Kaieteur News

Kaieteur News

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Kaieteur News Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana. Publisher: GLENN LALL Editor: Adam Harris A.A. Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210

EDITORIAL

Critical concerns about advancing our interests abroad A few weeks ago, Kaieteur News published a letter written by one Harold Smith, who highlighted his brother’s appalling experience at the Guyana Consulate in Miami. Since then several other Guyanese in Florida have shared similar stories. Consulates and embassies are supposed to provide important services to our nationals abroad, including the renewal of passports, notarized affidavits, and to facilitate trade and friendly relations between nations. The poor service at the Consulate in Miami is disappointing, but the impression that members of the public have been getting should not surprise anyone. First of all, the building is located in a poor, depressed and drug-infested area where many are afraid to venture, even during daylight. If this government is serious about promoting tourism then it should relocate this Consulate. The need for an Honorary Consul in Miami should not be excused for such poor service or for having a Consulate in such environs. It seems that the poor services rendered to Guyanese abroad by their embassies and consulates during the last administration have continued under this government. It is unfortunate, embarrassing and could tarnish Guyana’s image. Truth be told, the poor and unprofessional services rendered to Guyanese nationals abroad by the Consulate in Miami is not an isolated case. Rather, it is common practice at most of the country’s consulates and embassies throughout the United States. For example, there have been complaints that for three out of every five days in any given week, telephone calls will go unanswered at one particular Consulate. And whenever the phone is answered by a member of the staff, very seldom does he/she have the answers to the questions being asked. It is difficult to imagine that most of the senior staff at the consulates and embassies, including some Ambassadors, High Commissioners and Consuls General, are trained in Foreign Policy and Diplomacy. There appears to be a lack of experience in dealing with immensely difficult foreign policy issues affecting Guyana, especially as they relate to other countries. Ambassadors and High Commissioners are career diplomats who are accredited to a specific country or organization as the highest ranking representative to represent the interests and advance the policies of their respective countries to foreign governments and organizations. However, those interests change over time, as every new administration has different interests which make the job far more complex than it might seem. That said, since independence most of our governments have unfortunately used political patronage to reward their party supporters, family and friends with diplomatic postings to foreign capitals. Such practice has not only placed unqualified persons in key positions, but also ignores the responsibility of the government to ensure quality diplomatic representation for the country in its dealings with foreign governments, international organizations and businesses. The carte blanche to make such patronage appointments allows patently unsuitable persons without the requisite diplomacy skills to represent Guyana at the highest levels around the world. Patronage should not be dispensed at every whim and fancy, because no one is expected to be held accountable with such political appointments. However, this is not to say that there should be no political appointees in Foreign Service, but those appointed should at least possess the qualities of a career diplomat. According to the first US diplomat to France, Benjamin Franklin, “The qualities of a diplomat are sleepless, tact, unmovable calmness, and a patience that no folly, no provocation and no blunders may shake.” Our Ambassadors, High Commissioners and Consuls General should have solid diplomatic experience, good knowledge of foreign affairs and a sound basis in the foreign policy interest of their countries. These are critical for advancing Guyana’s interest abroad and to ensure that it is well represented globally and that it is highly respected at all times.

Tuesday December 05, 2017

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.

Infrastructure development is crucial DEAR EDITOR, The Honorable Finance Minister, Mr Winston Jordan in his 2018 Budget presentation assured the Agriculture Sector that ‘the Government is committed to improving the livelihoods of rice farmers.’ He added that ‘one important aspect of strengthening stability and sustainability of Guyana’s rice sector is to increase productivity per unit.’ However, he needs to observe what is currently happening in the rice sector in order to achieve this objective. Currently, rice farmers are facing two serious constraints: high land rent and a high rate of paddy damage due to paddy bugs infestation. Both of these have resulted in an escalation of the cost of production by at least 30%.The Government can make a huge difference in Region Six, but it is clear that sound economic advice on agricultural policies is seriously lacking or overlooked. Many representations were made by rice farmers and interested stakeholders who would have foreseen that unless the Government e n c o u r a g e s t h e mechanization of the rice industry then there will come a time when rice farmers within the industry will feel the negative effects and suffer declining profitability and many will be forced to exit the industry. However, even though the Finance Minister is ecstatic about his allocations to Public Infrastructure and Agriculture of $35 billion and $19.5 billion respectively, Region Six is

not the beneficiary of any transformative project despite being plunged into serious impending social and economic crisis which will arise from the negative ripple e ff e c t s e m a n a t i n g t h e Guysuco restructuring and privatization. Privatization will not magically and immediately bring Skeldon and Rose Hall Estates to prosperity. Time is of essence to allow the benefits to flow. Downsizing of estate operations will also mean more jobs on the breadline as in the case of the Rose Hall Estate. A project which was much touted and publicized is the #58/59 All Weather Road which was introduced by Mr Gobin Harbhajan, the PM’s Representative for Region Six, and a team of interested stakeholders. This Project has the blessings of the Regional Democratic Council and copies were circulated to various ministers. It was also lauded at the recently concluded Berbice Expo by the President of the Central Chamber of Commerce in his address. It must be noted that it has been a long time since any type of sustainable economic development was done in Region 6, the last one would have been in the 1960s by the PPP Government at Black Bush Polder. An attempt at this Project was made by the PPP in 1963 and some work was later done by the PNC Government but it gradually petered out. On many occasions President Granger had thrown the gauntlet to Berbicians to come up with transformative plans to

stimulate economic recovery as he alluded to the fact that Berbice is a ‘sleeping giant’ and can become the ‘rice bowl’ of the country. He knows too well that oil is not the answer and examples are abound of countries being oil rich and yet starving. We must note that fossil oil is not a renewable resource but coconut oil is! This all-weather road is capable of exploiting approximately 150,000 acres of arable lands which are suitable for rice cultivation, cattle farming, citrus, provisions, vegetables, coconuts cultivation, and aquaculture. Immediately, this will solve the problem of high rentals since the supply of rice farming and other arable lands would have been greatly increased. This is taken into consideration on both sides of the Canje Creek. The establishment of industrial sites will make way for agro-processing plants to be established to widen the markets for the produce. More so, the

residents of Baracara will benefit enormously from such a road making it possible for this village to greatly expand its borders, and get immediate access to markets for their produce. This road will also provide an impetus to our fledgling tourism industry, more specifically ecotourism. The flora and fauna are simply breathtaking. Moreover, there are many such revenue generating projects standing idly simply because of permission not being granted. Businessmen are investing monies and are willing to make huge investments but ‘red tape and bureaucracy’ are stifling or strangling the will. The Finance Minister had promised to remove these fatal obstructions a few Budgets ago, yet they continue to thrive luxuriantly. In addition, many businessmen have applied for lands to do investments such as, cattle rearing and Continued on page 5

Make the seniors comfortable DEAR EDITOR, I take this special opportunity to congratulate our senior citizens who are receiving national old age pension. What saddened me is that most of those people are medically sick and by some means, the first week of every month they would flock the respective post office to cash their vouchers. The post office facilities are inadequate. I now appeal to the agency that is responsible to treat our senior citizens with great pride and dignity, to put in place a courteous and breezy environment with washroom facilities and also drinking water, coffee and snacks and for those who cannot make it, special arrangements should be made for home delivery. I look forward for priority to be given to our senior citizens of our land. With Best Regards, Parmanand Ram

Complaint against the statue of Gandhi in Grenada DEAR EDITOR, I write in response to a letter on Mahatma Gandhi entitled “Dustbin of history” written by Josiah Rougier and published in the Grenada newspaper, The New Today (Nov 3, 2017). In his letter, Rougier is asking the Government to remove the bust-statue of Gandhi which overlooks Sauteurs Bay in Grenada where East Indians arrived160 years ago. Rougier’s opinion is based on the false notion that Gandhi was racist because the Mahatma reportedly considered Indians to be

superior to black Africans when he referred to the latter as “kaffirs.” Gandhi was only 27 years old when he made that contextual statement. If Rougier had done his research, he would have found that Nelson Mandela said: “Gandhi must be forgiven for these prejudices in the context of the time and the circumstances.” The quote can be found in”Gandhi the Prisoner” by Nelson Mandela published in 1995. Gandhi was a man; he was not a god. And even gods made mistakes.Rougier must

instead focus on Gandhi’s vision of non-violent protest and his belief in satyagraha which inspired rebels and revolutionaries around the w o r l d . G a n d h i ’s i d e a s influenced leaders of the African National Congress and the struggle by Indians and blacks against white apartheid rule in South Africa. From as early as 1956 when he was 27 years old, Martin Luther King, Jr. referred to Gandhi as “the guiding light of our technique of nonviolent social change.” Following the success of his boycott,

King contemplated traveling to India to deepen his understanding of Gandhian principles.The fact is that Gandhi saw people of all races, castes, colours and creeds as equal which led to his assassination by a Hindu fanatic in 1948. So who is this unknown Josiah Rougier? Is he as illustrious as the great Nelson Mandela and Martin Luther King? And is he disagreeing with his possible heroes? Afriend to all. Jai Sears Grenada

Tuesday December 05, 2017

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David Granger is an authoritarian The government is a backward step DEAR EDITOR, Please allow me to respond to Rashleigh E. Jackson’s letter captioned “An appeal to both sides of the National Assembly” (SN, November 13) to explain that it is unreasonable of Mr Jackson to encourage Guyanese to respect President Granger given that he is a strongman politician who abuses his power. Mr Jackson must know that the heartbreaking situation in this country warrants that he adopts a patriotic stance to enlighten Guyanese that President Granger is destructive and that his behaviours directly compromise his ability to lead. It is a fact that the latest bout of political tension was sparked directly by President Granger when he abused his power to unfairly appoint his PNC surrogate as the GECOM Chairman. Such unethical and unfair transaction by President Granger will certainly enable his PNC/APNU political party to rig the elections and it indicates that President Granger lacks a moral compass which renders him unreliable, untrustworthy and unfit to lead. President Granger should never be tolerated. Given this picture, it is absolutely insane to encourage Guyanese to respect a man who tramples the rights of his people and destroys this country. Authoritarian and dishon-

est behaviours permeate the Granger government and are some of the major reasons why Government take advantage of the ordinary man and collaborate in cover-up attempts. For example, President Granger trampled the social cohesion process through his unethical appointment of the GECOM Chairman. In spite of this, his Social Cohesion Department refused to denounce his immorality. But, in an unfair move to suppress the voice of Guyanese, his Social Cohesion Department lashed out at those who stood up against his abuse of power in a protest in parliament. Both President Granger and his Social Cohesion Department need to be cognizant of the fact that unity, particularly in a diverse society like ours can only be realized in a culture where consistency, fairness, respect, and trust are valued. But sadly the Granger Government tramples such a culture. President Granger’s immorality strengthens the widespread belief that his stance on social cohesion is a sham and that his Social Cohesion Department is a smokescreen to shield wrongdoings within his government. Dysfunction within Government is reminiscent of the shameful situation at City Hall and I do not see how Mr Jack-

son in good conscience can ask Guyanese to respect politicians who are unethical. Any respect for President Granger under these circumstances will send the wrong message, particularly to our youths that unethical behaviours are acceptable. Mr Granger’s appalling record has caused his supporters to dwindle to roughly 35% of the total population which is bad news. It means that he does not command the support to win a free and fair election. In spite of this, he is fixated on holding onto power. But how is he going to do this? Well, he has to rig the elections like his idol, Forbes Burnham who was chronically implicated in election rigging. Editor, the election process needs to be closely monitored because the motivation is there to rig it. Moreover, a dissection of President Granger’s behaviours reveals that he has embarked on building a foundation which will allow him to tamper with the election process. To this end, he brazenly handpicked the GECOM Chairman who will undoubtedly enable his PNC/APNU political party to tamper with the election process. He has strategically placed military officials who are also his loyal backers in Continued on page 6

City Council needs its own award ceremony DEAR EDITOR, With the conferring of awards being undertaken over time to well deserving persons in Guyana and also in many countries abroad, both to civilians and to persons in the military and paramilitary to recognise their achievements and contributions to society, I believe it would be remiss of us if there wasn’t the creation of special awards explicitly created for and bestowed upon the hardworking officials of the Georgetown Municipality. Some of these awards can include the following: ‘The Country Hopping Trophy’ that should be presented to the Queen of the City for her diligent effort to visit every continent on the globe in her two-year term at the expense of the citizenry, without returning with anything tangible for Georgetown. ‘The Cunning Linguist Award’ that ought to be awarded to a senior staffer of the Engineer’s Department, who spends long hours and late nights in their boardroom only to be found doing nothing but having boxed

lunches.‘The Birds of a Feather Medal’ which will certainly be earned by the Fantastic Four whose members have hijacked the Council, making all of the decisions for the rest of helpless Councillors and Administrators, and who together foisted the notorious Parking Meter albatross around the necks of the citizenry. ‘The Having it All Prize’ must be given to the Special Contractor known as Brother, Puri Man and Loan Shark for having earned hundreds upon hundreds of millions of dollars over the last two and a half years, without ever having to bid or tender for the contracts he was awarded. ‘The Wine to the Side Cup’ must go to the Sardine Police. ‘Sally in the Alley Plate’ for their official mouthpiece who seems to always be high on something, sailing around on Cloud Nine, not knowing what is going on in the municipality or in the city, but who seems to be only too ready sign off and have dispatched the recurrent letter that appears in the dailies. ‘The Down to the Wire

Certificate’ a must for the City Treasurer’s Department, for ensuring that the Council is always broke, that it owes every single person and company it can, in the country, amounting to billions of dollars and is routinely failing to pay its staff on time and sometimes not at all. ‘The Come for the Cash, Stay for the Lime Accolade’ is well earned by the nearly two hundred friends, relatives, church pals and mistresses of the Big Enchiladas of the Council who have been capriciously employed, driving the payroll costs to well over a hundred million dollars a month with little or nothing to do on a daily basis. The King of Illusion Prize should be grabbed by the Town Clown, for his illusions of grandeur believing that he is someone of importance thus requiring bodyguards, for planning unrealistically to have modern shopping malls, petting zoos, having an eye in the sky with drones and converting Georgetown into the Green City. Magagula Jackson

DEAR EDITOR, I was looking for a suitable word to describe this present government but came up empty-handed. The only available word that I could muster was “backward.” Yes, when you look at their record in governance, it leaves much to be desired. The PNC-led Coalition inherited a buoyant economy with everything on the upward trajectory; our country saw ten years of continuous growth. Even when the previous government’s hands were tied and nothing substantial could have been done by them, Guyana still experienced growth, that is, growth in personal people as well as national development. This present government came into power with all the groundwork already prepared for them, so it was an ideal situation where they were expected to build on that foundation already laid, but this was not to be. As a starting point, Guyana was blessed by the PPP/C Government in the installation of affordable, and reliable power generation. Something this country longed for but which kept eluding them due to the poor handling of the economy by the PNC.

I am speaking of the PPP/ C’s bringing us out of the hellish situation of constant blackouts and no reliable power. Power to run our homes, our business, our industries— everything depended on a cheap and reliable power supply. Without reliable power, we were going nowhere as a people, nowhere as a nation. For this, I commend the PPP/ C for bringing us into modernity and a better life. What we see happening right now is a return of those days, those “PNC Days.” It is as if we have made a total 180-degree turnaround and are back snugly into that place of darkness. As someone rightly remarked, “this government is a government of darkness.” I most certainly concur because darkness is the day and doomed the economy; there is no other way to describe it. And the real reason for that abysmal failure is the fact that this government came into power on a backward economic principle, that is, getting rid of all those persons who they claim are PPP/C supporters. How much more dense a thought can this be when you can get rid of qualified, successful personnel, persons

Infrastructure development is... From page 4 livestock production but the files are facilitating the reproduction of cobwebs at the Guyana Lands and Survey Commission. Some have moved on with their finances. The Finance Minister and the Minister of Business must take a serious review of these impediments to economic growth. In conclusion I am calling

on the Government through the Finance Minister and the Business Minister to allow these transformative projects to bear fruit, as an RDC councilor, I envisage dark days ahead in Region Six if our agriculture based economy is not given the boost and stimulation it so badly needs. Haseef Yusuf RDC Councilor

brought positive change to this country? If this is not utter foolishness, then what is! All governments - and that is if they are wise - welcomes the skilled and progressive brains in its midst, to do otherwise makes you foolish and this is the problem with the PNC-dominated Government in Guyana. The removal of the qualified personnel at our sole energy provider has spelt doom to our country. The energy sector and by extension the wider economy has seen a change for the worse. Just a cursory glance at their management capabilities it stinks to the high heavens. Finally, Christmas is here and one has the eerie feeling that this spate of blackouts might be a tacit way of encouraging the bandits to carry out their nefarious deeds with impunity? But then again, I must face the inevitable fact that “the boys” make their heist at high day. I might very well be expressing a wishful thought because in the present scenario thieves and bandits make their successes in broad daylight and with no energy to power the cameras Guyana would be transformed into another hell on earth. Respectfully Submitted Neil Adams

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Linden is a town divided DEAR EDITOR, Over the past few weeks I have been privy to information which emanated from talks around the town that several councillors were plotting against the Mayor of Linden, because their internal election for Mayor and Deputy is around the corner and they started their campaign to discredit him. From the tyrannous things I have been hearing of his management of the town and knowing the character of the Mayor and what he has been doing in the town, I could not resist enquiring so I ventured to investigate for myself. I asked someone to attend the statutory meeting on Wednesday 29th November and send live video feed. To my surprise, it was embarrassing on the part of the Deputy Mayor and several councillors led by one Gasper who are supposed to be a Christian of high rank in the church, but were heard swearing and using threatening and abusive language towards the Mayor and the Town Clerk. In short, it was like a pack of nursery school children fighting over a candy which fell to the ground and are blaming each other. In fact, the loudest and most arrogant of them all was Councillor Gasper, which made me think that council is not a place for the religious. His shouting and accusations towards the Mayor were met by professionalism and respect by the Mayor who sat

while his comrades were being the devil’s advocate, quoting scriptures from the Holy Bible. I listened for hours as the Mayor tried to keep the discussion around issues of the town, but councillors seemed bent on getting personal with the Mayor. Listening to the exchanges their accusation hinged around the Mayor requesting that the administration furnish the Deputy Mayor with her own office space given that she had an office but gave it up to the CIIP Workers. This seems to be the core issue. However the councillors tried to tie this request of the Mayor to his lapse on one occasion when he left for Georgetown and forgot to leave his office keys. But he remembered to call after he was on the highway. By then, he was already blamed for locking his Secretary out of the Office. Now, what nonsense is this by the councillors in Linden? To top it off, I see the report in the Guyana Chronicle which seems to be clearly orchestrated to make the Mayor look like the villain. Furthermore, to quote the 28:01 in the wrong context tells me that we have a pack of uneducated people in the Linden Municipality. The Mayor, from his response, also made it clear that he was not away from office for seven days and besides, he was on council duty. Even more ridiculous, was the Deputy Mayor’s accusa-

tion that the Mayor was not giving her more access to information and access to Ministers. The Mayor refuted this allegation asserting that he introduced the Deputy to as many people as he could. He also gave her opportunities to represent him at functions both locally and overseas. To this, the Deputy became irate, rest her hands on her laptop computer and threatened to “lash” the Mayor in his head. At that point several councillors had to restrain the foul-mouth Deputy Mayor. She later returned to apologize to the Mayor. To the over-inflated issue of the Mayor locking his Secretary out of the office- it was clearly established that the Mayor forgot. Moreover, it has been deliberately underreported that when contacted by the Secretary about departing without leaving his office key, the Mayor responded “please work from outside the office for me today”. He then texted to let her know he forgot and later again called her to apologize for his lapse. Instead, there is a concerted effort to paint the Mayor in an unfavourable light. Now people of Linden, tell me how such should be the main topic for discussion in Linden, while a host of pressing issues need addressing? I understand the campaign for Mayorship has started but I have never seen such display of ignorance and arrogance apart from that displayed recently in parliament. I was ashamed and I wish to ask one question of the councillors. What have you done for your community since coming into office? I ask this because it’s only the Mayor I see working in the communities. In fact, from the meeting it was also shocking to learn that the councillors refused to support activities for the elderly. The Mayor had to use his personal funds to do so. Now tell me if the people of Linden should choose the side of the councillors over the Mayor? Yours for Linden’s Progress Garth Nelson Lindener

Tuesday December 05, 2017

The subvention to the NTC is grossly inadequate DEAR EDITOR, The National Toshaos Council Executive recent press conference has opened the doors to an expansive debate on the proposed $16 million subvention that is supposed to “self-sufficient” fund the representative body of Indigenous Peoples for the Year 2018. The atmosphere under which the sum has been considered, speaks volumes of how the present administration, like its predecessor, is trying to financially stifle and control the NTC. The NTC is a constitutional body and must not fall prey to those who wish to control it for their own political purposes. It is with compassion and support for the NTC that I raise these concerns to the persons responsible for this prejudiced situation. One can fully tell that the proposed allocation was pre-meditated and cleverly manipulated by those responsible. The main

purpose was for the NTC to be dependent on the Government. Over the years, numerous calls have been made for the NTC to exercise its independence. How can $16 million be sufficient to fund a body that represents over 200 Indigenous communities with a combined population of over 70,000 Indigenous peoples in the hinterland regions and on the coastlands? The Chair of the NTC had made it quite clear that it costs almost $4 million to hold a quarterly Executive meeting. Funding is limited to cater for four quarters and outreaches to communities that continues to face turbulent situations. The government is well aware of these many aching situations including the Tasserene community that is still waiting on a Ministerial visit, but when? I would strongly advice the NTC to visit the community and get a firsthand look at what is hap-

pening there. However, I am sure that due to budgetary constraints, they will never be able to step foot on Tasserene’s soil. Apart from this questionable proposal, we have also been calling on successive Governments to revise the Amerindian Act. This process seems like it will also be dependent on the directions of those at the helm of the administration and the advice of a very controversial figure. This process needs to be fair and transparent and not misguided by those with their own political agendas. One can only hope that the persons responsible for the budget, are guided by their conscience and do the honorable thing by correcting this adverse proposed subvention for the NTC and in the mantra of the present administration “a good life for all”. After all, $16 million is petty cash for some Ministers. Dwight Larson Indigenous Rights Advocate Isseneru

David Granger is an authoritarian From page 5 key positions across the country to take control and silence the Guyanese people. He has even divided the Guyanese people and selectively united his PNC/APNU backers by enticing them with jobs, scholarships and infinite opportunities. Obviously, Guyana will further deteriorate under the authoritarian leadership of President Granger. President Granger has to be voted out to allow Guyanese a better life which they so deserve. And Mr Jackson must know that any respect for President Granger is an endorsement of his unethical behaviours. Additional evidence on numerous fronts further strengthens the argument that President Granger leads by authoritarian and dishonest values. Editor, we must examine the evidence: Like a strong man and through his deception, he largely marginalised his non-supporters out of the workforce. Like a strongman and through his deception, he heartlessly looted the treasury out of a giant salary increase of 50% while he granted the working poor peanuts. Like a strongman and

through his deception, he forcefully burdens the working poor with unbearable taxes on infinite goods and services including private education to support his government’s lavish lifestyle. Like a strongman and through his deception, his government forcefully and illegally attempted to purge the occupants of the Red House. Like a strongman and through his deception, he ignores that his government is implicated in over 40 cases of serious corruption. Like a strongman and through his deception, he repeatedly ignores the rule of law on numerous occasions including the unconstitutional interference with the work of the Police Service Commission. Like a strongman and through his deception, he refuses to reveal the details of the ExxonMobil contract and he refuses to set the record straight on an alleged US$20M bonus payment from ExxonMobil. President Granger’s actions undoubtedly hurt Guyanese and exacerbate the suicide crisis. As it stands, Guyanese lack basic life-sustaining resources including medical supplies, food, and clean water supply.

President Granger’s behaviours need to be rejected. He is undeserving of respect. Respect is earned. As an activist, I teamed up with the PNC/APNU supporters on the PNC/APNU social media sites when President Granger was in the opposition to vigorously fight for democracy. My participation was encouraged. Now that President Granger is in power, he tramples democracy, he tramples free speech, he tramples human rights and my participation is no longer allowed. His political supporters even refuse to condemn his unethical behaviours and they even label those who speak up against his abuse of power as racists. Unfortunately, gains made by civil rights leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Nelson Mandela fail to resonate with President Granger and those who trample democracy. For the sake of humanity and for the betterment of our country, President Granger needs to bow out as the Head of State and apologise to the Guyanese people. Then again, he is a strongman who will never execute such upright behaviours. This means that the people of this country need to swing power away from him to keep democracy alive. And Mr Jackson authoritarian and dysfunctional leaders like President Granger deserve not an ounce of respect. Annie Baliram

Tuesday December 05, 2017

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Vendors are providing unfair competition A young vendor selling beverages at a busy junction has increased the price of a small bottle of water. The bottle used to sell for $100 but following the Budget, the price increased to $120. When he was asked how it was that the price of the bottled water had increased, the vendor answered that “the price of everything has increased.” This is not so. The price of everything has not increased. There can be no justification for the increase in the price of a bottle of water. In fact, the product was specially designed to be able to sell for $100. This was days after the Minister of Finance presented the country’s Budget for 2018. Nothing in that presentation would have led to an increase in prices. Persons are taking

advantage of the fears of people following the reading of the Budget. Prior to the Budget, some shops were retailing a one litre bottle of aerated drink for $300, which represents an increase over what it used to sell for before. Consumers are being ripped off by the very persons who are described as poor and trying to earn a living. It is one thing to try to earn a living, but another thing to try to do so at the expense of consumers. A great deal more is happening that is not right and consumers need protection. No one is calling for a return to price control. That experiment was disastrous for Guyanese. It led to increases in the prices of items and it led to artificial shortages being created so as to push the prices up.

There is without doubt a downturn in business activity. You can walk into any business in Regent Street and notice the discernible decline in sales. Money is not circulating and the reason for this is because of illegal competition. Vendors are taking over Regent Street, the busiest street in the capital. For every person employed in a store on Regent Street, there is a vendor selling outside. The centre of the City is assuming the look of a refugee camp. Is this how the government intends to promote business, by allowing unfair competition? Most of these vendors are not poor people. A few Sundays ago, a vendor was selling outside of the old Brown Betty. The items that were being sold

Dem boys seh ...

included TV antennas and electronic items. The value of what was being advertised for sale that morning would have exceeded a million dollars. If you go down Regent Street early some mornings, you will notice that some of these vendors appear in their fancy Toyota Premio , unloading hundreds of thousands of dollars in stock. They are not poor people. Someone tried to suggest that these were items which they were taking on credit. But what about the legitimate businessman? Is he not also taking credit from the bank? How can anyone expect money to be circulating in the economy when the underground economy is enjoying an unfair advantage? There are some small businesses who are struggling to pay their rent. There are some hairdressers who have to depend on male companions to help them pay their debts at the end of the month, while there are

persons cutting hair on the Merriman Mall. The encouragement which is being given to unlawful vending is part of a long, but failed campaign to crowd out legitimate businesses. It is hurting the economy. Vendors are going to retard business development. The vendors have turned parts of Port of Spain into an eyesore, so much so that middle class Trinidadians do not venture to the areas where the vendors sell. The same is happening in Guyana. Some persons do not go anywhere near Stabroek Market. You can hardly walk freely along the pavement on Regent Street. Vendors are everywhere and they are laying out for sale hundreds of thousands of dollars in stock. They do not have to pay overheads; they do not have to pay taxes. But they are getting a free ride, because this sort of activity has

been encouraged for years. There are also far too many businesses being established for such a small economy. The size of Guyana’s economy cannot support so many small businesses. And the reason for the expansion of these businesses is because zoning has gone through the window. Businesses are opening all over. And the majority of them will go bust, because there are more sellers than buyers. The government has to create order. It has to limit the conversion of residential areas into business areas. The spending power in the economy is simply not there to support business development when faced with unfair competition.

Senior Superintendent, Wendell Blanhum

Investigation Department, Eve Leary, Georgetown there were some suggestions that he wasn’t returning there, since he had removed all his belongings from the office. He took his leave just after testifying at the Commission of Inquiry (COI) into the alleged plot to assassinate President David Granger. The COI recommended for his removal as the head of the CID for his failure to properly investigate the report.

Legs does open wid likker Blanhum is back, but not as Crime Chief

Christmas coming and yesterday dem boys began sporting. Dem had a nice time. Dem meet up wid Irfaat in a bar wid a woman. Dem boys hear he offer whiskey to de woman who was sitting next to him. De woman seh ‘No thanks. I don’t do alcohol. It’s bad for my legs.” Irfaat said, “What? That’s strange. Do they swell/ Hurt/ or what?” De woman seh “No! No. They open easily.” Dem boys hear he getting married again. Dem boys don’t know

if is de bar woman, because he like to go to bars and offer drinks. De shaat one in Soulja Bai camp is de same thing. De only difference is he does pick dem up from de strip club and carry dem to de bar. When dem women done dem does pick he pocket. Jagdeo use to pick pocket. He pick so much pocket that he become de richest man in de region. From tomorrow dem boys will not be exposing anybody and dem wrongdoing until de

new year. Dem boys ain’t gun talk bout all who done collect big money from ExxonMobil. Dem wouldn’t talk bout how much Jagdeo done collect. Nobody know wha he doing wid all that money. He don’t drink, he don’t smoke, he don’t foke. He ain’t got a single soul who depend on him. Dem boys hear he plan to adopt two big man. Certainly not Uncle Glenn nor Uncle Adam. Talk half and keep away from dem barhoppers.

Senior Superintendent of Police, Wendell Blanhum, has returned to work, but not as the country’s Crime Chief. Blanhum now serves in the capacity of Deputy Commander for ‘A’ Division, working under divisional Commander, Marlon Chapman. The senior cop returned after taking part of his annual leave early in September. He left as the Crime Chief, but returned as Deputy Commander. On the day that Blanhum left his office at the Criminal

PAGE 10

Tuesday December 05, 2017

Kaieteur News

=== The Freddie Kissoon column ===

Granger’s green, Burnham’s purple Once you lived through the epoch of Forbes Burnham’s tenure of power, there must be snippets of his style that you will always remember. I can recall one incident. I was having lunch with some of my classmates in an old, beautiful Victorian styled building in the University of Toronto compound, when one of them with an amusing smile on his face said, “Fred, look your president on TV.” President Burnham was one of the representatives of the Third World in what was

then known as the NorthSouth Dialogue. It was taking place in Cancun, Mexico. President Reagan represented the US. Mr. Burnham’s outfit was purple trousers, purple longsleeve shirt jack and high top boots. Mr. Burnham loved the colour, purple. I grew up hearing that the reason he adored the colour was because Burnham had imperial tendencies and since purple was the favourite hue of the Roman emperors, Burnham adopted it One day, long after

Burnham was gone, just in a casual conversation, I asked one of Burnham’s aides, attorney Vic Puran, who worked closely with the then president in the late seventies, if it was factual that there was such a connection. Puran answered in the negative. He told me it was Burnham’s choice, just as any other human has theirs. President Granger is a devoted admirer of Burnham, but there is no evidence that he harbours any embrace of the colour, purple. If in the pantheons of colours, Granger has a preference, it may be green. But is green his aesthetic selection or is the choice environmentally based? Mr. Granger has answered that question. Green is not a personal option; state buildings are repainted in Green because of the environmental context. This means we are still to know which hue is the President’s cherished one. But the environmental context has run into problems, and here is where Granger’s inexperience in politics is showing up and the manifestations are not

elegant. Green is also a part of the colour scheme of his party. Naturally, the argument will arise (and that is absolutely inevitable once politics is involved) that the environment explanation is being used to mask the real intention – green is chosen for political purposes. How do we know if that is so? We don’t. In the complex working out of human instincts, truths, facts and motives and hidden reasons get really mixed up, and history remains mysterious. Policy-makers will tell you they did this and that for sincere reasons that were embedded in their minds. Others dispute that and accuse them of lying. History is literally overflowing with such examples, one of which is the infamous description of former Prime Minister of the UK, Tony Blair. Blair keeps insisting that the UK participated in the invasion of Iraq because, he, Blair deep down in his soul accepted that the UK was at risk of Saddam Hussein’s possession of weapons of mass destruction. It turned out that there were no such

things in Iraq. Many historians and countless people around the world reject Blair’s motive. They believe his decision was based on a request from President Bush which Blair was only too willing to accede to. So do we believe Granger? Whether we believe him or not, perceptions play a gargantuan role in politics in this land. Perceptions make or break governments and politicians in Guyana. Any Guyanese politician that does not factor perceptions into his/her politics will end up being a loser. Donald Ramotar who is criticizing Granger for repainting State House in green would know about that, much to his bitter regrets. The perception was that though he was president, Ramotar was a tool of Jagdeo. That perception undid Ramotar. Perhaps one of the cruelest perceptions at work at the moment is the one whereby Indians feel that the AFC is a servant of its larger partner, the PNC. Based on this perception, AFC’s rural constituencies that voted for them are moving away from the AFC. It may just be a perception, but it has

Frederick Kissoon devastated the AFC. I cannot recall any situation where any Guyanese President knew perceptions were in full flow and tried to shape policies and attitudes to defeat them. The reason for this is the enduring authoritarian culture we inherited from colonial domination, and we have not surmounted that cancerous pathway. Granger will continue to supplant the original paints of many state buildings without paying attention to the perception that he is politicizing governmental business by using his party colour. One thing is sure, De Donald was right when he said that if he had repainted State House in red, the then opposition would have seen red.

Tuesday December 05, 2017

PAGE 21

Kaieteur News

Golden Krust CEO killed himself over tax debt, fears of probe

Police probe blaze at hospital amid threats to nurses CASTRIES, St. Lucia, CMC – Police are investigating reports of threats against nurses at the Soufriere Hospital, west of here, as they probe the latest fire at the health institution over the last weekend. The fire on Saturday, the second within a month, has forced authorities to close the facility after the blaze destroyed the maternity wing and impacted the mental wellness section of the health care institution. The first fire on November 9 was less destructive destroying the records room of the hospital and forcing the temporary relocation of hospital operations.

Health and Wellness Minister, Mary Isaac, said that she has heard of the reported threats made to the nurses, saying “but the St. Lucia that I know, I am hoping that these are just frivolous threats. “I know that our nurses are not afraid, they are not fearful or anything like that. They live in a very safe community and I am hoping that it continues to be so,” Isaac said, adding that she was aware that the calls were made to’ certain individuals’. But she acknowledged that she did not know the exact nature of the threats and that the police are handling the matter. “I would hate to even

want to elaborate on that because I think these were frivolous threats. We live in a very safe society and I just prefer that we keep it that way. “If threats were made as a result of the fire or after the first fire, the police are saying that those threats – the people are being interviewed and questioned so that is also going to form part of the investigation if those threats were made. So the police will determine how real they were and that sort of thing,” she said. Media reports here said that prior to the first fire, a telephone message was sent to at least one nurse warming her that “you all cannot hear – you all will feel.”

ST. GEORGE’S, Grenada, CMC – A candidate with the ruling New National Party (NNP) says she intends to file a lawsuit against a member of the main opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) claiming that she had been slandered in a message posted on the social website, Facebook.

Delma Thomas, who is contesting the St. Andrew North West constituency in the general election scheduled for next year, told a public meeting that her opponent and NDC candidate, Phillip Alexander, had slandered here during a party meeting that was also carried live on Facebook.

“Brothers and Sisters, you cannot accept slander, you cannot accept propaganda as politics, it’s not politics, let us discuss the issue,” Thomas said, as she accepted the call by the NDC to contest the polls that political observers say will be held before the constitutional deadline.

Election candidate promises to sue her opponent for defamation

(Yahoo) Lowell Hawthorne, the founder and CEO of Golden Krust Caribbean Bakery & Grill, committed suicide Saturday evening in his Bronx factory, according to police. The founder died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound. He was 57. The businessman’s life was an inspiration story known even in his native Jamaica, which he left in the early 1980s to pursue better opportunities in the U.S. The son of a baker, Hawthorne opened the first Golden Krust store in the Bronx in 1989, later becoming the first Caribbean-owned

business in the U.S. to be granted a franchise license, according to its website. He went on to build more than 120 restaurants in nine states over the next almostthree decades of business. “It’s a very humbling experience to know that the concept that began in Jamaica with our parents was able to come here,” Hawthorne told the New York Daily News in 2012. Today the company produces more than 50 million patties a year that are also sold in retail stores. In 2012, Hawthorne published his memoir titled, “The Baker’s

Son.” He also appeared in an episode of CBS’ “Undercover Boss,” in 2016. Hawthorne leaves behind his wife, Lorna, three sons, and a daughter, who all work for the company. Many other family members were also involved in the company. “Look how far he reached. He’s known from here to Jamaica,” Family friend Wayne Muschamb told the New York Daily News. “I’m kind of lost for words, man. This has got me shocked.” Jamaica’s Prime Minister Andrew Holness sent out a tweet of condolence upon hearing the news:

PORTAU PRINCE, Haiti, CMC -The United States Coast Guard Sunday repatriated 67 Haitians, whose boat was intercepted about 51 kilometers north-east of Turtle Island on the north coast of the French-speaking Caribbean Community (CARICOM) country. So far this year 434 people have been murdered here. Last year, the figure stood at

463 and in 2015, the murder toll was 410. The Coast Guard said that since October 1, approximately 200 Haitians have tried to migrate illegally to the United States by sea and has renewed its warning to people not to attempt the dangerous journey since many have lost their lives on previous occasions.

“The Caribbean and the Florida Straits are dangerous and ruthless for migrants who travel illegally in overcrowded boats…,” warned Captain Jason Ryan of the 7th Coast Guard District. According to the Coast Guard, between from September to October this year, 1,869 Haitian immigrants attempted to illegally reach US shores by sea.

US Coast Guard intercepts more Haitians attempting to enter US illegally

PAGE 22

Tuesday December 05, 2017

Kaieteur News

Murder trial aborted after jury forewoman remanded on narcotics charge FOR RENT

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Accused: Carlton Bourne

will have to go all over again. The case had to be aborted following the arrest and incarceration of the forewoman in the matter on a charge of possession for narcotics for the purpose of trafficking. This information was conveyed to the court on Monday by Justice, Jo Ann Barlow before whom the matter was being heard. Deputy ‘B’ Division Commander Senior Superintendent, Edmond Cooper was called to testify in court about the authenticity of the information. Cooper confirmed to the court and the remaining jurors that the woman, 24year-old Tamasha Bristol, was among a trio arrested with a quantity of narcotics on November 26, last. The accused appeared before Magistrate, Rhondell Weaver at the Blairmont Magistrate’s Court on a joint charge of possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking. They allegedly had in their possession 11 pounds of marijuana. They were all remanded to jail. On trial for the murder of Ragnauth were 25-year-old ex-policeman, Elton Haynes known as “Bush Bull” and “Ton,” of Manchester, Corentyne, Berbice, and Carlton Akeem Bourne called

“Black Boy” of Whim, Corentyne, Berbice. It is alleged that the men murdered the 57-year-old Ragnauth, called ‘Tony’, of 2 North Whim Public Road, Corentyne, Berbice. The man’s body was discovered on November 07, 2012, at his home at Whim, Corentyne, after his grocery shop had been broken into. Attorney-at-law, Tuanna Hardy was prosecuting the case on behalf of the state. Haynes was being represented by Attorney, Sasha Roberts of the Legal Aid Clinic while stateappointed attorney, Tanya Warren Clements was appearing for Bourne. The matter had reached the stage where both the prosecution and defence had closed their cases and were set to address the jury. After the revelation about the jury forewoman, however, the matter was put down. Following the police revelation, the judge informed the court that the matter had to be aborted. Since there should be 12 jurors, but only 11 were available. She told the court that the matter cannot go on with the 11 jurors. She told the two accused that they will have to return for trial before another judge at the next sitting of the Berbice High Court. She ordered that their matter comes up first.

Kaieteur News

Tuesday December 05, 2017

PAGE 23

Limited students’ exposure to science creates deficit teaching in education sector Less than 20 percent of students, who exit secondary schools, study the single sciences. This is according to information that has been analyzed by the Ministry of Education. The clear outcome of this situation is that over the years there has been a deficit of scientists and technologists in critical areas, leading to the education sector being significantly short of competent science teachers. For example many schools, especially in the hinterland regions, do not have teachers in the single sciences, particularly in the areas of Chemistry and Physics. For this reason, technical officials within the Education Ministry have derived a plan designed to support teachers in the delivery of the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) subjects through Continuous Professional Development (CPD). The three major components that are suggested for implementation are: training for Teachers at the Primary and Secondary Levels (Grades 3 - 6; 7 - 9 and 10 - 11); School Based Support – school based workshops, mentoring sessions; provision of resources and support for the use of these resources to support Inquiry Based Science Education and evaluation of training programmes and transfer of learning. It is expected that this, among other measures, will be fast-tracked with funding from the 2018 national budget allocated to the Education Ministry. The move in this direction is in fact one that was influenced by a study conducted by a UK Expert Group in 2007. Officials of the Education Ministry found that there were similarities in the local school system, which set in motion the measures to address this glaring shortcoming. In the study it was found that the performance of students in science and

technology is directly influenced by their learning experiences. For this very reason, it is important that the school system seeks to link school science to the application of science in society. In fact, it was found that in many cases this linkage is very weak, because many students are not motivated to learn science and this lack of motivation has been linked to the way science is taught. This saw the Ministry embracing a mission to revamp how lessons are delivered to the nation’s children with the delivery of science and technology being a main focus. The level of interest in the sciences at the secondary level is rooted in what happens at the earlier levels. In view of this fact, the Ministry had taken a decision to embrace the implementation of the Inquiry Science Education Approach, through collaborations with the Caribbean Academy of Science and Chilean Academy of Science at Grades Five and Six for 10 pilot primary schools. This pilot was extended to mathematics under a UNESCO-funded project recently (2015-2016). With the introduction of Science,

Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fairs such as the Sagicor Visionaries Challenge (SVC) competition, students at the secondary level were exposed to projectbased learning which integrated science with technology, engineering and mathematics for sustainable development. Guyana recorded the highest number of entries in this competition in 2014 and became the regional winners in 2015. Students’ level of enthusiasm in STEM increased and they were able to show how this integrated approach can be used to propose solutions for school and community problems. As such, the Ministry of Education engaged the private sector and the University of Guyana in supporting the students’ projects. This approach is linked to the Ministry’s present strategic plan which looks at linking STEM education with the national development goals of Guyana. The Pueblo Science Camp (http://puebloscience.org/) for Secondary School teachers was also held for the first time in Guyana on August 19 - 21, 2015, as a result of a collaboration between the St.

Stanislaus Toronto Alumni and the Ministry and a second successful camp was held August 2-4, 2017. This camp engaged teachers in training on ‘hands-on’ activities in science using readily available low cost materials. This approach moved away from the traditional theoretical approach taken in the teaching of science with limited practical experiences. The first annual science camp for students was held in Region 10 on August 2428, 2015. This camp was held in collaboration with the International Language Institute (ILI). Thirty-five students were exposed to interactive science lessons used to teach language (in the case of this camp – Portuguese. Field work, tours and the history of mining were some of the interactive sessions included. Students were also encouraged to support the re-establishment of Science/STEM clubs. The Bishops’ High school participants established their STEM club as an immediate output of this camp. Several other STEM clubs are being formed to create a space for interactive learning for science. These initiatives, according to information out of the Ministry, serve to incorporate building critical thinking through interactive activities that foster collaboration and communication. This is in light of the officials’ belief that these experiences will help to transform science education, thus it is necessary for their expansion in more schools. The objectives of encouraging camps include: strengthening science and technology education at the primary and secondary level; increasing students’ ‘handson’ participation through Inquiry Based Science Education and Reorient science education for sustainability [linking indoor and outdoor learning].

In time for Christmas, police deploy more vehicles today

Some of the officers on the donated vehicles at the handing over The recently donated vehicles that were given to the Guyana Police Force by the government of China will hit the streets today. According to a media statement sent by the Force, the first part of the donation will be “rolled out” from the Tactical Services Unit Drill Square, for the

various policing divisions. Acting Commissioner of Police, David Ramnarine said the force’s anticrime plans will be bolstered with the patrol of these vehicles on the streets. Meanwhile, Assistant Commissioner of Police, Clifton Hicken previously noted while

training sessions were in full swing for the officers last week, with the addition of vehicles to the force, there will be a greater response by the Force to criminal reports. Hicken said that these vehicles will add to the efficiency of the force to not only respond to reports,

but also conduct patrols in the areas more prone to criminal activities. Additionally, he pointed out that he hopes they can also help to rebuild their relationship and trust with the general public, given that members of the Police Force will become more efficient in responding to 911 calls which cover over 52 stations. The assistant commissioner added, “We expect also that the populace will be satisfactorily policed, given the resources we have…We are going to allocate (the vehicles) adequately to the divisions so that they can look at the housing, busy areas, shopping malls and crime prone areas”. Prior to the distribution of the vehicles, a two-day training exercise was convened by a Chinese technical training officer, HouJian, who conducted informative sessions with officers on how to use and maintain the vehicles, valued at US $2.6 million. Last month, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) detailed its Christmas security plan for Georgetown while other divisions have separately

promised more beat patrol ranks, greater focus on high-risk areas of the community and traffic management systems. Ramnarine had told Kaieteur News that the force’s Christmas plans remain on track. “It [the plans] will be better as soon as we are able to deploy… in a couple of days when this huge number of vehicles, in particular, are out. The donation that was made by the government of China last month included 56 pickups, 35 All-Terrain-Vehicles (ATVs), three 21-seater buses, 44 motor cycles, 100 bullet proof vests, helmets and riot shields, 10 tactical ladders, 200 police flak jackets, 20 bulletproof shields, 20 anti-riot suits, 30 laptops, 40 desktop computers, 10 copy machines, 30 sound lever meters, 5 diesel generators, several spare parts and battery backups. The vehicles and other equipment are expected to be used in the transportation, traffic and communication sectors of the force.

PAGE 24

Kaieteur News

‘US missile defenses fired 5 shots at an incoming target — and it looks like they all missed

(Yahoo) In late November, a missile fired by Iran-backed Houthi militants in Yemen came streaking through the sky toward the airport in Saudi Arabia’s capital, Riyadh. The Saudis spotted the incoming fire and shot off five missile interceptors from a US-supplied missile defense system to stop the threat, they say. “Our system knocked the missile out of the air,” US President Donald Trump later said of the incident. “That’s how good we are. Nobody makes what we make, and now we’re selling it all over the world.” But a new analysis by The New York Times suggests that the missile’s failure to hit its target was a fluke and that the missile interceptors all missed. Essentially, the analysis

says that the parts of the Houthi-fired missile that crashed in Saudi Arabia indicate that the interceptors, fired from a Patriot Advanced Capability 3 system, did not hit the warhead as they were supposed to. Instead, an interceptor probably hit a part of the missile tube that had detached from the warhead, The Times found. The warhead most likely continued to travel, unimpeded, to where it blew up outside the airport. Witnesses reported hearing the explosion, and satellite imagery uncovered by The Times suggests that emergency vehicles responded to the blast. The missile, an old Scud variant, can be expected to miss by about a kilometer. The Scuds are old and error-prone, and the older ones used by the Houthis are relatively cheap.

But the missile defense system developed by the US costs a few million dollars and has been touted by defense officials as one of the most advanced in the world. In South Korea, the same missile defense systems and technologies are designed to defend US troops and thousands of civilians from a North Korean missile strike. “You shoot five times at this missile and they all miss? That’s shocking,” Laura Grego, a missile expert at the Union of Concerned Scientists, told The Times. “That’s shocking because this system is supposed to work.” Houthis in Yemen have fired missiles at Saudi Arabia before, and over the weekend they said they fired a cruise missile at a nuclear-energy site in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates — something the UAE has denied.

(CNN) US F-22 fighter jets roared into the sky over South Korea on Monday to start air combat exercises that North Korea says are pushing the peninsula to the brink of nuclear war. A US 7th Air Force official said the top-of-the-line F22s are being joined by Air Force and Marine Corps F35s in the largest concentration of fifth-generation fighter jets ever in South Korea. A senior South Korean Air Force official told CNN on Monday that the war games will include attacks against a mock North Korean missile launch site with mock North Korean radars. Experts say the stealthy F-

22s and F-35s would be key to any such actual attack as they are invisible to South Korean radars. The fighter jets are among 230 US and South Korean aircraft — supported by 12,000 troops — participating in the annual Vigilant Ace 18 air combat drills, which are scheduled to end Friday. North Korea state media said Monday that “ceaseless large-scale war games” by the US and South Korea are “creating a situation that a nuclear war may break out any moment.” Over the weekend, official sources from both North Korea and the US said the chances of war are growing.

North Korea’s Foreign Ministry said US President Donald Trump was “begging for a nuclear war” through what it called an “extremely dangerous nuclear gamble on the Korean Peninsula,” in a statement released Saturday. The same day, White House national security adviser HR McMaster told a conference in California that the chances for war on the Korean Peninsula grow daily. Photo in Tuesday as stealth fighters Caption: A US Air Force F-16 and four F-35A fighter jets taxi toward the end of the runway during exercise Vigilant Ace at Kunsan Air Base in South Korea.

US masses stealth jets in South Korea for war games

Tuesday December 05, 2017

Zimbabwe’s president swears in first post-Mugabe cabinet

HARARE, Zimbabwe – Zimbabwe’s president has sworn in a new cabinet that includes ruling party loyalists as well as figures in the military, whose takeover helped oust former leader Robert Mugabe. President Emmerson Mnangagwa said after the ceremony, yesterday, that a priority is to revive

Zimbabwe’s battered economy. Among the new cabinet members are Maj. Gen. Sibusiso Moyo, the foreign minister; and Air Marshal Perrance Shiri, the agriculture minister. Mnangagwa dropped several initial appointees because of a requirement that most ministers should be members of parlia-

ment. The rule did not apply to the two military officers. Moyo, on November 15, announced the takeover that led to Mugabe’s resignation after 37 years in power. Mnangagwa, fired by Mugabe weeks ago as vice president, was selected by the ruling ZANU-PF party to succeed Mugabe.

Yemen’s former President Ali Abdullah Saleh killed in Sanaa Sanaa, Yemen (CNN) Yemen’s former President Ali Abdullah Saleh was killed by Houthi rebels yesterday as he fled the capital Sanaa after days of intense street fighting between his forces and the insurgents. Saleh’s death at the hands of his erstwhile allies dealt a heavy blow to hopes of an end to the country’s protracted conflict and sparked fears of further bloodshed in Sanaa. Sanaa’s Houthi-controlled Interior Ministry announced the veteran Yemeni leader’s death in a statement. “The militias of treason are finished and their leader has been killed,” the statement said. CNN has also seen footage and video that appeared to show Saleh’s dead body. The images could not be independently verified. Saleh was killed when the vehicle he was traveling in came under a fire at a checkpoint south of rebel-held Sanaa, a senior Houthi commander told CNN. Several of his senior aides were also killed, the commander said. Saleh’s Sanaa home had been under Houthi siege for more than 48 hours before he decided to flee for what he thought would be the safety of his native town of Sanhan. Saleh’s body was brought back to the capital and has been handed over to the leadership of his party, the Gen-

Former President Ali Abdullah Saleh eral People’s Congress. Two days earlier, Saleh announced he was breaking a three-year alliance with the Iranian-backed Houthis, and that he wanted to “turn the page” on relations with the Saudi-led coalition that launched a military intervention against the Houthis in Yemen in 2015. The Saudi coalition, which has imposed a crippling blockade on the country, welcomed the move and granted Saleh’s forces air support in fierce battles that later took place. But for Saleh, known for his political cunning, the

gamble proved to be a fatal move. Saleh’s death seems likely to inflame what has become a proxy war in Yemen between Saudi Arabia and Iran. “What you’re seeing now is that the Houthis are potentially poised to really completely consolidate power in Yemen ... this makes a peace deal less possible,” he added. Houthi leader Abdul Malik al-Houthi, speaking on Al Masirah TV, described Monday’s events as “historic and unique” and said Saleh’s about-face was a “conspiracy that the Yemeni people prevailed over.”

Tuesday December 05, 2017

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Kaieteur News

Hidden peril awaits China’s banks as property binge fuels mortgage fraud frenzy SHANGHAI/HONG KONG/BEIJING – When Zhu Chenxia bought a flat early last year from Lei Yarong in the up-market Nanshan district of China’s southern metropolis of Shenzhen, the two women drew up three purchase agreements to cover the deal. Only one was genuine. In the legitimate contract, Zhu agreed to pay Lei 6.49 million yuan (about $980,000) for the 96-square-meter apartment near the city’s border with Hong Kong, according to records filed in a Shenzhen court. With the help of her property agent, Zhu cooked up a second contract with Lei that overstated the value of the flat at 7 million yuan. This one was for the bank. If Zhu had presented her lender with the true purchase price, she would only have been entitled to borrow up to 70 per cent of that amount, or 4.54 million yuan. Chinese regulations stipulate that first-home buyers in some major cities must make a down payment of at least 30 percent to reduce bank exposure to risk. The higher valuation convinced the Bank of China to lend Zhu 4.85 million yuan, leaving the lender less buffer against a price drop. Details of the deception are contained in a court judgment

from a subsequent dispute between Zhu and Lei over the transaction. Remarkably, Zhu herself disclosed the fraud to the court when she gave evidence that showed the pair had conspired to cheat the bank and the government.Mortgage fraud like the pair’s flouting of rules designed to protect banks is rampant in China’s roaring property market, according to interviews with buyers, sellers and dozens of property market insiders including real estate agents, lawyers, bankers, valuers and loan middlemen from three of China’s major cities and four smaller cities. Many of these people declined to be identified because they were familiar with or involved in “re-packaged” loan applications, the industry euphemism for these frauds. A Reuter’s examination, including a review of court records of cases such as Zhu’s dispute with Lei, shows that across China, unqualified borrowers use fake documents to secure mortgages, while loans deceptively obtained for other purposes are funnelled into property. These frauds are often committed with the consent and encouragement of other parties to the transactions, including lending brokers, property agents, valuation companies and the banks themselves.

And these alleged crimes are rarely punished. Neither Zhu nor Lei suffered any penalty for the

fraud. Hu Weigang, a senior partner at Guangdong Shen Dadi Law Firm, would like to see the

law enforced on the mainland as it is in Hong Kong, where creating a bogus document can lead

to jail. But, he acknowledges, the scale of this cheating makes it virtually impossible.

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Kaieteur News

Tuesday December 05, 2017

Tuesday December 05, 2017

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Kaieteur News

England finally fire but Australia in charge in Adelaide

Alastair Cook provided some resistance before edging Nathan Lyon to slip ©Getty Images ADELAIDE (Reuters) England finally got the pink ball to swing on the third night of the second Ashes test yesterday but it still looked too little, too late and

Australia will go into day four on 53 for four with a lead of 268 runs. Australia skipper Steve Smith elected not to enforce the follow-on after the tourists were

dismissed for 227, a first-innings deficit of 215, and probably rued his decision as England attacked under the Adelaide Oval lights. James Anderson led the way with the wickets of Cameron

Tuesday December 05, 2017 Aries: Mar 21 - Apr 19 Dreams and meditation could bring up deep-seated emotions from the past that have been blocking your growth without your realizing it. Both seeking and giving forgiveness may take on new importance.

Libra: Sep 23 - Oct 22 New business contacts could bring the possibility of pursuing a new career in the psychic, spiritual, or healing arts, or perhaps in painting, writing, or another of the fine arts. Think seriously about it.

Taurus: Apr 20 - May 20 If you aren't romantically involved, don't be surprised if romance comes your way today, perhaps in your neighborhood. Even if you are involved, you'll make a new friend.

Scorpio: Oct 23 - Nov 21 Spiritual matters come to the forefront today. You'll want to throw yourself into the study of a spiritual or metaphysical discipline that appeals to you the most.

Gemini: May 21 - Jun 20 Your value system may take on new spiritual and idealistic aspects today. Mundane affairs could assume new meaning for you. You might even see spirituality in your job.

Sagit: Nov 22 - Dec 21 You're a spiritually inclined person, but today your mind is on other planes. Insights and revelations could come thick and fast, and you might want to express them through art.

Cancer: Jun 21 - Jul 22 Today your relationships could take on even more significance than usual. You could meet some interesting people, and if you're not involved, you might even fall in love.

Capri: Dec 22 - Jan 19 Romance is very much on your mind, whether in friendships, business partnerships, or relationships of all kinds.

Leo: Jul 23 - Aug 22 A group encounter, perhaps spiritual or metaphysical, could take place at your home tonight. This group will probably manage to do whatever it aspires to do. Virgo: Aug 23 - Sep 22 Group activities concerning spiritual, metaphysical, or humanitarian interests could take place in your area today. If you aren't currently involved, this could provide a chance to meet someone special.

Aquar.: Jan 20 - Feb 18 Today you might try to secure the perfect job, possibly in an artistic field or one connected with the healing arts. You might have a specific position in mind, or you could consider several. Pisces: Feb 19 - Mar 20 A new or existing romance could take on a spiritual aspect that creates a stronger bond between you. The works of past great masters, perhaps some from exotic lands, inspire your creative drive.

Bancroft (four) and Usman Khawaja (20) while Chris Woakes removed David Warner with a delivery that moved off the seam and got an edge to fly to Joe Root in the slips. That the usually free-scoring Warner took 60 balls to eke out 14 runs was an indication of how tough the conditions were and captain could have followed vice-captain in the following over when Smith was given out lbw for a three-ball duck. For the third time in two days, however, Anderson was denied an lbw decision by the DRS system with tracking suggesting the ball had pitched fractionally outside leg. NO REPRIEVE Smith only survived to make six runs, though, before he was given out lbw to Woakes and this time there was to be no reprieve from the technology. “We’ve pushed Australia back tonight,” Woakes said. “Australia are obviously still ahead in the game but it was important that we bowled well, showed some character and

Stewartville, Annandale, Bladen... From page 28 scored a solid 58, Romel Dotterden 37 and Vinod Sundar 25. Keron Sutton took 2 for 16 off 4 overs. In Reply, Buxton could only muster 70; Vinod Sundarde bagged 7 for 12 off 5.4 overs. Ronald Fredricks supported with 3 for 12. Annandale won by 100 runs. In another match, played at the Enterprise ground, Bladen Hall batted first and managed 136 for 8 off their reduced 25 overs. Vickram Narine made 40. Bowling for Golden Grove, Shannor Noville grabbed 4 for 39 and Clayden Ferguson 2 for 27. In reply, Golden Grove Secondary could only post 100 off 21.4 of their allotted 25 overs. Rhyme Mohamed top scored with 24. Bowling for Bladen Hall, Roberto Thomas grabbed 6 for 7. Bladen Hall Secondary won by 36 runs. Over at Cumberland, in Berbice, Berbice high won the toss and decided to bat but bowled out for 93 off 23.1 overs. Daniel Narsaiah got 25; Nicholas Haywood and Intiaz Jaundoo both grabbed three wickets each, while Nicholas Amsterdam supported with two. In reply, New Amsterdam reached 94 for 4 off 18.3. Troy Sookraj scored 39. Bowling for Berbice High, Zynul Ramsammy claimed 3 for 26. New Amsterdam won by 6 wickets.

pushed them back.” Nightwatchman Nathan Lyon survived to the end of the day and will resume with Peter Handscomb. Both were three not out. “We know the night session is toughest to bat, as we saw tonight,” Starc said. “With a lead of 260 going into the day session, we’re in the drivers’ seat. There’s no reason why we can’t build a really big lead and then have England on the ropes in the night session.” Lyon had earlier taken 4-60 as he and the pace trio of Pat Cummins, Starc and Josh Hazlewood combined to humble England’s top order and build on the 442-8 declared the hosts ac-

cumulated in their first innings. England, 1-0 down in the fivematch series after a 10-wicket defeat in Brisbane, had resumed on 29-1 only to lose James Vince for two in the second over. Desperate for a decent partnership to bolster the top order, expectations were high when Root came out to join Alastair Cook in the middle. Root made just nine before he got a thick edge to a Cummins delivery, however, and Cook departed for 37 prodding at a Lyon tweaker with Smith gobbling up the catch at first slip. Scores: Australia 8 for 442 dec and 4 for 53 (Handscomb 3*, Lyon 2*) lead England227 (Overton 41*, Lyon 4-60, Starc 3-49) by 268 runs.

Kaieteur News

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Tuesday December 05, 2017

Defeat no reason for Patentia, Goed Fortuin, Wales, panic, cautions Holder La Retraite triumph in

GCB Scotiabank Kiddy cricket

West Indies captain Jason Holder … has urged his side not to panic following the heavy defeat. WELLINGTON, New Zealand, CMC – West Indies captain Jason Holder has urged his team not to panic following their heavy innings defeat inside four days to New Zealand in the first Test yesterday. The Windies started the fourth day on 214 for two but lost eight wickets in a half-a-day, to be bowled out for 319, losing by an innings and 67 runs. “What I have to say in the dressing room is ‘don’t panic’. We have to stay focused on the job and believe that we can win when we go to Hamilton,” Holder said in reference to the second Test next weekend. “As you saw earlier this year in the Caribbean against Pakistan, we can rebound and win … and as you saw in the series in England a few months ago we can fight back and win. So there is still a lot to play for and we believe we can win.” Holder was speaking to the media following the result, which now means the Caribbean side must win the second match in Hamilton, starting on Saturday, to have a share of the two-match series. The defeat was the fifth in nine Tests this year for the Windies, who have won three and drawn one. Approaching the final day at the Basin Reserve, Holder said the visitors were confident of erasing the mammoth first innings deficit of 386, which would have made the home side bat a second time.

However, they lost the resolute Kraigg Brathwaite for 91 after he resumed on 79, and the wicket of stylish right-hander Shai Hope for 37 was also a major setback in the first session, significantly stalling their progress. “Unfortunately we lost Kraigg at that time and I guess we never really gathered momentum afterwards,” Holder explained. “We just wanted to be positive. There’s no point being out there just to run down the game. We needed to be positive and score, knock off the deficit and stay in the game.” The captain admitted the first innings all out 134 put them on the back foot but debunked a suggestion that his side made a meek surrender. “I didn’t think we helped ourselves the way we batted in the first innings after they won the toss and put us in. We got better as the game went on and I felt we were going well in the second innings,” Holder added. “We didn’t help ourselves on day one. To get bowled out on the first day of any Test match doesn’t really put you into a good position going into the remaining days, but we never surrendered. You can’t say that. “The only way to get back in the game was to get new ball wickets and to make early inroads into the New Zealand top order, and we struggled to do that. I thought our bowlers tried, really gave a good effort.” West Indies travel to Hamilton today to prepare for the second Test at Seddon Park.

The Patentia Primary School team Patentia, Goed Fortuin, Wales and La Retraite Primary Schools registered victories when the Guyana Cricket Board Scotiabank Kiddy cricket competition continued recently at Belle Vue, West Demerara. Goed Fortuin Primary batted first and scored 102-11 off their allotted 14 overs against Patentia. Vishwanauth Hardeo made 24 and Andel Austin 13; Vamich Thomas and Shaquille Sealey took two wickets each. Patentia Primary responded with 103-3 in 10.3 overs. Kvist Paul got 48 not out and Nyron Granville 16. Goed Fortuin Primary rattled up 139-7, taking first knock, while Two Brothers Primary replied with 88-9. Goed Fortuin Primary posted 189-4, batting first. Andell Austin stroked 51, while Sampson Jones made 44, Ashawn Charles 26 and Vaishwanauth Hardeo 12. La Grange were bowled out for 109 in 10 overs in reply.

Amir Samson made 27 and Robindra Singh 11. Alisha Mangal and Annalise Gangaram had two wickets each. La Retriate Primary managed 81-11, taking first knock. Mark Poorama made 30; Angelica Allen and Aruna Lall took two wickets each. Wales Primary replied with 843 in 7.2 overs. Lokeshwar Looknauth made 37 and Divesh Singh 24. N. Tappin had two wickets. Goed Fortuin Primary got to 158-6, taking first knock. Christopher Deochand got 45 and Ashawn Charles 38; Vickram Deonarine claimed 2-8. Kawall Primary were limited to 123-7 in reply. Trashawn Wilson made 37, Saif Zaman 14 and Vimal Persaud 13. La Retraite Primary made 153-5, taking first turn at the crease. J. Plater made 48 and J. Alleyne 31. Nismes Primary were bowled out for 96 in 11 overs in reply. S. Razack made 25. (Zaheer Mohamed).

Hales cleared by police, available for England selection - ECB (Reuters) - England batsman Alex Hales will not face criminal charges over an incident in Bristol in September and is available for national team selection, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said yesterday. The 28-year-old opening batsman was with all-rounder Ben Stokes, who was arrested on suspicion of causing actual bodily harm during an altercation outside a nightclub. The pair were suspended by the ECB from international cricket until further notice. “The ECB Board has convened via conference call to make the decision after being informed that Hales is deemed a witness and will face no charges,” the ECB said in a statement.

“The independent Cricket Discipline Commission (CDC) has stayed the internal disciplinary process for both Alex Hales and Ben Stokes until the conclusion of any potential criminal proceedings relating to the incident.” Hales, who has not played test cricket since last year, is a key member of the England one-day and Twenty20 teams and is now available for the limited-overs part of the Ashes tour which starts in January. The ECB has also cleared Hales to play in the inaugural T10 Cricket League in Dubai this month. Stokes, still suspended by England, is playing domestic cricket for Canterbury in New Zealand.

From right Kvist Paul, Aron Best and Vanrick Thomas

Kaieteur News

Tuesday December 05, 2017

PAGE 29

Stewartville, Annandale, Bladen Hall and Berbice High record victories GCB/DMLAS/NSC/NSSCL

Tony Sookraj (left) and Nicholas Haywood. The 2017/2018 Guyana Cricket Board/ Demerara Mutual Life Assurance Society Limited/National Sport Commission/ National Secondary School Cricket League (GCB/DMLAS/NSC/NSSCL) continued recently with matches being played on the East Coast of Demerara, West Demerara and Berbice. At the Zeeburg ground on the West Coast of Demerara, Stewartville won the toss and elected bowled, dismissing Sarawat for a mere 72 off 19.5 overs of their allotted 30 overs. Beesham Singh top scored with 19.

Bowling for Stewartville, Alex Ali grabbed 5 for 18 and Richardo Panaram 2 for 23. In reply, Stewartville overhauled Sarawat score in 13 overs, reaching 73 for 8. Alex Ali was unbeaten on 26, while Balist Budrammade 18. Bowling for Sarawat, Mahendra Persaud and Beesham Singh took one wicket each. Stewartville won by 2 wickets. Over at Enterprise, Annandale batted first and posted a challenging score of 170-5 off 25 of the allotted 30 overs. Ronaldo Fredericks Continued on page 27

Datadin, Ramraj lead ECD to victory over EBD

Chanderpaul Ramraj (left) and Romel Datadin Outstanding all-round performances by Romel Datadin and Chanderpaul Ramraj handed East Coast Demerara (ECD) a 111run win over East Bank Demerara (EBD) when the Inter-Association U15 50-over tournament commenced on Sunday last in Demerara. Datadin struck three fours in a top score of 50 and shared in a sixth-wicket stand of 67 with Ramraj to guide East Coast Demerara to 185 all out in 46.1 overs after they opted to bat at Enterprise. Ramraj slammed five fours in his 45,

while Ajay Gainda made 17 and Sanjay Persaud 12. Saurav Singh and Varun Mangal picked up 2-20 each, while Krsna Singh claimed 222 and Joshua Thomas 2-40. Steady bowling by Datadin and Ramraj restricted East Bank Demerara response with only Mangal and Saurav Singh with 16 each offered any resistance as they were bowled out for 74 in 24.1 overs. Datadin finished with 4-20, Ramraj 3-8 and Davindra Sukhu 2-17. The competition continues on Friday.

Kaieteur News

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Tuesday December 05, 2017

GuyanaNRA/Smallbore Section end of year Championships

Hing, Hassan, Tiwari, Persaud, Ramlakhan are top five shots for 2017

Dale Hing presents the 2nd place for the Action/ Combat Pistol competition to Mohammed Qualander.

Dale Hing presents the 1st place for the Action/ Combat Pistol competition to Ryan McKinnon. Guyana National Rifle Association (GuyanaNRA) Smallbore Captain Dale Hing, Azaad Hassan, Roberto Tiwari, Joshua Ramlakhan and Surujbali Persaud emerged as the top five shooters of the association following the year-end-championships which was held in three parts and concluded

on December 3rd at the Timehri Range. The overall scores posted would have been a combination of scores gained at the .22 Caliber Precision Pistol Shoot, the Practical Pistol (IPSC) Shoot and the Action/Combat Pistol Shoot. Hing accumulated 889.7 points followed

GCUC BGM set for February 11 Pursuant to article 15 of the Constitution of the Guyana Cricket Umpires Council (GCUC), the Biennial General Meeting of the GCUC will be held on Sunday February 11 2018 from 10:00hrs at the Union Hall, Woolford Avenue. Secretaries of the respective associations are asked to be th

reminded that notice of motions or resolutions shall be sent in writing to the Hon Secretary Nigel Duguid not later than twenty eight days before the fixed date of the BGM. Additionally, not earlier than two months and not later than one month before the date for the BGM

members of the Council may make nominations for the following offices; President, Vice President, H o n S e c r e t a r y, H o n Treasurer, Hon Assistant Secretary/ Treasurer, Public Relations Officer and four other Management Committee Members. The agenda reads as follows; Prayers, Minutes of OGM in between BGM, Matters arising from the Minutes, Correspondences, S e c r e t a r y ’s R e p o r t , Treasurer’s Report, Report from Sub – Committees, Reports from SubAssociations, President’s Remarks, Presentation of Certificates, Any other Business and Election of Office Bearers. The absence of a nominated person at the time of election shall not disqualify him /her from the election provided he / she has forwarded to the Hon Secretary in writing his /her consent to accept office if elected. The Hon Secretary shall be notified as to the names of the representatives of each cricket umpiring body recognised by the Council prior to the Commencement of the General Meeting.

by Hassan with 862.17, Tiwari 778.68, Ramlakhan 788.88 and Surujbali Persaud 728.05. The .22 Precision Pistol Shoot was the first to have been contested over three weekends: November 11th, 18th and the finals on the 25th at the Tactical Service Unit Range, Eve Leary. Participants shot at 7,10,15,20 and 25metres.

The next event was the Practical Pistol (IPSC) Shoot on November 19th at the Timehri Range. Participants were placed into the Production and Standard Divisions based on their firearm types and this consisted of Four Stages. The Action/Combat Pistol event was held on December 3rd at the Timehri Range where the participants were tested over four stages.

Kaieteur News

Tuesday December 05, 2017

PAGE 31

Turbo Knockout Football tournament

Mighty Police FC fail to siege Camptown in Final

Part of the action during the final on Sunday night. Troy Prescott scored via a curling cross from a corner set piece which was assisted by the windy conditions late in the second half to hand his team, Camptown, a surprising 1-0 victory over favourites Police Force Football Club (PFFC) in the final of the Turbo knockout tournament, late on Sunday night. The final and third place playoff were both contested at the Ministry of Education (MOE) ground on CARIFESTA Avenue on the match night that witnessed the largest turnout of the brutal knockout tournament that ran for two months. Prescott was the hero and villain of the game, as before he sent his team and their

South Turkeyen Sports Foundation to host football competition on Sunday On Sunday the 10 South Turkeyen Sports Foundation (STSF) will be holding 4-a-side champion of champions small goal football competition at the Meadowbrook Basketball court starting at 11:00hrs.The competition is eligible for all teams and will include participation from teams in Meadowbrook, Sophia A, B, C and D fields among others. Four thousand dollars in the fee per team of six players desirous of entering the one-day knockout competition that will see the winners walking away with a grand cash prize, in addition to a trophy and medals. Sponsors of the event include Tent City and Trophy Stall, Bourda Market. Before the football action get underway on Sunday, the STSF have organized a fund raising walk in honour of organiser Johnny ‘Overseas’ Barnwell. The walkathon will begin at Durban Park from 06:00hrs and will conclude at the National Park. th

fans into jubilation with his 78 minute strike, he was involved in off-the-ball conflicts during the game. The veteran Prescott who was heckled by sections of the crowd that were part of the PFFC fan base as ‘the oldest player in the world’, played menacingly and riled up PFFC successfully. During the first half, he presumably slapped PFFC defensive midfielder Philbert Moffatt who unwittingly retaliated, which resulted in himself receiving a yellow card, while Prescott got off scot-free. Both teams played defensively compact but Camptown had more of the very limited th

Police’s captain Winston Tanner tries to explain to referee Gladwin Johnson the incident with Prescott before his team-mate Philbert Moffat received a yellow card. chances that were presented in the match. Nine minutes before Camptown scored, PFFC scored in the 69 minute to curt celebrations, before referee Gladwin Johnson conferred with his assistant and declared the goal offside. Camptown, equipped with the best goalkeeper in the tournament, Richie Richardson, were expected to hold on for the remaining 12 minutes of normal time in the match after Prescott scored and they did so as PFFC attacked mindlessly through innocuous lofted through balls that were easily snuffed out. With the victory, the unbeaten Camptown th

are now $500,000 richer, while Police that were playing in their 6 final in the last 12 months walked away with $250,000. Pouderoyen needled Grove Hi-tech in the third place playoff which was played before the final on Sunday. Grove that had in their ranks the second highest goal scorer of the tournament Domini Garnett (four goals) didn’t get to add to that tally. Pouderoyen’s Alex Softleigh scored during the first half (34 minute) and his team defended majorly after that and protected their 1-goal lead for the $125,000 third prize. Grove Hi-Tech will receive $75,000 for their fourth place finish. (Calvin Chapman) th

th

Mackeson ‘King of the Domino’ Tournament

Domino action heads to Turning Point this evening -continues tomorrow at President’s residence, Good Times Disco With impressive starts in Linden, Essequibo and Bartica, play in the Mackeson ‘King of the Domino’ Tournament resumes in Demerara this evening, at Turning Point in East La Penitence. Following tonight’s round of matches, action in the countrywide competition is expected to continue tomorrow evening with play scheduled for the President’s residence, 1222 Gaulding Place, South Ruimveldt and Good Times Bar & Disco at Middle Street, Pouderoyen. According to Organising Secretary Mark ‘Jumbie’ Wiltshire, teams desirous of entering the tournament can contact him on tele# 665-5855 or Deon Carter on 696-1981 for more information. Wiltshire added that winning teams from the other zones that were played have already advanced, while the losers still have a chance to qualify by re-entering in the Demerara zone. The tournament has already attracted a large number of teams and the winner will receive $1million, while the second and third placed finishers collect $500,000 and $200,000 along with trophies respectively. In addition there will be a most valuable player (MVP) prize along with Mackeson Promotions and giveaways each night. The organisers, the Guyana National Dominoes Federation (GNDF) has touted the tournament to be the biggest to ever be conducted in Guyana and already the

The competition promises to be intense with the kind of prize money available. prediction is that it will surpass the projected figure. Teams desirous of entering the tournament to cash in on the lucrative prizes are being asked to pay a registration fee of $10,000. Upon registration, each team will receive one case of Mackeson. Rodwell Phillips, vice-president of the

GNDF had stated at the Launch that the idea of teams re-entering is to give them a fair shot at the imminent first-place prize. As such, when a team is knocked out of its respective zone, the team can re-enter in another zone by simply paying another registration fee. More action is slated for Lorna’s Place in Plaisance on Thursday.

Kaieteur News

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Tuesday December 05, 2017

Gonsalves, Badal, Stoll, Brisport and Tucker combine to set 17 new records GAPLF Senior Nationals

Romario Gonsalves set s anew Squat record of 210.5kg. Romario Gonsalves of Buddy’s Gym (2) along with Gym mates Brandon Badal (3) and Joseph Stoll (4) as well as Franklyn Brisport (4) and Frank Tucker (4) a member of the Kingsrow Barbel Club, combined to set a total of 17 new records at the Guyana Amateur Powerlifting Federation (GAPLF) Senior championships which was held on Sunday last at the Ramada Princess Hotel, Poolside. The event which attracted 22-lifters;

saw the aforementioned strongmen, young and old etching their names in the record books of the federation. Gonsalves, competing in the 66kg Male Junior Raw and Male Open Raw categories set new Squat records of 210.5kg in each category. Badal, a gym mate of Gonsalves was equally successful when he set new 83kg Male Sub Junior Raw, Squat (187.5kg), Dead Lift (220.0kg) and Total (522.5kg)

Joseph Stoll set a new Dead Lift record.

Brandon Badal squats to a new record. records. Another gym mate of the duo, Joseph Stoll made his mark in the Male Masters 2 105kg Raw category with new Squat (165.0kg), Bench Press (90.0kg). Dead Lift (182.5kg) and Total (437.5kg) records. There was more success for the Masters athletes with Franklyn Brisport, competing in the Male Masters 1 Equipped division accomplished new records in the Squat (142.5kg), Bench Press (72.5kg), Dead Lift

(167.5kg) and Total (382.5kg). Long time competitor and current President of the Guyana Amateur Weightlifting Association, Frank Tucker showed that age is just a number. The Kingsrow Barbel Club member, competing in the 105kg Male Masters 3 Equipped class, inked new records in the Squat (230.0kg), Bench Press (100.0kg), Dead Lift (202.5kg) and Total (532.5kg). (Franklin Wilson)

Frank Tucker Squats.

National Club B’Ball C/ships, Road to Mecca IV

Colts and Royals stamp authority on opening days Six matches were played on the opening two days of “Road to Mecca IV” which serves as the National Club Basketball Championships being contested exclusively at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH). The first day, Friday December 1 , had three matches bouncing off. The defending champions Bounty Colts of Georgetown Amateur Basketball Association (GABA) made a grand start to their campaign after blowing out Linden Amateur Basketball Association’s (LABA) st

Half Mile Bulls by 39 points, 94-55. Shane Webster led the champions with a doubledouble (18 points and 14 rebounds). LABA champions, Victory Valley Royals exacted revenge on GABA’s Plaisance Guardians when Harrold Adams scored a game high 20 points to lead Royals to a massive 82-59 victory. Completing the winners’ row on Friday were Berbice Amateur Basketball Association’s (BABA) lone club in the championship, Rose Hall Jammers that

defeated GABA’s Dynas Ravens 64-60. It was a good start for the club that expressed confidence in overthrowing Colts as national champions. Sunday results saw GABA’s Pacesetters wiping the floor with LABA’s Retrieve Raiders 85-57. The rout was led by Sherland Legal who scored a game high 24 points. Dyna’s Ravens bounced back on game night two after losing to Rose Hall Jammers, to defeat LABA’s Amelia Ward Jets 82-78. Ravens’ Ryan Stephney sunk an amazing 30 points in that win. Victory Valley

Royals are the only team to have two wins and they completed the feat after adding newcomers Kobras of GABA scalp on Sunday with Plaisance Guardians who they defeated in Friday. Royals won that game 7755. Harrold Adams was the main scorer again for the team and he netted a game high 22 point in that match. Matches continue at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall on Friday December 8 and admission to the venue is free of cost. (Calvin Chapman)

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Tuesday December 05, 2017

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Colours Boutique supports Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ tourney Fashion and sport apparel giant Colours Boutique, continued their invaluable support of the Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Championship, donating an assortment of team uniforms for each of the seven zones yesterday. The presentation occurred at the company’s Robb Street location and was conducted by company representative Creanna Damon. A total of 16 sets of uniforms will be handed over to the teams entering the round of 16 stage in the Georgetown edition. Each team will receive seven shirts, and as many trunks and socks respectively, totalling 336 pieces overall. Receiving the uniforms on behalf of the tournament was Three Peat Promotions Rawle Welch, coordinator of

the event’s Georgetown, East Coast Demerara and National Championships. Welch during brief remarks, thanked the company for their vital support, which is integral to the overall and continued success of the tournament. He added, “The value of this contribution cannot be understated. Colours Boutique must be commended for their continued assistance in the development of grassroot sports. The uniforms add an even higher layer of professionalism to what is the marquee and most anticipated street football tournament and we are exceptionally grateful for the contribution.” The event resumes today at the National Cultural Center tarmac with the round of 16 Fixtures.

Colours Boutique representative Creanna Damon (left) handing over the uniforms to Three Peat Promotions Rawle Welch, coordinator of the event’s Georgetown, East Coast Demerara and National Championship, at their Robb Street location. In the background are mannequins featuring several of the uniforms that will be worn by the competing teams in the knockout stages.

Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Competition...

Reigning champs Sparta tackle Norton St tonight -Future Stars and Kingston showdown a blockbuster

The massive support shown for this year’s competition is predicted to continue this evening at the National Cultural Centre tarmac.

Part of the action in this year’s competition. The dreaded segment of any tournament has arrived where teams who lose usually go home and start early preparations for another competition. However, the street phenomenon labeled the Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Competition is offering tonight’s losers a reprieve which will come in the form of having another opportunity to play for cash, $60,000 to be exact in a winner-take-all mini segment of the real deal. Tonight will mark the start of the business phase of the

tournament and the venue is the spacious National Cultural Centre Tarmac on Hadfield Street. Headlining the night’s fixtures will be defending champions Sparta Boss, who take on Norton Street in the final game of the night. The reigning title holders have not looked at their lethal best, but experience sometimes count and they’re the superior team in this regard.Gregory Richardson, Cleon Forrest e r, E u s i Phillips are all players with a vast amount of experience in this format and their skills

and familiarity in this format should be enough to e n g i n e e r a w i n . Delon Williams was the lone scorer in Norton Street’s only win which came against Tucville and he will be called upon to orchestrate another victory. The Kingston versus Future Stars matchup is definitely a blockbuster encounter with the latter the slowly but surely earning the sobriquet of being the young darlings among the fans. They’ve been playing cracking football, but the Kingston unit is a crafty side with loads of experience so

they have to be taken seriously. They topped their group, playing unbeaten with the likes of Nigel Denny and Sherwin Vincent in their lineup. H o w e v e r, A k e e m o Anthony, Jermin Junior and Jamal Cozier are no joke and have formed themselves into one of the most feared teams to encounter at any stage of the competition. The Upsetters and Queen Street of Tiger Bay clash is another game that is sure to provide end to end action and predicting the outcome is quite difficult. In the curtain raiser, the ‘Gold is Money’ side faces newcomers GTI Ballers who everyone will agree has been balling, but it might be a case of a bridge too far.The West Ruimveldt side has been progressing smoothly without much fanfare, but everyone knows they are a

formidable unit to deal with.Randolph Wagner is a prolific goalscorer and he is expected to lead the charge for victory, while GTI Ballers have shown a never say die attitude which is commendable for first timers.Leopold Street versus OL Skool Ballers is a must see, especially with the latter being the only Albouystown side left to defend the community.This could very well be the game of the night since Leopold Street led by Okanie Fraser, Omallo Williams and company are among the favourites to win the tournament outright. However, Roy Cassou has been a one-man army and he is capable of doing serious damage to any defence with his skill. The night is one full of action-packed matchups that have the potential to be the biggest and exciting to date.

The winning team will receive $500,000, a trophy and an automatic berth in the national playoffs, while second, third and fourth place finishers will take home $250,000, $200,000 and $100,000 along with trophies. Colours Boutique on Robb Street is also on board the event. Round of 16 fixtures West Front Road vs GTI Ballers-19:00hrs Upsetters vs Queen Street Tiger Bay-19:30hrs Rising Stars vs North Ruimveldt-20:00hrs Kingston vs Future Stars20:30hrs California Square vs Trap Squad-21:00hrs Leopold Street vs Ol Skool Ballers-21:30hrs Bent Street vs North East La Penitence-22:00hrs Sparta Boss vs Norton Street-22:30hrs

rt o p S Turbo Knockout Football tournament

MIGHTY POLICE FC FAIL TO SIEGE CAMPTOWN IN FINAL

Camptown entered the final as the underdogs but managed to needle Police for the Turbo title and $500,000 cash prize.

GuyanaNRA/Smallbore Section end of year Championships

Hing, Hassan, Tiwari, Persaud, Ramlakhan are top five shots for 2017 Recipients of prizes from the GuyanaNRA/Smallbore Section year-end-championships. 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.