Kaieteur News

Kaieteur News

PAGE 04

Thursday December 20, 2018

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

EDITORIAL UN SAYS COME CLEAN ON KHASHOGGI MURDER The murder of Washington Post reporter and critic of Saudi Arabia, Jamal Khashoggi, continues to make the headlines in this and other media outlets, despite President Trump’s steadfast support for its Crown Prince, Mohammed bin Salman. Bin Salman claimed that he was not involved. Since the murder of Khashoggi was made known to the public, Saudi officials have issued several statements denying any involvement by the crown prince. But in a change of tactics recently, Saudi’s public prosecutor who conducted a thorough investigation of the murder at Saudi Arabia Consulate in Intstanbul, Turkey, asserted that it was premeditated. This has reversed previous official statements by the Kingdom that the murder was unintended. The death of Khashoggi has sparked global outrage. It has mushroomed into an international crisis for the world’s top oil exporter and strategic ally of the West, particularly the United States, in the fight against Iranian power in the Middle East. The CIA investigation contradicts the assertions by the Saudi government that Prince Mohammed bin Salmon was not involved. Although President Trump’s position on the death of Khashoggi varied, yet he firmly supported the crown prince whom he said has vigorously denied any knowledge of the Khashoggi killing. Trump’s statement that the CIA report is inclusive has infuriated senators from both sides of the aisle. They have accused him of ignoring his own intelligence agencies and undermining American values and beliefs at home and abroad by refusing to confront the Saudi government over the brutal and premediated murder. The senators have claimed is a human rights atrocity. As a result, some of his fellow Republicans have broken ties with him and have joined with Democrats in the Senate to impose sanctions on Saudi Arabia. The sanctions include the freezing of assets in the US, travel bans and prohibition of Americans from doing business with those involved in the murder. The truth is many of the sanctions imposed on Saudi nationals are already in effect. These officials will never be allowed to visit the U.S. In addition, the US Senate has approved a resolution that calls for an end to U.S involvement in the Saudi Arabia—United Arab Emirates led conflict in Yemen. This has set the stage for a potential showdown next year between President Trump and the Democrats-controlled Congress over US military support for Saudi Arabia. Despite intense pressure from U.S lawmakers to impose tougher sanctions on Saudi Arabia and to cancel the military contract with the Saudi kingdom, Trump has refused, claiming that the cancellation of the contract would result in the loss of thousands of jobs for Americans and that it would be foolish because it would benefit Russia and China. President Trump has not only defied the pressures but he has also defied all the odds which would likely place him on the wrong side of history. The truth about Khashoggi’s murder may never be known. After more than a month, Khashoggi’s murder continues to make the headlines not only in this and other news media around the world, but also in the United Nations (UN) which has now made it its top priority. For the first time the UN Secretary General, Antonio Gutterres, has called for a full and credible investigation into the murder and to punish those found culpable of the crime. The UN chief has also made it clear that the murder has outraged many western countries and has damaged Saudi Arabia’s international reputation and that it is time for Riyadh to come clean.

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.

Society must leave this experience feeling more empowered DEAR EDITOR, Guyana has had precedence of NoConfidence Motions in the National Assembly. Prior to the attempted use in 2014 against the Donald Ramotar Government it was used, within recent times, in 2010 against the then Minister of Labour Manzoor Nadir with regards to his handling of the industrial impasse at the Bauxite Company of Guyana Incorporated (BCGI). This motion was brought by then Leader of the Opposition Robert Corbin of the PNC and supported by the AFC. The Opposition lost the vote because it had a minority presence in the House. It should further be said that the issues that lead to the impasse have not yet been resolved, even though those who condemned the PPP/C government are now in office, and in a position to right the wrongs in the transgressing of the rights of the working class and the violating of the Labour Laws.

A no-confidence motion is meant to move either the individual or government f r o m o ff i c e b a s e d o n performance, with those bringing the motion thinking that the individual or government has fallen tremendously short in the execution of duties. However, when it comes to the removal of a government, it has greater implications. In July 2014 when Moses Nagamootoo floated the idea of a no-confidence motion against the Donald Ramotar Government it was against the backdrop of the administration’s spending of over $4Billion which in the first instance was not approved by the House, and considered in violation of Articles 217 to 220 of the Guyana Constitution. The act was seen as a defiance of the authority of the House to oversee and approve public spending. The November 2014 motion said that “this National Assembly has no confidence in the government.” The Opposition in 2014 had the

parliamentary majority. With the Ramotar government having a parliamentary minority and where Members of Parliament traditionally vote along party/group line, the government in an effort to avoid losing the vote opted to prorogue the Parliament. This was a new application of the prorogation clause, and presented the Parliament the nation’s highest decision making forum - from debating the issue, which placed the country in uncharted and thorny waters. Early elections were called because the Propagation clause forced it. In November 2018, a noconfidence against the David G r a n g e r / M o s e s Nagamootoo government is being brought by the Opposition PPP/C which has a parliamentary minority. Instructively, this motion was submitted a few days after the Local Government Elections (LGE) that saw the lowest turnout in the last three LGE, where APNU and the AFC lost showing and the

PPP/C made inroads into the areas considered strongholds of the coalition government. The PPP/C, confident about its performance at the LGE, is exerting political pressure on the coalition. Win or lose what the PPP/C is clearly attempting to do is that of mobilising its base to take the reins of government. It is for the coalition to decide what it wants, not just its base, but also the wider society, to take away from this experience. It is also instructive that the noconfidence motion is exactly the same time when the life of the previous government was challenged (three years). As an aside, it can be construed that while the PPP/C is playing hardball, the country is being held at ransom with tit for tat politics. It is instructive to note that the manoeuvres are m a d e a f t e r t h e parliamentarians (new) have qualified to receive pensions. Win or lose their pension is assured, they have nothing to lose. Having the majority should not see automatic (Continued on page 24)

The benefit of this transaction to Trinidad, far exceeds any existing corporate commitment DEAR EDITOR, In the Kaieteur News of Sunday December 2, 2018, P e e p i n g To m s h o w e d his/her/their true colours and failings all in one article. The contributor was eager to attribute the Scotiabank sell out of their Guyana operations as the Global Bank not having faith in the Guyana Government, and by extension the Guyana economy. The current and former Scotiabankers know that this is absolute rubbish! The contributor further failed to see this move for what it is: An unlawful act in the form of economic espionage hatched up in Trinidad to take over and control the economics of the region which is now pointing directly to Guyana as the new Caribbean economic frontier, based on our oil find and potential. The remaining countries sold are economically dead for the bank. The deal maker and the deal breaker is, and has always been, Scotiabank Guyana. Scotiabank Guyana

consistently makes GY$2.53.0 billion in profits annually. If you add back in the support fees paid for all the jobs taken away from Guyana and transferred to Trinidad, those profits can quickly grow to another GY$1.0 billion. A rough estimate indicates that these profits currently equate to $13.0 million US and the potential if the jobs had stayed in Guyana to approximately $20.0 million US. Republic Bank Limited’s Guyana operations, which feature double the outlets and triple the staff of Scotiabank Guyana, yield marginally higher profits than Scotiabank Guyana. Again, Scotiabank profits are declared after monies paid to Scotiabank Trinidad for management and oversight. These fees paid for jobs deliberately and unnecessarily outsourced to Scotiabank Trinidad is oppressive and Scotiabank Guyana’s staff has been feeling colonized since the reporting relationship

commenced. There have been drastic changes that see Scotiabank Guyana importing everything possible from Trinidad, no matter the cost, at a total disadvantage to local content and business. Scotiabank Guyana makes more profits for the Global Bank than all of the other eight territories included in this deal of trickery combined. The highest being probably Anguilla, whilst the others are still reeling after abnormal weather patterns and hurricanes. Scotiabank International is a model institution for Compliance. In fact Scotiabank Guyana has been the first Compliance-ready institution on the local scene because of its international standards. As Guyana becomes Compliancealigned, the local rule books are being written using Scotiabank as a model. So there is no Compliance issue in the Guyana market for Scotiabank - that is unless something changed with the

new reporting relationship with Scotiabank Trinidad. What is interesting is that Scotiabank is selling their Guyana operations in a territory that is working assiduously to become more aligned with the international standards of Compliance, but seems to be investing heavily in territories that have debatable Compliance standards. Let us see this deal for what it is. Despite it being different banks, the benefit of this transaction to Trinidad as a state, far exceeds any existing corporate commitment. Peeping Tom should also be willing to assess this situation as a Guyanese and see the disadvantage it puts the country’s business at, and not seize the opportunity to score cheap political points to slant arguments and views to be adverse towards a party or Government that he/she/they do not favour. This is about Guyana and Guyanese as a whole. Concerned Scotiabankers (past and present)

Thursday December 20, 2018

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Kaieteur News

This country is in major trouble; the More money for Guyana with no confidence motion is in order reduction in Liza cost DEAR EDITOR, If one is to observe the state of our economy in 2018, this country is in major trouble. President David Granger has made a series of dire mistakes - starting with the 50% for some of his Ministers, as well as failing to arrest the corruption and high level of incompetence in his Government - and that is to his personal disadvantage. The Guyanese people cannot believe anything that they are told these days. The appointments of heads of departments illustrate an absolute lack of ethnic and social diversity, and are the absolute opposite of social cohesion. This brings us to the no confidence motion. This motion is in order. No confidence motions

are used world over to express deep dissatisfaction with the Government of the day. The reality is that the Government owes an obligation to its citizenry at large. Not just its support bases, but also the citizens who would have voted for the opposition at the last election. The opposition is fulfilling its obligations to its support bases. But ironically, the opposition is also representing the citizens who voted for the Granger administration, but who have not seen any of the APNU/AFC coalition’s promises materialize, and who demonstrated their disapproval in the local government elections. Why did Sophia, a historical PNC stronghold, not elect a PNC councilor? Is that

something that we should think about and why it happened? What is clear to me is that the people want to see President Granger, the President of their country, stop the massive spending and waste which does not trickle down to the people, but ends up in the pockets of fat cats and their business buddies. I have no doubt that had the citizens felt that the APNU/AFC coalition had kept its promises, there would have been strong objection to the no confidence motion. Instead, the citizens are silent. Hoping something will wake the slow-moving bureaucratic machine of this Government. Regards Lisa Ally

Government should defer this sitting to the post-Christmas period DEAR EDITOR, I wish to draw attention to the impending no-confidence motion which is scheduled to be debated and voted on, on Friday December 21st. Accompanying the noconfidence motion was a public call by the Leader of the Opposition, in whose name the motion has been moved, for it to be debated before Budget 2019 which was presented on November 26th. It is my understanding from inquiries that every date for the sitting of Parliament is fixed by the government, even the day set aside for Op-

position business. The 2019 Budget was concluded on December 14th, therefore a sitting of Parliament for the debate of the no-confidence motion could’ve occurred on any other immediate, subsequent day. It therefore boggles my mind as to why the APNU+AFC coalition administration chose the final Friday before Christmas Day. As a concerned Guyanese, and one of Christian persuasion, I have to conclude that this government doesn’t have time and place, and has no

regard for p e o p l e ’s wellbeing. I further say that it would appear that they are not family-oriented and their attitude towards the Christian community is one of taking it for granted since coming to power. In closing, this insensitive action by the government must be seen for what it is; further punishing Guyanese and spoiling the mood. I strongly recommend that this government save some face and use its majority to defer this sitting to the post-Christmas period. Alvin Hamilton

DEAR EDITOR, I was not surprised to hear about the reports of decreased costs for the Liza-1 project. After all, the initial estimate we were given was just that – an estimate. Final calculations could have swayed either way, but thankfully, they were lower than the initial quote. Obviously, the real question is what does a lower cost of production mean for Guyana? The obvious answer is that this is good for us, because the US$700 million reduction is US$700 million that does not have to be paid back for the company’s initial investment. That’s more money in our coffers! The Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) that our government agreed to, states that 75% of the revenue earned from production in the initial years will be used to recover the companies’ investment until costs are fully recovered. The remaining 25% is to be split evenly between Guyana and the investing companies. Once costs are fully paid, Guyana and the

consortium split the profit 50/ 50, after Guyana takes a 2% royalty. Last we heard, the development cost was estimated to be US$4.4 billion with production set to begin at the Liza-1 well in 2020. But with the new lower cost calculations, we also have lower cost recovery, and Guyana will get to split the full profit more quickly. Beyond this project, this news will have a positive impact on future projects. If you are weighing several business ventures, and one venture in particular required a lesser investment than the rest, while also yielding equal or greater profit – then you would choose that venture because costs are lower. For foreign investors, Guyana can be that venture – as a lower-cost producer, we offer a prime opportunity for development while still benefiting all parties greatly. And given our extensive reserves, it looks like we will be able to offer that opportunity for a long, long time.

This information must also be used as leverage in future agreements. We can now point to the competitive development cost of our reserves, and of prior projects, to bargain for more favourable terms. Foreign investors love to save money, and now we know that our highly porous offshore reserves are an excellent option in that regard. Simply put, the confirmation of lower costs will serve Guyana in the long-run as we establish ourselves as, not just an oil-producing state, but a low-cost, oil-producing state. To investors, the difference between the two is huge. More importantly…the difference is huge for Guyanese! We will be better positioned to weather global oil market fluctuations than most other producers because of our low costs for production. Lower costs mean prospects can remain profitable in nearly any oil price environment, and not just in coming months or years, but in coming decades. Sincerely, Clement Smith

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Kaieteur News

Thursday December 20, 2018

Administration’s promises to sugar workers a blatant game of deception DEAR EDITOR, The end of 2018 will bring us to two years since Wales Estate was closed and one year since Skeldon, Rose Hall, and East Demerara Estates shut their doors. As is now public knowledge, the closure of these four estates has seen as many as 7,000 workers losing their jobs and tens of thousands more being affected, whether directly or indirectly. Indeed, it has been a sad period for the sugar industry and those who depend on its operations. The actions by the APNU+AFC Government are poles apart from what they said the Coalition committed to do during the elections campaign. Moreover, the realities the workers and their families and their communities now confront are starkly different from what the Administration promised when it announced the closure of the estates. From all appearances, it seems that credibility is not something that is held in high esteem for the Administration, taking into account its actions in other areas of national life as well. In January 2016, the Administration announced, almost out of nowhere, that it decided to close Wales Estate. The bombshell announcement was a complete shock, as the Administration was boasting in 2015 that the sugar industry was on the road to recovery. In fact, in the months leading up to Wales’ closure announcement, the August 15, 2015 Kaieteur News, reported Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo as saying that ”…there was no question of Government scaling down or abandoning the industry”. Those sentiments were reinforced when the Prime Minister is quoted in an article of November 28, 2015

by the Department of Public Information, as saying ”[t]here should be no discussion or debate regarding the importance of the sugar industry to Guyana’s economy… in fact we have said this on a number of occasions, that this Government sees sugar as too big to fail.” On the matter of closure, the Government-appointed Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the sugar industry left little room for doubt when it recommended that no estate be closed pointing out the social ramifications of such a decision. Indeed, when another section of the media somehow found out and disclosed that the Administration had decided to close Wales on January 17, 2016, it naturally evoked some concern. That nightmare soon became a reality when the Government one day later confirmed that it intended to close the estate at the end of 2016. In fact, the Administration it seemed was upset that the announcement was prematurely made, as the Government wanted to make the announcement much later in 2016. Nevertheless, being caught on the back foot, the Administration quickly confirmed the devastating news. So terrible was the news, that the January 19, 2016 Stabroek News reported a statement by ”Fidell Toney, 69, who sells plantain chips and other snacks, ‘When I hear the estate gon close down, I say is better I dead…’”. It was a clear indication of how much the estate meant to the people and the community. In justifying its decision, the Administration claimed the factory was old, though it was no older than any of the GuySuCo factories, except Skeldon. Moreover, the

GAWU pointed out that the age of the factory was no indication of its functional level, noting that parts and components were replaced and changed over the years. The Administration also claimed that 75 per cent of the bridges were in poor shape, though many of the bridges were made of concrete. On that score, the Sugar CoI had found that Wales required $166M investment in civil structures, the lowest among all the estates. Government also claimed that the cultivation was in poor condition, but the Administration’s own CoI found that with the requisite investment and appropriate management, the estate by 2025 could produce over 30,000 tonnes sugar. Workers and the community were promised that all wasn’t lost and alternative ventures would be pursued and it was hoped that ”…the first of such projects could commence by October 1, 2016". There was talk of pursuing rice cultivation, the rearing of fish, livestock and dairy production, orchards and a host of other ventures, though Government and the Corporation were reminded of the terrible results of the past. The experience of Wales demonstrated that talk is cheap, as October 2016 came and went, and not one venture was in place at that time. Obviously, with egg on their faces, the GuySuCo and the Government quickly scampered and during 2017 converted a section of the former cane cultivation for seed paddy production. The GuySuCo financial report for 2017 indicated that the Corporation invested $61M in the venture but realized only $10M in revenues, hardly a poster child for the touted initiatives which were to be geared towards ”…wealth creation and employment generation”. Wales represented the birthplace of peasant cane farming. The Sugar CoI report informed that as many 774 farmers aggregately cultivated 2,674.4 hectares. Farmers were a significant feature of Wales, contributing half and sometimes more of sugar production.

In announcing the closure, the Government said farmers canes would be processed at Uitvlugt and an appropriate road would be built. Today, that road remains a pipe dream, and many farmers unable to transport their canes by public road have simply abandoned their plots. Today, though two years have gone by, Wales remains a shell of its former self. The community has not yet completely come to grips with the loss of the major employer. Workers and their families have found the situation most difficult, as they are unable to obtain regular employment. For the lucky few who have gotten jobs, they have come to the sad realization that their pay and benefits are far inferior from what they enjoyed as sugar workers. Given the sad experience of Wales, it was felt that the Administration would have recognized the obvious shortcomings and put a brake on further estate closures. But then the APNU+AFC is not known to conform to conventional wisdom and even before the doors of Wales were tightly shut, the Government announced on the last day of 2016 that it intended to divest Skeldon Estate and to close East Demerara and Rose Hall Estates. Probably in view of the strong criticism it received regarding the Wales closure, the Administration invited the Opposition – PPP/C – and the Trade Unions in the industry to a so-called ‘consultation’ exercise. Despite the weightiness of the decision, only three consultative meetings were held that covered just a few hours. During those engagements, the Administration bluntly refused to conduct any socio-economic study despite the necessity. Vice President, Khemraj Ramjattan without hesitation told the Unions and the Opposition that the Government was not interested in such an examination. Though skeptical, but not daunted, the GAWU advanced suggestions to safeguard the estates then put on the chopping block. The Administration politely thanked the GAWU and said we would

hear from them. To date, the Coalition has yet to formally respond to the GAWU submission. Even the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) said ”[i]n a matter of such national importance impacting such large number of workers the process could have been more extensive and more responsive to the concerns of the Applicants [GAWU and NAACIE]”. The Justices o p i n e d that ”[n]otwithstanding the absence of a statutory obligation the Respondents ought to have given a considered response (whether written or oral) to the GAWU’s proposals explaining why they were not adopted”. Of course, the GAWU contends that such explanation would have been unconvincing, recognizing that several of the Union’s proposals have been adopted by GuySuCo towards making the industry viable. When next the GAWU, the workers and the public heard about the proposal was on May 08, 2017, when the Minister of Agriculture, Noel Holder tabled in the National Assembly the ”State Paper on the Future of the Sugar Industry”. That paper did not deviate one millimeter from what the Government said on December 31, 2016. In fact, that paper made no mention that there was a consultation held in the first place and only served to confirm that the Administration had made up its mind before it engaged stakeholders and it was just a ritualistic windowdressing exercise the Government is known to engage in. Through the State Paper, the Government said “[e]mployees are to be leased land by GuySuCo to engage in crops…” This commitment was reiterated by none other than Prime Minister Nagamootoo who, according to the January 27, 2018 Guyana Chronicle, is reported to have said ”[w]e want a model where sugar workers will be able to have at least one acre of land if you want to plant alternative crops…”. To date, not an inch of land was given to any worker. The GAWU during an engagement with the Administration on January 18, 2018 shared with the Government some important considerations in going in this direction. So far, it seems cat has got the Coalition’s tongue on this matter. In the latter part of 2017, the Administration had a change of heart and decided that it would divest Rose Hall and East Demerara Estates apart from Skeldon Estate.

While the rationale for this change has never been shared publicly, as far as we are aware, the Administration nevertheless shut the doors of those estates at the end of 2017 though the divestment process had not yet begun. As we approach the oneyear anniversary of their closure, the estates have largely remained inoperable, with Skeldon and East Demerara estates operating for short periods, mainly in the production of molasses. As 2018 comes to an end, the divestment is sometime away. The Government had announced that it had as many as 70 interested investors in acquiring the estates. Minister of Telecommunications, Cathy Hughes, in a January 26, 2018 Demerara Waves article, is quoted to have said ”[w]e got some big companies like Pepsi-Cola”. When the bids were finally open in October, this year, there was just a few of companies actually putting their money where their mouth is. How the process will play out is yet to be seen. As bitter as the pill was, the workers were denied their lawful severance payments, though none other than the Minister of Agriculture, Noel Holder had said that the relevant sums were available. Eventually, after a great deal of confusion, President David Granger announced that the Government hadn’t catered to make the payments to the workers, though the Administration decided to put the workers on the breadline. The Coalition subsequently paid workers half their entitlements if their payments were in excess of $500,000. Our Union thereafter sought the intervention of the Courts, which agreed the workers were wronged and awarded the workers interest on their outstanding monies. The Courts’ intervention was also necessary to have the Wales cane cutters being paid nearly two years after the estate was closed. The two humiliating and costly Court losses were unnecessary if the Administration had respected the workers’ rights, but the APNU+AFC has demonstrated, time and again, their scant regard for workers’ concerns and cries. As the infamous anniversary approaches, the workers, while pleased that they are finally to receive what is due to them, also view the coming months with apprehension, recognizing that their severance payments are finite. Even if the sums are stingily used, the absence of regular jobs will cause the sums (Continued on page 24)

Thursday December 20, 2018

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Kaieteur News

Judge’s sentencing policy taken to task

“It is arbitrary. (The) figure is not in keeping with the norms of sentencing,” argued defence counsel Sanjeev Datadin, as he addressed the Court of Appeal against a 60year base policy adapted by Justice Navindra Singh when sentencing those convicted for the capital offence murder. Datadin is representing Christopher Singh and his friend, Davindra Bushram, both 25, who were convicted and sentenced to 66 and 50 years respectively for murdering a cricket fan some eight years ago. Being displeased with the sentence which was handed down in 2014, the convicts filed an appeal. On September 11, 2010, they killed Javed Mohamed, 23, following a floodlight cricket match at the Better Hope Community Centre Ground, East Coast Demerara. On the night of the incident, Singh, Bushram and Mohamed were among the spectators at the match when (Singh) and the now deceased got into an argument. Shortly after midnight the men left the cricket match and they were on the public road where Mohamed was holding a piece of wood in his hand to defend himself from thieves. Singh approached him and drew a knife from under the wrapped T-shirt and started to stab Mohamed, as Bushram reached for the piece of wood which the victim had held and began hitting him with it. The victim was later picked up from the side of the road and taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) where he was pronounced dead on arrival. A Post Mortem examination revealed that Mohamed

had died as a result of haemorrhage and shock due to multiple stab wounds. Like others who have appealed convictions and lengthy sentences handed down by Justice Singh, Datadin has argued that among other thing, the judge imposed sentences that were excessive and committed several errors when directing the jurors on the law. Datadin argued that the mathematical formula adapted by Justice Singh is not in keeping with current sentencing practices. In the case of both Singh and Bushram, Justice Singh started at base of 60 years. For Singh, 10 years were added on for premeditation and four years deducted for time he spent in pre-trial custody—bring his sentence to 66 years. As it relates to Bushram, the Judge deducted four years for the time he spent in pretrial custody and another six years because he did not inflict the fatal wound—making his accumulated sentence 50 years. According to Datadin, Justice Singh failed to consider that both of his clients were a mere 17 years of age when they allegedly committed the crime. To support this contention, Datadin pointed out that nowhere in the judge’s summation was it mentioned that his clients were juveniles. The lawyer submitted that if the sentences were to be juxtaposed with guidelines outlined in the Juveniles Offenders Act, then it would be unreasonable. He said the Act states that juveniles should not be placed into the same category as adults as it relates to sentencing since

certain factors are to be considered. The lawyer urged the Court that if it is found that the sentences are arbitrary then they cannot stand. Advancing further arguments, Datadin said that Justice Singh failed to order a probation report for his clients, since one was not requested by their lawyers during the trial, and proceeded to pass sentence immediately after the guilty verdict. The lawyer implored the possibility that his clients could have been given a lesser sentence if the contents probations reports were adapted by the Court as mitigating factors. The lawyer is of the view that the 60-year base adapted by Justice Singh defeats what Parliament has done for legislation, while noting that a life sentence should be the most severe custodial penalty. Further, Datadin argued that the felony murder doctrine was incorrectly put the jurors by the Judge.

- on appeal to murder convictions

Justice Navindra Singh

CONVICTED: Christopher Singh

In some jurisdictions, the rule of felony murder is a legal doctrine in some common law jurisdictions that broadens the crime of murder, when an offender kills (regardless of intent to kill) in the commission of a dangerous or enumerated crime (called a felony in some jurisdictions), the offender, and also the offender’s accomplices or co-

conspirators, may be found guilty of murder. In expounding on this ground, the lawyer said that while the trial judge was satisfied that it was Singh who inflicted the fatal wound; it was not proven that his act was connected to Bushram. Hearing the appeal are Chancellor of the Judiciary (ag) Yonette Cummings-Edwards

and Justices of Appeal Rishi Persaud and Dawn Gregory. Following the conviction, Singh spat on his lawyer and took off his tie and threw it at the jury before cursing the policemen who tried to control him. “I did not kill anybody,” Singh stood and told the court after he was given a chance to speak.Meanwhile, Bushram implored the court to be lenient with him and give him a second chance. He had claimed that while he was incarcerated he opted to change his life by becoming involved in a lot of religious courses. “Everyone deserves a second chance…People make mistakes in life and they deserve a chance,” he had said. The matter has been adjourned to January 22, 2019, when Datadin will raise more grounds. Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Dionne McCammon is expected to reply.

Seventy percent of listed hernia patients treated Hernia has for years, acted as a debilitating disease both physically and socially for men within Guyana. In fact, the disease can be considered as a household name of some sort across the spectrum. However, while men are more susceptible to the ailment, both men and women have been affected. In Guyana, persons with hernia often have to undergo surgery to function within society; these persons usually have to wait to undergo these life-changing operations. In light of this, Chief Ex-

…to reduce stigma in the lives of many ecutive Officer (CEO) of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), Retired Brigadier George Lewis stated that up to 70 percent of backlog hernia patients were treated. This was stated at a recent press conference at GPHC’s research centre on Monday. Hernia in the working demographic can greatly stymie the growth of a country’s economy and socio-cultural

atmosphere. Fifty patients from both GPHC and the New Amsterdam Hospital are now benefitting after 62 surgeries were done in one weekend in December. Eight lead surgeons, thirteen surgical residents as well as added medical personnel spearheaded the operations. Some of the patients may have had to undergo more than one operation since the

process of removing and repairing hernias is complex. The CEO elucidated that most of the remaining patients for treatment, however, would not necessarily be considered as backlog. Head of Surgery, Navindranauth Rambaran, added that most of the patients that would have gone through hernia operations, within 24 hours would be active again. Hernia (Continued on page 21)

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Thursday December 20, 2018

Kaieteur News

Jamal Khashoggi’s 15-strong hit squad saunters through airport security in new CCTV New CCTV images of the 15 men wanted in connected to journalist Jamal Khashoggi’s murder have been published by Turkish media.International news organisation Anadolu Agency reports to have obtained footage of the accused killers arriving and leaving an airport in Istanbul.After watching 3,500 hours of CCTV from 147 cameras at 80 locations, the hit squad has been tracked at various points around the city.The new pictures show the alleged killers strolling through an airport dressed in normal, brightcoloured clothing.They appear to be carrying luggage in the form of backpacks and suitcases.Istanbul’s chief prosecutor has said

Khashoggi was suffocated by his killers in the consulate on October 2 before his body was dismembered and disposed of. His remains have not been found. Most of the men flew into Istanbul on two private jets hours before Khashoggi arrived at the consulate to collect some routine paperwork, and flew back to Riyadh later in the day on the same jets. Turkish officials believe the men are Saudi officials and intelligence officers, an allegation that appears to be supported by open source information that is freely available. Saudi authorities deny any involvement in Mr Khashoggi’s disappearance. They insist he left the

After hours of trawling through footage, security sources say they have tracked the suspects’ movements consulate soon after getting the paperwork.

The suspects are: Salah Muhammed A Tubaigy, 47, Maher Abdulaziz M Mutreb, 47, Abdulaziz Mohammed M Alhawsawi, 31, Thaar Ghaleb T Alharbi, 39, Mohammed

One suspect can be seen being patted down by security

Saad H Alzahrani, 30, Khalid Aedh G Alotaibi, 30, Naif Hassan S Alarifi, 32, Mustafa Mohammed M Almadani, 57, Meshal Saad M Albostani, 31, Waleed Abdullah M Alsehri,

38, Mansour Othman M Abahussain, 46, Fahad Shabib A Albalawi, 33, Badr Lafi M Alotaibi, 45, Saif Saad Q Alqahtani, 45 and Turki Muserref M Alsehri, 36.

NOC escapee among four remanded to jail on robbery charges Two teenagers are among four young men, including a teen who had recently escaped from the New Opportunity Corps have been remanded to jail. They appeared before Magistrate Rhondell Weaver in the Blairmont Magistrate Court. They were charged with several counts of robbery under arms, break and enter and larceny and simple larceny on West Coast Berbice. The four are Marlon Vossey, called “Bud” 17, the NOC escapee and mastermind of Lot 31 No 5 village

West Coast Berbice; Shaqualle Mc Donald, 17 of Plaisance, East Coast Demerara; Randolph Dover, 20, a seaman of South Sophia; and Gerald Chung 24, a taxi driver of 622 ‘A’ Field Sophia. Prosecutor, Woman Police Corporal Racquel Mars, detailed the charges to the court. McDonald and Vossey are charged with simple larceny committed on Udesha Bridgelall on November 10, last, at No8 Village, West Coast Berbice. Chung and Dover are charged with robbery committed on Ryan Khublall at Feroze Gas Station, No 6 Village WCB.Vossy is charged with break and enter and larceny committed on Holly Bynoe, a housewife of No5 Village, West Coast

Berbice.Chung and McDonald are further charged with robbery under arms committed on Ganish Parsram at Feroze Gas Station No6 Village WCB.McDonald and Vossey are also charged with robbery under arms committed on Mahendranauth Singh called “Cat Eye” a Businessman of Lot 1 B Cotton tree village West Coast Berbice. The victim was relieved of one gold chain and cash to the value of $446,000 on October 12.McDonald, Vossey and Dover are further charged with break and enter and larceny committed on the jewellery shop of Cohesh Totram called “Carlon” a Businessman of Cotton Tree West Coast Berbice on 11th November Vossey who hails (Conitnued on page 9)

Thursday December 20, 2018

PAGE 9

Kaieteur News

NOT FOR ALL THE MONEY IN THE WORLD For almost two decades after independence, the then PNC government resisted introducing foreign television because of the threat of cultural imperialism- the fear of importing foreign values and tastes incompatible with the developmental thrust of the country at that time. The then PNC government feared that foreign television would encourage patterns of consumption and personal accumulation of wealth that would not be in keeping with the socialist drive. But while television can transmit western values, including false values such as the superiority of that part of the world, there has always been a more invidious threat to which scant attention has been paid by the authorities. That threat is the attitude of some foreign investors, an attitude that is far more disturbing than the effects of foreign television. Foreign investors bring more than just their money to Guyana. They also bring their attitudes, their ideas about what Guyanese are and what we deserve. For some, Guyana is a country of great potential but needs to be more open to their foreign dollars. Others take this view to another extremity. They feel that without their dollars and enterprise, Guyana would go nowhere; that without foreign investors Guyana would remain a poor place. Still many others feel that the government needs to do more to attract foreign investors. Then there are those who come here and feel that they are superior to us. They come with an attitude that says that they are better and they look down upon Guyanese. They do not mix with our people. They fraternize only with their own and some of them even try to make their compa-

triots feel that Guyanese are bad people and they have to be careful. They warn them against mingling with locals; they poison their minds about Guyanese. All of these point to a particular mindset that disrespects Guyanese. Persons of this mindset should not be welcome to Guyana. The authorities have to insist that all who come to these shores to do business or to work respect the culture of our people. If they do not, then regardless of how much money they have or how great are their investments in Guyana, they should not be allowed to operate in our country. Guyana is not a backward country. Guyana is not an uncivilized place. It never was. Therefore those who come here must not just respect our laws but must respect our people. If they cannot do this, if they are found disrespecting the laws of Guyana, then they should be asked to leave along with their investments. It is simple as that. We cannot have persons coming to this country and behaving as if they are better than us. They are free to believe they are but any attempt at manifesting this superiority smacks of discrimination

and should not be tolerated. We cannot have also persons coming to this country and seeking to poison the minds of their compatriots that Guyanese are bad people who should be kept at a distance. Such an attitude treats Guyanese with contempt and treats our country as a colonial-style plantation fit only for exploitation. We should not allow that. Fortunately, the vast majority of foreign investors do not exhibit such tendencies. The vast majority of foreigners show respect for our culture and our people. They have local friends, attend local cocktails and get along well with others. They should be welcomed and encouraged. The danger however lies in those who have no respect for Guyanese, who see this country as their plantation and playground, a place whose only worth to them is judged by the money they make, the exploitation they invoke and the number of our women they can seduce. This small minority is contemptuous of our people and it is high time that the authorities pay keen attention to the actions of such persons. The authorities must make it clear to these persons that while in our country, they

NOC escapee among ... From page 8 from the area was touted as the mastermind and had reportedly invited the other criminals to the area. The men after committing the act and hiding out for some time were on their way to Georgetown. They were using a back street in a vehicle driven by Chung to escape the Police roadblock at Weldaad when they were nabbed.The police were on the lookout for the bandits and got word that some men were seen in a car driving through a back street in the area. The cops immediately sped to the area where the men were cornered and arrested. A number of items suspected to be stolen or illegally obtained were found in the vehicle. In objecting to bail Corporal Mars cited the nature of the crime and that most of the men were not from the area. One had escaped from the NOC. The men had hidden after committing the acts and were on their way out of the jurisdiction when they were caught. They are to return to court on December 24.

cannot behave as if we are a closed society.We are not. Guyana is a free country and while the policy of the government is to attract foreign investment, these foreign investors have to respect the culture of our people. They cannot be allowed to do as they please. Their investment dollars does not give them that right. The government has been

critical of what it sees as an unfair categorization by the US authorities in a TIP report. But the essential point made in that report is not really about the need for more action to be taken locally against certain practices which are deemed as exploitative.But the most invidious forms of exploitation begin with a mindset that has contempt for our people and

this is why the government needs to not wait until complaints arise before they act. They need to make it clear that no foreigner will be allowed to disrespect Guyanese. Not for all the money in the world.

PAGE 10

Thursday December 20, 2018

Kaieteur News

=== The Freddie Kissoon column ===

Reluctant voices, retired pens and the sad narrative in Guyana

A

s I approached the entrance to the church for the funeral service of Bevon Currie, a long time friend who was a vociferous critic of the PPP government, called me aside. In front of other mourners, he said, “I like what you wrote the other day about the traffic thing outside Parliament.” I couldn’t dialogue because I was late for the service. Those evangelical churches have long, long programmes, so I went outside to stretch my legs. He was still at the door. He brought up the traffic thing again. He said, “Freddie why

they do it?” I know he is a mild supporter of the APNU+AFC regime so I replied, “Because they are bullies.” This gentleman has been my friend a long time ago. His condemnatory words in the media during the reign of Jagdeo and Ramotar had echoes. But I don’t see any chastisements on the nonsense the present government is drowning in. I suspect he got caught up in the insanity of the asininity that surrounds Georgetown whenever Parliament is in session. I don’t know what will happen tomorrow with the noconfidence vote. But if the

ruling group is defeated and there has to be another general election and the grand coalition is the loser, then the insanity of asininity will disappear because I cannot see another government doing to this country what the present rulers has ordered in relation to the traffic chaos whenever Parliament meets. As I drove home from Bevon’s funeral, the thought occurred to me that his intervention would add to the voices and pens of disgust over this traffic madness. But so many that were so willing to confront the PPP rulers have now put down their pen or put their voices in cold storage. Yet the mistakes, depravities, cruelties, stupidities, banalities, immoralities, negativities of the PPP cabals that so galvanized and stirred us to use our voices and pens are still present today. The voices and pens were graphically visible during the bad days of the PPP because we didn’t like the nature of PPP’s rule. We didn’t like the PPP. They are invisible today

because we support the party in power. We like those who govern the country. But is it people and race that should be the focus on how we judge governance or the essential nature of governance irrespective of the culture, ethnicity and looks of those who administer the state? As life goes on each day in this country, and I see the same type of political deportment as when the PPP was in power, and I no longer hear the voices and pens that so exposed the debaucheries of the PPP, my mind’s concentration of power-sharing gets deeper. I was at three wakes in recent days; those of Dr. Benjie Singh, Bevon Currie and the father of my friend, sports journalist, Rawle Welch. The sentiments of people who spoke to me poignantly revealed to me that this country is tragically divided along ethnic lines and unless the PPP and PNC have some accommodation among themselves in their control of state power, Indians in Guyana will

not accept the PNC to govern Guyana; Africans will not tolerate a PPP government. Sadly, the AFC could have been the catalyst for ethnic dissolution. They have betrayed this nation in ways that the PPP and PNC have never done. Sadly there seems to be no reincarnation of Walter Rodney. I guess the zeitgeist that produced Rodney, CLR James, Franz Fanon, Michael Manley, Maurice Bishop, Father Andrew Morrison and Martin Carter is gone. It just pierced my soul that this gentleman at the church service whose pen and voice were so incisive when the PPP’s hegemony spread over Guyana cannot put his mind to write a little letter castigating the government for the sadistic arrangement they have ordered for the traffic in Georgetown. What is fundamentally and essentially wrong with a party supporter telling his/her government that it has made a mistake and it should try strenuously not to repeat it?

Frederick Kissoon Knowing the nature of the barbaric political culture we have in Guyana, Nagamootoo’s stupid reaction to Jagdeo’s request for a postponement of the no-confidence vote because of the Christmas season was expected. Of course, Jagdeo should build on that political advantage when the insanity of asininity envelopes Georgetown tomorrow. He should tell the Guyanese people to blame Nagamootoo. What is basically wrong with debating the motion in the first week in January in 2019? Nagamootoo said Jagdeo wanted it early so his request for a postponement is opportunistic. But no one anticipated it will be three days before Christmas.

Thursday December 20, 2018

Kaieteur News

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Kaieteur News

Thursday December 20, 2018

Diamond woman hospitalized after reputed husband attempts to kill her A 36-year-old mother of five is now nursing injuries at the Woodlands Hospital after her reputed husband, Ryan Sugrim, attempted to kill her last Friday. Zaila Sugrim of Lot 569 Section A Block Y Grove/Diamond Housing Scheme, East Bank Demerara yesterday reached out to the media as she is fighting for justice since she is scared for her life. Zaila with bruised lips and bloodshot eyes recalled her memories and recounted her near death experience. Ac-

cording to Sugrim she separated from her reputed husband last August because of his abusive behaviours. She stated that she left two of the children in his care and took the others with her, seeking refuge at a women’s shelter. Through constant contact with her children left in the care of their father, Sugrim was begged to return as they felt he would have changed his ways and he of himself would have indicated remorse for his actions. For the sake of her chil-

dren, Sugrim admitted that she on several occasions had meetings with her husband to see for herself if he had indeed changed. However last Friday the events took a grim turn. Zaila stated that on the day in question she left in a car with her reputed husband and her young child to go to Palmer Street, La Grange, to a home owned by her reputed husband. Upon arrival, Ryan received a phone call from which Zaila heard a woman enquiring about him promis-

ing to meet with her. The victim said that a heated argument began and she attempted to leave the vehicle from the passenger seat. Ryan grabbed her by the neck and pulled her back into the vehicle and pushed the child to the back seat. “After he pulled me back into the car he drove through the dam then came out and attempted to push me in the back seat. I tried to fight back and he started to kick and punch me.” “As he hit me is so the blood spilling all over. I tried screaming for help and people come out but no one came to my rescue.” Finally Ryan was able to get her into the vehicle and locked the doors however with the little strength she had she tried to kick open the car window to escape. This caused her reputed husband to return and beat her again before taping her arms, legs and mouth with duct tape. “In and out of consciousness I felt us moving for a short while. When we got to wherever it was he came in the back seat and he twisted my neck as far back as possible while choking me.” In tears Zaila stated that, “He said I will kill you and

Zaila Sugrim before the incident leave you in a shallow grave. All I remember after then is putting up my one finger pleading for at least one second to breathe. He released me and I fell to the ground.” “When I came to myself I struggled to ask him if he will finish what he started. He responded by saying that he couldn’t.” Sugrim stated that she pleaded for him to take her to the hospital so she can get medical attention. Ryan was reluctant to comply as he stated if he does that he will have to kill himself. Sugrim stated that she cooked up an alibi with her

reputed husband indicating that she was robbed just to be able to be taken to the hospital. After Ryan left her at the hospital under the pretence that she was robbed, Zaila later confided in her brother as to what transpired. A report was made and Ryan was arrested however he was later released on bail. Zaila is pleading for help from the relevant authorities so she can be able to get justice for the criminal act that she went through at the hand of someone she once thought loved her.

“Objectionable” no confidence motion too serious to push on just guess work – PM Addressing the No-Confidence Motion slated for today, in a Facebook live broadcast, Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo, yesterday warned the opposition to withdraw the motion, out of concern for the wellbeing of the country. He said that elections will come 2020, and that there’s no need for there to be a general election three years after the coalition took office. The Prime Minister said that the Opposition’s justification for raising the motion was because of their victories in the recent local government elections, where the PPP/C secured over 60% of the votes. He said that the results of the LGE are of no consequence because the proportion of seats for each party in the national assembly remains as it was before election. “Their numbers in the parliament didn’t change. They still have 32 seats.” He also stated that the LGE results are inconsequential because of the low voter turnout during the election. He said that the opposition is trying to capitalize on illusory insecurity in the ranks of the coalition, hoping and guessing that someone will

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo during his live broadcast cross the table to vote with the opposition. He further said that the opposition is immorally using the President’s illness as a tactic to feign a lack of confidence by members of the APNU/AFC coalition in its leadership. He expressed his confidence in the ranks of the coalition, and said that the motion is objectionable, and is indicative of contempt by the opposition for the social cohesion of the country, especially during the Christmas

season. Addressing the leader of the Opposition, the Prime Minister said that “The Grinch” is irresponsibly disrupting the security of the country, in a bid to “spread doom and gloom” and “kill Christmas” so that it could be blamed on the government. As for the opposition’s expression of interest in delaying the no-confidence vote to next year, the Prime Minister said that they should not defer the motion, that it (Continued on page 22)

Thursday December 20, 2018

Kaieteur News

Seventy percent of listed hernia ... From page 7 operations effect changes in the way persons view themselves as well as society. In recognizing this, GPHC is combating an ill that carries a stigma of which many are aware. Furthermore, the stigma that persons with hernia face perpetuates isolation, exclusion and rejection. Many of the men diagnosed with hernia are often forced to give up jobs and social lives. The disease imposes social and economic consequences upon those who have it, which in turn often leads to refusal to go and get treatment. Inguinal hernia, the protrusion of the intestines or bladder through the abdomi-

nal wall or into the inguinal canal in the groin, accounts for more than ninety-six percent of hernia cases. The disease occurs in men due to them being quite susceptible in this region. Hernia crosses the age spectrum and the operations done featured young children, babies, and adults. The well-known risk factors and causes of the inguinal hernias have been reported as increased abdominal pressure, pre-existing weakness of abdominal muscles, straining during defecation, heavy lighting of weights and in women obesity and pregnancy. Operation Hernia will continue in 2019 with discus-

sions surrounding the taking of these surgeries and surgeons into the outlying hinterland regions. This is expected to be a collaborative effort with the Ministry of Public Health; also, in exercising inclusion, “Operation Fibroid� is to commence in 2019 to target women; fibroids affect women disproportionately and often present problems in conceiving and complications during pregnancy. Hernia in the working demographic can greatly stymie the growth of a country’s economy and socio-cultural atmosphere. Many persons are now able to function in ways they could not have before the disease.

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Thursday December 20, 2018

Kaieteur News

Wanted brother-in-law captured in abandoned Stanleytown house FOR RENT

SERVICES PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION, W E D D I N G S , ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 Visa Application: U.S.A, Canada & UK; Graphics design, advertisement, Wedding arch rentals. Tel: 626-7040; 265-4535. ICONIC MARKETING & PRINTING –TEL: 6006887: We create A/works, logos, business cards, posters, etc, placements of ads included. Installations, Repairs and parts for AC, Fridge, Washing machine, Stove etc call Nick 627-3206, 630-1600 We repair fridge, freezer, AC, washer, dryer-Call: 231-0655; 683-8734. Omar Repairs at affordable prices: fridge, air conditioner, washing machines, dryers, TV, microwaves & freezer-Call: 610-5846 or 661-8158 Royal’s Beauty Salon located @ Parika Highway 2nd floor, Grand Christmas Promotion. Call#697-2780 HEALTH HERBAL REMEDIES: Diabetes, Hypertension, Infertility, Menstrual disorders, Enlarged prostate, Kidney,Gall stones & Arthritis etc. Call Sparman #676-5924

VEHICLE FOR SALE 1 Leyland Daf 60, working condition. 658-4655, 618-4457 One 2011 Toyota Prado Landcruiser in immaculate condition. Tel: 656-7554

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FOR SALE Empty 20lbs Shell/Tex bottle also Acetylene & Oxygen 5 Leyland DAF Flatbed lorry, owner migrating, #228-5655/ 649-8449 Wholesale: Diesel Generators, Purple onions, Garlic, Bicycles, Baby Prams, Tiger Balm available @ GT Wholesale #655-4303 German Shepherd pups & husky pup for sale. Contact Devi #639-2828/225-3721 Going cheap, great Christmas gift. Black pudding, White pudding, Souse, Pastries, Black cake, Fruit cake. Place orders # 613-5062

PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION, W E D D I N G S , ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 Salon for rental, New Market St, Georgetown, also hair/ nails/barber/massage. Makeup stations for rental #638-1106 1 Apt for rent- Bottom flat for rent, for business. Contact Radica Kassim #264-2639 Lot 7-8 Plantain Walk WBD Mini excavator $8,800 per hour, also Bobcat service available. Tel#623-0290 New 4 Storey Building at Parika (Guyana’s Gateway) near stelling. Willing to divide. Call: 699-4513.

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Newly constructed 2 bedroom house and apt in a safe and healthy environment. Call: 698-6496/ 622-6512

Used imported glass showcase L72" x H39" x W24" 40,000 each. Tel 625-1514

1-3 Bedroom apartment (1 room self contained) Tel: 6821285 1 Bedroom apt for working couple/single person $35,000 monthly. Light & water included. Lodge. Call: 6230076 3 Bedroom house 60 US per night. Call 233-2439

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Expeditious and joint action by ranks of B’ Division, Demerara Bakery Inc. is New Amsterdam, has led to looking for Distributors, the capture of murder susWholesalers & Retailers. Call pect, Jermaine Barclay, of New us on 266-5847 or email: Stanleytown, Amsterdam. He was found at sales@demerarabakery.com an abandoned house in 47 We buy land in Eccles, Stanleytown just around 8:45 Herstelling, Farm, Parfaite am yesterday. The other susHarmonie, Uivlugt, Zeelugt, pect is still in hiding but poProvidence & Dairy Tel# 611- lice have indicated that they are working on some leads. 7223/651-1969 Barclay escaped after brazenly stabbing his brother-in1 Maid. #225-3234 law, Nkomo La Rose, to death on Monday following a Wanted land to buy in heated row over a female at Parfaite Harmony, Uitvlugt, S t a n l e y t o w n . Tuschen or Zeelugt. Tel: 642- Kaieteur News had reported that La Rose, his wife and his 1252 brother-in-law were imbibing Person to work and live on alcohol together at 41 Poultry Farm at Yarakabra. Call: Stanleytown when an argu226-0772/225-9304 ment between the two erupted and escalated. One female domestic to work The row reportedly in Trinidad Age 25-35 yrs. stemmed from La Rose’s atPhone#1868-386-5302 tempts to advise Barclay about the woman he was dat1 Experienced Hiab Truck ing. His advice was not welDriver. Contact#650-0402/ comed by the suspect. 603-1402 A relative of the suspect had stated that “they had some Attractive live in waitress- confrontation about some girl Call: 327-0252/674-4665/649- Barclay (the suspect) does follow and me niece throw 3750 away the rum and she call the We are buying old picture police. “After the police come and frames. Tel# 656-0701/ 648talk to them and gone, they 1635 still continue to argue and she just pick up sheself and she Wanted female counter staff come way here and sleep. for snackette. Call: 629-2044 Around 5:30 (that) morning he come and jump over the fence URGENTLY NEEDED DRY and meet my mother at the CORILLA BUSH. ANY back and Barclay ask she AMOUNT FROM 1lb TO 1000lbs. #609-8281 WANTED

LAND FOR SALE Farm (East Bank) $3.5M Eccles $7M Herstelling $4M & $5M Schnoord $3M Dairy $2M & $3M Tel#656-0701/648-1635 Transported land 11.6 acres. Lot 15 public road. #2 Village W.C.B. Price $18M. Contact 686-4818, 648-7109

One (1) male ablebodied clerk. Tel: 231-2029, 616-5954 Land to buy Parfaite Harmonie, Province, Farm, Tuschen, Eccles, Herstelling, Uitvlugt. Call 666-2326

Dead: Nkomo LaRose where he sister deh and she said she ain’t know but he tell she he come fuh “done she off”. “Probably he de already stab the man up and then he come for she”. Police are still on the hunt for the other suspect while Barclay is expected to be charged by Friday.

“Objectionable” no ...

From page 12 should either be withdrawn or carried quickly, so that it could be defeated, for the country to run as normal.

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VACANCY

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1 Male cook for interior $90,000 monthly. Experienced land dredge workers. Tel: 629-8280

Parfaite Harmonie main road 2.2M, 1.4M, Province 4M Farm 5.5M, Tuschen, Diamond 2st 7.5M, 5st 4.5M. Call 666-2326

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Vacancy for fuel truck/canter driver on EBD, must have valid license. Call: 592-6113829

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Live-in Housekeeper for East Bank, must be able to cook indian dishes & have a clean police record. Call: 685-9668

Diamond New Scheme, 5th Avenue Double lot (Million Dollar area) $9.2M. Tel#6039700

Captured: Jermaine Barclay

Female Cleaner, Office & Home. Age 25-50. Call: 2332745 Chef and Assistant cook. Call us on 225-7933 or visit 172 Sheriff Street.

“There will be no shutdown of Guyana, or of the government,” declared Nagamootoo.The last time a no-confidence motion was slated to be carried by parliament in late 2014, the then President Donald Ramotar prorogued and subsequently dissolved the national assembly to prevent the vote from occurring, since he feared that the majority of seats held by the joint opposition at the time would cause the vote to succeed.This had led to a snap general election in 2015, which resulted in the end of the PPP/C’s 23-year governance of Guyana. This time around, the PPP/ C has the same number of seats it had in 2014. It is, however, attempting to capitalize on the insecurity of opposition members, which follows the recent LGE results and the illness of President David Granger, as well as the current controversy over whether the Prime Minister should be allowed to serve in the National Assembly while acting as President of Guyana.

Thursday December 20, 2018

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Kaieteur News

Guyanese man captured in NY after killing daughter, teen in Virginia HENRICO COUNTY, Va. — The mother of 18-year-old Vanessa Zaman, who was killed alongside another teen in Henrico County last week, says the man wanted for her murder is her father. Abdool Zaman, who migrated from Guyana to the US, has been captured in New York, according to Henrico Police. Zaman was wanted on two warrants of second-degree murder, but that those charges will likely be upgraded. Police said Vanessa Zaman and Leona Samlall were shot as they walked near the Oakmeade Apartments on Airport Drive and East Nine Mile Road in Highland Springs around 12:17 p.m. Thursday. Investigators say Zaman got out of his car and confronted the girls before shooting them in what appeared to be a fit of rage, sources said. Crime insider sources say Samlall was briefly on a missing persons list in 2016, but later showed up safe in the Orlando, Florida area. Those sources said Samlall is believed to have returned home to Henrico after fleeing a rocky relationship. Saveeda Barnes, who lives in New York, is devastated about the loss of her first born and only daughter, Vanessa, who she says reconnected with her father last year. “Vanessa grew up under my love and care, until she was 18. Not too long ago, she researched and somehow found her dad. The two connected and were in contact for a while. Around late December, 2017, Vanessa

Captured: Abdool Zaman and I spoke about selecting colleges. She told me that she was going to Florida. She invited her dad to her HS graduation where he turned her down,” said Barnes. “Vanessa was loved more than she knew. Even though Vanessa seemed as though she had everything in the world, she still had an empty space in her heart a space that could never be filled (her dad, Abdool Z. Zaman),” Barnes added. Barnes said her daughter, who was an award-winning writer, graduated in the top of her class at her Long Island, New York high school. Dr. Mary T. Kelly, Superintendent of Amityville Union Free School District, provided CBS 6 with the following statement: “The district is deeply saddened to learn of the tragic death of Vanessa Zaman who graduated from Amityville High School in

Killed also: Leona Samlall

June 2018. Vanessa was actively involved in school, loved English and was a prolific writer. She was very well-liked by students and staff. She will truly be missed. Support services are available for students and staff as they try to cope with this devastating loss. Our thoughts are with her family and friends during this difficult time.” “Vanessa was also a very smart girl and had a passion for writing,” said Vanessa’s best friend Nyah Seiferheld. “She would stay up many nights creating stories with her wild imagination. She was so hard working and had that ‘go getter’ mentality. She was always thinking of a way to better her life and take it to the next level.” “Ness meant the world to me and for this to happen to her was the most devastating thing ever. She was such a sweet genuine person and always put her fam-

Saveeda Barnes and her late daughter, Vanessa Zaman

ily and friends first,” said Seiferheld.Vanessa Zaman leaves behind a 9-year-old step-sister and a two-year-

old half-brother. “Ness was definitely a well-loved person and we all miss her greatly. I just love

her much more than she would ever know. She didn’t deserve what happened to her,” said Seiferheld.

PAGE 24

Huge stakes at play in tomorrow's defining... From page 3 integrity, ensured that there is an independent judiciary, an autonomous Parliament and other constitutional agencies such as GECOM which are all guaranteed full financial independence. Jagdeo himself was hyping the no-confidence motion, hinting that he has heard of plans to disrupt the sittings by placing plants. Yesterday, the Chief Whip of the Parliamentary Opposition, Gail Teixeira, dispatched a letter to the Commissioner of Police, Leslie James, in relation to what she calls security concerns for Friday's sitting of the National Assembly, She said that they have received information that there will be an attempt to prevent the Members of the Parliamentary Opposition from entering the compound of the Parliament Buildings. “Our information points to some very ominous plans to physically disrupt the sitting by either invading the Chambers, and, or, creating disruption within the Chambers. The intention is to interrupt the debate and the vote on the No Confidence Motion.”

Thursday December 20, 2018

Kaieteur News

She said that the matter has been brought to the attention of the Speaker Dr. Barton Scotland. Another statement from the Guyana Action Party (GAP) said it is in full support of the APNU+AFC Government as it faces the PPP/C's “naked and futile quest for power”. Raphael Trotman, Leader of the Alliance of Change (AFC), which is the smaller faction of the Coalition, also issued a separate statement last evening. “The Alliance For Chance is as concerned as the Peoples Progressive Party about the peace and order on Friday December 21 and has sought assurances from the Minister of Public Security about the security arrangements for the Public Buildings, the Members of Parliament and those who are likely to congregate outside to support either side. “We have been assured that the security forces are fully mobilised and prepared to ensure that there is no breach of the peace.” The Vice-President said that they have heard their share of rumours of “diaboli-

cal plots” by the PPP, and of moves to disrupt the House when the vote on the Motion fails. “We have cautioned our MPs to be vigilant even before and during the debate and ask our supporters to be on the lookout for agent provocateurs who we understand will try to infiltrate their numbers and cause confusion. For our democracy to prevail we must respect each other's views and we beseech the PPP to accept the vote.” Trotman also criticized what he says is bad timing of the motion when President David Granger announced that he was seeking medical attention and needed the nation's support. “The PPP has to understand that thousands see this as a cowardly attack on the President and are rightly outraged. The budget presented the best opportunity for a debate on the policies and programmes of the government and it was passed without any dissent by the PPP, so this Motion is at best superfluous, and vexatious and at worse, a cowardly manoeuvre against the President, and should be withdrawn.”

State $$$$ not to be used for holiday, end of year gift purchases …Financial Secretary warns practice is illegal

The Ministry of Finance is keen to cut down on the use of state funds to purchase gifts. The use of Government funds to purchase end of year and holiday gifts is illegal and the Government is seeking to curtail the practice. Newly appointed Financial Secretary (FS), Michael Joseph, issued a circular on Monday under the subject, ‘Expenditure of Public Funds for Holiday and End of Year Gifts’. He cautioned Ministries and other budget agencies against such purchases. “It has come to the attention of the Ministry of Finance that several Budget Agencies are proposing to present monetary vouchers and other gifts to staff for the holidays and end of year utilising public funds,” the FS stated. He reminded Heads of Budget Agencies that this is not permitted under the Fiscal Management and Accountability Act (FMAA) as this has not been budgeted for nor approved. The FS pointed to Section 16 of the FMAA which states that there shall be

no expenditure of public moneys except in accordance with Article 217 of the Constitution. The FS indicated that for this reason, holiday purchases have never received the approval of the Ministry of Finance, nor have they been presented for the consideration or appropriation by the National Assembly. Further, the FS noted that any related payment by any Head of Budget Agency is prohibited.Ministries would have been alerted to the Finance Ministry’s position regarding the use of state funds to purchase gifts. In the Budget 2019 Circular dated June 28, 2018, Government signaled its concern with the quantity of public expenditure, including the usage of public funds for the purchasing of gifts for staff.Paragraph 10.8 of the Budget circular stated that gifts and merchandise related to occasion-specific or ministry-specific paraphernalia and gifts must be reduced substantially.

Administration’s promises to sugar... From page 6 to be exhausted at one time or the other. As the now jobless sugar workers contemplate the future, the GAWU recalls Prime Minister Nagamootoo saying, according to the January 27, 2018 Guyana Chronicle, ”…so keep faith, we want you to have confidence in the Government that we will not abandon you, we will not cut you loose, and we will work on all fronts to bring about some benefits so you can start meaningful activities in your

life and for your family”. While we hope the Prime Minister and the Government keep that commitment, we also cannot forget the Prime Minister, prior to his election, saying in the April 13, 2015 Stabroek News, “…while diversification is important to save the sugar industry, it must be done in a manner to ensure that workers on the 16,000strong payroll are not put out of work”. Today, for the thousands who have been affected by

the decision on sugar, the Christmas Season is most depressing. For many, they are unable to afford the niceties of the season, unable to give their children an inexpensive gift, or to cook a special meal, or to have a holly jolly season. Indeed it is a sad reality of our times, a reality made possible by the deception of the APNU+AFC Government. Yours faithfully, Seepaul Narine General Secretary GAWU

Society must leave this experience ... From page 4 complacency and continuity of the debased conduct, equally as it is for having the minority and seeing this serious issue as that of showmanship. The issue of the motion must not only be about voting in the National Assembly, but must be marked by a historic turning away from the debased conduct, with regards to attitude, presentations and substance of the debate. Like those who have spoken out, including the media, parliamentary decorum and presentations have reached its lowest point from both

sides of the House. The art of heckling has been reduced to crassness, and evidently little time is being taken to research and acquaint oneself with the material or subject under review. Wit has become a rarity in presentation, interruption and rebuttal. The nation will be watching. In 2014, the PPP/C government denied society the opportunity in having a parliamentary debate on the noconfidence motion through the misapplication of the prorogation. From indications, at the time of writing, the Coalition Government has commu-

nicated it will have a parliamentary debate on the motion. Unless the motion is withdrawn or some other unforeseen circumstance prevents its debate and decision-making, society must leave this experience feeling more empowered. Any no-confidence motion against any government, at the end of the day the people, on both sides of the political divide, must come away with appreciation and understanding of the debate and see justice in the argumentations and decision made. Lincoln Lewis

Thursday December 20, 2018

Kaieteur News

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New NDCs chairs, vice chairs for E’bo Coast sworn in

A

total of 16 indi viduals were re cently sworn in as Chairperson and Deputy Chairpersons, to represent the eight Neighbourhood Democratic Councils [NDC] within Region Tw o [Pomeroon/Supenaam]. The ceremony which was held last Monday on the lawns of the Anna R e g i n a To w n C o u n c i l building in Anna Regina, was also attended by the Minister of Communities, Ronald Bulkan, and Regional C hairman, Devenand Ramdatt. The oath of office was administrated by Regional Executive Officer, Rupert Hopkinson. Minister Bulkan delivered the charge to the newly Chairpersons and Vice Chairperson. Bulkan advised each councilor that they educate themselves on the by-laws and functions of the NDCs. Bulkan explained that a handbook was printed by the Ministry of Communities, which offers practical guidelines for persons executing duties within local government areas. The Minister also highlighted the need for unity among Central Government, the Regional Government and the Local Government. Mr. Lionel Boodram was sworn in as Chairman of the Evergreen /Paradise NDC, with Olinda Lawrie as Vice Chair. For the Annadale/ Riverstown NDC Mr. Charran Sujit was sworn as Chairman and Ms. Sarojanie Singh as Vice Chairperson,

The new Chairpersons and Vice Chairpersons who are to serve on the new NDCs Now serving as Chairman of the Charity /Urasara NDC is Mr. Puresh Kishore, while Mr. Shakti Kellawan will serve as Vice Chairman.For the Good Hope/ Pomona NDC, Mr. Andy Ramnarine was sworn as Chairman and Mr. Arnold Adams as Vice Chairman, In the Moruka/Phoenix Park NDC Mr. Sheldon English was swo r n i n a s Chairman and M r. Garfield London as Vice Chairman. Mr. Dexter Cameron was sworn in as the Chairman for the Kitty/Providence NDC, and Mr. Eastern A Raymond as Vice Chairman. For the Aberdeen / Zorg Enlygt NDC. Jaishri Persaud was sworn as Chairman and Mr. Mohan Boodram as Vice Chairman, The Nile/ Cozier NDC, Mr. Narad Persaud was sworn as Chairman and Ms. Sabitree Tulsiedas as Vice Chairman. The New Councils will take effect from the January 1, 2019.

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Thursday December 20, 2018

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Thursday December 20, 2018

Kaieteur News

hit and run accident…

Let justice run its course The Guyana National Road Safety Council, (GNRSC) has joined the call for the law to take its course in the Annandale hit and run accident which left one teen dead and another seriously injured. Coordinator of GNRSC, Ramona Doorgen noted that while it is common for people to accept some form of payment in such incidents, the law must still take its course. “It is quite common when vehicular accidents occur, for people to accept monies rather than go through the entire court process. “However, cases like these are not that straightforward. When a life or lives are lost, you can’t pay for a life, someone must be held cul-

pable for their actions on the road. “As the National Road Safety Council, we would advocate for the law to take its course.” GNRSC coordinator noted further when the legal process runs its course there is the criminal case and the civil suit. “Once the criminal case is concluded, the affected parties can opt to file civil action … the process is longer but at the end whatever decision is taken will be more in keeping with the system of justice,” Doorgen added. Doorgen’s comments came on the heels of reports that an attorney-at-law and a Chinese woman have offered $1.9M to the relatives of the

dead teen, Karamchand Khemraj, and a further $300,000 for his burial. Two Sunday nights ago, Khemraj and his friend Reaz Shaw were cycling in Annandale when a minibus struck them. Khemraj was killed on the spot; Shaw was badly injured while the driver fled the scene. Four days later, a Kaieteur News reporter located the vehicle, which was stashed at the back of a bakery in Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara. The attorney and the woman have reportedly also offered to assist the family of 16-year-old Reaz Shaw, who remains in critical condition. The owner of the minibus which struck down the teens is said to be a Chi-

- Road Safety Council

nese national, identified as C. Wen, who has a store at Lot 10 Vigilance, East Coast Demerara. Mr. Wen has not been seen since the accident, which occurred two Sundays ago. Traffic Chief Linden Isles has since called for the associates of the Annandale hit-and-run suspect to turn him in, rather than trying to offer money to the families of the victims. “We need to get the driver. Instead of going for compensation, they need to bring the driver in,” Isles told Kaieteur News. “At the end of the day, we still need to do our investigation.” Asked if he believes that the man’s associates know of

Coordinator of GNRSC, Ramona Doorgen his whereabouts, Isles responded that he “definitely” believes that is the case.”

“I know that my ranks are working assiduously to get this man.”

Thursday December 20, 2018

Kaieteur News

Grace Harris creates WBBL history with 42-ball century ESPNcricinfo - Three years and a week since she lit up the inaugural edition of the WBBL with the first century of the tournament, Brisbane Heat opener Grace Harris smashed the tournament’s fastest hundred, off only 42 balls, in her side’s ten-wicket win over Melbourne Stars at the Gabba. During her unbeaten 101, studded with 19 boundaries, including six sixes, Harris attacked the three Stars wristspinners - Alana King, Kirsten Beams and Ange Reaks - with particular ferocity, taking 50 off 20 balls against them. The winning hit

Grace Harris celebrates after smashing the fastest WBBL hundred. (Bradley Kanaris / © Getty)

- a six over long-on off King also brought up her hundred. Harris put on 77 runs in the Powerplay with Beth Mooney, whose contribution

in that time was a mere 10 runs - and carted Beams for 4, 4, 6, 6 in a 23-run sixth over. Along the way, she reached her fifty off 23 balls - the joint third-

Thursday December 20, 2018 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) You have a lot to offer, Aries. Everyone appreciates what you have to contribute. Yet you've been unable to give yourself credit for all that you've accomplished.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) You've been working exceptionally hard, Libra. Today is a good day to recharge your batteries. It seems everyone wants a piece of you.

TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) Whether you acknowledge it or not, there's a child inside you who needs tending, Taurus. You're proud of the person you've become - and well you should be.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Today could be a turning point for you, Scorpio. Is it possible that you've finally learned how to say no? You're the one everyone asks for help.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Think of today as a wellearned rest day, Gemini. You're usually the one people turn to when they need consolation. Today, in spite of the tension in the air, your words seem to have no effect. CANCER (June 21–July 22) Today take stock of all that's occurring on the home front, Cancer. Think back over the last few months and you will see how much of your attention has been on work rather than loved ones. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Think long and hard before making commitments, Leo. Much is at stake, especially where your love life is concerned. It's likely that a proposal is coming your way. Do you know how you will answer? VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) You will be busy today, Virgo. Nevertheless, you still may end the day with your desk piled high with projects - not because you're unproductive, but rather because you're popular and your work is valued. You may be wishing you weren't quite so valuable!

SAGIT (Nov. 22–Dec. 21) Today's planetary positions urge you to assert yourself, Sagittarius, but take care not to take this encouragement too far. You have a tendency to go a bit overboard when making a point. CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) You have a strong creative component to your personality. You should use it more. Today's planetary positions will influence both your creativity and productivity. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18) You're highly sensitive and highly intellectual, Aquarius. This is a wonderful combination and part of what makes you a superstar. Today's planetary positions challenge you to think how you can best combine these two key components of your personality. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) You may be inclined to stay in bed today with the latest best seller, Pisces. Who wouldn't want to spend the day this way? Alas, that isn't going to happen. The planets are practically pulling the covers off you and pushing you out of bed.

fastest in WBBL history, alongside Harmanpreet Kaur ’s effort last week against the Heat. Having brought up their century standoff only 50 balls, Harris and Mooney took 24 runs off the 10th over - the most expensive of the match - with Harris clattering Reaks for two sixes. In what turned out to be a one-woman onslaught, Harris helped knock off the target in a mere 10.5 overs, after leftarm spinner Jess Jonassen had taken 3 for 17 to restrict Stars to 132 for 7. Mooney faced 25 balls for an unbeaten 28, and the unbroken opening stand steered Heat to their third win in five games this season, propelling them to the third place on the points table as the only side with a net run rate in excess of 1. Harris’s ton, the secondfastest in all women’s T20s, behind West Indies allrounder Deandra Dottin’s 38-ball hundred against South Africa in the 2010 World T20, is the third century of the season after 102 not-outs from Stars’ Lizelle Lee and Sydney Sixers’ Ellyse Perry. Harris’ is the eighth century across the four WBBL seasons. She is the only player with two WBBL tons to her name.

Mohamed’s Enterprise... From page 33 opportunity to exhibit their talent and focus in a positive environment. He called on other sponsors to support sports in general, moreso football, taking a pattern of Mohamed’s Enterprise who is known for their support to various sporting disciplines and charitable causes. This is not the first for Mohamed’s in the futsal arena, they sponsor a tournament played in the Mining Town of Linden, which is in its third year. The four-day festival will see six matches being played nightly between 18:00hrs and 00:00hrs. The tournament also involves overseas teams in: Morvant Caledonia United out of Trinidad and Tobago, a Suriname All Star side and a São Paulo selection from Brazil. The locally participating teams are an East Coast AllStars, Linden All-Stars, Georgetown All-Stars and West Demerara All Stars. The winning team will pocket $1.2 million, while the losing finalist will receive half that amount. Third and fourthplaced finishers will pocket $300,000 and $100,000 respectively.

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Thursday December 20, 2018

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NBA roundup: Nets overcome James, Lakers

A tip in at the buzzer by Cleveland Cavaliers forward Larry Nance Jr. (22) gives the Cavaliers a one point victory against the Indiana Pacers during the fourth quarter at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. (Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports) D’Angelo Russell collected 22 points and a career-high-tying 13 assists as the Brooklyn Nets overcame 36 points from LeBron James on Tuesday night and held on for a 115-110 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers in New York. Facing his former team for the third time since being acquired by Brooklyn on draft night in 2017, Russell posted his second double-double of the season, hitting 9 of 21 shots, including a clutch 3-pointer from the top of the key over Kyle Kuzma with 22 seconds left to put Brooklyn ahead 113-107. Joe Harris added 19 points, reserve Spencer Dinwiddie contrib-

uted 18 and Hollis-Jefferson finished with 17 as the Nets extended their winning streak to six games. James nearly posted his third triple-double as a Laker, finishing with 13 rebounds to go along with eight assists. Lonzo Ball hit five 3pointers and contributed 23 points. Kyle Kuzma contributed 22 points and 11 rebounds as the Lakers lost for the third time in four games. Cavaliers 92, Pacers 91 Larry Nance Jr. tipped in a missed shot by Rodney Hood at the buzzer as Cleveland defeated Indiana in Indianapolis. Indiana had a chance to ice the game, but Victor Oladipo missed three consecutive free throws to

give Cleveland the opportunity to win only its eighth game of the season. The Pacers had their sevengame win streak snapped, while the Cavaliers ended a two-game skid. Nance, starting in place of the injured Tristan Thompson, finished with 15 points and 16 rebounds. Hood scored 17. Domantas Sabonis scored 17 points to lead six Indiana players in double figures. Oladipo struggled to score 12 points on 4of-15 shooting from the field. Nuggets 126, Mavericks 118 Jamal Murray had 22 points, including a big 3-pointer late, and also added a career-high 15 assists as host Denver turned back Dallas. Nikola Jokic scored a game-high

Brooklyn Nets small forward Joe Harris (12) shoots over Los Angeles Lakers point guard Lonzo Ball (2) during the fourth quarter at Barclays Center. (Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports) 32 points and also had 16 rebounds to help Denver sweep a four-game homestand and stay atop the Western Conference standings. Trey Lyles and Monte Morris scored 16 points each off the bench for the Nuggets. Denver has won 11 of its past 13, and its 21-9 record ties the best start in franchise history. Harrison Barnes tied a season high with 30 points, and rookie sensation Luka Doncic had 23 points and 12 assists for the Mavericks, who have lost three straight. Hawks 118, Wizards 110 Jeremy Lin scored 10 of his 16 points during a 22-9 fourth-quarter spurt that allowed host Atlanta to defeat Washington and end a three-

game losing streak. Lin was one of seven players who scored in double figures for Atlanta. He shot 6-for-12 from the field with four assists and three rebounds. John Collins had a doubledouble for the seventh time in eight games with 20 points and 13 rebounds. Trae Young scored 19 points and handed out four assists. The Wizards, who have lost five of their past six got 29 points from Bradley Beal, who was 11-for-17 from the floor and added 10 rebounds. Trevor Ariza had 19 points and eight rebounds in his Washington debut. (Field Level Media)

Williamson praises stubborn Sri Lanka pair after drawn first test WELLINGTON (Reuters) New Zealand had tried everything to dislodge Kusal Mendis and Angelo Mathews on the fourth day of the drawn first test at the Basin Reserve, said Kane Williamson yesterday, as the skipper paid tribute to the Sri Lanka pair’s discipline and patience. The match ended in a damp draw after only an hour of play was possible on the fifth and final day due to rain, with Sri Lanka on 287 for three in their second innings, still nine runs shy of New Zealand’s mammoth first innings of 578. Mendis and Mathews had saved their team from defeat on

New Zealand’s Captain Kane Williamson talks to the media during the press conference. (REUTERS/Paul Childs) Tuesday when they took advantage of a placid wicket to bat the entire day. It was the first time in more than a decade that a wicket had not fallen on a complete day’s play in test cricket.

Williamson said he spoke to senior players to try to come up with an idea to break the partnership on the fourth day but nothing had worked. “Everything we did yester-

day didn’t provide too many opportunities,” he told reporters on Wednesday after stating with a laugh that he might have changed “everything” if he could replay the fourth day again. “We sat down and had a number of conversations ... and said ‘what’s something else we can try?’. “We tried pretty much all of it.”Mendis finished on 142 not out, while Mathews was on 120, having combined for a record 274-run partnership. “There wasn’t a lot happening,” said Williamson. “We tried a few short balls and changes of tack and tried to build pressure for a period of time to buy a wicket to a certain extent. “Very rarely do you go a whole day where there’s not an opportunity regardless of what you try. “There might be a run out opportunity or anything, but that’s credit to the way the Sri Lankan batsmen played and denied us.

“They were very disciplined, very patient, and weren’t looking to bat aggressively which might have given us an opportunity. They played very nicely.” Sri Lanka captain Dinesh Chandimal also acknowledged Mendis and Mathews had saved the game for his side, who were dominated by New Zealand over the first three days. “It’s not an easy task when the opposition leads by more than 300,” Chandimal said. “Angelo and Kusal Mendis have done a really good job and they put up a really good partnership. “At the same time they played for the team. That’s the most important thing. That’s the most important thing with the way that those guys played.” Scores: Sri Lanka 282 (Mathews 83, Karunaratne 79, Southee 6-68) and 287 for 3 (Kusal Mendis 141*, Mathews 120*) drew with New Zealand 578 (Latham 264*, Williamson 91, Kumara 4-127).

Thursday December 20, 2018

Brathwaite an asset to KKR: Mysore JAIPUR, India, CMC – Kolkata Knight Riders managing director, Venky Mysore, believes all-rounder Carlos Brathwaite will be an asset to the franchise and could form a dynamic combination with fellow West Indies teammates, Sunil Narine and Andre Russell, in next year’s Indian Premier League. The 30-year-old Brathwaite was picked up by KKR for US$709,000 following a bidding war with Kings XI Punjab, making him one of the most expensive buys in Tuesday’s auction here. “It’s great to get Carlos Brathwaite to the KKR set up. He’s a quality player, a terrific individual, great attitude. He will fit in nicely into the KKR setup,” Mysore said after acquiring the Windies Twenty20 skipper.“More importantly, I think the multiple skills that he brings will supplement what we already have so we’re really looking forward to working with him.” Brathwaite will now join Narine and Russell, forming a potentially lethal trio, espe-

West Indies T20 skipper, Carlos Brathwaite. cially with their powerful allround skills. Narine is best known for his brilliant off-spin which has already earned him 112 wickets in 98 IPL matches but in recent seasons has been used a pinch-hitter with some success at the top of the order. Russell, 30, is broadshouldered, big-hitting lower-

order batsman who gathered 316 runs last season and grabbed 13 wickets with his pace.Mysore anticipates KKR could benefit from the trio’s collaboration. “I think the think tank has ideas about how to create certain combinations and a lot of it depends on the opposition and conditions, but that could be a very interesting propo-

sition,” he explained. “If you look at the top 200 T20 players, the top two are Andre and Sunil, and Carlos is not too far from there so to have the luxury of three world class all-rounders could make a big difference.” The move for Brathwaite takes him back to the place where he first made a name for himself in international cricket. It was at Eden Gardens in 2016 when he blasted consecutive sixes from the four four balls of the last over of the T20 World Cup final, to earn West Indies a dramatic title-win. And Mysore said those memories would still be fresh in the minds of supporters. “He’ll remember that, the Eden crowd will remember that and all the fans that saw that exciting moment,” Mysore said. “Hopefully he’ll be able to create some magic when he plays and I’m quite confident he will, so I’m looking forward to that.” IPL season 12 bowls off March next year.

Hamilton deserves more recognition, says Wolff LONDON (Reuters) Lewis Hamilton may be the greatest Formula One driver of all time but ‘negativity and envy’ are denying him the recognition he deserves, according to his Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff. Comparing the five-time world champion to retired Ferrari great Michael Schumacher, Wolff suggested people might not appreciate the 33-year-old Briton’s achievements until he too had left the scene. “Not everybody recognises a great career, a great sportsman or greatness overall while it’s happening. There is a lot of negativity and envy whilst it happens,” Wolff told Reuters in a telephone interview. “It’s only being recognised once a career has ended as having been really great and I don’t know why that is. We are extremely privileged in following a career of maybe the greatest racing driver of all time. “Obviously Michael has set the records and was unbelievable but Lewis is on a similar trajectory,” he added. “Also with Michael, it was only recognised after he retired and even more when tragedy struck. And I think it’s a pity.” Schumacher, who turns 50 in January, has not been seen in public since the German suffered severe head injuries in a skiing accident five years ago. Hamilton has set a string of records on his way to his fifth title this season, and could go

Formula One World Champion, Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton speaks next to Mercedes Executive Director Toto Wolff ahead of the United States Grand Prix during an interview October 17, 2018. (REUTERS/Mike Segar/File Photo) on to match Schumacher’s seven championships and 91 wins. The Briton, now on 73 victories, has won 51 of the 100 grands prix in the V6 turbo era that started in 2014 and four of the last five championships. Hamilton also has a record 83 pole positions and is only the third driver ever to win five titles or more. RUNNER-UP Last Sunday, he was runner-up in the BBC’s Sports Personality of the Year awards — a public vote — to Tour de France winner Geraint Thomas. He was condemned on social media for ‘slum’ comments about his boyhood town Stevenage, words he later clarified, and has been criticised for moving to the tax haven of Monaco where

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many other Formula One drivers reside. “We are live spectators, live witnesses of a great racing driver at the peak of his abilities,” said Wolff. “In the U.S. you are very much inspired by success. In Europe it triggers much more envy and negativity. “I am certainly biased because I have an emotional attachment to Lewis, for me the greatest sports person that is in his career in Britain.” Wolff said Hamilton was fully motivated to chase his sixth title next season and that the Briton, who leads a jet-setting celebrity lifestyle with interests in fashion and music away from the racetrack, would also not be the champion he was without dividing opinion. “Everybody wants to be

recognised, particularly in their own country and in order to achieve the success he has, you need to be sensitive,” he said. “He is that exceptional sports personality also because he polarizes. And I think at the end of the day, he’s thinking that he’d rather polarise than be just in the middle and boring. “He stays true to himself and his values and that is the most important thing.” Mercedes have won both titles for the past five years, something only Ferrari had ever done previously, and the German manufacturer has enjoyed the best year of its motorsport history. Their British driver George Russell won the Formula Two title, Schumacher’s son Mick was European Formula Three champion in a Mercedes-powered car and Mercedes also won the DTM (German Touring Car) championship. “I think we have achieved records this year which I think the sport has not seen,” said Wolff. “We have exciting new challenges ahead with Formula E that we are going to embark on in season six (2019-20), replacing DTM, and in the same way Formula One provides its own challenges about staying relevant.“I have no doubt that Ferrari and Red Bull in Formula One are going to continue to push the organisation too. Remaining on top and setting benchmarks is an exciting objective.”

Solskjaer handed caretaker manager role by Manchester United LONDON (Reuters) Manchester United have turned to former striker Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to steady the ship until the end of the season, confirming the Norwegian as caretaker manager in the wake of Jose Mourinho’s sacking on Tuesday. Solskjaer, who leaves his role as manager of Norwegian club Molde, will be joined by Mike Phelan as assistant manager. Phelan previously carried out that role under former United boss Alex Fergsuon for five seasons before leaving in 2013. United parted company with Mourinho with the club in sixth spot in the Premier League having made their worst start to a season for 28 years, culminating in a limp 3-1 loss to bitter rivals Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday. The appointment of Solskjaer to inject some life into United in some ways mirrors his playing career at the club where he scored 126 goals between 1996-2007, often as an impact sub. His most memorable contribution came in the 1999 Champions League final victory over Bayern Munich when he netted a stoppagetime winner. “Manchester United is in my heart and it’s brilliant to be coming back in this role,” the 45-year-old former Cardiff City manager, said in a statement. “I’m really looking forward to working with the very talented squad we have, the staff and everyone at the club.” Coincidentally Solskjaer’s first task will be to try and guide United to a much-needed three points away at Cardiff — the club who were relegated from the top flight on his watch in 2014 — on Saturday. CLUB LEGEND “Ole is a club legend with huge experience, both on the pitch and in coaching roles,” United executive vice chairman Ed Woodward said. “His history at Manchester United means he lives and breathes the culture here and everyone at the club is delighted to have him and Mike Phelan back. “We are confident they will unite the players and the fans as we head into the second half of the season.” Michael Carrick and Kieran McKenna, both part of Mourinho’s backroom staff, will be retained at the club to work under Solskjaer,

who won six Premier League titles and two FA Cups to go along with the 1999 Champions League triumph at United. Solskjaer was given the blessing of Molde, who he steered to two Norwegian titles in 2011 and 2012, and even earned some plaudits from Norway’s Prime Minister Erna Solberg, who tweeted: “FINALLY CONFIRMED! Great day for Norwegian football. Good luck keeping control of the Red Devils, @olegs26_ole” Molde said that their manager’s ‘temporary’ departure to United was an endorsement of the team’s success. “The fact that Manchester United asked to borrow Molde’s manager is in itself a happening, and a vote of confidence in both Ole Gunnar and in Molde FC,” the Norwegian club, who begin their new season in March, said in a statement. “We’re happy to lend them Ole Gunnar and wish both him and the club success,” it added. First team coach Erling Moe will take temporary charge of Molde, who finished second in the league last season. Following the loss to league leaders Liverpool, Manchester United (26 points) are 19 points adrift of their rivals after 17 matches and 11 behind fourth-placed Chelsea. Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino has emerged as the early favourite to take over as United’s permanent boss next season and the Argentine did little to quell speculation during a news conference on Tuesday. “Like always in football nobody can guarantee anything. What’s going to happen in the summer? What is going to happen tomorrow? Nobody knows, The most important thing is to enjoy the journey,” Pochettino told reporters. The 46-year-old Pochettino, who joined Tottenham from Southampton in 2014, has guided the London club to three consecutive top-three finishes in the Premier League but is yet to win a trophy. However, his attacking style and youth development are traits that were synonymous with the dominant United sides under Ferguson but largely absent since the Scot retired in 2013.

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Thursday December 20, 2018

Frustrated Smith wants Tridents to A response to R. Trim’s missive pay up as Mallya legal issues mount Letter to the Sports Editor

Dear Editor, Dear Sir I wish to address a small concern expressed by a letter writer, R. Trim, who, despite the caption, seems hell bent on maligning my ability and skill in the journalistic field. His contentions were many but Mr. Trim has not been bothered to outline his experience and knowledge in this area in which he so boldly criticizes the qualified personnel. One would have expected that Mr. Trim after making such caustic remarks would have at least a modicum of knowledge of the criteria for the selection process otherwise it is fair to assume that he is speaking in the breach and his views ought not to be taken seriously. Mr. Trim boldly denounced the choice of Best Boxer (Keevin Allicock) saying that his pick would have been middleweight, Desmond Amsterdam. His sole contention is that Amsterdam fought three times and won all inclusive of one stoppage. This gentleman ought to be

briefed by the experts that the establishment of such a prestigious prize is premised on far more than just the number of bouts fought by the boxer; there are other key variables like exhibition of skill, defensive techniques and skillful aggression to name a few. Should he be interested in a broader perspective he could approach me at any time for an educated brief on this topic. Personally, I believe that this letter was uncalled for and gave me the impression the sole purpose for his diatribe was to get me off his chest. He referred to me as a former national welterweight champion turned announcer and then he went on to say that I “stole the show and seemed on a mission to mix up everything.” He accused me of “performing a sour job as the ring announcer and forced many ‘suck teeths’ when I continuously announced wrong rounds, wrong names, wrong winners, wrong corners and even wrong countries.” Please Mr. Trim I did not

‘turn announcer’ I am a UG graduate with a Diploma and a Degree in Public Communications and I view your diatribe as malicious and uncalled for. Admittedly, on one occasion, because of a mix up at the head table I inadvertently made an error in the announcement and immediately apologized and corrected. For this, I am accused of “assaulting the ears of spectators.” Mr Trim then suggested that I hang up the mike. Forgive me if I take this as a personal attack but as old people does seh “Goat dung just need a lil breeze fo start to roll.” Roll on Mr. Trim. I might just take your advice and step aside to facilitate the smooth developmental flow of the sport you have worked tirelessly to build! Yours truly, Michael Benjamin Former Continental welterweight champion Former National welterweight Champion Former National Lightweight Champion Former Carifta Games Gold medallist

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, CMC – Leading Barbados Tridents batsman Dwayne Smith says he and other team members are yet to be paid all monies owed from this year’s Caribbean Premier League campaign, and believes the situation could hurt the image of the popular tournament. Smith is also worried that the pending extradition from the United Kingdom of Tridents owner, Dr Vijay Mallya, to face alleged fraud and money laundering charges in India, could further exacerbate the situation. “There was payment. It is the last payment that we’re waiting on and nobody knows what’s going to happen,” Smith said in an interview with Line & Length Network. “I think it’s something that the CPL should have sorted. They said the last time it happened, it wouldn’t happen again. They gave us their word that they would make sure that this doesn’t happen and it’s still happening.” He continued: “I don’t know what they can do but this is something that could hamper the tournament. The CPL has been a talk-a-about tournament since it was introduced and I’m sure that people love to come to the Caribbean to play the cricket and I would never want to see CPL finish but it is something that we really want to get sorted. ”If it happens before the end of the year I would be happy. The last time we only got paid like two days before the draft. You don’t want that again, but at this point in time, no one knows w h a t ’s gonna happen.”Mallya, an Indian business magnate, purchased the Bridgetown-based franchise two years ago but has been beset by financial and legal issues in recent years. He fled India in 2016 and has been exiled in England since, battling extradition to face what

Barbados Tridents batting star, Dwayne Smith. the Indian courts say amount to nearly US$ one billion in unpaid debt. Last week, a London court ruled Mallya could be extradited to face charges, pending Home Office approval. Smith described the development as “disturbing” and said what was even more frustrating was the lack of information. “We are unsure about what’s gonna happen. The news about Dr Mallya is even more disturbing. The thing is, we’re trying to get information. I don’t know, but I’ve been trying to get information,” Smith said. “If I sign a contract and I fulfill my contract, I’m supposed to be paid. It is something that is bothering a lot of the players and some won’t speak out. I know I may get bashed for it, but I am one that speaks out and I would like to know what’s happening.” Smith and Tridents endured a tumultuous campaign in the CPL this year, losing

eight of their 10 games to finish dead last and miss out on the playoffs for a second straight year. For his part, Smith struggled, gathering only 185 runs from seven matches, with a single half-century. The 35-year-old said it was important the Tridents franchise honoured its commitment to players. “Everybody knows that Dwayne Smith loves Barbados, but Dwayne Smith also needs to be paid, he needs to feed his family. This is the third time this is happening and you don’t know about it,” said Smith, who now specialises in the shorter formats following his international retirement.“I’ve probably had one or two times [when payment was delayed) but it wasn’t for such an extended period of time. This is creeping in now and if it doesn’t stop, you’re not going to get any players so it really needs to get sorted.”

GBA President recognises efforts of talented female boxers President of the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) Steve Ninvalle has recognised the talent and efforts of two talented female boxers.The young ladies happen to be sisters Abiola and Alesha Jackman, 14 and 16 years old respectively, who won gold medals at the recently concluded Caribbean Boxing Championship (CBC) which Guyana won on

home turf at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall. Both young ladies exhibited excellent talent and stopped their opponents on their way to gold medals. Alesha had won gold at the Junior Schoolboys tournament and is a candidate for the Junior Sportswoman of the year award. Ninvalle visited them at their Self help Square, West

Ruimveldt residence and presented the young lasses with boxing gloves, jerseys and a financial donation as encouragement for their efforts. The GBA head noted that these girls are the pride of West Ruimveldt and of Guyana and he is confident that once they remain focused they will do themselves and Guyana proud in the sport.

Kaieteur News

Thursday December 20, 2018

‘Kayo’ McKinnon and ‘Tallo’ Hutson academies Annual Youth Challenge Fiesta

Hi Stars win Under-13, Topp XX capture Under-16 title

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Bartica Football Association has newly-elected president

Newly-Elected President Alden Marslowe (centre background) with his team. Under-16 Champions Topp XX

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i Stars and Topp XX are winners of the annual Kayo’s and Tallo’s Academy Youth Fiesta Under-13 and Under-16 Youth Challenge Fiesta which came off on Saturday last at the Mackenzie Sports Club ground. To reach the final of the Under-13 tournament Hi Stars won by a 1-0 score over Blueberry Hill, while Topp XX scored a 1-0 victory over last year’s winners Milerock. In the final Hi Stars overcame Topp XX 1-0 with eventual Most Valuable Player Shamiah Samuels scoring the goal to give his team the win. In the Under-16 championship, Topp XX

gained a bye, but Milerock disposed of Rickland Hutson’s Leadership Academy by a 3-0 score-line. In the final, Topp XX had to win by penalty kicks 4-1 after the scores at the end of open play was nil all. Topp XX’s Nick was named the Most Valuable Player among the Under 16 players. The Rickland Hutson Leadership Academy’s Coach Rawle Huntley was named as Best Coach and they were the Most Disciplined Team on show. Topp XX’s Alvin Andries received the Best Goalkeeper Award in the Under-16 category competition.

Under-13 Champions Hi Stars

Mohamed’s Enterprise supports GFF/ Exxonmobil International Futsal Tourney Mohamed’s Enterprise of Lombard Street has thrown their support behind the GFF-ExxonMobil International Futsal Festival set for the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall December 27 to 30. Yesterday at the business house boardroom, Proprietor Nazar Mohamed made the presentation of a cheque to Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Executive

Dion Inniss in the presence of Aubrey ‘Shanghai’ Major of the organisers. Mr. Mohamed stated that he was very happy to see Kashif and Shanghai back in the promotion of football events and he is always happy to support them. He noted that he has been associated with the organising duo for over 30 years and he is happy to support their exceptional

organising abilities. Inniss in receiving the valuable corporate sustenance from Mohamed’s Enterprise, stated that he and the GFF were happy with the assistance and thanked the entity for being on board with the event. The football official pointed out that Mohamed’s demonstrated their investment in youths and to ensure they have the (Continued on page 29)

Alden Marslowe is the new President of the Bartica Football Association (BFA) following elections last Monday in the Region 7 mining community. The elections, supervised by the Guyana Football Federation (GFF), saw the Marslowe-led slate defeating the slated headed by Michael Dos Santos. In an invited comment, Marslowe was in high praise for his team and supporters and said he was humbled to be tasked with this great undertaking: “It is indeed an honour to assume this responsibility of leading the charge towards the revival of the sport at Bartica. With the many broad shoulders at the wheel, the Association can only go in the direction of ultimate success.Bartica will start scoring goals again, soon.”Following a lull of football activities and the

disintegration of the Executive Committee, a “Resuscitation Working Group” was established in May 2018 comprising nine members including Marslowe and some members of the new executive. During their tenure, the group successfully executed the Independence Cup Championship from May 13 – 26, 2018. The winning team is as follows: Alden Marslowe – President, Elwes Jones – First Vice President, Kenneth Edwards – Second Vice President, Carmel Williams – Third Vice President, Arita Embleton – Secretary, Kwesi Jacobs – Treasurer and Michelle Jeffery – Assistant Secretary/Treasurer. The Committee Members are Sherwin Da Silva, Curtis Joseph, Terrence Williams, Vince Hopkinson and Randy Adams.

Kaieteur News

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Angel is Achievers Youth and Sports Club cricketer of the year

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hamal Angel was voted cricketer of the year when the Achievers Youth and Sports Club held its annual awards ceremony on Saturday last at the Fort We l l i n g t o n S e c o n d a r y School, West Coast Berbice. Angel was also named the most disciplined junior player and the most improved cricketer of the year. Krishandat Ramoo was named the most discipline senior player and the runner up cricketer of the year. Tiea Isaacs was given the female cricketer of the year accolade, while Kelvin Sinclair took home the prize

Shamal Angel accepts the cricketer of the year prize. for being named the U19 cricketer of the year. Collis Noble and Budram Lakram won the U17 and U15 cricketers of the year prizes respectively. David Black of the

Achievers Youth and Sports Club told Kaieteur Sport that the ceremony was held to recognise the efforts of the players throughout the year and also served as a motivation not only to them but other youngsters.

Thursday December 20, 2018

International Imports and Supplies on board with MSC annual football International Imports and Supplies are the latest corporate sponsor to throw their support behind the M ATA R K A I S p o r t s Committee for the hosting of their annual floodlight football competition. The tournament which is being held in collaboration with New Image Barber Shop and Platinum General Store will commence on December 26 at Oronoque tarmac, Port Kaituma. MSC PRO, Sherlon Rodrigues, expressed gratitude to the entity and urged other sponsors to lend their support soonest since only one week remains before the games commence. International Imports and Supplies representative Ms. Ocia Mendoncia said they are happy to be given the opportunity to be part of the tournament and wished the teams well. Male and female teams from Arakaka, Matthew Ridge, Port Kaituma, Sebai,

MSC chairman Sherlon Rodrigues receives sponsorship from Ms. Ocia Mendoncia.

Mabaruma and Moruca will battle for the most attractive cash and individual prizes. Fans should expect quality and skillful football throughout the tournament, while Bullet Soundz will provide musical entertainment.

MSC would like to thank to Mr. Orlando Throne NDC chairman, The Officer in Charge of Port Kaituma P o l i c e S t a t i o n , M r. Pameshwar Jagmohan, Roshan Rampersaud and Staff of International imports and supplies.

Letter to the Sports Editor

K&S responds to Christopher Matthias Dear Mr. Editor, Christopher Matthias, Christopher Matthias, Christopher Matthias, you should not pronounce on football matters in Guyana. I refer to the article in one of

the daily newspapers dated 12th December 2018 under the caption, “Matthias queries rationale for K & S in Futsal Festival”. You were impeached by FIFA after serving as the President of GFF for a short w h i l e . Yo u r c a b i n e t disintegrated tremendously under your watch. Did you ever ask yourself why? Like an Unorthodox and Illadvised General in the Army you were booted out dishonorably. This is the first time in living History that FIFA visited these parts (CONCACAF) to rescue a country from its continuous slide to football demolition. Thank you FIFA. In the past FIFA unreservedly came to the rescue of its Member Associations after being hassled by the respective Governments. Countries were banned and threatenedwith suspension after the G overnment intervened which is contrary to FIFA’s regulation. You were a critic of Mr. Klass but Mr. Klass’ status compared to you was way better.Can you say if during your tenure, had FIFA gave you any cash: If not why? Was it related to your tenure at the Georgetown Football Association? The Kashif & Shanghai

Organisation was unceremoniously removed by you because you felt you had the capacity and capability to organize a football tournament of such magnitude so you can get a chance to get your hands on some of the funds, but God willing nothing of that nature materialized. Your attempts fizzled out and died a natural death; this showed you that you did not have the capacity and wherewithal to be an effective leader and organiser. The present GFF Executive in an effort to have the football venues filled again to capacity in their wisdom contracted out the running of their first ever International Futsal Tournament to the K & S Organization. Your rant and rave of who owns the tournament is least of the matter and it confirms a petty and callous thought pattern. Mr. Matthias I urge you to just get on to your proverbial horse and just ride off into the night so you can be exiled in the wilderness and leave football administration to the experts. Thank you. Yours in Sports, Kashif & Shanghai Organization.

Kaieteur News

Thursday December 20, 2018

VOS end of year swim meet Paramaribo, Suriname

Guyanese enjoyed successful trip winning 25 medals

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u y a n a ’s 3 9 member team made up of four clubs, won 25 Medals at the VOS Invitational Meet held last weekend in Paramaribo, the largest City of the Guyana’s Dutch neighbour Suriname. Guyanese arrived in the 64,000 Square-Mile Nation on Thursday evening and competed in the in a 25metre Pool as they ended the season with short course races. The team was without 12-year-old local swimming sensation Aleka Persaud who broke six records in 1112 events in this year’s Goodwill games; breaking the 28.77 in the 50 metres’ freestyle record with a stunning time of 27.95 which is fastest time over that distance in any age group by a Guyanese girl. Team Manager Leon Seaton who said he wanted to see bigger participation in future tours informed Persaud, whose father was in China, had to miss to miss the trip. Swim Academy, Sea Otter, Orca, Silver Sharks and Dolphin combined to

Guyana Team Manager Seaton presents Lewis with one of her five Gold Medals.

form what turned out to be a strong team which returned home on Tuesday. “Going forward we want more participation to give us the chance to win more Medals,” said Seaton who been involved in swimming since 2010. All of the swimmers improved on their times in the two-day meet and Coach Sean Baksh said he was satisfied with the overall performance of his young charges. “This competition can be considered as a motivational meet especially for those who missed out in this year’s

Goodwill games in Barbados, the youngest swimmer in the Guyanese continent is nine-year-old Shareefah Lewis,” explained Coach Baksh. “The Standard was slightly bigger than what have here, we had many first-timers and I am satisfied with our overall showing of the young and inexperienced team.” Lewis was outstanding in Suriname, winning five Gold Medals. She finished first in the 50m Backstroke in 40.57 (PB), the 50m Breaststroke in 47.24 (PB), the 50m Butterfly, 50m

Freestyle and 100m Individual Medley Outstanding Guyanese were: Jovana Goodridge 50 Backstroke - Bronze 46.21(PB) Patrice Mahaica 100 Backstroke - Gold 100 Butterfly Bronze 100 F r e e s t y l e G o l d 1:09.04(PB) 100 Individual Medley - Bronze ‘ 1:19.08(PB) 50 Freestyle Silver Latisha Blair 100 Backstroke - Bronze 1:18.64(PB) Boys 5. Jaleel Anderson 100 Freestyle - Bronze Fitzroy Thom 100 Individual Medley - Bronze 1:06.67(PB) Andrew Jordan 100 Freestyle - Bronze 58.74(PB) Leon Seaton 100 Individual Medley - Gold 1:05.62(PB) 100 Butterfly - Bronze 1:02.57(PB) 100 Backstroke - Bronze 1:06.30(PB) 100 Freestyle - Bronze 56.18(PB) 50 Freestyle - Silver 24.62(PB) Andrew Fowler 100 Freestyle - Gold 54.25(PB) 50 Freestyle - Gold 24.50(PB). (Sean Devers)

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S&L donates to Net Rockers ahead of GT Beer Year end C/ship clash with Blueberry Hill

S&L donates to Net Rockers Football Club with Ms. Pemberton handing over to Coach Eon ‘Axeman’ Wills. A generous donation was made to the Net Rockers Football Club of Linden by S&L Electrical Agency to aid the club which is now seeking a semifinal berth in the annual GT Beer year end Championship at the Mackenzie Sports Club ground.Receiving the cheque, from proprietor of S&L Electrical Agency located in Thomas Street Kitty, Ms. Pemberton, was Eon ‘Axeman’ Wills, the Coach of

the Net Rockers Football Club who said they were grateful for the annual support that S&L had been giving to them. Wills said his team’s gratitude is with the long time donors who are very supportive of them over the years... He said that the donation would assist in their preparation and now that they have a good chance to reach the semifinals when they face Blueberry Hill tomorrow night.

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Mohamed’s Enterprise supports GFF/Exxonmobil International Futsal Tourney

Mr. Nazar Mohamed (centre) presents the Mohamed’s Enterprise cheque to GFF Official Dion Inniss while Aubrey ‘Shanghai’ Major observes.

GBA President recognises efforts of talented female boxers

Sisters Abiola (left) and Alesha Jackman receives the gifts from GBA President Steve Ninvalle.

Leon Seaton jr flies the Guyana Flag proudly with team in the pool in Suriname.

VOS end of year swim meet Paramaribo, Suriname

Bartica Football Association Guyanese enjoyed successful has newly-elected president trip winning 25 medals Printed and published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd., 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown. Tel: 225-8458, 225-8465, 225-8491 or Fax: 225-8473/226-8210.