Monday December 24, 2018
Just like PPP, APNU +AFC paid the price for its arrogance Former Speaker of the National Assembly, Ralph Ramkarran said that he always saw the safe passage of a no-confidence motion against the APNU+AFC Government as a distinct possibility. In a weekly column published on his blog—Conversation Tree—Ramkarran, noted “Election results mean something. In 2011, the electorate told the PPP/C that it wants that party to join in a coalition to manage the affairs of the nation. The PPP/C ignored the message. The electorate removed it from office in 2015. Then it proceeded to give the APNU+AFC coalition a mere one seat majority. This conveyed another message – that the APNU + AFC coalition government should proceed cautiously and engage with the Opposition.” Ramkarran noted that the APNU+AFC coalition likewise ignored the message, overreached and governed as if it had a sweeping mandate. “Now, like the PPP, it has paid the price. Arrogance, meaning the ignoring of the message of the electorate, rather than humility, that is, frequent consultation with, and listening to, the concerns of supporters and backbenchers, such as Mr. Charrandas Persaud, appears to be an ingrained habit of the main political parties.” Ramkarran recalled that an interview was given by Persaud after the vote in the National Assembly. He said that whether or not Persaud had given prior indication to the Opposition that he would support a no confidence motion, “his answers were unrehearsed and rational.” Ramkarran noted Persaud’s mention of two occasions on which he disagreed with his party’s leadership. “But he painfully expressed the loss of any influence over what he alleged was the unilateral direction that the leadership of the AFC was taking the party, and the plight of sugar workers, who the AFC had vowed to protect, but 7,000 of whom ended up losing their jobs.” Ramkarran said that Persaud’s disappointment with his party is shared by many former supporters as their widespread abandonment of the AFC at the local government elections demonstrated. He said that the AFC had a golden opportunity to keep its promise to the Guyanese people of holding APNU to the high standards that it said it was committed to. “But it failed to do so, to the disappointment of many, including Mr. Persaud.” Ramkarran noted that because of Persaud’s vote, Guyana has now had two governments of the main par-
- Former Speaker Ralph Ramkarran
Former Speaker, Ralph Ramkarran ties whose terms lasted for only three years. He said that this reality suggests that a degree of instability has crept into the political landscape. “It cannot be predicted whether this will continue. Even if it does, it is preferable to the 20+ year entrenchment in office that Guyana has been a victim of in the past. It is hoped that the electorate can be persuaded to consider a model whereby the main parties are kept below an absolute majority and are forced to compete for the support of
Guyana to develop beyond the rigid ethno-political system that has dominated the country’s politics since Independence. According to the veteran politician, it will be a matter of the “greatest interest” to observe whether the APNU+AFC (if the coalition holds) will repeat the promise of reforming the Constitution to provide for a government that includes more than a single political force. Ramkarran said that if this promise is repeated, it will be interesting to see what guarantees are given this time around that those promises will be kept. Further, Ramkarran said that while the PPP did not make any such promises in the 2015 election campaign, it said that it would not oppose constitutional reform. He said, “The PPP may well consider that the time has come for consideration to be given to bringing an end to one party majority rule. Every thinking Guyanese, except those active in our main political parties, is aware that the complex issues relating to the management of Guyana’s oil re-
Persaud’s disappointment with his party is shared by many former supporters as their widespread abandonment of the AFC at the local government elections demonstrated - Ramkarran smaller parties to stay in office. One party majoritarianism will not resolve the problems arising from Guyana’s ethnopolitics. The electorate did not succeed in 2011 and 2015. It can still succeed if it is still motivated to hold the major parties in check,” said Ramkarran. He noted that Guyana will be having elections in three months, with the two main parties being led by different persons—persons who are not the current heads of the parties. Ramkarran pointed out that the PPP is in the process of selecting its presidential candidate. And, that President Granger’s chemotherapy treatment is likely to continue into and beyond the election period and the likelihood is that his recovery will not be complete by that time and he might not be able to endure the rigours of an election campaign. Also, Ramkarran said that smaller parties, already established and soon to be established, will be gearing up within the limited time available to contest the elections and test the potential of
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sources needs all hands on deck, including both political parties. The size and complexity of the tasks yet to be accomplished suggest that no single political party can satisfy the nation that their interests are being protected. “The electorate has spoken twice, in 2011 and 2015. It has declared it preference for Guyana to start a new journey, one without the monolithic domination of one or the other major political party. Despite the suddenness with which the fall of the APNU+AFC Government took place and the limited time for new elections, it is hoped that these concerns of the electorate will be addressed in the election campaign.”
A VENEZUELAN INCURSION & ELECTIONS IN 3 MONTHS….
Govt. needs to address Guyana on the way forward for oil, overall governance - TIGI Head By Kiana Wilburg With a recent Venezuelan incursion in Guyana’s waters and General and Regional Elections in three months, head of Transparency International Guyana Inc (TIGI), Dr. Troy Thomas believes that the coalition government needs to address the nation on the way forward for oil preparations and overall governance. In an invited comment, Dr. Thomas said, “I think it is right for the government to address the nation. Given the success of the No-Confidence Motion, how will they proceed with governance in the short space of time? … Someone needs to call a press conference or address the nation. I am not saying that President David Granger should do it as he is not in good health…But the Executive needs to get someone who can speak authoritatively on this matter.” Dr. Thomas also said while TIGI has no position on the No-Confidence Motion’s success, as to whether it is a “good or a bad thing,” he did note that it comes at a crucial time. He reminded that only few weeks ago, the Government tabled the draft Natural Resource Governance Bill. “I am assuming at this point, it would be best to put a hold on it because you don’t want them to rush it through… but putting those things on hold means we will take longer in terms of preparing for oil…,” the TIGI Head said. For these and other reasons, the activist said it is imperative that the Executive addresses the nation. CRUCIAL ISSUES UNADDRESSED For months, several local and international bodies have complained about the state of preparedness for Guyana’s oil sector. The curricula of tertiary institutions are virtually without hardcore training programmes for oil and gas. Many ministries and government agencies are without strong audit departments and an augmented staff that is ready to analyze petroleumfunded projects. And reforms to the public financial management system are yet to be completed.
These observations, among others, were put to the government by the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The Fund has also stated that there is limited capacity at all levels in the Ministry of Finance and in the line agencies. It said that this is a significant constraint for the possibilities to implement and institutionalize Public Financial Management (PFM) reforms. It said that these reform measures will need to be carefully prioritized and sequenced so as not to overload the limited capacity. Further to this, the Fund said that the extent and wideranging nature of future PFM reforms perhaps require a more coordinated approach to reform implementation. It said that many countries faced with an extensive body of work have formed a dedicated reform team to organize, coordinate, and facilitate the required reforms in many PFM areas. It said that the reform unit/ team will provide oversight, guidance and monitoring to the PFM reform plan and act as a coordinator of the overall PFM reform program. In Guyana’s case, the IMF stated that Guyana needs to adopt such an approach. It said that the country’s Unit should be directed to upgrading the skills of staff in the Ministry of Finance and line agencies by developing a core PFM training programme. As for further capacity building efforts, the Fund said this could and should have been coordinated with local training institutions. In this regard, it said “The Ministry of Finance should explore further the options to cooperate with local training institutions (e.g. recently opened Bertram Collins College of the Public Service; University of Guyana) and other partners to deliver necessary training programs on a continuous basis.” It added, “Other, cost-effective and efficient solutions, such as developing a partnership arrangement with other countries in the region could be a viable option as well. New capacity-building actions should be designed to channel appropriate training pro-
TIGI Head, Dr. Troy Thomas grams through these institutions, and to use their staff to perform training. In this way, training skills could be further built up in those institutions to provide sustainable ongoing training in years to come.” Given the state of affairs, the International Monetary Fund made several recommendations in areas Guyana needs urgent capacity building. The Fund said that the country needs to develop capacity to interpret and administer Production Sharing Agreements (PSA). It said that officials should understand thoroughly all the fiscal provisions in these arrangements, including the accounting annex. It added, “Government needs to establish formal and structured working relationships on responsibilities between agencies with regulatory responsibilities for the petroleum sector. It needs to develop petroleum fiscal regime models and train officials on tax policy, fiscal modeling and revenue forecasting for the sector. They also need to strengthen the fiscal reporting including on natural resource revenue flows and statutory bodies and public corporations, and ensure consistency with international standards (e.g., the IMF general template on natural resource revenue statistics).” It noted too, that the Government needs to build capacity to undertake long term revenue forecasting from extractive industries.
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Kaieteur News
Monday December 24, 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
Government has fallen, but there is Hope After being in office for only three and a half years, the APNU+AFC coalition government has been soundly defeated on three occasions by the PPP, which blamed the government’s defeat on the mismanagement of the economy, high crime, and gross incompetence, among others. The first defeat occurred in Local Government Elections (LGE) in March 2016, less than one year after the government assumed office. The second was on November 12, when the coalition government received a shellacking in the LGE. And the third defeat unfolded last Friday in high drama in Parliament when attorney-at-law and AFC Member of Parliament, Charrandas Persaud bucked the trend and voted in favor of the no-confidence motion which passed in the House. It was the worst defeat suffered by any government in the history of Guyana. At no time was the PPP or the PNC was ever defeated in a no-confidence vote in Parliament. With the passage of the no-confidence motion, Guyanese would most likely go back to the polls in general elections by the end of March, 2019, according to the President who has decided to abide by Article (106) 7 of the constitution: “Notwithstanding its defeat, the Government shall remain in office and shall hold an election within three months, or such longer period as the National Assembly shall by resolution supported by not less than two-thirds of the votes of all the elected members of the National Assembly determine, and shall resign after the President takes the oath of office following the elections.” While supporters of the PPP at home and abroad celebrated the fall of the government, the outcome of the votes came as a blow to many supporters of the government. The truth is the government has to take full responsibility for what transpired in Parliament last Friday. There has always been the possibility that coalition governments, especially those with a small majority of seats in Parliament will most likely not serve a full term in office because of disagreements on policies and style of governance. In most cases, the larger parties in coalition governments tend to implement policies without consulting with the smaller parties The APNU+AFC coalition government with a one seat majority should have proceeded to govern with caution and should have engaged the opposition when necessary. Instead, they governed as if they had a large majority. Not only have they ignored the PPP, but they have also ignored the coalition partners in the decision-making process as well as the electorate. In the three years, the government did not consult with, or listen to the concerns of the people or their back bench MPs such as Charsandass Persaud and many others. As said earlier, the government, especially President Granger must be blamed for the success of the motion. Not only were members of the cabinet arrogant and obsessed with power, but they have abandoned their supporters, made too many mistakes, were involved in too many scandals and wrong doings, mismanaged the economy and not being transparent or accountable. There were insensitive to the needs of the people, particularly the poor. But the greatest mistake of all was to increase their salaries by 50 percent after being in office for less than three months. In the case of wrong doings, it seems that the president took a nonchalant approach and did not discipline any of the Ministers involved. As reported on many occasions, the president and members of the cabinet do not listen to advice from anyone. Moreover, most ministers are aloof. But it is not all doom and gloom. Importantly, Jagdeo sounded a conciliatory tone and appeared to have left the door open for some sort of political cooperation, as Guyana heads into commercial oil production by early 2020. It is an unprecedented move by Jagdeo to unite both parties and move the country forward in the future.
KEEPING THE FOCUS
DEAR EDITOR, I listened to an international preacher giving his rendition of the Christmas Story. As he expounded on the plight of Joseph finding his espoused bride to be pregnant, the preacher uttered the words “this is not the Christmas he (Joseph) was looking for”. I could not help but think that this was a prophetic description of our dear nation of Guyana as we enter the holidays with the unsettling reality of a political landscape that is far from delivering the stability, confidence and pathway to growth that we had hoped for. Yes, by now it is obvious that the main focus of my discourse is the current political main story – “No confidence vote passed; elections to be held in three months.” Like many Guyanese I felt the pangs of betrayal, the terror of an
uncertain future and the disgust of yet more drama; not getting it together for such long time; a nation not moving on; continuous unrest. For me these discomfiting feelings are fuelled by a bit more: the fact that our young people are not getting a chance to witness any real progressive political strategy and are maturing in an era where there is a paucity of true examples of statesmanship, freedom fighters and commitment to a greater cause. Further, I shudder at the thought that what is being demanded of us at this time is beyond our natural ability to comply. First, an election to be planned at a time when there is no real voice from the incumbent president and leader of the coalition, and an elections commission chairman who is away on indefinite sick leave. Moreover, this is
compounded by the fact that there are unrelenting elements that seek to capitalize on both the selfinflicted and calamitous wounds of the coalition to destabilize, infiltrate and return the nation to a dark era. Nonetheless, as a nation and a people, we have a choice to make. A choice between lamenting and acting; a choice between sinking in despair or arising in the hope of a better day that we could secure a better day. For some there is a greater choice – that of whether to be complicit and seek your own good or whether to garner some steel and back bone and decide to create a better tomorrow for your children and grandchildren. Make no mistake, there will be further dealing and wheeling, there will be more temptations to accept the offerings of the enemies of
our nation’s good and protect self-interest. I take this opportunity to sound a call for all Guyanese to reject the attempts to purchase our souls. I ask us to remember the mysterious execution style killings that riddled the front pages of our newspapers every day; the raping and leaching of this country’s wealth whilst sick people just had to make a decision to die for lack of availability of the appropriate interventions at affordable prices and while our children remained in learning institutions with backward methodologies for lack of the technological modalities which will prepare them for the century in which they live. I urge you fellow citizens to remember the scourge of international embarrassment as senior officials had visas revoked and clouds of Continued on page 6
CHARRANDASS PERSAUD SHOULD HAVE STAYED TO HELP THE PPPC DEAR EDITOR, It was reported online that former AFC MP Charrandass Persaud flew out of Guyana for Canada hours after he voted yes and triggered another general elections in three months. The question is why did Mr Persaud not remain in Guyana and join with the PPPC instead of flying out here to Canada? If Charrandass Persaud was so concerned as he said about the future of the Guyanese people, then to whose benefit did he vote yes and force early elections and then get on a plane and turn his back on the 800,000 Guyanese he claimed he
wanted to help? Nevertheless we are constitutionally required to have elections in March 2019, of which the current APNU AFC government will most likely win with a larger majority than in 2015. I say this because the number of positive things the government has accomplished on an epic scale such as overseeing oil discoveries, new airport, pension increases, roadways, building programs for youth success, planning for bridges across our rivers and to bring gas onshore for consumer/ industrial use, etc. By contrast the PPPC will be weakened by what
Charrandass Persaud did on December 21, 2018 because his yes vote handed the PPPC absolutely nothing significant to knock the APNU AFC government out of power on March 2019. Charrandass Persaud made a huge political miscalculation with the push for early elections. LGE voter motivation should not be confused with General Election voters. The fact is that there are more Guyanese today who will support the APNU AFC at the General Election ballots and they will show up in large numbers in March 2019 and give APNU AFC possibly close to forty seats in
Charrandass Persaud planned his vote months earlier MY DEAR PEOPLE, Mr. Charrandass planned this move way in advance. Watch him speaking with reporters, Charrandass did not hold back, he let the cat out of the bag. What the Government failed to do is to put their ears to the ground. He appeared to have planned the vote. He had prepared a letter, which he gave to his secretary of his law office in Berbice, detailing his reasons for his vote, that is not an overnight decision? Mr Charrandass said the letter was to have been released in case he did not make it from the Parliament chambers. Please look at the
pictures in Parliament who were sitting behind Mr. Charrandass and who yell their hands in support of Charrandass vote. Those were the same people he had also made plans to fly out yesterday. He wrote to his son, urging him to be happy and to be a good father. With regards to his decision, Charrandass decided to complain that the Government MP, Minister of Health, Volda Lawrence, was sitting in the cafeteria in the Parliament Buildings allegedly making threats. Is this the same man praising the same Minister in Parliament?
He also put blame on the Government for the sugar workers! My question to Mr. Charrandass who was part of the Government: what has he done for the sugar workers or generally in his area for the people in Region 6. So Mr. Charrandass don’t try to tarnish the Minister of Health to cover up for what you had planned to do by voting for the PPP. Shame on you Mr. Charrandass. You will have to live with this for the rest of your life. And when you have the time look back at this speech you made on the budget. Regards Beni Rayman
parliament this time around. The PPPC does not have the support base in numbers to win a majority. So this means that the two sides must stop the fighting and start working together for the people. The fighting that started since the 1960s has become boring and now unacceptable on every level. Having said that, I will support that after the March 2019 General Elections, it would be prudent for the APNU AFC and PPPC to sit down and establish joint committees and work together to provide the public with respectful oversight of the energy sector and management of the country. I totally support all media houses in Guyana regardless of political affiliation because one side does not have it right all the time. It’s valuable to hear all opinions that are based on facts. The Guyanese media are hardworking men and women who provide the truth to an intelligent population despite a political scene that sometimes resembles a circus. In the end Charrandass Persaud will be remembered for being just another clown having done an unintelligent juggling act and then flying away. Charrandass had his fifteen minutes of fame and the country gained nothing. Alan Zaakir PNCR Central Toronto Chapter, Canada
Monday December 24, 2018
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It was about clearing Was Charrandass’ about-face really about a conscience conscience, or something more sinister?
DEAR EDITOR, It has nothing to do with being cajoled into making that yes vote, in favour of the noconfidence vote, it has to do with his conscience which is now crystal clear after having said yes maybe for about the seventh time. Mr C. Persaud could not stifle that compelling inner voice of his which told him to say yes out loud for the world to hear. But let me tell you something of even deeper and greater importance, Mr Charrandass is a Berbician, and we take the interest of our own seriously, very seriously. Central to our existence here in Berbice is the wellbeing of our fellow brothers and sisters: Red, Yellow, Black, White, Indian or Amerindian. A Berbician is a Berbician; we do not see race, we do not see the colour of one’s skin or the texture of one’s hair. We are all “One Berbician.” We cannot help it; that’s the way we think that’s the way we are. That is why it boggles my mind why Mr Nagamootoo and Mr Ramjattan are still wallowing in the quagmire of an APNU Camp? They are supposed to be AFC but sadly they are all “yes men” in a Corrupt PNC Controlled Cabal and Berbicians are not like that? Berbicians are men of integrity, men of guts and men with “testicular fortitude.” Berbician men do not flinch
even in the face of death or imminent danger. That is who Mr Charrandass is, a Berbician to the bone. He is our Guyanese reincarnation of a Cheddi Jagan and a Mahatma Gandhi, standing up for what is right no matter what! Like myself, Mr Charrandass is a real Berbician and to have seen the suffering, the hurt the degradation of his people, it would have churned his innards. He had to make that altogether major decision to vote against This Coalition Government of spite. He would have said how could he live with that low seared conscience for the rest of his life. He had to make a stand and do so right now! He would have reasoned within himself, how can I live with myself seeing the suffering of my people all around me and be at peace with myself? So, as Berbicians we commend our hearts to this great man and stand in full solidarity with our brother. To Mr Nagamootoo and Ramjattan, it is high time to wake up and embrace the dictates of your conscience. The time to make that decision is still there, please do so now! As Berbicians your consciences are pricking you, so please come out stand up and be counted like Mr Charrandass. We are waiting on you! Respectfully Submitted Neil Adams
Charrandass’s vote is disdainful of the conscience of other Guyanese DEAR EDITOR, By now, we are all aware of Mr Charrandass Persaud’s reasons for his “vote of conscience” on the no-confidence motion. It is puzzling, therefore, why he did not exercise the options of resigning from his party beforehand or even abstaining from voting. He instead chose to pull off the most repugnant and undemocratic political act in decades in Guyana. Ours is a representative democracy. Despite its several defects, the people have certain expectations of their MPs. One expectation surrounds the conscience vote. In any circumstance, we expect an MP to be open upfront should he or she plan to vote conscience. This openness becomes an absolute necessity for a vote on a no-confidence motion. For the no-confidence motion is like no bill or other parliamentary motion. It carries the highest possible political stakes. A government survives or falls by it. An MP, therefore, cannot view it in the same light as a parliamentary bill or even as the national budget. A vote on a no-confidence motion is the highest possible act of representation. In other words, it most demands the need for representativeness, for the input of the represented. It implicates, more than anything other vote, the interest and destiny of every single Guyanese. It is the one vote where the personal conscience of the MP is irrelevant or least relevant. It is only the conscience of those who he represents that matters. Charrandass Persaud woke up one morning and decided that my vote and conscience and those of hundreds of thousands of other Guyanese did not matter. He chose not to discuss his concerns with us beforehand. He chose not to resign beforehand or abstain. Instead, he chose to disdainfully treat us like nothing. Sherwood Lowe
DEAR EDITOR, Conscience and principles are precious elements of the human psyche, while bribery is the ordinary common factor that ushers in most of the conditions of human misery in its consequences. The just achieved PPP No Confidence Motion is a classic case study through what is emerging circumstantially about the now infamous former AFC Parliamentarian Charrandass Persaud. I would be surprised if there are no legal consequences in respect to Parliamentary practice to the coercing of a person to exhibit a last minute stab in the back to the highest Law making institution of the nation. A parliamentarian should be able to voice his position to his peers outside of Parliament. There have been several precedents for such declarations of change of philosophy from political personalities over the years. Those persons did not run away driven by guilt, plan an escape beforehand nor in most cases wait for a parliament sitting to act out an obvious agenda, and then ‘run like ah rat’. The former aspect of this sentence should be the criteria. There is enough evidence that a political section of our body politics
has always resorted to bullying towards power, even for votes on GE day, when broke youth are given an advance and told to make a cell phone shoot of where they had placed their ‘X’ to receive the balance, which is negligible, but relevant if that’s all you have. The PPP is a desperate party that will stop at nothing to ascend to office rather than disappear. The gloom of their presence is once more haunting our peace of mind; we must rectify it at the polls, and not be subject to the psychological warfare, we must then understand what happened with the infamous Persaud as what it is, nothing to do with conscience. I learnt a lot about Politics from Tacuma Ogunseye among others. My professional training required practices that are not subject to my likes or dislikes or imaginations. One night at an ACDA meeting Ogunseye and I discussed my methods on understanding politics. He shook his head at me and warned me that I was not ready for politics, but I also learnt that what holds the waywardness of politics in place are enforced laws and substantiated clarifications, so, my methods were also relevant. Politics is not about friendships in most cases it’s
about the purpose served. There are several examples of political unions – The Union head whose audit would have revealed his misfeasance, changed sides to escape. Among others not relevant at this point, David Hinds accused the Government, “Govt. has itself to blame, it was too drunk on power.” David has given misconceived perspectives before. I had responded to one such in early 2003. David has to be more grounded. Freddie Kissoon had accused him as one guilty of self betrayal and self destructionThe Afro-Guyanese in Guyana, Mon. Kaieteur News 2010 implying David as in agreement with carrying Jagdeo into Buxton for a macabre visit. I have had several encounters with government ministers. I have advocated recognition for the Arts through Cultural Industries,[which David, Jagdeo is against] . In 2012 I prepared a document and hand delivered it to both Ashni Singh and Frank Anthony. I never even got any acknowledgement of receipt, though I checked and affirmed that it was delivered, not so after 2015, with concerns that took me to the Finance Minister, the Education Minister and the Minister of Communities and I had no such rejection.
Where I received the power drunk indifference, it was with the subordinates, whose jobs it were to address the issue at hand, and many of those people were there for ten to fifteen years before 2015. Today this government is inspiring a generation to job creation and independence, they have zero tolerance on much of the lawlessness of the past administration, making it obvious that all citizens are subject to the law. If you are unaware of these achievements then I must ponder, why so? How could the government be in control of someone’s mind? As a parent it’s impossible to predict every action my children will perform. In closing there’s an anthropological reference that is obviously not taught in Political Science. A businessman I knew well before he served at GUYSUCO under the PPP in a conversation of diverse cultural ethics had told me the following, what some see as infra dig and spiritually offensive, other men adhering to their own cultural experience see as an opportunity. Of course those opposing cultural lines are fading, manifesting now, here, there and everywhere. Yours Respectfully, Barrington Braithwaite
People must review the practicality of the no confidence motion DEAR EDITOR, The events of Friday night’s “Christmas Surprise” can be compared to the fictional world of a season finale of the HBO show, Game of Thrones, which features many unexpected plot twists and turns that leave audiences’ jaw dropped. Now that the reality of what has occurred is beginning to soak in with the majority of the populace, with opinions on Mr. Persaud’s actions varying widely, we must now examine the practicality of the no confidence parliamentary vote against an elected government being a feature of our democracy. First off, I want to condemn those, including the national news organ, the Guyana Chronicle, for advancing this notion that Mr. Persaud’s action was
treasonous and he can be compared to the biblical character known as Judas. In fact, his actions restored faith in our parliamentary democracy and shows that the highest legislative institution isn’t as predictable in its outcome, which one assumes to be the case considering our parliamentary history and the structural flaw of the Proportional Representation list system, where one’s allegiance is expected to be solely with the party leader who handpicked him/her to serve. Moreover, Mr. Persaud only invoked his right to vote based on the powers given to
him by the constitution, which makes this absurd notion that his action was treasonous all the more preposterous. That being said, and moving forward, our political leaders need to discuss as part of constitutional reform the removing of the no confidence provisions from our laws. People elect governments to serve full terms and unless something really egregious occurs that threatens our national security or the wellbeing of our nation, that government must be allowed to serve its full term as given by the people at general elections.
Now that the cat has been let out of the bag, firstly under the Ramotar administration and which had to prorogue parliament to avoid the vote, it should be of no surprise that the opposition took this route on this occasion. I would suspect that this will become a regular feature of our politics and this cannot be a good thing considering the uncertainties that come with it and the prospect of several general elections in a few short years. Space does not permit to mention the negative effects that this would have on the psyche of the people and the strength of our economy. Clinton Urling
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Monday December 24, 2018
Kaieteur News
“CHARRANDASSGATE” is the ‘kick in the rear’ that government supporters needed! DEAR EDITOR, As a supporter of the current government it is my duty to put the “Charrandass Persaud Affair” into perspective and not dwell on it and suck the oxygen out of what should be a quick study and actions to counter his “betrayal”. First up Mr. Persaud’s name should not be given any recognition but be referred to as “a certain person” going forward because his ego needs his name being mentioned as a hero to sugar workers from his village bla bla bla. Don’t be fooled, this man has a huge ego and ever since he did not get a “big wuk” like his friend the “doctor” he has been ruminating on a chance to stick it to his party, the AFC!
Ironically, the government should be grateful to Mr. Persaud for bringing it to its senses with this vicious low, body blow and rear end kick because that is what it is frankly speaking! However, the net effect of this “betrayal” should be the galvanizing of the government supporters to turn up in their numbers on elections day since they still won at the last elections even though thousands of their supporters stayed away the last time. This time, though, too much is at stake for them to stay home! This “certain person” has made claims of his vote being a conscience vote (hogwash in my opinion) but his choice, he will have to live with for the rest of his life especially if and when it backfires.
A word of caution to the government. When many supporters of this government offer advice and solutions they shun this advice and proceed merrily along to their down fall. I hope they are listening this time because if they knew it all they would not have been in this predicament today! Therefore, I would like the government to IMMEDIATELY move on from “Charrangate” and make changes and choices IMMEDIATELY to fix this situation since there are only 89 days left. Those of us with some political knowledge and common sense know that people’s minds can change in a single day when it comes to politics so 89 days is a long time and enough time to make some simple but effective
WRONG MOVE DOCTOR DEAR EDITOR, The best thing that happened to Guyana’s politics in recent times is the coalition government. This coming together of different parties to advance the nation’s cause, may not have gotten all its acts together in their three years in office , but their coming together gives hope to all Guyanese, that finally we will live as one people one nation . However a recent
statement in the news by one of our learnt Doctor’s suggesting a moving away of the WPA, from this collation is in my opinion somewhat emotional and short sighted, and definitely not thinking of the future of the nation. Dr. Hinds attested to statement made by Charrandass of one party being more influential than others in the collation. Let us be real, if a number of different fruits are put together to make
KEEPING THE FOCUS
From page 4 corruption wrapped all around them on the global stage. We face an election in 90 days, indeed three months. At a time where our souls are weary and the temptation is to just let IT be - whatever IT is. Then there is the temptation to seek revenge on those members of the coalition who hurt us – after we campaigned and turned out the votes in our numbers, then we were wrongfully dismissed, insulted, denied access and the list can go on. But I urge that we remain focused. There is a greater enemy lurking. There is an enemy that seeks to establish here in our beautiful Guyana, a base of corruption that will create a class system that divides the ‘haves’ and ‘haves not’ by a gulf too wide to imagine; an enemy that intends to leach our Guyana until it is dry of every drop of water and oil; an enemy that seeks no good for this country. Let not the light afflictions we may have suffered under the ill thinking members and operatives of the coalition cloud our vision of what is at stake but let us find within us the energy to make change – if not in time for you and me (like the Christmas song says) then certainly in time for the generations to come that rely so heavily upon us. Anonymous
a fruit salad the stronger in number or taste will most likely overwhelm the others. The good Doctor must take into consideration that the putting together of a team of people from rival groups will also take time to synchronize. The history of West Indian cricket has taught us this, and in spite of the challenges faced, they became champions. Guyana’s success as a nation is dependent on its people coming together. I think that it was the Present Prime minister who said that this was the intent of Burnham and Jagan, after they tried the Winner take all policy for some time, and recognized that it will never put the nation forward. Fellow Guyanese the division of the coalition is not the answer. The WPA leaving will only serve to strengthen the PPPC, and put Guyana back to those dark days. Unless someone can convince me that they have change after three years in opposition. The action by Charrandass may have exposed a weakness in the coalition, but it also shows that racial politics is hard to kill in Guyana. The way forward is to support the better Guyana for all Guyanese policy. Should the PPPC want to work together with the other parties? This will also be a win for Guyana, but the divide and conquer politics only serve to hold national development back. The coalition must stay together, and those seeking to divide must be rebuked for such childish behaviour. Apostle Adrian Wade
changes! Myself and many others believe that the PPP can still be defeated at national elections. They have recognized this and want to strike premeditatively so as to bolster their sordid track record by appeasing other ethnic sections of the population thus we will see an afro Guyanese (puppet) be their prime ministerial candidate. So this is my layman’s advice about what the current government needs to do. 1. The public relations unit of the government should be fired or reconstituted to be more aggressive and start highlighting and rehashing the sordid deeds of the PPP while in office – the list is endless. At the same time publicise the government’s successes and plans. 2. Move on right away from the “Charrandassgate Affair” do not dwell on this it is done and dusted
3. Recruit a world class elections strategist to advise them on everything from social media to boots on the ground 4. Have Mr. Granger step down (this will be controversial but necessary due to his medical condition) ASAP – you don’t want a sick or half healthy presidential candidate 5. Ronald Bulkan should be named the acting president and he should be APNU’s presidential candidate. 6. Rework the Herdmansdton Accord with the AFC getting a bit more power and some of the things they asked for, for a while now 7. Start recruiting (and paying) campaign people on the ground to mobilize supporters in every region 8. Get party supporters registered in every region 9. Offer a public apology to stalwarts (I will start with David Hinds, Lincoln Lewis, Mark Benschop, Glen Lall) who were in the fight to
remove the PPP and who you shunned – let them know they are valued now more than ever and you will reward them – there is no shame in that – it’s called politics! 10. Reconcile your differences with opinion shapers like Mr. Freddie Kissoon – a phone call or personal visit would not be a shame but a first step in reconciliation – the ombudsman has ruled in his favour – expedite the payment of what is owed this man 11. Since there are more poor people in Guyana than the rich people then simple Math would teach you that the votes of the poor are what will matter in the end so make a big announcement of what our poor and vulnerable will receive and be seen with them 12. FUND raising baby every dollar will count to getting your message out Thank You Clyde Pestano Brampton Ontario
A new word for the dictionary DEAR EDITOR, Guyana now has the distinction of offering a new word for inclusion in Oxford, Webster Thesaurus and other dictionaries as well as for appropriate use on the internet. -CHARRANDASS- verb: -to betray a business associate, friend family or one’s trust in the most vile vicious and inhumane manner possible; -to stab a loved one in the back for the sake of a mess of filthy lucre usually payable overseas. -to cowardly hide behind aiders and abettors of dastardly acts and sneak out with one’s tail between one’s legs. CHARRANDASS -noun:
-a Judas who makes Judas Iscariot seem like an arch angel -a rat in a dark hole Example of usage: I ent tying bundle with you buddy. You is a Charrandass and you might just sell me out! How to spot them: You can’t. They just crawl out of the woodwork when you least expect. How to avoid them: Just pray, and hope you are not in the wrong place at the wrong time. To all those honest upright and noble Charrandasses out there, if anyone glances at you with any hint of suspicion, just smile and say “it wasn’t me!” Name and address withheld
All praise to Bharrat Jagdeo DEAR EDITOR, The 21st December 2018 will be engraved in Guyana history as a historic day where the PPP/C as an opposition party tabled a no-confidence motion against the APNU/ AFC coalition Government. The no-confidence motion was able to gather traction where a coalition Government member of parliament Charrandass Persaud voted in support of the motion to topple the most oppressive government in Guyana’s history. While Charrandass Persaud would be considered a Hero in the eyes of most Guyanese, the architect in creating this opportunity must be recognised and commended. The Opposition Leader and General Secretary of the PPP/C Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, a
‘political genius’ was not even sure that this no- confidence motion would have been able to gain traction but went on a fishing expedition hoping that several Members of Parliament on the Government benches would have voted in favour of the motion because of the enormous amount of deficiencies that existed within this coalition government. Over 20 000 voters voted for the APNU/AFC coalition in the 2015 regional and general elections but because Berbice is a PPP/C dominated region the APNU/AFC coalition Government purposely discriminated against Berbician and taking them for granted, notwithstanding a quiet political revolution that touched the consciousness of Charrandass Persaud, forcing him to vote in favour
of the PPP/C no-confidence motion. The membership of the People’s Progressive Party at the last Congress in 2016 entrusted the management of the PPP to the General Secretary Cde Bharrat Jagdeo who has elevated the PPP to a stronger force over the last two years. The scientific management of Cde Jagdeo and team, contributed to the demise of the APNU/AFC coalition Government in such a short period. The leadership and membership of the PPP must continue to support the vision and leadership of Cde Bharrat Jagdeo . Guyanese are grateful to Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, the PPP/ C and Charrandass Persaud for the renewal of HOPE for a better future. Zamal Hussain
Monday December 24, 2018
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We have now entered the The New Amsterdam Mayor and Town Council is falling apart era of political accountability DEAR FELLOW GUYANESE, Mr. Charrandass Persaud’s vote for the noconfidence motion against the Coalition government makes him our newest National Hero, deserving of a National Monument in his honour. Many in Guyana and in the diaspora celebrate his action and are awed at such moral courage displayed in the history of our National Assembly and country. Most politicians are crooks who are long on promises but short on keeping such promises, but here was one man with integrity who did something that stopped a lowperforming government in its tracks. Charrandass has created history with such an unprecedented action that called his government of the day to such accountability a government which squandered such enormous goodwill from the people wanting change. We have now entered the era of political accountability with this new maxim of “Vote Them In,” “Vote Them Out.” The idea of a Member of Parliament going against the
party line is suicidal yet Charrandass was willing to lay his life on the line, and vote according to the dictates of his conscience. His decision to go against the party line brought an end to the life of the government he fought valiantly to elect. Charrandass has now set an example for all not only in politics, but in churches, nonprofit organizations, trade unions, trade organizations, that there comes a time when you must take a stand and act according to your conscience even if it goes against the tide. In Guyana, we have had many talkers, commentators, opinion makers, and media columnists talking about Guyana’s problems, but one man – Charrandass Persaud – did something that changed the destiny of the nation and the nature of politics forever. His vote against his government stands as a testimony of how one person can take a stand and make a difference. To honour my fellow Berbician with whom I campaigned in 2015 to elect the Coalition, I am proposing that we build the “Charrandass Hero
Monument” to celebrate his heroic action that stopped our country from its deep slide into a trajectory of “party paramountcy dictatorship.” Such a monument will be a reminder and warning to any party that thinks it can run roughshod over the people, and trick us into voting for them when they had no intent to honour their election promises. So, these are the suggestions for our next steps – 1. I will be contacting Charrandass to secure his support for this idea. 2. We will set up a “Go fund Me” page for the “Charrandass Hero Monument Fund,” 3. We will solicit volunteers to create a Project Planning and Implementation Committee that will determine a monument site and accountability for funds with monthly financial reports provided. Please send any suggestions you have for this project, and indicate whether you are willing to serve on the Project Committee. Kindly contact Dr. Jerry Jailall at C h a r r a n d a s s Monument@gmail.com Sincerely, Dr. Jerry B. Jailall
Some suggestions for the PPPC Presidential candidate DEAR SIR, Now that the Government has fallen and we will have elections within the next three months, the electorate will now be focused on who will be the Presidential candidate for the P.P.P and the A.P.N.U or coalition, whatever they decide. In this missive I want to focus on who should be the
Presidential candidate for the P.P.P. I would like to submit that if the P.P.P hopes to garner the magical figure of 51% of the votes to win the elections, then its Presidential candidate must be Dr. Frank Anthony, with Dr. Vindya Persaud as the Prime Ministerial candidate. Dr. Anthony is a simple,
Effective Communication is about talking as well as listening DEAR EDITOR, In the letter “Government and Opposition must develop strategies on the way forward, inclusive of communication and crisis management” (KN, 23rd December 2018) Citizen Audreyanna Thomas makes a case for the Government and the Opposition to be in communication with each other and with society. Effective communication is not just about talking; it is about listening as well. I support Citizen Audreyanna Thomas endeavour to bridge the political divide by asking that the Government and Opposition open channels of communications with each other and with society. It is good that President David Granger and Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo sees the need to meet with each other to chart a way forward for Guyanese. Hopefully they will have these meetings more regularly and talk and listen to each other. Yours Faithfully Sean Ori
humble and decent human being who is not arrogant, pompous and boorish like two of his fellow hopefuls. He is also a down-to-earth and approachable person, who is not tainted with the baggage of corruption and fraud. D r. A n t h o n y a l s o enjoys broad support among our Afro and Amerindian brothers and sisters and with Dr. Vindya Persaud, who is well known for her humanitarian work, especially among women and youths, I guarantee t h e P. P. P w i l l w i n t h e elections by a landslide. Failing to heed my advice, I guarantee the PP.P will lose badly at the elections, especially if any of the two favoured hopefuls of the opposition leader is selected as the party Presidential candidate. Here is hoping the party makes the right choice and that is Dr. Frank Anthony, the Presidential candidate and Dr. Vindya Persaud, the Prime Ministerial candidate. Thank you. Yours faithfully, Imtiaz Baccus
DEAR EDITOR, To begin with, majority of the workers are being underpaid while they are also forced to work overtime in a condition that is very unhealthy and very unsafe. Most of the workers there are middle aged women who always sit at the market while the very limited male has to work as single ranks at the other locations. Some of those areas that are spoken about are the dumpsite which is manifested with flies. One working there must be constantly standing on the corner of the road in order to get some fresh air and to be away from the flies. The municipal stores only have a fence at the front while both sides and the back are broken down. Imagine in the place of a robbery what will
one do considering that there is only one gate with no side fence. The next destination to be covered is the esplanade fun park. Here there is no proper lighting arrangements and the fence again is improper. At the mayor’s house, it is only of recently that a hut was built there. Ranks had to sit on a wooden bench outside in the rain or sun. We have an inspector who has no vision for the department but sits in her office or with her middle aged women in front the market. As for the officer who is in charge and feels like the market belongs to him a little insight of his commonness will be revealed. He is one who feels that all ranks are not important and that the males must fight for themselves simply because he
is always messing around with the females. Once he was caught having sex with one female rank at a location. For months ranks were promised a raise of pay and to this day some ranks cannot even take home a proper $45,000. We all know that the country is going through a crisis but we all have to survive. Consider a rank who has bills to pay and a family to take care of; will that money be enough?? After inquiring there’s one old excuse from the treasury. We do not have money I’m beginning for the authorities to pay a visit to the various locations mentioned and see what is there that they can do to make the working environment a more convenient one. Seon King
THIS IS THE STUFF PATRIOTS ARE MADE OF DEAR EDITOR, The recent winning of the no confidence motion against the coalition Govt came as no surprise to me. The Govt had lacked direction, they were under performing, the recent LGE results showed how little regard the populace had for the Coalition. While the diehard supporters of the Coalition may see the vote of Charrandass Persaud as an act of betrayal, I see it as an act of heroism. This is the stuff patriots are made of! Charrandass will go down in history as a true patriot. A man standing up for what he believes in –against all odds- in a moment where it really matters is a rare sight. One man with a mere “YES”, when it matters, made our democracy look like it could work for a moment. The name CharrandassPersaud will be revered and cursed for generations in the future Where do we go from here? Elections within 90 days and a return to the lesser of two evils is looming on the horizon. Many will be ecstatic now but the burning question of constitutional reform is about to disappear permanently. The PPP Party had encouraged its supporters to boycott the referendum to usher in this present constitution in the late 1970’s, on the grounds that it was not good for Guyana, while promising constitutional changes prior to winning the 1992 elections. In power they found the constitution so suited for their purpose that they had
to be forced into making minor changes in 2001. Having been out of power from 2015 they have been faced with the brunt of the asininity of the Constitution and not once have they spoken in favor of constitutional reform, because they saw the coalition faltering from the beginning. They trusted their chances of achieving “nirvana” once again under the said Burnham constitution. Now they seem well on their waycompliments of Charrandass Persaud! A few days ago opposition leader Jagdeo, speaking about the governor of the central bank in relation to the sovereign wealth fund, said that he regard Dr Ganga as “a capable person, but he does not have the authority. The Minister will determine what has to be done.” He further spoke of the green paper on the SWF. Saying “almost all of the people who will deal with this fund are to be appointed by the Minister of Finance. I said before, the macroeconomic committee, the investment committee and all the others, those people will be appointed by Jordan, and that is a big problem we have.” Now! Where is the source of this evil or so called “big problem we have?”.
Obviously! It is the constitution that gives the minister of finance that power. It would not be different with a PPP govt. We saw how NACIL operated under the hierarchy of the PPP. Had he been honest he would have cited the need for CR to change that. Not once in the last three years did Jagdeo utter a word about the need for CR. The PPP is all about sleaze and graft and the public ought to fear a return to the PPP where State assets would continue to be sold out to their friends and family cheaply, as if it were their personal inheritance-given the laxity of the present constitution. The coalition in their short reign seemed clueless. Their slogan-”the good life” drifted further away from the poor and middle class because of heavy taxation and extravagant spending to run the state’s bureaucracy. Add some victimization and lack of accountability and you can understand how Charrandass felt and voted on his conscience! Had they kept their promise on CR, they would have left a legacy worthy of a few good words. Who knows! They may have even avoided the poison ivy of a Charrandass “YES” that brought about their demise. Rudolph Singh
Habits are not the product of one decision — They’re the result of repeated choices that eventually become automatic responses. How can you know your true spiritual condition? By the company you keep and the choices you make. When you’re free to go, where do you choose to go? Whose company do you prefer?
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Monday December 24, 2018
Granger failed to deliver leadership required, allowed his ministers to ‘run wild’ - Ram By Kiana Wilburg The passage of the historic No-Confidence Motion against the APNU+AFC administration does not come as a surprise to many local analysts. On Saturday for example, Executive Member of the Working People’s Alliance (WPA), Dr. David Hinds opined that the Motion’s success exposed the deteriorating relations within the coalition party. But Chartered Accountant, Chris Ram, who agrees implicitly with that point, took it a little further. For him, it was President David Granger’s failure to deliver the leadership needed by
the country and his Party which should be blamed. Ram said, “The Head of State offered very little leadership and he allowed some of his ministers to run uncontrolled. He also failed to deliver on some of the commitments he made (such as fixing Campaign Financing Laws, ensuring Constitutional Reform and establishing an Investigative Commission on Corruption). And he swore to uphold the Constitution and I can’t say that he has an extremely positive track record in this regard…” The Chartered Accountant stressed that at some point, Granger and the rest of the APNU+AFC leadership
have to take responsibility. He added, too, that whatever one might think of the Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo, it is undeniable that the timing of his move for a No-Confidence Motion showed some political cunning if not genius. SOMETHING TO CELEBRATE Since former AFC Member, Charandass Persaud gave his support to the Opposition’s No-Confidence Motion on Friday; the debate has been unending about what his move means for coalition politics in Guyana, among other things. Ram insists however that a vote of No-Confidence is
Non-implementation of new system sees spillage in revenue projections for forestry sector - report
part of the democratic process and the nation should be celebrating this. He said, “We should be celebrating the fact that as a country, we are mature enough to have a government removed by a vote of no confidence and it has been accepted. Despite all the fears which have been expressed, I think that is a highly positive development.” He added, “Now the nation will be looking to them (the government) to carry through their announcement of abiding by the decision of the National Assembly and holding elections in 90 days time. I think the fact that it has accepted the decision without demurring in any way is positive…” ELECTIONS IN THREE MONTHS On Saturday, President David Granger by way of a statement to the media said that his government will abide by the Constitution which requires elections in three months. Article 106 (7) of the Constitution of Guyana states, “Notwithstanding its defeat, the Government shall remain in office and shall hold an election within three months, or such longer period as the Na-
Chartered Accountant, Chris Ram tional Assembly shall by resolution supported by not less than two-thirds of the votes of all the elected members of the National Assembly determine, and shall resign after the President takes the oath of office following the elections.” The Head of State also made it clear that his government will embark on discussions with its coalition partners, the Alliance For Change (AFC) and those who are part of A Partnership for National Unity (APNU). “We will do everything necessary to facilitate the smooth functioning of Gen-
eral and Regional Elections, bearing in mind the need for normal governmental functions to continue uninterrupted,” President Granger said. The President said, too, that he is anxious to engage Opposition Leader, Mr. Bharrat Jagdeo, on any concerns he may have. He assured the Guyanese people “that this is not a crisis, which could dissolve into any type of confrontation.” “Mr. Jagdeo contacted the Minister of State and a meeting will be arranged as early as possible so that his concerns can be addressed,” the Head of State added. The President added, “This is a constitutional process, which can have favourable outcomes for the nation… There is no cause for alarm and there are no grounds for any form of disorder. We will continue to work to provide a good government and deliver public services to the people and to work even more closely with the opposition”. President Granger disclosed, too, that he met with some Ministers yesterday morning. These will henceforth be engaging the AFC ministers, he added.
Guyana Police force urges citizens to follow safety measures to avoid becoming a victim of crime
GFC has projected increased revenue earnings by the end of 2018 The Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC) said that a new system of charging revenue was not implemented which negatively impacted their projected revenue earnings. The Commission made the observation in its latest 2017 report that was tabled in the National Assembly on Friday. Total revenue for 2017 was approximately $ 1.1B compared to the budget of $ 1.34B. “It should be noted that the 2017 revenue budget was based on the assumption that the stumpage value system of charging revenue would have been implemented. However the system of charging acreage fees and royalties continues; this contributed to the revenue shortfall,” the report notes. The deficit to meet expenses, according to the report, was met from GFC savings, and refunds of monies
owed. It was noted that the forest sector faced several challenges in 2017, among them being a lower domestic demand, reduced prices for tropical timber products, and a general contracting of international markets. Concurrently, the report notes, several large forest concessions reverted to the state for reasons including expiration and non-renewal; and actions taken on others who were noncompliant with the terms and conditions of its contractual obligation to the state. A total production level of 377,111m3 was recorded for 2017 as compared with 353,495m3 for January to December 2016; this represents a 7% increase in the 2017 total production level. 2017 total export value was US$39.1M, whilst total export revenue for 2016 totaled US$41.9M, a 6.7% decrease.
In the area of allocations, the GFC stated that following a public national and international process, two blocks from the former concession issued to Barama Company Limited (BCL) with area size of approximately 420,000 hectares each, were issued as State Forest Authorisations-State Forest Exploratory Permits (SFA-SFEP’s). Additionally, two SFASFEP’s (Rong-An Inc. and Variety Woods and Greenheart Limited) were converted to SFA-Timber Sales Agreements (TSAs); repossessed concessions totaling approximately 350,000 hectares were advertised as 3 SFA-SFEPs. GFC noted that this is expected to have an overall positive impact on production, export and revenue. Based on these considerations, by the end of 2018 revenue is projected at $ 1.366B, production at 400,000 m3, and exports at US41.5M .
The Guyana Police Force is advising citizens of Guyana to be extra cautious in the orchestration of their Christmas duties, especially in the aspects of travelling and shopping. In a social media post the Force made several crime tips available to the public, including spotting suspicious behaviour, ATM safety, jogging safety, safety at night for students, public transportation safety, residence safety and security and safety for taxi drivers. The Force advised that the public be aware of unusual noises such as gunshots, screaming, barking dogs and/or sounds of fighting. Citizens were also advised to be observant of persons attempting to enter a residence or vehicle improperly, one or more persons loitering in parked vehicles along with body language that suggests the person or people are being watched. Residents are advised to “always” lock their doors, even during short naps or when they are just down the hall, keep items such as cheque books, wallets, cash, jewellery etc. out of sight.
They were also warned against keeping large amounts of cash in their houses or on their person. In the aspect of transportation, it was advised that taxi drivers be alert and aware, not to display money and pay keen attention to passengers and the directions that they give. They were advised to “greet and maintain eye contact with passengers when picking them up and to be careful with suspicious passengers and those sitting directly behind them. The drivers were also warned against driving in alleys and back lanes. In the area of public transportation, the consumers were also apprised to be alert of their surroundings and to try as much as possible to maintain schedules that ensure that a lot of people are at the bus or car parks. The consumers were asked to look for pickpockets and loud distractions they may use and if they are approached or bothered by someone to ask them “loudly” to leave them alone and to move to a next area. For persons travelling, the police advise that they avoid
publicizing their plans and ensure that they secure or remove valuables their homes, along with safely securing their homes and if possible ask neighbours to look over their homes. Finally, for persons carrying out ATM transactions, it was asked that they maintain the ordinary rules of the transaction and to avoid doing business in the night and to use busy, public places. In case of suspicious activities, business persons are asked to cancel the transaction and walk away. According to the police force’s annual report, rape and robberies for the year 2018 have increased by an overall 23 % in comparison to last year. Robbery under arms with the use of a firearm declined by nine per cent; the police recorded 504 reports of gun robberies compared to 552 cases last year. Robbery with the use of other instruments declined by 21% and robbery with aggravation decreased by 41% but robbery with violence increased by eight per cent meanwhile, larceny from persons decreased by eleven percent.
Monday December 24, 2018
On being a young journalist in Parliament By Kemol King For the past three weeks, I have been assigned to report on matters occurring in the National Assembly, due to the proposal of Budget 2019 by the Minister of Finance on November 26. I’m 22, and only a few months into journalism. So, the idea that I’d have to cover parliament was very intimidating; an unease that was short-lived. As a young journalist, I had expected that certain mores would be observed and upheld by the representatives of the highest legislative body in the nation. However, in a few weeks, I have seen members of Parliament from both the government and the opposition acting in contempt of each other and going on at a rate that is reflective of the deep-seated division in this country. Growing up reading the news, all I had was stories to tell me that every convention of the national assembly was noisy and chaotic. Experiencing it up close was eye-opening. The Speaker of the House had cause to, on multiple occasions, reprimand MPs from both sides on their conduct, which constitutes hurling objects and insults at each other from across the table, mocking speeches with obnoxious laughter, and scrolling through social media or online shopping sites while speeches are being delivered. Is this what we’re paying these people for? You’d think that, being aware of Guyana’s history of racial and socioeconomic struggle, our political leaders would conduct themselves in a manner that is befitting of the positive change that they all claim to fight for. On the contrary, arguments across the table seemed more inclined to put down the other side because they are on the other side, instead of making the good of the country the most paramount consideration. There’s a lot of pretense in parliament, and very little authenticity. It seems as though the government just has the opposition around because it’s what’s necessary, since they have little regard for opposition to the policies in their budget. When the leader of the opposition stood to deliver his general address on the budget, all government MPs stood up and walked out. Even then, he delivered an address laden with
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Kemol King resurrections of past political grievances that had nothing to do with budget 2019. I remember the opposition giving scorching speeches about how tone-deaf and insensitive they think the budget is. However, when it came to actually fighting for the reform of the budgetary propositions and policies, they, either, put up weak protests or walked out of the chamber. It begs the question: What was the usefulness of the opposition in these proceedings? For a very long time, the veteran political parties of the PPP/C and the PNC(R) were thought to be the political embodiments of the two major ethnic groups. Knowing this, both groups have attempted to capitalise, irresponsibly, on the loyalism that comes with those reputations. They have also, for a very long time, known that politics doesn’t just bring out the racism in this country, but that it breeds it. Knowing this, how could these ‘leaders’ expect the rest of the country to progress through its racial strife when they continuously wield the loyalism of their supporters like weapons against each other? It is a sad and disappointing reality that our leaders’ actions do not reflect the revolutionary change that they claim to want. Instead, they are a reflection of the very worst of us.
Coke-buying ASP, two other cops in custody The Assistant Superintendent who was allegedly robbed during a coke-buying caper is now under close arrest, along with a rank who took a statement that implicated the ASP, and a third cop who allegedly destroyed the statement. Crime Chief Lyndon Alves confirmed last night that the rank was in custody, as well as two of his colleagues. “We are investigating the allegations under which he was robbed…a senior officer is looking into it. His allegation is that he was robbed. We have to ascertain if that was indeed what happened.” He said that “based on other information, other ranks were brought in for questioning and placed under close arrest.” Kaieteur News understands that the ‘C’ Division-based ASP was placed under close arrest on Saturday. The other two
- gunmen still detained ranks were under close arrest since early last week. Also still in custody are two Linden-based gunmen who had allegedly robbed the ASP of some $6M and his firearm during the botched drug deal. The individuals are said to be from Linden and are reportedly linked to a dealer from that location. According to sources, one detained policeman had taken a statement which implicated the ASP. However, a detective sergeant, who is now under close arrest, had allegedly destroyed the statement in an attempt to shield the ASP. Kaieteur News understands that one of the detained men told investigators that he and his accomplice were instructed to purchase two kilogrammes of cocaine from an individual.
They were reportedly instructed to rob the buyer, and were allegedly unaware that the buyer was a policeman. It is alleged that when the policeman arrived in his vehicle at the La Bonne Intention, East Coast Demerara location, the men assaulted him and took some $6M he had in the vehicle. One of the men also fled with the policeman’s firearm. However, the rank allegedly managed to hold onto the other individual, and subdue him with help from persons nearby. It is alleged that the individuals involved in the deal later realised that the victim was a policeman. They reportedly then made arrangements for the firearm to be returned. ‘C’ Division Commander Continued on page 21
Monday December 24, 2018
Kaieteur News
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Dead whale surfaces in E’bo River, environmentalist fear link to seismic surveys Weighing about 275 pounds and approximately 25feet in length, what appears to be juvenile sperm whale was seen at two locations in the Essequibo River over the last two days. Environmentalists are worried that the whale’s death may be linked to seismic surveys that are being undertaken by oil several companies offshore Guyana. Annette Arjoon spoke to this newspaper yesterday in her capacity as President of the Guyana Marine Conservation Society. She thanked the persons who brought the whale’s demise to her attention and said, “From the photos, it looks like a juvenile sperm whale but myself and Calvin Bernard from the University of Guyana and Denzel from the Ministry
of Agriculture, Department of Fishers will partner for the necessary follow up activities. She said that these activities will entail trying to identify the whale’s present location and exploring the possibility of further investigation as to the cause of death. Further, Arjoon said, “we will depend on our extensive network to ensure that the communities in the coastal areas can become more involved in reporting on these unfortunate incidents. I hope that we can also commence some training as well as equipping these important stakeholders to enable them to become actively involved in the very necessary monitoring of our marine spaces.” Arjoon said that seismic surveys being undertaken by
oil companies could have some influence on the whale’s demise. This is not the first time in recent history that a whale of that particular species was discovered in Guyana’s waters. One was discovered as recent as 2014. The sperm whale is the largest of the toothed whales and the largest toothed predator. It can be found anywhere in the open ocean. Mature males average at 16 metres (52 ft) in length but some may reach 20.5 metres (67 ft), with the head representing up to one-third of the animal’s length. The sperm whale feeds primarily on squid. Plunging to 2,250 metres (7,380 ft) for prey, it is the second deepest diving mammal, following only the Cuvier’s beaked whale. The sperm whale has the largest brain of any animal on Earth, more than five times heavier than a human’s. Sperm whales can live for more than 60 years. The head of the whale contains a liquid wax called spermaceti, from which the whale derives its name. Spermaceti was used in lubricants, oil lamps, and candles. Occasionally the sperm whale’s great size allows it to defend itself effectively against whalers. The species is now protected by a whaling moratorium, and is currently listed as vulnerable.
Monday December 24, 2018
Washington Post subtly admits slain Khashoggi columns were shaped by Qatar ARAB NEWS, DUBAI: Slain Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi’s Washington Post columns were “shaped” by an executive at the Qatar Foundation, an entity funded directly by the Qatari regime which is at odds with Saudi Arabia, according to an article published by the Post on Saturday revealed. “Text messages between Khashoggi and an executive at Qatar Foundation International show that the executive, Maggie Mitchell Salem, at times shaped the columns he submitted to The Washington Post, proposing topics, drafting material and prodding him to take a harder line against the Saudi government,” a statement in the article read. Although the published article insinuates the Post’s opinion editor doesn’t envision a conflict of interest, such a matter is highly likely to go against the Post’s ethics and policies guideline that are published on its own website. It reads: “We do not accept payment – either honoraria or expenses – from governments, government-funded organizations, groups of government officials, political groups or organizations that take positions on controversial issues.”
“A reporter or editor also cannot accept payment from any person, company or organization that he or she covers. And we should avoid accepting money from individuals, companies, trade associations or organizations that lobby government or otherwise try to influence issues the newspaper covers…” “…We avoid active involvement in any partisan causes — politics, community affairs, social action, demonstrations — that could compromise or seem to compromise our ability to report and edit fairly.” Although nothing in the current revelations suggests that Khashoggi accepted payment from Qatar, the mere fact that his columns and articles were suggested, researched and translated by an individual affiliated with the Qatari government which since the mid nineties has been at odds with Saudi Arabia, many observers are likely to question their integrity and whether or not they reflected Jamal’s views or those of the Qataris. Several journalists around the world have already tweeted their astonishment to the Washington Post revelation. “This is unprofessional and hypocritical on behalf of the Washington Post. One only has to ask how would they have reacted if they found out that one of their pro-Trump columnists - if any - was secretly researching or getting his articles shaped by a Russian think tank. I say this while of course condemning what happened to Khashoggi and without any attempt to criticize him personally, I am just saying the Post is not deploying its own standards in this case,” said a Saudi journalist based in Riyadh on the condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the Khashoggi subject. However, the editors at the paper’s opinion section said they were unaware of the arrangements made by
Khashoggi and the Qatar Foundation at the time of publishing. “The proof of Jamal’s independence is in his journalism,” said the Post’s editorial page editor Fred Hiatt in a statement, adding that “Jamal had every opportunity to curry favor and to make life more comfortable for himself, but he chose exile and — as anyone reading his work can see — could not be tempted or corrupted.” Salem, who served as a special assistant to US Secretary of State Madeleine Albright, knew Khashoggi since 2002 and claims she only provided help to the Saudi writer in a ‘friends’ capacity only saying that Khashoggi’s English language abilities were limited. “He and I talked about issues of the day as people who had come together, caring about the same part of the world,” Salem told the Washington Post. “Jamal was never an employee, never a consultant, never anything to [the foundation]. Never.” Khashoggi, who placed himself in self-exile in the US, was last seen alive on October 2nd after entering the Saudi consulate in Istanbul where he was filing documents for divorce from his wife in the Kingdom. It was revealed later that he was killed by a team of Saudi agents who according to the kingdom l’a investigations were ordered to negotiate his return but ended up killing him instead. Since then the Saudi government has charged a number of officials and security officers with the murder, they await trial while two senior officials - including the deputy head of intelligence lost their jobs. Khashoggi’s killing is an awful crime, which was condemned by journalists and newspapers worldwide, including [ARAB NEWS] where he served as deputy editor in chief.
Monday December 24, 2018
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Kaieteur News
ERC urges Guyanese to demonstrate added sense of tolerance and respect In wake of the no-confidence motion passed in the National Assembly last Friday that saw the fall of government, the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) has called on all Guyanese to nurture and demonstrate an added sense of tolerance and respect for each other. The ERC stated that the debate on the no-confidence motion is indicative that the democratic process of our nation is at work. “It also exemplifies that, despite sharp political differences, democracy was made foremost. This is extremely healthy for our nation and its people.” The Commission acknowledged that the debate and safe passage of the motion is unprecedented in Guyana and precipitates specific constitutional requirements regarding the holding of General and Regional elections. “Our nation’s history is unambiguous in reminding us of the inherent challenges that unfortunately surrounds our electoral process. Clearly, the results of the said motion present another delicate period for our country and which uncompromisingly must be managed with utmost maturity through responsible leadership by all,” the Commission said. It continued, “The ERC is cognizant of the potential for sensitivities to be heightened
during this period and urge that the pronouncements and actions of all are not injurious to the process of fostering harmony and good relations. The Commission therefore wishes to encourage every Guyanese in all strata of our society to demonstrate an added sense of tolerance and respect for each other and the processes, which will soon unfold.” ERC was keen to note that such efforts of respect and tolerance are vital to the sustenance of Guyana’s democracy and presents an opportunity for Guyanese to collectively rise to the challenge of placing first the welfare of the nation and its people. The ERC said that it is heartened over the sentiments expressed by political leaders thus far calling for peace and stability and for the carried motion not to be a reason for civil disruption. “This is the maturity and leadership that are necessary and which must be sustained and holistic in the national interest.” The Commission said that it is also heartened by the transparent and peaceful conduct of the November 12 Local Government Election and which, barring a few hiccups, was commended by all. “It demonstrates that elections, which will always be a fixture in our democracy, must not be a mechanism to divide but one that becomes routine without
President David Granger (fifth from left) the day he swore-in members of the Ethnic Relations Commission (Ministry of the Presidency photo) fear of the process and eventualities as reflected in our history. As we endeavour through these sensitive moments, all are encouraged to resist being overcome by emotions and to disallow the infusion of hatred. Let us remain mindful that all are sons and daughters of this dear land dependent on each other for the creation of the mutually desired future. It therefore becomes imperative that each play their part responsibly. The ERC, through its constitutional mandate, remains ready and committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure that peace and togetherness prevail during this pro-
cess.” The ERC is intended, inter alia, to promote good relations, harmony, peace, tolerance and understanding between our peoples; provide equal opportunity between persons of different ethnic groups, and proscribe ethnic discrimination. After an eight year hiatus, President David Granger swore-in members in of the ERC in February of this year. Those appointed to the ERC are Dr. John O. Smith, the representative for the Christian Bodies; Sister Rajkumarie Singh for the Hindu Bodies; Roshan Khan for the Muslim Bodies; Norris Emanuel Witter for the Labour Movement
More migrant families receive hampers - preparation being made to assist migrants in other communities Scores of Venezuelan migrant families residing in the Khan Hill community, Region One yesterday received food hampers in time for the Christmas holiday. The hampers contained basic food items such as canned beans, oil, milk and biscuits. This was a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, the Civil Defence Commission, International Organization for Migration (IOM), the Regional Democratic Council and the Guyana Defence Force. Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs Valerie Garrido-Lowe was on the ground leading the undertaking. The Minister said it is Guyana’s international obligation to make sure that our neighbours are cared for. “We are here to ensure that they have an enjoyable Christmas” Minister GarridoLowe stated. The Minister said that with the number of migrant
Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs Valerie GarridoLowe along with Major Seam Welcome distributing hampers to the families children at Khan Hill, she will ensure they receive toys for the holidays. Further, preparations are being made to assist Venezuelan families in other areas in Region One. Last week, a similar exer-
cise was conducte d i n Kaikan in Region Seven for the migrant families living there. Over the last few months, Guyana has seen an increase in the number of Venezuelans crossing the into
Guyana to escape the political and socio-economic crisis in their homeland. The Government has been working to ensure that these migrants are documented and vaccinated upon entry and housed in relied shelters.
Bodies; Major-General (Retd.) Norman Mclean for the Private Sector Organisations; Deodat Persaud for the Youth Organisations; Ruth Howard for the Women’s Organisations and for the Cul-
tural/Ethnic Bodies; Barrington Braith-waite representing Afro-Guyanese; Neaz Subhan representing IndoGuyanese and Ashton Simon representing Indigenous/ Amerindian Bodies.
Businessman goes home after staff party, finds 60-inch TV, foreign liquor, etc. gone While businessman Narendra Lucknauth was enjoying himself at a staff party, burglars were busy spoiling his Christmas. Narendra Lucknauth, the managing director of clean water essential supply Inc told this publication that he arrived home around 11:42 hrs last Saturday at his Eccles residence after attending a staff party. Lucknauth said that, when he entered his living room, he immediately realized that his 60-inch flat screen television was missing. Upon further investigation, he observed a quantity of household appliances, as well as all his foreign liquor missing. The thieves also escaped with a quantity of jewellery along with his 20-year-old son’s suitcases and passport. He estimated his losses at over $3.5M in cash and household appliances. The young man, who is an American citizen, arrived in Guyana last Friday to spend Christmas with his family. “It would be great if the thieves can drop off my son’s passport and other documents so that he can go back,” Lucknauth lamented. The thieves also went into three bedrooms, where they removed off an estimated $500,000 in jewellery. The businessman added that, on realizing that his home was broken into, he went into the kitchen where he saw the grill to one of his windows partially removed , while someone had drilled a hole in a wall. It was at this point that he decided to report the matter to the Providence Police Station. Tthe matter is currently being investigated.
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Monday December 24, 2018
ASPIRE Guyana identifies seven for exceptional contributions ASPIRE (Advocates for Safe Parenting, Improving Reproductive Equity is a regional youth network that focuses on the empowerment of youth in the Caribbean, especially as it relates to Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights. ASPIRE Guyana, every year, accepts nominations for their Youth Recognition Project, and has recognised seven persons this week, who have made exceptional accomplishments and/or contributions to society.
DIVYADOERGA “I attended School of The Nations from which I graduated this year; getting the “Best in Business Award,” as well as being one of the recipients of the service award due to being involved in several fund raising activities in aid of the ongoing Tiger Bay project. I am currently continuing my studies in Business, Economics and Sociology at Nations Sixth Form College and I’m also on the path of pursuing a degree in Business Management via the Association of Business Executives programme that Nations offers. I am also a certified John Maxwell Coach, Trainer and Speaker.” “I decided to study business because I always found the principles behind it interesting; for example in our country, I see many people run businesses based on instinct and make rash decisions about their business because they feel that it’s the best thing to do at the moment, when really, there’s a principle behind every situation in the operations of a business, as long as you know those principles then that decision making process becomes more logical and easier; which makes that business more efficient. I was born into a home of which both my parents were in business, they still are and have been doing it for the past 20 years; so not only have I been studying in the field, but I gained a lot of practical experience from a very tender age which I know will be very helpful for my future.” “I think young people are willing to be involved in business as long as they know the WHY. Sometimes factors may prevent them from doing this such as lack of support, knowledge and experience but I do believe that as long as they are determined about it and surround themselves with the right people, then anything is possible; as Howard Schultz said: “When you're surrounded by people who share a passionate commitment around a common purpose, anything is possible.” “I am currently involved with ActionCOACH Guyana, learning all the systems, as a goal of mine is to be the youngest Business Coach in the world in 2019. This experience is amazing as you get to see how many businesses are being turned around for the better and how happy business owners are with the results.” “The year 2018 has been one of the greatest years for me as I graduated from high school, became a John Maxwell team member and started my new academic journey continuing my studies. Business wise, I continue to learn in order to never stop growing. However, this is only the start of my journey as a young adult and I do aspire to make great changes that will bring about extreme positive impacts in this society.”
DOMINIC VINCENTE “I’m a 25 year old fitness Coach at TopEnd Training Systems. I’ve been on my fitness journey for about three years. Prior to my fitness journey, I worked at a job where it was required to sit the entire day in front of a computer and I wasn’t too overwhelmed by it. Taking a risk of entering into a new arena where I had to start from scratch and be taught the different branches of fitness as it pertains to eating right, weight loss strategies, strength building, muscle activation etc, as well as getting myself certified, is a journey I embarked on without looking back and stayed optimistic towards this new journey. I actually got in to fitness via my mentor; he was the one who saw the potential of being a Fitness Coach within me, that I had being in the background of sports. I’m a National basketball player for Guyana, and basically a lover of all sports. Since the beginning of my journey to date, working has no longer become a choice or a job because being a Fitness Coach and a youth Specialist is something I enjoy to be engulfed in. I also love to read and I’m just a fun and dynamic individual.” “It all started when I was overseas at a basketball institution where I had to assist youths in the discipline of that sport. When I was growing up I didn’t have someone with a fitness background to teach me all the little things to make me a better person in the different sporting activities, so I came up with a plan. Being in the fitness circle and with no one being certified in that arena, I used that as a indicator to get my certification to help our youths get stronger mentally and physically.” “This year, 2018, has been good to me in every way, I’ve concluded my certification in the Youth Exercise Specialist earlier in the year and that really placed me in a great position moving forward. It was then I got to really understand how and what to do when I’m Training kids and even adults because we are all kids ourselves no matter our ages. Exercise is something that should be fun at times but at other times, business, in order to achieve your goals. I’m hoping with this momentum, I can take it over to the new year, learn more, get more qualified in the different areas and be better in my overall service to the public.”
ROVINDRA LAKENARINE Rovindra Lakenarine is from the small farming community of Golden Fleece on the Essequibo Coast. He is a recent graduate of the University of Guyana with a BSc. Biology (Distinction). He is the 2018 recipient of the University of Guyana Student Society Award (2018) for making significant contributions to the University of Guyana in areas other than academics. After graduating he was retained by the Department of Biology at the University of Guyana where he currently works as a tutor. Rovindra is also a founding member and former president of the University of Guyana Biology club. He is a very humble and friendly young man that is always ready to lend a helping hand whenever called upon. His family is his greatest motivators and he owes all he has achieved thus far to them for their continual love and support. Rovindra intends to pursue postgraduate studies in the areas of climate change biology. He wishes to become an advocate for youths in the fight against climate change. Lakenarine boasts the following accomplishments: - President of the University of Guyana Biology Club. - Organized the first Earth Hour event on the University of Guyana campus - Woman and girls in science seminar at the University of Guyana - Charity drive at the Mahaica Children’s Home - Clean up and tree planting of the Biodiversity center - Representative on the UNESCO/UN “Youths on the frontline of climate change” webinar - Facilitated collaborations and participated in events hosted by WWF Guiana’s, CYEN, GYEN and other clubs across the University of Guyana to foster relationships with other volunteer groups. In 2018, he developed vital leadership skills and facilitated his advocacy for extra-curricular activities for students at the University of Guyana while fostering awareness on environmental and biodiversity protection through the Biology club. (Continued on page 20)
Monday December 24, 2018
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Kaieteur News
Independent Ministers Fellowship launched
Linden Hospital Complex benefits from $6.2M China donation....
Marks nineteenth consecutive year of donations
Dr Riyastat with the Chinese medical Brigade
Independent Ministers raise a toast at the new fellowship With the aim of building a network amongst the churches and forging unity among the people, Guyana’s first Independent Minister’s Fellowship has been launched. After being engaged in an informal way for several years, undertaking dozens of initiatives together in various locations country wide, a group of Independent Ministers believed that it was through wise counsel of Almighty God that they were inspired to form a network for Ministers who are broadly located and without a local network fellowship. As such, the historic launch of Zadok Ministers Fellowship took place on Monday 10th December, 2018, when 70 Ministers representing more than 100 local churches and ministries assembled at the Grand Coastal Inn on the East Coast Demerara. The Gala event took the form of a dinner and reception. The new organization is expected to forge unity amongst people under the theme “WE ARE BETTER TOGETHER” The fellowship to be never divisive, exclusive, sectarian, but will be embracing ministers and churches in all 10 regions of Guyana- Urban, Rural and Hinterland. The word Zadok in its simplest form can be defined as “Kings of righteousness”. Therefore, as a fellowship, the ultimate aspiration is to ensure a high quality of ministry, and to be a collective voice that speaks to the nation. This forum will be a place where accountability, order and impartation are manifested. The principles of the new fellowship were presented by Apostle Terry Thomas of Ambassadors of Christ Min-
istries- Buxton. He noted that the fellowship seeks to maintain the unity by refusing to be a part of anything that opposes it; views each member as equal thus sharing mutual respect and having accountability; encourages the celebration, appreciation and care of its members; supports the discovering, discerning, promoting, nurturing, mentoring of gifts and releasing of gifts. Zadok welcomes any Ordained Minister or individual doing the work of a Minister of Christ (saved and baptized). Archbishop Wingrove D. Babb of Special Miracle Ministries Royalty Centre, had the distinguished privilege of introducing speakeer of the night, the Rt. Rev. Dr. Juan A. Edghill of Outreach Ministries International- Winner’s Cathedral. The Bishop spoke on the need and meaning of fellowship, which entailed having a sense of identity, belonging and reciprocal caring and sharing; establishing order; making representationthrough endorsement, releasing and mentoring; sensing the mind of Christ to navigate the way as a Church. The evening was concluded with the appreciation of different Ministers, specific prayers and jovial interactions. Overall the launch was filled with an awesome and relaxing environment facilitated by the convener Apostle Alex Selorm of the Revealed Word Christian Center- Kitty. Endorsements of the Fellowship were made by three Ministers; Apostle Safee Rahaman of Grace Pentecostal Ministries –Parika, Minister Gileon James of Christ Crusaders Deliverance Ministries – Providence and Apostle Vandwick Beresford of Maranatha Ministries Inter-
national- Georgetown. Zadok Ministers Fellowship is not exclusive and thus extends an invitation to other Independent or non-Independent churches to come on board. The Ministers of Zadok Fellowship acknowledged that their experiences, struggles, victories and strengths provides an opportunity for sharing and development. All are welcomed to be a part of this new initiative despite age, race, gender and history. The fellowship meets every third Saturday at 10 am.The first meeting for 2019 will be hosted at the Revealed Word Christian Center- 56 William Street Kitty on Saturday 19th January.
The Linden Hospital Complex (LHC) has for the nineteenth consecutive year received millions of dollars in supplies and equipment from the Chinese Medical Brigade, who made the donation on behalf of the People's Republic of China. The $6.2 million donation was handed over to the CEO of the LHC Dr. Farouk Riyastat recently. The donation exceeds a similar one given last year by $1.2 mil. Some of the equipment donated included atomizer energy chips, syringe pumps, oxygen pumps, and infant oxygen hoods. Both Dr. Riyastat and Public Relations Officer Toshana Allicock expressed gratitude for the timely gesture. Allicock acknowledged that the equipment will greatly complement those that were donated last year. Among those were anaesthesia machines, portable ul-
trasound machines and electrocardiogram (EKG) machines. These services are presently available around the clock at the hospital, as more staff have received the requisite training in managing the equipment, Allicock added. Sister institutions such as the Wismar and Kwakwani Hospitals will also be benefitting from the new equipment, which would be made available as per need basis, Allicock said. Residents who were in the past forced to travel to Georgetown, to access certain services at the Georgetown
Public Hospital, lauded the initiative, and a few even expressed concern about the care and maintenance of the much needed equipment. "It is good that the hospital is getting these types of equipment, which will boost its services, but attention must be paid to keeping them functioning properly, because too many times you hear the hospital got this equipment and that equipment-then the next thing you hear, they're not working. “We have to be more responsible in the way we handle these things," one resident said.
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Kaieteur News
Monday December 24, 2018
ASPIRE Guyana identifies seven for...
(FROM PAGE 14) AYODELE ROACHE “My name is Ayodele Modpue Roache and I am 19 years of age. I attended Liana Nursery, St Pius Primary, Christ Church Secondary and St Rose's High school. I graduated from Christ Church Secondary School with 10 CSEC subjects with passes in all. I recently graduated from St Rose's High School with a Diploma/Associate Degree in Law. I am currently attending the University of Guyana, as a first year international relations student.” “My passion for volunteerism is something I love to say I was born with. In my first year at the Christ Church Secondary school, I joined the interact club. This was the first time I really was exposed to social activities, whether it had been to plan a school project or to partner with other schools to represent Guyana, our school or district. In Form Two, I was elected as the youngest President of Christ Church Secondary school’s Interact Club, where I served for three years as the President and shortly after being elected, I was selected to represent Guyana at the 2012 RYLA youth conference. Yet again, I was one of the youngest persons to participate in that conference. In 2015, the CCSS interact club was chosen to do the road safety declaration, being involved at such an early age (12 years) in representing myself, country and school led to me seeing the need for the importance of youth involvement within any nation, especially Guyana. Being able to network with youths from other countries helped me to clearly draft the path I want to take; being involved in those social activities is not a mere achievement for me to brag about. It served as a stepping stone in becoming the person I am today and the person I want to grow into tomorrow. It helped me to create a passion for helping others. In 2017, I was chosen as a Youth Ambassador to represent Guyana and the US Embassy based in Guyana, on a cultural exchange visit to the United States of America, and in 2018 I was elected as probably the youngest councilor in Georgetown.” “This year was full of lessons, opportunities, hard work and accomplishments. This year, I and fellow youth ambassadors completed a project at the Mibicuri Secondary school, President’s College and Christ Church Secondary. The project was aimed at building youths, helping them to recognize the leader within themselves and how they can use their unique skills to be better persons.” “I am currently the vice chair of Youth for Change, and a member of the Alliance for Change. The YFC, this year has successfully managed to further educate Guyanese on the negative outcomes surrounding domestic violence and how we as a nation can "BE THE SOLUTION" to ending domestic violence. This project was unique, in that it targeted both male and female, rather than focusing on one sex.” “This year, I took the first step, to motivate young persons like myself to "get up and go" make a positive change. I got myself involved in Local Government Elections and ran as PR candidate under the AFC, campaigning for youths. I continue to volunteer my service to different organisations and persons. I recently volunteered at the "I CAN" project for Agricola youths, which was planned and implemented by Christine Profitt.” “The year 2018 was a year full of wishes, advocating, opportunities, lessons and accomplishments. In 2019, I will continue this journey, the journey in making Guyana a better place, the journey in fighting for youths to be involved in decision making, to be given seats at the table. None of this could have been possible without my parents and family, without their support, love and encouragement.”
CARLA CASSIANO “I’m from Lethem and I recently graduated from the University of Guyana with a Bachelor's Degree in Optometry. I am kind and caring and a humanitarian by heart. I go by a simple motto: ‘We give sight to everyone we meet.’ I am always willing to serve whenever the opportunity presents itself and I never say No.” “I have worked with both governmental and non-governmental organizations including Ministry of Health , Save Abee, Guyana Medical Mission etc.” “My main contribution has been eye care services. I enjoy working in the hinterland communities where there are hardly any eye care services available. I volunteer my service by screening for refractive errors and Eye diseases such as Cataract, Glaucoma, Pterygium etc. After these cases are identified, I then ensure appropriate care is given and refer patients where there is a need to.” “In the year 2018, I have distributed 150 spectacles to school children and old folks that are in dire need. I was recently given an award for my passion, willingness to volunteer, and dedication to my Job. It brings me great joy to know that I am changing lives and touching hearts every day. My goal is to ensure that every one is given an equal right to sight.”
AMANDAGRAY “My name is Amanda Gray and I’m a 29-year-old Medical Doctor from Manchester Village, Corentyne Berbice. I am very enthusiastic about health, in general. However, I have taken a keen interest in women’s health, taking in consideration the amount of health problems that are associated with women daily.” “At present I volunteer with the Ministry of Public Health: Adolescent Department as a Peer Educator. In 2017 I was voted as the Assistant Regional Representative for the Georgetown Branch of Peer Educators, because of my passion for women’s health I am currently pursuing a master’s degree in Obstetrics and Gynaecology.” “As a peer educator, I focus on sexual reproductive health, family planning, drugs and alcohol and not forgetting teenage pregnancy since Guyana ranks the second highest in Latin America and the Caribbean. With this in mind, we do not only target the youths in Georgetown, but we travel to different parts of the country educating adolescent and adults. We hold sessions in schools, churches, the mall, out reaches, television and assist where ever our presence is needed.” “For 2018, even though my responsibilities have increased, having to balance between work, academics, social life and physical health, didn’t stop me from fulfilling my peer health educator duties. 2018 was very challenging for me. However, as a Peer Educator in Adolescent Department, I have seen great success and improvement among the adolescent and adults that have been part of our program, and I would encourage all adolescent and adults male and females in Guyana, to come on board of our program and let’s make a change for a better and healthier Guyana. CHELSEAEDGHILL Chelsea Edghill is a 21 year old former student of The Bishops’ High School. Currently, she is a senior at Lindenwood University. Additionally, she is also the current U21 Caribbean Women’s Champion and Women’s Open Bronze Medalist. “I started playing table tennis as a hobby and found out later that I had a love for it and continued playing. Over the years it’s been that love for the sport that kept me going and playing, and striving for excellence. Throughout 2018, I’d say I have been successful in my endeavors with many international titles and abilities to give back to the sport. To name a few, St Joseph Valley Open Women’s Open champion, the Midwest District Collegiate Championships Womens’ Singles Champion, and hosting the Old School Vs New School Exhibition match to raise funds.
Monday December 24, 2018
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Kaieteur News
$20M allocated to further decrease backlog in the judiciary The appointment of Judges and Magistrates, the implementation of night courts and the use of mediation were some of the measures implemented to deal with the decades old backlog of cases in the judiciary. As of early 2017, there was a case backlog of over 10,000, and according to Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Basil Williams, that number has been decreased to approximately 4, 500. From the budgetary allocations for the Ministry of Legal Affairs, some $20M has been set aside for the implementation of a case management system aimed at further reducing the backlog. In his budget speech, the Attorney General had said, “Studies have shown that implementing Case Management Technologies in the Justice Sector resulted in seven percent average rate of decrease of old civil, criminal and juvenile backlog, additionally, it resulted in a 15percent productivity in the
Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Basil Williams public sector.” The case management system network will allow key justice institutions to share information and access live data. This network will connect probation services, the Magistrate’s Courts, legal aid, restorative justice, interlink with the High Court, Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) and police prosecutors, and interlink with the Prison
Service. In February, acting Chancellor of the Judiciary Yonette Cummings-Edwards confirmed the significant decrease in the case backlog. She had said that the cases still in the system include those for divorce, civil and Full Court matters. During a visit to Guyana in January of 2017, John Clifford Wallace, United States Court of Appeals Senior Judge and Chief Judge Emeritus, had stressed the need for the implementation of a case management system and for mediation to be increased. Specifically, Judge Wallace had emphasized on Rules 25 and 26 of the New Civil Procedure Rules 2016 which deals with Case Management and Mediation respectively. The US Judge had pointed out that an important part of case management is sorting case files in getting them ready for trial. He had stated that case management allows the pace of litigation to be decided by
Guyana condemns ‘hostile act’ by Venezuela in local waters GEORGETOWN, Guyana (AP) — Guyana’s foreign ministry has condemned what it says was a dangerous incursion into local waters after a Norwegian ship hired by ExxonMobil was “intercepted” by a Venezuelan naval vessel. The ship, Ramform Tethys, was contracted to conduct seismic work by the company in a block off Guyana’s coast. It was approached Saturday morning by the Venezuelan navy, which did not board the ship and later left the area, according to Norway’s Petroleum GeoServices, which was performing the seismic survey on behalf of Irving, Texasbased ExxonMobil. In a statement Saturday night, the foreign ministry called the incident an “illegal, aggressive and hostile act” by
Venezuela “which once again demonstrates the real threat to Guyana’s economic development by its western neighbour.” It said that it would be bringing “this latest act of illegality and blatant disrespect for Guyana’s sovereignty” to the attention of the United Nations and sending formal communication to Venezuela. It also said it was in the
process of informing the countries that the ship’s 70 crew members hail from about “the threat to their safety.” A spokeswoman for ExxonMobil said Sunday that seismic operations on the Stabroek block were still paused. Exxon drilled its first successful well off the coast of Guyana in 2015 and since then has made nine more Continued on page 22
Coke-buying ASP, two... From page 9 Calvin Brutus had last week declined to comment on the reports, and referred Kaieteur News to Crime Chief Lyndon Alves. The ASP had claimed that he was robbed of his licensed 9mm pistol and jewellery two Mondays ago in the vicinity of La Bonne Intention (LBI). The ‘robbers’ were said to have fired several shots into the policeman’s vehicle. The rank has said that he recovered his gold band and chain from one of the robbers, who was held at the scene.
the judge and not the attorneys. The Chief Judge Emeritus had explained that in case management every Judge will be assigned to a certain number of cases and also be responsible for everything that deals with that case until it is completed. Then, Wallace had complimented Guyana on having a very good judiciary and “fine” Bar Association.
“You have a very good judiciary here. You have a fine bar association. You just need a different way of doing things.” Under the New Civil Procedure Rule there are Fixed Date Applications and Statement of Claim Matters. The practice currently being adopted by the High Court is that the Judge will set a timeline for hearing matters. The Judges would usually set
a date for the plaintiff to file arguments, then for the defence to file a response. The Judges will thereafter set a date for evidence to be submitted and for arguments to be heard, followed by a date for ruling. For 2017, 2,063 Fixed Date Applications were filed, of which 1, 452 were completed, while 440 Statement of Claim matters were filed, of which 54 were completed.
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Monday December 24, 2018
Kaieteur News
Over three months after fare hike…
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 HOUSE PLAN DRAWING OR IF YOU NEED A ESTIMATE. #216-0671/ 692-8464/622-0267 FB K . L A K E R A M CONSTRUCTION Eagle’s re-gas AC, Fridge, Washing machine & computer repairs, Gas stove, Plasma flatscreen, Electrical installation & more. Call: 6972969/646-0966 HEALTH HERBAL REMEDIES: Diabetes, Hypertension, Infertility, Menstrual disorders, Enlarged prostate, Kidney,Gall stones & Arthritis etc. Call Sparman #676-5924
FOR SALE 1 White Toyota Raum Tel: 6821285 Used imported glass showcase L72" x H39" x W24" 40,000 each. Tel 625-1514 New X Box One S. Tel#6837034 1 Pure breed German Shepherd Pup, Black & Tan. Tel# 626-0953/650-9998 ACCOMMODATION Secret Villa & Harmony Inn. Fully furnish, air-condition rooms & apartments. 2256337, 668-0306, 218-1400, 602-8769, 266-5243-4
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One 2011 Toyota Prado Landcruiser in immaculate condition. Tel: 656-7554 PEN PAL Male seeking one single mature female for friendship or marriage. Ages 25-35. Whatsapp #692-6133
New 4 Storey Building at Parika (Guyana’s Gateway) near stelling. Willing to divide. Call: 699-4513. Newly constructed 2 bedroom house and apt in a safe and healthy environment. Call: 698-6496/ 622-6512 3 Bedroom house 60 US per night. Call 233-2439
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We buy land in Eccles, Herstelling, Farm, Parfaite Harmonie, Uivlugt, Zeelugt, Providence & Dairy Tel# 6117223/651-1969 1 Maid. #225-3234 Wanted land to buy in Parfaite Harmony, Uitvlugt, Tuschen or Zeelugt. Tel: 6421252 1 Experienced Hiab Truck Driver. Contact#650-0402/ 603-1402 Wanted female counter staff for snackette. Call: 629-2044 URGENTLY NEEDED DRY CORILLA BUSH. ANY AMOUNT FROM 1lb TO 1000lbs. #609-8281 One (1) male ablebodied clerk. Tel: 231-2029, 616-5954 Land to buy Parfaite Harmonie, Province, Farm, Tuschen, Eccles, Herstelling, Uitvlugt. Call 666-2326
Farm (East Bank) $3.5M Eccles $7M Herstelling $4M & $5M Schnoord $3M Dairy $2M & $3M Tel#656-0701/648-1635
FOR SALE/RENT
1 Leyland Daf 60, working condition. 658-4655, 618-4457
1 Apt for rent- Bottom flat for rent, for business. Contact Radica Kassim #264-2639 Lot 7-8 Plantain Walk WBD
LAND FOR SALE
Onderneeming (Parfaite Harmonie) $1.6M Tel#6560701/651-1969
VEHICLE FOR SALE
PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION, W E D D I N G S , ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620
WANTED
CAR RENTAL
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VACANCY Front desk receptionist. Apply to the Manager Herdmanston Lodge Lamaha, Peter Rose St Vacancy for security. Apply to the Manager Herdmanston Lodge Lamaha, Peter Rose St Female Cleaner, Office & Home. Age 25-50. Call: 2332745 Chef and Assistant cook. Call us on 225-7933 or visit 172 Sheriff Street. Vacancy for domestic maid. Call: 231-0734.
Ministry of Business still to implement minibus code of conduct It has been over three months since the Ministry of Business in collaboration with the United Minibus Union implemented a $20 fare hike across the board with the promise of implementing a code of Conduct for minibus operators. A draft code of conduct was reportedly submitted to the Minibus Union by the said Ministry last October for consideration. Sources revealed that the Union and the Ministry had planned a meeting for the latter part of November to discuss the draft code of conduct and hopefully have it implemented by the end of this year. This however the code of conduct has not been made official as yet with less than ten days to go in the New Year. In an earlier interview with Kaieteur News, the President of the United Minibus Union, Eon Andrews disclosed that he had no issue with the draft and was in total agreement with its content. Andrews also highlighted that operators needed to get themselves in order because once the union agrees, the only action left is for the Ministry of Business to implement it. The draft code of conduct presented to the union covered issues being faced by consumers in the aspects of the general operation of drivers and conductors, licensing and compliance, consumer service, prohibitions and health and safety conditions provided for passengers in minibuses. It also enforced that both drivers and conductors should follow all transportation-related laws and regulations. The draft also accentuates that their (conductors’ and drivers’) behaviour towards passengers should be without prejudice. Further, into the draft, emphasis was also placed on fair and proper treatment of persons with disabilities, women, children and the elderly. The code of conduct draft also proposes much-needed training as criteria for new operators (drivers and conductors) and upon the renewing of their licenses. Under prohibitions, the draft posited that operators should not; refuse to stop at areas that are allotted as bus-stops, attach any sign that would offend any group or individual inside or outside the minibus. However, in relation health and safety the draft suggested that the busses should be kept clean and tidy at all times and that, drivers should perform a daily examination on the bus engine, brakes, and other peripheral parts. In addressing many complaints that rose about buses that are unfit causing physical damage to persons, the preliminary document proposed that operators would have to ensure that the interior of the bus is safe and would not cause injuries to passengers. Meanwhile, the general public impatiently awaits the implementation and enforcement of the code of conduct as they continue to express discontent in the way minibus operators conduct business.
Guyana condemns ‘hostile... From page 21 discoveries, including one this month that boosted to 5 billion oil-equivalent barrels the company’s estimate of reserves in the deep-water area. The recent discoveries mean the tiny country of 750,000 people is on track to surpass Venezuela and Mexico to become Latin America’s second-biggest oil producer within the next decade, behind only Brazil, energy research firm Wood MacKenzie wrote in a report this month. But Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has called the oil drilling by the U.S. company illegal, and many fear that as his socialist-run country teeters on the edge of chaos he could seek to provoke his neighbour. Venezuela has claimed the mineral-rich region west of the
Essequibo river in Guyana as its own since the 19th century, a view shared even by some of Maduro’s fiercest opponents. An international tribunal ruled in 1899 that the area formed part of Guyana, which at the time was a British colony. The swath of disputed land makes up 40 percent of Guyana. Earlier this year, United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres sent the case to the International Court of Justice following a failed UN-sponsored attempt to broker a settlement. Venezuela’s navy seized a U.S.-chartered oil research ship working in the area in 2013 and held it for more than a week before releasing the vessel and its 36 crew members from the U.S., Russia, Indonesia and Ukraine.
Monday December 24, 2018
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Kaieteur News
Tsunami kills at least 222 in Indonesia after Krakatau eruption PA N D E G L A N G, Indonesia (Reuters) - A tsunami killed at least 222 people and injured hundreds on the Indonesian islands of Java and Sumatra following an underwater landslide believed to have been caused by the erupting Anak Krakatau volcano, officials said yesterday. Hundreds of homes and other buildings were heavily damaged when the tsunami struck, almost without warning, along the rim of the Sunda Strait late on Saturday, Sutopo Purwo Nugroho, spokesman for the disaster mitigation agency, said. Thousands of residents were forced to evacuate to higher ground. By late afternoon yesterday, the disaster agency had raised the death toll to 222, with 843 injured and 28 missing. This year the vast archipelago, which sits on the Pacific “Ring of Fire”, has suffered its worst death toll from disasters in over a decade. Earthquakes flattened parts of the tourist island of Lombok in July and August, and a double quakeand-tsunami killed more than 2,000 people on Sulawesi
A car is seen among ruins after a tsunami hit Carita beach in Pandeglang, Banten province, Indonesia, yesterday. REUTERS/Adi Kurniawan island in September. As night fell, rescue efforts continued but workers and ambulances were struggling to reach affected areas because some roads were blocked by debris from damaged houses, overturned cars and fallen trees. TV images showed when the tsunami hit the beach and residential areas in Pandeglang on Java, dragging with it victims,
debris, and large chunks of wood and metal. Coastal residents reported not seeing or feeling any warning signs on Saturday night, such as receding water or an earthquake, before waves of 2-3 metres (6-10 feet) washed ashore, according to media. The timing of the tsunami, over the Christmas holiday season, evoked memories of the Indian Ocean tsunami
China mulls new foreign investment law — state media
Guest speaker: Chinese President Xi Jinping addresses students from the Moscow State University for Foreign Relations on Saturday. | AP BEIJING, China (AFP) — China’s legislature is considering a new law governing foreign investment that will streamline existing rules and prevent the forced transfer of technology, state media reported yesterday. The new “unified law” will replace three existing laws on Chinese and foreign equity joint ventures, non-equity joint ventures and wholly foreign-owned enterprises, the official Xinhua news agency reported. A draft of the proposed legislation was presented at a meeting of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress (NPC) which began yesterday. When in place, the new law would bar local governments from restricting market access for foreign firms and from forcing them to transfer technology. This will ensure foreign investors would
enjoy the same privileges as Chinese companies in most sectors except those excluded on a “negative list”. US and EU officials have long complained of a lack of fair access for foreign companies in China, as well as rampant theft of intellectual property. “In order to further expand opening up, actively promote foreign investment, protect the legitimate rights and interests of foreign investment, and promote the formation of a new pattern of comprehensive opening, the State Council has proposed a bill,” the Standing Committee said is a statement about the meeting posted on the NPC website. The moves signal China’s increased support for the economy as a bruising trade war with the US has stymied growth. Top policymakers on Friday pledged support with tax cuts and other policy measures including further opening the economy and better protection of intellectual property rights. Economic data has shown China’s economy slowing this autumn, with Chinese consumer spending growing at its slowest pace in 15 years during November and factories easing up on production. Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump agreed to a 90-day tariff truce this month, as the two sides try to find a more permanent solution to the trade dispute. Senior officials from both countries had a phone conversation on Friday and “made new progress” on several issues including trade balance and strengthening intellectual property protection, China’s commerce ministry said in a statement Sunday. The meetings of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress, a powerful body of lawmakers headed by top legislator Li Zhanshu, run until Saturday.
triggered by an earthquake on Dec. 26 in 2004, which killed 226,000 people in 14 countries, including more than 120,000 in Indonesia. Øystein Lund Andersen, a Norwegian photographer, was in Anyer town with his family when Saturday’s tsunami struck. “I had to run, as the wave passed the beach and landed 15-20 metres inland. Next wave entered the hotel area where I was staying and downed cars on the road behind it,” he said on Facebook. “Managed to evacuate with my family to higher ground through forest paths and villages, where we are taken care of by the locals.” Authorities warned residents and tourists in coastal areas around the Sunda Strait to stay away from beaches and a high-tide warning remained in place until Dec. 25 as officials evaluate the risks and try to determine the exact cause of the disaster. “Those who have evacuated, please do not return yet,” said Rahmat Triyono, an official at the Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG). President Joko Widodo, who is running for re-election in April, told reporters he had “ordered all relevant government agencies to immediately take emergency response measures, find victims and care for the injured”. Vice President Jusuf Kalla warned that the death toll would “likely increase”. Heavy equipment is being moved in to help with rescue efforts as well as water and sanitation equipment. The military said it was deploying troops to distribute aid and blankets, as well as sending in medics. The western coast of Banten province in Java, Indonesia’s most populated
island, was the worst-hit area, Nugroho told reporters, adding that at least 35 people were reported dead in Lampung in southern Sumatra. With the exact cause of the disaster still unknown, authorities are wary of the risk of a recurrence. Public works minister Basuki Hadimuljono said “emergency operations would be continuously carried out, but would stop at the stop at the first sign of possible high tides”. Television footage showed how the tsunami washed away an outdoor stage where a local rock band was performing for hundreds of guests at an end-of-year party for state utility company PLN. Four of the musicians from the band, Seventeen, were killed, along with 29 PLN employees and relatives. “The water washed away the stage which was located very close to the sea,” the band said in a statement. “The water rose and dragged away everyone at the location. We
have lost loved ones, including our bassist and manager ... and others are missing.” Police officers rescued a young boy who was trapped in a car buried under fallen trees and rubble for nearly 12 hours, according to a video of his rescue posted on Twitter by the Indonesian National Police. The tsunami was caused by “an undersea landslide resulting from volcanic activity on Anak Krakatau” and was exacerbated by abnormally high tides because of the full moon, Nugroho said. Anak Krakatau, which lies roughly halfway between Java and Sumatra, has been spewing ash and lava for months. It erupted again just after 9 p.m. on Saturday and the tsunami struck at around 9.30 p.m., according to BMKG. Ben van der Pluijm, an earthquake geologist and a professor in the University of Michigan, said the tsunami may have been caused by a “partial collapse” of Anak Krakatau. “Instability of the slope of an active volcano can create a rock slide that moves a large volume of w a t e r, c r e a t i n g l o c a l tsunami waves that can be very powerful. This is like suddenly dropping a bag of sand in a tub filled with water,” he said. The eruption of Krakatau, previously known as Krakatoa, in 1883 killed more than 36,000 people in a series of tsunamis. Anak Krakatau, which means child of Krakatau, is the island that emerged from the area once occupied by Krakatau, which was destroyed in 1883. It first appeared in 1927 and has been growing ever since.
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Monday December 24, 2018
Kaieteur News
Chinese accused of forcing out local contractors
Major drug trafficking network between St. Lucia and Martinique dismantled CASTRIES, St Lucia - CMC – The authorities in neighbouring Martinique have dismantled a major drug trafficking operation between St Lucia and the French Caribbean territory. According to media reports out of Martinique, the success of French law enforcement officials came as a result of a year of investigative work. The news organization quoted Martinique Prosecutor, Gaudeul Renaud, as saying that the traffic in narcotics was between St Lucia and Fort de France – the capital of Martinique.
The only building at Sam Lord’s Castle where substantial construction has taken place. (Picture by Maria Bradshaw)
He disclosed that the trafficking targeted the neighbourhoods of SainteThérèse, Dillon and to a lesser extent Pointe des Neiges. The anti-drug operation on December 18 resulted in arrests in four communities and the seizure of just over 50 kilograms of cocaine, more than 20 kilograms of cannabis and a semiautomatic pistol. Martinique officials added that a money counter was confiscated – testimony to the huge profits associated with the drugs trade. Five individuals were also arrested.
Financial corruption probe to be led by man who investigated TCI premier Daily Nation - Disputes between the Chinese and local contractors at Wyndham Sam Lord’s Castle Resort are threatening to stall construction of the multimillion-dollar hotel. Reliable sources have told THE NATION local contractors do not feel as if they are getting the royal treatment by the Chinese, and many of them have either pulled out or are refusing to work on the project. It is understood that disputes have arisen
over differences in building techniques, culture, ethics and even payment. NATION investigations revealed that at least two major local contractors are owed millions of dollars and are involved in arbitration. So serious was the situation that a source said China National Complete Plant Import & Export Corporation, the Chinese contractor, has applied to the Immigration Department to bring in more Chinese workers.
BVI signs MOU with Airbnb TORTOLA, British Virgin Islands CMC – The British Virgin Islands (BVI) Tourist Board has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with homestay provider Airbnb to lease or rent short-term lodging. The Tourist Board said this partnership aims to drive local, authentic, and sustainable tourism to the territory and ‘democratize the tourism economy’. “This partnership will help to strengthen tourism development, one of the nation’s largest economic sectors, and generate economic opportunity throughout the islands,” said Airbnb’s regional representative, Carlos Munoz in a recent statement. The BVI/Airbnb agreement has also created the opportunity for persons in the territory to benefit from Airbnb’s Open Homes
programme. Open Homes will allow persons to share the extra space of their homes, for free, with people in need of temporary housing. Airbnb said the programme started in 2012 after Hurricane Sandy hit the United States and several Airbnb hosts opened their homes to those displaced by the disaster. “We created a programme that allowed the Airbnb community to share their space with those in need. The groups of people Open Homes supports are those displaced by natural disasters, conflict, or illness. We work closely with organisations like the International Rescue Committee and Mercy Corps to develop the programme and to help them find temporary housing on behalf of their clients,” Airbnb said.
ST. GEORGE’S, Grenada - CMC – The man who conducted the corruption investigations into former Turks and Caicos Premier Michael Misick, Eugene Otuonye QC, will be heading the team conducting the financial corruption allegation into the Marketing and National Importing Board. In July 2018, Prime Minister Dr Keith Mitchell announced that the Cabinet had approved an investigation into the affairs of the MNIB as a result of financial wrongdoing observed by the new Board of Directors. Shortly after, the Integrity Commission which the Public Life Act provides to conducted inquiries of wrongful allegations into any state own enterprise announced that it had begun preliminary work into the corruption allegations at the MNIB. In a release issued on Friday, it was revealed that the Prime Minister met with the
investigations team at the Office of the Integrity Commission. “Dr Mitchell, as the Minister responsible for the Marketing and National Importing Board (MNIB), was called to meet with the investigations team as part of the information gathering process,” explained the release which did not disclosed when he met with the team of investigators which includes members from the investigating unit of the Integrity Commission. Without disclosing the number of persons expected to be questioned by the investigating team, the release said that these interviews will continue after the Christmas season. Former General Manager, Ruel Edwards is at the centre of the investigations. In 2008 Otuonye QC was selected by a Foreign Affairs Select Committee of British Members of Parliament to conduct a routine review of the administration of TCI,
Eugene Otuonye which is a British overseas territory. The report charged that Misick had engaged in corrupt activities by enriching himself and fellow ministers by selling off crown lands. He was arrested and charged with conspiracy to receive bribes, conspiracy to defraud the government and money laundering a thorough investigation.
Monday December 24, 2018
Kaieteur News
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Monday December 24, 2018
Kaieteur News
NY Cosmos announce return of Club Captain Danny Szetela
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Stevenson awake after three weeks in coma, girlfriend says
Szetela has made over 100 appearances during his tenure with the club NEW YORK - The New York Cosmos announced yesterday the re-signing of club captain Danny Szetela. Szetela, 31, has been an instrumental member of the club after first signing with the team in 2013. The midfielder has made over 100 appearances in green and white as the 2019 season marks his seventh with the club. “Danny is an instrumental part of the New York Cosmos,” Cosmos Senior Vice President Joe Barone said. “Tactically, he’s a player that is very sound and gives a lot of balance to the team. He works very, very hard, and he provides leadership on and off the field. “His drive, his commitment, and his love for the fan base clearly shows why we thought it was important to bring him back.” During his tenure with the Cosmos, Szetela has lifted three league titles – 2013, 2015, and 2016 – and helped the Cosmos to a fourth NASL Final appearance in 2017. Wearing the captain’s armband in 2018 with Cosmos B, he helped lead the side to a North Atlantic Conference title as well as posting a perfect 10-0-0 record in NPSL
regular-season play. Szetela was also named to the Conference Best XI. Before signing with the Cosmos, Szetela began his career as a teenager with the Columbus Crew of Major League Soccer (MLS) in 2004. The native of Clifton, N.J., has also taken the field for Brescia in Italy and Racing Santander in Spain as well as D.C. United in MLS. The midfielder represented the United States at youth and senior level, earning three senior caps. “To wear the captain’s armband is a big honor,” Szetela said. “I need to make sure I push my teammates in whatever way I can to make this club grow, to win championships, and to continue to have success.” He added: “The connection with the fans has always been special. They have always been there for us, no matter what. The best thing we can do as players is every time we step on the field is to give 100 percent. We can’t wait to keep seeing them singing in the stands.” More info on the team and 2019 NPSL Founders Cup will be announced at a later date.
Cosmos Senior Vice President Joe Barone and Danny Szetela at a media event.
Referee Michael Griffin lift the arm of Adonis Stevenson after his victory over Andrzej Fonfara (not pictured) in their WBC boxing championship bout at the Bell Centre. (Eric Bolte-USA TODAY Sports/File Photo) (Reuters) - Canadian boxer Adonis Stevenson has regained consciousness after three weeks in a coma following a Dec. 1 knockout loss, his girlfriend said on Saturday. Simone “Sisi” God said in a statement posted on Twitter that the Haiti-born 41-yearold is awake. “Despite recent reports being leaked to media, I wanted to clarify that Adonis is awake,” God said. “He is healing from his injury in the private company of his family and his dedicated medical team. “Adonis is a world champion in the ring and is exhibiting that same grit, strength and
determination in his recovery.” Boxing promoter Yvon Michel had told reporters in Canada on Thursday that the light heavyweight boxer remained unconscious. But his girlfriend said “Adonis is spending time enjoying music and spending time with his family and sends his love and appreciation to you all.” The former light-heavyweight world champion was taken to hospital for treatment after a knockout loss to Oleksandr Gvozdyk of Ukraine in Quebec City on Dec. 1. He had defended his title nine times since 2013 before the loss.
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Kaieteur News
Monday December 24, 2018
NBA roundup: Beal’s triple-double lifts Wizards in 3 OTs Bradley Beal earned his first career triple-double and scored the go-ahead basket with 40 seconds left as the Washington Wizards defeated the visiting Phoenix Suns 149-146 in triple overtime on Saturday. Beal, who scored 10 points in the third overtime, finished with 40 points, 11 rebounds and a career-high 15 assists. His layup made it 146-144 Wizards. Devin Booker’s layup with 11 seconds left pulled Phoenix within 147-146 but Washington’s Jeff Green (20 points) hit two free throws and T.J. Warren’s 3-point attempt for Phoenix was short and appeared to be released after the horn sounded. Washington’s Thomas Bryant had 31 points and 13 rebounds. He tied a Wizards record (set by Bailey Howell in 1965) by finishing 14-for14 from the field. Warriors 120, Mavericks 116 Jonas Jerebko scored 16 of his 23 points in a 34-12 run that bridged the third and fourth quarters, rallying Golden State to a victory over Dallas in Oakland, Calif. Attempting to avoid a fifth straight loss, the Mavericks outplayed the Warriors for more than 2 1/2 quarters and led 81-77 after a three-point play by J.J. Barea with 3:54 remaining in the third period. But Jerebko and Kevin
Golden State Warriors forward Jonas Jerebko (21) shoots the basketball against Dallas Mavericks center DeAndre Jordan (6) during the second half at Oracle Arena. (Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports) Durant had seven points apiece in a 17-6 burst to finish the third quarter, giving the Warriors a 94-87 lead. Durant finished with 29 points, 12 rebounds and eight assists. Thunder 107, Jazz 106 Paul George’s 43 points on 15-of-25 shooting gave Oklahoma City enough of a
lift to edge Utah in Salt Lake City. Jerami Grant added 15 points for the Thunder. Steven Adams chipped in 15 points and 10 rebounds, while Russell Westbrook tallied eight points, 12 rebounds, and nine assists. Oklahoma City won its fourth straight game. Ricky Rubio had 12 points and 14 assists, and all five Jazz starters scored in double figures. Utah finished with 35 assists on 42 baskets. 76ers 126, Raptors 101 Joel Embiid had 27 points and 11 rebounds, and Ben
Simmons added 26 points, 12 rebounds and eight assists as host Philadelphia defeated Kawhi Leonard-less Toronto. JJ Redick scored 22, Furkan Korkmaz added 16 and Jimmy Butler had 12 for the 76ers, who won their second in a row, improved to 16-3 at home and pulled within 2 1/ 2 games of the Atlantic Division-leading Raptors. Embiid shot 10-of-15 from the field and Simmons was 11-of-13 as the 76ers shot 54.1 percent (46 of 85) while holding Toronto to 38.9 percent (37 of 95). Pascal
Siakam had 26 points and six rebounds for the Raptors, who had a two-game winning streak snapped. Rockets 108, Spurs 101 James Harden recorded his sixth consecutive 30point effort, and host Houston won for the first time without Chris Paul in the lineup, defeating San Antonio. Behind a stellar 28-point performance from DeMar DeRozan, the Spurs erased a 17-point, fourth-quarter deficit and led 97-96 on consecutive 3-pointers from Derrick White and Rudy Gay,
the latter coming with 3:03 to play. But Harden answered with a 3-pointer 24 seconds later and, after DeRozan countered with a driving layup, Eric Gordon sank a three following critical offensive rebounds from Clint Capela and P.J. Tucker. Clippers 132, Nuggets 111 Danilo Gallinari and Tobias Harris scored 21 points apiece, helping host Los Angeles gradually pull away from Denver en route to a victory. Montrezl Harrell added 20 points and 10 rebounds for the Clippers, who avenged a 107-98 opening-night loss to the Nuggets on the same floor. Nikola Jokic had 19 points before getting ejected, and Jamal Murray 18 for the Nuggets, who had a fourgame winning streak snapped. Heat 94, Bucks 87 Dwyane Wade came up clutch to help Miami win its fourth straight game, using solid defense and a balanced attack to defeat visiting Milwaukee. Wade poured in six points in the final two minutes to help close out the win. The Heat forced the Bucks into 16 turnovers and held them to 9of-43 shooting from long range, limiting the league’s highest-scoring offense to a season low in points. Wade totaled 13 points, eight rebounds, three assists and one steal in 26 minutes off the bench, while Josh Richardson finished with a team-high 16 points to go with five rebounds, three assists and two steals. (Field Level Media)
New Jersey referee suspended after forcing black wrestler to have haircut (Reuters) - A New Jersey high school referee was suspended after a video showed a black wrestler being forced to have his hair cut before a bout after being told he would have to forfeit the match if he refused, according to state athletic officials on Saturday. The video, which was uploaded on Twitter on Thursday by a reporter from SNJ Today newspaper, showed Andrew Johnson of Buena Regional High School in Buena, New Jersey, getting his dreadlocks hairstyle cut off by a school official. Moments later, Johnson, who is black, won his match against his opponent. A referee named Alan Maloney, who is white, apparently had ordered Johnson to cut off his hair, according to local media reports. The clip went viral on Friday, with many social media users condemning the school for allowing Maloney to make the order, calling it racist and discriminatory. “Deeply disturbed that Andrew Johnson, a student at Buena Regional H.S., was forced to choose between keeping his dreadlocks and competing in a wrestling tournament,” wrote New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy, a democrat, on Twitter. “No student should have to needlessly choose between his or her identity & playing sports.” Larry White, the executive director of the New Jersey
State Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA), said the incident would be investigated by the New Jersey Civil Rights division and the referee would not be assigned to future high school wrestling events in New Jersey until the review is complete. “NJSIAA can confirm that those groups that assign high school wrestling referees in New Jersey will not assign the referee in question until this matter has been thoroughly reviewed,” White said in a statement on Saturday. “This will help to avoid disruption of events for student athletes.” A representative from the New Jersey Civil Rights division did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Jordan Burroughs, an Olympic champion wrestler, commended Johnson on Twitter for cutting his hair to win the match for his team, but expressed his anger over the referee’s order, calling it sickening, racist and an abuse of power. Maloney had come under fire in 2016 after he was accused of using a racial slur against a black referee, according to the Courier Post newspaper. Maloney told the paper that he did not remember using the word. Maloney could not immediately be reached for comment.
Monday December 24, 2018
Kane and Son rip Everton apart as Spurs hit six
Everton’s Kurt Zouma in action with Tottenham’s Oliver Skipp. (REUTERS/Andrew Yates) LIVERPOOL, England (Reuters) - EVERTON 2 TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR 6 Tottenham Hotspur showed the Premier League title race might not be just a two-horse affair with a hugely impressive 6-2 win at Everton yesterday with Harry Kane and Son Heung-min both scoring twice. Scintillating Spurs are now just two points behind second-placed Manchester City and trail Liverpool by six but after this performance, the London club look well capable of pushing their rivals all the way. “Everybody’s been talking about Liverpool and Manchester City, and we’ve been getting on with it and doing well, like we normally do,” said Kane. “We’ve had a good month and hopefully we can take that into January now - and February - and we’ll see where we’re at come April time.” Media speculation has suggested Spurs manager Mauricio Pochettino could be a target for Manchester United at the end of the season, but if the Argentine had any doubts about the potential of the side he has created they would have vanished with this display. Despite falling a goal behind, Spurs were simply unstoppable once Son had brought them level in the 27th minute, with their devastating movement in attack and precision passing from midfield too much for an Everton side whose limitations were ruthlessly exposed. Everton took the lead in the 21st minute when Dominic Calvert-Lewin pulled the ball back to former Arsenal forward Theo
Walcott who turned it past Hugo Lloris. After Calvert-Lewin had a header harshly ruled out, Spurs drew level from an awful mix-up between Everton keeper Jordan Pickford and defender Kurt Zouma with South Korean Son doing well from a tight angle to curl the ball into the unguarded goal. That error changed the game and Spurs never looked back as their flowing, attacking football, a joy to watch, overwhelmed Marco Silva’s side. Spurs went in front in the 35th minute when Dele Alli drilled home the ball after Son’s shot was parried by Pickford. Three minutes before the break, the visitors made it 3-1 when a Kieran Trippier free kick flew out off the post straight to Kane who gleefully converted. Christian Eriksen made it 4-1 in the 48th minute when Kane’s shot was blocked by Seamus Coleman and the Dane showed great technique as he drove the ball past Pickford from 20 metres out. Everton responded though, three minutes later, with Gylfi Sigurdsson cutting across the edge of the area and reversing a shot into the bottom corner. Any hope of an Everton revival was short-lived as substitute Erik Lamela slipped in the superb Son who confidently drove past Pickford to make it 5-2. The irrepressible Son then created the sixth, with his perfectly delivered cross from the left met with a textbook finish by the sliding Kane. Such was the quality of Son’s display that parts of the Everton crowd joined in with the visiting fans to applaud
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him off the field. The South Korean had tormented Everton throughout but the entire Spurs team had shown that they are certainly more than also-rans in the title race. City’s loss to Crystal Palace on Saturday allowed Liverpool to take command with a four-point lead at the top but it also opened the door to a Spurs team who have marched through it in such emphatic fashion.
LEWIS INTO TOP FIVE AFTER DHAKA FIFTY DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, CMC – West Indies opener Evin Lewis has vaulted 11 places into the top five of the ICC Twenty20 International batting rankings, following his halfcentury in the decisive third match in Dhaka on Saturday. The left-hander now lies fourth and is now only behind top-ranked Pakistani Babar Azam, New Zealander Colin Munro and Australian Aaron Finch, who lies third. Lewis smashed 89 as West Indies beat Bangladesh by 50 runs to claim the threematch series, 2-1. The knock was his first of note in a bilateral series since he hammered a half-century against England last year September. He managed just two and one against Bangladesh in the Caribbean earlier this year and had scores of 18 and one in the two opening matches of the just concluded series. He missed the tour of India last month for personal reasons. Lewis is the only active West Indies player in the top 50, with veteran Marlon Samuels lying 42nd. The Trinidadian was one of several West Indies players making strides in the rankings.
Opener Evin Lewis
In-form opener Shai Hope, who lashed the third-fastest half-century in T20 Internationals in the opening match Sylhet last week, jumped 82 places to 80th. Nicholas Pooran, who notched scores of 23 not out, 14 and 29 in the series, jumped 16 places to a career-best 88th. In the bowling rankings, seamer Keemo Paul has been rewarded with a healthy leap, following his career-best fivewicket haul on Saturday. The 20-year-old climbed 42 places to 30th after finishing the series with
seven wickets and was also rewarded for his cameo knocks of 28 and 29 in the opening two matches, by climbing 34 places in the batting rankings. Captain Carlos Brathwaite, meanwhile, who had a modest series with just two wickets, moved up eight spots to 22nd in the bowling rankings. He is the highest-ranked West Indies bowler, overhauling the non-active Samuel Badree in 23rd. Afghanistan leg-spinner Rashid Khan sits top of the bowling rankings.
Harrison tops Charlo in shocker for WBC super welterweight title New York (AFP) - Tony Harrison dethroned World Boxing Council super welterweight world champion Jermell Charlo with a controversial unanimous decision Saturday that brought jeers from the Barclays Center crowd in Brooklyn. Previously unbeaten Charlo was the aggressor throughout, but neither fighter landed any devastating blows and the judges gave the all-American showdown to Harrison by scores of 116-112, 115-113 and 115-113. “You know they took that fight from me,” said Charlo, who fell to 31-1 with 15 knockouts. “I was there, pushing the action the whole time. He was moving around just going to the jab, one or two punches. He didn’t win that fight.” But the new champion, who improved to 28-2 with 21 wins inside the distance, insisted there should be no doubt about the outcome.
Tony Harrison punches Jermell Charlo on the way to a 12-round unanimous decision for the WBC super welterweight world title (AFP Photo/Sarah Stier) “I grinded. I grinded, I grinded and I grinded,” he said. “I showed championship composure. I didn’t have to do much. I used my jab. I used my ring generalship. I kept him at bay.” Harrison was offering a rematch when the disbelieving Charlo muscled into his ring interview.
“He knows I won that fight,” Charlo said. The fight was the first of a twin bill that featured Charlo’s twin brother, Jermall Charlo, who retained his WBC interim middlweight title with a unanimous decision over late substitute Matt Korobov. Jermall Charlo won by scores of 119-108, 116-112
and 116-112, coming on strong on the later rounds and pummelling Korobov in a decisive 12th to improve to 28-0 with 21 wins inside the distance. Korobov, who stepped up from the undercard after intended opponent Willie Monroe Jr. failed a drugs test, fell to 28-2.
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Shiva Boys’ create KFC Goodwill Cup history Trinidad and Tobago’s (T&T) Shiva’s boys’ Hindu College edged Christianburg/ Wismar Secondary School (CWSS) 2-1 on Saturday night to clinch the inaugural KFC Goodwill Cup with a perfect record after three rounds of play at the Ministry of Education (MoE) ground on Carifesta Avenue. This tournament, the first of its kind in Guyana during recent years, was the brainchild of the Petra Organisation (football Promotions Company) and it saw Guyoil/Tradewind Tankers league champions; Annandale Secondary along with CWSS and Region nine’s Annai Secondary locked in a four-way round-robin battle with T&T’s 2016 league champions; Shiva’s boys for the KFC Cup. Heading into Saturday night’s play, Annai had a chance at the title but they needed to beat Annandale by at least two goals and hope CWSS could have found their swagger to defeat the T&T school team in the night’s feature game. The first part of the mission was completed when Annai thrashed Annandale 60 in the opening contest with the first two strikes being own goals, while Niazz Mohammed (the tournament leading goal scorer) added a brace in the 28th and 55th minutes before Junior Rodrigues (68th) and Naidison Daniels (80th) padded the final score. In the final game of the event, Stevon Thomas found the back of the net
Nikel Rawlings Shiva’s Boys’ Hindu College; MVP
Niazz Mohammed Annai Secondary (Highest goal scorer four goals)
in 31st minute to ensure that CWSS would’ve had to score at least two goals to see them lose their grip of the title and 15 minutes into the second half, Tyrese Lewis equaliser for the lads from the ‘mining town’. Nine minutes from stoppage time, the game could’ve gone in any direction after being deadlocked for 21 minutes but Shiva’s boys’ Gesiah Bishop put all doubts to rest and banged in the winning goal for the visitors. The event which kicked off on the 15th of this month saw Shiva’s boys’ college beating Annai 3-0 on the opening round before squeezing past both East Coast’s Annandale and Linden’s CWSS 2-1. Reigning school league champions, Annandale finished the tournament in a disappointing last place after failing to win each of their
three matches, while South Rupununi will be proud of Annai that finished second, while CWSS were third after picking up two points from an extra-time win against Annandale. Annai’s Leston Smith was adjudged best goal keeper while Nikel Rawlings, Captain of the champions, was awarded MVP of the competition. Co-director of the Petra Organisation, Troy Mendonca, noted that he was pleased with the success that the event brought and he pledged that his organisation remains committed to the development of the sport at the grassroots level. Mendonca hinted that next year’s edition of the tournament may see the inclusion of other overseas based school teams with the possibility of a Surinamese side a definite possibility. (Calvin Chapman)
Monday December 24, 2018
Bishundial magical spell hands Lusignan A ECCC/SPR 40-over title By Zaheer Mohamed An incisive spell of off-spin bowling from Kumar Bishundial handed Lusignan A the East Coast Cricket Committee/SPR 40-over title yesterday at the Enmore Community Centre ground. Bishundial proved almost unplayable as he picked up six wickets for six runs off 6.3 overs, four of which were maidens, to bowl his team to a 49-run win over Enterprise A in the final. Set 169 for victory, Bishundial who was named man-of-the-match, trapped opener Raja Pooran lbw for one and uprooted the stumps of Pradesh Balkishun (00) to reduced Enterprise A to 5-2. Bhaskar Yadram struck three fours before he was bowled by Bishundial for 13, while Kamesh Yadram was dismissed for 17 off 38 balls, leaving the score at 45-4. Bishundial continued to maintain a steady line and along with the other bowlers, continued to make life difficult for the batsmen on a slow track. Parmamand Dindyal faced 42 balls and scored 26 before he was bowled by Vishnu Ramjeet, while Dave Persaud hit one four and a six before he departed for 25 off 28 balls. Rohan Mangal made 13 as Steve Ramdass supported Bishundial with 2-34; Enterprise A were bowled out for 119 in 36.2 overs. Earlier, Lusignan A loss nine wickets off their allotted 40-over after they were inserted. Gavin Boodwah and Ramdass added 36 for the opening stand before Boodwah was removed by Dave Persaud for 17. Persaud then accounted for Ramdass (14) before teenager Robin Williams and Krishna Deosarran put on 52 for the third wicket to
Man-of-the-match Kumar Bishundial steady the innings somewhat. Deosarran made 23 off 37 balls, while Williams struck 35 with one six off 63 balls before they were both removed by Pradesh Balkishun. Vishnu Ramjeet hit two fours and one six in a top score of 37 while Shazam Ali contributed 11 as Dave Persaud finished with 2-17 and Balkishun 2-18.
Five weightlifters suspended after London 2012 retests
Ukraine’s Oleksiy Torokhtiy wins gold in the men’s 105kg Group A weightlifting competition. (REUTERS/Dominic Ebenbichler)
Play between CWSS (on the ball) and Shiva’s on Saturday night at the MoE ground.
(Reuters) - Five weightlifters, including two Olympic champions, have been provisionally suspended after retests of their samples from the 2012 London Olympics came back positive for doping, the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) said. Ukraine’s Oleksiy Torokhtiy could now be stripped of the Olympic title he won in the 105-kg category in London while Azerbaijan’s Bulgaria-born Valentin Hristov could lose his bronze medal from the 56-kg category. “The International Olympic Committee is responsible to decide about any consequences relating to the athletes’ participation in the 2012 London Olympic Games,” the IWF said. “In all cases where it is determined that an Anti-Doping Rule Violation was committed, the responsibility to conduct results management will be transferred to the IWF in terms of consequences extending beyond the athletes’ Olympic Games participation.”
Uzbekistan’s Ruslan Nurudinov, who came fourth in the 105kg in London, Armenia’s Melanie Daluzyan and Belarus’s Mikalai Novikau were also suspended after the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) reanalysis discovered adverse analytical findings, the IWF said in a statement. Nurudinov won the Olympic title in Rio in 2016 as well as the world title in Poland in 2013 and the gold medal at the Asian Games in Jakarta this year. Weightlifting, which featured at the first modern Olympics in 1896, is under fire over widespread doping offences and the IOC has threatened to remove it from the Paris 2024 Games if it fails to improve its record. The sport remains on probation. The IWF has adopted a tougher antidoping policy this year under which repeatoffender nations can be banned outright from the Olympics.
Monday December 24, 2018
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UDFA GT Beer year end football Brathwaite hails Reifer’s influence on series success Haynes’ Winners Connection
Interim West Indies Head Coach, Floyd Reifer DHAKA, Bangladesh, CMC – Twenty20 skipper Carlos Brathwaite has praised the influence of interim West Indies head coach Floyd Reifer, in the Caribbean’s capture of T20 series against Bangladesh. The Windies produced a strong all-round performance in Saturday’s final match at the Shere Bangla National Stadium, to come away with an emphatic 50-run victory and clinch the series 2-1. Brathwaite revealed that Reifer had taken up the position ahead of the series and his encouragement to the squad had had a galvanising effect. “Floyd has been tremendous for us since he came on. [He’s brought] a lot of positivity,” Brathwaite said following the win. “Obviously I’ve worked with him back home and he’s shared that positivity with the guys, and he’s always been [saying] ‘we need to win games, we need to win series. We’re a champion team’. And for a coach who’s taking his
first taste at the international level to come and bring that positivity and that passion, it seeped right through the group.” Reifer, a former West Indies captain, is an experienced coach who has worked extensively with the Combined Campuses and Colleges, based in Barbados. He was coached West Indies A and was drafted into the senior Windies set-up for the recent tour of India when Toby Radford fell ill. Cricket West Indies had announced South African Nic Pothas as the interim coach ahead of the Bangladesh series, after Australian Stuart Law’s abrupt departure following the tour of India. The T20 series win over Bangladesh was crucial for West Indies, especially after being whitewashed 2-0 in the preceding Tests and and going down 2-1 in the one-dayers. They won the opening T20I by eight wickets but played poorly in the second match to lose by 36 runs.
However, they rebounded to win the final match here, thanks to Evin Lewis’s 89 and 20-year-old seamer Keemo Paul’s career-best five for 15. Brathwaite said the result was the team’s gift to supporters back home. “This victory is for all the people in the Caribbean – Merry Christmas to you all – and as a team, we’re just happy we can leave Asia with something in the bag,” he said. Following the defeat in the second match, Brathwaite had promised the Windies would bring their Agame for the finale. And they displayed their intent from the start, rallying to a challenging 190 after being sent in, before bowling aggressively to bundle Bangladesh out for 140. “We’re very happy. As a batting unit and as a team, we said we wanted to be aggressive [and] we wanted to be positive and it goes to show,” Brathwaite said. “All three games we batted superbly and obviously in the two games we blew them away we had 91 [runs] in the first six [overs] and 88 in the first six – you don’t get that every day. “But with our power and with our skill-set, we believe if we do the right things and show the right intent, more often than not we can get off to starts such as that and we’re also wary that if it doesn’t come off, that we need to bat well and keep that intent going.”
GFF/STAG SUPER 16
and Net Rockers score contrasting wins in latest play
Continuing their recent run of a top brand of football, Net Rockers showed that their recent form remains intact with a comprehensible 5-1 whipping of Blueberry Hill to vault into the semifinals as Haynes’ Winners Connection got the better of Topp XX to also move on to the final four stages of this year’s Upper Demerara Football Association’s sixth annual GT Beer championship Friday night at the Mackenzie Sports Club ground. From as early as the 2nd minute they scored to stamp their intentions after Hussain Cumberbatch would nail home the first goal from a flank play; and goal number two he got this time in the 21st minute to send his side 2-0 up. Blueberry Hill tried their best to counter but were unsuccessful as Shane Luckie headed in goal number three for the Rockers in the 37thminute with no reply from the Blueberry Hill side. The pressure remained in this half as the fourth goal for Net Rockers would come from the forward Denzil Pryce who combined with Cumberbatch before tucking in a 4-0 lead in the 40th minute and look comfortable when the half time whistle was sounded. Blueberry Hill managed to cut that lead through Royston Fraser as the defenders lost concentration in the Rockers camp but Shane Luckie would get his second goal in the 70th minute after he was sent to the ground in the 18 yard box
Winners Connection scorers at left is Carlos Grant and Arnold David. and the penalty taken by him sent the Rockers up 5-1 which they maintained to the end of this game. Game one that evening ended with victory for Winners Connection who first got the lead when an inadvertent play from the defending team had the ball hitting the arm of their player, which was deemed to be on purpose and the penalty awarded against them (Topp XX) was scored by winners’ Arnold David in the 27th minute. But Topp XX tried to even things and they were rewarded when Newil Murphy netted in the 39th minute for the Topp XX boys who held the game up 1-1 when the first session ended. However, the Winners Connection would get the
deciding goal in that game which came five minutes after play resumed. Winners Connection’s Carlos Grant had a close up shot to score in the 50th minute and give his team a 21 lead which they never relinquished even though Topp XX were unlucky not to get two goals in the second half. They were, however, consoled by the fact they were the second best team in the group play to get another chance and now when they face Botafago the defending champions in the final group play matches on Boxing Night at the tournament venue, the MSC ground. Eagles United and Hi Stars will play the second game of that double header next Wednesday.
Victoria Kings and Ann’s Grove take care of business to earn final 8 berths Victoria Kings, despite being reduced to 10-players after Kwadjo Garnett drew his second yellow card on the stroke of full time after being booked first in the 61st minute, still rallied to defeat Buxton Stars in the all East Coast derby when the Guyana Football Federation / Stag Super 16 continued on Saturday night last at the Golden Grove Ground, East Coast Demerara. The other match on the night saw another East Coast team, Ann’s Grove, prevailing over East Bank’s Soesdyke Falcons; both matches were originally set for Friday night but owing to the late arrival of lights, had to be rescheduled for Saturday night. There was going to be no lack of getting it right on Saturday night and this allowed the teams to finally get down to business on the pitch. Victoria Kings, on account of a second half brace from Quincy holder in the 52nd and 54th minutes erased a one goal advantage that Buxton Stars had established in the first half when Eon Abel slotted home
in the 42nd minute. The job was already done for the Kings, once regarded as the best knockout team in Guyana when Garnett was booked for a second time. The Kings have now earned a date with the winner of the Den Amstel / Santos clash which was played last evening. They will face off on Boxing Day in the first match of a double header. Saturday’s first match saw Ann’s Grove making light work of Soesdyke Falcons to win 3-0, thanks to strikes from Phillip Williams in the 16th minute, Quincy Barry in the 53rd and Ryan Sears in the 63rd. Ann’s Grove will now contest the first quarter final match on Christmas Day against Western Tigers at the Golden Grove Ground from 18:30hrs. Last evening would have seen the completion of the round of 16 at the National Track and Field Facility, Leonora; Milerock faced Eagles and Den Amstel played Santos.
Net Rockers scorers from left: Denzil Pryce, Shane Luckie and Hussain Cumberbatch.
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Monday December 24, 2018
Kaieteur News
Enmore Association of NY fetes elderly, children
Enmore Association of New York members pose with some of the invitees. For the 17th year in succession, the Enmore Association of New York (EANY) staged its annual Christmas party for elderly and children of the East Coast Demerara community. The event, held on Saturday (December 22, 2018) at the residence of Ayube Mohamed (Wise Man), catered for over 500 persons, who were treated to lunch and the presence of Santa Claus, bringing the holiday cheers and gifts. They elderly folks also received a hamper and a monetary contribution, compliments of members and well-wishers of the EANY. The celebration was once again made possible through the collaborative effort of former residents of Enmore, residing in New York. The individuals and families graciously and generously donated financially and otherwise to make the event a reality, while several persons in Enmore did the coordination on the ground to ensure it was a success. Manzoor Rahaman, a member of the association, told the gathering that the EANY is extremely happy to be the bearer of glad tidings at this time of the year. “One of the things that I find quite interesting is that we’re able to serve you and give back to you because the older folks, if it wasn’t for you we would not be here…so we owe you a debt of gratitude, and because of that we try as much as possible to make sure you’re comfortable and taken care of too,” Rahaman said. One of the contributors to the event, Seeratan Persaud, said the contributions the older folks have made to the community cannot be overemphasized. “You guys have done a tremendously good job in raising kids in this community, and we’re proud of what you have done.
Hopefully, we can replicate what you guys have done, although that would be a really uphill task,” Persaud stressed. Journalist Avenash Ramzan, who also delivered remarks at the event, echoed similar sentiments. “I’m proud to see so many of the older folks here, whom I believe, and a lot of us would agree, are the heroes of this community. You are the reason Enmore is what it is todayyou’ve produced doctors, lawyers, teachers, salesmen and you’ve put
Enmore on the map, and I think you should all be proud of yourselves and the contributions you’ve made,” Ramzan noted. A raffle was also held and six lucky children won backpacks and school supplies ahead of the new term. The event was made possible through contributions from Sheila Shakoor and family, Steve Kim, Yuri Chandisingh, Elaine McKee, Gavin Anthony, Ravi Etwaroo (Cricket Zone USA), Tina Singh, Aleesha
Mohamed, Randolph and Anjanie, Fazal and Shamin Haniff and family, Amar, Salina and Jennifer Prashad, Central Plumbing Specialities, Kim Clarke, Lena Pinto, Geeta Nathai, Art Denson, Prakash and Sirmati Persaud, Balraj Khemraj, Zabida and Romeo Sue, Amna and Jonathan Jagroop, Sam and Safoora Ali, Rennie Bacchus, Abbas family, Seeratan Persaud, Jimmy Baichand, Suresh Persaud, Naresh Persaud, Lawrence Mootoo, Ricky and Sharon Persaud, Hamid family,
Santa Claus is mobbed by an eager bunch of children.
Ramesh and Lily Lall, Madho Singh, Steve Toor, Jennifer Selberstein, Elegant Hardware of the USA, Nick and Sham and Shano and Julie. The executive members of the EANY (Ayube Mohamed, Debbie Singh, Roupchan Hardowar, Amar Prashad, Surujpaul Singh, Akbar Khan, Rudy Persaud and Prakash Persaud) would like to express immense gratitude to all the donors and wish everyone in Enmore a Merry Christmas and a productive 2019.