Kaieteur News

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AIETEUR NEWS

Guyana’s largest selling daily & New York’s most popular weekly

GRA trains 118 to protect

Saturday Edition December 07, 2019 - Vol. 13 No. 48

Online: www.kaieteurnews.com

Guyana's oil interest

Price $80

Online readership yesterday 121,666

Rusal resumes stripping operations Business as usual…

The scene after the raging inferno had been quelled by firefighters

Early morning fire razes three houses in Bent St. Cops begin patrols with body cameras

Superintendent Walter Stanton displays his body camera

Footballers injured GMSA to host over 80 exhibitors after bus topples at 'Marketplace on Linden Highway UncappeD' Fishermen thankful to be alive after pirates strike in Region One

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Kaieteur News

Saturday December 07, 2019

Kaieteur News

Saturday December 07, 2019

PAGE 03

Business as usual…

Rusal resumes stripping operations M

ore than two months after reportedly halting its stripping operations at its Kurubuka mines, Region 10, Russiancontrolled Bauxite Company of Guyana Inc. (BCGI) has restarted.

According to workers, management cancelled plans a few days ago to park trucks and other equipment in what appeared to be an initial attempt to halt operations.

It would indicate that BCGI is not moving soon from Guyana.

BCGI which is majority owned by Rusal, the second largest bauxite company in the world, has been threatening to leave in face of a bitter pay dispute and a clamping down on the bauxite operations.

Once the biggest economic activity in the region, the operations at the

Aroaima and Berbice River area had been shuttered before the then Government ran it for a short while and then struck a deal with Rusal in the mid-2000s.

According to workers yesterday, since September, with uncertainty growing over the future of Rusal's presence in Guyana, there have been moves by the company to take the equipment from the worksite.

A number of the 100-plus tonne trucks that BCGI had imported under duty free waivers arrangements, were taken to the Canje area, Berbice, where officials of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), on receiving word of the development, ordered them not to be removed.

Since September, Rusal had eased down stripping operations and was

BCGI/Rusal has restarted stripping operations after a two-month halt, signaling that it is not going anywhere anytime soon.

concentrating on moving stockpiles.

On Wednesday evening, staffers were expected to be

Cops begin patrols with body cameras

T

he Guyana Police Force has begun using body cameras.

Assistant Commissioner Edgar Thomas, who is Commander of 'Division Four A' (Agricola, East Bank Demerara to Cummings Lodge, East Coast Demerara) disclosed last night that he has initiated the use of the cameras (Portable Video Recording kits) in his Division.

Thomas took over on December 1 from Assistant Commissioner Marlon Chapman, who is on pre-retirement leave. He (Thomas) is an Information Technology expert, with some 30 years of training in Japan and India.

“It was a Divisional Commander's call,” he said. “The riot units will also carry cameras,” adding that his ranks will also be patrolling occasionally with video cameras.

“I am not running any covert operation, I want the public to know Superintendent Walter Stanton that we are using cameras…we are not (Third in Command in Division Four A) spying, we are using technology as displays his body camera. part of our crime-fighting strategy.” audio and video evidence for criminal, civil He was unable to say whether the body cameras are being used in other and traffic-related offences, which will also help ranks with recalling facts and other divisions.

The Assistant Commissioner also details captured by the equipment that would disclosed that he had scheduled “mass accurately recount the chain of events when patrols” from yesterday evening in his writing reports.

“The ranks will be required to wear the Division. Ranks from all the stations would body cameras during their shift at all times be involved.

According to Thomas, the use of the body and should activate it when it is absolutely cameras can not only protect ranks from false necessary in situations such as: Traffic stops, allegations, or expose corruption, but “can priority responses, vehicle pursuits, arrest also ensure that the seniors know what their situations, vehicle searches, physical confrontations and crimes in progress etc.” subordinates are doing on the streets”.

The training was conducted at the In a recent release, the Force stated that 40 ranks from within 'D' Division were trained in Leonora Police Station Recreational Hall by March to use Portable Video Recording kits Constable 24148 Callace Isaacs and Constable 24606 Leon Joseph of the (Body Cameras).

The release added that the purpose of the Information Technology Department (IT) of training was to allow ranks to capture digital the Police Force.

clean and park equipment in what was supposed to be the last. However, they were informed by management that a decision has been taken by senior management to restart stripping in another area at Kurubuka.

“We as staffers are like yo-yo. We are not hearing anything definite. We know that Rusal's people came down recently and met Minister (of Social Protection) Amna Ally and informed her that they can't pay an increase that the workers asking for. We have not heard much and workers of Rusal wants to know.”

BCGI/Rusal is facing a backlash for its operations here.

Since coming here in the mid-2000s, it has been telling the Government of Guyana that it has not been making a profit.

As such, Guyana has not

received any dividends for the 10 percent stake it owns in BCGI. With regard to concessions, Guyana had bent over backwards.

BCGI received billions of dollars in duty free concession on fuel, vehicles and equipment as well as tax breaks.

The company has been accused of not being truthful with declarations of its production and even selling its power produced by fuel granted under duty free concession to residents and businesses.

The company has also been accused of selling its fuel to third parties, a big no-

no.

This week, government announced that it has put together a team of ministers and other mining officials to review and report to Cabinet on the operations of mining companies in Guyana.

BCGI/Rusal would be one of them.

The bauxite company has over 300 workers from Region 10, Berbice and other areas. The entity is locked in a dispute with the workers' union for a pay increase.

The matter is heading for arbitration.

Earlier this year, workers camped out for one month at Aroaima, over conditions and better pay.

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Kaieteur News

Saturday December 07, 2019

Kaieteur News Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana.

Publisher: GLENN LALL Editor: Adam Harris Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210

EDITORIAL

Growing old in Guyana Oil might wash over in the golden years with the riches eluded for a lifetime; or were, perhaps, foolishly wasted; or sadly never tasted, despite a devotion to trying. It may be of missed opportunities, the luck of the draw and never getting a real, fair break in life, or having to face poverty through the gravity of personal catastrophe.

Growing old here can be of all the pains that do more than ache and remind of mistakes made, of what could have been, if only there was the commonsense to be thoughtful and constructive to make provision through sacrifice.

Instead of the nagging aches, there might be the full-blown daily torture of not having, not knowing where to go and to whom, for the next hand along the steps of life.

As their days lengthen, those steps of life could look terribly long too, and disturbingly steep. What is there for the elderly? The fortunate aged in this society may exist well, with caring children living overseas. Caring is the key, because if they do, then there is that trickle of relief coming with another family member, friend, trusted neighbour or, many times, even total strangers.

But that bit, no matter how sporadic, could make a difference: the difference between the old having, or not having necessary medicines, help with bills, buffering the cost of basics, such as food and other supplies.

For those elderly Guyanese, who are the comfortable recipients of such a trickle of assistance - steady and reliable, no matter how tiny - it is heaven. For those not so blessed, living can be a heavy horror.

They are compelled to the whims of public hospitals, public transportation, public assistance and, at times, public compassion (if not indifference, sometimes scorn). Respect for the elderly is of a different quality now: faster and nastier; hungrier and less humane; and powered by personal visions of descendants, who will not be slowed down by excess baggage.

The older and slower, the weaker and wanting, too often serve as impediments to ambitions, interferences to family ambience, and reminder of roots that, sometimes, bring regret, are ignored, if not concealed.

They are left on their own, have to fend for themselves and left poorly equipped by either life’s choices, the environmental and public support system, or state of physical wellbeing. It is a dim world, a stark and unsparing one reduced to listening to the clock (if there is hearing), counting one’s sorrows (if the mind is still there), and waiting on the call from eternity (if such belief resides).

What is it that the older, the sicker, the weaker wait for here on earth, in Guyana? What is it that is waited for amidst the noises and rush of minds and haste for a space on the oil capsule?

For the old, that world largely passes them by: heard before and almost tasted before. Just like the clamours of elections and the bracing promises that come with them, only to fade into futility and the frustrations of what could have been…

Growing old and being old (older than the actual number of years) can bring even more darkness to an already darkened world. The flares from the hullabaloo about gas are too distant to mean much, not enough to lead to a stirring. The disappointments of Guyanese life have been too many, too often, too overwhelming.

For some of the older, this is the grittiness, the impenetrable grimness that lingers and encircles. Who is there for them?

The shiny cars race by impatiently, the modern buildings sprout, cash is king. But don’t tell that to the grizzled, vacant, shuffling veterans who gave so much and now have so little. Spittle comes thick and choking; the head is unclear, the vision less so. And the stomach still less with the gut shaking, there is fear and trembling. What will there be?

What will become of them?

And here we are, a nation poised on the doorstep of dreams, of riches, of the promises that hold out so much hope, but wondering if the substance will ever be felt. Amid all the grand plans, somebody should think of them, then do something for these roots of ours.

Can Guyanese afford to lose another five years?

DEAR EDITOR, Guyana has lost 5 years of infrastructural growth.

Blackout and Gridlock are now daily features of life in Guyana. David Granger’s Minister of Public Infrastructure David Patterson failed to add megawatts to the electrical grid, bridges over rivers and the all-important East Bankto-East Coast bypass highway (Ogle Bypass). The constant power outages and ever-growing gridlock on the roads is a direct result of gross incompetence. Patterson was advised by a senior engineer (Egbert Carter) not to begin expansion works on the Sherriff St-Mandela Avenue road before the Ogle Bypass highway was complete. The daily gridlock is a testament to the avarice that has caused the Ogle Bypass to be delayed.

The Ogle bypass plan, surveys, feasibility studies, and USD 50 Million in financing were sitting on Patterson’s desk when he entered Office. He had one job, get it done. Patterson instead opted for another course. New surveys were ordered, four lanes would not be enough, it would have to be no less than eight. Then the twelve miles of road from Diamond to Ogle was not

enough, the plan was expanded to thirty-two miles with the road being extended from Ogle to Soesdyke. We were informed that a swamp was encountered and needed to be bypassed or drained. All of this without a foot of the much-needed Bypass being built. Would it have been so terrible to build the original bypass with four lanes and explore extension simultaneously? Surely even the worst of our road building contractors could have built twelve miles of road on sturdy sugar plantation dams in the ensuing four years? The estimated cost of this road project has moved from USD 50M to over USD 120M. The Government of India who provided the initial $50M loan has been approached by Patterson and his colleague Winston Jordan for an extension of credit to $120M. Perhaps the request has been met with much reluctance by the Export-Import Bank of India. People know a ‘hustle’ when they see it. Result: Gridlock.

An eerily similar situation exists with every other major infrastructure project; every year funds are budgeted and expended for surveys and studies of a Linden-Lethem paved. Not a foot of road has been paved to date despite

hundreds of millions being allocated. The saga of wastage on feasibility studies on a new bridge over the Demerara River, half a billion spent and not a pile driven; and Patterson cannot even specify a location for the new bridge.

Recently, four miles of existing loam road was paved in Lethem at the cost of $473 Million; another $22 million was spent to send ten ministers and one DirectorGeneral to assist Moses Nagamootoo with his ribboncutting duties. Half a billion dollars spent on four miles of road and a photo-opportunity.

The stench of corruption rises to the heavens.

The Amalia Falls Hydro project would have been pushing 168 additional MegaWatts into the Guyana grid at no cost to the taxpayers; consumers would have seen the cost of electricity drop by over 30% on monthly bills.

Instead, we have lost 17plus Mega-Watts since 2015, the first time since the 1980’s that we have not increased or maintained power output. GPL is struggling to maintain aging generating sets.

Corruption remains an issue, was the recent emergency caused by the shortage of Heavy Fuel Oil supplies caused by lack of proper

management planning or a ‘manufactured’ crisis to facilitate the increase in supplier price by $2 (USD) per barrel, one for you and one for me maybe?

Granger’s government cannot fund infrastructure projects via Public/Private Partnerships as was done by the PPP for the Berbice Bridge, Granger’s de facto nationalization of the Berbice bridge has destroyed investor security in partnerships with the government and investors have no confidence in Granger or the protection of investments by the judiciary.

Many Investors view the Court of Appeal decision that 34 (not 33) is the majority of 65 with morbid fascination and hold it as evidence of a politically biased judiciary.

As commuters sit in their cars or buses for hours along the only road on the East Bank corridor, further delayed by any mishap, they should think carefully about their future. Should it be on Granger’s imaginary roads going nowhere or on real roads and progress with Dr. Irfaan Ali and the PPP? Can Guyanese afford to lose another five years? Elections are on the 2nd of March 2020.

Respectfully, Robin Singh

Doesn’t the well-being of sugar workers matter?

DEAR EDITOR, Mr Fritz McLean, a member of the GuySuCo Board, in a letter he authored which appeared on December 05 in another section of the media says “…the mentors and strategists of the sugar union leadership are contriving to rub salt in the extant economic and financial wounds of the industry.” While we are unsure what Mr McLean means when he says “...the mentors and strategists of the sugar union leadership…” we wish to tell him that decisions of the Union are taken by the Union and the Union alone. We say this bearing in mind that it appears the GuySuCo Director is inferring that the workers recent protest action was influenced by persons outside of the Union.

This, of course, is a clear disconnect from reality.

Mr McLean then says we are seeking “…to rub salt in the extant economic and financial wounds of the industry.” But what about the wounds inflicted on the sugar workers? Hasn’t too much salt been rubbed in already?

Isn’t it unfair that they

are left behind? Doesn’t it bother Mr McLean that sugar workers pay rates have remained parked in 2014 while they exist in 2019? The letter writer, given his vantage point, is well aware of the representations being made for sugar workers to be granted a pay rise.

Given his long association with sugar, Mr McLean would well know that this is the longest period, in the era of state-ownership, t h a t s u g a r workers have remained without any improvement in wages. It is now more than 1,800 days since sugar workers last benefitted from a rise in pay, hasn’t enough salt already been rubbed into their wounds?

The GuySuCo Board member next says “…it will be difficult to navigate a middle ground position bearing in mind management’s recent articulation to the sugar unions of the corporation’s financial circumstances.”

What is this ‘middle ground’ that is referred to?

The most recent engagement between the Union and the GuySuCo concerned a presentation on the Corporation’s plans for the future. We shared, through a press statement

our views about that engagement. Several aspects of that statement were published by several media entities.

We would want to believe that Mr McLean would have seen the statement and if he has not, he can visit the Union’s website to obtain a copy. In that statement, we mentioned during our engagement with GuySuCo the matter of a pay rise. The Corporation which was led by no less than its Chief Executive acknowledged that this matter was a burning issue.

There was general recognition that a pay rise to workers is needed and must be addressed. At that meeting, the GuySuCo team expressed optimism that discussions taking place would lend to some positive movement.

The letter writer strangely digresses saying “[w]ith negotiations in progress for the sale of closed estates at a critical stage, not only will the ongoing unstable industrial situation in the industry jeopardize a favourable outcome for the vendors…”.

It appears, Mr McLean missed that the Government had indicated that divestment of the sugar estates have been

put on pause. Another newspaper on August 16 quoted Finance Minister, Winston Jordan as saying “[t]he sale of the estates has been delayed… and I don’t think at this stage, given our status as interim, we will want to engage in any major privatisation at this time.”

While there is continued focus on the bottom-line, we ask what about the bottomline of the workers and their families. Isn’t this important too?

Don’t their and their families matter or are they just another factor of production, faceless and nameless, without any need or want?

Mr McLean would remember the days when sugar carried the country on its back.

He would recall when the efforts of the same workers he accuses of ‘rubbing salt’ ensured that the country moved forward.

Even today the industry it is one of our nation’s critical and few foreign exchange earners, doesn’t that count for something?

Don’t the people in the industry matter?

Yours faithfully, Seepaul Narine General Secretary GAWU

Saturday December 07, 2019

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Kaieteur News

Statement by TIGI board on columnist Freddie Kissoon’s letters against TIGI DEAR EDITOR, Recently, KN Columnist Freddie Kissoon wrote a piece in which he leveled certain accusations against TIGI. The basis of this attack was a conversation which he overheard between our director Alfred Bhulai and Mr. Donald Rodney. He drew certain conclusions from what he thought he heard.

Mr. Bhulai responded and explained that (a) Mr. Rodney was not accusing TIGI of not helping him and that to the contrary (b) TIGI and Mr. Rodney had explored options the latest of which had not been agreed. This meant that Columnist Freddie Kissoon had a) jumped to a false conclusion from the little he had overheard of the discussion, and b) he had not even sought to establish the accuracy of what he was about to write.

Instead of apologising, Mr Kissoon decided to embark upon the floating of a Trumpian distraction in which he was going to make TIGI the villain. It should be apparent, from his studious avoidance of the original claim he made in his subsequent letter, what his aim was.

However, in his follow-up letter he made certain claims which we need to address.

The target of this statement is therefore the reading public - not Mr Kissoon as we will not continue to help him in his fake urgency to discredit Dr. Troy Thomas whom he

had seen it fit to praise previously.

In the simple world of Freddie Kissoon, TIGI does investigations. Transparency International of which we are an affiliate does not do investigations. TIGI would enquire into a matter. That is different.

This requires a person making a claim of corruption to produce evidence and be willing to stand by their claim.

Investigations are generally the purview of investigative journalists.

For example, in a case a few years ago, a complaint was made to TIGI against a government official by an exassociate of his who wanted the matter exposed and who felt that the press was unwilling to take up the matter.

Through the agency of TIGI, the matter was finally exposed in the media and projects in which he was involved brought to an end.

In the simple world of Freddie Kissoon, TIGI’s duty is to investigate UG. More specifically “rampant opaque governance” and “financial recklessness” that took place under the tenure of Dr. Ivelaw Griffith. In this simple world of Freddie Kissoon, recklessness on the part of the UG administration, such as he perceives, must be matched by equal recklessness, that is by a self-appointment by TIGI to the role of Commission of Enquiry. And this must be championed and seen to be championed by none other

Stop that tide DEAR EDITOR, I humbly submit for your publishing with the hope of saving lives. Thank you.

Have you ever been treated like the scum of the earth?

Are those who cause you to feel that way or the ones you love?

Do you feel like life is a sour taste in your mouth that must be spit out?

Then that monster suicide presents himself as the solution to the matter?

Well don’t you dare do it!

You are not the problem, they are.

Good people do not delight in treating others like animals.

Those names they call you might not fit you, but they may fit them.

Snap out of it!

You are many times better than those bullies are.

Yes, you deserve to live and be a blessing to our world.

Rise up, and live precious one.

Love to the world you give.

Don’t you dare look for a dark place to hide.

Stop that tide.

Apostle Adrian Wade

than Dr. Troy Thomas who is now Dean of the Faculty of Natural Sciences himself.

In the simple world of Freddie Kissoon, there is no conflict of interest, no need for persons whose roles are likely to conflict to recuse themselves in such matters.

We need not insult the intelligence of the reading public by further dwelling on this absurdity.

We are glad that Freddie Kissoon, as he says, recognises the work we are doing. He hopefully can excuse us if we say that we regard highly the efforts of our fellow Guyanese and successive administrations at the University of Guyana. We believe that managing such a large institution over the decades and latterly in the face of growing competition cannot be easy. We have our own challenges in a small organisation such as TIGI. We are aware of the challenges of getting competence to prevail in every organisation especially against loyalty. We are also

aware that there is never agreement between levels of staff on the allocation of scarce resources. The fact that a backward political culture has insisted on stamping its authority on every institution in Guyana does not help in the least. In fact, the Donald Rodney vigil traces its roots to this same problem when Dr. Walter Rodney was barred by the government of those days from working at UG. However, we (that is, the directors other than Dr. Troy Thomas, who has recused himself from this statement) are quite satisfied that there are mechanisms available to a vibrant university community which are fully utilised including demonstrations and strikes that would be more appropriate to deliver redress, long before a problem is brought to an organisation like TIGI. So we wish to make clear that we do not act on innuendos made by trigger-happy columnists.

In the simple world of

Freddie Kissoon, there is no line to cross between an employee who is part of the administration acknowledging, whether on TV or otherwise, that there are problems in his workplace and the outright pursuit of a campaign to expose his own team. In the simple world of Freddie Kissoon, confidentiality requirements of good human resource practice and protection of the rights of every employee including those he deems miscreants does not exist. Perhaps he is able to distinguish between the quite proper protection imposed by such legal requirements and “rampant opaque governance”. We cannot and do not have the resources for that even if we were likely to succeed in such an endeavor.

As for moral authority, we wish to let the public know that at Transparency International’s last Annual Members Meeting held in Berlin last month, the organisation addressed frontally and openly certain accusations made against its board

and management.

This is how an organisation addresses problems within order to have the moral basis to accuse others.

It is not a member airing grievances to the public while still being part of the organisation.

We end this statement by putting the issue back where it belongs - in the domain of a blunder made by a columnist in not taking the trouble to ensure that he had heard correctly before expounding and by the obvious resort to a distraction.

We do not expect him to keel over and acknowledge his embarrassment but instead to keep digging. He must be allowed to heap more material that can only result in further discredit and lack of trust in what he reports.

He must be allowed to engulf himself in the quicksand he has created for himself unimpeded by TIGI. As for us, this is the first and last comment by the board on his distraction. We have bigger fish to fry.

TIGI Board

A noticeable performance gap DEAR EDITOR, One of the more noticeable performance gaps in recent years has been in relation to the non-implementation of any recommendation from the much vaunted Commission of Inquiry into the Public Service of Guyana of 2016.

However belatedly therefore, one is compelled once again to invite attention to its Chapter 6: Retirement Age for Public Servants.

The following paragraphs are immediately relevant: “The retirement age in the Public Service is 55 years, and with approval 50 years. Public Sector organisation such as the Bank of Guyana, the National Insurance Scheme, the Guyana Revenue Authority, and staff of the Audit Office of Guyana have a retirement age of 60 years. The Private Sector also has higher

than the Public Service retirement age based on pension schemes providing for retirement between 60 and 65 years, and with no fixed retirement age for top executives. Similarly, there is no retirement age for Parliamentarians and Ministers. The retirement age for staff at the University of Guyana is 65 years, and for the members of Judiciary and the Auditor General, the retirement age is 65 years.

It is argued that the age of 55 is too early an age for retirement for Public Servants.

Testimonies to the Commission support and advocate for higher retirement age for Public Service staff. The contention is that at age 55, Public Servants would have acquired deep knowledge and wide experience in public management and in their professional and specialist fields.

Therefore, it is a great loss of

skills and expertise to the Public Service with a retirement age at 55. This is one of the arguments used to justify the re-employment of retired public servants on contract immediately upon retirement.

A survey of Human Resource Practitioners in the private sector recommends a retirement age of between 60 and 65 years. This is also in line with testimony to the Commission by public servants and private individuals.

This is also in line with testimony to the Commission by public servants and private individuals. The advocacy is for retirement age of 65 years with an option of retirement at 60 in the Public Service to provide for the retention of valuable, experienced and skilled professionals.

While the age of retirement for civil servants is 60 years in the British Virgin Is-

lands, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago, the current retirement age is 65 years in Bermuda, and 66.5 years in Barbados and in Dominica has abolished the retirement age on the ground of non-discrimination, while International Organisations within the United Nations System retire International Civil Servants on attaining 62 of years.

The current retirement age in the Republic of South Africa is 65 years. (Public Service Act, 1994) The higher retirement age of 65 years would provide for higher pensions under the Pension Act for public officers who would also continue to contribute to the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) until the age of 60 years when NIS pensions would be paid. This would further increase the finances of the NIS Scheme by (Continued on page 6)

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Kaieteur News

Responding to the Belle Vue farmers’ of the Act which reads as fol- hereby agree to settle all pendstory lows; ing matters with the Belle-VueDEAREDITOR, It is with a sinking heart that I respond to a letter under the caption “The Belle Vue Farmers’ Story” purportedly under the hand of Shyam Balkarran and published in the Kaieteur News of November 23, 2019.

First, when I joined the management team of the Ministry of Labour as it was in 2014 and under whose superintendence of the Co-operative function of Government fell, I encountered serious issues pertaining to the Belle-Vue-Farmers’Co-operative Society.

After several years of engaging all interested Parties and Stakeholders the contentious issues were resolved through the conduct of an Annual General Meeting in December, 2018 at which a Committee of Management was elected by the legitimate members of the Society.

During the years of engagement by the Ministry of Labour now Ministry of Social Protection all interested Parties were given hearings and opportunities to be heard before any and every decision was made and I must say that in every instance the Ministry was guided by the Rules contained in the Co-operative Societies Act, Chapter 88:01.

I have consulted the “Pocket Oxford Dictionary and Thesaurus” which defines the word Rule as “a statement of what must be done or not done.

This definition in my opinion confirms to the nature of laws and their associated regulations which, inter alia, help managements to function with integrity but not without flexibility.

In this regard and in view of the fact that many Co-operative Societies were previously penetrated by certain individuals with less than honourable intentions including those linked to money laundering, all personnel in the Co-operative Development Unit of the Ministry constantly keep in focus Section 21

“In order to be qualified for membership of a Co-operative Society a person, other than a registered society, must, at the time of application (a) Be resident within or in occupation of land within the society’s area of operations as described by the rules”.

The operation of this Section of the Law undoubtedly means that no one residing outside of Guyana can properly be a member of a Co-operative Society in Guyana.

During the course of addressing the issues which plagued the Belle-Vue-‘Co-op Society’ a gentleman who responded to the name of Balram Balkarran or (b). Balkarran interfaced with this Ministry purportedly as a member and representative of the members of the Society.

It was eventually discovered that Cde. Balkarran was not residing in Guyana but in Canada. Never-the-less whenever he sought an engagement with the Ministry’s officials, he was always facilitated in the interest of finding an amicable solution to the issues which prevailed and even those which emerged, along the way.

Over the years the Ministry in conjunction with the legitimate members of the Society would develop workable solutions which were acceptable to the Stakeholders.

However, whenever Cde. Balkarran visited Guyana he would instigate some individuals to contest the decisions which were mutually arrived at and which were working smoothly. He would not only encourage them to seek an overturning to decisions but also encourage them to boycott meetings called by the Ministry to ventilate their grievances. Some of them as is evidenced in the excerpt below have concluded in a letter dated March 26, 2019 that Mr. Balkarran had misled them.

Excerpt of Letter of March 26, 2019.

“We the undersigned

Cane Farmers Co-op Society in regards to illegally occupying the Co-op lands.

Please be informed that we were misled by Balram Balkarran for occupying the Belle-Vue-Coop Lands.

Thank you Sdg (six members)” The letter from which the above excerpt was made, was written after the December 2018 Annual General Meeting, at which the current Management Committee was elected.

As far as I am aware the current Management Committee is functioning well enough to the satisfaction of the members and the Ministry.

Accordingly, I hereby submit that even though Mr. Balkarran is not a legitimate member of the Society he was never-the-less heard in every instance that he requested that treatment.

I am of the considered opinion that the Ministry of Social Protection has done everything humanly, morally and legally possible to resolve the issues which hindered the functioning of the Belle Vue Co-op Societies for years.

We cannot afford to allow any individual who has no standing in the matter to perpetually obstruct the smooth functioning of the Society.

I have observed that in all previous correspondences from Mr. Balkarran the initial B or the name Balram was used as a First Name but in the letter under review the First Name used is Shyam which is a name by which he is also known in Belle Vue before he migrated to Canada.

That is his ‘call’ name.

Finally, I believe that the Ministry has already expended vast amounts of resources in addressing this matter which should now be considered closed, without any further treatment.

To do otherwise, would be subscribing to an abuse of authority and goodwill, which can ill afford.

Further I say not.

Mr. Francis Carryl Consultant

Universal message DEAR EDITOR, It brought a smile, relief and an immense sense of renewal. The premature baby girl found buried alive in a claypot back in mid-October in India is thriving and fully recovered, so says the doctor who cared and nurtured her.

The news of her find was a mixture of anger and hope as she battled for life.

At this special time of year she is the symbol that unites us all with love and hope and the universal message that life is ever so precious. Stay well baby girl.

Shamshun Mohamed

Saturday December 07, 2019

There are some things, which will always be right and righteous DEAR EDITOR, These days I find the time to examine the Media and in particular, the columns which feature the many local viewpoints.

Freddie Kissoon’s articles are among my favourites and I admire him for his boldness and fearless comments.

No one should fail to note his audacity.

Like everything else, there are some matters that he writes about that I agree with and some I disagree with. This is what makes life so interesting.

Our experiences as children and adults determine how we see things.

Beyond that, there are certain values and responses which I consider non-negotiable and necessary.

As Guyanese and citizens of the world we need to cling to these if we wish to be considered civilized, decent and worthy of the respect of others.

In Wednesday’s piece, titled: “Use this criterion to judge the PPP, PNC and AFC.” He traverses our political landscape exercising his democratic right to express his views.

Some may consider these views either myopic or harsh.

My concern is the message he may be sending to our young people contained in the concluding paragraphs of his article, and I quote “Both female ministers of the AFC have their drivers open the car door for them to exit and go in. I told Minister GarridoLowe that I find such conduct is unbecoming. She looked at me with vacant eyes and remained unmoved.” End of quote.

He is critical because the driver of a female Minister opened the vehicle door to facilitate her exit. Freddie is dead wrong.

There should be nothing inappropriate for a driver to assist a senior functionary, he is assigned to, exit a vehicle, in particular, a female.

First, we must adhere to what is known as functional authority and the duties and responsibilities that flow thereof.

Freddie is an avid reader and an intelligent person and he must know that if you tamper with and destroy the basic tools that define a modern civilized society we are preparing for anarchy, bedlam and destroying the already slender fabric of our society.

Whether a society is Capitalist, Socialist, Communist or what have you, there must be some order. In some circumstances, we utilize the concept of ethics.

For example, the Army, the Police Force, our religious community, etc, can only have one overall Commander in Chief with several levels from the top to the bottom.

Each layer understanding their duties and the courtesies required.

There must be respect and regard shown by those at the top for those at the bottom and similar respect and regard for those at the bottom shown to those at the top.

Let us face it from the time of human existence, from the time of the cave man, there will always be someone at the top and someone at the bottom, whether the measure is brains, brawns, tradition or inheritance is of course, another matter, but at every stage

there must be what we call the ‘pecking order.’

As the boys will say, “dah a life.”

When the Great Emperor, Pope, President, King, Queen or Empress takes his or her seat in a plane or the ship, for the duration of the journey, functional authority resides with the ship captain or the aircraft pilot.

We play cricket, when we take to the playing field, each team can only have one Captain and due regard must be taken of their respective roles, responsibility and respect of captain and team members.

One of the problems we have, in some households, institutions and communities the question of functional authority and respect seem to be fading.

A sad and sorry situation, which must be corrected if we are to survive.

In every culture, whether it be in Africa, Asia, Europe, the adherence to our respective roles in society are always held sacrosanct.

Additionally, there are certain courtesies that we should show our females, our mothers, grandmothers, wives, aunts and sisters that we must cling to steadfastly.

Last week I was in a personal Banking Facility and gave my chair to my wife since there was no other available as she waited for service.

Another male, observing this followed suit.

Yesterday, it was my pleasure and I believe duty to open the vehicle door to help my wife exit the vehicle.

I hope Freddie and (Continued on page 07)

A noticeable performance gap From page 5 the extended contributions from the employer and the employees for an additional period of five years, thus convinced that a higher retirement age for Public Servants would be mutually beneficial to the State, the public employees, and the National Insurance Scheme.”

As a consequence the Commission proceeded to make the following recommendations: “That the retirement age for new entrants into the Public Service, and those currently in the Public Service who are below 50 years of age, be retired on attaining 65 year of age, with the option of retiring on attaining 60 years; That pension entitlements be calculated at a maximum of 43 and one-third service

years; That public servants who are currently below 55 years of age, be allowed the option to retire on attaining 60 years or any time before 65 or on attaining 65 years of age; That no person retiring from the Public Service before attaining the age of 65 years should be employed on contract in an established Public Service position.

That the Pensions Act Chapter 27:02 be amended as may be required to provide for higher pensions as a result of the higher retirement age.”

Of course there has been no indication that any of the Commission’s sponsors could have read the Report’s recommendations, or else they would not have rejoiced about what is comparatively an extinct ‘statutory’ retirement age (as reported in an-

other section of the media on December 5. 2019)- that is effective since the colonial days.

The embarrassment which accompanies this insensitive announcement is compounded by the proud admission by the Ministry of Education of its inability to facilitate any of the 230 days’ annualised leavetaking over the years of employment, if only in recognition of the need to prepare a potential successor.

Should not then the single Human Resources Manager in the Public Service (resident in the M.O.E) assert to the mis-informed decision-makers that such a successor could only act as Chief Education Officer until September 1, 2020- a pregnant period?

E.B. John

Saturday December 07, 2019

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Kaieteur News

GRA trains 118 to protect Guyana’s oil interest

By Kiana Wilburg In an effort to ensure the nation does not suffer significant value leakage, the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) has trained a total of 118 officials in the areas of Oil and Gas audit techniques, Crude Lifting Agreements, Oil and Gas accounting, Customs Documentation and Associated Processes; and Crude Lifting Measurements.

Making this disclosure during a recent appearance on the Kaieteur Radio Programme, Guyanas Oil and You, was GRAs Commissioner General, Godfrey Statia.

The tax boss said that the officials will be staffed in the authoritys Oil and Gas Department which will deal with both the customs and revenue aspects related to the industry.

He said that the Department will have two units being headed by senior Executives of the Authority at the level of Deputy Commissioners.

The units are named: the Petroleum Revenue Audit Unit (PRAU) and the Customs Petroleum Unit (CPU).

The Commissioner General explained that these Units are being staffed and given the resources to effectively monitor, audit, and ensure

compliance by oil companies is optimal at all times. These units are staffed in keeping with a Consultants report from the United Stated Overseas Technical Assistance, the UK government, and the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

Statia disclosed that there is presently an in-house Consultant paid by the IMF and another development partner to provide constant training in audit techniques to staff members of the Revenue Audit Unit.

As regards the Petroleum Unit, Statia said that the IMF had provided recommendations in a Mission Close-Out

On Republic Bank’s Incompetence DEAR EDITOR, It has been over a month since Republic Bank (Guyana) has done an ‘upgrade’ on their services. From my experience, the senior management officials clearly didn’t consult the employees who do the bulk of the work (the ones who have to painstakingly fill out countless paperwork, double check with supervisors, advice and help customers, and deal with complaints or go through suggestions for improvement box).

What a horrendous experience it is for anyone who values their time to perform any single transaction in any one of their branches. Cus-

tomers are frustrated, employees are frustrated - in the meanwhile, senior management hides in the back away from all the chaos that they seem to think will sort itself out by the middle of this month.

I shudder to think how many human hours have been completely wasted in Republic Bank over the past month due to the pure incompetence and callousness of those who sit in the background, not listening to floor supervisors’ suggestions, not listening to customers.

This week I picked a number at their Water Street branch to wait for four hours,

only to be assisted after complaining to a floor supervisor.

They’re understaffed, and the employees are overworked - Republic Bank has no consideration or mercy for their employees or clients, and I’m interested to know if this is the way they treat their customers in other countries, or is it just Guyana?

My suggestion to the ‘bosses’ who make decisions: listen to the suggestions of floor supervisors, tellers, security - they will have simple solutions you can implement to make your services more efficient.

Republic Banks needs to stop wasting people’s time!

Darrell Carpenay

There are some things, which will...

From page 06 others will do the same and encourage our male counterparts, whether it be drivers, boyfriends, husbands to do the same. At secondary schools, there exist the cadre

of senior students known as Prefects. Their duty is to help maintain law, order, respect and to develop a sense of discipline before we enter the world of work. There are some things, which will always be

right and righteous and will serve us in good stead.

Come on Freddie, the next time you are out with your wife, open the door for her so she will exit easily.

Hamilton Green

Report which is currently being implemented in two phases: an incubator transitional facet and the creation of a permanent Customs Petroleum Unit.

The Commissioner General said, “As we speak, efforts aimed at fine tuning preparation for an adequate responsive Unit is underway with the IMF guiding the process. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are being developed and fine-tuned in relation to Crude Lifting, which will cover from Notification of Lifting Schedules to reporting formats onshore and offshore, and further alignments for fiscal and revenue collection purposes.”

Additionally, Statia said that IHS Markit, the UK firm which has been awarded the contract to conduct the cost audits being incurred by ExxonMobil and its partners on the Stabroek Block, will see GRA officials working alongside them with the objective of assisting the Revenue Au-

GRA Commissioner General, Godfrey Statia thority to develop its capabilities. Statia said, “We are also developing appropriate regimes of Customs Areas and Sufferance Wharves in order

to monitor and facilitate imports, exports, transits and transshipment of goods from the designated Shorebase facilities.”

PAGE 8

Kaieteur News

Saturday December 07, 2019

Early morning fire razes three houses in Bent St. “I dont have anywhere else to go…I done start shopping for the holiday season and then this is what happened to my house. I barely wake up and see the smoke but the thing happened so fast I could not have done anything. I was naked when I come out from inside the house with my two children… is the neighbour give me clothes to put on.”

These were the cries of Natasha Morrison, whose home at Lot EE Bent Street, Wortmanville, Georgetown, was among three buildings completely destroyed by an early morning fire yesterday.

The fire reportedly started at around 05:00hrs in a kitchen located on the top flat of the wooden two-storey structure in which Morrison and her children resided.

The blaze quickly spread to two other homes located in the same yard. The families were unable to save anything.

Seventeen persons are now homeless. When this publication arrived on the scene, there were four fire tenders in operation. Persons praised the firefighters for their prompt response as they were able to contain the blaze.

Many of the affected residents were inconsolable. One of them gave praises to God

The scene after the raging inferno had been quelled by firefighters that no one was injured.

In an invited comment, Alleyne [only name given], whose home is adjacent to Lot EE Bent Street, Wortmanville, said that he was awakened by

the screams of “fire, fire”. He said that upon checking, he saw his home engulfed in flames. He was unable to salvage anything.

“I dont know what to do,

where to start. The same house where the fire start in, is the woman who does live up deh shout and tell everybody that dem buildings were burning down.”

“I tried to go in the house to see what I could have saved, but the heat stop me.

Look the time of the year when this thing go and happen… when everybody preparing for

Christmas. Only Thursday morning I tell them children that I might paint over the house for the holiday season, now look what happened,” a distressed Alleyne related.

Efforts to reach the other occupants for comment were unsuccessful.

When contacted, Divisional Officer of Operations for the Guyana Fire Service, Gregory Wickham stated that fire fighters were only informed about the fire after two buildings had already been razed.

Fire trucks stationed at the Alberttown and Stabroek fire stations responded to the scene.

“What happened is that we received the call too late; however as soon as the call came in four fire trucks were dispatched to the area… but it was too late.”

Saturday December 07, 2019

PAGE 9

Kaieteur News

Guyana’s schools are violent places Guyana’s schools are violent places. In recent times, the violence has escalated and become more brutal.

In October, a fifteen-yearold Muslim student was attacked by two students of her school. In the process, her hijab was violently removed.

The family has complained about the lack of justice in the matter.

More than one month ago, an eight-year-old student from Mon Repos Primary School was brutally beaten by other students. His injuries have been so severe that he has been hospitalised for more than a month.

What sort of children would inflict such a savagery on another child? Yet to date, there has been no report as to whether criminal charges are going to be filed, under the Juvenile Act, against those responsible for this abhorrent attack.

A video surfaced last

week which showed a male student of the Richard Ishmael Secondary School unleashing an unrestrained beating on a female student.

He unleashed a volley of savage cuffs on her face while tossing her around. An investigation has been launched into the incident, but it has been reported that the students have apologised to each other.

A teacher was recently the victim of a vicious attack at a city school. Since then, parents have taken to social media to complain about the harsh corporal punishment which is administered at that school, and which it is alleged has resulted in injuries to their children.

And just a few days ago, a most disturbing report appeared in the media. The police are said to be investigating whether a child was beaten and sodomized by fellow students.

All of these violent attacks have happened within a few weeks of each other.

They may represent only a tip of the iceberg of the level of violence in our schools.

The madness is not confined to public schools.

There have also been incidents in the past of violence, including bullying, at private schools. In one notorious incident, female students urinated in the water bottle of another student.

Children are going to school in fear.

Some of them are trembling when they enter the school’s compound. The problem is not just fear of their fellow students. Children are also afraid of teachers who can be just as violent in inflicting punishment and being verbally abusive in upbraiding children.

When you consider the levels of violence within Guyana’s schools; when you

Dem boys seh ...

Is criticising and condemning Is a sad day that de political leaders always looking to criticize one anodda.

If one of dem seh de moon round, bet you last dollar that de odda one gun seh it square. Only yesterday dem boys open a newspaper and dem see how Jagdeo and Soulja Bai got different ideas about sugar.

But that ain’t nutten.

Dem had different ideas about how things should happen. When one of dem seh something de odda one does seh he lie and how de truth is something else.

Jagdeo build a house in Pradoville wid money that nobody don’t know wheh he get it from. Soulja Bai move into a house pun de East Bank and right away Jagdeo and he followers seh

how Soulja Bai build a mansion wid de government money.

Dem boys seh things meet de stage wheh all dem politicians just waiting fuh de odda one seh something fuh dem to get a chance to seh de opposite.

And while all this happening dem oil company laughing. Dem like that kind of thing because a good war between politicians does distract people from whatever happening in de oil sector.

For example, dem boys seh nobody don’t even remember de price tag that Exxon give Guyana in pre-contract cost. But dem remember when Jagdeo seh how Soulja Bai planning fuh rig de elections.

And people remember how Soulja Bai seh Jagdeo kill four

hundred young men during de crime wave.

De crime wave was more than ten years ago but people still remember but dem don’t remember how many oil well Exxon drill.

A Minister decide that since school children getting out of hand she gun ban Christmas party from schools.

Of course people who don’t even go to school does end up at these parties and dem does walk wid knives and guns.But a former Minister seh how de Minister wrong to ban de Christmas party. That is wha all of dem sitting down to do.

Condemn and criticize.

Talk half and de next criticism coming in couple minutes.

consider that children are being bullied on a daily basis and often keep this a secret from their teachers and parents; when you consider also that school management has become so lax that the Ministry of Education has had to place a ban on Christmas parties within government schools in Georgetown; one has to question the safety of our educational system.

The laws of Guyana make it compulsory for children to have formal education up to Grade 9.

But why should any parent be forced to send their children into a violent system, when there is a better alternative available?

That option is homeschooling. Many parents are keen to have their children tutored at home. With homeschooling, the child does not attend either a private or public school, but rather, is taught by their parents at home or by hired tutors.

Parents should have the right to home tutor their children. Many mothers are stayat-home moms and they feel

that they have the time, the knowledge, and the right environment to teach their kids at home. Many of them are eager to do this, since it will allow them to spend more time with their children.

These parents feel that through home schooling, their children would be better off.

For one, they argue that the children will be able to do more work under their supervision or under the supervision of private tutors.

Also, the children would have fewer distractions. And, some parents argue that it will actually be cheaper for them, because there will be no uniforms and the children will not have to take lunches and snacks to school.

Savings will also be had from having to pay for all the things that are usually associated with sending your children to school. Additionally, the children would not have the possibility of being abused by other children or being subjected to all the other trepidations of school life.

However, home-schooling is not recognized as formal education. And therefore parents have the most painful of choices to make. Even though some of them can afford to home-school their children, they are being forced to send their children each day into a violent environment.

No parent should be forced to do so.

The Ministry of Education should decide if they will allow home schooling. It is one thing to deny a child an education. It is another thing to deny a parent the right to determine what sort of education that child should have.

(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper)

PAGE 10

Saturday December 07, 2019

Kaieteur News

=== The Freddie Kissoon column ===

Incident at Smiling Restaurant in Triumph tells of psychic death In my column yesterday I described several things I have seen and continue to see that graphically indicate that the collective psyche of the Guyanese nationality has been severely damaged. On the day of the publication of that column, I witnessed an incident that I feel will not happen elsewhere on Planet Earth.

I looked at the situation, was disgusted, but my anger was under control because I know that the Guyanese nationality is in, and has been in deep, psychological trouble for years now. Here now is what I saw on Friday morning.

My cat’s favourite tin food in the Friskies brand is “turkey and cheese dinner – shreds.” Only one place I know has that variety - a Chinese outlet in Triumph, up the East Coast, named Smiling

Supermarket. None of the small and large supermarkets in Georgetown has “turkey and cheese dinner – shreds.”

So Friday morning to Triumph I journeyed, looking for my cat’s favourite dish. The time was 11.05.

It was a lazy, deserted Railway Embankment. There was hardly traffic on the road.

I pulled up in front of Smiling Supermarket. There was no vehicle on the premises. I was the only driver that pulled up.

I came out with my cat food, only to find a car parked in front of mine, and exit was impossible.

No one should have that experience. Smiling Restaurant is large. There is parking for about seven vehicles in front of the building. I enquired from the armed security rank where the driver was, after making my adverse comment on the stupidity of that

driver.

This man had available to him space larger than a Caribbean island, yet chose unnecessarily to block my pathway.

The security rank shook his head and said; “Something is wrong with him.” Something is wrong with the Guyanese people, a sick characteristic that you do not find in other 21st century societies.

My only option was to see if I could use the tiny space available to me to exit.

While doing that, a gentleman came up and yelled out; “Aah leaving, aah leaving.” He entered the vehicle and drove away.

I looked at the guard with the big gun in his hand to see his reaction. He smiled, shook his head again. I drove off with my cat food.

What explanation do you have for what that driver did?

I have described such illogi-

cal parking many times in these columns. Last year I wrote about what I saw in the car park of Survival Supermarket. It was identical to what happened at Triumph yesterday.

It was an early morning. I normally go to the supermarkets early in the mornings after I finish walking my dog on the seawall and my exercise routine in the National Park.

Make no mistake; this psychic collapse permeates the entire society.

It is a national disaster. It does not affect different classes of people. From grassweeders to municipal workers to market vendors to public servants to young professionals to teachers to moneyed people, to politicians in and out of power, the Guyanese nationality has deep psychic scars that have devastated the ontology of the entire Guyanese population.

Go to the MovieTowne cinemas and you are greeted with a long sheet of things you cannot do – no eating, no foot resting, no talking etc

- while in the cinema. But the very people who posted those rules rent out their car park to entertainment companies to host open air concerts that affect thousands, including older folks and young school children.

I’ll leave with two examples of the psychic decapitation of this nation. GECOM issued an edict adopted by the Minister of Public Security, that your name will not be on the register of voters for the 2020 poll if you have not collected your national ID. T here is no law that prevents a citizen from voting because he/she does not have an ID. The minister actually said it was the most sensible thing required of people. It turns out that the sensible thing was an idiotic thing. GECOM has backed down.

Finally, there is no more glaring manifestation of psychological descent of a nation than what the president of the country did. He actually said that one judge in the CCJ singlehandedly changed the

Frederick Kissoon Guyana constitution. President Granger told the Guyanese people and Guyana’s foreign diplomats that Justice Adrian Saunders, the President of the CCJ, had empowered him to get around the Carter formula for choosing the chairman of GECOM, which is part of our constitution.

The President said that based on what Justice Saunders said, he could submit a list of nominees to himself and chose from his own list.

It’s bizarre, but Granger said it.

(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper)

Saturday December 07, 2019

Kaieteur News

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Saturday December 07, 2019

Kaieteur News

Fishermen thankful to be alive after pirates strike in Region One Five fishermen aboard the vessel “Shivanie” are considering themselves very lucky to be alive after they were robbed by pirates at around 08:30hrs yesterday.

The incident occurred some five nautical miles from the Waini River Mouth.

The fishermen briefly recounted the terrifying experience.

Four armed men in a fibreglass boat accosted them - three were said to be Spanish-speaking, while the remaining river robber spoke English.

According to the fishermen, the pirates carted off two Yamaha engines, one 60 horsepower and the other 48 horsepower. They also relieved them of cell phones,

groceries packed for the fishing trip, clothing and the small catch they had onboard.

After committing the act, the assailants, according to the fishermen, headed in the direction of Venezuela.

The matter was reported to police as investigations continue.

The fishermen are thankful to have escaped unharmed, as some of their colleagues have not been so lucky. The owner is pleading with authorities to boost security in that particular area, since it is a known spot for pirates to attack fishermen.

The last attack on Guyanese fishermen was a deadly one. A four-man fishing crew left for Suriname

The crew on the fishing vessel ‘Shivanie’ who were attacked and robbed by pirates yesterday morning. waters on October 12, 2019.

Three days later, their boat

was found adrift with no one in sight. The following day,

the bodies of two crew members were recovered. To date,

the two other bodies are still to be recovered.

Saturday December 07, 2019

Kaieteur News

Farmer charged for attempted murder A farmer is now on remand, facing an attempted murder charge, in which he is accused of using a hoe to try and kill a man who had threatened his wife.

Michael Francis was brought to the Georgetown Magistrates Courts and placed before Principal Magistrate Faith McGusty to have the charge read to him.

This was done with the assistance of the defendants daughter, as Francis speaks Macushi, the language an indigenous tribe living in the borderlands of southern Guyana.

The charge stated that on November 28, 2019 at Karasabai, South Pakaraimas, Francis attempted to murder Raphael Matthews. He was not required to plead to the indictable offence.

Attorney-at-law Jerome Khan represented the defendant. He stated that Francis is 39 years old and from Karasabai. The lawyer said that based on his instructions, the defendants wife was in

their farm when the alleged victim who was under the influence of alcohol, approached her.

He stated that as she was trying to restrain Matthews, he became aggressive and picked up a hoe and started to threaten her.

Francis later arrived and tried to calm Matthews down, which resulted in a scuffle. As Francis was trying to relieve Matthews of the hoe, he (Matthews) allegedly received his injury.

The lawyer added that Matthews only received one blow, and not repeatedly, as if it was intentional. Khan said that Matthews did not seek medical attention and after five days the wound became infected.

Matthews was rushed to the hospital where he received treatment for the injury.

The facts of the charge were very much similar to what the attorney related, however Police Prosecutor Seon Blackman stated that

following the argument between Matthews and the defendants wife, Francis was the one who picked up the hoe.

The prosecutor said that Francis dealt Matthews a blow to the head and there are witnesses who can testify that it was Francis who at all times was the aggressor. He further mentioned that Francis gave a confession statement admitting to this fact.

Hence, Prosecutor Blackman strongly objected to bail based on the seriousness of the offence, the punishment it attracts, and the prevalence.

Also, objections were made based on the fact that the victim is still hospitalised.

The magistrate then upheld the submission made by the prosecutor and remanded Francis to prison pending a report on the condition of the victim.

Francis was instructed to return to court on December 16 at the Lethem Magistrate Court.

Teen hospitalised after stabbed on his way home from lessons A concerned parent is pleading with students to consider the lives of others, especially those of their classmates, after her 15 –year –old son had to be admitted to the Georgetown Public Hospital, as a result of a violent act.

The lad was stabbed several times with broken bottles by a group of boys while he was making his way home from lessons.

At the time of the incident, the lad was standing on the Enmore Public Road, East Coast Demerara, awaiting

public transportation to go home. It was then that a group of boys, some of whom he reportedly recognised from his own school, attacked him.

They accused him of being disrespectful to one of them.

According to reports, the incident had its origin last Wednesday after the teenager upbraided one of his lessons colleagues for wearing his hat backwards. It is alleged that the boy told the young man that he was “no bad boy.”

An eyewitness told this publication that she was

standing not too far from where the stabbing incident happened. The woman said that she saw at least 15 boys armed with cutlasses and broken bottles.

“And he [the victim] did not do them anything. After they finished, he just lie there bleeding.”

According to police sources, initial investigations have revealed the boys are not known to be violent; neither are there any prior incidents of them displaying such conduct. The matter is being investigated.

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Saturday December 07, 2019

Kaieteur News

Bandit tries to shoot victim in the back after failed robbery attempt …but weapon jams

CCTV footage shows the bandit attempting to crank the gun while in hot pursuit of the intended victim

By Shikema Dey Being quick on the feet saved a young man from being shot in the back after a lone gunman failed to rob him on Thursday in a brazen daylight attack.

The intended victim was at a Money Gram location on D’Urban Street, Werk-enrust, when the incident occurred at around noon.

According to the man’s employer who requested anonymity, he sent his staffer to transfer an undisclosed sum of money to clients in another country.

The man disclosed to Kaieteur News that the young man was told by staffers at the Money Gram facility that the money ‘was too much to send’. They then suggested

that he be taken to the head office to complete his business transaction.

While the young man stood outside, waiting on transportation, a male individual rode up on a bicycle and attempted to snatch the bag from him. The brave employee, however, was relentless and put up a fight.

After the gunman released the bag, the intended victim decided to run for safety with the suspect in hot pursuit. CCTV footage shows the would-be robber pulling out a gun and raising it to shoot the young man in his back. However, the weapon he brandished appeared to be defective as the gun jammed and he frantically tried to make it operable. He later gave up

his intended task and made good his escape.

The businessman stressed while he is thankful no injuries were sustained, he is dissatisfied with the way the matter was handled by the police.

According to him, they attempted to report the incident to the Alberttown Police Station but were told by officials there that it was merely an ‘attempted robbery’. He alleged that after being pushed around for more than half an hour, they left the station frustrated.

Kaieteur News contacted Regional Commander, Assistant Commissioner Thomas, who stated that they are currently investigating the matter.

Saturday December 07, 2019

Kaieteur News

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Kaieteur News

Saturday December 07, 2019

Saturday December 07, 2019

Kaieteur News

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GTT offers $5M reward for info on Linden Highway vandalized cable

T

he Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GTT) is offering a $5M reward for information leading to the arrest of anyone involved in the vandalization of its fibreoptic cables on the Linden Highway recently.

The illegal act resulted in widespread service disruptions, according to the telephone company.

GTT's Public Relations a n d C o r p o r a t e Communications Manager, Jasmin Harris, said the company has made numerous efforts to put a stop to persons vandalizing its cables and is appealing to witnesses and others with knowledge, to come forward with information that can help lead to the arrest of perpetrators.

“For 2019 we have had over 10 cases of vandalism to our infrastructure. We are pleading with the public to report any form of vandalism by calling our 0908 hotline.

The vandalized cable

Such vandalism causes degradation of service and affects many customers,” Harris said.

Persons with information c a n a l s o e m a i l tips@gtt.co.gy.

On November 30, GTT also said it received

numerous reports of loss of services in the Linden Highway area.

“Upon inspection, GTT technicians noticed that the Linden Highway cable was cut, leading to the loss of all GTT services in Linden, Bartica, Kwakwani, Ituni,

Mabaruma and Port Kaituma. Our technicians were forced to work through

Saturday evening into Sunday morning to restore services, putting a strain on our human resources. But more importantly, the service to many was affected. Vandalism has

quite a negative, domino impact – and is against the law,” Harris said.

GTT said it spends millions of dollars to repair vandalized cables across Guyana annually.

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Kaieteur News

Saturday December 07, 2019

Saturday December 07, 2019

Magistrate recuses self from murder PI Senior Magistrate Leron Daly on Thursday, last, has recused herself from the Preliminary Inquiry (PI) held into the murder of 32-year-old Jason Bowen.

Ashaka John, 24, a block maker of 109 A Field Sophia, Georgetown, was arraigned in the Georgetown Magistrates Courts and is currently on remand for the indictable charge which alleges that on October 12, 2019, at Church Street, Queenstown, Georgetown, he murdered Bowen, a Store Manager.

The matter was sent to the courtroom of the Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan, where it was made known that the magistrate had recused herself. Magistrate McLennan did not disclose the reason for this action.

The matter was adjourned until December 12, when it will be recalled before Magistrate McLennan.

According to information received, the now dead Bowen was chased by an individual who was trying to rob him. Bowen then ran onto the bridge of the Office of the Leader of the Opposition on Church Street, Queenstown.

The suspect and Bowen got into a scuffle, resulting in Bowen being severely beaten

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Kaieteur News

Ashaka John and strangled. The suspect after committing the crime attempted to escape.

However, he was apprehended by public-spirited citizens and handed over to the police, placed into custody, and later charged for the offence.

La Penitence market shootout…

Police to investigate why witnesses unwilling to testify Investigations have been launched into reports of the witnesses who claimed that they are fearful of testifying against two men who are currently on remand for attempting to murder Teon “Spoil Child” Allen.

This was disclosed on Wednesday last by Police Prosecutor Neville Jeffers, to Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan.

Last week the witnesses conveyed to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) that they are fearful of testifying. According to the prosecutor, based on these reports they have launched investigations to verify why the witnesses are fearful, and if anyone is scaring them off.

The prosecutor also indicated that he has a total of 19 witnesses to call in relation to this matter. He said that DPP has given the go-ahead for them to proceed with whatever witnesses they have available in the meantime.

The case will be recalled on January 6, 2020, when the Preliminary Inquiry (PI) is expected to commence.

Lashawn Lewis and

Teon Spoil Child Allen

Renard Caesar

Renard Caesar were jointly charged with attempting to murder Allen, a former policeman.

It is alleged that on October 5, last, at La Penitence, Georgetown, they discharged a loaded firearm at Allen, with intent to commit murder.

Police had stated that there was an ongoing issue between Allen and the MOB Family, a gang comprising persons from Linden and French Guiana. On the day of

the shooting, Allen was reportedly purchasing vegetables from La Penitence Market, Georgetown, when the occupants of a black car drove up next to him.

Moments later, three persons exited, two of them allegedly being Lewis and Caesar. They all carried firearms.

Several rounds were discharged in Allens direction, but he managed to evade the bullets. According to reports, when Allen got to a safe loca-

Lashawn Lewis tion, he returned fire, injuring Lewis.

The attackers ran away, leaving the injured Lewis on the scene.

He was taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital, admitted under police guard and later charged.

Kaieteur News had reported that Allen had moved to Georgetown to seek refuge from the MOB Family, but apparently he was followed by his assailants.

PAGE 20

Saturday December 07, 2019

Kaieteur News

Moves apace to address issues affecting several Region 10 communities Several works committee members from the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) led by Regional Chairman of Upper Demerara/Berbice, Mr. Renis Morian recently visited a number of areas within the region.

The delegation comprised a number of officials including Mr. Frederick Flatts, Harold Davis, Morian, among others. They sought to access and better understand the needs and issues affecting several of the communities.

The first community to gain the attention of the team was Coomacka where there are ongoing efforts to free the channel of the Demerara River along with other erosion control works.

Morian, in an invited comment, disclosed that over the past two decades, no serious

attempts were made at ensuring that these were addressed. He said that taking into consideration that this has been taking place for more than two decades, the Regional Administration of Region 10, with support from government and the NDIA, sought to ensure that serious and maximum attention is given to this project.

“We have recognized that unfortunately there was no serious attention given to this for over two decades, and because of this, it has resulted in a number of serious challenges and difficulties. It is the primary reason that we at the RDC have decided to forge ahead with immediate and priority attention to this project, as we recognized that it must be addressed w i t h g r e a t u rg e n c y, ” Morian said.

Regional Chairman Renis Morian (centre, with long-sleeved shirt) flanked by NDIA officials during one of the site visits The team also visited Speightland, lower Kara Kara and the Hym a r a C r e e k .

Morian said that these vis-

its undertaken by the NDIA and his region, form part of the regional programme that is tasked with addressing

flooding and erosion. He stressed that such a programme is important, noting that it allows the RDC, with support from the NDIA, to be effective and efficient when addressing several issues affecting residents within Region 10.

Morian disclosed that later this month another visit will be made, noting that it will seek to examine reported blockage at the upper Kara Kara Creek area.

“We have been closely monitoring a number of these areas, and I can tell you that the works committee along with myself and other officials, with the RDC, will continue to examine these areas, and that is one very important reason

for our planned visit,” he said.

The Regional Chairman stressed that the RDC has been aggressively addressing erosion-related issues with urgency, considering that the primary concern is to ensure that residents are not only safe but also comfortable.

“We have a responsibility to our residents within Upper Demerara-Berbice.

Therefore, as the Regional Chairman, backed by my councillors, we are always seeking to ensure that erosion-related matters and concerns are addressed as quickly as possible so as to ensure that residents fears and concerns are put to rest,” Morian declared.

Saturday December 07, 2019

Kaieteur News

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Saturday December 07, 2019

Kaieteur News

Man to serve 14 years for Konawaruk murder

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Jailed: Mark Atkinson Forty-year-old Mark Atkinson was on Tuesday sentenced to serve 14 years’ imprisonment for the June 03, 2014 murder of Bearum VACANCY Anderson. Atkinson had D r i v e r / E x p e d i t e r . been on trial before Justice Gino Persaud and a 12-person Contact#223-5273/223-5274 jury for the crime. After 2 Vacancies- Clerk & deliberation, the jury returned Domestic, live-in facilities for a guilty verdict.

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with the murder of Brazilian miner, Daniel Lima who was killed between August 12 and August 13, 2015 at Burning Spur, Konawaruk River. He is alleged to have told police that he and Lima were involved in a fight and the man discharged several rounds at him.

During the clash, Atkinson said Lima fell and hit his head on a tree trunk. Based on reports, Atkinson was previously charged for possession of i l legal firearm and ammunition, robbery underarms and trafficking marijuana.

Saturday December 07, 2019

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Kaieteur News

UNICEF, Region Four RDC ink MOU to advance protection of children rights The recent signing of a Memorandum of Understanding [MOU] between the Region Four Regional Health Services Department and the United Nations International Children’s Fund [UNICEF] will see the two strengthening their collaboration.

The tactical collaboration commenced early the year and according to Regional Health Officer [RHO], Dr. Quincy Jones, this is set to continue in the coming year.

Inking the MOU was the region’s Regional Executive Officer [REO], Ms. Pauline Lucas, and UNICEF’s Deputy Country Representative for Guyana and Suriname, Mr. Irfan Akhtar. They agreed that the MOU is essentially an excellent marriage that is poised to bear fruits beneficial to both sides.

Speaking of the recent meeting, Akhtar said that it provided him with an opportunity to better understand and appreciate the work that is being done by Region Four. He said that UNICEF and the REO have been working tirelessly in advancing the protection of the rights of children, even as he under-

scored that significant progress has been achieved especially within Region Four.

“Since this is the end of 2019, we are also reflecting together for the priorities for 2020 and beyond, together we are advancing the rights of our children [and] there is a definite need for us to continue working together,” Akhtar said.

He added, “One of the priorities for children is that there is need for more collaboration,” pointing out that there continues to be numerous opportunities for the region and UNICEF to continue working together as they forge ahead in advancing the already existing partnership.

According to Akhtar, as it relates to the partnership, UNICEF and the REO have a common understanding about the way forward, which will embrace some outlined priorities in 2020. “Child protection as it relates to the young population, priorities for providing quality education for children, addressing the issue of dropouts in schools, addressing the issue of teenage pregnancy, of course these are our priorities

Five rape accused freed …as complainants cannot be located, refuse to testify For this week alone, five men accused of varying sexual offences were freed of their respective charges, either because the complainants in their matters could not be located by the police or they have refused to offer evidence.

At the Demerara assizes on Monday, four men were acquitted after trial Judge Simone Morris-Ramlall directed the jury to return a formal not guilty verdict in their cases. In their matters, the complainants could not be located. These included the case of Kenneth Skeete who was accused of carnal knowledge of a girl between 15 and 16 years; Ken Bess for rape of a child under 16 years; Joel Damon for three counts of incest by a male and Dhanraj Baldeo, who was charged for buggery and indecent assault of a male.

Meanwhile, over at the Essequibo assizes, on Tuesday, Mahendra Seemangal was indicted on a charge which alleged that he raped a 12-year-old girl. He was however set free after the complainant refused to testify against him. In the circumstances, the trial Judge directed the jury to return a formal not guilty verdict.

that will continue into 2020,” he said.

Meanwhile, UNICEF’s Child Protection Officer, Ms. Patricia Gittens, revealed that some of the successes that both sides enjoyed in 2019 included access to much needed supplies at a cheaper cost that is available on the market. Further, it involved leadership that was provided by the REO and RHO in guaranteeing both the fiscal space and access to the services for children who needed it the most. “In this case, sadly those would be survivors of sexual violence, and that has been a unique success story for Guyana, because there are not many areas that we can speak to for a true integration of health and protection. So now we have more protected persons understanding the health system and vice versa,” Gittens said.

The UNICEF Child Protection Officer pointed out too that another major achievement for 2019 related to the visits that were undertaken by officials of Region Four

REO Pauline Lucas and UNICEF Deputy Country Representative for Guyana and Suriname, Irfan Akhtar, display the signed MOU in the presence of RHO, Dr Quincy Jones and UNICEF’s Child Protection Officer, Patricia Gittens. and UNICEF to Region One with regards to the Venezuelan migration issue. She revealed that this served as an ongoing success story and ongoing priority.

“Given that this Venezu-

elan issue is a protracted situation, and in many countries you will not find that the government understands that UNICEF treats certain issue as an emergency even though it’s not declared as one, I think

REO’s office with Dr. Jones and the rest of the team truly saw it as an emergency issue for Guyana and they were one of the top partners that responded as quickly as possible,” Gittens added.

PAGE 24

Kaieteur News

Saturday December 07, 2019

Saturday December 07, 2019

Kaieteur News

PAGE 25

Footballers injured after bus Trickster jailed for selling BMW topples on Linden Highway he doesnt own

One of the injured footballers A football team missed their intended match yesterday evening after the bus they were travelling in toppled several times on the Linden Soesdyke Highway.

According to information received, several players from the Capital Football Club were on their way to Georgetown at around 3pm when the incident occurred.

The vehicle reportedly suffered a blow out and the driver lost control of the bus which

then toppled several times before coming to a halt in the nearby bushes.

Several of the footballers were reportedly flung out of the bus as it flipped on the highway. Public-spirited persons who witnessed the accident stopped and rendered assistance.

Those seriously injured were rushed to the Mackenzie Hospital since that was the closest medical facility. Thankfully, there were no fatalities were.

GMSA to host over 80 exhibitors at Marketplace UncappeD Marketplace Uncapped 2019, the exhibition hosted by the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) is expected to have more than 80 local producers. The event is set for tomorrow, December 8, 2019 at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, East Bank Demerara.

The producers will have the opportunity to showcase an array of local products. The market day is aimed to promote agro-processing in Guyana. It will feature a variety of products from local agro-processors who have produced export-ready spices, seasonings, cooking sauces, condiments, concentrates, preserves, food items, beverages and snacks.

The event is also expected to highlight personal-care items, craft, jewellery and lots more.

Patrons can participate in the Savour the

Flavour competition which presents the opportunity to win large hampers comprising products on display at the exhibition. They will also have the opportunity to buy top-quality fresh fruits and vegetables grown by local farmers.

This year, UncappeD is promised to take the food court to the next level with live entertainment.

UncappeD is opened to the public and admission is free. Gates open at 10:00 hours.

The first UncappeD event was held at the Sophia Exhibition Complex in Georgetown in October 2017.

The event is being sponsored by GMSA, Sterling Products Limited, Demerara Distillers Limited, the Ministry of Business, NAMILCO, John Fernandes Limited, the Institute of Private Enterprise Development, and Tropical Shipping. (DPI)

A 58-year-old trader who was charged over a year ago for obtaining $2.2M by pretending that he could sell a BMW to a man was on Wednesday, last, jailed for the offence.

Compton Beckles, also known as Jumbie Pumpkin, of 166 Middle Road, La Penitence, had been charged jointly along with 38-yearold Julian Falcher.

However, the case against Falcher was dismissed.

They had both pleaded not guilty to the charge which stated that on November 27, 2018, at Georgetown, with intent to defraud, they obtained from Shaheed Ally, a total of $2.2M by falsely pretending that they were in a position to sell him a BMW vehicle.Beckles was on trial in the Georgetown Magistrates Courts. At the conclusion of the trial which was done in his absence, the magistrate ruled that she found sufficient evidence against Beckles and as such he should be convicted for the offence.

According to reports, Beckles told Ally that he was in a position to sell him a BMW motor car.

He then met with Ally and the cash was

Jailed: Compton Beckles handed over as part payment for the vehicle.After the man noticed that he was unable to contact Beckles he reported the matter.

The matter was investigated and Beckles was later arrested and charged.

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Kaieteur News

Saturday December 07, 2019

Saturday December 07, 2019

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Kaieteur News

UKAD calls for strict sanctions on Russia for state-sponsored doping

A man walks at the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) venue on the eve of the Fifth World Conference on Doping in Sport in Katowice, Poland. (Agencja Gazeta/Grzegorz Celejewski via REUTERS)

Saturday December 07, 2019 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) A group with which you're affiliated may be temporarily torn apart by politics and quarrels. If so, it's best to stay out of it. A friend could be having trouble and come to you for advice and help.

TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) Changes in your home could cause temporary frustration that creates some tension with family members. Perhaps you're cleaning, or refurnishing, and everyone is getting in everyone else's way.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Miscommunication with someone far away could lead to bruised egos, heightened emotions, and angry phone calls. Don't get sucked into a quarrel.

CANCER (June 21–July 22) Your psychoanalytical talents could be put to work today when misunderstandings come up.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) A person you're attracted to may seem to be interested in someone else. This could bring up your insecurities and jealousy. Don't make yourself crazy, Leo. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Someone is keeping secrets from you. We all have private issues we don't wish to share, Virgo, but this affects you.

Your intuition will probably tell you who this person is.

Try to get him or her to open up without exerting pressure.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Perhaps you planned to attend a group event but circumstances beyond your control got in the way.

Maybe it was canceled.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) A visitor who needs a little sympathy could visit you today. Your friend probably wants some advice about some problems. He or she could also bring information involving new scientific studies that you find fascinating.

SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) Some important plans, perhaps for a vacation or involving education in some way, could be temporarily blocked by circumstances beyond your control.

CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) A letter or phone call could bring upsetting news about money. Your first reaction may be to blame yourself or someone else, but the circumstances are probably beyond anyone's control.

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) Jealousy could rear its ugly head today. This may involve a romantic relationship. Jealousy is often groundless.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Nervous tension could cause a temporary malaise that keeps your energy low today. Tasks and chores need to be done, Pisces, so you will probably drag yourself up and try to finish them in spite of the way you feel.

(Reuters) - The World Anti-Doping Agency must impose the “strongest possible sanctions” on Russia for its state-sponsored doping because athletes around the world have suffered as a result, the UK Anti-Doping (UKAD) agency said yesterday.

A WADA compliance committee recommended last week that Russia receive a four-year Olympic ban, which would keep it out of next year’s Tokyo Games, as part of a sanctions package to punish Moscow for having provided the agency with doctored and incomplete laboratory data.

The compliance c o m m i t t e e ’ s recommendations will be put to the executive committee at meetings in Paris on Monday.

“The UK Anti-Doping Athlete Commission is calling on the members of the WADA Executive Committee (ExCo) to implement the strongest possible sanctions to protect sport when they meet next week,” it said in a statement.

“We all have a genuine interest in ensuring athlete welfare and fair play stay at the heart of the sports movement, regardless of nationality.

“As a result of the systematic and institutional Russian doping scandal, many athletes from many nationalities have had their

Battle lines drawn for...

From page 28 again we have to thank the sponsors for coming on board and making this a reality which is certainly a blessing for the players who deserve the recognition for their efforts throughout the years.”

The correspondence added, “The fans must also be commended for their unwavering support during this period because without them, the format would not have grown in this exponential manner and would not have provided the platform for players to be compensated for their talents. Fans and players are of similar importance as sponsors.”

The release concluded, “Finally the lawmen must also be praised for their contributions in making the tournament incident free by carrying out their duties admirably. They have provided the requisite security needed to allow for an enabling environment for officials, spectators and players.” The grand finale will occur on December 14th at the same venue.

medals, moment on the podium and health violated, and many Russian athletes have fallen victim to an oppressive doping system.”

RUSADA was initially suspended after a 2015 WADA report found evidence of widespread statesponsored doping in Russian sport involving athletes across many sports.

UKAD also called on the

International Paralympic and Olympic Committees to impose sanctions on Russia.

“We believe WADA should implement a total ban of Russian athletes in all competitions until the international community... have confidence that cheating on this scale has been eliminated and that integrity in sport can begin to be restored,” it said.

PAGE 28

Saturday December 07, 2019

Kaieteur News

NBA roundup: Harden withstands elbow, helps Rockets top Raptors James Harden scored six of his 23 points in the fourth quarter after leaving the game briefly at the end of the third with a head injury and the visiting Houston Rockets defeated the Toronto Raptors 119-109 Thursday night.

After Harden attempted a running floater near the end of the third, Serge Ibaka accidentally hit Harden in the head with an elbow or forearm.

Harden was on his back for a few minutes before going to the dressing room on his own power. He returned early in the fourth quarter.

Russell Westbrook had 19 points, 13 rebounds and 11 assists while shooting just 7-for-27, while Ben McLemore led the Rockets in scoring with 28 points and eight 3-pointers.

Pascal Siakam had 24 points and nine rebounds for the Raptors, who have lost two in a row. Fred VanVleet added 20 points, Kyle Lowry had 19, Norman Powell had 14 and Ibaka 10.

Washington Wizards 119 Philadelphia 76ers 113 Bradley Beal had 26

points and 10 rebounds, and Washington held on to upset visiting Philadelphia to end a three-game losing streak.

Rookie Rui Hachimura had a team-high 27 points and Davis Bertans added 25 points, including a career-high seven 3pointers for the Wizards, who had lost three straight.

Joel Embiid totaled 26 points and 21 rebounds (along with eight t u r n o v e r s ) , a n d To b i a s Harris scored 33 points for the Sixers, who had won four straight and eight of nine.

Denver Nuggets 129 - New York Knicks 92 Will Barton led eight Nuggets in double figures with 17 points as visiting Denver ran away from New York.

The one-sided victory allowed the Nuggets, who snapped a two-game losing streak, to pull their starters early on the front end of a back-to-back set that finds them in Boston on Friday.

Jerami Grant chipped in with 16 points for the Nuggets, while Monte Morris had 15, Malik Beasley and Jamal Murray 14 apiece, Juancho Hernangomez 12 and Paul Millsap 10. Mitchell Robinson paced the Knicks with 17 points in New York’s fifth straight home defeat and eighth consecutive loss overall.

Phoenix Suns 139 - New Orleans Pelicans 132 (OT) Devin Booker scored 44 points as Phoenix improved to 2-1 on its four-game road trip with a victory in New Orleans.

Booker made 13 of 24 fieldgoal attempts, including 5 of 11 on 3-pointers, and all 13 free throws to lead six Suns in double figures. Frank Kaminsky added 20 points, including a game-high six in overtime. Cameron Johnson scored 18, Kelly Oubre Jr. had 14 points and 15 rebounds, Ricky Rubio had 13 points and 15 assists, and Mikal Bridges scored 11.

JJ Redick scored 26, Jrue Holiday had 23, Brandon

Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) drives to the net against Toronto Raptors guard Fred VanVleet (23) and forward OG Anunoby (3) at Scotiabank Arena. (John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports) Ingram added 21 before fouling out, Lonzo Ball had 20 points and 11 assists, and

Jaxson Hayes scored 17 for the Pelicans, who lost their seventh game in a row since a

124-121 victory at Phoenix on Nov. 21.

(Field Level Media)

Pele’s last Brazil jersey sells Thabang Moroe: Cricket South Africa suspends chief executive for 30,000 euros in Italy AFP - The jersey worn

by Brazilian football legend Pele during his final match for the five-time world champions has sold for 30,000 euros ($33,000) in an auction in Italy.

The three-time World Cup winner wore the jersey in a friendly against Yugoslavia at the Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro in July 1971, the last time he played for Brazil.

Pele, 79, regarded as among the greatest footballers of all-time, scored 77 goals for Brazil in 92 appearances.

The shirt was the highlight of objects which went under the hammer at the Bolaffi auction house in Turin on Thursday.

Other sporting memorabilia included the yellow jersey won by Italian cycling star Fausto Coppi on his way to victory in the 1952 Tour de France, which sold for 25,000 euros.

A rare blue Juventus

BBC Sport - Cricket South Africa has suspended chief executive Thabang Moroe following allegations of misconduct.

A number of journalists had their media passes revoked last weekend, with Moroe saying he was unhappy with their reporting on the governing body.

The passes were later reinstated, but the South African Cricketers’ Association (SACA) has since called on Moroe and the

CSA board to resign.

England travel to South Africa on 13 December for a four-match Test series.

There is currently no selection panel in place for the series against England, which begins on 26 December.

Standard Bank also said yesterday it would not renew its sponsorship deal of the men’s team because of the issues at CSA. The SACA said poor leadership had put South African cricket in a

“disastrous position”.

“It is ludicrous to expect players to be selected by unknown selectors,” SACA chief Tony Irish said.

“We know the players will give 110% for South Africa on the field, but it is critical a proper professional structure is in place around the team.”

Irish ruled out the possibility of a player strike before the England series, saying industrial action was “a very last resort”.

The last Brazil jersey won by football legend Pele sold at the Bolaffi auction house in Turin. (AFP / Marco Bertorello) jersey worn by Italian defender Luciano Spinosi in the final of the 1971 UEFA Cup sold for 9,400 euros.

Another shirt worn by Argentina legend Diego Maradona during his time

playing for Napoli in the 1989-90 season sold for 7,500 euros.

A bat used by US basketball great Michael Jordan during his brief foray into baseball fetched 425 euros.

Thabang Moroe (left, with former Test bowler Morne Morkel) was appointed chief executive in July 2018. (Getty Images)

Saturday December 07, 2019

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Kaieteur News

Reg. 6 and 10 synthetic Joshua lightens the load as Ruiz Jr piles on the pounds tracks almost complete for 2020 (Reuters) - Lean-looking British challenger Anthony Joshua weighed in more than three stones lighter than world heavyweight champion Andy Ruiz Jr ahead of their title rematch in Saudi Arabia today.

Joshua hit the scales at 16 stones and 13 pounds (107.5kg), the former champion’s lightest ever weight for a world title fight, at the Diriyah venue near the capital Riyadh yesterday.

Mexican-American Ruiz, wearing a sombrero and stepping up after Joshua, was 20 stones and three pounds (128.3kg) — heavier than he was in the first showdown between the two at New York’s Madison Square Garden in June.

The pair then shared a handshake in their final face to face meeting before the fight.

Ruiz clambered into the

ring at 19 stone and two pounds last time, when he came in at short notice and dethroned the previously undefeated Joshua with a seventh round stoppage in one of boxing’s biggest upsets.

Joshua was 17 stone nine pounds for that New York fight which has left him facing a make-or-break bout to reclaim the belts and maintain the dream of a unified title despite initially dismissing it all as a “minor setback”.

Today’s WBA, IBF and WBO heavyweight title rematch has been billed the ‘Clash on the Dunes’ by promoters eager to accept the highly lucrative if also controversial Saudi invitation.

The WBC title is held by American Deontay Wilder, who is due to fight a rematch with Britain’s undefeated Tyson Fury in February after

a draw between them in December 2018.

“I feel good. The weighin is important but as heavyweights it don’t really matter... skills pay the bills,” Joshua told Sky Sport television.

“He’s a big lad, they should make a superheavyweight division,” added Joshua of Ruiz, who will be hoping to use his weight as a weapon against the more athletic and chiselled challenger.

“The art of the game is to hit and not get hit, and avoid those punches... I’ll definitely be beating him to the punch tomorrow night.”

Ruiz, who had talked in the run-up about losing weight but has been hungry for more than just success on yesterday’s evidence, has suggested Joshua could regret shedding the pounds when the going gets tough.

Andy Ruiz Jr and Anthony Joshua go head to head during the weigh-in at Al Faisaliah Hotel, Diriyah, Saudi Arabia.

(Action Images via Reuters/Andrew Couldridge)

Man Utd announce tie-up with China online giant Alibaba AFP - Manchester United yesterday announced a partnership with China’s technology giant Alibaba Group, boosting the club’s engagement with its Chinese fanbase.

The partnership will see Manchester United content, including selected first-team matches, highlights and localised original productions, available to around 700 million consumers across Alibaba’s platforms, according to the Premier League club.

There will also be a dedicated Manchester United channel on Alibaba’s video-streaming platform, Youku.

It will feature Academy,

women’s and first-team tour games, plus first-team matches shown on-demand and global and China-specific content.

The partnership will also involve collaborating to create a future Manchester United flagship store on Tmall, Alibaba’s online retail platform, which will become the official online marketplace store selling Manchester United merchandise t o Chinese fans.

“We’re proud of our passionate and loyal following around the world and our Chinese fans are a huge part of that,” said Manchester United Group managing director Richard

Arnold.

“We are always looking for new ways to engage with fans there and this partnership with Alibaba enables them to connect with the club directly through one of China’s most popular video streaming platforms.”

Alibaba Group president Michael Evans said: “Manchester United is one of the most popular and successful football teams in the world, with a sizable and passionate fan base in China.

“We share the same goal, which is to provide fans with one-of-a-kind online content consumption and shopping that leverages the latest technology.”

Department of Public Information, Presenter and Editor Stacy Carmichael with Minister of Social Cohesion Hon. Dr. George Norton during an interview. (Kennyann Bacchus) DPI, Guyana, Completion of the two new synthetic tracks in Region 6 (East Berbice Corentyne) and Region 10 (Upper DemeraraBerbice) is on the horizon.

Minister of Social Cohesion, the Hon. Dr. George Norton gave the assurance in an exclusive DPI interview on Thursday last. ”We are certain that before the end of this year we will reach a stage of the laying of asphalt so come 2020 it would only need the accommodation of the synthetic materials and the laying of it (synthetic material) and of course other infrastructure surrounding those tracks.

Then we will have our third synthetic track for athletics in Guyana,” he explained.

Dr. Norton said this would boost local athletes’ preparation for the 2021 Junior CARIFTA Games, which Guyana will host for the first time.

The minister believes that such initiatives are necessary to develop and strengthen sports and sports-related services in order for Guyana to assume its “rightful place” in sport regionally.

“I will never feel satisfied or contented bearing in mind that for 50 years Guyana only has one Olympic medal that being a bronze in boxing. We have to do much better at that, we have a lot of catching up to do and we need to be prepared to do the work.

“We are working with the associations, different sporting fraternities and we

do wish to contribute more than what we are doing at this time, but we will get there,” Dr. Norton vowed.

Region 10 will have an eight-lane synthetic track and field facility which will include a football pitch, security fencing, drainage and restroom among other features. Region 6 will also get an eight-lane 400-metre track.

BK International Incorporated was awarded the $141Million contract for the Region 6 track, to be built at Burnham Park, in New Amsterdam, Berbice.

Meanwhile, Builders Hardware and General Supplies secured the $179Million contract for the facility at Bayroc Community Centre Ground, Wismar, Linden.

Smalta Girls Under-11 Football Tournament semis and final set for today The Semi Finals and Final of the Smalta Girls Under-11 football tournament will be played today Saturday 7th December starting at 13:00hrs at the Ministry of Education (MOE) Ground on Carifesta Avenue.

Today’s fixtures listed below shows: 12/7/2019 Semi Finals and Finals MOE Ground Match # 13:00 hrs Smith Memorial vs South Riumveldt 23 5 to 8 13:00 hrs Timehri vs St Stephens 24 5 to 8 13:50 hrs North Georgetown vs Tucville 25 S e m i Finals 13:50 hrs West Riumveldt vs Redeemer 26 S e m i Finals 14:40 hrs Loser of 23 vs Loser of 24 27 7&8 14:40 hrs Winner of 23 vs Winner of 24 28 5&6 15:30 hrs Loser of 25 vs Loser of 26 29 3&4 15:30 hrs Winner of 25 vs Winner of 26 30 Finals

PAGE 30

Guyoil Schools Football Competition to be played at GFF Training Facility Due to the inclement weather and the need to complete the Guyoil Schools football tournament before the closing of school for the holidays, the Guyana Football Federation through President Wayne Forde has Fixtures: 12/7/2019 10:00 hrs 11:30 Hrs 15:30 Hrs 12/8/2019 11:00 hrs 15;30 Hrs 12/9/2019 15:15 hrs 16:30 Hrs 12/10/2019 15:15 hrs 16:30 Hrs 12/11/2019 15:15 hrs 16:30 Hrs

Saturday December 07, 2019

Kaieteur News

offered the use of the GFF Training Facility to facilitate the completion of the tournament to the Petra Organisation, organisers of the tournament.

In this regard matches will be contested over the next

GFF Training Facility Marian Academy V/S Lodge SecondaryV/S President College V/S GFF Training Facility Bishops Annandale GFF Training Facility Marian Academy St John’s GFF Training Facility Cummings Lodge Marian Academy GFF Training Facility President College Lodge Secondary

five days starting today from 10:00hrs.

The Petra Organisation would like to thank the GFF President and his executives also the schools for accommodating these changes.

St Stanislaus Cummings Lodge Queens College Match # V/S Charlestown V/S St John’s Match # V/S Bishops 30 V/S Queens College Match # V/S St Stanislaus V/S Charlestown Match # V/S Bishops V/S Annandale

Match # 40 37 39 38 36 41 43 44 42 45

GFA meets today to discuss GFF/NAMILCO U-17 League Affiliates of the Georgetown Football Association (GFA) which recently elected a new executive to chart the way forward for the game will meet today at the GFC Pavilion to discuss and plan for the GFF/ NAMILCO Thunderbolt

Flour Power U-17 League.

This league which is sponsored by the National Milling Company of Guyana (NAMILCO) is in its second of five years and the GFA, which has been lagging behind due to not having an administrative body in place

to govern the sport, will be making efforts to kick off the tournament following today’s meeting. Clubs are being asked to send two representatives each inclusive of a player. Clubs are also being advised to walk with their uniforms. Meeting time is 14:00hrs.

Battle lines drawn for Rio Quarterfinal matchups The battle lines have been drawn as the fate of several teams will be decided this evening when the quarterfinal round in the inaugural Rio Indoor Streetball Championship kicks off at the National Gymnasium, Mandela Avenue.

The four matches programmed for the evening are expected to thrill the large gathering that is expected to descend on the venue to witness the thrilling action.

Tournament hosts and dark horse Rio All-Stars will open the night’s proceedings against Future Stars from 20:00hrs. Rio All-Stars possess quality players in the form Andrew Murray, Jermin Junior, Job Caesar and Kelsey Benjamin and will fancy their chances of progressing to the semifinal round.

However, standing in their way will be the quartet of Kevin Cummings, Keron Solomon, Jamal Cozier and Rondell Bowman. A major rivalry will be revisited in the second match from 21:00hrs, when Gold is Money take aim at Leopold Street.

Gold is Money will

depend on the likes of Randolph Wagner, Jamal Pedro, Keifer Brandt and Phillip Rowley to shift the balance in their favorite, while Darren Benjamin, Carl Tudor, Mark Jhalu and Okeene Fraser will be tasked with ensuring a Leopold win.

In the third match, National heavyweight, Sparta Boss, oppose the pride of the East Coast of Demerara BV at 22:00hrs. The East La Penitence unit are considered one of the favorites in the event and will be expected to overturn the challenge of their impending opponent led by their star studded cast of Gregory Richardson, Sheldon Shepherd, Eusi Phillips and Ryan Hackett.

Meanwhile, the final match of the evening can be described as a virtual final when Bent Street lock horns with Back Circle from 23:00hrs.

For many pundits Bent Street are viewed as the safe choice for a final’s appearance due to their plethora of national team players such as Daniel Wilson, Clive Nobrega, Pernell Schultz,

Akel Clarke and William Europe.

However, Back Circle are a giant in their own regards and with the fate of the entire East Ruimveldt community on their shoulders, a clinical showing will be expected from the quintet of Selwyn Williams, Stephon McLean, Jermin Beckles, Delon Kelly and surprise package Trayon Bobb.

According to an official release from tournament coordinator Three Peat Promotions, “The excitement and anticipation in the air and within the respective communities cannot be described. The teams are well oiled and geared to produce thrilling action which will certainly entertain and provide drama for the large spectatorship.”

The release further said, “This level of preparation and anticipation certainly bodes well for the remainder of the knockout section as the team’s are desperate for a place in the final four and chance at the coveted prize of one million dollar. Once (Continued on page 25)

R. Sookraj and Sons Outback Adventures Resort Rapid Chess Open

Anthony Drayton defeats strong field to win competition in Berbice National player Anthony Drayton turned back the challenges of a strong field of players to take top honours in the R. Sookraj & Sons Outback Adventures Berbice Rapid Chess Open held on Sunday last at the University of Guyana Berbice campus.

The tournament, which was organised by the Berbice Chess Association (BCA), saw one of the strongest fields of players to assemble in recent times for a chess competition at the University of Guyana Berbice Campus.

Drayton the current (2019) Senior National Chess Champion won from a field that included two former senior national chess champions in Wendell Meusa (2009, 2013 and 2018) and Kriskal Persaud (2007, 2008). However, he had to battle hard to secure championship honours as he ended on six points the same as Meusa. Drayton had however defeated Meusa in their head to head clash earlier.

The GCF Treasurer Davion Mars, put away his pens, calculator and cheque books to secure third place, ending on fiveand-a-half points.

Former champion Kriskal Persaud had to be content with the fourth prize and the best Berbice player on show with four and a half points.

The surprise of the tournament was another Berbician. The fourth form Queen’s College Student Omesh Dyal, who hails from Port Mourant,

Anthony Drayton (at right) receives the First Prize from Yuvindra Sookraj Operations Manager of R. Sookraj & Sons Outback Adventures.

Corentyne, ended on four points to cop fifth place and the best junior player award.

Omesh credits his prizewinning performance in this competition to his playing the game at Queen’s College almost every day during the recess and lunch breaks.

Besides the first four prize-winners, who are all FIDE-rated players, the field also consisted of other 10 FIDE-rated players, including Loris Nathoo, Justino Da Silva, and Shiv Nandalall.

The trophies and other incentives were presented b y Yu v i n d r a S o o k r a j Operations Manager of the R. Sookraj and Sons Resort.

The competition was

played using the Swiss Format for seven rounds and was coordinated by K r i s h n a n a n d Raghunandan president of the BCA. The Association took the opportunity to express sincere thanks to the R. Sookraj and Sons Outback Adventures Resort of Betsy Ground, East, Canje for their kind sponsorship of the competition.

The Association also thanks the University of Guyana, Berbice Campus for allowing the use of its premises for the competition.

P r e s i d e n t Raghunandan also expressed the hope that the competition will become an annual affair.

From left - Yuvindra Sookraj Operations Manager of R. Sookraj & Sons Outback Adventures, Davion Mars, Anthony Drayton, Omesh Dyal, Wendell Meusa, and Kriskal Persaud.

Saturday December 07, 2019

PAGE 31

Kaieteur News

Kohli masterclass silences Windies HYDERABAD, India, CMC – A breathtaking Virat Kohli masterclass dashed West Indies hop e s o f victory in the opening Tw e n t y 2 0 I n t e r n a t i o n a l h e r e F r i d a y, a s I n d i a trounced them by six wickets with eight balls to spare, to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.

Set an imposing 208 for victory at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, India found themselves off the pace somewhat on 96 for one at the end of the 11th over, with the required run rate climbing to nearly 12-½ per over.

However, Kohli came to his side’s rescue with a sparkling career-best unbeaten 94 off 50 balls, which saw India plunder the last 112 runs needed for victory off just 46 deliveries.

Opener KL Rahul provided the early impetus, smashing 62 from 40 balls to help lay the foundation for India’s highest-ever successful run chase in T20 Internationals.

West Indies were in the contest thanks to Shimron H e t m y e r ’s m a i d e n T 2 0 International half-century, as they piled up 207 for five off their 20 overs – their fifth highest total in the format and highest in nearly three-and-a-half years.

The left-hander blasted 56 from 41 deliveries, opener Evin Lewis stroked 40, captain Kieron Pollard struck 37 and Brandon King, an unbeaten 31.

They were in danger of stalling and falling short of the 200-run mark before Jason Holder lashed a nineball 24 not out to help the Caribbean side gather 63 runs from the last five overs.

‘That’s how I do it in my notebook’ - Virat Kohli to Kesrick Williams, India v West Indies, 1st T20I, Hyderabad, December 6, 2019 © BCCI For West Indies, the defeat was the 18th in their last 22 T20 Internationals inside the last two years, and their seventh straight loss to India.

Sent in, they lost Lendl Simmons for two in the s e c o n d o v e r, n i c k i n g a Deepak Chahar outswinger to slip but a series of strong partnerships stabilised the innings and put them in command.

Lewis, who punched three fours and four sixes in a 17-ball cameo, put on 51 off 26 balls for the second wicket with King, who in turn added a further 37 for the third wicket with Hetmyer.

When King missed a charge at left-arm spinner Ravindra Jadeja and was stumped off the first ball of the 11th over after counting three fours and a six, Hetmyer and Pollard combined in a 71-run, fourth wicket partnership t o d o m i n a t e I n d i a ’s bowling.

Capitalising on unusually poor fielding,

Hetmyer belted two fours and four sixes in a 41-ball knock while Pollard – twice let off by Rohit Sharma in the 17th over – clobbered a four and four sixes off just 19 deliveries.

Leg spinner Yuzvendra Chahal broke the stand when Hetmyer holed out to deep square in the 18th over and Pollard followed two balls later, bowled leg stump by a googly.

Holder ended the innings with a flourish, however, smashing a four and a couple of sixes in an unbroken 34-run, sixth wicket partnership with Denesh Ramdin (11 not out).

India then enjoyed a breezy start to their reply with Rahul posting 30 off 20 balls for the first wicket with Rohit (8).

When left-arm spinner Khary Pierre (2-44) got Rohit to hole out to Hetmyer at deep mid-wicket in the fourth over, West Indies were fancying their chances of making further inroads but Kohli arrived to

turn the tide.

He smashed half-dozen fours and sixes, posting exactly 100 for the second wicket with Rahul before adding 48 for the third wicket with wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant (18), as India reclaimed the momentum.

Kohli struggled initially at the start of his innings, scraping 20 from his first 20 balls before exploding to reach his half-century off 35 balls with an audacious punch over the ropes at long off off the expensive Holder.

Rahul carved out five fours and four sixes before finding Pollard in the deep off Pierre in the 14th over and Pant bludgeoned two sixes before picking out Holder at long off with leftarm pacer Sheldon Cottrell.

By the time Shreyas Iyer (4) drove a return catch to Pollard at the end of the 18th over, India required just 15 from the last 12 balls, and Kohli tore into seamer Kesrick Williams in the penultimate over with a couple of sixes as India won emphatically.

Nedd and Julien lead West Indies U-19 to victory over England by 36 runs

Ashmead Nedd captured 5-27.

NORTH SOUND, Antigua, - Ashmead Nedd and Leonardo Julien piloted the West Indies Under-19s to a 36-run triumph over England Under-19s in the first one-dayer of the TriNations Series at the Vivian Richards Cricket Ground here yesterday.

Kimani Melius in his first official match as captain, led the West Indies Under-19s to the 36 runs victory over England in the opening match. Melius only scored 07 as the hosts made 164 all out in 46 overs, with Leonardo Julien top-scoring with 69.

In response, however, the English struggled, losing wickets steadily as Ashmead Nedd took a five

wicket haul - 5 for 27 as the young Englishmen were all out for 128 in 30.4 overs, with Melius taking two catches during the match.

Scores: WEST INDIES U19s 164 off 46 overs (Leonardo Julien 69, Mbeki Joseph 38; Kasey Aldridge 4-38) beat ENGLAND U19s 128 off 30.3 overs (Thomas Clark 22, Ashmead Nedd 5-27) by 36 runs.

WEST INDIES RISING STARS U19 TRI- SERIES SCHEDULE All matches take place in Antigua, starting at 9.00 am Fri, 6th Dec 2019: ODI 1 - West Indies v England Sir Vivian Richards Stadium (Windies won by 36

runs) Sun, 8th Dec 2019: ODI 2 - West Indies v England Sir Vivian Richards Stadium Tues, 10th Dec 2019 ODI 3 - West Indies v Sri Lanka Sir Vivian Richards Stadium Wed, 11th Dec 2019 ODI 4 - England v Sri Lanka Sir Vivian Richards Stadium Thu, 12th Dec 2019 ODI 5 - West Indies v England Sir Vivian Richards Stadium Sat, 14th Dec 2019 ODI 6 - West Indies v Sri Lanka

Coolidge Cricket Ground Sun, 15th Dec 2019 ODI 7 - Sri Lanka v England Coolidge Cricket Ground Tue, 17th Dec 2019 ODI 8 - West Indies v Sri Lanka Coolidge Cricket Ground Thu, 19th Dec 2019 ODI 9 - England v Sri Lanka Coolidge Cricket Ground Sat, 21st Dec 2019 ODI 10 - FINAL Coolidge Cricket Ground

PAGE 32

Saturday December 07, 2019

Kaieteur News

GFF-ALWAYS Championship Cup 2019

Matches continue today at Providence; Fruta Conquerors, Foxy Ladies, Lady Panthers post opening wins

Lady Panthers FC.

Foxy Ladies goal scorers.

Competition in the Guyana Football FederationALWAYS Championship Cup featuring six female clubs is set to continue today at the Guyana Football Federation National Training Centre at Providence, East Bank Demerara.

Today’s double header will see Lady Panthers taking on Foxy Ladies from 13:00hrs with the main attraction between the Guyana Police Force and Fruta Conquerors from 14:30hrs.

Tomorrow’s action will see Lady Panthers and Fruta Conquerors opening from 13:00hrs to be followed by a clash between Santos and the Guyana Police Force (GPF).

All teams are being urged to be at the playing venue at least one hour prior to the start of their respective matches in order to facilitate a prompt kick off.

Meanwhile, in last weekend’s opening matches, Fruta Conquerors recorded the largest margin of victory, whipping Santos 10-0, while the Guyana Police Force lost back to back matches to Foxy Ladies 0-2 and Lady Panthers 3-0.

Conquerors were led to their huge win thanks to Abiosi Heywood who led with a hat-trick (19th, 29th, 39th) with a brace each from National forward Tiandi Smith (15th, 36th), Lakeisha

Peasron (10th, 55th) and Shayma Daniels in the 44th and 52nd minutes. The other goal came off the boot of Shanic Thornhill in the 62nd minute.

Foxy Ladies in their 2-0 win over Guyana Police Force got their two goals either side of play from Shontel in the 11th minute and Janel Edmonson in the 36th minute.

Lady Panthers’ 3-0 win, which was also over the G P F, w a s b u i l t a r o u n d strikes from Bliz Hope in the 13th minute, Albau Marquez from the penalty spot in the 55th minute with the third and final goal coming from Shavey Reuben in the 60th minute.

Fruta Conquerors goal scorers.

Archery Guyana part of GOA Olympic Solidarity Admin Course The Guyana Olympic Association/Olympic Solidarity sponsored Sport Administrators’ Course conducted at Olympic House, GOA’s headquarters at Lilliendaal, Greater Georgetown, was successfully concluded on Sunday evening with 21 participants receiving certificates in Sports Administration.

Archery Guyana’ representative Nicholas Hing was among the 21 participants who came from a variety of sporting disciplines; Athletics, rugby, cycling, squash, karate and judo, to name a few.

The 4-day course was held from November 28 to December 1 and included presentations on The Olympic Movement, Volunteerism, Sports for All, Strength & Conditioning, Sport & Law, Budgeting, National Team Selection, Drugs & Doping, Combining

The 21 successful participants of the Sport Administrators Course pose with their certificates. Seated are some of the presenters. (from left): Mr Claude Blackmore, Mr Hector Edwards, GOA President Mr K.A. Juman-Yassin, Mr Garfield Wiltshire, Mr Charles Corbin and Mrs Mayfield Taylor-Trim.

Education with Sports, Communication and Conducting Meetings, Sports Nutrition, Governance of Organisations, Planning & Decision Making, Women in

Sports, Challenges Facing Developed Countries, Mental Health in Sports.

Some of the high-profile speakers who addressed the participants were Chief

Justice (ag) Roxanne George, Attorney-at-Law Emily Dodson, GOA SecretaryGeneral Hector Edwards, GOA Vice President Charles Corbin and Mr. Garfield

Wiltshire.

Coming out of this course, Archery Guyana hopes to make even further strides, not only in its development of the sport, but also its administration as a local

governing body for the sport of archery and to develop good relationships with other sports organisations, government and the private sector.

Kaieteur News

Saturday December 07, 2019

Caribbean Boxing C/Ships in Trinidad

Hunte secures lone win for Guyana on a night of controversy

S

witched from Pleasantville Sports Complex in South Trinidad to the National Cycling Velodrome in Couva, the 2019 Caribbean Boxing Championships commenced last evening in Central Trinidad with Guyana starting as defending Champions.

According to reports f r o m t h e Tw i n - I s l a n d Republic, the opening night was riddled with emotional drama and controversial decisions for the Guyanese pugilists with the lone bright spot for Guyana being super heavyweight Kevin Hunte, who knocked out Grenadian Andy Andall in the first round.

Guyana’s light welterweight Colin Lewis lost to Jorge Morian from largest Caribbean Island of Cuba. Cuba is known as the Power house in Caribbean Amateur Boxing and the fight between Morian and Lewis from the South American mainland, was a tough fight.

Although Lewis wobbled the Cuban several times in the third and final round, his last-minute flurry was too little too late to gain him the verdict in a very competitive bout which was won on points by the Spanish speaking fighter.

Caribbean Middleweight Champion Desmond Amsterdam surprisingly lost on points to Grenadian Triston Brooks.

After the bout the Guyanese corner protested the results but was told that the new rules state that such protest must be done while the referee is still in the ring

Kevin Hunte and not after he has left the ring.

In another dramatic turnaround of results, Guyanese welterweight Kevin McKenzie was declared the winner in his fight against Jamaican Joshua Frazier.

The Guyanese camp had already started their celebrations when the Boxers were then called back into the ring and the decision was reversed handing the Jamaican the victory.

Three Guyanese were expected to be on show last evening as Alesha Jackman makes her overseas debut in the Youth Women’s Novices division when she comes against T&T’s Elias Sharika.

Richard Howard was to match gloves with Hosein Nyrell of T&T and Darren France was to fight Daniel Sylvester of Grenada in scheduled action last night.

(Sean Devers)

PAGE 33

Virat Kohli lofts the ball over cover Š BCCI

Kohli masterclass silences Windies

Spo

rt

Left-hander Shimron Hetmyer goes on the attack during his maiden T20 International half-century yesterday.

Caribbean Boxing C/Ships in Trinidad

Hunte secures lone win for Guyana on a night of controversy

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