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Kaieteur News
Kaieteur News Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana. Publisher: GLENN LALL Editor: Adam Harris Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210
EDITORIAL
Innocent until proven guilty There are some tenets that every society observes and they do so for good reason. One tenet is that everyone deserves a hearing before anyone could pass judgement. All too often we in the society are quick to judge because for one, the issue over which we pass judgement is always good for a talking point. As a people we are bored more often than not simply because we fail to use our time effectively. The result is that we seek every opportunity to create a situation that would make for a good conversation point. That is the reason for some reports being distorted after a few rounds. Everyone adds to the story merely to embellish it so that it really makes for interesting conversation. Another tenet is more legal that practical. An individual is innocent until proven guilty. There are many addenda to this tenet. One of them is that it is better to let ninety-men guilty go free than to execute one innocent man. Overt time lawyers would repeat this mantra because it suits them and it also serves to protect the society. And so we come to Priya Manickchand, herself a lawyer turned politician. This is a woman who at one time championed the cause of the down-trodden in the courts. She worked through the legal aid centre. On many occasions she would have found instances of people being sanctioned merely because they did not have the wherewithal to defend themselves. Ms Manickchand has also portrayed herself as a person who would go to the end of the earth to represent the underdog. We have seen her reaction to a satirical piece about a woman who may have offered her services as a lady of the night. It is not that Ms Manickchand wanted to chide the woman for her societal shortcoming. Rather, the lawyer contended that the woman was free to do as she wished as many women might have done given the circumstances. This is a case of Ms Manickchand informing critics of the woman that they should not judge anyone. It is therefore shocking that the very Ms Manickchand would first of all adopt a position that an individual is guilty, even without a trial. That could not have been part of her training. She accuses a man of rape and holds firm to that conviction although the matter is still before the courts. The man is guilty until proven innocent. The accused has not been given a chance by Ms Manickchand who not only demands her right to be allowed to make her damning statements, but who also insists that she has that right. She was asked to apologise for her outburst directed at a member of the parliamentary opposition benches. She bluntly refused. Then she contended that as a mother she could not apologise to a rapist, who in this case is not the Member of Parliament. In fact, the Member of Parliament has nothing to do with her allegation except that he shares the same lineage as the person Ms Manickchand is accusing. Simply to tell the world that she would not apologise for labelling someone who has not even been proven guilty is an arrogance that defies logic. To add insult to injury, she gets a remigrant to jump to her defence with some of the most stupid and irresponsible arguments. He talks about people with “relatives charged with criminal behaviour”. The same should apply to apologists who may have their progenies serving as guests of the state. In the case of the latter there could be the accusation that the person may be pandering to the government for a reduction of sentence or special treatment for the incarcerated one. There can be no excuse for the outburst, no matter how strongly one feels about an incident. The parliamentary opposition members would never shout “thief” in direct reference to some members of the government in the same way the members of the media have not definitively called them thieves although there have been the accusations and more.
Saturday April 05, 2014
Letters... Where your views make the news
The best way of ensuring that these victims are not abandoned DEAR EDITOR, In her explanation of her refusal to apologise to MP Jaipaul Sharma, which we saw on Wednesday, the Minister of Education said that if she apologized she would be betraying the victims of rape and pedophilia: “I cannot abandon them just to keep the National Assembly happy,” she explained. The victims of rape and pedophilia are not supported by grandstanding declarations. Rather than use Mr Sharma as a vehicle for her commitment not to betray victims of rape and pedophilia, we would urge the Minister to use her good offices and considerable influence and knowledge of the sexual offences laws within her party and government to ensure that the Sexual Offences Act (SOA) is enforced fully throughout Guyana. The victims of rape and pedophilia in Guyana urgently need to have the backlog of sexual offences cases which fall under both the old and new sexual offence laws fast tracked. Special courts should be set up for this if needs be. We know that the majority of survivors of sexual offences in Guyana are children, many of whom have been waiting for over five or even ten years to have their cases heard. Is this the justice they deserve? Up to the time of the amendment to the SOA 2010, there was already a backlog of over one hundred cases. The victims of rape and pedophilia in Guyana need professional and proper investigations of sexual offences cases
and the courts need access to DNA evidence, which will do more to instill confidence in the justice system than the poor and questionable police investigations that often lead to dismissals of matters. They need comprehensive services from special units set up in every hospital or, where no hospitals are available, other appropriate venues, where services are centralized and victim-centered, with nurses trained in the gathering of forensic evidence and treatment of rape and sexual assault survivors, trained counselors to address the psychological and physical trauma, and trained police officers to take statements in a humane and professional manner. They also need court advocates to attend to their and their families’ needs throughout the court process. The victims of rape and pedophilia need to have the Sexual Offences Task Force convened and resourced without delay so that the national plan of action for the prevention of sexual offences can become a reality, and more importantly, be enforced without fear or favour regardless of status and income, sex, sexual orientation, ethnicity, geography, age or disability. The victims of rape and pedophilia need to have ongoing education about the provisions of the Sexual Offences Act organized so that the population is informed about the law, including the wider definition of rape and consent, and the inclusion of new sexual
offences, special orders for the safety of survivors, and compensation for survivors of sexual offences. It is true that, as Minister Manickchand has said, the psychological and physical effects of sexual violence on survivors are farreaching and severe. They sometimes result in damage that may be permanent,, including anxiety and depression; post-traumatic stress and panic disorders; fear; shame; inability to trust and form lasting relationships, especially for young persons; high risk sexual behaviour; a high risk of perpetrating sexual violence (for boys), and a high risk of experiencing subsequent sexual violence (for girls). Some rape survivors have to undergo reconstructive surgery as a result of brutal rapes. Other victims are raped and killed. The victims of rape and pedophilia in Guyana need those in authority, armored with this knowledge, to ensure that the demands we have outlined above are implemented. This would be the very best way of ensuring that the victims of rape and pedophilia in Guyana are not abandoned. Danuta Radzik Denise Dias Josephine Whitehead for Help & Shelter Karen de Souza Andaiye Wintress White for Red Thread
Mohamed’s false propaganda cannot stand the test of careful scrutiny DEAR EDITOR, Permit me to respond to Mr. Sultan Mohamed’s letter published in the Kaieteur News of Thursday April 3rd, 2014, captioned “Sincere remorse must of necessity be followed by sincere forgiveness”. Mohamed, an apparent leading member of the PPP, was prompted to make his infamous defence of his party as a result of Mr. Eusi Kwayana’s letter in Stabroek News of 30th March, 2014 which appeared under the heading “PPP cited Mrs. Rodney’s letter for propaganda purposes” In his passionate defence of the PPP party and rulers, Mr. Mohamed unwittingly; (1) revealed the true intentions of the Government; and (2) disclosed the real reason for the PPP’s decision to hold the Rodney Inquiry. The PPP objectives are as follows: (1) To sow disunity in APNU between WPA and the PNC/R. (2) To rewrite history, as it relates to the PPP’s ineffective opposition during the period of the ‘70s and ‘80s. (3) To resume its historic hostility against the WPA and Walter Rodney. The nation and the world for the first time are being told that Rodney and Dr. Jagan had a secret agreement for the WPA and the PPP to merge. M o h a m e d ’s a s s e r t i o n “ H i s (Rodney’s) secret agreement with Dr.
Jagan intended to eventually merge the WPA with the PPP” – must be seen for what it is, pure wickedness on his part. He went on to state, “Since it was an open secret that Dr. Rodney did not trust some in the WPA, the merger was apparently only known within a very tight inner circle!” The talk of a Rodney-Jagan pact unknown to the WPA is slanderous, to both Rodney and Jagan. While Dr. Jagan was no angel, I am doubtful that he ever made such a ridiculous contention as Mohamed posits. I challenge Mohamed to provide the evidence that Dr. Jagan publicly or privately made such a claim. Until I am proven otherwise, I am prepared to take the political risk of upholding Dr. Jagan’s integrity on this matter. I am doubtful that his present comrades in the PPP will believe it is necessary to do so. Mohamed is taking advantage of the ’dead’, since neither Rodney nor Jagan is in any position to defend themselves against this vulgar abuse. The thesis expounded by Mohamed that Rodney did not trust some of his comrades in the WPA is not new. Officials of both the PNC and the PPP took the liberty of peddling this piece of propaganda at home and abroad, in the period immediately following Rodney’s assassination. What is new in this present assault
on the WPA and Rodney is the claim of a”secret” deal between Rodney and Jagan. It is clear to me that one of Mohamed’s reasons for his ridiculous claim is a subtle attempt on his part to tarnish Rodney’s name and undermine his political integrity, honesty and principled political conduct, by suggesting he was in some devious plan with the PPP leader behind the backs of his party and the Guyanese masses. Mohamed’s false propaganda cannot stand the test of careful scrutiny. The PPP and Dr. Jagan’s political attitude towards Rodney after the assassination is at best contradictory. On the one hand Dr. Jagan is on record of giving recognition to the positive role played by Walter Rodney in the struggle against the Burnham regime. On the other hand he’s on public record calling the WPA and Rodney adventurists. It is widely known that in the elections which followed Rodney’s assassination Dr. Jagan, at public meetings around the country, was making a mockery of Rodney’s assassination. At those meetings Jagan said that Rodney promised the people a Christmas present, but instead he gave them his head on a platter. For the benefit of younger readers, what Jagan was erroneously claiming was that Rodney had promised the (Continued on page 5)
Saturday April 05, 2014
Kaieteur News
Letters... Where your views make the news
Empowerment through education DEAR EDITOR, There is a saying that one cannot be educated and poor at the same time. There is a considerable amount of truth in this saying. Implicit in this saying is the fact that an educated person is much more likely to take advantage of available options in his or her environment in order to live a secure and satisfying life. It is precisely out of this thinking that the current PPPC administration is devoting so much, in terms of resources, to education and skills development. The education sector continues to get the lion’s share of the social sector allocation followed by health care delivery. This indeed is how it should be. The two main determinants of human development are education and health. In both of these counts Guyana has made substantial progress not only by regional but international standards. The country boasts a high literacy and numeracy rate that compares favourably with countries of both the developed and developing world. A recent visit to several hinterland communities in Region Eight including Monkey Mountain, Kato and Kurukubaru, only served to confirm this viewpoint. Apart from the natural beauty of these mountainous communities, one of the noticeable features of these villages is the changing infrastructure, especially when it comes to public buildings such as schools, health and recreational facilities and living quarters for teachers, nurses and other government officials. Several Amerindian homes are now made of lumber and corrugated zinc sheets, which are much more durable and secure. It is no
exaggeration to say that the landscapes of these communities are gradually being transformed, due largely to the several government interventions, including the capital programmes and annual grants. The PPPC administration from the time it assumed power has put Amerindian development at the centre of its agenda. It is no secret that these communities were highly neglected by the PNC regime when it was in power. Amerindians were treated as second and third class citizens. At the political level, elections for Village Captains were rigged to install puppets of the PNC and opposition parties were denied access to these communities. Today, all of that has changed. Amerindians are now put on the front burner of our development thrust and the government is investing heavily in the wellbeing of our hinterland peoples. This is true of all facets of development, but more particularly in the area of human development. Take education as an example. A new secondary school with dormitory facilities is currently under construction in Kato. This facility is the largest in terms of expenditure, totalling in excess of 700 million dollars. Prior to the PPPC administration coming to office, there was only one secondary school at Paramakatoi, which for all practical purposes was a Community High School, with only a limited number of subject offerings at the CXC Basic level. To say that the conditions and quality of life of our indigenous peoples have improved is an understatement. This does not mean that there are not challenges that need to be addressed and confronted.
Mohamed’s false... From page 4 Guyanese masses he would overthrow the dictatorship before Christmas. I made this criticism of Dr. Jagan when he was alive. It was very clear at that time that Jagan’s integrity’ did not permit him to deny the criticism. Based on Dr. Jagan’s stated public positions in the period immediately after Rodney’s assassination, I am forced to ask Mohamed: was this the action of a comrade who had lost an invaluable ally? The
public will make its own judgement call. Mohamed’s portrayal of Dr. Walter Rodney as a conspirator against his party and the nation is carefully designed to set the tone of the Walter Rodney Commission of Inquiry. I close my case. Tacuma Ogunseye
But progress has been made in several aspects of life which has greatly empowered our Amerindian brothers and sisters to take development in their own hands. Amerindian communities are no longer in the backwater of national development but are now an integral part of our development processes. This is why the vast majority of our Amerindian and hinterland populations are solidly behind the PPPC administration. To show their appreciation for the Party and its leaders, a monument has been erected in each of the villages of Kopinang, Kato and Monkey Mountain in honour of the memory of the late Dr. Cheddi Jagan and his wife Janet Jagan, both of whom are highly regarded for the role they played in the liberation of the Guyanese people in general and the Amerindian people in particular, against the yoke of deprivation and poverty. The current budget presented to Parliament by Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh will further consolidate and enhance the quality of life and aspirations of these hinterland communities, as indeed, the nation as a whole. One hopes that good sense will prevail and there would be no repeat of what transpired last year when the opposition parties utilized their one-seat majority to cut budgetary allocations earmarked for Amerindian development, which included land titling and the provision of solar panels. Wreath-laying ceremonies were recently held in these three communities and were well attended. I had the honour of participating in those ceremonies which were also attended by Central Committee members of the PPP Vickram Bharrat and Ronald Harsawak who is also Regional Executive Officer of that Region. Similar activities also took place in Region Nine and other coastal regions in honour of a man who could truly be described as a transformational leader whose vision continue to be a living guide to the PPP and the PPPC administration. Hydar Ally
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Govt anticipates favourable response on access to Hugh Wooding Government is anticipating a reversal of the decision made earlier this year by the Council of Legal Education (CLE) to not renew an agreement to have the top graduates of the University of Guyana’s Law School automatically secure a place at the Hugh Wooding Law School. Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister, Anil Nandlall, in a statement issued last evening said that “the Government of Guyana eagerly awaits a response from the Chairman of the Council of Legal Education,” adding that “we expect that the response will be favourable to the Guyanese graduands.” According to him too, “Government remains ready, able and willing to work with the University of Guyana, the University of the West Indies, the Council for Legal Education and any other stakeholder to bring a speeding and long term resolution to this matter.” In his statement, Nandlall disclosed that at the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), which recently concluded its 25th InterSessional Meeting, held on the 10th-11th March, 2014, in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, President Donald Ramotar had cause to raise the decision of the Executive Board of the CLE. The CLE decision was made on February 2014 in Bridgetown Barbados, which has serious implications for the access to the Law Schools and consequently admission to practice Law by persons, other than graduates of the University of the West Indies, more particularly, graduates of the
University of Guyana. And according to Nandlall, this decision of the Council will, in essence, jeopardise the automatic admission of L.L.B graduands from the University of Guyana into the Hugh Wooding Law School, which has, hitherto, existed under a UWI/UG C.L.E Collaborative Agreement. The agreement was designed to ensure that the top 25 UG graduands were guaranteed automatic entry to the Hugh Wooding Law School. This agreement expired and has not been renewed for the year 2014. This matter was discussed at the Heads of Government meeting and it was resolved that the Chairman of the Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOM, the Honourable Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, write to the Chairman of the CLE conveying the views and the decision of the Heads of Government on the matter. Moreover, on the 31st March, 2014, Prime Minister Gonsalves dispatched a letter to Chairman of the CLE, Ms. Jacqueline SamuelsBrowne, QC. An excerpt of the correspondent reads: “This matter is of grave concern to Heads of Government, as it effectively results in Guyanese students having no access to the Law Schools, notwithstanding that they would have entered the UG Programme in the expectation that at least the top 25 graduates were entitled to automatic admission. It is also of tremendous concern that in the current scenario, admission to the
practice of Law in the CLE Member Countries is restricted to the graduates of one institution. The implications of the decision by the Council and the Law Schools are farreaching in terms of the provision of legal education services and access to the legal profession in the context of liberalisation of trade in services and in a Community which has established a Single Market and free movement of service providers and Skilled Nationals. The Conference considered this matter at its recent Inter-Sessional Meeting and: Agreed that the Prime Minister of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, as Chair of the Conference, would write to the Chairperson of the Council of Legal Education to request that the Council accommodate the automatic admission of the top 25 Guyanese Graduates for the academic year 2014-2015; Also noted the implications of the recent decision of the Council of Legal Education for admission, by examination, of graduates other than Guyanese from the University of Guyana and graduates from non-UWI LLB programmes in the Community; Mandated the Council of Legal Education to complete a thorough review of legal education in the community before the next academic year to resolve the deeper issues concerning legal education including access and the role and function of the Council of Legal Education. Accordingly, I write as Chair of the Conference, to request that the Council accommodate the automatic admission of the
Anil Nandlall top 25 Guyanese Graduates for the academic year 2014-2015. I also draw to your attention that the Conference, representing the Heads of Government of the parties to the CLE Agreement, has mandated that the Council complete a thorough review of legal education in the Community before the next academic year to resolve the deeper issues concerning legal education, including access and the role and function of the Council of Legal Education. I am aware that the Council is conscious of many of these issues and I am sure the review will result in positive developments for legal education and the practice of Law in the Community.” And according to Nandlall it is anticipated that the missive inked by Prime Minister Gonsalves will serve to remedy the dejected situation Guyana currently faces.
Twenty-one Police and CANU ranks graduate from DEA training By Latoya Giles Twenty-one ranks from both the Guyana Police Force and the Customs Anti Narcotics Unit graduated yesterday as the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) airport interdiction course came to an end. A ceremony was held at the Guyana Police Force Training Centre, on Young and Camp Streets. The course curriculum included sharing best practices for the establishment of an interdiction unit, review of computer data analysis methodologies, interviewing techniques, and the conduct of seizure operations. Minister of Home Affairs Clement Rohee, U.S. Ambassador D. Brent Hardt, Police Commissioner (ag) Seelall Persaud and several other senior ranks of the force were there for the graduation ceremony. The programme was made possible through funding by the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative launched by President Barrack Obama at the Fifth Summit of the Americas in Trinidad and Tobago in April 2009. Working together, the United States, Guyana and other nations of the Caribbean are combating the drug trade and other transnational crimes that
From Right DEA trainer G.W Woossner, US Ambassador D. Brent Hardt, Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee, Commissioner of Police (Ag) Seelall Persaud along with the graduating ranks. threaten regional security. Ambassador Hardt said that the course represents another step towards strengthening Guyana’s border security. He said that the training also reflects a mutual commitment under the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative to work together to combat transnational crime. According to Hardt even four years after the innovative partnership the United States
remains committed to working with Guyana and all other regional partners to help deepen and expand their efforts. “By sharing best practices on structure and procedures of airport interdiction units performing computer data analysis, interviewing and conducting seizure operations we boost law enforcement capacity” Hardt noted. The ambassador said,
that the training the ranks received would enhance the security relations and ensure that criminals do not use the airports for illegitimate purposes. Ambassador Hardt noted that illicit trafficking destabilizes economic progress and threatens public safety. He said that such criminal activities also make it more likely that vulnerable populations may be lured into
organized criminal networks. He added that the CBSI has also contributed a US$50,000 to support the international organization of migration project with the Guyana Registrar’s office. The Ambassador explained that the money would help create a searchable database of birth certificates. These efforts would make it harder for criminals to evade law enforcement
especially when crossing borders through the use of false identities, the ambassador noted. Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee said that the course will help with the effectiveness in detecting persons who are intending to conduct illegal activities. Rohee said that the programme is a testimony to the necessity of ongoing training. He said that ongoing training is needed to tackle organize crime. According to Rohee training courses like this makes it more important for ranks to “step up their game” when dealing with criminals. Only recently the United States Government donated to the Guyana Coast Guard three spanking new 500 horsepower boats. The boats which were built in the US by Metal Shark Aluminium Boats at a total cost of US$l.7M were handed over to President Donald Ramotar by US Ambassador D. Brent Hardt. President Ramotar had said that he was confident that the boats will make a valuable contribution to the work of the security forces in Guyana and while Guyana is still a poor country with many needs to be fulfilled, especially the need to ensure that the nation is secured and its people are protected.
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Kaieteur News
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APNU’s desk-banging protest silences Minister Manickhand ...as first week of Budget debate ends in chaos The 2014 Budget debates last evening descended into chaos and Speaker of the National Assembly, Raphael Trotman was forced to abandon the sessions until Monday. While it was not the first bout of tension between the Government and A Partnership for National Unity, the Debates came to a screeching halt when Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand, rose to make her presentation to the House. The Alliance for Change, Members of Parliament left the sitting while APNU’s parliamentarians began banging on their desks loudly, effectively drowning out the Minister; effectively gagging her. The APNU Parliamentarians could be heard chanting “apology, apology, apology” which went on for several minutes. After Speaker Trotman failed to get the compliance of the APNU members to allow the Minister to make her presentation, he suspended the sitting. He then met with
the Chief Whips in an attempt to broker a solution but both sides stuck to their position. APNU is demanding that Minister Manickchand apologize for a heckle she made during Volda Lawrence’s presentation and which was objected to by then Member of Parliament, Jaipaul Sharma. Government is holding out that when Speaker of the House Trotman ruled on the matter it was concluded and as such the Minister must be allowed to speak. During the suspension, APNU members were observed milling around while the Government side was observed in caucus, presumably to strategize their next move. When the sitting was resumed by Speaker Trotman, he informed of the failed attempt to broker a solution. He indicated also that he was of the opinion that the matter had been dealt with and as such the protest by APNU was against him as much as it was against the Minister. Trotman then invited the Minister to make her
presentation at which point in time the banging resumed. When Government’s Chief whip, Gail Teixeira attempted to intervene on behalf of Minister Manickchand, the decibel levels in the Chambers increased exponentially as the APNU Members of Parliament began banging even louder. The banging continued incessantly for several more minutes and each time the Speaker managed to invite the Minister to speak, the banging resumed to the point where Trotman was then forced to adjourn the sitting until Monday. A team of Ministers and other members of the Government side immediately arranged for live broadcast where in a show of support for their colleague Minister, lamented what transpired. Teixeira, in updating the nation through the impromptu live broadcast said the Opposition members through their actions, defied the ruling of the Speaker of the National Assembly. Trotman had ruled that following a review of the
Manickchand makes a point during the live broadcast as her colleagues look on video of what had transpired in the House when Manickchand made the heckle, he found that she was not making reference to the then sitting Member of Parliament, Jaipaul Sharma but rather she was speaking in relation to his father. As such he ruled that the Minister would be able to make her presentation. Teixeira in her broadcast, reminded that following the contentious heckle made by Manickchand, herself, the Minister and APNU’s Joseph Harmon met with the Speaker in order to broker an
Opposition members banging on their desks to drown out Minster Manickchand’s (standing) presentation
agreement. She reported that it was agreed that the Minister would make a statement in the House, which she did but “apparently APNU, in order to try to protect themselves and save face with the departure of Mr. Jaipaul Sharma and the support of CN Sharma and his television station to the APNU are now trying to use Minister Manickchand and the Government as their whipping boy.” Manickchand in her message during the live broadcast said that heckling was a common thing across the world and she was surprised that her action has attracted this much attention. “I am shocked that the Opposition would try and shut down my right to represent the people of this country by trying to gag me…I am stunned that they would renege on their agreement,” according to
Minister Manickchand. She said that the public should seek to examine why the Opposition should put on such behavior given that two days prior, they were fine with her statement to the House. The Minister said that what happened between the time that statement was made and now is that Jaipaul Sharma resigned from Parliament “and they have problems with that.” Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh used the opportunity to lament the fact that the Minister who oversees the largest allocation in the 2014 budget is being prevented from making her presentation. He reminded the House that Manickchand’s place in Parliament is as a result of thousands of votes and as such being prevented by 26 persons from speaking “is downright bullyism and lawlessness.”
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WHAT IS HARDER TO FIND THAN LOVE? My first job interview required that I produce some form of identification and proof that I was of working age. Since I did not have a Guyana identification card at the time, I took along my driver’s licence and my birth certificate. I hoped that the former would identify me and at the same time allow me to get into the transport section, while my birth certificate would show that I was of working age. The interviewing officer took my driver’s licence and wrote something down on a sheet of paper. He then picked up my birth certificate and took a long time looking over it. So long that I decided to ask, “Is anything wrong, sir?” To which he replied, “Yes, I
cannot find the expiration date.” From the number of birth certificates which the General Register Office issues each year, one may be tempted to believe that birth certificates now carry an expiry date. The sheer number of applications would suggest that persons are of the view that every few years they need to apply for a new birth certificate. The problem is that too many persons in Guyana are no longer taking care of their important documents. They are misplacing them much too easily, with the result that every few years they need to apply to have replacements issued. It is simply unacceptable for such large numbers of applications to be made in
any one month. Even for one year, this number would be simply too much in a small country like Guyana. It places undue pressure on the system, with the result that processing times are bound to be extended. It is unacceptable, and the only persons to blame are those who are losing their certificates. This was hardly the case up to thirty years ago. People took good care of their documents. Many of them may not have had even a file folder to store their documents, but they resorted to keeping them in plastic bags or used envelopes. More importantly they had a fixed place, usually some drawer, where all their important papers were kept.
Dem boys seh...
Donald overrule Kwame decision Do suh nah like suh. When Kwame tek de story from de Hard Times paper and order dem at de Chronicle to carry it nobody didn’t knock he off. He jump and lie to Donald when Donald ask who give de instruction. In fact, he never admit. Now he giving instruction to fire a technician from Hen See Hen because de boy play a recording of an opposition speaker. He even instruct that de human resources people give de boy a letter. Donald step in and upset e whole apple cart. De boy gone back to wuk and Kwame stretching he mouth like if he want kiss somebody. That is why everybody want Donald fuh clean out de stable. He got to get rid of all dem jackass like Kwame. Of course he got some sick horse too but dem ain’t dangerous. Dem is de people who got de opposition cutting de budget. Imagine Ash Knee got de nerve fuh ask de taxpayer fuh money to run Hen See Hen when de place only concerned with Government people. This technician play
Berry Berry talking bout everything except how he putting money in Bobby pocket. Dem other people talk out that but Berry Berry refuse to answer dem. That is de speech de technician play. Then he play de opposition lady speech. Jackass Kwame get vex. People woulda believe that is he mudda TV station and it should only play things that come from de Pee Pee Pee. Well de opposition seh that even if dem did believe that Hen See Hen was changing dem now know that de lebbeh lip man got he own ideas. That is de same person, and is only decency mek dem boys ain’t seh thing, who jump up and clap when Priya talk bout rape and child molestation. Kwame is a past master when it come to molesting children. He and de TV one who get lock up ain’t far from each other. And Donald still keeping Kwame. Perhaps Donald believe in obeah. Talk half and help Donald try wid Kwame.
And keep them safely they did. Today there are persons who still have their British Guiana birth certificates. Somebody should run-off a competition in Guyana to see who can produce the oldest birth certificate. I am sure that quite a few birth certificates dating back to the early 1900’s can still be found. Unfortunately, not many of these older certificates are accepted for use. There are many places in Guyana, including embassies, which refuse to accept a British Guiana birth certificate as proof of birth. It is not clear what position the Registration Office took during the national registration exercise a few years ago, but no one should be denied registration simply because they have a British Guiana birth certificate. In fact, anyone who can produce such a certificate should be given an award for being able to safely keep that document. In the old days there was
no photocopying and persons had to take their documents, for example, when applying for a passport. They did not lose these documents. Yet today, with the luxury of photocopying, people are still losing their original documents. Perhaps it is because replacements come too easily. All it takes, according to the General Registrar Office, is for an application to be made and an inexpensive fee to be paid for a replacement copy. If however, the replacement fee was $1,000, then perhaps persons would lose their original certificates less. It is something that should be considered, for in as much as Guyana would like its citizens to be able to afford to have replacements of important documents such as birth or marriage certificates, there needs to be some controls and disincentives against persons losing their original documents. An increase in the cost of
these certificates will do the trick, because if there is anything that dissuades Guyanese from losing anything, it is the high cost of replacement. Guyanese need to keep their documents safely and ensure they are stored in an easily accessible place. A good way to know how organised someone is, would be to see whether when at home they can find their birth certificate within five minutes. If they cannot, then it says that they need to get themselves better organised. A while back, President Obama quipped at a dinner that there were a few things in life harder to find and more important to keep than love. Then he added, “Well, love and a birth certificate.”
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Kaieteur News
Gold Board closes Bartica branch, police probe tampering racket An entire sub-office of the Guyana Gold Board has been closed and police are investigating several staff members over the alleged tampering of gold bought from miners. The scheme may have cost Government tens of millions of dollars in diverted taxes and royalties. According to sources close to the Guyana Gold Board, raw gold being sold have to be tested for its purity. The purer the gold; the higher the price. It is believed that staff members allegedly took kickbacks to record higher purity levels after the mandatory density level tests are conducted. This in turn led to miners being paid more. It is alleged that the staffers and miners collaborated with others from Georgetown in the scheme. At least four staffers from the Bartica branch and one from the Georgetown office were reportedly being questioned. Bartica is located up the Essequibo River. Yesterday, Natural Resources Minister, Robert Persaud, admitted that an investigation was underway and that the matter was being considered a serious one. The Guyana Gold Board said, it has convened a meeting with the Ministry and representatives of the Guyana Gold and Diamond
Several Gold Board staffers are being questioned over an alleged racket to tamper with gold bought from miners. Miners Association to assess the situation. Bartica, considered a gateway to the interior and hub of mining activities, has been conducting significant trading in gold for years and remains one of the main suboffice for the Guyana Gold Board. The closure of the office is bound to have impacts and miners and traders will have to seek alternative measures which involved the very real considerations of security. The incident involving tampering and staffers is not new. In early 2010, a manager of the Guyana Gold Board was sacked and a probe launched following the sale of a substantial quantity of gold said to be tainted with silver.
That manager, too, was based at Bartica. Kaieteur News had reported then that the gold sold may have been in the vicinity of four kilograms and valued at over $25M. The entity had reportedly lost $3M. Back then, Prime Minister, Sam Hinds, who was charged with the mining portfolio, said that in a number of cases involving the Essequibo trader, a quantity of gold sold was only tested in part when all the different pieces should have been analysed. It was found that the pieces that were tested showed high purity levels and were bought. However, later tests found that a greater percentage of the gold sold were not of the desired level. The GGB reportedly incurred a substantial loss as a result. In 2009, a senior laboratory technician was reportedly sent home for mis-appropriating a quantity of gold.
Saturday April 05, 2014
East Bank man crushed on Coverden road A gruesome collision involving two ‘bush trucks’ and a pickup, which occurred at Coverden on the East Bank of Demerara, yesterday, has left a pedal cyclist dead. The deceased has been identified as Aubrey Clarke, a 48 -year old machine operator of Timehri, East Bank Demerara. Kaieteur News understands that Clarke was reportedly hit by one of the ‘bush trucks’ which was towing the other, as he was proceeding north along the public road on his bicycle. He was allegedly pinned to the side of the pickup truck which was parked at the side of the road. When Kaieteur News arrived at the scene, eyewitnesses, recounted that they saw Clarke riding along the road then suddenly heard a loud sound. “We din know is wha really happen, de man de riding and we see two trucks coming… de one in front towing the other one and all we hear is bladam. The man dey pun de road, in a pool of blood but we suspect that dem two truck run into he and paste he to the forerunner that was parked at the side of the road. It de completely smash up” Clarke’s relatives told this newspaper that when they arrived on the scene the man’s body was still lying on the side of the road. His mangled bicycle was tossed to the side of the road. “This is sudden. It come as shock to we, we can’t really tell you what happen, it is traumatizing to see something like this now. Aubrey just
The pickup truck involved in the accident
Dead: Aubrey Clarke come from by me in Timehri and he say he de going to Coverden. He just finish work and he de talking to me and he lef and come up the road,” a woman, who identified herself as a close family friend, stated. “He left by me and said he going and buy kite paper fuh paste kite. He had his weeding machine in his hand and the
haversack on he back. He was in two minds whether to go home or go to Coverden. It is very hard because only recently another member of the family was buried,” the woman added. Clarke leaves to mourn his children and grandchildren. Relatives recall that he was a devout member of the Seventh Day Adventist church. Meanwhile, one of the occupants of the truck related that they were heading to Georgetown from Mahdia. “We de coming out and we see dis other man like he break down and he ask we fuh help and is tow we towing he bringing he out. When we reach Coverden we hear a siren and we pull in the corner and I suspect that the truck at de back that we de towing knock the man cause we aint see this man or nothing.” Both drivers were taken into custody by ranks at the Madewini police station.
The mangled cycle belonging to the deceased
Saturday April 05, 2014
Kaieteur News
Page 11
Govt. will provide all available information in Committee - Benn
Minister of Public Works, Robeson Benn, has committed to providing all of the information available to Government to the political opposition when the House goes into Committee of Supply next week to consider and begin voting on the National Estimates. The Minister gave the commitment yesterday when he made his presentation to the 2014 Budget debates. He said that this will be done despite the fact that all of the demands for information in the past were handed over. He was referring to project documents on the Amaila Falls Hydroelectric Project and the Cheddi Jagan International Airport Expansion Project among others. “They wail and carry on even when provided with information…We are prepared to do it again.” The Minister announced that this month the construction of the access road for the Amaila Hydro Electric Project will be substantially completed. With regard the road project, the Minister said that he was surprised at the about turn on support for the Amaila Falls Access Road. According to Benn, members of the political opposition including A Partnership for National Unity’s (APNU) Joseph Harmon and Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine, were taken to the road and they were enthused. Benn told the House that the two opposition members were impressed when they saw that the road was being built by young Guyanese engineers and technicians.
He said that despite expressing those sentiments the opposition still returned to the House and voted against the provisions for the road which stalled its progress. The Minister said that there were bright persons in the benches of the opposition but bemoaned their political perception and their stances with regard important national projects. He said that while he will leave it up to the Prime Minister to give the important answers, “the question of cheap power for our country, the most important thing which affects the economy of our country, is the most important question, the lack of cheap renewable power in our nation development equation and the building of the road and the hydro plant will resolve this problem.” The Minister in reporting to the House on the performance of his portfolio, said it was a difficult year with lots of confusion and very many court cases that at times led to the stalling of several projects. Overall he said government only managed to complete 84 per cent of its capital programme. In his report to the House on the infrastructure works, he spoke to the works done on the Demerara Harbour Bridge which is only intended to be in use for another six years. More than six million vehicles crossed the bride going both ways last year and yielded earnings of $479M, according to Benn. The Minister said that in
the coming year, Government will be looking to make moves to have the level of vehicles traversing the bridge lessened by possibly having trucks barge across as well as introduce even more water taxis. The bridge, he said, has a surplus of $113M which will be used in rehabilitation of the bridge. With respect to the new river crossing over the Demerara River, he said that there are currently 23 expressions of interests submitted. The National Tender Board is working on a committee to undertake evaluations, “so we can go forward with some arrangement which would allow us to have a new bridge in six years time.” The Minister conceded that there were significant issues with respect to the road projects on the East Bank Demerara and the widening of the East Coast Demerara highway. He said that there were issues related to the utilities— the removal of utility poles and lines. This was also compounded by drainage and weather. Benn lamented a scarcity of construction materials mainly stone. The quarry sector has to improve by 40 per cent to meet national construction needs, he added. He said that as a result of the heavy national infrastructure project as well as domestic consumption, there was a need to import stone from Dominica and St Vincent and the Grenadines among other places. According to Minister Benn, the US$17.2M
Minister Robeson Benn, makes his presentation to the 2014 debates widening of 5.4 kilometres of the East Bank Public Road is expected to be significantly completed by the end of the year. “We are undertaking an effort to improve the Sheriff Street /Mandela Ave.” This project will stretch for 7.2km and according to the Minster the pre qualification of contractors is in progress. He said that actual work is expected to commence in June. Benn noted that the
project will be funded by the Inter American Development Bank to the tune of US$25M. Another significant project to be funded, this time by the Caribbean Development Bank, to the tune of US$34M, is the Parika to Vreed-en-Hoop road. The design for this road is completed according to Minister Benn, who added that the prequalification of contractors with works scheduled to commence in
the latter half of the year. Benn reported, too, that there has been an ongoing discussion with respect to the East Bank Berbice road. He said that while Government would have anticipated that works would have been started already, there were some complications but it is now expected that work on that road will begin at the beginning of the fourth quarter in 2014.
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Kaieteur News
Saturday April 05, 2014
Secretariat for Rodney CoI EU targets productivity in $51M Amerindian Villages’ project still accepting statements The Secretariat for the Walter Rodney Commission will continue to accept statements from persons who are still interested in testifying at the hearings of the Commission. The Secretariat had earlier set March 26, last as the deadline for the submission of statements and other materials pertaining to the inquiry. Kaieteur News understands that the period for submissions of statements has been extended indefinitely to facilitate the participation of all interested parties, including those from remote domestic areas as well as overseas. Further enquires can be made and statements delivered to the Walter Rodney Commission of Inquiry, at Lot 1 Avenue of the Republic, Georgetown. This newspaper was further told that although the deadline has shifted the Commission is still looking to actually commence work the Tuesday after the Easter weekend. Two weeks ago, President Donald Ramotar had said that the Commission will not come cheap. “I don’t have the figures at my fingertips….but I know it’s not cheap,” the Head of State told the media when asked about how much Government will be spending. He had said that once Government decided to “go down that road of having the Inquiry”, they knew for a fact that the money would be well spent. Ramotar explained that contrary to reports about something being sinister in the holding of the Inquiry; his Government is fulfilling the wishes of Rodney’s wife, Patricia. “This process started and it was not initiated by me, but by a request by the family, particularly his wife, Patricia Rodney”, Ramotar said. He said that the Terms of Reference which some parties have been protesting against were crafted by Rodney’s family and advisors, along with some technical help from
Government. Ramotar stressed that it was Rodney’s wife who made the comment about not wanting it to be political. “We created all the conditions that no one will be criminally prosecuted and people could come forward and speak what they know,” the President said. He made the point of persons trying to put a spin on it to imply that there’s something sinister, which he dismissed. Chairman for the Commission Sir Richard Cheltenham (QC) had disclosed that the hearings are likely to begin sometime after the Easter Holiday weekend. He said that the Commission would sit for an initial nine days, before taking a break for about two weeks and resuming. Cheltenham had noted that the circumstances surrounding Rodney’s death weren’t fairly investigated and made known to the world, so it’s an unresolved issue for his family. “There has been no clear answer from any investigation to determine this,” the Chairman said. Cheltenham also said that they intend to “dig deeply” in relation to the facts and come to a conclusion as to who was responsible and why it was done. He said that to get an answer would be good, especially for the family, which is mainly the purpose for the Inquiry. Since being appointed and during their second visit to Guyana, the Commissioners have had several meetings with various stakeholders in Guyana. He disclosed that they have held discussions with the Chief of Staff of the Guyana Defence Force, Brigadier Mark Phillips, Commissioner of Police Leroy Brumell, the Private Sector Commission, the Guyana Trades Union Congress, and the Speaker of the National Assembly, Raphael Trotman. Political parties were not left out of the loop; Cheltenham said that they have held meetings with both the People’s Progressive Party Civic and A Partnership for National Unity.
The European Union (EU) is funding a $51M project that is geared towards strengthening Amerindian villages to become more productive. According to the EU, on Thursday, Ambassador Robert Kopecký, Head of Delegation of the EU to Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago, Suriname and the Dutch OCTs, and Melinda Janki, Executive Director of Justice Institute of Guyana, signed a grant contract to implement a project titled “Step by Step to SelfSufficiency’’. The grant involves the support of a maximum of 179,731 Euros ($51.2M) and will be funded from the 2013 Non State Actors (NSA) country allocation for Guyana. The organization will be charged with helping to empower Amerindian Village Councils to function more efficiently and effectively. This includes developing village rules and strengthening their capacity to become more productive and self-sufficient. “Additionally, the action also foresees strengthening the participation of Amerindian communities in governmental consultation processes.” The activities will be done via the provision of technical legal advice and support, technical legal drafting expertise and legal representation. “Further, it is foreseen that the production of model village rules, a code of conduct for Amerindian Village Councils, model mining agreements and the production of policy papers and DVDs will be financed under the grant.” According to Ambassador Kopecký, “The
EU Ambassador, Robert Kopecky and Justice Institute’s Melinda Janki at the signing European Union recognises the integral role played by NGOs in the development of Guyana, and the non-state actors and Local Authorities thematic programme provides funding opportunities to support civil society projects in Guyana.” The thematic programme, introduced in 2007, is a development policy instrument of the European Consensus on Development which recognises the key role of civil society in promoting development. These include tackling poverty alleviation and the capacity building of civil society. “With this in mind, the EU Delegation in Guyana has since 2008 launched regular calls for proposals under this thematic line, and to date has provided financial assistance to a total of 23 beneficiaries totalling approximately •6.4M ($1.8B).” EU said that it is envisaged that the grant to the Justice Institute of Guyana will supplement the work already undertaken by
other grant beneficiaries locally and the organisation will be working over the next 36 months towards the effective roll-out of the activities foreseen under the intervention. The EU also disclosed that the Justice Institute is in partnership with the Equal Rights Trust, a UK registered think tank, to host a two-day judicial colloquium in Georgetown ending today. The colloquium is funded via European Union assistance to the Equal Rights Trust and covers key developments and international best practice in the field of antidiscrimination law, with a particular focus on comparative jurisprudence from other jurisdictions, and is being supported by the Supreme Court of Guyana. The colloquium is being attended by senior members of ERT’s global network of equality experts, including former Supreme Court judges from Canada and the UK, and a member of the Caribbean Court of Justice.
Saturday April 05, 2014
Kaieteur News
Page 21
2014 Budget debate… Foreign-based doctors donate drugs to Linden Sugar union boss begs
for GuySuCo lifeline Natallia Jordan making the presentation of drugs to Dr. Pansy Armstrong
A quantity of medications and other medical supplies was presented to Regional Health Officer Dr. Pansy Armstrong, earlier this week, for distribution to Health Centres in and around Region Ten. The donation which was made by a team of overseas-based Linden doctors, was distributed by executives of the youth group, “Experiment to Discover Hope”. President of the group, Natallia Jordan, said that the presentation was one of the ways that the group has identified to give back to the community. “We hope that these drugs will go a far way in reaching the people of Linden. Apart from this gesture today, we’re also involved in other activities to promote development in the community, including creating research centres in pilot communities, such as at the Christianburg Community Centre, and the Research Centre at the Victory Valley Church and also at Wisroc. “We’re putting computers and tablets at these centres so that students could go there and do their research for assignments, SBAs and so on. We also supply books so that they could read, and people visit the centres in the afternoons to help the students to write and engage in different craft activities,” Jordan declared. Jordan said that the group is expected to do another Youth forum sometime this year, as they had done last year, and that plans are also in train to host a fashion show in the last
quarter of the year, featuring young local designers. As regards the financing of projects Jordan said that the group promotes fund raising activities as well as seek sponsorship to assist in the execution of projects. The group which was formed in March last year is expected to be officially launched on April 23, next. “We want to open this year’s Town Week with a bang, something clean, something fun for young people. We want to show young people that we don’t only party and drink and lime in the street, but we also do educational and social stuff together. Dr. Armstrong said that she was very appreciative. She pointed out that the drugs will go to the clinics for which they are intended. She also expressed heartfelt thanks to the overseas-based doctors responsible for the donation. Recently, persons all across Region Ten have been crying out about the unavailability of several drugs mainly at the Linden Hospital Complex. This issue was also highlighted in the media. However, at yesterday’s RDC statutory meeting it was pointed out that of the 360 types of drugs that had been ordered 320 were received. The forty types of drugs that were not supplied were reportedly not ‘emergency drugs’ according to information supplied by a senior health official.
Head of Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union, (GAWU) Komal Chand, has said that the Budget 2014 identifies some steps that should be taken into consideration, when addressing the challenges in the sugar sector. He emphasized the need for the appointment of a new Board of Directors at GUYSUCO. On Thursday, the PPP/C Member of Parliament, called on his fellow MPs to remember the importance of the industry, despite its current struggles. “We cannot fail to recall that the industry remains an important and intrinsic component of not just our economy but of Guyana‘s social fabric. Its development and progress over the last three and a half centuries are largely responsible for thousand of slaves and indentured labourers being brought to our country. “For their descendants, the industry has become their economic lifeline … We should not downplay the fact that even at this time, the industry continues to serve our country in a multifaceted way.” Expressing optimism, Chand said that it is within the possibilities since such a feat
Head of GAWU/ PPP/C MP, Komal Chand has been done before. “Lately, we heard of suggestions that the industry should move away from sugar production and venture into other areas, such as ethanol and aquaculture. I share the concerns, but do not agree with the solutions advanced,” Chand said. According to the PPP/C MP, it is incumbent on members of the National Assembly to continue to actively support the industry. He noted, “The industry has directly provided, through the Sugar Levy, billions of dollars that was channelled into the
Consolidated Fund. “We cannot refute its role in producing thousands of artisans from its Port Mourant Training Centre and the provision of land for housing, among others.” He underscored that with good guidance and leadership, sugar remains a viable venture. “For those who have a negative view of the industry’s prospects, it is unfortunate. It is still a viable venture.” In February, GAWU urged an immediate overhaul of the Board of Directors for the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) while highlighting a number of issues affecting the industry, which employs thousands of its members. GAWU noted that a revamped GuySuCo board, improved management skill sets, motivation for harvesters and factory workers to return to the fields and ancillary projects, among other things, must all combine to bring the sugar industry back.
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Kaieteur News
PROPERTY FOR SALE Two bedrooms transported property located at 3rd Avenue, Diamond, New Scheme, E.B.D. Price:$12M – Call:652-5601 FOR SALE LARGE QUANTITIES OF HIGH PURITY MERCURY (QUICK SILVER) 99.99995% PURITY$19,000 PER POUND CALL: 592-227-4754. Spare for washing machine, microwaves,fridges, stoves, timers, gearbox, pumps, etc call: 225-9032, 647-2943 Live/pluck chicken call: 6504421, 220-9203 ‘Adventure’ Bakers Pine Jam in 12lb bucket, price: $2,400 + returnable deposit. Call: 666-5676 for delivery Plywood – All Sizes @ B. Sooklall, High Street, Opposite Carnegie School. Shop Grade $1909 per – Tel:621-1979 3A Engine & gear box, front wheel drive, working condition – Tel:216-1242 1 Black Lexus 470 SUV Tel:656-0878; 225-5334
FOR SALE Toyota Forklift - Excellent condition, 4,000lbs capacity, 117" Lift, Solid Wheels, Automatic Transmission, 4 Cylinder LPG Motor. Call: 604-6108. One Perkins 6-Cylinder, 1Perkins 4236, 1 Berkeley 8-6 Pressure pump, 1 Cummings 6-cylinders, 1–Perkins Roll Royce 330 HP – Tel:650-5040 BMM 8322, super custom – Short based, price negotiable. Owner leaving country – Tel:644-8676 Land with foundation, Curb walls, infill and columns @ Tuschen, Middle Income, H/ Scheme E.B.E - $7M – Call:682-7220; 602-0268 One boat & Ice-box: 50ft in length, 9ft in width, 6ft in depth. Price negotiable. Call:234-0401 or 675-3985 Parts by order: Tundra, Titan, Tacoma F-150 - Tel:226-5473
Complete tyre shop equipment – plus. Phone 225-9753 Pure breed imported Doberman puppies - Call: 682-2148 or 655-8674 One (1) Cargo Ship – Call:676-6933 One unregistered – 65 CF 210 flat bed, one 50 160 Recovery DAF- Contact:615-9332; 6410932; 695-0023 Plough - New 2 pan dish plough; Made in India; excellent quality. $220,000 (neg). Call 257-0212 or 6288487. DAF Engines, Cummings engine, axles, springs, gear boxes, etc - Contact:6159332; 641-0932;695-0023 One RZ minibus - BJJ Series Call: 667-6045 One slate pool table 8’X4’ $450,000, one brand new freezer 5"2’X2"3’ - $120,000 & Fridge 5’X2’ - $40,000 – Call:601-8083
One Kawasaki 2750 CBR – price: $1.3 negotiable, documents included, owner leaving country – Contact: 695-6634/219-0494 for more information. Premio – Price: $2.5M, Carina AT212 – Price: $2M. Tel:226-5473
Double Lot with house - Tel: 220-9961 Prime Property for sale - Light Street, Alberttown - Contact: 639-3619, 619-7299 Queenstown, second building, 3 bedrooms cottage in good condition $16M. – Contact B&G’s Realty – Tel:617-9717 Property for sale located at Windsor Forest, W.C.D. Tel: 644-6066 Furnished house @ West Bank, 3 bedrooms, 2½ bath, concrete yard & fence, car port, window grill, pressure washer. Call: 669-1028 Campbellville (2buildings) -$25M, West Bank -$20M, Continental Park -$62M, Lamaha Gardens -$55M – Call:227-2256 or 626-9382 Durban Street & Mandela Avenue 2 Flat, 7 bedrooms fairly new concrete building - $30M negotiable – Contact B&G’s Realty :617-9717 Two Storey concrete & timber building with three bedrooms at Parika - Tel: 660-3118
LEARN TO DRIVE
FOR RENT PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 Salon Station to in Vreed-EnHoop W.B.D – Contact:6783077
Ultravoilet Driving School @ 106 Brickdam. 25% discount – Contact:231-2372;602-2583; 6584015 Soman Son & Outar Driving School at Maraj BuildingTel:644-5166; 622-2872; 6150964; 689-5997 Alleyne’s Professional Driving School @ 651 East Ruimveldt, Best Prices Call :226-9181; 613-0223; 668-9331 Progressive Driving School offers: Efficient Tutoring and affordable rates – Call:661-2273
SALON
VEHICLE FOR SALE
Make Up Courses, Artist Trained & Certified in Trinidad. Call: 660-5257, 647-1773
One Extra Cab Toyota Hilux. Call: 685-6199
Nail Technology & Hair care courses @ Beautopia, also available Brazilian, Indian, Malaysian & Peruvian Virgin Hair – Call:604-3002 or 669-8477
House in Diamond/Grove Tel:692-8513 House at Lot 109 Block AA Eccles Fully Furnished with A/C, 4 rooms, yard space. Good Price. Call:671-7687; 622-2531 Fully furnished 2 storey concrete house, 3 bedrooms upper, 1 self-contained lower-flat fully grilled, garage @ Enmore Public Rd.– Phone:270-6260 Two Bedrooms lower flat apartment, one month’s security - $38,000 per month @ Paradise Public Rd, E.C.D Contact: 625-9939; 672-2677 Kitty - US700, Campbellville - $50,000- $80,000-US1200$, Bel-Air Park - $US1200 – Diana:227-2256 or 626-9382 Semi furnished 2 bedrooms bottom flat, located in Eccles -$60,000 per month – Call:233-2255,662-3837 or 695-4563 One 2 bedroom apartment at Triumph Village, Agriculture Road, ECD – Call:220-7937, 625-5257
VACANCY Vacancy exists for a Pharmacist and a Pharmacy Technician. For Enquiries Call: 644-6077 DRIVER TO DELIVER COOKING GAS IN GEORGETOWN AND SECURITY GUARDS FOR LAND OF CANAAN, A C C O M M O D AT I O N AVAILABLE. 266 4427 Urgently Needed! Professional Seamstress, experienced heavy duty machine operators and floor girls. Apply @ Roxie’s Fashion – Tel:622-4386 24 Hour East Coast Guy-oil needs night pump attendants, salesgirl & office assistant- Call: 670-8893/ 6959880/ 684-2838 Person to cook & make snacks, must have at least 6 months work experienced in snackette – Call:650-4974; 686-8640
Shalom Driving School @ 2 Croal street. Fee $16,000Call:227-3869
LAND FOR SALE House lots in Friendship. Tel: 692-8513 La Parafaite Harmonie $1.2M, $1.3M, Herstelling – (110ftX60ft), High Income $4M, Schoonard (100ftX50ft) - $2.6M – Contact:604-2207; 218-5591 La Parafaite Harmonie Price:$1.5M, negotiable- Call: 684-6985 Promising mining blocks, already prospected - Tel: 683-9910
Games PS2 $900, PSP $900, X-Box 360 $2600 & PS3 $2600 & Original Games Call: 672-2566 1 -65 DAF 210 Engine Foreign used. In Excellent condition - Tel:228-5655 or 628-1756
Property for sale.Call:6275416
Saturday April 05, 2014
Campbellville , vacant land 60’X120’ price negotiable – Contact B&G’s Realty :6179717 or 682-4094 CAR RENTAL Wings Car Rental- Call:6431131 Aidan’s Car Rental & PickupCall: 645-7981/ 698-7807
TO LET One bedroom apartment located at Uitvlugt Housing Scheme, W.C.D – Call:6804990 or 277-3033
One Secretary, applicant must have 5 CXC subjects & must be computer literate, also a valid police clearance. Call: 619-3233 One Trainee refrigeration A/ C Technician – Tel:231-2655 Farm workers to work on fruit farm - Tel:265-3586
Wings Two bedrooms apartment - Tel: 643-1131; 225-3234 2 Bedrooms furnished apartment in Linden for short term local & overseas guest. Tel: 614-4415 or 444-4704 Fully furnished apartments - $4,000-$6,000 per night - Call:223-0994 1 - 3 Bedrooms bottom & top flat front house near hospital vicinity @ East Street, fully grilled, AC, parking - Call:2253756; 678-1913
MASSAGE The Gents Spa: Deep tissue, Swedish massages, sport massage, aromatherapy, body scrubs Call:657-5979
DRESSMAKING
Two bedrooms apartment on E.C.D – Tel:684-8906
Dolly’s Car Rental - Call: 225-7126/ 226-3693 dollys autorental@yahoo.com/ www.dolly sautorental.com
Jean is Offering courses in dressmaking, curtains, floral and cake decoration Contact:670-2653 or 618-1706
Very large three bedroom top flat apartment located Republic Park -$US800 – Phone 621-6888
AT192, 212, Allion, Premio, Hilux Surf, BNN & RZ & Pitbull buses, 7 seater super custom. Cash / terms- Call: 680-3154 New 2014 Toyota 4X4 Hilux, $15M, unbeatable deal, tel: 642-6664 1 Freight liner hauler with sleeping cab, 1 -48ft trailor with treated wood – Call: Rakesh 613-6979 1 Toyota Raum, excellent condition, PNN series, price:$1.150M negotiable – Call:646-9417 or 646-6440 One crashed Benz C200 $1.8M, one Nissan Titan 6/ 8 Cylinder 2004/ L.E 22 rims - $3.5M – Call:624-7341 Smart Choice Auto Sales: Unregistered: Premio, Allex, IST, Spacio, Allion - Call: 652-3820; 665-4529 Quantum Auto: 2003 Dark blue Raum with Alloy Wheels, TV/Nav, Silver Premio. Excellent Condition Call: 624-7684; 617-2378 Toyota Verossa, Price:$2.5M, PLL series, excellent condition Contact George: 603-7172 One Toyota Hilux 4-Runner - $1.5M negotiable – Call:682-7220 or 602-0268 1 -1RZ, 15 seater, automatic mini-bus, BNN 3760 - $1.7M Negotiable. Good condition, never used for public transportation – Tel:6280310 ; 672-5429 We buy & sell vehicles for cash, also parts available & 30 seater buses; Extra Cab pickups; 2006 TacomaCall:680-3154 Toyota Raum, Spacio, AT212, AT192, NZE ,LTouring wagon, Nissan E24 Caravan, 4x4 Hilux Pickup – Tel:644-5096; 697-1453. Spacio- Body kit, TV/DVD, camera, dark interior, unregistered, price starting $2.1M - Call: 617-2891
Bottom flat to rent at Diamond, EBD - $35,000.000 Contact:6516263 or 693-8913
Cars - $6,000.00 per day - Tel: 694-7817 or 668-0306
One 8,000 Ford Tractor, one 450 Ford Towing Truck & one pair 38 Tractor Wheel Contact Floyd: 694-5599 P&A Auto Sales: Premio, Spacio, Raum, Rush, IST, AT 212. Call: 661-9651 or 681-8474 1 Toyota Verossa 18” Chrome rims, excellent condition, low milage Price:$3,000,000 - Tel:6823396; 665-7206
TO LET PEN -PAL Man seeks female Guyanese friend (17-30)Email (iluvguyanesewomen@ yahoo.com) 1-246-835-6908 (7pm -8pm only)
Semi furnished four bedroom house with two car garage located @ Guysuco Gardens – US$2000 – Phone 621-6888 (Continued on page 23)
Saturday April 05, 2014
Kaieteur News
Page 23
New Amsterdam man perishes after fire guts home A New Amsterdam resident lost his life after he was badly burned in a fire which engulfed his home at Levi’s Dam Angoy’s Avenue, New Amsterdam, Berbice at around 19:45 hrs on Thursday. Prince Sinclair, 38, called “Black boy,” died early yesterday morning at the New Amsterdam Hospital where he was being treated. Sinclair had occupied the upper flat of the wooden two story building, while another man lived in the bottom flat. The tenant, who was out when the fire started, said that Sinclair was ill and was also semi-paralysed. Sinclair’s flat lacked the most basic amenities and he slept on a mattress spread on the floor. The victim was also a heavy smoker and drinker and there are reports that he fell asleep with a lighted cigarette. However, another source claimed that Sinclair was depressed and lit himself
(From page 22)
WANTED SERVICES PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, G R A D U AT I O N , W E D D I N G S , ANNIVERSARY, ETC. – CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620
The charred interior of the house
on fire. He was rushed to the New Amsterdam Hospital where he was admitted and died a few hours after.
The Guyana Fire Service responded with two fire trucks and managed to contain the fire to the inside
of the building. A Fire Service official said investigators are treating the incident as a case of suicide.
Massive fuel explosion at Port Kaituma From page 3 don't work good.” Another female resident who owns a wash-bay told Kaieteur News that she was at home when she saw clouds of black smoke by the waterfront. She then heard explosions. “I knew that it was a boat burning and that it was an oil boat,” she said. The woman said she immediately alerted her husband and other residents, and headed to the scene with a pump from her wash-bay. She explained that the burning trawler was located near to Ms. Higgins' home, and heavy winds caused the flames to spread from the trawler to Ms. Higgins house, which was eventually destroyed. But the woman said that her husband, with water pump in hand, clambered onto two other homes and prevented the flames to spreading to them. Other residents, with water pumps, also assisted in containing the blaze. She said that many other buildings would have been razed had residents not acted quickly. Fire Chief Gentle had said that a similar fire had occurred last year, and the woman confirmed that about two other fuel boats caught fire in recent years. The woman said that she had recently spoken to former Commissioner of Police Winston Felix about the danger the fuel boats and illegal fuel at the waterfront presented to the community. She said that there was need for a fuel station at Port
Kaituma. Fire Chief Marlon Gentle said that the fire service got their first call at about the fire at around 07.45 hrs. “I deployed a team with the Guyana Defence Force...we deployed at around 10.20 hrs and by 11.00 hrs we had men on the ground, but by then the fire was done. That gives you an idea as to the quantity of fuel that was on the ground,” Mr. Gentle said. The Fire Chief said that they have been unable to locate the owner of the trawler
but have interviewed the injured pump attendant. Bharrat Bissoon, who owns the fuel boat on which the blaze started, said that he had rented the vessel to a man by the name of 'Anand' several months ago. “I don't know what happen, I am also trying to find out and Anand not answering his phone. I don't know if he is scared or what,” Bissoon said. Residents have been appealing for the setting up of a fire station in the community. Just last month, Port
Kaituma businessman Lenus La Cruz, set fire to his house with his wife and four children inside. He sustained severe burns and eventually succumbed at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation. TO LET Space for CXC lessons $15,000 – Call:684-7403 Semi-furnished three bedroom top flat apartment with parking & all amenities located @ Queenstown – US$1500. Phone 621-6888
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Weekend car and van driver Call: 227-1830 (after 5pm) Land to buy in Parafait Harmonie, Herstelling, Tuschen, Grove, Diamond, Eccles, Non Pareil – Tel:6757292 ARMEDSECURITYGUARD WITH EXPERIENCED, MUSTHAVEREFERENCES ANDPOLICECLEARANCE TEL: 231-8344 OR 2318529 CHAINSAW LUMBER: Kabukalli, Shibadan, Silverballi, Simarupa, etc Tel: 653-9752 Maid to work on Lower East Bank - Call: 671-7878 between 6am to 9pm, on weekdays and weekends Live in waitress- Call:6439007/ 697-2978 Urgently! Joiners, spray painters (furniture), handyman and Upholster – Contact:225-6810 Welders, carpenters, masons. Must be 25years and older – Tel:265-3586 1 General Domestic to work in Georgetown, must know to cook Indian & Creole dishes. Must be trustworthy - Call:656-6388 One live in Domestic between age 40-60yrs - Call: 220-9873 One Domestic - Call:6144358. One girl to work in upholstery workshop and one salesgirl to work in store. Call: 610-7005 or 2191342
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One Live-in domestic and one part-time domestic. Must be between 18 years and 25 years. Apply in person. Phone 610-9493 Sales representative for the distribution of groceries/ beverages. Send application to Maya @ Lot 24 Saffon Street Charlestown. Tel:609-7132 One Trained Carnegie/ Home Economics Cook. Four (4) times per week - Call: 6144358 One female to cook at a home in the Interior Contact:681-6044
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Kaieteur News
Saturday April 05, 2014
Three granted bail for interior shop break-ins Three middle aged men were yesterday brought before the city court charged with a number of interior shop break-ins. Troy Leacock, Morris Davis and Sherwin Leonard appeared before Chief Magistrate Priya SewnarineBeharry at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court to answer charges of Break and Enter and Larceny charges. Leacock, a labourer of Kwakwani Park was accused of breaking and entering Bertram Welcome’s shop in Kwakwani and stealing $40,000 in cash some time between March 21 and March 22. Davis, a construction worker from Angoy’s Avenue, New Amsterdam, Berbice was charged for breaking into Abdool Wanab’s shop in Roraima sometime between March 23 and March 25 and stealing $54,000 worth in
IMMIGRATION INFO: Immigration News For Our Community Attorney Gail S. Seeram, Gail@GailLaw.com
Accused: Sherwin Leonard
Accused: Morris Davis
Accused: Troy Leacock
Through this “Question & Answer” column, our goal is to answer your immigration questions. We appreciate your comments and questions. If you have a question that you would like answered in this column, please email: Gail@GailLaw.com.
items. The items listed in that charge included female underwear, deodorants, teeshirts, male boxers, female accessories as well as perfumes. Davis and Leonard were also jointly indicted for
burgling Iola Hanes’ shop in Arima some time between March 30 and March 31 and making off with a large quantity of food items including flour, sugar, rice, biscuits, juices and other beverages which amounted
to almost $50,000. When asked to respond to the charges, the three men pleaded not guilty and asked the Chief Magistrate to consider granting them bail. The case was being prosecuted by Inspector Michael Grant who offered no objections to bail. He explained that all the shop owners on different occasions had secured their entity before venturing to the city. When they returned the next day, however, they discovered that their shops were broken into and the items stolen. The matters were reported and acting on information, the police apprehended the three men. The Chief Magistrate then ordered statements to be filed in each of the cases and transferred them to the Kwakwani Magistrate’s Court. Bail was granted to Davis in the sum of $75,000 for the break in on Wanab’s shop in Roraima. Davis and Leonard were granted $50,000 on the joint charge since there are currently no statements on file implicating them and the articles lost were unmarked. For his single charge, Leacock will have to post $75,000 bail. The cases are set to be called at the Kwakwani Magistrate’s Court on April 14.
Question #1: I am trying to find out if my children could file for their stepmother to come to the United States. One of the children did file for their father and stepmother to come to the States, however, the US Embassy informed her by letter that since her father’s wife was not her biological mother the stepmother could not come to the U.S.? Answer #1: The children can only file for a stepmother if the marriage between their biological father and stepmother took place before children were age 18. Question #2: I would also like to know if my husband, who is a green card holder, sponsor me and our three children (all under age 21), how long would it take and what is the procedure regarding that? Answer #2: According to the April 2014 visa bulletin, there is a seven-month backlog for permanent resident (green card holder) sponsoring a wife and children under age 21. If you are now filing a petition, then processing time for the visa is approximately one year. Question #3: I am 25 yrs old and I live in Guyana. I have my boyfriend of three years in the USA. We would like to
Gail S. Seeram get married but in the USA. What is the procedure and how long will it take? Answer #3: To marry in the U.S., you would have to get visitor visa. Otherwise, he can marry you in Guyana and file papers in U.S. If the sponsorship petitions are processed while you are in Guyana then it’s about a nine to 12-month processing time. If you marry in the U.S. and file for green card in the U.S. then it’s a three to six-month processing time. In both cases, since your marriage will be less than two years at the time of visa approval, then you will have a conditional green card – only valid for two years. At the end of the two years, you will have to file to remove the conditions and if approved, will receive full 10year green card. Question #4: My father is a U.S. citizen and in 2010 he filed for me and my sister (we are 28 and 30 years). How long should that take for the first set of papers to come through Answer #4: If you are both unmarried then visas being issued for petition filed on or before February 2007 (so 7 yrs wait) or if married, then visas being issued for petition filed on or before July 2003 (so 11 yrs wait).
Saturday April 05, 2014
Kaieteur News
Letters... Where your views make the news
Govt. should consider Mr. Harmon’s suggestion DEAR EDITOR, With the Rodney Commission of Inquiry (RCOI) on track, anyone with the belief that Rodney being dead served the best interests of some in a PNC-WPA conspiracy to eliminate the historian, may not have been surprised with the veiled WPA/PNC/AFC attendance at the Cuffy 250 exclusivity which championed only African Guyanese interests at Bagotville last weekend. Some who loudly claim ownership of Rodney’s legacy, only further undermine his impeccable multiracial credentials, as epitomized by that huddle. Where is Guyana’s progress headed if our destiny is pursued privately on the basis of race, which then makes it the take it or leave it national agenda for everyone else? Agreement with PNC/ APNU MP Mr. Joseph Harmon’s budget presentation, in which he urged greater adherence to the National Competitiveness Strategy (NCS), motivating his calls for “a national conversation on the transportation system, including roads, bridges, airstrips, airports and waterways” as reported in SN of 4-4-14 titled “No support for budget unless concerns addressed —Harmon”, cannot be out of order. The MP is on solid ground, and the PPP/C government should be accommodating if the Phagwah spirit is to maintained and bear fruit. Addressing the MP’s concerns does good for all Guyana, as the problems posed by the aforesaid issues are not partisan. The PPP/C government to its credit has improved the infrastructure of Guyana. But engineering supervision from the Public Works Ministry is seriously lacking. There seem to be no common engineering standards when other Ministries are also involved in construction. Consequently, roads wash away with the rains and multistorey structures follow no codes. The PPP/C government should seriously consider implementing and grouping all infrastructure operations pertaining to building, roads, bridges, waterways and airstrips etc under one ministry, as proposed by Mr. Harmon’s APNU. Ever since the PNC scrapped the railway system, transportation has been a tormenting issue. After being in power for more than 20 years, the PPP/C needs to get this problem finally resolved. Prime Minister Sam Hinds has also not been able to resolve the problems of Guyana’s
energy needs for one reason or another; this portfolio should be reassigned, giving him more time to take care of other pressing state matters by which he is overburdened. Energy is a 24-hour responsibility which itself demands a younger, experienced technocrat who as a mover and shaker will get things accomplished. APNU cannot automatically be wrong because it is the opposition. The irony of Mr. Harmon’s positive suggestion is a vivid contrast to killing the Amaila Falls project and reneging on an agreement to cut the massive electricity subsidy to Linden, ignoring Guyanese nationwide were paying higher prices. It cannot make them pariahs forever considering this attractive suggestion. Subsequent support, though muted, of the
multi-instigated Linden 2012 riots and their agitation for taxpayers’ money to be dished out to those who broke the law may have been political necessary, even as it was unprincipled. The spirit of reconciliation which the PPP/C requires of the opposition would not hurt Guyanese if it is reciprocally accommodating so that all Guyana benefits. What is most damaging is the measly $625 increase to pensioners which is an abomination from a working class government known to be concerned with the poor. Whose interests are best served if a substantial increase is appropriated to them? The masses struggling to stay afloat couldn’t care less about that “big picture” and come election time they will prove they are not stupid. Better late than never. Sultan Mohamed
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NCN producer suspended
Teen remanded on drug peddling charge A teenage boy who was busted with marijuana hidden in his crotch two days ago was brought before Chief Magistrate Priya SewnarineBeharry and remanded to prison on a drug peddling charge yesterday. Andre Christian yesterday appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court and was charged for trafficking 33 grams of cannabis. On April 3, Christian was apprehended at the Stabroek Market area by police ranks on patrol who noticed him behaving in what was described as a suspicious manner. State Prosecutor,
Inspector Michael Grant explained that the ranks stopped and searched him. During the search, they found a transparent plastic bag hidden in the front of his pants which contained a quantity of leaves, seeds and stems. He explained that Christian was taken to the Brickdam Police Station where the substance was weighed and the charges were instituted against him. He pleaded not guilty when the charge was read to him and submitted an application for bail through Defence Attorney Paul Funga-Fat. Christian was however
…after Cathy Hughes clip mistakenly aired
Accused: Andre Christian remanded to prison. The matter was transferred to Magistrate Faith McGusty’s court who scheduled the trial to commence on May 8.
Musician granted $100,000 bail on theft charge Bail was yesterday set to the tune of $100,000 for a 20year-old musician who appeared before Chief Magistrate Priya SewnarineBeharry accused of stealing a laptop computer. Nicose Clarke of Lot 30 Hadfield Street, Lodge, was brought before the Georgetown Magistrates’
Saturday April 05, 2014
Court and pleaded not guilty to the simple larceny charge which was read to him. According to the police, on March 31 at John Street, Lodge, Georgetown, Clarke stole Shane Jones’ laptop valued at $175,000. The case was prosecuted by Inspector Michael Grant who neither revealed the
Accused: Nicose Clarke details of the crime nor offered objections to bail. Nicose told the court that he has had no prior convictions or charges and was granted bail in the sum of $100,000. He is expected to return to court on May 9.
One day after being suspended for an aired “unauthorised” clip of the 2014 National Budget debate, a producer of the state-owned National Communications Network (NCN) has been asked to return to his job. The issue has again raised criticisms of the level of political interventions at the entity which controls a countrywide network of television and radio stations. According to NCN officials, Trevor Persaud received a letter of suspension from the Human Resources Department on Thursday. The letter reportedly indicated that an investigation was underway for a broadcast that was prematurely cut. However, angry NCN staffers said that the real reason for the suspension was because of anger by a senior official of the Office of the President (OP) who allegedly questioned how a presentation made by Alliance For Change (AFC) Member of Parliament, Cathy Hughes, somehow ended up being aired. Hughes’ presentation was aired for three minutes after that of Health Minister, Bheri Ramsaran, who also spoke Wednesday. Kaieteur News was told that presentations from Opposition MPs are only supposed to be aired late in the night. Persaud’s suspension was reportedly triggered by OP’s Press Liaison Officer, Kwame McCoy. However, the producer
Kwame McCoy was reportedly working on the nightly Lotto programme and was not around at the time of the airing. He was asked to give a statement on the incident and was subsequently suspended on Thursday. Yesterday he was told to return to his normal duties today. There have been concerns over the running of NCN in recent years. The combined Opposition has been complaining of biased coverage and little opportunities of airtime. For two consecutive years, the Opposition cut the Budget to NCN and the Government Information Agency (GINA). This year again, NCN and GINA are set to receive $81M and $139M respectively in subventions but these may face the axe again, placing the
Government and Opposition sides in the National Assembly more at odds with each other. Recently, McCoy’s alleged role in ordering a fake poll story to be carried in the Guyana Chronicle also raised the hackles of senior officials at OP. That fake poll placed President Donald Ramotar in second place behind his predecessor, Bharrat Jagdeo, and was initially carried by a Government-aligned newspaper, Guyana Times. How that story ended up in the Guyana Chronicle the next day reportedly resulted in an acting editor being removed. No action was reportedly taken against McCoy, himself no stranger to controversy. However, NCN’s Chief Executive Officer (Ag), Michael Gordon, has been ordered transferred to head the Guyana Chronicle. Yesterday was his last day at NCN. NCN itself was mired in a major scandal two years ago after one senior official allegedly placed almost $4M of the entity’s monies into his personal bank account. Martin Goolsarran, the Programme Manager, was suspended and his Chief Executive Officer, Mohamed “Fuzzy” Sattaur resigned. The Administration has refused to release a report on NCN ordered by its Board of Directors and which reportedly found irregularities. The report has been sitting on the President’s desk since 2012. Sitting on NCN’s Board is Kwame McCoy.
Saturday April 05, 2014
Kaieteur News
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Kerry warns U.S. is evaluating Amid spate of violence, Afghans vote to choose new leader role in Middle East peace talks (Reuters) - U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry said yesterday Washington was evaluating whether to continue its role in Middle East peace talks, signaling his patience with the Israelis and Palestinians was running out. There was a limit to U.S. efforts if the parties themselves were unwilling to move forward, Kerry said during a visit to Morocco after a week of setbacks. “This is not an openended effort, it never has been. It is reality check time, and we intend to evaluate precisely what the next steps will be,” Kerry said, adding he returned to Washington yesterday to consult with the Obama administration. U.S. officials say Kerry had been blindsided by recent Israeli and Palestinian moves that compromised undertakings made when they launched the latest round of talks aimed at ending their enduring conflict last July. “They say they want to continue, neither party has said they have called it off, but we are not going to sit there indefinitely,” Kerry said in a bleak assessment of talks he has dedicated much time and energy to. White House spokesman Josh Earnest said Kerry would discuss the path forward with President Barack Obama after returning to Washington. The current phase of the Middle East peace process isn’t over, and it had broken down due to “unilateral steps” by both countries that were “unhelpful,” Earnest said. “It’s time for the Israeli
leaders and the leaders of the Palestinian people to spend some time considering their options at this point,” he told reporters. The negotiations were catapulted into crisis at the weekend when Israel refused to act on a previously agreed release of Palestinian prisoners unless it had assurances the Palestinians would continue talks beyond an initial end-April deadline. Kerry flew to Jerusalem to try to find a solution. Just as he believed a convoluted deal was within reach, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas signed 15 international treaties, making clear he was ready to beat a unilateral path to world bodies unless he saw more movement from the Israelis. A senior Palestinian official, Nabil Shaath, told Reuters that Abbas had not intended to upset Kerry, but rather to shine a spotlight on Israel’s failure to release the prisoners. “I think (Kerry) will return because we have not abandoned the process,” said the veteran negotiator, speaking in Ramallah, the Palestinians’ administrative capital in the West Bank. “We will continue these negotiations as we agreed, and I wish for once that America’s patience runs out with Israel and not the Palestinians,” he said. With both sides looking to blame the other for the impasse, Israel’s centrist finance minister, Yair Lapid, said he questioned whether Abbas wanted a deal, pointing to a lengthy list of Palestinian demands
published on Maan news agency. These included lifting a blockade on the Gaza Strip, and freeing a group of high profile prisoners, including Marwan Barghouti, jailed a decade ago over a spate of suicide bombings. “(Abbas) should know that at this point in time his demands are working against him. No Israeli will negotiate with him at any price,” said Lapid, one of the more moderate voices within Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s rightist coalition. Kerry has spent much of his first year as America’s top diplomat invested in the Middle East peace process, and has visited the region more than a dozen times. He broke off twice from his current 12-day trip in Europe and the Middle East to see Israeli and Palestinian leaders in an apparent effort to salvage the peace negotiations. The talks have struggled from the start, stalling over Palestinian opposition to Israel’s demand that it be recognized as a Jewish state, and over the issue of fastgrowing Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem. Palestinians want an independent state in Gaza, the West Bank and East Jerusalem - lands captured by Israel in the 1967 war. While all parties say negotiations are the best path to peace, Palestinians say they may eventually resort to international bodies to force Israel to make concessions.
Indian anti-graft party chief punched in capital
NEW DELHI (AP) — A man punched the chief of India’s anti-corruption party twice in the face during a campaign stop in the capital yesterday, three days before the start of national elections in the world’s biggest democracy. The motive for the attack on Arvind Kejriwal, head of the Aam Admi Party, or Common Man’s Party, was not immediately known. Party official Devendra Sehrawat said supporters overpowered the attacker and handed him over to police. He was not immediately identified. Kejriwal, who continued campaigning, appealed to party members to stay calm and not be provoked by the attack. During the past month, Kejriwal’s opponents have damaged the windshield of his car with sticks and thrown eggs and ink at him. His party delivered a stunning upset in New Delhi’s regional election in December, launching Kejriwal to national renown and a
Aam Admi Party 49-day stint as the capital’s chief minister. He quit the post, saying the entrenched political system prevented him from enacting real reforms. He said his scrappy party would focus instead on national elections. Kejriwal has led protests and hunger strikes against government corruption. They include sit-ins demanding public access to government documents, lower electricity rates and transfer of control of the New Delhi police from the federal Home Ministry.
A policeman stands near a billboard for the presidential election at a checkpoint in Kabul, yesterday, before today’s presidential election. REUTERS/Mohammad Ismail KABUL (Reuters) - From the rugged mountains bordering Pakistan to the windswept western plains, millions of Afghans vote today in an election for the first democratic transfer of power in the country’s tumultuous history. The Taliban, hardline Islamists bent on toppling the government, have deployed fighters countrywide to disrupt an election they brand a U.S.-backed sham. Dozens of people have been killed in a spasm of violence leading up to the vote. A veteran Associated Press photographer was killed and a senior correspondent of the same news agency was wounded yesterday when a policeman opened fire on the two women in eastern Afghanistan as they reported on preparations for the poll. More than 350,000 Afghan troops have been put on duty to thwart attacks on polling stations and voters. The capital, Kabul, has been sealed off from the rest of the country by rings of roadblocks and checkpoints. Kandahar, cradle of the Taliban insurgency, was in virtual lockdown ahead of the vote. Residents were advised to stay home. Hamid Karzai, the incumbent, is not allowed to run for the presidency again by the constitution, but is widely expected to retain his hold on politics through politicians loyal to him. Voters will inevitably be looking back at Afghanistan’s progress since 2001 when U.S.led forces toppled the Taliban who were harboring Osama bin Laden and al Qaeda. Those 13 years have seen seemingly endless bloodshed - at least 16,000 civilians, 3,500 foreign troops and thousands of Afghan soldiers have been killed. Billions of dollars have been spent rebuilding the country. “The Karzai government has to be given credit for some limited achievements on human rights in very difficult conditions,” Amnesty International said in a statement. “But the situation for millions of Afghans remains dire, and even the progress we have seen is very fragile.” With no clear frontrunner, the process is likely to drag on for weeks, if not months, particularly if there is a run-off. Any delay would leave little time to complete a crucial pact between Kabul and
Washington to keep up to 10,000 U.S. troops in Afghanistan beyond 2014 - after most foreign troops pull out. “The whole future of Afghanistan is at stake,” Franz-Michael Mellbin, the EU’s special representative in Kabul, told Reuters. “It’s crucial ... the Afghans come out and vote in large numbers and give political legitimacy, and the aftermath of the elections will be crucial because we need a stable government.” Of the eight candidates, the three favorites are former foreign ministers Abdullah Abdullah and Zalmay Rassoul, and former finance minister Ashraf Ghani. If, as predicted, no one wins more than 50 percent on Saturday, there will be a second round between the two leading contenders. That run-off would be held on May 28, spinning out the process into the holy month of Ramadan when offices are shut for much of the day and life slows to a crawl. Preliminary results from the first round are due nearly six weeks after polling day, partly because of Afghanistan’s mountainous terrain which will require about 3,000 donkeys to carry ballot boxes from the most inaccessible areas. And yet most people expect the election will be better run than the chaotic 2009 vote, when 20 percent of the ballots were thrown out as fraudulent. Many Afghans see the election as an important turning point in their lives. “We always complain about our president and his government’s shortcomings but we never criticize ourselves,” said Yaar Mohammad, a real-estate agent in the eastern city of Jalalabad. “If we want a new leader to work for peace and improve our lives,” he said, “then we should go out and vote and not be scared of the Taliban.” But some were worried about security in a country which recorded the highest number of conflict-related civilian deaths last year since 2001. “We have war in Kandahar. Taliban, weapons - these could be used in the process,” said Hayatullah, who trains election staff in Afghanistan’s second city. “We are worried about that.” “Every day we feel fear,” he said, recalling an attack on the election commission headquarters in Kabul last week. “We are afraid that we may be attacked too.”
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Kaieteur News
Saturday April 05, 2014
Death threats made against DPP following Vybz Kartel murder trial KINGSTON, Jamaica – CMC - The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Paula Llewellyn, has confirmed that deaths threats have been to her and members of the prosecution following the murder trial of Dance Hall singer Vybz Kartel who was jailed for life. Kartel, whose real name is Adjidja Palmer, along with Shawn Campbell, Kahira Jones and Andre St John, were found guilty on March 13 for the murder of Clive ‘Lizard’ Williams. Kartel is to serve 35 years in jail before he becomes eligible for parole, while Campbell and Jones will serve 25 years, and St John 30. They were sentenced on
Thursday. Police say Williams was killed over the disappearance of two missing firearms. His body has not been found. The Jamaica Observer newspaper reported yesterday that the death threats had been made to the DPP and the prosecution team and that security had been beefed up. “During the course of this trial we have had threats during the course of our jobs; we have to do our jobs, we have to do it without fear or favour. We suffered threats as well but we have had to ignore it. The police, at every turn, responded immediately. We have had to beef up security around the
prosecution,” Llewellyn told the newspaper. “I would appeal to the public to appreciate that we have a job to do as professionals. We don’t take it personally. We have an obligation as ministers of justice to make sure that everything is fair to the defendant. We cannot be intimidated. We are salaried public servants doing a job that we are committed to doing. If we get a conviction or if someone is acquitted we get the same salary,” she added. Meanwhile, police Thursday issued a statement outlining a number of threats that were made against prosecution witnesses during the trial.
TT governments says it will abide by laws of other countries PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad - CMC – Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Dookeran yesterday said that while the Trinidad and Tobago would continue its diplomatic efforts to ensure the release of several nationals held in Venezuela, it has no choice but “to abide by the laws of that state”. Chairman of the Muslim Social and Cultural Foundation Inshan Ishmael led followers in a demonstration outside the Venezuelan Embassy here on Friday, accusing the coalition People’s Partnership government of failing to ensure the release of three Muslim leaders, who are being held in Caracas amid charges of an alleged plot to overthrow the government of President Nicolas Maduro. The three Muslin leaders
- Salam Abdul, Hamza Mohammad and Sheikh Hamid Hassan - are among five Trinidad and Tobago nationals that Venezuelan authorities allege had teamed up with rogue Venezuelan police officers and other men to carry out the plan. Ishmael told reporters that he found it strange that Dookeran had not travelled to Caracas to secure the release of the men and said also that President Anthony Carmona should have sent a letter to his Venezuelan counterpart outlining his concerns at the arrest. Media reports here said that the Venezuelan authorities had seized military-style uniforms and Jihadist videos from the Trinidad and Tobago group and had also confiscated
US$102,000 in cash and 66 passports that were in the possession of one of the three Imams who insist they were not connected to the group. The Imams said they had arrived in Caracas to secure visas at the Saudi Arabian consulate for Trinidadians wishing to go to the Hajj pilgrimage. But in a statement to Parliament, Dookeran said that “in our relations with other states including Venezuela, while making representations on behalf of our citizens, we must also abide by the laws of that state. “ I assure you that all diplomatic efforts are being made and we will continue to provide support for citizens who in their lawful pursuits are affected by these developments,” he added.
Father, who abducted son, given custody
AMSTERDAM Nizaad Nabi has been granted parental custody over his son Nishayad who he kidnapped out of Suriname last year. The court in Amsterdam ruled on Tuesday that as the only surviving parent, the father should be the one to take care of and raise his under aged son, unless there are fears that the child’s interests will not be met; and there are no indications that this is the case. Eight-year-old Nishayad has been the subject of an ugly custody battle between his father and his grandparents in Suriname, since his mother Rabina died in 2010. Rabina traveled there in 2010, reportedly to get away from Nizaad who has been characterized as violent. After she died in Suriname, Nizaad at first
tried to get his son back by legal means, but in October he went over and kidnapped the boy from school, with the help of Dutch crime journalist John van den Heuvel, whose TV program “Ontvoerd!” (Kidnapped!) aims to bring displaced children to where the court deems they belong. Nizaad slipped into Suriname’s eastern neighbor French Guiana, from where he caught a flight to the Netherlands with his son. The kidnapping shocked many and even prompted Governments of both countries to consider getting involved. The grandparents also filed suit, but as it now turns out, they lost. The Court had requested the Council for Child Protection to look into the case; the decision Tuesday to grant Nizaad custody was based on the Council’s report.
Saturday April 05, 2014
Kaieteur News
Orin Joseph Memorial Dominoes
Pacesetters, Specialist are latest winners Pacesetters and Specialist have registered victories in their respective zones when the Georgetown leg of the Orin Joseph Memorial nationwide Dominoes competition continued recently at Faye Joseph’s residence in South Ruimveldt. Pacesetters chalked 81 games to win zone two quarter final ahead of Lions 77 and Gangster on 70. Colin Thomas scored 17 and Roberto Osborne made 16 for the winners, while Godfrey Clavis marked 17 and Kevin Boston
16 for Lions. Dereck Collymore and Shellon Collymore were Gangster leading players with 17 and 16 games respectively. Specialist r e g i s t e r e d 75 games to win the first round in zone three with Ken Wahl scoring 17 and Andrew Mendonca 16. R and R placed second with 70 and Phantom finished third on 67. Orin Favourite marked 17 for R and R, while Colin Moore scored 17 and Eon Welsh 16 for Phantom. The competition continues
tonight at La Belle Hotel and bar with action in zone three. Meanwhile, the Georgetown Dominoes Association will host a clash of the titans’ competition on Sunday at R and R sports club, Meadowbrook Gardens, South Ruimveldt from 14:30 hrs. Among t h e t e a m s slated to battle for the top prize of $120,000 and a trophy are TNT, Phantom and Mix Up. The runner up will take home $60,000 and third place $30,000. Entrance fee is $15,000.
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GCU&SA to hold training seminar on April 27 The Georgetown Cricket Umpires and Scorers Association (GCU&SA) will be holding a training seminar on April 27 at the Clerical and Commercial and Workers Union (CCWU), Quamina Street starting from 09:00hrs. Lectures will be given on topics such as Attitude and Mental Preparation, Match Management, Changes in the Laws, Team Work, On Field Communication, Duties of Standby Umpire and Code of Conduct. Umpires Nigel Duguid and Shannon Crawford are among the facilitators.
Nigel Duguid (left) and Shannon Crawford
World Twenty20... Saturday April 05, 2014 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Children or possibly some close friends or a love interest could be upset today, Aries. The financial coffers aren't full enough to afford something they think they absolutely have to have right now. TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) Worry about a family member may be on your mind today, Taurus. This person could be all wrought up over work, money, or possibly a love affair that's broken off. GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Uneasy feelings may be plaguing you throughout the day, Gemini. There could appear to be no valid reason for this. Everything seems to be going well for you, and no one close to you has anything heavy going on. CANCER (June 21–July 22) A friend, perhaps a woman, cou l d w e l l b e upset or even angry with you today, Cancer. Money might be involved in some way. There may be nothing you can do to reassure her at this time, so it's best to give what reassurances you can and then back off. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Is your boss a woman, Leo? If so, stay out of her way today. To put it mildly, she isn’t in a good mood. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Travel may cause more problems than it's worth today, Virgo. You may forget some vital items when packing or there could be too little time to get everything ready.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Finances may cause an upset between you and a friend today, Libra. Perhaps this person owes you money and can't pay it back, or vice versa. SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) A social event could put you in touch with someone who's carrying around a lot of bitterness and anger, Scorpio. SAGIT (Nov. 22–Dec. 21) The workplace could be very hectic today as a colleague prepares to leave on an important business trip, Sagittarius. Nerves could be strained and tempers short. CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) You may have a wonderful day today, Capricorn. Your imagination, intuition, and creativity are all high, and inspiration for new artistic works could be filling your heart and brain. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18) Your home could be a very busy place today, Aquarius. Visitors could come and go throughout the d a y, probably annoying you at times. You might also find yourself having to soothe angry outbursts on the part o f a m e m b e r o f y our household PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Someone you work with might need a sympathetic shoulder to cry on today, Pisces. Stresses on the job extend beyond everyone's capacity to endure, so don't be surprised if at some point a colleague sheds a few tears. You might find your patience pushed beyond its normal limits.
From page 28 to the hands of De Villiers on the leg-side boundary. With some loose South African bowling going unpunished, there was a hint that India may be left too much to do. But that was to discount the calm chasing of Kohli and, in the end, India’s victory was comfortable. Scores: India 176 for 4 (Kohli 72*, Hendricks 2-31) beat South Africa172 for 4 (du Plessis 58*, Ashwin 322) by six wickets.
Hafeez quits as Pakistan T20 captain From page 29 continue with his role as head coach, though his initial contract was only for the Asia Cup and World T20. Moin replaced Dav Whatmore when the PCB pressed towards having a homegrown coach but Pakistan’s results under him have been mixed although they reached the final of the Asia Cup where they lost to Sri Lanka. But Moin defended his position saying it was always going to be difficult for him to have a significant impact in a short period of time. “Cricket remains the same whoever the coach will be but it takes time to and you can’t expect anything big in such a short-time,” he said. “We did make the Asia Cup final but until you have a long-term role you can’t make any difference.”
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Kaieteur News
Saturday April 05, 2014
Profiles of the National Men’s Hockey Guyana is being representing at the 2014 Indoor Pan American Cup in Montevideo, Uruguay from the 7th to the 12th of April. Guyana’s first opponents will be Argentina on the 7th, then the USA on the 8th followed by Canada on the 9th, the 10th will be a rest day before Guyana take on hosts, Uruguay on the 11th. The finals will be played on the 12th of April. Here are the profiles of the players representing Guyana:
Devin Munroe (Captain) Age – 36 International Caps – 21 Position – Striker The most experienced player on this relatively new team, Devin has captained Guyana on several international tours. He is known for his pace and his lethal finishing. As is usually the case he will be expected to lead by example and help the outstanding crop of talented debutants play to their potential.
Kevin Spencer Age – 31 International Caps – 16 Position – Striker/ Defender Kevin brings a wealth of experience to the national side. He is a very deceptive player with silky smooth ball handling skills. His ability to read the game makes one of the best at breaking up opposing attacks.
Aderemi Simon Age – 30 International Caps – 15 Position – Defender/Striker One of the best athletes to ever represent Guyana at hockey, Aderemi’s speed combined with his ball control skills make him a nightmare for any defense. He is well experienced at this level and is expected to be one of our main attacking threats.
Andrew Stewart Age – 18 International Caps – 0 Position – Defender Although one of the youngest members of the team, Andrew is known as an “old head” due to his poise under pressure and his ability to read the game. He is an excellent defender in “one on one” situations and will play a vital role in containing the opposition’s best striker.
Raphael DeGroot Age – 23 International Caps – 0 Position – Defender Although this will be his very first international hockey tour, Raphael has represented Guyana with distinction at Squash over the years. The eldest of the young brigade of talented debutants, much will be expected of this young man.
Mark Sargeant Age – 18 International Caps – 0 Position – Striker Another of the young brigade of impressive talent, Mark is what is known as a solid player. His discipline, work ethic and consistency make him one of those players that a team must have. He has the potential to be a future national captain.
Robert France Age – 28 International Caps – 6 Position – Striker Robert is one of the most dedicated, hardworking players on the team. His speed and work rate make him an invaluable asset to the team on both sides of the ball.
Shane Samuels Age – 28 International Caps – 15 Position – Defender Although injury has hampered Shane’s early preparation for this tour, he brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the national team. Already a level 2 FIH coach, his ability to analyze the game and make on court adjustments makes him a vital player to the team’s success.
Jamarj Assanah Age – 19 International Caps – 0 Position – Striker Shaquelle, as he is better known to his teammates, is the most rounded player on the team. He can pick the lock of the most organized defenses with his speed and dribbling skill or by making that clinically deceptive pass. He has a good head on his shoulders for someone so young and is expected to play a pivotal role in the men’s national programme for a very long time.
Aroydy Branford Age – 17 International Caps – 0 Position – Striker The youngest and the most talented player on the team, Aroydy possesses the ability to destroy an entire team with his dribbling skills. He will now have to learn to curb his youthful exuberance and be more selective in his decisions of when to use these skills against top quality opposition.
Anthony Cole Age – 29 International Caps – 3 Position – Goalkeeper Although he has been the most talented local goalkeeper for several years, Anthony’s off field commitments have restricted his international appearances. He has been in top form leading up to this tournament and brings a sense of confidence to the entire team, due to his world class ability.
Laured Stewart Age – 20 International Caps – 0 Position – Goalkeeper A relative newcomer to the game, Laured has impressed all with his natural talent and his willingness to learn. He has limitless potential and will be using this tour to continue his development as one of the Goalkeepers of the future.
Colonel Heywood Assistant Manager/Coach
Robert Fernandes Coach
Andrew Xavier Manager
Buxton to clash with BVTU in EDFA U-17 final today - Ann’s Grove and Golden Stars to play for third The 2014 Under-17 champions of football on the East Coast of Demerara would be crowned this afternoon when the final of the East Demerara Football Association ( E D FA ) Under-17 competition
comes off. Buxton United will enjoy home advantage as they take on BV Triumph United in what is anticipated to be a keenly contested game. Both sides have looked solid throughout the tournament
but one will leave the venue as second best. Preceding the final would be the third place encounter between Ann’s Grove United and Golden Stars and this will kick off at 14:00hrs.
Saturday April 05, 2014
Kaieteur News
Page 31
GBBC ‘Jamaican Invasion’ boxing affair
Hedge says he’ll knock out Marques in seven as Jamaicans get ready to rumble By Michael Benjamin If Jamaican flyweight pugilist, Rudolph ‘Cutting Edge’ Hedge, is to be believed then his flyweight bout against World Boxing Council Caribbean Boxing Federation (WBCCABOFE) flyweight champion, Dexter ‘The Kid’ Marques will be over long before its scheduled 12 rounds duration and he (Hedge) would be pronounced ‘winner and new champion’ in the Guyana Boxing Board of Control (GBBC) Jamaican Invasion boxing card at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH) tonight. Hedge predicted a 7th round knockout over the Guyanese pugilist when the principals of tonight’s boxing card convened at the Banks DIH, Thirst Park offices yesterday morning for the pre fight press conference. The organizers have dubbed the card ‘Jamaican Invasion’ and from all appearances the four Jamaicans here to do battle with their Guyanese
counterparts are set to invade the CASH and leave an indelible mark on the psyche of local boxing. The quartet arrived in Guyana Thursday evening last and all of the pugilists from the land of ‘Wood and Water’ exuded confidence of carting off the honours in their respective bouts. Those in attendance were Rudolph ‘Cutting Edge’ Hedge, who opposes Dexter Marques for the aforementioned accolade over 12 rounds, Quincy Gomes, who takes on Jamaican, Toriano Nicholas in a 4 rounds lightweight contest, Romeo Norville, who fights another Jamaican, Kemahl Russell, in a 4 rounds super middleweight bout, while Junior/middleweights Mark Austin (Guy) and Devon Moncrieffe (Jam) will close off the international segment in a highly anticipated 8 rounds slugfest; David Thomas and Richard Williamson will get things started in an all Guyanese super/lightweight affair over 4 rounds.
The Jamaicans were very brash and immediately enquired of the organizers if they had made provision for ambulances as these vehicles would be badly needed after their respective fights. “I’m back to complete the job I came to do when I was in Guyana to fight (Elton) Dharry,” declared Hedge. He said that unlike the Dharry bout, which he lost on points, he arrived with a bag of ammunition and he would be launching them in Marques’ direction. “I will close you off in six,’ he boasted. Marques remained unmoved while retorting, “For your information, I am better prepared than in the Dharry fight and will be coming after you with full force.” Otherwise, Marques was reserved in speech but did warn Hedge to come prepared for the beating of his life. “I am better prepared than the Dharry encounter and at the end of this fight I will be the champion,” pronounced the defending champion. These two will be the main
Upper Corentyne Cricket Association launches Inter Secondary School U-17 20/20 cricket The Upper Corentyne Cricket Association (UCCA) has organized an Inter Secondary School 20/20 Cricket competition for schools in the Upper Corentyne area. The four Secondary schools in the Upper Corentyne catchment area will battle for the Parbatie Jaggai Memorial trophy as of yesterday. Matches are set to be played at the Crabwood Creek and the No.69 Red Rose grounds. At a simple presentation ceremony held recently, two trophies and the sponsorship cheque were handed over by Mr. Steven Seeraj, son of the late Parbatie Jaggai to Mr. Vicky Bharosay, treasurer of the UCCA. Mr. Seeraj mentioned that his mother, who was a big cricket fan, passed away five years ago and it is a fitting tribute to do something tangible in her honour. Mr. Bharosay in his response thanked Mr. Seeraj on behalf of the UCCA for recognizing the UCCA as the most fitting entity to partner with in doing something for his mother. He said that choosing cricket, youths and education, the family cannot go wrong. He thanked the
Upper Corentyne cricket- Steven Seeraj (left), son of the late Parbatie Jaggai hands over the sponsorship cheque and trophy to UCCA Treasurer Mr. Vicky Bharosay. family for the much needed sponsorship of school cricket and pledged that the board will run this competition to the best of its abilities. The four schools taking part are Tagore Memorial Secondary, Skeldon Annex, Skeldon High (Lutheran) and
Skeldon Line Path Secondary. Round one, yesterday, featured Skeldon High against Skeldon Line Path Secondary at the Crabwood Creek Ground and Tagore Memorial Secondary versus Skeldon Annex at the No.69 Red Rose ground.
attraction but the Jamaicans have said that they are hungry for victories and cannot imagine returning home empty handed. Mark Austin has different ideas and told Moncrieffe that he (Austin) has trained hard for this fight and he (Moncrieffe) will be lifted from the ring in a stretcher. The Jamaican chuckled while admitting that he knew little of Austin. “But by the end of the first round I will know all that I want to know,” he assured. Indeed, with a 92 record, Moncrieffe should not be taken for granted. He said that 5 of his opponents were not around for the final bell and after tonight’s bout that number will rise to six. Gomes and his Jamaican counterpart, Toriano Nicholas also spewed vitriol with the latter fighter promising to upkeep the tradition of his countrymen with a display that will see him emerging victorious. The Jamaicans were not the only ones at the forum; several representatives of the
corporate community, whose input has made the card a reality, were also in attendance. Banks DIH Communications Manager, Troy Peters, informed that his company was supporting the venture under the Malta Supreme brand. He further wished the boxers well while imploring them to turn in good performances. The management of Fly Jamaica Airlines also came in for kudos after that entity had donated return airline tickets to the entire Jamaican entourage. Nadine Hing represented that agency and expressed delight at being afforded the opportunity to support the card. She said her company is committed to the development of the sport and she could hardly wait for the action. There were also other representatives of the corporate community including Marketing Manager (Courts Guy Ltd), Pernell Cummings, Digicel Manager (sponsorship and events), Gavin Hope and
tourism official, Ronald Smith. These principals all expressed delight at supporting the card while assuring the organizers that their respective entities are committed to the development of boxing. President of the GBBC, Peter Abdool said that the card is long overdue and he hoped that it is the first of many similar ventures. His Vice President, Andrew Thorne, presided over the function and said that the card allowed organizers to realize the true Caricom dream enshrined in the Treaty of Chagaramus. He also assured the Jamaicans that the officiating crew will deliver fair and just decisions. Several other entities have contributed to the card’s success including Giftland Office Max, Guyana Revenue Authority, King’s Jewelry World and Corona. The boxers conformed to the weigh in process last night and the action gets underway at 20:00hrs sharp. A ringside seat costs $3000 while stands are $1,500.
Berbice Cricket Board- Western Berbice Shameer Baksh Memorial U-17 Cricket A number of cricket competitions are being played in Berbice currently. One such competition is the Shameer Baksh Memorial U17 cricket competition for teams on the West Coast of Berbice. There were some outstanding performances in the third and fourth rounds of matches that were played over the last weekend. Scores in the games were - at Blairmont: Berbice Bridge Company Blairmont (BBCB) beat Achievers by an innings and 21 runs. Blairmont batted first and made 175 all out with Javid Karim 46, Mohamed Sibdhanny 29 and Shimar Flats 24 the top scorers. Bowling for Achievers, Troy Webster and Randy Wade picked up three wickets. Achievers in their first innings were bundled out for 74. Bowling for BBCB, Javid Karim with 5 and Sachin Veersammy 3 were the wreckers. Achievers in their second knock fell for 80 with Veersammy 5 and Shimar Flats 3 wickets, doing the damage. At Bush Lot West Coast Berbice: Bush Lot beat Shieldstown by 10 wickets.
Shieldstown batted first and made 118 all out with Satish Razach 38 and Kevin Claudius 30. Bowling for Bush Lot Wayne Joseph snared 4wickets. In their first knock at the crease they reached 147 all out. Bowling for Shieldstown Razach with 4wickets got support from Rohan Jailall with 2. Shieldstown in their second innings were bundled out for 47 with Imran Khan 4 wickets and Wayne Joseph 3 being the destroyers. Bush Lot in their second innings reached 22 without loss. At Shieldstown: Achievers beat Shieldstown by an innings and 112 runs. Shieldstown 64 all out with Mahesh Ramroop 4 and Jason Johashen 3 being the top bowlers for Achievers who then raced to 217-5 with Jason Johashen 74, Mahesh Ramroop 68 and Randy Wade 28 being the principal scorers. Bowling for Shieldstown, Annan Khan took 3 wickets as Shieldstown were then skittled out for 41 in their second innings with Randy Wade 5 wickets and Jason Johashen 2 wickets being the wreckers. At Cotton Tree: Berbice
Bridge Company Blairmont continued their good showing by whipping Cotton Tree by an innings and 65 runs. Blairmont compiled 2148 with Shimar Flats 62 Saheed Khan 33 and Javid Karim 29 the top scorers. Bowling for Cotton Tree, Linardo Seetayah took 4 wickets. They were then bowled over for 71 and 78 in their two knocks at the crease with Rameshwar Somwaru destroying the batting with 5 wickets in each innings, while Seon Glasgow and Sachin Veersammy with 3 each supported. At Bush Lot: Bush Lot won first innings point from Cotton Tree, Bush Lot 121 all out with Harold Singh and Tamesh Dhanraj 20 runs each being the top scorers. Allan Chesney with 4 wickets and Krishna Arjune with 3 did the damage. Cotton Tree in their first innings made 64 all out; Wayne Joseph 4 and Kris Ramnarine 2 wickets respectively doing the damage. Bush Lot in their second innings declared at 99 for 2 with Dhanraj 55 not out. Cotton Tree lost an early wicket in their second innings.
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Kaieteur News
Saturday April 05, 2014
Guyana’s riflemen heighten Linden Secondary Schools Upreparation for Jamaica sojourn 19 basketball starts Monday
Guyana’s rifle shooters have heightened preparation for the 2014 West Indies Fullbore shooting championships billed for early next month at Twickenham Park ranges in Jamaica. National Fullbore captain Mahendra Persaud said that the local shooters will be involved in team practice matches for the remainder of this month before flying out to Kingston, Jamaica on May 4 where they will defend the Regional long range title and attempt to recapture the short range championship they relinquished to the Jamaicans last year in Barbados. With the Commonwealth Games a few months away, the regional shooters will be looking to perform at their best ahead of the Games in Scotland in July. The West Indies fullbore championships scheduled for May 5-10 will feature Antigua/Barbuda, Barbados, Bermuda, Guyana, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, while a team from Canada is expected to attend as a guest team. “We have been in intensive training since the start of the year with individual training and recorded matches but now our concentration will be on team preparation,” Persaud added. According to the National Captain: “We are extremely focused for the
United States former Linden residents remain committed to 10th edition
Lennox Braithwaite
Mahendra Persaud
upcoming regional tournament and the recent training programme conducted by experienced British coach Ian Shaw, who was in Guyana for two weeks sponsored by the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA), was very in depth. We are now ready to put our new skills into practice.” Persaud said there will be a few adjustments to the team this year due to injury to Dane Blair and the death of Charles Deane who competed in Barbados last year. He is however confident of the return of Ryan Sampson who was unavailable to travel to Bridgetown last year and with the inclusion of new shooting sensation Sherwin Felicien. The current training
squad also includes reigning Caribbean Individual champion Lennox Braithwaite, the experienced Ransford Goodluck, vice captain Dylan Fields, Leo Ramalho, Peter Persaud and Lt. Col. Terrence Stuart. ACP retired Paul Slowe, at present overseas, will join the training before the team leaves for Jamaica. Persaud said that United States-based Guyanese shooters John Fraser and Sigmund Douglas, two regular members will also be a part of the Guyana delegation and will travel directly to Jamaica. Tomorrow’s team shoot at the Timehri Rifle Ranges will be at the 300, 500 and 900 yards ranges starting at 10:00 hours.
World Twenty20 2014: India beat South Africa to reach final BBC Sport - Virat Kohli guided India to a six-wicket win over South Africa and a World Twenty20 final meeting with Sri Lanka in Mirpur. Kohli’s classy 44-ball 72 not out got the 2007 champions to their target of 173 with five balls to spare. Faf du Plessis’s 58 and 45 not out from JP Duminy had earlier carried South Africa to a competitive 172-4. But Kohli gave India the opportunity to add to the World Cup and Champions Trophy titles they already hold. Having easily won their four group matches, India, the tournament’s inaugural champions, nervelessly paced their chase to come through their sternest test so far. Kohli, the leading runscorer in the latter stages of the tournament, expertly eschewed the pursuit of boundaries in favour of manoeuvring the ball and scampering between the wickets. And, when Suresh Raina
arrived to take 17 runs from the 17th over of the innings, delivered by Wayne Parnell, India were as good as home. Though Raina fell to a Beuran Hendricks slower ball for an important 10-ball 21, Kohli took the scores level in the same over. Captain Mahendra Dhoni calmly blocked his only delivery, allowing Kohli to batter through mid-wicket and book a repeat of the 2011 World Cup final, which India won. “I had to keep my cool,” said Kohli, who faced only three dot balls. “Against a world-class bowling attack it is not easy to get boundaries. “It was about sticking in there and believing in myself. I kept telling myself I was good enough to catch up later. I backed myself throughout.” That India’s chase was manageable was thanks mainly to a spell of 3-22 from Ravichandran Ashwin that checked South Africa just as they were threatening to get away.
On a pitch offering plenty of encouragement to the slow bowlers, Ashwin had already produced a beauty to bowl Hashim Amla before returning to remove the dangerous pair of Du Plessis and AB de Villiers. Amla’s closed face was beaten by a ball that pitched outside leg stump and hit off, while De Villiers holed out to deep square leg after Du Plessis was bowled off his body attempting a sweep. Prior to that, captain Du Plessis took advantage of some unusually wayward Indian bowling, regularly heaving the off-breaks of Raina through the off side. At the other end, Duminy began quietly but, helped by David Miller’s 12-ball 23, added 36 in the final three overs. India openers Rohit Sharma and Ajinkya Rahane began the pursuit in rapid fashion but, after Rohit hit Hendricks straight up in the air, Rahane was subdued and eventually shovelled Parnell (Continued on page 25)
Marlon Josiah
Maxie Stephens
Linden Alphonso
A number of former Linden residents have thrown their support for the staging of the 10th annual Linden Secondary Schools Under-19 Basketball championship which bounces off on Monday at the Mackenzie Sports Club hard court in Linden. The schools contesting this year’s tournament are the defending champions Christianburg Wismar Secondary, Mackenzie High, New Silvercity Secondary, Linden Foundation Secondary, Wisburg Secondary and Linden Technical Institute. The Linden Amateur Basketball Association stated that former National Women’s Coach, Linden Alphonso, has continued to spearhead the drive to maintain the championship for the tenth year running after he started
it with his former Club Victory Valley Royals. Over the years, Alphonso, who is now resident in the United States, was able to have former residents and players give back by way of sponsorship to the Linden championship. Alphonso has already acquired the various trophies and replicas, medals, Championship T Shirts and All Star T-Shirts along with basketballs for the tournament which will see six secondary schools contesting. The sponsors have been with the tournament over the past nine years and continue to give their donations for the championship this time around. The overseas sponsors are Marlon Josiah, who once again is sponsoring the winning Trophy and replicas, Orin Louison the runner-up
trophy and replicas, Kenneth Chapman the third place trophy and replicas, Lennox Allicock the fourth place trophy and medals, while Alphonso is the donor for the Most Valuable Player of the final and Maxi Stephens the sponsor for the many individual awards at stake including the best rebounder and Most Points in the final trophies. Also the Championship TShirts are donated by Sylvester Mann and the All Star T-Shirts by Louis Webster, while the basketballs to be used for the championship were donated by Leon Moe. The championship which starts on Monday will conclude during the Linden Town week celebrations and play is expected every Monday, Wednesday and Friday for ten playing days.
Outspoken Jamaican Boxing Manager dismisses Guyana fighters’ chances In an invited comment on today’s “Jamaica Invasion Boxing Event” at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall, Leiza Keane, Professional Boxing Manager doesn’t see how the Guyanese fighters could possibly win any fight against the invading Jamaican Pros. “There will be fireworks this Saturday night as the four Jamaicans come to dominate the ring,” says Keane, “It’s no secret to Guyana boxing fans who Rudolph Hedge is. As his name suggests he is on the cutting edge. Sharp as a razor he will cut through his opponent leaving absolutely no doubt in your minds.” Hedge is fighting Dexter Marques for his WBC CABOFE Flyweight Title in the main event. Hedge’s last fight in Guyana was against Elton Dharry where
he gave the “Coolie Bully” a rough fight with Dharry needing to utilize eve r y ounce of his skill to survive the hard hitting Jamaican fighter. “Devon Moncrieff was 2013 Contender Champion” she continued, “These hands of steel will floor any opponent standing in the way of his success. He a vicious fighter and won’t give his win to anyone. He’s been out of the ring for 9 months and no matter what....Mark Austin will be defeated.” The Austin and Moncrieff match-up is the main supporting bout in which Austin may be the underdog give n t h e J a m a i c a n ’s credentials. “Kemahl “The Muscle” Russell has no respect for his opponents. This future champion cannot conceive
the thought of losing. This fight won’t go the 4 rounds”, the feisty manager declared. “Toriano Nicholas will make his pro debut and come out victorious as he exerts skill and determination. We worry not about home decisions. My fighters are their own judges - have your ambulances on standby. I don’t manage losers. We train hard and prepare for warfare at any time. Get ready Guyana. We are going to give you a show you will never forget. That WBC belt belongs to Jamaica. For sure we are leaving with it!” Keane and the Jamaican Professional Fighters arrived in Guyana on Thursday evening. Showtime is 8:00pm tonight at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall. Admission is Ringside $3000 and Stands $1500.
Kaieteur News
Saturday April 05, 2014
AAG defends selection of CARFITA Head Coach, team
AAG President, Aubrey Hutson (right) and Vice-President, Gavin Hope address the media at Olympic House yesterday. By Edison Jefford The Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) yesterday defended the selection of their CARIFTA Games team Head Coach, Sham Johnny, whose character came under scrutiny last week. A press conference was held at Olympic House to address the issues. “To the best of our knowledge, he was never charged for any behaviour that is being mentioned in the press. We cannot continue to operate on hears a y, ” A A G P r e s i d e n t , Aubrey Hutson stated yesterday, in response to Johnny’s alleged sexual improprieties. Letter writers last week questioned the selection of Johnny as Head Coach, alleging that he was involved in a sexual matter that reached the Courts with a female student from North Ruimveldt Multilateral School among other acts of behavioural mischief. But Hutson indicated that when he became President, he had consulted with past President, Colin Boyce, and Boyce told him that he has “no problem”
with Johnny or any of the other Coaches. It is against such background Hutson said Johnny was selected. According to the AAG President, he will not respond to any one letter writer, but rather contents of letters that are in the public domain. “I do not believe that the letter emanated from the Police Progressive Youth Club because I believe that they are learned people in that organisation. If I’m to respond to them through the media, I will be just as guilty,” he said. Hutson informed that he is therefore treating the letter as if it did not come from them; the Police Progressive Youth Club had wrote one of the letters that appeared yesterday while another ardent supporter of athletics, who requested anonymity, had written another earlier this week, following the announcement and publication of the CARIFTA Games team. In addition, issues relating to the actual selection of the team, which were also questioned, were dealt with yesterday. The AAG head told the media that four athletes
made the qualification time they had set prior to the trials; they included Jason Yaw, Cassey George, Jevina Sampson and the jumper, Natricia Hooper. Hutson said that the other athletes were selected based on specific development needs and where the association believes they have a chance of winning medals. Hutson informed that they were inclined to develop field events and a 4x400m relay team. “We continue to not give field events a fair chance in our track and field. We had lost every field event at the Inter-Guiana G a m e s . We w a n t t o rejuvenate that, and as such we are sending our top jumper, Kade Pearce, to demonstrate our commitment to field events,” he said. On the subject of the other athletes selected, Hutson said that the AAG “looks beyond CARIFTA Games” and while some believe that Guyana’s strongest event is the distance events, the country has been doing well recently in the 400m event.
Dhanpaul all round effort propels Zeeburg into final A fine all round performance by Yudesh Dhanpaul guided Zeeburg to a 48-run victory over Mc Gill Sports Club in the second semifinal of the West Demerara T20 competition last Sunday. Z e e b u rg t o o k f i r s t strike and posted 191-5
off their allotted 20 overs at Mc Gill SC ground in Canal. Dhanpaul smashed 82 with nine fours and five sixes off 50 balls and got support from Madanlall Doodnarine with 37 (2x4, 4x6). Abdul Razack claimed 4-32. Mc Gill responded
with 148-8 in 20 overs. Razack scored 39; Chrisundial Persaud snared 3-13 and Dhanpaul 2-15. The final is tentatively set for tomorrow at Joe Vieira Park, La Grange b e t w e e n Z e e b u rg a n d Independence SC.
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Hafeez quits as Pakistan T20 captain ESPNcricinfo Mohammad Hafeez has stepped down as Pakistan’s T20 captain, just days after the team’s exit from the group stage of the 2014 World T20 in Bangladesh. Hafeez has also relinquished the vice-captaincy of the ODI side as well. He was given the T20 captaincy in May 2012 after Misbah-ul-Haq decided to step down. Misbah continues to lead the Test and ODI sides. “As a Pakistan T20 captain I solely take the whole responsibility for the performance in the World T20 and decided to step down from the captaincy,” Hafeez told a press conference after meeting with the PCB chairman Najam Sethi at the Gaddafi Stadium Lahore. “Whether we played either good or bad I owe it as captain to produce results but it didn’t happen. I had a productive discussion with the chairman and I myself offered to step down.” During his stint as T20 captain, Hafeez led Pakistan
to the semi-finals of the 2012 World T20 in Sri Lanka. However, the team exited at group stage after losing to West Indies on Tuesday by a massive 84 runs. It was the first time Pakistan had failed to progress to the semi-finals in five editions of the tournament. Hafeez’s overall T20 record stands at 18 wins (one via a one-over eliminator) and 11 losses from 29 matches “I think as a captain I worked with all my honesty and tried to carry the team with a proper vision. The decision [to step down] is taken solely on the basis of the World T20 performance that wasn’t up to the mark the only major reason and nothing else. “I thank all stakeholders who worked with me and players who executed my plans that were actually meant for the betterment [of the team]. I hope the decisions taken in the future will be good and taken in the interest of Pakistan cricket. Meanwhile, I am available as a player but will also distance myself from the vice-
captaincy of ODI cricket.” Pakistan are currently facing a six-month period without international cricket and ESPNcricinfo understands that the PCB are in no rush to appoint a new T20 captain. Their next scheduled fixtures are a full tour against Australia in the UAE which includes two Tests, three ODIs and one T20. Hafeez, 33, said he was ready to join the ranks under any captain. He declined to tip anyone as his successor, saying that it is the responsibility of the board. On Wednesday, Shahid Afridi offered himself for the role an Hafeez and there is a belief in some quarters that Hafeez has stepped down to create room for Afridi to take over. “There was no such pressure,” Hafeez insisted. “It’s only my decision amid the bad result in World T20 and new appointment is the responsibility for the cricket board. Being a player I am ready to play under any captain.” Moin Khan, meanwhile, has offered to (Continued on page 25)
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Kaieteur News
Saturday April 05, 2014
Milo/Petra Organisation Schools Football Competition
The master strategist could make the difference in today’s final - Christ Church, Dolphin clash for third place
(Flashback) - Could this year’s crowd rival or even surpass last year’s turnout as seen her?.
Everyone is asking the question as to what could the two coaches come up with strategically to give them the decisive edge in a battle that pits two schools with similar fighting qualities and the hunger for overall bragging rights as the best there is in Georgetown. We are talking about today’s final showdown between defending champions St.George’s and Lodge in the Milo/Petra Organisation Schools Football Competition which is set to conclude, at the Ministry of Education
ground on Carifesta Avenue. However, before the eagerly anticipated clash could take place, another exciting matchup is scheduled to be played featuring Dolphin and Christ Church for third place. In the championship game, St.George’s Head Coach Winston Maynard exuded confidence of retaining the title, while his counterpart from Lodge Leon Bristol too expressed confidence of claiming victory. Maynard spoke of employing strategies to shut
down the opposition’s most lethal players, while Bristol said their main focus would be to disrupt the flow of passes from the mid-field to make life difficult for the likes of Robby McClaggon, Orin Moore Jnr, Marlon Duncan and Ozeal Small. On the other hand, Maynard told this newspaper that they would be looking to nullify the attacking flair of Orlando Gravesande and the prolific Shemar Smith, who usually receives support from Tavel Jonas, Ryan Hackett and Jarel Grannum. What is known is that
Bristol is a master tactician and he exhibited that to perfection in their semi-final clash against Dolphin whose star player Job Caesar was almost a no-show until he scored from a free kick. He will be hoping that all the tactics taught during the week’s practice sessions are perfected during the game and that his key marksmen Gravesande, Smith and Hackett show up big on the night. The reigning kings will no doubt be looking to inspirational centre back Quincy Lawrence to lead
their quest for another lien on the trophy, while support from mid-field maestro Okeri Codrington and Small will be needed to get past a tactically sound Lodge unit. It all lends to a riveting final and once again fans, scouts and stakeholders are being urged to witness the classic. In the playoff for third place, Dolphin should start as slight favourites to win this one, but as we’ve seen previously Christ Church is no pushover. Dolphin’s chances of winning will rest on the
shoulders of Dequan Matthews, Samuel Hunte, Caesar and Lenroy Forde, while Christ Church’s pursuit of victory will no doubt depend on how well Lonsdale George, Kadeem Blackman and Andre Trotz play. Kickoff time is 16:00 hrs with the final set for 18:00 hrs. Representatives of the sponsor Milo, Ministry of Health and the Petra Organisation will be on hand to distribute the prizes following the completion of the final.
Lucozade power to energize GAPF Novice and Junior C/ships Ansa McAl Trading through their Lucozade brand has partnered with the Guyana Amateur Powerlifting Federation (GAPF) for tomorrow’s Novice and Junior championships at the National Gymnasium from 10:00hrs. Marketing Assistant Sean Abel handed over a cheque to GAPF Vice President ‘Big’ John Edwards at the entity’s BV
head office. Abel wished the GAPF and athletes the best whilst noting that Ansa Mc al has always been a supporter of powerlifting and will continue to assist the sport and other in Guyana. Edwards expressed gratitude to Abel and Ansa McAl for their support. The weigh-in tomorrow will commence at 07:00hrs until 09:00hrs. Some 25 athletes will be competing including three (3) females
who will compete in the Novice category. Fourteen (14) males will face off in the novice division, while 10 will meet in the juniors and sub-juniors competition. Fans can also look forward to two Guest Lifters gracing the event with their presence. Athletes who do not make the weigh-in time will not be allowed to compete. Admission is $500.
Sean Abel, Marketing Assistant of Ansa McAl’s Lucozade brand hands over the cheque to GAPF VP John Edwards.
Kaieteur News
Saturday April 05, 2014
G/town invades Linden for biggest basketball rivalry tonight - “Mecca to Mackenzie” features Guyana’s six top clubs
Page 35
SECC 40-over competition
Wins for El Dorado, Aurora, Golden Fleece and Rising Stars Federicks slams 100, Seepersaud, Cabose bag 5
Orin Rose Georgetown’s six top clubs, Trinity Grid Holdings Pacesetters, Colts and Dyna’s Ravens will all travel to Linden tonight for what can become the biggest basketball rivalry to ever hit Mackenzie Sports Club (MSC) Court in Linden. The first game begins at 7pm with Pacesetters, ranked number one according to the Georgetown League, taking on Linden’s number one ranked Kings. Then a rematch of the national third place game will follow at 8:30pm before the feature showdown. The last game features National Champions, Dyna’s Ravens against runner-ups, Retrieve Raiders in a rematch of the national title game. Georgetown moves out of its comfort zone for what is the ultimate test of character at the Linden venue. Neil Marks and Louis James will have to step up big against Ravens with support from forward, Dwight McKinnon and guard, Keon Cameron. The quartet with support from their bench will be on familiar territory with support from their Retrieve community. Ravens’ recent swag has been devastating for teams; the consistency that started with shooting guard, Dominic Vincente, who has landed big shots for them throughout an
Shelroy Thomas
Shane Webster excellent season of manning their backcourt. Ryan Stephney has also been very consistent in the backcourt for his team. Ravens’ advantage tonight is in the guard to small forward positions where players like Akeem Kanhai, Ryan Gullen and Rodwell Fortune are definite threats. They may seem overwhelming to Raiders’ Cameron alone, which again brings into focus Raiders’ bench. But the balance in tonight’s final is simple: what Raiders lose in the backcourt with insufficient ball-handlers, they make up in the frontcourt with Marks and James. It is vice versa for Ravens with the strongest backcourt and weaker frontcourt. In the earlier games, Pacesetters’ rebuilding will continue with guard Travis Burnett leading the team to Linden for what will be a
Akeem Kanhai breathtaking display of offensive ability. He will be supported by Royston Siland and ‘Lindener’, Jermaine Hamilton. Keith ‘Bull’ Tute and Hugh Arthur will all be going to take the throne away from Kings in the first game tonight. But it will not be an easy task with Abdulla Hamid and the old vanguard still as sturdy as fresh legs. Kings will look to send a strong message that it could be Linden’s night with Marvin Hartman, shooting guard, Orin Rose and point guard, Steve Neils providing the impetus. Forward, Trevor Profitt is also a part of the Linden’s Kings outfit for tonight. The night of quality basketball continues with G e o r g e t o w n ’s s e c o n d ranked Colts taking on the Amelia’s Ward Jets in what will be another tense encounter. Jets will have to find a way to get pass Colts’ guards, Shelroy Thomas, Dave Causway and Nikkoloi Smith. The three are as quality a backcourt as exist in Guyana and that will certainly be displayed when the games are blown tonight. Jets Webster clan, including Shane Webster, will have to muscle their way to revenge. Rodwell Pellew and Kevin Joseph will offer support to the big men of Jets against the formidable Georgetown opposition.
El Dorado, Aurora, Golden Fleece and Rising Stars recorded victories when the South Essequibo Cricket Committee 40 overs competition continued last Sunday. At El Dorado ground, the home team defeated N.O.C A by 9 runs. El Dorado batted first and made 179 all out off 26.2 overs. Chandi Jairam s c o r e d 5 2 , Ta m e s h Deonarine 36, and Jermain Trotman 28. Bowling for N.O.C A, Brandon Cabose grabbed 5-13 from 13 overs and Mark Gonsalves 2-22 from four. In reply N.O.C were bowled out for 170. Gonsalves cracked 43, Rajiv Persaud 27 and Orin Heyliger 27. Deonarine claimed 3- 32 and Mahendra Raj 3- 54. At Pomona, Aurora overcame Jaguars by three runs despite a century from Norman Federicks. Aurora took first strike and posted 218 all out in 39 overs. S. Ally stroked 80 and M.
Norman Federicks Gafoor 23. Norman Federicks, Husbard Thomas, Javed Azeez and Sherwin Abrams captured two wickets each. Jaguars were bowled out for 215 in response. Federicks slammed 123 and G. Sharma supported with 25. R. Parsram snared 4-16 from 5 overs and G. Phillips 3- 30 from 8. At Golden Fleece, the home team got the better of Invaders Masters by 42 runs. Golden Fleece made 116 all
out in 26.2 overs, batting first. Gewan Singh scored 36 and Eknauth Persaud 21. Beesham Seepersaud bagged 5-16 from 5.2 overs, while Ragesh Gopal and Nand Kishore had two each. Invaders Masters were bowled out for 74 in 23 overs in reply. Indar Rampersaud made 25. Raj Parbattie, Eknauth Persaud, Shivnarine Horrilall and Deolall Rooplall picked up two wickets apiece. At N.O.C, Rising Stars overpowered NOC B by 97 runs. Rising Stars rattled up 272 for 7 off their 40 overs after taking first knock. Rovin Dusraj made 37, Rohan Ramdass 35 and Ravindra Narine 35. Sachin Persaud took 2- 40 from 6 overs and Miguel Cummings 2- 30 from 4. N.O.C B were bowled out for 175 in reply. Akiene Adams scored 47. Rouwel Latchman claimed 3- 29 from 7 overs and Ravendra Narine 3 - 39 from 8 overs.
t r o Sp World Twenty20 2014: India beat South Africa to reach final P.28
Yuvraj Singh lifts Virat Kohli up after the win. (AFP)
R Ashwin picked up three crucial wickets. (ICC)
GBBC ‘Jamaican Invasion’ boxing affair
Hedge says he’ll knock out Marques in seven as Jamaicans get ready to rumble The boxers capture a photo opportunity with agents of Fly Jamaica Airways
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