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Carter Centre did Tuesday Edition NEWS address use of private polling stations in report AIETEUR
February 25, 2020 - Vol. 13 No. 08
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UK Consultant ignores recommendations to give Guyanese advantage in oil sector UK Consultant, Dr. Michael Warner
“Jude Bentley NICIL pays sacked Rusal investigation was workers for February; Berbice professionally handled” - File to be sent to DPP today - Traffic Chief
Teen pillion rider dies after bike slams into car
Equitorial Guinea vice president Teodorin Nguema Obiang arrived on this vessel for Carnival. (NEWSDAY PHOTO BY JEFF K MAYERS)
River remains blocked
African dictator's son in T&T for carnival
Toddler drowns in hotel pool
Guyana's oil at world class breakeven price of $35/barrel
- Hess
…Projected to fall further
Oversight of oil companies is where - Chatham House Guyana's focus should be Associate Fellow
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Kaieteur News
Tuesday February 25, 2020
Kaieteur News
Tuesday February 25, 2020
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Oversight of oil companies is where - Chatham House Guyana's focus should be Associate Fellow By Kiana Wilburg
A
s Guyana continues its preparations for the oil sector, Chatham House Associate Fellow, Dr. Valerie Marcel, is of the firm view that focus should be on the oversight of oil companies. Dr. Marcel made these and other remarks during her first appearance on Kaieteur Radio's programme called Guyana's Oil and You. There, Dr. Marcel said that Guyana needs to outline the rules by which the operators are to work. She said these have to be laid out along with having pellucid policies to guide the sector's development. The Chatham House
Chatham House Associate Fellow, Dr. Valerie Marcel Associate Fellow said, “So for example, what is Guyana going to do with the
associated gas? What will it do about flaring and what are the rules for it? In some stances, there are rules, but the rules have to be better developed I think and then also, I would say building the institutions.” Dr. Marcel said that in light of the size of the discoveries, there is certainly a justification for establishing a regulatory agency for the petroleum sector. This was supposed to be in the form of a Petroleum Commission but the legislation to bring it into being remains stuck in a Parliamentary Select Committee. Dr. Marcel said it is important that Guyana beings to build the
regulatory capacity needed for the oversight of costs as well as capacity within the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). “But it all takes time. It has only been five years and it is a lot to develop in such a short time, so kudos to Guyana for doing as much as it has. It is a big challenge, because Exxon is on a q u i c k p a c e o f development by industry standards and it is difficult for government to keep up and get all the agencies and policies up to date,” the Chatham House Associate Fellow stated. While there is still much for Guyana to get done, Dr. Marcel was keen to note that the nation has done
some things right. In this regard, she said that it has demonstrated that there is a vision for the use of the oil resources. Dr. Marcel commented that a vision is an important component in managing the sector, since the purpose for the resource is not in question. “So that is very good,” the Petroleum Governance Expert added. In terms of revenue management, the official said that the Ministry of Finance has done good work, as it has laid out the rules for spending versus saving. She also lauded the creation of the Natural Resource Fund (NRF) which she deemed to be an important aspect of preparedness for the oil sector.
Moreover, Dr. Marcel was keen to point out that the authorities need to be mindful of the challenges that could come with spending the oil money. She alluded to the fact that Guyana has to ensure the right programmes for the effective spending of the money would need to be in place. She noted that there are several examples around the world, Timor-Leste being one of them, where the respective agencies were unable to spend the full budget they received. That only led to more issues. Dr. Marcel said that Guyana may very well face this challenge; and therefore, preparations to guard against this would be prudent.
Guyana's oil at world class breakeven … Projected price of $35/barrel - Hess to fall further
H
ess Corporation has revealed that the current breakeven price for Guyana's oil is US$35 per barrel Brent, among the lowest in the world. This was revealed by the Chief Executive Officer, John Hess. For those unaware, the breakeven price is the price
at which the oil must be sold to cover the cost to produce it. Every additional dollar on the barrel would be the profit. Kaieteur News had revealed in December that Guyana's crude will be priced against North Sea Brent crude, a competitive set of crudes extracted from
fields in the North Sea. In a recent press statement, Totaltec Oilfield Services lauded the revelation of Liza crude's current breakeven price by Hess, and its implications for the profitability of the oil, currently being produced by ExxonMobil. It stated “Breakeven points provide an objective basis for comparison of global oil fields, and impact
on field development decisions and reserves estimates. Guyana ranks towards the lower end of the global scale, where the lowest breakeven points are found in the Middle East (approx. $27 USD /bl Brent) and the highest in the Arctic (approx. $75 USD /bl Brent). Considering the Stabroek block is in deepwater offshore, the breakeven costs are amongst the lowest in the
world.” Attached is a table used by Totaltec showing 2015 breakeven costs for different oilfields around the world. “The costs in the table shown are from 2015, and do not take into consideration the significant downturn in the industry that began mid 2014.” CEO of Totaltec, Lars Mangal stated “The (continued on page 8)
Hess Corporation CEO, John Hess
Kaieteur News
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Tuesday February 25, 2020
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 unflattering saga of fifty years as a Republic For 50 years we, the people, have held supreme power, through those voted into office to lead us forward and upward. Fifty years have left us with a lot of things, good times and good memories, good results and good places have not been part of the story of our history. Twenty-two, then twenty-three, then another five, and a great many wonder about what power we held, if we ever actually did, we the same people. Some may argue that power was never real at the level of the people, but a tantalizing mirage imagined. Others may assert that the power was held by people of choice, but that it was squandered by those political proxies, those trustees, who helped themselves to principal and interest, and left nothing for we, the people. Still others will take objection and say: look what we did: there is a highway, a bridge, and some systems that lifted out of the medieval swamp. Similarly, another set of political choirmasters will sing of a hotel, investors, housing, a sharp economy. After fifty years this is what we have, which would fill, at most, the first page of the writing book of a nursery-level student. Where did it all go? All the money, all the years, all the promises and potentials? There are three answers that are irrefutable, which occupy pride of place re the devastations wrought with the power that came from being a Republic. First, our people cannot stop running after fifty years. Hundreds of thousands of the best and brightest and cleanest gone, the dust wiped from their feet. No society could prosper with such a massive haemorrhage of human capital, of capital itself, as the cores of the national soul were gutted and hung on a line for the world to see. That line was Main Street before, Duke Street today, Atkinson Field yesterday, and CJIA today. And it has been JFK and Lester Pearson and Heathrow, among others, in the uninterrupted brook that became rushing river, that continues to this day. This is regardless of which political group was given the mandate to manage, since their own people comfort themselves with the exit strategy, the guarantee of a Plan B. Second, the experts say that we are poised to be the richest country in the world per capita, which is by head or per person. Our empowered used their heads to figure out ways to ensure that the benefits of the cash components (loans, projects, resource wealth, output) of the Guyanese economy neither reached nor were touched by the hands of the Guyanese people, who put them in power. Monies generated, monies borrowed, monies spent, all found a place in their hands and then pockets in a stream of greed that boggles the mind. So, we quarrel endlessly (50 long years) of who cheated more and who stole more. The years keep passing us by, while we survey what has failed, what was not delivered, what has cost overruns, and what is due to whom for the accumulated bills. Third, money could be the first diagnosis as to the cause of our sicknesses, but it is more than merely money. There is and continues to be - the appalling dysfunctions of a selfdestructive national family. We think that a real-life illustration would be most helpful, since it almost perfectly parallels the devastating realities of Guyana and Guyanese. There was this family name: Getty. Getty of America, at one time the richest family in America, some would say the world. Despite having the wealth of ages at their feet, all the family could do was kick themselves: the animosities, addictions, and asininities that crippled and made emotional and moral paupers of this wealthiest of families. That story is the story of Guyana, fifty years later: the wealth that makes us the envy of peers. The frailties and follies and fragmentations that blight our blessings. It is the unflattering saga of our fifty years as a Republic. The next fifty, the next five years, do not have the capacity to absorb more of the same mistakes, more of the same powerlessness that prevailed, more of the same people empowered to bring still more of the same pathos.
Editor’s Note; If your sent letter was not published and you felt its contents were valid and devoid of libel or personal attacks, please contact us by phone or email.
Nation Wants Inquiry into Oil Contracts DEAR EDITOR, An ongoing tracking opinion poll being conducted by the North American C a r i b b e a n Te a c h e r s Association (NACTA) has found that the nation wants an inquiry into oil contracts signed by the government with Exxon and other energy giants. There are various reports making reference to the one sidedness of oil contracts, improper action in the signing of the agreement, and on Exxon’s acquisition of oil blocks. Voters say they are not pleased with how the agreements were negotiated and signed as revealed from various media reports. They say the oil negotiations and contract is scandalous. It is noted that Guyana’s oil and gas reserves have the potential to transform the poor country with extraction volumes expected at over a million barrel oil a day in a few years. Respondents in the poll are calling for a thorough investigation on the contract negotiation and its signing. And they also want the contract to be made public
including the removal of any confidentiality clause. The media is praised for exposing alleged wrong doing in the contract. The latest poll is also querying voters for their views on support for the political parties, confidence in the organization of elections, and approval ratings of GECOM Chair and other public officials. The poll is being supervised by Dr. Vishnu Bisram who has been conducting opinion surveys in Guyana for over three decades. The ongoing survey represents the general demographics of the population. Based on the findings of the poll, virtually no one is pleased with the contracts signed with Exxon and the oil companies. People feel ‘something is amiss’ about the negotiation with Exxon; in short, they feel there was corruption. People want a full disclosure of the contracts between the lessor (owner or the people of Guyana) and lessee (tenant – Exxon or other energy company). They want
an inquiry into the oil contract — a full investigation into the facts. Earlier polls found that almost everyone feels the oil contracts need to be revisited and re-negotiated. The contract signed with Exxon offers Guyana 2% royalty after expenses are deducted, 12.5% profit (after all expenses deducted, including 75% pre-costs operation), and in return Guyana government pays all of Exxon’s taxes. Guyana got a bonus of $18 million obtained in secrecy. The Exxon contract has been kept in secret because of a confidentiality clause signed by both sides. The standard royalty amount given to countries is 12% before deduction of expenses, signing bonus in the hundreds of millions or billions of dollars, and profit sharing in favour of the owner (60-40%), and the companies pay their own taxes on the profits. Virtually none of these conditions were adhered to in contract with Exxon. In the current poll, asked
if they think there was a corrupt transaction in negotiations with Exxon and other oil companies, 87% said yes, 2% said no and 11% said not sure or not familiar with the issue. Asked if they think there should be a commission of inquiry into the negotiations and signing of the contracts with Exxon and other oil companies, 91% said yes, zero in the negative, and 9% not sure. The nation feels government or politicians should not dismiss the varied news reports and commentaries into how Guyana has been ‘cheated’ out of tens of billions of American dollars. The reports have cast a shadow over Guyana’s energy plans long before the first oil started flowing a month ago. Voters say government must end its secrecy regarding the oil arrangement and bring the deal signed with energy companies in the open. They want the Exxon contract to be investigated. Dr. Vishnu Bisram
Entrenched poverty in Guyana due to poor leadership DEAR EDITOR, Alleviating and reducing poverty is the touchstone to determining governance and by far the most important criteria by which our political leaders must be judged from Guyana’s Independence to now. From poverty in our hinterlands to poverty in our urbanized ghettos to places which by their names underline poverty, such as Plastic City nestled on the north-eastern foreshore of Region 3, the so-called city has a spectacular view of the Atlantic Ocean and the city of Georgetown. Maybe of the “residents” from the shoreline of the eponymously named Plastic City can also see or conjure in their mind’s eye the Stabroek Block on the horizon and maybe they too have heard of the eight billion barrels of oil discovered in off-shore Guyana and valued at US$65 per barrel, and total value amounting to US$520 Billion. The residents may dream and hope for the day that Guyanese obtain a 20% royalty or US$104 Billion from the oil discovered, knowing this will greatly improve the quality of their lives and lift their poor
brothers, sisters, children, the youths and the elderly across Guyana out of poverty. From dreams to reality. Poverty is the benchmark to judge our political leaders, not the environment, not gender issues, not the constitution, not race, not religion, not culture. Poverty in our natural resource rich nation should be the least of our problems, but instead, it is overwhelming us, due to party paramountcy and excessive self-interest. Included amongst the political leaders are lawyers, pastors, doctors, military leaders, engineers, e n t r e p r e n e u r s , environmentalists, accountants and economists; some individuals deny being politicians even when they are more political than card carrying party members. At what point do we put doing what is right above politics, above material things, above status and power? Is there a litmus test, heuristic model or mode of behaviour that we can use to determine what is beyond the pale even for politicians? At what point do we have enough wealth, enough property, enough power, enough titles or status to take action that enriches the
lives of the downtrodden, the vulnerable, the impoverished people, who by accident of their birth, need immediate assistance to obtain food, clothing and shelter. It is this poverty, this “survival thing” that has contributed in no small way to increasing criminal activity in Guyana; it has resulted in too many residents and foreigners worried about security and safety on the streets of Guyana. Extreme level of poverty exists in far too many communities across Guyana. The need to survive with dignity, by having access to food, clothing and shelter must not be relegated by our politicians and subsumed under party edicts, party power or personal power. Poverty alleviation for our political leaders must be the principal focus, the raison d’être (the most important reason or purpose) for governance. At some level of consciousness of the mind there exists a conscience we must listen to and obey. We cannot ignore the suffering of our people for personal gain, status or partisan politics. That our political leaders can contract for a trifle, assets and resources that belong to the poor people of Guyana without a hurting
and foggy conscience, is inhumane. What is worse than to abandon the poor and vulnerable across race, religion and generations? Politicians will not lose power when doing what is right for the poor, it will make them better, it will make Guyana stronger. Alleviation of Poverty is the cornerstone of our religious books and we are mostly a religious people. Guyana is among the top 10 natural resource rich countries in the world, with natural resources such as gold, timber fertile agricultural soil, bauxite, oil, expansive fishing waters and a population of less than 800,000. Why do we have such high levels of poverty, such high levels of extreme poverty? The answer is an absence of servant leadership. Most of our political leadership are too easily compromised, too willing to sell-out the masses of poor people in Guyana. Political Leader and Philanthropist - Nelson Mandela noted: “Like slavery and apartheid, poverty is not natural. It is man-made and it can be overcome and eradicated by the actions of human beings.” Nigel Hinds
Tuesday February 25, 2020
A Guyanese extravaganza DEAR EDITOR, I thought I had seen and heard almost everything, but I must confess Guyana on Sunday, February 23rd, as a newly serenaded 50-year-old dowager took the icing and left me breathless, more than deafened, too. I would have thought that as a maturing 50year old, with youthful years behind her, the rhythms and vocals and steps would be a shade lower and somewhat slower on this milestone occasion. Wrong again. It was louder than any Fourth of July that I knew; more raucous than any West Indian Day parade in Brooklyn, and I can recall a few of those with some nostalgia. As I listened (forced to) and absorbed the clashing cacophonies of racing drumbeats, pulsating syncopations, and blaring voices in an endless blur of sound, I must admit that I have never encountered the equivalent of this Guyanese celebratory extravaganza. It was more than Trinidad and Tobago’s annual Carnival about to be unleashed, or Mardi Gras in New Orleans, or the Greatest Show on Earth in Rio. Come to think of it, Guyana’s big bash was all three combined in one wall of sound, which would have made Phil Spector proud, if not throw a tantrum in envy. There was the chutney music competing with the West Indian fare for ear space and attention, which brings to mind a sobering fact. There was nothing more than a small handful of Guyanese music that caught my attention. It is ironic that on what was Guyana’s
special day and biggest party ended up being controlled and dominated by ingredients that were distinctly non-Guyanese. As I listened joylessly-it couldn’t be otherwise, given the warring, warbling, wounding performances coming from multiple points of the compass I am thinking that this is more excitement than the original Emancipation Day of long ago. Or that Guyanese were signaling to the world and hailing it with the joy of having won the lottery. Somehow this was no ordinary Mashramani celebration; it was more than the regular one, the louder, gaudier ones. There was a reckless abandon about it all, as though there is going to be no tomorrow, so let’s drink and be merry today. And that it was. Without a doubt, I believe the ecstasies and frenzies that were on display at earsplitting, spirit sapping decibels were intended to send the world a simple message: we have arrived, and we will not be trifled with anymore. Like I said, this has to be more than the regular Republic Day routines of music and march and dancing in the streets (and parks). I think it was all of that and then some more. It was about elections celebrations by determined members from the increasingly testy political camps of the two majors, with each side sensing and claiming victory already. Seasoned men are gambling big on this particular season by putting all on the line and going all out. I cannot find fault with them, since there is so much at stake, so much that could be lost, while right at the fingertips. So, as I evaluate things, this year’s Republic
festivities was more than the biggest birthday bash; it was about marshaling and rallying the troops in massive exhibitions of enthusiasm and free flowing spirit (spirits, too). No side wanted to be left behind and looking limp. Even the mighty opposition, usually sedate for this holiday, was out in force (in separate celebration, of course) and not giving any ground. And this was in my limited view of the city only. From the rollicking affairs on Saturday night, all day Sunday, and late into the night, I gather that not only ExxonMobil made a killing and came out way ahead. Clearly, there is a huge number of Guyanese, who believe that they have done better than Exxon, are poised to do better, and will actually do much better, through their own contractual (read party) winnings. Yes, that was where and to what all the musical mayhems, the dancing sensations, and the atmospheric upheavals pointed. For, at bottom, the participation, celebrations, and gyrations of Sunday February 23rd were about more than Mashramani. They were about elections and oil. Who is going to come out on top; and who was going to get to drive off into the sunset with the Queen of the Prom on their arm…. I understand fully, since I would be carrying on in the same manner, if I had such a vested interest in how things turn out post March 2nd. We don’t have to go to Rio or the French Quarter to live it up. It is right here, and it can’t be bettered. Sincerely, GHK Lall
Dr. Cecil Harricharran is a distinguished son of the soil DEAR EDITOR, A distinguished son of the soil is Dr. Cecil Edward Harricharran, who was awarded the Cacique’s Crown of Honour (CCH) at Guyana’s 50th republic anniversary award ceremony announced by President David Granger. Dr. Cecil Edward Harricharran had served throughout the length and breadth of this beautiful country for over 60 years as a medical profession both in government and private practice. Being from Novar Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara, he was well respected and fondly called ‘Uncle Doc’, and I must mention that
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he was a hardworking rice farmer. I clearly remember during my childhood days when I attended Dr. Harricharran’s Clinic in Middle Street, Georgetown. He would always greet me and my mother in a jovial way. When I got married my wife was from Novar, Mahaicony and ‘Uncle Doc’ continued to be our family doctor until he retired at 91 years of age. He is now enjoying his happiness with his loving and caring wife, daughters, sons -in- law, and most of all the grand children. Best wishes. Parmanand Ram
Senior citizens should not be fooled DEAR EDITOR, The People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) is campaigning on the points of restoring the water and light subsidies for our pensioners and the return of the $10,000 cash grant for our school children. These two programmes that the PPP/C had were ill-conceived and instead of benefiting the recipients, mass confusion was created. First, during the time of the PPP/C in Government a great percentage of our senior citizens were not benefiting from the services of GWI and GPL which simply means that they never received that $9,000 yearly water subsidy and that $20,000 yearly electricity subsidy. Only a small percentage of our senior citizens benefited. How unfortunate for the seniors who all toiled in the Guyana
soil for a better Guyana for all. The APNU+AFC fixed this disparity and now all senior citizens are equally receiving a pension package of $20,500. I call on right minded Guyanese to examine the figures. Under the PPP/C Government, Uncle Sam and Aunty Pat used to get a pension of $7,500 each per month which is $15,000 a month for both of them. For one year it is $15,000 x 12 months = $180,000. With the $9,000 yearly water subsidy and $20,000 yearly electricity subsidy, Uncle Sam and Aunty Pat had a pension package of $209,000. Again, remember that not all pensioners were lucky to get the water and electricity subsidies so a great percentage of senior folks only got a yearly benefit of $180,000 and in the case of one pensioner a benefit of
$90,000. The APNU+AFC Government fixed this unfair and unjustified programme. The APNU+AFC is giving all pensioners regardless of where they live and who they live with a total of $20,500. So Uncle Sam and Aunty Pat are now receiving a yearly pension package of ($20,500 x 2 = $41,000 per month x by 12 months) = $492,000. Pensioners beware of sweet lies and be guided by facts. The APNU+AFC showed that they cared in just 4 ½ years. A second term of David Granger will guarantee an even better package for all. My grandmother and grandfather understand this clearly and they indicated to me that their vote is for the APNU+AFC. They agree that for Guyana to shine, David needs some time. Yours faithfully, Ganesh Mahipaul
It is not too late for GECOM to revert to the previous list DEAR EDITOR, I am baffled by the logic of the Guyana Elections Commission to revise the list of polling stations mere days before elections. What is even more disturbing is the fact that the decision was made without the knowledge of the opposition-nominated Commissioners. Such a decision does not speak well of the stated commitment of GECOM to conduct the elections in an efficient and smooth manner. Most voters including myself already had a fair knowledge of where to vote based on past experience. To now change the places of poll is not only logistically upsetting but
could be a recipe for confusion and chaos on elections day. Moreover, why at this late hour make changes to a polling system that for all practical purposes worked well in past elections? GECOM has reportedly stated that the decision taken was based on a recommendation made earlier by the Carter Centre to minimize the use of private residences as polling places. I am sure the Carter Centre
would not wish to be associated with any decision that could result in any form of chaos or voter suppression. I think in the interest of clarity and context the Carter Centre should clarify its position on this matter. It is not too late for GECOM to revert to the previous list which was released to the Commissioners and by extension the voting public. Hydar Ally
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Tuesday February 25, 2020
The vision of the near future, enshrined in the Decade of Development Plan, is palpable and clear DEAR EDITOR, Oil, or black gold, is arguably the most important economic resource on the entire planet. The economic fortunes of countries have been dependent on its possession, many wars have been fought over it and its availability and price are major determinants of economic growth in economies around the world. Crude oil and natural gas are primary energy and raw material sources that are critical to modern daily life and the world economy. Transportation, commerce, industry, agriculture, defence, the chemical industry and research and development in many fields are sustained by petroleum activities which have expanded over the last 150 years to meet the demand of a rapidly increasing human population, creativity and consumerism. It is well known that hundreds of products are derived from petroleum including fuels, lubricants and many consumer chemicals and products such as fertilizers and plastics; and many alternative technologies for energy generation, transportation and storage can only be realized at this time because of its diverse usefulness. While petroleum has many important uses the environmental impact of the industry is correspondingly extensive and climate warming and sea level rise, linked to the industry’s contribution to greenhouse
gas emissions, and ocean acidification, have been attributed to the sector. Emissions from the petroleum industry occur in every chain of the oil-producing process, from the extraction to the consumer phase. Gas venting and flaring, during the extraction phase, release methane and carbon dioxide, while petroleum refineries contribute large amounts of pollutants, into the atmosphere. The storage and combustion of petroleum also result in seepages and CO2, and greenhouse gas, emissions. The scale and urgency of these problems require the concerted actions of the petroleum industry, national governments and consumers to improve extraction and refining efficiency and minimizing petroleum waste products; energy conservation and diversification utilizing clean sources of energy such as natural gas, hydro, solar, wind and biomass; and utilizing energy-efficient products as obvious and effective industry, legislative and consumer actions toward achieving greater environmental sustainability. Some countries have sought to satisfy their energy security demands by pursuing nuclear energy, like Iran which is a major oil producer as is the USA which, under President Donald Trump, has advocated for an increased role for coal. It should be noted that Guyana’s oil industry, at least
in the near future, does not pose a significant threat to the environment and Guyana does not risk losing its reputation as a net positive contributor to the environment achieved largely through its contribution to the Iwokrama International Centre for Rainforest Conservation and Development and record of environmentally sustainable forest management. Oil extraction occurs over a hundred miles offshore currently utilizing one FPSO, to be increased to five by 2025, and there are no current plans for the storage and refinement of petroleum onshore. It would seem, therefore, that there is little basis for opposition to current and future petroleum activities on environmental grounds. At the level of consumption, government plans, under the Decade of Development, have identified the realization of energy security and the transition to renewable and clean energy as a principal goal including the establishment of a 188megawatt power plant powered by natural gas and hydro power stations around the country. Government had previously adopted measures to limit the importation and use of used tyres, styrofoam and other products which disposal pose risks to the environment and have recently encouraged and incentivized the import and use of electric vehicles
through duty-free concessions and the installation of charging portals across the country. David Granger has demonstrated, over and again, his commitment to being the environment and green President of Guyana and, I believe, will lead the APNU+AFC coalition to victory by a landslide in next week’s polls. It might have been expected that the announcement of world-class oil discoveries in Guyana’s EEZ prompting industry analysts to describe Guyana as the world’s most “oil-rich country per capita” and assess that Guyana could become the second-largest oil producer in South America behind only Brazil, surpassing Venezuela, and OPEC’s 12th largest member after Angola would have generated tremendous national pride and the determination to pull together to make the best of this wonderful, if unexpected, opportunity. Guyana has already uplifted one million barrels of profit oil and is expected to earn an estimated US$300 million this year as Exxon ramps up to 120,000 barrels of oil per day (bpd) which could increase to more than US$ 5 billion by 2025 with production of more than 750,000 bpd utilizing five
FPSOs in the Stabroek bloc. While multilateral agencies, like the IMF, have applauded the government’s “plans to establish a comprehensive legal framework for managing oil wealth”, and along with the World Bank and IDB are collaborating with the government in providing technical assistance and advisory services to build national capacity in the oil and gas sector much of the national discourse, as promoted by certain political groupings have pursued a narrative of government incompetence and corruption and ExxonMobil’s corporate transgressions around the globe. For more than a year following the no confidence vote in the National Assembly in December 2018 forces opposed to the governing party have championed a policy of deactivation of the National Assembly, where it purported to have majority support, and pursued government accountability in the courts and media. At the same time, it declared the government to be illegal and petitioned bilateral, multilateral and business organizations to isolate and weaken the administration. They have demonstrated a total willingness to hold Guyana’s economic development hostage to their political ambitions and goals
and demanded the withdrawal of all forms of external assistance and investment. The fact is that they did not succeed and international confidence in Guyana’s growth trajectory is manifested by the growing number of international companies seeking to invest in our country. This confidence is over-matched by the exhilarating images of the APNU+AFC re-election campaign and its political rallies across the country. The energy is immense, the enthusiasm is intense and the vision of the near future, enshrined in the Decade of Development Plan, is palpable and clear and I fully expect a massive turnout of support for APNU+AFC at these elections. This has caused me to revise upward my initial forecast that the coalition will win these elections by nine seats. Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit, an Indian diplomat elected the first female President of the UN General Assembly, had remarked that “difficulties, opposition, criticism – these things are meant to be overcome, and there is a special joy in facing them and in coming out on top. It is only when there is nothing but praise that life loses its charm and I begin to wonder what I should do about it”. Sincerely, Oscar Dolphin
Guyana needs to know how much also not addressed any and fish rots from the head; that would be Granger and his clique have was earned ‘Premium’ added to the ‘Dated Brent’. cast their die, they have DEAR EDITOR, If with less than a week to go before General and Regional Elections neither David Granger nor his minions will tell you, me or anyone else how much money was earned from Guyana’s first lift of ‘profitoil’, I must beg the question of what level of brazenness has been attained? The front-man for the oil sale, Dr. Mark Bynoe, was inelegant in his evasiveness about what actual profit had accrued to the nation’s coffers, choosing to flay a two-percent strawman and waffle and wax about tags on meters before disclosing that the sale was based on a “Dated Brent’ agreement with Shell Western and Trading Supply Limited (Barbados). ‘Dated Brent’ describes crude oil to be delivered in the short term, over the period 10 days to one month ahead. The month of February 2020 has been volatile with a 12.8% change in price so far, Guyanese are in the dark as to what actual daily price was utilized and Dr. Bynoe has
In layman’s terms, Brent has a sulfur content of 0.37%. The lower the sulfur content of the oils the ‘sweeter’ the oil and the easier it is to refine; a ‘premium’ or higher price is given for oil with lower than 0.37% sulfur, Guyana’s oil is reportedly attracting a premium of USD 8 per barrel due to extremely low sulfur content. There is a standard formula used based on the chemical analysis done on the cargo. I do not believe that Dr. Bynoe will be forthcoming about what price Guyana got for its oil, nor will he disclose the disparity between whatever is finally declared and what will enter the muchvaunted Natural Resource Fund account in New York. It is too close to the election to reveal the true nature of the sell-off. Chris Ram speaks of Dr. Bynoe as “A measure of the low rating which Granger places on the national interest is his appointment of a single unsuitably qualified person to head the petroleum sector” but for me, no one picks a patsy of high quality
become the ‘Brotherhood of the oil Boat’. Guyanese will only find out how much has been siphoned from the first oil tanker (and national coffers) if there is a change in Administration via the elections. There will be approximately seventy-eight million barrels of oil lifted between this election and the next due in 2025; I shudder to think of what happens if the exclusive ‘Brotherhood of the oil Boat’ that are unwilling to disclose details of the first million are there for those years. Guyanese have much to ponder this week; will it be bicycles, buses, and breakfast or will they move to an administration that will deliver based on an allinclusive platform of equality, a return to One People, One Nation with One Destiny. We have one chance; I urge you to vote for the PPP/C and let us work together and fix it from the 2nd of March onwards. Respectfully, Robin Singh
Kaieteur News
Tuesday February 25, 2020
Local Content Policy...
UK Consultant ignores recommendations to give Guyanese advantage in oil sector
By Kiana Wilburg
G
PAGE 07
uyana's Local Content Policy is under heavy criticism for its restrictions on disclosing in full, the plans and reports oil companies submit to the government on the extent to which they use local, goods, services and skills for their operations. But that is not all that is troubling the document. Following a perusal of the policy, it was observed that UK Consultant, Dr. Michael
Warner, who has ties to ExxonMobil, ignored key recommendations that would have given Guyanese a clear advantage in the oil industry. These recommendations were made by this newspaper to the Energy Department, drawing on the Ghanaian Local Content Policy. In the chart attached to this news item, readers would be able to see the Ghanaian policy provisions that were recommended for Guyana's policy to adopt so that Guyanese can benefit to the maximum extent.
Provisions that were recommended to be taken onboard from the Ghanaian Local Content Policy
Similar provisions in Guyana’s Local Content Policy
1) In the case of non-Ghanaian ownership and operations, the entity must provide for the participation of a citizen of Ghana in an interest of at least five percent in the exploration and production activities under petroleum licenses. The interest of the citizen of Ghana shall not be transferable to a non-citizen of Ghana.
ABSENT
2) In order to ensure increased financial benefits to Ghanaians, and the Ghanaian state, all operators in the oil and gas industry, shall as far as practicable use goods and services produced by or provided in Ghana for their operations in preference to foreign goods and services. The Operators shall give priority to the purchase from citizens of Ghana local products and services that are competitive in terms of price, quality and timely availability. A preference for Ghanaian entities, even if they are up to 10% more expensive is mandated.
ABSENT
3) Where bids are being evaluated, and where bids are otherwise equal, the bid containing the highest level of Ghanaian content shall be selected.
ABSENT
4) Where a foreign entity is to provide goods and services for the licensee, the foreign entity shall operate from Ghana and partner with a Ghanaian owned and registered company. After the commencement of operations, the participation of Ghanaians shall be at least ten percent by value in the provision of goods and services or as may be prescribed by regulations. The percentage contribution shall increase to at least twenty percent in the second year and shall increase by at least ten percent each year thereafter or as may be prescribed by regulations. These targets shall be assessed and revised annually as part of the regular assessment of the Annual Local Content Plan to determine the progress of national entities relative to their competitiveness with respect to price, quality, and timely availability and other commercial terms. (“Operate from Ghana” means that the foreign entity shall be incorporated under the Companies Code, 1963, Act 179.)
ABSENT
5) In order to ensure competitiveness of Ghanaians in the provision of the full range of services required in the oil and gas industry, the local training and technical institutions will be supported by both Government and the petroleum operators to develop the requisite capacity to international standards to be able to train Ghanaians to comparable high levels as required by the industry in drilling and support services, marine, catering and housekeeping, supplies and other support services. This measure will focus on all aspects of training, including the following: (i) Lower skill artisanal training such as welding, catering services; (ii) Middle-level skill training of technicians to provide maintenance services, offshore and on shore drilling etc.; (iii) High level skill training including general management, engineering design, procurement and business strategy development.
ABSENT
6) Attention will also be given to technology development skills towards indigenization of oil and gas technologies. High level seminars and workshops will be used to create the necessary awareness and interest of local businesses in the development of the requisite technologies and provision of technical support for the oil and gas industry.
ABSENT
7) An Oil and Gas Business Development and Local Content Fund will be established to support local capability development aspects of the local content framework. The fund will be used primarily for education, training and research and development in oil and gas. Sources of the fund will include contribution from Licensed Operators (at amounts specified in the applicable Petroleum Agreements), Oil and Gas Revenue, levies, grants and other support from Ghana’s Development Partners. The Ministry of Energy or the Ministry responsible for petroleum will oversee the disbursement of the fund. 8) The Operator shall, within twelve months after the grant of a licence (or effective date of a Petroleum Agreement), submit to the relevant Regulatory Agency for approval, a detailed Annual Recruitment and Training Programme for recruitment and training of citizens of Ghana in all job classifications and in all aspects of petroleum activities, which may be carried out in or outside the country. The Annual Recruitment and Training Programme shall ensure that the following targets are met : (a) management staff, at least fifty percent of the management staff are Ghanaians from the start of petroleum activities of the licensee and the percentage shall increase to at least eighty percent within five years after the start of the petroleum activities; (b) core technical staff, at least thirty percent of the technical staff are Ghanaians from the start of petroleum activities of the licensee and the percentage shall increase to at least eighty percent within five (5) years after the start of petroleum activities and ninety percent within ten (10) years; and © Other staff, one hundred percent are Ghanaians. Such programme shall provide for the training of Ghanaians in all aspects and phases of petroleum activities and as many staff categories, including management, as is possible and shall be reassessed and revised on an annual basis (the “Annual Recruitment and Training Programme) and may include scholarships, industrial training for students and other financial support for education.
ABSENT
ABSENT
Kaieteur News
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Tuesday February 25, 2020
Stabroek Block agreement…
Govt. negotiators let Guyana down - GCCI President T By Kemol King
h o s e w h o negotiated the terms of the Stabroek license on the Government's side let Guyana down. That is the view of National Hardware owner and President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Nicholas DeygooBoyer. He made this known during a recent edition of the Kaieteur Radio show 'Petroleum 101', where the discussion was focused on Guyana's final local content policy and Guyana's history with foreign companies. Commenting on the lopsided deal, DeygooBoyer said that he thinks Government could have negotiated a better set of fiscal terms. “If I was in the position, knowing that I had no experience in terms negotiating a contract, I would have hired international negotiators.” It was revealed that by Global Witness in a report titled 'Signed Away' that Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman, hurried through the negotiations which lasted a course of one month. It was also revealed that he neglected to heed expert advice multiple times. Because of the negotiations led by Trotman, Guyana is left with a contract that gives it a low share by
Businessman, Nicholas Deygoo-Boyer industry standards, according to the internationally respected anti-corruption advocate. Kaieteur News' coverage over the years has comprehensively demonstrated how many of the fiscal terms are either unfair to Guyana, meagre by industry standards, or both. The companies with interests in the Stabroek Block are ExxonMobil subsidiary, Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL) who is the operator with a 45 percent working interest; Hess affiliate, Hess Guyana Exploration Limited (30 percent); and Chinese contractor, CNOOC Petroleum Guyana (25 percent). When it comes to renegotiation, the National
Hardware owner has some advice for Government. He said that he has had to, in representation of his business, negotiate with businesses much larger than his. In all of those, he said that he has had to arm himself with data. Deygoo-Boyer would not advise renegotiating the deal right away, because he said that it's important for Guyana to show investors that it honours contracts. “I wouldn't recommend renegotiating right away because you kind of wasted that golden opportunity, at least at that point [in 2016].” He said that it is never the case that such a deal would stay as it is for decades. “I don't think that we're going to just sit down for the next 40 years and say well, that's the end of the contract for the Stabroek licence. I'm sure things are going to be a lot more fluid over a 40 year period.” W h e n s h o u l d government look forward to renegotiating the contract? F o r D e y g o o - B o y e r, answering that question will require one to look at how changed circumstances affect Guyana's negotiating position. Some have argued that Guyana has already gotten to a very strong bargaining position. But the businessman said that Guyana still would have to
The 6.6 million-acre Stabroek Block, offshore Guyana look forward to geopolitical and climate developments, and returns on investment, among other things in the
near term of at least six to eight years. How Guyana approaches renegotiation, for Deygoo-
Boyer, comes down to Guyana getting its hands on an expert, independent (continued on page 9)
Guyana's oil at world class... From page 3 breakeven cost as estimated by Hess, places Guyana in a very competitive position on the global market, making the other offshore blocks attractive as an investment opportunity. This is year one for Guyana as an oil exporter, and we begin in a highly competitive position relative to other established players.” Hess also reportedly stated that the breakeven price for Guyana's oil is not just low, but that it is projected to fall even lower. Mangal said that this is
“an indication of positive economics for the Stabroek block, and for Guyana as a country.” Hess had revealed earlier this year that it had yet again revised downward the development cost for the Liza-1 project, taking the total revision from the first estimate to US$900M. First set to cost US$4.4B, the cost is now estimated to be US$3.5B. E x x o n M o b i l ' s production in the Liza field is expected to be accompanied in 2022 by a second Floating
Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel. That will take production to a peak of 340,000 barrels per day. If the third field development plan, Payara, is approved, it would, according to ExxonMobil, come on stream in 2023, taking production to a peak of 560,000 barrels per day. ExxonMobil is the operator of the Stabroek Block with a 45 percent working interest, while Hess has a 30 percent stake, and CNOOC has a 25 percent stake.
Kaieteur News
Tuesday February 25, 2020
PAGE 09
FIREWORKS AND JUSTICE W
hat is justice? The family of a racing cyclist hit and killed in a road accident is calling for justice. The father of a girl killed in a road accident on the Corentyne is calling for justice. If you dissect what are behind these and other calls for public justice, you will find two common denominators. Firstly, it is demand for the facts to be determined. Families of victims want to know the truth about what happened to their loved ones. Second, it is for those who were culpable, whether directly or vicariously, to be held responsible. Justice here involves persons being subject to legal sanctions – the guilty must be punished in accordance with the law. Last Saturday, there was a tragic incident at the Coast Guard Base at Ruimveldt. Ranks were preparing for the fireworks display later that evening. The explosives
were in a truck when it exploded. A number of the ranks were injured. One has since succumbed to his injuries. The family of the now dead solider, like the families of those killed in road accidents deserve justice. They deserve to know the cause or causes of the explosion, who was responsible (if anyone at all for this tragedy) and what punishment would be meted out to them. They also are entitled, in this instance to compensation, even though nothing can really fully reimburse for the loss of a life. Some egregious mistakes have already been made. Photographs in the media have shown the President visiting the injured ranks in hospital. The President, unlike some of the nurses and doctors, did not have on protective gear which is a routine requirement when visiting
burn victims. No visitors, regardless of rank, should have been allowed. Burn victims have to be kept in a fully sanitized environment since most of them succumb to secondary infection. A number of prejudicial statements are being made about the incident. It would appear that there is an attempt to impute certain facts rather than await the outcome of a fully investigation. It is been said that the explosion seems to be a case of spontaneous combustion? But where is the supporting evidence that the explosions were spontaneous? Even spontaneous explosions have to be triggered. It is also said that the men were experts since they have been doing this for years. The men were assigned to the artillery division of the Guyana Defence Force, which means they deal with explosives related to their
Dem boys seh...
De Carter Centre talk bout private house as polling places
P
eople quarrelling bad because GECOM seh it don't want to use some private residence as polling places. It use to do that and every time dem had problems. Some people use to object to outsiders coming in dem house. De story get real big when people start to talk how all de private house that was used as polling places belong to PPP supporters. But that is also wheh de confusion start because people also seh how by not using some of de private houses GECOM reduce de number of polling places. But de real story is that people vex and dem blaming Lolo Field. Dem claim how he mekking decisions without consulting dem. Dem boys seh de man don't
have to consult nobody. But dem claim that these days, people in de opposition camp want to call de shots. To mek a big song and dance about how Lolo Field drop some of dem private residence is like blowing bubbles in a glass of water. Ever since 2015 de Carter Centre talk bout people voting in private residences. That mean dem talk bout people using odda people house as a polling station. That is something Jagdeo start. He always use to talk bout rigging. Now dem boys want to know if a polling station deh in de house of a candidate fuh a political party, how that gun look? But fuh de 2015 elections that is wha happen. More than two candidates fuh Jagdeo party had dem house as polling stations.
Well that done and de row start. Kit who is de PR man fuh everybody send a statement how he read de Carter Centre report and he ain't see nutten bout de decision fuh drop private residences. All he had to do was call de Carter Centre and ask dem if dem ever mek such a suggestion. But people like jump pun any bandwagon. Dem boys call de Carter Centre and find this: “in the Center's preliminary statement on the elections (page 45), released shortly after election day in 2015, the Center did acknowledge the use of private residences as polling places and noted that: GECOM should ensure that citizens can cast their ballot in a neutral environment" (page 77) Talk half and don't tek lead up.
Govt. negotiators let Guyana down From page 8 negotiator. This is because, he explained, people can develop relationships with the other side which could inhibit their ability to take a strong stand. “I'd create a nice separation… I'm able to maintain the relationship with the operator because I have an international law firm or consultant negotiating on my behalf.” He said that, at some point, Guyana could
say to the operator “Here are the recommendations from my international negotiator. Yes, we're friendly, I'm glad to have you in the country, but these are the recommendations. These are the studies that were done. This is the average benchmark for royalties in this way. This is the way I would like to carve up our regime… These are my hired negotiators… This is what they recommended. So this is what I'm fighting for.”
military work. But does this make them experts in pyrotechnics? Pyrotechnics is a specialized field which requires its own specific t r a i n i n g . Tr a i n i n g f o r handling pyrotechnics materials is different from that which is usually provided within the artillery divisions of the army. Those handling pyrotechnic materials should have a sound knowledge of chemistry and physics before they are assigned to be part of any pyrotechnic team. Did the ranks who were transporting the fireworks have such training and were there specific protocols for the removal and transport of such materials? Were these observed? It is now established that conditions of utmost stability are required for the movement of fireworks because they explode much more easily than normal munitions. Careful protocols therefore have to be
developed and observed in the movement of pyrotechnic explosives. The fact that persons may have conducted fireworks displays before does not make them experts. They have to be certified as pyrotechnics technicians and have considerable experience – something they will never gain on-the-job in Guyana – before they are allowed to be part of any pyrotechnic brigade. Justice in this case requires an impartial, independent and expert investigation. It is being suggested that the military and the fire service are going to be involved in conducting the investigation into the incident. The military highcommand is an interested party in the incident. It should have no role in the investigation, since it cannot and should not investigate itself. The military highcommand would be in a conflict of interest if it is part of any investigation into the
incident. When Walter Rodney was killed, Burnham flew in a British expert. He turned out to have a checkered career of massaging his findings, but he did provide a report which could have been seen as being done by an independent person with no interest in the matter. There are persons who are trained in investigating pyrotechnic accidents. The government should bring in an overseas expert from the United States to conduct the investigation, and to make recommendations so that not only will justice be served, but also, that an incident of this nature will not recur. (The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper)
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Tuesday February 25, 2020
THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN
This 86-year-old carcinoma is why we should not vote for PPP
Y
e s t e r d a y mo r n in g , my wife joined me for my dog's walk on the seawall. I decided to give her a tour of Georgetown. So we drove a few places, stopped at a few places. On our way to the seawall on Water Street, we passed a building that has not had even an inch of change made to it in its 86-year-old life. Freddie kissoon column
Yesterday morning, my wife joined me for my dog's walk on the seawall. I decided to give her a tour of Georgetown. So we drove a few places, stopped at a few places. On our way to the seawall on Water Street, we passed a building that has not had even an inch of change made to it in its 86-year-old life. I looked at the abattoir and
turned to my wife and said; “I am going to make this a column tomorrow. It is an issue on which the Guyanese people should judge the PPP.” The Georgetown abattoir is one of the world's saddest and biggest disgraces. The former PPP president, Bharrat Jagdeo, should be charged by the United Nations for cruelty to animals. Forbes Burnham dominated Guyana as a
hegemonic leader from 1968. He didn't have room for oneman showmanship between 1964 and 1968 because the PNC's coalition partner, the business-oriented party, United Force had a forceful presence in the Cabinet. From November 1968 to March 1985, Burnham ruled Guyana. His number of years is matched by Bharrat Jagdeo (August 1999-May 2015). Jagdeo had 12 years of direct constitutional rule and was the hand behind the throne in the Ramotar presidency (20112015.) I don't believe any scholar would jeapordize his/her credibility by arguing for a Ramotar presidency that was not shaped by Jagdeo. So pliable was Ramotar to Jagdeo's diktats that he retained the identical Cabinet Jagdeo had. This must remain a record in the history of modern politics. An incoming president has, as a matter of psychology and commonsense, to have a few choices of his own; people he owes it to, persons he wants to be in his Cabinet, folks he can personally rely on. I mean it as no joke but after the abattoir, the next most disgraceful thing in Guyanese
history is the Ramotar presidency. Ramotar should stop writing his fetid, pathetic letters to the press bemoaning the absence of democracy; there wasn't even an infinitesimal dose of it during his reign. I looked at that building and windmills began to spin in my mind. I wanted to go home quickly to complete this column. How could anyone look at that building and not reflect on why they would want to give their vote to the PPP. How much money would it have cost to erect a comfortable building to house those animals some place out of Georgetown? I embraced the 2015 coalition bandwagon. I campaigned zealously for it. I supported it in its first months of governance, but it threw it away. The consequences of that we are living with today – the PPP may return to power. I don't believe Guyana deserves a PPP in government. It was in power for 23 years. Look at that 86-year-old sarcoma on Water Street. They were in power for 23 years; look at how the infrastructure of Georgetown deteriorated. They were in power for 23 years, then, a philistine monster devoured the Botanical Gardens. I would argue that any textbook on Guyana has to mention one of the world's greatest ironies – the UN awarded Jagdeo the accolade of “Champion of the Earth” while the capital city looked like the nastiest gutter in the entire world. I get into arguments almost daily with my friends when they speak of hoping for a defeat of APNU+AFC in the
Frederick Kissoon March election. I would turn and say; “so you want the PPP in again?” With emotional vehemence they would say yes. That is a moral injustice. The PPP had 23 years. Jagdeo had 12. What changed? I was on the Naim Chan Show on CNS Channel 6, and Chan asked me if I am not feeling lonely, because my friends like Lincoln Lewis, David Hinds, Mark Benschop, Chris Ram are all rooting for either PNC or PPP, and I continue to remain independent. I am not lonely. Not in the least. I studied too much of Freud, Koestler and other philosophers to know how humans operate. I honestly believe Mr. Jagdeo will not change. Mr. Jagdeo in 15 years almost destroyed this country, and there has been no apology to the Guyanese people. One would have thought that after the discontinuation of the libel case, he would have met with me and at least said, “well, Freddie, no hard feeling right.” I am not at liberty to say how and why the case was discontinued, but I am willing to say it privately to people who ask me. I honestly think Anil Nandlall should have been the PPP's presidential candidate. I am voting for a third party. (The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper)
Tuesday February 25, 2020
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Tuesday February 25, 2020
Teen pillion rider dies Republic Day ends with deadly after bike slams into car crash in E'bo - Motorcyclist is victim
A
teen's joy ride in the wee hours of Sunday evening ended tragically after the motorcycle he was traveling on slammed into a car on Dennis Street, Campbellville. The dead teen was identified as 14-yearold Isaiah Cordis. The accident occurred at around 2:30am. The teen was the pillion rider on the motorcycle. Sources say that Cordis and the rider were heading home from the Republic Day celebrations when tragedy struck. The motorcycle was allegedly travelling at a fast rate when a motorcar reportedly made an abrupt turn, resulting in the bike slamming into the side of the vehicle. Cordis, who was said to be without a helmet, was flung several feet in the air before landing on the roadway. Kim Carroll, mother of the dead teen, told Kaieteur News that she saw her son on the motorcycle before the accident. According to her, she attempted to call out to her son, but the rider sped off. “I see he last (Sunday) night on D'Urban Park. I see him on the bike and I said to my sister, look…what Isaiah doing here so late, and I see the speed the rider going on with and I was coming out from the park to get he off the bike, but was a lot of them and they speed
The dead teen: Isaiah Cordis off.” According to Carroll, she immediately contacted her elder son to start searching for his brother. But half an hour later, she received the tragic news. “He brother call me back and said come to the hospital and immediately I seh, something happen to Isaiah, and so said, so done. I reach at the hospital and they tell me that he crash up and he dead.” His mother explained that despite the countless times she would speak to her son about his obsession with motorcycles, it would fall on deaf ears.
The car that was involved in the accident
Suresh Arjune and his motorcycle
O
n R e p u b l i c D a y, Essequibo experienced its third fatal motorcycle accident. The victim on this occasion is a 35-year-old father of one, and employee of Banks DIH, Essequibo. Dead is Suresh Arjune, of 3 Adventure, Essequibo Coast. Reports are that the accident occurred sometime around 20:50 hrs. on Sunday, on the Adventure Public Road, in the vicinity of the old ferry stelling. According to reports, Arjune was proceeding on the western side of the thoroughfare on motor cycle CJ 4350, while motor car PMM 2260, which was being driven by a 27-year-old man at the time, was proceeding on the eastern lane of the road. The driver of the car said that as he negotiated a left bend, the motorcycle, which he claims was moving at a fast rate and without lights, collided with the left front of his vehicle. As a result of the impact, the motorcyclist fell onto the road and sustained severe injuries to his head and other parts of his body. He was taken to the Suddie Public Hospital in an unconscious state, and was pronounced dead on arrival. Arjune's wife said that at the time of the
The damaged bike accident, her husband was wearing a helmet, and the lights of his motorcycle were on. The driver, who lives at Spring Garden, Essequibo Coast, was tested and his alcohol level was found to be exceedingly above the prescribed limits. He was placed into custody and is assisting with investigations. The body of the dead motorcyclist is at the Onderneeming morgue, awaiting a post mortem examination.
Tuesday February 25, 2020
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Luxury yacht Ice with an Augusta Westland helicopter on board anchored at Hyatt Regency waterfront, Port of Spain on Saturday. Reports are that Equitorial Guinea vice president Teodorin Nguema Obiang arrived on the vessel for Carnival. The French court recently fined Obiang US$33 million on corruption offences. (NEWSDAY PHOTO BY JEFF K MAYERS)
African dictator's son in T&T for Carnival (T&T Newsday) Four days after a court in France upheld a three-year suspended jail term and imposed a fine of US$33 million against the flamboyant vice president of Equatorial Guinea, he arrived in TT. Te o d o r i n N g u e m a Obiang and his delegation docked outside the Hyatt Regency Hotel, in Port of Spain aboard a 90-metre superyacht around 1.47 pm on Friday and several people on board were seen later that evening on deck during a barbeque. Obiang, 50, the eldest son of President Teodoro Obiang
Tuesday February 25, 2020
Nguema, is reportedly here to enjoy the revelry of TT Carnival after being smitten last year. The yacht itself has attracted scores of curious onlookers, not only by its sheer size, but it also carries a n A u g u s t a We s t l a n d helicopter on board. Instagram photos show Obiang posing with cricket legend Brian Lara at his Lady Chancellor home and on top of a music truck at the S o c a d r o m e a s Yu m a masqueraders paraded last year. There was no response to a message sent to Obiang seeking comment about the purpose of his visit. His father seized power of the oil-rich African nation in 1979 after overthrowing his uncle Francisco Macías Nguema, in a bloody military coup. Obiang was appointed vice president in 2016. A c c o r d i n g t o international media reports, Nguema, who has been described as one of Africa's longest-serving leaders, and his son, have been accused of misusing the country's oil revenue, but they both deny any wrongdoing. International human rights groups have also accused the president of the systematic repression of opponents. A World Bank report said that almost three-quarters of the 740,000 people in Equatorial Guinea live in poverty. A national security source confirmed Obiang's arrival, but noted that he was not a fugitive or wanted by any international law enforcement agency.
One online vessel tracking site showed that the superyacht, Ice, travelled from Barbados to TT on Friday. A BBC report, published on February 10, reported that French authorities triggered an investigation against Obiang after a campaign by Transparency International and other anti-corruption bodies. Through his team of lawyers, Obiang denied the charges, claiming that his wealth had come from legitimate sources. He was not in court for his trial or appeal. Obiang is the first African leader to be sentenced in France for ill-gotten gains. However, the United States and Switzerland have seized his assets, including a fleet of luxury cars and other property. He has challenged the French charges which related to his acquisition of a sixfloor mansion in Paris by arguing before the International Criminal Court of Justice that it should be offered the same protection as a diplomatic building. According to an AFP news agency report, in 2016, Swiss prosecutors seized 11 luxury cars belonging to Obiang. The cars – among them Lamborghinis, Ferraris, Bentleys and Rolls Royce – were sold at an auction for
about US$27 million. In a plea deal with prosecutors, some US$23 million will go to social projects in Equator i a l Guinea, a former Spanish colony where poverty is rife. Prosecutors argued Obiang had plundered his country's oil wealth to buy luxuries, including a private jet and Michael Jackson memorabilia. In 2018, the Brazilian police seized more than US$16 million in cash and luxury watches in the luggage of a delegation accompanying Obiang. Tr a n s p a r e n c y International rates Equatorial Guinea 173rd out of 180 countries on its 2019 Corruption Perceptions Index. US officials accused Obiang of “shamelessly” looting his country and Obiang agreed to hand over more than US$30 million worth of properties, including a mansion in Malibu, California, and a dozen luxury cars. O b i a n g , h o w e v e r, managed to keep his US$38 million private jet and c o l l e c t i o n o f M i c ha e l Jackson memorabilia, which includes a crystal-studded glove. ( S e e l i n k : https://newsday.co.tt/2020/0 2/16/african-dictators-sonin-town-for-carnival/)
Tuesday February 25, 2020
Kaieteur News
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Kaieteur News
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Tuesday February 25, 2020
Time is running out on City Hall - Trust Fund launched to help save historic building T
ime is of the essence when it comes to saving the remaining aesthetics of City Hall. Head of the Engineer's Department of the Georgetown Mayor and City Council, (M&CC) Colvern Venture spoke to Kaieteur News about the urgency with which the plan to save the iconic structure must be treated. According to the City Engineer, there is no telling when the building could collapse. Venture explained “I would need to do a complete analysis of the structure before I can make that determination to say it would be exactly three years or two years before the building will be rendered completely useless.” He noted “however what I do know is the building is in very bad condition and needs urgent redress.” He said a quick assessment of the building has shown major signs of deterioration. Venture noted that some parts of the building have already shown signs of disconnect. “If you examine parts of the structure, you can see it
Sections of the rotting City Hall building
has been splitting. This is due to the heavy vibrations caused container trucks/haulers that traverse Regent Street and Avenue of the Republic almost daily.” The City Engineer explained that the vibrations from heavy duty vehicles have resulted in considerable damage to the base and structure of City Hall. “This cannot be avoided, since the building is located at the centre of a very busy commercial area.” In addition to the splitting beams,
considerable damage has been done to the edifice by elements of the weather. “Again, this cannot be avoided, but proper maintenance could have at least quelled some of the damage caused by the sun and rain.” He continued that water marks are evident on sections of the outer and inner walls of the building. Venture explained that despite efforts to fix it, the roof often leaks in periods of heavy rainfall. “As a result, sections of
the building have been damaged severely. The supporting beams are in very bad condition, in some parts it's actually like paper. If you touch… it will loosen up in your hands.” While the preservation of City Hall is important, even more central is the danger it poses to workers and visitors of the Council. The building hosts the administrative staff quarters of the council as well as the office of the Town Clerk and the rate collectors unit. A s s u c h , Ve n t u r e
recommended urgent evacuation of the building to effect the much-needed repairs. “The Council has been sitting idly by in this instance,” he said “There is already a plan to move the staff quarters to another location. The Council wants to construct a building adjacent to the Mayor's office to house the administrative staff quarters.” “The base of the work has started. The challenge is (continued on page 23)
City Engineer Colvern Venture
Tuesday February 25, 2020
Kaieteur News
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Kaieteur News
Tuesday February 25, 2020
Tuesday February 25, 2020
Kaieteur News
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Owen Arthur-led Commonwealth observer team arrives A
n 11 - p e r s o n strong team from The Commonwealth, led by former Barbados leader, Owen Arthur, has arrived in Guyana and began work ahead of the general elections next Monday. According to a statement from The Commonwealth, the team arrived in Georgetown on Mash Day and began its briefing programme yesterday. “Over the next three days, we will continue to meet with key stakeholders including the Guyana Elections Commission, political parties, civil society, the media, the police and citizen and international observers.” The Commonwealth team would be one of several observers group in Guyana for what has been described as one of the toughest elections in the history of this country. The others include the US-headquartered Carter Center, CARICOM, the European Union and the
private sector. “I am greatly honoured to have been asked by Commonwealth SecretaryGeneral, Rt Hon Patricia Scotland QC, to lead the Commonwealth Observer Group to the General and Regional Elections, scheduled for 2 March 2020. This is the seventh consecutive election that the Commonwealth has observed in Guyana and our presence here affirms the s u p p o r t o f t h e Commonwealth to this country and its democratic processes.” The group was constituted following an invitation from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in November. “It is comprised of 11 eminent persons drawn from across the different regions of the Commonwealth, including Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, Europe and the Pacific. They bring a wealth of experience from across the social and political spectrum with expertise in the fields of politics, election
management, law, the media, gender, civil society and human rights.” The Commonwealth team said that their mandate is to observe and evaluate the electoral process independently and impartially. “We will assess the preelection environment, polling day activities and the post-election period and consider the various factors impinging on the credibility of the electoral process as a whole. We will then report on whether it has been conducted in line with Guyana's national legislation, as well as the country's regional and international commitments,” explained the former PM of Barbados. The Commonwealth Secretariat staff, who arrived in advance of the Group on 19 February, observed early voting of the disciplined forces on 21 February. From Friday; 28th February, observers will be deployed in small teams across the country to observe
There are avenues for filing complaints against doctors, - We are paying attention to hospitals concerns - Chief Medical Officer
A
uthorities have been paying attention to the recent complaints and other concerns raised in the press and social media about the conduct of doctors. Ye s t e r d a y , C h i e f M e d i c a l O f f i c e r, D r. Shamdeo Persaud, made it clear that there are recourses for patients and their families if they feel aggrieved. In fact, he has been handling between three and f i v e c a s e s m o n t h l y, involving doctors, as part of the sanctions. Dr. Persaud, as Chief Medical Officer for government, sits on the allimportant Medical Council of Guyana, the body that licences doctors, and which has the authority to also take them off the register. In recent months, the operations of the private hospitals and now doctors, a number of them very prominent, have come under the spotlight. One particular case has raised questions about the
Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Shamdeo Persaud impartiality of the Medical Council. It involved the death of 74-year-old Edward Subryan, an Enterprise resident who died at Woodlands Hospital in February 2014. The family blamed the doctors for negligence and complained to the Medical Council, which found that indeed, improper care led to Subryan's death. However, the decision to sanction one of the doctors, Dr. Surendra Persaud, was
suspended after he went to court, challenging the impartiality. He said that the Chair of the Medical Council, Dr. Shobha Gobin was in a conflict of interest situation, as she was one of the doctors involved in the treatment of Subryan before he died. The court ordered that t h e c o u n c i l ' s recommendations for sanctions, under Dr. Gobin, be set aside. The matter was left suspended since 2015, until late last year, when the Council said it managed to start hearing the matter again. However, the family has been suspicious of the delays. Yesterday, Dr. Shamdeo Persaud said that the Medical Council does not regulate health facilities, including private hospitals. Rather, this is regulated under the Private Hospitals Act. With regards to complaints to the Medical Council, the Chief Medical Officer said that there are (continued on page 22)
preparations ahead of polling day and meet with local stakeholders. “On Election Day, we will observe the opening, voting, closing, counting and the results management processes.” The Commonwealth said that it will issue an interim statement on its preliminary findings on March 4th 2020. “A final report will then be prepared and submitted to the Commonwealth Secretary-General, and subsequently shared with relevant stakeholders and the public. The Group will depart Guyana on 9 March 2020. We are aware of the significance of these elections to the people of Guyana and we call on all stakeholders to demonstrate commitment to a peaceful, transparent, credible and inclusive election,” Arthur disclosed. In addition to Arthur, the team includes Lebrechtta Nana Oye Bayne, Social Economist & Gender Expert (Antigua and Barbuda); Sir
Head of the Commonwealth observer team, former Barbados PM, Owen Arthur Gerald A. Watt KCN, QC, Speaker of the House of Representatives (Antigua and Barbuda); Lisa Shoman, Former Foreign Minister and Tribunal Judge and Senior Counsel (Belize); Josephine Tamai, Chief Elections Officer (Belize); John Hendra, Former United Nations Assistant SecretaryGeneral (Canada); Gitobu Imathiu Imanyara, Former MP (Kenya); Mitra Vasisht, Ambassador of India (Retired) (India); Sarah Fradgley, Media Expert (New Zealand/UK); Dr Paikiasothy Saravanamuttu, Executive Director, Centre for Policy Alternatives (Sri Lanka) and Stephen John
Hiscock, Retired Diplomat (UK). The Commonwealth is a voluntary association of 54 independent and equal sovereign states. It is home to 2.4 billion citizens, of whom 60 per cent are under the age of 30. The Commonwealth includes some of the world's largest, smallest, richest and poorest countries, spanning five regions. 32 of its members are small states, many of them island nations. Commonwealth countries are supported by an active network of more than 80 inter-governmental, civil s o c i e t y, c u l t u r a l a n d professional organisations.
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Tuesday February 25, 2020
Kaieteur News
CPA warns against the use of cell phones by young children FOR RENT
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The Child Care and Protection Agency (CPA) is warning against giving cell phones and other electronic devices to young children. The CPA in a public missive said it has recognized that the use of mobile or cell phones by parents to keep small children quiet has become a norm. But the Agency warned that this exposure for a child between 0-3 years old can be harmful. The CPA outlined that “Most parents are not aware that this exposure can be harmful to their babies. “There has been some concern over the neurological effects and the developmental disability effects that cell phones can have on babies due to their thin skulls and their still rapidly developing brains. Experts worry that the thinness of babies’ skulls might make their brains more susceptible to the radiation emitted by cell phones, if they play with them regularly.” While the objective of cellphones no doubt is to make our lives easier, the CPA said that does not mean parents should neglect their ‘duty of care’ towards their infants and give them a device as a distraction. “During the early years (03 years old), positive parental inputs are crucial to building
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a solid foundation for children. Therefore, parents should be engaging with their infants in a communicative, caring, encouraging and loving way, instead of palming them off with a cellphone or any other similar electronic device.” Additionally, the agency noted that parents should be aware of the fact that research into cellphone radiation effects on children is ongoing. “Because children are at a stage where their bodies are growing and changing all the time the effects will be different from that of adults. Children under the age of 16 have yet to develop the correct bone density and protective tissue for the brain. This makes them vulnerable to the effects of cellphone radiation,” the statement added Further, the CPA pointed to recommendation by the World Health Organization (WHO) that children below the age of two should not be allowed to sit and watch television or any other type of screen activity (e.g. video games, cartoons). “Cell phones are still a fairly new phenomenon in our society; yet we rely on them and seem lost without them or panic if we forget them at home. But while we adults are
grown and able to hold our own, we must protect our children from elements that can be detrimental to their future health and well-being. We must allow them to grow naturally and expose them to positive and beneficial experiences that will enhance their lives and potential outlook.” “It is more than likely that many babies and children are already spending far too much time in front of one type of screen or another, rather than experiencing wholesome, regular interaction with their parents or caregivers. From the age of two to four years old, one hour per day or less is suggested.” Apart from that fact, the CPA said that giving books to babies will always be a more viable asset to their development than handing them cell phones. The agency noted that hardly any human attribute can be experienced through an inanimate object such as a cell phone. The agency suggested books as a better alternative to spending quality time with babies; reading to babies encourages bonding, closeness and gives a child a sense of security, love, confidence and selfassurance.
There are avenues for filing complaints against... From page 11 clear lines, which include the body seeking independent reviews for cases from specialist doctors, sometimes outside of Guyana. This happened in that case of a number of children who died in public hospitals A Caribbean expert outside of Guyana was engaged in reviewing the matters. He said that in the cases where complaints are filed against doctors, a Disciplinary Committee is established where a judge is appointed by the Chief Justice to chair it. Two “impartial members”
of the council are also on that committee. The doctor and the complainants are also invited to submit statements and may be invited to appear before the committee. According to the Chief Medical Officer, it is a fact that the Medical Council doesn't conduct its business in the public domain. He also said that the Medical Council is not the forum for suing. Rather, only the court can make those rulings. Among other sanctions that doctors can face, is the taking away of their licences, suspensions and warnings. However, the Medical Council can also serve in mediating on matters. In recent times, there have been accusations that private hospitals are forcing patients to take unnecessary tests, and raking in millions of dollars from their unsuspecting and mostly ignorant patients.
Tuesday February 25, 2020
Kaieteur News
NICIL pays sacked Rusal workers for February; Berbice River remains blocked
T
he state-owned N a t i o n a l Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL) has stepped in to pay 326 workers who were sacked by Rusal in January. NICIL, on behalf of the Government of Guyana, owns 10 percent of the Bauxite Company of Guyana Inc. (BCGI), the local company controlled by Rusal, that has operations in the Upper Berbice River area, Region 10. Ye s t e r d a y, G e n e r a l Secretary of the Guyana Bauxite and General Workers Union (GBGWU), Lincoln Lewis, disclosed that workers started collecting their February salary on Friday and money was also remitted to the bank accounts of a number of them. “We had submitted to the
government a menu of measures that can help alleviate the hardships of workers of Rusal. We told them that NICIL as part owner has to play a bigger role. The approval was granted by the Ministry of Finance and the workers have been paid.” Government, the union and Russian-controlled company have been locked in a battle after the company started sending home w o r k e r s i n J a n u a r y, claiming it has run out of fuel, as its duty free concessions and approvals have expired. It started sending home workers…in all 326. The workers, for the second time in as many years, blocked the Berbice River, even defying police ranks, effectively stopping vessels, including bauxiteladen ones from leaving.
Vessels with logs were allowed through. Workers have been camping out at the riverfront area, not from mine sites, guarding the barriers across the river. The government has said it has written the Attorney General's Chambers asking for legal advice on the sacking of the workers. Rusal, one of the biggest bauxite companies in the world, has been on a collision course with government and the union since 2009, after it fired almost 60 workers for taking protest action for better conditions. Since then, BCGI/Rusal has refused to meet the Labour Department, and even derecognized the union. It was last year that 90 workers were sacked which sparked a one-month
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Two Rusal workers collecting their salaries over the weekend
standoff, including the blockage of the Berbice River. The government had to step in to broker a deal for workers to return to their jobs and negotiations to begin for salary increases.
Rusal has come under fire for not declaring profits since it came here in the mid2000s, but yet was taking out boatloads of bauxite monthly. It has benefitted, reportedly, from almost
US$100M in duty free fuel as well as on tax breaks on equipment and vehicles. This latest issue and actions by Rusal would come as Guyana prepares for general and regional elections next Monday.
Time is running out on City... Toddler drowns in hotel pool From page 18 implementing the work plan. We have moving towards that, and hopefully with enough funding and support it will materialize,” he added. City Hall has been the subject of a restoration project which dates back three years. Last Wednesday , a public trust fund was launched to preserve the aesthetics of the 19th Century Gothic Revival building. The initiative is a collaborative effort between the Georgetown Mayor and City Council, (M&CC), the Guyana National Trust and the Private Sector Commission (PSC). Speakers of the launch noted the urgency with which the restoration project should be treated. In his address, Ambassador of the European Union (EU) Delegation of Guyana, Ponz Canto, emphasized the urgency of the work. In 2018, the EU had provided a grant of G$60M to finance the feasibility study to restore City Hall. Ambassador Canto noted that initially when the study was conducted the cost to restore City Hall stood at approximately US$3M. “But now because so much time has passed without any work done… the cost has gone up to US$5M,
since the building has been further deteriorated. I wish to state the work at hand is very urgent. Works must commence to not just restore, but save this iconic structure before it falls apart.” Further, the EU Ambassador said the richness of Guyana is not merely its natural resources, it's not only the oil, and it's not only the excellent food, but its culture and its people. And as part of that culture is the architectural patrimony, of which City Hall is a valuable part.” “This building here is part of that richness, but it is in a sad state, and I'm sure it is not the only one, there are so many other buildings that need repair.” Ambassador Canto pledged their continued support for City Hall and joined in the call for Guyanese as well as other international partners to support in financing of the restoration project. The fund trust has since garnered financial support from a number of religious organizations, private sector agencies and individuals. At the launch, the largest donation was from Impressions Branding which promised a contribution of $5 million, Pator Dil Mohamed pledged $150,000 and Deputy Mayor, Albert Mentore donated $50,000.
Speaking at the launch, City Mayor Pandit Ubraj Narine said “It bleeds my heart when I see that one of our historic buildings is falling apart, and I believe that we all as Guyanese must work to build City Hall.” Narine stated that the Council is looking to raise at least US $5.2Million to restore the historic edifice. He therefore called on the private sector, civil society, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce, stakeholders and Guyanese abroad to play an integral role in saving the famous landmark. The Mayor sought to quell concerns over the management of the trust fund. He noted that the City Council will not be the only manager of the fund. “Any withdrawal from the account will have to be approved by the City Treasurer, a representative of the National Trust of Guyana, as well as the Private Sector Commission. The Mayor said that a special committee was established to assist in the management of the Trust Fund. The Mayor said that the intention is to establish accounts in various banks countrywide where persons could make contributions toward the project. At present, deposits can be made into account number 4023313 at Demerara Bank.
A
f a m i l y afternoon of fun ended tragically after a three-year-old girl drowned in a popular hotel pool. Kaieteur News was informed that the incident occurred at around 4:00pm yesterday. An eyewitness explained that the child's parents were on the hotel terrace dining while she played close by. Seconds later, persons were heard screaming as the child was seen floating in the pool, unresponsive. “When the child came out of the pool, her hand was white white. So they started mouth to mouth resuscitation and that brought back a bit of air into the child, she made just two breaths and that was it.” The child was rushed to a private city hospital but succumbed shortly after. Family members were seen outside, crying hysterically, after the sudden passing of the child. They declined to speak to the media. Meanwhile, the owner of the hotel explained to
Kaieteur News that he is saddened by the incident and offered his condolences to the family. The owner stated that the pool has one lifeguard who was present at the time.
“The parents were there and they were warned to keep the child away from the pool, but apparently there was a break in attention and the child slipped into the pool.”
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Tuesday February 25, 2020
Kaieteur News
Carter Centre did address use of private polling stations in report
“Jude Bentley investigation was professionally handled”
…Advocated for voting in ‘neutral environment…free from intimidation’
- File to be sent to DPP today – Traffic Chief
The Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) has faced criticism from the political opposition on its decision to reduce the number of private polling stations it will use in the 2020 election. The private polling stations being used dropped from 166 in the 2015 elections to 92 for the 2020 elections. GECOM Chair, Justice Claudette Singh had said that the move was based on a recommendation from the Carter Centre. The Private Sector Commission released a statement yesterday, speaking out against the reduction. “The Private Sector Commission (PSC) takes extremely seriously the very real possibility that a significant number of voters may be disenfranchised by the changes made by the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) to a substantial number of polling places in a wide number of rural locations.” It went on to allege that the statement by the Chair that the Carter Centre addressed the use of private polling stations in its 2015 report - was false. “The Private Sector Commission is dismayed at the claim reported in the media to have been made by the Chairman of GECOM that the decision to change the location of these polling
GECOM Chair, Justice Claudette Singh places is in response to a recommendation made by the Carter Center that private residences, should not be used as polling places. The PSC has checked and is informed that the Carter Center in its final report, following the 2015, elections made no such recommendation and we call upon the Carter Center to immediately, publicly make the Center’s position clear on this matter.” It is on this and other premises that the PSC urged GECOM to reverse the “last minute changes” to the list of polling stations, and use the list previously agreed to by the Commissioners of GECOM. While the Carter Centre did not precisely recommend a reduction in the use of private polling stations – in the recommendations section beginning on page 56, it did
advocate for citizens to be given the opportunity to cast their votes in a neutral environment. The report, titled ‘Final Report: Observing the 2015 Guyana Elections’, can be accessed from the following page on the Carter Centre’s website: https:// www.cartercenter.org/news/ p u b l i c a t i o n s / election_reports.html#guyana On page 77 of the report, it is stated “While the establishment of polling stations on private property did not seem to negatively influence public confidence in the electoral process, GECOM should ensure that citizens can cast their ballot in a neutral environment”. On page 94, it is stated “While the establishment of polling stations on private property did not seem to negatively influence public confidence in the electoral process, The Carter Center recommends that GECOM take steps in future elections to ensure that citizens can cast their ballot in a neutral environment free from intimidation.”
Gary Best
Jude Bentley
The case file on the death of former National Cyclist Jude Bentley is likely to be in the hands of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) today. This reassurance was given by Traffic Chief Linden Isles who also emphasised that the investigation was “professionally handled”. Questions have been raised by Bentley’s family on the progress of the investigations since the accident occurred some three weeks ago. But Isles explained that the time was needed to ensure that a thorough investigation was conducted so that when the file reaches to the DPP, a speedy reply is expected. According to sources close to the investigations, the file had to be passed from the Commander of the Division, to the Crime Chief to the Traffic Chief before it was completed. Bentley was struck down and killed on
February 8, 2020 while cycling on the Rupert Craig Highway, near the Russian Embassy. Former Army Chief of Staff and Retired Rear Admiral, Gary Best, was driving the vehicle that struck Bentley. Police said that Best was over the legal alcohol limit at the time of the accident. Reports indicate that driver and cyclist were both heading east when Best’s vehicle struck Bentley’s cycle. It also struck a utility pole. According to the police report, Best alleged that he was proceeding east along the southern lane of Clive Lloyd Drive when a cyclist suddenly appeared in front of him. He reportedly told police that he applied brakes and the right side front of his vehicle struck the cyclist, who fell onto the roadway. Best was detained, but later transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital’s cardiac ward when he complained of feeling unwell. He was discharged a day later and released on $100,000 station bail.
Malaysia’s Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad resigns (CNN) Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad submitted his resignation to the country’s king on Monday, his office announced, a shock move that could plunge the country into political crisis. The surprise announcement comes amid speculation that 94-year-old Mahathir was attempting to form a new ruling coalition that would exclude his promised successor Anwar Ibrahim. It is not clear who will be the next Prime Minister or whether general elections will be held. Mahathir ’s party, the Malaysian United Indigenous Party (Bersatu) announced Monday it would
be dropping out of the ruling coalition Pakatan Harapan in support of the prime minister. “All members of the House of Representatives of the party are also out of Pakatan Harapan. All of them have signed the Oath to continue to support and trust Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad as the Prime Minister of Malaysia,” according to a statement from Bersatu President Muhyiddin Yassin. Deepening the political turmoil, Malaysia’s Economic Affairs Minister Mohamed Azmin Ali and Housing and Local Government Minister Zuraida Kamaruddin were both fired from Anwar’s People’s Justice Party earlier Monday.
Nine other lawmakers declared their allegiance to the ousted pair and left the party as well, according to a statement from the lawmakers. The 11 lawmakers also announced that they are forming an independent block in parliament. It follows meetings over the weekend between lawmakers of the ruling coalition and members of the former ruling party United Malays National Organization (UMNO), over alleged plans to form a new government, according to local news reports. In response, Anwar called out “traitors” within his own party and accused members of Mahathir ’s party of
plotting a change in the current ruling coalition. “We know there are attempts to bring down PH and form a new government,” Anwar said. Speaking at his party headquarters Monday, Anwar said he had met with the Prime Minister and told him that, “this treachery could be dealt with together.” “Those from my party and outside are using his name. He reiterated what he said to me earlier. He had no part in it. He made it very clear in no way would he work with those in the past regime,” Anwar said. Mahathir, the world’s oldest leader, stunned many observers with a surprise election win in May 2018, ending six decades of dominance by the ruling UMNO-dominated Barisan Nasional coalition led by Najib Razak. Entering into his second stint as prime minister, having
previously held the position from 1981 to 2003, Mahathir was credited with turning Malaysia into a major trading and economic force in Southeast Asia. After defeating Najib, who he blasted as corrupt and dictatorial, Mahathir had promised to hand over power to Anwar, who Mahathir himself once jailed. Amrita Malhi, research fellow in the Coral Bell School of Asia Pacific Affairs at the Australian National University, said Mahathir’s resignation “is likely a tactical move” with “no sure outcome.” “What tonight’s situation shows is that after the intense jockeying of the last few days, the confrontation that has been building inside the Pakatan Harapan government since its election has now been triggered,” Malhi said. “Both parties and coalitions — political formations that have existed
for the last couple of years or decades — are now splintering, and every single new grouping will have been preparing for any number of scenarios and contingencies in whatever negotiations are taking place now.” Mahathir and Anwar’s complicated relationship goes back decades. Anwar was the heir apparent to then-Prime Minister Mahathir until 1998, when he was fired and charged with corruption and sodomy. He spent six years in prison after being convicted of corruption charges in 1999 and of sodomy charges involving his wife’s former driver in 2000. Malaysia’s highest court overturned the sodomy conviction and ordered him released from prison in 2004. However, the corruption verdict was never lifted, barring him from running for political posts until 2008.
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Seaton, Noel, Persaud to represent Guyana at Carifta games Following their outstanding performance at the recently concluded Guyana Amateur Swimming Association Mash Meet, Leon Seaton, Raekwon Noel and Aleka Persaud will represent Guyana at the upcoming Carifta games. Seaton and Persaud will compete in the 15-17 age group, while Noel will contest in the 13-14 category. Sean Baksh is the coach. Seaton of Silver Shark Aquatic Swim Club stormed to victory in the boys 15-17 50m butterfly in a time of 28.54 seconds and the boys 15-17 100m freestyle in 57.54 seconds. Raekwon Noel of Dorado Swim Speed Club captured the boys 13-14 1500m freestyle in 18:00.40; Stephen Ramkhelawan of Dorado SSC
Leon Seaton placed second in 19:32.72 and Vladimir Woodroffe also of Dorado placed third in 19:43.14. Noel fine form continued when he stormed to victory in the boys 13-14 200m backstroke in 2:27.63. Jonathan Sookram won
the boys 15-17 1500m freestyle in 25:06.70. Shareefah Lewis of Sea Otters SC took the girls 9-10 200m IM in 3:08.78 while Jasmin Allen of Dorado SSC placed second in 3:39. 76 and Delia George of Dorado SSC was third in 4:00.37. Aleka Persaud of Orca SSC grabbed gold in the girls 13-14 200m IM 2:45.41 while Monique Watson of Dorado SSC took the runner up spot in 2:56.84. Persaud was again in winners’ lane when she carted off the girls 13-14 50m breaststroke in 39.09 ahead of Monique Watson in 41.29 and Britany Quamina in 44.08. Persaud went on to win the girls 13-14 100m freestyle in 1:04.36. Nikita Peters of Sea Otters SC grabbed the girls 15-17 200m IM in 3:11.35.
Tuesday February 25, 2020 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) You’ve always had psychic ability, and today it’s at a peak. Perhaps not coincidentally, you’re likely to be contacted by a close friend or lover from your past. TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) Prosperity is just around the corner, Taurus, if it isn’t here already. All your efforts are about to pay off and in a big way.It may be that a big proposal gets accepted at work. GEMINI (May 21–June 20) There is passion in the air and you’re convinced that you’re the one electrifying the air around you. To be blunt, you can think of little else but sex today. CANCER (June 21–July 22) You have an innate psychic ability that only needs some fine-tuning and strengthening for it to develop into a formidable power. Even now you sometimes find yourself reading other people's thoughts. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) You surprise yourself by signing up for a group lesson rather than a private one. This is unlike you; nevertheless, you find you enjoy the social interaction. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) You’ve been working especially hard and you’re beginning to wonder if all your effort has been for naught. A restructuring at work leaves you wondering just exactly where you fit in or if you even fit in at all.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) You’re bubbling over with confidence and enthusiasm, Libra. Not surprisingly, those around you respond in kind. Your smile is contagious, and you have people joking and laughing with you throughout the day. SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Your natural intuition and sensitivity will be heightened today, Scorpio. You’re able to read the thoughts and feelings of others and interpret them accurately. SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) A new relationship is likely to form soon, and it will probably be with someone who’s already in your life. Perhaps it’s someone you knew in high school and you just recently got back in touch with. CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) Your head is somewhat in the clouds today, Capricorn. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing; it just means that it’s difficult for you to get any work done. AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) Your heart and intuition will rule today much more than your mind. Trust what your instincts tell you. If you’re in a sales profession, you can expect the orders to come rolling in today PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Your creative nature will no longer be repressed. As you look around your home, you realize you feel the need to spruce it up a bit.
Jeron Sookram of Dolphin Swim SC won the boys 11-12 1500m in 23:30.14 while Ahkiel McKoy of Dorado SSC took the top podium spot in the boys 9-10 200m IM in 3:54.81. The girls 11-12 200m IM was taken by Zara Crane of Dorado SSC in 3:04.00. Hashim Mohamed of Dolphin SSC won the boys 11-12 200m IM in 3:02.76, while Elliott Gonsalves of Dorado SSC triumphed in the boys 13-14 200m IM in 2:30.39 and Ethan Gonsalves of Dorado SSC captured the boys 13-14 200m IM in 2:35.28. Andrew Skeete of Dolphin SSC took the boys 15-17 200m IM in 2:50.28. The boys 18 and over 200m IM was taken by Davis Williams of Dorado SSC in 2:56.80; Monique Watson took the top podium spot in the girls 13-14 200m backstroke in 2:53.09; Leah Torborg of Dorado SSC copped gold in the girls 200m backstroke in 3:43.09. The boys 18 and over 200m backstroke was won by
Dominican Republic... From page 29 minute. Group A saw Nicaragua defeat Guyana 1-0 at the Nicaragua National Football Stadium in Managua, Nicaragua to earn a place at the CU20. An early red card made things difficult for Guyana and the Pinoleros took advantage, with Ezequiel Ugalde scoring the game-winner in the 49th minute. Rounding out the action in Group A was the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) closing their campaign with a 3-2 win against St Vincent and the Grenadines. Shomari Francis, Jimson St. Louis and an own goal from Mekeal Williams provided the scoring for USVI, while Vincy Heat got goals from Williams and Jerron Dopwell. Barbados marched to a first-place finish in Group D with a 3-0 triumph over Cayman Islands at the Juan Roman Loubriel Stadium in Bayamon, Puerto Rico. A scoreless first half gave way to three Barbados goals in the final half-hour through Niall Reid-stephen in the 60th minute followed by two goals in two minutes from Donte Greenidge in the 84th and 85th. The group wrapped up with a feisty 2-2 draw between Puerto Rico and Bermuda. Jan Carlos Mateo Delgado’s brace gave Puerto Rico a twogoal lead, only to see Bermuda rally for the point through scores from Luciano Swan and Ayleal Dill.
Raekwon Noel and Aleka Persaud Fitzroy Thom of Torpedo SC. Heaven Belony of Dolphin SSC took the top podium spot in the girls 8 and under 50m breaststroke in 58.4; Ayden Jackson of Dolpin SSC won the boys 8 and under 50m breaststroke in 1:07.94; Shareefah Lewis was victorious in the girls 9-10 50m breaststroke in 45.09 while Michael Thompson of Dorado SSC won the boys 910 50m breaststroke in 54.98. Zara Crane took the girls 11-12 50m breaststroke in 42.43. The girls 15-17 50m breaststroke was won by Nikita Peters of Sea Otters SC in 47.03 while Safiya Foster of Dorado SC grabbed gold in the girls 18 and over 50m breaststroke in 44.72. The boys 11-12 50m breaststroke was won by Darius Pereira of Silver Shark
SC in 38.45. Elliott Gonsalves took the top podium spot in the boys 13-14 50m breaststroke in 36.12; Stephen Ramkhelawan won boys 15-17 50m breaststroke in 36.44; Andrew Jordan grabbed gold in the boys 18 and over 50m breaststroke in 33.79. Noel won the boys 13-14 100m freestyle in 59.76 and Seaton took gold in the boys 15-17 100m freestyle in 57.54. Noel was again victorious in the boys 13-14 200m butterfly in the 2:25.24 while Elliott Gonsalves took the runner up spot in 2:37.50 and Paul Mahaica Jr. of Dolphin SS placed third in 2:40.25. Watson won the girls 1314 400m freestyle in 5:39.81 while Crane took the girls 400m freesyyle in the11-12 division in 5:57.68. (Zaheer Mohamed)
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Tuesday February 25, 2020
Kaieteur News
Forbes Burnham Foundation Memorial Cycle Race
Williams is overall winner; Choo-Wee-Nam, Washington victorious Marlon Williams was crowned the overall winner when the Forbes Burnham Foundation Memorial TwoStage cycle road race was contested yesterday. Williams clocked four hours, 14 minutes, 28 seconds to win the event which spanned100 miles. The event commenced from Linden and proceeded to Georgetown, a total of 60 miles for the first leg and then from Carifesta Avenue to Belfield and back for the second leg which covered 40 miles. Curtis Dey took the runner up spot in a time of 4:14. 30, while Marcus Keiler placed third in 4:14.34 followed by Andrew Hicks in 4:14.35, Paul De Nobrega 4:14.36 and Stephano Husbands 4:14.38. Paul-Choo-Wee-Nam won the veterans segment, while Alexis Mendes placed second and Jaikaran Sookdeo third. Mario Washington carted off the Junior division; David Hicks finished second and Joslyn Thom was third.
The prize winners and organisers following the event.
Haynes and Lanning revive Haiti and Trinidad secure big wins to kick off Women’s U-20 Championship Australia’s T20 World Cup title defence SAN CRISTOBAL, Dominican Republic, CMC – Haiti and Trinidad and Tobago demolished their opponents as Group F of the 2020 CONCACAF Women’s Under-20 Championship kicked off here on Sunday. Haiti secured a massive eight-goal win over Cayman Islands while Trinidad and Tobago comfortably beat St Kitts and Nevis 6-0.
The day started with Trinidad and Tobago’s impressive display in which the Soca Warriors got a fourgoal performance from Afyiah Cornwall. Also etching their names on the scoresheet for Trinidad and Tobago was Aaliyah Prince and Maria Frances-Serrant. The second game of the day in the group saw three players bag braces for Haiti,
including 16-year-old MF Melchie Dumornay. Valentina Ornis and Florsie Joseph also scored two goals on the day, while Dayana Pierre Louis and Flero Dina Supris rounded out the scoring with one goal each. Next up for Trinidad and Tobago will be a clash on Tuesday with the Cayman Islands, while Haiti will meet St Kitts and Nevis.
Melchie Dale Dumornay of Haiti (centre) scored five goals to lead the victory over the Cayman Islands in Group F of the Concacaf U-20 Women’s Championship.
AFP - Rachael Haynes and Meg Lanning revived Australia’s stuttering women’s Twenty20 World Cup title defence with a match-turning 95-run partnership in the home side’s tense five-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in Perth yesterday. The four-time champions were on the brink of elimination at 10 for three chasing 123 before vicecaptain Haynes made 60 and skipper Lanning managed 41 not out to rescue Australia, who lost their opener against India on Friday. “Hopefully it settles our group down,” player of the match Haynes told reporters. “I hope today showed a little bit of our character.” Australia’s victory inches them closer to Group A pacesetters India and New Zealand. Only the top two from each of the two five-team groups qualify for the knockout phase with India making the early running after beating Bangladesh by 18 runs in the later match. Sri Lanka are all but eliminated having lost to New Zealand on Saturday. “Our young side played really well against the world champions,” said Sri Lanka captain Chamari Athapaththu, who topscored with 50. “We lost the match but won hearts in the
crowd.” Australia appeared in command after restricting Sri Lanka to a modest 122 for six from their 20 overs after Athapaththu elected to bat on a green-tinged WACA pitch. But the match spectacularly flipped when left-arm quick Udeshika Prabodhani bowled opener Alyssa Healy for a duck and Ashleigh Gardner for two with pearlers. Australia crashed further after Beth Mooney was stumped for six off spinner Shashikala Siriwardene. - Lanning reprieve Lanning, playing in her 100th T20 international, had a lucky escape in the eighth over when she was caught behind on 15 only to be given not out in a decision unable to be overturned with Sri Lanka out of reviews. Haynes, who was dropped twice, fell with 18 runs still needed but Lanning calmly guided Australia over the line with three balls to spare. In the later match, India overcame a spirited effort from Bangladesh, who played their tournament opener. After being sent in, 16year-old sensation Shafali Verma whacked three sixes in her first seven deliveries to get India off to a flyer.
She then smashed her fourth six with a sublime chip down the ground much to the delight of the strong Indian contingent in the terraces. Her whirlwind 17-ball 39 ended when she holed out to a juggled catch by Shamima Sultana. “She’s been given free licence to play her game. She’s playing fearless cricket,” quick Shikha Pandey said of Verma. India lost regular wickets, including two calamitous run-outs, but were powered by a late flurry from Veda Krishnamurthy (20 from 11) to reach 142-6. Bangladesh fought hard but never seriously threatened in their chase finishing at 124-8. In-form Indian spinner Poonam Yadav continued her impressive form with three wickets. Nigar Sultana, who topscored with 35, believed Bangladesh could be competitive against Australia on Thursday in Canberra. “We want to execute our plans and want to take all the positive things from this match into the next game,” she said. Scores: Australia 5 for 123 (Haynes 60, Lanning 41*, Prabodhani 2-17, Siriwardene 2-20) beat Sri Lanka 6 for 122 (Atapattu 50, Sanjeewani 25, Carey 218, Strano 2-23) by five wickets.
Tuesday February 25, 2020
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Kaieteur News
RHTYSC Cricket Teams, Guyana Beverage Co. hosts successful Say Yes/ Say No Parade Hundreds of students drawn from six schools along with the cricketers of the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club, MS on Republic Day participated in a massive Chubby Children Mash Parade along the Lower Corentyne Highway. The Mash Parade was organised by the ten cricket teams of the RHTYSC, MS with sponsorship from the Guyana Beverage Company under its Chubby Brand. The main objectives of the parade were to celebrate Guyana’s 50th Anniversary as a republic, to develop social cohesion among residents, to provide clean entertainment for families and to promote the Say No/ Say Yes message. The schools that participated in the parade were Cropper Primary, Belvedere Primary, Rose Hall Town Primary, Tain Primary, Rose Hall Town Nursery and Lower Corentyne Secondary School. The parade started at Hampshire Village and proceeded to the Area “H” Ground. They were led by music flowing from the Fyrish Steelband - (Panamas) and the True Heart Family Sound System. The schools and ten cricket teams along the way disclosed dozens of placards advising youths to Say No to Drugs, Crime, Suicide, Alcohol, Tobacco, Pre-marital Sex and Yes to Education, Life, Sports, Culture and Religion. The schools also highlighted the start of oil production in Guyana and its
potential for our development in the future. Thousands of residents came out to witness the parade and many of them were seen, recording the impressive parade on their cell phones. Club Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster at the closing ceremony hailed the parade as a resounding success that achieved its Objectives of spreading the Say No/Say Yes message to youths. He hailed the support of the Guyana Beverage Company in sponsoring the event and predicted that the 2021 edition would be bigger, better. Busta Marketing Manager Raymond Govindhan stated that his company was delighted with the messages promoted during the parade and the RHTYSC, MS ability to organise events at the highest level. He urged the students and their parents to make sure that they have the perfect mixture of sports and education as both can have a positive difference in their lives. After the two hours parade, the students and the large gathering were involved in a mini fun day with trampolines, bouncy castles, children games and witness a specially arranged 20/20 cricket match between the Berbice Female Cricket team and the RHTYSC Under-15 team. The under-15 team spearheaded by an unbeaten 52 from Guyana Under-15 player Matthew Pottaya defeated the females in the match.
Some participants of the parade poses with the Chubby Mascot.
Students of the Belvedere Primary School promoting the Say Yes/ Say No message.
National women’s TT team to play in World Championship next month
Guyana National women’s team (from left) Chelsea Edghill, JodyAnn Blake, Trenace Lowe and Natalie Cummings.
The Guyana national Women’s senior National Table Tennis team has been selected by the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) to participate in the 2020 World Teams Table Tennis Championships scheduled for the 22nd to 29th March 2020 in Buscan, South Korea. President of the Guyana Table Te n n i s A s s o c i a t i o n ( G T TA ) , Godfrey Munroe, in a release to the media noted that, “This is significant for the Guyana’s table Tennis brand because while male and female players have represented Guyana at the singles edition of the world table tennis championships in 2003, 2005 and 2013, Guyana has never had a representative national team male or female participating. This is a first for Guyana.” Previously teams and individual players could have been nominated by their respective federations to play in the World team and individual
championships. However, the new format of the ITTF provisions requires that teams and individual participation has to be done through a continental qualification system/process which is based on results in international competition which makes the selection even more noteworthy given that there is a quota system and process which allows for the best and elite teams in the world. This selection was made based on the results gained by the performance of the women’s team players namely, Trenace Lowe, Chelsea Edghill, Natalie Cummings, Jody-Ann Blake and Priscilla Greaves. The correspondence further noted that, “These championships would serve as a great preparation for the continental Olympic trials scheduled for April 14th to 19th in Argentina and other key international engagements.”
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Tuesday February 25, 2020
Kaieteur News
Milo Schools U-18 F/Ball tourney
Friendship & Canje in winner’s row, Vergenoegen & Tucville draw 1-all By Sean Devers In scorching heat at the Ministry of Education (MOE) ground on Carifesta Avenue, the 2020 Milo Schools U-18 football tournament and organised by the Petra Organisation, continued yesterday with a triple header after a break on Sunday due the Mash float parade to celebrate Guyana 50th Republic anniversary. East Bank Demerara’s Friendship secondary, on the back of a brace from Kevon Scott (13 & 48) and a wellplaced goal from Shane Harper, beat Carmel Secondary 3-1 with Tyrese Jones scoring the consolation goal in the 35th minute in the day’s opening game. Canje Secondary then got the better of South Ruimveldt 4-1 with the skilful Tyrick Ogleton scoring twice, while Omar Glenn and Tyquan Hartman finding the back of the nets once before Godfrey Weeks netted South Ruimveldt Secondary’s lone goal.
South Ruimveldt’s talented striker Joshua Milo (left) is dribbled by Canje’s Tyrick Ogleton who scored a brace yesterday at the MOE ground as the Berbicians won 4-1. In the final game of the Holiday Monday in front of another fair size crowd and
late starts, one of the pretournament favourites, Vergenoegen Secondary from
Foster urges Berbice U-17 players to up keep County’s rich tradition “We have invested heavily in your preparation as we strongly believe that it is only way to success. As you leave Berbice to represent the Ancient County, please remember at all times that you are the current stakeholders to the rich legacy of legends like John Trim, Rohan Kanhai, Basil Butcher, Joe Solomon, Roy Fredericks and Alvin Kallicharran. Do not disappoint us and always, always strive for excellence in everything you do on and off the cricket field.” Those were the words of Berbice Cricket Board President Hilbert Foster MS, as he addressed a special meeting for members of the Berbice Under17 team and their parents at the ST. Francis Community Developers Conference Hall. The Berbice team under the leadership of Zeynul Ramsammy would be playing in the Guyana Cricket Board Under-17 Cricket Tournament
from today against Essequibo, Demerara and the Guyana Under-15 select team. Foster at the meeting spoke of the importance of discipline in the Berbice Cricketing Culture and warned the players that no form of indiscipline would be tolerated. The BCB President called on the attentive parents to place more emphasis on the personal development of their child and to turn up at venues to support them. He stated that while he strongly believes that education is the key to success, sports is also a crucial aspect of a child’s development as it teaches them about discipline, dedication and working in a collective environment. Foster pledged that as long as he remains head of the BCB, special emphasis would be placed on the development of youths, while every youth would be given equal opportunity to fulfill his/her potential.
Foster handed over Berbice caps to each of the players and also unveiled several incentives to the players including Man of the Match prizes for each match and a special gift for the Most Valuable Player of Berbice wins. Each of the players received a youth information booklet on Berbice Cricket. The full Berbice team is – 1. Zeynul Ramsammy – (cpt) 2. Jonathan Rampersaud(vice-cpt) 3. Leon Cecil 4. Naresh Veersammy 5. Mahendra Gopilall 6. Jeremy Sandia 7. Hemendra Gurdyal 8. Mahendra Ramcharitar 9. Satya France 10. Tomani Casear 11. Savishkar Sobhai 12. Christopher Deroop 13. Isiah Thorne 14. Pavendra Ganesh Surendra Kissoonlall is the Manager and former national player Delbert Hicks is the coach.
the West side and Tucville Secondary from greater Georgetown played to a 1-all draw. Elson David scored with a left footer in the 4thminute as the West Demerara School went ahead before Simeon Benn scored the equaliser in the 59th minute. In the entertaining game of the day, the talented Ogleton out-ran the defenders from the right flank and with only Custodian Kevin Marks drilled in a rightfooter from inside the box in the 3rd minute. A couple on target shots from South Ruimveldt were well saved by Canje’s Goalkeeper Naquin Samuels as South pushed forward in the first half. A powerful long range shot was tapped just over the bar before a powerful shot from inside the area, had Samuels working hard. The teams battled for possession but the Berbicans demonstrated better ball control and Glen soon found the back of the net in the 25th minute. Joshua Milo looked threating for South but lacked potent support and the livewire Ogleton beat Marks all ends up from the penalty spot as he dived to his right in the
Shane Harper (left) & Kevin Scott who scored a brace lead Friendship to a 3-1 win over Carmel. 30th minute as the first 35minute half ended with the Region six team enjoying a 3nil advantage. South raised their intensity a bit in the second half and looked the better side as the Canje players seemed to tire before Hartman scored his team’s fourth goal.
Samuels was finally beaten in 51th minute as South Ruimveldt’s lone goal came off the boot of Godfrey Weekes. The action continues on Saturday with a triple header and Sunday with another three matches. Christiansburg Secondary are the defending Champions.
2020 Concacaf Men’s Under-20 Championship
Guyana go out with pride, Nicaragua qualify with 1-0 win; Mc Arthur end as joint HGS A robust performance by a determined 10-man team was not enough as Guyana bowed out of contention in the 2020 Concacaf Men’s Under-20 Championship via a 0-1 loss to host nation Nicaragua on Sunday night at the Nicaragua National Football Stadium. Going into the encounter locked on the same points (9) as Nicaragua which were ahead on goal difference, the ‘Junior Jaguars’ found themselves a player down in the 18th minute but still mustered the fortitude to fight all the way down to the final whistle. Under tremendous pressure owing to the fact that five (5) of its players were Final Group A Point’s Table Country G W Nicaragua 4 4 Guyana 4 3 US Virgin Is. 4 1 Saint Vincent 4 1 Montserrat 4 0
denied entry into Nicaragua, the young Guyanese rotating just 15 players for the four matches gave up a goal which turned out to be the winner four minutes into the second half, the Pinoleros’ Ezequiel Ugalde it was who scored in the 49th minute. Head Coach Wayne Dover and staff were high in praise for the performance of the team given the many challenges they would have faced during the tournament and were still able to post three wins, scoring a total of 11 goals whilst conceding just a single goal. In their opening match, the young ‘Golden Jaguars’ defeated Montserrat 6-0, stopped St. Vincent and the
D 0 0 1 0 1
L 0 1 2 3 3
GF 15 11 4 7 2
Grenadines 3-0 and against an ultra defensive US Virgin Islands which sat back in their defensive third, Guyana were still able to win 2-0. Captain Nicholas Mc Arthur and Nicaragua’s Centeno Hernández ended as the joint highest goal scorers with five (5) each. US Virgin Islands ended their campaign with a 3-2 win over St. Vincent & the Grenadines. Guyana starting X1: 1. Shawn Adonis, 2. Marcus Wilson, 3. Eric Moore, 4. Keanu Lawrence, 5. Nicholai Andrews, 6. Threvon Pluck, 7. Jamar Harrigan, 8. Nicholas McArthur (C), 9. Omari Glasgow, 10. Javier George, 11. Osafa Simpson.
GA 0 1 13 9 16
+/15 10 -9 -2 -14
Pts 12 9 4 3 1
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Tuesday February 25, 2020
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Drag Championship round 1 rescheduled T
he executive committee of the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC), following their latest meeting held last week, has announced that the round one of the highly anticipated Drag Championship has been rescheduled from March 15th to a date to be determined in April. The reason for the date change has been cited as a move to create the best atmosphere for the fans, while allowing for maximum participation by drivers who are currently working along with mechanics to get their machines race ready. A source close to the club has revealed that at least five cars from neighbouring Suriname are expected for round one of the Championship. Round one of the 2019 Drag Championship was recorded as the biggest drag meet in Guyana with thousands of fans in
Record numbers turned out for round one at the 2019 drag championship.
Team Mohamed GTR Godzilla.
attendance. And, recently reelected head of the Club along with new vicepresident Shairaz Roshandin are working along with everyone to ensure another successful round one showing in 2020. Dereck Jaisingh in his
Jumbo Jet Auto Sales Toyota Supra, speed away with the unlimited class series in the last drag race meet in 2020 but Team Mohamed’s racing are sure to return with blazing times in 2020 to stake claim to the drag racing crown. (CC)
Dominican Republic, Barbados and Nicaragua qualify for CONCACAF Men’s U-20 C/Ship M O N T E P L ATA , Dominican Republic, CMC – The Dominican Republic, Barbados and Nicaragua secured first-place finishes in their respective groups in CU20 Qualifying on Sunday to qualify for the 2020 Concacaf Men’s Under-20 Championship. In Group B, the Dominican Republic clinched their spot with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Grenada at the Complejo Deportivo de Bayaguana in Monte Plata here. The two teams were tangled in a stalemate for almost the entire match, but a Jayson Made goal in the 82nd minute proved decisive
Dominican Republic players celebrate after the hosts punched their ticket to the Concacaf Men´s Under 20 Championship. and sent the Dominican Republic to the next phase of the competition. In the group’s other match, Dominica topped Anguilla 4-1. Braces from
Audel Laville and Kadimel Paul proved more than enough against Anguilla’s lone goal through Sedu Bradshaw in the 29th (Continued on page 25)
Guyana Masters’ hockey team win Canadian hockey tourney
T
he Golden Arrow head was flown high in North America on the 50th Republic Anniversary of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana after Guyana’s Masters over-40 hockey team maintained a perfect record to win the ‘Masters of our destiny’ indoor field hockey festival which was held in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Playing at the University o f To r o n t o , G u y a n a outlasted the United States of America (USA), Canada Red, Canada White and the England Lions in three exciting days of hockey which began on February 21 and concluded on the 23rd.
After playing unbeaten throughout the tournament, the Guyanese had no trouble getting past Canada Red in the final, while USA got past England Lions in the third place playoff. The ‘Masters of our destiny’ over-40 tournament was held in Toronto for the first time this year. The tournament rules’ stipulates that all the players must be over-40 with the exception of one. This year there was just one division, over-40 men’s but the organisers of the event has noted on their website that next year they will be looking to add a female over-40 division with Team USA already showing
interest. Head of the Guyana Hockey Board, Philip Fernandes, in an invited comment, shared with Kaieteur Sport that although he was unable to participate, he is happy that the side has represented Guyana well and it is even more special that they have won this tournament on a momentous occasion such as the 50th Republic Anniversary. In other hockey news, Fernandes shared, the GHB currently has a national select squad of 26 men shortlisted in preparation for the Pan American Challenge hockey tournament which is scheduled for June 27th- July 5th in Lima, Peru. (CC)
Kaieteur News
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Bakewell Topp XX’s Keon Hall is Most Valuable Player of Linden Mash Cup Football Bakewell Topp XX’s forward Keon Hall walked away with the Most valuable Player award on Friday night when Topp XX edged Coomacka in the final 1-0 of the Jermine and Family Linden Mash Cup football championship at the Mackenzie Sports Club Friday night. Hall, who is also captain of his team, scored the goals which helped Topp XX cart away the top prize of $600,000. His goal allowed Topp XX to a 1-1 stalemate before they went on to beat Haynes and Lewis Winners Connection on penalty kicks 7-6 in the semifinal. Hall would then net the lone goal that saw Topp XX take the inaugural Linden Mash Cup championship in the final. The MVP won the Aleyn Bynoe trophy, a football boots from Jerry Faucet and one king or queen size bed from McRae’s Hardware and General Store. His teammate Travis Waterton was the Top Scorer in the tournament with four goals, beating three other players who had three apiece. Waterton won a boots which was donated by
Organiser Stanley Lancaster, at left, hands over one of trophies to MVP Keon Hall of Topp XX. former national player Rickland ‘Tallo’ Hutson. The Best Defender award was won by Delroy Conteh who won a trophy. C o o m a c k a ’s K e l l o n Major was adjudged the Best Goalkeeper for his great saves throughout the tournament and won a smart phone donated by Melville’s Variety Store of Wisrcock, while Shymah Samuels the youngest player of the tournament collected a bicycle from Snooks Variety
Store. The four coaches of the teams in the final four: B a k e w e l l To p p X X , Coomacka, Botafago and Haynes and Lewis Winners Connection each got a food hamper from Edward Beharry. Champions Topp XX won $600,000, runners-up Coomacka $300,000, third placed Botafago received $200,000 and fourth placed Wi n n e r s C o n n e c t i o n $100,000.
Tuesday February 25, 2020
Aurora Knight Riders Cricket Club erects billboard in Aurora Newly crowned South/Central Essequibo T/20 champions, Aurora Knight Riders, last Sunday erected a billboard in the beautiful community of Aurora, much to the delight of villagers. The board which will serve to highlight the beginning and end of the village was the brain child of President of the club Mr. Reshad Ally. At the simple ceremony, Mr. Ally told the many residents gathered that the club saw it fitting to give back something tangible to the community. He further remarked that over the past few years, the club would have executed many activities, all for the benefit of the villagers. The Knight Riders who are also the South Essequibo 40-overs champions have been providing an avenue for the youths to harness their talent in a way that will only serve to enhance the image of the community. The club whose next assignment is a coast-wide
Aurora Knight Riders billboard that demarks the start and end of the village. T/20 tournament, would like to thank all their supporters, friends and well wishers for the massive support given and vowed to keep the flag of honestly, fairness and
discipline flying even higher. The board was made possible by Mr. Awaaz Ali, Timure Speedboat Service, Jojo Mechanical Workshop among other supporters.
Golf enters new era in Guyana
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exGen Golf Academy was officially launched on Friday in an effort to ensure that the sport is made more fun and accessible to students and new players. The Academy, headed by Aleem Hussain and Rudy R amalin g u m p lan s o n providing the best in entertainment golf (where both beginning and established golfers can win prizes) while enjoying a unique atmosphere of music, food and drinks and training for students of all ages.
For many years, the idea of golf in schools has been tossed around but now it will become a reality as the sport can be taught as a CAPE/CXC subject. “We intend to have 300 students under instruction by end of 2020 and hope that we can provide golf as an entertainment alternative to thousands of people in Guyana,” Mr. Ramalingum said. Students will be able to take the theoretical course in classrooms and then come to the fields for their practical work. A top coach has been
identified to become the technical advisor to the programme and will be visiting from Trinidad on a regular basis until the local coaches are certified. The entertainment model, similar to the branded To p G o l f w h i c h h a s revolutionized the sport in the USA, is designed to create a welcoming atmosphere for all levels of golfers (those who have never touched a club to the well-versed players). Two locations in the heart of Georgetown have been identified and the Academy plans on having its grand opening within three weeks from today. Top notch food, drinks and lots of challenges under the lights will ensure that lots of persons become interested in the sport. Several major companies have indicated that they will be partnering with the Academy to provide exposure of the sport and their products to the players and will roll out a marketing campaign in time for the launch. For more information about the Academy, please call 644-3118/645-0944.
Narayan Ramdhani and Priyanna Ramdhani with their awards.
Ramdhani siblings get collegiate awards
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arayan Ramdhani and Priyanna Ramdhani were awarded by the ACAC (Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference). The awards were in recognition of outstanding achievements in the field of college sport in Alberta Canada and for having been selected to the 2019/2020 All Conference Badminton Team. The presentation was done in Edmonton
Alberta, Canada on Saturday last at the Badminton Champions Banquet. This is the second time Narayan received this award as his first was last year. It’s a great achievement for both Guyanese athletes who have been performing extremely well and maintained top three positions in the Playoffs at the ACAC Tournament 1, 2 & 3 played from September 2019 to date.
Tuesday February 25, 2020
Kaieteur News
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Joaan Deo champion in Sterling Products Inaugural Golf tourney Former Guyana Open Ladies champion Dr Joaan Deo with almost surgical precision removed Sterling Products’ inaugural golf tournament Champion’s trophy on Saturday last, as she cut her strokes with finesse to emerge clear ahead of all the competitors. Joaan’s performance earned her the winner of her (10-18) Flight– the highly competitive ‘middle Flight’ as well as winner of the entire tournament. She received the Tournament Champion’s trophy, while the golfers placing next in that flight received the 1st place prize for the Flight. (This format was instituted from the previous tournament to avoid the tournament winner also gaining a prize for winning their Flight.) Winners of the 10-18 Flight were Joaan Deo (62/15) – Champion; Hilbert Shields (66/16) – 1st; Rakesh Harry 67/14) – 2nd. Very good performances were offered by Ravindra H a r r y ( 6 9 / 1 3 ) , Ay u b e Subhan (70/14), Patanjilee Persaud (71/14), Maxim Mangra (71/17), Rabindranath Persaud (72/17); Aasrodeen Shaw (73/12), Lekhnarine Shivraj (73/15), Ian Gouveia (74/14) and Paton George (76/16). In the 19 – 36 Flight, Brian Hackett produced a great 69/22 to score the 1st place, while Anasha Ally delivered a commendable 72/32 to be 2nd. Eion Blue’s 74/28 and Eureka Giddings 76/27 showed that these players are continually improving their game. In the 0-9 Flight, current Guyana Open Champion, Avinash Persaud, was 1st with a magnificent 70/2, gaining him the Best Gross (72) prize as well – he also won the Longest Drive prize. In 2nd place was Jetendra Dhanpat (73/9) who was playing after a long absence from the sport. Nearest the Pin was won by Rabindranath Persaud. On hand from Sterling Products - of Public Road,
Providence, East Bank Demerara, Guyana. Telephone +592-265-7403, E m a i l sales@sterlingguyana.com, - was Sterling’s Merchandising & Promotions Supervisor, D e l l o n Ly n c h , w h o congratulated the winners for their victory as well as all the participants for enduring the warm sunshine that bathed the course that day. Indicating that Sterling was happy to be contributing to the development of golf in Guyana, he also reiterated Sterling’s CEO Mr Ramsey A l i ’s c o m m i t m e n t t o continue partnering with the LGC, especially with its drive to involve children in the sport. Sterling Products Limited the local producer of: Edible Fats – Golden Cream and Marigold Margarine, Sunny Vale Butter & Abbey Butter Spread, Umda Phalka Ghee a n d B a k e r ’s P r i d e Shortening; Detergents – Mighty Foam Liquid and Powdered Laundry detergents and Dishwashing Liquid and All-purpose Cleaner; Ice-creams – Igloo Fruit & Inclusion, Igloo SLURRUP and Yo’Great Natural Yogurt; and Hydr8 Coconut Water, has been in business for over 60 years in Guyana and this month launched a new brand of icecream products– the Igloo Royal Ripple Premium Icecreams. Mr Ali had indicating that Sterling being a producer of premium products, noted that golf is a premium sport and so the association would benefit both agencies. (The Sterling Products involvement was initiated by LGC Member Ramesh Dookhoo and followed up by then President Aleem Hussain to fruitful action.) As part of its sponsorship, Sterling Products provided 6 hampers of the combination of their products, which were distributed to appropriate winners.
The winners and the sponsor’s representative. From left: Mr. Dellon Lynch, Jetendra Dhanpat, Avinash Persaud, Brian Hackett, Joaan Deo, Joaan’s niece – a young golfer, Anasha Ally, Rabindranath Persaud, Rakesh Harry and Captain Chatterpaul Deo.
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Guyana Masters’ hockey team win Canadian hockey tourney
Team Guyana pose with the Golden Arrowhead after winning the Masters of our destiny over-40 hockey festival on Republic Day.
Milo Schools U-18 F/Ball tourney
Friendship & Canje in winner’s row, Vergenoegen & Tucville draw 1-all Canje’s Tyrick Ogleton was on fire yesterday and outsprints two defenders before shooting straight to Kevin Marks in Goal.
Friendship Secondary’s Keeper Earl Wilson is airborne as he taps the ball over the Bar yesterday at MOE ground. (Sean Devers photos)
2020 Concacaf Men’s Under-20 Championship
Guyana go out with pride, Nicaragua qualify with 1-0 win; Mc Arthur end as joint HGS
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