Kaieteur News
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Wednesday December 18, 2019
Kaieteur News
Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana. Publisher: GLENN LALL Editor: Adam Harris Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210
EDITORIAL
Political marketing taken to new heights It is well known and now widely accepted, that the media machinery of the opposition is without compare. As if to furnish more evidence of how comprehensive and unrelenting is that operation, there is no resting on laurels in smug satisfaction with the output of local minds and hands only. For now, there is engaging of a foreign voiceprint -an American one. When the best at this marketing-propaganda game is desired, none from other places will do; it must be the incomparable Americans. There is bypassing traditional protests about meddling and focus on what should become apparent to the Guyanese electorate, thought of as unthinking and unmoving, while served up these morsels of nuanced titillations. There was an earlier one involving some poll, for which nobody claimed ownership. The latest is this flapping of the gums (and political flap) about ‘likely’ opposition elections success. Though official, America has denied involvement. This should bring home to citizens what is at work here. It is not about politicians envisioning and preparing to offer the nation something different, something enhancing through the constructive. No! It is about probing for any angle, no matter how minute, to deliver a subtly honed sales pitch: ‘likely’ victory has a smooth, influential ring about it. No wonder the government took offense, given its own sensitivities. For here is the opposition benefiting from a foreign voice playing with the minds of local voters. The offending party is an American, but that is brushed aside, and this is tendered for local consumption: whenever American energies are brought to bear, marketing of the product is the paramount component. The programme is simple: Release a crafty sound byte (not necessarily unrealistic), dangle the bait, and reel in the floating. In a razor-wired political atmosphere, and a razor thin electoral environment, ‘likely’ winner seems to provide confirmation for the peripheral (people), through intentionally helping along a once uncertain pathway. That fluid marketing message settles the conflicts and hesitations in their emotional spheres, and boils down to these questions: what are other people thinking and doing that I am not doing? Why would I want to be left on the outside or behind? What benefit is there for me to be where I am, when things are heading in such a direction? This has worked well in advertising for the decades-long winners of tobacco products and alcoholic spirits and look how beneficial those have been for the addicted and unwary bystanders. The problem facing Guyanese is that it is not a destructive habit being smoothed over and marketed. It is about how degraded local politics has become, where any means justify the single end of winning. Not about governing well, not about leading right, those nuisances will be dealt with later to some minimal degree, whenever the interest could be found, if it ever would. At the crux, it is about winning, which facilitates the perpetuation of any manner of governance perversities, as have been experienced for ages. Thus, if the sales pitch requires giving a manifesto, then give them a good one. It has been one that usually sells the nation down the drain and up the creek. Overload it with promises that can’t be kept, on which there are no intentions to deliver. Who is going to hold accountable later? Who is even going to care to remember when things fall apart? Certainly not the Guyanese electorate?What just occurred from an American mind was the equivalent of Lee Atwater in 1988 on behalf of George H. W. Bush. There was the aroma of Willie Horton and Michael Dukakis swooned to defeat. That, too, worked for Richard Nixon with his law and order campaign. This plays with the minds of the gullible, the fearful, the timid. In other words, look what could happen, if voters sit on the fence, stay away, think too much. And to really ram home the power of marketing and its force on the psyche, the National Rifle Association (in America) had a serious interest back in the 1970s on the issue of gun control. It was all for gun control when the Black Panthers were accumulating guns. Today, that same NRA markets and touts the sacred and inviolable constitutional right to bear arms. Just goes to show what a wellrehearsed marketing campaign can whip up and deliver.
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.
It is time our collective interest trumps partisanship to haunt this nation in anarchy, but are now calling and bruised ego for decisive action on the oil significant ways. DEAR EDITOR, As Guyana is about to trade its portion of First Oil, another red ants’ nest is being raised as to its transparency. The fact that the Department of Energy felt the need to respond after the information was first garnered from an international media outlet also suggests that its staff felt they could have handled this roll out differently. We should not have been in this place today, for it is not for the want of call for us to collectively work together as one to ensure Guyanese are not short changed, feel cheated or defeated. We have not had firsthand experience in this industry, and as such it requires all of us holding hands to get it right. But from the outset it seems some had no intention to work towards constructive engagement. We knew more than a year ago that First Oil was expected to start in 2020, which was also the constitutionally slated period for General and Regional Elections. A section of this society has been calling on both Government and
Opposition, along with the input of civil society and other stakeholders, to establish a framework that would ensure transparency, and Guyanese getting their fair share of the pie. First Oil has been brought forward to December. Some media houses have played a role in helping us better understand the dynamics before us. These included, but were not limited to, citing the experiences of other countries and sourcing the knowledge of others, albeit in some instances some became experts, with no active experience in the field or having paucity of same. Taken in stride, it was seen as doing the job and filling the vacuum that existed. There remains concern that this country is being denied the needed political leadership with the involvement of both Government and Opposition. The support (tacit and overt) given to the Opposition’s contention, after the no-confidence ruling, that it will not return to work in the National Assembly, albeit still being paid to do so, will come back
Government’s seeming acceptance of the Opposition’s refusal to carry out its constitutional duty in spite of the 12th July Consequential Orders of the Caribbean Court of Justice, as per Item 7 on the role of the National Assembly in determining a date for election, will likewise face similar consequence. Shouting ‘get out’ and ‘government must resign’ ignored that no country can operate without government - interim, caretaker or substantive. The people’s daily welfare must be taken care of, locally and on the international stage. In the vacuum, we hear the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry has drafted legislation on Local Content. The presumptuousness aside, the effort could be seen as seeking to move the process forward, though legislative responsibility is vested in the National Assembly and its supporting team. It comes right back to the role of our elected representatives and governing. This was lost on some of the very people who supported the advocacy for
and gas front.We have spent enormous time and wasted energy solely on having an election and getting the date for it, attacking the institutions of government, ignoring and disregarding the role and ruling of the judicature as the sole arbiter of conflict between the executive and legislative. The nation became polarised not on reason, but political sentiments and alliance. Today we are with feelings of uncertainty and flailing around, largely in part of the making of a few who have driven many down a rabbit hole for partisan gain. Again, it is not too late to let national interest prevail and for the Opposition get off its perch and work with Government for the good of this country. At this stage of our development the industry is being controlled by foreigners and the majority of skills and expertise are so being sourced. This nation must benefit from a united position on how we manage our resources. It is time our collective interest trumps partisanship and bruised ego. Lincoln Lewis
Datadin applauded for warning Guyanese about the oil curse DEAR EDITOR, I applaud Counsel Sanjay Datadin (KN Dec 15) for his courageous warning of the fear that Guyana could become another Angola. Those of us who studied economics (especially at the post-graduate or doctoral level) would know that Angola (in southern Africa) is a typical illustration of the oil curse (having enormous natural resources and wealth, but has experienced widespread poverty and underdevelopment, lagging g r o w t h , a n d authoritarianism). As Datadin pointed out, Angola’s wealth from resources in the hundreds of billions of American dollars was looted by corrupt politicians and/or frittered away on white elephants. Reports from reputable international magazines, journals, and newspapers and the Economist (perhaps the best weekly in the world) expose corruption in Angola and other African countries. The capital Luanda has magnificent towering glass buildings. But benefits
hardly redound to the population at large. One learns about corruption and failed economic policies in Angola and other developing countries from development courses at the post graduate level. Corruption was confirmed from visits to Portugal as recent as last October when I presented a paper. I was informed about
the large investments in real estate in Lisbon and other Portuguese cities, by politically connected families from Angola investing large amounts of wealth in Portugal. They also invested stolen money in London and Paris. Datadin is so right that a few Angolans got richer while the overwhelming majority got poorer. As Datadin correctly
warned, in Guyana, people are fearful that the new wealth from oil will not filter down to the poor. We are already saddled by a US ten billion dollar bill that was not scrutinised. In spite of the huge amounts of wealth obtained from our natural resources (bauxite, manganese, gold, diamond, and from our rice and sugar), there is widespread poverty. (Continued on page 5)
The biggest challenge is a level playing field for transparent elections to be conducted DEAR EDITOR, According to media reports, nineteen political parties have submitted their symbols for the March 2, 2020 General and Regional elections. I stand corrected, but I think this is the first time in our political history that so many parties have indicated an interest in a national poll. One possible explanation is the lure of oil and the desire to exert some influence on policy articulation and governance of this emerging sector. And while nothing is inherently wrong with individuals and parties wishing to contribute to the national discourse, the field does appear somewhat crowded, with some parties having no apparent structure or support base.
The true test of political viability will be on January 10, 2020, when parties will be asked to submit their List of Candidates based on statutory requirements, which could prove challenging for several of the new parties. The above notwithstanding, the principle of ‘the more the merrier’ is a welcome development in the context of our multi-party democracy. It broadens democratic choices and allows for individuals and groups to, as it were, test the political waters. The biggest challenge is for the authorities, more particularly GECOM, to provide a level playing field for the elections to be conducted in a free, fair and transparent manner reflective of the voting preferences of the electorate. Hydar Ally
Wednesday December 18, 2019
GuySuCo: Numbers and trends tell a story, not political statements and old rhetoric DEAR EDITOR, In a recent press release by the Guyana Agricultural & General Workers Union (Nov. 24, 2019), there were some startling revelations on the GuySuCo’s production performance. It was noted that factory breakdowns are a major contributor to poor performance, where the three operating factories - Albion, Blairmont and Uitvlugt - recorded 420 hrs., 122 hrs. and 119 hrs. of lost time, respectively. This lost opportunity time means definite extension of production into the rainy season assuming that canes estimated are present in fields. Other spin-offs include increased operating cost, reduced maintenance time, among other things. Factory reliability and efficiency are direct responsi-
bilities of the Corporation’s Factory Operations Department (FOD). This is a technical department that is responsible for oversight and direction of all programmes geared to keep factories reliable, efficient, relevant and cost effective. If we go back to Government’s CoI report of Oct., 2015, Vol. 1, Page 68 paragraph 2, it states: “A restructured Factory Operations hierarchy is overdue for better work distribution and effectiveness. Management training is sadly lacking and must be given priority to arrest declining standards in all areas of factory management.” As a direct response to this CoI finding, Government, maybe with good intentions, employed the two commissioners that diagnosed this
problem and positioned them in the FOD. Upon their assumption to office, three other super salaried engineers/process experts were imported from the Caribbean, while a few other locals were assigned engineering and processing roles within the department. In short, the department increased its head count by about seven persons or so at a time when its scope of work reduced by 57% with the closure of four factories. Notably, the new formation in the department consisted of about 70% geriatrics, which is new feature of the Department in recent decades. The new management team of geriatrics, including the persons who diagnosed the declining standards of the FOD, did not add any value (Continued on page 6)
GAWU in solidarity with French workers DEAR EDITOR, The GAWU has been following closely the ongoing and widely-supported protests by the workers of France as they seek to rightfully defend any erosion of their gains at this time. Our Union is aware that for many weeks now, thousands of workers and other segments of the population in that country have staged picketing, marches, demonstrations and other activities across that country to express their strong disagreement and vehement opposition to reforms in France’s pension arrangements which would really render the workers worse off.Our Union has considered that the reforms of the Macron Government will, among other things, hike the pensionable age as well as increase the number of active years before a worker could receive a full pension.
Apart from those changes, workers’ pensions would fall between 10 and 30 per cent. These attempts at undermining social protections, which are also rooted in neo-liberalism, have proven time and time again, to be flawed. We unequivocally support the central Trade Unions of France calls for the plans for these pension reforms to be immediately withdrawn. We, at this time, express our unstinted solidarity and join with the several voices of support to the working class and all the militant sectors of the people of France. We support their struggle against the French Administration’s anti-workers stance which, in collaboration with the employers’ stratum, are no doubt seeking to destroy the pension system, the collective agreements, the public services and
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the social security system. We also forthwith denounce the unleashing of the repressive State machinery to violently suppress the just struggles of the workers and their staunch allies. In the conditions of the ongoing crisis in France, as well as other developed countries, an effective aspect of the struggles is our class solidarity which has gained importance in these times. We assure the French working class that we stand on their side, in this time of trial and tribulation, and we wish every success in their struggles. The GAWU is well aware of the value of solidarity to the working-peoples’ struggles and indeed, has been the beneficiary of international solidarity in its many struggles for workers’ causes. Guyana Agricultural & General Workers’ Union (GAWU)
Young people are capable and should be afforded the opportunity to assume leadership roles DEAR EDITOR, Young people are increasing becoming more aware of what is happening in our communities and ultimately the country we are living in. As such, more and more of us are getting civically and politically involved in our country. It is important that we as Guyanese continue to promote these sorts of engagements, as globally, young people have had poor voter turnouts at national elections. This engagement and new surge of hope and passion, is birthed out of young people being wary of what we know as “Guyanese politics”. There is often a popular thought that floats around political spaces, and it says “young people aren’t interested in politics” but I think a more truthful statement should read “young people are not interested in divisive race politics”. Unfortunately for some of us who are less informed, it is all we believe politics to be. It was Langston Hughes, an African American Poet, who wrote in one of his more popular pieces; A Theme for English B, “But I guess, I am what I see, hear and feel. Harlem, I hear you”. Hughes was speaking about the influ-
ence our environment and those around us, have on our personal development and the experiences we will have. Guyanese Youth, in many ways are what we “see, hear and feel”. As a result, I think it’s important that we demand politicians and persons in positions of power to have respect for their office and carry themselves with much honour and respect. This will ensure that the examples we have in office, are not negative influences on what politics will be in Guyana. If you are like me and peruse social media daily, you’d see how some young people have fallen into the trap of divisive politics and race hate. “This is nah no play play thing, it gah stop NOW!” Out of what I suspect to be frustration, lack of representation and constant erasure; a lot of new political parties and social movements are popping up. A lot of these parties are being led by young people, or have young people at the forefront of the movements. I am personally, impressed by what this speaks to. This indicates that young people do not just want to see change happen, but we are willing to work for it. It was
Datadin applauded for... From page 4 Some 35% of the population still live below the poverty line and another 40% barely eke out a living. The big guys at the top enjoy the cream of the wealth with virtually nothing for the small man. Not much will change unless the lower and middle classes wake up and demand their fair share and monitor the oil wealth. The country should heed Datadin’s warning and do everything to avoid the oil curse (in particular new corruption from oil). The authorities should seek expert advice from those of us in the diaspora and in Guyana who have studied the natural resource curse, and how to avoid it. Yours truly, Dr. Vishnu Bisram
something I personally have been using my social media to promote for a few years now, even before I could cast a vote myself. As my older relatives would often say, “these chirren hay today, born with nuff sense” and I believe that really and truly this generation is by far the most educated, innovative and creative generation the world has ever seen. We have to be better. Ultimately, we need to take responsibility and ownership of our own lives and our own development, and that means getting involved in civic and political engagement. We need to be at the forefront of creating and fostering a “NEW ERA” of politics. One that is progressive, respectful and action based. We have to be the artists to our own destinies. Naturally, some of you would ask “Why should I get involved or vote?” Or some of you might say or may have heard someone say, “I ain’t gon vote caz is the same thing over and over”. To those persons I’d say that you need to exercise your constitutional right to vote, but also understand that voting is just the beginning, the real work is promoting engagement and accountability during the term.Often times, we talk about “rights” but we don’t talk about “responsibilities” and as citizens of this Cooperative Republic, we have to know what these responsibilities are. We need to ensure that we foster a safe and unified society, by starting with self, then moving on our families, and our communities. Our main responsibility is to hold persons in office (opposition and government), (Continued on page 6)
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Wednesday December 18, 2019
THE COOPERATIVE REPUBLICANS OF GUYANA (CRG) DEAR EDITOR, The Cooperative Republicans of Guyana (CRG) are rooted in traditional conservative values, integrity, honesty and fiscal responsibility with a focus on serving the needs of all citizens of Guyana.Our Vision is for a strong, sustainable and peaceful Cooperative Republic.Our Mission is to ensure that our National Motto of One People, One Nation and One Destiny will be achieved and sustained into perpetuity via peaceful coexistence and sustained stable development of our people.Our symbol is the Dia-
mond (green for the election) Dear Comrades, elders, brothers, sisters and fellow citizens of our beautiful country, our goals are the following: 1. Safely increase the income and financial stability of each household. 2. Provide a stable & stronger economy with a revitalized industrial & agricultural base and an increased number of job opportunities for all. Supported by a lower effective tax rate for Investors and Corporations. 3. Improve safety, law & order (including constitutional adherence) across the
nation while securing our borders and territorial integrity. 4. Provide better services and sustainable improvement in areas such as education, health, social services and infrastructure. 5. Ensure increased access to good and affordable housing. These 5 strategic areas of focus for the next 5 years will help us ensure that we lay a stronger foundation as a Nation that does not lose sight of the long term goals of sustainable self-sufficiency, increased national security and financial independence.
Our future is bright, optimistic and clearly positive with President Granger as the economic disasters and colhelmsman of our country lapsed. The private sector has DEAR EDITOR, I would like to congratulate President Granger and the coalition for their creative approach in stabilizing the AFC presence in that coalition - it cannot be overstated, because unity against the communists who control the PPP is vital and has to be enduring - too much is at stake in this upcoming election. Everyone and every party in the coalition will bring votes to continue the progress made in the last four years, and let there be no rest and relaxation in convincing the people of our Republic that Mr. Granger and his government will offer the best chance for all of us to benefit from the bounties which will flow not only from oil, but from the many investments and good jobs which will follow oil revenue. We have water for a thirsty planet; high grade aluminum and pure rubber for expanding space exploration; forests which contain pharmaceuticals and are part of the “lungs” of our planet, not to mention fauna and flora which can augment international zoos and botanical gardens. Agro-investments can and will create our dream of making Guyana the “bread basket” of the Caribbean and bring our sister CARICOM countries relief from the high food prices they pay; and finally - gold, diamonds, manganese, timber, hydro power, fisheries, sand and brick for the Caribbean poorer people to have homes, and more foreign investment and trade to create “silk roads” to South America and the Caribbean. We citizens of Guyana have to be patient and place our future in the right hands steady hands - and not get carried away with the PPP propaganda which the communists peddle at all times. Re-
member Guyanese, my father, President Cheddi was in opposition for 28 years and dealt with it like a “man”, and here we have people who claim they follow Cheddi, but yet they cry like “babies” because four years are too long for their thirst for power. Editor, the new PPP manifesto is really a call on all Guyanese to forget the recent past. Do they believe that the citizens of Guyana have collective amnesia and will accept their brazen attempt to fool us again? We are aware of the many tricks played on us by Jagdeo and his cohorts like the failed “computer in every house” fiasco; the hydro power road where a lot of money was lost and Fip Motilall walked away smiling; the tricks played on our hard working sugar workers by GAWU and the JagdeoRamotar regime with the Skeldon fiasco and the general destruction of the sugar industry. The PPP actually closed down sugar factories, while the leadership of GAWU lived the sweet life as the sugar workers got poorer. Guyanese need to wake up and face reality - the PPP under Mr. Jagdeo, has nothing to offer us at this important juncture in our political and economic life. The “silk” roads are coming straight to our country; ask the PPP leadership if they support the concept that the private s e c t o r i s t h e e n gine of growth and guess what? They can never submit to that concept - they believe that the government is the engine of growth and their record proves it. Everywhere communists control - historically operated where the government was the engine of growth - were
to be the engine of growth. Remember, Guyanese voters - it was the PPP government which brought, without a policy of gradual increases, a consumption tax of 16% which the Guyanese working poor bore the brunt of and which was so unjust. Rest yourselves, Mr. and Mrs. PPP and let Mr. Granger continue his efforts at coalition governance; creating the conditions where the private sector will become truly, the real engine of growth; welcoming ExxonMobil and other oil and gas investors, the greatest news our Republic ever enjoyed, and lastly, Mr. Granger will always hold hands with any allies to stand firm with diplomatic or even military responses in defending any false claims to our God-given oil wealth. Editor, the numerous smaller parties which are contesting the March elections are all living in a dream world created by their leaders who, besides having no real narrative of standing up for Guyana, are all incapable of providing the level of reverence for our citizens’ needs and the creative conditions to realize the “good life” in our nation’s future. Every vote counts and our citizens should reject these parties - their presence is to split votes to create the conditions of parliamentary gridlock and political confusion which will affect the positive effects of our oil revenues and leave us more divided than ever. As to the naysayers who run down the coalition government with visions of doom, disorder and dejection in our future, let me be clear: our future is bright, optimistic and clearly positive with President Granger as the helmsman of our country. Yours faithfully, Cheddi(Joey)Jagan(Jr.)
Our coastal plains have served us well and CRG will continue to charter a sustainable path into the future that ensures each household does not lose the gains they have achieved over the years. Guyana has enough land, timber and resources that can be provided to its citizens in an effort to ease the transition to a new location further inland. Our Party will work towards helping our fellow citizens build upon their achievements as we accelerate the development of the interior of our country. CRG’s plan is for each household to receive an acre of land in our new location and the timber necessary to build a new modest size home.The building of our new location will offer us an exceptional opportunity to design an sustainable environmentally friendly City that incorporates the lessons learned and best practices of other well developed cities while avoiding the pitfalls that others have faced. As an example our Party’s design proposal
will incorporate solar & wind farms, bicycle paths, pedestrian paths and green spaces; with some buildings that recapture the classical architecture of our people, which represents our history, heritage, cultural traditions and supports our tourism ambitions. CRG will also ensure our modern facilities are extremely energy efficient with an aim of being carbon neutral. The City center will be business friendly with state of the art facilities that bring our technology and ICT capabilities into the 21st Century. The road network will be designed to accommodate growth without traffic congestion and provide a safe public transportation system. Our drainage, water and sewage system will be modernized to ensure no future flooding, no blockage, ease of upkeep, ease of maintenance and the prevention of system contamination. This new era of our history will provide the foundation to place Guyana firmly on a path to a prosper-
ous and sustainable future. 2020 will mark the 50th anniversary of our young Nation becoming The Cooperative Republic of Guyana and as you celebrate this jubilee with your family & friends please keep in mind that when you go to vote that we the Cooperative Republicans of Guyana (CRG) when elected will work with our colleagues in Parliament to ensure a better and more secure future for all Guyanese.We invite those who share our values and that are motivated by our vision and our mission for our Beautiful Country to join us in solidarity on election day by casting your vote for The Cooperative Republicans of Guyana (CRG). We seek your votes to be a part of Parliament and have the opportunity to champion your cause.May our Nation’s success reflect the success of all our People. Sincerely, The Cooperative Republicans of Guyana (CRG) Mr. Jamil Changlee Chairman
Young people are capable and should be... From page 5 accountable. This can be done by; writing them letters and emails, scheduling meetings where possible, posting on social media, and in drastic cases organizing peaceful protests and demonstrations. We must also respect each other’s views and opinions, when people speak their truth. Every so often, when people speak out there are bitter forces who attack, insult and try to muzzle them. We need to call people out for those actions. If you are going to counter an argument then do so respectfully. My advice to young people, is that while I promote civic and political engagement; please be mindful that politicians sometimes use and misuse us for votes and forget about us after. Let’s be smarter and more strategic, we need to be “subjects and not objects” in political dialogue. We need to demand more to ensure our voices are represented post elections. We have to bury the culture of using young people at fish shop rallies and then go into office and forget about those faces. Young people are capable and should be afforded the opportunity to assume leadership roles in governments and opposition. Traditionally, women were not represented in spaces of power and with the rise of the feminist movement; women fought for and demanded quotas to ensure they were adequately represented. The same way, young people should be calling on parties (new and old) to en-
sure young people are represented at all levels of leadership including parliament, government boards and management of government offices, party committees, etc. In Trinidad, we have people like Nikoli Edward, the youngest independent senator to be elected. He later founded a political party, and will contest the next elections; all of which he did before 30. A few years ago, at 22 years old, Travis Robinson became the youngest MP to serve on a country’s legislative body in the Caribbean. In the past, he also served as Parliamentary Secretary for Tourism. Currently, Judd Cadett is the Grenadian government’s youngest senator and works closely with key government projects. Why did I mention this? What does this mean? I want to paint you a picture that the rest of the Caribbean has led by example and entrusted young people with the power they worked hard for and to represent their people who need to be represented the
most. I am aware that it is not all bad in Guyana, as young people came out at the last Local Government elections contested and won their constituencies. Georgetown and Mahdia have also elected young mayors in the past, but we need to replicate this at all levels. Every major issue is a youth issue, and every decision made affects us and the future we will inherit. Therefore, it is paramount that we are included in all decisionmaking processes. We need to be there, because as many activists would have said in the past; “there can nothing for us, without us”. That being said, we need to continue to rise to the challenge and work hard. Let them bring us to the table, not just because we are young and can be used as tokens but because we are competent. Let’s not just sit at the table and be entitled, but work hard and prove why we are sitting there. Sincerely, Dennis Anthony DuncanGlasgow
GuySuCo: Numbers and trends ... From page 5 since their appointment. The performance statistics confirm this. In fact, it appears that standards in all areas in factory management have declined even further while the factory management costs have increased. There can be no excuse from this department. The buck stops with them. The GuySuCo may respond to my commentary and
I take this opportunity to urge the Corporation to include in its response, factory performance data and achievements (such as factory efficiency, sugar recovery, sugar quality, cost of production, value added production, etc.) of each factory, along with salaries and benefits of FOD staff members over the last five years. Numbers and trends tell a story, not political statements and old rhetoric. Sookram Persaud
Wednesday December 18, 2019
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Public release of Liza field plans is to ensure contractors like SBM & Exxon ‘don’t cut corners’ By Gary Eleazar Former Petroleum Advisor to the David Granger administration, Dr. Jan Mangal, believes that Government must make available publicly, the field preparation plans submitted for the development of oil fields in Guyana’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) in the Stabroek Block. Dr. Mangal argues that making the plans available for public scrutiny would ensure that companies such as SMB Offshore—which is currently constructing the two Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) Vessels— do not cut corners which could lead to oil spills in future. In an invited comment, the petroleum specialist, speaking to the plethora of problems that confront the nation as an emerging oil producer, was adamant, “We are not going to get some leader coming along who is going to fix everything.” According to Dr. Mangal, Guyanese need to take interest, take ownership of their country and destiny, Guyanese need to keep asking questions; Guyanese need to stand up; Guyanese
…Fmr. Petroleum Advisor Jan Mangal “We are not going to get some leader coming along who is going to fix everything, Guyanese need to take interest, take ownership of their country and destiny, Guyanese need to keep asking questions, Guyanese need to stand up, Guyanese need to get onto the streets if necessary.”
Petroleum Specialist and Former Advisor to the David Granger Administration, Dr. jan Mangal need to get onto the streets if necessary.” He said too, “The solution space,” with regards challenges that confront the country “is around transparency, getting the data out there so Guyanese people can work with it, having an open government.” The former Petroleum Advisor reminded that in his implementation plan for the Department for Energy (DoE), he had suggested that even the minutes of their meetings
should be public. According to Dr. Mangal, “The field development plans should be published; there is no reason not to publish them; there is no secret there.” Dr. Mangal was adamant that improvements in the industry would first come through an open government and transparency and by “getting people involved so they can start trusting their governments.” “Remember the excuses by Carl Greenidge and Raphael Trotman to keep the Stabroek Block contract secret, when I was advocating to release the contract to the people?” Speaking to mitigating the risks involved with the industry and its environmental impacts, Dr. Mangal reiterated that incidents such as oil
spills occur when contractors “cut corners during design” and at the operational levels. He used as an example, SMB Offshore and its contract to build the FPSOs for Guyana. Dr. Mangal noted, “We have not gone and interrogated the design (for the FPSO),” and pointed out that this is the case, since the plans have not been made public for perusal. He told this publication that at present, “the government does not have the ca-
pacity” to effectively interrogate the Field Development Plans being submitted by the operators. Compounding the situation, “they didn’t hire the right people to do it.” A s s u c h , “ We d o n ’t know if SBM and Exxon cut a whole bunch of corners in the design of this FPSO and are we going to see the effects of this in terms of spills later on.” It was pointed out, too, by Dr. Mangal that oil companies would usually spend signifi-
cant time on the design stage of projects, in order to minimise those design defects that could be had by cutting corners. Dr. Mangal lamented that at present, the country is not keeping enough checks and balances targeted in the operator’s direction.
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GECOM agrees to field exercise to verify 16,000 new registrants
T
he Guyana Elec tions Commission (GECOM) in a majority decision agreed to conduct a house-to-house verification of new registrants that which number to approximately 16000 persons. PPPnominated Commissioner, Sase Gunraj, told the press outside GECOM’s head office that the verification of the data will be conducted within the next five days. The exercise will kick off tomorrow and end on Sunday. He expressed confidence that the activity will not affect GECOM work programme schedule. It is not likely to affect the
schedule Gunraj said of the exercise which would include field verification, public advertisements, and participation of “stakeholders”. “Our hope is that the GECOM staffers will pursue this exercise with the type of diligence that it requires to provide satisfaction to the electorate, to the public and all those concerned who have an interest in our having free, fair, transparent and peaceful elections,” he said. He explained that there has been a list of 20,000 unverified new registrants. Of the 20,000, Gunraj noted that about 4,020 of the persons were duplicates on the preliminary list of electors.
Correction: Persaud not Dookoo Kaieteur News yesterday, caused to be published under the caption: Every 1 cent lost equals US$10,000 lost on each shipment’, a report erroneously attributed to Private Sector Commission (PSC) Executive Member, Ramesh Dookoo. The statement was in fact made by Ramesh Persaud. Kaieteur News apologises for the error.
That brought the list of new registrants to 16,000. Government Commission, Vincent Alexander, expressed his disappointment at the decision, calling the verification process would be “useless”. He told reporters that there is no need for the verification exercise. “As far as I am concerned, nothing else is to be done because those duplicates could have been investigated and hearings conducted.” It got to the point where we have done an internal side-by-side comparison of the information… Field exercise has nothing to do with duplicates,” Alexander said. He noted, “It’s a decision GECOM could have made but I wouldn’t say it is illegal; it is useless,” he added. Last month, GECOM launched a verification exercise after it noticed striking disparities in the crossmatched data that has returned from the overseas supplier. Gemalto, an international digital security company,
GECOM Commissioner Sase Gunraj was contracted by GECOM to cross-match the house-tohouse data. Both tranches of data
have returned and they appear to indicate that there are about 60,000 total new registrants. This unusually high figure prompted the Secretariat to conduct its own assessment of the crossmatched data. Gunraj told the media that Chief Elections Officer (CEO), Keith Lowenfield, indicated to the Commission that the Secretariat has found some of those supposedly new registrants already on the National Register of Registrants Database (NRRDB). GECOM has decided that it will reach out to Gemalto in the hope that the company provides answers. Gunraj said that this matter places even more doubt on the use and integrity of the house-to-house data, which he has questioned for some
time. GECOM still has not decided how it will go about merging the house-to-house data with the preliminary list, and the data gathered during Claims and Objections. Commissioner Vincent Alexander had told reporters that GECOM will also have to do its own further investigation of the names on the preliminary list which the crossmatched data has pegged as “new” registrants. Otherwise, GECOM is also contending with the fact that a very small portion of unverified registrants have come forward to claim their identities. Alexander said, too, that of about 18,000 persons whose names were published in the daily newspapers, approximately 300 have uplifted their ID cards.
Police athletic coach stabbed to death The body of an A Field Sophia resident was yesterday morning found in the vicinity of DUrban Park, Georgetown around 5:30hrs. Police have identified the body as that of 28-year-old Seon Anthony Burry, also called “Senestro”, of Lot 194 Section A, Field 7, South Sophia, Greater Georgetown. The discovery was made by persons jogging in the area. Kaieteur New understands that Burry was enlisted in the Police Force as a Rural Constable in 2015 attached to the Guyana Police Force Sports Club. He would usually go to the DUrban Park to train upcoming athletes. However after leaving his home yesterday morning to complete his usual training, Burry failed to return home. The young mans body was found with multiple stab wounds and a slit throat. Preliminary investigations revealed that Burry left his residence about 3:30 hrs to train athletes. The victims mother, Jennifer Benn, stated that after viewing her sons body at the mortuary, she believed that her son was attacked by more than one individual. “Somebody wanted my son dead… They killed my child. All the injuries that I see he got are of him defending himself. My child doesnt trouble anybody. It had to be plenty of them attacked my son because he [Senestro] is a strong and brave boy. He wont have go down without fighting.” In a statement, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) expressed its condolences to the imme-
Seon Anthony Burry diate family, relatives and friends of the deceased whom they said was very committed to his field of work. Burry who was described as a loving individual, leaves to mourn his mother, child and other siblings. The police have also vowed to bring the perpetrator(s) of his brutal slaying to justice. The body is at the Georgetown Public Hospital mortuary awaiting a post mortem.
Wednesday December 18, 2019
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Kaieteur News
CONSENSUS AND COMPROMISE ARE MISSING IN ACTION AT GECOM
T
he absence of rea sonable compro mises, among the Commissioners of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), is a worrying development. Each side says that it wants to ensure an accurate and credible Official List of Elections (OLE), yet neither side seems predisposed towards compromising. It took a majority vote by the Commission for a decision on house-to-house verification of 20,000 registrants. One side was not in favour of the verification exercise saying that it would be useless while the other was not in favour of a verification of a small sample of the 20,000
so as to assess the extent of any flaws. You would have thought that given the importance which both sides have attached to ensuring a credible OLE, that a compromise would have been possible. And that the governmentnominated Commissioners, despite feeling that houseto-house registration was useless, would have compromised and allowed for the checks. It should not take more than two weeks for house-tohouse verification to be done. The exercise ought not to delay the elections since other tasks can be done simultaneously. The house-to-house veri-
fication would satisfy the opposition which, it should be recalled, was not part of the house-to-house registration but which still compromised in terms of the use of some of the data from the exercise in compiling the OLE. But it has upset the other side for some inexplicable reason. There are matured persons on both sides of the political divide within GECOM. These persons are not getting any younger. They should have been by now able to achieve greater consensus. It is not going to hurt anyone to have 20,000 names verified. It is not as if it were 100,000 names which had to
DEM BOYS SEH
Everybody spiting Uncle Freddie Uncle Freddie got to be de man de politicians hate more than anything in de world. Jagdeo did hate Uncle Freddie dat he even tek de man to court because he claim how Uncle Freddie call him a racist. When it look like Uncle Freddie gon win dat case all of a sudden de case not getting call anymore. Anodda time Uncle Freddie was shopping and a group of men throw wha dem boys call fecal matter pon de poor man. Dat matter go to court and one man get jail fuh six months. Kwame did get lockup too. Uncle Freddie move up to Turkeyen. Dem have a big trench dat run in front of he house. Dem boys use to talk bout de weed in de trench, how it look like if Uncle
Freddie was minding manatees. Since de place is near de Caricom Secretariat and foreign people always coming to Guyana and passing by Uncle Freddie, de government tek shame out of its eyes and clear de drain. Dat is when dem boys realize just how much Jagdeo hate Uncle Freddie. De cleaners clear de weeds all along de drain, jump de piece in front of Uncle Freddie house and clear de rest of de trench. Thing fuh cry, people does laugh. Some of dem boys laugh. Jagdeo gone and Soulja Bai come. Freddie mek a sudden change. He start to cuss de same party he vote for in 2015. Dem can’t do nutten
right. Everything dem do is a cuss. By de time Uncle Freddie done wid dem, de coalition was de wuss government in de history of Guyana. Patto, de coalition Minister decide to fix all dem lights pon de Railway Embankment wheh Uncle Freddie live. Of course, Uncle Freddie did write how de place dark because Guyana backward and it don’t know bout lights. Uncle Freddie was sitting pon he verandah when de lights come on. He see all dem posts get light except de post in front he house. New government same treatment; dat is wha Uncle Freddie seh. Talk half and watch how spite does wuk.
be verified. During the house-tohouse registration, GECOM was registering close to 20,000 persons per week so there is no reason why it should not be able to undertake a rapid house-to-house verification of the 20,000 names which are posing problems. The government, in the meantime, continues with its childish actions. General and Regional Elections are less than 3 months away but the National Assembly has not yet been prorogued. The government seems to be baiting someone to file a Court action so that it can use that as pretext for extending its term of office till next year end. The government’s excuse for not proroguing parliament is that it wants to be open to the possibility of GECOM requesting more funds. It is keeping parliament open for such a purpose. It seems as when it comes to complying with the Constitution that GECOM is the arbiter. The government would have the nation believe that GECOM has it by its frock tails. Since the government is making GECOM appear all powerful, perhaps it should
ask GECOM to renegotiate the oil and gas contracts with Exxon. It sure does appear as if the government is prepared to sidestep its constitutional and legal responsibilities on the basis that GECOM is calling the shots. High comedy exists in Government. Those administering the state have little idea of what they are doing and so they are making clumsy moves every day. It is unforgiveable that the Departmen t o f E n e r g y should have earlier this year, been going all around the place giving lectures to groups about the prospects for oil and gas industry when there are so many outstanding and urgent matters to which it should have been attending. Oil production is about to begin and the Department of Energy is now hustling to get someo n e to market Guyana’s share of oil. This should have been done one year ago. And the greatest absurdity is that the government is all confused as to what constitutes procurement. Perhaps it should ask GECOM since it claims accommodation has to be made for keep-
ing parliament open despite GECOM saying that it has sufficient funding. It can certainly seek GECOM’s advice in what constitutes procurement. GECOM knows about procurement. We are yet to hear whatever happened to those matters for which the Auditor General was awaiting a response from GECOM. When you look at the drama which is taking place in GECOM, you have to question just why you should be voting on March 2, 2020. Vote for whom? Those who cannot even compromise on simple matters? Why should anyone stain his or her finger with indelible ink on March 2, 2020? Given the choice of candidates, it is not worth the while. (The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper)
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Kaieteur News
Wednesday December 18, 2019
THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN
The only lamp on the Embankment not fixed is outside my home If tonight you see the street lamp directly outside my home on the Railway Embankment with its beams on, then the government of Guyana is a dishonest, twisted, perverted regime. It means after the publicity, they fixed it. I wrote three recent columns (there are many more in the recent past) denouncing the absence of streetlights on the Railway Embankment from Sheriff Street to Ogle. Please see the following columns of mine - Sunday, November 17, 2019, “The US
Ambassador sees this tragedy each night; Thursday, November 28, 2019, “Minibuses, their passengers, streetlights and the European man;” and Wednesday, December 4, 2019, “Use this criterion to judge the PPP, PNC and AFC.” In the November 19 edition of Kaieteur News, the Ministry of Public Infrastructure replied to my commentary, which it dubbed “gross exaggerations”. Well for either election reasons or shame, the Ministry of Public Infrastructure decided to fix
the dead lamps on the Railway Embankment. The people I saw installing new street bulbs were from that Ministry because the vehicle had that Ministry’s logo. It was not GPL. I looked through my window and said to myself, “Well Patterson is finally getting commonsense.” I muttered the word commonsense because it is stupid not to have the traffic signals and streetlights in disuse on two of the major highways where 99.99 percent of visitors to Guyana
will pass through. That night something wasn’t right. Early in the day, I saw the men putting the new lamp on the post next to mine, which is outside the Caricom Secretariat Annex. I made a terrible mistake. I should have continued to monitor them. That night I looked through my window and saw the lamps east and west of my home all lit up. But the post right outside my home didn’t have a working bulb. I went upstairs and looked straight down the Railway Embankment east and west – it was all lit up.
I decided to investigate for myself. All the posts which line the northern side (the lampposts are built on the northern side of the highway) of the Railway Embankment from Sheriff Street to Industry had working lights except the bulb directly outside my home. I drove slowly from Sheriff Street to Industry and all the bulbs were working. I did not go beyond Industry but I saw streetlights way beyond Industry, somewhere in the vicinity of Ogle. I went home and called the publisher of Kaieteur News,
Frederick Kissoon Mr. Glenn Lall for him to see what was going on. He said he was in a high-level meeting with lawyers. The next morning, I alerted him to the situation and he agreed to investigate. I told Mr. Lall he has to see it for himself to believe it. You have to see it for yourself to believe –from Sheriff Street to Industry all the lights are working except the post directly outside my home. How do you account for that? Could that be a mistake? Was it an error? Let’s do logical deduction. I condemned the government for not having working lamps in the area. The relevant Ministry came and rectified the problem but only the bulb on the post outside my home is not working. Your mind will probably go back to the PPP government. Remember they were cleaning the trench on the Railway Embankment starting from east and going west. They dredged the last piece outsides my neighbour’s home and mine was left unfinished. Now that could not be a mistake since Mr. Chin’s house was the last one so they had to leave his unfinished since they had to pass me to get to him. Please see the coverage of this sick act by the PPP government in the editions of Kaieteur News from November 10 to November 13, 2010. The trench incident and streetlight story are just a long continuation of the tragic politics of this land where Guyana has been reduced to ashes by politicians whose narrow-mindedness has no parallel elsewhere in the world in the 21st century. The trench cleaning mischief is simple to understand. No worker would have taken it upon him/herself to say, “Don’t clean the part where Freddie Kissoon lives.” It had to be a senior government minister either president or minister to issue that edict. It is the same with the streetlight depravity. There is no way I believe those technicians would have willfully bypassed my home. I say with vehement inflexibility; the order came from very high up. It is time Guyanese vote out the PPP, PNC and AFC and look for decent, new blood.
Wednesday December 18, 2019
Kaieteur News
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Wednesday December 18, 2019
Wednesday December 18, 2019
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Govt. moves to overhaul decades old Petroleum laws The Department of Energy intends to revise and modernise Guyana’s Petroleum legislation. It announced plans to do so during a press conference at its Brickdam office, last Monday. Energy Director, Dr. Mark Bynoe, informed the press that Government is currently negotiating the contract with a view to completing the tender for an international oil and gas law firm to “revise, replace or develop
legislation” for Guyana’s Petroleum sector. Dr. Bynoe said that he hopes to send off the firm with a good “Christmas present” in the coming week. The Department is expected to notify the public when the contract is signed. He noted that the firm will not be working alone. The Energy Director stated, “The mode taken for this project is largely a joint venture approach with most of the technical expertise
coming from the international firm and the non-technical experts coming from right here in Guyana.” The Petroleum (Exploration and Production) Act of 1986 is the main legislation governing the Petroleum sector. It has been said to be extremely outdated, and exclusive of key regulations pertinent for the governance of a modern and ever-changing Petroleum industry. While the Government
may develop proposals for a review of the legislation, it is important to note that Government’s caretaker status prohibits it from passing any new legislation. President David Granger had committed that as a result of the consequences of the December 21, 2018 No Confidence Motion, he would accept the Government’s “interim” status and hold off on furthering of any
legislation in the National Assembly, among other things. The passing of the legislation will have to wait until the March 2, 2020 General and Regional Elections. It is also important to note that the Stabroek Block Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) is insulated from legislative changes because of the strict
stabilisation clause that Government allowed to be embedded in the agreement. It states that any losses incurred by ExxonMobil’s subsidiary, Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL), and its partners, Hess and CNOOC Nexen, due to changes in the Petroleum legislation, customs or tax code, would have to be reimbursed to them by the Government.
Dealer withholds 12 pickups ordered by cash-strapped GuySuCo - Corporation wants NICIL to pay
From left: Senior Legal Officer, Joanna Simmons; Energy Director, Dr. Mark Bynoe and Department of Energy; Crude Marketing Specialist, Virginia Markouizos.
GuySuCo has reportedly brought more than a dozen pickups but is unable to pay for them. There are about a dozen pickup trucks sitting in a dealer’s warehouse. For two months now, the dealer has reportedly been asking to get paid. Kaieteur News was told that several months ago, cashstrapped Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) reportedly ordered 14 pickups- 12 extended cabs and two double cabs. The pickups were ordered with no payments from GuySuCo. The vehicles were stored in Suriname but the sister dealership decided it could not hold the units anymore and shipped them to Guyana. The local dealer has been asking for its money. According to Government officials and GuySuCo sources, the dealer said that GuySuCo has signaled that NICIL is paying the $80M-plus bill on the trucks. Two of the pickups have already been collected and paid for by GuySuCo. However, NICIL is not stumping up the cash. For several months now, NICIL has reportedly refused to pay over more than $8B to GuySuCo from a $30B bond it took. This was after Republic Bank (Trinidad), which holds the bond, raised questions
about how GuySuCo is spending the money it already received. For six months now, GuySuCo has not received any further money. The state-owned, threeestate corporation has been battling even more to stay alive even though four estates have been separated to be divested. It currently has only Uitvlugt, Blairmont and Albion estates under the GuySuCo flagship. This year, the corporation is also unlikely to meet a revised 100,000 tonnes. It falls short of that by 15,000. GuySuCo and NICIL have been crossing swords over that $30B. However, NICIL is insisting that the money must be used for certain immediate expenses and retooling. The bond was negotiated and controlled by NICIL, using a number of other corporations as collateral. Among the projects targeted by the bond is the acquisition of two cogeneration plants; upgrade of existing factories; the production of Plantation White Sugar; the construction of more storage and packaging facilities and the financing of two years of general operational costs. NICIL had been criticised
by the Ministry of Agriculture, which has responsibilities for GuySuCo, for the seeming sloth in the disbursements of the funds. NICIL has been insisting that if there is any default on the bond payments, it is not GuySuCo’s assets that can be seized. Rather, it is NICIL’s assets that will suffer. Several state-owned companies which have their assets pledged to secure the bond are the Guyana Oil Company, Guyana National Shipping Corporation, Guyana National Printers Limited and even facilities of the Guyana National Industrial Company. GuySuCo had seven estates up to 2015, but was struggling to pay workers and retool. It had been demanding billions of dollars annually in bailouts. Following an inquiry into the industry, the Coalition closed four estates – Skeldon, Rose Hall, Enmore and Wales, placing over 5,000 workers out of jobs. GuySuCo is one of the biggest state-owned companies, but low world prices, loss of its preferential market in Europe, aging factories and a large migration of workers, have not been helping.
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Wednesday December 18, 2019
Kaieteur News
Murders of two Guyanese women raise awareness in NY community
MURDERED: Natasha Ramen
New York – (qns.com/story)The murder of a 27-year-old Guyanese woman committed by her husband in early November pushed Ozone Park’s Indo-Caribbean community to reflect on the recurring incidents of gender-based violence in their community. On Sunday, December 15, a group dedicated to empowering Indo-Caribbean women and addressing gender-based violence organised a vigil to honour the life of Donna “Rehanna” Dojoy and facilitate a conversation on how to address spousal violence and other forms of gender inequity in their community. That group, the Jahajee Sisters, was formed in 2007 soon after the murders of two young IndoCaribbean women that fit a pattern
of gender-based violence, which the group defines as crimes that are rooted in gender inequality. A group of over 50 gathered to listen to a series of musical performances and eulogies for Dojoy that took place in front of an altar for her and five other female victims that the group has memorialised since its inception. One of these victims, Natasha Ramen, a Guyanese woman from Hollis, was stabbed to death by her alleged rapist before she could testify against him in court. “We felt at that time like the silence around her death was devastating and deafening. It felt like none of our community leaders at the time, who were mostly men, was speaking up for us,” said cofounder Shivana Jorawar. Dojoy, a “joyful, kind and caring child” who loved to karaoke Bollywood songs at the bar where she worked, was stabbed by her husband, 33-year-old Dineshwar Budhidat, whose body was found hanging from a tree later the same night. He had texted his cousin that he intended to kill himself. Dojoy had an order of protection against her husband, after he was arrested August 21 for slapping and choking her in their apartment.
MURDERED: Donna “Rehanna” Dojoy “She grew up to be a beautiful lady — was educated at the University of Guyana. She came here for a better life. She was seeking an opportunity to be able to better help her family back home,” said her aunt, Sweta Dojoy. After the ceremony, organisers split the group into men, women and gender-nonconforming groups in order to have a discussion on what gives rise to gender-based violence in their communities and how they
can counteract it. In the men’s circle, the conversation moved from moments where intervention is necessary to forms of masculinity that are commonly reinforced in Guyanese culture. “I don’t think there are many spaces for men to get together and talk about something this sensitive,” said Rohan Narine. “I realised being in spaces like this–how it’s so important.” Together the groups put together a series of recommendations and projects based on the conversations. Guides on how to identify toxic behaviour, sensitivity trainings, advice for religious leaders and parents to address gender-based violence will all be taken into consideration as the Jahajee Sisters create their programme for the next fiscal year, according to Jorawar. After the Dojoy family sat through dedication and candle lighting for their dead loved one in tears, her aunt praised the work of the Jahajee Sisters. “I’m grateful. Hopefully, it will help other young people to avoid this kind of tragedy and families to endure this kind of suffering,” said Sweta Dojoy.
Wednesday December 18, 2019
Kaieteur News
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Wednesday December 18, 2019
Dr. Bynoe angered by aspersions Republic Bank rakes in $5.9 on his character billion in pre-tax profits
By Kemol King Energy Director, Dr. Mark Bynoe, said on Monday that the media corps should take a more professional approach to reporting on the work of the Energy Department. During a press conference at the Departments Brickdam office, he said that it is unfortunate that innuendos and aspersions are being cast on the approach that is being taken. He assured that “from day one, the Department has sought to ensure that it operates in a very professional
manner.” Last Monday, Kaieteur News lead story, titled “Dr. Bynoe has set stage for corrupt oil companies to commit fraud Ram”, detailed a comment made by Attorney-atlaw and Chartered Accountant Christopher Ram. He had said that Dr. Bynoes utterance that oil companies would face no penalties for inflated costs could have the unfortunate effect of emboldening corrupt oil companies doing business with Guyana to attempt to rob the people of Guyana.
R
Director, Department of Energy, Dr. Mark Bynoe During Mondays press engagement, the Energy Director said that the media corps has every right to report on matters of corruption if they are found to be so dire, but that it is not fair to make reports that hurt someones character or integrity based on “whims and fancies”. “[The Energy Department] has a zero tolerance policy on corruption,” he said. Dr. Bynoe, an established environment and resource economist, was hired by President David Granger to lead the effort to protect and properly manage the exploitation of one of Guyanas most valuable resource.
epublic Bank Lim ited, one of the more popular commercial banks in Guyana, has recorded a profit of $5.974B before taxation for their financial year which ended on September 30, 2019. According to the banks annual report of 2019, it recorded a “satisfactory performance” which was buoyed by Guyanas expanding business sector, competitive financial environment and expectations of economic growth. Profit after taxation amounted to $3.84B representing a 22.7% increase over the prior year. Earnings per stock unit amounted to $12.82, an increase from $10.45 in 2018. The Board of Directors recommended a final dividend of $3.58 (per stock unit), which, if approved at their Annual General Meeting, will bring the total dividend for the year to $1.55B. In the previous year, the total dividend amounted to $1,285B. In his Chairmans economic review, Nigel Baptiste explained, “The banking systems net domestic credit in-
creased by 15.7% due to increased credit to both the public and private sectors. Private sector growth was recorded at 4.2% compared to December 2017. Notably, there were increases in most sectors of the economy, with exceptions being manufacturing, construction and engineering and the “other” category of the private sector. He went on to say that the net domestic credit of the banking system grew by 14.1%, half year on half year. This was as a result of increases in both loans and advances in the private and public sectors. Loans and advances to the private sector expanded by 5.7% directly linked to all sectors except the agriculture sector. Lending to households recorded a robust growth of 13.5% year on year. Furthermore, net Public Sector Credit also increased considerably by 48.7%, half year on half year. The ratio of non-performing loans stood at 12:3 at the end of the first quarter of 2019as at half-year, the ratio showed decline compared to the last two years. The overall deficit in 2019 is projected to decrease by 0.1% point to 4.9% of the GDP. At the end of June 2019, Guyanas stock of total public debt increased marginally by 1.5% compared with the 2018 half-year position. Even while the Republic
Bank seems to be doing well in the financial aspect, such cannot be said the same for their banking services to customers. It was only a few days ago that the agency came under fire from its customers, the government and the Central Bank for faults in their “upgraded system”. For almost three weeks, thousands of their customers suffered in the lines at the ATMs and in the bank, which has several branches across the country. Customers complained of being unable to access accounts. Quite a number of them were saved using their ATM cards at the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI) terminals. Guyanas Central Bank was engaged in exploring ways of sanctioning the bank over the plethora of problems experienced by customers. However, the regulator is without legal standing and instead had to opt for moral persuasion. Governor of the Central Bank , Dr. Gobind Ganga said while the bank will be looking to have the affected customers compensated by the Trinidad and Tobago (T&T)based Republic Bank, the regulator will be looking to have legislation in place to avoid such a reoccurrence. Further, he stated that the authorities were still assessing the total losses and economic impact of the software glitch.
Wednesday December 18, 2019
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Kaieteur News
Norton Street Murder PI…
Witness who says she knows murder accuse for 20 yrs fails to identify him in court succumbed to his injuries. On October 25, last, 36year-old Collin Rodney of 70 Joseph Pollydore Street, Lodge, went missing along with his silver grey Toyota Allion bearing registration number PRR 1076. He was the cousin of the deceased and also a key witness in relation to the murder. One week after Collin Rodney went missing, the police made a gruesome find of the burnt remains of a body
Collin Rodney By Trishan Craig After telling the court she has known murder accused Osafo Grundell called ‘Safo’, for two decades, a witness to the murder of Marlon Seon Rodney, called ‘George’, yesterday failed to identify the man in court. Police Prosecutor Dominic Bess, who is representing the state in this matter, asked the woman to identify Grundell in court. At that time, the accused was sitting in the prisoner’s dock six feet away from the witness’s dock. Principal Magistrate Faith McGusty, who is presiding over the Preliminary Inquiry (PI), also failed to get the witness to identify the defendant. But she did identify James Fraser, called ‘Dab’, who is also charged for the capital offence of murder. Following a break in the court proceedings for lunch, the witness was recalled to continue giving evidence to the court. Once again as her evidence progressed, the
James Fraser called ‘Dab’
Osafo Grundell called ‘Safo’
prosecutor revisited his question for the woman to identify ‘Safo’ and for the second time, she looked around the room and said she did not see him in court. The matter was adjourned to January 10, 2020 for continuation. In light of the issues in having certain witnesses return to court to complete their testimony, Prosecutor Bess made a request that the defence be fully prepared to hear the extent of this witness’s testimony and cross-examination on the next occasion that the matter is called. Rodney was shot and killed earlier this year. Grundell, 39, of Freeman Street, East La Penitence, Georgetown; and Fraser, 21, of Garnett Street, Georgetown, are on remand for the murder. The men are in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court where the PI is being
heard. They were not allowed to plead to the indictable charge which alleged that between April 25, and April 30, last, at Norton Street, Lodge, Georgetown, they murdered Rodney. Attorneys-at-law Nigel Hughes, Mark Waldron and Ronald Daniels make up the defence council. According to reports, Marlon Rodney, a 35-year-old taxi driver of 71 Norton Street, Lodge, Georgetown, was involved in an argument with three individuals. The men reportedly pulled out guns and discharged several rounds at Rodney, who was hit in the left leg. A passerby was also shot in the process. The injured men were rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital, as was the passerby who was treated and sent away. Rodney was admitted in a critical condition. He later
The torched remains of the car found.
in the trunk of a car, which was found torched. The discovery was made at a desolate and swampy area at Letter T backlands, Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara, an area that is surrounded by coconut estates and rice fields. This was after an anonymous caller contacted ranks at the Weldaad Police Station to say that a car was being torched at the location. Police have since
confirmed the chassis number on the burnt vehicle to be that of Rodney’s car. Following an “inconclusive” post mortem examination done on the remains found in the burnt car, the police are conducting DNA testing from samples taken from the corpse. This is to be matched against samples taken from Rodney’s family members to be able to ascertain if the corpse is his.
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Wednesday December 18, 2019
Kaieteur News
Berbice counterfeit saga…
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VEHICLE FOR SALE 1 Honda CRV. includes TV, music system, alarm, reverse camera, sproiler, crash bar, Low mileage. PTT Series (First Owner) Contact #6490956 LAND FOR SALE Transported land 11.6 acres, Lot 15 Public road #2 Village W.C. B/ce 5 mins from B/ce Bridge. Contact# 686-4818/ 648-7109 Parfaite School Street $4.5M, Parfaite $1.5M, Schnoord 140x66 $6.3M, Schnoord 50x100 $4.5M, Providence $4.7M Call: 666-2366 480 acres of Transported Water Front Land, situated at Hogg Island. Contact # 617-4004 LEARN TO DRIVE N. Outar Driving School, Learn to Drive the right way @ Cuffy Square. Affordable package. Call: 644-5166/6912561/681-2808
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Courtney’s Boutique- Ladies & Gents formal and casual attire. Unbeatable prices, Stall B Bourda market/Post office entrance - 10%,20%,30% off
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‘Serious allegations’ were on Monday made from the defence bench against the prosecutors and the previous magistrate of the case against Mool Manniram and Reshma Manniram who are accused of being in possession of a quantity of counterfeit United States currency. The matter was called before Chief Magistrate Ann
Drivers- with tractor, motor bus, minibus, must have all three licenses, preferably living around Georgetown. Tel# 641-5075/225-1429/6241147 Experienced Driver, Waiter, Cashier, Cleaners. Apply @ Hack’s Halaal with hand written application, 5 Commerce St Industrial Electrician to work in Georgetown. Call: 227-1717 One (1) Welder, must know grill work. Call: 625-5763 One experienced Bartender, One Security guard, Servers/ Waitstaff. Herdmanston Lodge, Peter Rose & Anira Sts #225-0808 Ext 100 Wanted- Lorry Drivers to sell water #682-1048/233-5255, preferably on East Bank / West Coast Live in Female Shop attendant 18-25 yrs and waitress, salary $20,000 weekly # 610-3974 Parfaite Harmonie, Eccles, Providence, Uitvlugt, Herstelling, Diamond, Farm, Tuschen and other area. Call: 666-2326 One cleaner & one handyman. Call: 623-5255 Mon-Fri, 8am5pm Wanted experienced hire car taxi drivers at Ramada Georgetown Princess Hotel. Contact # 616-5419/265-7076 VACANCY Room attendant, Desk Staff, 25-50 yrs, 233 South Road, Lacytown. #225-0198
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McLennan in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts for reassignment following Magistrate Alex Moore’s decision to recuse himself from the matter. In January 2018, the couple was found with the alleged counterfeit currency in their Crabwood Creek, Upper Corentyne home. Yesterday, attorney-at-law Glen Hanoman, in a packed court, said that he is of the opinion that the then acting head of the Guyana Forensic Science Laboratory (GFSL), Tamika Henry, should be jailed for willfully attempting to pervert the course of justice.’ In fact, the lawyer said, “As far as I am concerned, the head of the forensic science lab should be in jail.” In announcing his recusion, Magistrate Moore had indicated that he received a phone call from Henry saying she is disappointed with the manner in which he is handling the case. The magistrate gave a well-detailed announcement to the court as he said the call was specifically about a witness from the lab being deemed an expert in counterfeit currency analysis. Moreover, the attorney told the court that ranks from the Custom Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU), on the day of the search of his clients home,
lab acting head should be in jail
destroyed their furniture, took away a DVR and drank out the beverages in their refrigerator. He added that these ranks should be charged for damage to property and stealing as it is a clear abuse of power by the state. According to Hanoman, given the fact that the matter was coming to a close, the manner in which the Magistrate recused himself might be deliberate as the defence was about to get a ruling that the ‘expert’ witness is not an expert. He also said that if his clients were the ones to have called the magistrate, they would be imprisoned. He added that results from the lab will now be hard to trust. Following the remarks made by the lawyer Magistrate McLennan instructed the prosecution to put together the file of the case and have it sent to the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) for advice. In the meantime, the matter was transferred to the Whim Magistrate’s Court for January 9, 2020 when a new trial is expected to commence.
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Trump accuses Democrats of ‘attempted coup’ on eve of impeachment vote WASHINGTON (Reuters) - On the eve of his expected impeachment in the U.S. House of Representatives, President Donald Trump accused Democrats of pursuing an “illegal, partisan attempted coup” and declaring “open war” on American democracy as they seek to remove him from office for pressing Ukraine to investigate political rival Joe Biden. Trump’s remarks came in a signed letter addressed to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, released as House lawmakers met to set the rules for debate ahead of today’s planned vote on two articles of impeachment - formal charges against the Republican president. At the same time, the Senate’s top Republican, Mitch McConnell, signaled he would not allow the expected upcoming Senate trial on impeachment charges to involve more fact-finding about Trump’s conduct. The Republican-led Senate is unlikely to vote to convict the president. The rambling, six-page letter from Trump to Pelosi on White House letterhead largely restated the president’s objections to the impeachment probe, but did so in accusatory and sometimes spiteful language that
attacked Pelosi, congressional Democrats, Biden and institutions such as the FBI. Pelosi, Trump wrote, “is turning the House of Representatives from a revered legislative body into a Star Chamber of partisan persecution” while “scarcely concealing your hatred of me.” The impeachment probe, the president said, was an “an illegal, partisan attempted coup that will, based on recent sentiment, badly fail at the voting booth,” alluding to the November 2020 U.S. presidential election in which he is seeking another four years in office. The U.S. Constitution gives the House the power to impeach a president for “high crimes and misdemeanors,” part of the document’s checks and balances among the executive, legislative and judicial branches of the federal government. The Democratic-led House is expected to pass two articles of impeachment charging Trump with abuse of power and obstruction of Congress for his dealings with Ukraine. “By proceeding with your invalid impeachment, you are violating your oaths of office, you are breaking your allegiance to the Constitution, and you are declaring open
war on American Democracy,” Trump wrote. “You view democracy as your enemy!” he wrote. Asked about Trump’s letter, Pelosi told CNN: “I haven’t fully read it. We’ve been working. I’ve seen the essence of it though. It’s really sick.” SENATE CLASH OVER WITNESSES On the eve of the vote, Pelosi sent a letter to all 232 Democratic members of the House, urging them to defend the Constitution. “Very sadly, the facts have made clear that the President abused his power for his own personal, political benefit and that he obstructed Congress as he demanded that he is above accountability, above the Constitution and above the American people,” she said. House Democrats accuse Trump of abusing his power by asking Ukraine to investigate Biden, a former U.S. vice president and a leading Democratic contender to oppose him in the 2020 election. Trump is also accused of obstructing the congressional investigation into the matter. Members of the House Rules Committee met on Tuesday over the rules for the debate before the vote set for Wednesday by the full
U.S. President Donald Trump (REUTERS/Kevin Lamarque) House, which is expected to result in Trump becoming the third U.S. president to be impeached. No president has ever been removed from office via the impeachment process set out in the Constitution. Earlier, McConnell brushed aside a Democratic request to call four current or former White House officials as witnesses in the Senate impeachment trial expected next month, again making clear that he expects senators not to re-
move Trump from office. In dueling speeches on the Senate floor, McConnell said he would not allow a “fishing expedition” after a “slapdash” House impeachment process, while Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer said a trial without witnesses would be a “sham” and suggested Trump’s fellow Republicans favored a cover-up. McConnell said on the floor it was the Senate’s role simply to act as a “judge and jury,” but he later told report-
ers that he was not “an impartial juror.” “This is a political process. There is not anything judicial about it,” he said. “Impeachment is a political decision.” Schumer said he was “utterly amazed” by McConnell’s remark. He had said he wants the trial to consider documents and hear testimony from four witnesses: former national security adviser John Bolton, acting White House Chief of Staff Mick Mulvaney, Mulvaney aide Robert Blair and budget official Michael Duffey. Trump has refused to cooperate with the House impeachment process and ordered current and former officials like those mentioned by Schumer not to testify or provide documents. McConnell and Schumer both said they expected to meet soon to discuss how to proceed. “What is Leader McConnell afraid of? What is President Trump afraid of? The truth?” Schumer asked on the Senate floor. “If you’re trying to conceal evidence and block testimony, it’s probably not because the evidence is going to help your case. It’s because you’re trying to cover something up,” Schumer added.
Wednesday December 18, 2019
Linden man found guilty of child rape charges A Wismar, Linden man who was yesterday found guilty on two counts of sexual activity with a child under the age of 16 has been remanded to prison. He now awaits sentencing which will be handed down on January 6, 2020 by Justice Simone Morris-Ramlall. The man, 25-year-old Keon Lawson, also known as “Crash” had initially pleaded not guilty to the charges. One of them alleged that between November 1, 2014 and November 30, 2014, in the County of Demerara he engaged in sexual activity with a six-year-old girl. It was
GUILTY: Keon Lawson
further alleged that on October 6, 2017 in the County of Demerara, he engaged in sexual activity with the same girl when she turned nine. When the verdicts were
Former Pakistan leader Musharraf sentenced to death for treason (CNN)Former Pakistan President and military ruler Pervez Musharraf has been sentenced to death in absentia for high treason following a six-year legal case. A three-member special court in Islamabad on Tuesday convicted Musharraf of violating the constitution by unlawfully declaring emergency rule while he was in power, in a case that had been pending since 2013. The 76-year-old former leader, who has lived in selfimposed exile in Dubai in the United Arab Emirates for more than three years, has the option to appeal the verdict. Musharraf seized power in a military coup in 1999 and ruled Pakistan as President until 2008. He was indicted in 2014 on a total of five charges, including three counts of subverting, suspending and changing the country’s constitution, firing Pakistan’s chief justice, and imposing emergency rule. It’s the first time in Pakistan’s history that an army chief has been tried and found guilty of treason. Un-
Sentenced to death: Former Pakistani ruler, Pervez Musharraf der Pakistan’s constitution, high treason is a crime that carries the death penalty or life imprisonment. The special court ruled on the death sentence by a two to one majority, with one of the three judges not backing the death sentence but agreeing on a conviction. Musharraf has been living in Dubai since 2016 after Pakistan’s Supreme Court lifted a travel ban allowing him to leave the country to seek medical treatment. From his hospital bed in Dubai earlier this month, the former leader said in a video statement that he was innocent and the treason case was “baseless.”
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announced by the jury foreperson, Lawson said, “I am sorry”. His lawyer, George Thomas, then requested that a probation report be compiled on his client before sentence is imposed. Kaieteur News understands that between November 1, 2014 and November 30, 2014, Lawson went over to the girls home where she was alone watching television. Lawson held onto the sixyear-old girl and covered her mouth with his hand. He then pulled down her underwear and had sex with her. He continued to violate the girl, this time, when she turned nine. On October 6, 2017, the girl was sent by her mother to Lawsons home to collect some chicken that was stored in a freezer. At the time, he was alone at home. When the girl was about to leave, he blocked the doorway and then threw her onto a chair where he had sex with her. The child later confided to her class teacher about what happened. The teacher summoned the childs parents and the police were called in to probe.Prosecutors Teriq Mohammed and Nafeeza Baig presented the case for the State.
“Lola Doll” found guilty of assaulting Onika Pompey In one month, popular make-up artist and social media personality, Lolita Callendar, commonly known as “Lola” who is charged for assaulting Onika Pompey will receive a sentence for the offence. This comes after Principal Magistrate Faith McGusty ruled that after viewing video evidence which corresponds with the statements of the victim, she found Callendar guilty of the offence. The magistrate, however, stated that based on the circumstances the accused faces, she ordered a probation report to be done on her. This will assist the court in handing down its sentence based on the background of the defendant. Sentence was then deferred to January 17, next. Upon hearing the decision of the magistrate, Lola said, “Your worship, I would just like to apologise.” But, the victim was not present in court and the magistrate stated that maybe on the next occasion she can have the opportunity to do that. A few weeks ago Pompey told the court that she was willing to accept a compensation of anything between $800,000 and $1M so she can repair her hair edges. However, Callendar indicated that she does not have that money to pay the victim. The defendant, in an attempt to get the matter settled, had brought a lovely pink bag containing hair products for the victim. To this Pompey refused. She said, “Lola bite me and I know she get AIDS cause we
Onika Pompey
Lolita “Lola” Callendar
were friends from long.” As a result, the matter will now move to sentencing for the defendant. They will return to court on December 17, 2019. Previously, Callendar, 27, of Lot 231 East Ruimveldt Housing Scheme, Georgetown, denied the charge, which alleged that on April 6, 2019, at Leopold Street, she caused grievous bodily harm to Onika Pompey. Pompey, 28, a make-up artist, of Lot 61 Barima Avenue, Bel Air Park, was also charged and denied the charge, which alleged that on the same day, she unlawfully wounded Callendar. Pompeys
matter is before another Magistrate. The two women are said to be known to each other but when the incident happened, they werent on speaking terms. On the day in question, Pompey and “Lola” had a misunderstanding, which resulted in a scuffle. According to reports, Pompey received lacerations about her body, some from several bites and “Lola” lost five fingernails after Pompey allegedly pulled her from her vehicle. “Lola” was recently released from jail in the British Virgin Islands, for forging an HIV test in her favour.
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Cops accused of throwing hot water on suspected house jumper - claims he broke into their house
The burns Budhiram sustained on his back and face at the hands of the men Seventeen-year-old Ashkay Budhiram, a mason of 3928 La Parfaite Harmonie, West Bank Demerara was on Monday allegedly abducted and tortured by two off duty police constables who accused him of breaking into their home. Commissioner of Police, Leslie James, called an impromptu press conference and made the revelation to the media. James stated that the two men who are brothers have been placed under close arrest as a probe into the incident gets underway. He also revealed that the officers are the sons of a senior police official. Commissioner James explained that the men’s home was broken into on December 12th and items were removed. They were said to have received word that the teen was somehow involved in the incident. He stated that the two officers, one stationed at Wales and the other from the Tactical Service Unit (TSU) acted on their own; picked up the teen from his home and transported him in a private vehicle to their house. The heinous act reportedly occurred at around 11:00hrs on Monday. Budhiram’s distraught mother, Sabrina Lutch, explained to Kaieteur News that she received a call around 2pm on Monday from her daughter saying that her son was badly beaten and burnt by police. According to her, when she arrived at her daughter’s home, she was greeted by the sight of her son, sitting in handcuffs and disfigured about the body. “When I reach the place, me see, he back bun up. All he face get bruise; the two hand bin swell in the handcuff and he been crying seh mommy dem beat meh bad, bad.” Ashkay Budhiram told the harrowing story to his mother. He stated that he was picked by eight men, two of whom were police ranks, and thrown in the trunk of a silver car. He was then taken to a house, handcuffed to a bed and tortured for almost an
The handcuffs still on Budhiram’s hands hour. “He seh them had he handcuff and they tek a kettle and throw the hot water down he face and they keep asking he, weh de phone deh and some game and he seh he keep telling them that he ain’t know nothing but they continue to beat he.” The woman said that the men rained blows on her son with a leather belt and when he screamed, they placed a towel in his mouth and continued to hit him, breaking a tooth. According to the woman, after the torturous ordeal, they placed the teen back in the trunk of the car and were transporting him to another location but this was deterred by the teen’s effort to survive. Budhiram reportedly used a wire in the trunk to pick the lock and carefully opened the door and rolled out of the moving car. “He seh when he roll out, them hear he but he run and jump a trench and hide in the bush till they go away. Then he run and go to he sister
place.” The teen was taken for medical treatment and a report was made at the La Parfaite Harmonie Police Station. Sources close to the investigations revealed that the men admitted that they arrested the teen but denied any allegation of the torture. Further, the men also denied that they placed the injured teen into the trunk of their car. They reportedly claimed that he was sitting in the back of the car and escaped. “This is something grave…We are doing an impartial investigation and will follow it wherever it leads,” the source said. This situation mirrors a similar incident where a teen was tortured back in 2009. The teenager who was being held at the Vreed-enHoop Police Station had a flammable liquid poured on his lower torso and was set alight during interrogation. This led to him being hospitalised with burns to his genitals, thighs and hips. (Shikema Dey)
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Solitary bid open for Ikuribisi Hydroelectric consultancy services The National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) yesterday opened 30 bids for nine major governmental projects. One notable project included the --provision of consultancy services for the Environmental Assessment and Management Plan set out for the Ikuribisi 1MV hydroelectric project. This Ikuribisi Hydropower Project entails the installation of a one megawatt hydropower plant and construction of a transmission line between the plant and the Bartica Power Station. The aim of the assessment is to ensure that the environmental implications of the project are analysed and understood prior to commencement of construction. Furthermore, the power system is expected to run as an energy storage plant with a reservoir, which can serve as a seasonal storage system, hence limiting power outages within the area. The environmental assessments offer guidance during the permitting phase of projects and ensure that the installation, operation and decommissioning of assets does not have significant effects on the environment. This project forms a collection of energy initiatives to support the Green Bartica Development Plan. Other noteworthy plans included the --construction of a Portuguese Arrival Memorial and the fabrication and delivery of one 53-metre pontoon for the Berbice Bridge maintenance. Guyana Energy Agency (GEA) Provision of consultancy services for Environmental Assessment and Management Plan for the Ikuribisi 1MW Hydroelectric Project
Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) Procurement of two motor vehicles
Ministry of Indigenous People’s Affairs Supply and delivery of dry and fresh ration for Indigenous residence, at the hinterland scholarship dormitory and hinterland tertiary dormitory
Procurement of books for hinterland communities
Supply and delivery of bread and pastries for Indigenous residence, hinterland scholarship dormitory and hinterland tertiary dormitory Demerara Harbour Bridge Corporation Fabrication and delivery of one 32-metre pontoon for the Berbice Bridge maintenance
Ministry of the Presidency (MOtP)- Department of Social Cohesion, Culture, Youth and Sport - Roof rehabilitation of the Providence Hindu Temple
Construction of the Portuguese Arrival Memorial
Ministry of Agriculture- Guyana Marketing Corporation (GMC) Lot – Provision of security services to the Guyana Marketing Corporation at 87 Robb and Alexander Streets, Lacytown Georgetown Lot 2- Provision of security services to the Parika agro-packaging facility Lot 3- Provision of security services to the central packaging facility in Sophia
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Lawrence sacked over T&Ts poor form Butcher belongs in Hall-of-Fame, says PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, CMC Dennis Lawrence was on Sunday sacked as Trinidad and Tobago head coach, ending a turbulent 34-month spell in charge of the beleaguered national team.The move came following a nine-hour meeting of the board last weekend when the executive took the decision to relieve the former national defender of his duties.New T&T Football Association president William Wallace, who replaced David John-Wil-iams following elections three weeks ago, communicated the decision to Lawrence. “The services of Lawrence as national team coach were terminated with immediate effect following a majority decision by the board,” the T&T Football Association said in a media release.“Immediately following the decision of the board, Wallace contacted Lawrence via telephone to inform him of the decision and wished
Dennis Lawrence him well in his personal and professional life, while also thanking him for his services to the mens team. “The TTFA president and Lawrences representative(s) will meet to discuss the terms of separation. Lawrences replacement will be announced shortly.”Lawrences sacking did not come as a surprise especially after overseeing a spell of form which saw T&T go 14 matches without victory the longest such spell for the side in modern history. And while T&T crushed Anguilla 15-0 at the Ato Boldon Stadium last month to
end their wretched run, they went down again 4-0 to Honduras a week later. Their 2-0 CONCACAF Nations League defeat to Honduras last October saw them finish bottom of Group C without a win and relegated to League B. And that form also saw them miss out on automatic qualification for the Gold Cup next year and the 2022 World Cup. The Caribbean powerhouses also bowed out of last Julys Gold Cup in the first round after failing to win a single game.Lawrence, who previously worked with the Belgium national team before taking over the T&T side in January 2017, presided over just six wins in 35 games in charge, losing 21 times and managing eight draws. In recent months he came under heavy criticism from several quarters with outspoken TTFA board member Keith Look Loy calling for his resignation.
Wednesday December 18, 2019 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19): Yes, it's your turn now. Perhaps you've been waiting for something, but the timing hasn't been right. Perhaps there has been a mental or physical roadblock in the way. TAURUS(Apr.20–May20): You Don't get too bogged down in details today. If you keep trying to perfect every aspect of the package before you send it out, you'll end up missing the boat and the package won't go at all. GEMINI (May 21–June 20): You may be talking a lot today, but that's natural. You have a great deal to say, so why not say it? You'll have your way with very little effort. CANCER (June 21–July 22): Y You may find it hard to stick to a task today. Your mind may feel fragmented. It may be hard to focus. If this is the case, don't worry too much about it. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22): Go out and play today. Escape your work mode and have fun. Drive someplace new and take a long walk outside with friends. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22): Get some of your thoughts on paper today. Communicate your feelings in a journal or write letters or emails to people you haven't seen in a while. Keep the tone light.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) : ReYou're the certified expert on many topics, so spread your knowledge around. Others will attend to your words. Use them carefully. SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21): Don't worry so much about others today. Your job is to have fun. Keep things balanced by not delving too deeply into one specific topic or project. SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21): You If you don't express yourself today, people might get the impression that something is wrong. The person you're talking to may think that he or she is boring you. CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19): This is a great day to shop. Join friends and hit the stores to add more beauty and pleasurable items to your life. Stay away from the cheap and shoddy. AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18): You may feel like you're slowly plowing through mud, but things are starting to look up. A weight has been lifted and you're ready to take flight. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20): Don't take anything too seriously today. People may be careless with their words and end up hurting feelings or even breaking hearts. Don't read too deeply into what's said.
legend Lloyd BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, CMC Legendary former West Indies captain, Clive Lloyd, said yesterday Basil Butchers outstanding contribution to the game had secured him a place in any Caribbean cricket Hall-of-Fame. Hailing Butchers “dependability and reliability”, Lloyd said his fellow countryman had left a legacy of having played a “major part in keeping West Indies and Guyana cricket alive”. Butcher, a native of Guyana, passed away in Florida on Monday at age 86 following a long illness. “I offer my sincere condolences to his family and loved ones. We have lost a true stalwart of the game, someone who gave all he had for the game in his native Guyana and across the region,” said Lloyd, who made his Test debut on the tour of India in 1966 with Butcher al-
Legendary former West Indies captain Clive Lloyd. ready a seasoned member of the Windies team. “He was well loved and admired. He had fans everywhere … all across the cricketing world. His legacy is that he played a major part in keeping West Indies and Guyana cricket alive. “He was part of that golden era which saw the game grow and flourish. He is someone you would de-
scribe as a Hall-of-Famer if there was such a thing in West Indies cricket.” Butcher gathered 3 104 runs in 44 Tests with seven centuries on seven different grounds two in England, two in Australia, two in India and one in the Caribbean. Lloyd described him as an elegant batsman who was strong off the backfoot and also scored heavily through the leg-side. An occasional leg-spinner, the only Test wickets he took all came in one innings five for 34 against England in Trinidad in 1968. He made his Test debut in 1958 against India at the Brabourne Stadium in Bombay now Mumbai and played his last match against England at Headingley in 1969. In his first-class career he played 169 matches and made 11,628 runs with 31 centuries and 54 half-centuries. “He was very dependable … very reliable … very calm and an excellent player against all bowling pace and spin,” Lloyd said. “You could say in many ways he was Mr Dependable of that era in our cricket. It was like the golden era when we had several cricketers from Guyana in the West Indies team Rohan Kanhai, Joe Solomon, Lance Gibbs and Basil joined them to make it four. “He was reliable, very professional and someone who would share their knowledge. He did extremely well for Guyana and also West Indies. He made a double hundred (209 not out at Trent Bridge in 1966) and also got a superb hundred at Lords (133 in 1963).”
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Wednesday December 18, 2019
NBA roundup: Mavs end Bucks’ 18-game win streak Kristaps Porzingis collected 26 points and 12 rebounds as the visiting Dallas Mavericks ended the Milwaukee Bucks 18-game winning streak with a 120-116 victory on Monday. Seth Curry scored 26 points on 9-of-15 shooting from the floor for the Mavericks, who overcame Giannis Antetokounmpos 48-point, 14-rebound performance to post their 12th win in 15 games. Dallas played without reigning NBA Rookie of the Year Luka Doncic, who sustained a moderate right ankle sprain Saturday during the first quarter of a 122-118 loss to the Miami Heat. Kyle Korver had five 3pointers to highlight his season-high 17 points for the Bucks, whose streak fell two wins shy of the franchise record. The loss was Milwaukees first since a 103100 setback at Utah on Nov. 8. Oklahoma City Thunder 109 - Chicago Bulls 106 Chris Paul scored 30 points to lift Oklahoma City to a come-from-behind win over visiting Chicago. The Thunder trailed by as many as 26 points before launching a comeback that tied the biggest in franchise history and is the biggest in the NBA this season. Paul fueled the fourth-
quarter portion of the comeback, going 5-for-6 from behind the 3-point arc and scoring 19 in the final frame. The other 26-point comeback in Thunder history came last season against the Houston Rockets. Danilo Gallinari added 22 points in the win while Dennis Schroder came off the Thunder bench for 18. Paul narrowly missed a tripledouble, finishing with 10 rebounds and eight assists. The blown lead spoiled Zach LaVines game-high 39-point performance for the Bulls. Houston Rockets 109 San Antonio Spurs 107 Russell Westbrook scored 25 of his 31 points in the first half, and James Harden finished with 28 as Houston rallied past visiting San Antonio. Houston trailed by 25 in the second quarter and by 19 at the half but roared back behind Westbrook and Harden, who scored 19 of his 28 points in the second half. LaMarcus Aldridge led the Spurs with 19 points and 13 rebounds. Forbes scored 18 points, all in the first half on six 3-pointers, while Dejounte Murray and White scored 16 points each. Toronto Raptors 133 Cleveland Cavaliers 113 Pascal Siakam scored 33 points and Toronto defeated visiting Cleveland in the first
meeting this season between the teams. Norman Powell added 26 points on 11-for-15 shooting for the Raptors, who have won two in a row. Kyle Lowry had 20 points and 11 assists, Serge Ibaka scored 14 points off the bench and OG Anunoby contributed 12 points and nine rebounds. Collin Sexton scored 25 points for the Cavaliers, who have lost 10 of their past 11 games and two in a row. Darius Garland added 20 points for the Cavaliers. Washington Wizards 133 - Detroit Pistons 119 Bradley Beal poured in 35 points and dished out 10 assists, and Washington snapped a four-game losing streak by pulling away from host Detroit. Isaiah Thomas, who missed the previous five games with a calf strain, supplied 23 points for Washington. Davis Bertans contributed 17 points off the Wizards bench while Ish Smith had 10 points and seven assists. Markieff Morris and Derrick Rose each had 22 points for the Pistons. Detroits frontcourt stars missed the game. Andre Drummond, the leagues leading rebounder, sat out for the second straight game due to left eye inflammation related to an allergic reaction. Blake Griffin was sidelined by left
Dallas Mavericks guard Seth Curry (30) drives for the basket around Milwaukee Bucks guard George Hill (3) during the fourth quarter at Fiserv Forum. (Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports) knee soreness. He has appeared in only 14 of the teams 27 games. Memphis Grizzlies 118 Miami Heat 111 After squandering a 15point halftime lead, Memphis closed the game on a 14-4 run to top visiting Miami. Chipping away at a deficit that grew to as many as 16 points in the third quarter, the Heat took a three-point lead with 5:30 remaining when Bam Adebayo dunked home two of his 14 points. The Grizzlies held the Heat to one point over the next 5:19. Jonas Valanciunas had 21
points and 10 rebounds for the Grizzlies, while Ja Morant dished out a game-high 10 assists to go with 20 points. Adebayo finished with a double-double for Miami, grabbing 13 rebounds to go with five assists, three steals and three blocked shots. Portland Trail Blazers 111 - Phoenix Suns 110 CJ McCollum had 30 points, and Damian Lillard had 27 points and converted the winning three-point play with 26 seconds remaining as Portland overcame a 16-point deficit in a victory at Phoenix. Carmelo Anthony had 23
points, eight rebounds and three blocked shots, and Hassan Whiteside had his 18th double-double with 10 points and 14 rebounds for the Trail Blazers, who made 14 of 34 attempts from 3-point range. They had lost three of four overall and had lost six of their previous seven on the road.Kelly Oubre Jr. had 24 points, Ricky Rubio had his sixth career triple-double with 10 points, 11 rebounds and 14 assists, and Dario Saric and Frank Kaminsky had 17 points apiece for the Suns, who have lost eight of 11. (Field Level Media)
GCB extends heartfelt condolences on the passing of Basil Butcher It was with great sorrow that the executives and staff of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) learnt of the passing of former Guyana and West Indies batsman, Basil Fitzherbert Butcher. Basil who hails from Rose Hall Town, Corentyne, Berbice, played in the then Davson Cup First Division Cricket Competition for Port Mourant, the same club that former West Indian players Rohan Kanhai, Joseph Solomon, Alvin Kallicharran and the late Ivan Madray and many others played for. Butcher went on to play the Jones Cup Inter County Tournament, then for Guyana and West Indies, registering a phenomenal average of 43.11 from 44 test matches, inclusive of a magnificent 133 at lords, for West Indies versus England. After his playing days, Basil Butcher went on to work for the local company ALCAN, Demerara Bauxite Company which was situated in Upper Demerara. There he had the responsibility to develop cricket in the community, with the first national representatives from Linden coming up under his tutelage, inclusive of such
Basil Butcher was one of Wisden’s Cricketers of the Year in 1970. (Getty Images) names as Vibert Johashen and Dr. Vincent Adams. Their participation became more easily possible through the Butchers lead efforts for Upper Demeraras involvement in White Cup, North Court and Case Cup Tournaments. In addition, recognition must be given to his contribution to the other cultural development activities, such as the role he played on the Cultural
Committee which helped to form Mashramani. Basil Ftzherbert Butcher was clearly a great son of our soil, and has contributed tremendously to the cricket structure and development of Guyanas cricket. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time, as we share their pain and grief. May his soul rest in eternal peace!, the release from the Guyana Cricket Board stated.
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GOG contribute to Boxers preparation in Cuba for Olympic qualifiers By Sean Devers Guyanas Director of Sports since June 2015, Christopher Jones celebrated his birthday yesterday but he was the one giving when he handed over a cheque for $1 Million to President of the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) Steve Ninvalle at a simple presentation at the National Sports Commission (NSC) Office on Homestretch Avenue.The Cheque was an advance payment to facilitate a three-month training camp in Cuba for Guyanas four Olympic Boxing hopefuls; Kevin Allicock, Desmond Amsterdam, Denis Thomas and Colin Lewis, who are scheduled to depart for the largest Caribbean Island on December 29, 2019. Ninvalle thanked the Guyana Government and the NSC for their contribution which he said will assist the pugilists as they attempt to qualify for next years Olympic qualifiers from March 26 to April 3 in Argentina. The 2020 Olympics will be held in Tokyo Japan from July 24 to August 9. In 1996 when John Douglas competed in the men’s light heavyweight event in the Summer Olympics, was the last time a Guyanese Boxer Qualified for the Olympics, while Guyanas Mike Parris, who won a Bronze Medal in the 1980 Olympics in Moscow, remains the only Boxer
from the English Speaking Caribbean to win an Olympic Medal. Ninvalle, who was appointed Chairman of AIBAs Youth Commission in February this year, informed that it takes approximately $800,000 to produce an Olympic Medalist in Boxing. “The smaller Countries cant afford that kind of investment and this must be a contributing factor to why it has been almost 40 years since a Caricom member state has won a Medal in Boxing,” Ninvalle, in his third term as GBA Head, opined. Ninvalle said the Government coming on board is an excellent gesture at a time when trying to get funding for Boxing is not an easy task. He added that the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) has also pledged financial support.The NSC, through the intervention of the Director of Sports, had made a lastminute contribution of $1million towards Guyana attending this months Caribbean Boxing Championships in Trinidad. The defending Champions reduced team finished third as Allicock and the Jackman sisters (Alisha & Abiola) won Guyanas three Gold Medals. “We saw the performance of Jamaica, T&T and even Grenada because of the exposure and funding to travel for
(From Left) GBAs TD Terrence Poole, DS Chris Jones and GBA President Steve Ninvalle. overseas tournaments. There are plans for a Championship to be held in Panama in January and another one in the Dominican Republic in February. If plans for those Tournaments bear fruit, the four boxers in Cuba will attend those Championships,” Ninvalle informed. GBA boss, who was elected in March this year as Vice President of the American Boxing Confederation (AMBC) at a Congress held in Panama, disclosed that Coach Sebert Blake and GCAs Technical Director Coach Terrence Poole MS should accompany the boxers to Cuba, while Cuban Coach Francisco Roldan, who worked with Allicock in Cuba during his preparations for the Pan Am Games in Peru, will join the pair of Guyanese Coaches. Jones, who replaced Neil Kumar as Director of Sports, informed that the Government
UDFA Christmas Football Botafago, Panthers seek crucial win, Coomacka hunt victory over Shattas for semis spot Tonights crucial matches in the Upper Demerara Football Associations (UDFA) Christmas football championship will pit Botafago and Amelias Ward Panthers in the first game from 19.00hrs and the second from 21.00hrs brings together Silver Shattas playing their first time against Aroaima. Interesting though is t h e f a c t t h a t n e i t h e r, Botofago or Panthers, would want to lose after they lost their opening games against Topp XX and Aroaima respectively. Last Friday, Botafago were beaten by Topp XX 2-1, while Aroaima downed the Panthers 1-0 on Sunday night and this Group C clash should be a ding-dong affair as they both hope to rebound to see if they can come out on top in their group play or place second in the only group where two teams will emerge into the semifinals.
The other game is in Group A where Coomacka after defeating Net Rockers would hope to win against Silver Shattas and book their place into the final four as only one team will make it from this group. That being the case, Net Rockers are hoping for a winning result for Shattas, since they went down surprisingly to the mines team Coomacka. That means that Coomacka would go all out to cement that only place available for the semifinals as Shattas seek to stall that march and steal a win to have any chance also. Therefore, goal difference could be the important factor here with a win for Shattas, and if the Rockers can then defeat Shattas; but its all over if Coomacka can win. The three group championship of A, B and C preliminary round play will see the top teams advancing
along with the second placed team from Group C also making it through to the semifinals. With Banks DIH not branding the tournament with their GT Beer after six successive years, the UDFA has turned their attention to other sponsors who have come on board. Nigel Hinds Accounting Firm and Robert Badal of Guyana Pegasus along with Tropical Reflections, Guy Construction, Floyd Melville, Rolling Ads, Guyana Football Federation, Trophy Stall, Foreign Links Auto Sales, Guyana Police Force E Division and the Guyana Lottery Company are the major sponsors. Those other sponsors are Jermine and Family, MD Construction, Broad Money Car Rental, Snooks Variety Store, Sports Rite Care Pharmacy and Fines Jewelry are all giving their support to the UDFA.
is committed to contributing towards the development of Sports Associations in Guyana that have their books in order and are likely to be competitive in Regional or International events. “I see boxing as the best chance of Guyana getting an Olympic Medal and when we heard about the proposed trip to Cuba the NSC pledged $2.5 Million. This cheque is for $1 Million and the balance will be presented in January and February,” Jones stated. The entire cost of Airfare, accommodation, meals and coaching fees is US$30,000
and while in Cuba the Guyanese boxers will be involved in tournaments every week and will be exposed to sparring sessions with Cubas top fighters. The GBA is requesting that Guyana Power & Light (GPL) release Coach Blake from his duties there for a period of three months for National duties, while a similar request is being made to the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) for Amsterdam, Lewis and Coach Poole and to the Guyana Police Force for the release of Thomas for the same period.
Milerock FC... From page 41 Looking ahead, Gittens proffered the view that his team would have to improve on their finishing as well as their defending: “And I feel we have a good chance of progressing further in the competition. I would grade the team about 60 to 65% but we still have a lot more work to do because I know we can reach to 90% and cause a lot of upsets in this tournament.
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Wednesday December 18, 2019
Kaieteur News
GFF-Always Championship Cup 2019
Fruta conquerors maintain winning ways; Santos end first round on a high Fruta Conquerors continue to be the team to beat by maintaining their winning ways and their undefeated record when the secondround of the GFF-Always Championship Cup 2019 commenced on Sunday last at the GFF National Training Centre, Providence, East Bank Demerara. The Fruta Ladies mirrored their first round win over Lady Panthers with an identical 5-0 win, the only difference was that their first round encounter saw Conquerors scoring in the first minute, this time
around; the opening goal came until the 17th minute. Leading markswoman, Tiandi Smith followed up her first round double with a hattrick this time around and she, it was who broke the deadlock. It was again all Conquerors with the Lady Panthers having a few encouraging moments but was not able to overcome the Conquerors hurdle. It was Conquerors fifth win in as many matches and their goalkeeper, Deekola Douglas Chester also main-
Santos Andrea Lashley (#12) completes her hat-trick against Foxy Ladies. tained a clean bill of health. Smith was again on target in the 25th and 43rd minutes. Shamya Daniels scored in the 22nd minute, while the other goal cam e f r o m A b i o c e Heywood in the 29th minute. Meanwhile, the first round of competition ended with new kids on the block, Santos Football Club trouncing Foxy Ladies, 4-1. Leading Santos charge to
Butchers well played innings ends on 86 By Sean Devers Basil Fitzherbert Butcher, reportedly the first person of Amerindian decent to play Test cricket for the West Indies, was given out by almighty for a well-played 86 and now sits in a Heavenly Pavilion with the late greats of the cricketing world. His innings began on September 3, 1933 in the Village of Port Mourant, Berbice in British Guiana and ended on December 16, 2019 in Florida, USA. A solid, responsible and dependable right-hander, Butcher was born to an Amerindian mother (Mathilda Elizabeth Lowe) and Ethelbert Fitzherbert Butcher, a Barbadian who migrated to British Guiana, His father worked at the Port Mourant Sugar Estate, while his mother ran a bakery. Butcher was born on Port Mourant Sugar Estate in Central Corentyne in Guyanas second largest County, about 100 miles from Georgetown, Guyanas only City. Butcher attended the Corentyne High School but left school before writing his Exams. He worked as a teacher, a Public Works Department clerk, an Insurance salesman and a Welfare Officer, while playing cricket for Port Mourant. He grew up with six sisters and married Pam Liverpool in 1962 and leaves to morn his wife and four children Brian, Bruce, Blossom and Basil Junior, who is actively involved with cricket in the USA.
The level-headed Butcher was the calming factor in the storm of aggressive strokeplayers; many times batting at four, sandwiched between fellow Berbician and arguably Guyanas best batsman Rohan Kanhai and the legendary Sir Garfield Sobers. Butcher was discovered by the late Sir Clyde Walcott, along with Kanhai and Joe Solomon in Port Mourant in the mid-1950s when he worked as Welfare officer at Port Mourant Estate which was then controlled by the Bookers Group of Companies. Butcher played 44 Tests and 169 First-Class between 1955 and 1971. He also played the last of his five 50-over matches in 1973 but never played an ODI. One of 19 Berbicans to play Test cricket and one of six from Port Mourant, Butcher scored 3,104 runs from 78 innings at an Average of 43.11 with seven centuries and 16 fifties and a highest score of an unbeaten 209. His 262 First-Class innings produced 11,628 runs with 31 tons and 54 half-centuries at an Average of 49.90. Butchers leg-spin got him five Test wickets, all one innings (5-34) against England in Trinidad in 1967-68. He also took 40 First-Class victims. Butcher was selected for the 1958-59 tour to India and made his Test debut along with Wes Hall in the first Test. He scored 28 and 64 not out, batting with Kanhai as a runner and sharing a 134-run stand with Garfield Sobers
before the West Indies declared. Butcher scored his first Test century in the third Test at Eden Gardens, which the West Indies won by an innings and 336 runs. He was one of three batsmen to score a century in the West Indies innings, finishing with 103 and sharing a 217-run partnership with Kanhai which lasted just over three hours. The Berbician made a second consecutive century in the Fourth Test at Madras, scoring 142 in just over fiveand-a-half hours with 10 fours, playing a key role in the West Indies’ series-clinching victory to finish the series with 486 runs at an average of 69.42. After enduring a slump in form he rediscovered his form by making 383 runs in the 1963 tour of England which included an innings of 133 at Lords, out of just 229, helping the West Indies to a draw. This was one of his better innings and demonstrated great mental strength and temperament. During the interval he received news that his wife in Guyana had suffered a miscarriage but an emotional Butcher continued to bat and played a match saving innings. After he retired from FirstClass Cricket he moved to Linden and played club cricket for the McKenzie Sports club, while being the proprietor of a Hotel and Restaurant after working at Guymine Bauxite Company in Region 10. Butcher was also a West Indies selector.
Andrea Lashley (left) and Naiomi Williams Santos Football Club victory was veteran player Andrea Lashley with a hattrick, Naiomi Williams scored
the other for Santos. Netting Foxy Ladies consolation goal was Janiel Edmonson.
Second round play continued yesterday with Santos against Foxy Ladie
592 Beer Inter-Village Football Championship quarterfinals start Sunday With the exciting group stage having concluded, quarterfinal section in the inaugural 592 Beer Inter-Village Football Championship will commence on Sunday with an exciting doubleheader at the Buxton Community ground. In the opening match, Mahaica will match skills with Friendship at 20:00hrs. The weight of expectation in securing a semi-final berth will rest on the shoulders of Azuma Roberts, Eion Abel and Shameer Nazir come kickoff time. Meanwhile, the trident of Dillon Wright, Clive Andries and Okenny Fraser will marshal the dangerous Friendship outfit, a side which has grown with each outing and will have the partisan home support in their corner. In the second fixture, home side Buxton tackle Paradise at 22:00hrs. Paradise unit is considered one of the main contenders to secure the coveted title by several analysts. This label is justified due to pos-
sessing quality players such as Quincy Adams and Tyreek Cummings in their roster. However, the battle hardened Buxtonians will be no pushovers and possess the skill set to create issues for their opponent led by the dynamic Eon Costello. Tournament coordinator Eon Havercome revealed that the event will now officially conclude on January 1st 2020. He stated that the decision to extend the event was based on the response of the players, fans and sponsors, which has provided the ideal platform for the players to compete following a prolonged absence of structured football in the region. According to Havercome, the staging of the event highlights that football is truly alive in the East Coast Demerara region, positing that the intention is for the tournament to be an annual affair. The competition continues with the second night of quarterfinal action on Christmas Day at the same
venue.The eventual champion of the event will pocket $500,000 and the championship trophy. On the other hand, the second, third and fourth place finisher will receive $200,000, $150,000 and $100,000 respectively and the corresponding trophy. Similarly, individual prizes will also be awarded for the Most Valuable Player [MVP] of the tournament, the MVP of the finale, the Best Goalkeeper of the tournament and the Best Goalkeeper of the final. Some of the major sponsors of the tournament include Bakewell Guyana Incorporated, ExxonMobil, the NSC and the Colin Talbot Construction Services. In the second round of quarterfinal matches scheduled for Christmas Day, Golden Grove will match skills with Brusch Dam in the opening match from 20:00hrs, while Beterverwagting (BV) will oppose Anns Grove in the second encounter at 22:00hrs.
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West Indies First policy approved by CWI Board of Directors ST. JOHNS, Antigua Cricket West Indies (CWI) Board of Directors assembled in St. Maarten on 5th and 6th December, for its fourth quarterly face-to-face meeting of the 2019 calendar year. Three (3) online Board meetings have been also held this year. A plethora of matters were presented, analysed and discussed including, but not limited to: “Preparation for the ICC 2020 Under-19 and Womens World Cups “The recent Mens and Womens Teams Performances “Coaching Education “Mandatory Fitness Testing “The recently reviewed and revised Team Selection System “Cricket Development Matters “Commercial Matters Most of the second day, Friday 6th, was devoted to financial reporting and related matters, including the presentation of a 63-page financial review report by the reputable accounting and financial management consulting firm, PKF. The key highlights of the Boards deliberations are as follows: Approval of the West
Indies First Policy- The West Indies First Policy was conceptualised in recognition of the rich legacy of West Indies cricket in general, and the urgent need to protect its value and role within the context of CWIs desire for achieving modernisation and excellence, on a dynamic global stage. The policy speaks to the need for prioritising a proWest Indian approach as it relates to employment opportunities, the procurement of goods and services, and the transfer and application of technology. More specifically, the policy ensures that persons of West Indian heritage are always considered for job opportunities, and empowered once employed. The historic culture-reshaping policy also recognises that some circumstances may require the engagement of nonWest Indian professionals and suppliers, but mandates the exposure of those with West Indian heritage wherever possible. The West Indies First policy was unanimously approved by the Board of Directors. The entire document is available on our website and can be found at the following link: https:// www.windiescricket.com/
cricket-west-indies/westindies-first-policy-approvedcwi-board-directors/Revision of the 2018 2023 Strategic Plan. In recognition of the rapidly changing sporting and entertainment environments in which the organisation operates, CWIs 2018-2023 strategic plan is now subject to constant review by its Board and Management. The plan is intended to be robust, all-inclusive and flexible. In keeping with this purpose, the Board received a presentation from CWI CEO Johnny Grave, following a recent revision of the strategic plan to make it more cricket centric, governance focused, and stakeholder inclusive. Presentation of the Financial Review
Joshua offers to be Fury’s sparring partner if it helps him beat Wilder AFP - Anthony Joshua has offered to be Tyson Fury’s sparring partner if it helps his fellow British fighter beat WBC heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder. Joshua has been left frustrated in his attempts to lure America’s Wilder into the ring as he bids to unify the division following his victory over Andy Ruiz Jr last weekend. The 30-year-old, who regained the WBA, IBF and WBO belts, feels he has a better chance of landing a blockbuster unification showdown with Fury than with Wilder. Fury faces a re-match with the American on February 22, having drawn their first encounter, and Joshua told Sky Sports News: “I think honestly he might beat Wilder next time. “I think Fury would fight me quicker than Wilder would, so, if that’s the case, I want him to win. Imagine that fight on British soil. “If Tyson needs me, I’ll go out and spar with him to get him ready for Wilder.” Joshua remains desperate for a showdown with Wilder that would see both men attempt to become the first un-
Anthony Joshua (left) beat Andy Ruiz Jr to win the WBA, IBF and WBO belts. (AFP/File) disputed heavyweight champion since Lennox Lewis. “It still puzzles me as to why it’s so difficult to pin this man down,” Joshua said. “This is the man I need to pin down to get the last ring and conquer this division.” “You’ve got the two lords of the rings here,” he added. “The last one to unify, undisputed, the division. I’ve got four (including the IBO belt), he’s got one. I just need one more.” Bulgarian Kubrat Pulev is
the IBF’s next mandatory challenger for Joshua, while the WBO has ordered the Londoner to fight Ukrainian Oleksandr Usyk.And speaking about a potential third meeting with Ruiz Jr, the Mexican-American who stunned the boxing world by beating Joshua in June, the British boxer said: “One trillion per cent.“I always said I’d fight him in Tijuana, with his uncle as referee. Me and Andy will soon see each other in the ring again.”
The Board received a report entitled: Business Situation Assessment and Financial review, which was conducted by independent financial consultants, KPF. The high-level review reported in great detail on CWIs challenging financial landscape, and its endemic cash-flow crisis. Following careful investigation and analysis, it made pragmatic recommendations related to Presidential office accountability and “chain of command” realignment, Board oversight, procurement system implementation, and the need for improved cash management and cost control. The report also identified concerns related to the current model for compensating member territories. The Board will receive ongoing periodic updates from CWI executive management on progress with the implementation of the 28 recommenda-
tions provided by the report. Approval of Recommendations from the Cricket Committee The Board approved several recommendations from the Cricket Committee. Amongst these were an incentivisation programme which would reward franchises with the highest average fitness results. The Board requested the Cricket Committee to strategically review the current first class points system that includes the use of bowling points. Representation on CPLs Tournament Committee The Board approved the appointments of three new CWI representatives to serve on the CWI Tournament Committee, with immediate effect. President Skerritt has made it a policy objective to improve relationships and communications with the CPL, with a view to growing the benefits from CPL for West Indies cricket.
Acknowledgement of the Passing of Cricket Servants The Board acknowledged the passing of members of the regional and international cricket fraternity and observed a moments silence in commemoration. They are listed in alphabetical order below: “Mr. Bob Willis, Former England captain and Sky Sports cricket expert “Ms. Camille Garrick, Former Vincentian cricketer “Mr Ignatius Trim, Former President of the Tobago Cricket Association and Executive Member of TTCB. “Mr. Narine Ragoo Former Trinidad and Tobago cricketer “Mr. Walston Bowen, Former Antiguan and Leeward Islands Umpire “Mr. Wycliffe Richardson, Former President of the Anguilla Cricket Association and member of the Leeward Islands Cricket Board.
Perry leads Australian sweep of top ICC women’s awards MUMBAI (Reuters) Ellyse Perry has led an Australian sweep of the International Cricket Councils annual awards with the allrounder named womens cricketer and one-day international player of 2019, the world governing body said yesterday. Perrys compatriot, wicketkeeper Alyssa Healy, was the top Twenty20 cricketer for a second straight year while Australia captain Meg Lanning was named skipper of the ICCs 50-overs and T20 teams of the year. Perry and Healy, both 29, were included in the Lanningcaptained sides. “Its an amazing honour and Im a little bit shocked, given how many amazing performances there have been across the year,” said Perry, who also won the inaugural Rachael HeyhoeFlint Award in 2017 for the ICC Womens Cricketer of the Year. “Its amazing to be acknowledged and I do truly appreciate it. Its a really nice way to finish the year on a
Australia’s Ellyse Perry in action against England on July 7, 2019. (Action Images via Reuters/Paul Childs file photo) personal note.” Perry scored three hundreds while averaging 73.50 from 12 ODIs, and took 21 wickets, including a national record 7-22, while becoming the first player to complete 1,000 runs and take 100 wickets in T20 internationals. In October, Healy scored a world record 148 unbeaten off 61 balls against Sri Lanka the highest score by a woman in T20Is. She reached her fifty
off 25 balls and her maiden century off 46 to register the fastest ton ever by an Australian man or woman. Ranked No.1 in both the 50-over and T20 formats, Australia will be favourites to retain their Womens T20 World Cup crown on home soil next year.Thailand bowler Chanida Sutthiruang rounded up the honours with the ICCs Emerging Cricketer of the Year award.
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Potential chess players soon to represent Guyana DPI, GUYANA, - The top performers at next years InterSchools Chess Tournament will have a shot at representing the country at the regional and international levels. This is according to Director of Sport Christopher Jones in a DPI interview on his departments Chess-inSchools Grassroots Initiative. The aim is to have chess taught countrywide not only as an extracurricular activity but also as an educational tool. The department has so far implemented the initiative in schools in Regions 3, 6, 10 and 5. “Within the four regions where we have started such programme we have been able to identify six students to represent us,” Jones said.
Wednesday December 18, 2019
Kaieteur News
Director of Sport Christopher Jones. (Giovanni Gajie) He added that they have started a train-the-trainers programme for teachers across the country to replicate the successes. The director said his
Scorpions Merchant cleared to bowl
ST. JOHNS, Antigua Cricket West Indies has cleared Jamaica Scorpions off-spinner Jamie Merchant to bowl in senior domestic West Indies matches. Merchant, 30, was reported for a suspect bowling action during his sides game against Canada on November 16 at Warner Park in St. Kitts in the Colonial Medical Insurance Super50 Cup. Video footage from the match was sent to Loughborough University in the United Kingdom for an Opinion Report in accordance with CWI Regulations for Dealing with Suspected Illegal Bowling Actions. The Opinion Report by an Independent Assessor at Loughborough was inconclusive. Details of the CWI Regulations for Dealing with Suspected Illegal Bowling Actions are attached.
department would continue with the initiative not only because of the interest but also the value it adds to the school system. More than 100 countries worldwide promote the Chess-in-School programme, including Russia, China, Armenia and several European countries. In 2018, the department, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, conducted part one of the Chess-in-Schools -Teachers Training Programme, which targeted teachers from Primary and Secondary schools. The programme is structured around the FIDE Chess-in-School initiative which aims to have chess implemented in schools either as a mandatory subject or as an after-school club.
Vantull ton leads to Village Ram to victory in Tapeball fixture An attacking century from Damion Vantull guided Village Ram to a victory over Raptors when the teams collided in a 20-over Tapeball fixture on Sunday last at the National Cultural Centre tarmac. Vantull struck seven fours and 23 sixes in his unbeaten 189 as Village Ram rattled up 379-8, batting first. Ershaad Ali struck 89 with one four and 11 sixes, while Ricardo Adams made 33, Balbinder Shivpersaud 28 and Andrew Gibson 27. Raptors were sent packing for 91 in reply. Ali bagged 5-25 and Adams 3-22.
Damion Vantull
Olympics: Japans 2011 womens soccer champions to begin Tokyo 2020 torch relay TOKYO (Reuters) - Members of the Japan team who won the 2011 womens soccer World Cup will start the Japan leg of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic torch relay, organizers said yesterday. More details of the route were revealed along with the approximately 10,000 people who will carry the Olympic flame as it tours all Japans 47 prefectures ahead of the Games opening ceremony in July. The Nadeshiko hold a special place in the hearts of the Japanese people because their World Cup victory in Germany came months after the devastating 2011 tsunami and earthquake.
With Tokyo 2020 billed by organizers as the “reconstruction Olympics”, and the torch relay starting in Fukushima, the selection of coach Norio Sasaki and his players to begin the relay on March 26 came as little surprise. “In the very beginning, when I heard I would be the first runner and torch bearer I was very, very surprised,” said forward Kozue Ando who plays for Urawa Reds. “But being with all the other World Cup-winning members, we will be able to do something together so I am looking forward to it.” Defender Azusa Iwashimizu, another Nadeshiko star, is expecting
to give birth in March but hopes she will be able to take her new child on the relay. “I would like to run carrying my baby,” she said. The relay is due to pass many of Japan s most iconic landmarks over the 121-day journey, including Mount Fuji, Hiroshimas Peace Memorial Park and Kumamoto Castle.The Olympic flame is scheduled to be lit, as per tradition, in Greece on March 12 before arriving in Japan, at Matsushima Airbase in Miyagi prefecture, on March 20.After a five-day tour of the areas most affected by the 2011 disaster, the torch relay will begin from the J-Village in Fukushima.
BCB expresses sadness on the death of memory of this great and legThe President and Execuendary man who would al- tives of the BCB would like to Sleepin Hotel support for GFF Super Basil Butcher It is with deep sadness ways have a special place in express our deepest Sympathat we learnt of the death of our heart and those who had thies to the family of the late our cricketing legend, Basil F the joy of seeing him bat dur- Basil Butcher and wishes to 16 Cup Butcher a release from the board informed. Mr. Butcher died Monday after a long illness in the USA. Basil Butcher in 1958 became the third Berbician to play test cricket and went on to represent the West Indies in 44 test matches before his premature retirement in 1969 at the age of 36. He scored 3104 runs at the respectable average of 43.11 with seven centuries and 16 fifties. His highest score was 209 not out. In 169 first class matches, this legendary Berbician scored 11,628 at the high average of 49.90 with 31 centuries and 54 fifties. He took 67 first class catches and claimed 40 wickets with his part time leg spin. Basil Butcher also had the best bowling figure for a Berbician for many years before Devendra Bishoo replaced him. He took 5 for 34 vs England. The BCB salutes the
ing his career. He was inducted into our Hall of Fame, is a deserved member of our all time Berbice eleven and received our highest award, The Tribute to Heroes. Mr. Butcher was also the father of our past President, Mr. Keith Foster and was a close friend of our current President. He was well known across the Caribbean for his views on West Indies cricket and was very concerned on the ongoing crisis in our cricket. For many years, he was a major donor to Berbice cricket and was always willing to share his vast knowledge with the younger players. After his retirement, he served West Indies cricket as Chairman of Selector and Manager. We would like to urge all cricket clubs in our county to honour this great man in some way special and a minute of silence should be held before any BCB matches.
assure them that we share their grief. It is our hope that God will bless them during this difficult moment and provide them with love. We have lost a great cricketer and the world is a lot poorer without his charm, kindness and love of humanity. It is our hope that every young cricketer in the county would work hard to emulate Basil Butcher, so that his legacy would live on. Rest in Peace, our Hero, Friend and Mentor-we shall miss you. Thanks for the memories and the inspirations over the years. We at the BCB would continue to work hard every day to make sure that the legacy started by John Trim, Rohan Kanhai, Ivan Madray, Joe Solomon and Basil Butcher would continue in the future and that their names would forever be in the hearts of every cricket loving Berbicians.
General Manager of Sleepin Hotel located on Church Street in the City; Clifton Bacchus has committed his Hotel, which is part of the Sleepin Hotels chain, towards supporting the annual GFF Super 16 Cup which kicked off on Sunday night last at the Police Sports Club Ground, Eve Leary with a double header. Bacchus handed over a cheque to President of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Wayne Forde to confirm their support, noting that they have been following the progress of the sport and this is their way of fulfilling a corporate responsibility of giving back to development. Forde in accepting the sponsorship noted that he welcomed the partnership of Bacchus and Sleepin Hotel for the year end tournament which has a total of sixteen teams competing, two already being knocked out.
General Manager of Sleepin Hotel, Clifton Bacchus (right) hands over the sponsorship cheque to GFF President, Wayne Forde. ”The GFF is very pleased with the support of Sleepin Hotel and we welcome them as another corporate partner for this year end spectacle which has already commenced and will get more exciting as the various match days unfold.
We look forward to a continued partnership and relationship with you and your hotel Mr. Bacchus and we work collectively to develop this beautiful game.” The GFF Super 16 Cup will continue this weekend.
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Wednesday December 18, 2019
Petra/KFC Goodwill schools football tournament
GFF Super 16 Cup
Defending champions Milerock FC Captain pleased dive into action today with clearing first hurdle Action between Shiva Boys and Annai Secondary.
Rawle Gittens about to greet Minister within the Ministry of the Presidency, with responsibility for Youth Affairs, Hon. Simona Broomes in the presence of GFF President, Wayne Forde.
The second annual KFC Goodwill schools football tournament that is being played in the group roundrobin format, resumes this afternoon at the Guyana Football Federations (GFF) National Training Center at Providence with a double header featuring the defending champions, Shiva boys Hindu College that clinched the inaugural tournament last December. Shiva boys will play Annandale Secondary today in the opening match at 13:00hrs, while DC Caesar Fox (Waramadong) will look to continue their winning ways when they clash with Marian Academy at 15:00hrs. Annai defeated Annandale Secondary 9-1 in Sundays opening day of action with Amir Robertson leading with a hat-trick, while Junior Rodriques and Italo Benjamin bagged braces in the commanding display of football by the region nine school, however, they faltered against the Trinidadian lads on Monday last, losing 3-0. Annais massive win on Sunday had sent ominous signs to the other participating teams since Annandale, which won the 2018 Guyoil/Tradewind Tankers school league and finished runners up to Lodge Secondary this year, were a force to be reckon with, but the Shiva boys showed that they can be beaten. DC Caesar Fox, which are picked to the be the favourites when they clash
with Marian Academy today, have proven that the out of town teams are not to be taken lightly after taking apart the highly rated Petras school league champions, Lodge Secondary, 3-1 in the opening round-robin match on Monday. A brace from Ovid Andrews and one goal from Whitaker Paul had accounted for the Foxs goals, while Lodges lone strike was a penalty converted by
Skipper Dorwin George. Waramadongs ability to restrict the free scoring Lodge Secondary to just one goal speaks volumes of the region seven school teams defence and Marian Academy that have found goals hard to come by in the recently concluded Guyoil/Tradewind Tankers school league, have a grueling task at hand getting past their opponents today. (Calvin Chapman)
Captain of Elite League side Milerock, Rawle Boney man Gittens, a seasoned campaigner, has stated that he is pleased with the performance of his side following their 2-0 win over City side Pele in the first match of this years GFF Super 16 Cup which kicked off on Sunday last at the Police Sports Club Ground, Eve Leary. It was not all smooth sailing for the Upper Demerara based club as Pele held them at bay for 51
minutes before they were able to break the deadlock. Clearly the more oiled unit on the day, Gittens informed that his team would have been putting in a lot of work in preparing for the c o m p e t i t i o n . �As a senior campaigner with the youngsters I must feel pleased to jump this first hurdle, we will go back to the table now and correct our mistakes because we know going to the quarter finals w o u l d n o t b e e a s y. � For their quarter final match-
up, Milerock awaits the winner of the Fruta Conquerors vs Buxton Stars clash which would be played out this Friday. Gittens took the time to thank his young colleagues and the Technical staff for the work they collectively put into making the result a reality. He also commended the young Pele side for their resilience but he believes that his side was the better of the two on the night. (Continued on page 41)
Kaieteur News
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Wednesday December 18, 2019
Moruca gearing up for annual Atkinson Brothers 5-aside football tourney
Silver Sands Football Club
S
ome 16 male and eight female teams along with Over35 Veterans as well as Under-15 and 17 teams are gearing up for the 2019 edition of the Atkinson Brothers 5-Aside Football Tournament which will kick off on Saturday and conclude on Boxing Day,
December 26th. According to one f the organisers, Barry Atkinson, the first place cash prize for the male competition is $200,000, while on the distaff side, the winning team will pocket, $100,000 and Veterans, $50,000. Trophies are also at stake for each segment of the
c o m p e t i t i o n . Atkinson Brothers Football Club are the defending male and U-17 champions, while Silver Sands would be seeking to retain the female crown. Mighty Warriors are the U-15 champs. The finals on Boxing night will feature Soca Monarch, Brandon Harding
Atkinson Brothers Football Club, defending male champs. along with other artistes. Sponsors on board so far are Atkinson Brothers, Punt
Speed Boat Service, Troy A b r a h a m a n d F a m i l y, A u b r e y E d w a r d ’s a n d
Family, Santa Rosa Village Council, Moruca Sports Council and Ivor Domingo.
Wednesday December 18, 2019
Kaieteur News
PAGE 45
EBFA has new President following AGM The East Bank Football Association (EBFA) has a new President in former Vice President Kevin Anthony following the associations Annual General Meeting which was held at the Mocha Community Centre on Monday evening l a s t . Secretary Wayne Francois retained his position but there was a re-positioning of some of the other executive members. Based on the constitution, no member can serve more than two consecutive terms (one term=two years), former President Franklin Wilson and Vice President Anthony and Noel Harry served two terms each. Harry was elected as Assistant
S e c r e t a r y / Tr e a s u r e r. There was only one slate which was proposed by Timehri Panthers Football Club and seconded by Diamond United Football Club. The full executive reads: Kevin Anthony (president), O r i e n A n g o y ( Vi c e President), Clayton Lambert Snr. (Vice President), Wayne Francois (Secretary), Devnon Winter (Treasurer), Noel Harry (Assistant S e c r e t a r y / Tr e a s u r e r ) . Committee Members: Dillion Roberts, Amanda Angoy, Parbattie Winter, T r o y J e f f e r s . Representing the Guyana Football Federation and overseeing the entire process was Mr. Lyndon France.
AAG mourns passing of Athletics Coach Burry
Seon Burry (with cap) engaging some of his athletes during training. (Facebook photo) The Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) mourns the passing of one of our young and promising coaches who was attached to the Guyana Police Force Club (Police Progressive Yo u t h C l u b ) . Seon Anthony Burry Aka Cenestros interest and commitment to coaching athletics was noticed by the executive of the AAG and as a result he was sent to Suriname in August 2019 to complete the IAAF CECS level 1. He successfully completed this programme, making him a qualified level 1 coach at the time of his passing. The AAG will follow with deep interest, the ongoing investigations relating to his passing. Through this medium, we are asking the Guyana Police Force to leave no stone unturned in the execution of their investigation. The safety of our athletes and coaches while training and in competition is very important to us.We at the AAG would like to extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, his athletes, club mates and the entire athletics family. The AAG would like to give notice to all clubs and athletes that, out of respect for this tragedy in our family, we will be suspending our athletic competitions namely the Crosscounties schedule for Sunday 22nd December in Linden and New-Amsterdam.
EBFA President Kevin Anthony (seated center) flanked by VPs Orien Angoy (left) and Clayton Lambert Snr. At back from left, Amanda Angoy, Devnon Winter, Wayne Francois, Noel Harry, Dillion Roberts, Troy Jeffers and GFFs Lyndon France. The Audited Financial Statement along with reports from the immediate past President Franklin Wilson and Secretary Francois were presented to the members. Wilson thanked the executive and clubs for
allowing him to lead the association for the past four plus years after serving as Secretary prior to taking up t h e t o p p o s t . He encouraged the new executive and clubs to continue working as a team
to further advance the growth of the body but most importantly, the players. Gratitude was also expressed to President Wayne Forde and the Guyana Football Federation for its unflinching support towards
the advancement of the game i n t h e E B F A . Wilson promised to continue supporting the EBFA and once called upon would be there to assist in the continued development of the EBFA.
GFF-Always Championship Cup 2019
rt o p S Tiandi Smith (#8) in control of proceedings for Fruta Conquerors against Lady Panthers as the second round got underway on Sunday last.
Fruta conquerors maintain winning ways; Santos end first round on a high Butchers well GOG contribute to Boxers played innings preparation in Cuba ends on 86 for Olympic qualifiers
Basil Butcher at the BCBC presentation a few years ago.
Director of Sports Chris Jones presents to $1Million cheque to GBAs President Steve Ninvalle.
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