4th place $25,000 plus trophies. The other races carded are the J & Lower over six furlongs; K & Lower over six furlongs; L & Lower over five furlongs; Unclassified and a cart horse race. Among the sponsors on board is Banks DIH, Nand Persaud & Company, Kris Jagdeo Construction, Attorney-at-Law Poonai, Mohamed Salim Khan, Jumbo Jet Auto Sales, Denis DeRoop, Simply Royal Racing Stables, Justice Cecil Kennard and others. Starting time is 12:00hrs.
Wednesday April 20, 2016
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Kaieteur News
Exclusive: More Olympic projects under investigation for corruption - prosecutor CURITIBA, BRAZIL (Reuters) A sweeping investigation into corruption in Brazil is targeting more infrastructure projects for this year’s Olympic Games than previously made public, a federal prosecutor told Reuters, citing testimony from construction companies and executives. Carlos Lima said the probe into corruption on projects for the Olympics in Rio de Janeiro in August was not limited to Porto Maravilha, or the “Marvelous Port”, a regeneration of the city’s waterfront that includes five high-rises bearing the name of U.S. property mogul and presidential candidate Donald Trump. “There are more,” Lima said in an interview in his office in the southern city of C u r i t i b a o n M o n d a y. “There are leniency agreements underway that talk about this, but until they are finalized we will not know how many (projects) for sure.” Lima is a lead prosecutor on a task force that discovered a cartel of engineering firms siphoning kickbacks from state oil firm Petrobras (PETR4.SA) to political parties, a scandal fuelling a crisis that could force President Dilma Rousseff from power. His comments were the clearest indication yet that the Olympics has become a focus of the two-year-old investigation. The corruption allegations are not expected to hinder work on infrastructure for the Games, which is nearly finished, but they do further cloud an event set to start in the middle of Brazil’s worst political and economic crises in decades. The lower house of Brazil’s Congress, many of whose members are themselves under investigation for corruption, voted on Sunday to impeach Rousseff on charges she manipulated budget accounts. If the Senate agrees to put her on trial, as seems likely, Rousseff will be suspended
Men work at a light rail system with buildings in the background at Rio’s Porto Maravilha (Marvelous Port) project in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, April 19, 2016. (REUTERS/RICARDO MORAES TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY) for up to six months and would be unlikely to return to power. Five engineering firms are building most of the 39 billion reais ($11 billion) worth of venues and infrastructure needed for the Olympics, the first to be held in South America. All five are under investigation for price fixing at Petroleo Brasileiro SA, as Petrobras is formally known. Latin America’s largest engineering conglomerate, Odebrecht SA [ODBES.UL], which is at the center of the Petrobras scandal, is involved in over half of all Olympic projects by value, according to contracts reviewed by Reuters. Court files made public last month showed police uncovered documents from Odebrecht executives referencing 1 million reais in suspected bribes connected to the Porto Maravilha project and other kickbacks allegedly linked to a Rio metro line. More than 20 corporate developments are planned to revitalize Rio in the downtown Porto Maravilha area - the main legacy project of the Games - including hotels and the five Trump towers. They were announced in 2012 as the largest corporate
development in any major emerging nation. Trump only sold naming rights and offered consulting on the highrise project. Lima said the investigation of Porto Maravilha, like other Olympic projects, was now under the jurisdiction of prosecutors in Brasilia. That is because they involve potential kickbacks to sitting politicians, who under Brazilian law can only be judged by the Brasilia-based Supreme Court rather than Federal Judge Sergio Moro in Curitiba. The change in jurisdiction will likely slow the investigation. The Supreme Court has a backlog of some 50 politicians to investigate on charges that they received bribes, though Rousseff is not among them. “We collaborate, we work together, but the pace of the 13th district is one thing, the Supreme Court is another,” said Lima. The prosecutor’s office in Brasilia declined to comment. POLITICIANS, WORLD CUP, OLYMPICS Moro and the Curitibabased prosecutors and police are famous across Brazil for swiftly and aggressively han-
Wade slams century as GCC, MYO draw Joshua Wade stroked a fine century as Georgetown Cricket Club and Muslim Youth Organisation played to draw when the latest round of matches in the Georgetown Cricket Association/Noble House Sea Foods second division twoday tournament concluded on Sunday.
Play began at 14:00hrs due to rain and Wade struck 107 before he retired hurt; he got support from Timothy Mc Almont who made 70. The pair added 160 after GCC lost a few wickets at the top of the order; GCC posted 225-8 before they declared in the last hour, batting a second time at MYO.
Ray Barker and Chien Gittens claimed two wickets each. Scores: GCC 149 all out (Deonarine Seegobin 44, Richard Latif 5-55) and 225-8 declared (Joshua Wade 107, Timothy Mc Almont 70, Chien Gittens and Ray Barker 2 each). MYO 131 all out (Abdul Kumar 43, Seegobin 3-24).
dling its largest-ever corruption probe. Their investigation has ensnared dozens of top businessmen and was cited by many lawmakers who voted in favor of
Rousseff being impeached. Plea bargains and leniency deals, relatively new legal tools in Brazil, have been key to cracking the case and helping investigators find hard evidence. However, defense lawyers and some independent analysts have criticized the use of lengthy pre-trial detentions of dozens of suspects. Corruption allegations are now spreading to stadiums built for the 2014 World Cup and the Olympics, two events that were meant to showcase Brazil’s rise as a modern global economic power. On March 22, the same day prosecutors publicly accused Odebrecht of graft involving World Cup stadiums and Porto Maravilha, the company said it would seek to collaborate with the investigation and aim for a leniency agreement and plea deals for its executives. The other four companies involved in much of the rest of the Olympic work are
OAS SA [OAS.UL], Andrade Gutierrez SA, Queiroz Galvao SA, and Carioca Christiani Nielsen Engenharia SA. Odebrecht, Andrade Gutierrez and Queiroz Galvao declined to comment. The other companies did not respond to requests for comment. Lima did not specify which company or companies had mentioned Olympic projects in testimony. The city of Rio de Janeiro is overseeing the bulk of the Olympic construction projects, though a few are financed by the federal or state government and Rio 2016, the local organizing committee, handles some non-permanent structures like seating. Rio’s city government said the contracts were mostly funded with private resources and that all bids were overseen by regulators. Rio 2016 referred Reuters to City Hall. The International Olympic Committee did not respond to request for comment.
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Wednesday April 20, 2016
Dr. Rupert Roopnarine confirms Rio Olympics chief shrugs off Guyana will host CPL Finals power failures, political worries
Georgetown, Guyana Minister of Education, with the responsibility for sport Dr. Rupert Roopnarine has confirmed yesterday that Guyana will be hosting the finals of the 2016 Hero Caribbean Premier League T20 tournament. Roopnarine, it has been reported, was heading into the Government’s Cabinet weekly meeting. The details surrounding the arrangements is expected to be officially be made public shortly. Efforts were made to contact several senior officials here to get information on the deal, but they were unavailable for comment. However, Director of Sport Christopher Jones returned our call and confirmed that Guyana would be hosting the final four but referred other queries to Permanent Secretary Alfred King. When contacted King informed that the agreement involves a three year deal
with the final being hosted here. He could not give figures because the matter was still being ironed out at the Cabinet level, but the cost to host the tournament will get progressively lesser as the time elapses. A full statement is anticipated this week. In a recent report in the T&T Guardian newspaper, it was disclosed that, ‘After much speculation as to where the finals of the 2016 Hero Caribbean Premier League T20 tournament will take place, news coming to hand is that it will go South to Guyana this time around. Guardian Media was reliably informed that the government of Guyana has outdone the governments of T&T and Barbados in a three-way bid to host the finals on August 7. Guyana will also host both semi-finals which will take place at Providence Stadium.
According to a source close to the Guyana government, the deal has been struck and it will be made public in a few days time. The source did not give particulars about the agreement between the parties, but the CPL organizers were asking for US$4.5M (G$932.4million) for the award of the final-four. It will be the first time that the finals will be hosted in Guyana, as the three previous finals took place in T&T (2) and St. Kitts. Last year, the Trinidad and Tobago government invested US$2.5 million and there was massive interest and sold out crowds for the matches for the final which was won by the local Red Steel team (now renamed the Trinbago Knight Riders), which beat Barbados Tridents in the final at the Queen’s Park Oval.’ (Additional reporting from the: guardian.co.tt)
LAUSANNE (Reuters) Rio de Janeiro’s Olympic chief Carlos Nuzman on Tuesday brushed aside complaints over power failures and other problems revealed during a gymnastics test event and also played down concerns over a deepening political crisis in Brazil. The Association of Summer Olympic International Federations (ASOIF) heard on Tuesday that a gymnastics event being held in Rio this week partly as a test run for the Games suffered from power failures, problems with the timing system and power outages when athletes were performing. International Gymnastics Federation official Ron Froehlich told an ASOIF assembly that the power outages were potentially a “serious issue” and also complained of a lack of sufficient lighting in competition and training halls, which he
Rio 2016 Olympic Games Organising Committee President Carlos Arthur Nuzman speaks at a news conference during the IOC Coordination Commission’s 10th visit to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, April 13, 2016. (REUTERS/PILAR OLIVARES) blamed on funding problems. But Nuzman, in his address to the assembly, said: “Test events are there to detect problems raised by athletes and national federations.” Nuzman also sounded a relaxed note about the political situation in Brazil, whose President Dilma Rousseff suffered a humiliating loss in a crucial impeachment vote in the lower house of Congress on Sunday. She is almost certain to be forced from office well before the Olympic Games open in Rio on Aug. 5. The crisis has paralyzed the government as it struggles to revive the economy from its worst recession in decades, casting doubt on Brazil’s ability to complete preparations for the event in time. “Until today we have no
involvement and no problems with any of the political or economical situations in the country,” said Nuzman, head of the Rio organizing committee. “We are not involved in this and the Games will run normally as they have until today. We don’t expect any problems in delivering the Games.” “I have no doubt we will deliver an incredible Games but it is important to remember the situation is completely different today,” he said. Brazil was awarded the Olympics in 2009 when it was enjoying a period of strong economic growth but has since fallen into its worst recession in decades. Brazil is also battling an outbreak of the Zika virus, which is linked to birth defects in newborns.
Thompson, Rodney assist Hibiscus into second place Guyanese Staffanie Rodney and Akaze Thompson helped Hisbicus into second place as the Trinidad and Tobago female 50-over tournament concluded recently. Thompson took 2-31 from 10 overs as Phoenix were sent packing for 152, batting first. Reniece Boyce made 49, Melanie Henry 17; Suki Isaac 3-21. Hibiscus made 154-5 in reply. Rachel Vincent struck 80 and Shanice Pascal 28. Hibiscus went down to Mossia who batted first and
made 157 all out with Amanda Samaroo scoring 31, Kirbyina Alexander 21; Thompson snared 3-31 and Steffanie Rodney 2-11. Hibiscus responded with 151 all out. Rodney stroked 39 and Thompson 24; Kamara Rasoobar claimed 3-29 and Kirbyina Alexander 2-52. Hibiscus beat Cricket Lovers by four wickets. Cricket Lovers managed 1138. Thompson captured 3-27, Shaince Pascal -36. Hibiscus replied with 114-6 in 32 overs. Caneisha Suki got 40 not out and Rachel Vincent.
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Warriors shrug off Curry absence to beat Rockets Reuters (The Sports Xchange) - With Stephen Curry out of action due to an ankle injury Monday night, Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr was comforted knowing he had Shaun Livingston in reserve. Oh, and the 2015 NBA Finals Most Valuable Player, too. Livingston began and ended a key fourth-quarter spurt with baskets, and supersub Andre Iguodala helped make up for Curry’s lost firepower with four 3pointers as the Warriors won a second straight from the Houston Rockets in their bestof-seven series, 115-106. Golden State, now 2-0 in the postseason after a recordsetting, 73-win regular season, was able to win without Curry, who injured his right ankle late in the second quarter of the Warriors’ blowout win in Game 1 on Saturday. He had been listed as questionable for Game 2. The reigning regular-season Most Valuable Player, who scored 24 points in just 20 minutes in Game 1, declared himself out shortly after cutting short a pregame warmup that was designed to test the ankle. “When you lost the MVP, you have concern,” Kerr said. “But we believe in our depth and in our ability to win when we’re down a man, even if it is Steph.” Curry’s status for Game 3, which is scheduled for Thursday night in Houston, remains up in the air. “We never want to put winning ahead of a player’s career and his health,” Kerr said. “We want to make sure Steph is right and his (ankle) is fine and healthy. “Obviously, being up 2-0 does give us more cushion if
we decide to sit him (in Game 3). But it will be based on his health, not the series score.” Livingston started in Curry’s place and complemented guard Klay Thompson’s 34 points with 16 of his own. He also found time for six assists in 29 minutes. “He was playing so well, it was tough to take him out,” Kerr said of Livingston. “His effort was fantastic.” Livingston’s two biggest hoops came in an 11-1 flurry in the fourth quarter after the Rockets, trying to put Saturday’s 26-point loss behind them, clung within 8885 with 9:51 to play. Livingston began the key run with a jumper, after which the Warriors made seven consecutive free throws, including five by Thompson. Rockets interim coach J.B. Bickerstaff got nailed with a technical foul along the way, accounting for one of Thompson’s foul shots. Livingston then capped the burst with a fastbreak hoop that created the Warriors’ biggest lead of the game to that point, 99-85, with 6:48 left. “They do such a good job of capitalizing off your missed shots,” said Rockets star James Harden, who missed a 4-footer that could have pulled Houston within one before Livingston began the run. “So it went from a three-point lead to six, seven, whatever ... and they just built on it. It’s hard to recover from there.” Golden State was never threatened the rest of the way, beating Houston for a sixth consecutive meeting and the 14th time in their past 15 matchups. Thompson, hitting three
Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) is unable to make a shot between Golden State Warriors guard Andre Iguodala (9) and center Andrew Bogut (12) in the third quarter in game two of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at Oracle Arena. (Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports) 3-pointers and 15 of 16 from the free-throw line, led all scorers. He never attempted more than 12 foul shots nor made more than 10 all season. Draymond Green had team highs in rebounds (14) and assists (eight) to go with 12 points, and Iguodala dropped seven of his 10 shots en route to 18 points for the Warriors, who shot 49.4 percent from the field and hit eight of their 23 3-point attempts. Center Andrew Bogut also helped out with 10 points (on 5-for-6 shooting) and seven rebounds. “You know, there is something to the slogan ‘Strength in Numbers.’ It’s something we really do play by,” Thompson said. “We always
use it every night.” Harden led the Rockets with 28 points, 13 coming from the line on 15 free throws. However, he shot just 7-for-19 from the field, including 1-for-8 from 3-point range. Harden, who also had 11 assists, thought a golden opportunity slipped away. “For sure,” he said of Curry’s absence. “We played a little bit better (than Game 1) today. Just didn’t play well enough to get a win.” Harden noted two key shortcomings: allowing 23 Warriors points after 19 turnovers, and giving up 13 offensive rebounds that produced 18 Golden State points.
Dwight Howard posted a 12-point, 10-rebound doubledouble for the Rockets, who bettered Golden State in 3pointers, making 10 of 25, but fell well short from shorter range, finishing at 44.3 percent overall. “We like to take 3-point shots, and that hasn’t changed,” Bickerstaff said. “But at certain points in the game, we need to put pressure on the rim. We just have to be a little more patient.” Patrick Beverley and Jason Terry added 13 points apiece for the Rockets, who also will host Game 4 of the series on Sunday. Down by as many as 11 points in the first half, the Rockets got seven third-quarter points from Harden and
rallied within three late in the period. An interior hoop by Warriors reserve guard Leandro Barbosa extended the lead back to 88-79 in the first minute of the fourth quarter. But as occurred all night, the Rockets wouldn’t go away. Harden hit a tough jumper and Terry added a hoop and two free throws to make it a three-point game. However, each then missed interior attempts that could have sliced the deficit to one, and the Warriors followed with Livingston’s hoops and a parade to the free-throw line, finally pushing the visit o r s a n a r m ’s l e n g t h away.
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Metro Office Supplies renews Cricket sponsorship of RHTYSC, MS Female team Guyana’s only female cricket team on Sunday last received a major boost when its official sponsor renewed its cricket sponsorship for another year. Metro Office and computer Supplies since 2009 has been the official sponsor of the Rose Hall Town Metro Female Team and the company during the RHTYSC, MS 26th annual awards ceremony handed over a cheque for $200,000 for the 2016 sponsorship. Club Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster stated that the RHTYSC, MS was very proud to have Guyana’s only Female Cricket team and noted that since its formation in 2008, the team has done remarkably well on and off the cricket field. The Metro Female Team over the years has produced players like West Indies Players Shemaine Campbelle and Erva Giddings, while Tremayne
Smartt also represented it in the past. Players like Melanie Henry, Plaffina Millington, Nikita Henry, Shenneta Grimmond, S. Gajnabi, Shanna Vanderstoop and Triesha Cort have all represented Guyana at different levels while numerous others have represented Berbice. The Metro Female Team in 2009 won the only female national Championship ever organised in Guyana. Currently, the team under the leadership of Shemaine Campbelle and Erva Giddings and Managers Elizabeth Brusche and Felisha Archer plays along their male counterparts in Berbice Cricket Board organised junior Cricket tournaments. Foster explained that due to non-existence of other female cricket teams in Guyana, the Metro Female team has to play against males at the
Under-15, Under-17 and Under-19 levels. He extended profound gratitude to the Management and Staff of the company for their continued confidence in the Club and its female cricket team. Captain of the team, Shemaine Campbelle recommitted her team to upholding the high tradition it has set itself in terms of discipline, commitment and performance on the field. The team in 2016 would undertake 15 major personal developmental programmes under the name of the sponsorship. Metro Chief Executive Officer Avie Lindee expressed delight at the renewal of the sponsorship an stated that the office supplies giant was pleased to be associated with the RHTYSC, MS and its female Cricket Team. The Metro brand, Lindee noted has been well represented by the team and congratulated Shemaine
Avie Lindee of Metro hands over cheque to RHTYSC, M.S Patron, President David Granger. Campbelle on her World Cup Championship with the West Indies Team. Lindee commit-
ted her company to continuing support for the team in the future before handing over the
sponsorship Cheque to Club Patron, President David Granger.
West Indies Legends call for dissolution of ‘obsolete’ WICB ESPNcricinfo - A host of West Indies legends including Garry Sobers, Viv Richards, Wes Hall and Andy Roberts have called upon the WICB to dissolve the board, in line with the CARICOM cricket review panel’s recommendation, and appoint an interim committee as part of the structural reforms that would enable the region’s cricket to “develop and flourish”. On April 14 in Grenada, converging under the umbrella banner of Cricket Legends, Sobers and Co. met with Grenada premier Keith Mitchell, chairman of the Prime Ministerial Committee on the Governance of West Indies Cricket, which appointed the review panel in the wake of the crisis that emerged in the wake of West
Indies’ withdrawal from India’s tour in October 2014. Also present at the meeting were other former West Indies players - allrounder Roger Harper; fast bowler Charlie Griffith; wicketkeeper Deryck Murray, who was also member of the CARICOM review panel, legspinner Dinanath Ramnarine, who was previously the president of the West Indies Players Association (WIPA), and opening batsman, Desmond Haynes. Rudi Webster, who was the team manager during Clive Lloyd’s time and worked as a psychologist with current World T20-winning captain Darren Sammy, were invited as guests. Tearing into the WICB with the same vigour that they reserved for their opponents in their playing days, the Leg-
ends decried the board’s “oligarchic structure” which has remained “unchanged in attitude and structure” for the past seven decades. “During the last two decades, many different presidents and CEOs have led the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) and yet, its performance has declined steadily with each passing year,” the Legends said in a media release. “The Board is an oligarchic structure that considers itself answerable to no one but itself. It is one of the few sporting institutions that have remained virtually unchanged in attitude and structure in the last 70 years or more.” The Legends said the WICB could not shield itself from such vehement opposition by calling itself a private
body. They agreed with the CARICOM panel’s view that the board was accountable to various governments in the Caribbean. The release also pointed out the boards in Australia and New Zealand had overhauled their governance structure for the better and that had been reflected in their various teams prospering in all forms of the game. Even the most powerful cricketing board, BCCI, the Legends observed, was under pressure from India’s Supreme Court to open up to radical reforms to its governance structure. “Inexplicably, the WICB prefers to maintain the status quo and yet, it expects to get different results while it continues to do the same things,” the release said. “We believe that revival
of West Indies cricket will only happen when the Board undergoes structural adjustment, and when it improves the quality of its communication and leadership, and upgrades the management of key relationships.” The five-member review panel comprising Murray, V. Eudine Barriteau, Sir Dennis Byron, Dwain Gill and Warren Smith concluded its report on October 15, in which it described the WICB as “obsolete”. The board plainly rejected the panel’s report saying none of the six territorial boards - Trinidad & Tobago, Barbados, Jamaica, Guyana, Leeward Islands and Windward Islands - were represented, nor its directors, clubs and representatives. Hence, it concluded, the panel’s findings were not supported by
facts. Recently former West Indies fast bowler Joel Garner, president of the Barbados Cricket Association, was critical of the CARICOM panel’s observations, questioning how some members of the WICB could suddenly be called “illegal” when they were formed according to the individual constitutions of the region’s countries. Although some of these former players have voiced opposition against the WICB in the past two decades, this is the first time they have formed a united front of opposition. “We are very proud of our legacy,” the release said. “We cannot now in good conscience stand idly by and watch everything that we (Continued on page 31)
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Renee, Perez slam centuries in drawn encounter Raymond Perez on the go.
Man-of-the-match Ronaldo Renee accepts his prize form Hand-in-Hand representative Andrea Khan. By Zaheer Mohamed Openers Ronaldo Renee and Raymond Perez slammed centuries as Demerara and Berbice
played to a tame draw when the second round of the Guyana Cricket Board/Hand-in-Hand threeday inter county U19 tournament concluded
yesterday at Everest. Resuming on their overnight 170 with out lost; Renee and Perez batted with little difficulty as Demerara declared just after Lunch on
351-2, in reply to Berbice first innings score of 198. The duo frustrated the Berbicians whose fielding was below par, for the entire morning session.
Crandon half century propels Paradise to victory Esaun Crandon struck a fine half century as Paradise defeated Lusignan East by 46 runs when the East Coast Cricket Committee T20 tournament commenced on Sunday. In a game which was reduced to five overs, Paradise batted first and made 72 without loss with Crandon smashing 64. Host Lusignan East replied with 26-6. Nickoayre Bacchus claimed 3-3 and Jermaine Martin 2-3. At Enmore, RAS Cavaliers overcame MSC by nine wickets. Batting first, MSC made 77-5 with Shaliendra Singh scoring
Esaun Crandon
Rejendra Chandrika
17; Michael Cummings had 2-7. RAS Cavaliers responded with 75-1 in five overs. Darshan Persaud hit an unbeaten 27 and Steven Chan 24 not out.
At Enterprise, the host A team beat Golden Masters by 118 runs. Enterprise A took first knock and rattled up 2156.
Rajendra Chandrika got 58 (3x4,4x6) while Parmanand Dindyal made 23; Quacy Cummings 2-38. Golden Masters were sent packing for 87. E. Ferdinand made 23 as A. Kishore and Chatterpaul Singh picked up two wickets apiece. At Strathavon got pass Lusignan B by 57 runs. Strathavon scored 104 all out, taking first knock. Gaja n a n d S u k n a n a n slammed 56 and Zaki Salim 16; G. Persaud had 2-6. Lusignan B made 47 all out in reply. Suknanan snared 4-6 (Continued on page 31)
Renee began the day on 89 and soon reached his century with an exquisite cover driven boundary off Joshua Wade. He achieved the feat off 186 balls in 281 minutes. Perez, who started on 64, continued to bat with caution and inched his way to his century reaching the milestone off 313 balls in 370 minutes. The pair extended their partnership to 294 before Perez who hit six fours was caught off Asif Ally for 113. Demerara sent in Sherfene Rutherford to step up the scoring rate, and along with Renee took the score to 251 before Ruhterford was lbw to Raymond Vantahil for 46. The confident Renee smashed Wade and Ally for boundaries while Rutherford hit Joshua Harrichand for fours. Rutherford was ruthless as he smashed four fours and three sixes in his knock while Renee who brought up his 150 off 261 balls and hit seventeen fours
was left unbeaten on 165; Demerara declared after Rutherford was dismissed. Needing 154 to make Demerara bat a second time, Berbice quickly lost Adrian Sukwah who was bowled by Keshram Seyhodan for nine with the score on 28. Sasenarine Sookoo reached the boundary twice before he was lbw to leg spinner Ershad Ali for 22, but Matthew Hardyal and Joel Seitaram batted until 17:00 hrs when play was called off as Berbice finished on 93-2. Hardyal batted for 168 minutes and struck two fours in his unbeaten 22 while Seitaram made 21 not out in 120 minutes. Seyhodan finished with 1-6 and Ali 112. Renee was named manof-the-match.
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Wednesday April 20, 2016
RHTYSC, MS Cricket teams honour outstanding Educators Eight teachers, drawn from across the Lower Corentyne district and four outstanding retired teachers were honoured by the cricket teams of the RHTYSC, MS during the Club's 26th annual award ceremony last Sunday a t t h e S T. F r a n c i s Community Developers Head Office. The teachers were honoured under the Club's highly successful Say Yes to Education campaign by the Rose Hall Town Farfan and Mendes Under-15, Bakewell U n d e r- 1 7 a n d S e c o n d Division, Pepsi Under-19 and Intermediate, Metro Females and Gizmos and Gadgets First Division and Under-23 Cricket Teams. Those honoured under the Scotia Bank Tribute to Outstanding Teachers Award Programme were Rose Hall Town Nursery School – Seeranie Baratt, J.C. Chandisingh Secondary – Rebeka Dasrat, Kimberly Veerapen – Corentyne Comprehensive High School, Schyon Alexander –
President Granger poses with seven of the eight Tribute to Outstanding Teachers Awardees. Bagot – Rose Hall Town Primary, Melinda Ramkin – Port Mourant Secondary, Mohanie Harrycharran – Lower Corentyne S e c o n d a r y, M e l i s s a Nizamudin – Tain Primary and Tameshwar Bruce –
Williamson and Selochanie Pasaram of Region 5 along with Colin Bynoe and Armin Dean – Mendonca were honoured under the Food for the Poor/ Berbice River Bridge Tribute to R e t i r e d Te a c h e r s
programme. Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster stated that the RHTYSC, MS places special emphasis on honouring educators as they are the ones who mold the minds of our future leaders.
Foster noted that the club strongly believes that education is the Key to success and that every effort must be made to make sure that every child fulfils his/her true potential in the classroom.
He congratulated the eight outstanding teachers on being honoured as Teacher of the Year 2015 for their schools and urged them to always be role models to their students. The long standing RHTYSC, MS Executive also expressed gratitude to the retired officials for their combined 140 years' service to the educational sector and issued on appeal to them to share their vast experience with the younger generation of Teachers. President David Granger, who handed over the awards to all twelve awardees, congratulated them on their service to Guyana. Each of the Awardees received a trophy, medal and a collection of gifts. The Club would like to express gratitude to the Berbice River Bridge Company, Food for the Poor (Guy) INC and Scotia Bank for their sponsorship.
Cavendish edging closer to Rio selection LONDON (Reuters) Mark Cavendish is edging closer to selection for Britain’s Olympic track cycling team after Jon Dibben, a rival for selection to contest the omnium, underwent elbow surgery on Tuesday. The 30-year-old, the most prolific sprinter on the road with 26 Tour de
France stage wins, has been sweating on the chance to finally win a first Olympic medal ever since this year’s world championships in London. Cavendish finished sixth in the multi-discipline omnium event at the Olympic velodrome, missing the top-three target Britain’s technical director
Shane Sutton had set him to secure his place on the plane to Brazil. Dibben won gold in the points race, one of the elements of the two-day omnium, in London while Cavendish showed his track credentials when he partnered Bradley Wiggins to gold in the non-Olympic Madison event.
Blyden helps Evergreen to victory Guyanese Travis Blyden struck 37 to help Evergreen beat Cedros by 113 runs when the Trinidad and Tobago 50-over tournament continued recently. Playing at Pluck Raod, Sanfranquic, Evergreen batted first and posted 227-8 after the game was reduced to 41 overs. Ato Rockcliff scored 60, Gavin Suckhansingh 43 not out, while skipper Blyden chipped in handsomely in the latter stages. Cedros were bowled out for 94 in 25 overs in reply. Blyden had a fruitful season scoring the most runs
Trevon Garraway
Travis Blyden
for his team 220, highest score of 76 and also took 14 wickets with a best figure of 4/22, while another
Guyanese, Trevon Garraway got 195 runs and with a highest score of 60 and took 10 scalps for the said team.
A crash in the Netherlands last weekend in the ZLM Roompot tour, however, left Dibben with a broken elbow. “He is being operated on today,” Sutton told Reuters. “It’s a pretty quick turnaround so I wouldn’t say he’s out but it’s a setback for Jon.” British Cycling later issued an update on Dibben, saying they were confident he would return to training “imminently” after his surgery. “His Rio ambitions remain unaffected,” the statement added. Whoever is selected for the omnium would also be the ‘fifth man’ in the fourman team pursuit and Dibben was part of the British squad that took silver in London last month. Cavendish has limited experience in the 4km team pursuit, one of the blueriband events of the Rio track programme, but Sutton was upbeat about his selection chances on Tuesday. “Mark is continuing his
Mark Cavendish of Britain competes in the men’s omnium 1km time trial. UCI World Track Cycling Championships - London, Britain - 5/3/2016. (REUTERS/MATTHEW CHILDS) training in the hope that he will make the squad and we will look at his training times and see where he’s at,” Sutton said. “The team will be announced on June 13 and Mark is definitely in the frame. “We have his results from the worlds and (the
UCI Track World Cup) Hong Kong and we are quite happy with those performances but obviously there are two or three other guys in the frame. “ We w i l l l o o k a t training data from now up until selection and make a recommendation.”
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Hand-in-Hand U-19 Inter-County
Paul’s belligerent 96 lights up ‘Dead’ game at DCC E’bo need outright win to dethrone Demerara in Final round
Kemo Paul and Keeper Nathan Persaud watch as Kevin Sinclair pulls for four at DCC during his half-century yesterday. By Sean Devers Kemo Paul’s belligerent 96 from just 43 balls and 56 minutes decorated with nine fours and five sixes lit up the last hour of a ‘dead’ match with Essequibo being set 255 from 15 overs by the National U-17s for an unlikely win at DCC yesterday. The rain washed out play without a ball being bowled on the second day of the GCB’s Hand-in-Hand threeday U-19 Inter-County game, robbing the second round game of a result as the U-17s, who notched up 244 in their first innings, took first innings points and
finished with a draw against Essequibo who finished second on the points table with 18 points. Defending Champions Demerara drew with Berbice after taking first innings points at Everest to take the lead and will aim to deny Essequibo an outright win from tomorrow in the final round game at Wales. Essequibo must win to take their first ever Inter-County U-19 title. When play began on a track with too much moisture due to the ‘sweating’ from the covers after they were removed late, Essequibo resumed on 72 without loss but failed to cope on the
surface and lost their first four wickets as spinners Ashmead Nedd (4-58) and Man-of-the-Match Kevin (229) ripped through the top order. Nathan Persaud (14) was removed by Sinclair who had danger man Paul for a firstball duck to start the collapse as two wickets tumbled at 72. Mark Williams added just two to his overnight 56 before he was caught behind off Nedd who quickly got rid Satesh Latchana (3). When Akenie Adams (9) was run out at 97-5 and Essequibo were in dire straits and the demise of the batmen had little to do with
Joshua Persaud turns one off his pads during his 49 for the U-17s at DCC yesterday. the pitch. Sachin Persaud (25) and Looknauth Chinkoo who reached the boundary five times in a gutsy 44 were the only other batsmen to past 15 as six batsmen failed to reach double figures. With the U-17s being careful not give Essequibo any chance of winning Bashkar Yadram (16) and Joshua Persaud (49) added 42 before Yadram was caught at the wicket by off Chickoo before Alphius Bookie (4) was bowled by Adams at 55-5. Sinclair and Persaud batted fluently on a track which had dried out nicely in
the scorching heat. Sinclair hit nine fours and batted for 133 minutes for his cultured 59 before he was dismissed by the hard working Chinkoo. Persaud played several classy shots in his 49 which lasted 119 minutes and included three sixes and a four, while Sagar Hatheramani blasted three sixes in a cameo unbeaten 24 and with was Nedd (10) when the declaration was made, finally leaving Essequibo to bat for an hour. Chickoo (2-36) and Adams (2-35) were the best bowlers for Essequibo who opened with Paul and
Williams (15), who was stumped off of Nedd at 50-1 in just five overs. Nathan Persaud was bowled by Sinclair for a duck at 67-2 but Paul, the West Indies under-19 Vice-Captain, lau n c h e d a m e r c i l e s s attack on the bowlers on the small ground. He raced to his 50 from just 23 balls and fell just six short of what would have been the fastest century at Inter-County U-19 three-day level when he was taken in the deep off Nedd as his team galloped to 123-3 from 14.3 overs to set up what could be a pulsating battle from tomorrow at Wales.
Bernie Ecclestone: Women drivers ANSA MCAL-Lucozade Handicap Squash in F1 would not be taken seriously BBC Sport - Formula 1 boss Bernie Ecclestone says female drivers would “not physically be able to drive a F1 car quickly”. Speaking to businessman Sir Martin Sorrell at an Advertising Week Europe conference, the 85-year-old said he does not think women would be “taken seriously” in the sport. However, he does think an increasing number of women will take F1 chief executive positions in the future. “Women are more competent, and they don’t have massive egos,” he added. Susie Wolff was the most recent woman to pursue a racing career in F1. Meanwhile, Claire Williams is currently the deputy team principal of Williams, having joined as a family representative on the board in 2012. Wolff started working with Williams in 2012, after racing for seven years in the G e r m a n To u r i n g C a r
F1 chief executive Bernie Ecclestone has been involved in motorsport since the late 1940s. (Getty Images) Championship, but retired in November. She spent three years involved in test and development work and took part in four practice sessions over the 2014 and 2015 seasons - becoming the first woman to take part in a grand prix weekend for more than 20 years. In 2013 she said one the main issues behind a lack of females in the sport was young girls “have no-one to aspire to growing up”.
But the Scot dismissed claims women lack the strength to cope with the demands of the sport, adding: “We have 30% less muscle so we have to work hard, but there’s no reason why females can’t get strong enough to race an F1 car.” The 33-year-old has since launched an initiative to increase the number of women in motorsport and said there were lots of opportunities in F1 besides
driving. Maria Teresa de Filippis, the first woman to race in an F1 grand prix, died in January. The Italian started three grands prix for the Maserati team in 1958 with a best finish of 10th at Spa in Belgium. De Filippis, who was a founding member of the Maserati Club and went on to become its president, also failed to qualify for the 1958 Monaco Grand Prix along with F1 boss Ecclestone. The late Lella Lombardi, another Italian, who started 12 grands prix between 1974 and 1976, is the only other woman to start an F1 race. Female drivers in F1 Maria Teresa de Filippis 5 races (1958-69), 3 starts - 0 points, Lella Lombardi - 17 races (1974-76), 12 starts - 0.5 points, Divina Galica - 3 races (1976 & 78), 0 starts (did not qualify), Desire Wilson 1 race (1980), 0 starts (did not qualify), Giovanna Amati - 3 races (1992), 0 starts (did not qualify)
tournament 2016 underway
The Guyana Squash Association (GSA) in collaboration with its corporate sponsor Digicel is hosting its third tournament for 2016 with the staging of the Ansa Mc Al Lucuzade Handicap Squash Tournament at the Georgetown Club Inc courts. The tournament commenced last evening and runs until Saturday evening. As usual there will be two categories with the better skilled players participating in the Open Category and the lesser skilled and younger players participating in Category A. This year almost fifty players have signed up to participate in the two categories. Defending champion in the Open category is Peter Michael De Groot who starts with a handicap of -10, while some of the other top ranked players in that category are Raphael De Groot -12, Ashley Khalil -3, Javed Rahaman -1, Alec Melville 0 and Ashley De Groot +3. In Category A top ranked players are Ethan Jonas, Lucas Jonas, Demetrius De Abreu, Madison Fernandes, Aliyah Persaud, Michael Alphonso and Abosaide Cadogan, All matches are best of three and action starts each evening at 6.00 pm. The finals of all the categories are set for April 23 starting at 6.00 pm.
t r o Sp
West Indies Indies Legends Legends call call for for West dissolution of of ‘obsolete’ ‘obsolete’ WICB WICB dissolution
Dr. Dr. Rupert Rupert Roopnarine Roopnarine confirms confirms Guyana Guyana will host CPL finals Finals
Members of the West Indies Legends panel, including Andy Roberts and Deryck Murray, meet in Grenada © West Indies Legends
Stag Beer on board GTC Race Meet this weekend
Dr. Rupert Roopnarine
Dr. Rupert Roopnarine
Stag Beer Trade Representative Richard Singh (left) hands over the cheque for an undisclosed sum to GTC Race Meet Promoter Michael Sims.
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