Kaieteur News

Kaieteur News

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Tuesday December 11, 2018

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

EDITORIAL

BREXIT AT A BREAKING POINT Two and a half years ago, a referendum was held in Britain on June 23, 2016, in which 51.9 percent of Brits voted to leave the European Union (EU). Since then, progress has been slow and both sides seem frustrated over unresolved issues. Among them is the demand by the EU for Britain to pay billions of pounds to the EU. Then there is the border problem between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. The EU has refused to discuss trade until the Irish border issue is resolved, because any trade deal without a settlement of the border will allow Britain to have the same benefits as being in the EU. If there is no agreement on the border issue, trade would be based on the rules of the World Trade Organization. And then there is the status and rights of the 1.2 million British people living in Europe and the 3.2 million Europeans living in the United Kingdom (UK), of which 80 percent of them will be eligible for permanent residence by the 2019 exit date. Britain’s withdrawal from the EU is mired in uncertainty because it is the first country to leave the bloc, which means that the process is untested. Meanwhile, as the negotiations proceed, the economic growth rate in the UK has deteriorated, its currency (pound) has dropped and the financial sector is haemorrhaging. Experts have predicted that Brexit could erode the role of London as a premier international financial centre and catapult the world’s fifth largest economy into crisis with the loss of jobs, taxes and other revenue. Recent polls in the UK have shown that the majority of citizens are now opposed to Britain leaving the EU. Several people, including former Prime Minister Tony Blair, have suggested that the UK could change its position and remain in the EU. His opinion has gained popular support, as the public became aware of the cost and difficulties of Brexit. Yesterday Theresa May ruled out abandoning Brexit after the European Court of Justice (ECJ) ruled that the UK could stop the Article 50 process without seeking EU approval. According to The Guardian, “The court in Luxembourg delighted remain campaigners by issuing an emergency ruling on Monday (yesterday) morning that under EU law, the UK was able to unilaterally halt the Article 50 process – fuelling renewed calls for a second referendum. Speaking to MPs later as she fought to defend her decision to delay a Commons vote on her deal, the prime minister admitted the ECJ’s ruling meant she was able to revoke Article 50 – a decision her government had bitterly opposed. May was challenged by MP Liz Saville Roberts, who said the European court ruling meant it was in the prime minister’s gift to personally take Brexit off the table. The prime minister indicated that was true but made clear that she had no plans to do such a thing. It would be a short-term fix, she said, but would betray voters who won the 2016 referendum. “Revoking Article 50 would mean going back on the vote of the referendum and remaining in the EU,” May said. The pro-Brexit environment secretary, Michael Gove, played down the significance of the ECJ decision. “We voted very clearly – 17.4 million people sent a clear message that they wanted to leave the European Union. And that also means leaving the jurisdiction of the European Court of Justice,” he said. “So this case is all very well, but it doesn’t alter either the referendum vote or the clear intention of the government to make sure that we leave on 29 March.” While the UK could abandon Brexit before 29 March, the date on which its withdrawal from the EU under Article 50 takes effect, staging a second referendum would require the EU’s agreement to extend Article 50 beyond its normal two-year time limit.

Editor’s Note; If your sent letter was not published and you felt its contents were valid and devoid of libel or personal attacks, please contact us by phone or email.

Corruption, Perception and Guyana’s Future Dear Editor, Please permit me some space in your letter columns to articulate on the issue of corruption in Guyana. As last week came to a close, I was gripped by the internet coverage of the on-going soap opera in the National Assembly. The 2019 Budget Speeches had everything, high-drama, pathos, comedy, accusations of betrayal and numerous references to corruption. This is the one thing that stood out to me, corruption. The fact that our politics is primarily attached to corruption and the misuse of taxpayers’ money rather than the common characterdriven political killers of sexual exploits or “Watergate” style lies. Much has been said this week about corruption from both sides of the House. So I

hit the internet to see how corrupt Guyana is perceived by the world or to be more precise the U.S. News and World Report for 2018 that states, “The phenomenon (corruption) is as old as human history…” It has certainly been a constant companion of our country’s lack of development and its intrinsic to our politics, since our independence in 1966. We haven’t really been able to get a handle on it. Until now…because out of the 180 countries s u r v e y e d , G u y a n a ’s Corruption Perception Index of 2018 is 38 (rank 91). The higher the index number, the less corrupt your country is perceived. To put it into perspective, New Zealand is perceived as the least corrupt country in the world with a CPI of 89

(Rank 1). So, Guyana isn’t doing too badly, only 51 index points off, 37 to go in the rankings. What is even more interesting is the fact that in 2012 our CPI was 28! It has only been in the past three years that Guyana has risen in this table, confirmed clearly by the “score and rank changes of 2016-2017” which puts Guyana as the ninth (9th) highest rise in the world with a 4-point rise in CPI and a whopping 17point rise in the rankings! Surely, this is cause for celebration. This shows that Guyana is getting a handle on corruption and with its new approach to Government accountability, transparency and administrative systems, it seems to be working. The Opposition can bleat

on about corruption in the Ministry of Infrastructure, Education and Finance but this is all that they can do because the statistics, the current facts, not the ones from 1984, do not lie. After three years, the government ministries are still trying to unravel and solve the numerous problems from the previous administration but there is still work to do. I trust that the government looks at the Corruption Perception Index, pats itself on that back and then get straight back to the task at hand, rebuilding our nation for all Guyanese and maybe we will be able to be one of the 80 countries in the 2020 U.S. News and World Report, Best Country rankings. Yours truly, Mark Thomas

Funding for the Cultural and Creative Industries Dear Editor, First of all, I want to thank Kaieteur News on deciding to focus on one of the tremendous yet relatively unheralded positive achievements in the 2019 budget, the allocation of $20 million grant towards the development of Cultural and Creative Industries. This is an initiative with tremendous implications for b o t h e c o n o m i c diversification and social cohesion, one that has not garnered commensurate media attention. While the original concept for this mechanism, submitted in 2017, was not funded in this year’s budget, the government should be highly commended for ensuring that it is available for 2019. Government funding that directly goes to the work of creative artists is critical for the development of the creative sector whether in developing or developed countries. And our artists should take serious notice of this allocation. There are a few clarifications that I want to make with regard to the article as carried. The first, and most important, regards to the paragraph, “Recalling this, Johnson has expressed concern that the project, if improperly managed, could see the funds being misappropriated through what he described as a

‘cesspool of corruption’ at the Department of Social Cohesion.” This paragraph is an unfortunate conflation of two separate points that I raised in the interview. The first relates to my on the record criticism of the former Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports prior to the change of administration in 2015 and its gross mismanagement of funding allocated for culture. This is clearly a situation that no longer obtains – one of the unwavering positions that I have when it comes to c u l t u r a l p o l i c y. T h e implementation of cultural programmes has to do with accountability of public expenditure when it comes to such programmes. Were there the least hint o f e v i d e n c e o f misappropriation of allocations for culture, I would have long resigned my position as advisor. While I can perhaps be accused of my mouth being muzzled, objective evidence of the drastic change in the management of cultural funding can be seen in the absence of negative scrutiny of cultural funds, since 2015, by commentators like Chris Ram, for whom the spending under the Sports and Arts Fund was a perennial source of alarm. For the past three years, allocations for culture have

remained controversy and scandal free and have been passed without comment in the national assembly. The second point conflated has to do with my standard insistence that even the most progressive initiatives such as this can, if sufficient caution is not taken, suffer from fairly avoidable implementation hurdles that endanger their l o n g - t e r m v i a b i l i t y, particularly with regard to governance. Minister with portfolio responsibility for culture, Dr. George Norton, has already given the assurance that awarded projects will “be evaluated for viability, impact and sustainability.” This is the sort of model that significantly distinguishes the Cultural and Creative Industries grant from its effective predecessor, the Sports and Arts Development fund. The second clarification that I would like to make concerns the article leading with the concept note, which I submitted outlining the purpose for and rules governing the grant and the implication that the note represented the de facto terms of reference for the implementation of the grant. The concept note was originally created in June 2017 as instructed by then Minister Nicolette Henry – it was successfully accepted by the Ministry of Finance

under now Minister Dr. G e o rg e N o r t o n . A s I communicated to the reporter, discretion for creation of the final TORs rests primarily with the Minister with portfolio responsibility for culture. Reviewing the note now, there would be changes even I would make myself. For example, were I to revise or enhance it, one addition I would include would speak to the need to seek to build capacity in the creative sector before any allocation of funds. This and other suggestions will be provided to the Minister in my annual report for 2018. F i n a l l y, I c a n n o t underscore enough that people in the creative sector, creative citizens, take interest in and take advantage of this significant development in creative arts support. This is something that several people have lobbied this administration for with detailed proposals for such support from, notably, Burchmore Simon and Barrington Braithwaite, having landed on my desk as early as the first quarter of 2016. It is the urgency expressed by the creative community itself that informed both the recommendation for such a mechanism in the Draft Framework National Cultural Policy (March (Continued on page 6)

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MINISTER LAWRENCE’S APOLOGY WITH NOTHING MORE WILL TAKE US NOWHERE Dear Editor, Should Minister Lawrence issue an apology to the full satisfaction of all, nothing in the country’s administrative and political governance would meaningfully and sustainably change. We are focused exclusively on the “offensiveness” of the statement. The opportunity, therefore, is likely to be missed to discuss the redesign of our public administration that even should a minister or a public servant want to illegitimately discriminate in the award of public benefits, the

system could discourage, prevent, detect, or correct such actions. An apology with nothing more takes us nowhere. From the published responses to Minister Lawrence’s speech, persons want three concerns to be addressed: (i) preventing any government from engaging in illegitimate discrimination, (ii) correcting the wrongs from historic political discrimination, and (iii) encouraging greater participation of marginalized or under-represented groups of the popula-

tion in key public spheres. These three concerns are not new. And while the coalition government can claim the improvements in public procurement and local government as evidence of its nondiscriminatory posture, it has chosen not to sing often on that theme. Indeed, the government appears to have dropped the idea of jumping on the good governance platform as a way to radically distinguish itself from the dark politics of the PPP. But for now, back to discrimination. The first of the

How Prepared is the PPP/C for next General Election? Dear Editor, A strong government is as strong as the opposition. Since the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) has ruled against Mr. Bharrat Jagdeo as a third-term presidential candidate, PPP party leadership has focused and revolved around one issue: Who is the next presidential candidate? This question has created doubts in the minds of many Guyanese about the process and procedures of selecting the next candidate when Mr. Bharrat Jagdeo has intentionally decided to delay the process as long as possible? Why? Having read many newspaper articles and the social media, I have decided (as a care-giving Guyanese) to offer three compelling reasons as follows: a) Leadership Inertia: The leader of any organization, including the PPP, must envision the direction of the party, empower his followers, and ensure that changes are necessary to continue to serve the people. Mr. Jagdeo knows that he must prepare

the Party to select the next presidential candidate. This means that he may possibly give up his current positions as Leader of the Party, the PPP General Secretary, and Leader of the opposition. Is he willing to give up these high-income positions, or the most Influential position in the political arena? From his words and actions, he is comfortable to hold on to these three positions as long as possible even if the PPP lost the next general election. In other words, he suffers from organizational inertia in that he fails to make the necessary changes by making way for the incoming new leader and instead continues

doing what he used to do: The Granger Administration rigged the election. b) 7/8 Pension ExPresident: Many poor Guyanese look-up to Mr. Jagdeo as the champion of the poor. A true champion of the poor must not be seen to receive excessive salaries and benefits but must be prepared to accept a cut in salary and make donations to the poor. Instead, Mr. Bharrat awarded himself salary increases from less than G$200,000 per month to over $1 Million just before he left office as the president. Also, he signed into law that any increase(s) in salary for new presidents, his (Continued on page 6)

concerns listed above (preventing systemic government discrimination) boils down to discouraging, preventing, detecting, or correcting the practice of “jobs-for-the-boys” (or “jobs-for-the-party-comrades”). The country already has a host of constitutional and statutory provisions against discrimination. Furthermore, we can copy from several public institutions right here in Guyana that can claim to meet these standards. As one model, I can point to the staff recruitment and student application processes at the University of Guyana (despite a few issues in recent times). I am also encouraged by the post-exams student placement system at the Ministry of Education. As highly non-discriminatory systems, what they share in common are clear and preset rules and criteria, public notification and transparency (UG, for example, advertises its teaching vacancies as a norm, and its student application system is accessible online to the students themselves), checks-and-balances (three senior persons are required to vet a student application to

UG), and an accessible complaints mechanism. The second and third concerns (righting historic acts of discrimination, and encouraging greater participation of marginalized or under-represented groups) are, admittedly, more politically challenging. For they require the government to actually and openly discriminate, but in a legitimate way. Affirmative action programmes in contract awards or employment in the US, South Africa, Canada and other countries are examples of legitimate government discrimination to correct social and economic inequities or injustices. Such government actions, however, demand public debate, acceptance, and full transparency. Personalized or private affirmative actions by ministers and other political operators are illegitimate and, in any case, not fit for purpose given the scale of the problem. The set-aside of 20% of Guyana government contracts for small firms is overdue but of the right caliber. What I advised in a previous letter to the editor (‘Pub-

lic Procurement Commission must have social agenda’, in SN 17th May, 2013) remains relevant today: that “the role of public procurement as a socio-economic force and instrument (social procurement) must be duly recognized and acted upon”; and that government, as the country’s largest purchaser of goods, services and works, must accordingly assess and targethow these public funds are distributed across firms and individuals, races, genders, regions and communities. The non-normalization and eradication of illegitimate discrimination and the promotion of legitimate varieties can do much to address the ethnic and social concerns of Guyanese and the political concerns of their parties. I would strongly advise the coalition government that Minister Lawrence’s mea culpa apart, to put together a plan of action on anti-discrimination and good governance in general. Anything less would leave the government fumbling around badly in a political storm. Sherwood Lowe

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Kudos for the school bus service Dear Editor, About eight years ago, I caused a letter to appear in our daily papers in which I referred to the School Bus that carries the children attending the Al Madinah Islamic Academy School at Anna Regina. In that letter, I commended the person or persons whose idea it was and who were financially responsible for providing and maintaining that service. The David Granger-led Government has provided a bus in this region and other

regions, along with boats and bicycles. This is an excellent idea as well. I am not sure if these buses and boats are under the supervision of the Ministry of Education or the Regional Democratic Council, R.D.C., but I am sure that those persons would recognize the importance of the buses and boats and strive to maintain them so they can be roadworthy and seaworthy, that our school children and by extension this nation can benefit. Archie Cordis

How Prepared is the... From page 5 current pension will also automatically increase by 7/8 of those of the current president. I can understand his salary increases if he is a family person with children and married. He has no children nor is he a family person. His house is like a mansion while the poor live in wooden structures. Now, how genuine is Mr. Jagdeo as being champion of the poor? Who does he represent other than himself?

Funding for... From page 4 2017) and eventual concept note. The Creative and Cultural Industries Grant is the most important state investment since the introduction of the Guyana Prize for Literature in 1987 and, managed properly, can result in even more tremendous rewards for both creative individuals and creative communities. Regards, Ruel Johnson Cultural Policy Advisor, Government of Guyana

c) PPP/C Internal Structure: Recent research shows that most key voting members of the party wish for a leadership change but are reluctant to openly do so. Why? If one reads carefully the PPP constitution, decision-making flows from the top to the bottom. Who is at the top other Mr. Jagdeo, managing the Party like a military organization. Does Guyana need another dictator leadership style government? Are the central executive members responsible for the way Mr. Jagdeo manipulates them into believing that the Party is for all Guyanese? The above three arguments posit that a weak opposition party is in the making and is unable to position itself to effectively challenge the current APNU+AFC administration in the next general election. Hence, a weak opposition party can be translated into a potentially weak government. Sincerely, Nandkishore Gobin Persaud

Tuesday December 11, 2018

The political culture of activists like this man is destructive Dear Editor, I will never let Tacuma Ogunseye make accusations against me without a response. I will reply to anything that he insinuates about me because I consider him to be one of the most offensive, dangerous, and racist political activists this country has ever produced. In a recent exchange with Henry Jeffrey, he made two accusations; I do not accept differing opinion and that I claim the WPA is dead. I will come to those in another letter but for now, a few comments on this man’s political culture. If you go through the list of parties that produced activists that have achieved some national publicity over the past fifty years, from small outfits to major organizations, none has birthed someone so driven by race, crass political mentality and opportunism as Ogunseye. Only in Guyana, can a character like Ogunseye achieve a history of political infamy and not be ostracized. I refer specifically to his years of involvement in Buxton during the “violent troubles” there. His support for the gunmen was the subject of comments from major newspapers and important actors in Guyana from 2002 when the

violently racist mayhem began in Buxton. From then to now, none of his present and former colleagues and acolytes in the WPA have ever uttered even a word, just one word of condemnation. The exception is Eusi Kwayana and he chose not to voice his disagreement in a public letter. His stance took the following words in his short book, “The Morning After” (2005). “Tacuma Ogunseye whom I have called Brother Tacuma for some thirty years, has described the story of Buxton as a liberation struggle. At no time in our long association have I disagreed more with him…I have attacked what he now supports or justifies.” It is unbelievable that not one person who once belonged to the WPA and those still around and were around at the time when Ogunseye was involved in conspiratorial activities in Buxton has ever condemned him. Long after the Buxton mayhem, Ogunseye was banned from speaking on behalf of ACDA when he was chastised by that organization for a hate speech that he gave at an ACDA public meeting in BV. Days after his ostracization by ACDA, he was part of a radio panel with Christopher Ram hosted by Denis Chabrol on Demerara

Waves radio. When asked to expand on his BV speech in which he called on Black people to remove the PPP government, he was asked why he thinks the police force would not use force on armed insurrectionists when the police did use force against the Buxton gunmen. His hypocritical and immoral reply was that the police did use counter-violence in Buxton because that was a criminal enterprise but the police would not do that to political agitators. This man who was involved in Buxton activities with murderously racist gunmen he exalted as freedom fighters (see Kwayana’s condemnation above), turned around and called them criminals. This is the same gentleman that supporters who are former and current WPA cadres continue to embrace. Let me offer one more example of how unacceptable this man is in Guyanese politics and should be shunned by this country. In a published letter in this newspaper of April 11, 2018 under the heading, “Roopnaraine will remain a member of the WPA for as long as he chooses to do so,” Ogunseye wrote; “Let me reiterate for the benefit of Freddie Kissoon and for whoever else needs this reassurance, Dr Rupert Roopnaraine is, and will remain a member of the WPA, for as long as he chooses to

do so. End of matter.” I replied to that boldness in a Stabroek News letter of April 13, 2018 in which I exposed the nasty political culture of this gentleman, a culture that has virtually destroyed this country. Here is the same Ogunsweye on the same Roopnaraine in an e-mail to me, which I reproduced. “Hello Freddie, I just read it and I recalled doing so when it was published. I too was disappointed with the book and was expecting something more political. The observations you made of his politics are correct. “I remember persons who knew the “Brother” told us that we will later have problems with the comrade their point was that his political orientation was not Guyanese or Caribbean but European. He came from the European lift (sic) culturally. I had and still have problems with the Brother politics and his political culture, but the WPA, before Walter (sic) return, and during his activism and after had always seen the anti-dictatorial struggle as a multi-class struggle this explains our coexistence and objectively was Indian and one of the better element of the elite. There is something I would not say at this time. Tacuma.” Sincerely, Frederick Kissoon

Money collected by municipalities is woefully coalition ously maintain burial grounds. the capacity of local lead- APNU+AFC inadequate building ership, at the request of the min- government’s commitment to lo- This fee is also deemed unconDearEditor, On November 19, 2018, Minister of Communities, Hon. Ronald Bulkan in a missive to me announced that Mayors, Deputy Mayors, Town Clerks, Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDC) and Overseers will all receive a stipend come January 2019. “In keeping with the recommendation of delegates of the 81 organs, and central government’s commitment to

istry, Cabinet has granted approval effective January 2019 for the payment of stipend to Mayors and their deputies, town clerks, NDC chairpersons and overseers,” Minister Bulkan said in his missive.I’m heartened by this correspondence and I believe this is a mammoth move by the administration, since the largest roadblock to a council’s success is finances. This correspondence, I believe, is testimony to the

cal democracy and its efforts in strengthening the integrity of the system.Councils struggle to pay, where required, for the execution of services, and more so salaries and stipends because residents still believe they should not pay for services provided by municipalities and more importantly their residential taxes. In one municipality, vendors in the municipal market pay approximately $5000 monthly which represents $1250 weekly and $208 daily.Despite the low rates, some vendors believe the aforementioned amounts are unreasonable. Burial fees in another municipality are $2500. This is a one-off payment and the municipality is expected to continu-

scionable by those who are required to make the payment. In the same breath, the said residents complain about the deplorable state of the burial grounds. Mr. Editor, it takes much more than $5000 per resident a year in taxes to fulfill the basic needs of any municipality. This government, the APNU+AFC coalition government, has tangibly demonstrated its commitment to all municipalities. The responsibility is now with the residents to also tangibly support the elected bodies by paying the required municipal fees and taxes. Gifford Marshall Mayor, Municipality of Bartica

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PPP Govt. sidelined NIS board while Cabinet made decisions on major investments - Scheme had no say about investment in Berbice Bridge By Abena RockcliffeCampbell For years, the Board of Directors of the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) was almost titular. Most, if not all, major decisions concerning the scheme’s finances were made by the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) at its Cabinet meetings. This was found during a review of NIS affairs in years prior to the assumption of coalition to administrative office. The review was ordered by the APNU+AFC government. The findings of that review are contained in a report that is deemed confidential. However, this newspaper was able to secure a glimpse. One of the major findings is that the PPP/C forced itself on the Scheme and made decisions in violation of the National Insurance Scheme Act. It was stated that the NIS Board used to be chaired by the Cabinet Secretary to the previous government, Dr. Roger Luncheon, and that none of the members of the Board had any actuarial or insurance background, except for the General Manager. Further, the document stated that the members had

no real say, especially when it came to investments. The document stated, “In fact, many of the members had served on the Board for many years, but when the minutes of the BODs (Board of Directors) for the last four years were reviewed, they confirmed that critical decisions, in particular those for investments, were made by the Cabinet and not the Board.” This is starkly in contradiction to the Act that is supposed to govern NIS. The NIS Act provides guidance on how the Board of Directors should be appointed and regulates its proceedings. In determining how independent the BODs were, those who carried out the review examined the Act and made several references. It was pointed out that Section 3 (2) of the Act states: “The Board shall consist of the following members, namely: A Chairman who shall be appointed by the Minister, the General Manager of the board, Ex-officio, who shall be the deputy chairman, Seven other members appointed by the Minister

from among other persons appearing to him to be qualified of having experience of and shown and shown capacity in, such matters which he considers will be beneficial to the Board. Then, Section 9 of the NIS Act states “Subject to the provision of this act, the board has the power to regulate its own proceedings.” Further, there was a review of the Board minutes for the years 2011 to 2015. During the review, several instances were noted where the Chairman reported Cabinet’s decision which were accepted. Even further, the Minutes did not record any discussions, objections or alternatives to these decisions. Examples were given. The minutes of the 448th meeting of the Board held on

July 20, 2012, recorded that the General Manager informed the Board that Cabinet made a decision for the scheme to purchase a property in Paramaribo, Suriname for €535,000. There was no evidence that the Board had deliberated before making this investment nor was there any evidence that a feasibility study was done to determine whether the price paid was consistent with the value of the property. An appraisal was subsequently done dated 20/12/ 2013 in which it stated that the voluntary sales value of the property was €670,000. Also, the minutes of the 445th meeting recorded that the Chairman informed directors that approval was given by Cabinet for the National Industrial and Commercial Investment Limited to sell 950,000 preference shares

Former Cabinet Secretary, Dr. Roger Luncheon held in the Berbice Bridge Company Inc to NIS at par value. It was found that the Cabinet decision was counte-

nanced by Directors. In effect, directors made no attempt to determine whether the investment was in the best interest of the scheme.

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Govt. fires Ramson senior; allocates no money for Office The 2019 Budget does not cater for an Office of the Commissioner. Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo confirmed this yesterday in the National Assembly. Nagamootoo said that this is so because the Commissioner of Information, Charles Ramson senior was dismissed for “rendering his office dysfunctional”. Nagamootoo’s statements were in response to questions posed by Opposition Member of Parliament, Juan Edghill. Nagamootoo said, “He has rendered no report to this National Assembly; has

provided no account of what he has done.” Further, Nagamootoo said that the Government and Ramson are before the courts in a “series of litigations” for monies which the commissioner claims are owed to him. He said that the office of the Commissioner of Information is being “reexamined.” Nagamootoo said, “We recognise that this is a statutory office and the contractual employment of the last commissioner having been terminated, the Department of Governance

and the Office of the Prime Minister will be looking at what measures to have the office resituated.” The Prime Minister emphasised that it is necessary to assign someone who is fully qualified to function in the capacity of Commissioner of Information. However, the fact that no money was allocated, indicates little intention to make the Office of the Commissioner of Information active in 2019, even with a replaced Commissioner. Back in 2017, Nagamootoo said that the status of the Commissioner of Information

was engaging the attention of the Head of State. He said, “It is engaging the President’s attention because under the Act, the contract of employment for the commissioner falls under the presidency.” While there has been a change of events in this regard, it did not prohibit Nagamootoo from making recommendations to the President regarding what should be done with Ramson considering his unsatisfactory performance.” Prior to the President taking over the matter, Nagamootoo had taken an interest in the issue. But after 20 months, he had still been unaware of what was done by Ramson since he took the p o s t . Every month, Charles Ramson Snr collected an attractive $2M package to ensure that citizens have easy access to information. The Access to Information Act gives no provision in terms of limit in the tenure of office of the Commissioner. According to the Act, the responsible Minister, should, “as soon as practicable but not later than nine months, after the end of each year lay a report on the operation of

Former Commissioner of Information, Charles Ramson this (Access to Information) Act in the National Assembly.” The Act also states that the said report should include the number of requests made to the Commissioner of Information; the number of applications for judicial review of decisions and the outcome of those applications; the num-

ber of complaints made to the Commissioner of Information with respect to the operation of the Act and the nature of those complaints; the number of notices served upon the Commissioner of Information and the number of decisions by the Commissioner which were adverse to the person’s claim.

Dharm Shala treats 225 children to a festive time

Some 225 children were treated to a festive time last Thursday when the Dharm Shala benevolent home hosted its Annual Children’s Christmas Party. This year marked the 98th hosting of the event and entailed entertaining music by popular musician Ras Camo. Also present was Santa Claus who en-

sured that those in attendance were afforded a fulfilling and exciting time. The children took advantage of the many tasty snacks, drinks and bags of goodies handed out to them. They were also the beneficiaries of gift-wrapped toys, which were distributed by Mrs. Varsha Dave, wife of the Chief Executive Officer of Demerara Bank. She was assisted by Mrs. Ruth Wilson, an executive member of the Dharm Shala Board. Meanwhile, the next such event to be hosted this season will be a luncheon for the elderly set for Christmas Day at 11:00 hours in the Dharm Shala compound.

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Should public service be a sacrifice? Who says that being a public official means one has to make sacrifices? There is an old joke about a public servant who went home after working at his government job. While going through some empty containers stored in his garage, he found a corked bottle. He uncorked bottle and a genie came out. The grateful genie told the man that he would grant him one wish. The man, who had laboured as a public servant for more than 30 years, said that he would like never to work again. And ‘poof’ his wish was granted. He ended up back at his public service desk. Many years ago, a doctor appeared on a talk show and argued a case that when a public official resigns or retires, he should leave poorer than when

he entered the public service. It was the doctor’s way of saying that people should serve in public office for the honour of doing so and not for financial reward. But he was also saying something else. He was suggesting that if a person made a commitment to not benefit financially, apart from his or her remuneration, this would act as a brake on corruption In other words, what was being proposed was that public service should be considered as a personal sacrifice. A person who takes a public service job, according to this view, should do so in order to give back rather than to receive. This is how the majority of the population view public service. They believe that when you leave public office, you must do

so as a pauper. The slightest evidence of improvement in wealth is treated with suspicion of corruption. So while it may sound nice to say that people should not serve in public office, unless the government pays people well, it will end up sacrificing quality for poor pay. There is a downside to paying people poorly. As someone once said: you get what you pay for. If you pay people poorly, you will not receive the quality staff. Today when you read about the salaries of some public officials, you have to question whether public service is a sacrifice or is being excessively rewarded. Two weeks ago, this newspaper reported that contracted cleaners within the Ministry of

Dem boys seh ...

PNC+KFC promises run away and lef dem When you li’l, you does mek promise wha you can’t keep but people does forgive you. However, when you get big and you mek dem same promise wha you don’t keep, people does put a curse pon you. But when you is a politician and you mek promise wha you don’t keep, people does seh you is a thief, a scamp and even a prostitute. De coalition mek nuff promise to de Guyanese people before de election. Dem seh in de first hundred days when you see Guyana you wouldn’t recognize it. You would think you in Japan or in Paris. De first thing dem seh dem would jail Jagdeo and his crew. 1300 days later, not one politician get jail. Instead, dem send a few junkie fuh smoking grass. Dem also seh dem would set up a special body fuh investigate corruption and all de thiefing wha went on. 1301 days later, not one thing ain’t happen; dem boys believe de commission deh in China or India or Africa, coming pon de back of a snail. Dem seh de procurement system gon change fuh de better. 1302 days later, dem change de people but de system wha encouraging corruption still

remain. Anodda promise was to reduce de president’s pension. 1303 days pass and gone and dem president collecting more money than before. Before de election in 2015, de way Jagdeo and he MPs was behaving de coalition promise to establish rules fuh Parliamentarians, Ministahs and all who hold high office to behave in a certain manner. 1304 days after de coalition in power, de situation is wuss. Dem refuse to declare dem asset to de Integrity Commission. Some of dem thief so much, dat dem can’t explain how dem get dem wealth. Some of dem start wid bicycle and driving high end vehicle. Some did live in rent house; overnight dem got a mansion and four property to rent. No wonder dem can’t declare dem assets. Dem fight wid police in parliament and mek de nation shame. Tomorrow is 1305 days and all you gon hear is dis one blaming dat one and dat one blaming dis one. Is de blame game dem playing wid each other dat mek Soulja Bai get sick. Talk half and remember is dem promises you vote for; not dem face.

the Presidency receive net salaries of over $206,000 per month, inclusive of gratuity and vacation allowance. They must each be working 24 hours a day to receive such a good package. A typist clerk is paid over $170,000 per month, inclusive of these benefits as well. A contracted driver makes $219,000 and administrative assistants and officers make salaries averaging over $500,000 per month. Senior officials in the Public Service College are receiving more than 1.9 million dollars per month and 1.8 million dollars per month plus benefits. It was reported yesterday that an individual whose contract

as a permanent secretary was not renewed is now occupying a lower-ranked position, and is being paid in excess of $700,000 per month. There are others who are doing very little work and being paid ‘fat’ salaries. Of course, some will argue that those salaries are not super salaries. But in life everything is relative. How is it that a headmistress can be paid less than $300,000 per month, yet a retired person is hired to run a training outfit and paid in excess of $1.9 million dollars per month. So, how fair can it be that a person running a college is receiving five times the salary of a head teacher in our schools, or someone responsible for orga-

nizing international conferences is receiving seven times the salary of a sergeant in the police force? The salaries being received by certain political appointees within the government suggest that public service need not at all be a sacrifice. Indeed, by landing the right job in the government, a person can end up being financially secure for the rest of his or her life.

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Tuesday December 11, 2018

Kaieteur News

=== The Freddie Kissoon column ===

The stupid leadership of Guyana gets stupider everyday Do not open the newspapers of Guyana if you are depressed about the type of caricatured, deformed, shambolic, effete, irrational society Guyana has become, especially in the 21st century. You will get more depressed from what you read. Do not open the newspapers if you are the faint-hearted type.

You will faint from the nonsensical things that occur in the public bureaucracy and in the corridors of power. We are the only county in the world where collectively the lives of thousands, I mean literally thousands, of employees, business people, school children, and farmers who bring their produce to

town, are disrupted whenever Parliament is in session. I will do a separate column on the asininities outside and inside of Parliament when that dystopian day is in progress. Guyana is the only country in the world where commercial banks send you mail with envelopes that have little windows through which you see your name and address on the document, but these banks, as a requirement, want you to produce an envelope with your name and address on the envelope itself. And the parrots that close down Georgetown when they babble off their nonsense in Parliament do absolutely nothing about that. So I picked up the newspapers and read where the state held an official launch of a Prosecutors’ Code. Then I read the nonsense the Prime Minister told the audience. Really man! Are you serious? A code for prosecutors and not a rehabilitation programme for magistrates? Let’s do some logical thinking. A prosecutor works with what the police give him/ her. The police send the prosecutor the evidence. The material is then advanced in arguments in the court room. Here is the PM’s silly ad-

vocacy; “The job of the prosecutor is not to secure a conviction at all cost, it is to be able to ensure justice. And justice would require the prosecution to be fair to the defence and the accused.” What is wrong with that statement? Everything. The prosecutor cannot secure a conviction with faulty evidence, only if the defence attorney is sleeping throughout the trial. It is the magistrate and judge that have to do the right thing and not accept fictional material as evidence. That happens all the time in Guyana. I intervened in the case of the son of one of Guyana’s prominent citizens who holds a high constitutional office. I know the young man. He was charged for rape, but actually was accused of inserting his finger into the vagina of the complainant. Barely literate, he defended himself. You are not going to believe what you read. There was no birth certificate to prove age. I honestly do not believe that girl was underage at the time. I believe onto this day that girl lied. Testimony from the girl was immensely contradictory. I asked Madan Kissoon to file an appeal. The

appeal cannot go through even after three years, because there is no written judgement by the judge. The accused got forty-five consecutive years. When you know about these things and you open the papers and read about a code for prosecutors, you see the idiocy that has canopied this sad nation. There is absolutely no official document of sentencing guidelines for magistrates and judges, the result of which is that in Guyana’s judiciary, Chato’s Land prevails (see that Charles Bronson movie to understand what Chato’s Land is). A convicted person gets forty years from one judge for a killing during a brawl; another identical set of circumstances result in ten years from another judge. Rape sentences have no logical underpinning in Guyana. One person gets ten years for actual rape, another gets forty years for fondling a child. And Nagamootoo has the temerity to talk about how prosecutors must do their jobs. How are the consequences of a prosecutor’s incompetence more destructive than the mediocrity of a magistrate? When charged for embezzling a million dollars,

Frederick Kissoon the prosecutor doesn’t object to bail. But the magistrate assigns unreachable bail and, the person is remanded. Where is the relevance of the Prosecutor’s Code in such a situation? Do you know Magistrate Artiga in Berbice sentenced a 17-year-old youth, Akash Pachia, in March this year to four years for stealing $8,260 worth of goods? I brought this to the attention of Minister Ramjattan who wrote back saying; “So obviously very harsh a penalty. Hate to see this happening to our young people. But it continues. I can advise a pardon. “ So Mr. Nagamootoo, what about a code for magistrates and judges? Let me ask you this, Mr. PM: Do you think Guyana deserves some of those mediocre magistrates?

Tuesday December 11, 2018

Kaieteur News

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Kaieteur News

Tuesday December 11, 2018

Local court case threatens Republic Bank’s acquisition of Scotiabank

Former workers of Precision Woodworking Limited say that they are considering alerting regulators of a number of countries where Republic Bank wants to take over the operations of Scotiabank. A court battle between Republic Bank and Precision Woodworking Limited is threatening to spill over to the looming acquisition by the former of a number of Scotiabank operations in the Caribbean. Yesterday, two persons associated with Precision, in an “Appeal to Shareholders and Directors of Republic Bank Limited”, published as an advertisement in Kaieteur News, hinted that they may consider sharing information of the case with the banking regulators in the Caribbean territories where Republic Bank is looking to take over. In the ongoing court case, Precision Woodworking Limited (PWL) is claiming the procedures used by Republic Bank to take the company into receivership were not properly followed. The advertisement was placed by former staffer

Eustace Marshall and workers’ representative, Eon Andrews. One of Precision’s main principals is the current sitting Minister of Communities, Ronald Bulkan. The “appeal” complained that case was dragging on for a long time. It was said that Richard S. Sammy, Managing Director, had ex-employees on October 22, 2015 indicating among other things that “We confirm that we have done all that we could do to ensure there are no unnecessary delays in this matter by complying with all requests of the Honourable Court. Like the former employees on whose behalf you write, we are anxious to have this matter concluded and as such have no interest in delaying these proceedings.” However, the ex-employees stressed that more than three years have since passed and from their point

of view, the bank’s actions are not consistent with its stated position. In fact, in the last court hearing in this matter—Precision Woodworking Ltd v Kashir Khan and Republic Bank Ltd— - was on 10th September, 2018 and what “transpired appears to be instructive. At this hearing, 8th and 9th January, 2019 were offered for adjourned dates (due to assignment of the trial Judge to Berbice for the last quarter 2018). The plaintiffs’ attorney signaled their readiness for the offered dates. Mr. Robin Stoby, attorney for the First Defendant, Kashir Khan declared his unavailability for those dates following which the afternoon of the 17th and 18th January were fixed for the next adjourned dates. Mr. Timothy Jonas the Bank’s attorney was mute during the hearing,” the employees said. The staffers complained

that the case was filed since 15th May, 2012. What appears to be a straightforward commercial dispute has dragged on. “The former workers of PWL whom we represent have a keen interest in this matter given our hope that it may potentially result in receiving compensation,” the men said. The men said that they have noted the agreement announced recently between Republic Bank and Scotiabank to acquire the latter’s operations in nine Caribbean territories, Guyana being one. “…and will ponder as to if we should share our intimate knowledge of this case with the regulators in those jurisdictions, for any relevance.” The Government of Guyana has warned that Republic Bank’s agreement with Scotiabank for the purchase

of the local operations is not so straightforward, as there are a number of things to consider. For example, the acquisition will place Republic Bank in control of more than 50 percent of the banking market. At least one other Caribbean territory, Antigua and Barbuda, has said it will not approve the sale of Scotiabank’s operations to Republic Bank, which is Trinidad-owned. Rather, it wants the sale to be open to local investors. Late last month, Scotiabank announced that it has entered into an agreement to sell its banking operations in nine non-core markets in the Caribbean (Anguilla, Antigua, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, St. Kitts & Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Maarten, St. Vincent & the Grenadines) to Republic Financial Holdings Limited (‘RFHL’).

Republic Bank currently holds 35.4% of the banking systems assets and 36.8% of deposits. The acquisition will up this to 51% of both assets and deposits. According to the Finance Ministry, it will have to consider the effect on competition and the potential for Republic Bank to have too much influence on pricing of banking products and rates. Also to be considered are the burning issues related to correspondent banking options. The Finance Ministry also expressed concern over the loss of jobs with Republic Bank with the likely consolidation of branches. ”The Ministry of Finance wishes to assure that it will continue to stay abreast of this matter, will act in the best interest of the Guyanese people and will issue subsequent updates as necessary.”

Gov’t fails to implement 174 of Auditor General’s recommendations Each year, the Auditor General’s Office issues recommendations to Ministries, Departments and Regions that are designed at improving systems and practices at these entities as well as government’s overall governance and accountability mechanisms. In 2016, 602 recommendations were made in the Audit General report. However following up on the report, officials of the AG found that only thirty percent of the recommendations were partially implemented. In the 2017 report, Auditor General, Deodat Sharma noted that each recommendation was reviewed to deter-

40

mine what action, if any, was taken by the respective accounting officers. At the time of finalizing the 2017 report, 178 or 30% of the recommendations were partially implemented while 174 or 28 % of the recommendations were not implemented. Overall, the Auditor General expressed concerns with the lack of action, since 58% of the recommendations have not yet been fully implemented. In addition, in many instances recommendations are repeated each year without appropriate action and as a result, weaknesses and issues that impacted negatively on government governance

and accountability mechanisms, continue to occur. Once again, the AG charged the government through the Ministry of Finance, the Accountant General’s Department and the respective Heads of the Budget agencies, to take appropriate action and put measures in place to address the recommendations made in the prior reports as well as those issued in 2017. In last year‘s report, the AG flagged a number of agencies over lack of accountability, overpayments and other financial irregularities In one report, the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) prepared, certified and paid a contractor $17.830M for works which had not yet commenced on the site. The project was reportedly a $52.6M project for the construction of a timber wharf, approach and floating raft at the Guyana Defence Force Coastal Battalion, New Amsterdam, and was awarded by the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) to the lowest and most responsive of three bidders. The Engineer’s Estimate was $54.508M.

Auditor General Deodat Sharma The GDF provided a response which stated that “The Head of Budget Agency indicated that the force is working to recover the overpayment by September 24, 2018, in that the contractor will present a cheque for the overpayment in the name of the Finance Officer, GDF. However, the army is yet to confirm whether the necessary steps were taken to

recover the monies. In another instance, over $52M was unaccounted for under the Ministry of Education’s school feeding programme. Then in the 2016 report the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) was found in breach of the procurement regulations. The AG report focused on the now infamous $100M purchase of communication radios, as well as millions more paid for toners for printers, and nippers for ballot boxes. GECOM has thus far failed to address the concerns of the AG. The non implementation is nothing new. Just over 379 recommendations were made in his 2014 Audit Report. Sharma had said that he and his team reviewed each recommendation to determine what action, if any, was taken by the respective Accounting Officers. Sharma said that to his disappointment, at the time of reporting, 115 recommendations which represent 29 percent of his overall recommendations were partially implemented, while 223 representing 56 percent were not imple-

mented. Therefore, only 15 percent of the recommendations were implemented. Also, in another report, Sharma said, “My Report for 2015 has 442 recommendations, of which, 62 or approximately 14 percent were in relation to overpayments on construction works and related issues. Of the 62 Recommendations, 31 or approximately fifty percent were in relation to contracts that were awarded and or completed in 2015, with overpayments valued $36.197M.” Most of the recommendations made by the Audit Office have been ignored. Only a small percentage of that which was recommended in 2014 was fully implemented; it was no different for 2015 and the trend continued in 2016. Four hundred and fortytwo recommendations were made in my 2015 Audit Report. We reviewed each recommendation to determine what action, if any, was taken by the respective Accounting Officers. At the time of reporting, 160 or 38 percent partially implemented, while 91 or 22 percent were not implemented.”

Tuesday December 11, 2018

Lawyer decries poor police investigations A lawyer has called for the standards of police investigations to be raised, with many citizens the victims of poor detective work. Attorney-at-law Dexter Todd was answering questions last week during a press conference calling for the police and the Director of Public Prosecutions to reopen the Marcus Bisram investigations. Bisram, a US businessman is in a US jail awaiting extradition to Guyana to face a murder charge. Five men in Guyana have already been charged and are to face a High Court trial. Todd believes that there are other circumstances that warrant further investigations in the case. The lawyer noted that while there are good, honest police officers, there are others who are more concerned about convictions. “What you find is that the manner in which the investigations are done, it is geared towards a conviction. That to myself, to my mind, is a recipe for disaster. It is a recipe for corruption. It is a recipe for unfairness.” The legal counsel said that there is a need for police not to approach investigations by looking at a face but to approach investigations in a fair manner. “What we have too often, we have police investigators more concerned about the person, and we have to

Attorney-at-law, Dexter Todd remove ourselves from that. When police investigate a matter, and based on statements prepared, the statement goes for advice, whether it is summary or an indictable manner…it goes for advice.” “ The lawyer noted that it is here that the police files reach a hurdle. “The advisors - the Police Legal Advisor and the Director of Public Prosecutions - don’t normally come out of the office to do investigations. Rather, they act on a file before them that is presented by police investigators. “They are allowed to advise as to what is presented to them. They will be clueless to know whether police will have, to some extent, twisted the facts and story in a particular way. They recommend based on what they see.” That same file when charges are recommended

goes to the court. “The prosecution who has conduct over the matter takes the same file that could have been tainted …the same case is presented to court, and so what we find is if we do not fix the first leg of the investigations, they are going to have serious issues in our criminal justice system in this country.” The lawyer urged the media to “talk to the courts; to the defence lawyers and the “victims”. I call them victims, not accused, not defendants.” According to Todd, he has done numerous matters in which there was absolutely no evidence against a person, where the evidence of the case did not match the person who appeared in court. These “victims” are advised to take legal advice against the state for all that is gone wrong with their lives in relation to the charge, he said.

COI report recommends City Hall review tax collection methods The Commision of Inquiry into the Mayor and City Council of Georgetown (M &CC) has recommended among other things, that the council review its tax collection method to garner monies to help offset expenses the council is currently facing. In the report prepared by retired Justice Cecil Kennard, the City is encouraged to review tax collection methods such as the granting of amnesty to defaulting ratepayers. In fact, the report said that granting of amnesty is one which opens the floodgates for corruption. “This COI is of the view that little or nothing is being done to reduce the prevalence of defaulting ratepayers. It is my respectful opinion that the officers were not honest, they tried to cover up for each other, and this type of behaviour begs the question of what is happening.

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Kaieteur News

Is it incompetence? Is it corruption or is it a combination of both?” the chairman stated in the report. In addition to millions owed to several agences and individuals, the Mayor and City Council has racked up over 206M in debt to the National Insurance Scheme. During the hearrings at the Commission of Inquiry, Louise Bryan, Debt Recovery Manager of the National Insurance Scheme, testified about the city’s indebtedness to the scheme. Bryan told J u s t i c e Kennard that the outstanding payments span the period September 1994 to August 2018. “September, 1994? Am I hearing correctly?” was the chairman’s response as Bryan read out the outstanding payment. Bryan stated that partial payments were made for the periods May to November of 2009, September to

November of 2016, February to May of 2017, April to December of 2017, March of 2018, April to June of 2018, and July to August of 2018. She said that though partial payments were made, the council racked up interest, which the city has not paid to the scheme. The Debt Recovery Manager provided a series of documents tendered for the commission which, she explained, compromise a series of demand notices issued to the council throughout the periods of their non-payment, as well as letters from the scheme to the Local Government Commission. The Commission of Inquiry into the affairs of the Mayor and City Council was to examine, advise and report on irregularities of the administration, its operations, and the managements of its financial affairs.

Surveillance campaign launched to combat measles and yellow fever Aimed at combating threats the likes of measles and yellow fever, the Ministry of Public Health has launched a tactical surveillance campaign. The Ministry announced the campaign Sunday by way of an advertisement in the newspapers, pointing out that the campaign is one intended to help identify any possible threats at an earlier stage. The Ministry has, moreover, cautioned travellers that when leaving and/or entering Guyana, port health officers will be looking for related signs and symptoms. These may include, among others, fever associated with rash, red eyes, swollen glands, cough, sore throat, running nose, joint pains and jaundice. In its advisory, the Ministry said that, “if you have any of these symptoms please contact the nearest health facility immediately. Everyone from one year old who has not received two doses of the Measles, Mumps and Rubella [MMR] vaccine should seek vaccination at their nearest health facility.” Based on the standards of the Pan American Health Organisation/World Health Organisation [PAHO/WHO] Measles and Rubella were eliminated from the Americas in 2016, and Yellow Fever has not been

seen in Guyana since the late 1960s. According to WHO, between July and mid-October of 2017, a total of 71 suspected Yellow Fever cases were reported in São Paulo State, Brazil. Of these, two were confirmed and one turned out to be fatal, while six were investigated and 63 were eventually ruled out. Yellow Fever is said to be transmitted by mosquitoes belonging to the Aedes and Haemogogus species. Some of these mosquitoes live and breed around homes, others in jungle and some in both habitats. Once contracted, the Yellow Fever virus incubates in the body for three to six days but, according to WHO, many people do not experience symptoms. However, it has noted that when these do occur, the most common are fever, muscle pain with prominent backache, headache, loss of appetite, and nausea or vomiting. But in most cases symptoms disappear after three to four days. Yellow Fever Vaccine, a single lifetime dose, is mandatory for all persons from endemic areas travelling to Guyana and other at risk areas. “This should be received at least 10 days prior to travel,” PAHO/WHO has

noted adding, “a yellow fever international certificate [the yellow immunisation card], is accepted recommendations as proof of coverage for international travel.” Also, WHO has advised that all travellers over nine months old ‘going to’ or ‘travelling from’ areas with documented measles virus circulation should be fully vaccinated against measles and rubella with the MMR vaccines. The traveller who cannot demonstrate that they have been vaccinated against measles or rubella should receive the combined vaccines at least two weeks before arrival in Guyana or before travelling to neighbouring countries. Moreover, PAHO/WHO has endorsed the Ministry of Public Health’s continued implementation of the surveillance plan to identify suspected cases of Measles, yellow fever or other disease and would like to advice, that during travel and upon arrival in Guyana please look for the relevant symptoms. “Everyone from one year old who has not received two doses of the MMR vaccine should seek vaccination at their nearest health facility,” PAHO/ WHO has urged.

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Tuesday December 11, 2018

Kaieteur News

Butcher lands in court on jewellery theft charge FOR RENT

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Dave Benjamin incident would have occurred. She even claimed to have videos of the incident. Magistrate Azore granted bail to Benjamin to the tune of $50,000. He was instructed to make his next court appearance on January 21, 2019.

Mazaruni Prison find

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A Bourda Market butcher was arraigned at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts yesterday, when he appeared before Senior Magistrate Fabayo Azore, accused of jewellery theft It is alleged that on October 16, last, at King Street, Georgetown, Dave Benjamin stole one gold and diamond chain valued $500,000 from Elsa Philips. After listening to the charge that was read to him, Benjamin entered a not guilty plea. Benjamin was represented by attorney at law Paul Funga-Fat, who informed the court that Benjamin is 38 years old, married with two children and resides at Durban Backlands. He further stated that Benjamin has no previous charges or convictions. According to the attorney, Phillips would have fabricated the matter, as she on different occasions gave several locations as to where the

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A mini health check is the first step to donating blood

A joint search of the Mazaruni Prison, Essequibo River, yesterday unearthed 17 improvised weapons, two knives, two chisels, a screw driver, six USB cables, two cellular phones, 37 smoking utensils, 14 metal spoons, 18 cigarette lighters, two bottles of fermented wine and other prohibited items.

Guyana mulls options... From page 20 adhering to the requirements established by the EA. “Lord Deben was quite pleased about the progress Guyana has made towards The European Union Forest Law, Enforcement, Governance and Trade (EU-FLEGT) Voluntary Partnership Agreement (VPA) which was recently signed in Brussels, Belgium on Nov 23rd.” It was recommended by Lord Deben that Guyana can possibly have an independent model to represent its case to lift the restriction for non FSC. However, according to the association, it is not hopeful at this juncture. “The FLEGT process could take approximately 6 years to fully complete and while being a possibility solution it is not guaranteed. In the meantime, the restriction remains in place and companies are encouraged to acquire acceptable certifications such as FSC in order to gain access into the UK market.”

Tuesday December 11, 2018

Kaieteur News

Accused in Number 63 Beach 2015 robbery/murder found guilty Guilty was the verdict when the registrar of the New Amsterdam High Court asked the forewoman in the No. 63 beach robbery/murder if the panel had come to a verdict. The verdict was unanimous. Phileman Budhoo, called “Kevin”, 22, of No 63 Village, Corentyne, Berbice, who was on trial for murder before Justice Priya Sewnarine Beharry and a mixed jury, was found guilty of murdering Mohamed Fizal Mahmood Baksh, called ‘Sugar Cake’, a money changer, of No. 63 Village Corentyne, Berbice. The act was committed between December 21 and December 24, 2015 at the No. 63 Beach, Corentyne, Berbice. The accused who was represented by attorneys Arudranauth Gossai and Mursaline Bacchus, in association with Surihya Sabsook, showed some emotion as tears flowed down his face after the verdict was announced. Attorney-at-law Mandel Moore appeared for the state. Justice Sewnarine Beharry took just under two hours to sum up the evidence to the jury as she briefed them on the points of law. The jury, after retiring, took over four hours in their deliberations before arriving at their verdict. After the verdict was announced,

Murdered: Mohamed Baksh

Guilty: Phileman Budhoo, called ‘Kevin’

attorney Surihya Sabsook asked the judge for a probation report to be prepared on her client. The report was ordered and is to be presented on December 21. Earlier both the prosecution and defence had closed their cases, with the defence pointing out a number of discrepancies in the prosecution’s case. Attorney Gossai pointed to no check on a phone that was found, for calls made; no check being made with the Bank about the $488,000 that was allegedly banked by the accused, no bank slip was produced; no blood sample, and no fingerprints among other discrepancies. He said

his client was in Trinidad and could have stayed there, but chose to return to Guyana, because he knows that he is innocent. Prosecution Moore had asked the jury to believe their story. He highlighted the many coincident, suspicious and sudden actions of the accused, and the evidence of the witnesses. The accused had given a written caution statement, in which he admitted to taking Baksh to the No 63 beach and killing him, before taking $600,000 from the deceased. He banked some of the money before leaving for Trinidad. He also gave an unsworn statement from the dock in

which he denied killing the deceased. He said that he went to Trinidad to spend the Christmas. While in Trinidad, he was informed by his relatives that the police were looking for him for a murder. He subsequently returned to Guyana and was arrested. The prosecution’s case was that the accused made arrangements with Baksh about some financial transaction and subsequently took Baksh to the No. 63 Beach where he robbed and killed him. Baksh’s body was discovered in a bushy section of the No. 63 Village, Corentyne foreshore, three days after he was reported missing. The prosecution called a number of witnesses, including Detective Sergeant Kester Moriah, Sergeant Poonam Ibaran, Detective Christ Heber, Jagwanti Munir, the wife of the deceased, Fareena Hussein, wife of the owner of the car rental service and Rohan Karim, a worker at the car rental service. Government Pathologist Dr. Vivekanand Brijmohan who had performed a post mortem at the site where the body was found due to its decomposed state, gave the cause of death as shock and haemorrhage due to a fractured skull.

“Short Boss’’ attempted murder charge...

Imran Khan granted $700,000 bail in High Court After Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan refused to grant businessman Abdul Imran Khan bail on several occasions, his lawyers were able to secure bail in the sum of $700,000 in the High Court. Khan, 31, of 11 Austin Street, Campbellville, was not required to plead to the indictable charge which alleged that on October 28, last, at Main Street, Georgetown, with intent to commit murder; he unlawfully and maliciously wounded Romario Balget. Khan who was on remand for over a month was granted bail by Justice Sandil Kissoon on December 4 last, pending the outcome and determination of the Preliminary Inquiry (PI) which will be conducted before Senior Magistrate Leron Daly. Yesterday when the matter was called in the courtroom of Magistrate Daly, Special Prosecutor Latchmi Rahamat, told the court that despite Balget being released from hospital, his injuries are still life-threatening. The Prosecutor went on to tell the court that Balget has an artificial tube, but before she could have com-

The injured: Romario Balget

Charged: Abdul Imran Khan

pleted her sentence, Attorney-at-Law Glenn Hanoman interrupted her and told the court that the Prosecution is misleading the court and has no medical report to show the injuries the victim sustained. However, the Prosecutor told the court that she has provided a medical report to the court, outlining the injuries Balget received, allegedly at the hands of Khan. On November 26, last the

Prosecutor had told the court that Balget had to be admitted once again at a private hospital after suffering a seizure. Rahamat added that a CT scan had to be conducted on Balget, since it is believed that he might have suffered a fractured skull during the alleged beating, which is the likely cause of the seizure. The Magistrate after listening to both sides ad-

journed the matter until January 8, 2019 for full disclosure. According to information, on the day in question around 02:00 hrs, Balget went to the Palm Court night club on Main Street where he and his friends spent an hour. It was reported that as Balget and his friends were about to leave the nightclub, Khan and some other men were standing at the g a t e w a y. A s a r e s u l t , Balget and his friends walked between Khan and his friends. The court heard that Khan became annoyed and dealt Balget several punches to his head and face, causing him to sustain injuries. Khan then allegedly continued to cuff and kick Balget, while Balget was lying on the ground in an unconscious state. He is then alleged to have picked up a bottle and slashed Balget across the right side of his face. The injured man was rushed to a private hospital where he underwent two emergency surgeries for the injuries he received.

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Kaieteur News

Tuesday December 11, 2018

Tuesday December 11, 2018

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Kaieteur News

Akila Dananjaya found to Cameron warns of “serious decisions” to deal dia tour last October, mystery would not allow our players the omission of to be playing other events have illegal bowling action with player commitment surrounds Lewis, Narine and Russell es- while West Indies is playing ESPNcricinfo - An independent assessment has found the bowling action of Akila Dananjaya, the Sri Lanka offspinner, to be illegal. Dananjaya stands suspended from bowling in international cricket but, with the consent of SLC, he can still bowl in Sri Lanka’s domestic competitions. · Dananjaya was reported for a suspect action following Sri Lanka’s first Test against England in Galle last month. He underwent an assessment on November 23 at the National Cricket Centre in Brisbane, where the straightening of his elbow was found to exceed the 15degree tolerance limit. Dananjaya can apply for a reassessment after undergoing remedial work on his action.

Akila Dananjaya claimed a six-for. (AFP) If his remedied action passes the 15-degree rule, he will be allowed to resume bowling in international cricket.

KINGSTON, Jamaica, CMC – Controversial Cricket West Indies president, Dave Cameron, has questioned the commitment of West Indies players and has warned that “serious decisions” will be taken at board level to curb the problem. Speaking in a radio interview here in the wake of the Windies historic series whitewash to Bangladesh in the two-Test last week, Cameron said the board was spending “millions of dollars” to develop players but was not managing to maximise its investment. “Part of our challenge is we’re having players who are going in and out of the system, they’re not fit enough and we spend millions of dollars on bringing them to where

Tuesday December 11, 2018 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) A disagreement with a business or romantic partner could turn into an argument today. This won't do anything to increase the effectiveness of your relationship, Aries.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) A problem with your house - plumbing, electricity, phones - might necessitate calling in professionals. This might prove mildly irritating, as strangers could be going in and out all day

TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) Plans for a trip could go awry today because of circumstances beyond your control. A postponement might be necessary.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) An unexpected, upsetting letter or phone call might come today. This isn't major bad news, Scorpio.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) An upsetting dream may disturb your sleep tonight, Gemini. Some disturbing information about finances could prove upsetting today. CANCER (June 21–July 22) It could be hard to complete tasks today. A disagreement with other household members might give you the idea that everyone is against you. This isn't so, Cancer. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Today you might need to run a lot of errands. This could prove frustrating. Traffic could be bad, you might not find what you need, and it may be difficult to reach those you need to consult. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Your practicality and good sense prove invaluable today. Those close to you might be restless and upset, and you might have to steer them in the right direction. A close friend or lover may experience a financial upset, and you could be asked to help out.

SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) A sudden, irritating interruption in your routine could come your way today, Sagittarius. A friend may need some advice, and you could feel obliged to give it, which would put your own projects on hold for a while. CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) Today your progress might slow a bit. Problems with computers, telephones, cell phones, or other forms of technology might interrupt your day, Capricorn. AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) Unforeseen problems with travel could come up today, Aquarius. There could be changes or delays in airline schedules, car breakdowns, or bad traffic. It might be a good idea to avoid travel of any sort if you can. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Arguments over money might come up, Pisces. This might not involve your own funds but money belonging to a group with which you're involved. Try to be logical.

they’re at and we need players to commit to West Indies,” Cameron said. A CWI board meeting was held in Trinidad last weekend which Cameron said would have been used to come to “serious decisions” on what is referred to as the “West Indies cricket first policy”. The policy urges players to prioritise West Indies availability over global Twenty20 leagues, with the aim of ensuring the best squad at all times for international tours. Cameron hinted that at the moment, players seemed to be distracted by the lure of the lucrative short format franchise cricket. “Everybody wants the game to be over in three hours and we all want to get rich very, very quickly,” he contended. For the ongoing threematch one-day series in Bangladesh, West Indies are again without several firstchoice players like Chris Gayle, Evin Lewis, Sunil Narine and Andre Russell. While Gayle indicated his unavailability prior to the In-

Team Guyana regain CBC... From page 31 fellow Guyanese, 21-year-old Joanne Williams who was battered into submission by Brandy Barnes of Cayman Islands before their lightweight bout was stopped in 2:15 of round two. Abiola beat Tortola’s Sherika Elias when the Referee stopped the bout in 2:10 of the second round, while Aleshia defeated Grenadian Corrie Mapp when the bout was stopped in 32 seconds in the second round. In the other fights involving Guyanese Boxers, Astion Niles started the night off by beating Dominican Delroy Charles in their Novices Light Heavy encounter and Mark Pierre defeated Deion Pruitt of USVI. In the three local bouts Kevin Isaacs beat Richard Subrattee, Albert Thomas beat Kevon Mullings and Sean Griffith got the better Clinton Clarke. T&T ladies Faith Ramnauth and Tina Guy featured in an exhibition bout after their fights with Guyana’s Janessa and Angela Lamazon were called off. Director of Sports Christopher Jones and Guyanese Mike Parris, the Boxer from the English speaking Caribbean to win an Olympic Medal (Bronze in 1980) were among those who presented the

pecially since the trio turned out in the T10 League in Sharjah earlier this month. In the past, West Indies selectors have struggled with player unavailability due to contractual commitments to foreign franchises, and were forced to do without several players for their World Cup qualifying tournament in Zimbabwe last March. Cameron argued the Caribbean was perhaps the only jurisdiction where players were allowed to freely flout national selection. “It’s not an outcry across the region because West Indies is not one country. If this was South Africa, we

cricket. There would be a national outcry and players would be banned and all kind of things but it’s ok,” he pointed out. “We seemingly don’t have the moral authority to choose people to play for us even though we spend millions of dollars developing these athletes. I think we need some kind of a public forum where everybody can get get behind us.” At last weekend’s board meeting, CWI were also expected to discuss vacant head coach position of the men’s team, following the recent resignation of Australian Stuart Law.

Eagles United held to 0-0 draw by Capital... From page 29 line banged home one in the 44th minute. After that 2-0 first half score, Anthony Layne would send his team 3-0 into the lead and then Joshua Douglas would put the icing on the cake with another good goal in the 83rd minute for a 4-0 score as they

coasted into a strong position to reach the semifinals. Tomorrow night it will be another double header clash this time when Amelia’s Ward Panthers take on Winners Connection at 19.00hrs and the second game is between Silver Shattas and Blueberry Hill from 21.00hrs.

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Tuesday December 11, 2018

Kaieteur News

NFL roundup: Bears beat Rams, shake up playoff picture In a marquee matchup of flashy offence against tough defense, it was all defence. The Chicago Bears held the Los Angeles Rams to 214 total yards and kept them out of the end zone Sunday night, logging a 15-6 win at Soldier Field that might play a major role in shaping the NFC playoffs when they start next month. Chicago (9-4) moved another step closer to the NFC North title. If Minnesota (6-51) lost last night in Seattle, the Bears can wrap up the division crown next week at home against Green Bay. Los Angeles (11-2), meanwhile, sealed the NFC West last week but fell out of the No. 1 seed in the conference on Sunday. New Orleans (112) won earlier Sunday in Tampa Bay, and owns the top seed by virtue of a 45-35 win over the Rams on Nov. 4 in the Superdome. Dolphins 34, Patriots 33 Kenyan Drake scored to complete a two-lateral miracle final play as host Miami scored from 69 yards out and stunned New England. With seven seconds left on the clock, Dolphins quarterback Ryan Tannehill completed a 14-yard pass to Kenny Stills, who lateraled to DeVante Parker, who then found Drake. Drake ran the final 51 yards, scooting past stumbling tight end Rob

Chicago Bears wide receiver Allen Robinson (12) is tackled just short of the goal line by by Los Angeles Rams cornerback Aqib Talib (21) at Soldier Field. (Quinn Harris-USA TODAY Sports) Gronkowski, whom the Patriots had inserted into the game to stop a “Hail Mary” pass. Tannehill finished 14-of19 passing for 265 yards, three touchdowns and no interceptions. He battled a sore ankle after he got stepped on in the second quarter, but returned and kept the Dolphins (7-6) in playoff contention with the win. New England (9-4) had a chance to clinch its division for the 10th straight year but instead lost for the fifth time in its last six trips to Miami.

Chiefs 27, Ravens 24 (OT) Quarterback Patrick Mahomes converted two fourth downs on a game-tying drive in regulation and kicker Harrison Butker atoned for a missed field goal with a 35-yarder in overtime as host Kansas City edged Baltimore. Mahomes finished with 377 yards passing, going 35 of 53 with two touchdowns and an interception against the NFL’s top-ranked defense. With the win, the Chiefs (11-2) clinched a berth in the playoffs while retaining the best record in the AFC.

Starting quarterback Lamar Jackson was injured in overtime after getting sacked by Kansas City linebackers Justin Houston and Dee Ford. Faced with two snaps and 22 yards to gain from the Baltimore 41-yard line, backup quarterback Robert Griffin III could not engineer a first down, throwing two incompletions as the Ravens fell to 7-6. Saints 28, Buccaneers 14 Special teams ace Taysom Hill flipped the momentum with a blocked punt and Drew Brees converted second-half

touchdowns with a short pass and a fourth-down leap to lift New Orleans to a comeback victory over host Tampa Bay and claim the Saints’ second consecutive NFC South title. The Saints (11-2), who won back-to-back division titles for the first time in franchise history, looked sluggish, falling behind 14-3 at halftime, but they scored 25 unanswered points with three second-half touchdown drives and a 36-yard field goal by Will Lutz to put the game away. The Bucs (5-8) dominated the Saints in the first half, taking a 14-3 lead, and it could have been even more lopsided because kicker Cairo Santos missed a 46-yard field goal after Tampa Bay had driven to a first-and-10 at the New Orleans 22. Chargers 26, Bengals 21 Darius Philon’s sack on a two-point conversion attempt with less than two minutes remaining sealed Los Angles’ victory over visiting Cincinnati and helped to solidify the Chargers’ playoff chances. The Chargers (10-3), the top wild-card team in the AFC, remain behind the Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC West standings. The Chargers and Chiefs are set for a showdown at Kansas City on Thursday night. Bengals quarterback Jeff

Driskel was 18 of 27 for 170 yards and a touchdown in his second career start as Cincinnati (5-8) lost its fifth consecutive game and dropped to 5-8 after opening the season with a 4-1 record. Cowboys 29, Eagles 23 (OT) Quarterback Dak Prescott threw a 15-yard touchdown pass to Amari Cooper with 1:55 remaining in overtime to lift Dallas past visiting Philadelphia. The pass was deflected by Rasul Douglas and into Cooper’s hands before he raced in for the winning score and the fifth straight win for the Cowboys, who never let the Eagles touch the ball in overtime. Prescott was 42 of 54 for a career-high 455 yards, two interceptions and three touchdowns, all to Cooper, who caught 10 passes for 217 yards. The Cowboys improved to 8-5, two games ahead of the Eagles (6-7) and Washington Redskins (6-7) in the NFC East with three games to play. In other scores: Packers 34, Falcons 20 Raiders 24, Steelers 21 Browns 26, Panthers 20 Colts 24, Texans 21 Giants 40, Redskins 16 49ers 20, Broncos 14 Jets 27, Bills 23 Lions 17, Cardinals 3 (Field Level Media)

NBA roundup: Bucks muscle past Raptors again Malcom Brogdon made two 3pointers late in the fourth quarter, including the one for the go-ahead points with 40.7 seconds to play, and the visiting Milwaukee Bucks defeated the Toronto Raptors 104-99 on Sunday night. Brogdon finished with 18 points for the Bucks, who have twice defeated the Raptors this season. Giannis Antetokounmpo scored 19 points and grabbed 19 rebounds for the Bucks and Brook Lopez also had 19 points while Khris Middleton and Tony Snell scored 10 each. Serge Ibaka scored 22 points, Kawhi Leonard had 20, Fred VanVleet scored 19 and Pascal Siakam added 17 for the Raptors, who have lost two in a row. Kyle Lowry did not score a point for the Raptors for the first time since March 17, 2013, against the Miami Heat. Spurs 110, Jazz 97 DeMar DeRozan scored 26 points and Rudy Gay added 23 points and a career-high-tying 15 rebounds, as host San Antonio pulled away late to beat Utah. The win was the second straight for the Spurs and gave them consecutive victories for the first time since winning four straight in an eight-day span Oct. 27-Nov. 3. Donovan Mitchell led the Jazz

Toronto Raptors forward Pascal Siakam (43) and Raptors forward CJ Miles (0) defend against Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) at Scotiabank Arena. (John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports) with 27 points, while Ricky Rubio scored 26 and Rudy Gobert added 12 for Utah, which had a two-game winning streak snapped.

Pelicans 116, Pistons 108 Jrue Holiday and Julius Randle combined to score 65 points to overcome a limited performance from

Anthony Davis as New Orleans Pelicans edged host Detroit. Holiday had 37 points and Randle had 28 while Davis was lim-

ited to six points in 26 minutes as he played through an injured hip suffered in the first quarter. Tim Frazier added 14 points and Nikola Mirotic scored 12 off the bench as the Pelicans won for the third time in five games. Blake Griffin scored 35 points, backup Langston Galloway added 24 and Andre Drummond had 23 points and 19 rebounds to lead the Pistons, who lost their fourth straight after a five-game winning streak. Hornets 119, Knicks 107 Kemba Walker scored 25 points before sitting out the entire fourth quarter and Charlotte rolled to an easy victory over host New York. Walker, a native New Yorker, turned his only scheduled appearance in Madison Square Garden this season into another great performance. He finished 8 of 20 from the field, hit four 3-pointers, and added six rebounds, six assists and four steals. The Hornets (13-13) won their second straight, following up an impressive home win over Denver on Friday night. Kevin Knox led the Knicks with 26 points off the bench. The Knicks also got 21 points from Tim Hardaway Jr. and 18 from Frank Ntilikina. (Field Level Media)

Tuesday December 11, 2018

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Kaieteur News

India edge defiant Australia by 31 runs in Adelaide ADELAIDE (Reuters) India crushed a lower-order insurrection to secure a nervejangling 31-run victory in the first test against Australia yesterday, raising the South Asian nation’s hopes of a breakthrough series win Down Under. The tourists had to work hard to remove Australia’s last four batsmen on the final day at Adelaide Oval but finally broke through at the end of an extended middle session to send India’s travelling fans into raptures. Faced with a docile wicket and tenacious tail-end slogging, Virat Kohli’s team bowled with patience and determination to claim India’s first win in the country since Anil Kumble’s men beat a Ricky Ponting-led Australia by 72 runs in Perth in 2008. It was also India’s first win in a test series-opener in Australia and they will head to Perth for the second of the four matches full of confidence. “Obviously it’s a great feeling, we’ve never taken a lead in a series in Australia,” said Kohli, who scored backto-back centuries in a 48-run loss in Adelaide during the 2014/15 tour. “I think our fast bowlers came in and bowled with great

heart but we knew (Australia) were not going to throw in the towel.” Spinner Ravichandran Ashwin took the final wicket of Josh Hazlewood for 13 to dismiss Australia for 291, with Nathan Lyon unbeaten on 38 after a valiant chase of 323 for victory. After suffering defeat in their first home test without the suspended Steve Smith and David Warner, Tim Paine’s Australia will go into the second match with batting worries confirmed. On a pitch that presented few demons, only two home batsmen managed scores above 50 across the match, with a majority of victims falling due to poor shot selection. “It’s pretty shattering,” Paine said. “Really proud of the fight of the lower order but I think over the five days we had a number of opportunities to get ahead of the game but failed to capitalise on any of them and India thoroughly deserved to win.” Kohli’s side banked 123 and 71 from man of the match Cheteshwar Pujara, while Ajinkya Rahane chipped in a vital 70 in the second innings against a world class seam attack.

Moment of victory, moment of defeat: India’s celebrations begin ©Getty Images India have been excited by their own pace bowlers and they delivered when it counted. Mohammed Shami had 365 in the second innings and Jasprit Bumrah (3-68) made key breakthroughs on day five. Ishant Sharma started the ball rolling by taking Travis Head’s wicket for 14 in the morning. Under pressure after a dreadful run of scores, Shaun

Marsh was removed by wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant for 60, leaving wicketkeeper Paine and tail-ender Pat Cummins to scrap desperately to lunch. Paine had treatment for a hand injury before the break and was out slogging for 41 soon after before Mitchell Starc kept the terraces entertained with a typically swashbuckling innings of 28. Mohammed Shami broke

through to remove Starc, with Pant catching the edge to equal the world record of 11 dismissals shared by AB De Villiers and Jack Russell. Pant dropped a diving, one-handed chance that would have given him sole possession of the record when Bumrah coaxed a nick off Cummins (28). But the Indian bowler got Cummins eventually, with an edge flying to Kohli in the

slips. No team had scored more than 315 runs in a successful run chase at Adelaide Oval but Lyon and Hazlewood kept the crowd entertained in a final 32-run stand before falling short. Scores: India 250 (Pujara 123) and 307 (Pujara 71, Rahane 70, Lyon6-122) beat Australia 235 (Head 72) and 291 (S Marsh 60) by 31 runs.

England stick with unchanged Test group for West Indies ESPNcricinfo - England have stuck with the players who claimed a historic Test whitewash in Sri Lanka last month in naming their squad for the Caribbean. Ollie Pope, who left Sri Lanka to join up with the Lions in the UAE, misses out and there was no room for Jason Roy, despite speculation he could be included as a spare top-order batsman. Ben Foakes, who was not part of the original party for Sri Lanka but claimed the Man of the Series award after making his debut as wicketkeeper after an injury to Jonny Bairstow, is the only official addition to the 16-man group. In the ODI squad, David Willey returns following injury and Joe Denly is included, having been called up as an injury replacement for Liam Dawson (Denly subsequently won the Man of the Match award in the only T20I against Sri Lanka). Dawson, Sam Curran and Olly Stone, who provided cover for Liam Plunkett in Sri Lanka, are the players to drop out. The conclusion of the ECB Cricket Disciplinary Commission’s investigation into Ben Stokes and Alex

England will field the same squad against Windies that beat Sri Lanka last month. (Associated Press) Hales after their behaviour on a night out in Bristol in 2017 means that both are included without caveat. England’s 3-0 Test success in Sri Lanka via a brand of attacking batsmanship had led to the suggestion that Roy, a fixture at the top of the one-day order and who featured for the Lions in a four-day game against Pakistan A last month, could be selected for the first time. Denly has however been retained, having been overlooked for a debut in Sri

Lanka. The depth available to Joe Root means that England could still field a three-man spin attack, if conditions in the Caribbean dictate, but they also retain plenty of pace options. James Anderson and Stuart Broad, England’s record-breaking newball pairing, could be reunited, while Sam Curran, Chris Woakes and Stone can all stake a claim. Bairstow, who scored a century on his first appearance at No. 3 in Colombo, is likely to get

a run at the position in three Tests against West Indies, ahead of the 2019 summer’s Ashes. Ed Smith, England’s national selector, said that the Test squad’s success in Sri Lanka merited a continuity of selection, but backed those names that missed the cut to keep pressing their cases for future series. “Jason Roy is a very talented cricketer,” said Smith. “It was great to see him playing so well in the last couple

of Championship games for Surrey and he went on to be part of the Lions. We continue to watch his development as an all-round cricketer closely, but we are very happy with the squad we’ve chosen.” On Pope’s absence, having been squeezed out of consideration in Sri Lanka by Ben Foakes’ surefooted debut, Smith added: “Nothing has changed in that he is already a very good player and is only going to get better, and we are very excited at what he can do in an England shirt. “In time he’ll be able to make a claim in all sorts of positions. But we felt, as a selection panel, it was best for him to continue his development in the Lions rather than not get many opportunities in the West Indies.” Next year also promises to be a defining one for England’s one-day squad, as they attempt to win a first World Cup on home soil. Eoin Morgan’s side features a largely settled batting order barring some competition between Roy, Bairstow and Hales at the top - but there has been some jockeying among the bowlers. Willey missed the last tour with a back problem but has

been a consistent part of the set-up since 2015, while Plunkett is fully available again after a clash with his wedding. Mark Wood has also been persisted with, despite one underwhelming appearance in Sri Lanka, with Sam Curran and Stone seemingly slipping back in the race for a World Cup spot. The five-ODI series against West Indies will be followed by three T20Is, for which England have yet to name a squad. They then face Ireland in a one-off game in Dublin, followed by five ODIs against Pakistan to kick off the home season before the start of the World Cup on May 30. England Test squad: Joe Root (capt), Moeen Ali, Jimmy Anderson, Jonny Bairstow, Stuart Broad, Rory Burns, Jos Buttler, Sam Curran, Joe Denly, Ben Foakes, Keaton Jennings, Jack Leach, Adil Rashid, Ben Stokes, Olly Stone, Chris Woakes England ODI squad: Eoin Morgan (capt), Moeen Ali, Jonny Bairstow, Jos Buttler, Tom Curran, Joe Denly, Alex Hales, Liam Plunkett, Adil Rashid, Joe Root, Jason Roy, Ben Stokes, David Willey, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood

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Tuesday December 11, 2018

Kaieteur News

Permaul’s landmark helps crush Volcanoes resistance GROS ISLET, St Lucia, CMC – Left-arm spinner Veerasammy Permaul reached another landmark in his first class career as Guyana Jaguars kicked off their bid for a fifth straight title with a 125run victory over Windward Islands Volcanoes on the final day here Sunday. Resuming at the Darren Sammy Cricket Ground on 54 for two in pursuit of an improbable 348 for victory, Volcanoes folded for 224, with 20year-old left-hander Alick Athanaze top-scoring with a patient unbeaten 64. Opener Taryck Gabriel converted his overnight 33 into 57 while wicketkeeper

Denis Smith struck 38 and Kavem Hodge, 32. Permaul snatched three for 56 to reach 450 first class wickets, ending the contest with a six-wicket haul. Fast bowlers Romario Shepherd (2-20), Chris Barnwell (2-36) and Clinton Pestano (2-49) all supported with two wickets each. Gabriel and Hodge extended their overnight third wicket stand to 58, to give Volcanoes some impetus early in the day. The right-handed Gabriel faced 124 balls in 2-¾ hours at the crease and counted seven fours while Hodge struck five fours off 49 deliv-

Trophy Stall supports KFC Goodwill tournament The KFC Goodwill schools’ football tournament kicks off this Saturday at the Ministry of Education (MOE) ground and will feature three local teams along with Trinidad and Tobago’s (T&T) Champions; Shiva’s Hindu College. The competition will be decided using the round-robin format with three playing days; the 15th, 18th and 22nd of this month. Annai Secondary of Region nine along with the recent Guyoil/ Tradewind Tankers school league Champions; Annandale Secondary and runners up, Christianburg/Wismar Secondary School (CWSS) will be challenging the very strong T&T unit for the inaugural KFC Goodwill Cup. Yesterday, at Trophy Stall’s South Road location, the entity presented Troy Mendonca who is the Director of the tournament’s organising body (Petra Organisation) with trophies that will used in the historic event. “On behalf of Petra Organisation, I would like to extend a big thank you to Ramesh (Sunich - Proprietor of Trophy Stall) for his contribution towards the anticipated success of this inaugural

KFC Schools’ Goodwill tournament”, Mendonca posited during the simple but significant handing over ceremony. “Trophy Stall has always been a partner with Petra who are known to be actively involved in the development of football in Guyana. And, as these organisers embark to extend their reach into the region, we couldn’t be happier with the ambition and our support is automatic”, explained Trophy Stall’s Kevin Eshwar. The fixtures of the tournament have been released and each day’s play will witness a double header with games at 17:00hrs and 19:00hrs. Saturday’s games will see CWSS playing Annandale first before Annai clash with Shiva’s Hindu College in the feature match. On the 18th, CWSS will play Annai first followed by feature play between Annandale and Shiva’s Hindu College. And, the final match day will pit Annandale against Annai at 17:00hrs while the final match of the tournament will be an anticipated clash between Linden’s CWSS and the fearsome youngsters from T&T at 19:00hrs.

Barker guides MSC to... From page 29 Organisation ground, Ershad Ali struck a belligerent century, but his feat failed to carry his team over the line. MYO decided to bat and piled up a challenging 343-7. Vinash Rampersaud smashed 13 fours and five sixes in an unbeaten 111; he added 151 for the fourth wicket with Safraz Esau who struck 91. Khemraj Ramdeen made 57 as Devon Paul claimed 2-50 and Dennis Heywood 2-91. Pacer Chien Gittens put UG on the back foot early on to reduce them to 35-4 before Ali’s entertainment. The lefthanded Ali clobbered 20 fours and eight sixes in his brutal knock before he was dismissed for 161. Keon Roberts made 24 and Almando Doman got 21 as UG were dismissed for 292 in 37 overs. Gittens finished with 3-37 and Shafiek Ishmael 3-51.

eries. Hodge and Gabriel were both knocked over by Permaul – two of three wickets to fall for 26 runs in the space of 52 balls – to leave Volcanoes struggling on 114 for five. However, Athanaze came to his side’s rescue, producing an innings that required 137 deliveries, 2-½ hours and included five fours and two sixes. Crucially, he anchored an 88-run sixth wicket stand with Smith who faced 68 balls and struck six fours. The partnership propelled the hosts to 202 for five, further raising hopes of at least saving the match but

Left-arm spinner Veerasammy Permaul. once Smith perished, the last five wickets fell for just 20 runs

At the Darren Sammy Cricket Stadium (Gros Islet): Jaguars beat Volcanoes by

125 runs. GUYANA JAGUARS 224 (Vishaul Singh 75, Romario Shepherd 44; Shane Shillingford 4-59) and 310 for four decl. (Tagenarine Chanderpaul 84 not out, Clinton Pestano 69, Chris Barnwell 61 not out, Leon Johnson 51) WINDWARD ISLANDS VOLCANOES 187 (Delorn Johnson 34 not out, Alick Athanaze 34; Clinton Pestano 4-46, Veerasammy Permaul 313) and 222 (Alick Athanaze 64 not out, Taryck Gabriel 57, Denis Smith 38, Kavem Hodge 32; Veerasammy Permaul 3-56, Romario Shepherd 2-30)

Assuria commits to GFF/Stag Super-16 Year end Tournament As the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) counts down to the start of the GFFStag Yearend tournament on Friday; Assuria has committed a monetary donation to the success of the tournament. This undisclosed sum was presented yesterday at Assuria’s Head Office by the company’s Financial Planner, Patrick Hazelwood, to GFF’s President Wayne Forde in the presence of Erwin Daniels, Assuria’s Agency Manager and Head of Life Department. Following the presentation, Daniels said the agency is pleased to be associated with the initiative as it has the potential for positive change: “The GFF is engendering good behavior for our youths

and youth development. The tournament affords the youth the extra-curricular activities outside of education. Football has the ability to produce role models for the society through the development of national athletes including coaches and players. It takes care of the youth. So Assuria will partner with any organization, which enhances society as a whole, and the GFF is such an organisation.” Echoing Daniels’ sentiments, Hazelwood said the partnership is monumental for his company: “It’s a great achievement in the sense that we’re among the first set of insurance companies to entertain such a thought. Based on that, I’m looking forward to the aspect of moving from

strength to strength, making the GFF much more effective in terms of our input as well as that of the Federation from an insurance and developmental standpoint where football is concerned.” Meanwhile, in expressing his pleasure at the partnership, President Forde said the contribution will be impactful for the sport of football: “This is an extension of an already robust relationship. Assuria is the single supplier of all of our insurance products and we’re happy to transition that relationship to the support of the game. Many young men will have an opportunity to positively engage themselves during this festive season in the game of football, which will

no doubt take them away from any other form of activity that may not be in their best interest or the society’s best interest; so we’re happy that Assuria has seen it fit to reinvest into the development of young people in Guyana.” The tournament was launched on Monday, 19th November, 2018 and is scheduled to kick off on Friday at the GFC Ground, Bourda from 18:00hrs when Buxton United oppose Riversview of Bartica to be followed by the feature attraction, GDF against the Essequibo Football Association combined side. Admission to all matches are as follows: $500 (to end of the quarterfinals stage), $1,000 (semifinals) and $1,500 for the finals.

Ganesh Parts and General Store supports Boxing Day race meet G a n e s h ’s P a r t s a n d General Store has thrown its support behind the Kennard Memorial Turf Club (KMTC) for the staging of their Boxing Day horserace meet set for Bush Lot, Corentyne. Proprietor of the entity Roop Persaud handed over a cheque worth $200,000, which will go towards the L-Open event, to President of the KMTC, Cecil Kennard yesterday at their location on Robb Street. In his brief remarks, Persaud said the company has been supportive to the KMTC for a number of years and they are happy to be onboard once again. Kennard thanked the sponsors for coming forward, adding that he would love to see the working relationship between the two parties con-

President of the KMTC, Cecil Kennard accepts the cheque from Roop Persaud in the presence of other employees. tinue. Seven races are carded for the day with the C Class and Lower event being the feature race fetching a $1.6 million dollars in prizes; it will be competed over a distance of one mile, the top finisher will ride away with $800,000, second $400,000, third $200,000 and fourth $98,000.

The H1 and Lower race along with the three-year-old and over races will see the winners taking home $250,000 and $240,000 respectively. Meanwhile, the two-yearold Guyana bred (maiden) which will be contested over a distance of five furlongs will see the winner galloping

away with $200,000; the Lopen: $140,000, L-non winners: $120,000 and L-non earners $100,000. The races will be run under the regulations of the Guyana Horse Racing Authority and entries will be closed on Sunday, December 16.

Kaieteur News

Tuesday December 11, 2018

PAGE 29

Ezon Roberts’s 5-A-Side Memorial

Timehri Panthers dominate, win U11, 13 & 15; Back Street Girls take Female trophy

Mr. and Mrs. Errol and Norma Roberts (right) and Ms. Octavia Gibson (left) pose with the Timehri Panthers Under-11 , 13 and 15 champions’ teams following the presentation.

T

he inaugural Ezon Roberts 5a-side Memorial Football Fiesta on Sunday evening last was a resounding success with a total of 21 teams at the female, Under-11, 13, 15 and Senior levels taking part. Organised by the Roberts Family of Kuru Kururu in memory of their son and brother Ezon who passed

away at age 37 in December of 2017 as a result of diabetes, the Kuru Kururu Primary School ground was abuzz with action as players from the home club, Swan and Timehri competed against each other. A team of a Doctor and Nurses from the Kuru Kururu Health Center were also on hand to administer free health checks for sugar

and blood pressure; members of the community and players capitalising on the opportunity. Organiser, Dale Roberts, expressed thanks on behalf of his parents, Errol and Norma to the teams and community members for making the event a resounding success. The Roberts family is promising that the event would be held annually and

Barker guides MSC to victory; MYO beat UG despite Ali’s ton

Captain of the Female winners, Shaunna Edwards receives the trophy from Mrs. Norma Roberts in the presence of her teammates. they strive to ensure that persons keep an active and healthy lifestyle. When the on-field action ended under lights, the Timehri Panthers Under-11 team took the top two spots in their competition which also featured Kuru Kururu and Swan, while their U13 and 15 sides were equally dominant by lifting the first place trophies and medals.

Kuru Kururu Warriors were runners-up in both the Under13 and 15 to Timehri Panthers; they also received medals. In the battle of the female stars, Back Street Girls, made up of Ronetta Grant, Ronnesa Grant, Juvena Grant, Shauna Edwards and 10 year-old Aaliyah Boston were too hot for Team Twin Girls comprising of Candac

Fraser, Teah Henry, Tamara Henry and Gwen Alexander to handle and they romped to an exciting 1-0 win to take the trophy and gold medals. In the senior male competition that attracted some nine teams, FCB of Kuru Kururu emerged winners via a penalty shot out with Swan FC and walked away with $30,000 and a trophy for their efforts.

UDFA GT Beer kicks off in Linden

Eagles United held to 0-0 draw by Capital FC as Net Rockers bang Shattas 4-0

- Rampersaud slams century for MYO

Ershad Ali By Zaheer Mohamed Nichosie Barker struck a fine half century to guide Malteenoes Sports Club to a four-wicket victory against GNIC SC, while Muslim Youth Organisation (MYO) defeated University of Guyana by 52 runs when the latest action of the Georgetown Cricket Association/New Building Society Second Division 40over tournament concluded on Sunday last. Barker struck 10 fours as Malteenoes SC successfully chased 175; they finished on 176-6 in 29 overs at GNIC SC. The home team took first

Safraz Esau strike and were bowled out in the 35th over with David Dick top scoring with 75. After they were reduced to 22-3 and later 55-4, Dick added 36 for the fifth wicket with Shawn DeSouza (09) and then put on a further 39 with Jermaine Grosvenor (11) to prop up the total. Dick slammed 12 fours in his innings, while C. Duesbury contributed 15 as sixteenyear old leg spinner Wayne Bollers picked up 3-28 from six overs, Kellon Carmichael had 2-22 and Delon Dalrymple 2-26. Openers Stephan Browne and Marcus Watkins

Vinash Rampersaud put Malteenoes SC on course with a stand of 53 before the latter was bowled behind his back by M. Mentore for 27. Browne was then lbw to David Dick for 29, while Kwame Crosse and Carmichael fell for 16 and five respectively as GNIC SC fought back. However, Barker kept his composure and steadied the chase nicely as he added 51 for the fifth wicket with Shaquille Moseley who fell for 18. Barker eventually fell for 51; C. Duesbury took 231. At Muslim Youth (Continued on page 28)

The scorers for Net Rockers (from left) Deshawn Joseph, Denzil Pryce, Anthony Layne and Joshua Douglas. Capital FC made their debut in competitive football with a well earned nil all draw against the Upper Demerara champions Christianburg’s Eagles United but the second seed Net Rockers wasted little time on a 4-0 demolition of Silver Shattas as the 2018/19 UDFA GT Beer football championship began last Sunday night at the Mackenzie Sports Club ground. The evening’s double header encounters began with the official march past of the ten clubs in this year’s tournament where three groups of three will play round robin matches and the top teams will qualify along with the reigning champions Botafago in the final four for places in the final. The draw earned by capital FC would have been satisfactory for the new comers

even though Eagles United coach Rawle Huntley noted his side’s performance was somewhat diminished by the fact that a number of players from his team had crossed over to be part of the Capital FC unit. However, he said that for the next game they will ensure a victory to boost their chances of coming out on top. In the other game Net Rockers put nothing to chance and disposed of Silver Shattas in a clinical display of ball movement starting from the 20th minute when De Shawn Joseph put them up after latching on to a rebound after a set of shots opened up for the strike in the first half. This was followed by one when Denzil Pryce who engineered the play on the front (Continued on page 25)

Kaieteur News

PAGE 30

Tuesday December 11, 2018

New Archery Guyana President Mohamed Khan meets Minister Dr. George Norton, shares plans

President of Archery Guyana Mr. Mohamed Khan shares his plans for 2019 with Honourable Minister Norton. Seated on his left is Secretary-General Mrs. Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon. Newly elected Archery Guyana President Mr. Mohamed Khan and his delegation of Directors paid a courtesy call on the Minister of Social Cohesion, Dr. George Norton at the Ministry’s headquarters on Main Street. During this visit they discussed with the Honourable Minister Norton their development plans whilst updating the Minister of the progress of Archery Guyana thus far. Their proposed Junior Archery Programme, Schools Programme and ParaArchery Programme were discussed. They agreed to pursue more Outreach programmes. Early in the New Year, Archery Guyana will be hosting an International Olympic Judge who will be conducting a Judge’s

From left, Archery Guyana’s President Mr. Mohamed Khan, Honourable Minister Dr. George Norton, Archery Guyana’s Secretary-General Mrs. Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon and Treasurer Mr. Nicholas Hing.

training Seminar. This event comes on the heels of the Level 1 Coaching training Seminar organized by Archery Guyana whereby 19 National Archery Coaches were certified by the renowned International Olympic Coach Phillip Greaves. Persons interested in becoming involved as Judges in the sport are urged to engage with Archery Guyana early to be able to benefit from the said Judge’s Seminar. The Minister expressed his commitment to continue working with Archery Guyana, especially in taking the sport into the hinterland areas of Guyana. The Ministry and Archery Guyana agreed to collaborate to build a stronger working relationship in promoting and developing the novel sport for the benefit of all Guyanese.

Team Wreckers wreak havoc at South Dakota

A

fter two hours of competitive driving, team R a m c h a n d ’s Wr e c k e r s through driver Adrian Fernandes continued its stranglehold on the Endurance title of the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club. The team amassed a total of 86 laps over two hours. But it was not without a close fight from the team of Motilall Deodass who finished just one lap a drift of the winners in the overall as well as 1501-1600cc class. Finishing third overall was the team of Shan Seejattan who finished as the first unlimited car to cross the line after completing 82 laps. After a late start to the day, the action finally got going with over 30 cars on the grid, representing one of the largest competitor turnouts this year. At the halfway point one hour in, the Ramchand’s and Deodass teams were tied on laps but the changeover and refuelling effort is where the battle was won and lost.

-Crack and Lean ride away with bikes honours

Team Wreckers’ undefeated Toyota Levin endurance car. Coming third in the 1501-1600cc class was Kamal Seebarran with 80 laps, while Clint Seebarran finished fourth with 78 laps. In the 0-1500cc class, Selwyn Persaud (71 laps) finished ahead of Naresh Alves by three laps with the team of Reyad and Richard Hamid third and the Nexus team of Haniff Mohamed and Raymond Seebarran fourth.

In the 1601- 2000cc Rishan Ali after 81 laps completed the top spot ahead of former champion Mohamed Roshandin who fell just one lap short. Rafeeq Khan finished third. Shan Seejattan and the Special Auto team took glory in the Unlimited class easily as he completed 82 laps with Romeo Singh finishing second and the other Ramchand Wreckers

team of Anand Ramchand and Andrew King third. New Record Meanwhile, a new large circuit record was set Sunday by Rameez Mohamed, with a 1:17.026. Driving his Honda Civic in the unlimited class, he was able to break a record once set by Eric Vieira back in 1972. “Well it’s a win in a way to break a record that has

stood for decades; I didn’t get the result I want with the endurance but we are pretty happy with what the car is doing. It is my circuit car so there’s definitely a positive,” he said. The car section was preceded by a 45-minute bike class which was won by team Crack and Lean. A competitive bit of riding by the trio of Carey Griffith, Dwayne Caesar, Romeo

Persaud saw them win by just over three laps. Finishing in second was team Blaze comprising John Bennett, Sharal Gooding and Romel Singh, while Team Viper which had Kwame Ridley, Elton Carter and Zuri Jhonson finished third. The final event of the GMR&SC Caldendar is this weekend’s KFC Mega cup round two.

Tuesday December 11, 2018

Kaieteur News

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Team Guyana regain CBC Title on home soil By Sean Devers While it was far less than the 1,500 capacity that the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall can accommodate, the crowd on Sunday night was the largest of four nights of the fifth annual CBC as they watched Guyana regain the title they lost to Grenada in St Lucia last year. Guyana, winners in the inaugural Championships on home soil in 2015 and again in Barbados in 2016, finished with 10 Gold, three Silver and two Bronze, while 19-year-old Bantamweight Gold Medallist Keevin Allicock was adjudged the Best Boxer. Trinidad & Tobago, with their largest contingent in five-year history of this tournament finished second with four Gold, three Silver and three Bronze in a Championships described by President of the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) Steve Ninvalle as the Caribbean’s Olympics. The highly touted Allicock, competing in the last bout of the Championships which concluded close to 01:00hrs yesterday morning, beat Barbadian Ajayl Jones on

points in their Bantamweight battle to capture his second consecutive Gold in two years. The teenager who fights out of the Forgotten Youth Foundation (FYF) was on the attack from the first bell and peppered Jones with blows to the body as he backed him up on the ropes. When Jones counterpunched the swift footed Allicock easily danced out of range. A body dig in the second round sent the Bajan on his knees and he received a standing 8 count as the lad from Albouystown dominated the round. The intensity picked in the final round as Allicock continued to go to body with lightning fast four-punch combinations before going to the head. Jones tried to fight back with 1-2 combinations but most of his shots missed their mark. Allicock was too fast and although he could have jabbed a bit more his hand speed allowed him to penetrate Jones’s defence as he bullied his man to easily win the fight. Another entertaining bout was the middleweight

Brandy Barnes from Cayman Islands (right) battered Guyana’s Joanne Williams into submission with the Ref stopping the contest in the second round of their Women’s Light Flyweight bout. encounter between Guyana’s Desmond Amsterdam and St Lucian Arthur Langalier. The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Boxer came out with all guns blazing and clinically executed combinations to the body and head but the St Lucian fought back with left, right combinations in the fast paced encounter. A three-punch combination hurt Langalier and a standing 8 count was administered before a left to the body and a straight right

to head staggered the St Lucian who received another 8 count. Langalier fought back in the second round as the boxers traded punches in the centre of the ring. Amsterdam scored with a flurry of shots but the St Lucian responded with a left to body and a right to the head to close the gap by the end of round two. Amsterdam was hit by a right hand to the head at the beginning of the final round but the Guyanese retaliated

with an upper-cut and the raucous crowd was into the fight creating a wonderful atmosphere. An overhand right to the head resulted in Langalier getting his third 8 count of the action-packed affair and the fans in the packed VIP section were on their feet and screaming contradicting instructions the Guyanese. Langalier countered with an overhand right of his own and backed up Amsterdam who was given an 8 count before the St Lucian was hit with a couple of low blows. Amsterdam jumped on his man unleashing a series of shots to the body and head b u t L a n g a l i e r counterattacked with a crunching upper cut to the Kitchen and at the end of shot-filled contest there was a standing ovation for both boxers with Amsterdam winning on points. Trinidad also won five bouts on the final night including four against Guyanese with Tyron St Clair, fighting a more technical fight, dominating Guyana’s Emmerson Farley in the Novices Super Heavyweight contest. Andrew Fermin beat

Guyanese Aubrey Headley on points in their Heavyweight bout as Headley tried to man handle the Trini and missed most of his punches in what seemed at times to be a mixed Martial Arts contest. A wicked left hook from Jamal Eastman to the head of Guyana’s Jessie Beckles saw their Lightweight match-up ending in 33 seconds of the second round, while the towering Nigel Paul, the only Olympian in the Championships, made light work of Guyanese Shamear Mingo who survived two 8 counts before the fight was halted in 2:21 in first round. T&T’s other win was achieved when Micheal Alexander beat Bajan Justin Edwards in a Light welterweight affair. S t L u c i a n Ly n d e l Marcelin had a successful defence of his Welterweight title which he won last year on home soil when his bout against Barbadian Jamal Edmond was stopped in the first round. In the Women’s bouts, which were three twominute rounds, the Jackman siblings avenged the loss of (Continued on page 25)

Olympian Nigel Paul from T&T stopped Guyanese Shamear Mingo in the first round.

Guyana’s Desmond Amsterdam trades shots with St Lucian Arthur Langlier on Sunday night.

Guyana’s Keevin Alicock was adjudged Best Boxer and too good for Bajan Ajayl Jones in their Bantamweight bout (Sean Devers photo)

The crowd on Sunday night the largest of the four nights.

- Allicock adjudged ‘Best Boxer’ as Guyana win 15 Medals

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Team Guyana won their 3rd CBC Title early Monday morning as best boxer Keevin Alicick collects his trophy from Steve Ninvalle. (Sean Devers photo)

Team Guyana regain CBC Title on home soil - Allicock adjudged ‘Best Boxer’ as Guyana win 15 Medals

Assuria commits to GFF/Stag Super-16 Year end P. 28 Tournament

Assuria’s Patrick Hazelwood presents cheque to GFF’s President Wayne Forde.

P. 31

Trophy Stall’s representative Kevin Eshwar presents Petra Organisation’s Troy Mendonca with one of the trophies during a photo-op yesterday.

Trophy Stall supports KFC Goodwill tournament P. 28

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