Kaieteur News
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Sunday August 12, 2018
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 Time is running out to prevent civil war in Venezuela (Republished from The Washington Post)
F
or years, Venezuela’s democrats have struggled to salvage their country through peaceful means.The South American nation’s social and economic crisis is so profound, and its dictatorship so stubborn, however, that it would have been a miracle if at least a faction of the opposition did not resort to violence. he South American nation’s social and economic crisis is so profound, and its dictatorship so stubborn, however, that it would have been a miracle if at least a faction of the opposition did not resort to violence. That may be the reason for the bizarre detonation of explosives aboard two drones flying near President Nicolás Maduro as he addressed a military assembly in Caracas last week or it may not. Whatever the truth behind the apparent assassination attempt, in which seven people were injured, the relevant — and disturbing — consequence has been to give Mr. Maduro a pretext to clamp down on Venezuela’s already besieged opposition. Responsible for dozens of deaths in a violent crackdown last year, the Maduro regime has unleashed its secret police again in the days since the explosions. Tuesday night, masked men presumed to be government secret police agents seized 29-year-old Juan Requesens, a leading regime opponent who sits in Venezuela’s nearparalyzed national legislature. Also, the government has issued an arrest warrant for Julio Borges, the former president of the National Assembly, who lives in Bogota, Colombia. In an especially clumsy attempt to divert attention from its own failings, Mr. Maduro pointed a finger of blame at the outgoing Colombian president Juan Manuel Santos, and the Maduro regime asserted that purported assassins were trained in that neighboring nation as well. He leavened these accusations with similar ones against his “ultra-right” opponents in Miami. Having secured another term in a farcical election on May 20, Mr. Maduro was desperately trying to address his country’s predicted 1 million percent inflation rate, and other symptoms of the economic catastrophe brought about by his own policies and those of his socialist predecessor, Hugo Chávez. “The moment of economic recovery has arrived” were the president’s words before the drone exploded overhead, interrupting his speech. Actually, it is far too late for Mr. Maduro to repair the damage his regime has inflicted, as the continuing exodus of destitute Venezuelans demonstrates. Some 500 Venezuelans cross the border with Brazil in a remote section of the Amazon rain forest every day; the situation in the Brazilian state of Roraima has grown so chaotic and unsafe that a judge recently ordered a suspension of border crossings until adequate humanitarian assistance can be organized.The Maduro regime’s priority is not its people’s well-being but its own survival. Attorney General Tarek William Saab has declared that the government now considers itself “in the midst of a wave of civil war.” This has the ring of self-fulfilling prophecy. And time is growing short to prevent it from coming true. The Trump administration continues to condemn the Maduro regime’s excesses and maintain financial sanctions against it, but there are limits, rooted in history, to how much any U.S. administration can or should intervene. What hope there is for Venezuela rests with the domestic opposition, which must continue its steadfast resistance through nonviolent means, and with Venezuela’s Latin American neighbors, who must accommodate those fleeing the regime, and find new, more effective, ways to put pressure on it.
Editor’s Note; If your sent letter was not published and you felt its contents were valid and devoid of libel or personal attacks, please contact us by phone or email.
Finance Minister should reassess his thinking on the distribution of Oil wealth revenue surplus DEAR EDITOR, I believe the Honourable Finance Minister may want to reassess his thinking on the distribution of oil wealth revenue surpluses. It’s obvious that a percentage has to be invested for future needs, a good percentage has to go towards social programmes, community development, skills training, capital expenditure such as better access roads to remote communities and yes direct payments to the sovereigns (the People of Guyana) who collectively own the oil as well as all natural resources. It is total ignorance from an astute economist to say to the people, no direct payments! When there are a multifaceted approaches available. No one in this country expects total hand over of all royalties and profits to be distributed to this generation alone. However, this generation who have been living under
the Hoyte’s IMF induced Economic Recovery Programme for decades needs immediate economic relief. If as a stimulus, 3% of surpluses from oil profits goes directly to the people that should not damage our economy. It’s the people who know where their house is leaking and they themselves can fix it. After all no direct payments were made from our Gold boom, except a political gimmick of $10,000 school voucher pre 2015 Elections and an indirect inequitable benefit to some seniors, through utility subsidies. These subsidies have now been replaced with increased old age pension rates to all seniors, a pension that is further subsidized by remittances from the diaspora. What about those who are not so fortunate to receive such a subsidy? What about those who cannot afford the cost of land
or those that can afford cost of land and cannot afford the cost to build? What about the low wage earners who are unprotected from unscrupulous business owners who do not pay a living wage? What about those who are forced to squat because they can’t afford to pay exorbitant rents, What about the nurses who receive GYD$70,000. and has to choose between rent and food on the table. What about a single parent with 3 or four children huddled in one room with a wage of GYD$50.000. What about the Police or public servant who gets a ‘subsidy’ from the man in the street because he can’t afford the lifestyle of his pre- Independence peers, These are the people you are telling, “I will teach you to fish”. Pensioners are the ones who were the pioneers of sacrifice are being told the nonsense “give a man a fish and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish and you
feed him for a lifetime” While this is a noble proverb it cannot be used in the context of the diversity of our current needs. It’s not an analogy this generation, who continue to live below a living wage, wants to hear. We have not been liberated from the ERP. We have not seen the translation of the sacrifices in our bank balances. We have made the sacrifices of low wages, low standards of living, low infrastructure maintenance, low funding for education, low Security expenditure, rape of treasury, and poor investment decisions by our representatives. We should never accept governments paternalistic approach to our finances. If a percentage of surpluses are directly distributed to people, people may be able to start business, do needed repairs, purchase farm equipment, invest in equipment for value added (Continued on page 7)
Sunday August 12, 2018
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REGISTER SEX OFFENDERS AND ENACT A ‘THREE-STRIKES’ LAW DEAR EDITOR, For more than two decades, I have written letters to the media and spoken on national television about the urgent need to register sex offenders and post signs outside the homes of criminals released after serving jail time for sex crimes against adults and minors. During that time, I have also advocated tirelessly for the enactment of a ‘threestrikes’ law to impose automatic sentences of life imprisonment on the third conviction for serious crimes by persistent offenders. The issue of a registry of sex offenders is a hot issue again because a poll conducted in June and July by The Caribbean Voice found that Guyanese overwhelmingly support the establishment of such a registry. I am not at all surprised because it makes good sense. I commend the Caribbean Voice for conducting the poll and also for initiating a petition for the Government of Guyana to do whatever is necessary to establish a national sex offender’s registry. I hope this petition will get so much support that Government will be forced to respond quickly and positively. There is no doubt in my mind that this should also be a Regional movement. That is why I support the move by the Caribbean Committee Against Sex Crimes (CCASC) to start a petition in St. Lucia as a pilot project to press for a sex offender registry for the entire Caribbean. In fact, I strongly advise President David Granger to follow the example of Grenada’s Prime Minister Dr. Keith Mitchell who announced last December that his government will enact legislation to register convicted sex offenders and establish a
special victim unit. Acts of rape and violent abuse are committed daily against women and girls. Many perpetrators are roaming free because their crimes are not reported, but even those who are prosecuted simply serve their jail time and slip back quietly into society to do it all over again. Many developed countries, including Canada, the USA and New Zealand register sex offenders, so why not us? America even has Megan’s Law, which forces convicted sex offenders against children to notify local police of any change of address or employment after release from custody. This notification requirement is imposed for at least ten years, or permanently. Registered convicted paedophiles in the USA also have notices identifying them as Child Sex Offenders posted outside their homes, and their passports are stamped with a special marker to alert people when they travel. I believe Guyana should set the standard in the Caribbean for dealing with sex criminals. They should be jailed for long periods of hard labour and, two months before their release, the public must be informed of their upcoming release so citizens can be prepared when these perverts are unleashed. The names, photographs and personal data of sex offenders should be published in all media and on all com-
munity bulletin boards as a social service. The police also need to use social media to oust sex criminals by creating a website or Facebook page identifying wanted or convicted offenders. I believe that Guyana should also follow the lead of the USA’s Megan’s Law and enact laws to put a special stamp on each page of the passport of every convicted sex criminal so that wherever they travel in the world, people will be warned. I know ‘bleeding hearts’ will squirm at my suggestions, but powerful action is absolutely necessary . These offenders have serious problems; some are messed up in the head. But many are not insane, they are just rotten to the core and sexual depravity is innate in their sub-human nature. The bleeding heart brigade might say these perverts are all sick. If they are sick, then put them away for a long time. In many cases, little can be done for them other than castration. This is why the holy books have spoken about castration or death sentences for sexual offences.We have to be careful not to allow foreign sex criminals to slip into Guyana secretly to do their dirty deeds. I remember the case of the ‘Pied Piper of Pedophiles’ Jack Sporich, a Californian convicted of sex crimes in the USA who was released and went to live in Cambodia to molest more children.
I know that Interpol sends out ‘green notices’ about registered sex offenders and the US Department of Justice will partner with any nation to share sex offender data, provided there are laws in place to allow this. Guyana has to take full advantage of such opportunities. In addition to enacting stricter laws against sex offenders, Guyana also needs a ‘three-strikes’ to weed out repeated offenders of all serious crimes. I strongly believe that persons who commit serious of-
fences three times, especially violent crimes, are unredeemable and cannot be rehabilitated.The only remedy for hard-core repeat offenders is to imprison them for life with hard labour. That way, they will earn their keep and contribute towards society or their victims for life as partial compensation for the extreme suffering their lawlessness has caused. I want to point out that while announcing plans to establish a sex offender’s registry in Grenada, Prime Minister Mitchell said, “We have
also heard the overwhelming cries of our people and we are, therefore, pushing to enact the necessary legislative changes...” This statement tells me that patriots like me who are fighting for a lawful, peaceful and united Guyana have to raise our voices and create a massive outcry to get the necessary changes to cut crime in Guyana. Only the ‘overwhelming cries of the people’ will spur our leaders into action. Sincerely, Roshan Khan Snr.
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SOMETHING MUST GIVE; TEACHERS CANNOT LIVE ON HOT AIR
THE COALITION IS FAILING GUYANA’S WORKERS
DEAR EDITOR, Ms. Corretta McDonald, the General Secretary of the Guyana Teacher’s Union in November 2015, updated the nation to the fact that the agreement arrived at with the PPP Government will be coming to an end in December 2015 and there is a need for a new agreement with the PNC led Granger Government. Since then she and the GTU leadership have failed to secure a new agreement from the Granger administration. There is a perception that the leadership of the GTU is dominated by PNC supporters and followers. By extension, this translates to the school of thought that these negotiations since November 2015 between the leadership of the GTU and this PNC led Granger Government amounts to the PNC led Government negotiating with itself. Is this why after three years, the GTU leadership has failed to secure a collective bargain agreement and resolve the de-bunching issue? The last time the GTU did any serious industrial action in defence of the teachers’ cause was in April 2015 under the previous PPP Government and I welcome their belated call for industrial action in the pre-September 2018 school term; something must give - teachers cannot live on hot air. Not once over the last three years under this PNC led Government, has the GTU leveraged industrial action as a tool to take the teachers any
closer to the “good life” although it has been treated much worse in the three years after May 2015 compared to the three years before May 2015. When one reflects on the actions of the GTU leadership today it exposes how these actions have played a major role in the destruction of the economic well-being of the teachers, just like they did in the late 1970’s when the then Burnham Government stifled the voice of the teachers too. Since April 6, 2018, the Cabinet of Guyana was given the report from the High-Level Task Force that was set up by the Government to charter a course on the teachers’ wages and benefits issues. It is has been four months and President Granger continues to give lip service to the burning issues affecting the teachers. Yet this same President and his Government can easily find G$1 billion and more to travel around the world on mostly international jaunts. That same billion can increase every teacher’s salary by G$7,900 per month. Guyana’s future is intertwined with the quality of our teaching profession. Is the leadership of the GTU under some sort of political injunction to serve the PNC more than it should serve the teachers of Guyana? The time is now for the GTU to act and the call for industrial actions from the
ordinary teachers must be supported as the September term approaches. It is time for the GTU leadership to decide who is more important, those 12 or so political masters at Congress Place or the 9,000 teachers in the official system. Ms. Corretta McDonald must act! Yours sincerely Sasenarine Singh
DEAR EDITOR, The Finance Minister was reported to have announced that the economy grew by 4.5 percent in the first half of 2018. The Bureau of Statistics has long been suspected of being a part of Guyana’s productive sector, given its penchant for manufacturing data in the past.
Minister of Culture, Director of Art still to meet with Guyana United Artists DEAR EDITOR Almost two weeks have passed since the Guyana United Artists (G.U.A) presented directly by hand a letter to the Ministry of Social Cohesion, Culture, Youth and Sport, for Dr. George Norton and the Director of Art. G.U.A Executives visited the Ministry three times last week and have not been successful in meeting with either the Minister or the Director of Art. We requested in our letter the Ministry’s support to send one representative of the G.U.A who would be the recipient of the Guyana Cultural Association Brooklyn, 2018 Award, to deliver our goodwill message and to use the occasion to procure markets for our Art Works. We have since made contact with Galleries in Brooklyn and the state of Oregon. Ours is a goodwill mission to promote internationally via the Visual Arts, Peace, Love, Unity. In order to raise awareness of our activity, we are going to display selected paintings and sculptures in front of popular locations to raise funds for the trip. Therefore, if you see us in the streets support our artwork and let’s contribute to making Guyana and the world a better place. Our organization the Guyana United Artists (G.U.A) has spent 22 years on the front-line defusing an unhealthy political climate in the aftermath of each General Elections since 1997, Exhibitions titled “Conflict Resolution”, “In the Line of Duty” , “Unity In Diversity”, “Continental Destiny”, were all held at the National Gallery Castellani House in a tension filled atmosphere. Yours faithfully Desmond Alli
The good minister is encouraged to ask the Bureau to release the data used to compi l e t h e h a l f y e a r growth statistic, showing clearly the real and estimated components of this figure. This aside, GDP statistics are notoriously misrepresentative of improvements in the welfare of citizens. Guyanese are still a s k i n g , “ W h e r e ’s t h e money?” The Finance Minister apparently did not disclose during his half-year recap that Government’s overd r a f t a t t h e B an k o f Guyana increased by G$28 billion to G$54 billion during the review period as the Coalition administration has apparently turned that institution into its personal piggy bank. This figure increased to $60 billion as at July 25, 2018. He also neglected to mention that the hard money that his government is pumping into the economy to assist with building pyramids (projects which do not increase our productive base) has contributed to higher prices for some major construction materials. Or that our international reserves declined by in excess of US$100 million, implying that in excess of G$20 billion have been through trade or capital flight as a result of the growing loss of confidence by the private sector of the direction in which coalition
administration was taking the economy. Are workers in both the public and private sectors benefitting from increased incomes? The Ministry of Education was reportedly offering teachers $700 million on what supposed to have cost $10 billion in salary increases. When are workers’ salaries going to finally be adjusted to reflect a living wage? Guyana’s workers know that the coalition administration has the capacity and ability to pay their due salaries. It is however, their deliberate policy not to pay these salary increases because they have other priorities than responding to worker’s pressing welfare needs. The Coalition administration is using the money that they are supposed to pay workers to build the pyramids referred to earlier so they can tell the nation about development while Granger stands and tells people to invest in bicycles, boats and buses. T h e m a n i s c l early not aware the he and his administration are now responsible for the lack of jobs and underemployment that is resulting in the idle activity that prevails across the country, not to mention the private sector’s loss of confidence. Yours faithfully, Craig Sylvester.
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Finance Minister should reassess...
Who has done more for national cohesion than the Warriors?
From page 4 products, pay for an education negated by the ERP, Purchase a Lorry, a dredge to mine minerals, invest in stocks and bonds, livestock or Invest that money in our own economy and to repatriate earned foreign exchange. If the Finance Minister thinks the people would sit down and drink their lives away and sit at home waiting for a cheque, he is wrong. This view is myopic. No they have not waited since Independence and I don’t see that occurring. If he thinks that they will have more vagrants on the street, that will not happen. That direct payments will help people have a Good life, free to make an investment in our own economy rather than another. This is not ‘free money’. Its money that belongs to the Sovereigns, the people of Guyana, lest we forget! In fact the People of Guyana have been carrying the brunt of the Economic Recovery Program (ERP) for decades now. The savings being squandered by the same people who are preaching no direct payments to the people. Billions were sunken into unprofitable national industries such as Guysuco. The bauxite industry and its profitability was handed over to foreign entities that do not benefit locals, we get the crumbs from the Gold Industry. We are now on the verge of shifting the pendulum with new revenue streams and offloading the dead weight of Guysuco, the attention then must be direct investment in people. Now there is an opportunity for a new paradigm shift in our economy. These so called ‘economist’ are short sighted in their approach to building up their people and giving them a ‘good life’. A good life must include
direct payments to the Sovereigns. Cash in their hands, period. How much should be the only query. The people of the interior should be able to take their money invest in their local economies, ship products to the North, East and West. The absence of cash will always encourage t h e b e g g i n g bowl syndrome. If there is equitable distribution and savings we will begin the construct of a good life. The distribution of our national wealth must have a multifaceted approach of Savings for future generations such as the proposed Sovereign Wealth Fund (SWF) or Natural Resources Fund (NRF) I suggest 30% of surpluses go to the SWF. 5% go to social programmes, 15% to New Infrastructure, e.g. Roads, Ports, Transportation Links and Assets, 10% Educational and skills training, 5% Health Care and badly needed upgrades, 3% DIRECT PAYMENTS to the people. 3% Drainage and Irrigation 5% Maritime Investment and 1% to cohesion, 1% to Tourism and connectivity, 1% to Sports, 4% to Agriculture and Value Added Industrial upgrades, 3% National Security, 1% Natural Resources, 4% housing, 2% Emergency Preparedness, 3% DIRECT Transfer to Municipalities, NDCs, RDCs and 10 regional development bodies 1% Old age Pension .5% Prison upgrades .5% Youth Innovation 1% Judicial Systems Upgrades and Reform 1% Arts and Culture The list above is a template for a solvent Guyanese
economy! A point to ponder is, the man who encouraged the “fishing lessons” did more with less, for example, Educate a nation no charge, from Nursery to University, encouraged the feed, clothes and house self drive, Self help projects, carved the unpaved road to Lethem, built the Demerara Harbour Bridge, fostered National Service, kept sugar and bauxite afloat, and now benefactors of the foregone sacrifices are telling us, “we will teach you to fish”. I say give us 3% of the money per Annum, 67% under management by our elected representatives as I outlined above. We will teach the generation to come how to fish with their 30% per annum multiply by 30 plus years of production we bequeathed them in the SWF, in addition to enhanced infrastructure and other investments. Those to come will have enough to last 25+ generations. We have only tipped the iceberg of our Oil reserves. Louis Nestor
DEAR EDITOR, After being at Providence, I wish to point out the seminal contribution the Guyana Amazon Warriors are making to our national development. First, there is the matter of “national cohesion”, of which we have heard so much during the past three years. But who has done more for national cohesion than the Warriors, during that time? Once again, they have created such a positive buzz in our country that the doom and gloom threatening to put us into a national depression has been dissipated like a bad morning mist. This time it was young Shimron Hetemyer from Canje who provided the sparks during the first game at Providence to light up and lift up the spirits of the fans in the ‘jam-packed’ stadium. But every year during the last five years, in every game,
one or more Warriors have done the same with bat or ball, to make them the most consistent team in the CPL. And if those past five years are any guide, the Warriors will bring together our people like no other event to give expression to the aspirational exhortation of our national motto, “One People, One Nation, One Destiny”! But while allowing our people to actually experience that there is more that binds us together than divides us, a tremendous achievement in itself, the Guyana Amazon Warriors have brought so many more benefits to Guyana. According to the research agency SMG Insight, the Guyanese economy received a shot in the arm of US$14,183,035 in 2017 for the four pool games. This year, the number will expand significantly because of the larger number of games.
But that direct cash injection is just the tip of an iceberg, with almost 500 jobs created and over 5000 hotel rooms booked cumulatively. A big part of that iceberg is the publicity for tourism since more than 19 million persons saw the very best of our people in living colour! I was also very impressed with the professionalism with which the event was organised and executed - it was flawless and should give lie to the report in the NYTimes about Guyana being a sleepy backwater. I am writing this because as a Guyanese, I have become very tired of the negativity about our country. And when something like the CPL and GAW dispel that negativity, it shows us that things can be different if we put our minds and shoulders to creating positivity. Sincerely, Jenifer Semple
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Three years later…
Reporting for natural resource revenues still poor, inconsistent with int’l standards - IMF
G
uyana is set to be come an oil pro ducer by mid-2020. In preparation for this, several international bodies such as the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) have said that the government must improve its reporting framework so that there can be accountability for the oil moneys that will be used. But three years after this advice was given, the situation remains almost the same. The IMF in particular, has once again, urged the government to strengthen its fiscal reporting on natural resource revenue flows. It also urged that efforts to improve existing systems must be consistent with international standards. Further to this, the IMF wants the government to establish a process for regular public reporting on future natural resource revenues by source, that is to say, from the gold mining sector, the oil and gas industry and other mining sectors. It also called for the government to adopt its Fiscal Transparency Code, given the wave of revenue to hit
Guyana’s economy in 2020. The IMF’s Fiscal Transparency Code (the Code) is the international standard for disclosure of information about public finances. The Code comprises a set of principles built around
four pillars: (i) fiscal reporting; (ii) fiscal forecasting and budgeting; (iii) fiscal risk analysis and management; and (iv) resource revenue management. For each transparency principle, the Code differentiates between basic, good, and advanced practices to provide countries with clear milestones toward full compliance with the Code and ensures its applicability to the broad range of IMF member coun-
tries. Pillar IV completes the Code by stating unique principles and practices applicable to resource-rich countries not covered under Pillars I-III. These principles and practices address transparency issues associated with the legal and fiscal regime governing the extraction of natural resources, the allocation of resource rights holdings, reporting by companies engaged in resource extraction activity, and the governance and operation of natural resource funds. The Code underpins IMF Fiscal Transparency Evaluations (FTE), which identify strengths and weaknesses in fiscal disclosure, and make targeted recommendations for improvements in resource revenue transparency. The initial FTE pilots in Peru (2015), Tanzania (2015) and the United Kingdom (2016), which included an assessment of resource revenue transparency, have demonstrated that these principles of the Code are both useful and relevant to countries at varying degrees of resource development and resource revenue dependence.
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Guyana still awaits crucial Local Content Policy Since the discovery of oil and gas in 2015, there has been considerable talk about how Guyanese will fit into the supply chain. A Local Content Policy was supposed to guide this process. But years later, the country remains without a finalized version of this crucial document. Pointing this out recently was Chartered Accountant and Oil and Gas Academic, Christopher Ram. He said, “Three years after the famous discovery announcement, the Granger Administration has failed to ensure the local content requirements established by law or to pass a single piece of legislation pertaining to petroleum operations directly, or indirectly with respect to the environment, labour or other rights. Or to formulate a depletion policy, consider alternatives to the production sharing agreement or address its mind to a national refinery given the new and increasing volume of proven reserves.” He also questioned what possible excuse the President and his Government by extension, could have for the failure to address this matter which a sense of urgency.
…Ram questions what could possibly be Granger’s excuse now surement and performance management. Tissot and Paul also noted that the lack of strategic direction is one of the most obvious pitfalls. In this regard, the Local Content Experts explained that policies that fail to consider long-term objectives in regard to industrialization,
Chartered Accountant, Chris Ram
President, David Granger
As stakeholders in the oil and gas industry eagerly await consultations on the second draft of Guyana’s Local Content Policy, Chatham House Advisors, Anthony Paul and Renee Roger Tissot have highlighted that there are some common pitfalls which should be avoided. In a comprehensive research paper, the local content experts cited poorly defined or inconsistent terminology as a major hindrance
to the success of local content implementation. In this regard, they said it is imperative that governments have consistent definitions of the terms: local content, local company or supplier, and nationals/ locals. The experts said that these terms often have different meanings in trade agreements, treaties and in government procurement legislation. They said that definition is critical to target setting, mea-
Board learned GM signed deal from ... From page 3 the submission by Patterson, directly to Cabinet, was in breach of the Procurement Act.The PPC conducted the investigation of the contract award process based on a request from Opposition Chief Whip, Gail Teixeira. The PPC found that the
procurement procedure used to select the company did not meet the requirement of any of the methods described in the Procurement Act. Besides, there is no procedure that defines how a procurement entity should deal with 'unsolicited proposals'.LievenseCSO had submitted a 57-page final
report, in which it recommended that the proposed location of Houston-Versailles was the most ideal – with a three-lane structure and moveable part to allow for ships to pass through. It was the best model, at the least cost, the consultant recommended.
Dem boys seh...
Malaysia jailing corrupt leaders but not Guyana Everybody remember how genip does deh pun tree or how mango does deh in bunches. Once these things in season is everybody reaching and picking. But some people don’t know that when you eat too much, especially mango, you tail does pay for it. Is toilet visit after visit, sometimes wid hardly any break. De Chinee got money hanging like mango and genip and some country reach up and pick. Malaysia is one, but just like wha de mango does do to people, dem Malaysians in a smelly mess so till dem can’t ketch demself. And just like greedy people dem big ones in Malaysia tek de hog of de money and stuff it in dem pocket. De former PM, Najib Razak, who lost de elections, get US$700 million from de
China money. De new government ketch him wid de money in he personal account. De man was living larger than life. De man son get ketch wid a yacht that cost US$250 million, slightly more than de white elephant Skeldon sugar factory. And now we got some Berbicians telling Soulja Bai to increase de toll cross de Berbice Bridge. Dem boys want to tell dem that de US$200 million Jagdeo tek fuh do Skeldon coulda refurbish de whole Berbice and build two bridges cross de river. Wha dem boys don’t know is if he pay de contractor all de money even before de factory finish. But wid de US$150 million he tek fuh do de Cheddi Jagan International Airport dem boys know that he pay de contractor nearly 90 per cent
of de cost of de airport and de wuk wasn’t even quarter way. But just like Malaysia de money pay to de Chinee contractor suh people could get dem cutback. And after dem collect de cutback all dem doing is walking around kissing babies and cutting ribbon to open some project. That is how when Soulja Bai tek over de government he couldn’t stop de project. De people done get pay suh dem had to do de wuk. That money coulda revamp de whole of Timehri community and build a proppa airport that don’t look like a warehouse. Wha dem boys notice in Malaysia is that de leaders going to jail fuh corruption but nutten of de sort happening in Guyana. Talk half and pray fuh prosecution like Malaysia.
economic diversification and strengthening of value creation may focus on the easy ‘low hanging fruit’ of local content activities and miss out on opportunities to create in-country value. The experts noted that priority is sometimes given to low value added activities with limited capabilities for
transfer into other sectors. They said that these opportunities often cause shortterm local economic booms that tend to be more disruptive to the local population in terms of a surge of consumption and localized inflation, and create community resentment toward those employed in the temporary oil activities.
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No evidence of transfer…
Sunday August 12, 2018
Pradoville 2 lands still belong to NCN - report
The Pradoville 2 scheme, at East Coast Demerara.
Former Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh and Winston Brassington in court recently.
T
here is no evidence that over 12 acres of lands at Goedverwagting/ Sparendaam sold to several ex-ministers and state officials during the reign of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) were ever transferred to the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA). From all evidence, the lands belong to the National Communications Network (NCN), a state entity which runs radio and television stations.Yet, CH&PA, a state agency charged with overseeing housing programmes, collected $40,495,744 as payments for those lands. The sale of the lands and
the use of state resources to develop it along the belowmarket price is what has been engaging the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU), a police unit which focuses on corruption and money laundering. SOCU has reportedly recommended several charges for former government officials, including ministers for the land sale.The sale of the beachfront lands on the East Coast Demerara was one of the many scandals overshadowing the presidency of Bharrat Jagdeo, during his last days in office. Until now, there were few details how the entire deal went down. Except that the offers for purchases were
made to persons close to the administration. It was never advertised and a number of the ministers and other officials were already owners of properties. To boot, the prices for the lands were way below, per square footage, what
Guyanese would pay for housing lands from the state. According to information acquired by Kaieteur News, the housing project at Goedverwagting/ Sparendaam comprises approximately 15 acres of land of which roughly three were allocated to roadways and the remaining 12 acres surveyed and earmarked for 28 house lots. The size of most of the lots is 0.30 acres but then Jagdeo was awarded two adjacent lots with a combined acreage of 1.9603 acres. The land was previously owned by the Guyana Broadcasting Authority until it was vested by Order #6 of 2004 to the National Communication Network Inc. on February 25, 2004. Following an exchange of correspondence involving the National Communications Network Inc., Ogle Airport Inc. and Prime Minister Samuel Hinds, a decision was made on or around April 22, 2008 that NCN’s transmission mast was in the way of aircraft taking off and landing from the Ogle Aerodrome. The aerodrome at that time was being expanded to meet the increasing demands for air service to the hinterland areas of Guyana. Consequently, the removal of the transmission facility to Onderneeming on the West
Bank of Demerara left the land potentially vacant. Investigators found that it is not clear when the decision was first taken for the establishment of a housing community at Ogle but at a board meeting of National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL) held on August 17, 2007 the then Chief Executive Winston Brassington, reported to the Board “that there were fifteen acres of land at Sparendaam that was good for sale. The Board agreed that NICIL would develop the area with high income house lots or condominiums.” At the time NICIL, as a Government company, was chaired by the Minister of Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh and included the Head of the Presidential Secretariat, Dr. Roger Luncheon, Head of GoInvest, Geoffrey Da Silva, Budget Director, Sonya Roopnauth and Nigel Dharamlall, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs. On March 9th, 2010, a Cabinet Decision marked ‘SECRET’ purported to vest in the CHPA “the new development project at Plantation Sparendaam”. The president then was Bharrat Jagdeo. He would have been the head of the Cabinet too. Legal and other minds have
Ex-president, Bharrat Jagdeo made it clear that the Cabinet decision does not constitute vesting of the land. Investigators, however, found that the former Housing Ministry, of which Mr. Irfaan Ali was the Minister, and the then Registrar of Lands, Juliet Sattaur, took this Cabinet decision as legal vesting and proceeded to facilitate and issue Certificates of Title to various persons. While Cabinet made the decision on March 9, 2010 to vest the land at Sparendaam in the CHPA, Dr. Anand Goolsarran, former Auditor General, who investigated, said that he has found no evidence to suggest that the lands were ever transferred from NCN to the housing authority.It appears that CHPA’s eventual role was in receiving a total of $40,495,744 for lands allocated. The files for the charges have been submitted.
Sunday August 12, 2018
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Kaieteur News
Review all oil contracts signed by us; get better value for the people - Jagdeo to Govt. By Abena Rockcliffe-Campbell As circumstances and times change, so do agreements. Noting this fact, former President, Bharrat Jagdeo says that there should be nothing stopping the current government from renegotiating all oil contracts signed under the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) administration. Jagdeo, the Leader of the Parliamentary Opposition, said this on Thursday during his weekly press conference. He recalled the “public outcry” over the provisions in the renegotiated contract that the Granger-led Administration signed with ExxonMobil. “Our government said that future contracts will not enjoy the same benefits as ExxonMobil did.” Jagdeo said, “So let us
just say that the ExxonMobil contract is sanctified and it cannot be changed. That contract was signed when there was a small quantity of proven reserves. But now we know that there are at least 4 billion barrels of proven reserves. So that changes the entire debate. So if government could have renegotiated the 1999 agreement and make it more favorable to the company, why could it not review any other agreement signed by the PPP now that the circumstances have changed, to ensure that more accrues to the people of Guyana?” Jagdeo said that government had originally indicated that all contracts would have been reviewed. He said that the PPP/C was looking forward to that. He asserted that this was the reason the PPP/ C was not in favour of Government handing conces-
sions to Mid-Atlantic Oil and Gas Inc. on Wednesday last. Jagdeo told the media, “We heard them saying that they will do it (review contract). So we were saying why not defer this proposal to the Parliament until you come up with a policy position. Assuming the ExxonMobil contract is a done deal and we have to respect the sanctity of contract, we want to know what about the other contracts.” Jagdeo said that the opposition desires clarity, “Are you going to review the contracts or not? If not, just let us know now. But if you are going to do the review we need to know what will be the general terms, what will be given, what will not.” Jagdeo noted, “We are moving ahead with sanctifying contracts when the entire situation has changed. We
GWI to reactivate additional well in Port Kaituma
P
ort Kaituma residents will soon benefit from the activation of yet another well, as works intensify to provide an alternative source of potable water for the community. Last month, GWI discovered the presence of mercury in the Kaituma River, which was the main source of water supply. Managing Director Dr. Richard Van West-Charles and a team of technical officials visited the Region 1
on Wednesday, last, to inspect works completed thus far. During the visit, GWI said, engineers discovered water in a well at Citrus Grove, Port Kaituma that has been out of operation for a number of years. It was agreed that engineers will rehabilitate this well to supplement an existing one. This would entail a camera inspection, test pumping the well and determining an appropriately sized pump before it is
connected to the distribution network. Plans are also underway for the installation of additional storage tanks at the well site and the rehabilitation of another tank in the community, which will increase storage capacity to serve the population. These tanks will be connected to a distribution network that will be run to residents’ premises. The duration of this project to increase water (Continued on page 63 )
are on the world map now as a major reserve for petroleum. But this government seems very unwilling to do anything and we wonder why. The same reason 1999 was reviewed, let us review all.” Jagdeo said that it would not make sense giving concessions to companies like Mid Atlantic when the contracts will have to be reviewed. He noted that when government was seeking to approve the concessions, Ministers stressed that MidAtlantic is a local company. But Jagdeo said he understands that “the big guys already started buying up these companies (like MidAtlantic).” Mid-Atlantic will receive tax concessions for its oil and gas explorations in the Canje and Kaieteur blocks. The motion for such, tabled by Finance Minister Winston Jordan, was approved on Wednesday during the 96th sitting of the National Assembly. Jordon said Section 51 of the Petroleum Exploration and Production Act No. 3 allows for the Minister of Finance to approve certain concessions. He noted that it was un-
Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo der the very section of the act US oil giant ExxonMobil bene f i t t e d . ”The Mid-Atlantic Oil and Gas Inc may not be Exxon or any of the other majors that we are so accustomed to, but it is important from Guyana’s standpoint. It is small, it is unknown, but it is in the oil and gas sector. “Importantly for Guyana is that it is a local company comprising many enterprising and well-known Guyanese,” Jordon put forward. Mid-Atlantic Oil and Gas Inc was granted operations licence under the former Government on March 4, 2014,
with a Production Sharing Agreement signed on the same date. During the debate on the motion, People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Member of Parliament (MP) Irfaan Ali proposed that the finance minister defer the motion until the Government reviews ExxonMobil’s Production Agreement and design a framework to guide the new negotiations. The motion was taken to a vote and was approved by a majority vote from the Government’s side of the House. The Opposition abstained from the voting.
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Sunday August 12, 2018
Kaieteur News
AG should respect court ruling, enact JRA – Lawyers Lawyers are calling on Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Basil Williams to respect to the recent ruling of the Court and make the Judicial Review Act, (JRA) operational. The JRA which was
passed in Parliament in 2010 makes provision for citizens to challenge actions of public authorities on the grounds that their actions are unlawful, illegal, and capricious, contrary to some written law, ultra vires or violate the rules
of natural justice. Under the Act, the Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs is empowered to issue the publication of an order signed by him in the official Gazette to bring Judicial Review into
operation. Williams has however been accused of pussyfooting on the issue. His failure to act has resulted in court action being brought against him by Attorney-atlaw Anil Nandlall. So far, both the High Court and Appeal Court have agreed with Nandlall’s call to make the act operational and have dispensed decisions towards the enactment of the JRA. In her ruling Chief Justice (Ag) Roxane George had ordered the AG to make the act operational by July 31. However, the AG moved to the Court of Appeal to challenge the decision and stay the order. His application for a stay of the order was thrown out last week, leaving him with no other choice than to bring the Act into operation. Nandlall has already threatened further legal action against Williams - contempt of court proceedings - if he continues to refuse to bring the Act into operation, But lawyers are calling for Williams to respect the ruling and enact the JRA. In an invited comment, Chartered Accountant and Attorney–at–law, Christopher Ram, noted that the ruling of the court confirms the need for the JRA. Ram said that it is only right that as a senior legal officer the AG abides by the ruling of the Court. “Judicial Review is not
Attorney General Basil Williams even about us as lawyers, but for members of the public to seek redress against perceived violations committed against them by a public official. So I really don’t understand why the AG would not want to enact such vital piece of law.” Attorney-at-law Sase Gunraj shared similar views. Gunraj pointed to the importance of the JRA in the area of public law. The JRA is a necessity for citizens to keep officials of the State accountable for their actions. By failing to activate the Act, the Attorney General puts citizens who have been wronged by the State at a disadvantage of challenging the perceived wrong in the Court Gunraj noted that the absence of an operational JRA stymies a vital area of law
and has resulted in a number of procedural hurdles. Earlier this year, the Bar Council of the Bar Association of Guyana echoed similar sentiments on the matter. The GBA noted that the implementation of the Act fills a gap in the new Civil Procedure Rules (CPR) launched in 2017. Several procedural remedies for the CPR are contained in the Judicial Review Act. “In a case where a public officer/authority is challenged, the Judicial Review Act and the CPR are both necessities.” Further outlining their concerns, the Bar Council noted that the issue of the implementation of the Act was previously raised with Williams. The Council said that issue was raised at a meeting with the Attorney General on July 22, 2017 and by way of letter dated November 15, 2017, requesting the urgent implementation of the Judicial Review Act. The Council therefore stressed that the implementation of the Judicial Review Act is of vital importance to good public administration in a democratic society, allowing citizens ample remedies against the State and leveling the playing field. “The Bar Council says that it looks forward to the speedy implementation of the Act,” the Association said.
Sunday August 12, 2018
Kaieteur News
27 female foreign nationals arrested in raid on Covent Garden “Strip Club”
Police photo of the scene. A Friday night raid on a “Strip Club” at Covent Garden, East Bank Demerara, by Police from ‘A’ Division and Headquarters, has seen some 27 female Foreign Nationals being arrested. Police in a statement indicated that they raided the business based on a report received that a “Strip Club” was in operation at the said location. The raid that was conducted between
21:50 and 23:55 hrs, saw the women being arrested, while a thorough search of the premises resulted in a case of liquor being seized by the police and lodged, since there are reportedly no licences to operate any business whatsoever on the premises. The owner of the property, who is said to be from Nutmeg Street, North Ruimveldt, Georgetown, was also taken into custody, and is assisting police with their investigations.
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Sunday August 12, 2018
Kaieteur News
Govt.’s Green Paper lacks provisions for informed public discussion on Natural Resource Fund – Ramson …says co-mingling forestry, mining funds erodes transparency The Coalition government’s Green Paper on Natural Resource Fund (NRF) lacks the critical depth needed for it to be the basis of informed public discussion and debate in a country on the cusp of becoming a new oil-producing country. This is the view of Attorney-at-law Charles Ramson Jr., who has a Master’s in Oil and Gas and completed his thesis on Sovereign Wealth Fund
(SWF). The former People’s Progressive Party Parliamentarian stated that the effectiveness of a Green Paper, which is the precursor to a white paper or legislation, should be detailed enough for ‘John Public’ to read and understand, so that the nation could have an informed debate. “There is no explanation of the different types of Sovereign Wealth Funds and
their respective purposes. There is no explanation of the different types of fiscal rules and how it is benchmarked,” Ramson stated. He added that Guyana is about to become an oilproducing country for the first time, so most if not all of this information is not conventional wisdom and therefore government is obligated to take the extra time to explain and inform citizens. “How will the public know
and understand, so they can have a say whether they agree or disagree and make suggestions? Do governments and technical experts know everything? Is this still not the oil of all Guyanese and should they not be able to have a say?” Ramson questioned. Government’s Green Paper on the management of oil revenues sets out that the Ministry of Finance would be responsible for the overall
management of the NRF. Ramson pointed out that the Green Paper proposes that “excess revenues” from mining and forestry will be deposited in the NRF, but makes no explanation for what “excess revenues” mean. In addition, Ramson stated that there is no scientific justification for the depositing of other revenue from forestry and mining into the NRF. “Co-mingling of funds does not allow for a clear public picture on how much (Continued on page 65)
Charles Ramson Jr.
Sunday August 12, 2018
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Kaieteur News
Mother of teen who escaped from juvenile facility speaks out The mother of a 16-yearold boy who escaped from a juvenile detention centre last week has broken her silence. The teenager, who has an alarming rap sheet, is currently before the court on charges of illegal firearm and ammunition and robbery under-arms. According to reports, the teen slipped out of the juvenile Holding Centre at Turkeyen, East Coast Demerara, on August 8, last, after being taken to the Administrative Office to speak with a senior civilian staffer.
Kaieteur News understands that after speaking to the staffer, the youth exited through the back door of the office. He reportedly then slipped through the main gate. A source said that a police rank had escorted the juvenile from a cell to the office. However, Kaieteur News understands that ranks are not allowed to be present when the juveniles are being interviewed by civilian staff. The worried woman related that she has not seen or heard from her son since he broke out of custody.
She is pleading with the public not to harm her son, but instead, contact the police. “I don’t want to be involved. I’m tired of him misbehaving. Let the police handle the situation,” she said, adding that, on numerous occasions she has told her son to stay away from bad company and find a job. She added that her son enjoys spending time with older male friends, most of whom are unemployed. “To be honest, I mek de children, me ain’t mek dey mind. Let the police catch him and place him before
the court and whatever the Magistrate do I’m okay with it,” the mother said with a look of dismay. The woman related that she is always there for her son and would attend all his court hearings to lend support. She is now puzzled as to why her son would want to continue breaking the law with his recent escape. However, while the mother is calling on the public to hand her son over to police, sources say that despite his age, the teen is viewed as a potentially dangerous inmate. According to the
source, he has repeatedly been found with sharpened implements. Just about a month ago, he reportedly sawed through metal bars in his cell, but other juveniles tipped off police ranks in time to foil his escape. The youth was arrested last April after he allegedly slapped a painter and robbed him at gunpoint. The incident occurred in ‘C’ Field, Sophia. Police, acting on information, went to the teen’s home, where they allegedly found him with a revolver, a cell phone and other sus-
pected stolen items. A police official stated that the teen claimed that he rented the firearm from a ‘C’ Field, Sophia resident, whom he identified. But after being taken into custody, the youth bolted from the Cove and John Police Station, after asking a rank to use the washroom. When he turned up at his mother ’s home, the woman alerted the police and he was rearrested. He is currently on trial before Senior Magistrate Leron Daly in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.
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Sunday August 12, 2018
Kaieteur News
GTT complying with order for 350 new landlines every quarter - PUC The Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GTT) which was ordered last September to increase the number of new landlines, appears to be complying. According to figures provided by the regulator, the Public Utilities Commission (PUC), GTT between August 2017 and April 2018, installed 1,445 new landlines. The US-owned company has been under pressure to invest more to roll out landlines, a main conduit for DSL internet. Several communities are still without services, despite GTT being here more than two and half decades. It was only recently that the company took its Blaze service to La Parfaite Harmonie, West Bank Demerara, one of the largest housing schemes in the country. That area has been struggling for internet, with many families depending on the mobile service as the primary source of internet. A few families were lucky enough to afford wireless internet. Responding to queries, PUC’s chairperson, Dela Britton, disclosed that based on the reports submitted by GTT, the company is indeed living up to its obligations. Between August 2017 and
PUC’s chairperson, Dela Britton October 2017, the company installed 184 urban lines and 224 sub-urban/rural ones - a total of 408 for the quarter. Between November 2017 and January 2018, the company managed 220 urban and 308 sub-urban/rural ones - a total of 528. Between February 2018 and April 2018, GTT was able to install 214 urban landlines and 295 sub-urban/rural ones – a total of 509. In all, during the three quarters, the total number of new landlines were therefore 1,445. It may be that GTT is including its introduction of the Blaze service - which includes fibre for internet, and at least one telephone number among the above numbers.
GTT is meeting its obligations to rollout at least 350 new landlines every quarter, PUC says. According to the PUC chairperson, the Public Utilities Commission Order (4/ 2017) dated September 13, 2017 indicates that GTT is required to roll out no less than
350 lines per quarter effective August 1, 2017, as one of the conditions for granting of increased rates to the operator. The company last year successfully applied for in-
creases to the rates of its landlines. The spotlight has been on GTT and its performance as Guyana moves slowly to liberalisation, allowing for
new players to enter and compete on the mobile, internet and landline market. From as far back in 2014, GTT had unsuccessfully (Continued on page 70)
Sunday August 12, 2018
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Kaieteur News
---Hinds’ Sight by Dr. David Hinds---
I support cash transfers to Guyanese households; it works all over the world
T
he news-cycle this past week started with Professor Thomas, WPA co-leader and noted political-economist, proposing that government uses revenues from oil and gas to give cash transfers to every household in Guyana. Thomas was speaking at the Eusi Kwayana Emancipation Symposium in Buxton organized by the Buxton First of August Movement on the topic, “The Coming Oil and Gas economy: Prospects for Empowering the Poor and revitalizing the Village Economy.” Thus, he and the other panelists were responding to a specific question— how will poor people benefit from the imminent wealth? Thomas’ answer was simple and straightforward, give people a small portion of the oil revenue in the form of direct money in their pockets. We know that poverty has plagued Guyana—it is at the heart of all our woes. Some of us, courtesy of the limited opportunities available, have been able to crawl our way above the poverty line. But most Guyanese are left behind—they stare at poverty daily. So what Thomas and the WPA are saying is that with the coming oil revenue, we have the best chance to tackle this scourge that has been holding back our people and our country. Cash transfer alone will not end poverty. It must go hand in hand with improvement of our social infrastructure— Government must invest more in education, in health care, in child care. So, Minister Jordan’s frowning on cash transfers and instead relying on spending on social programmes represent a minimalist approach. It should not be one or the other; it must be both. Poverty must be tackled from all angles. We need a maximalist approach. Those who are ruling out cash transfers are ignoring current data, which show that these programmes have been a resounding success across
the world as far as poverty reduction is concerned. Many countries across the world—in Africa, Latin America, Asia, and even in Europe— have found that when cash is put into citizens’ hands it has helped in poverty alleviation. These programmes originated in Latin America and the Caribbean in the 1990s. The data shows that cash transfers have had positive impacts on nutrition and school attendance, which in turn has helped to reduce poverty. According to an 2016 IDB study of cash transfer programmes in 17 Latin American and Caribbean countries over a 20-year period, “Multiple evaluations have proven that these programmes have made a significant difference in the lives of the families living in poverty. They help families put more food on the table and enjoy a more varied diet, allow more children and youth (particularly girls) to attend school, and encourage families to regularly receive basic health services.” “In 2013, approximately 137 million people in 17 Latin American countries received transfers that represented, on average, between 20% and 25% of their household income and an average of 0.3% to 0.4% of their respective country’s gross domestic product” The study went on to conclude that, “CCTs have been unquestionably effective at increasing the consumption of beneficiary households, as well as at reducing the incidence and, especially, the intensity of poverty and inequality. Not only have CCTs increased household consumption, but they have also improved its composition in terms of the quality and variety of food consumption. One very consistent finding is that CCTs have reduced child labor and boosted school enrollment and attendance in many countries…At
the same time; these programmes have also helped to improve school progression. In Mexico, after three to five years of exposure, years of schooling increased by six months to one year; similarly, in Nicaragua, after three years of exposure, beneficiary children progressed almost half a grade more than non-beneficiaries.” It is simply amazing that with all this data available and with so many countries across the world using this mechanism, so many of our public leaders and commentators were quick to dismiss it or at best express caution. They simply didn’t do their homework. The president is reported as saying that he has not seen any precedent. The Opposition leader sees it as a political gimmick. Mr. Nandlall says it will create a country of parasites. I challenge this gentleman to show me one country of parasites in Latin America or beyond that is using this mechanism. Kudos to young Ramson for immediately putting that “big man” in his place. Many persons have parroted the Nandlall line that if you give people money, they will spend it on rum and dope, and that we would create a dependency syndrome. We now know the deepseated social bigotry that exists just below the surface among many Guyanese. All these defenders of poor people, some of whom are happy to give personal handouts to poor people, now show us what they really think about the masses. When they argue for transfer of money to rich people, they never question their capacity to spend it wisely. But for them, poor people are inferior in this regard —”Don’t give them money, let us spend it for them; we know better than them. We ought to be ashamed of ourselves.” The other piece of highclass ignorance we heard is that by giving two to four
The Baccoo Speaks Active police patrols are curtailing the movement of young and senseless gunmen. Another police patrol will pull over a group of men on motorcycles and a search will reveal a handgun. The men were casing the road for a hapless victim. ** Domestic disputes are rampant. In fact they have been like that for a long time. However, the twist of these disputes being as violent as they are is new.
In this context a man will slap his spouse and end up in court. He would be jailed
because the court is now cautious that when they release the abuser the situation becomes deadly. ** A political row is brewing. The opposition is refusing to meet with the government because it is not involved in development plans. The government is prepared to notify the opposition but the Opposition Leader is insisting on more than notification.
percent of our oil revenues as cash to people, we will be creating a Welfare State. I was forced to ask: What do they know of Welfare States? Here is the most used definition of a Welfare State—” The welfare state is a concept of government in which the state plays a key role in the protection and promotion of the social and economic wellbeing of its citizens. It is based on the principles of equality of opportunity, equitable distribution of wealth, and public responsibility for those unable to avail themselves of the minimal provisions for a good life….The welfare state involves a transfer of funds from the state to the services provided (i.e. healthcare, education, etc.) as well as directly to individuals (“benefits”)…” Almost all European countries are so-called Welfare states. Canada and China and Russia are. The Caribbean
country that many Guyanese run to—Barbados—has been the most successful and enduring welfare state in our region. When the last government attempted to dismantle that welfare state, the Bajans did not give them one seat at the last election. Many States in the USA have the actual word “welfare” in their constitutions. Now, we propose a little cheque for poor people in Guyana to supplement their earnings, and those of us who are well-to-do are searching every corner to find ways why they should not get it. By the way, the word “welfare” as used in the USA and which we repeat in this discussion has racist connotations, yet we Guyanese use it as if its high science. More of Dr. Hinds’ writings and commentaries can be found on his YouTube Channel Hinds’ Sight: Dr.
Dr David Hinds David Hinds’ Guyana-Caribbean Politics and on his w e b s i t e www.guyanacaribbeanpolitics.news. Send comments to dhinds6106@aol.com
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Sunday August 12, 2018
Walking past her sister’s corpse By Michael Jordan Had it been a horror movie, some psychic force might have whispered a warning to Madonna Welcome. But this was real life, so Madonna walked right past the Matthew’s Ridge playfield without the slightest inkling that her sister, Samantha Ashby, lay dead just a few feet away. It certainly never entered her head that her sister could have met such a cruel end. Not after all this time; when 32year-old Samantha had walked away from her old life as a commercial sex worker. Samantha’s story was that of so many other pretty girls who live in interior locations like Matthew’s Ridge, North West District, a place with few educational opportunities and too many free-spending men. By the time she was in her late teens, Samantha had fallen in with the wrong crowd. ”We tried talking her out of it, but she chose that way of life,” her sister, Madonna, told me. But the fun-loving woman finally settled down with a young man from the community. All it took was one night out to change that…
Samantha Ashby’s body was found near thecommunity centre at Matthew’s Ridge (murder scene). On the night of Monday, September 15, 2014, Samantha Ashby visited a relative’s shop at Matthew’s Ridge. The shopkeeper remembers seeing her drinking with three men. Samantha’s companions were said to be newcomers to Matthew’s Ridge who were working with a businessman from the community. They say that two were porters, while the third was a miner. One of the men went by the nickname ‘Killer.’ According to reports, no
one saw them leave. At around 11:00 hrs the following day, a group of students who were training for school sports entered the Matthew’s Ridge Community Centre ground. They ventured further onto the playfield, and it was then that they spotted a woman’s body. Someone had dumped her at the side of the community centre. She was clad in her brassiere; her underwear lay a short distance away.
Samantha Ashby The students immediately contacted a teacher, who identified the victim as Samantha Ashby. Ashby’s killers had raped her then beaten her to death, some 30 yards from her home. Pathologist Dr. Nehaul Singh established that she had suf-
fered multiple injuries, including a broken hip and fractured skull. Detectives retrieved two condoms from the scene.Madonna, who confirmed the victim’s identity, recalled that she had passed that area a few hours earlier on her way to work. Knowing that her sister was not one “to take ‘stupidness’ from people,” Madonna believed that the five feet seven inches tall Samantha would have put up a valiant fight before being overpowered. Detectives soon learned about Samantha’s night out, and picked up her three companions. They brought the suspects to Georgetown and interrogated them at CID Headquarters, Eve Leary. But the detectives found nothing to implicate the men, and released them on advice from the Director of Public Prosecutions. Investigators also took DNA samples from the suspects, and similar samples from the two condoms that they retrieved from the crime scene. It’s unclear whether those samples were ever sent to an overseas lab. Madonna is convinced that these same men know more than they are saying about her sister’s death. She
alleges that about two months before Samantha’s murder, one of the suspects had stalked another one of her sisters.Madonna also believes that there are people at Matthew’s Ridge who may have actually witnessed the attack on Samantha. “It (the crime scene) is close to the police station. How is it that nobody heard anything and people are living near to the (Matthew’s Ridge) Community Centre? People know what happened, but they are afraid to talk.” But there’s a saying in forensic circles that the dead speak, and there’s that slim hope that, sometime in the future, the contents of two used condoms will help to unmask Samantha Ashby’s killers. If you have any information about this or any other unusual case, please contact Kaieteur News by letter or telephone at our Lot 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown offices. Our numbers are 592-225-8465, 592-2258473 and 592-225-8458. You need not disclose your ident i t y . You can also contact Michael Jordan at his email a d d r e s s mjdragon@hotmail.com.
Sunday August 12, 2018
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Kaieteur News
==THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN==
The only boots the AFC will wear are jumbie shoes It is the season of political theatre and comical histrionics. Maybe the season began early because local government election is in the air. The AFC started the fun and Professor Clive Thomas followed, and the WPA joined in and held on to the circus rope, and President Granger showed his so-called acrobatic skills. Last week, the AFC, Thomas and the WPA sailed away in a time machine, which took them into the past where they began to untie Prometheus. Then the gods awakened them and chased them away back to the land that Clifford Krauss described as a watery wilderness. Last week, as AFC leaders expressed their fervency of contesting the November local polls without their senior autocratic partner, APNU, one of its leaders declared that the party is ready to put on its war boots and show Guyana how strong it is. The war boots were worn when the AFC was on the warpath trying to topple the Jagdeoite army. Heavily fitted out in their long black boots that cut a formidable appearance, the AFC went from Georgetown to Ankoko on the border with Venezuela
singing the chorus line – “it is time.”The boots went through mud, slush and miasma, and the theme reverberated all over the 83,000 square miles of Guyana – “it is time.” Then time came. The war boots were given away to the inmates of the palms, and the AFC clowns began to wear Air Jordans. Indeed the Air Jordans propelled them into space where they mixed with the king of the gods, Zeus. The war had ended. The PPP was defeated, and Nancy Sinatra’s boots were thrown away. The devils now wore Prada and they palavered with their superiors in power – the girls and boys from Burnham’s party and Granger’s army buddies. Yes, it was time. Time not to learn, time not to change, time not to govern, but time to feast the way the jumbies did in Hotel California. Remember those famous lines from one of rock’s most memorable anthems: “Mirrors on the ceiling The pink champagne on ice and she said We are all just prisoners here of our own device And in the master’s chambers they gathered for the
feast They stab it with their steely knives But they just can’t kill the beast.” Hotel California is where jumbies live. And the AFC lives in Hotel California. So when one of those leaders jumped up and said he is putting on his war boots, he means his jumbie shoes. The beast killed the AFC. “It is time” has now become time to die. And the AFC is dying. The 2018 local government elections will be its graveyard, and like in the derelict mansion of Pablo Escobar where carrions pick on the bones of the dead tycoons, the carnivorous birds will sleep on top of the jumbie boots while waiting to sail away to their nocturnal resting place on Air Jordans. Like the AFC’s journey into the past, Professor Clive Thomas rode the waves back to the rivers of the seventies where Walter Rodney preached from the altar of radical political economy and as Rodney spoke, Thomas made notes and wrote books on what Rodney echoed. Thomas was enjoying his ride in his time machine as his audience clapped and jumped from their seats when he de-
manded one million petro dollars for every citizen. Then Thomas got up from his seat and kissed the past with heart, mind and soul when he made reference to the term he coined when he and Walter Rodney ruled the waves – “the poor and powerless.” The gods jolted Thomas back to 2018 where he wears the boots of his neo-liberal bosses who put Thomas in charge of sugar and under Thomas, six thousand sugar workers with one swipe of his pen lost their livelihood. For one fleeting moment, Thomas thought he was living in the same house with Rodney in
the seventies. When he came back to reality, the poor and powerless from the sugar industry were standing in front of him. But his neo-liberal bosses told him to look elsewhere.And where did he look? To his is party, the WPA. He urged his old party romantics to fire up the masses to secure those million petro dollars. But the WPA is wearing jumbie boots like the AFC and living in Hotel California. Even the ghosts in the cemetery cannot recognize the WPA. And an aging jumbie asked one of the WPA stalwarts – “to which era do you
Frederick Kissoon belong?” Finally, President Granger has joined the circus, telling the nation he now discovered that he must hold regular press conferences. Clifford Krauss where are you?
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Kaieteur News
Sunday August 12, 2018
STATE ASSETS ARE BEING SLOWLY RECOVERED
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upporters of the op position People’s Progressive Party (PPP) are expected to do a lot more complaining in coming weeks/months as the Special Organized Crime Unit (SOCU) and the State Assets Recovery Agency (SARA) continue to collate their evidence and place the people responsible for allegedly pillaging our national assets in prison where they belong. Many of the Opposition party’s faithful have taken to social media and other outlets
in recent weeks to complain that the Coalition Government, through SOCU and SARA, was targeting the PPP’s leadership with socalled “trumped up” criminal charges. They’ve called it a witch hunt and characteristically, they have managed to tint SOCU’s investigations into their wrongdoing with racism. This most recent round of complaints was spawned when images of the former Finance Minister and the NICIL boss being escorted
into and out of the Victoria Law Courts were carried in the daily newspapers. The pair were indicted and charged with misconduct in public office, for allegedly disposing of prime seaside state lands well below market value to specially selected buyers. The charges suggest that Millions in taxpayer funds have been forfeited or misappropriated via the offices run by these people. Two very senior officials at SARA, Aubrey Retemeyer and Eric Phillips subse-
quently appeared as guests on a radio show and said that the agency is doing everything within its power to recover several billions of dollars in unaccounted-for cash, vehicles, properties, state lands and other assets apparently misappropriated during the 23 years the PPP spent in office. Long before 2015 the man in the street had been voicing fears that the day would never come when the PPP cabal would lose their grip on power and the machinery of state. That day did come, but the costs, in time and money, to ferret out the details of the numerous malfeasances committed during that era, are really overwhelming and time consuming. The search for the missing funds and assets still moves too slowly to give John Q. Public much satisfaction, and s/he had begun to show signs of anticipation fatigue. S/he was beginning to lose hope that even some of their missing patrimony would have been found. But today the fire of hope is burning again. We are seeing some things coming to light through the high quality forensic analyses and investigations still ongoing at SARA and SOCU. So far, their Forensic Accountants and ICT specialists have quietly unearthed billions of hidden
dollars and properties in foreign countries. Both Heath and Phillips told the nation last May that SARA was working with international police and financial investigators to ferret out the hiding places and return those billions to Guyana’s treasury. To date, SARA has shortlisted more than 100 cases of ‘lost and found’ cash, property, bonds and other types of securities. Their sleuths, both domestic and international, are in the process of building solid cases. By December 2018, the public will be apprised of the progress made with the first ten of the most solvable cases. SARA said that they are more interested in recovering Guyana’s assets. The task of jailing the guilty is a role for SOCU. There’s another key element to this scenario. Because there was no wholesale removal of the PPP’s lieutenants from the various ministries and agencies after the 2015 elections, the acts of fraud have continued to bedevil this government’s efforts to ‘clean up’ and to account for every cent of the Guyanese people’s money. Put simply, corruption, though diminished, still has a chance to thrive, 1) because it had become endemic at all levels throughout the public
service; 2) contrary to the PPP’s claim that their supporters were being ‘witchhunted’, they were allowed to keep their portfolios, and the ability to perpetrate all sorts of mischief. SARA believes that procurement fraud alone, preand post 2015 amounts to G$28 Billion annually. Smuggled gold across our borders and through the Atlantic is still pegged at about 15,000 ounces per week, some of which reaches India and the Middle East. The best part is that many of the investigators involved in SOCU and SARA’s operations have little to no affiliation to Guyana’s past or present. They are conducting their searches with complete objectivity. It is apt to note that SARA was formally established in mid 2015 by this Government, but it was the PPP that had set up SOCU. Reportedly, the main motive was to offer some assurance to the western world that it was ‘dealing with corruption’. It is this same agency with the same people hired before 2015 who are now righteously going after the people who have transgressed the law. Now that the shoe is on the other foot, the PPP hollers ‘political victimization’. We can only pray for these calls to racism to end.
Sunday August 12, 2018
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Kaieteur News
My column
A war with the teachers may be pound foolish
T
he teachers are go ing on strike. This would be the first such in as long as I can remember. For this to happen, something had to push the teachers over the line, and to my mind, they were pushed over the line. A few months ago, there were negotiations over a pay package designed to improve the lives of the teachers. The negotiations ended with the teachers being promised that something would be done over the package. The proposals languished with the Ministry of Finance until the teachers’ union began to ask questions and to threaten action. Last week, the government decided to meet with the teachers’ union, but from all appearances what emerged was something that the teachers could not accept. I have to revisit my pet peeve; better conditions for teachers who are the foundations of the society. They are the people who must fashion the future. Already men have drifted away from the profession, with dire consequences for the nation. Young men with no role models in the mainstream, simply wander through school then end up on the streets as criminals. It is because they do not see school offering anything, so they opt to try their luck on the streets, sometimes with fatal consequences. I often blamed the school system, but I failed to realize there is only so much teachers could do. For one, the supporting systems have been removed, to the extent that many teachers are helpless. As a former teacher, I saw the slow decline in discipline. Young boys simply challenged the female teachers, but even before this began to happen, there were parents who opposed disciplinary action by the teachers. Many turned up in schools to do battle with the teachers. The result is that the teachers took the easy way out; they simply refused to challenge errant children. They could not attempt to flog errant children whose parents had long since accepted the anti-social behaviour of their children. Many have been heard to say, “I don’t beat me children, suh nobody must touch dem.” But there is more to this. There have been teachers who brutalized children and no one would appreciate the brutality. But then again the police later exact the same brutality on errant children. I would tell my children that I would prefer to brutalise them before
the police do. The threat was enough to keep them in line. But even when they were flogged in school, I would inform them that if they had done nothing wrong, the flogging would not have visited them. These teachers in today’s conditions would invite parents who might turn up. Some never got the invitation and were too taken up not to realize that their children were not going to school, although they left home to. The more enterprising teachers conducted private lessons that cost many a parent an arm and a leg. For those who could not afford the private lessons, the public schools were their best and only option. So there it is; the public schools have the more difficult children. The teachers therefore deserve better than they are getting.I left the Government Training College nearly fifty years ago - trained to teach Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics at the secondary level. Even if I may say so, I think I did pretty well. People like Dr. George Norton, Dr. Monica Odwin, agriculturalist Lloyd Barnett, Gregory Holder, Michael Fraser, who has made a name for himself in the Bahamas teaching the Sciences, and so many others, are testimony to what I did. Incidentally, these are all Bartica children who never had the golden opportunity as their peers in the city. There were no private lessons.I stopped teaching and became involved with the Ministry of Information for a mere $15 a month more. I was earning $215 a month as a trained teacher back in 1973. A public servant with my level of experience was earning $270 a month. The system lost qualified teachers because of a few
dollars. I would not mention the hordes that left for foreign climes for the same reason. It behooves the government to recognize that our teachers deserve better. I was in Korea, where I learned that the teachers were the third highest paid in the system after the politicians and the members of the legal profession. It is the same in Malaysia, a country that was once as poor as Guyana, but is now a first world country. Someone very close to me left Guyana while she was a lecturer at the Cyril Potter College of Education for Canada eighteen years ago. She has done very well for herself as a teacher in Canada, owning her own home and affording to travel as she pleases. She could not have done that had she remained in Guyana.We do not expect our teachers to be the third highest paid in the social order, but they certainly should be properly paid. This is what they are seeking, and the government should do its best for them. It poured money into the Guyana Sugar Corporation for no return. The government from time to time hires contract workers who all earn twice and even four times what teachers earn. But the teachers seem unable to get an increase in their lot. Is the government being penny wise and pound foolish?The teachers may seem unreasonable to ask for a forty per cent hike in their earnings but as the head of
the union said, they would not have refused a reasonable offer from the government. That reasonable offer appears not to be forthcoming, so the teachers are going on strike. What this says is that the teachers are prepared to forego even the little that they have; they are sacrificing for something worthwhile. I remember when the teachers in Trinidad were earning three times what the locals were earning. And rest assured our teachers are better.
They are not even asking for such a massive increase. I think the government should bite the bullet, as Jagdeo did when the Armstrong Commission recommended a fifty per cent increase in pay for the public servants. The returns would be worth it. Of course, Jagdeo played with the tax structure, and within two years, he got back every cent of that increase, so that the public servant was no better off. President David Granger and Finance Minister Winston Jordan may mean well for
Adam Harris the country, but with all the good intentions in the world, unless the teachers are made happy, those good intentions would come to naught.
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C
entral government has a constitu tional duty to support local democracy and the work of local democratic organs (municipalities and neighbourhood democratic councils). The failure of successive People’s Progressive Party Civic administrations to discharge this responsibility had resulted in hindering council’s ability to perform their functions. This led to deep dissatisfaction in communities and to a crisis in local governance – all to the detriment of people and their well-being. Two primary objectives of Local Government are to enable democratic local decision-making and action by, and on behalf of communities; and to promote the social, economic, environmental and cultural well-being of communities. The major goals of Local Government are:
Kaieteur News
- Improving the local environment; - Providing and developing local open space and recreation facilities; - Setting strategic policy directions; - Preparing annual plans, budgets and long-term council community plans; - Acting on behalf of other principals such as central government e.g. managing local grants; - Administering responsibilities under laws and regulations e.g. building and sanitation; - Regulating local nuisances such as animal and pest control; - Providing services relevant to road maintenance, solid waste collection and disposal, park maintenance, libraries, etc.; Providing an infrastructural and planning framework in which commu-
nities can grow and the economy can flourish; - Coordinating with other agencies operating locally e.g. Police; - Promoting cultural and sporting events; - Promoting local visitor and tourism events; - Consulting with residents towards improving service provision; - Developing and advancing community viewpoints; - Defining and enforcing appropriate rights within communities [Source: Gecom] The Joint Task Force on Local Government Reform which was commissioned by former President Jagdeo and then Leader of the Opposition, Desmond Hoyte began its work in May-June 2001 and submitted its Report in December 2003. The Task Force’s Terms of Reference were:
Generally to ensure the conclusion of the Constitutional reform process and give effect to the new Constitutional provisions regarding local democracy; Specifically to monitor and guide the drafting, passing and implementation of legislation to give greater autonomy to local government bodies including the establishment of the local government commission [and] the formulation and implementation of objective criteria for the purpose of the allocation of resources to, and the garnering of resources by local government organs; To recommend measures for continuous education programmes on the new local government system, and; - To recommend to the Local Government Commission mechanisms to monitor the work and functions of all established local government institutions and bodies. A key requirement to enable local government organs to effectively discharge their responsibilities (within the constitutional provision of autonomy) is having adequate financial resources. In this regard, Art. 77 A. says that Parliament shall by law provide for the formulation and implementation of objec-
Sunday August 12, 2018
tive criteria for the purpose of the allocation of resources to, and the garnering of resources by local democratic organs. On the question of garnering of resources, the Task Force’s recommendations were that “Local government bodies should be empowered to impose rates and taxes on property” and proposed that “NDCs collects the rates and share same with the lower tier”. It stated further that “Local Government councils should be empowered to approach donor agencies so as to seek and obtain from them, resources required for the development or enhancement of their respective localities, such as waste disposal facilities; composting facilities; landfill sites; incinerators and economic projects, among others. Proposals on criteria for the allocation of resources or fiscal transfers (from central government to local government bodies) were advanced. First, it was determined that any such criteria had to be informed by a premise. The premise, in this instance, is that there should be clear definitions with regard to the functions to be undertaken by the various levels of government – central and lo-
cal, local being regional, municipal, neighbourhood, etc. Once that premise was established, the central government would be in a position to determine how much of its resources it would commit to each tier of government. The funds, having being allocated to the various tiers, would have to be subdivided among the individual organs and certain criteria were identified to be factored in, to arrive at the respective amounts. The role of local democratic organs, therefore, is clearly defined as part of the governance architecture or, as the constitution states: “Local government by freely elected representatives of the people is an integral part of the democratic organization of the State” (Art. 12). Guyanese citizens were deprived for over two decades to elect new councillors to nine municipalities and sixtyfive neighbourhood democratic councils. However, on Friday March 18, 2016, citizens, thanks to the Coalition government, were able to exercise their democratic and constitutional right to elect their local leaders. This year local elections are constitutionally due and will be held on Monday November 12, 2018.
Sunday August 12, 2018
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Kaieteur News
Facts you should know about insect-borne diseases By Dr Zulfikar Bux Assistant Professor of Emergency Medicine
B
eing a tropical country, Guyana harbours quite a range of insects. We are exposed to these insects on a daily basis and it’s inevitable that we may get stung by an insect at some point. The challenge lies in knowing if you would have contracted an illness from an insect bite. Today, we will shed some light on insectborne diseases. Hopefully, you it will help to decrease your chances of getting an insect-borne illness. WHATARE INSECTBORNE DISEASES? Insect-borne diseases are viral and bacterial illnesses from insect (bug) bites. The most common insects that pass on disease are mosquitoes, sand flies, ticks, and fleas. For example, mosquitoes are known for spreading the Zika virus, Yellow Fever, Den-
gue, Chikungunya, and Malaria. Ticks cause lyme disease, but we do not have to worry about that in Guyana. In our interior, we do have sandflies that can cause serious diseases such as leishmaniasis and jiggers. WHATARE SOME SYMPTOMS OF INSECT-BORNE DISEASES? Symptoms will vary depending upon the type of insect that has bitten you. Common symptoms of insectborne diseases can include: · fever · chills · headache · sore muscles · skin rash · nausea · stomach pain. More serious symptoms can include: · difficulty breathing · the feeling that your throat is closing · swelling of your lips, tongue, or face · chest pain · a racing heartbeat that lasts more than a few minutes
· dizziness · vomiting WHAT CAUSES INSECT-BORNE DISEASES? The diseases are caused by blood-sucking insects that infect humans or animals when they bite. You increase your risk of being infected by an insect when you are in areas where they gather. This would include tall grass, bushes, spots near still water (ponds), and places that are getting heavy outbreaks. HOWARE INSECT-BORNE DISEASES DIAGNOSED? Your doctor can typically diagnose an insect-borne disease by examining you, a review of your symptoms, and a look at your recent travel destinations. Lab tests (blood and urine) can diagnose certain insect-borne diseases. CAN INSECT-BORNE DISEASES BE PREVENTED? There are many actions you can take to reduce the threat of being infected by an
insect, including: · Stay out of tall grass and bushes. · Dress in long pants, long sleeves, and a hat if you must be in tall grass and bushes. Tuck your pants into long, white socks. · Wear light-coloured clothing. This makes it easier to spot insects. · Use bug spray that contains the ingredient DEET. · Examine your skin and scalp when you get back in to check for bugs or bites. Always shower with plenty of soap after being in the outdoors. · Avoid places that are getting outbreaks. · Ensure you use a footwear when you are walking insolated/hinterland areas HOWARE INSECT-BORNE ILLNESSES TREATED? As soon as you recognize a bite, clean it with soap and water. Pat it dry and apply rubbing alcohol to the bite . If you were bitten by a tick, remove the tick before cleaning the area. Use twee-
zers to pull it slowly off your skin. Be careful not to leave any part of the tick on your skin. Dispose of the tick. Wash your hands and the bite area with soap and water and wipe with alcohol. Apply an overthe-counter antibiotic cream to the bite area .If you have any of the symptoms listed, see your doctor. Your doctor may give you a prescription for antibiotic medicine. Take the entire prescription. Your doctor may suggest other treatments that ease the symptoms. For example, overthe-counter pain medicine can relieve sore muscles and a fever. Some insect-borne diseases may be self-limiting while others can cause longterm symptoms that affect your quality and can even kill you. Lyme disease, for example, can leave you with sore muscles and fatigue. Zika virus can be passed on to a baby and cause microcephaly (small head) and an intellec-
Dr. Zulfikar Bux tual disability. Malaria and dengue can kill you if left untreated or can damage some of your organs. Chikungunya can cause longterm joint pains. While the odds of survival are on your side, your best chance of surviving lies in avoiding an insect bite as much as you can. Take preventive actions if you think you are likely to be exposed to insects.
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SUNDAY All oil contracts should be subject to renegotiation - UNDP Oil contracts are not set in stone. If there are fiscal arrangements that leave a country holding the short end of the proverbial stick, then renegotiation is not an unreasonable expectation. This is essentially the viewpoint of a report that was facilitated by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). That report was written by Anthony Paul, Principal Consultant of the Association of Caribbean Energy Specialists Ltd. In the document that was handed over since 2016, Paul noted that one of the basic rules of contract renegotiation is that the minute one party opens an agreement up for review; all terms are up for discussion. It therefore means that Guyana during its review of the ExxonMobil oil deal in 2016 was in a position to renegotiate to the state’s benefit, all fiscal terms. Nothing was off limits. For future contracts, it was recommended that Guyana puts in place a strategy for renegotiating contracts. Paul said that this must include engaging an experienced negotiator. As with other such advisory services, Paul said that if such a person is taken on, use should be made of her/his presence to train and mentor Guyanese staff from the Ministry and other agencies, involved in contract negotiations. Paul also said that Guyana’s authorities must get clarity on terms it may want to review and this is regardless of the security of certain terms. He said that Guyana
Sunday August 12, 2018
Kaieteur News
may want to review terms that relate to the extension of licences, sale of assets, opportunities to capture capital gains taxes, local content and capacity development, procurement rules and strategies, cost recovery limitations etc. China’s Belt & Road initiative is a yet another debt trap! Nothing is free. But sometimes the price to be paid is more than what was bargained. Several countries that signed onto China’s Belt and Road initiative are finding this out the hard way. The glitters that China flaunts are now becoming less attractive as China’s intention to “trap” countries and influence their politics and diplomacy are becoming clearer. In a nutshell, these countries have, in Guyanese parlance “dig their own grave.” This newspaper recently highlighted the fact that while some countries are regretting the pen used to sign onto the initiative, Guyana recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with China, thus making Guyana the 71st country to be listed as part of the initiative. China has been targeting weak and corrupt governments to sign onto its initiative and the people of those countries are suffering as a result. All the countries that have signed onto the project thus far have something that China wants. For Pakistan, it’s a route to heighten China’s trade activities. China has a US$62B plan in the making for Pakistan and has already pumped several billion dollars into the country through loans over the past three years. But, with all this money
Part of Pakistan’s Orange Line Metro Train (Daily Pakistan’s Photo) floating around, the people of Pakistan are crying out as they are no better off. In fact, the Wall Street Journal recently reported that Pakistanis are complaining about the shortage of jobs and even basic essentials like drinking water. Relations between China and Pakistan on this initiative have been described as opaque, corrupt and set only to benefit China and Pakistan’s ruling politicians. Imran Khan, Pakistan’s recently elected Prime Minister, quoted, “The real reason for building these loss-making megaprojects has always been massive kickbacks.” Hotel owner shoots driver dead during confrontation A 30-year-old driver was
shot dead at around 01:00 hrs last week Saturday during a confrontation with his neighbour, who is the owner of the Tourist Villa Hotel in Fifth Avenue, Subryanville, Kitty. Jason De Florimonte of 96 Fifth Avenue Subryanville, Kitty, was shot four times after he allegedly confronted Erwin Bacchus, a licensed firearm owner, in the businessman’s hotel. De Florimonte fled outside and died a few feet from his front gate. De Florimonte, who was a driver/salesman employed by Top Brandz Distributors, and who lived opposite the Tourist Villa Hotel, was said to have had a strained relations with Bacchus, an aunt of the slain man said. The victim was the father
of three. He was at the time living with a 24-year-old woman, who is at the centre of the incident. Police said that the shooting occurred after De Florimonte and his 24-yearold girlfriend had an argument. According to a police press release, Terrance Newsun, a handyman, was at the hotel gate when he saw a commotion between the couple. When Newsun confronted them, De Florimonte allegedly attacked the handyman, who fled into the hotel, with De Florimonte in pursuit. Police allege that while in the hotel, De Florimonte turned his attention to the hotel owner, who shot the driver four times. The shot man died at the scene, while police took the
shooter into custody. Some hotel employees claimed that De Florimonte had run into the hotel with two knives and was shot during an argument with the proprietor. MONDAY Govt. should set aside oil money for every household…Prof. Clive Thomas tells Buxton/ Friendship residents With the onset of oil, Professor Clive Thomas believes that the government of Guyana has a unique opportunity to do something meaningful and tangible for the nation’s poor. And what better way to do it, Dr, Thomas says, than to put aside a portion of the oil and gas money for the less fortunate. The economist suggested that almost every household should get US$5000 per year. He made these and other remarks last Sunday afternoon at the Eusi Kwayana Emancipation Symposium, which took place at Friendship Primary School. Thomas was part of the panel which included Attorney-at-Law Nigel Hughes. Professor Thomas said, “I believe that some portion of the net cash flow from oil should be dedicated to giving cash transfers to every single household in this country. Whether it be US$5000 per year or whatever it works out at, we can do the calculations, but there must be a mechanism which dictates that every single household and by extension, every single person would see the (Continued on page 33)
Sunday August 12, 2018
From page 32 benefit of oil and gas in terms of a cheque or cash…I believe that there can be no better spender of resources than the person themselves. No one can tell you how to better spend money on what you need than yourself…” Dr. Thomas said he is afraid that the national debate is moving “further and further away from this reality.” He noted that some critics have often quoted the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) which said that the idea is simply a waste of resources. But he does not agree with this. Professor Thomas said that indeed, some people can point to many examples where this mechanism has failed. He noted however that there are instances where this can also work.
Power and Light (GPL), Guyana Water Inc. (GWI) and the smaller contractors who worked for the council on credit. There are also outstanding payments for the National Insurance Scheme (NIS), the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), and the workers’ credit unions. However, the Council headed by Mayor Patricia Chase-Green has been steadfast in the plan to host the activities. The Mayor and City Council (M&CC) recently launched its City Week celebrations at the Stabroek Market Square. The Mayor noted that celebrations are slated to commence on August 19 and conclude on August 25. It seeks to raise $19Million, solely by donations and sponsorships, for this event.
City Hall owes GPL, GWI, NIS, contractors, and workers’ Credit Union …but wants to spend $19M on week of celebrations
Govt. must change legal, institutional frameworks under which businesses operate …otherwise, banks, businesses will continue to suffer – Ramson
While the Georgetown Mayor and City Council (M&CC) is gearing up to host City Week in celebration of the 175th anniversary of Georgetown on a $19M budget, some sections of society including councillors have been strongly objecting to the funds being injected into the activities. City councilors, like Bishram Kuppen, are among the detractors. During a recent statutory meeting, Kuppen questioned the logic behind the city‘s spending when the cash-strapped Council has a lot of outstanding debt. Kuppen had outlined that the Council is yet to pay remittances to a list of entities to which it owes money. Among them are Guyana
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Kaieteur News
When businesses are interested in securing loans from banks, they are required to put several assets up as collateral. But when they are unable to honour their payment arrangements, those assets are seized by the financial institutions. In doing so, banks endeavor to recover the loss incurred. But this is easier said than done. In fact, the six large commercial banks in Guyana are experiencing difficulties with turning over assets, a process often referred to as asset realisation. Speaking on the effects of this issue recently was Attorney at Law, Charles Ramson. He was at the time delivering remarks at the Business Development Forum organised by the
Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) and the Private Sector Commission. Ramson said that there is a need for government to rewire the legal and institutional frameworks under which businesses operate. Ramson said that bankruptcy and asset realisation are critical components of a market economy, but Guyana’s laws create a structural weakness that creates a drag on business development and economic growth. In a subsequent interview with Kaieteur News, Ramson said that while the intention of every business is to make money, some do fail, “and businesses must be allowed to fail smoothly.” ”When I say fail smoothly, I mean we must cater adequately for the possibility of business failures so that our businessmen do not have to become stuck, and as a result their capital can go towards other productivity,” Ramson stated. He told Kaieteur News that business failure is an important part of economic growth. He said that this very unfortunate occurrence can become a catalyst for improvement, innovation, and entering new areas of business opportunity. “Therefore, the process of moving out of one business is as important as the process of moving into one or moving into another.” TUESDAY Major offers submitted for “entire” sugar industry -Harold Davis Jr. named new GuySuCo Chief Government has disclosed that it has received some major offers for the entire sugar industry but warned that it will be proceeding very
Still to be completed after two years: The Kitty Market
Falling Apart: The Famous City Hall
cautiously in ensuring Guyana gets the best deal. It was also announced Monday that Dr. Harold Davis, Jr., the Director of Agricultural Services of the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) has been named the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). It is unclear what will happen to Paul Bhim, who has been performing the duties of CEO. The news will come as the Coalition Government continues to grapple with a cashstrapped industry that is heading downhill fast with sliding productions in recent years. During the post-Cabinet press briefing Monday at the Ministry of the Presidency, Minister of State, Joseph Harmon, said that proper valuations and demarcations of the estates have to be carried out first before any decisions are made. According to Minister Harmon, Davis’ appointment took effect from August 1 but he started work Monday. The new CEO is the son of former Chairman, the late Harold Davis. Belt and Road initiative…Guyana will be able to avert the debt trap big nations fell into – Harmon “There is nothing to fear,” said Minister of State Joseph Harmon Monday as he spoke fondly about government’s relationship with China and sought to quell fears about Guyana signing onto the troubled Belt and Road Initiative. Harmon was responding to questions at the post-Cabinet press briefing. He said that he is quite aware of the concerns about Government embracing the Belt and Road Initiative.
“But, I want to say to the media and to Guyana in general, that Guyana was one of the first countries in this hemisphere to give diplomatic recognition to the People’s Republic of China and that was since in 1972.” Harmon said that since that time, many others have then given diplomatic recognition to China “but we were leading…there is absolutely no reason why Guyana should not take advantage of a transformative project such as the Belt and Road Initiative.” Harmon assured that there is “nothing to fear” since Government has “carefully identified projects” with clearly defined timelines for completion. ”I have read about experiences of countries such as Pakista,n but we are basically taking our time and have carefully laid out projects. We will have clear timelines when things are to be done and we will have careful monitoring, so I do not think people should fear these projects going the way of Pakistan.” Harmon indicated that Guyana will tap into money being offered by China under the Belt and Road Initiative to fund the Linden to Lethem Road and several ICT projects. He said, “I cannot give the entire list right now but I know that some of the infrastructure projects are there.” NIS projected to lose $414M as sugar estates closure hit ome…pursuing $250M interest payment from GuySuCo The National Insurance Scheme (NIS) is expected to lose $414M this year alone, representing further slippage
in earnings, which officials say is due to a combination of factors, including the closure of sugar estates. This was disclosed by the scheme’s Finance Controller, Jacqueline Scotland, during an appearance Monday with other senior officers before the bi-partisan Parliamentary Sectoral Committee on Social Services. In response to questions about the scheme’s viability in face of the closure of the estates from Opposition MP, Vishwa Mahadeo, Scotland disclosed that the Scheme’s current fund stands at $31.9B as of June 30. The state-owned Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) was one of the largest defaulters, owing in excess of $1.5B. However, NIS General Manager, Holly Greaves, shared with the committee that the sugar company had paid off the debt except for $250M in accrued interest on the outstanding amount. Greaves stated that the Scheme plans to take legal action against GuySuCo to recover the monies. It has served a demand notice. ”We intend to move to the court to get it,” Greaves stated. Minister within the Minister of Health, Dr. Karen Cummings, asked about plans the Scheme has to recover monies owed by businesses that deduct monies, but don’t pay over to the Scheme. Greaves stated that the scheme has also implemented a debt management section to pursue persons who owe NIS. Even with debt management, there are fears about continued slippage of contribution as against the payment of benefits. This year, NIS is (Continued on page 34)
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From page 33 expected to pay out $23.6B with contributions projected to reach $23.2B. WEDNESDAY Guyana/Cuba scholarship programme…. Disciplinary Committee probing allegations of fraud by medical graduates A Disciplinary Committee has been set up by the Medical Council of Guyana to probe allegations of grade manipulation and other questionable acts carried out by a number of graduates of the medicine programme offered through the Guyana/Cuba scholarship programme. The medical students under scrutiny are from among large batches of students who were trained in Cuba in recent years. In fact, the state of affairs is one that has forced the Medical Council to even implement new measures to guard against the criminal acts. This is according to Chief Medical Officer within the Ministry of Public Health, Dr. Shamdeo Persaud. According to Dr. Persaud, having detected the troubling development, the Medical Council was forced to establish the Disciplinary Committee, a measure which is stipulated under the regulation of the Medical Practitioners Act. Once set up, the Committee must be headed by a judge. Moreover, the Committee is being led by Justice Joann Barlow at the behest of the Chief Justice, Dr. Persaud informed. “She [Justice Barlow] has been advising and conducting the hearing into these matters,” said Dr. Persaud, as he shared his suspicion that some of these very persons who are being investigated have been the agitators of an upheaval facing the Medical Council.
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While there have been a number of doctors who are convinced that the operations of the Medical Council should be closely scrutinised for several reasons, Dr. Persaud said that efforts are also being made to bring the body into disrepute for carrying out its legitimate role. The Council is a recognised regulatory body tasked with enhancing and monitoring the functioning of the medical fraternity in Guyana. As such, Dr. Persaud who is an ex officio member by virtue of his position as CMO, said that the Council has a role to ensure that only medical graduates who complete accredited programmes are licensed to practice. He explained for instance, “If you were trained at UG [University of Guyana] or UWI [University of the West Indies] or in most of the other commonwealth countries, you will be entitled to complete your medical training and get a degree from the university that you attended, and then you present that degree to the Medical Council and you could be issued an internship registration which you will complete.” However, Dr. Persaud shared, “for the Cuban programme, that was not necessarily accredited by the body that accredits for Guyana.” AFC’s decision to contest LGE solo leaves it politically exposed – Dr. Hinds The decision of the Alliance For Change (AFC) to contest the Local Government Elections (LGE) alone leaves it in an exposed position. It must now prove whether its electoral support is intact, or if it has vanished. This view was recently expressed by Executive Member of the Working People’s Alliance (WPA),
NIS General Manager Holly Greaves (right) and Finance Controller Jacqueline Scotland before the Parliamentary Sectoral Committee on Social Services Dr. David Hinds. In a missive to the media, the political commentator said he is not the least bit surprised with the AFC’s decision. He opined that the only other choice it had was to not contest at all. If it had chosen to do that, then Dr. Hinds said it would have been an admission of defeat. In effect, Dr. Hinds said that the AFC’s coalition partner, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), got what it wanted—it forced the AFC to go out and prove its electoral worth in circumstances that are not favourable to the latter. The columnist said that the not so-veiled message to the AFC was clear—”Contest on your own or contest with us on APNU terms.” He commented, “I think it all came down to leverage—the AFC did not have any bargaining power. Unlike in 2015, when it was able to
There are offers for the entire take-over of the sugar industry
use its performance at the 2011 election to strike a hard bargain in the Cummingsburg Accord, this time around, it did not have that asset. The votes at the 2015 election were combined, so it couldn’t accurately pinpoint its share.” Dr. Hinds continued, “Further, if it is true that the AFC wanted 40 percent of the seat allocation that was not the smartest demand to make, especially since they badly wanted to go into the election as a Coalition. It gave APNU the chance to say ‘we tried to accommodate you but your demands were unreasonable.’ Perhaps a 20 percent request would have swayed APNU.” He continued, “But a 40 percent demand was dead on arrival, simply because the AFC could not demonstrate that it has that amount of electoral support, particularly in the Indian Guyanese community. Had the
AFC from 2015 onwards cultivated and consolidated its Indian Guyanese support base, it would have been in a stronger position to make the demands it sought.” Cash handouts from oil wealth will spark ridiculous election campaigns – Nigel Hughes Attorney-at-Law Nigel Hughes is completely against the suggestion by some that a portion of the nation’s oil wealth should be set aside to make direct cash handouts to every household. At the recently held Eusi Kwayana Emancipation Symposium which took place last Sunday at Friendship Primary School, Hughes said that such a proposal would lead to ridiculous election campaigns which would distort, completely, the (Continued on page 35)
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From page 34 need to focus on true development of the state and its people. ”My fear is that when we talk about giving people cash, we are opening the doors to politicians jumping up and saying I will be able to give you more cash than the next, and you end up with a ridiculous election campaign of people being irresponsible about development, because it becomes a competition of who can give more,” Hughes asserted. He stressed, “We are living in a different social era, with different commitments and views on development.” Hughes’ comments would come on the heels of statements made by Professor Clive Thomas, who is a staunch advocate of cash transfers being made to every household. At the said event, the economist suggested that almost every household should get US$5000 per year. Professor Thomas said, “I believe that some portion of the net cash flow from oil should be dedicated to giving cash transfers to every single household in this country. Whether it be US$5000 per year or whatever it works out at, we can do the calculations, but there must be a mechanism which dictates that every single household and by extension, every single person would see the benefit of oil and gas in terms of a cheque or cash…I believe that there can be no better spender of resources that the person themselves. No one can tell you how to better spend money on what you need than yourself…”
A screen shot of the video, which shows the Russian cuffing a Guyanese miner
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President David Granger with members of the new Police Service Commission, from left: Paul Slowe, Chairman; Vesta Adams, President Granger, Claire Jarvis, Clinton Conway and Michael Somersall, Chairman of the Public Service Commission. Dr. Thomas said he is afraid that the national debate is moving “further and further away from this reality.” He noted that some critics have often quoted the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) which said that the idea is simply a waste of resources. But he does not agree with this. THURSDAY Video of Guyanese miner assault… Two Russians arrested, firearms confiscated Just days after a video was circulated on social media of Russian security personnel who are employed by West Bank Demerara Gold Inc, assaulting a Guyanese
miner and drawing a gun on him, two Russian nationals have been arrested and their firearms confiscated. They are assisting police with investigations. The video sparked an investigation by Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC), and now the Guyana Police Force. It allegedly shows a Guyanese being confronted by two Russians. The foreigners were wearing pants resembling military fatigues and ordinary jerseys, and both men were armed with handguns. The Guyanese was telling the Russians that he was not working for them and did not have to show them anything. This seemed to be because the Russians felt that the man was working in the wrong area. The Russian then punched the Guyanese and the Guyanese attempted to respond in kind, but the Russian drew his handgun. The video sparked a debate on social media that saw Guyanese expressing dissatisfaction about how foreigners are treating Guyanese. The video was then followed by photos of what is presumed to be a Guyanese miner who was kidnapped and tortured in a mining camp somewhere in the interior of Guyana, with suggestions that this was done by the same Russians. The photos showed a male handcuffed to an overhead rafter, and left in a standing position. This sparked even more anger. But so far, no one had been able to identify the individual who was assumed kidnapped and tortured. Reports are that the Guyanese who were affected worked for a miner named Shawn Hopkinson. The Ministry of Natural
Resources responded on Tuesday by issuing a statement. “The Ministry has noted with deep concern and strong consternation a video circulating on social media, which appears to show a confrontation at a mining location between an alleged foreigner and Guyanese miner. ”The video clearly shows that the alleged foreigner is armed with a firearm and behaving in an aggressive, hostile and condescending manner towards the man who appears to be a Guyanese national.” On Thursday the Guyana Police Force through its Public Relations Officer, Superintendent Jairam Ramlakhan, issued a statement saying, “The Guyana Police Force wishes to inform the general public that following the circulation of a video on social media of a confrontation and assault of a Guyanese by two foreign nationals, a thorough investigation has been launched. EPA steps in as gold mining halted in Demerara River Government halted dredging in the Demerara River, on Wednesday and has ordered a report on the issue. According to a Government statement, Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman, said he has put a halt to mining in the Demerara River even as his ministry investigates concerns raised by residents of Region Ten, Upper Demerara-Berbice, about river mining. Trotman said he has requested a report on the matter from Acting Commissioner of the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC), Newell Dennison. He was speaking Wednesday at the opening of the Multi-Stakeholder Committee at the Arthur Chung
Conference Centre (ACCC), Liliendaal. ”I’ve asked that we not have any mining at all up the river or elsewhere until of course the EPA [Environmental Protection Agency] can certify that this mining is safe,” Minister Trotman said. The state-owned Guyana Chronicle reported Wednesday that two water draggers (pontoons retrofitted to mine the river bottom for minerals) were detained in Linden. The draggers were reportedly heading to Great Falls, up the Demerara River to mine the water. Residents were concerned about pollution of the water and Regional Chairman of Region Ten, Renis Morian, had written to the president expressing concern over the GGMC granting license to mine without an environmental impact assessment being carried out. Minister Trotman noted that his ministry is treating the matter with all urgency. Last year, the Ministry of Natural Resources prevented mining in the Parish Peak, Upper Berbice following concerns over contamination of the environment. A Biodiversity Assessment Team (BAT) Survey in 2014 had determined that the area is important for biodiversity, as the Upper Berbice River region comprises pristine lowland forests containing diverse and abundant wildlife. FRIDAY Granger wants ‘unbribable’ Top Cop…swears-in PSC members; plans to appoint four deputy commissioners President David Granger has signaled intentions to commence the consultation
process with Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo and the Police Service Commission (PSC) for the appointment of a new Commissioner of Police. The President made the disclosure Thursday at State House after swearing-in members of the PSC, with retired Assistant Commissioner of Police, Paul Slowe as Chairman. Speaking with reporters following the ceremony, the President indicated that he was still searching for a top cop, and ruled out recruiting an overseas candidate. He said the appointee must possess qualities of the ‘three Is’ – integrity, intelligence and impartiality. ”I don’t give orders to the Commissioner of Police, but I want somebody who is ‘unbribable’; I want somebody who is intelligent and I want somebody who is committed to carrying out the programmes of security sector reform, who has the initiative, and who can generate public trust,” Granger stated. The President noted that the Commissioner must also command the trust of subordinates and the wider public. ”If I put somebody there who is not trustworthy the public would laugh,” the President stated. Slowe said he plans to meet with the PSC members to review the potential candidates for Commissioner. ”It is not a one-man decision, but we will look for someone who is competent; someone who can command the respect of the members of the force and the public. People must have confidence in the person. I think those are the two main things I will look for,” Slowe stated. The other PSC members (Continued on page 36)
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Teachers awaiting word from their union
From page 35 are Chairman of the Public Service Commission, Michael Somersall, Vesta Adams, Clinton Conway and Claire Jarvis. The search for a new top cop commenced when Seelall Persaud retired in February. Back in April, eight Assistant Commissioners participated in a process at the Ministry of the Presidency that included a written test and interviews by a panel that included the President along with Public Security Minister, Khemraj Ramjattan. Among the eight were acting Police Commissioners David Ramnarine, Clifton Hicken, Leslie James, Paul Williams, Lyndon Alves, Nigel Hoppie, Marlon Chapman and Maxine Graham. ”I understand the field from which I have to choose. Other jurisdictions in the Caribbean have invited officers from other countries like Britain and so on. I do intend to appoint a Guyanese,” the President assured. Strike action to meet Govt.’s ‘disrespectful’ offer to teachers Not only has government rejected the majority of the recommendations detailed in the salary proposal for teachers, which was negotiated by a government-appointed high-level Committee, but it has even failed to agree on a percentage increase for the years that teachers have been waiting. Public school teachers have been waiting since 2016 for their union, the Guyana Teachers’ Union [GTU], to ink a multi-year agreement with
government for them to receive enhanced salary and non-salary benefits. But following an unfavourable meeting between union representatives and government officials Thursday, the long wait will end with a full-blown strike action. Following a meeting at the GTU’s Woolford Avenue, Georgetown headquarters, a decision was taken for teachers to engage two weeks of strike action. This will translate to teachers staying away from school for pre-term activities [the week before school reopens] and the first week of school [the first week of September]. ”Nobody will go to school for pre-term and nobody will go to school for the first week,” GTU President, Mr. Mark Lyte, related to media operatives Thursday. Several teachers, gathered at the union’s headquarters, passionately shared their frustration with the union’s leadership, as they insisted that strike action was the only way to go, since government has failed to live up to its many promises to ensure that they too benefit from “a good life.” According to many of the teachers, not only has the government they voted into power failed them, but it has even gone as far as reducing them “the moulders of the nation” to insignificant beings. ”It was this government, while in opposition, who said that teachers were important,” the GTU President reminded the gathering, as he called on the union members to decide the way forward. ”We are now mandated by our members to take indus-
trial action,” said Lyte, who noted that the union will inform the Ministry, by way of writing, of its decision. He noted that while the initial action will be for two weeks, government’s failure to reconsider its position will see the union deciding the nature of continued industrial action. New Demerara River Bridge study… Patterson breached procurement laws in $148M contract award – Commission Report states A slew of procurement laws were breached when a Dutch company was awarded a $148M contract for a feasibility study for a new bridge design across the Demerara River. This is according to a recently released report from the Public Procurement Commission (PPC), which conducted an investigation of the contract award process based on a request from Opposition Chief Whip, Gail Teixeira. The PPC found that the Ministry of Public Infrastructure headed by Minister David Patterson, did not tender for the project. In fact, the PPC indicated that the Ministry received an unsolicited proposal from LievenseCSO Engineering Contracting BV, to provide consultancy services for the bridge project. According to the PPC, Patterson, by way of a Memorandum dated November 18, 2016, made a request to Cabinet seeking consideration and approval to use funds from the Demerara Harbour Bridge Corporation (DHBC). Specifically, Patterson re-
quested funds from the company’s asphalt plant accounts to fund the feasibility study and commence a contractual arrangement with Dutch company, as of January 1, 2017. The PPC in its investigation found that the Minister’s request to Cabinet was not forwarded through the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB). Based on the PPC report, the submission by Patterson directly to Cabinet was in breach of the Procurement Act. “The Procurement Act and regulations make no provision for the Minister of Public Infrastructure to take a procurement request directly to Cabinet for approval of award of a contract,” the PPC report states. The PPC report points out that while Cabinet has the right to review all procurements that exceed $15M, this review shall be done on the basis of the streamlined tender evaluation report of the ‘Authority’ which in this case is the NPTAB. SATURDAY 32,000 visas, 1,200 work permits granted from 2013-2018- number of foreigners overstaying rises sharply Official figures are indicating that more than 32,000 visas were granted to foreigners entering Guyana in the last five years. According to information provided by Minister of Citizenship, Winston Felix, between 2013 and 2018, the largest number of visas approved
was last year- 7,640 in total. The figures were included in the response to several questions posed by members of the Parliamentary Sectoral Committee on Foreign Relations. Felix appeared before the committee on Thursday to update them on Government’s handling of Guyanese returning from troubled Venezuela, and migrants from that country who have come here. The committee was interested in foreigners who have been coming here and settling - asking for work permits and visas. The committee is chaired by Opposition Chief Whip, Gail Teixeira, and include as members, Ministers Nicolette Henry and Dominic Gaskin. Also on the committee for the Opposition are MPs Nigel Dharamlall and Zulfikar Mustapha. According to the figures, in 2013, some 4,562 visas were granted. In 2014, it was 5,451; in 2015 it was 6,679; in 2016 4,639; in 2017 - 7,640 while to date for 2018, the number of visas issued is 3,717. Privatisation/divestment of closed estates… Land, factory, co-gen plant at Skeldon up for grabs PricewaterhouseCoopers has completed the valuation of a second sugar estate, making it two that potential investors can assess and submit bids for. The Information Memorandum for Skeldon Sugar Estate has now been completed and is available for purchase. According to an advertisement in Kaieteur News yesterday by the National In-
dustrial and Commercial Investments Limited/Special Purpose Unit (NICIL/SPU), Skeldon Estate is the second estate, with Enmore being the first, for which the Information Memorandum will be available between August 6th and August 27th. The SPU is the entity that is charged with overseeing the privatization and divestment of the four closed estates. “The Information Memorandum will contain, among other things, the timeline for the bids, process of ranking the bids and further details of assets for sale.” The advertisement said that at Skeldon, there is an attractive investment opportunity for sugar producers, including opportunities to enter new areas like co-generation, alcohol, ethanol and brown bulk sugar in a hurricane-free zone. The estate includes 1,750 hectares of freehold land with a 110,000 tonnes sugar capacity factory, warehouse and offices. At the Corentyne, Berbice location, there is also water treatment, co-generation and diesel plants, inventories, equipment and rolling stock. Investors can also look forward to a long term lease of initially 25 years for an additional of 11,900 hectares of cultivated lands with options to renew. The information memorandum also highlighted the fact that Skeldon has a recently built automated factory with co-generation plant and a large pool of experienced workers. Guyana’s position of growth in 2020 from oil was also highlighted.
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Barbados, Dominica... From page 24 Caribbean efforts to fight Climate Change by confronting the governments of the profligate countries that are killing island-states and others by a thousand cuts. At the 2015 Paris climate summit, small island states raised their voices in unison to pressure big polluting countries to accept the goal of limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius, rather than two degrees, over the preindustrial level. But those were words on paper; quickly forgotten and in one case completely abandoned. Temperatures are already at 1 degree Celsius and heading rapidly toward two degrees. I recall well the fretfulness of a former Prime Minister of Kiribati, Sir Ieremia Tabai, who served with me on the Eminent Persons Group that produced a report on Commonwealth reform in 2011. He desperately wanted to find a major investor for a hotel in Kiribati. Today, Kiribati has had to purchase about eight square miles on the Fijian island of Vanua Levu for a little less than $9 million, potentially to move its population there one day. Sir Ieremia's nation is facing extinction. There has been too much hot air and too little action over Climate Change. By now, every small island state should have had a Minister of Government and a department dedicated to fighting this issue every day and everywhere. It is the region's greatest challenge. The Green Climate Fund has been more a repository
of dreams and illusion than of reality and delivery. Right now, the Fund has just over $1 billion left to allocate from its start-up donations. There is no agreement on how money will be delivered and what its priorities will be. The World Bank Group delivered $20.5 billion in climate-related finance in the last fiscal year, but while that helps to build climate resilience in some states, it does nothing to stop or even to curb the disregard that is driving the destructive forces of Climate Change. Last September at the United Nations, Dominica's Prime Minister, Roosevelt Skerrit, declared: “We are shouldering the consequences of the actions of others. There is little time left for action. While the big countries talk, the small island nations suffer. We need action and we need it now.� Dominica has just experienced yet another blow from Climate Change – investment, too, is not secure and it has nothing to do with poaching. There is another Climate Conference in December in Bangkok. Caribbean countries should raise the banner, bang the drum, and rail against the coming of the night between now and then. (The writer is Antigua and Barbuda's Ambassador to the United States and the OAS, and non-resident High Commissioner to Canada. The views expressed are his own) Responses and previous c o m m e n t a r i e s : www.sirronaldsanders.com
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Motorist tells court cyclist rode into him Ramanand Jagdeo who is charged with causing death by dangerous driving, on Tuesday told the court that it was the pedal cyclist who rode into the path of his vehicle which was traversing along the Peter’s Hall Public Road. Jagdeo, who has retained Attorney-at-Law Paul Funga-Fat, pleaded not guilty to the charge which alleges that on February 22, at Peter’s Hall Public Road, East Bank Demerara, he drove motorcar PRR 4395, in a manner dangerous to the public, thereby causing the death of Alexander Appiah. According to reports, Jagdeo was driving a car, proceeding south along the eastern carriageway of Peter’s Hall Public Road, when he collided with the pedal cyclist who was riding in the same direction. The court heard that the left front of the car hit the cyclist, hurling him from his bike and causing him to fall onto the roadway. As a result of the impact of the collision, the cyclist’s right leg was severed. The injured man was picked up and rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital where he was admitted. He later died. When his trial continued on Tuesday before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts, Jagdeo opted to give unsworn testimony after the close of the prosecution’s case which was led by Police Inspector Neville Jeffers. According to the defen-
Ramanand Jagdeo dant, on the day in question he was heading home to Golden Grove, East Bank Demerara, and en route, he stopped on the Back Road to pick up some items. He told the court that he then drove to Alexander Village, Georgetown, where he met his brother. Afterwards, Jagdeo said he drove to M&M Snackette from where he bought some roti. He said that while heading along the East Bank Demerara Public Road in the vicinity of Peter’s Hall, he saw several persons walking on the left hand side of the road. “Suddenly, I saw a bicycle coming over the road to my lane. I suddenly pulled brakes and when I stopped and came out of my vehicle a set of people flocked me and started beating me. They began cuffing me to my face and my head and stole my money,” Jagdeo recalled. The defendant told the (Continued on page 65)
Prof. Clive Thomas is... From page 39 create parasites is offensive, but moreso highlights how some politicians see the masses. You cannot be a parasite benefiting from what belongs to you. The counter argument that direct payment will cause inflation ignores that even with its absence inflation is present. This issue is not only about the economics, it is about the history of oil, where, over the years, few have had control, and by their actions have rend asunder nation and people. The only way for citizens to have direct benefit is through some disbursement plan. Of course, it's expected reasonable conditionality will be set. And yes, what Thomas is speaking of is not new. The concept finds international appeal, including from USA billionaire George Soros, as a mechanism to ensure oil wealth is widely disbursed among the people, reducing income/wealth disparity, corruption and internal strife that have flown from it. Residents of Alaska, USA, receive a
yearly dividend from that state's oil wealth. Studying how this and similar projects work could aid in developing an indigenous model built on best practices. Our neighbour, Venezuela, marks a century as an oil-producing country, accompanied by a plethora of laws to ensure its management, yet the wealth has not filtered to the masses. Efforts by the Hugo Chavez government to remove control from the elite and privileged was met with visceral reaction, internal and external, to undermine a programme geared to benefit the small man. Guyana can learn numerous lessons and put systems in place to safeguard our sovereignty, protect our citizens, and ensure our resources are sustainably exploited for the benefit of all. Don't shoot down Thomas' idea without examining the motive behind his thinking, requesting clarity if the need arises, learning from others' experiences, and seeking to avoid oil's curse and pitfalls.
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Nicki Minaj Drops Her Album Queen: Breaking Down Her Lyrics About Drake, DJ Khaled and More The Queen has arrived. After four years of keeping fans on their toes, Nicki Minaj has officially released her long-awaited fourth studio album, titled Queen, and the star certainly has a lot to say. The 19-track album has been fueling serious anticipation since the Grammy-nominated rapper first revealed in April that a new album was on its way after her musical hiatus. Well, the long wait may have been worth it considering Minaj has called it her personal “best.” “I didn’t lie. This album is really my best, trust me,” she said while debuting the album on Apple Music’s Beats 1 on Friday. “Whole way around.” While the album overall has sent fans rapping into the weekend, there are a few specific verses that demand some attention. Without further ado, allow us to break down
the new beats: The track to ignite the most headlines seems to be “Barbie Dreams,” in which Minaj name-drops 50 Cent, Drake, Lil Uzi Vert, DJ Khaled and many more. While fans have interpreted the track as something of a massive diss to those mentioned, the star insisted that it was all in good fun. “With Barbie Dreams, you guys do know that is not a dis, right? You do know that the people I said on ‘Barbie Dreams’… I said things about people who I know can take a joke and who I know can’t be emotional with it,” she said on Beats 1. “It is what it is.” “Reading the reactions to ‘Barbie Dreams’—f—king hilarious!” she added. “Everyone is saying how disrespectful ‘Barbie Dreams’ is and that’s why I f—king love it.” Either way, she had plenty
to say as she rapped about 50 Cent and his show, Power,
rhyming, “Drake worth a hundred milli, always buying
ex Meek Mill hitting up her DMs and rejecting Lil Uzi Vert. She also made fun of Drake,
me s—t/But I don’t know if the p—y wet thought or if he crying and s—t.” The two
have been longtime friends and Minaj has described their relationship as that of an “old married couple.” Perhaps the biggest dig was at DJ Khaled when she rapped “Had to cancel DJ Khaled, boy, we ain’t speaking/Ain’t no fat n—a telling me what he ain’t eating.” The line was in reference to a previous interview in which Khaled admitted he does not perform oral sex. “I love Khaled’s wife ‘cause she’s my baby, too,” Minaj added during her interview on Beats 1. Elsewhere on the album, fans suspect Minaj may have shaded Cardi B. The two female rappers have been rumored to have beefed in the past, though it was suspected that any conflict had been resolved when they were spotted mingling at the 2018 Met Gala. Still, on “Ganja Burns,”
one line raises an eyebrow: “They done went to witch doctors to bury the Barbie/But I double back, kill bi—hes, bury the body.” When listening to the track, it sounds like Minaj saids “Bardi” instead of “body,” an obvious reference to Cardi B’s nickname. Later on in the song, she references her signature wigs (“Yo, you can’t wear Nicki wig and then be Nicki”), seemingly a reference to past fan comments that Cardi B’s style was reminiscent of Minaj’s. Either way, Minaj is clear: she puts in the work and wants to be recognized as one of a kind. As she notes on “Ganja Burns,” “You gotta have real skill, gotta work for that/If it’s really your passion would you give the world for that?/ Unlike a lot of these hoes whether wack or lit/At least I can say I wrote every rap I spit.” (www.eonline.com)
Russell Simmons Seeking $35,000 Lil Kim Wishes Nicki Minaj The Best After Years of Feuding: ‘’Let Each Female Shine’’ From Alleged Rape Accuser Russell Simmons is taking legal action against a woman who accused him of rape. In legal documents obtained by E! News, the music producer requests that the woman listed as Jane Doe pay him $35,000 in legal reparations after accusing him of rape, “for purposes of publicity, which this case has garnered.” The case in which the woman sought $10 million was eventually thrown out since the statute of limitations has passed, but Simmons claims her actions were “baseless and was filled for an improper purpose.” Furthermore, “the plaintiff had 21 days to withdraw the suit, after which, by statute, Simmons’ lawyers filed for dismissal, sanctions and appropriate legal fees,” according to Mr. Simmons’ spokesperson, Angela Pruitt. Aside from the money, the music mogul requests that the judge impose sanctions against the attorney representing Jane Doe, Mr. Mastroianni, since the lawyer and plaintiff “falsely suggests in her opposition… that Mr. Simmons is somehow more culpable here because the law firm that represents him in this action also has represented Bill Cosby and Harvey Weinstein.” The alleged victim accused Simmons of rape in March, nearly 30 years after she alleged the assault took place following a concert they both attended in Sacramento, Calif. She claimed she met the artist at a hotel bar after leaving her elementary school-aged son with a babysitter. She claimed he then asked the mother to go with him to his room to retrieve something he had forgotten. “After entering the room, Russell shut the door and said ‘I am going to f—k you,” she alleged in court documents. “Russell threw her on the bed and raped her,” those documents also claim. The artist addressed the allegations in a
lengthy statement, saying, “I vehemently deny all the allegations made against me. They have shocked me to my core as I have never been abusive or violent in any way in my relations with women. I have submitted myself to multiple lie detector tests. I denied forced sex and sexual harassment allegations brought against me in each test; I also answered no to the question, ‘Have you ever physically forced any woman to have sexual intercourse?’ I passed all of the lie detector tests.” In the wake of the #MeToo movement, at least 14 women have come forward to accuse the producer of sexual misconduct, all of which the Def Jam founder has denied. E! News has reached out to an attorney for Russell Simmons for comment. (www.eonline.com)
Has the crown finally been claimed? In an interview with Real 92.3, Lil’ Kim was asked, as she has been for many years, her thoughts on fellow rapper Nicki Minaj. Kim then questioned the host’s motive behind prompting her to throw shade, saying, “Why isn’t this about Kim? If we gon’ mention one female [rapper] we need to mention them all. We need to bring everybody [into the conversation], and we need to give everybody love.” The emcee continued, “God bless her, I wish her the best. I’m past that I’m over it.... She did what she did, until she’s ready, hopefully, God puts it on her mind to do the right thing because she knows what she did. Once that happens, hopefully everyone will stop asking me
[about Nicki].” The questioned stemmed from the buzz around Minaj’s new and fourth album Queen, which was just released today. The feud between the two icons became public around 2010 when Minaj’s career was starting to gain massive traction. The “Anaconda” rapper mentioned in an interview that she crossed paths with Lil Kim at a concert and confronted her asking if they were good, then the two proceeded to take pictures side by side. The “Notorious B.I.G.” rapper was angered by Minaj’s recap of that night and clarified that her account was exaggerated. Since then, the 32-yearold rapper has been criticized for stealing the rap legend’s style and not giving her any credit. So how does Lil Kim
feel about Nicki titling her album Queen when she’s widely considered the queen of hip hop? Kim, 42, added in her interview, “I don’t really care about that either. I was named that, I never named myself that. It’s a difference. When the streets name you that, Biggie named me that. I didn’t name myself that. When you gotta name yourself, that’s a whole different thing, I would never name myself that.”Flash forward through the years of turmoil, and it seems as if Lil Kim is finally ready to put the feud to rest. By asking about Minaj, Lil Kim asserted, “That automatically puts females against each other. Let each female shine, when Remy’s up here, ask her about her f—kin’ dope ass bars.”Amen, Kim! (www.eonline.com)
Sunday August 12, 2018
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Surprising Benefits & Uses Of Coconut Oil Wondering what coconut oil is good for? Well, this wonder oil benefits in improving HDL cholesterol levels and heart health, skin care, hair care, weight loss, treating yeast infections, improving digestion, and boosting immunity against a host of infections and diseases. The oil is used not just in tropical countries, where coconut plantations are abundant, but also in the U.S., Canada, Europe, and Australia. People are discovering the wonders this oil can create, and it is again gaining popularity throughout the world. Let us look at some of the known benefits of this oil Coconut oil has several health benefits, the most important ones being its usefulness in hair care and skin care. Boosts Heart Health Coconut oil helps to increase the levels of HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol) that aid in improving heart health. The lauric acid present in coconut oil helps in actively preventing various heart problems like high cholesterol levels and high blood pressure. It does not lead to an increase in LDL cholesterol levels, and it reduces the incidence of injury and damage to arteries and therefore helps in preventing atherosclerosis. A study suggests that intake of coconut oil may help in maintaining healthy lipid profiles in pre-menopausal women. So, finally, is coconut oil good or bad for the heart? Well, if you are using it for edible purposes, check your cholesterol levels regularly. If you find them increasing, it is better to stop the intake. In any case, do consult a professional medical practitioner before you start consuming coconut oil. Never play with your (and someone else’s) heart! Hair Care Do you know the reason for long and shining hair of women in tropical coastal regions? Yes, it is coconut oil. Women in tropical coastal regions of the world use this oil for their hair almost daily. This thick butter-like oil helps in a healthy growth of your hair and gives a shine to those strands. It is also highly effective in reducing protein loss, which if unchecked can lead to various unhealthy qualities in your hair. This is the reason why it is used as a hair care oil, and in the manufacturing of various conditioners and dandruff relief creams. The best variety for healthy hair is organic extra virgin coconut oil.
Just apply it topically to your hair or use a coconut oil hair mask. Worried about damaged hair? Again coconut oil is the solution. It is an excellent conditioner and helps the regrowth process of damaged hair. It also provides the essential proteins required for nourishing and healing damaged hair. Researchstudies indicate that it provides better protection to hair from damage caused by hygral fatigue. By regularly massaging your head with coconut oil, you can ensure that your scalp is dandruff free, even if your scalp is chronically dry. It also helps in keeping your hair and scalp free from lice and lice eggs (yes, some people do get lice in their hair). Skin Care Did you know that coconut oil works great for skin? Pure cold-pressed, organic, non-GMO coconut oil is an excellent massage oil that acts as an effective moisturizer for all types of skin, including dry skin. Unlike mineral oil, there is no chance of having any adverse side effects on the skin from the application of this oil. Therefore, it has been safely used for thousands of years for preventing dryness and flaking of skin. Yes, you read it right – thousands of years! Coconut oil usage could be considered a recent fad, but it has been around for ages. It also helps in treating various skin problems, including psoriasis, dermatitis, eczema, and other skin infections. For this exact reason, coconut oil forms the base ingredient of various body care products like soaps, lotions, and creams that are used for skin care. What more? It also delays the appearance of wrinkles and sagging of skin, which normally accompany aging. The credit to this benefit goes to its well-known antioxidant properties. Weight Loss Coconut oil is useful for weight loss too. [6] Unrefined, cold pressed coconut oil for hair, skin, and cooking contains short and mediumchain fatty acids that help in taking off excessive weight. Research suggests that it helps reduce abdominal obesity in women. [7] It is also easy to digest as compared to other edible oils and helps in healthy functioning of the thyroid and endocrine system. Further, it increases the body’s metabolic rate by removing stress on the pancreas, thereby, burning more energy and helping obese and
overweight people lose weight. Hence, people living in tropical coastal areas, who use coconut oil every day as their primary cooking oil, are normally not fat, obese or overweight. Several people focus on exercises to lose weight, from using indoor machines like leg press machines to outdoor exercises like running and playing sports. [8] While this is a good approach to lose weight, including products like coconut oil enhances your weight loss efforts. Improves Immunity Coconut oil is also good for improving your immunity. It strengthens the immune system because it contains antimicrobial lipids, lauric acid, capric acid, and caprylic acid, which have antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral properties. The human body converts lauric acid into monolaurin, which research has supported as an effective way to deal with viruses and bacteria that cause diseases like herpes, influenza, cytomegalovirus, and even HIV. Coconut oil helps in fighting harmful bacteria like Listeria monocytogenes and Helicobacter pylori, and harmful protozoa such as Giardia lamblia. Boosts Digestion Liquid coconut oil helps improve the digestive system, and thus, prevents various stomach and digestion-related problems including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The saturated fats present in it have antimicrobial properties and help in dealing with various bacteria, fungi, and parasites that can cause indigestion. It also helps in the absorption of other nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. Dental Care Calcium is an important component of our teeth. Since coconut oil facilitates the absorption of calcium by the body, it helps in developing strong teeth. It also stops tooth decay. Recent research suggests that it is also beneficial in reducing plaque for-
mation and plaque-induced gingivitis. [9] Prevents Candida Candida, also known as systemic candidiasis, is a tragic disease caused by an excessive and uncontrolled growth of yeast called Candida albicans in the stomach. Coconut oil for skin care provides relief from the inflammation caused by candida, both externally and internally. Its high moisture retaining capacity keeps the skin from cracking or peeling off. Capric acid, caprylic acid, caproic acid, myristic acid, and lauric acid found in coconut oil help in eliminating Candida albicans. Further, unlike other pharmaceutical treatments for candida, the effect of coconut oil is gradual and not drastic or sudden, which gives the patient an appropriate amount of time to get used to the withdrawal symptoms or Herxheimer reactions (the name given to the symptoms accompanying body’s rejection of toxins generated during elimination of these fungi). But in the treatment of this condition, people should systematically and gradually increase their dosages of coconut oil, and shouldn’t initially start with a large quantity. Speeds Up Healing When applied to infected areas, coconut oil forms a chemical layer that protects the infected body part from external dust, air, fungi, bacteria, and viruses. It is highly effective on bruises because it speeds up the healing process of dam-
aged tissues. Keeping Organs Healthy The presence of medium chain triglycerides and fatty acids in coconut oil helps in preventing liver diseases. This is because those substances are easily converted into energy when they reach the liver, thus reducing its workload and also preventing accumulation of fat. It also helps in preventing kidney and gall bladder diseases and helps dissolve kidney stones. Coconut oil is also believed to be useful in keeping the pancreas healthy by treating pancreatitis. Helps in AIDS & Cancer Treatment It is believed that coconut oil plays an instrumental role in reducing the viral susceptibility of HIV and cancer patients. Preliminary research has shown an indication of this effect of coconut oil on reducing the viral load of HIV patients. [10] According to the Coconut Research Center, coconut oil kills the viruses that cause influenza, measles, hepatitis, herpes, SARS, and other serious health risks. [11] It also kills bacteria that cause ulcers, throat infections, urinary tract infections, pneumonia, and gonorrhea. Finally, coconut oil is also effective in the elimination of fungi and yeast that cause ringworm, athlete’s foot, thrush, and diaper rash. Other Benefits Coconut oil is strongly recommended for a number of other benefits that are explained below. Using this oil has been shown to mildly help the following: · Stress relief: Pure coconut carrier oil for aromatherapy is very soothing and helps remove stress. Applying it to the head, followed by a gentle massage, helps eliminate mental fatigue. According to research [12], virgin coconut oil gives relief from stress and has antioxidant properties · Diabetes: Pure coconut oil helps in controlling blood sugar, and improves the secretion of insulin. It also promotes the effective utilization of blood glucose,
thereby, preventing and treating diabetes · Bones: As mentioned earlier, coconut oil improves the ability of our body to absorb important minerals. These include calcium and magnesium, which are necessary for the development of bones. Thus, it is very useful for women who are prone to osteoporosis after middle age ·Boosts Energy: Coconut oil is often used by athletes, bodybuilders and by those who are dieting. The reason behind this is that it contains fewer calories than other oils, its fat content is easily converted into energy, and it does not lead to accumulation of fat in the heart and arteries. It helps boost energy and endurance and enhances the performance of athletes · Coconut oil and Alzheimer’s disease: The research conducted by Dr. Newport states that the oil is useful in treating Alzheimer’s disease. [13] Apart from this, there is no scientific evidence or traditional knowledge of coconut oil being used for treating Alzheimer’s. In fact, traditionally it wasn’t believed to boost the functioning of the brain in any form. The NIH has sponsored a study to check this claim Use as Carrier Oil Carrier oils are those oils, which easily penetrate or absorb into the skin, facilitating seepage or absorption of other oils (such as essential oils) and herbal extracts when mixed into it. It is easily absorbed through the skin’s pores and thus is used as a carrier oil. Furthermore, being one of the most stable oils, it doesn’t go rancid, nor does it let the other oils, herbal extracts, or medicines spoil inside of it. It does not alter the properties of the oils and herbs mixed with it. It also protects the herbs and oils from microbial or fungal interactions. Coconut oil is expensive in several countries; however, in tropical countries, its cost is low enough to make it affordable as a carrier oil.
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Sunday August 12, 2018
Sunday August 12, 2018
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Internal police probe of Berbice murder/suicide ongoing …as relatives give statements Relatives of the murdered Rohini ‘Sabrina’ Lakhan who made strong allegations against the ranks stationed at the Albion Police Station, including bribe, are hoping for justice. The Commander of ‘B’ Division, Lyndon Alves told this publication via telephone that the investigation by the OPR rank is still ongoing. He said, “There is no-one who came forward and made a statement against the police, but I am conducting an investigation to get to the bottom of the story. A statement from the woman who was at the residence with the police was taken”. According to him, based on reports in the media, the investigation was launched. Alves stated that he has not been briefed as to how many
statements were taken and from whom, and he is yet to determine the progress of the investigation, although OPR Berbice commenced investigating on Tuesday. He said statements from the police ranks are still to be taken. Relatives of Lakhan stated that they visited the Whim Police Station on Tuesday and statements in relation to allegations made against the police were taken from them by a detective. It was confirmed, by a senior police source in the division, that a detective indeed took statements from the relatives of Lakhan. The police are being accused of accepting a bribe from the sister of Ramesh Ramdeen, the
husband of Lakhan who also killed himself after viciously murdering his wife at their home in Chesney Housing Scheme, Corentyne, Berbice. The family were also outraged that a woman police sergeant left Lakhan at home with her husband even though the court had granted a protection order against him. The rank was required to accompany the woman to uplift her belongings and ensure that she left the home in their presence. Additionally, a post mortem examination conducted on both bodies by a government Pathologist revealed that both died from shock and haemorrhage due to an incise wound. A prominent attorney in Berbice had stated that the police are culpable for leaving Lakhan in the home with Ramdeen.
Motorist tells court cyclist rode... From page 47 court that sometime after, police ranks arrived at the scene and escorted him to the Providence Police Station. In making a no-case submission, Fung-a-Fat submitted that the prosecution had failed to make out a case against his client. The lawyer that the prosecutor failed to prove the elements of
the offence and, more so, that his client drove in a dangerous manner which resulted in the loss of a life. In response, Prosecutor Jeffers submitted that from the statement given to police by Jagdeo, it can be inferred that he was driving in a dangerous manner at the time. The prosecutor pointed out
that Jagdeo failed to proceed with caution even though he saw pedestrians traversing in their numbers to the National Stadium where a J’ouvert was being held. On Tuesday, the Chief Magistrate will rule on whether Jagdeo is guilty or not guilty of the offence. Right now, the defendant is out on $1M bail.
He had explained that, “their role was to ensure compliance with the order. So until the order was complied with...that is, the safe distance away from the husband as ordered, their role did not end”. He stressed that, by leaving, whether on request or not, the police were defying the court presence.
Ramdeen’s sister who was present at the home with the police for Lakhan to pack her belongings had stated that after her sister-in-law took some time to pack, the police left and she followed behind. Rohini Lakhan’s life ended brutally on Monday after years of abuse at the hands of her
partner Ramesh Ramdeen. Using a cutlass, he slashed her throat and slit his own, killing both of them and leaving behind their three children. The two youngest children remain with the mother of Lakhan while the eldest daughter is currently staying with Ramdeen’s sister in Canje, Berbice.
Govt.’s Green Paper lacks provisions... From page 14 money we have actually earned from oil and that is important for transparency so the public can hold the government accountable,” Ramson noted. “How is it justified to place any revenue to the NRF from forestry and mining? Forestry does not suffer severe price volatility or shocks, so there is no need to have to smooth expenditure which is one of the main purposes of a stabilisation mechanism in such a fund,” Ramson stated. Further, Ramson noted that forests are a renewable natural resource because they grow again, so it is entirely different from oil, thus the
inter-generational equity principle already subsists, while mining on the other hand is a non-renewable natural resource. “Our main mining sector is gold and gold operates as a hedge on oil low prices, so why would it make sense to include it there,” Ramson shared. He noted that as a gold producer, Guyana was a beneficiary of the oil price collapse during the last global financial crisis, which caused gold prices to skyrocket. In addition, Ramson pointed out that gold is one of Guyana’s sectoral revenue earners, so including it in the NRF can create structural economic imbalances.
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Sunday August 12, 2018
Body found in # 1 Canal trench still unidentified
The trench where the unidentified body was found on Friday morning.
One day after a male of East Indian ancestry, was fished out of a trench at Vauxhall, # 1 Canal, West Bank Demerara, the body has still not been identified. The body was discovered on Friday around 10:30 hrs, by a resident of the area. Residents were clueless as to who the individual was. The body was removed from the trench by undertakers from the Ezekiel Funeral Home, after which it was taken to the West Demerara Regional Hospital where the official
pronouncement on death was made. One resident who heard of the body in the trench, came just after the undertakers had left, the man said that he had noticed a strange man traversing the area in recent times, but the individual had seemed of unsound mind. The police in a statement detailed the man’s attire with the hope of identifying him, “an unidentifiable male East Indian clothed in an orange T-shirt, three quarter cream Cargo pants and black hat was floating face down in the middle of the trench, which runs from east to west, the body was fished out by a Detective Corporal who checked the body for marks of violence but none was seen.” The body is presently awaiting identification and a post mortem examination.
La Penitence Market vendor shot in head...
Prosecution will be forced to close case if final witness fails to show
Dason Jupiter A stern warning was sent out on Friday by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan to a police prosecutor. This was the second time a witness who has to testify on behalf of the prosecution in a particular matter was absent from court. However, if that witness is absent again, the prosecution will have to close its case against 23-year-old Dason Jupiter of Albouystown, Georgetown. Jupiter is charged with attempted murder, over shooting a La Penitence, Georgetown market vendor to the head. Police Prosecutor, Neville Jeffers has disclosed that the witness is abroad on vacation. The prosecutor said that he will make attempts to have the Continued on page 68
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Kaieteur News
CONSUMER CONCERNS
EMANCIPATION - Looking beyond the celebrations BY PAT DIAL Over the last week, we have had a number of commemorative activities to
mark the Emancipation of our Guyanese ancestors from plantation slavery on 1st August, 1834. Though slavery existed everywhere in
the ancient World and in Africa in the 17th and 18th centuries, such slavery was entirely different from plantation slavery.
Slavery in 17th and 18th century, Africa was humane when equated with West Indian plantation slavery. Slaves often became part of their owners’ families and were always treated as human beings. And in ancient Greece and Rome, slaves were often the teachers, writers and intellectuals. In the West Indies, including Guyana, slaves were regarded not as human beings but as property. Their masters regarded them solely as machines to supply labour and they were provided with the minimum of shelter, clothes and food so as to be able to continue surviving to continue to work. The regime of work was extremely harsh and cruel, and slaves were almost all savagely beaten. This surrealistic ambience of the plantation often made the white population, and particularly those who directly dealt with the slaves such as the overseers, into psychopaths and sadists, and they practiced the most horrible tortures on the slaves. The slaves fought back against their oppressors in a variety of ways, by both passive resistance and violently. They would skulk from work, pretend to be sick, malinger and carry out quiet sabotage against the plantation. The two most well-known of the violent protests was the Berbice Rebellion of 1763 led by Cuffy and the Demerara Rebellion of the 1820’s led by Quamina. Slavery, despite its cruelties and dehumanizing oppressions, was never able to destroy the indomitable African spirit, which manifested itself with unsuspected creativeness and resilience on Emancipation. That creativeness was evidenced in many ways: The freedmen were transformed into self-respecting wageearners who were willing to continue working on the plantations for a livable wage. The planter class could not understand this phenomenon and continued to offer poor wages, which resulted in two
serious unsuccessful strikes in the 1840’s. After these strikes, the freedmen left the plantations for the new villages and for the two towns. It was this desire of the planter class never to pay a livable wage, which led them to seek indentured labour. It is however in the establishment of the villages (The Village Movement) that the unsuspected creativity of the freedmen was most evident. Groups of Freedmen and women pooled their savings and bought abandoned plantations. Their savings came from the poor wages they earned during the Apprenticeship period, which ended in 1838. They paid for these abandoned estates with small coins, which had to be transported by wheelbarrows. The estates bought were renamed as an indication to their erstwhile masters that a new era had arrived. Among the most wellknown of these villages was Queenstown in Essequibo and Buxton and Victoria in Demerara. In these villages, they created a new life for themselves: They constructed houses, built up farms, established village governments and provided community services as far as they were able and established primary education with the help of the Churches, particularly the Anglican. They were farsighted enough to realize that education held the key to upward mobility and economic betterment. In the next generation, the villages began to produce first rate scholars and legendary school masters. The Village Movement was quietly spawning a veritable social and economic revolution. Emancipation is an event to be celebrated and indeed it has been celebrated countrywide in style with dances, cultural shows, fairs and feasts in the villages and in the towns. But Emancipation is not merely a celebratory event. It is an event that opens the door to vibrant economic and social progress and those on whom
the mantle of leadership has fallen must begin to map out ways in which the descendants of the Freedmen could improve their economic conditions by their own efforts. Such involves the encouragement and support of those who are already engaged in small businesses and encouraging others to enter self-employment constantly imparting the essence of entrepreneurship. Self-reliance must be the watchword and must be cultivated, and the inclination of looking to the State for handouts, which was inherited from our Socialist indoctrination must be eschewed. Another facet of Emancipation, which needs to be emphasized is that Emancipation is an anniversary and an event which belongs to the whole nation and must be supported and rejoiced in by all. At the moment, Emancipation is portrayed as a purely African Guyanese affair and little effort has been made so far in involving the other segments of the Guyanese population. Ways of involving other segments must be worked out as for example, pointing out how intertwined Guyanese History and life are, and that all strands of them make a unity. Or to show that indentured immigration was qualitatively the same as slavery and was indeed described by historians as “the new slavery”. This should help to develop an empathy and understanding of Emancipation among descendants of indentured servants. Once efforts are made to achieve such solidarity. Emancipation would be commemorated and celebrated with greater gusto and enthusiasm by every segment and its implication for further social and economic progress becomes easier to achieve. Work in this direction could start immediately for next year’s commemoration. The Guyana Consumers Association would be willing to assist in such effort.
Prosecution will be forced to close... From page 66 witness in court on August 13, for the next court hearing. It is alleged that on April 2, last, at Saffon Street, Jupiter discharged a loaded firearm at Doodnauth Danrasi, with intent to commit murder. Another charge stated that on April 2 at Saffon Street, while being in company of others and armed with a gun, Jupiter robbed Hardai Danrasi, Doodnauth’s wife. According to reports, on April 2, last, at around 17:20 hrs, Doodnauth and his wife were selling at La Penitence Market, Georgetown,
when three men pounced on them. Doodnauth, 62, had just offloaded stocks on the stall when one of the men, armed with a gun, demanded that he hand over cash. Two other bandits were on the lookout. They targeted Doodnauth’s wife who was wearing an apron containing cash. In coming to his wife’s defence, Doodnauth pulled a knife on the gunman who in turn shot him to the head before snatching $150,000 from the wife’s apron. The bandits then escaped by riding through James Street, Albouystown.
Sunday August 12, 2018
FOR RENT PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY,ETC.- CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 2161043; 677-6620 SERVICES PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION, W E D D I N G S , ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 Visa Application: U.S.A, Canada & UK;Guyanapassport application. G r a p h i c s design, advertisement. Tel: 626-7040; 265-4535. ICONIC MARKETING & PRINTING –TEL: 6004212: We create A/works, logos, busi ness cards, posters, etc, placements of ads included. Installations, Repairs and parts for AC, Fridge, Washing machine, Stove etc call Nick 627-3206, 630-1600
FOR SALE Generac Pressure Wash for sale 3100 PSI. Tel#654-5267/ 652-2244/220-4203 1- Honda 450 ATV. Contact # 275-0367/683-7225 3 Mining Blocks $6M Contact# 650-0402/603-1402 Mix breed puppies. Tel#6920126/646-7745 1 (3) bedroom ranch house with business on EBD, 1 acre land. Tel#266-5013/681-8333 Second hand 1500 watt transformers, 1 countertop showcase, hanging baskets, fluffy puppies- Free pair of crutches. Tel#266-5013 Yamaha boat engine 250. 6625524, 681-4563, 627-8000
Repairs at affordable prices: fridge, air conditioner, washing machines, dryers, TV, microwaves & freezerCall: 610-5846 or 661-8158 Untouchable Pawn Shop 23 John and Norton Street, Werk-en-rust. Tel#681-9948/ 625-3915 HOUSE PLAN TO BE DRAWN OR YOU JUST NEED AN ESTIMATE. CALL: 216-0671/6928464/622-0267 Need your fence, yard, mat to wash and yard to weed? We also do maintenace. Call: 666-2326 REPAIRS AT LOW COST: FRIDGES, AIR CONDITIONERS, WASHING MACHINES, FREEZERS,SALE OFAC’S TEL:6294946,225-4822 Guyana Business. For everything on setting up & doing business. Check: Guyanaconnection.com; (f) Guyanaconnection; Guyanaconnection100 @gmail.com
DRESSMAKING Ladies wear, uniforms etc. Professionally made to order. Call: 676-6312 Free classes in Designing and Sewing, Schnoord West Bank Demerara. Call: 6766312
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1 (3) Bedroom apt in Enmore. 662-5524, 681-4563, 627-8000 1 Downstairs for business at Vreed-en-Hoop W.C.D Tel# 227-4377, 227-0613, 624-6013, 645-7248 1 Three (3) Bedroom upstairs flat in Atlantic Gardens E.C.D Tel# 227-4377, 227-0613, 6246013, 645-7248 One and two bedrooms apartments to rent located at Nurses section, Turkeyen. Contact#680-5944/656-4211 2 Two bedroom apartment with AC, ceiling fans, grilled and 24-7 water system & parking. Herstelling. Tel# 2652171, 676-5824, 601-0223 (1)Bedroom furnished apartment at Lyng Street, Charlestown. Single person/ couple. No children. Tel#2251418, 601-1585 Self contain one (1) bedroom Apt, Preferably working couple $25,000 monthly. Call: 618-8878 No Private Call.
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2 apartment for rent: 1 bedroom and 2 bedrooms ECD. Contact Mr Khan #6752550/656-9313 Apartments for rent @ Nandy Park, recently renovated, $60,000 monthly. #641-3318 Self contain rooms for working couple/single person $32,000 monthly, Light & Water, Lodge. Call: 623-0076 Spacious three bedroom bottom flat, parking space 188 BB Eccles #645-0656 #2332223 1 two bedroom apartment, dazzle housing scheme ECD #699-6130 PROPERTY FOR SALE
SALON September Cosmetology Courses $40,000 Nail Technology $25,000 Advance Make-up $15,000, All products provided. Abby #614-6749
Property for sale (1) 3 story building at 97 Sugarcane street S/Rvldt Gardens. Price US 1.5M neg. Tel: 695-1356 & 687-8445 Lot 15 Public road #2 Vill. WCB 3 House Lots. Rice Cultivation 49ftx10,314ft length. Price $18M. Contact# 648-7109/686-4818 House lots for sale at Blankenburg WCD 40ft x 150ft $3.9M. Contact #6500402/603-1402
TOLET Executive type 2 bedroom air conditioned bottom flat with modern convenience in South Ruimveldt Gardens, Call: 6188436
3 Bedroom house in Diamond/Grove Housing Scheme. Tel 226-3562
Upper flat of concrete building with 3 bedrooms, located @ Durban Street, Wortmanville for $75,000 monthly. Call: 600-2828
New building with two apartment downstairs for sale.10 minutes from Georgetown .Call:675-1510/ 256-0180
WANTED
VACANCY
VACANCY
1 Air compressor 5HP 3 Phase 230/220 volts. Call: 628-1486/698-1134. Experienced Cashier, Counter server Roti/Puri Cook, cleaner, handy boys. Apply Hack’s Halaal. 5 Commerce St.
Vacancy for experienced carpenters. Apply at Alabama Trading. 65 Robb Street Bourda
One experienced sales girl to work in the interior, Age 30 to 35 years old. #673-5808
Wanted experienced hire car drivers at Ramada Princess Hotel, Providence E.B.D. Contact on 616-5419, 2657075 One live in domestic. Must know to cook indian dishes. 610-3974. Salary $20,000 weekly. (25-50yrs) One male able bodied clerk. Call: 231-2029, 616-5954 1 Female cook to cook for family in the interior #6889450 Live in or live out babysitter/ domestic- Call: 223-7500 Monday to Saturday 8:15am4:15pm Wanted land to buy. Tel# 6421252 Driver wanted 5 yrs experience Car/Van/Lorry reference and police clearance, Zoon Inv 288 Middle Street. Security Company Manager. Valid driver’s license. 30-55. Call 629-9450 Wanted land- Parfaite Harmonie, Eccles, Providence, Uitvlugt, Diamond, Tuschen, Zeelugt, Herstelling, Best price pay and cash. Call: 6046724 VEHICLE FOR SALE Unregistered 2009 bluebird. Fully loaded. 1500cc front wheel drive. 35,000km. Tel# 265-2171, 676-5824, 601-0223 1 Nissan Pathfinder Jeep and 1 Nissan Laurel car in excellent condition- Final sale bargain, call to view: 2258427/609-7766 Pickup truck from Canada, extra-cab 2005 Tacoma $1.950, Ford F150 sport $1.3M, Ford ranger sport $1.1M. Call: 6825230, 615-4414 Tractor (foreign used) Massey Ferguson excellent condition 165 $1.4M MF 135 $1.50M MF 265 $1.9M 165 loader, tractor $2.1M @ Vreeden-Hoop. Call 682-5230/6154414 1 Tundra $800,000. Contact #650-0402/603-1402 Audi A4 2.0 65km PTT series, black colour, Female owner $2.5M Call: 647-7988, 602-9495 LEARN TO DRIVE N. Outar Driving School, Learn to Drive the right way. Affordable package. Call: 6445166/691-2561
CSR for Internet Service Provider. Must be customer oriented and able to multitask. Email cv to jobs@awngy.com or Tel#227-2001 Fantastic Job Opportunities. Architects, Engineers, Draftsmen, Construction workers. CXC Graduates. Email Experience & Qualifications guyanajobs@yahoo.com Tel# 656-0075 Carpenter, labourers, tilers. (Must have experience in the installation of sheet rack work) to work in Georgetown. Contact: 608-5303 Maid for East Bank to cook and clean. 614-4358 Vacancy exist for 1 Pharmacy assistant to work @ reputable pharmacy in Georgetown. Call: 227-0630/628-8811 between 8-4 Pm. Salesmen - Age 18-40 knowledge in stocktaking & salesmanship, apply with written application KeyFood McDoom Village. Hick’s Ville Hotel, Receptionist/Washer & Presser/ Hotel attendant/ Bell boy. info@vgiworld.com 2310951/223-3448 Factory workers from 18 years & over must have Police Clearance, for more info contact: 223-0090 1 Live in domestic, Salary $80,000 monthly. Call: 6694436 Vacancy for persons with knowledge to work repackaging machine. Apply at Alabama Trading. 65 Robb Street Bourda 1-Grillman,1 live-in mature nanny from Berbice/ Essequibo,1-kitchen assistant Contact X’s Grill & Cuisine 675-2550/656-9313. Looking for a male/female assistant to work in the Kitchen & BBQ stand. No experience required. Happy Acres ECD Tel#687-3640 Valor Security Service have vacancy for security guards, VI’s & supervisors. Contact#670-7920 Carpenters, Masons. Perferably persons living between the Demerara Harbour Bridge and Ogle. Contact#664-6813 One cashier and sales person for General store. #649-2950/ 642-1141 1 experienced counter staff. Call: 623-8654 Supervisor, Room attendant 30-50 yrs, 233 South Road, Lacytown. Tel#225-0198
Semi-skilled man to work in Furniture shop. Tel# 619-9966 LAND FOR SALE Prime land to build that dream home. Not far from Princess, New Thriving, Massy, HJ water world $13M neg- Call: 669-8397 18,731 acres mining land Gold & Diamond Mazaruni $5,000,000 USD Contact: 6951356, 687-8445 Uitvlugt $2.2M. Parfaite Harmonie $1.3M. Herstelling $3.8M. Farm $2.2M. Schoonord $2.3M. Tel# 6585897, 629-7760 Herstelling (New scheme) 1st Bridge $9M 2nd Bridge $4.5M (110ft x 60ft) 3rd Bridge $4.8M Tel#656-1345 5 acre to lease, Coconut & other fruit trees on Demerara river. Call: 261-2988/695-8215 Land at Tuschen Housing Scheme, near school, 3 minutes away from main road. Call: 261-2988/695-8215 Parfaite Harmonie $1.2M Tuschen $1.4M Zeelugt $2M Tel# 697-6311 Herstelling Prime Residential (110ft x 60ft) $7M. Pay $4.5M now, the rest in 30yrs. Tel# 656-1345, 656-0701 Parfaite Harmonie - way upfront $1.7M. Pay $1.2M now, the rest in a year. Tel# 611-7223, 651-1969 Farm - (East Bank) $4M. Pay $2.4M now, the rest in 20 yrs. Tel# 656-1345, 611-7223 Parfaite Harmonie $1.4M Tuchen House $6M $1.5M Farm front $4.5M Diamond front $4M Eccles Uitvlugt front $3M Call: 666-2326
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Smith Congregational Church strives for new Minister’s Annex The Smith Memorial Congregational Church is constructing a new Minister’s Annex at its Brickdam location. The construction of the building has commenced and is expected to be completed by April 2019. Plans are in place to have a series of fundraising activities towards the realisation of this building, commencing with a dinner followed by a gift day involving the public for the 175th Anniversary of the church in November 2018. The Congregational Church was established in Guyana (then British Guiana) upon the arrival of the Reverend John Wray in February 6, 1808. Smith Memorial Congregational Church was established on November 23, 1843 in memory of Reverend John Smith who died in the Georgetown prison under suspicious inhumane circumstances on 6th February, 1824. He was accused of support-
ing the insurrection of the East Coast Demerara slaves in year 1823. Rev. Wray died of natural causes in the year 1837. Both Rev. Wray and Rev. Smith were sent to British Guiana by the London Missionary Society. Smith Memorial Church still stands as a beautiful edifice on Brickdam, Georgetown, as a reminder of Smith’s missionary toil among the people. However, what is missing is the annex, which housed the Ministers in the distant past and was also used to facilitate relevant church activities for its members and the community at large. The annex was dismantled due to old age. In order to rebuild the annex, the turning of the sod by Reverend Noel Holder, Chairman of the Guyana Congregational Union, and Pastor Oslen Small, the incumbent Pastor of the Church, was done during a small but sig-
nificant ceremony, last May. The event was well attended by officers, members and friends of the Church. The Church Secretary, Deacon George James, in an address, reminded the gathering of the contributions made to our society by the Church, especially in the area of education, while the Church Treasurer, Deacon Albert Cort, recaptured the Church’s efforts leading up to the turning of the sod. Both, Reverend Holder and Pastor Small jointly officiated over the brief service of blessing and expressed the need and purpose of the annex in service of the community. The celebration ended by the singing of the “Song of Guyana’s Children” composed by the late Reverend Hawley Bryant, former Minister of the Church whose remains were interred in the Churchyard.
GTT complying with order for 350 ...
Ministers of Smith Memorial Congregational Church during a sod turning exercise
From page 16 applied for new rates. This was dismissed by PUC in 2015. In 2016, the company filed another application and was granted conditional approval, effective August 1, 2017. The company had been asked by PUC to roll out at least 1,000 new landlines,
but had appealed that condition. A s o f l a s t y e a r, t h e number of applications for GTT landlines were over 16,000, with less than half in areas that had little or no telephone infrastructure. GTT had also been asked to speed up its remedying of reported faults, with the com-
pany signalling that it has established a task force to address faults. PUC had ordered that urban areas and towns have up to five days for faults to be fixed with suburban and rural areas up to eight, Areas of the hinterland have up to 20 working days.
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Sunday August 12, 2018
Sunday August 12, 2018
Tickets for Guyana...
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Emrit’s MOM showing gives...
for this phase of CPL games and with this in mind fans and Cricket enthusiasts are advised to make early purchases so as to avoid the rush as we get closer to match days.The final two home matches scheduled to be played at the Providence Stadium as follows: · Saturday 8th September – Guyana Amazon Warriors vs Jamaica Tallawahs at 20:00h · Sunday 9th September – Guyana Amazon Warriors vs Trinbago Knight Riders at 18:00h Ticket sales for play-off matches scheduled for September 11 and 12, 2018 will be announced later. For further information on ticketing please feel free to contact the CPL Guyana office on telephone numbers 231-5344 and 231-2035 and on e-mail – cplguyana@gmail.com.
From page 77 behind off Emrit who also had Pollard and Cornwall in successive deliveries in the penultimate over. His hattrick ball was hit for six by Mitchell McClenaghan to leave 16 to get from the final over and the rest is now history. Earlier, the Stars, without a win since 2016, asked the Warriors to bat and Walton got going with a sweetly timed back punch past cover for four off the fourth ball from Muhammad Sami before smashing McClenaghan for a four and scooping over the ropes at fine-leg. Ronchi belted McClenaghan for four and hammered Hodge for another boundary as the 50 came up in 5.4 overs. Walton (24) ran past the first ball bowled by Ahmad at 54-1 in 7.1 overs to bring
the dangerous Hetymer to the crease. And the Berbician began by pulling Ahmad to the mid-wicket boundary before a couple of pugnacious pulls off Pollard from consecutive deliveries reached the ropeslike bullets and the left hander had picked-up where he had left off on Thursday at the Patriots. Ronchi also played some delightful shots and after 10 overs the Warriors were 73-1 and another colourful capacity crowd was enjoying shot-filled partnership. Ronchi effortlessly deposited Kesrick Williams for a nonchalant six before Hetymer (21) edged a cut to keeper to give Ahmad his second wicket to leave the score 86-2 in 11.5 overs. A perfect googlie from Ahmad breached the de-
Sunday August 12, 2018 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) A social event or group rally could put you in touch with some new, exciting people in interesting fields, Aries. You might run into an old friend you haven't seen in ages.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Unusual circumstances could arise that change your creative orientation. It's likely that they involve the gathering, sharing, and using of information.
TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) Today you could be hit with some exciting news, Taurus. This could involve new people or equipment coming onto the scene or an entirely new project or course of action that you'd never have dreamed of.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Today you could decide to attend a workshop or social event involving people in a spiritual, metaphysical, or intellectual field, Scorpio.
GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Information that you receive from others and from within your own heart could compel you to participate in some ambitious projects. CANCER (June 21–July 22) You could meet some fascinating people,and perhaps learn Earthshaking information that impacts your life. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Group activities or social events in your neighborhood could put you in touch with new and exciting people who eventually become friends, Leo. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Have you wanted to move in a new direction, Virgo? If so, this could be when you get the lead of a lifetime. You might receive unexpected information indicating possible new sources of income
SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) New information could come at you from all sides today. Books, magazines, TV, the Internet, and conversations are likely to bring exciting knowledge your way that reinforces some of your convictions. CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) Surprising news about your finances and the economy in general could cause you to feel confident and secure about your financial future AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) Some fascinating new information, possibly spiritual or metaphysical, could come today from periodicals, TV, or the Internet. This could set you on a new course of study, Aquarius. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Dreams and meditations could lead to insights about how best to handle your finances, Pisces. Your intuition is very strong.
fence of Skipper Shoaib Malik (8) and the Warriors had slipped to 98-3 before the 100 was posted in the 14th over. Mohammed joined the well-entrenched Ronchi who was soon LBW to offspinner Mark Chapman for 42 with the Warriors on 113-4. Mohammed swept Chapman for four, while 19year-old Sherfane Rutherford dumped Rakeem Cornwall on the roof of the VIP stand. When Mohammed blasted Williams for a massive six, the raucous, flagwaving crowd, which was silenced by the fall of two quick wickets, were back in full swing and jumping in the stands. The unfinished fifth wicket 28 stand between Mohammed who made 20 from 15 balls with a six and a four and Rutherford with 16 from 15 balls, rallied the Warriors to a below par score. Scores: AMAZON WARRIORS 141 for four off 20 overs (Luke Ronchi 42, Chadwick Walton 31, Shimron Hetmyer 21; Qais Ahmad 3-15). STARS 138 for seven off 20 overs (Lendl Simmons 45, Kieron Pollard 32; Rayad Emrit 3-26, Imran Tahir 2-23).
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From page 75 Championships, having already accomplished same when he won gold medal in the Men’s Raw Open 93kg class on Friday last in Mexico. On Saturday, Petterson, contesting the Men’s Equipped Open division was again unstoppable claiming his second gold in resounding style, setting a new national Total record of 800kg, his Squat of 315kg is also a new national record as was his Deadlift mark of 330kg. His Bench was 155kg. This performance cemented Petterson’s place at the world championships. Guyana ended the Mexico sojourn with 6 gold and 3 bronze medals. FERNANDES MAKES IT 2 OUT OF 2 FOR WRECKERS AT GMRSC ENDURANCE MEET ROUND 2 Team Wreckers are on course to win five consecutive Endurance series after their drivers, Adrian Fernandes took the overall victory, while Anand Ramchand finished fifth overall in the endurance race at the South Dakota Circuit at Timehri. In the contest which was shortened from three to two hours, Fernandes completed a total of 84 laps in the 1600CC class, driving the Gillette sponsored Toyota Levin, going one better than he did in
Sunday August 12, 2018
Kaieteur News
January and two laps better than his nearest rival, Sean Bacchus. Fernandes was ecstatic after the victory and attributed the win to hours of practice and work on the Levin motorcar. Meanwhile, his teammate Anand Ramchand who was wary of a possible threat from former teammate Rameez Mohamed, breathed a sigh of relief after the blazing victory and was all smiles. The top three overall racers all came from the 1600cc class with Bacchus second with 82 laps and Motilall Deodass third with 81 laps. Other results of the day saw Hannif Mohamed win the 1500cc class with a total of 75 laps to finish fourth overall, Sunil Singh second 61 laps and Bishram Ramjaram third with 60 laps.In the 2000cc, the lone competitor Syed Hasan finished with 60 laps. Meanwhile, in the unlimited class, Anand Ramchand and his Toyota Celica won with a total of 70 laps that allowed him to finish fifth overall, while Rameez Mohamed completed 40 laps to secure second and third Shan Shewjattan (11 laps), who recorded the fastest track time on Sunday of one minute and 20 seconds. The sponsors for the one day event were Special Auto, B.M. Soat, Tropical Shipping and Ansa Mcal.
CONCACAF NATION’S LEAGUE COUNTDOWN,,, GOLDEN JAGUARS’ ‘TRAIN/PLAY’IN BRAZIL ATTRACTS RECORDBREAKING STAFF COMPLEMENT As Guyana prepares for its first match of the CONCACAF Nations League in September, Guyana’s Senior Men’s National Team, commonly known as the Golden Jaguars, will benefit from the most comprehensive and experienced Technical Staff Guyana’s National Football has ever had, during the “Train and Play” scheduled for August 12 – 26 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The 17-man staff includes the Head Coach, Senior Coach, Goalkeeper Coach, Team Doctor, Head of Sports Science, Head of Recruitment and Player Liaison, Head of People and Culture, Performance Analyst and Head Scout, Development Coaches and operations staff. Head Coach Michael Johnson said a qualified staff is critical to the achievement of the GFF’s national programme’s goals: “This comprehensive technical team is vitally important for the Nations League campaign; we are pushing the boundaries to keep up to date with modern football trends and compete with Regional and International competition. The Guyana-based Development Coaches are there
Shimron Hetmyer (left) turned the match Guyana’s way when he punished Alzarri Joseph for 20 runs off three legal balls to start the fifth over of the chase © Randy Brooks - CPL T20 / Getty on merit by excelling in recent CONCACAF/FIFA coaching courses as well as their work at various clubs and ATC’s. In Brazil, they will be mentored as part of their Coach Education but ultimately will have to prove their potential within the coaching staff, with the ultimate goal of taking the knowledge back into their own coaching contexts.” Johnson added that a topclass support staff is also necessary to “develop, inspire, and motivate not only the team but the nation.” The “Train and Play” is a national encampment of senior footballers as part of the preparation for the
CONCACAF Nations League. Guyana has been matched against Barbados, Turks and Caicos Islands, French Guiana and Belize and will play host to Barbados and Belize in September 2018 and March 2019 respectively, while Turks and Caicos Islands and French Guiana will host Guyana in October and November 2018. TECHNICAL STAFF Technical Director (Ian Greenwood), Head Coach (Michael Johnson), Senior Coach (Taff Rahman), Goalkeeper Coach (Ademola Bankole), Development Coach (Calvin Allen), Development Coach (Levi
Braithwaite), Development Coach (Phillip Carrington), Development GK Coach (Eon DeVeira). MEDICAL - Team Doctor (Dr. Alex Hawkins), Physiotherapist (Denzil Hernandez). SPORTS SCIENCE - Head of Sports Science (Dr. Mark Faghy), Head of People & Culture (Michael Jones). RECRUITMENT - Head of Recruitment & Player Liaison (Faizal Khan), Performance Analyst & Head Scout (Asser Lutu). OPERATIONS - Team Operations Manager (Rawle Adams), Assistant Operations Manager (Ken Grant), Equipment Manager (Trevor Burnett).
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We take a look back at the key events that took place and made the news in the local sporting arena over the past week GOLD IS MONEY CLINCH MAIDEN GUINNESS ‘GREATEST OF THE STREETS’NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP The anticipated grand finale of the Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ futsal championship culminated in emphatic fashion at National Stadium, Providence, tarmac. Georgetown Zone Champions, ‘Gold is Money’ became the fourth team to win both their zone and National titles in the same year and they couldn’t have done it more comfortably, especially against the likes of former Champions, Sparta Boss. Gold Is Money, led by a hat-trick from Deon Alfred, defeated Sparta Boss 4-0, a score line that could’ve easily been more embarrassing for the losing finalists who boast a very large fan base. In the 40-minute game, Randolf Wagner found the breakthrough in the 22nd minute, following a disappointing first half that saw many excellent opportunities by the eventual champions go begging. Hubert Pedro and Alfred were the main tormentors of Sparta with expert passes, touches and dribbling within the small playing space. Gold is Money, despite good defence including marking from Sparta, managed to weave circles around the opposition but lacked the finishing touch during the first 20 minutes of play. Deon Alfred then placed some cushion on the lead with a successful 33rd minute strike which was rifled in after he weaving past two defenders before he fired home a Guinness Goal (any goal that is scored within the final three minutes of play counts as two) in the 38th minute. Earlier in the night, Georgetown won the latest round of street football against Linden after prevailing in both semifinals. Silver Bullets were outclassed by Gold is Money in their semifinal and were on the receiving end of a 7-0 thumping. Deon Alfred recorded his first hat-trick of the night during that victory and he would’ve been the clear candidate for the Most Valuable Player if such an accolade was to be awarded. Hubert Pedro fired a hattrick in that game as well while his namesake Jamal netted the final goal of the contest. In the other semifinal, Sparta Boss edged 2017 champions, Dave and Celena’s All-
Stars 2-1. Current Linden Zone Champions, Silver Bullets, edged Dave and Celena’s AllStars 2-1 in the third place playoff. With the deserved victory, Gold is Money are now $500,000 richer, while Sparta Boss pocketed $250,000, Silver Bullets $200,000 and Dave & Celena’s $100,000. SHIV CHANDERPAUL, FORMER BAHAMAS PM TO GET UWI AWARDS PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad - CMC – Former West Indies cricket captain, Shivnarine Chanderpaul, will be given the Honorary Doctors of Law by the St. Augustine campus of the University of the West Indies (UWI) later this year. The Guyanese born Chanderpaul, 43, is still actively playing professional cricket in England. Chanderpaul has played 164 Test matches for the West Indies and 268 One Day Internationals and 384 first class games. Shiv has 11,867 Test runs, only behind Brian Lara for Windies players, while he has scored 8,778 ODI and 27,498 First Class runs. The Guyanese runs machine, known for his dogged occupation of the crease, has a highest Test score of 203 not out against South Africa in 2005 and Bangladesh in 2012. He made his debut on March 17, 1994 at Bourda in Georgetown versus England. The Former Bahamas prime minister, Hubert Ingraham, is among a number of Caribbean academic, sporting and other professionals that will be honoured by the St. Augustine campus of the University of the West Indies (UWI). Ingraham, 71, who served head of government from August 1992 to May 2002 and again from May 2007 to May 2012, will be awarded an Honorary Doctor of Laws. UWI said that the honorary degrees will be conferred at the St. Augustine campus graduation ceremonies scheduled for October 25-27. UWI said that apart from Ingraham and Chanderpaul, the annual business meeting of the University Council, held in April, had also agreed to confer honorary degrees on the Trinidad and Tobago Calypso legend Winston Bailey, better known at The Mighty Shadow and Paula Lucie-Smith, the founder and chief executive officer of the Adult Literacy Tutors Association (ALTA) in Trinidad.
Colours Boutique Creanna Damon hands over the first prize and trophy to West Front Road ‘Gold is Money’ representative in the presence of teammates and Guinness Brand Manager Lee Baptiste (left) on Saturday. HERO CPL T20 CRICKET... HETYMER FIRES WARRIORS TO VICTORY OVER PATRIOTS DESPITE GAYLE’S 86 Watched by a colourful, flag waving capacity crowd under a clear night sky, ExxonMobil Guyana Amazon Warriors began their 2018 campaign auspiciously when led by an explosive unbeaten 79 from Shimron Hetymer they hammered St Kitts & Nevis Patriots by six wickets at Providence in match 2 of the sixth edition of the Hero CPL T20 tournament. A belligerent 65-ball 86 with seven fours and five sixes from Skipper Christopher Gayle was the lone innings of significance for the Patriots who were limited to 146-5 as no other player passed 15. Twenty-year-old Kemo Paul (2-16) was the most successful bowler for the Warriors who reached 148-4 in 16.3 overs on the back of an unfinished 62-run fifth wicket stand between Hetymer (79 from 45 balls with nine four and four sixes) and Chris Green who was not out on 25 from 23 ball on his CPL debut.Eighteen year-old Sandeep Lamichhane had 2-12 and Sheldon Cottrell 2-21 had the most wickets for the Patriots. LUSIGNAN OPEN GOLF TOURNAMENT... AVINASH PERSAUD, DR. JOAAN DEO, MAURICE SOLOMON OVERALL CHAMPIONS Avinash Persaud, Dr. Joaan Deo and Maurice Solomon were crowned the overall champions when the Lusignan Golf Club Open tournament concluded on the
East Coast of Demerara. Reigning Guyana Open champion Avinash Persaud proved immovable in his lead position and so carted off both the overall Best Gross and the Best Net prizes of the ‘A’ or Championship Flight. Two-time Guyana Open champion Dr. Joaan Deo and Maurice Solomon won their respective categories. In the ‘A’ Flight, (Handicap 0 – 9), 2nd day’s better Gross performances were: Avinash Persaud 72; Chandra Lakraj 76; Mike Mangal 79; Kassim Khan 80; and Patrick Prashad 80. While this established Avinash as the clear Gross winner, it showed the tenacity of golfers to significantly cut that 1st day lead of 9 which he held in the ‘A’ Flight. In the ‘B’ Flight, (Handicap 10 – 18), 2nd day’s better Gross performances were: Dr. Joaan Deo with an amazing 80 (10 points off the previous day’s score) upsetting the order of that group; Lekhnarine Shivraj 84; Satrohan ‘Robin’ Tiwari 86; Aasrodeen Shaw 87; Aleem Hussain 89; Kalyan Tiwari 89; and 4 ties at 90 – Parmanand ‘Max’ Persaud, Ian Gouveia, Lakram Ramsundar and Rabindranath ‘Ravi’ Persaud. In the ‘C’ Flight, (Handicap 19 – 28) Gross performances on the 2nd day were: Maurice Solomon - a splendid 90, (9 strokes off the 1st day’s play); Imtiaz Subhan 96; Philbert London 110; Lloyd Fung A Fat - a fascinating 111, (27 strokes off the 1st day’s play). GBA SCHOOL BOYS & JUNIOR BOXING C/SHIPS ...CASTELLO ADJUDGED BEST SCHOOL BOY, ROMEO BEST JUNIOR, FYF IS CHAMPION GYM The action from the
Young Boxers on the final day of the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) School Boys and Juniors Boxing Championships at the Andrew ‘Six Heads’ Lewis Gym in Albouystown was fast and furious with Forgotten Youths Foundation (FYF) emerging as Champion Gym, while Young Achievers had to settle for the runners-up position. Dwayne Castello of (FYF) was adjudged Best School Boys Boxer, Christopher Romeo (VBG) was awarded the Best Junior Boxer, while Richard Howard collected the prize for most improved Boxer. The most entertaining fight of the day was between Romeo and FYF’s Mark Crawford in the 64-69lbs Final. The two Boxers threw punches in bunches and had the vocal spectators on their feet and when the three rounds of pulsating fistic fury had ended Romeo, a bit surprisingly, was adjudged the winner on a split decision. Another entertaining match up was the Female Exhibition contest between FYF’s Abiola Jackman and 17year-old Lindener Akea Lamazon, in her first fight after taking an almost year’s break from the sport to concentrate on her CXC exams. Lamazon, a student of the Linden Secondary, totally dominated her opponent with a clinical display of power and skill until the last round when both Boxers strangely stopped fighting. Leon Moore, at 16, seems to be following in his father’s path, he danced around Jordon Grahay and
scored with several neat left japs follow up hard right hands but Grahay counter punched and had his moments. But when the dust has settled, Moore had notched up one more win in his fledging career. The powerfully built Alvin Harripersaud from Madhia showed tremendous courage as he kept coming forward in his bout against Jomal Mercer despite bleeding from his nose. And although he wanted to continue the ring doctor wisely halted the fight in the second round. The 15-year-old Emanuel Pompey from Sophia Warriors stopped Alex Airnda fighting out of the Madhia Boxing Gym in 2:20 secs of the first round, while the short and bulky Jevon Thomas forced German Williams to quit in the final round of their battle. This tournament was used to select the Guyana Team for this year’s Caribbean School Boys and Junior Boxing Championships set for Guyana from August 18-20. PETTERSON SETS NEW SQUAT, DEADLIFTAND TOTAL RECORDS AT 16TH IPF/ NAPF C/SHIP - EARNS PLACE AT EQUIPPED WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS Carlos ‘The Showstopper’ Petterson powered his way to new national Squat, Deadlift and Total records on the final day of the 16th Annual IPF/ NAPF North American Regional Powerlifting Championship in Mexico City. Petterson further cemented his place at the World (Continued on page 74)
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Explosive Superman Russell bludgeons TKR with amazing hundred PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, CMC – Twenty20 star Andre Russell plundered an astonishing, unbeaten hundred and also grabbed a hat-trick, as he dragged Jamaica Tallawahs to a dramatic come-from-behind fourwicket victory over reigning champions Trinbago Knight
Riders in a thriller here Friday night. Chasing a record 224 for victory in the third match of the Caribbean Premier League at Queen’s Park Oval, Tallawahs found themselves in strife at 41 for five in the seventh over and staring at a heavy defeat.
Arriving at the crease with Tallawahs facing an improbable required run rate of well over 13.5 runs per over, captain Russell unfurled a magnificent 121 off just 49 balls to propel his side over the line with three balls remaining. The right-hander crunched six fours and 13
sixes in a phenomenal display of power-hitting, posting 161 for the sixth wicket with fellow Jamaican Kennar Lewis (52) – the joint highest-ever partnership in the CPL. Dropped off the first ball he faced when Ali Khan misjudged a top-edged slog sweep at backward square leg in the seventh over, Russell stormed to his half-century off 22 balls and required only another 18 deliveries to reach three figures – his second in T20s – and also surpass 4 000 runs in his 257th match. “[It’s my] first game as a captain at this level, definitely it’s a good start. I am going to enjoy this till it lasts. The hard work has been paying off,” Russell said afterwards. Russell had earlier starred in the TKR innings, snatching a hat-trick in the final over to finish with three for 38, as the home side reached 223 for six off their allotted 20 overs. Sent in, TKR appeared to have put the contest out of sight when Colin Munro topscored with 61 and fellow New Zealander Brendon McCullum and struck 56, en route to the highest total in CPL history. Chris Lynn chipped in with 46 while left-hander Darren Bravo got 29 as TKR frenetically gathered 77 runs from the last five overs of the innings. Sunil Narine (7) picked out long on with left-arm spinner Imad Wasim in the second over
with 10 on the board but Munro and McCullum then anchored the innings beautifully. First, Munro hammered five fours and three sixes off 42 balls, putting on 98 for the second wicket with Lynn, who belted four fours and three sixes in a 27-ball knock. When both fell in the space of 19 balls for the addition of 22 runs, McCullum took charge of the back end of the innings, adding 86 for the fourth wicket with Darren Bravo who slammed a couple of fours and sixes in a 16-ball cameo. All told, McCullum faced just 27 balls and counted five fours and four sixes. West Indies seamer Kemar Roach leaked 30 runs from the penultimate over but Russell removed McCullum, Bravo and Denesh Ramdin (0) in the final over which cost only 11, to slow TKR’s momentum somewhat. The Tallawahs run chase started disastrously when Glenn Phillips (6) miscued the third ball of the innings to short third man off pacer Ali Khan (3-24) and Andre McCarthy tugged the fifth delivery to mid-on, to depart without scoring. Ross Taylor (1) and Rovman Powell (1) fell in successive overs to leave Tallawahs on 16 for four in the fourth over and opener Johnson Charles thrashed five fours in a 16-ball 24 before playing back to a Fawad Ahmed (2-
46) googly and falling lbw. Russell then sensationally transformed the contest. He blasted Fawad for a pair of sixes in the 11th over which cost 15 runs and also ripped into offspinner Narine in the next over with another brace of sixes – the second of which raised his halfcentury. Captain Dwayne Bravo came under assault from Russell in the 13th over, giving up 22 runs and seamer Javon Searles saw 18 runs come from his opening over – 16th of the innings – as Russell and Lewis combined to take him apart. The game was still in the balance with 53 runs required from the last 24 balls but Russell took 20 from the 17th over bowled by Dwayne Bravo and 17 came from the next from Fawad, even though Lewis perished after striking four fours and two sixes off 35 balls. By then, Tallwahs needed just 16 from the last two overs and Russell put the game to bed in the final over when he cleared the ropes at long-on with Narine. Scores: TKR 223 for six off 20 overs (Colin Munro 61, Brendon McCullum 56, Chris Lynn 46, Darren Bravo 29; Andre Russell 3-38). TALLAWAHS 225 for six off 19.3 overs (Andre Russell 121 not out, Kennar Lewis 51 not out, Jonathan Charles 24; Ali Khan 3-24, Fawad Ahmed 2-46).
Kaieteur News
Sunday August 12, 2018
Hero CPL T20 Cricket
Emrit’s MOM showing gives Warriors last over win - As St Lucia Stars loose 13th consecutive match By Sean Devers In a game that began in glorious sunshine and concluded under floodlights, the ExxonMobil Guyana Amazon Warriors took an early lead in the sixth edition of the Hero CPL T20 cricket tournament by beating St Lucia Stars by three runs to register their second win in as many matches and condemn the visitors to their 13thconsecutive loss. The last time these two teams met at Providence in August last year, the Warriors destroyed the opposition by seven wickets after strolling to 101-3 with 32 balls to spare replying to 100-7. With 16 to win last night off the final over, 20-yearold Kemo Paul from the Island of Wakenaam in the Essequibo River was handed the ball and with over 15,000 excited fans chanting his name, began his run-up with nervous sweat running down his face. As his yorker crashed into the stumps of Kavem Hodge, the screams from the crowd could be heard all the way in Castries St Lucia. But when Ahmad reverse scooped the Guyanese pacer over third man for six, the silence in the ground was deafening. The next three balls only produced five runs, leaving five to win and four to take the game into super-over. Paul held his nerves and the Stars could only get a single as the crowd erupted in unadulterated joy. Chadwick Walton with
Regional Under-19... From page 78 Ramlogan 3-35, Justyn Gangoo 2-23). T R I N I D A D & TOBAGO 129 without loss (Navin Bidaisee 63 not out, Cephas Cooper 49 not out). At Sion Hill: Leewards lead by four runs with three first innings wickets intact. W I N D W A R D ISLANDS 115 all out (Johnel Eugene 34, Jeron Noel 22; Uri Smith 3-11, Zawandi White 2-25, Elroy Francis 2-31). LEEWARD ISLANDS 119 for seven (Elroy Francis 52, Demari Benta 38, Lincoln Durand 5-28).
31 from 24 with four fours and a six and Luke Ronchi who made a 41-ball 42 with two fours and a six added 54 for the first wicket but only Shimron Hetymer with 21 from 19 balls with three boundaries and Jason Mohammed with 20 from 15 balls with a six and a four reached 20 as the Warriors reached 141-4 on a slow and low track and a fast outfield. S e v e n t e e n y e a r- o l d Afghanistan leg-spinner Qais Ahmad befuddled the top order to finish with 3-15 from four overs. Stars, despite an 83-run stand between Skipper Kieron Pollard who hit two fours and a six in his 25-ball 32 and his Trini colleague Lendl Simmons, who cleared the boundary five times in the 39-ball 45 fell three short. Rayed Emrit (326) and Imran Tahir (2-23) were the best Warriors’ bowlers. When St Lucia Stars began their replyAndre Fletcher lifted off-spinner Chris Green over mid-off four but left-arm pacer Sohail Tanvir produced a frugal opening spell; beating
David Warner’s edge a few times. The left-handed Australian tucked Tanvir for four and at the end of the six power-play overs the Stars were 28-0. Paul bowled short and Pollard savagely pulled him for four as the 50 was posted in 10 overs. Tahir struck at 29-1 in the seventh over when Warner (11) missed a sweep and was LBW off his glove and when the 39-year-old removed Fletcher (14) in the same over a run later, the dancing fans, who produced a Kaleidoscope of colour, were having a rollicking time in the jam packed stands. Simmons clobbered Tahir for two sixes in the 13th over before dumping Green into the Red stand but when the Trinidadian was on 38 he hit Tanvir to deep cover where Sherfane Rutherford dropped a sitter, while Pollard smashed Emrit to long-off and the ball went right through Chadwick Walton for four. Simmons was caught (Continued on page 73)
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Kaieteur News
PAGE 78
Sunday August 12, 2018
One more event added to Nand Persaud Karibee Sprint Classic today
A
ll is set and a bumper crowd is expected to converge at the famous Nand Persaud and Company Limited racing facilities at No36 Village, Macedonia Estate, Corentyne, Berbice today. The event is being organised by the Nand Persaud Group of Companies through its Sky Plus promotion Group. The sixth Nand Persaud Karibee Rice Mega Sprint Classic’, has whipped up much interest with over 60 entries received and another race being added to the day’s programme. The track is in top shape and the facility, which is the only one of its kind in Guyana, where the horses will run in a straight line, has undergone massive sprucing up.
The track, rails, paddocks, stalls and stables have been attended to. The track which is covered with grass is classified as one of the better tracks in Guyana and rain or sun races will go on. A Photo Finish Replay Camera, big screen Te l e v i s i o n a n d o t h e r amenities will once again be used during the course of the meet. Eight races are now listed for the day with the prize monies amounting to over $4.5M in cash, trophies and other incentives. Those entered in the feature D and lower 880yards classic includes T and T, Brave Sky, Got to GO, Golden Blue Echo and Isn’t She Charming as they compete for $400,000 and trophy. The H and lower race for
Regional Under-19 C/Ship – 1st day, 3rd round
K
I N G S TO W N , S t Vi n c e n t , C M C – Summarised scores on the opening day of the third round of matches in the Regional Under-19 Championship here yesterday see Guyana in a fight with Barbados as Kevelon Anderson hits 71. Scores: At Park Hill: Barbados trail by 70 runs with six first innings wickets intact. GUYANA 203 (Kevelon
Anderson 71, Joshua Persaud 39, Kevin Sinclair 33; Camarie Boyce 3-27, Nyeem Young 2-47). BARBADOS 133 for four (Nico Reifer 61, Kadeem Alleyne 35, Mekhail Marshall 21; Kelvin Umroa 2-42). At Arnos Vale Stadium: T&T trail by 61 runs with all 10 wickets intact. JAMAICA 190 for nine decl. (Ricardo McIntosh 56, Raewin Senior 23; Rivaldo (Continued on page 77)
a top prize of $260,000 and trophy has the likes of Super Bowl, Chenille, Ready to Romance and Red Rocket. The event for 2 year-old animals has Set the Flame, Perfection, Caribbean Boy and Quarter Pharaoh among others competing for the $200,000 winners money and trophy. The J and lower event race will see Touch Down and Not This Time among others competing. Horses such as Guvna Ground Girl, Pikachu and Catalena are among horses lined up in the K and lower race for the $140,000 winner’s money. Twelve horses have been entered in the event for Colts classified L and lower i n c l u d i n g Wi s e To m , Uprising, Plane Land, Misery Man, Massapequa Dr and Flow Joe.
- Photo Finish Replay camera in place with over 60 entries
Horses will be raring to go today as they put in final works on the Nand Persaud racing facility last week. The race for L class Mares and Fillies has 13 entries including Country Girl, Physical Disturbance, Barbarossa, She is a Princess and Miss Angela. The final event is for animals classified Cow Horses and over 10 have taken entry in the 3 furlongs
race. Among the major sponsors are Trophy Stall, Ansa McAl, Nand Persaud Group of Companies and Republic Bank. The Champion jockey, trainer and stable will all be rewarded with trophies and other incentives
compliments of the Trophy Stall, Bourda Market. There will be added attractions, family entertainment, trampoline, bouncy castle, face painting and other games for the kids. Race time is 12:00hrs. The coordinator is Mohendra Persaud.
Dey cops main event at Ansa McAl I cool and Lucozade cycle meet
C
ortis Dey pulled off a sensational victory in the feature race to bring the curtains down on the Ansa Mc Al I cool Water and Lucozade cycle meet which took place at the inner circuit of the National Park. In steaming hot conditions, Dey kept himself up front and shared the lead with Jamaul John, Kemuel Moses, Romello Crawford and Paul DeNobrega throughout the 35-lap School boys and Invitational race. However, it was Dey, Griffith and John who managed to separate
themselves from the bunch in the final lap and with just about 100metres to go, Dey edged his rivals to the finish line, wining the race in a time of 1 hour 19 minutes 24.20 seconds. Griffith took the runner up spot, while Moses finished third followed by Crawford and De Nobrega in that order. Brain De Nobrega won the 12-14 year-old boys and girls’ 3-lap in 8 minutes 05.16 seconds, while Oliver Younge won the Veteran U50 5-lap in 12:09.92 ahead of Warren Mc Kay and Nigel London in that order. The Veteran Over 50 5-lap was
taken Ian Jackson, while Linden Blackman finished second and Beresford was third. Adelie Hodge was the 10-lap Juvenile race in 28 minutes 30.01 seconds; Jason Samson finished second and Ajay Gopilall was third. Kareem Sharpe claimed the Mountain Bike 5-lap title ahead of Jamal Cappell. The BMX boys’ 6-9 2-lap event was taken by Jose Rodrigues, while Jared Barrington placed second and Duykie De Nobrega finished third. Uttam Kumar Iossider won the wheel Chair race. (Zaheer Mohamed)
Kaieteur News
Sunday August 12, 2018
Mohamed’s Enterprise /ExxonMobil futsal
PAGE 79
Figgy Green Jags continue dream run
Quarterfinal action between Germans (in possession) and Progressive Ballers on Friday night.
Figgy Green Jags goal scorers, from left, Jermaine Scotland, Colwyn Drakes and Romel Matthews Quaterfinal futsal action took over the Mackenzie Sports Club (MSC) hard court on Friday night in the New Era Entertainment o rg a n i s e d M o h a m e d ’s Enterprise/ExxonMobil fifth annual tournament. During Friday’s play, free scoring Figgy Green Jags continued their dream run in the tournament after edging their opponents Haynes
Hitters 3-2 in the feature quarterfinal on the night. With two minutes on the clock, the match was deadlocked at 2-2, heading for extra time but a superb build up play granted Romel Matthews the opportunity to calmly finish a close range goal after good movement allowed him to be in the right position at the right time. Also on the score sheet
for Jags that had the two biggest victories during group stage play were Colwyn Drakes and Romel Matthews. Following the cliffhanger of a match, Matthews explained that he was very happy to win the match and enter the semifinals due to the fact that his team are in the money with at least a fourth place
finish of $50,000 secured. Meanwhile, in the other quarterfinal matches, Quiet Storm thrashed DC Ballers 6-0 with much thanks to their goal stopper who pulled off at least a dozen good saves. Goodfellas safely negotiated the Russians 4-2 and the Germans made light work of Progressive Ballers 8-1 to secure their semifinal berth.
The semifinals were competed last night at the same MSC hard court venue where Figgy Green challenged Quiet Storm in the first match followed by Germans versus Goodfellas in the feature encounter. The results of those games will be featured in tomorrow’s issue of Kaieteur Sport. The final of the tournament is set for August
18th where the winners will pocket $600,000 and the championship trophy; the runners-up will receive a handsome $250,000, third $100,000 and fourth place $50,000.The event is sponsored by Mohammed’s Enterprise, ExxonMobil, Bakewell, Cell Smart, PPDI, Sankar’s Auto Works and Bumper to Bumper Services. (Calvin Chapman)
John finishes 6th in Caribbean Cycling Championships South Dakota Launch pad completed GMRSC’s King of the Strip 3
The third King of the Strip (KOTS) drag race meet of the year is exactly two weeks away and there is much buzz about the challengers who will be coming from Trinidad & Tobago, Barbados and Suriname in a bid to dethrone Team Mohamed’s Nissan GT-R ‘Goliath’ which holds the current strip record of 7.52 seconds. All competitors will surely welcome the timely completion of the launch pad at the South Dakota race track which will improve starting significantly while increasing the level of competition at the Timehri strip. According to a release from the Guyana Motor
Racing and Sports Club (GMRSC), the launch pad project couldn’t have been completed without the help of the support of sponsors Delco Ice Company, Mohamed’s Enterprise, Secure Innovations & Concepts and B.M. Soat Auto Spares.Apart from Team Mohamed’s in the unlimited class, other defending champions include Shawn Persaud with his Toyota Caldina in 8-second class. The 9-second class was picked up by the Toyota Alteeza of Raj Panday while the 10-second class was won by Damian Persaud who also drives a Toyota Caldina and is also the son of Shawn Persaud. Michael Namchand of
Suriname with his Toyota Mark II took the 11-second class with Raymond John and his Toyota Chaser joining his countryman on the podium for the 12second class.The Toyota Starlet of Ricardo Moore was the winner of the 13second class with Bishram Rajaram winning the 14second class.The 15-second class was won by Troy Kowlesar with the Trinidadian bike duo of Shawn Brigs and Ian Atherly also picking up trophies. The sponsors for KOTS 3 i n c l u d e M o h a m e d ’s Enterprise, Ansa Mcal, B.M. Soat, ExxonMobil, Tropical Shipping, Del Ice Company and Trans Pacific Auto Spares.
Tickets for Guyana Amazon Warriors September matches go on sale tomorrow Ticket Sales for the Guyana Amazon Warriors final two (2) home matches of the Hero CPL 2018 will c o m m e n c e t o m o r r o w. Tickets will be sold at the three established outlets; 1. The CPL Guyana Office at 238 Camp and Quamina Streets, Georgetown 2. Lot 19 Princess
Elizabeth Road Queenstown, New Amsterdam 3. I m a m B a c c h u s General Store at Affiance, Essequibo Coast Tickets can be purchased from 8:00h to 17:00h on Weekdays and from 09:00h to 13:00h on Saturdays. The costs of tickets for this year’s CPL matches at Providence
are as follows: · R E D A N D G R E E N S TA N D S G$5,000 · O R A N G E STAND - G$3,000 · GRASS MOUND - G$2,500 There have been numerous enquiries regarding the sale of Tickets (Continued on page 73)
Briton John, Guyana’s lone competitor at the Junior Caribbean Cycling Championships, which is being hosted by Bermuda Bicycle Association, finished sixth in his junior 17/18 four lap event. According to reports coming out of the Bermuda, John did well after suffering initial mechanical challenges on his bike to eventually finish 3 minutes and 11 seconds off the eventual winner, Kaden Hopkins of the host nation who finished in a time of 26 minutes 16 seconds. The athlete who is coached by Horace Burrowes is set to compete in the road race of the championships today. Leading up to the competition, John did a few weeks of training in the USA and he will return to continue preparing for the J u n i o r W o r l d Championships.
Briton John having his bike prepped before the 4 lap race in Bermuda yesterday.
rt o p S
Hero CPL T20 Cricket
Emirt’s MOM showing gives Warriors last over win
The Warriors celebrate their second win in as many matches. (Zaheer Mohamed photos)
P. 77
- As St Lucia Stars loose 13th consecutive match
Cortis Dey (right) crosses the finish line ahead of Christopher Griffith and Jamaul John.
Dey cops main event at Ansa McAl I cool P. 78 and Lucozade cycle meet One more event added to Nand Persaud Karibee Sprint Classic today P. 78
Explosive Superman Russell bludgeons TKR with amazing hundred P. 76
Jamaica Tallawahs captain Andre Russell celebrates his hundred against TKR in the third match of the CPL at Queen’s Park Oval as Kennar Lewis appreciates the moment. (Photo courtesy CPL)
- Photo Finish Replay camera in place with over 60 entries Printed and published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd., 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown. Tel: 225-8458, 225-8465, 225-8491 or Fax: 225-8473/226-8210.