Kaieteur News

K

PPP leaders support NEWS public release of Govt., oil companies' email correspondence

Tuesday Edition

AIETEUR

December 31, 2019 - Vol. 12 No. 54

Online: www.kaieteurnews.com

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

Price $80

Online readership yesterday 122,469

Guyana becomes associate member of International Sovereign Wealth Fund body Tenant collapses, dies as Princes St. home burns The top flat of the building was destroyed

Tenant, Michael Northe, collapsed and later passed away

Irfaan Ali Fake cop jailed Woman wanted for for 'stopping and porkknocker's death grilled over robbing' victim nabbed five years later fitness to lead

Medium-scale miners

granted 3-month extension on rental payments

p.

14

PAGE 02

Kaieteur News

Tuesday December 31, 2019

Kaieteur News

Tuesday December 31, 2019

PAGE 03

Irfaan Ali grilled Guyana becomes associate member over fitness to lead of Int'l Sovereign Wealth Fund body PPP Presidential Candidate Irfaan Ali

P

e o p l e ' s Progressive Party (PPP) presidential candidate Mohamed Irfaan Ali has, for some time now, grappled with two issues that could become significant talking points when the campaigns for the 2020 General Election begin in earnest.

The first is uncertainty over the integrity of the qualifications he has presented to the public, and the second is the view among sections of the public that he is, and would be operating under the shadow of PPP General Secretary, Bharrat Jagdeo, if the party is successful in the election.

Ali faced questions about both of those matters during a press conference yesterday at the Office of the Leader of the Opposition.

QUALIFICATIONS On the matter of his qualifications, Ali was asked what he would say to persons now who still have doubts about his qualifications.

“I have already made it very clear. I have addressed this issue. I think I have addressed this issue conclusively,” he said, abruptly. Several aspects of Ali's qualifications have come under question. Earlier this year, he was forced to upload several certificates to be circulated on social media. He had also during that period, held a press conference at the Opposition Leader's office where he was swarmed by the media corps.

Unable to give convincing answers to reporters' questions, Ali had to be defended by PPP loyalist, Kwame McCoy, who had the engagement brought to an end.

He continued to face calls for resolute answers.

Then in October, it was revealed that Ali was listed as a graduand for a Doctorate of Philosophy from the University of the West Indies (UWI), a positive bump up for his image.

Despite this, it was brought to Ali's attention yesterday that there may still be doubts lingering, even

among his own supporters.

In response, Ali said “I don't know what its lingering.”

He added that he knows for sure that he is qualified.

Jagdeo, by his side, posited that the issue will linger for some time, because it is his belief that the APNU+AFC is going to “spread lies to disparage our candidate.”

Ali went on to state that he refuses to be dragged into “gutter politics” and that he is only interested in focusing on policies and programmes.

UNDER JAGDEO'S SHADOW Asked how he would ensure he stays independent, instead of shepherded by Jagdeo, Ali said that he will surely be the leader of the team. He explained that the collective success of the PPP as a government would depend on how effectively the team works and achieves results.

“If there are issues, ultimately, I am responsible… And I can assure you that I'm independent and my position will be independent in the collective… with the collective.” He did not provide, as asked, any safeguards to ensure he keeps the leadership role.

“In terms of safeguards, I don't see how it's linked to my independence as an individual or leading a cabinet. The fact is that Mr. Jagdeo is the General Secretary of the PPP. He is also an asset…that will be used in Government. So he'll be part of the team.”

Even then, he revealed that Jagdeo will lead the list of candidates for the PPP, as the General Secretary has always held that post.

“I am very clear on my ability to lead… I want to say to you that [Jagdeo leading the list] does not pose any threat or an issue.”

Ali added that if the team does not perform well, or if there are individuals who are weak, then “of course, as a leader, you have to make decisions. And that decision lies in myself as President.”

By Kiana Wilburg

G

uyana is now the latest associate member of the International Forum of Sovereign Wealth Funds (IFSWF). Formed in 2008, the IFSWF is a voluntary organization of countries with sovereign wealth funds committed to working together and strengthening the community through dialogue, research and selfassessment.

This newspaper understands that the associate membership application for Guyana's Natural Resources Fund (NRF) was approved by the IFSWF Board on December 11, last.

Chief Executive of the IFSWF Secretariat, Duncan Bonfield said that the decision to approve Guyana's application was based on the assessment that the nation's Natural Resource Fund “had proven willingness to uphold the member undertakings as set out in the IFSWF membership agreement, including endorsing, on a voluntary basis, the Santiago Principles.”

The Santiago Principles consists of 24 generally accepted principles and practices voluntarily endorsed by IFSWF members. It seeks to promote transparency, good governance, accountability and prudent investment practices while encouraging a more open dialogue and deeper understanding of SWF activities.

The assessment by the Secretariat would be in stark contrast to criticisms which were spewed by the political opposition for over a year.

The People's Progressive Party has said that the Minister of Finance has too much control over the Fund, as he has to appoint members to key committees in charge of investments and withdrawals that would be made.

Along with hearty congratulations, Bonfield has since informed the Ministry of Finance that while there is no annual membership fee for associate member status, the usual expectation is that a fund will remain as an associate member for a maximum of three years before applying to become a full IFSWF member.

NRGI ADVICE TAKEN In November 2018,

Finance Minister, Winston Jordan Kaieteur News was the first to report one of the key pieces of advice offered by the Natural Resource Governance Institute (NRGI) to the coalition administration.

That transparency body had said that if the Government of Guyana is truly serious about ensuring that transparency and accountability are the underlying principles of the Natural Resource Fund (NRF), then it will seek without hesitation, to join the revered International Forum on Sovereign Wealth Funds.

The Natural Resource Governance Institute

reminded that IFSWF members had agreed from the inception to have a set of principles called the Santiago Principles, and practices for Sovereign Wealth Funds.

The NRGI said that these principles, adopted in 2008, emerged from two fears: First, countries receiving Sovereign Wealth Fund (SWF) investments worried that large government investors might use their financial power to pursue political or strategic objectives rather than purely financial returns.

Second, since SWFs are large and growing in size, failure of just one of the world's largest SWFs could trigger a global financial crisis.

The Institute noted that the 24 voluntary principles are broken down into three sets of standards: legal framework, objectives, and coordination with macroeconomic policies; institutional and governance structure; and investment and risk management framework.

The transparency body said that they are meant to encourage SWFs to behave openly and predictably and to seek financial returns rather than support a foreign policy agenda. It said that

openness, predictability and market orientation, in turn, are expected to ease recipient country fears of predatory investments and promote sound internal fund management.

NRGI stated, “Being a member of the IFSWF and agreeing to the Santiago Principles provides an incentive to publish key information, make clear the roles and responsibilities of key bodies and make decisions openly.

“Though the principles are voluntary, peer pressure and a desire to be perceived in a good light by the international community and by recipients of SWF investments can encourage compliance.

In fact, there is evidence that belonging to the IFSWF may have a positive effect on fund transparency and governance.”

It added, “An examination of Economist and Fund Expert, Edwin Truman's, SWF Scoreboard scores shows that members of IFSWF in 2012 improved their fund scores by 17 percent on average between 2007 and 2012, whereas those who were not members improved by only five percent on average.”

NRGI said that on the other hand, countries which are members of the IFSWF but who do not comply with the majority of the principles, such as Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, have seriously undermined their own international credibility.

PAGE 4

Kaieteur News

Tuesday December 31, 2019

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

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

EDITORIAL

The Traffic Chief is serious The more this paper hears, the more there is much to be found about Traffic Chief Linden Isles and his ongoing efforts to get things on the right track relative to road usage in Guyana.

As is well known by now, and many times in the most horrendous of circumstances, the roads in Guyana can be a battlefield. Truth be told, at times, it has deteriorated to a virtual killing field, and that is not an overstatement.

Clearly, Traffic Chief Isles’ heart is in the right place, and his visions firmly focused on doing what is right and safe for the travelling Guyanese public, be they drivers (of every type) and pedestrians, wherever they may be, and whenever they use our roadways. Following the horror story from the Friendship accident, where lives were recklessly lost, official police drivers were targeted, with procedures being tightened and errant men (mainly men) called to task for breaches. That is good, positive, and long overdue, given what has been observed of such official drivers: the haste, the dangerous disregard for life and limb and property, and the overweening arrogance that had long characterized conduct allowed to run rampant, until it became the norm.

But the Traffic Chief has already moved forward and is now aiming at another category of what he called “sacred cows.” To be accurate, Chief Isles could not have been clearer and more adamant: As carried by KN, the Chief had this to say: “Those who drive buses owned by police ranks will not be exempt from the law.” And even more pointedly, Mr. Isles had this to say: he is ready and interested in taking reports from the public himself, where there is hesitancy or fear by members of the public to come forward and lodge complaints (KN December 27). Chief Isles has given this personal assurance to this effect and, obviously, the man means business.

As quoted by KN in the same December 27 story, the Traffic Chief said, “The whole situation is an attitude situation, and if persons don’t change their attitudes, then we will continue to have these accidents.” Chief Isles has a very good point there, as the whole set of traffic circumstances in Guyana originates in, revolves around, and is powered by attitude. That is a real terrible attitude.

From the perspective of this paper, the whole attitude problem, attitude outlook, and attitude culture goes like this: we can get away with breaking the law, we can do so with impunity, and we have the record to show it. In other words, the law does not apply to us, and if one man (or woman) embraces such a mindset, then it is not too long before others, determined not to be left behind, jump on the bandwagon of recklessness and mayhem, joining the tsunami of terror that has become characteristic of local roads.Any objective and honest observation of the way we use the limited space of our roads -a space made more limited by the continuing influx of vehicles - relays a tale of attitudes run amok and permitted to flourish unchecked.

This is said, because when the people entrusted to uphold the law, and extend its reach to a maximum effect, are themselves involved with a vested interest (vehicle ownership), or compromised through corrupt practices, then there is not much left on which to cling, or which offers some safe harbour from the storms that roar and rage on our roads with breathtaking abandon.

First, the Traffic Chief directed his sights at professional police drivers: follow procedures, do the job right, and give self a cushion of time, so there is scant need to be racing along the roadways while needlessly endangering others, who just may happen to be in the wrong place at the wrong time. Now, he has signaled his intentions of going after buses owned by officers, which by virtue of that fact, are given a free pass, and allowed to get away with the felonious.As becomes clearer by the day, Traffic Chief Isles is serious. From all appearances, he is determined to get matters right under his watch. With a mindset like that, this paper could only wish him the best.

This oil contract is a giveaway of Guyana’s precious resources DEAR EDITOR, Almost two years after the government signed the oil contract with ExxonMobil, it was made public, but only after months of constant pressure from this newspaper and other media outlets. From all indications, it was a poorly negotiated contract with a meagre two percent royalty, which is considered the worst of all negotiated oil contracts in the modern era. While it may not be too late to amend or improve the contract for Guyana to obtain a seven percent royalty which is the universal norm; the over-riding question remains unanswered: Why would the (former) Minister of Natural Resources with little or no experience in oil production or oil contract laws be allowed negotiate on behalf of the government with a multi-national giant such as ExxonMobil.

The simple fact that the Minister in question was given the green light to spear-

head such a huge contract is both pathetic and heart breaking for the Guyanese people, many of whom believe that the revenue from oil would not be used to develop the country and uplift their lives but instead, will fill the pockets of government officials.

Not only was the then Minister of Natural Resources clueless, but the signing of such an appalling contract proved that he was highly incompetent. It is unwise for the Minister to believe that he could negotiate one-on-one with the negotiators of one of the largest oil conglomerates in the world and expect to come out on top. Minister Trotman was definitely deficient in the basic principles of contract negotiations. My profession is based on contract negotiations and I could have assisted him in the six basic elements of contract negotiations which were probably lacking in his approach.

They include: 1. Value: Ascertain the quantity and understand key attributes of your product and

the prices of similar products in the market.

2. Negotiating Team: Competent persons with knowledge and expertise in the specific field.

3. Compensation: Know what similar product sells for and your bottom line 4. Benefits: What can be gained in the transaction?

5. Legal relationship: What specific performance is desired and in what timeframe?

6. Penalties for breach: Violation of terms of agreement must carry penalties for both sides.

There were countless examples of oil contracts worldwide for Guyana to follow and not make the same mistakes made by the African countries of Angola, Chad, Cameroon, Madagascar, Nigeria, Tanzania, Papua New Guinea, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Equatorial New Guinea, and the Republic of Congo. These countries were all blessed with oil, but so far, none has been prosperous after years of oil production and sales.

In fact, experts have claimed many are worse off today than

before the discovery of oil in those countries by the oil conglomerates, including ExxonMobil, Shell, British Petroleum, among others. Except for the oil conglomerates, the present share values of the smaller companies are Tullow US$0.82, Eco- Atlantic US$0.60 and CGX US$0.46 on the NYSE. These are coined penny stocks on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE).

Like those oil countries in Africa, there are some serious flaws in the oil contract Guyana signed with ExxonMobil. Guyana ignored the warning signs from these countries and negotiated a lopsided oil contract in favour of the oil companies because as some experts opined, either the government did not have the expertise or that it was grossly incompetent.

The oil Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) without local content or “ring fencing” provision and the government’s failure to negotiate a substantial signing bonus and agreed for a meagre US$18 million, a two (Continued on page 6)

It would be a great achievement to recapture the union of the nation’s will DEAR EDITOR, Not too long ago I enjoyed reminiscing with those of the older generation and hearing their stories of the struggles and sacrifices that took place during the fight for the independence of our great nation Guyana.

The story’s setting began in the living room of a small home on Camp Street where plans were being laid to shut down the ferries, train and buses (i.e. the transportation system of Guyana) during 1952. In attendance were Mr. John Ivan Edwards, trade unionist of the Transport Workers Union and Dr. Cheddi Jagan and Forbes Burnham. At the time all were very close friends and active members at the forefront of the PPP. They were also fully aligned and committed to the fight for our nation’s independence. However, the British team being led by Sir Winston Leonard Spencer-Churchill, the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom; Sir Charles Campbell Woolley the then Governor of British Guiana and Sir Alfred William Lungley Savage, the Governor of the British Colony of Barbados, were focused on ending the disturbance of the independence movement in what was considered to be a key Colony of the British Empire. It was only five years prior, in 1947, that the United Kingdom had lost India to in-

dependence and the pressure was building to stop such movements within the remaining colonies. The following year, in 1953, Winston Churchill would transfer Sir Savage to British Guiana to place increased pressure on the independence movement.

Returning to 1952, the trio of Edwards, Jagan and Burnham was beginning to make inroads into disrupting the transportation networks, and thus also disrupting the business of the Crown in British Guiana.

This would have a significant impact on the PPP obtaining control of British Guiana in 1953. In order to end the problem, it is said that the UK lured trade unionist, Mr. John Ivan Edwards, to Barbados to attend a seminar where he drowned in knee-deep water on the beach, thus ending his interference in the Crown’s business via the Transport Workers Union.

What was interesting in the discussion was how the older generation mentioned that the three men, (Edwards, Jagan and Burnham), would work tirelessly together in good teamwork to accomplish their objectives.

The British astutely dismantled this team starting with Mr. John Ivan Edwards who was in a multiracial marriage and had influence across various races and socio-economic classes. His

funeral was a display of a sea of red when they walked his casket from the funeral home in Georgetown to the Le Repentir Cemetery. This sea of red was the result of him being embraced by his fellow PPP members, the Transport Workers Union and his Lodge colleagues. Both Burnham and Jagan were also present and the camaraderie between the two men was still alive and well in 1952. After all, the three families had grown close over the years via their joint efforts to obtain independence for Guyana.

In 1953, after Sir Alfred Savage’s success in Barbados with Mr. Edwards, Sir Winston Churchill would appoint Sir Alfred Savage to British Guiana where he was successful in dismissing the newly elected PPP government which was led by Dr. Jagan (Chief Minister) and supported by PPP member Burnham (Minister of Education). The British also called the PPP government communist and suspended the constitution, taking back full control of the British Guiana colony with the help of British troops.

The strong alliance between the two PPP ministers would never return and their separation due to race, would take over for years to come.

Mr. Edwards’ multicultural perspective was now missing and a clear divide could eas-

ily be made between the two gentlemen.

It would be a great achievement today, if we the Guyanese people could recapture the union of our nation’s will, especially for the betterment of future generations in this current difficult economic environment and in an environment of strong opposition from Venezuela.

Dedicated to the memory of Mr. John Ivan Edwards.

We forgive as we remember.

Thank you for your sacrifices Daada, thank you for your sacrifices grandfather.

Let the peaceful spirit of our Arawak ancestors guide us within Guyana while the warrior spirit of our Carib ancestors guide us in times of war against our external enemies.

2020 will mark the 50th anniversary of our young nation becoming the Cooperative Republic of Guyana and as you celebrate this jubilee with your family and friends, please keep in mind that when you go to vote that we the Cooperative Republicans of Guyana (CRG) when elected will work with our colleagues in Parliament to ensure a better, more secure and peaceful future for all Guyanese.

Mr. Jamil Changlee Chairman The Cooperative Republicans of Guyana

Tuesday December 31, 2019

We need our politicians to care about the well-being of the citizens DEAR EDITOR, Guyanese woke up yesterday, 30th December, 2019, to the news that the InterAmerican Bank (IDB) has approved US$606,062 to support the Government of Guyana’s efforts for institutional strengthening of the Ministry with responsibility for the Department of Energy. While this is understandably necessary, the Ministry of Social Protection needs institutional strengthening and so does the Ministry of Health, the Guyana Police Force and the Ministry of Education as these are core, but under-performing Ministries that directly impact the well-being of Guyanese citizens.

If the international community and local politicians continue to focus heavy handedly on the development and management of the Oil and Gas industry while neglecting and ignoring the poor, the vulnerable and the Oliver Twists in Guyanese society, then our small nation is at risk for building an unequal society where class divisions will widen and deepen and human suffering and crime will worsen.

There are at least two Guyanas that exist – we have Guyanese of some means and with the benefit of some degree of education, and this includes the political class, who can dwell in Guyana and avoid interaction with the Government provided Health Care Services, the local police force, the public education system and have no need for the services provided by the Ministry of Social Protection.

When we have a political class who fly out of this country when they need Health Care Services, what did Independence and Republicanism achieve?

In addition to the regular hotels and high-class places such as Pegasus and Marriott, we now have in Guyana the Movietowne and Giftland Malls, where class divisions are evidenced as certain members of society do

not possess the manners nor the means to be welcome there.

They can visit the Parking Lots, however, when concerts are organized for them. In such a deeply divided class society, however, come election time or silly season as we call it in Guyana, suddenly compassionate politicians are on the streets shaving the beards of the homeless. Election time has arrived and the invisible in society have become visible because they suddenly have some worth – they can cast a vote.

I do not wish to be disrespectful to politicians for the simple reason that the people of any nation need politicians.

It is the Politicians who develop policy and craft a vision for the development of the nation and its people. What we need from our politicians is genuine focus on the welfare of ALL Guyanese citizens – whether they are struggling in a mining community in Linden or the interior, or whether they are out of work in the Sugar Belt or whether they are starving in the city and the suburbs.

Guyanese politicians need to set improved standards for the living conditions of the poor and disadvantaged – at minimum no one should be homeless in this huge country of small numbers and no one should be hungry. Our standards for social security should meet the basic needs of human beings – shelter, food and clothing. How else does one break the cycle of poverty and crime? Government of Guyana’s over reliance on remittances and NGOs to fill the social services policy gap is not acceptable.

In previous news earlier this year, Guyanese have heard that IOM and the US Department of State are providing financial support for the Government of Guyana to support Venezuelan refugees.

There is no such support for the poor in Guyana and the new Government of Guyana

PAGE 5

Kaieteur News

must do more than shave the beards of the homeless or throw money (e.g $50,000 annually per child) at the problem. Government must provide proactive and institutional support to families in Guyana to prevent homelessness and starvation, and thus break the cycle of poverty and crime. We are a small society and our problems only appear insurmountable because there is little to no political will to solve them.

Yesterday the nation also awoke to the news of the Leader of the Opposition’s detailed plan to tackle corruption.

When will we hear from politicians of this level of detailed plans to improve the living conditions of the real ordinary Guyanese men, women and children? We need institutional strengthening of the Health Care Sector.

At my last visit to a hospital, the patients were afraid of the nurses. The nurses are bullies, a far cry from the tradition of the nurse wives who dedicate their lives to the profession.

I was witness to a mother dying because of neglect by the nurses at the hospital. She should have been in the Emergency Room (ER) but she was in the ward because the ER was overburdened.

This is the reality in Guyanese hospitals. We need a plan to bring in the qualified professionals that we lost. We all know about the Guyana Police Force – the Good, the Bad and the Ugly (Continued on page 6)

Let us leave the ‘hustlers’ and that tired old message in 2019 DEAR EDITOR, The seductive idea of a third force in Guyana’s politics has been around since our independence in 1966; that idea that ‘power’ could be brokered and improved; that transparent governance practice could be forced upon the big two (PPP/C and PNC).

The Alliance for Change filled that spot in 2011 as they became the desired swing vote in Parliament and 2015 when they occupied forty percent of the seats on the government side of the house in a coalition government with the PNC. Given that the ‘power broker’ ideal is still being peddled, albeit by newer parties, the performance of Guyana’s first successful ‘third force’ bears examination.

The AFC was formed when two lawyers who wrote columns for the PPP and PNC started courting each other via those columns. They applauded each other’s genius and soon evoked the ire of their respective party members.

The seduction of Khemraj Ramjattan was underway and soon he made well-orchestrated accusations of corruption against the executive and stormed off to form the AFC with Trotman.

Interestingly, Trotman had a different story to tell about how and what the AFC was all about, for him; it was ‘Nassau’.

In 2016, after Trotman made a speech at Bartica, Freddie Kissoon wrote that

Trotman used the AFC as a ‘Trojan horse’. “He openly told the crowds that although he was a part of the AFC, he never left the struggle and that the Prodigal Son has returned”.

He then told the crowd that 10 years ago, he and David Grang e r m e t i n Nassau (The Bahamas) and Granger laid out a plan for Guyana. On the day in 2015 when the election results were made known, Trotman indicated that Mr. Granger called him and said to him, ‘Raphael, this is Nassau.’

Thereafter Trotman pulled away from the AFC and was appointed a Minister outside of the Cummingsburg Accord. Ramjattan had earlier ceded his desired post of Prime Minister to another disgruntled PPP exe c u t i v e, Moses Nagamootoo. In 2019, Ramjattan seized control of the AFC and Granger was given an ultimatum: Ramjattan as Prime Ministerial candidate or the AFC would go its way. This demand was met as Granger saw no alternative given his (Granger’s) low approval ratings.

The AFC never delivered on its promise to reform the PNC. Granger’s disrespect of the constitutional requirement of an election within 90 days of losing a motion of No-confidence was cheered by AFC Ministers, others were appalled, and men such as General-Secretary Sixtus Edwards walked away in protest.

Nagamootoo made a spectacle of himself with ludicrous attempts to persuade the public that there were different types of halves and what constituted a majority of 65.

The betrayal of the ‘power broker’ ideal was complete.

What was worse is the allegation of AFC members being involved in almost every major financial scandal of the Granger administration, from the $600 Million unaccounted for at D’urban Park to the wanton disregard for procurement laws in the Demerara Harbor Bridge feasibility study fiasco and the presentday splitting of contracts to avoid the tender board.

As we head into general elections in 2020, the AFC has splintered into new parties, headed by former influential AFC membe r s , R o b e r t Badal, Timothy Jonas, et al.

They all come with the same old AFC message, from the same old AFC people: Vote for us, we will broker power and be the balance in Parliament. Recently, they have begun to form small alliances in preparation for the resurrection of Frankenstein’s monster.

As we leave the Year of No-confidence behind us and look forward to the return of parliamentary democracy and a bright and prosperous future, let us leave the ‘hustlers’ and that tired old message in 2019.

A Happy New Year to all.

Respectfully, Robin Singh

PAGE 6

Tuesday December 31, 2019

Kaieteur News

LINDEN WATER CRISIS AND OPPORTUNITY DEAR EDITOR, Guyana is known as the Land of Many Waters.

There has also been a reference to the “Water People”.

Linden, more than any community in Guyana, typifies or epitomizes the “Land of Many Waters”; it has surface water (creeks, Demerara River, springs, wetlands, lakes and canals) and ground water.

The springs, creeks, river, lakes, canals, wetlands and aquifer make up one interconnected hydrological, and by extension, ecological system.

Critically, Linden is located within the recharge area for the Coastal Aquifer. Linden, more than any community, also needs to assume, adopt the posture, or perceptive of the “Water People”.

The characteristics of a “water People” would include a familiarity/facility with water, common understanding of the ways of water, a universal/community commitment to its conservation, management, and protection.

The suggested posture is more than an intellectual or academic exercise it is critical to the long-term sustainability and viability of Linden. Water is ubiquitous in Linden, it is everywhere and its movement is the most powerful and persistent force dominating the physical, social, and economic state of Linden.

Linden is drained by about 20 major or minor creeks, all of which flow into the Demerara River. It has hundreds of springs that flow into the creeks, delivering thousands of cubic meters of clear water, daily: All creeks, with the exception of Kara Kara and Katabulli, originate within Linden. During the

phenomena of high tides and heavy rainfall, the creeks and wetlands act as reservoirs for the continuous flow from the springs and rainfall.

Flooding, a common phenomenon in Linden, generally occurs when the flow of water is hampered and the storage capacity of the “system” is exceeded.

The storage or retention capacity is being reduced by the siltation of drains and siltation and backfilling of creeks.

Untreated water from the river, springs and creeks were historically used for cooking, washing and bathing. Certain springs were, and still are, used for communal bathing.

Springs are used now for drinking and other domestic purposes, even with the availability of treated water from GWI. Springs are so widespread that many homes have their private springs.

The use of the various water bodies for industrial, transportation and recreational purposes were/are fundamental to the evolution of Linden as a community.

Also the waters of Linden are integral parts of its tourism product.

The pre-existing, “natural hydrological and drainage regime “in Linden, has been severely compromised/disturbed over the years with the growth and expansion of Linden, and by a general lack of appreciation of its essential processes.

The initial and major physical and hydrological disruption was caused by the construction and operation of the mines and the development of the supporting infrastructure (railways, tailings ponds, road cuts).

The lack of concerted mine reclamation and land management ensures that the hydrological and environmental disruptions/impacts on the Linden Community are permanent and continuous.

Our placement of buildings, settlements and infrastructure are not informed by the natural hydrological processes; the persistent flooding, particularly on the Western Shore, is a direct result.

The civil designs (roads, embankments, drains, bridges, etc.) and their related construction and maintenance are costly and often ineffective because they are not informed by the underlying hydrologic processes (height of the water table, the existence of old creek beds, the volume of flow contributed by springs, and behaviour of creeks).

The Valley of Tears now called Victory Valley, “the Valley”, epitomizes the challenges faced. The area was deemed uninhabitable due the overwhelming flow of springs, the flow of water, and erosion. Residents were asked to relocate to land provided in other parts of the Western Bank.

The Valley of Tears is part of the larger West Bank Demerara Watershed that covers most of Wismar, including Green Valley, and Silvertown.

The drainage regime is also compromised by extensive backfilling of wetlands, diversion and filling of creeks, the clearing of hillsides and the resulting erosion and siltation of creeks, uncontrolled squatting, historical illegal dump sites, current limited and poor waste management practices, including, disposal

This oil contract is a giveaway of...

From page 4 percent royalty and a 50 percent profit sharing after all of ExxonMobil expenses are discounted is a classic case of gross incompetence. And for the government chief negotiator, Mr. Trotman to wait for three years after the contract was signed before admitting that the Government could have signed a better contract with Exxon has not only made him look stupid, but it is also a gross insult to the people of Guyana who felt that there was more to the signing of such an awful contract than the eye can see. One thing is clear the President should have asked Trotman to resign.

That said, this is not the first time that governments have actually squandered the country’s natural resources for a pittance. During the last administration, the gold and mining industries were turned over to foreign companies;

the lumber industry to Bai Shan Lin and the bauxite industry to Rusal and Bosai. It was an extortion that cost the people of Guyana hundreds of millions of dollars in lost revenue and huge profits for the multinationals.

The hastily establishment of the Energy Department headed by Dr. Mark Bynoe is yet another blunder in this comedy of errors. It is well known that Dr. Bynoe, an environmentalist, possesses scant knowledge of the oil industry in areas of production, sales and contract negotiations. Second, the recent agreement with Shell to market Guyana’s share of oil is questionable because the company is currently under investigation for alleged fraudulent practices.

And as if the government has not insulted Guyanese enough, it has agreed to the requests of the oil companies that all foreign workers em-

ployed by the oil companies in Guyana be exempted from paying income tax if they are not physically present in country for more than 183 days.

This led to a stinging rebuke from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) which has told the government that it must exercise its full taxing laws as a sovereign state. It is both regrettable and shameful that this government like the previous administration has allowed multinationals to continue the exploitation of Guyana’s natural resources and its people.

Leyland Chitlall Roopnaraine, New York EDITOR’S NOTE: On numerous occasions Minister Raphael Trotman said publicly that he was instructed to sign the oil contract therefore he did not act independently.

of solid, agricultural and human waste into the creeks and waterways.

Linden produces a pulse/ spike of contamination, degradation of water quality in the Demerara River.

The spiked parameters include coliform bacterial, E coli, suspended solids, and metals.

Historically springs were used for drinking washing, and recreation.

There are still some springs utilized for household use and communal bathing in Victory Valley, Blueberry Hill, Silvertown, Christianburg and Coomaka.

Sadly most of these suffer microbial contamination. The Caribbean Environmental Health Institute (CEHI) produced two reports that are important to the appreciation of the state of water resources in Linden.

The Linden Water Safety Plan, and the National Programme of Action (NPA) for the Reduction of Landbased Sources of Pollution.

The reports had a number of recommendations and an important question/query.

The recommendations were that: 1. The Dakoura Creek be the sole source of water for the Western Subsection of the Linden Water System, 2. The Dakoura creek be protected to assure the sustainability of the water source, and 3. That a wellhead protection strategy be implemented to reduce the probability of contamination of the Coastal Aquifer .

There was also a query about the source of the Dakoura Creek. One goal of the Rehabilitated Linden Water System reflected the first recommendation.

The goal was that the Dakoura Creek, through the

Wisroc Water Treatment Plant, be the sole source of water for the Western Subsection (WSS). This goal was not met, due to design flaws and substandard construction. And, the Demerara River, the source of water for West Watooka Water Treatment Plant, remains an integral component of the WSS. The Dakoura Creek Watershed Management Plan (DCWMP) was prepared (reflecting the second recommendation), but not implemented. The well-head protection strategy was not developed.

The Dakoura Creek is one of several clear-water creeks in Linden. Its sources are the numerous springs within the watershed. An interesting phenomenon is that all the springs in Linden apparently originate at the same geologic layer or formation, white sandy clay.

It is postulated that the formation is part of the upper section of the Coastal Aquifer that is the source of water for the Coastal Communities.

The Linden area is within the recharge area of the Coastal Aquifer. Hydrologic contamination in Linden is, therefore, potentially a threat to the Coastal Aquifer. The Bauxite Industry has left a legacy of hydrologic and ecological disruption, natural resource deterioration and contamination in Linden.

This is exemplified by the siltation of Kara Kara basin and the Dakoura Creek Watershed, and siltation of the Demerara River at Coomaka.

NICIL, the entity with the responsibility for management of the Linmine’s resources apparently does not have a functional environmental strategy.

There is extensive squat-

ting along creeks, and backfilling of wet lands. And most importantly there is no environmental monitoring of these properties under NICIL’s control. NICIL has been disposing of the historical bauxite-related properties without any apparent consideration for drainage or hydrological sustainability in Linden.

It is suggested that a portion of the funds obtained from the sale of the referenced properties be place in an escrow or environmental account to address the natural resource damage associated with the Bauxite Legacy.

Uncontrolled squatting along creeks are compromising water quality and sanitation by the direct discharge of septic tanks. Also squatting along lakes produced by mining precludes their use for other economic purposes, including aquiculture. Who is responsible for regulating or protecting the waters of Linden?

There is a general failure of the responsible agencies to exercise their mandates to protect the water resource.

These include the RDC, the LM&TC, EPA, the MNR, the DOE, Hydromet, GGMC, the GL&SC and the MOC. Firstly the National Water Council (NWC), the entity responsible for the management of water resources all across the country, is non-functional.

There are contesting positions among MNR, MOC and the Hydromet (MOA) as to where NWC should reside.

There is also no national symposium or gathering of the various agencies to deliberate or report on the state of Guyana’s water resources, water management or (Continued on page 22)

We need our politicians to care...

From page 5 of it. In every sector of society, we need highly skilled human resources.

We need a professional public service where public servants are allowed to do their work. We need to hear about immediate solutions to these very real problems from our politicians. The Government of Guyana, whether it is the Child Care and Protection Agency, or the Ministry of Social Protection or the Ministry of Public Security / Health / Education - need to learn to serve the people of this country and not to misuse their power to enrich themselves or to persecute poor people.

The Leadership to transform our Government from persecuting citizens to helping the development of citizens needs to come from the top. Guyanese know that our politicians are walking a tight-

rope between local and international interests. What Guyanese need from politicians is more than a plan to eliminate corruption – we need a plan to eliminate twofacedness in politics. We need our politicians to also care about the well-being of the citizens of the nation.

That will certainly eliminate the corruption.

As this nation enters a new year, and a General and Regional elections loom to elect to office people who will run the Government, let us all remember that there is a reason that many of us are living desperate lives – we are giving power to Babylon.

Guyanese people are not just fodder for elections to offer legitimacy to ExxonMobil and other corporate interests. The Guyanese people – including the men sleeping on the streets, mothers and fathers without jobs or homes, all the

Oliver Twists who are hungry and one theft away from food or prison – we all need representation by people who care just as much about humanity as about oil and gas. Oil and Gas is only important to the extent that it serves human, animal and plant interests.

This country’s heart can be healed and its institutions can be fixed and they can work for the people of the nation. We need our politicians to remember that we are depending on them for a better life for all. They need to remember us as they navigate that razor-thin tight rope of international and domestic interests with skill and balance.

May God bless the Department of Energy in the new year. May God also bless the rest of the nation as we prepare to embrace 2020.

Sincerely, Sandra Khan

Kaieteur News

Tuesday December 31, 2019

PAGE 07

PPP leaders support public release of Govt., oil companies' email correspondence

T

he leaders of the P e o p l e ' s Progressive Party (PPP) are in support of calls to publish details, particularly email correspondence between Government and officials and the six companies that were selected to bid to handle for the sale of Guyana's Liza crude.

A press conference was held at the Office of the Leader of the Opposition on Church Street yesterday, where Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo and PPP Presidential Candidate Mohamed Irfaan Ali fielded questions from Kaieteur News on the issue.

Jagdeo made it clear that he would support the release of the emails, and said he had received word early on, that some oil companies were invited to bid face-to-face. Those turned out to be ExxonMobil, Hess Corporation, CNOOC/NEXEN, British Petroleum, Chevron, Shell, Total, and ENI. “Obviously, they were contacted through email…

So therefore, it could set up a trail of whether the process was skewed in favour of the bidder who won.”

He said that he's not sure what kind of process the Government sought to utilize, and he is calling for complete transparency.

Qualifying his statements, Jagdeo added

[left] Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo and PPP Presidential Candidate Irfaan Ali “If the process was open and transparent, I would not [have called for the emails to be released].”

A p p r o p r i a t e l y, h e believes that the process should have been an open public tender, with a timeline given in advance in newspaper advertisements.

“But knowing them, they will not publish the emails,” Jagdeo concluded.

Ali, explaining the need for complete transparency, said “Before you get to an award, there must be a process. And we have already expressed concern about the process.”

He noted that there is a lack of information, and secrecy surrounding the process for the sale of Guyana's oil.

Then, he spoke of the necessity for the public to scrutinize what the Department of Energy had intended to keep silent on, until it had concluded the entire process.

“If you have a process that is not transparent… then you will have issues,” Ali said.

The Energy Department has announced that it will be taking steps to ensure citizens are able to access records on the sale. But there are concerns about how exactly the process went down.

The Energy Department had held a hasty press conference after the public found out about the sale t h r o u g h a B l o o m b e rg report, giving each reporter

limited chances to pose questions. By the end of the press conference, there were more questions than answers. Insecurity over the secrecy of the negotiations is compounded by the fact that the company Government has chosen to sign with is embroiled in what is being described as the World's biggest corruption

scandal.

International NonG o v e r n m e n t a l Organisation, Global Witness, had revealed Shell's involvement in a vast bribery scheme so that it could obtain the rights to operate in a lucrative oil block called OPL 245, off the coast of Nigeria.

In 2011, Global Witness reported that Shell and Italian Oil Company Eni (who was also selected by the Energy Department to bid) paid over US$1.1 billion in a murky deal for the block.

Following a lengthy investigation, the NGO showed that the money for the rights to exploit the country's natural resources went to convicted money launderer and former Nigerian oil Minister, Dan Etete, who had awarded himself ownership of the block in 1998 via a company he secretly owned, Malabu Oil and Gas. Global Witness said that for six years, Shell has denied it did anything

wrong, and said it only paid the Nigerian government in securing rights to the block.

But it was revealed that Shell executives knew the money would go to Malabu and Etete, and was then likely to flow to some of the most powerful people in the country.

Global Witness stated that the money paid for the block equals more than the African nation's 2016 health care budget. It is also one and a half times what the United Nations says is now needed to respond to the current famine crisis.

Research indicates that approximately 8.5 million people in Nigeria are in need of humanitarian assistance while 5.1 million N i g e r i a n s a r e malnourished.

The deal which allegedly paved the way for billions to be siphoned off to agents and middlemen in corrupt payments has also sparked law enforcement inqui ries in six other countries.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 08

Tuesday December 31, 2019

Forget politics, do your work - President Granger tells re-elected mayors, deputies

President David Granger with the re-elected Mayors and Deputy Mayors at the Ministry of the Presidency yesterday morning. (Ministry of the Presidency photo)

P

resident David Granger yesterday m o r n i n g administered the Oath of Office to the re-elected Mayors and Deputy Mayors for the 10 municipalities, during a simple ceremony, held at the Ministry of the Presidency.

The Head of State in a brief address, called on the Mayors and the Deputies to recognise their responsibility to serve their constituents, regardless of political affiliation, and to lead the process of transforming the towns into centres of commerce and industry.

He also urged them to

ensure public services are provided to the people in collaboration with the other levels of Government.

“The Government of Guyana functions at three levels: national, regional and local.

All three levels must collaborate to ensure the efficient delivery of public services to every citizen, everywhere in the country.

All three levels must be competent in order to ensure good governance,” he said.

President Granger said that democratically elected Town Councils, Neighbourhood Democratic C o u n c i l s a n d Vi l l a g e Councils are now part of the

system of regional administration.

Municipalities are essential elements of the local government system, he said, adding that their role has been expanded beyond the mere provision of municipal services.

“They are now expected to become agents of change, drivers of development and protectors of the environment in collaboration with Central Government and the Regional Democratic Councils,” he said.

As Guyana aligns itself to become a state of economically-powerful regions characterised by

universal access to public services, the President said t h a t To w n C o u n c i l s , therefore, must retool their administrative systems to become the engines of enterprise, employment and economic development.

He noted that capital towns are the main centres of commerce and industry, the principal ports or terminals of international trade, the seats of public administration and the main settlements of their population.

“Towns are the main centres of commerce and industry. They are the principal terminals of trade.

They are the seats of public administration and they are the main settlements of the regional populations.

They are intended to provide leadership for the progress of the outlying areas of the large regions.

Government's policy of regionalisation over the last four and half years has been aimed at ensuring a nation of strong regions. This policy strengthens the role of capital towns in regional development.

He said Town Councils consistent with this policy should revamp and retool their admin systems to enable them to become engines of enterprise, agents of employment and engines of economic development.

“Regional councillors regardless of their political affiliation must collaborate

for the common good of their municipalities and their regions,” he noted.

President Granger said that his Government will ensure that Local Government continues to function in the interest of the people and empowers ordinary citizens to become more involved in the administration of their own communities.

This, he said, is being made possible through regular elections.

“Two Local Government Elections have been held in four years. These elections have restored and renewed local democracy as it should be.

These elections allowed citizens to elect their representatives to manage their municipalities and NDCs. Regular municipal and mayoral elections ensure that councils are accountable and remain accountable to their citizens, the Head of State said.

He informed that the Municipal and District Councils Act provides for the strengthening of democracy by requiring regular elections within councils for the positions of Mayor and Deputy Mayor.

“Mayors and Deputy Mayors are vital to the entire system of governance. They are required to commit to ensuring the delivery of public services within their municipalities and to act in the interest of their

constituents,” President Granger stressed.

Article 71 of the Constitution of Guyana states that Local government is a vital aspect of democracy and shall be organised so as to involve as many persons as possible in the task of managing and developing the communities in which they reside.

The Mayors, who were sworn in were Mr. Ubraj Narine (Georgetown), Mr. Winston Roberts (Corriverton), Ms. Waneka Arrindell (Linden), Mr. Chattergoon Ramnauth (Rose Hall), Mr. Rajendra Prabhulall (Anna Regina), M r. G i ff o r d M a r s h a l l (Bartica), Mr. Chris Phang (Mabaruma), Mr. John Macedo (Lethem) and Mr. David Adams (Mahdia).

The Mayor of New Amsterdam, Ms. Winifred Heywood is currently out of the jurisdiction and would be sworn in at a later date.

The Deputy Mayors, who took the Oath of Office yesterday were Mr. Alfred Mentore (Georgetown), Mr. Wainwright McIntosh (New Amsterdam), Mr. Imran Amin (Corriverton), Mr. Wa i n e w r i g h t B e t h u n e (Linden), Mr. Deonauth Harrinarine (Rose Hall), Mr. Rudolph Williams (Anna Regina), Ms. Carolyn Robinson (Mabaruma), Ms. Debra King (Lethem) and Ms. Juewayne MendoncaBurrowes (Mahdia).

(Ministry of the Presidency)

Tuesday December 31, 2019

Kaieteur News

PAGE 09

PPP supporters were in the trenches with the WPA

I

t was a shock to learn recently that Walter Rodney was either a member of the People's Progressive Party or was close to that party. That is the only way in which it could be said that the PPPC betrayed Rodney.

One can only be betrayed by someone to whom you are close. And therefore if it is being alleged that Rodney was betrayed by the PPPC, then Rodney had to have been either a member of the PPP or very close to the PPP. Charrandass Persaud was said to have betrayed APNU+AFC. He was a member of the AFC, and a part of the APNU+AFC team in parliament. If he was not a member or if he was not close to APNU and the AFC, he could not have been said to have betrayed them The narrative that somehow the PPPC betrayed Rodney has been tried before. Many years ago, agents of the PNCR peddled the lie that it was the PPP which was responsible for Rodney's death. They were attempting to exculpate Burnham from his heinous act and so they tried, years after Rodney's assassination, to spread the untruth that Rodney was killed by the PPPC. The denunciation of this narrative came almost immediately from within the WPA. But with the passage of time, old untruths are

resurrected and reappear as new narratives.

A recent one emerged from within the WPA. One of its former leaders is quoting second-hand sources as saying that at some political rally, Dr. Jagan made negative remarks about Rodney. It is not clear whether the WPA leader got that from Special Branch sources, and why this was kept concealed for so long.

The WPA had never before mentioned that Dr. Jagan made such remarks about Rodney, and Dr. Jagan was not known to engage in such talk.

Revisionist narratives continue to be manufactured.

It is now said that it was the PPPC who benefitted from Rodney's death.

No one benefitted from Rodney's death. Declassified documents revealed that Rodney's adventurism has reached its apogee. The PNC police state had him cornered. He knew it. He approached the United States embassy and asked them to help protect his family in the event of his death. The Embassy official with whom he met was of the opinion that Rodney had a premonition of imminent death.

The WPA has long glamorized the period from 1978-1980 as the period of the civil rebellion. But by 1980, the sparks had fizzled.

The WPA had become battle-

fatigued. The police state's constant harassment of its activists, the breaking-up of its political meetings by PNC and House of Israel thugs, the constant searching of the homes of its members, the dragging of its activists before the courts on charges and the assassination of the party's comrades, took a toll on the party.

One aspect of the narrative is that the PPPC was ineffective during that period and that it was the WPA which weakened B u r n h a m . We l l , h o w effective was the WPA when it had burned itself out. The two parties – the PPP and the WPA – admittedly had different approaches. The PPPC struggle was on more than one front, including parliament. The WPA had only one front – the streets.

The WPA's support was more multiracial. But that was because Walter was special in that regard. But part of that multiracial support was because of the PPP. Make no mistake, PPPC supporters were in the trenches with the WPA. But the party wants to take credit for the civil rebellion and it is entitled to its day in the sun.

It was Miles Fitzpatrick who went to Dr. Jagan's house to deliver the devastating news that Walter had been assassinated. And Jagan's reaction was that it was so regretful because he had so much promise.

Dem boys seh...

De Old Year leffing some spiteful people behind

I

s amazing de length to which people would go to spite somebody. Fuh this week alone is two people decide to be spiteful. And in both cases dem bun down de house and lef nuff people without a roof over dem head.

One was in Berbice. De owner had a problem wid a man who get really vex and threaten to out de woman light.

Poor child, she get frighten and go over at a neighbor fuh safety. Is when she by de neighbor that somebody tell she how she house on fire. And was a nice house. It had a little of everything. De lady did decorate de house nice fuh de Christmas. Now New Year

come and she don't have a roof.

But is de odda one on Princes Street that still got people talking. Dem boys see de blaze like if it appear out of nowhere. To mek matters worse, dem house deh close together so when one burn is odda houses it does carry.

Somebody claim how a man get vex and bun de house. Wha dem boys know fuh sure is a man dead. He run home when he hear de house on fire. People see him running up and down de road and hollering.

Some people seh he was a pressure case. Dem boys wouldn't give dem mouth de liberty to mek such a statement. Dem see de man

fall down suddenly and de next thing dem hear is people seh he got to rush to de hospital. De man dead.

Now people want to know if de man who set de house on fire gun get charge fuh murder because is de fore mek somebody dead.

People see nuff confusion. People want to fight and women holding back people. Was nuff bad blood at de scene.

De end result is that people don't have somewhere to live. Some of dem who get de li'l raise from de government did put up some. That bun up in de fire.

Fuh some people de Old Year really carrying everything.

Talk half and watch out fuh de madness.

Jagan was more matured and understood that the PNC could not topple in the manner and as quickly as Rodney had hoped. Rodney wanted to do too much, too quickly, and using the wrong methods. It was for this reason that people called him an adventurist. To Rupert Roopnaraine's credit, during the funeral oration he argued for the party to be strengthened and become more disciplined.

Walter died and the WPA died with him because, as Jagan probably felt, Rodney, an avowed Marxist, never took the time to ensure that the objective and subjective conditions were ripe for the change he wanted. CLR James implied as much.

This in no way justifies the murderous act of Forbes Burnham. The late dictator will forever have the murder of Walter Rodney on his hands.

The WPA, the party founded by Walter, is now in a different mode. It is keen to jump once again into bed with the PNC, and so it is resurrecting the discredited narrative about the PPP betraying Rodney.

While it is at its favourite pastime these days in bashing the PPP, it should address whether Walter was betraying those fine young men who had followed him during the civil rebellion.

Financial pressures forced a number of WPA bigwigs to leave. Omawale left to take

up a job with an international organization overseas. The bulk of the middle class and professional support went into retreat; many migrated.

They lacked staying power.

And guess what? During the Rodney Commission of Inquiry it was brought out that in 1980, Rodney himself was leaving to take up an appointment in Zimbabwe.

He was abandoning the struggle. So who betrayed whom?

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

Kaieteur News

PAGE 10

Tuesday December 31, 2019

THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN

Bryan Ferry sang this song on Gorbachev's 80th birthday; dance to it tonight

T

here is no other occasion where deep love flows between man and woman like tsunamic waves than the Old Year's night romantic dance when the moments of an old year die right in front of your eyes.

It is one of the unusual moments in the life of romance. As the music plays, the emotion rages and the

closeness of a bond endures, love becomes real, philosophical, inspiring, and the memories of the passing year take up residence in your soul forever.

The shape of love and the sparkle of romance on Old Year's Night depend on what song you dance to, as the past passes you on the dance floor. We are living in an age where the love song is dying.

All over the world, rap, soca, dancehall and other genres have taken over. But humans are essentially romantic creatures who will always fall in love and want to be loved too.

If you are a romantic and you are deeply in love, then I suggest you hold your partner tonight as if the world is about to end and dance to Bryan Ferry's

exotic, haunting, inviting love song, “Slave to Love.”

This is no extraordinary love song, but there is something about it that is also not your run-of-the mill composition.

There is something hidden in “Slave to Love” that you cannot fully grasp, but you know it is there and it arouses you.

“Slave to Love” has the distinction of being featured in several popular films, some of which are memorable and everlasting.

Two of the most intriguing English language films I have seen and consider them very unique scripts have featured Bryan Ferry's huge hit.

One is “Nine and a half weeks.” It is based on the true story of New York socialite, Ingeborg Day, who became a willing victim of sado-masochism.

Borg wrote her experience in book form, with a pseudonym from which the movie was taken.

Her identity was eventually revealed. She committed suicide years after, perhaps never recovering from her nervous breakdown.

In one of the scenes, the sado-masochistic lovers were having the time of their lives dancing to Ferry's melody. The ambience was certainly ironic – sadomasochism meets the essence of love.

The other masterpiece that “Slave to Love” is featured in is by the convicted pedophile, but undoubtedly one of films' best directors – Roman Polanski.

“Bitter Moon” is the story of fatalistic and unrequited love. It is s a t u r a t e d w i t h Shakespearian themes of eerie emotions that destroy

the soul of those who seek love, only to have it, then have it betrayed.

Only one director from the global film industry can make such a morbid film Roman Polanski. The husband, a wheelchair user, celebrates Old Year's Night at a party on a cruise ship, only to discover his wife dancing with lesbian overtures with another woman, to Ferry's rhapsodic melody.

Like in “Nine and a half weeks,” the song in “Bitter Moon” is played against the background of one of the most interesting scenes in the entire move.

In 2011, one of the 20th century's greatest figures and one of the greatest political personalities of all time, former leader of the USSR that disintegrated in 1991, M i k h a i l G o r b a c h e v, celebrated his 80th birthday with a grand concert at the Royal Albert Hall.

Superstars from film and music performed. Ferry sang his signature hit song.

I don't suppose the DJ tonight will have access to “Slave to Love.” He probably never heard about the song. But if you plan to usher in the new year at a private party or among friends, then go to YouTube and dance to a wonderful song about the power, passion and purpose of love.

Here are the words of “Slave to Love”: Tell her I'll be waiting In the usual place With the tired and weary There's no escape To need a woman You've got to know How the strong get weak And the rich get poor [Chorus] Slave to love

Frederick Kissoon Oh, Slave to love You're running with me Don't touch the ground We're the restless hearted Not the chained and bound The sky is burning A sea of flame Though your world is changing I will be the same [Chorus] Slave to love Oh oh, Slave to love Slave to love(na na na na) Na na na na Na na na na Slave to love And I can't escape; I'm a Slave to love Can you help me?

Oh oh Can you help me?

The storm is breaking Or so it seems We're too young to reason Too grown up to dream Now spring is turning Your face to mine I can hear your laughter I can see your smile [Repeat Chorus x 2] Slave to love (na na na na) Oh (na na na na) Slave to love And I can't escape; I'm a Slave to love (The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper)

Tuesday December 31, 2019

Kaieteur News

PAGE 11

PAGE 12

Kaieteur News

Tuesday December 31, 2019

Tuesday December 31, 2019

Kaieteur News

PAGE 13

Fake cop jailed for 'stopping and robbing' victim

T

wenty-one yearold Daquan Robinson, is now behind bars following his guilty plea to robbing a man at gunpoint. Robinson was slapped with four charges, and was yesterday sentenced on one of them, when he appeared before Principal Magistrate Sherdel IsaacsMarcus in the Georgetown

Magistrates' Courts.

To the charge which he pleaded guilty, the court heard that, armed with a gun, he robbed Gary Hartman of two spectacles valued $30,000; a power pack charger valued $1,000, a wallet valued $2,000 and $10,000 cash - totaling to $43,000 - on December 8, 2019 at Merriman Mall.

On the first occasion that the matter was called, the court heard that on the day in question the victim was walking at the location with a haversack on his back containing the articles mentioned in the charge.

Robinson subsequently approached him and told him that he (Robinson) was a police officer. However,

Sexual offences, murder most dominant cases heard by Court of Appeal this year

S

exual offences and murder cases have accounted for more than half of the cases heard by the Court of Appeal this year.

This is according to the gaol delivery released by the Chambers of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

The information shows that State Counsel from the chambers of the DPP appeared in 30 matters at the appellate court of which 12 were for sexual offences and eight for murder. There were another three matters for manslaughter, two for possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking and one each for felonious wounding, causing death by dangerous driving and uttering a forged document.

Of the 30 matters, the Court of Appeal dismissed and denied eight applications to appeal against conviction and sentence. Six applications were allowed to appeal

against sentence only. The sentences were varied, which included commutation of two death sentences to life imprisonment. The Court of Appeal reserved one decision while one other application was withdrawn.

Furthermore, there were eight applications for extension of time to file and serve Notices of Appeal. Six of the applications were allowed, the remaining two were denied.

Five applications were made to the Court of Appeal for bail pending appeal. Of the five, only one application was granted. Three were denied and one of the applications was withdrawn.

The Court of Appeal allowed an appeal by the State against an acquittal.

Meanwhile, during 2019 the Demerara Full Court dealt with 15 matters for the offences of break and enter and larceny, possession of firearm without License,

murder, possession of cannabis, possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking, assault causing actual bodily harm and rape of a girl under 16 years.

Four of these applications were withdrawn; one application was struck out after the Full Court ruled it had no jurisdiction to hear the matter; five appellants were denied their applications while five others were granted their applications to appeal.

During this time the Berbice Full Court also sat and heard an application to appeal against sentence for the offence of Possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking.

The Appellant did not attend court and the application was dismissed.

The Berbice Civil Court heard an application to quash a committal for the offence of murder and the application was granted.

Woman wanted for porkknocker's death nabbed five years later

A

fter five years of hiding, Stella Henry was arrested in connection with the murder of her reputed husband Junior Brandt at Merland Backdam, Baramita, Region One, North West District (NWD).

In April 2014 Brandt's body was discovered in pool of blood, by a Porkknocker, in a camp he (Brandt) shared with Henry.

The discovery was reported to the Baramita village captain who, with the assistance of police, ventured out to retrieve the body. An investigation was launched and Henry was said to be the prime suspect.

But Henry was able to evade police for 5 years.

Kaieteur News learnt that the woman sought refuge in desolate jungle areas. But she could to resist the temptation

to return to Central Baramita this year for the Christmas holidays.

As result someone spotted her and tipped off the police, who acted immediately and arrested Henry on December 23, last.

It is alleged that the woman confessed to the crime and claimed that she killed Brandt because of anger.

On the day in question the two were drinking alcohol at

their camp when they had a disagreement.

An argument erupted and Brandt dealt Henry three chops to her hand with a “chopper”.

Henry reportedly then became enraged, and headed to the kitchen in search of knife. She then returned and allegedly stabbed Brandt four times to the stomach.

Brandt fell to the ground and Henry made good her escape.

when the victim requested for Robinson to show him a badge, Robinson pulled out a black and grey gun from his waist.

He then pointed the weapon in the victim's direction while saying “Give me everything.” Hartman emptied everything on the ground, after which Robinson told him to run before he shot him.

The victim then went to a police outpost to report the matter. Later, a Police Constable who was on duty was approached by Robinson, who reportedly told the rank, “Get out of

Daquan Robinson

here what are you doing in this area.”

The said policeman then asked Robinson to subject himself to a search which resulted in the discovery of the items mentioned in the charge. He was arrested and charged.

However, Robinson had told the court that the gun was in fact a plastic gun. “I told him to don't move. He stopped, emptied his bag on the ground and I 'tek' he stuff.

The officer meet me at Bourda Market and attacked me, then he 'tek' away dem tings. I tek de $10,000 but (continued on page 21)

Kaieteur News

PAGE 14

Tuesday December 31, 2019

Medium-scale miners granted 3-month extension on rental payments

M

edium-scale miners who have not paid up tens of millions of dollars in rent arrears for their concessions have been granted a further three months.

The last-minute extension was announced yesterday by the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR).

With elections three months away, miners have been revving up with their demands for concessions and other breaks, citing tough conditions.

Yesterday, in a notice, the ministry said that following numerous requests from miners and their representative organisations, the Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman, has issued a directive to the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) to extend the final amnesty for miners regards the payment of rentals.

The organisations include the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA), the Guyana Women Miners' Organisation (GWMO) and the National Mining Syndicate (NMS).

The ministry disclosed

Minister Raphael Trotman

Medium-scale miners have been granted a 3-month reprieve for rental payment arrears on their lands that the amnesty has now been extended from December 31 s t 2019 to March 31st 2020.

“This applies to all medium-scale property holders who are in arrears and whose properties have not been published as cancelled in the Official

Gazette. The penalty accrued on such arrears will continue to attract a waiver of fifty percent (50%).”

The ministry urged all property holders to avail themselves to the “offer”, lest the properties become cancelled.

“The MNR further

advises that this opportunity be taken to make all outstanding payments of rentals before the new deadline stated.”

Recently, head of the Commission, Newell Dennison, had warned there will be more cancellation of concessions if miners fail to pay up by the end of December.

Just last month, the GGMC, through an order by Minister Trotman, cancelled 24 medium-scale mining concessions due to

outstanding rental fee payments.

The Prospecting Permit Medium Scale (PPMS) Exemption Order, was published in the Official Gazette on October 5, 2019.

The Order came into effect on September 15 last.

With respect to the 24 concessions cancelled, the Order states that they will be reserved for disposal by the bidding and lottery processes.

The GGMC had warned that the grace period ending

GGMC's head, Newell Dennison December 31, 2019 will not be extended.

Earlier this month, miners placed the ball in the courts of all political parties to have more representation for their sector. They created a manifesto of their own.

They started off their list by saying, “Miners in Guyana demand more serious representation and less lip service from political parties.”

In their proposal, the GGDMA and NMS highlighted 11 issues that they would like to see being addressed.

The first issue dealt with government's plans to phase out mercury from mining.

According to the miners, no phasing out of mercury must be done without a viable, proven replacement.

It was stated that the provision of financial and technical assistance must be provided to miners to phase out the use of mercury. Also, a ff o r d a b l e a l t e r n a t i v e technology must be provided to miners.

Moreover, the miners called for improved infrastructure to the mining sector. The political parties must provide new roads to access new mining areas and a better maintenance plan for the interior roads, including timely issuing of construction and (continued on page 22)

Tuesday December 31, 2019

Kaieteur News

PAGE 15

PAGE 16

Kaieteur News

Tuesday December 31, 2019

Health sector forced to expand reach to battle dengue fever - persons encouraged to help reduce mosquito breeding sites

B

y virtue of being a tropical country suitable for the Aedes mosquito to thrive, Guyana is faced with arboviral diseases including the likes of dengue fever.

Arboviral diseases are viruses that are often transmitted through the bites of mosquitoes. Among those that the local Ministry of Public Health has been on guard for, through its Vector Control Services Unit, are Zika, Chikungunya, yellow fever and dengue fever.

However, dengue fever is the only arboviral disease that is currently manifesting at notable proportions here in Guyana, according to the Ministry's Aedes Aegypti Focal Point Person, Dr Cassindra Alonzo-Ash. “Thank God we do not have Chikungunya and Zika or Yellow Fever...but we still have the challenge of dengue, because we still have the Aedes mosquito,” said Dr. Alonzo-Ash. To help combat the disease, she said that deliberate efforts are being made to collaborate with a number of organisations in hope of reducing the prevalence of dengue. “ We a r e t r y i n g t o collaborate with as many p e r s o n s a s possible...recently we even had training with the Red Cross, which is willing to assist and has persons within the communities,” said Dr. Alonzo-Ash, who noted that this is an especially tactical move, since “we are not only seeing cases on the coast...”

The discovery of cases in

non-coastal areas could, however, be indicative of an improved surveillance system, Dr. Alonzo-Ash noted.

“I have been running around to get my data and we have been seeing cases in Region Seven, Nine...So we can't say dengue is on the coast alone anymore, it is all over. Remember Region Nine is neighbouring to Brazil, and you will have the issue of dengue.”

She however noted “We should thank God and count ourselves blessed, because we are right next to Brazil, and we don't have Yellow Fever too... because of the very good vaccination coverage that we have in Guyana, we shouldn't be seeing persons with Yellow Fever,” said Dr. Alonzo-Ash. Yellow fever, an acute viral haemorrhagic disease, has been wreaking havoc in a number of countries, including some in Latin America and the Caribbean.

Among the countries affected are two neighbouring countries, Brazil and Venezuela, and Guyana has been wary of imported cases. But simultaneously it has been battling the impact of dengue fever. Despite best efforts trained on this disease, Dr. Alonzo-Ash admitted that “Dengue still remains an issue because, remember our port of entries are porous...that is why we will have to monitor it.”

Making reference to the tactical move to collaborate to fight dengue, Dr. AlonzoAsh said that it is imperative

Aedes Focal Point Person, Dr. Cassindra Alonzo-Ash to ensure that persons employ actions that can help to rid their environment of the mosquito vectors. “We need to see changes in our culture and in our attitudes...just simply keeping our environment clean,” said Dr. Alonzo-Ash. The Aedes-type mosquitoes are also called “container breeding” mosquitoes because they are known to breed in and around homes in containers of standing water. By properly disposing of containers in which mosquito can breed or by covering standing water, persons can help to protect themselves from the denguecarrying mosquitoes.

Embracing this approach is important since, according to Dr. Alonzo-Ash, the disease is a serious one which can present with four serotypes, each of which has different interactions with the antibodies in human blood serum.

“If I get infected with serotype one, and later on I get infected again with the same type, I may not feel that (continued on page 23)

Tuesday December 31, 2019

Kaieteur News

PAGE 17

PAGE 18

Kaieteur News

Tuesday December 31, 2019

Kaieteur News

Tuesday December 31, 2019

PAGE 19

Study recommends state-sponsored airline to reduce fares

T

he Competition and Consumer A f f a i r s Commission (CCAC) conducted a recent study on the airline industry and it has recommended Guyana has its own state-sponsored airline. The CCAC disclosed that the study was designed to gain insight into the operations of the Georgetown/North America route.

Flights, especially those to New York and Toronto, have been in high demand, with thousands of Guyanese living there. Ticket prices for economy have touched almost US$1,700 in the past, with travellers calling for other carriers.

In recent months, American Airlines started competing against Trinidadcontrolled Caribbean Airlines on the New York route. Eastern Airlines, which has emerged from the financially troubled Dynamic Airways, is due to start on the route soon, and Jet Blue may also be coming to the market.

According to the CCAC study, the constant stream of players entering and then exiting the market serves as an indication that barriers to entry are not prohibitive.

“The exit of these firms places the citizens in a predicament. We essentially have one player that acts a monopoly, for some of our most demanded routes. The citizens are forced to pay exorbitant prices.”

The report recommended that Guyana temper this m o n o p o l y b y commissioning its own state-sponsored airline.

“While a state-sponsored enterprise would have its own drawbacks to competition, we have to ask our self what do we prefer - a virtual monopoly, wait another decade for the market to regulate itself which it was trying to do the last decade, (or) sponsor a firm to provide a reprieve to our exhausted citizenry.”

The report pointed out that while this may not be the perfect solution, one must not forget that Caribbean Airlines Limited (CAL) is also a state-sponsored entity.

“The venture may be prone to all the ills of statesponsored enterprise but if managed properly, we can ensure that there is competitive pressure for the incumbent firms to perform.

There is no need to invest heavily in permanent fixtures or to have a permanent presence in the market.”

It proposed that the

The nationally owned Guyana Airways folded back in 2001 (Photo credit: flightsim.com)

A study has called on Government to consider sponsoring its own airline to protect travellers from high prices.

Government could lease the airplane for a five-year probationary period and service only the most traversed routes.

“After the probation period, the venture could be assessed, and if is proved that it was successful, if there are other competitors, the company can then exit the market. Guyana will be looking to invest its huge amount of expected revenues, from oil production; it may be prudent to consider to invest in a national airline.”

According to CCAC, in its summary of the report, Guyana's population for a number of years has been estimated to be just around 750,000 - never having grown or declined significantly.

It pointed to the huge number of Guyana who live overseas, which also mirrors the population.

Guyana tourism statistical digest for 2016 indicated that for the years 2013, 2014, 2015 and 2016 the number of visitors to Guyana were 200,060, 205,824, 206,819 and 235,312.

“The data illustrates that for 2017 the number of visitors approximate 250,000. These figures do not include residents of Guyana that travel internationally. When we do include those figures the number of passengers arriving in Guyana for 2016 is 500,000. The majority of these visitors utilize airline services to travel to Guyana, as other methods of international transportation

aren't as widely used, e.g. via land and sea.”

The 28-page study said that according to an Oxford Economic Report on Aviation in Guyana, “the economic impact of the aviation sector in Guyana is substantial. The most direct activities associated with aviation create $20.7 billion in annual economic activity.

This represents 3.2% of Guyana's total GDP in 2015.”

Moreover, nearly 12,000 Guyanese jobs are supported by the aviation industry -the majority in either transportation or tourism.

“This accounts for nearly one in twenty jobs in Guyana. Air passengers also generated roughly $1.7 billion in travel tax revenue for the government.”

The report stressed that pricing in the airline industry is a dynamic affair.

“Pricing for a route is determined by a number of factors such as demand, cost, competitors, type of consumer (leisure or business), substitutes and types of carriers in the market.”

CCAC said that it is because of the impact that this sector has for the nation that it wanted to take stock of the industry.

“We were seeking insight into the holistic operations of the industry, we sought to understand the entry requirements for airlines, operating costs, and challenges faced by airlines, why there is a lack of competition, and essentially why the industry operates the way it does.”

In preparing the report, the Commission disclosed that it gathered data from market players including the airlines, the tourism authority and Guyana's r e g u l a t o r y b o d y, t h e (Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA).

“Data was supplemented

by interviews with both CAL a n d G C C A . We a l s o gathered raw passenger data from the U.S. Department of Transportation and CJIA along with the Joint Select Committee on State Enterprises report into the Administration and Operations of Caribbean Airlines Limited.”

CCAC said that during the investigation, it found that while the industry is indeed an inherently c o m p e t i t i v e i n d u s t r y, significant barriers to entry exist in the form of financial barriers and industry expertise.

“In Guyana, entry into the market was quite easy, as the other barriers such as regulatory and institutional barriers were quite low, so as to attract investment in the

international industry. These low barriers to entry into Guyana can be illustrated by the steady influx of new competitors over the last decade.”

The report said that it was found that CAL, which essentially had a monopoly over the GEO-JFK route, was the dominant market player with just about 59% of total CJIA traffic in 2018, its market share declining over the course of the years.

“Previous academic research does confirm that a competitor in this industry will keep prices down.

We also estimated that a conservative breakeven price for an airline operating at 78% seat capacity at the GEO-JFK one way to be 173USD (tax free) and the (continued on page 21)

Kaieteur News

PAGE 20

Tuesday December 31, 2019

Tenant collapses, dies as Princes St. home burns

By Shikema Dey

I

t was a chaotic scene yesterday afternoon at Princes Street, Wortmanville, as a fire of unknown origin destroyed a two-storey wooden and concrete rented building; leaving one tenant dead, several homeless and a homeowner assaulted.

Dead is 47-year-old Michael Northe, a driver attached to the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples' Affairs.

Northe collapsed at the sight of his home for more than four years being ravaged by flames. He later succumbed.

When Kaieteur News arrived on scene, firefighters were attempting to extinguish the blaze in the upper flat of the house.

The fire reportedly started around noon.

A c c o r d i n g t o information received, about seven persons occupied the top flat of the building, while the home owner and another person resided in the lower flat.

One tenant, Kerron Campbell explained that he had just returned from Linden, when he was met with his Lot 48 Princes Street home on fire.

Campbell, who lives with his son and reputed wife, Latoya Regis, relayed that his losses totaled over $3 million.

“I was out and just reach back and come and see the place on fire. The most I coulda do is throw two bucket water, but that ain't help nothing. The house had everything, we shop for Christmas, TV, fridge, bed, chair set, everything, all we documents… everything; nothing ain't save.”

Firefighters train their hose on the smouldering upper flat

Dead: Michael Northe

Kerron Campbell sits with his reputed wife, Latoya, near the fire scene Campbell disclosed that they only moved into the premises a mere two months ago. According to him, they were informed that the fire started in the back apartment in the upper flat.

This section was said to belong to a female tenant who was not around at the time.

Another distraught tenant, 32-year-old Shauncey McDonald stated that she too was out and received a call that the house was on fire. Upon arriving, she said, the upper flat was already destroyed.

“I was living there for just a month. I just left the house and somebody call and seh the place on fire but I didn't believe; I thought it was just a prank…is till when I come and see the place done burn.”

The mother of four explained that all of her important documents were destroyed in the fire.

According to her, while

losing the household materials was disheartening, the documents were of more importance.

Meanwhile, McDonald's brother, Kelvin could not estimate his losses. The man stated that all he was left with were the clothes on his back.

He had moved from the West Bank of Demerara to facilitate his job.

“Me ain't get nothing left… nothing! Everything burn up. I can't even say how much I lost, I just get a call and is this I meet.”

CHAOS BEGINS The fire scene got chaotic after another tenant, Michael Northe, arrived on the scene and within seconds, collapsed.

Concerned neighbours frantically tried to keep the man conscious until paramedics arrived on scene, and exchanged words with police officers on the scene, who asked them to leave the

Superbet makes monetary donation to family who lost home to fire

G

uiana Holdings Inc., marketed under the name Superbet, yesterday made a monetary donation to Mr. Alvin Spencer, who lost his home to an early morning fire on Sunday, around 3:00 AM. Mr. Spencer has indicated that he will be rebuilding his home as soon as possible and would be grateful for the public's assistance.

He also expressed his thanks for the company's generosity upon receiving the donation at Superbet's Head Office, located at Lot 72 Barrack Street, Kingston, Georgetown.

General Manager, Mr. Shrikant Kisoensingh, conveyed that the company is “always looking for means of giving back to the community and this is our way of ending the year on a good note”.

Ms. Sonia Charran hands over a monetary donation to Mr. Alvin Spencer.

Kelvin McDonald

Shauncey McDonald man alone.

But they were determined to save his life.

However, their efforts were unfortunately in vain as the man later died. Neighbours explained that the man lived in the building for more than four years. He was described as a quiet individual.

M i n u t e s l a t e r, t h e landlord, Dexter Copeland received a beating from another tenant after refusing him entry into the home.

Neighbours were forced to break up the scuffle that left Copeland sporting a bloodied nose and other lacerations. It was said that the tenants and the landlord did not have favourable relations. Kaieteur News understands that the landlord and another tenant have an ongoing court matter.

“The landlord and everybody got an issue, he don't get along with nobody, is always an issue. He is a trouble maker but we try to make do with it. One girl got her man and the boy used to

The landlord, Dexter Copeland park he car on the parapet, and like the landlord cause some trouble about it, and now they got to go court for it.”

Meanwhile, Divisional Commander of the Guyana Fire Service, Gregory Wickham told reporters at the scene that three water tenders responded to the call and were able to control the fire.

Investigations are ongoing.

Tuesday December 31, 2019

PAGE 21

Kaieteur News

Number 75 Village inferno razes home, Non – occupancy of plots still almost destroys neighbour’s property an issue for Housing Authority Nomattie Chinnapah and her husband stand near what used to be their home.

T

he home of a 37year-old woman, her husband and son was burnt to the ground after a fire of unknown origin started sometime around 21:00 hrs on Sunday. During the blaze, a neighbour’s newly completed home was also extensively damaged by the flames.

Nomattie Chandra Chinnapah, of Lot 9 Number 75 village told reporters that her husband had left for work around 17:30 hrs Sunday.

Shortly after she left the home with her son to purchase groceries from a shop in the village, and it was while she was there chatting with the shop owners that she was informed by a friend in the village that her house was on fire.

“I was sitting with the shop people gaffing and then one of my friends come and tell me the house on fire. By the time me and me son run and go to the house it was already up in flames, by the time the fire truck arrived the house had already burnt

down, and the neighbour house also caught on fire”, she disclosed.

The woman, who broke down in tears while speaking about her losses, told reporters that they are very poor people who struggled through “blood, sweat and tears” to achieve whatever they had in the home, and the house itself. Chinnapah stated that there was nothing electrical in the home other than the lights, and she believes that there was not an electrical issue that caused the blaze.

“Awee are very poor people and me and my husband work to get what we have and now all just gone.

Whatever people give me is what me does furnish me house with”, she said.

Meanwhile, Shafeer Khan, 27, the neighbour whose house was damaged due to the fire, stated that he was not at home, but he received a call from a friend who informed him that his neighbours’ house was on fire and the blaze had

Dominica and French island rattled by earthquake BRIDGETOWN, Barbados - CMC – An earthquake with a magnitude of 3.9 rattled parts of Dominica and the French islands of Martinique and Guadeloupe yesterday, the Trinidad-based Seismic Research centre (SRC) of the University of the West Indies (UWI) has reported.

It said that the quake, which occurred at 11.10 am (local time) was located Latitude: 15.79N, Longitude: 61.41W and at a depth of 10 kilometres (km).

It was felt 53 km southsouth east of Point-à-Pitre, in Guadeloupe, 54 miles north of Roseau, the Dominica capital and 137 km north-north west of Fort-de-France in Martinique.

The SRC said there were

no immediate reports of injuries or damage and the earthquake is the latest in a series of earth tremors that have affected several Caribbean islands.

Last Thursday, less than 24 hours after several Caribbean countries were jolted by an earthquake with a magnitude of 4.2, the SRC reported that a stronger quake had been felt in some other territories.

The SRC said that the earthquake with a magnitude of 4.7 jolted the islands of Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica as well as the French island of Guadeloupe.

It followed a quake with a magnitude of 4.2 rocked islands in the Eastern Caribbean.

caught on to his building.

He explained that the roof, ceiling, lighting and wiring were all damaged. Khan stated that his home was only completed recently, and he had a few more days of work to complete some finishing touches to the building. He is estimating nearly four million dollars in losses.

In addition to the fire at Number 75 Village, a father and his 16-year-old son are now homeless after their home was burnt to the ground at D’Edward Village, West Coast Berbice on Sunday.

Alvin Spencer told Kaieteur News that he and his son were asleep in separate rooms when he was awakened by the shouts of his son. He added that when he rushed to his son’s bedroom it was already consumed by fire, and his main focus was to get himself and son to safety. By the time both had exited the building, the entire edifice was engulfed in flames. He is estimating over eight million dollars in losses.

- Agency moves to review process of distribution The non-occupancy of house lots remains a major issue facing the Central Planning and Housing Authority (CH&PA), officials attached to the agency said yesterday.

CH&PA Operations Manager Denise King–Tudor told media operatives at an end of year press conference that there are a number of persons who failed to occupy or even construct a building on their acquired house lots at Perseverance, East Bank Demerara.

She used the housing scheme as a reference for the level of non-occupancy.

According to King–Tudor “All of the housing units at Perseverance that were constructed by the government were allocated, but only 75 to 80% are currently occupied.”

The official noted that the non-occupancy is due to the fact that in some cases persons are waiting on the bank to release payments so that they can proceed with their transactions.

“There are instances, also, where persons would have received the monies, but have refused to advance the process. Then, there are persons who are in the clear, but have still failed to occupy their homes. This has led to instances where persons – who traverse the neighbourhood – would contact the CH&PA to inquire about those homes with the intent of acquiring them.

Nevertheless, King–Tudor noted that the agency has been engaging owners to get them to occupy their homes.

“We have been talking to them, and in fact, they have given us specific timelines to occupy those units. So, we are working with the purchasers to get them to move in,

Fake cop jailed for 'stopping ...

From page 13 when I get arrest, I only had $3,000.

According to the probation officer, Robinson claimed that he is a school dropout as a result of financial instabilities, and was only arrested after he was constantly out of his home following multiple conflicts with his mother.

The probation report also indicated that his family is not aware of his bad character and the incident was not because of finances, since he is well taken care of.

In a final plea to the magistrate, the accused said, “It was a sincere incident; I didn't mean to do it. I'm sorry for what happened and I just want help.”

After taking into consideration the fact that he is a first-time offender and the se-

riousness of the offence, the Magistrate sentenced Robinson to two years in prison.In relation to the charges that Robinson pleaded not guilty, the prosecutor had objected to bail based on the fact that a gun was used and more than one person was robbed. Also, objections were made as a result of Robinson not having a fixed place of abode.

The first charge read that on December 7, 2019 at Church Street, while armed with a gun, Robinson robbed Keyon Crandon of $600.

It was alleged that on December 8, last, at Orange Walk, he robbed Desmond Daniels of a $5,000 cell phone while armed with a gun, and he was found with two iPhones suspected to be stolen or unlawfully obtained.

CHPA Operations Manager Denise King–Tudor because the thing about it, is that when someone would have demonstrated to us that they need housing, then we are expecting that within the shortest possible time, they will complete that transaction with us, and that they will move in those houses. We have some cases – a few in Perseverance – that we are getting results, but we need that to speed up,” she said.

Tudor-King said that there have been cases where owners were given ultimatums. Letters are served before a meeting is requested.

“The first (letter) one is to say that we have observed that this house has been unoccupied for a period of time and that we would like to meet with you and we are encouraging you to occupy. Then, we move to the next stage where we have a meeting, where we say to you, if you fail to occupy within a specific timeframe, we will review the allocation,” she said.

Tudor-King disclosed that at present some 60,000 active applications are in the

system.

Meanwhile Minister within the Ministry of Communities, Annette Ferguson said the government will continue with its push for affordable housing solutions. She said a number of projects are to come on stream in the new year that will benefit citizens more.

Chief Executive Officer of the CH&PA Lelon Saul said the Authority will continue to subsidize the cost of housing to ensure citizens are able to acquire house lots.

“At this agency, we provide housing for the entire nation and that is why we have this huge demand here.

Many people who come to CHPA could go on the open market and purchase land or houses, and maybe we will need to review that, because as the country’s economy improves, we will need to review that. Those who have the means need to go on the open market and purchase house lots and houses. Don’t come here, we are for the small man,” Saul said.

Study recommends state-sponsored ...

From page 19 return price to be 346USD (tax free).

We recognize that there is a need for one other competitor flying the GEO-JFK route in order for consumers to derive tangible benefits not only in price but other non-price services.”

The report predicted that one can expect there to be fierce price and non-price competition for routes where there are two or more competing players.

CCAC, established in 2006 and fully operational in 2010, functions in executing the

laws governing two acts namely the Competition and Fair-Trading Act No. 11, 2006 (CFTA) and the Consumer Affairs Act No. 13 2011 (CAA). Guyana had its own airline - Guyana Airways Corporation (GAC) - which folded almost two decades ago, after serving Guyana for almost 60 years. Since then, CAL which morphed from BWIA, has been around, servicing the high-demand North American market.

A number of charter operations have come and gone, including Dynamic, EZJet and Continental.

PAGE 22

FOR RENT 2 bedroom Apartment for rent-Semi furnished in Herstelling.Contact#6839487/675-8572.

SERVICES Visa Application: U.S.A, Canada & UK; Graphics design, advertisements, Wedding arch rentals. Tel: 626-7040 ICONIC MARKETING & PRINTING –TEL: 6006887: We create A/works, logos, business cards, posters, etc, placements of ads included.

PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, G R A D U AT I O N , W E D D I N G S , ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 We repair fridge, freezer, AC, washer, dryer-Call: 231-0655; 683-8734. Omar Installation, Repairs and parts for AC, Fridge, Washing Machine, Stove etc. Call Nick 630-1600, 6273206 LAND FOR SALE Transported land 11.6 acres, Lot 15 Public road #2 Village W.C. B/ce 5 mins from B/ce Bridge. Contact# 686-4818/ 648-7109 LEARN TO DRIVE N. Outar Driving School, Learn to Drive the right way @ Cuffy Square. Affordable package. Call: 644-5166/6912561/681-2808

FOR SALE Li Hong Fa Aluminium CoDoors, Glass cases, Shutters, automatic doors, stainless works. 26 Public Road, Bagotstown. #669-1516/6599999 VEHICLE FOR SALE 1 Honda CRV. includes TV, music system, alarm, reverse camera, sproiler, crash bar, Low mileage. PTT Series (First Owner) Contact #6490956 Nissan Bluebird (Sliver) PXX Series for sale.Contact#6839487/675-8572.

PROPERTY FOR SALE Lot 89 Robb Street, Lacytown, Georgetown. Next door to Mike’s Pharmacy.Land size3431.25 Sq.ft. Phone: 617-5323, 666-8052

PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, G R A D U AT I O N , W E D D I N G S , ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 2 Bedroom semi-furnished apartment in Campbellville, suitable for students/persons working in G/Town for more info.Call#666-3213/668-0450.

Commercial Space.Linden #613-7039.

One two bedroom house to let $60,000 per month.Call#6939999.

One bedroom & three bedroom apts for rent in Providence,Fully furnished.Call#672-1906/2162299/682-6238.

TO LET

Plot 8 O Tract Zeelugt, East Bank Essequibo, Ram #6926153 / 917- 698- 9824, Kumar #660-6410/269-0569

Rooms tolet, 1 bedroomworking people: $30,000, $32,000,$35,000, $40,000 monthly, 2 month security.

Call: 623-0076

One 3 Story building at 97 Sugar Cane St, S/Rveldt Gdns. $125,000,000. Tel#674-9905/ 695-1356/225-2971

One Bedroom apartment, bath & living room included.Preferably UG Student.Contact#222-0401

EDUCATION First Aid/CPR and home Nursing classes.Tel#2259082.St.John Association 110 Cowan St.Kingston for more info.

PEN PAL

Rooms in Albertown#2253234 2 Bedroom bottom flat grilled & tiled apartment $65,000.

Middleton St C/Ville.667-1896.

Business space with Kitchen $85,000 Middleton St.C/Ville 667-1896.

Male seek female Pen Pal worldwide.Whatsapp 6986391.

DOLLYS AUTO RENTAL CALL: 225-7126 & 2263693 -DOLLYS AUTO RENTAL @ YAHOO.COM/ W W W . D O L L Y SAUTORENTAL.COM PROGRESSIVE CAR RENTAL: CARS FROM $4000 & UP, SUV’S PER DAY- CALL: 656-0087 / 643-5122 ,EMAIL:PRO_ A U T O R E N TA L @YAHOO.COM AIDAN’S CAR RENTAL& TOW TRUCK SERVICE :PICKUP,9-11 SEAT MINI BUS, GOOD FOR AIRPORT & FAMILY OUTINGS, CHEAPEST RATE .#698-7807

Drivers- with tractor, motor bus, minibus, must have all three licenses, preferably living around Georgetown.

Tel# 641-5075/225-1429/6241147 Wanted experienced hire car taxi drivers at Ramada Georgetown Princess Hotel.

Contact # 616-5419/265-7076 Puri cooks , Kitchen Assistants.Apply@Shantas 225 Camp Street, G/town.

Live in maid wanted between the age of 45-55.Bourda area.Call#658-0618.

1 Maid Call#225-3234.

Car, Bus & Canter Drivers.

Call #225-3234/225-9223.

One (1) Welder.Must know Grill work.Contact#625-5763.

The seduction of power, especially with the flow of oil wealth, seems too great to allow for compromise DEAR EDITOR, Mr Ramkarran in his column “Small parties’ concerns are a distinct feature of the coming elections” carried in another newspaper writes “The significance of small parties on this occasion is not what amount of votes they will capture but whether one or more together will hold the balance of power, as APNU and AFC together did in 2011”.

While this may be true, the problem is the multiplicity of new small parties, a total of fourteen reported by one newspaper. They are likely to split the small percent of uncommitted votes, thereby preventing any from gaining a seat or more in parliament to hold the balance of power.

We know that in 2011the PPP was forced to prorogue parliament and hold elections

Two Domestic maids required one should know cooking too.Call#231-0734

Vacancies exists for Truck Drivers and Loader Operator.

Contact - 621-5282 VACANCY Vacancy for (1) Sales girl.Apply in person to Alabama Trading.

Two Domestic maids required one should know cooking too.Call#618-1853

because of a one seat deficit in parliament.

Then in December, 2018, a one seat vote from the government bench in support of the PPP’s No Confidence Motion led to the fall of the APNU-AFC government. In 2015, the four small parties in the elections were unable to gain together a total of 2500 votes.

The United Republican Party, one of the four, received 418 votes. In 2020, if each of the 14 new parties receives 418 votes, none will obtain a seat and one seat will go to either of the two major parties. Should 2020 follow the trend of the previous two elections, the small parties would not achieve what Mr. Ramkarran is hoping for.

Hopefully, the Liberty and Justice Party will gain support in the Amerindian community

and be able to hold the balance of power.

Mr Ramkarran continues “At these elections, the seriousness of the issues raised by small parties, and their commonality, are a distinct feature and distinguish them from most of those of the past”.

This begs the question – If there is such commonality as stated, why can’t these small parties unite to ensure a degree of success?

To me, the respective leadership of these parties suffers from the same malady as the leadership of the two major parties. As the 1985 Tears for Fears song says “Everybody wants to rule the world”, the seduction of power, especially with the flow of oil wealth, seems too great to allow for compromise.

Harry Hergash

Linden Water Crisis and Opportunity From page 6 conservation.

The EPA and the GGMC have the responsibility for monitoring the Bosai’s Environmental Management Plan for its operations. Recent audits indicate that discharges exceeded the approved limits.

The RDC and the LM&TC apparently have neither the capacity nor the interest.

Their practices and interventions have contributed to the deterioration of the water resources in Linden. Lands have been “awarded” for farming within the Dakoura Creek Watershed without any regard or reference to the topography, and proposed proVACANCY

WANTED

CAR RENTAL

Tuesday December 31, 2019

Kaieteur News

1 Secretary 28-45 yrs old. #2310655/683-8734 General domestic. 3 Days work. Must know to cook.

Apply with 2 references.

KeyFood McDoom village Vacancy for (1) maid.Apply in person to Alabama Trading.

Vacancy for (1) experienced Accouints Clerk.Must have passes in Mathematics and English.Apply in Person to Alabama Trading

Office Assistant- Applications with CV & References to Guyana Legal Aid Clinic, Maraj Building, Charlotte & King St, G/town- by 3 Jan, 2020

Experienced Salesgirls with 2 yrs experience. Apply @ Christine’s Variety, Lombard St. Contact: 227-8529

Vacancy exist for Experienced Pharmacy assistants to work @ reputable pharmacy in G/ town. Interested persons call #696-5098 between 8am-4pm

tection strategies for the watershed. A 2014 Cabinet Decision established the Dakoura Creek Watershed Management Group to provide oversight of the development and implementation of the DCWMP. There was a notable lack of response or concrete action by the agencies named. The MoC was named as the Lead Agency but did not assume the role. The MoC, however, is best positioned to address the water and sanitation crisis in Linden, to provide guidance and build necessary capacity within the LM&TC, and to coordinate the collective efforts of the other agencies. There is a troubling implication, if there is no will, interest and/ or ability to address the manageable water situation in Linden, how can we be assured that Guyana’s water, our primary natural resource, can be managed? The absence of will and concerted efforts by the National Agencies to ad-

dress the water situation in Linden provides an opportunity for, and necessitates, action at the Regional and Municipal levels. The following actions, remedial strategies will position Linden to be home of the “Water People”: RDC Region 10 / LM&TC to establish a Regional Water Policy/Strategy; Establish the Linden Municipal Water Council; Promote the Region 10 National Water Conference/Symposium; Develop and implement a directed water awareness strategy/plan; Develop and implement a plan to utilize the water from the Linden springs; Restore and maintain the main Creeks of Wismar and protect the remaining wetlands; Identify and enforce reserve areas to protect the headwaters/ sources of springs and creeks and Boost tourism and jobs by development of a water park in Victory Valley.

Sincerely, Samuel Wright

Medium-scale miners granted...

From page 14 maintenance contracts.

Furthermore, the miners wanted better incentives. According to the announcement, they would like access to cheaper fuel by reducing duties and taxes, removal of VAT and duty on all mining equipment, reduction in duties on new vehicles and a reduction of VAT and taxes across the board.

The next issue to be addressed is the financing for the sector, which the miners are seeking to have mining permits issued for 10-15 years in the first instance.The miners are also asking to have no increase in rental fees for mining lands, greater border control, with increased security presence and faster police response.Moreover, the miners are calling for a revamp of the Guyana Mining Act and a repositioning of Guyana's Mining Policy, which takes into consideration the realities and capabilities of operators in the interior.Gold mining has been the biggest foreign currency earner for the country, overtaking rice and sugar in the last decade. Its top place is being threatened to be overtaken by the oil and gas sector.

Kaieteur News

Tuesday December 31, 2019

PAGE 23

Miner killed in vicious attack…

Worker who ties up, robs boss and Teen suspect claims to have female employee, gets 12 months stabbed victim's friend - Alleged accomplice remanded

A

cting on a tip-off police was able to track down and arrest the prime suspect in the murder of 20-year-old Neville Moonsammy Jr. The 17–year–old, of One Mile Port Kaituma, Region One, North West District, was found hiding at his home. He was apprehended in the presence of his parents on Boxing Day (December 26) and taken to the Port Kaituma Police Station for questioning in relation to the killing.

Kaieteur News understands that the teen denied stabbing Moonsammy, but reportedly admitted to stabbing Moonsammy's friend, Keon

Dead: Neville Moonsammy Jr. Hutson.

Initial reports stated that the night in question Moonsammy was attacked while having a private conversation with a female friend outside of a shop at

S18 Junction, Four Mile.

He then ran to notify his friend (Hutson), who was some distance away, that he was being attacked.

However, he was followed by his assailant who reportedly stabbed him multiple times to the face, n eck an d b o d y.

Moonsammy's friend was also stabbed in an attempt to save him.

Eyewitnesses had claimed that Moonsammy's attacker had vowed to kill him because of an old feud.

Kaieteur News was told that Moonsammy and his alleged killer had a fight at Monasee backdam, where Moonsammy had emerged as the victor.

Labourer remanded for Rose Hall nightclub murder

A

21-year-old labourer of Fyrish Village was yesterday remanded to prison for the murder of a Rose Hall Town father of one. Rickford Thomas called 'Baba' appeared before Magistrate Alex Moore at the Whim Magistrate's Court to answer to the indictable charge of murder. It is alleged that on the 25th of December 2019 he murdered Carlos Williams of Reef Section, Rose Hall Town.

He was not required to plead and was unrepresented in court. He is set to return to court on February 17th, 2020.

According to reports, Williams, his wife Charlene Harry and a few friends ventured out to the annual Christmas Eve lime in Rose Hall Town and ended up at the night spot for the “washdown” when a scuffle ensued between Williams and another man.

Harry reportedly after seeing her partner in the fight, tried to intervene and separate them but was stabbed to her thigh by the

Killed: Carlos Williams man. At that point, Paul Grant, of Plaisance Housing Scheme, East Coast Demerara, who was with Williams and Harry for the outing, also tried to intervene, but was dealt a lash to his left side face and head. The man then turned to Williams and stabbed him with a sharp object, suspected to be a broken beer bottle and calmly walked away from the scene.

Thomas, who was identified as the suspect, was arrested shortly after.

Charged: Rickford 'Baba' Thomas

complications can develop, the doctor revealed.

These complications could include bleeding of the gums and/or nostrils, vomiting as many as three times per day, swollen and/or tenderness of the tummy and even abnormal bleeding from the vagina. Once these develop, Dr. Alonzo-Ash said that “you must seek medical assistance, because we have a culture in Guyana

Remanded: Terrence Bacchus the operation and sent home the workers for the holiday.

H o w e v e r, Va l e n z u e l a allegedly went away and made contact with Bacchus to make plans to rob their boss.

The men reportedly returned to the mining camp and at the time the victims were together.

Prosecutor Mansfield told the court that Valenzuela and Bacchus tied up Ramroach and Pinto. They then allegedly ransacked the camp and carted of the items mentioned in the charge.

The matter was reported to the Bartica Police Station and following investigations the men were arrested.

Moreover, a quantity of raw gold was recovered and the men allegedly gave caution statements to the police admitting to committing the act. They

Jailed: Titus Valenzuela also detailed the roles they played.

In addressing the court Valenzuela said, “I took the phone because I didn't want them to get in contact with nobody, and I rob he (Pinto) because my family needed the money.”

Following his explanation to the court Magistrate McLennan sentenced the accused to 12 months in prison for robbing Pinto and six months for the offence committed on Ramroach. The sentences will run concurrently.

As it relates to Bacchus, the prosecutor objected to bail based on the seriousness of the offence and the penalties it attracts.

Bacchus was remanded to prison until January 9, 2020, when he will make his next court appearance at the Bartica Magistrate's Court.

Ex-soldier gets $200,000 bail for stabbing death of fruits vendor The injured Williams was taken to the Port Mourant Hospital where he died while receiving medical attention. His wife and friend were treated for their injuries and sent away.

Health sector forced to expand reach to...

From page 16 ill like the first time, but if I go to a Region that may have serotype two and I get infected with that, I may develop complications,” Dr. Alonzo-Ash explained.

While the early signs of dengue may include high fever, severe headaches, pain behind the eyes, severe joint and muscle pain, fatigue, nausea, and skin rash, once untreated haemorrhagic

A

m i n e r, w h o a d m i t t e d yesterday to robbing two persons of articles in excess of $1.1M, was sent to prison, where he will welcome the new year.

Titus Valenzuela was jointly charged with a fellow miner on the charges.

However, the accomplice pleaded not guilty to the charges. At the time the charges were read, Valenzuela and Terrence Bacchus appeared in the Georgetown Magistrates' Courts before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan.

They were unrepresented.

The first charge read that on December 27, 2019 at Takutu Backdam, Cuyuni River, the men, armed with cutlasses, robbed Candace Ramroach of one cell phone valued $58,000.

Also it was alleged that on the same date and at the same location they robbed Joe Pinto of $830, 000 cash, a cologne valued $87,000, a phone valued $5,000 and 14 pennyweight of raw gold valued $180,600 amounting to $1,102,600 while still being armed with cutlasses.

Valenzuela told the court that he is 18 years old and hails from Kuru Kuru Linden/Soesdyke Highway; Bacchus is 25 and resides in Linden.

Police Prosecutor Gordon Mansfield related the facts of the charges. It was stated that the two men were employed by Pinto who is a dredge owner. Days before Christmas there was a 'wash down' and Pinto closed

where we think we can fight anything...we don't want to go to the hospital and tend to stay home. So when you see these signs [of dengue] we encourage persons to seek attention,” said Dr. AlonzoAsh. She emphasised that “dengue doesn't have a specific treatment like malaria...we have to treat it according to your signs and symptoms”.

A

27-year-old exGuyana Defence Force rank was yesterday released on $200,000 bail after being slapped with a manslaughter charge in relation to the death of a fruit vendor of Portuguese Quarters, Corentyne, Berbice.

Appearing at the Whim Magistrate's Court before Magistrate Alex Moore was Terrence Roopnarine called 'Terry' of David Rose Street, Rose Hall Town, Corentyne, Berbice. Roopnarine was charged with manslaughter.

It is alleged that on Tuesday 24th December a t R o s e H a l l To w n , Roopnarine unlawfully killed Stephen Lewis called 'Shabba'.

He was not required to plea since the charge was indictable, but Police

Terrence Roopnarine Prosecutor Lance Corporal Matheson did not object to bail under the conditions that he lodge his travel documents prior to release, and report to Rose Hall

Killed: Stephen Lewis Outpost every Tuesday and Friday.

He is to make his next appearance at the Albion Magistrate's Court on February 18, 2020.

PAGE 24

Kaieteur News

Tuesday December 31, 2019

Tuesday December 31, 2019

Kaieteur News

PAGE 25

PAGE 26

Kaieteur News

Tuesday December 31, 2019

Tuesday December 31, 2019

Kaieteur News

PAGE 27

PAGE 28

Kaieteur News

Tuesday December 31, 2019

Tuesday December 31, 2019

PAGE 29

Kaieteur News

Coomacka upset Botafago Shihan Jeffrey Wong appointed VP of Intl Karate-do 2-1, Topp XX stop H & L Winners Connection 2-1 to advance Coomackas fairy-tale run Organization in Guyana continued as they overcame UDFA Christmas Football finale

the highly rated Botafago 20, while Topp XX halted the intentions of three time champions Haynes and Lewis Winners Connection 2-1 when the semifinals of this years annual Upper Demerara Football Associations (UDFA) Christmas football championship were played Sunday night at the Mackenzie Sports Club ground.

Haynes and Winners Connection were off to a perfect start when their reliable forward Shaquille Frank netted in the 12th minute for a 1-0 lead which was enjoyed until Topp XX got the equaliser in the 41st minute.

This was through the dependable shooting of Travis Waterton who first was called

T

Coomacka’s Keiron Daw at left and Wheatland Thom upon when a penalty was awarded as Jamal Bentick was fouled in the penalty area.

That 1-1 score would then be made 2-1 through Waterton again. This time on the stroke of half time a free kick was taken from about 25yards out and the powerful shot hit the back of the net in the 45th minute.

Second half action failed

to change the 2-1 score and Topp XX made their first final after a long wait.

Coomacka, with a strong following, would then book their place also when they came away with a 2-0 victory as Botafago were unable to match their opponents speed.

Keiron Daw was able to run into position and find the back of the net from a nice play from

Tuesday December 31, 2019 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) An old friend you haven't seen in a long time could suddenly reappear. You'll be surprised by this person's achievements. This meeting or the circumstances surrounding it could mark a turning point for you.

TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) A sudden but fortunate change of job circumstances could take place today. Perhaps you suddenly get promoted or transferred.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) A close friend or your partner could propose an impromptu trip and you might decide to go. You're restless for adventure.

CANCER (June 21–July 22) An unexpected sum of money could cause chaos in your home, but it's an exciting, pleasant sort of pandemonium! Perhaps this makes it possible for you to make some necessary changes or buy some new equipment, furniture, or appliances.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Someone who may be something of a local celebrity might suddenly be attracted to you, although at this point neither one of you may be inclined to pursue it.

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Information received today might make it possible for you to change your job, residence, or at least the way you think or operate.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) If you aren't romantically involved, expect that status to change today. You could meet more than one attractive person!

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Idealism and some intriguing mystical revelations could make you want to spread your ideas. You may want to invite some friends over to talk.

SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) The hopes and goals of a group with which you're associated inspire you. You might make personal sacrifices in order to assure their success.

CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) Sudden, unexpected success could result in an equally unexpected raise.

Friends may have pointed you in the direction that put you in the right place at the right time.

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) rush of optimism and enthusiasm could propel you into a more positive frame of mind, and you could accomplish wonders. Your circumstances may be turned upside down.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Sudden insights and revelations could enable you to make some longdesired changes. A lucky break might bring an unexpected sum of money your way. Unusual dreams could amuse you during the night.

Topp XX’S Travis Waterton the left side in the 17th minute.

The Botafago had two real chances one was when the ball hit the left upright and the other when the ball crashed on to the cross bar from a long range shot.

But that 1-0 advantage remained to the end of the first half.

Botafago were unable to match the aggression of Coomacka and in the 71st minute it would be 2-0 when Wheatland Thom would tap home a chance from lax defending and hand Coomacka a 2-0 lead which would be the eventual score in the end.

Tomorrow the losers play for third place and the Coomacka and Topp XX battle it out for top honours at the MSC ground.

he world karate body, the Interna tional Karate-do Organization [IKO], which has its headquarters in the United States, has now officially established a branch locally, known as IKOGuyana and will before long be establishing affiliated dojos across the length and breadth of Guyana.

Concurrently, the IKO has appointed Guyanese Karate expert Shihan Jeffery Wong 7th degree Black Belt as Vice President for Dojo development. Shihan Wong, who will be marking fifty years of being involved in the martial art of Shotokan karate early next year, has been mandated with the special responsibility of overseeing the development and growth of the International Karate Do Organization in Guyana and will help maintain the traditional standards of Shotokan karate of the International Karate-do Organization.

This announcement was made by Shihan Adrian Ellis 8th DanBlack Belt and President of the International Karate-do Organization. The IKO is a member of the World

Sensei Jeffrey Wong Karate Martial Arts Organization, the (WKMO) that has more than 60 countries of all styles of martial arts, and which is headquartered in Switzerland.

The WKMO coordinates and undertakes World Cup Championships, World Championships, Continental Championships, high level technical seminars, referee and judges certification.

Shihan Ellis noted how honoured the IKO wasto have someone with Sensei Wong’s experience and expertise as a member of their organization, someone whose tremendous skill and knowledge has influenced a large number of martial artists in Guyana, particularly young karatekas and whose love and passion for Shotokan karate will be great for their organization and for the people of Guyana.

Karate is an ancient form of combat and self-defence that is said to have originated on the Japanese island of Okinawa and provides meaningful exercise for both children and adults, leading to overall physical and mental health benefits.

In accepting this important position for Karate in Guyana and beyond, Shihan Wong indicated that his focus shall be to concentrate on the training facilities of the IKO in Guyana which must be top class, consistent with the mission of the IKO with all of the necessary amenities.

He stated of his intention to see IKO-Guyana invest in good training infrastructure across the country and not to make the habitual mistake of concentrating only on Georgetown.

He opined that improving in the art of karate is a long process but can be done with the right instructors and dojo environments.

PAGE 30

Kaieteur News

Tuesday December 31, 2019

Enmore Cricket Club honours top players, officials and fans of 2019 Members of the Enmore Community Centre Cricket Club (ECCCC) on Sunday afternoon took a break from the cricket field and gathered in the auditorium to recognise the clubs top players, officials and fans of 2019.

The occasion marked the sixth time such a ceremony has been held since the clubs resuscitation in 2013.

Life Member of the Club, Taajnauth Jadunauth, in delivering brief remarks to the gathering of cricketers, special invitees and wellwishers, said it is “heartening” to see a large number of young players now attached to the East Coast Demerara club.

He credited Club Captain Bheemraj Ramkelawan and his executives for keeping the club active by opening its door to new members.

“Under the leadership of your current Captain and Chairman, progress is being made. Players please do not, out of anger, out of dissatisfaction, walk away from this club. Problems will be there; solutions are always there,” Jadunauth said.The former Chairman of the Club urged the players to integrate their academics with their cricketing exploits, thereby allowing them to become well-rounded.“Some people will tell you, you cant study and play at the same time, well I have studied and played at the time. Sports stimulate the brain; if you engage in sports you are stimulating your own brain, but nothing in sports

and nothing in life will be achieved unless you indulge in proper discipline,” Jadunauth advised.

In an effort to attract new members, Ramkelawan stated that persons below the age of 15 would be given free membership. He also highlighted that the club plans to embark on its second overseas tour next year and the destination would be decided after the AGM in January 2020.

List of Awardees 2019 Most Committed PlayerVivikanand Ishwardin (Despite not being a regular playing member, Ishwardin consistently assists the team with scoring, fundraising activities and pitch preparation) Supporter-of-the-YearRudolph Singh Sr. (Singh attended over 75% of matches during 2019. Special mention was also made of Mr. Gobin and Uncle Nar) Most Promising Young Player- Chaitram Balgobin (Balgobin played a matchwinning knock in just his second game for the senior team, helping his side to the semi-finals of the 100-Ball competition) Most Improved PlayerNavindra Gobin (Batting low in the order, Gobin scored 377 runs a high strike rate during the past year.

His performances were crucial to ECCCC being on the verge of entering three finals) Best Bowling FiguresSatesh Jainarine (Jainarine was the consistent wicket-

The awardees (seated) with members of the ECCCC executive. taker for ECCCC in 2019, returning a best effort of 5-22 from seven overs against Cotton Tree) Best Batting PerformanceImran Hassan (Hassan scored 87 not out against Cane Grove SC in a T20 match and 84 in an eight-over game against Berbice Police) Best All-rounder- Amir Khan (In 10 games, Khan scored 236 runs and picked up 26 wickets. Special mention was made of YuvrajDyal, who had 248 runs and 31 wickets in 20 matches) Most Wickets- Satesh Jainarine (Jainarine bagged 37 wickets during the season, taking three or more wickets in an innings on six occasions) Most Runs- Imran Hassan (Opening batsman Hassan was the teams leading

Rose Hall Town Jammers, Canje Knights win latest Nigel Hinds Berbice B/ball games Play in the Berbice Basketball Association 2019 end of year Berbice Mecca Classic Basketball Championship continued last weekend. On Saturday at the New Amsterdam basketball court, Rose Hall town Jammers defeated Fyrish Black Sharks by 68 to 41 scoreline. Jammers were led by top scores from Shamer France with 21 points, 4 steals, Malcolm Mickel 12 points and 6 steals, while for Fyrish Black Sharks, Garfield Benjamin 23 points and 4 rebounds and Allejandro Hercules 8 points. Sunday, Canje Knights edged Hopetown Stealers 53 to 52 points. Scoring for the Canje Knights, Tyrone Dey hit 12 points, Jamol Felix 10 points, 3 steals, 1 assists, Steve Roopnarine 8 points, 4 rebounds and had 1 turnover, while for Hopetown Stealers, Kebon Mars 15 points, 6 assist, 2 steals Debon Nedd 12 points, 1 assist and Teron Lucas 8 points, 3 rebounds and 1 steal led

runscorer with 551 runs at an average of 46. In partnership with club captain Bheemraj Ramkelawan at the top, the duo combined for 950 runs, accounting for 30% of the teams total in the season) Best Under-15 Player- Sohail Gangaram (A Chinaman bowler Gangaram took 4-15 against Fairfield in the Rubis U-15 competition) Sport Personality of the YearBheemraj Ramkelawan (Ramkelawan was recognised for his contribution to the promotion and development of cricket in Enmore, being in the forefront leading the club on and off the field.

He was hailed for promoting a positive image of the club and for having an unblemished record as captain in 2019) Special recognition: Deolall Rajkumar for being awarded Best Curator by the Guyana Cricket Board for 2019; Chaitram Balgobin for making the Guyana Under-17 team; and Ravi Etwaroo of Cricket Zone USA for his selfless

National player Chaitram Balgobin (left) receives his Most Promising Player prize and a pair of batting gloves from Club Captain Bheemraj Ramkelawan. contribution to the development of cricket at the club.During 2019, Shameer Shahib was nominated to be the clubs latest Honourary Life Member.

He will be presented with the award at the Banks Beer 100Ball final in January 2020.

Sponsors and well-wishers: Ravi Etwaroo of USA, Kumar Ramotar of Canada, Zaheer Mohamed- Kaieteur News, Brandon Corlette Guyana Times, Romario Samaroo of Stabroek News, Avenash

Ramzan- News Room, Jamal Mohamed of Jamal Grocery Store, Jailall Deodass- Motor Trend Auto, Banks DIH Limited, Rajin of Rajin Auto Paint, Raj of Rajs Sports Bar, Anil Persaud, Sir Deoraj Nauth, Roberto Lall of Rays One Stop, Uncle Nar, Radesh Furniture Establishment, Romesh of Kissoons Construction Services, Javed of Boodram Bakery, Star Sports, Looknauth Lumber Yard, Rishis Barber Shop, Lens Variety Store and Johil Mining Company.

RHTYSC Cricket teams complete massive ...

Nigel Hinds (left) hands over the scorecards to the Berbice Basketball Association president Vibert Garrett. their effort.This weekend a doubleheader starting at 6:00pm at the New Amsterdam basketball court with see Fyrish Black Sharks take on Canje Knights and at 7:30pm, Rose Hall Town Jammers challenge Hopetown Stealers. On Sunday the action shifts to the Hopetown basketball court

from 7:00pm when Fyrish Black Sharks face the hosts in the lone contest. Meanwhile, sponsor of the tournament Nigel Hinds made a presentation of scorecards to the Berbice Association for use during matches. Their president Vibert Garrett collected same.

From page 35 of excited children and their parents.

Foster described the four days event as the best ever in its history and noted that patrons came from as far as Georgetown, East Coast of Demerara, West Berbice and Upper Corentyne. The main objective of the Christmas Village was to promote the true tradition of Christmas, to promote social cohesion, to provide a safe venue for children to have fun and to promote the clubs Say No/ Say Yes programme.

The popular Village included a 20ft Christmas Tree, Christmas Chimney, Christmas Star, The Navity Scene, Santa and his Sleight, Christmas toy Houses, Family Bridge, Inflatable Characters, Children Games, Face Paint-

ing among others. Families were also were also entertained by popular Christmas carols and the hugely popular horror house.

Foster hailed the hard work of the ten cricket teams to make sure that the village and charity events were successful. The ten teams worked along with the Clubs over 35 Section under the directorship of Asst Secretary/ CEO Simon Naidu.

The ten teams are: Poonai Pharmacy Under 12 and Under 13, Farfan and Mendes Under 15, Bakewell Under 17 and Second Division, Pepsi Under 19 and Intermediate, Metro female, Namilco Thunderbolt Under 21 and First Division.

The RHTYSC would like to express gratitude to the following companies and in-

dividuals for their contributions - Dr. Tulsi Dyal Singh, Karen Nero, Monish Singh, CIDI, Lotto, Ansa Mcal, The Gift Centre, Chief Brand, Lens Craft, AM Khan Hardware, President David Granger, First Lady Sandra Granger, Chandradat Chintamani, Canadian Surplus, PPDI, Namilco, KSM Investments, China Trading, Bakewell, VNet Communications, Ministry of Natural Resources, Minister Raphael Trotman, Hardware Depot, Bissans Trading, Donna Todd, WR Enterprise, Toucan Industries, Guyana Beverage Company, Bounty Farm Ltd, Harris Paints, 4R Bearings, Poonai Pharmacy, Shemaine Campbelle, Sheneta Grimmond, Shabika Gajnabi, The Baby Store, Office Express and Rayburn Lewis.

Tuesday December 31, 2019

PAGE 31

Kaieteur News

Hockey review 2019 (part 2)

Youth Development still on the front burner

By Calvin Chapman The Guyana Hockey Boards (GHB) Junior Indoor Championships, the Smalta/ Icool under-14 indoor, GBTI GCCs dominance in Paragon Hockey Clubs youth tournaments and the excellent showing of the national select womens team in the Field Hockey Canada (FHC) tri-nation series in March were some of the highlights of youth development for the sports association in 2019.

Junior Indoor C/Ships The curtains fell on the 2019 edition of the GHBs Junior Indoor Hockey championships November last at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH) on Homestretch Avenue where the two most dominant junior clubs in Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) and Saints Hockey Club (SHC) carted off the spoils in the under-21 and under-16 divisions.

The girls under-21 final was most subscribed and GBTI GCC Spartans overcame a promising Saints side 2-1.

GCC dominated the individual accolades with Madison Fernandes (MVP), Sarah Klautky (Most goals -6) and Jessica Mittleholzer (best goalkeeper) claiming prizes, while Julia Gouviea of Old Fort won best goalkeeper.

GCC Pitbulls defeated YMCA Old Fort to take the boys under-21 title. Pitbulls Meshach Sargeant was awarded MVP, while Michael Hing was adjudged best goalkeeper. Old Forts Omar Hopkinson scored the most goals (4), while Baraka Garnett of Saints was recognised as the most promising player.In the under-16 division, SHC Shockwave came out victorious, dethroning last years champions, St. Joseph High. Naresh Mahadeo (best goalkeeper) and Shakeem Fausette (Most Goals 9) were pivotal in Saints

triumphant campaign.

Shaquan Favourite of YMCA Old Fort was the MVP, while Javid Hussain of SHC Silencers was the most promising player in the tournament.

On the distaff side in the under-16, GCC picked up their third title with GBTI Spartans making light work of their opponents to win the crown.

As expected, the clinical Abosaide Cadogan of Spartans emerged as the top scorer with 13 goals, while her captain Sarah Klautky emerged as the MVP. Young Clayza Bobb of SHC Sensations deservedly was recognised as the most promising player, while Empress Charles of Bingo GCC Herricanes was the best goalk e e p e r .

FHC Invitational Tri-Nation Series National female hockey coach, Philip Fernandes, put together a national indoor selection that travelled to Canada on March 20th to compete in a Field Hockey Canada (FHC) Invitational Indoor Hockey Tri-Nation series from March 22nd to 24th. The other teams competing were a Canadian Presidents eleven and the national team of Kazakhstan.

With a ranking of 13th in the world, the team from Kazakhstan was be the highest ranked team of the series followed by Canada, ranked 17th and Guyana ranked 31st.

Guyanas efforts to participate in this event were really motivated by the need to expose new young players to a high level of competition ahead of the next years Indoor Pan American Cup (IPAC) which is scheduled for Pottsville Pennsylvania in March, 2020. The last time the Guyana women participated in international indoor hockey was back in 2017 when the IPAC was held here in Guyana at the Cliff Ander-

GBTI GCC that won the under-16 and under-21 titles in Paragon Hockey Club festival September last. son Sports Hall. This selection for Canada saw six new faces on the 14-member squad with five young ladies being under 16-years. Guyana opened its series in Canada in the morning of March 22nd with a match against the Asian indoor champions Kazakhstan. According to a release from Fernandes, “The Kazaks were far more experienced than the young Guyanese who seemed to struggle a bit with the fast smooth wooden surface on the University of Toronto Athletic Centre. While Kazakhstan put the Guyanese under tremendous pressure in the first half, superb goalkeeping by Alysa Xavier and solid defence work from Guyanas most experienced players, Marisha Fernandes and Trisha Woodroffe, kept the scores at 0-0.”The second half would see the tide swing in Guyanas favour as Woodroffe hammered home two powerful direct penalty corner flicks in the 27th and 29th minutes to give Guyana a 2-0 lead. Kazakhstan gave it their all in the final ten minutes and came close to scoring on a few occasions but Xavier kept them at bay, aside from one penalty corner goal in the final minute. The 2-1 victory for Guyana over the

Saints Shakeem Fausette in possession against GCC.

Guyana women’s team that participated in the FHC invitational tri-nation series.

highly ranked Kazaks was an unexpected positive start for the Guyanese.

The second match for Guyana the same afternoon proved much tougher as the well-rehearsed and experienced Canadians piled on pressure on the Guyanese, who defended bravely to keep the score to 0-0 at the half before eventually losing 6-0.Guyana then lost agonisingly close in the semifinal against Canada whites before losing again to Kazakhstan in the Bronze medal match.Coach Fernandes indicated that, despite the disappointing placement of his team in the end, many objectives were achieved during the series.

And, being fully aware of their unfavourable ranking and inexperience, the team had set a target to win or draw at least one match in the series and they overachieved, having won one match and drawing twice in the series.

GBTI GCC dominate in Trinidad GBTI GCCgirls had a successful stint in Trinidad & Tobago (T&T) in September when they secured double gold in the girls Under-16 and Under -21 divisions of the Paragon Hockey Club indoor championships.The GCC girls took a bit of time in their first

Under-16 match against the Magnolias to get accustomed to the fast surface at the Woodbrook Youth Facility, but managed to emerge with a 5-1 victory. That goal would be the only one conceded in the entire Under-16 competition by All-star goalkeeper, Jessica Mittelholzer, and her fellow Guyanese teammates.

The GBTI GCC girls then followed that victory with a 5-0 win over Checkers, 6-0 over Sepos and 5-0 over Bishops.

The under-16 final saw a repeat of the very first Under16 match contested by the GCC girls as they took on Magnolias who had finished second in the pool. GCC managed to best their earlier effort by outclassing Magnolias 6-0 to lift the under-16 tro-

phy. The under-16 side was then strengthened by sixteenyear-old Makeda Harding for the Under-21 competition.

And, once again, GCC topped the pool round and this time faced Paragon in the Under21 final. This match was more challenging for the Guyanese girls as Paragon played a more physical game and were able to deny space to the GCC strikers before a hard fought 2-0 triumph by the Guyanese.

The full GBTI GCC team in that competition read: Abosaide Cadogan, Haley Carpenter, Sarah Klautky, Madison Fernandes, Makeda Harding, Kirsten Gomes, Madison Singh and Jessica Mittelholzer with Coach Philip Fernandes and Manager Dominique DeGroot.

Young GCC striker Paige Fernandes shoots at net during play in the Junior indoor.

PAGE 32

Tuesday December 31, 2019

Kaieteur News

GBA overcame several challenges in 2019 Lack of funding & poor decisions by Judges tops list

By Sean Devers This year was a challenging one for the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA), but according its President Steve Ninvalle their Executives were able to overcome those challenges and are ready to move local Boxing to higher heights in 2020.

The GBA held two International competitions in comparison to the three that were held last year.

The two International competitions were the Patrick Ford Memorial and the Caribbean School Boys and Juniors...which was renamed the Winfield Braithwaite Caribbean Schoolboys and Juniors.

Apart from the name change, there was an increase from three Countries in 2016 to seven this year, while the biggest Schoolboys Boxing Card in the Caribbean also graduated to the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH) home of Boxing in Guyana from the National Gymnasium where it was held for the past three years.

This year also saw Championship Cards being named after outstanding Guyanese Boxers Lennox Blackmore, Patrick Forde, Terrence Ali and Winfield Braithwaite.

“We (GBA) held all of our statutory competitions for the year and was able to hold an extended encampment for our Under-16 and Juniors who retained the Caribbean Title for a fourth consecutive time,” Ninvalle informed.

The Boxers, under the watchful eyes of Coaches Lennox Daniels, Sebert Blake and Clive Atwell, had 10 weeks of encampment. The last time Guyana failed to take Championship honours in a youth Caribbean tournament was in 2015 in Barbados despite winning 10 Gold and a Silver Medal.

The Terrence Alli National Open Boxing Championships, the last for the year by the GBA, was used to select Guyanas team for the Caribbean Boxing Championships which was held at the National Cycling Velodrome in Couva in Central Trinidad from December 4-9.

To crown another excellent tournament for the Soldiers, their Coach Terrence Pool was voted Best Coach, while GDFs Clairmont Gibson won the Lightweight title and the Best Elite Boxer Award.

Mark Crawford from the Forgotten Youth Foundation (FYF) stopped Winston Pompey Warriors Boxing Gyms (WPWBG) Alex Butcher

Keevin Allicock (right) in action against Bajan-Ajayl Jones in their Bantamweight bout.

The Guyanese medal winners at CBC in Trinidad.

GBA President Steve Ninvalle

Colin Lewis

Richard Howard

in the third round to take the Junior Welterweight title to be crowned Best Youth Boxer.

The fans also saw Guyanas most talented amateur pugilist, 20-year-old Keevin Allicock, fighting out of the FYF Gym in Albouystown, beat GDFs Teusimar Peters.

“Guyana was dethroned as the Senior Caribbean Champions simply because we did not have a large enough team in Trinidad....hence one of the major challenges ...the issue of financing of sports,” Ninvalle lamented.

Defending Champions Guyana encountered several obstacles including controversial decisions during the CBC in Trinidad.

This years tournament was won by host Trinidad & Tobago with Barbados finishing second and Guyana ending third.

Allicock and the Jackman sisters (Alesha and Abiola) got Gold Medals, while Mark Crawford, Dennis Thomas and Julius Chesney won Silvers Medals. Richard

Howard, Kevin Hunte and Darren France captured Bronze Medals.

Poole, who performed duties of Manager, noted that there were several hurdles in the tournament for Guyana which began even before they departed Guyana for Trinidad.

“The Judging was very poor and we had to pay a protest fee of US$1,000 since the decision was so bad we felt we had to protest the result of the bout between Richard Howard and T&Ts Hosein Nyrell,” Poole said.

The results of the protest favoured the Trinidadian and Guyana lost the protest fee.

Poole informed that Guyana took a young team, many of whom fought in this years Schoolboys and Novice Championships.

“We only had four Senior Boxers and the youngsters would have gained exposure and experience from fighting experienced Boxers,” Poole said.

Poole said, while Allicock was expected to win a Gold Medal, he was most pleased

with the Gold Medals won the Jackman siblings (Alesha and Abiola) who were attending their first ever overseas tournament.

“Even a week before the CBC started the boxers did not know if they would still be able to have a chance of defending their title because of a lack of funding for the trip,” Poole concluded.

Like Poole, Ninvalle noted that one of the bright spots in 2019 is the improvement of the Jackman sisters.

“In a short space of time they have proven that they are the best in the Caribbean in their respective category.

Another high point is Mr. Elton Chase who was successful at the AIBA International Technical Officer (ITO) exams in May in St Lucia.

Chase became the first in the history of boxing in Guyana to be certified as an ITO. Chases certification underlines the Association’s serious approach to the upgrading of officials,” Ninvalle said.

Dennis Thomas (left) and Desmond Amsterdam-trade punches in the middle of the ring.

Within the first three months of the year Ninvalle was elected Chairman of the Caribbean Boxing Steering Committee, appointed Chairman of the AIBA Youth Commission and elected Vice President of the Americas Boxing Confederation, an unprecedented feat for anyone in the Americas.

Allicock was given the chance, with some funding from the GOA, to train in Cuba for three weeks.

Allicock qualified for the Pan Am Games but lost a dubious decision in his first fight which denied Guyana a medal.

Young Richard Howard of the Forgotten Youth Foundation Gym remains a promising fighter.

GOA President K. Juman Yassin handed over a cheque worth US$15,000 to Ninvalle to assist in facilitating a threemonth training camp in Cuba for Guyana s four Olympic Boxing hopefuls; Kevin Allicock, Desmond Amsterdam, Dennis Thomas and Colin Lewis, who are scheduled to depart Guyana on January 4.

The GOAs contribution will assist the pugilists as they attempt to qualify for next years Olympic qualifiers from March 26 to April 3 in Argentina.

The 2020 Olympics will be held in Tokyo, Japan from July 24 to August 9.

Ninvalle informed that the GOAs contribution was the biggest the GBA has ever had and informed the entire cost to send the team to Cuba is US$31,000.

The NSC also pledged $2.5 Million of which $1 Million has already been presented to the GBA. Guyanas Mike Parris remains the only Boxer from the English Speaking Caribbean to win an Olympic medal when he won Bronze in 1980 in Moscow.

Plans for 2020 includes the certification of Two Star referee judges, hosting of the first Carifta Boxing Tournament in over a decade, certification of coaches and the hosting of the fifth International Schoolboys and Juniors tournament among other plans.

Tuesday December 31, 2019

PAGE 33

Kaieteur News

Guyana Defence Force claw back to beat Guyana Police Force; Fruta Conquerors edge Santos

GFF Super 16 Cup final decided

By Franklin Wilson The two actors in New Years Night Final of the 2019/ 2020 GFF Super 16 Cup have been confirmed, The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) and Fruta Conquerors Football Clubs.

The two got past their respective semi final opponents on Sunday night last at the GFC Ground.

It was an entertaining night of football which was fueled by the heart-warming turn out of fans not seen at a local football match for quite some time and they were not disappointed; the Guyana Defence Force turning on the heat against their rivals from the Guyana Police Force (GPF) in the last ten (10) minutes to surge to an emphatic and memorable 4-2 victory, while Fruta Conquerors needed extra time to defeat a determined and resurgent, Santos 2-1.

Among the dignitaries present to witness the matches were Commissioner of Police, Leslie James and Brigadier (Retired) Bruce Lovell who is also GFF Vice President. It was a breathtaking evening of combat with the remaining four teams of the 16 club tournament, which had kicked off on December 15, really putting on a show for their fans and supporters.The main event between the Soldiers and Police produced a mouth watering clash which was heavily tilted in Police favour going into the homestretch but then, the more accomplished side in jungle warfare burst out of the bushes with an exhilarating display of ball weaving that not only had Police mesmerised, but the fans also.

It was the GDF that had taken the lead in the 25th minute through a Delroy Fraser goal. It was a lead that they would enjoy for sometime as Police fought to get even. They finally did in the second minute of added on time in the first half when Pernel Schultz scored the first of his double from the penalty spot.

Soon after the whistle was sounded by Referee Sherwin Moore to signal half time, a much needed break for both teams which did not relent for one moment during the opening half.

It surely set up for a pulsating final 45 minutes and indeed it was.

The pendulum would swing heavily in favour of the Police side when Schultz was called upon yet again to perform duties from the penalty spot following a glaring

handled ball in the area by a GDF player in the 50th minute.

Like he did at the end of the first half, Shultz made no mistake as he guided the ball into the back of the nets past Enoch Carmichael between the uprights for the Soldiers.

The Lawmen were doing a fine job at keeping the Soldiers at bay urged on by their fans but then the challenge that arose for the respective Coaches was how to defend in the case of Police and how to get the equaliser from the GDF stand point.

GDF Coach Joseph Bill Wilson had rung the changes between the 61st and 77th minutes when he introduced Sherwin Caesar (61st), Runnel Gordon (61st), Shawn Arthur (63rd), Ian Dooker (77th) and Amos Ramsey (77th) for Olvis Mitchell, Ryan Searles, Eusi Phillips, Delroy Fraser, Benjamin Opara.

Police on the other hand had made one change since the 37th minute when Lionel Holder was replaced by William Europe. The fresh legs no doubt inserted by Wilson brought an explosive display from the Army in the final ten minutes as they were relentless against the Police.

As the minutes ticked away, Police were harbouring thoughts of a place in the final, but that was not to be as from the 82nd minute, they were back on the defensive when Travis Henry fired in the equaliser past Kavis Fraser.

Thereafter, there was an unremitting offensive display from the GDF that the Police team had no immediate response. In the 85th minute,

Action in the GDF vs Police match on Sunday Night last.

Delwin Fraser fired in the go ahead goal for the GDF with the sealer tapped in by Sherwin Caesar in the 90+1 minute.

The fans backing the Soldiers were celebrating and cheering on their players in that final ten minutes which surely added fuel to their fire.

Police only other change was in the 90+2 minute when Colwyn Adams replaced Jermain Junior but by then as they say, it was all over bar the shouting.

The first semi final between Fruta Conquerors and the resurgent Santos was also a keenly contested affair and whilst the former started the match as odds on favourites to win, Santos pushed them all the way.

The tournaments leading goal scorer, Delon Lanferman (5 goals) sent Conquerors into the lead in the 11th minute during a period that the reigning Elite League champions were very dominant.

Conquerors created

Zaman, Rambaran guide Melville ...

From page 35 3-32, Romario Steven 2-29 and Talesh Lokram 2-30.

Noitgedacht were put on the back foot early on in the chase, with spinner Beesham Moses rocking the top order, but Randy Roopnarine and Talesh Lokram added 86 for the fourth wicket to keep their team in the hunt. However, Imran Khan rotated his bowlers well and managed to end their resistance as Moses had Roopnarine well caught by Derwin Daniels on the boundary for a top score of 42 with six sixes. Following his dismissal, wickets fell at regular intervals; Lokram made 34, while Gewan Persaud assisted with 15. Moses bagged 5-16 and Sooklall 223 as Noitgedacht managed 158-9.

Good Success, undoubtedly the tournament favourites, went on to beat

Sarah by 156 runs. Good Success batted first and piled up 221-9. Sooklall and Khan laid the foundation with a second wicket stand of 101. Sooklall stroked three fours and two sixes in a top score of 54, while Khan made 46 with three fours and four sixes.

Jaggernauth Manbodh contributed 21 as Rocky Chulai claimed 3-36 and Andy Dindyal 2-40.

Sookall and Beesham Moses pegged back Sarah’s reply with some early wickets, and they were never able to recover and were limited to 659. Chulai made 23; Sooklall grabbed 5-19 and Moses 3-9.

The competition is being played on a round robin format with the teams playing each other twice. The top two teams will clash in the final; Good Success are leading the points table followed by Melville. (Zaheer Mohamed)

chances but were unable to make them count. Whilst all of this was unfolding, Santos gradually grew in confidence as they kept the Fruta boys at bay whilst conjuring up a few good attempts of their own.

Exchanges went back and forth until the 58th minute when Santos Orin Yarde found the equaliser for his

team that balanced proceedings. Neither team were able to break down each other and at the end of full time, the score read, Conquerors 1 Santos 1.

An extra 30 minutes was required as per rules to ensure that a winner was had and it was in the first four minutes of this period that Fruta Conquerors sealed their place in

the championship match.

Ryan Bum Bum Hackett it was who fired in the winning goal (94th minute) for his side, whilst keeping Santos at bay, but not being able to further increase the advantage but it was enough to see them through.

It was the first goal (s) conceded by both Conquerors and Santos in this knockout tournament. Santos and Police still have an opportunity to end the tournament on a high when they collide in the third place match from 19:00hrs tomorrow night (New Years Night), the winner pocketing $500,000 and the loser, $250,000.

The grand finale between Fruta Conquerors and the Guyana Defence Force from 21:30hrs has a cheque for Two Million Dollars for the winner with One Million going to the team ending as the loser.

An enthralling end to what has been an entertaining tournament is anticipated.

BCB completes successful year ...

From page 34 Friends of Cricket 100 balls.

At the inter-county level, Berbice won both female titles and the two days Under 19 tournaments. Over fortyfive Berbicians represented Guyana or other Caribbean teams in Cricket West Indies tournaments. They include players like Kevlon Anderson, Junior Sinclair, Kevin Umroa, Seon Glasgow, Marvon Prashad, Sarwan Chaitnarine, Tameshwar Mohabir, Isiah Thorne, Zeynul Ramsammy, Veersammy Permaul, Devendra Bishoo and Clinton Pestano. At the female level, Sheneta Grimmond and Shabika Gajnabi joined Shemaine Campbelle on the West Indies female Senior team as the massive investment into female cricket by the RHTYSC continues to bear fruits for the Ancient County, five Berbicians played in the 2019 CPL, while Shimron Hetmyer played in the IPL. Off the cricket field, the BCB hosted numerous developmental programmes and activities.

They included Dr. Tulsi Dyal Singh Coaching Programme, Dr. Tulsi Dyal Singh Cricket Academy, Brian Ramphal Annual Award Ceremony, Inter County Cap System, Inter County MVP, Inter County Player of the Match, Dr. Puran Singh National Players Financial Scheme, Honouring of Inter County Champions, Tribute to Heroes, Tribute to Retired

Players, Youth Information Booklet, Dare to Dream, Educational Posters, Television Programmes, Mother of the Year, Father of the Year, UCCA Cricket Academy, 256 pages 80th Anniversary Book, School Educational Competitions, BCB Cricketers Hall of Fame, BCB Administrators Hall of Fame, Berbice greatest cricketers, Dr. Tulsi Dyal Singh Wall of Fame among others.

The BCB also assist clubs, youth players and schools with over $5M worth of stumps, water pitchers cricket gears, rain coats, bicycles, trophies, medals, educational materials, scorebooks, school bags and bottled water. The BCB also raised $100,000 to assist Ms. Ruthel Henry to construct her own home, while President Hilbert Foster spearheaded a highly successful 80th anniversary celebration during the month of September. The highlight of the board office that included repainting, ceiling of the roof, titling of the floor, obtaining over $400,000 worth of furniture and acquiring a Television set, DVD Player, electric fans, desk top computer, water dispenser, Kitchen Utensils, fax machine, cordless telephone among others. The publication of the first ever youth information booklet for youth cricketers in the Caribbean was also another major achievement for the anniversary.

The BCB via an aggressive marketing drive led by its

hardworking President was able to raise close to $12M alone in 2019 and has already acquired some major sponsorship for 2020. The board also presented its highest Award, Tribute to Hero to Dr. Tulsi Dyal Singh, Brian Ramphal and Dr. Puran Singh during the year, while it was named Berbice Sports Organisation of the Year by the Gregory Gaskin Memorial Berbice Committee.

The hard work of the BCB President also saw the return of inter-county cricket to Berbice after an absence of over a decade. Isiah Thorne and Rampertab Ramnauth were also presented with a cricket bat as the BCB honoured them on their West Indies Under 15 Selection. To round off a successful year for Berbice Cricket, Lower Corentyne won the Guyana Cricket Board Franchise league at the 50 overs level.

President foster who was returned for another two years term in a 31-0 vote at the BCB AGM on the 22nd of December has unveiled some major plans for the 2020-2021 period. They include construction of an all-weather practice center, setting up of a professional league by December 2021, at least 20 tournaments per year, expanded coaching programmes, acquiring covers for BCB, to assist deserving clubs with gears, balls, scorebooks and to lobby Cricket West Indies for the return of first-class cricket to Berbice.

PAGE 34

Tuesday December 31, 2019

Kaieteur News

Regional First Class Practice match Joseph, Bramble spur Johnsons XI to 5-Wkt win

By Sean Devers Leon Johnsons XI, on the back of Keon Josephs fivewicket haul and Anthony Brambles undefeated halfcentury beat Anthony Adams XI by five wickets yesterday on the final day of their first three-day practice match at Providence as defending Champions Guyana Jaguars prepare for next years Regional First-Class season which commences on January 9.

West Berbice Fast bowler Joseph captured 5-45, while fellow Berbician left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie supported with 2-33 as Adams XI, resuming the final on 73-3 with a lead of 127, were bowled out 68 minutes into the day for 154-9 innings closed, after Nial Smith was force to retire hurt.

Set 202 to win Johnsons X1 reached 202-5 with Bramble leading the way with

an aggressive unbeaten 55 from 49 balls and 49 minutes with eight boundaries.

Bramble added 62 for fourth wicket with Vishaul Singh who stroked a fluent 47 from 88 balls and 118 minutes in an innings which included four fours.

Trevon Griffith who made 26 from 61 balls and 88 minutes and fellow left-hander Chanderpaul Hemraj who reached the boundary three times and cleared it once in his 83-ball and 94-minute 30, had earlier put together 61 for the first wicket as Johnathon Foo captured 3-37 from 20 overs of off-spin, while Ricardo Adams finished with 2-36 in a losing effort.

Scores: Adams X1 174 & 154-9 innings closed, Johnsons X1 127 & 202-5.

When play began in sweltering head on a fairly good track to bat on and a still heavy outfield, Joseph, bowl-

Keon Joseph captured 5-75 Vishaul Singh batted well yesterday at Providence before he fell three runs short of a half-century. at Providence yesterday. ing back-of-length, added three wickets to his two from the previous day.

Overnight batsman Raymond Perez failed to add

to his 40, while the other overnight batsman Foo added just eight to his second day 27 after the pair had joined forces on Sunday with their

team on 18-3.

Renaldo Ali-Mohammed (27), Ricardo Adams (15) and Anthony Adams (15) all failed to build on starts, while Smith

Anthony Bramble made an unbeaten 55 at Providence yesterday. who made 27 in the first innings, was struck on his shoulder by a Chris Barnwell bouncer and the ball was deflected onto the side of his

BCB completes successful year - 32 tournaments hosted 80th Anniversary and two days first division return hailed as highlights of year While the rest of Guyana continues to suffer from turmoil in their cricket, the Ancient County of Berbice has hailed 2019 as a very successful year with progress been made all levels.

After a two years period of dormancy, the Berbice Cricket Board under the current administration of Hilbert Foster, MS has spearheaded a revival of the game across Berbice.

Public Relations Officer, Simon Naidu in a review of the year, described it as one which surpassed expectations on and off the cricket field. Thirty-two tournaments were launched at all levels, numerous programmes including developmental ones were hosted, while young cricketers and cricket clubs continues to receive assistance on an unmatched level.

Naidu and BCB President Hilbert Foster hailed the 80th Anniversary, restoration of the BCB New Amsterdam Office, the long overdue return of inter county cricket to Berbice and the hosting of a two-day first division tournament as the highlights of the year.

The BCB hosted 32 tournaments at U-13, U-15, U-17, U-19, U-21, Intermediate, Internal Zone, Inter Village, Second Division, Secondary Schools, Primary Schools and First Division levels. The BCB has been able to successfully complete the majority of them despite a four month long

Dr. Tulsi Dyal Singh launches the Wall of Fame. rainy season that lasted up to the beginning of September.

After an absence of fifteen years, the BCB was also able to obtain a $2M sponsorship for a two days tournament which is currently been played by eight teams.

Among those tournaments have been the Trophy Stall Under 13, Mikes Pharmacy Under 15, Ramnaresh Sarwan Under 17, New York Business Group Under 19, Elizabeth Styles Under 21, NBS Second Division, Berbice Riverain 30 overs, Lets Bet Sports 20/20, Goosai Memorial 100 balls, Stag Beer 50 overs, Ivan Madray 20/20 Memorial, Busta 40 overs, GBTI Inter Secondary, Shimron Hetmyer Intermediate, UCCA Inter Primary and (Continued on page 33)

RHT Poonai Pharmacy Under 13 team- Champion of the Trophy Stall-Under 13 tournament.

Albion Under 19 team- Champion of the New York Business Group 50 overs title.

Kaieteur News

Tuesday December 31, 2019

RHTYSC Cricket teams complete massive 2019 Christmas Programme The ten cricket teams of the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club, MS on Christmas Eve completed their highly successful 2019 Christmas Outreach programme as the curtains came down on the 5th edition of the Rose Hall Town Christmas Village.

The Club since 1991 has organised the outreach programme as part of its annual charity campaign with the main objective of making a positive difference in the lives of the less fortunate, the lonely and e l d e r l y. U n d e r t h e supervision of Asst Secretary/CEO Simon Naidu the ten cricket teams hosted several events including old age pensioners breakfast programme, distribute hundreds of foods hampers to the elderly and single parents, distribution of goodies and toys to children, sharing out of educational materials, feeding of the poor programme, hosting of the 5th Christmas village, making donations to numerous NGO and Schools.

The Secretary/CEO hailed this year s programme as the largest ever as the team and club management worked hard to make sure that thousands benefitted.

The veteran RHTYSC, MS official stated also, that the cricket teams joined hands with the Berbice Cricket

PAGE 35

Zaman, Rambaran guide Melville to nine-wicket win; Good Success maintain unbeaten streak

- Xmas Village hailed as best ever

Beesham Moses Kamash Dinban Zameer Zaman Devon Rambaran Navendra Sooklall

Scenes from the RHTYSC Christmas Village.

The Nativity Scene at the RHTYSC Christmas Village.

Board with sponsorship from West Indies player Shimron Hetmyer to provide cricket umpires, retired cricketers and the less fortunate with food hampers.

Additionally, they would also co-sponsored the Umpires Social/Aw ard Ceremony and assisted twelve families financially to make their Christmas

brighter.

The highlight of the multi-million programme was the hosting of the village from the 21st to 24th of December with the major sponsor been the NonAlcoholic Unit of popular beverage company Ansa Mcal (Guy) Ltd. The village was attended by thousands (Continued on page 31)

Half centuries from Zameer Zaman and Devon Rambaran guided Melville to a ninewicket win over Sarah, while Good Success recorded consecutive victories to maintain their unbeaten streak when the Prem Dhaniram/Chandrika Ragnauth and Tamesh Persaud 15-over softball competition continued yesterday at Belle Plaine, Wakenaam.

Sarah were bowled out for 136, batting first against Melville in the day’s first encounter. Andy Dindyal and Balram Persaud added 75 for the fifth wicket to steady the innings after they were reduced to 30-4.

Dindyal struck four sixes in a top score of 39, while Persaud made 38 with one four and four sixes. Rakesh Choon contributed 14 as Kamash Dinban captured 3-18, Nokta Moses 2-16 and Chris Singh 2-21.

Melville lost an early wicket with the

score on 11, but Zaman and Rambaran added an unbroken 126 for the second wicket to see their team to victory. The consistent Zaman hammered one four and 11 sixes in a top score of 75, while Rambaran made an half century laced with seven maximums as Melville finished on 137-1 in 13 overs.

In the day’s second encounter, Good Success beat Noitgedacht by 48 runs. Good Success took first strike and were reduced to 20-2, but resolute batting by the middle order saw them to a competitive 206-9. Navendra Sooklall continued his fine form with an attacking 59 which included nine sixes, while Sanjay Jairam made 31 with two fours and three sixes. The duo added 66 for the third wicket to repair the early damage. Skipper Imran Khan made a run-a-ball 23 while Joel Steven made 22 as Jewan Persaud claimed (Continued on page 33 )

GFF Super 16 Cup final decided

rt o p S

Delon Lanferman (right) and Ryan Hackett - Fruta Conquerors FC.

Fruta Conquerors’ Nicholas Mc Arthur tries to contain Santos’ Jermaine Padmore (right).

Sealed With Four Goals! The Guyana Defence Force goal scorers, who fired their team into New Year’s night final.

Guyana Defence Force claw back to beat Guyana Police Force; Fruta Conquerors edge Santos

Fruta Conquerors’ Delon Lanferman (#21) nets their first against Santos and his 5th of the tournament.

A section of the crowd at Sunday night’s semi finals at the GFC ground.

GDF’s Benjamin Opara (right) on the move early in the match against the Guyana Police Force.

Regional First Class Practice match

Joseph, Bramble spur Johnsons XI to 5-Wkt win Printed and published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd., 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown. Tel: 225-8458, 225-8452, 225-8491 or Fax: 225-8473/226-8210.