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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
The arrogant and sick Government Minister On Monday, a Minister of Government created quite a stir during a confrontation with a female protestor outside the Whim Magistrate’s Court. In the process he demonstrated the kind of arrogance that Government Ministers and officials exhibit these days. Indeed, this is not the first time that a government official will be confronted by a member of the public and lose his temper, neither will it be the last. But for the greater part Government officials exercise restraint because in the final analysis the very people they confirm can determine their future. The records are full of officials who came out at the wrong end of confrontations with members of the public and in the process, torpedo their political career. Many of them have uttered statements that they have lived to regret. And even after the passage of years, just when they think that the world had forgotten, some enterprising reporter would dive into the vault and resurrect the indiscretion. As fate would have it, Guyana is a different kettle of fish. Nobody gets penalized for indiscretions. In fact, the power of the day would glorify such a person. And so it was that the entire government of Guyana rushed to support Minister of Health, Dr. Bheri Ramsaran. Quite rightly, a member of the public who happened to travel to Berbice to hear the legal matter involving former President Bharrat Jagdeo, saw the Minister in a picket line at a time when there are reported crises in the medical sector. There are parents protesting the loss of their children to what could only be considered negligence of the medical institutions run by the government and the Minister, rather than try to provide answers to these parents, join a picket line in support of a private citizen. Public figures in a public place cannot seek the protection of the authorities if someone takes the opportunity to seek answers to issues affecting the society. For example, there are reports of an overcrowded Maternity Ward which the hospital says is a normal thing. This should not be normal and the Minister who insists that he has political responsibility for the health sector must offer solutions. There are repeated maternal deaths. This actually caused the government to establish a committee tasked with reviewing reports from the various hospitals on all deliveries. The Government’s Chief spokesman, Dr Roger Luncheon, announced the formation of the committee in the wake of a spate of maternal deaths, particularly in the Skeldon Hospital. At one stage, it was as if every woman who went there to deliver her baby, died. Dr. Bheri Ramsaran was the Minister of Health then. To this day the committee has precious little to do because the hospitals are still not keen to prepare the reports. Sadly, there are no sanctions for the lapse of refusal to ensure a better health service. So it was that the woman opted to enquire of Ramsaran whether he did not have serious business to execute rather than stand up outside a police station to represent a private citizen who has done nothing more than to provide an ample breeding ground for corruption and nepotism in Guyana. Indeed, it was common knowledge that the private citizen, Bharrat Jagdeo, was not going to be in the court so for the goodly doctor to leave his office to travel to Berbice to be outside a court says that there is certainly nothing of importance in the medical system. It also speaks of the arrogance that the government holds for the people who put it there. So rather than answer the woman who wanted to know what the Minister was doing in a picket line while there are serious problems in the health sector, the Minister crawls back into the gutter to not only abuse the woman, but also to indicate that he could have women strip her. Perhaps he wanted to be voyeur. But then again, he was at the centre of a storm with a 16-year-old girl whom he had offered to give a lift home and who accused him of things criminal.
Thursday April 23, 2015
Letters... Where your views make the news
Everything Jagdeo has done is to advance his self-interest
DEAR EDITOR, The ascendancy of former President Bharat Jagdeo as the lead spokesperson in the PPPC election campaign is a “bittersweet pill” for the anti–Jagdeo elements in the ruling party. The old guard experienced systematic marginalization under his 12 years as President. They saw their political future threatened as he strengthened his dominance of the party by developing a cadre of new leaders committed to him. Once again the old guard find themselves entrapped in an unholy alliance with the former President, as they attempt to stave off an election defeat by the APNU+AFC coalition in the May 11, 2015 General and Regional elections. It is no secret that Jagdeo during the period of his presidency had become so powerful, answerable only to himself, using his weight as President to subvert the PPP party control of the government. This became very clear before the death of former President, Mrs. Janet Jagan. Evidence of the struggle between the old guard in the party and Jagdeo manifested itself at a critical juncture in the party’s evolution. It accelerated at the time when Mrs. Jagan, the de facto leader of the party, spoke out against the Jagdeo government’s refusal to end its ban on government ads to Stabroek News. This action by Mrs. Jagan drew a hostile public rebuke from Jagdeo who told her that she had no right to interfere with his government’s business since she was only a private citizen. Mr. Ralph Ramkarran, a former Speaker of the National Assembly and executive member of the PPPC, had observed some time ago that in that incident no one in the PPPC came out in
defence of Mrs. Jagan. This demonstrated the level of fear persons who were senior members of the party at that time, had for Jagdeo. I was reliably informed that Mrs. Jagan, subsequent to Jagdeo’s public admonishment of her, had vowed to settle scores with the man she made President when he demitted office. However, death intervened and she passed away before Jagdeo’s term ended. In the latter part of Jagdeo’s Presidency and during the run-up to the 2011 general elections the internal rift in the PPP intensified. The old guard began plotting the political demise of Jagdeo. With their control of GAWU, they crafted a strategy based on the known history of sugar workers to down tools without the blessings of the union leadership. During the period of the lead-up to the 2011 elections, Guyana saw a significant number of strikes, the majority of which were unofficial. This led observers to conclude that those strikes were indications of the sugar workers expressing their resistance to the ruling party. To some extent this was partly true, since workers were dissatisfied with their declining earnings and conditions of work. But the frequency of these strikes was in the main, the work of the old guard. They used the union to undermine Jagdeo in their efforts to regain control of the party. Jagdeo was not fooled and he fought back, instructing his Minister of Labour to publicly threaten GAWU with derecognition. This was a clear indication of the prevailing internal conflict. For the old guard, their tactics was to show that under Jagdeo’s rule the party was losing support. The union that historically was the backbone of the
party’s rise to power was demonstrating its discontent with his government. This, they hoped, would have weakened Jagdeo and ensured that his presidency ended, in keeping with the constitutional requirement. In the process of asserting themselves, the old guard succeeded in averting Jagdeo’s quest for a third term. But the party paid a political price in the 2011 elections, since the sugar workers’ action had a demoralizing effect on the party support base. Some supporters voted for the AFC. More importantly, larger numbers refused to come out and cast their voters. These are not the only reasons why the PPPC lost the plurality in 2011. They are contributory factors. The opposition unintentionally helped Jagdeo in the internal party struggle by adopting the tactic of portraying Ramotar as Jagdeo’s sidekick and attributed his run for the presidency in 2011 to the sponsorship of the former President. While this was a good tactic to discredit Donald Ramotar, and was killing two birds with one stone, it failed to exploit the internal struggle in the party. Instead of driving a wedge between the two men, the opposition portrayed them as united. This approach continued throughout Ramotar’s presidency, thereby helping Jagdeo to remain relevant and aided his reemergence as the “kingpin” of the ruling party. Those who question the thesis of an internal party struggle in the PPPC should be mindful of the public efforts of Jagdeo’s allies who in the lead-up to the 2011 elections had campaigned for him to run as the PPP’s presidential candidate for a third term, in defiance of (Continued on page 32)
Thursday April 23, 2015
Kaieteur News
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Letters... Where your views make the news Letters... Where your views make the news
This video on the Marriott Jagdeo should not be placed Hotel raises serious questions to run a “salt goods shop” DEAR EDITOR, The construction and opening of the Marriott Hotel in Guyana has been shrouded in controversy, and so it is not a surprise that information on this issue continues to be circulated. One such piece caught my attention, and raises several serious questions. I am referring to a YouTube video entitled “REAL Undercover - The Marriott Hotel Guyana” that was posted on April 20, 2015 shortly after the grand opening of the name-brand hotel in Guyana. (https:// w w w. y o u t u b e . c o m / watch?v=ioIaxZPT-Xc) Any fair-minded person watching this video would wonder what the Government of Guyana was thinking when it agreed to the terms of this construction project. The hotel is still under construction and is still being worked by mainly Chinese labour. Why did the Government not insist on a percentage of Guyanese unskilled labour that could have helped at least a handful of young men in Guyana? Instead, we see only a Chinese labour force doing basic brickwork and other tasks that Guyanese are well qualified to do. This is an outrage and a total disrespect for the entire Guyanese society. It is yet another clear indication that this Government is not looking out for its people. The video shows the toilet facilities built for the
Chinese workers. Perhaps that is the reason why no Guyanese have been employed, as I don’t think any sane Guyanese would tolerate that. There are no toilets for the workers. The workers do their stuff in a concrete drain and that is then washed into the ocean….And guess where it goes? Yes, onto the artificial beach where people are likely to be walking bare-footed. I wonder if the folks with the Marriott franchise are aware of this. This, I do not believe, is within Marriottaccepted standards as no one-star hotel in any other country will even think of allowing something like this. The issues raised by what is shown in this video involve among others, environmental concerns, labour laws and health and safety rules. Guyana has been touting its adherence to high environmental standards, yet the Government is allowing raw sewage to be dumped directly into the ocean. This clearly nullifies any achievement that may have been made in this area. Then we have the labour issues. What are the working conditions for the Chinese employed on this project? What are their salaries, and are they paid wages consistent with the laws of Guyana? It appears that there must have been a cost-of-labour factor that allowed for only Chinese workers to be employed, and if so, they may be paid wages that violate our
laws. Can the Minister of Labour confirm what these Chinese workers are paid, or is that information classified for national security reasons? We also have the questions of health, not only for the Chinese workers, but also for Guyanese children who may innocently be playing on that brand new beach, and would be vulnerable to diseases such as Gastroenteritis which is highly contagious. This deadly virus is spread either by contact with other infected persons, or by coming into direct contact with human feces. That raw sewage may expose somebody’s child to this deadly disease. Is the Minister of Health so callous that he will completely ignore this risk? While the Marriott controversy raises several concerns, some of which may need to be brought to the attention of international non-governmental organizations for action, some of the questions should make every Guyanese - whether or not they support the PPP/C ask if this is what they want for the country? It is often said that “actions speak louder than words”. We must look at what the Government is doing today to determine what it is likely to do tomorrow. Incumbent parties like the PPP/C are judged not by what they say they will do, but by what they are currently doing. Max Mohamed
President Ramotar must ensure that Minister Ramsaran resigns DEAR EDITOR, “Darling I am sorry, but is you mek me hit yuh” is Minister Ramsaran’s tone in what the media is sharing as his apology for expressing his fantasy to not only slap up a woman who demands accountability from him, but also that he will get his women to strip her. Many men and even women across the political spectrum would agree with the Minister, - is “de woman ‘mek’ - the woman ‘provoked him’ to anger. There is no accountability, no personal responsibility for the underlying sexist attitudes which guide Minister Ramsaran’s behaviour. His contempt for the women of his party is also clear - he believes that the women of the PPP would join him in stripping any woman who
questions his work. It is now clear why the health sector has not developed its role in responding to domestic violence and sexual violence. It is clear why there is no concern or responsibility for the lack of rape kits at the hospitals. The PPP which passed the Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act and the Domestic Violence Act has degenerated into one which supports and nurtures a Minister who has deep contempt for women and whose Ministry cannot fulfil its obligations to women. President Ramotar must
ensure that Minister Ramsaran resigns. Apologies are not the penalties for the assaults on women which the Minister desires when he says he is provoked to anger. Vidyaratha Kissoon
DEAR EDITOR, I am perplexed as to how the Guyanese population could sit by and allow a political mischief maker to essentially operate as though he is the functioning head of government for Guyana. This is a man with no shame. Yes we know him as the past and/or wanting to be the future President of Guyana, if he could be. How long would he be behaving as though he is the country’s leader, forgetting that he was warned, by many, that the Skeldon Sugar estate would have been a failure? In about 2005, I wrote a letter informing Jagdeo that spending over $200 million US dollars to build a sugar estate is a waste of the country’s resources. He, being a practicing non-Economist, went ahead and borrowed to build that sugar estate. To date, he does not get it, that certain expenses should not be incurred to build sugar estates when you currently have functioning sugar estates that could be made more effective with less than one-third of the monies invested to build the Skeldon Factory; the incurred savings could be more efficiently spent to provide more
profitable economic entities. Now after a complete failure, Jagdeo is again promising to fix the lavish monster he created. Jagdeo should not be placed to run a “salt goods shop” for he is living in the past and tends to think that Guyana does not have people with the acumen to decipher nonsensical arguments about a product that has lost its luster. In essence, Jagdeo thinks that the electorate is mentally lazy and would accept anything he espouses. How many times should he be told that sugar is not a profitable commodity that warrants a large expenditure as an investment and especially when there are more pressing national wants and needs? For how long is he going to keep beating a dead horse, hoping that it would come to life and prove him correct in his non-visionary foresight? I am not going to sit here and give a litany of failed examples of his regime. Let us move on and derive
a national consensus about what is a pressing national need that will propel Guyana in its development, that all Guyanese could be proud of. One of my concerns is why is Jagdeo so prominent in Guyana’s politics? He is more in the press than the current President. He is giving advice, lamenting even though his record is laced with failures. At times I tend to query who is the President of Guyana? And is Jagdeo running to be President of Guyana again? I do hope that there would be a change in the list of protégés and protégées that serve under Jagdeo as the current government, thus causing my constructive criticism and lamentation about Guyana’s politicians to soon cease, because those entrusted to govern would view serving as an honour to cherish and preserve with the national admiration and not viewed as self-serving enrichment scheme. Patrick Barker
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Kaieteur News
Thursday April 23, 2015
After six years…
Jagdeo speaks out on wife abuse Six years after maintaining absolute silence on allegations of domestic abuse leveled against him, former President Bharrat Jagdeo has said that despite numerous claims being circulated he never resorted to physical violence against his ex-wife, Varshnie Singh. Jagdeo, who spoke out in defence of women, yesterday, stated that the only act of physical violence against women he had ever been involved in was when he was a lad of 10 years and had tussles with his older sisters. He made these remarks during a press briefing at Freedom House, Robb Street, yesterday. At the time, he was asked about Minister of Health, Dr. Bheri Ramsaran's confrontation with a female activist on Monday. Jagdeo condemned the actions of his colleague. He stated, “Personally I think it should have never happened; it's distasteful and we should never say anything about any woman, particularly women that way.” Though he was not asked, Jagdeo volunteered, “I saw they've said that I beat my
wife; you can ask her. Let me make it clear to everyone: I have never touched, physically abused, a single woman in my entire life, including my ex-wife. “So that is clear, I can say it here: never, ever. I fought with my older sisters when they used to beat me up a few times but that was when I was ten years old. “Outside from that I never ever touched a single woman,” he stressed. Jagdeo made it clear that his party does not condone attacks on any female. When former First Lady, Varshnie Singh, spoke out in 2009 about what she called “institutionalized” or “hightech” domestic violence, she spoke of her fears and insecurities living in a country where her “oppressor” had his hand in every facet of the day to day functioning of the country. This, she said, had put her in a precarious position from which she could not escape. It was after she was locked out of State House that the Former First Lady documented, in great detail, her decade-long experience of verbal and emotional abuse by Jagdeo.
Former First Lady, Varshanie Singh She said that during their marriage she was not allowed to work and did not receive proper maintenance or care, financial or otherwise. The Office of the First Lady was one she dubbed a “myth.” She had stated that she and Jagdeo had a “deal” before getting married that they would work together, to move Guyana forward, but that never happened. Singh had spoken of her non-profit Kids First Fund being sabotaged, often by her ex-husband. The charity was one used to raise funds for medical care for poor Guyanese children. “He found my work embarrassing and me annoying. The First Ladies of every country in the world, when they are helpful, are treated with respect and are given the full backing of their husbands and the nation.” Singh said she had been isolated and alone for two years. “If I wasn't home by 6:00pm, the apartment door would be locked with a latch from the inside so my key could not open it…When I was locked out, I would have to spend the night on the sofa
Former President, Bharrat Jagdeo during the press conference yesterday on the first floor without a sheet, praying for the night to end quickly,” Singh said. The former First Lady had spoken of having been sabotaged over and over: being denied money and support to run her charity and being denied rights to buy land to start a low-cost specialist hospital for the country.
“Although my work is done with total commitment, fairness and honesty for the benefit of others, it irritated my husband a lot. “I used my fancy job title to advocate for those who had been taken advantage of and needed help, the voiceless, poor people, regardless of race, religion or political affili-
ation.” She had said that this was the first country where the First Lady was “proactive, doing good for the nation but gets penalised because her husband is President and finds her work to help the same people he swore to defend and represent as “showing up the inadequacies of his government” and therefore made me his enemy.” The former First Lady had not alleged physical abuse. She claimed that Jagdeo had decided that to punish her, “he would withhold all resources, financial and otherwise and line my path with a multitude of cruel, selfish obstacles.” “It is funny and sad to hear the politicians talk about the campaign against domestic violence, investing millions to “stamp it out” etc when what I am experiencing is hi-tech domestic violence and persecution. “Our (then) President is using his office and state resources, including Ministers unprofessionally, to disadvantage a woman.” “I have been deprived of (continued on page 7)
Ramotar repeats 2011 election promises at GMSA luncheon The second of two political discourses hosted by the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) yesterday, saw Head of State, Donald Ramotar, once again promising the business community cheaper energy He also promised, again, the “responsible” revision of taxes and a glimpse of his party’s new programmes designed to stimulate further growth in Guyana, once he is re-elected. Members of the Diplomatic Corps and Government officials gathered at the Guyana Marriott Hotel for that event. This business luncheon was part of a series of parlays with the main contenders for the executive Presidency in the run up to the May 11 National and Regional Elections. It was originally scheduled for the Guyana Pegasus but at the last minute, the organisers opted to shift to the Marriott. When asked about the change in venue, the GMSA organizers said that the Marriott offered a cheaper rate, something that the Pegasus proved was a lie. President Ramotar said that since 1990, the government has not given out any other commercial banking license, because the
…promises cheaper energy, ‘reviewed’ taxes, once reelected size of the economy at the time was very small. But once re-elected, his intention is to grant more in an effort to stimulate competition which would hopefully, lead to reduced interest rates that would benefit the business community. While the banking system is doing well, Ramotar said that he still detects some amount of conservativeness, but assured his audience that government would definitely seek out reputable banks to improve this situation. He said that he wants to help other sectors to grow through a menu of fiscal measures his technical personnel have developed to help small and medium size enterprises to grow. He spoke once more on the need for cheap energy and said that the private sector and government have agreed that hydro power indeed represents a hub around which the country’s economic potential could revolve. The President said that priority should be given to the Amaila Falls project for it has proven to be feasible. He said that Government would
develop a sales campaign to garner support for an investment package to support the project. It would also seek to persuade a consortium of financiers to come on board with the plan. He promised that once re-elected, he will pursue the project, and “hopefully” start building before year end. Ramotar also spoke to Guyana’s potential for becoming an aerial hub and in this regard, emphasized the importance of a new airport which would facilitate more aircraft coming to Guyana. This, he said, would have great spin off effects. As he lauded the Marriott Hotel, he then spoke to the need for a Deep Water Harbour at the mouth of the Berbice River to deal with the time of maritime change. He said that Guyana can become a maritime hub as well, as such a facility will help Guyana to export and import in larger volumes. Ramotar then spoke of government’s plans to establish a free trade zone which will bring employment, involve the paving of the Lethem road and the opening (continued on page 7)
Thursday April 23, 2015
Kaieteur News
Jagdeo questions wealth of former army chief - GDF’s commitment during crime wave The endorsement of the Opposition coalition by former army chiefs ahead of the May 11 General and Regional Elections, has erupted in war of words with former President Bharrat Jagdeo yesterday questioning the accumulation of wealth by one of them. Jagdeo, in a more than one hour-long press conference at Freedom House, his party’s headquarters on Robb Street, to complain about negative media reporting, wife beatings and voting, also said that the army may have deliberately decided not to go after criminals during the crime wave of 2000’s. Jagdeo was making his case as to why Guyanese should resoundingly vote against A Partnership for National Unity+Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) on May 11. He insisted that the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) helped rebuild the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) after sweeping to power in 1992. Waving the 1991 estimates of the National Budget, he criticized the then People’s National Congress (PNC) Government for a measly allocation of just $300,000 for capital works to the army. The PPP/C raised this to $7M in 1992. Today that amount is not even equivalent to the salary of a private soldier, he said. Back then, former army chief, Brigadier David Granger, was the National Security Advisor. He said that under his Presidency and the PPP/C’s watch, Winston Felix and Henry Greene were appointed to head the police force. For the GDF, Brigadier General (Rtd) Edward Collins and Rear Admiral (Rtd) Gary Best, were confirmed. There could be no
Brigadier General (Rtd) Edward Collins
Rear Admiral (Rtd) Gary Best questions about discrimination, he said. Both Collins and Best this week criticized Jagdeo and the PPP/C for dragging the army into the elections. Both have endorsed the coalition whose Presidential Candidate is Brigadier (Rtd), David Granger. In recent rallies, Jagdeo and other PPP/C leaders warned about the military and the elections. Jagdeo said yesterday that Collins had objected to Best becoming the next Chief of Staff of the GDF but as President, he ignored those objections. As a matter of fact, Jagdeo claimed that Best had visited him at the Office of the President and complained that he was being sidelined. The former President said he was unwilling to go into details. Jagdeo said he is puzzled as to why the former army chiefs, thinking that Government was bad, did not leave, especially if they were professionals. “Why hold the top positions and take all illegal instructions that we were ostensibly supposed to be giving them?”
Jagdeo speaks out... From page 6 the basics for many years, my food is taken care of by my Aunt who has a shop. My clothing, money and everything else is from my parents and family,” she had said. She said, later, that attempts to gain independence “would somehow eventually need his approval on the business front. On the job front, I was told that no one would employ me for fear of backlash from our President.” The former First lady had said that she applied for 31.4 acres of land at Moraikobai to develop a hospital and complex offering a number of benefits which she had offered to buy from the Government.
“But I was told by the President that he can't sell state land. We asked for a 99year lease, but he said he can only give 25-year lease.” This is in stark contrast to prime land that was given for controversial projects in more recent years. When information was made public about the extent to which the then Head of State had reportedly ill-treated his wife, Kaieteur News had sought comments on the issue from senior female government officials. None of them would comment. Six years later, none of the female government Minister would even say word about Jagdeo's wife abuse.
He said that as President, he never gave an illegal instruction to the police or army. With an APNU+AFC Government, Jagdeo feared that Guyana will go back to those dark days when illegal instructions and party paramountcy ruled the day. The role of Granger as a point man between the army and the Office of the President cannot be underestimated, he said. The migration of top army officials to the Opposition is one that speaks of broken trust. On the issue of crime and the army’s role, he said that he knows “tons” of things too but chose not to talk about it as issues of the GDF and the state secrets must “remain there”. He believed that there may have been no real desire to go after criminals during the crime wave in the 2000s. He said that Guyana suffered a lot and probably could have avoided the Lusignan and Bartica massacres and other incidents during the crime wave if the army was not “subverted”. He challenged the coalition to report issues of corruption to the police instead of just talking about it. Asked whether he was engaging in scare-mongering, Jagdeo said that migration of the ex-military chiefs – Granger, Collins and Best- to the Opposition speaks volumes. With regards to the wealth of Best, he said that the former army chief lived next to him in Pradoville 2, Sparendaam, East Coast Demerara. Jagdeo said it is a large, beautiful house. With Best’s salary about half of a President, Jagdeo questioned how it was built. He invited the media to question Best. The election campaign for May 11 has been described by commentators as one of the toughest for the incumbent PPP/C since 1992 with corruption accusations over a number of major state contracts and projects refusing to go away.
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THE CONSTITUENCY THAT WILL DECIDE THE ELECTIONS A cat and mouse game is being played out between the ruling People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPPC) and the opposition coalition APNU+AFC. Both sides seem to be waiting on each other to make the first move when it comes to releasing their manifestos. There are many who feel that the manifestos of the parties will be of little relevance to these elections. They contend that other more important issues such as corruption and cronyism should be enough to end the PPPC’s tenure in office. “Should”, however, does not mean “would”. Corruption was one of the main opposition platforms in the 2011 elections. It did not bring them the success they anticipated. The gains that the AFC made in 2011 into PPP strongholds in Berbice had nothing to do with public corruption. It had to do with the neglect by the ruling party of its constituents, a situation that it has since sought to correct. The success of the AFC also had to do with the legwork done by former
activists of ROAR who after that party dissolved went across to the AFC. Those activists swung a great many votes the AFC’s way. That is not going to happen again this election because those activists were not rewarded with a single seat in the last parliament. Most have since deserted the AFC. The extra votes, in fact the impressive but highly suspicious growth in APNU’s support in Region FourAPNU surprisingly increased its tally in that Region by some 16,000 votes- had everything to do with the outrage that the supporters of the PNC felt when they saw a photograph of a mansion owned by a top wig of the PPP. That mansion galvanized support for APNU from those within the PNCR who had deserted the party in the 2006 elections when it only garnered a disappointing 33 per cent of the polls. But that mansion is not going to be an issue this time around because APNU’s support peaked during the last elections. This is why they have gambled on an alliance with the AFC. If
Dem boys seh ...
Old, old Edghill showing off new birth certificate When de Lord was sharing out brains I think he seh trains and I missed mine. When de Lord give out looks I thought he said books and I didn’t want any. When he was sharing names he called out Juan and Edghill seh ‘No sir, Ten.’ Ever since then de name lef pun he but that was never he correct name. He call a press conference fuh seh that he name never change. Then he tell dem reporter that he got he original birth certificate. He hold up a new, crisp one. Dem reporter ask him wha happen to de old one that had de red writing. He seh that he don’t know wha dem talking bout because this is de one he got all he life. De one he hold up show that he get it in 1989, which mean he is only 25 years old. But that is another lie and this is de man who talking how he never change he name. He change he age though because last Christmas he was 50. This same Ten Edghill who tell dem reporters that people can tek all he jewellery but doan tek he good name and he wedding ring. What name this man talking about? This man refuse fuh answer any question. He never call a press conference fuh deal wid de people of this country business. He never talk bout de corrupt transaction in and around him. This is de same man who sell he soul to de devil and everybody know who is de devil Then he join up wid a bunch ah rogues, criminals and thieves. This man who seh he got a good name should stay quiet and don’t even call a friend fuh complain. He can’t seh a word when it comes to domestic violence or giving blow, or in matters of assault. Dem boys ain’t gun be surprise if dem hear he call another emergency press conference and show dem a bogus marriage certificate in de name Twenty Edghill. Talk half and wait fuh see which other certificate he gun call press conference wid.
APNU was of the view that it could increase its tally of votes to 44 per cent as it did in 1992, it would have not coalesced with the AFC but instead would have allowed the AFC to cut further into the PPPC support base thus allowing the PPPC to lose the four or five percentage points needed to fall below APNU’s projected 44 per cent. In fact, there are some folks who feel that from the point of view of tactics that APNU has blundered. They feel that it would have been easier for APNU to have increased its take to 45 per cent and allow the AFC to decrease the PPPC core base to 42 per cent thus allowing APNU to win the presidency with the AFC holding the balance of power. But APNU no doubt feels that it peaked in 2011 and therefore it is not likely to surpass the 40-odd
percentage that it secured in those polls. Corruption and mansions are not going to swing votes the opposition’s way in 2015. The one thing that is likely to swing votes the coalition’s way is what is special interests and niches with the electorate. In the 2011 polls, APNU dedicated some attention to youths, an important segment of the electorate. That however did not bring them any big swing in terms of overall support. This time, APNU is again differentiating the electorate and targeting youths. The response to two youth rallies held so far by the APNU+ AFC coalition has not been impressive. The other important segment that APNU is targeting is women. But women have traditionally been in the forefront of the
activities of the political parties. Voter turnout amongst women has always been believed to be higher than that for men. APNU is therefore making a pitch to the converted and committed. It is not a segment that is therefore likely to bring the coalition additional votes this election. The one segment that APNU+AFC has so far failed to target is the emerging middle class. This class is growing each year. Both APNU and the AFC have however stuck their heads in the sands and refused to concede that there is a growing middle class which is going to be an important constituency in this year’s elections. They have refused to do so because implicit in doing so is to admit that there has been significant economic progress under the PPP, thus
explaining the growth of the middle class. The upper lower class is now creeping to middle class status. It is this segment of the electorate that can decide the outcome of the elections, not the youth or women. This is the educated class. This is the class that is an emerging propertied class. It is a class that is not going to be moved by fear or simply by the call for change. This is the class that will only be moved by policies and this where the manifestos of the parties come in. The longer APNU+AFC delay in releasing its manifesto, the less time they will have to lure this segment which is so critical to the outcome of the elections.
Granger living in dream world - Rohee People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) General Secretary Clement Rohee, in a press conference last Monday, referred to A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance for Change (APNU/AFC) Presidential candidate, David Granger, as a ‘Rip Van Winkle’. He is ‘living in a dream world’, Rohee said. He was responding to commitments Granger made to review Guyana’s tax system, if elected. Granger had also spoken on having the tariffs on tyres and used vehicles reduced. “Granger is living in a dream world. If he is ever to get into office he will see the kind of work that Ramotar and Jagdeo did on those issues.” “So I would say he is a’
- Says calls for tax reduction are politically motivated Rip Van Winkle’. I would dismiss what he is calling for out of hand.” ‘Rip Van Winkle’ is an allusion to the famous character from a Washington Irving story. Van Winkle was portrayed as having slept for 20 years. Asked whether Government did not perceive taxes as too high, Rohee said that because taxpayers are willing to pay the set rates and taxes; any calls for a reduction were politically motivated. The APNU/AFC candidates had made the promises, at a forum hosted by Guyana Women
Roundtable (GWR) and Guyana National Youth Council (GNYC), at the Theatre Guild Playhouse, Parade Street, Kingston, Georgetown, where they addressed issues affecting mainly women and youths. The pair was responding to a question posed by a member of the public, who wanted them to address the 30 per cent Pay As You Earn (PAYE) tax, 16 per cent Value Added Tax (VAT), and heavy import duties for used vehicles which currently oppress taxpayers. The coalition’s presidential
hopeful had explained that his party (APNU), had examined this possibility before, and had even teamed up with the Alliance for Change (AFC), during the “short life” of the tenth Parliament, to propose a reduction for VAT. He added that the proposals were never approved by the executives. “We have made proposals for the raising of the income tax threshold with respect to PAYE, and we have been told by the executive that they would elect a Tax Reform Commission, since 2012/2013.” Granger lamented that the “Tax Reform Commission” is yet to be implemented. He also added, “Both the APNU and AFC have committed to, and are very likely to reduce the tariffs on used vehicles.”
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Kaieteur News
Thursday April 23, 2015
=== The Freddie Kissoon column ===
Urling, Dodson, Harper, Jagan and reality When Emily Dodson took on the case of asking the court to rule that the two-term limitation on the presidency was unconstitutional, it came as an intensive and extensive shock to me. Ms. Dodson and I were freshmen contemporaries at UG. She was a die-hard PNC and I don’t think she changed much. If Emily Dodson changed since our UG days countless moons ago, it would probably be in support of any other political party, but not the PPP. Ms Dodson is one of the
lawyers for the application to remove the constitutional restriction that limited Jagdeo to two terms only. I still cannot believe it; that Emily Dodson is a lawyer in a case, the decision of which will favour Jagdeo? So why did she do it? One top-class attorney told me that he heard that the fees for the lawyers were so stupendous, the offer could not be turned down. I hope Ms. Dodson doesn’t waste her time replying to this because it is my right to reject the explanation someone offers me and I will not accept any explanation that the case is being done freely. Before we move off the court matter, it should be noted that the PPP or Jagdeo or both showed some skillful subterfuge. They chose three African-Guyanese lawyers all of whom had some connection to anti-PPP parties or African rights organizations. So why Dodson took the case and
obviously threw away the political associations she had? Let’s move to Urling. Except for my friend, Barrington Braithwaite, all others who spoke to me about Urling said they were surprised at his embrace of the PPP. He came across as a member of the next generation that wants to break free from the ethnic monster that has devoured this country since the split between Jagan and Burnham in the fifties. One would have thought that since that sad and brutal Chronicle editorial in July 2012 whose racist contents, we have never seen before, not even during the sixties, people as young as Urling would have turned their backs on any organization that tolerates such racist bestiality. In fact, President Ramotar, as the Minister of Information, refused to condemn the editorial.
Just to remind readers; the editorial argued that the socialization of African youths have nurtured an antiIndian instinct in them that is sadistically driven. It posits that African youths are violently prone to hurt Indians so they rob and kill Indians. This was inflammatory and dirty stuff that Ramotar and the rest of the PPP refused to condemn. So why did a young, educated man like Clinton Urling, (whom I taught at UG and saw as a future leader) choose the PPP? Let’s move to Elisabeth Harper. Harper spent over three decades in the public service at the Foreign Affairs Ministry. Prior to her entry into the PPP kingdom, she was virtually unscathed. She hardly did or said anything that would have rattled the opposition or the nation. In those decades of experience, she would have been able to see the
difference in the professionalism of Hoyte’s presidency and the PPP’s crass, decadent, nasty behaviour in office. Finally, there is Clive Jagan, who was politically close to his cousin, Joey Jagan. I am absolutely sure, not even ninety nine percent, but a hundred percent sure, that he and Joey founded a political party in 2010. I hope that Joey Jagan has the decency to acknowledge this, because I know it is true. Clive Jagan is now a PPP candidate Why did Urling, Dodson, Harper and Jagan join a political party whose moral and ethical credentials must be one of the worst balance sheets in the world? The answer lies in the way they perceive the Guyanese reality. Many die-hard PNCites (like Clinton Williams who was a PNC fanatic as a UG student) have concluded that the days of the PNC will never return; the East Indians will
Frederick Kissoon never break with the PPP; the PPP will always win national elections, the PPP will always be in power; the Guyanese society has resigned itself to Jagdeoite domination and this will be the reality in Guyana for a very long time. Of course they did not come to that conclusion without serious analysis. They looked at the way the PPP subjugated the security forces, humiliated public servants, de-activated the opposition and crippled the Guyanese society. They concluded that this will be the state of affairs for a long time to come. If they are going to expand their income and ambition, then only one avenue is available – the PPP. These four persons will get a rude awakening after May 12, 2015.
Thursday April 23, 2015
Kaieteur News
Ex-military officers do not influence our decision-making - GDF Chief of Staff Head of the Guyana Defence Force, Chief of Staff Brigadier General, Mark Phillips, has reminded his ranks that President Donald Ramotar is still the Commander in Chief and the organization’s operational decision making is not influenced by ex-military officers. The Chief of Staff made the announcement yesterday, during a briefing of servicemen and women of the GDF, as well as the civilian staff on their role, regarding the conduct of their duties and their service to the nation as soldiers and citizens for the upcoming National Elections. “Guyana is still being governed by President Donald Ramotar who was duly elected to the Presidency. He is still the Commander-in-Chief of the military, and in that regard, still has the right to give instructions to the military,” Brigadier Phillips told his soldiers. He emphasised that a thoroughly professional approach is to be demonstrated and maintained at all times. Brigadier Phillips’s remarks come at a time when much is being made of comments by members of the ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic about the involvement of ex-military personnel in the campaign of
Chief of Staff Brigadier General Mark Phillips
the opposition A Partnership for National Unity+Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC). Leading the charge against the involvement of exmilitary is former President Bharrat Jagdeo who told the PPP/C Albion rally last Sunday, that “when they (APNU+AFC) link up with the military and come into your homes and start kicking the doors down and when they come after you, who is going to be there?” His comments sparked swift condemnation from two former military bosses
Brigadier Eddie Collins and Rear Admiral Gary Best. This newspaper understands that the GDF had reviewed audio and video recordings of Jagdeo’s presentation. Brigadier Phillips yesterday commenced his address by stating that contrary to what has been peddled nationally, the Guyana Defence Force is a professional organisation and remains the stable band in the society. “Service to the nation remains our motto,” he added. Phillips told the ranks (continued on page 32)
Teen shot by cop playing Russian roulette A 19-year-old mother of one is now fighting for her life at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), after she was allegedly shot in the abdomen by a male police friend, while playing a game of Russian roulette at her Lot 30 Albouys Street, Albouystown home. The injured young woman has been identified as Sheqqenna Anderson, and according to relatives and friends who were nearby when the incident occurred around noon yesterday, Anderson invited three police ranks clad in blue and black uniforms into her home, after one of them requested to use the bathroom. They were reportedly were on foot patrol duty in the Albouystown area at that time. One of the young woman’s relatives present at the time of the shooting told Kaieteur News that the policeman who allegedly
fired the shot had a .38 revolver with an empty barrel. He then took a live round from one of the other officers present, placed it into the barrel and decided to play a dangerous game of Russian roulette. In recounting the final moments before Anderson was shot, the relative said, “She [Sheqqenna] went stand up by the window. He come in and he start playing with the gun. I turn and tell he that I ain’t playin with no gun cause gun don’t have eyes, and I left to go in the bedroom. By the time I reach the door all I hear was “POW! and when I come out I see she holding her belly.” Kaieteur News was told that when the police rank realised that his friend was wounded, he got scared and ran away from the scene. A woman, who identified herself as Sheqqenna’s great aunt, told this newspaper that one of the other two police
ranks that were present at the time of the shooting ran after the alleged shooter, while the other stayed with the wounded woman, and eventually rushed her to the Accident and Emergency Unit of GPHC. “He run away, drop the gun on Sussex Street and his other colleague that was chasing him found the gun and took it to the Brickdam Police Station,” a relative recalled. Anderson’s relatives and friends could not confirm the identity of the alleged shooter. When this newspaper contacted Commander of ‘A’Division Clifton Hicken, he said that he was aware that a girl was allegedly shot by a police rank and investigations into the matter are on-going. In a press release, Police Public Relations and Press Officer, Ivelaw Whittaker stated that the other two ranks are under close arrest as investigations continue.
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Kaieteur News
Thursday April 23, 2015
National sex offenders Manickchand calls Health registry could be a reality Minister’s abusive outburst ‘sexist’ Amidst calls for interventions and improved mechanisms, which will help to curb the incidence of sexual violence, and violent sex crimes in Guyana, calls for a national register for sex offenders has been resounding. According to the online encyclopedia (Wikipedia), a sex offender’s registry is a system in various countries designed to allow government authorities to keep track of the residence and activities of sex offenders, including those who have completed their criminal sentences. The information in the registry is made available to the general public via a website or other means. In many jurisdictions registered sex offenders are subject to restrictions, including housing. They are not allowed to live in proximity to a school or day care center, to be in the presence of minors, to own items of interest to minors and to even use the internet. Many developed countries, including Canada, the United States and New Zealand utilize this system. In Guyana, statistics have shown that law enforcement officials receive reports of sexual violence almost on a daily basis. Last year, more than 140 cases of rape, sexual harassment and other sexually related crimes were reported to the police. As such, the Caribbean Voice, an overseas- based Non-Governmental Organisation, (NGO) has initiated a petition for the government of Guyana to take steps to establish a national sex offender’s registry. The organisation headed
- Elisabeth Harper dubs it ‘unacceptable and an affront to women’ Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand
by overseas-based Guyanese, Annan Boodram, launched the petition, several weeks ago. The petition, which has taken the form of an online and manual drive, has since received almost 1000 signatures— the aim is to reach 10,000 signatories. Boodram has been appealing to the general public to promote the petition by sending it to friends on Facebook or on their internet mailing list. He said that persons can log on to the Caribbean Voice (caribvoice.org) and click on the petition link. Information available on the website outlined that that crimes of a sexual nature are on the rise and the prevailing situation makes it possible for sexual predators to repeat their crimes over and over. A registry of sex offenders will warn citizens of sexual predators in their communities thereby enabling them to be on alert and take extra precautions to protect the most vulnerable, and can possibly act as a deterrent to potential sexual predators. Speaking with this publication briefly, the USbased Guyanese underlined the fact that sexual crimes in Guyana, does create much responses among citizens, except for the few NGOs and activists.
He hopes that a register for sex offenders can possibly mobilise action, which could be the first step in changing attitudes towards such crimes, locally. Boodram believes that the registry will be a first step toward heightening awareness which can lead to other actions compelling the government to adequately implement contents of the Sexual Offences Act. The US-based Guyanese noted, that his supporters of petition from the Diaspora include Save Abee Foundation, Let’s talk With Lakshmee and Shanaz Musical Sensation TV shows, The West Indian newspaper, Conversations with Mark Anthony TV show, Finding Wisdom TV (Linda Singh)the latter has been lending support to the petition via various media outlets. Locally he said that the Caribbean Voice has teamed up with Monique’s Caring Hands, the American University of Research and Peace, Citizens Against Rape, (CAR) Inspire Incorporated and the Rights of the Child Commission, (RCC). The Caribbean Voice has been involved in cultural; entertainment production, media community activism, and social activism. The group recently launched a suicide prevention campaign. The campaign embraces some three dozen activists from the US, Canada, the UK, the Caribbean and Guyana, among them counselors, psychologists, educators, students, and social workers.
PPP/C’s Prime Ministerial Candidate, Elisabeth Harper Sexist, disrespectful, vulgar and stupid were some of the adjectives used by Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand, in a Facebook post to describe the utterances of her colleague Minister, Dr. Bheri Ramsaran. Dr. Ramsaran who holds the portfolio of Minister of Health, was recorded on Monday hurling threats and very abusive words at women’s right activist, Sherlina Nageer. Nageer had confronted him outside the Whim Magistrate’s Court. Dr. Ramsaran was at the time reportedly leading a team of protestors as a matter involving former President Bharrat Jagdeo was being called inside the court house. Angered by the activist’s line of questions, Dr. Ramsaran not only called her an “idiot” and “a little piece of s***” but even threatened to “slap her ass just for the fun...” He then said, “I can have some of my women strip her here...” After the recording of the exchange between the Health Minister and Nageer was widely circulated on social media, the Minister on Tuesday issued words of apology by way of a statement which however, failed to clearly state that it was intended for the
women’s rights activist. The Minister in his apology claimed, “It is unfortunate that I was provoked into anger and uttered harsh words at her for which I now regret.” But Manickchand’s remarks which were posted Tuesday night highlighted her belief that “he wouldn’t have thought of stripping a man even as she stressed that “he must apologise and retract what he said.” “I unreservedly condemn his choice of words,” said Manickchand who however added, “I believe he could have, and indeed he was entitled to defend himself if he felt threatened by an assault. “I don’t believe he is entitled to slap anybody just for fun or to strip anybody...And it is these backward utterances that he must apologise for.” According to the Education Minister who has over the years advocated for the rights of women and children, “he may also wish to do some soul searching and see if that is really how he feels about women, irrespective of whether they are irritants. “He must examine how he feels about his responsibility to answer members of the public irrespective of, if those said members are asking
questions in an unconventional way.” Manickchand went on to reference a number of cases that she believes set the precedent for Dr Ramsaran’s behaviour. “Those of you bellowing now and calling for his head, understand that you contributed and continue to contribute to a place that allows this kind of sentiment and comfort expressing this sentiment, because of your partisan approach to gender issues.” She spoke of sexual allegations levelled against several public officials including now deceased Commissioner of Police, Henry Greene, and former Speaker of the House, Raphael Trotman. She also made reference to a recorded conversation with former Commissioner of Police, Winston Felix, revealing plans to criminally implicate a maid. Manickchand then pointed accusing fingers at this publication even incorrectly claiming that this publication had labelled a female public official a whore. “When you said not a word and worse, repeated and celebrated the AFC for calling me Sitira gyal (a promiscuous woman...and in case you missed it, if I were male my (continued on page 14)
Thursday April 23, 2015
Kaieteur News
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Kaieteur News
Thursday April 23, 2015
Breaking the silence on domestic violence By: Phylicia Richardson Guyanese from as far as North America have voiced their opinion on the predominance of violence against women in Guyana. Ten women have been murdered in less than four months; the majority of cases are yet to be solved. Three of the women were minors, while two of them were elderly women who lived alone. The victims include Sophia arson victim Tabola Abrams, 39; businesswoman Patricia Sanasie; 19-year-old Shazina Mahamad; Ramdai Mohabir, 67; Suroogpattie Ramlakan, 73; Quineza Patricia Benn; Alicia Ali, 14; Samantha Benjamin, 40; 17-year-old Davykumarie Ramadar and Allisia McPherson, 19. The slaying of these women was seen by many to be “brutal” and “inhumane”. Opinions have swamped social media following the most recent of these killings; that
of Allisia McPherson. At the APNU+AFC women's rally, the female speakers all spoke on the rights of women. They indicated how serious the party is about violence against women. Making reference to the abuse meted out by former President, Bharrat Jagdeo, to his then wife, Varshanie Singh, the women advocated that regardless of one's status in society one will be held culpable of the offence. Dr. Latchmie Poonalal, one of the speakers at the rally, said that, it is time to stop the violence against women. “Together women and an APNU+AFC government will make it happen,” said Poonalal. Pat Small-Bristol, an overseas-based Guyanese has commented on McPherson's gruesome murder. She said, “There is one thing that bothers me; what are these young girls doing out late at night and into the early hours of the
morning with men/boyfriends? Shouldn't they be in bed or just be getting out of bed? I blame some of the parents because they think and say we are in a modern society and that our foreparents were old fashioned. Believe me, this generation is paying for those words.” She recalled, “As a child growing up I never heard of so many cases of abuse and murder.” She then lamented, “Babies are making babies; fathers disown the babies even though they are sleeping with the women every night of the week. I believe that women should speak out and not keep their abuse a secret; it always leads to murder.” “I have never been a victim, but I have very strong feelings for people that are victims of abuse. It is not something that should happen to mankind regardless of the situation. If two persons cannot get along they should be sen-
Missing Carnegie student never showed up for school Relatives and friends of 17-year-old Shondel Ann Peters of 19 L’Oratoire, Number One Canal West Bank Demerara are still trying to locate the teen after she went missing on Monday last. The teenager was last spotted at the Vreed-en-Hoop Stelling as she was en route to Carnegie School of Home Economics in Georgetown. At a time when women are disappearing and showing up dead across the land, relatives of the teen fear the worst with every day that passes. The teen’s aunt, Jennifer August said Shondel was last seen by her grandmother, who left for clinic as the teen was getting ready for school. She explained that she realised that something was “up” after her numerous attempts to contact the teen by cell phone proved unsuccessful. “I called her phone at 5:30 to see if she reach home yet, and she never answered, I called again, still no answer.”
The distraught aunt explained that she assumed that Shondel had gone to see her older sister in “town” however, that was not the case. August said that her next step was to contact one of the young woman’s teachers, “Miss Boston”, to enquire about the teen’s whereabouts, or whether or not she had a late class at school. She was informed that the teen never made it to school on Monday. The visibly upset woman recalled that she then went to La Penitence Police Station to make a report late Monday night, before carrying out a search of her own for the teen. “On Tuesday I went to the school to see if any of the other students had any information.” She was then informed that Shondel has a boyfriend name “Donte” and a best friend who was identified as “Travis”, and they might have some clue as to where
the young lady is. August said that the 17year-old has never done anything like this before, and the only problem family members has ever had with the teen was an incident last year concerning a boyfriend that she had at that time. “She is the only teenager in the home, and we don’t illtreat her or have any problem with her or anything. After we talk to her about the boyfriend last year she quiet down, so I don’t know how this happened.” The teen left her family’s Pomeroon home on the Essequibo Coast two years ago to reside with her aunt and grandmother at the Canal Number One home in order to pursue an education in Georgetown. Anyone knowing the whereabouts of Shondel Ann Peters is asked to contact the nearest police station of the girl’s relatives on 643- 6022, 602 -9244, 619 -0076, or 667 0900.
Manickchand calls Health Minister’s ... From page 12 sex life, real or imagined, would never have come into the conversation). “You laid the ground work for men to disrespect women and see them as sex objects that could be stripped and slapped for fun.” She however, failed to highlight the allegations made against her fellow People’s Progressive Party Comrade, Bharrat Jagdeo, as it relates to him abusing his former wife, Varshnie Singh. Manickchand also
completely abstained from mentioning the derogatory remarks made by yet another colleague of her ’s, Anil Nandall, about a young Kaieteur News reporter. Prime Ministerial Candidate, Elisabeth Harper, also condemned the Health Minister’s remarks calling it “unacceptable and an affront to women.” “I condemn his utterances in the strongest possible manner. It is yet another example of how much more needs to be done in ensuring that women are
treated with respect and dignity especially by the exemplars of our society.” She pointed out too, that the incident (between Dr. Ramsaran and Nageer) is not an isolated case but rather is symptomatic of the way “our society can still be at times despite the huge strides we have made in advancing the rights of women.” “It reinforces my own personal intention and commitment to championing the cause of the vulnerable in our society,” added Harper.
sible enough to part as friends and not as abusers or murderers. In my book you do not destroy what you love; there is surely no love in a murderer's life. It is more aggression and control.” Small-Bristol has said that she will be setting up a NonGovernmental Organization (NGO) in Guyana to help curb violence against women. “I am coming to set up that place call 'Teaching the Abused'.” “I am saddened by these very tragedies. We as women and mothers should know about our children's lives. “Let us build relationships with our children so they can confide in us or someone in whom they trust. Let us not neglect our duties as parents,” said Shauna Layne, a housewife and mother. Jamel Bascom, a young musician, said “I Just hope that young girls, not only in our district but also around the globe, will bring themselves to the point of understanding that life is unpredictable because lunatics are hidden behind good looks and a good body.” Bascom advised that
women should look beyond the charms of a man. He advocated that women should protect and respect themselves at all times. He said that women need to be sterner as he opined that some women are too soft when it comes to having a boyfriend and a husband. “Remember you have a lot to live for. Be yourself and stand against violence” said the young man. “No one deserves to be victimized; especially our young girls...Let us protect our females. Ladies you deserve to be happy and you need love. But also you need to live too, so be careful whom you trust.” Bascom was not the only man to comment on the issue. Dork Bess said, “We need to change the mind set of some young men. This is not right and it is becoming rampant in society.” Rewona Dharamjeet, mother of two young girls and a victim of domestic abuse, broke her silence. The young woman is hoping that she can be an inspiration to other women who are going
through domestic abuse. She said “I'm not ashamed to say, I was in an ugly abusive relationship; I was being bullied. But today I thank God that I'm out of that. I kept my silence, no one knew what I was going through and that was my mistake because it kept getting worse every time. My advice to anyone out there in a relationship and is being bullied in any way or is being abused, get out now! That's not love! It's unacceptable! Donell Bess-Bascom, who is seen to many as a role model, said that regardless of age, sex, colour and social status, the silence needs to be broken on domestic violence. Reiterating what Small-Bristol said, she added, “We cannot afford to remain silent when we observe abuse. We must speak up. Very often the emotional and psychological abuse becomes verbal then physically violent. Often it ends in death.” Abuse is any behaviour or action that is used to scare, harm, threaten, control or intimidate another person. It can (continued on page 15)
Drunken man assaults lover with beer bottle Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry released a man on $100,000 bail yesterday after he pleaded not guilty to assaulting his girlfriend with a beer bottle. Nigel Payne, 31, of Durban Street Wortmanville, denied the allegation which stated that on April 20, at Kingston, Georgetown, he unlawfully and maliciously wounded Trevisha Van De Cruize. Police Corporal, Bharrat Mangru told the court that the victim and the accused share a relationship. He said that on the day in question the victim was ‘hanging’ on the seawall with her friends when Payne
approached her and told her that he was ready to go home. However, Mangru said
that the woman indicated to the man that she was not ready to leave. The defendant who was under the influence of alcohol broke a beer bottle and cut the woman to the left side of her face. She was subsequently taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) for medical attention and later reported the matter. Investigations were carried out and the defendant was arrested and charged. Mangru had no objections to Payne being released on bail but asked that it be granted in a substantial amount. The matter was adjourned until May 8.
Businessman, Junior Flue made an appearance at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court yesterday charged with drug trafficking. Flue, 34, is accused of having 63 grammes of cannabis in his possession on April 20, at 178 First Street, Mocha, Arcadia, East Bank Demerara for the purpose of trafficking. The father of two pleaded not guilty to the charge after it was read to him by Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry. His Attorney Paul FungA-Fat told the court that the police were chasing a man
through his client’s yard. He said shots were fired during the process and the police stormed into the defendant’s home and put the allegation to him. Police Corporal, Bharrat Mangru objected to bail citing the prevalence and penalty attached to the offence. He also indicated that no special reasons were advanced to the court by the defence. Mangru’s objections were upheld and Payne was remanded to prison. He will make his next court appearance on May 6, before Magistrate Fabayo Azore.
Junior Flue
Nigel Payne
Father of two remanded for drug trafficking
Thursday April 23, 2015
Kaieteur News
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Maternal deaths, mental health high on APNU+AFC health agenda The coalition, A Partnership for National Unity and Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC), has stated that if it is voted into government, maternal deaths and mental health will be top priorities on its agenda. The commitment was made during a recent press conference held by several doctors of the coalition. During conversation with media operatives, Dr. Karen Cummings said that Guyana’s healthcare system is in a crisis. She said that the coalition was “dissatisfied” with the current level of health care being offered to Guyana. She added that Guyana has shifted from primary health care to specialty healthcare and is lagging behind other countries, particularly in tackling maternal deaths. She said too that tackling the numerous issues ahead was a “herculean task” which would require a multidisciplinary and multisectorial approach. When questioned on the first health areas to be targeted by the APNU+AFC if the coalition wins the upcoming elections, Cummings indicated that these areas would be maternal deaths and mental health. Cummings placed particular emphasis on maternal deaths and noted
that this year is the deadline for the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). One of these goals includes the reduction of maternal deaths by 75%. However, Cummings opined that Guyana is a far way from achieving that objective, particularly in the short period of time remaining. “We are far from that; in fact, we’re at the highest in the Caribbean and Latin America,” she said. Similarly, Dr. Surendra Persaud questioned why maternal deaths remain such a serious issue in Guyana’s healthcare system, particularly in the public hospitals. He paid special attention to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) and noted that Georgetown is “a relatively small place”. He added that in private hospitals, maternal deaths are not as common. “Can we remember when was the last time we heard of a maternal death in the private sector? Within the confines of Georgetown, a few blocks away we can do it right; we must be able to do it in the public hospital,” Persaud said. He too opined that Guyana would not reach the MDG goal in regards to maternal deaths. However, he
(Left to Right) Dr. Surendra Persaud, Dr. Karen Cummings, and Dr. George Norton of the APNU+AFC coalition questioned, “Is there an acceptable number of our women who should die becoming mothers?” He continued, “The answer is no! It’s zero…even if we were to hit it [the MDG goal], it’s still not acceptable. Whether we hit it or not, that’s not the question. The issue is the relentless pursuit of perfection; what we’re going after is zero. No mother anywhere in the world should die becoming a mother.” He added that Guyana’s duty was to ensure that both mother and child remain healthy and alive. CAPACITY BUILDING During the press conference, building capacity
within the health sector was also noted as a key in tackling many of the current issues plaguing the healthcare system. Another doctor, George Norton, indicated that the coalition’s desire was to see a health sector which concentrated much more on training. “We’ve got to look at not only the health infrastructure in clinics and hospitals but we also have to look at the human resources available there; make sure we have trained doctors, trained nurses, not necessarily the community health worker, but also that of staff nurses and midwives. Very importantly, we want to see medical supplies and
60 million to be vaccinated during Vaccination Week As part of the observance of Vaccination Week in the Americas, some 60 million children and adults in 45 countries are slated to be vaccinated against a number of diseases. This is according to the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) which disclosed that the target faction within the Americas will be eligible for vaccination against measles, rubella, polio, pneumonia and other diseases. Vaccination Week in the Americas will commence on Saturday April 25 and culminate on May 2, 2015 and represents a flagship regional initiative of PAHO. Since its commencement in 2003, Vaccination Week in the Americas has taken the benefits of vaccination to more than 519 million people in the Western Hemisphere and according to PAHO Director Dr. Carissa Etienne, “Vaccination Week in the Americas began 13 years ago as an effort among many countries, and now it has
become a global health initiative.” “It is a clear example of what can happen when our Region’s countries work together, regardless of our different languages and cultures, toward the common goal of protecting the health of all our peoples.” PAHO has highlighted that because of the high vaccination rates, the countries of the Americas have been global leaders in controlling and eliminating vaccine-preventable diseases. In fact it has noted that the Region was the first in the world to eradicate smallpox (in 1971) and to eliminate polio (in 1994) and it is expected in the near future to be certified as having eliminated measles and rubella. Other vaccinepreventable diseases, including diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis, have also been substantially reduced throughout the hemisphere. “Maintaining high immunization rates in our Region is essential to protect
these public health achievements and to advance toward new milestones,” said Dr. Cuauhtemoc Ruiz, head of PAHO’s Comprehensive Family Immunization programme. Dr Ruiz has added that “Vaccination Week in the Americas is an important part of our Region’s efforts to keep coverage rates high and to ensure that more vulnerable and remote communities share the benefits of immunization.” The slogan for this year’s campaign is “Boost your power! Get vaccinated!” and will serve to highlight how vaccines boost the immune system to help people fight off more than 20 different diseases. The slogan also suggests the importance of completing one’s vaccination schedule by getting “booster” shots when recommended, such as for measles, pertussis, polio and tetanus. One of the major objectives of Vaccination Week in the Americas each
year is to reach out to groups that otherwise have limited access to health services and are at increased risk of contracting vaccinepreventable diseases. These include residents of urban fringe areas, indigenous communities, and people living in rural and border areas. “Vaccination Week provides an opportunity not only to raise awareness of the importance of vaccines but also to make vaccines available to the people and communities who need them most,” said Ruiz. This year ’s regional launch of Vaccination Week in the Americas will take place in Duran, Ecuador, with the participation of Ecuador’s Minister of Health, the Director of PAHO/World Health Organization and representatives of UNICEF, UNAIDS, the United Nations Development Programme, the Sabin Institute and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, among other partners.
medication be adequately available,” Norton said. He added that this should especially be the case with the GPHC. He further said that specialty training was an area which was severely suffering in Guyana. “We must not be in a hospital where there is no neurologist or neurosurgeon…we have to choose these specific areas that we do not have any personnel and make sure that we have that here,” Dr. Norton said. He continued, “I would want to see the GPH being manned by Guyanese doctors; Guyanese doctors who would have undergone post-graduate training to take up the requirements of the GPH as well as the nurses and technicians. But particularly, the APNU+AFC coalition would concentrate on training, particularly post graduate training.” He went on to say that the delivery of healthcare needed to be tackled from both the long and short-term angles. He added that the long-term process “will definitely be that of training”. He said too that work ethics was an area that
needed to be tackled. Norton said that the issue of work ethics was linked to job satisfaction and he indicated that many persons are not satisfied with their jobs, particularly their salaries, and in turn have poor ethics. Dr. Cummings added that the nursing school needed to be reinvented as it is currently experiencing a number of barriers including funding, poor student to teacher ratio, and a lack of resources. She said that APNU+AFC would not only look at the numbers of personnel to be trained but also the quality of training they will receive. “When all is said and done, the caregivers have to step up and we plan on working on that; it’s on the front burner,” Cummings said. Dr. Norton added, “If we don’t invest in our human resources, we are not going to get the desired results and that’s where the coalition will certainly have to exercise most of its energy.” The timely and efficient dispensation of emergency services, infrastructure, and non-communicable diseases were also raised as issues which will be on the coalition’s agenda.
Breaking the silence ... From page 14 come in different forms physical, emotional, verbal, sexual, financial or spiritual. If you are trying to decide whether or not a situation may be abusive, simply look at the person's intention behind his action. If the person's intention is to do any of the above, you may be at risk for abuse. A woman is being abused if she is violated physically, emotionally, psychologically, sexually, financially, stalked/ harassed and received threats by a person known to her in an attempt to control her. However, with the growth of technology and the overlap of social networks, women are now being cyber bullied by
stalkers. Coordinator of Help and Shelter, Margaret Kertzious, had recently reiterated the prevalence of domestic violence in Guyana. She urged that women come forward as help is provided for them. Kertzious disclosed that there has been an average of 20 new recorded cases per month in Guyana from January to April. The Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) provides shelter and basic human needs for abused women and their children. Counselling is also available for women and their partners. Kertzious said that all services provided by the organization are free of cost.
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Kaieteur News
Thursday April 23, 2015
Protestors call for resignation of Minister Ramsaran following abusive statements Dozens of protestors gathered outside the Ministry of Health’s Brickdam offices yesterday, calling for the resignation of Health Minister, Dr. Bheri Ramsaran for his verbally abusive statements made to social activist Sherlina Nageer. As the gathering chanted “Bheri Must Go!” placards read “Stop Sexual Violence”, “We are tired of abuse against women” and “Apology not accepted”. The demonstrators called for President Donald Ramotar to take immediate action on the Minister’s behaviour. Nageer felt the wrath of the Minister on Monday because she apparently touched a nerve when she questioned him about his presence on a protest front. Ramsaran was leading a protest demonstration outside the Whim Magistrate’s Court, Corentyne, Berbice, in support of former President Bharrat Jagdeo whose matter was being heard at the time inside the court. As he was being interviewed by reporters, Ramsaran said that those who mounted the protest were
Protestors outside the Ministry of Health, midday yesterday
representing Jagdeo and were against the “wife beater” Christopher Ram. At that point, Nageer interjected, questioning Ramsaran as to whether Jagdeo did not abuse his wife as well. She went on to ask the Minister why he was wasting time on a protest line
when he has more important issues to attend to with regard to Guyana’s health sector. Responding to Nageer ’s questions, Ramsaran shouted, “Shut your mouth and get out my face.” He subsequently continued to direct more obscenities at the female
activist, as she insisted that his presence at the demonstration was inappropriate. When the recording surfaced, many sections of social media were quick to voice their outrage at the Minister’s remarks, following which, civil society groups
labelled his words as “abusive” and “threatening” language to the highest degree. On Tuesday, Minister Ramsaran sent out a statement which stated that he was “rudely interrupted by a woman who kept shouting and interrupting me
throughout (an interview). I shifted away on several occasions in an attempt to avoid her but she persisted in interrupting the interview. It was unfortunate that I was provoked into anger and uttered harsh words at her for which I now regret. I therefore wish to apologize for uttering those words.” Nageer who was on the forefront of the picket line yesterday, stated that she did not regret her interaction with the Minister, especially since she was not breaking any laws. “I was simply exercising my right to get answers to questions I have as a tax payer,” said Nageer. The social activist described the Minister’s behaviour as “very shocking”. When asked what the Minister should do next, Nageer related that she thinks he should have resigned long before the incident. “I think he should have resigned a long time ago… I think his job performance has been lackluster”. She added that she has not had any contact with the Minister since the incident; despite him releasing a statement of (continued on page 30)
Stray catchers conducting “runnings” with impounded animals Domestic cattle farmers on the West Coast of Demerara, are appealing to the Ministry of Home Affairs to rein in stray catchers, who they say have established their personal businesses from their “illegally” impounded cattle. The farmers are maintaining that despite the Ministry’s boast of closely monitoring the activity of stray catchers, the operatives are bypassing the checks and balances and are making deals with cattle owners whose animals they are illegally catching. This newspaper understands that instead of taking captured animals to the designated pounds at police stations along the coast, the stray catchers are demanding money from farmers for their return. Some cattle farmers have reported paying as much as $25,000 to the stray catchers to have their animals returned before they are taken to the police pound. According to the Ministry of Home Affairs, impounded cows carry a fee of $8000 per head with an overnight fee of $200 per night; sheep and goats carry are $7000. The fees are payable at the police station where the animal is impounded. A police source told this
newspaper that criminal action can be taken against the stray catchers, if it is found that they are acting in violation of their mandate. “Stray catchers can be charged for stealing the animals if it is found that they took an animal and it did not arrive at the pound, but nobody is coming forward so that we can deal with them,” the source explained. A disgusted resident of the West Coast of Demerara, told this newspaper yesterday that cattle owners are being unfairly treated since the stray catchers are targeting animals when they are returning from grazing late in the afternoons. “We are not against dem catching our animals but dey gat to do it with common sense. Night time animals more dangerous and dem ain’t catching dem donkey and horses wha does deh pon de road at nights,” the resident stated. It was disclosed that two days ago a stray catching gang pounced upon a flock of sheep returning home from a nearby pasture late in the afternoon although the herder was nearby. According to the farmer, the stray catchers ran after the sheep into a yard and grabbed six of them and threw them into their vehicle.
Stray catchers in operation along the East Coast of Demerara.
The resident said that the owner confronted them, protesting the wrongful impounding of his animals. However, the stray catchers demanded a fee for the return of the animals. “De man pay de money because he nah want de harassment…he would’a gat fuh go station everyday fuh feed he animals. And sometimes it tek days before
he get back he animals. Some ah dem does dead in de pound,” the resident stated. “If every week these men do this you ain’t see we could go out of business. You know how much people sell out dem animals and still accidents increasing. Is we who does support dis government and dem doing dis to we?” the resident added. Another resident of
Uitvlugt, who has had similar experiences, told Kaieteur News that rearing animals is a way of life for people in the rural areas. Therefore, he said, it is a bit unfair for the Ministry of Home Affairs to unleash uncontrollable stray catchers in areas where all the once available pastures have been converted into house lots. “We could understand
the heavy campaign in the city but in the country, no,” he stated. He argued that while the ministry is claiming that the clamp down on animals on the roads will reduce accidents, statistics released by the police show that speeding and drunk driving among others far outnumber animals as major causes of road deaths.
Thursday April 23, 2015
Kaieteur News
Doobay’s wife murder ...
Accomplice confessed to involvement in killing - Police witness The caution statement that police obtained from murder accused, Shakir Mohamed, was yesterday admitted into evidence before the court. Mohamed, of Lot 127 Latchuni Street, Better Hope, East Coast Demerara, and (ECD) is on trial for the murder of Shewraney Doobay, before Justice Brassington Reynolds at the High Court in Georgetown. The battered body of Shewraney Doobay, the wife of prominent doctor, Ramsundar Doobay, was discovered lying in a pool of blood in the kitchen of her Echilibar Villas, Campbellville residence.
The incident reportedly stemmed from a dispute over a piece of property. Subsequent to police investigations, Mohamed and the dead woman’s nephew, Mark Singh, were charged for the murder. It is alleged that Singh was the main player in the crime while Mohamed played a role in cushioning the act. Singh, of Prince William Street, Plaisance, is now deceased. It was reported that Singh took ill while at the Camp Street Prison. He was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, (GPHC) and later succumbed to acute asthma. Yesterday, the Caution
Statement, (CS) procured from the number two accused, (Mohamed) was admitted into evidence. The statement detailing the events which led to the murder was read aloud to the court by Assistant Superintendent of Police, Joel David. The policeman said that Mohamed told investigating ranks that two weeks before the murder, his friend, Mark told him that he had issues with his aunt over rates and taxes and that he had plans to kill her. According to the statement, which David read, the accused recalled that it was a Tuesday that Singh (continued on page 30)
Thr ee held in snow Three cone vendor ’s death vendor’s The police have arrested three persons as investigations continue into the death of Mohamed Ramzan Abrahim, 49, called ‘Terry’ or ‘Ice Man’, a father of three and snow cone vendor of Lot 150 Canefield, Shieldstown, West Bank Berbice. Abrahim was found on the roadway at Shieldstown about 20:40hrs on Saturday April 18, 2015, with an injury to his forehead. According to the man’s relatives he left home around 16:00 hrs to go and play dominoes in the nearby De Edward Village. Information revealed that Abrahim left the area around 19:30 hrs for his home. According to relatives, to get home, Abrahim has to pass a lonely area between a Masjid and a Nursery School. The relatives stated that they are not too sure what
happened. However, around 20:45 hrs they were alerted that Abrahim was lying on the ground in the School Street area. When relatives hurried to the scene they found the man on the ground panting for breath. Not realizing that he was seriously injured, they picked him up and then realized that he was mortally injured and lying in a pool of blood. T here was a gaping wound to his head. Parts of his brain were exposed. His spectacle was in his hand. He was picked up and rushed to the Fort Wellington Hospital, before being transferred to the New Amsterdam Hospital and subsequently, further transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital where he succumbed around 06:30 hrs on Sunday April 19,
2015. Relatives stated that the man is very quiet and friendly and lives in a wooden house with his wife Mobina Abrahim and three children, two boys’ ages 21and 19 while his daughter is 14. He sells snow-cones around the area and is not known to have a problem with anybody. However, the area that he used to go home is usually an area with gamblers and drug smokers. Abrahim leaves to mourn his wife and three children, four brothers, four sisters and numerous other relatives. A post mortem examination was conducted on Monday at the Georgetown Public Hospital by Dr. Nehaul Singh and gave the cause of death as shock and haemorrhage due to incised wound. Investigations are continuing.
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Police allegedly arrest, brutalise Linden man Delroy Rockcliffe, 21, of 103 Second Street, Silvertown, was yesterday arrested after he was allegedly brutalised by police ranks. It is alleged that six armed police ranks beat Rockcliffe while he was handcuffed on the road. This was done in the presence of his mother, cousins and neighbours between 16:30 hours and 17:00 hrs on Tuesday. Rockcliffe’s cousin, Donette Valentine, 22, said that he had just left the house and went up the street for his usual afternoon hang with friends when they heard him screaming. “We hear he shouting ‘Sabrina, Sabrina’ who is another cousin and the police had he in de van and they stopped right in front here (pointing to the gate). They throw he out the van and start beating he. Suh we start hollering and asked them is wha he do. We tell them to just handcuff he and carry he down, don’t beat he.” Valentine, who is a final year nurse at the Linden Hospital Complex, said that while she was pleading with the ranks not to hit him, one of the ranks pointed at her and another cousin and said “Look dese two nurses. Is people like dem does give yuh wrong injection and kill yuh.” An eyewitness who asked not to be named said that one officer cuffed Rockcliffe to his face and opened a wound while another “tripped him and when he fell another rank kicked him in his head.” He said, “Tears come out me eye to see how all of them with long gun in dey hand and beating a young man
Delroy Rockliffe while he was handcuffed. Is things like this does mek people turn criminal because they would lay wait fuh them and kill them.” He also said he went to see the Commander of the Division and he gave a written statement of what he saw. Valentine also noted that the police ranks told her to “shut up” and she asked if she can’t talk for her rights. She was threatened. She was told that they would call the Ministry and have her licence suspended. Another eyewitness said “Dis boy ain’t do nothing. We been talking and just as he left to go home de van pick he up and say jay walking and start to beat he.” Rockcliffe’s mother said that after the police took him to the Wismar station and they followed, they were told that they have to go to Mackenzie Station for any information they may need. She said when she arrived at the Mackenzie Station she
and her niece were arrested and were told by a rank there, “It is Elections time and these things happen. It is just a campaign, Jesus Christ ain’t do nothing and the Romans kill he.” She noted that while on her way to visit the Commander Calvin Brutus, the jeep drove in the yard and a rank shouted to a female traffic warden to arrest them. According to Ms. Rockcliffe she and her niece were arrested and sent to the Amelia’s Ward outpost and placed in the lock ups. They were released on Wednesday morning on their own recognisance and told to report to the station at 09:00 hrs. The Officer in Charge of the operation refuted claims of brutality, saying that they were carrying out a sting operation and Rockcliffe is not the only person arrested. The Officer claimed that Rockcliffe is a known character and has had many brushes with the law before for various crimes, such as break and enter and robbery. The Officer said that as soon as the vehicle was in front of his house he jumped out and his mother and other relatives came out and assaulted the officers verbally and physically. The relatives are unsure if Rockcliffe received medical attention.
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Thursday April 23, 2015
Lethem Police ranks claim no knowledge of investigations into miner’s assault A 23-year-old miner, Melvin ShewPrasad, formerly a Second Lieutenant in the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), is yet to be contacted by the Lethem police station for a status report on his alleged assault. ShewPrasad is alleging that he was badly beaten by ranks stationed at Lethem, including a senior officer, on Sunday last. Kaieteur News understands that the man is currently at his Meten-MeerZorg, West Coast Demerara residence, recovering from the assault. Ranks at the Lethem police station, when contacted on two separate occasions, claimed that they were unaware of the investigations; hence, it is unclear if the alleged assailant was ever apprehended. The assault against ShewPrasad, which occurred in the wee hours of last Sunday morning, reportedly began at a night spot in Tabatinga. According to ShewPrasad the assault stemmed from an incident earlier the evening when the senior officer, requested to borrow money.
ShewPersad declined to lend. ShewPrasad said the man became annoyed after he had expressed that “the only time you does call me is when you want money”. The gold miner alleged that at the night spot, he approached the officer in a friendly manner but was greeted with an offensive retort. He said that the man accused him of disrespect, to which he replied “Because I didn’t lend you money I am getting disrespectful?” The angry officer told ShewPrasad to “move from in front his face.” ShewPrasad said that he continued to enquire whether not lending the money was the cause of the man’s unfriendly responses. “Move out from in front my face before I lash you,” the man reportedly shouted, to which ShewPrasad said he enquired, “Seriously”. It was then that the assault began. ShewPrasad said the officer struck him to the head with a Guinness bottle from which he was consuming, and knocked him to the ground. He said that he momentarily lost consciousness.
The Injured Melvin ShewPrasad
Bleeding from the left eye, ShewPrasad said he was rescued by “an Amerindian woman whom I know”. He said after he regained consciousness, the woman told him that she had called a taxi which took quite some time to arrive. While outside the club, the injured man, who was still on the ground bleeding profusely, was attacked for a second time by
the officer. “I managed to pull out from that.” He said the woman once again rescued him. On their way to a nearby yard where a taxi driver resides, the man who was being held upright by the
woman was stopped by an army vehicle. ShewPrasad told this publication that a soldier (name given) came out the vehicle and started beating him. “He lashed me against my left shoulder with a metal
object. I fell to the ground and started feeling kicks and cuffs about my body causing me to lose consciousness.” ShewPrasad was subsequently rushed to the Lethem Hospital where he later regained consciousness.” It was only after he regained awareness that he was told by the woman who repeatedly came to his assistance that the assault ceased when another woman threw herself upon him as a shield. ShewPrasad claims that the officer visited him at the hospital in an attempt to make peace, but he gave him the cold shoulder. “He said to me he’s sorry for what he’s done and if I need anything I should call him. I didn’t say anything to him.” ShewPrasad said that the Police took his statement at the Lethem Hospital, and the following day he went to the Lethem Police Station to make a follow-up statement.
Accomplice confessed to ... From page 25 told him that he wanted a drop to his aunt’s to pay her some money. “I drop him off. He had a hammer wrapped up in a plastic bag.” He told investigators that he accompanied his friend to his aunt’s house at Echilibar Villas, Campbellville. While there, ASP David said that the accused recounted that they had told Singh’s aunt that they were hungry. The officer said that Mohamed related that the woman told them that she had not finished cooking, but she made them sandwich and drink and even gave them an extra sandwich to take for another workmate. According to the statement, Mohamed had informed the investigators
that as they were about to leave the “aunt’s” sister called from England. He recounted that as they were leaving the house, he was walking in front and Singh was behind. “He (Mark) tek the hammer in the plastic bag and lash she (the aunt) wan good set a lash to she mole and the base ah she head. She scream and I ease her to the ground in the kitchen.” The accused is said to have told police that the woman was still moving but her nephew “give she one more lash in she head and she stop moving.” He told police that Mark subsequently left him with his motionless aunt in the kitchen and went to the back of the house. Mohamed had told police that Singh returned sometime
later with a bag— he had no knowledge of the contents of the bag but he suspected that it was money. He told investigators that after leaving the residence his suspicions were confirmed, as the young man who had no money earlier in the day, was subsequently able to pay off a debt he owed to a shop. According to the statement, Mohamed also detailed that after leaving the residence Singh tossed the murder weapon (the hammer wrapped in black bag) into a gutter at the corner of Stone Avenue and Fourth Street, Campbellville. The policeman said that the accused recounted that Singh promised to deal with him later. He said that he did not know whether he would kill him or pay him but he never received any money.
Protestors call for resignation of Minister Ramsaran following ... From page 16 apology on the incident. In fact, Nageer regarded the statement as meaningless since it was not directed to her. Expressing similar sentiments were a number of other protestors including University of Guyana lecturer, Dr. Melissa Ifill, Rev. Patricia Sheeratan-Bisnauth of the Guyana Responsible Parenthood Association (GRPA), and Programme Assistant of the Amerindian Peoples Association (APA) Laura George. “When a minister can
give what he thinks is a farce of an apology, and at the same time, blame the victim and say he was provoked, that is no excuse,” said George, “who do you depend on when a Minister or person of high standard treats a woman like that.” Moreover, Dr Ifill described Ramsaran’s actions as “disrespectful” and a contributor to this country’s culture of treating women abominably. She also related that the Minister’s apology statement is the “classic manifestation of an abusive individual” since it was more of
a justification of his actions. Adding her voice to the disapproval of Dr. Ramsaran’s apology, Rev. SheeratanBisnauth said that “that is not an apology. It is an excuse for the abuse that he did and a poor excuse at that. So many abusers use this excuse and say that they made me do this.” The GRPA official further said that for the cycle of sexual violence to end victims of the crime, need to have the judicial support they require to heal and perpetrators need to be held accountable according to the law.
Thursday April 23, 2015
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Page 31
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1 Mini marine tanker capacity 11,500 Gallons – Tel:227-1744 or 657-9237 Hymac, 200KVA CAT generators, portable, hours 07115, G3 John boat 14Ft, 25HP 4 Stroke Yamaha, 399 Massey Ferguson tractor Tel: 601-1138
GT TOOL RENTALS: COMPACTOR; CHIPPING HAMMER RANSOM & FLOOR SANDER, , JACK HAMMER, CONCRETE SAW & MORE - CALL: 675-0767, 627-5098 Five bedrooms house @ 107 Lamaha Gardens & large parking, AC rooms, hot & cold, purified water system Call: 661-8908; 335-3590 Apartments to rent @ 70 Bent Street Wortmanville $3,500 & $4,000 per day – Contact: 226-3309; 674-5760; 648-7154 & (218-1033 Saturday & Sunday only) Eccles 2 bedroom apartment for rent -$60,000 –Call: 6979031 between 1pm -3pm Large space for supermarket and living quarters @ Lot 22 Public Road Covent Garden E.B.D-Tel: 682-7490; 6859284
One Accounts supervisor: must have solid experienced and relevant qualifications. Send applications & CV to rtilak@adamantiumholdings.com
Grove housing Scheme: Three bedrooms top flat with garage, price $50,000. Phone: 680-6399; 692-2072
Porters to work in Grocery Stall, experienced is an asset @ Stabroek Market - Tel: 6839500
One (three) bedrooms flat concrete building, located @ 19 Street Diamond, preferably couples only. Tel: 233-2805 One bedroom apartment 25ftX22Ft preferably working couple or single person – Call: 638-8858
EDUCATIONAL Special after school classes for nursery students: phonics, reading, special etc for all ages, limited spaces – Tel: 675-4379
1- 95X50 business place for rent located at Mon Repos Public Road E.C.D –Tel: 6276789; 656-0602 Two Storey house to rent at First Bridge Grove E.B.D. Tel: 698-1134
AT192, 212, Allion, unregistered Premio, Hilux Surf, BNN, RZ & Pit-bull, 7 seater super custom, Cash / terms- Call: 680-3154 Blow Out Sales @ Star Cars Auto Sale- Premio, Spacio, Bluebird, IST, Benz, Alteeza, free alarm- Tel: 679-3140 Mercedes –Benz C200 Kompressor, left hand driver, automatic, 2005 model, low mileage, excellent condition, negotiable - Call: 624-5130 1 L-Touring Wagon, flair kit, remote start- $1.450,000, 1 Honda CRV, $1.850, 000, 1 AT192 - $850, 000. All in good condition, price negotiable –Tel: 626-2884 One Honda Civic 1500cc ESI, excellent condition, lady driven –Tel: 223-0849 Honda CRV 2001, Excellent Condition, price $2,050,000 – Contact: 624-6099 One Toyota Cami PLL Series$1.3M negotiable. Call: 679-3410 One Toyota Premio & Toyota Spacio, excellent condition, owner migrating Tel# 6182576 or 678-0109 One Toyota VIOS (Black) model – PMM series, price negotiable – Tel: 688-0868 One fielder 2006 model $2.2M negotiable - Tel: 689-5103 1 RZ super custom 14 Seater mini bus, BSS series, fully A/ C, excellent condition, price -$2M neg. Contact: 2236059; 654-4219; 645-3619 Toyota Raum new model, excellent condition -$1.2M negotiable - Contact Liz: 6857728 Toyota Fun Cargo, PMM series, 1300cc, HID lights, AC -$1.1M –Tel: 677-9544
Earn a Diploma in Computers: 9 Courses, Windows 7/8, and office 2013 @ MicroGraphics Vreed-En-Hoop - Tel: 2643057 Computer Classes For 2015, Common-Entrance students, 9 courses, $30,000 @ MicroGraphics - Vreed-EnHoop Tel : 264-3057
Toyota Voxy to be registered in “B” series - $2.1M & ‘G’ series - $1.7M - Tel: 617-2891
LEARN TO DRIVE Soman Son & Outar Driving School at Maraj BuildingTel: 644-5166; 622-2872; 6150964; 689-5997
TOURS Suriname tour return May 1st -5th, sightseeing of dolphins; shopping –Tel: 639-2663; 6440185; 665-5171
3 Storey building 12 offices upper flat, established business @ 220 South Road. Contact: 601-3369; 218-2029 10 Acres Roadside land at Kuru Kuru for resort/ business- Contact: 6013369; 218-2029; 227-1042 1- 318 BMW and register, cash 3.2 M, down payment 1.2 M- Contact # 616-0429 Pure bred German shepherd pups –Tel: 220-2277; 2208904; 629-1471 Madza Axela bumper for sale - Tel: 691-5485 HIGHQUALITYROUGHOR DRESSED LUMBER AVAILABLEAT REDUCED PRICES. FREE DELIVERYCALL: 600-1212 FOR DETAILS Just arrived!! 18" Brush cutter blades wholesale & retail quantities - Call: 6148564/ 639-3675 Quantum magnetic analyzer, body scanning machine and foot spa detox machine for sales -Tel: 692-7886; 649-7884 Spare for washing machine, microwaves, fridges, stoves, timers, gearbox, motors, etc Call: 225-9032, 647-2943 AMERICAN BULLY PUPS GOTTILINE REMYLINE CALL: 220-7933; 6674845; 610-0068 House and land @ Diamond Housing Scheme E.B.D – Call: 687-9107
DRESSMAKING Learn to cut & sew at Enid Dressmaking, certificate classes @ Lot 66, 6th Street Alberttown –Contact: 2239106 or 643-7966 Continued on page 32
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Kaieteur News
Thursday April 23, 2015
Letters... Where your views make the news
FREDDIE, YOU DID IT! (From page 31)
TO LET Spacious upper flat three bedrooms with one master, at Fist Bridge Grove, New Housing Scheme – Call: 6420550 3-Bedroom unfurnished bottom flat in Sa Silva Street, parking for 2 cars, overhead tank, fully grilled, price $80,000- Call:616-0537 One upstairs 3 bedroom house; semi furnished, situated at Diamond Housing Scheme –Contact: 697-2456 Rooms in Alberttown –Tel: 698-7807
PROPERTY FOR SALE Transported Property @ Grove/Diamond, 3 bedrooms, 1 self-contained, concrete fence, grilled store room & Shed, (45X26) – Call: 660-1353,216-4338 (1) 2 storied concrete corner property, 3 bedrooms upstairs, 4 self contained apartment downstairs, land: 95X65 & house: 65X32 – Call: 642-0867; 644-6479 Transported 3 bedrooms property at Good Hope E.C.D-Tel: 621-1722 Newly built transported 2 storey (6 bedrooms) fully concrete building in Tuschen New Scheme $20M negotiable –Tel: 6807119; 627-6305 MASSAGE Relaxing massage servicesCall: 674-8147
LAND FOR SALE
SERVICES PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY,ETC.–CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 2161043; 677-6620 Advertisements; Guyana Passport & Visa Forms Application, USA, Canada and England. Tel: 626-7040; 265-4535. Repairs & spare, fridge, freezer, A/C, washers, stoves. Contact Nick: 683-1312, 627-3206 Permanent & Visitors Visa Applications, Professional Immigration Consultant Room D5 Maraj Building visadocumentsgy@yahoo.com Call : 225-6496, 662-6045 Accounting & Taxation Services: tax returns, compliances, financial statements. Avinash Persaud Tax Consultancy, 163 Parika, EBE - Call: 260-4762. Your Dream Yard Today! Stunning designs, Assortment, colourful plant choices, Professional Landscapers Tel: 219-0468/ 648-1821 Balloon decorating for birthdays, weddings, anniversary etc, make your event extra special! Tel Maya: 642-6664 Eagle’s fridge re-gas $8,000 & washing machine repairs. Phone: 697-2969, 646-0966 REPAIRS AT LOW COST: FRIDGES, AIRCONDITIONERS, WASHING MACHINES, TVS, MICROWAVES, FREEZERS - CALL: 6294946 OR 225-4822 Mahadeo Construction for all construction, carpentry, masonry, pluming, painting etc. Free estimates and plan Contact # 669-7376 Fazil Ali Constructionbuilding, repairs & construction needs: plumbing, carpentry, painting, trowel tex, electrical, mason etc.Call: 677-0465/ 275-0844
Parfait Harmonie -$1.3M (80ftX50ft), Fort Ordinance -$1.2M Berbice, Tuschen $1.6M –Tel: 675-7292; 6893339 50 Acres titled farm land @ The Belle, Upper Dem, River Front -reasonable offer accepted, serious enquiries only! Tel: 669-8152 5 Star gated community with pool, mall, well, solar powered, get your land/ house - Tel: 609-0783
HEALTH For Doctoring: Stroke, Fits, E RD problems & cleaning faces – Tel: 231-0774; Cell: 671-9450 “Bush Doc”
DEAR EDITOR, Please permit me to congratulate one of the most fearless and dedicated campaigners of human rights in this country. I first came across Freddie Kissoon as a freshman at UG in the late 90s, as he drove onto the tarmac. We were furious because he interrupted our game of cricket. Ironically Minister Irfaan Ali was batting at the time. As we were about to shout at him not to interrupt the game, we were told ‘that’s Freddie Kissoon boy’. Immediately there was something about this gentleman that caught my eyes, his number plate on the Burgundy vehicle he was driving. Later that afternoon as I came from my chemistry labs, there was heightened security on the campus. When I
enquired I was told that President Cheddi Jagan would be giving a guest lecture at Freddie’s class in the George Walcott Lecture Theatre. As they say, the rest is now history. Freddie Kissoon is now a household name in Guyana and his columns can be considered a regular ingredient in our daily diets. Over the past months Freddie, this tireless champion, has had some notable successes and deserve his kudos. First and foremost Banks DIH. I recently purchased bread and tennis rolls for my family. I was given a two handle bag to put the items. It was simply amazing to experience this shift in policy to the comfort of the customer. Still with Banks DIH. I purchased a 2-litre ice cream and, as is customary, I rubbed my thumb on the ink that identi-
fies the flavour. On careful examination of the container, the flavour was written boldly at the top and it could not be erased. I checked again and it was true, you can no longer erase the flavour written on the containers of a Banks ice cream. Freddie’s one -man campaign bore even better fruits recently. Coming down to the city from the east coast recently, there was a police roadblock. Believe me, you could have easily identified the officer in command, the marked police vehicle and all ranks displayed their identification tags proudly, and this process was being conducted next to the Vigilance police station. Sir, you tried to explain to us the complexity of the human mind, and pains philosophers went through to explain
these complexities. As a Guyanese I am aware of the complexities of the Guyanese mind. However I am confident that despite these complexities good sense will prevail come May 11. I will be first to congratulate you when you come by Demico where some of the best minds in Guyana usually congregate to discuss issues of the day. My words will be simple, ‘Freddie, you did it!’ I know many people read your articles and you are telling the truth about Guyana. Congratulations sir , and like many others such as Nielson Mc Kenzie, Lenno Craig, Ian Bentham and others who are your known buddies in this fight, it is my wish that your fire will get hotter in time , because we have to maintain this change we are fighting for. Keep up the good work sir. Ronald R. Shepherd
Everything Jagdeo has done is... From page 4 the constitution. A recent indication of Jagdeo’s re-emergence in the presidential stream was when he took it upon himself to assure a foreign company of the Guyana government agreeing to a request it had made to the government. The PPP saw this as an affront to President Ramotar and the party, and publicly reminded Jagdeo that he was out of line. The no-confidence motion
by the AFC which garnered the support of APNU in parliament created the biggest challenge for both the Ramotar Presidency and the old guard in the ruling party. This political dilemma placed Ramotar and his inner circle in a no-win situation politically, both in the party and country. It was the moment that the former President and his faction were waiting for. The PPP, now caught up in a life-and-death situation
became easy pickings for Jagdeo. It is in this context that his ascendency has to be understood. His detractors in the party, who hate the best bone in the man, had to choose between the party’s certain electoral demise and, giving the party an outside chance of pulling things back. In this situation, Jagdeo was able to convince all sides he and only he could get the job done. The old guard in
face of the real politics of the situation decided to take the chance in a high risk gamble to succumb to Jagdeo’s control. It is my contention that everything Jagdeo has done so far is intended to advance his self-interest over and above the PPP party’s interests. Once they lose the elections the house of cards will tumble down. I am anxiously awaiting that spectacle. Tacuma Ogunseye
Ex-military officers do not influence our... From page 11 that while they have a civic responsibility as citizens to exercise their franchise during National Elections by voting for whichever person or political party they chose, they should however, not allow anyone to make that
decision for them. He reminded them also that it was unprofessional to exhibit any form of campaigning on any military base. “Ex-military officers also have the right to participate in the political activities of Guyana. We
respect their service to Guyana. However, our current operational decision-making is not influenced by exmilitary officers. We take orders from the duly elected President of Guyana, our Commander in Chief, President Donald Ramotar,” he added. The Chief of Staff explained that there will be a large number of representatives from several countries and International bodies in Guyana during the elections period, serving as Observers, and repeated his concern that the highest level of professionalism must be displayed at all times. “You are to avoid any type
of confrontational situations regarding political matters, and, if approached by political representatives on matters regarding the GDF, you must refer those persons to me.” Military personnel and other members of the Joint Services will cast their ballots on Saturday, May 2. Military personnel will be confined from May 6, in preparation for deployment in support of the Guyana Police Force as becomes necessary. It is traditional for the military to vote several days ahead of the general public, so that troops can be available for service to the nation as need be, during, and even after the period of National Elections are over.
Thursday April 23, 2015
Kaieteur News
Fuel truck catches fire in gas station The owners of Two Brothers gas station located at Eccles on the East Bank of Demerara are hoping to reopen their establishment for business tomorrow after a potentially catastrophic fire put a damper on their operations last evening. Operators of the fuel establishment estimate that damage may be close to $18M after the vehicle of a customer seeking to buy fuel caught fire. The blaze began to spread and eventually engulfed the station’s loading facility which is located in the northern part of the business place. That area was completely destroyed along with a company fuel tanker. While no one sustained injuries, the fire caused significant disruptions in traffic flow and caused much panic given that it was a gas station. According to Fire Chief Marlon Gentle who was present on the scene, distress calls were made just after 19:00hours, by both passersby and gas station staffers who reported fire coming from a truck parked at the location. Gentle said that minutes
...driver reportedly runs away later, fire fighters from the West Ruimveldt station sped to the location. By this time, Standard Operation Procedures (SOPs) were already activated where other rescue agencies such as health workers and other support groups like the electricity company were informed. However, when the West Ruimveldt team arrived at the gas station, they reported that heavy flames were coming from a tanker and additional special support was needed. This support came from the Central Fire Station where a large water bowser was brought on the scene along with what was described as Chinese specialized water tender which unlike the conventional water tenders, carries both foam and water. The foam is a concentrate of certain chemicals that reject fires of special liquids including fuel and other flammable liquids. The Fire Chief expressed satisfaction with his men’s’ actions. He said that they
endured a risk different from any other because “we are dealing with a gas station; we are dealing with two tankers with fuel and also where we are standing (underground) here.” He said all of the safety measures were activated and worked well. Pumps and other equipment were shut down to reduce the risk of an explosion. In the meantime, investigations are ongoing on how the blaze would have started. Gentle said that they are unaware of what would have transpired prior to the blaze starting. He was unable to say, also, whether the truck was receiving gas at the time or was waiting to be served. ‘A’ Division Police Commander Clifton Hicken was also on the scene. He too spoke of the smooth running of the operation since all SOPs were followed. He said that the fire was able to be contained within good time. He said firefighters were using water but this seemed (Continued on page 34)
Ramotar repeats 2011 election... From page 6 up of that district. The President also stressed to the business community, that it is important to ensure the support of the macroeconomic environment and its stability, for it has help Guyana to grow. Ramotar said that while the opposition has been promising all kinds of freeness, like cutting taxes, Government will however; promise to keep it under review. “I promise you we will keep them under review; we have brought down corporation taxes … and as the economy improves we will bring it down in a responsible way,” he added. Ramotar then shifted his attention to human capital. He said that his administration will continue to pursue the realignment of the education system to deal with the effective development of the nation’s skills. The President then said that once re-elected, he will examine very closely, hindrances to doing business with ease in Guyana and seek to minimize them. He made even more promises; among them was the liberalization of the ICT sector. Earlier, GMSA President, Clinton Williams, spoke about several issues facing the business sector. He said that he is grateful that Government
for the most part, has adopted many of the developmental strategies that are within the remit of the “Caricom Experts’ recommendations. The recommendations focus on priority sectors that the Region must pursue in order to mitigate against future global economic shocks and natural disasters. “We are of the view that our development strategies must continue to be underpinned by issues such as Food Security, Energy Security, Recovery and/or Repositioning of the Tourism Sector and the pursuit of New Economic Drivers such as ICT, Renewable Energy and Trade-in-Services,” Williams added. While noting that the availability of dependable electrical power has been a long standing issue for most businesses in Guyana, especially for manufacturers, the GMSA President asserted that Government’s recent move to reduce electricity charges by 10 percent across the board is a positive step in this direction. He said, however, that more needs to be done before any competitive advantage in the local, regional and international market place is to be achieved. He added, “We would like to see definitive strategies for maximizing our natural resources potential via the
creation of value added manufacturing industries particularly in sectors such as Agriculture, Agro processing, Forestry, Minerals, Light Manufacturing and Services for which the priority should be SME’s utilizing the Cluster approach.” “According to a recently released report by the Caribbean Export Development Agency, Cariforum Countries overall exports for 2013 totaled US$51 Billion from which the Services Subsector accounted for 62 percent. “It is indeed totally unacceptable that despite being one of the first Caribbean Countries to establish a “Coalition of Services Industries Cluster” our Trade-in-Services receipts continue to be virtually non-existent, that is, despite being signatures to many Multilateral and Bilateral Trade Agreements for which reciprocal services trade features prominently.” The GMSA President then emphasized the importance of the discussions with the candidates for the position of holding office. He said that the parlays are intended to enable manufacturers, service providers, and distributors to question each candidate on the matters that directly affect the conduct of their business, and to assess each party’s Economic Blueprint going forward.
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Kaieteur News
Thursday April 23, 2015
Jamaica safe from decline in sugar price globally, but… Jamaica Gleaner - While the sharp decline in sugar price on the world stage is now creating anxiety among several African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) states, Jamaica is being spared from the jitters, thanks to its lucrative three-year deal with the British refiner Tate & Lyle, which will be in place until the end of the year. “The price in Europe has been declining for the past two years, but, fortunately, we negotiated a three-year supply deal, so Jamaica is not affected presently, but this could change as this year is the last of our arrangement,” Karl James, general manager of Jamaica Cane Products Sales (JCPS), told The Gleaner from Guyana Tuesday. “We will begin negotiations in May, but we will certainly not be accepting those offers we are hearing now.” Reforms to the EU’s common agricultural policy in March 2013 will result in the abolition of sugar quotas come 2017, which will bring an end to the preferential treatment that ACP sugar producers have been enjoying since 1975. The end date was initially set for 2015, but an extension of two years was granted in a split decision among member states after some countries sought additional time for the sector to adjust. Under the
Karl James new regime, it will mean greater competition for Jamaica from lower-cost producers, but in his departure interview with The Gleaner, Dr Wu Huaixiang, former chief executive officer of Pan Caribbean Sugar Company, expressed concern that local production, overall, might struggle to compete under the new arrangement. “Jamaica’s sugar industry can reach great heights, but the challenges remain,” said Wu. “... The biggest challenge for me is the post2017 period when we will have to compete with other ACP countries for sugar markets.” “As a country, Jamaica is not doing enough to address this challenge. I also think the regional sugar market can be invigorated and developed, but Jamaica, or some other country, has to take the lead,”
Wu said. James, who is also chairman of the Sugar Association of the Caribbean (SAC), revealed that his trip to Guyana is to discuss and establish a formula that would guarantee constant supply to the region. “We are also looking seriously at the Caribbean market, and, in my other capacity as head of the SAC, it is going to be an area of stronger focus from 2015 onwards,” stated James. “We are trying to work out a formula to ensure that we can supply the market on a constant basis.” Currently, there are four active sugar-producing nations in the region Jamaica, Belize, Guyana, and Barbados. The deal with Tate & Lyle sees Jamaica getting close to US$894 per tonne for 50 to 60 tons of sugar in each crop year of the deal.
Antigua-Barbuda and Japan hold high level discussions on energy and tourism ST JOHN’S, Antigua — High level discussions concerning energy and tourism were held on Tuesday in Antigua between Asot Michael, minister of tourism, economic development, investment and energy and Ambassador Ken Shimanouchi, special envoy for UN affairs and special envoy for JapanCARICOM relations. Michael welcomed Shimanouchi to his ministry and expressed his government’s appreciation for the considerable assistance which the government of Japan has provided to Antigua
and Barbuda over the years. The minister particularly commended the government of Japan for its decision to remove per capita criteria as a condition for concessional financing for small island developing states like Antigua and Barbuda and urged the Japanese government to promote this approach within the major international financial institutions. For his part, Shimanachi highlighted Japan’s ongoing program of assistance to the Caribbean in the field of energy particularly in renewable energy and energy efficiency. (Caribbean News)
Fuel truck catches... From page 7 to feed the blaze. It took them some three to five minutes to switch over from water to foam to control the blaze. Javed Ali, one of the Directors of Two Brothers Gas Station, told the publication that he arrived at the scene last evening after his supervisor called to say that a customer’s truck had caught on fire. He said that he was told that the customer came to purchase two barrels of fuel. The man said that the staffers used fire extinguishers in an attempt to out the blaze. But when this did not work they simply tried to contain the blaze. He praised the fire workers who he said arrived soon enough to take over
from the staff and stop the incident from getting worst. Ali said the damage to the truck and loading area is around $18M. He hopes to open business tomorrow. Kaieteur News understands that the driver of the truck had abandoned the vehicle after it caught ablaze. Some suggested that, “he got scared and ran away.” Yesterday’s event also took its toll on traffic traversing the East Bank. Traffic heading north and south was backed up for more than a mile and moved at snail pace. The eastern half of the thoroughfare in front of the gas station had to be closed off. About an hour later commuters got some relief when that section of the road was reopened.
Thursday April 23, 2015
Kaieteur News
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Kaieteur News
Thursday April 23, 2015
Gonsalves denies involvement in teacher’s arrest over Facebook posts KINGSTOWN, St. Vincent - CMC - Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves yesterday sought to distance himself from the arrest of secondary school teacher Jozette Bibby-Bowen after she posted comments on the social website Facebook. Last week, Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) Colin Williams discontinued two charges of obscene publication against the teacher, whose attorneys say they are now seeking possible compensation following her arrest. Gonsalves suggested that the action of the police were not consistent with the directive of the DPP, saying, there was a communication from the DPP to the police and that communication “would have not been consistent with any arrest at the school and charging”. The 37-year-old teacher was arrested in the staff room of the Bishop’s College in Kingstown on March 2, where she taught information technology, electronic document preparation and management and accounting. Gonsalves, speaking at a press conference said that following the arrest, people “who have an interest not in truth but in hysteria and, in some instances, some persons who make judgment about others persons on the basis of themselves”, had said that the arrest was
Dr. Ralph Gonsalves political. He said most of the commentary “pointed to Ralph”. “I want to tell you, and you can watch me in my eye and you can twist every which way: on this matter I had absolutely no conversation with the police or the Director of Public Prosecution to charge this lady,” Gonsalves said. “I didn’t go through any intermediary for them to represent on my behalf what I thought. Whether I did it directly or went through any intermediary, I would have acted improperly. “I have never in the 14 years plus since I am prime minister, never, spoken to the Commissioner of Police, any Commissioner, none of them
can tell you that I’ve ever called them to speak to them about prosecuting somebody; I have never done it with any Director of Public prosecution. I respect the separation of powers as regards criminal prosecutions,” Gonsalves said. Gonsalves, who is also Minister of National Security and Legal Affairs, said that as Minister of National Security he ensures that “systems and structures are in place with appropriate funding for citizen security and for the protection of people and their reputation, where that may impinge on the criminal and not on the civil,” Gonsalves said.
CCJ sits in Belize for first time BELIZE CITY, Belize — The full bench of the Caribbean Court of Justice is in Belize this week for the first time for itinerant sittings. The sittings are being held in Courtroom 1, Supreme Court of Belize. This is the fourth itinerant sitting of the court, with previous sittings being held
in Barbados in April 2012, Jamaica and Barbados in March 2013, and Guyana in February 2014. The court views these itinerant sittings as important to ensuring that it is accessible to the people of the Caribbean Community, which it serves. During this itinerant
sitting, the court will hear appellate jurisdiction matters from Guyana and Belize, including the case of BZCV2014/002 The Maya Leaders Alliance et al v the Attorney General of Belize. The CCJ was inaugurated on 16 April, 2005 in Trinidad and Tobago, where it is headquartered. Its central role is providing legal certainty to the operations of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME). It is structured to have two jurisdictions – an original and an appellate. In its original jurisdiction it ensures uniform interpretation and application of the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas, thereby underpinning and advancing the CARICOM Single Market and Economy. As the final court of appeal for member states of the Caribbean Community it fosters the development of an indigenous Caribbean jurisprudence. (Caribbean News)
Thursday April 23, 2015
Kaieteur News
Sparta Boss, N/Ruimveldt, West Front... From page 41 draw in the evening’s opener. Dwayne Lowe continued his fine form with a brace for Sophia in the 4th and 12th minutes, while Jermaine Gilbert and Quincy Ashby responded for Durban Street in the 23rd and 30th minutes respectively. California Square and Charlestown battled to a 3-3 stalemate. Dillon Kelly netted a double for California Square in the 8th and 12th minutes, while Nash Moe scored in the 15th minute. For Charlestown, Troy Heyliger (5th), Shane Morris (6th) and Andrew Gibson (25th) were the marksmen respectively. Action in the round of 16 is set to start today at the same venue. In the opening matchup at 20:45hrs, Cross Street square off against Alexander Village and that will be followed by the clash between Ballerz and Queen Street Tiger Bay from 21:30hrs. In the final two games of the night, West Front Road collide with North East La
Penitence from 22:15hrs, while Festival City and Albouystown battle in the feature contest at 23:00hrs. The winning team will take home the championship trophy and $600,000, while the second, third and fourth placed finishers cart off $300,000, $200,000 and $100,000 respectively along with trophies. The Most Valuable player collects $50,000, Most Disciplined team $25,000 and the
respective group winners $25,000. The second, third and fourth placed finishers within the groups will receive $15,000, $10,000 and $5,000 respectively. Apart from the Guyana Beverages Inc, who is the Platinum sponsor, some of the other entities on board are: Lucky Dollar, GT&T, Star Party Rentals, Nigel’s Supermarket, 2Js General Store and Mendonca Creole.
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Sarkar’s maiden century powers BANGLADESH TO 3-0 SWEEP Soumya Sarkar and Mushfiqur Rahim celebrate after scoring the winning runs, Bangladesh v Pakistan, 3rd ODI, Mirpur, April 22, 2015 ©AFP
Half centuries for Sukhu... From page 40 first innings points from Canje Secondary School in their drawn match. CSS 1 st innings 63 with Ravendra Ramnauth 4 for 13 and Avash Seepersaud 2 for 11 and second innings 113 for 9 with Jamal Frank 22 and Isiah Reid 21. Ravindra Ramnauth took 5 for 29 and Tagenarine Shiwmangal 2 for 3. BEI 1st innings 95 all out with Sasenarine Sukhu 61. Abdul Ramsammy 4 for 11 and Zeynil Ramsammy 3 for 21.
At Area H, Lower Corentyne Secondary School took first innings points form Corentyne Comprehensive Secondary School in their drawn encounter. LCSS 1st innings 197 with Veramootoo Senwasie 40, Kevlon Anderson 30 and Junior Sinclair 25. Alex Williams 3 for 30, Haifa Walters 2 for 29 and Surendra Budhoo 2 for 15. Corentyne Comprehensive 1st innings 81 with Karan Rajpaul 5 for 8 and Keith Simpson 3 for 12.
Thursday April 23, 2015 ARIES (MAR. 21APRIL 20) This is a great day for a family outing or just a drive. You can continue to forge ahead if you make a few long distance calls pertinent to closing pending deals. TAURUS (APR. 21MAY 21) Don't gossip. Stubborn about making changes around your home. You must refrain from overspending on entertainment. GEMINI (MAY 22-JUNE 21) You can enjoy your involvement in organizations that make charitable contributions. Your intellectual charm will entice mates who have common interests. CANCER (JUNE 22JULY 22) Do a little extra work at home. Watch your tendency to live for the day and to spend too much on entertainment and children; it could set you back. LEO (JULY 23-AUG 22) Deal with the needs of children. You will learn easily if you put forth an effort. Difficulties with females you live with could cause emotional stress. VIRGO (AUG. 23 -SEPT. 23) Make plans to do the things you enjoy. You will be misinterpreted if you get involved in other people's problems.
LIBRA (SEPT. 24 OCT. 23) Your reputation will be affected. Control your temper by getting immersed in your work. Travel for pleasure will be enticing. SCORPIO (OCT. 24 NOV. 22) You are best to stick to basics. Work on getting ahead by picking up added skills. Focus on your own domestic problems. SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 23 -DEC. 21) Try to get out and socialize. Travel should be on your agenda. You are best to do your research before taking on such a venture. CAPRICORN (DEC 22.- JAN. 20) You may not be as well received in group endeavors if you try to force your will on others. Try to be understanding. AQUARIUS (JAN. 21 FEB. 19) Don't overspend on entertainment, on children, or make poor investments. You will be able to get your own way if you use your intellectual charm and know how. PISCES (FEB. 20MAR. 20) You can make money if you pursue your own business. Take the time to sort out your personal papers and doublecheck your financial investments.
DHAKA (Reuters) Soumya Sarkar ’s maiden century helped Bangladesh secure a 3-0 one-day series sweep against Pakistan after an eight-wicket win in the third and final match yesterday. Chasing 251 for victory at the Shere Bangla National Stadium, the hosts cruised to their target with an unbeaten 127 from Sarkar and a fine 64 from his opening partner Tamim Iqbal. Pakistan captain Azhar Ali (101) also hit a first ODI hundred but his young side imploded to be all out for 250 after losing their last eight wickets for 47 runs. Azhar’s century was the first in ODIs by a Pakistan captain since Shahid Afridi scored 124 in Dambulla in 2010 against the same opponents. The 30-year-old, returning to the ODI fold after two years, added 91 for the first wicket with 19-year-old
Aguilleira... From page 38 regional tournament which is being played on home soil this year. “We have a squad training right now. We are even preparing to have short trip to Barbados to do some preparation. Normally every two years we do an international trip but this year the administration thought that we should stay in the Caribbean knowing that it is in the Caribbean we play the majority of our matches,” said Aguilleira. She continued, “Our preparation has been going pretty well and as the tournament gets closer we tend to get more sessions going. Right now we have our club matches going so the players are involved in competitive cricket.”
debutant Sami Aslam (45) and another 98 for the third with Haris Sohail (52) before being bowled by left-arm spinner Shakib Al Hasan’s arm-ball in the 39th over. In-form Tamim, who scored hundreds in the first two matches, continued his rich vein of form and the opening stand of 145 between the two left-handers put paid to any hopes that Pakistan had of avoiding another defeat. Tamim fell leg before to left-arm paceman Junaid Khan but Sarkar continued to
make hay, hitting 13 fours and six sixes, one of which took him from 95 to his first international ton. Sarkar and former captain Mushfiqur Rahim (49 not out) breezed to the target with an unbroken stand of 97 for the third wicket from 70 balls to complete an emphatic win for the hosts. Scores: Bangladesh 251 for 2 (Sarkar 127*, Tamim 64, Mushfiqur 49*, Junaid 267) beat Pakistan 250 (Azhar 101, Haris 52, Shakib 2-34, Sunny 2-43, Mashrafe 2-44) by eight wickets.
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Kaieteur News
Guyana drawn in Group 2 of Caribbean Zone Olympic Qualifying A hectic next few months anticipated for Head Coach Jamaal Shabazz and company with Guyana drawn in Group 2 of the Caribbean Zone Men’s Olympic Qualifying set for June 24 – 28 in Aruba. Following is the schedule for Group 2 Date Match TeamA June 24 1 Guyana June 24 2 Aruba June 26 3 Antigua & Barbuda June 26 4 Aruba June 28 5 Cuba June 28 6 Aruba
Team B Antigua & Barbuda Cuba Cuba Guyana Guyana Antigua & Barbuda
There will be a pre qualifiers between Dominica and St. Vincent & the Grenadines on May 21 and 24 with the winner of the series advancing to Group 4. Group 1 – Haiti Date Match# Team A Team B June 24 1 Cayman Islands St. Kitts-Nevis June 24 2 Haiti Barbados June 26 3 St. Kitts-Nevis Barbados June 26 4 Haiti Cayman Islands June 28 5 Barbados Cayman Islands June 28 6 Haiti St. Kitts-Nevis Group 3 - St. Lucia Date Match# Team A Team B June 24 1 Dominican Republic Jamaica June 24 2 St. Lucia Curaçao June 26 3 Jamaica Curaçao June 26 4 St. Lucia Dominican Republic June 28 5 Curaçao Dominican Republic June 28 6 St. Lucia Jamaica Group 4 – Puerto Rico Date Match# Team A Team B June 24 1 Suriname Trinidad & Tobago June 24 2 Puerto Rico Dominica / SVG June 26 3 Trinidad & Tobago Dominica / SVG June 26 4 Puerto Rico Suriname June 28 5 Dominica / SVG Suriname June 28 6 Puerto Rico Trinidad & Tobago Final Round TBD Date Match# Team Team B August 14 1 Winner Group 1 Winner Group 4 August 14 2 Winner Group 2 Winner Group 3 August 16 3 Loser Semi-Final 1 Loser Semi-Final 2 August 16 4 Winner Semi-Final 1 Winner Semi-Final 2 Also in June, the senior Men’s team will be taking on St. Vincent & the Grenadines in Round 2 of the CONCACAF World Cup Qualifying competition for Russia 2018, the first game is away to their opponents on June 10, the return game is on Sunday June 14 at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence.
Thursday April 23, 2015
Aguilleira dismayed by underachieving TT Trinidad & Tobago Newsday - Port of Spain, Trinidad - Trinidad and Tobago women’s cricket team captain, Merissa Aguilleira is peeved with the manner in which her team has underachieved at the regional level. She believes that Trinidad and Tobago should be dominating the women’s game in the region due to the quality of players from this country. “I am not pleased because we have a bunch of talented young ladies and we supposed to be first, nothing less. When you put the team on paper it is a perfect team but out there we just cannot get it together,” said Aguilleira. She added, “We need to stop talking cricket and play cricket because most of the time it is a bunch of individuals who are very talented but have to focus and do what we have to do. Most of the time we don’t walk the talk. We have to walk it and just leave everything in God’s hands and I know the girls are willing and capable of fulfilling it.” The West Indies captain revealed that the management and technical staff of the national women’s team have analysed their performances are corrective measures are currently being put in place. “I know there is room for improvement and there are a lot of things we are working on and the coaches and management staff pointed out. So we are taking a different stand because we know that we can be champions, we just really need to believe and not take
anything for granted but just go forth and represent Trinidad and Tobago,” Aguilleira explained. The national women’s team has been training every Friday at the National Cricket Centre in Couva. The team is schedule to go on a short tour to expedite their preparation for the (Continued on page 37)
Merissa Aguilleira
GMR&SC Club Day on Sunday The Guyana Motor Racing & Sports Club (GMR&SC) will be hosting a Club Day this Sunday, at the South Dakota Circuit, starting from 10:0hrs. According to information received, the entity will not be charging fans to come and see some of the top drivers
and Superbikers test their skills against each other in what promises to be a sizzling day of racing. Fans will also get to witness the re-introduction of the Rookies category and word is that many of the competitors listed to perform in this division have promised
the patrons a day of keen rivalry. A source close to the Club told this newspaper that drivers such as Shairaz Roshandin, the Ali brothers of Team Fullworks, Ryan Rahaman, Chet Singh and Rameeze Mohamed of BM Soat are among those confirmed to participate.
>>> Letter to the Sports Editor <<<
A golden opportunity to right local cricket presents itself DEAR MR. EDITOR It is my observation that the Demerara Cricket Board would be holding a meeting to elect its Executive Officials on 30th April, 2015 at GNIC Sports Club Woolford Avenue Georgetown. This will be the first time for the past five years that Demerara Cricket Board would be holding free and fair elections with all its members participating. This activity could well see the final resolution of our cricket woes at a time when our cricket teams have been doing so well in the field. It offers a golden opportunity for the administration to match the on field performances in the boardrooms/offices, and not in the courts, which for some strange reason has been largely responsible for the present chaos in our cricket, with injunction after injunction being granted.
Let us hope and pray that the occasion does not attract another of the many injunctions that have been plaguing the proper organisation of our cricket by a group of individuals who are unrelenting with the number of litigations which are designed to keep our cricket in continuous turbulence for their benefit. It is noteworthy to mention that in 2003, when litigation first raised its ugly head in our cricket administration, Chancellor Carl Singh appointed Justice Aubrey Bishop to mediate and he did so successfully. Why is it so different now? The court system must stop this injunction madness, and allow the people to decide their own fate in the democratic process of free and fair elections. Mike Vanderstoop
Haniff and Bacchus are ‘The President’s 9-Hole Golf League’ leaders Positions at the top 5 or so places continue to change each week as golfers vie to excel in the exciting President’s 9-Hole Golf League at the Lusignan Golf Club. At the end of the 3rd week’s or 3rd day’s play, the table indicates new names in the top 5. At the end of the 4th week’s play there were further changes. Upsets are always possible in such a highly competitive endeavour! To add to the excitement for the remaining 2 weeks’ (2 Thursdays’) play, the Club President David Mohamad has informed that 2 more prizes are to be added at the top so that there will be 4 Best Net prizes and 2 Best Gross prizes. Moreover, for golfers present at the final day’s play,
David Mohamad there will also be some surprise prizes! President Mohamad is pleased at the continued enthusiasm of the golfers able
to participate in the League. Meanwhile, the Golf Course is being maintained at an extremely high standard, with Greens firm and smooth, Fairways well cut, and even the Roughs are more comfortable to play from. President Mohamad was high in praise for the work being done on the grounds through the guidance of Grounds Supervisor Rabindranath ‘Pandit Ravi’ Persaud. The public is invited to view these Thursday 3:30 p.m. League tournaments – like all other tournaments at the Lusignan Golf Course - free of charge. This weekend, Sunday 26th there will also be a Scotiabank sponsored 18hole tournament at the Course.
Thursday April 23, 2015
Kaieteur News
Page 39
GFF TD rolls out Next Generation Project, four year Technical Dev. Plan By Franklin Wilson The holistic development of Guyana’s football is taking shape with the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Technical Director Claude Bolton yesterday unveiling the Next Generation Project which is an all encompassing document. According to the document which was presented in snippet form by Bolton yesterday at the GFF Headquarters in the company of Assistant General Secretary, Diedre Davis, the technical plan forms part of the Next Generation Project which is an initiative that simplifies and articulates clearly the next steps that are necessary for the development of the next generation of player, coach, club, fan, corporate partner, association and federation. Bolton clearly articulated that the endeavor places at the vanguard of Guyana’s football development the areas of grassroots, youth, women, beach, futsal and coaching education. The new TD who took up the challenge to set Guyana’s football on a solid foundation for the future started work at the end of January this year and has since met with all the GFF associations to outline his vision for the sport.
- the player centered approach would be adopted “As a developing nation FIFA has mandated that we start to conduct programmes that put grassroots, women, youth and coaching development at the forefront of everything we do,” Bolton explained. Given the vastness of Guyana, it would be a challenge for the federation to service all the associations individually. To counter this challenge, the Next Generation Project will see the introduction of the GFF District Alignment. District 1 will be known as the North West which will have four associations – Essequibo, Bartica, West Demerara and Georgetown. North East comprises of Upper Demerara, East Bank, East Demerara and Berbice, while the South has one association, Rupununi. The district divisions would be used to deliver and monitor player and coaching development programming. Both districts in the north will host a set of Academy Training Centres (ATC) determined by the number of associations, population, and need within a district. The South District will begin with one ATC with the anticipation of growing that
number as its footballing structure evolves. Women’s football, which would be a high priority, will see the introduction of a Women’s Development League (D-League) that will be a precursor to a full Women’s League within a 2year period. Bolton explained that in order to prepare for this league’s implementation, the identification of potential coaches, managers, male club partners, and existing female groups have already begun. The resuscitation of the GFF Women’s Committee will take place and a precursor to that would see a Women’s Workshop and Conference being held to understand the challenges of attracting women to the sport. The Women’s D-League will allow a humble foray back into international competition with the aim of entering an event, if not qualification for external tournaments in 2016. Youth Development Officers (YDO) will be employed to spearhead the spreading of youth development programmes throughout the country with a view of creating an environment that will nurture responsible and ethical and professional growth.
FAPC, A Division to clash in Commissioner T20 Felix Austin Police College (FAPC) and A Division will battle in the final of Guyana Police Force Commissioner/Anand Persaud Dental Clinic T20 competition from 11:00 hrs on Saturday at the Police Sports Club ground Eve Leary. FAPC overcame Tactical Service Unit (TSU) by eight runs in the lone semi final game played yesterday at the said venue. FAPC batted first and managed 129 all out in 20 overs, while TSU were bowled out for 121 in reply.
An exciting contest is anticipated on Saturday with FAPC boosting the likes of Seon Daniels, Rocky Hutson, Steven Harris and Eon Rodrigues. A Division line-up includes Trevor Benn, Kelvin Leitch, Rawl Browne and Jason Heyliger. The winning team will pocket a trophy and $200,000, the runner up a trophy and $150,000 while most valuable player will take home $25,000. The umpires for the fixture are Gavin D’Guiar and Trevor Whitney.
Bolton also shared that the YDO’s will be mentored as future Golden Jaguars National team Coaches who will be considered for roles with youth national teams. National Yo u t h Academy Training Centres according to the Next Generation Project would be established in selected associations to allow for the YDO’s to deliver the GFF curriculum more consistently, to a greater n u m b e r o f players throughout the year and country. The GFF, Bolton said, would be able to finance
the YDO right now but the hope is that over time, Corporate Guyana can step up and fill that role. If for some reason sponsors do not fulfill their role, the federation will run shorter programmes to suit. National Youth Leagues at the Under-15, 16 and 17 levels would also be organised and rolled out within the next 12 months. All the promoters and organisers of youth football including Digicel, Petra, GSDF and Scotiabank have been approached with a view of having a more structured approach. Bolton stated that the
Under-12 age group will be the most important for the national federation. Grassroots programmes would be done for between 8 - 10 weeks twice yearly and not the one-day programmes that have been the norm in the past. Recognizing that Coaching development directly influences players development, the GFF will create, formally, a National Coaching License structure that can support and sustain a minimum coaching level. The coaching License Pathway will see the A, B, C, D, School’s Certificate and Elite League Module.
Police Youth Group to host Appreciation Day of Sports at Leopold Street Saturday Under the theme: ‘We love the Community’, Guyana’s Police Force and members of the Central Georgetown community will be holding an Appreciation Day of Sports on Saturday between Leopold and Breda Streets beginning at 11am. Facilitator of the Central Georgetown Police Youth Group, Colin Haynes with supervision from Deputy Superintendent of Guyana Police Force, Anthony Vanderhyden will be coordinating the event that is expected to conclude at midnight Saturday. The events are being held
under the auspices of The Commander of ‘A’ Division, Clifton Hicken to “further strengthen the bond being created between the Guyana Police Force, and members of the community, especially the Central Georgetown area”. “This venture will see community members traversing Leopold Street with activities to engage them from Breda to George Streets,” a release from the Youth Group continued. A football match between Upper and Lower Leopold Street for the Commander’s Trophy slated to commence at 6pm is among the activities
on the day. The winning team pockets the first prize of $20,000 and trophy compliments of Assistant Commissioner, Hicken. In addition, there will be a basketball game between Sophia and Leopold Street scheduled for 5pm as well as several road races for the children of the community slated for earlier in the day. Gold Rock, Afrykan Vibes and Super Cat One-man Band will be providing the entertainment for the day’s activities. Banks DIH Limited and Nigel’s Supermarket are among the sponsors.
Soesdyke Primary capture MCYS/NSC Windball title
Trevor Benn
Everest Masters overcome East Bank Select XI in T20 fixture Hosts Everest Masters overcame East Bank Select XI by 23 runs in a T20 fixture played on Sunday last. Sahadeo Hardaiow stroked 53 aided with five fours and one six and got support from Shaheed Khan 26 (2x4,2x6), Anwar Rahaman 20 and Hemraj Garbarran 17 as Everest Masters posted 139-4 in 20 overs, batting first.
O. Sandy took two wickets. East Bank Select XI responded with 116-9 in 20 overs. Rakesh Singh slammed 30 (3x4) while Sandy made 13. Ravindra Seeram, Shaheed Mohamed and Rakesh Gangaram claimed two wickets each for the winners. Hardaiow grabbed the man of the match award.
Members of the winning Soesdyke Primary School team.
Sahadeo Hardaiow
Soesdyke Primary won the male division of Upper East Bank leg, Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport/National Sports Commission/ Al Sport and tour promotion Windball competition played last weekend at the
Timehri Red Ground. Soesdyke batted first and made 68-4, Neon Barrow 47 scored not out (5x6). Supply replied with to 63-2 with Brad Thomas scoring 21 and Mohan Fraser 19.
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Kaieteur News
Thursday April 23, 2015
Cook, Trott put seal on improved display ESPNcricinfo - Alastair Cook and Jonathan Trott put on England’s highest opening stand since Perth in December 2013 as they strove to provide a sound platform in response to West Indies’ 299. The second Test has stuttered along, again losing significant time to rain, but the surer footwork of their two openers allowed England to end the second day with an eye on the sort of promontory from which they can dictate the rest of the game. Both were happy to leave the ball, intent on not departing into the sunset, and Trott in particular looked more composed at the crease, his head more still, as he whipped the ball off his pads in trademark style. Not having to face Jerome Taylor would certainly have helped, although the ball did not
swing much for West Indies on a clear evening. A Trott nudge to fine leg brought the pair their first 50 stand together. Devendra Bishoo, whose cameo with the bat added to England’s earlier frustrations during a last-wicket stand of 52, caused Cook a couple of moments worry with the ball as well. One delivery was squeezed past slip off the outside edge, although it was possibly a bump ball, while Cook was also dropped at short leg by Jermaine Blackwood. It was a tough chance, straight off the face of the bat and at ankle height, which hit Blackwood’s right hand and rebounded out. When he had made 17, Cook went past Alec Stewart on England’s Test runscorers’ list, with only his mentor, Graham Gooch, above him. The only figure that will
matter to him when the innings resumes is three figures, a mark he has not reached for almost two years. There was no sense that Cook has turned his mind to batting when his bowlers were held up during the afternoon session. England had, by general consensus, failed to make full use of winning the toss and inserting West Indies but, led by Stuart Broad, they were more clinical with the second new ball on Wednesday. Broad finished with 4 for 61 and was appreciably quicker but England then came across a familiar foe: No. 11. After Marlon Samuels’ obduracy was rewarded with a seventh Test hundred he was one of four West Indies wickets to fall in 10 overs. But Bishoo and Shannon Gabriel provided further needle in taking their side to a
2015 A Ally and Sons Inter Secondary Schools U-17 Berbice cricket...
Half centuries for Sukhu and Chowramootoo highlight latest action
Alvin Jonathan Chowramootoo
Sasenarine Sukhu
The 2015 A Ally and Sons Inter Secondary School Under-17 Cricket Competition for schools in Berbice continued recently with Rosignol Secondary School registering their second consecutive outright win. Spearheading them to their recent victory over Woodley Park Secondary School was firstly Alvin Chowramootoo who scored 50 not out to spearhead them to 213 for 9 declared in their first innings. Then with off spinner Geetesh Roopnarine taking 5 for 1 from 2 overs and left arm Suruj Bissondial 3 for 6 from 2 overs, Woodley Park were then bowled out for 40 in their first innings. Following on, they were skittled out for an embarrassing 22 with off spinner Hemchan Singh with 6 for 8 from 3.5 overs and Roopnarine with 2 for 14 doing
the damage. Berbice Educational Institute did well to bowl out Canje Secondary School for 63 in their first innings with off spinner Ravindra Ramnauth taking 4 for 13. Then in their response, led by 61 from their Berbice Under-17 batsman Sasenarine Sukhu, BEI made 95 all out. Canje Secondary in their second turn at the crease, were 113 for 9 at the close to earn a draw. Ramnauth took 5 for 29 to end with match figures of 9 for 42. After Lower Corentyne Secondary School chalked up 197 all out in their first innings, against Corentyne Comprehensive Secondary School, their off spinner Karan Arjpaul took 5 for 8 from 4 overs and Berbice Under15 left arm spinner Keith Simpson 3 for 12 to restrict Comprehensive to 81 all out in their first innings.
SUMMARIZED SCORES: At Blairmont, Rosignol Secondary School beat Woodley Park Secondary by an innings and 146 runs. Rosignol Secondary 1st 213 for 9 declared with Alvin Chowramootoo 50 n.o and Seeraj Bissoondial 29. Hanskumar Jodhan took 4 for 80 and Nandanie Arnold 4 for 65. Woodley Park Secondary 45 all out in their first innings with Geetesh Roopnarine 5 for 1 and Suraj Bissoondial 3 for 16. In their second turn at the crease, they made 22 with Hemchan Singh 6 for 8 and Geetesh Roopnarine 2 for 14. At Cumberland, Berbice Educational Institute took (Continued on page 37)
Devendra Bishoo had a good day with the bat and also troubled England batsmen with the ball. (AFP file photo)
respectable total, considering the conditions in which they had been asked to bat. Both set Test bests during a merry hit before Moeen Ali eventually removed Bishoo, lbw despite a review. Play began late for the second day running, with Grenada’s National Stadium cloaked by low cloud and regular bursts of rain. Samuels, having counterattacked late on the first day, was 94 not out overnight and England would have wanted to make him wait even longer before reaching the milestone - the persistent showers aided their cause. It was around 2pm local time, more than four hours after the scheduled start, when Samuels finally got there. During a 45-minute morning session, Samuels soaked up 24 balls for the addition of three runs, purposefully retrenching his position. He added 11 balls and a single to his tally during a brief, two-over window of play before another rain break, then when the players returned his patience finally
ran out and he reached to steer James Anderson over gully via a top edge. Like nearby Mount Saint Catherine - or perhaps Kick ‘Em Jenny, off Grenada’s coast - the seemingly dormant volcano now erupted. Samuels threw a wild, unsuccessful drive at Anderson’s next delivery and followed that with a flatfooted swipe to send the ball to slip, where Ian Bell held on. Anderson’s celebration was a touch volcanic, too, (Lick ‘Em Jimmy, perhaps?) and he had to be told to calm down by umpire Bruce Oxenford in the wake of Samuels’ depature. England seem to rub Samuels up the right way, even as they attempt the opposite. He averages 62.88 against them, compared to an overall Test mark of 36.27, and does not mind chatting about it. Ben Stokes’ attempts to sledge him on Tuesday prompted an inimitable response afterwards: “if Marlon Samuels is 150 and Ben Stokes is with the ball in hand tomorrow, it will be very
interesting.” Sadly we did not get to test the hypothesis. Samuels fell to the 18th delivery with the new ball and, with his resistance broken, West Indies collapsed in the manner some had expected them to do on Tuesday. Broad’s pace was up above 90mph as he had Denesh Ramdin caught behind and then removed Jason Holder and Kemar Roach in a familiar burst that saw West Indies go from 223 for 5 to 247 for 9. Holder, who scored his maiden hundred in Antigua last week, looked in good touch as he stroked four down the ground and pulled both Anderson and Broad for flat sixes. England thought they had him when he mistimed a pull to Moeen running in from deep midwicket, only for the TV umpire to rule it had not carried, but Broad picked him up later in the same over with another legcutter, like the one to dismiss Samuels in the first Test. The morning session was due to start early but rain arrived to cause an hour’s delay. When the teams did take the field, Stokes was called upon, perhaps to try and inflame Samuels. England attempted a speculative review against Ramdin from the first ball of the day, as he swished at a short Stokes delivery down the leg side - Jos Buttler immediately threw the ball up in celebration but even without the added clarity of Hot Spot, replays suggested it was some way from making contact with the glove. The players were soon off the field again but the hokeycokey really began with the second new ball. St George’s has proved conducive to swing but Cook and Trott will be hopeful that there is less in, out, shake it all about from here on.
Edward Screw Richmond Mem. Inter Sec. F’ball
Mackenzie, Linden Foundation and New Silvercity win; matches continue today Linden Foundation held defending champs Christianburg/Wismar to a draw on Tuesday when play in the 7th annual ‘Screw’ Richmond tournament continued at the Wisburg School ground. The boys from Amelia’s Ward stuck to their game plan and put together an excellent defensive performance to see off the challenge of the defending champs. In the second encounter, Mackenzie High managed to pull off a win against a ten-man but very
game Marcia Craig’s Educational Institute. Scoring the winning goal for Mackenzie High was Shaquille Campbell in the 52nd minute. In results from day two,
Linden Foundation and New Silvercity were 1-0 winners over Harmony and Marcia Craig Educational Institute respectively. Mark Benjamin netted in the 63rd minute for Linden
Foundation, while an own goal made the difference for New Silver City, coming off the boot of Jalek Kitt in the 51st minute. New Silver City’s Brian Johnson was red carded in the 67th minute. Matches are set to continue today at the same venue with two more matches from 14:45hrs. Linden Technical Institute and Harmony will face off in the opening game with the main attraction between last year’s runner-up New Silvercity and Wisburg.
Thursday April 23, 2015
Kaieteur News
Page 41
Enmore capture Nauth Motor Spares 50-over title at 85-7. Lusignan lower order threatened before they were sent packing for 127. Moriah claimed 3-54 from 10 overs, while Khan, Chandraban Seemangal and Christopher Surat had two each. Enmore CC received a trophy and $200,000, Lusignan took home a trophy and $100,000 and Moriah was given the man of
Members of the victorious Enmore team.
H
osts Enmore Community Centre Cricket Club defeated Lusignan CC by six runs to win the final of the Nauth Motor Spares 50over tournament played recently. Witnessed by a sizeable and vocal crowd, Enmore CC opening pair of
Toucan Industries Ltd Junior Squash tournament 2015 underway The Guyana Squash Association in collaboration with its number one corporate sponsor Digicel will run off the annual Toucan Industries Ltd Junior Squash Tournament at the Georgetown Club Inc. squash courts. The tournament commenced yesterday and will conclude on Sunday April 26. Most of the country’s top junior players will be participating in this tournament as it’s the Association’s first junior tournament for 2015. Forty one players have entered the tournament and have been divided into eight categories with players of equal skill levels in each of the categories. Players will use this tournament as a warm up for the Junior National Championships which will be held in May.
Vishwanauth Ramlakan and Bheemraj Ramkhelawan added 50 in 10 overs to give their team a decent start. The dismissal of Ramkelawan for 17 and Ramlakan for 24 triggered a collapse as Enmore lost six wickets for 19 runs on a pitch which rendered assistance to the spinners. Adrian Persaud hit 26 down the order as Enmore were bowled out for 133 in 39 overs. F. Kadir took 5- 32 from 10 overs and Narvan Singh
had 3-27 from seven overs. Left arm pacer Gavin Moriah, bowling at reduced pace due to a foot injury, dismissed Brian Sattaur and Vishnu Ramjeet in his first two overs, whilst off spinner Christopher Surat accounted for S. Alli, leaving Lusignan CC at 49 for 3 in reply. Leg spinner Amir Khan then picked up two quick wickets before Moriah sent back the inform Somdat Bharat for 45 as the visitors found themselves in trouble
the match award. Bharrat pocketed the best batsman of the final and most valuable player (333 runs) accolades, while F. Kadir was given the best bowler prize. President of the Guyana Cricket Board Drubahadur commended Surendra Nauth for sponsoring the tournament amid legal threats from persons within
the East Coast cricket fraternity. He lauded the East Coast Cricket Committee for a well organized tournament in which twelve teams competed and congratulated the winning team. Nauth promised to increase his sponsorship for the next tournament in which eighteen teams are expected to take part.
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Kaieteur News
Thursday April 23, 2015
Smythfield Rockers down New Amsterdam Warriors
Guyana Football:
Nicky Maynard would relish national call-up Nicky Maynard
Action in the game between Smythfield Rockers and New Amsterdam Warriors. Cardiff City striker Nicky Maynard would consider accepting a call up to the Guyana national football team should the country seriously put forward an offer. The former West Ham United player believes the move would be a great opportunity to expand his career. “It is an opportunity I would seriously consider and accept if I am approached to do so. Playing international football is a huge privilege, and it would be an honour to be involved in the World Cup Qualifiers,” Maynard said. Guyana will be playing St. Vincent and the Grenadines in Round 2 action of the 2018 World Cup qualifiers in June, in and a home and away series. “Once the paperwork is filled and I get a passport sorted out then that would be a day to rejoice and to represent Guyana. Let us see how things progress. I still have a few games left with Cardiff City, so in May I will think about it.” (Digicelsportsmax)
S
mythfield Rockers took some time to steady themselves before making a gallant comeback to record a come from behind victory over arch rivals New Amsterdam Warriors 36-29 as play continued in the NPG packaging first division basketball competition for teams in Berbice. New Amsterdam were off to a fast start as they led 16-6 by the end of the first quarter. In the second
quarter, the Warriors were showing signs of wear as Smythfield Rockers began staging a fight back to end the first half just two points behind, 20-18. The third quarter was even as the two teams traded baskets to end things at 28 apiece. The fourth segment saw the battle weary Warriors being blown away as the Rockers poured in 12 points to their opponent’s one to complete the demolition 36-29.
To p s c o r i n g f o r Smythfield Rockers were Shemroy McKenzie with 10 and Tyrone Dey 8. For the Warriors, Theophilus Bess had 7. The competition continues on Sunday with Canje Knights playing their first game against Rose Hall
Jammers at the Rose Hall Town Basketball Court, Area ‘H’ Corentyne. Seven teams are contesting the Vibert Garrett organised competition. The top two clubs from the two groups will move on to the semifinals, the two winners will contest the final in June at the Port Mourant Basketball Court. The participating teams in Group A are Rose Hall Jammers of Corentyne, Hope Town Stealers of West Berbice and Canje Knights of East Canje. Group B is made up of New Amsterdam Warriors and Smythfield Rockers of New Amsterdam, Fyrish Black Sharks of Corentyne and Ithaca Hardliners of West Berbice. (Samuel Whyte)
Thursday April 23, 2015
Kaieteur News
Busta Soft Shoe Football Competition
Sparta Boss, N/Ruimveldt, West Front Road among teams into Round of 16 - Action resumes tonight
S
parta Boss, A l e x a n d e r Vi l l a g e , We s t Front Road, Queen Street Tiger Bay, North East La Penitence, Broad Street, Cross Street, West Back Road, Albouystown, Bent Street, Ballers, Sophia, North Ruimveldt, Globe Yard, Festival City and Kitty Weavers became the teams advancing to the round of sixteen stage of the Busta Soft Shoe Football Competition which continued on Tuesday evening, at the GFC ground. Among the teams exiting the tournament were Back Circle and Holmes Street who suffered defeats against their opponents North Ruimveldt and North East La Penitence respectively. With just a draw needed to secure a last 16 berth Back Circle succumbed to North Ruimveldt by a 2-1 margin to make a disappointing departure, while Holmes Street dogged fight in their clash against North East La Penitence ended in an emotional 3-2 loss. In the Back Circle versus North Ruimveldt matchup, the former fell behind in the 10th minute when Nickosie Barker blasted his effort into the roof of the goal from the right side. However, Devon Harris gained the equaliser in the 18th minute after receiving a pass from just about the halfway line, before placing his shot to the left of the goalkeeper. Two minutes before full time, the experienced Gerald Grittens delivered a piercing shot that eluded at least three players, before landing into the right side of the goal which gave them the lead, an advantage that they held until the final whistle sounded. The highly anticipated clash between tournament favourites Sparta Boss and Alexander Village for the top spot in group-B lived up to expectations as they two teams battled end to end, before the former prevailed 3-2. Sheldon Holder got things started for Sparta Boss when his cracking
right-footer produced a weak save from the keeper, before trickling over the goalline in the 9th minute. Leon Yaw, who has seen little action so far in the competition, then announced his presence in the 16th minute, firing into the left side of the goal to signal that a battle was really on. Shepherd then reclaimed the lead for his side when he pierced the keeper from close range for a 2-1 scoreline five minutes later. The prolific Denis Edwards, who netted a brace in their previous encounter, gave them a two-goal cushion after rifling home from just inside the penalty area one minute later. The deficit was cut to one through a 24th minute strike from Shem Porter as the Vi l l a g e a t t a c k e d w i t h menace, but the final whistle gave Sparta Boss the right to the top spot in the Group. West Front Road-Gold is Money and Queen Street Tiger Bay brawled to a 1-1 draw. Hubert Pedro was the player on target for West Front Road after fourteen minutes, scoring what many observers believe rank as one of the best goals of the tournament. Collecting the ball just inside his own area, Pedro weaved past two tackles, before belting a screamer past the hapless keeper. It was a strike of pure class. Queen Street’s response would come through their mercurial striker Deon Alfred whose stinging effort produced a feeble save from the goalkeeper, before bubbling over the line in the 19th minute. In the other results, North East La Penitence beat Holmes Street Tigerbay 3-2. Shaquille Brown recorded a double in the 1st and 12th minutes, while Omari Wilson’s 19th minute strike completed their tally. Jahaal Greaves and Joel Bond in the 10th and 23rd minutes respectively responded for Holmes Street. Earlier, Sophia and Durban Street played to a 2-2 (Continued on page 37)
Part of the action on Tuesday night in the Busta Soft Shoe Football Competition.
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Cook, Trott put seal on improved display James Anderson had a little send-off for Marlon Samuels after he top scored for the West Indies v England. (©AFP)
Police Youth Group to host GFF TD rolls out Next Appreciation Day of Sports Generation Project, four at Leopold Street Saturday year Technical Dev. Plan - the player centered approach would be adopted
Commander of ‘A’ DIVISION, Clifton Hicken (left) hands over some of the prizes for the Appreciation Day of Sports yesterday to Quincy Lawrence while Facilitator of the Central Georgetown Police Youth Group, Colin Haynes look on.
GFF TD Claude Bolton makes a point in the company of Assistant GS Diedre Davis.
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