Kaieteur News

Wednesday February 26, 2014

Kaieteur News

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Letters... Where your views make the news... Letters... Where your views make the news

A weak govt. cannot fight crime Granger words are far removed from his actions DEAR EDITOR, On the first day of this new year I read all of the messages from the political parties but what stood out for me was the message from Brigadier David Granger, Leader of the APNU. Mr. Granger’s message was focused on 2014 being the “Year for Workers” and he spoke of the challenges workers faced in 2013. His wish is that in 2014 “we all work together towards providing a good life for all Guyanese.” As I reflected on Mr. Granger’s words, and as a Public Servant myself, I could relate to some of the challenges that workers face - the need for better labour relations; better remuneration; more jobs; better working conditions, improved social services. No doubt these were the very issues Mr. Granger and his coalition of Parties in the APNU campaigned on in 2011 and were successful for the first time in our country’s history, to secure a combined Opposition majority in Parliament. As a non-political person I was concerned about how this would work, and whether the combined Opposition (APNU and AFC) would be able to put aside the political baggage of the PNC era and political bitterness on the part of the AFC, to work with the Government to “put Guyana first” and to really ‘champion workers rights.” Sadly, after two years of

watching the charade in Parliament, and the rhetoric from the Opposition politicans, I am very disillusioned about Guyana’s future. I ask myself, has APNU and AFC done enough to work with the Government to provide a good life for all Guyanese and to champion workers rights? In my view, the answer to this question is a disappointing No. I cannot help but ask Mr. Granger the following questions: How can Mr. Granger talk about creating job opportunities for Guyanese when he and his Party vote down projects such as the Amaila Hydro Project that will create employment for Guyanese? How can Mr. Granger talk about improving the social services for Guyanese when he and his Party votes down projects such as the Specialty Hospital; hinterland airstrips, improving the Timehri International Airport? How can Mr. Granger talk about caring for workers rights when he and his Party deliberately and vindictively cut budgets of key Government entities such as NCN and GINA? Spare a though for those employees and their families Mr. Granger. Did you think of what kind of Christmas they would have had? Don’t you think some of them may have been your supporters as well or is it because they work for Government makes them all anti-Opposition and pro-PPP?

How can Mr. Granger talk about working for a good life for all Guyanese when he and his Party are subtly sending political messages to public servants in Ministries and Agencies to frustrate the implementation of Government projects that would benefit all Guyanese? Mr. Granger, for two successive years we have seen you as Opposition Leader, spearhead the cutting of Guyana’s budget. This is unprecedented in our country as we have been accustomed to the Opposition lobbying for Government to allocate more funds for development initiatives. We are approaching the 2014 budget, will it be a repeat of the cuts? Remember Mr. Granger, this one-seat majority has placed tremendous responsibility on you. Your actions and not the government’s alone, determine if our country moves forward or if we bring undue hardship to Guyanese people. You have been part of a Party, the PNC, that took our country backward. Will history be repeating itself? Mr. Granger, you and your Party will be judged not by the magnanimous speeches you make at the beginning of the year, but by your actions thereafter. Only time will tell, the ball is in your court. Christopher Persaud Campbellville, Greater Georgetown

APNU and GPSU attack on senior public servants disgusting DEAR EDITOR; I read with disgust the Kaieteur News article on 1st January 2014 reporting on APNU’s “bark dog” Joseph Harmon and GPSU President Patrick Yarde attacking senior public servants Mr. Clyde Roopchand and Mr. Clement Sealey and former Ministers and functionaries in the Ministry of Local Government, Mr. Clinton Collymore and Mr. Harripersaud Nokta. I am aware of the yeoman service of Collymore and Nokta in Parliament, Local Government and Hinterland Development, Nokta being someone who is held in high regard by many Guyanese and even some in the PNC for his intimate knowledge of Guyana’s interior and work among the Amerindians. What I am more familiar with are the years of dedicated service to our country by senior public servants Clyde Roopchand and Clement

Sealey who have, and still today, continue to make major contributions to the development of our country by lending their considerable experience and expertise to the Ministry of Finance and Guyana Revenue Authority. These gentlemen have made their mark in helping to move our country forward and have been truly professional public servants through the PNC and the PPP Governments to the point where some have even accused them of having political alignments when they were only carrying out their professional duties. It was therefore distasteful when, only a few hours after leader of the APNU, David Granger in his New Year’s Message spoke about 2014 being the “Year for Workers” and his wish that in 2014 “we all work together towards providing a good life for all Guyanese” to see an article attributing these

attacks on two senior Guyanese professionals public servants. Isn’t it ironic that Mr. Granger gives a magnanimous speech on championing workers rights, but his “puppet” Patrick Yarde and “bark dog” Joe Harmon make utterances to the contrary? Yarde and Harmon cannot even stand in the same intellectual and professional space as Messrs. Roopchand and Sealey, much less be compared. There is a saying that those who live in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones. Perhaps an examination needs to be made of Yarde and Harmon and the role they have played in Guyana’s history and development. It would indeed be revealing and make for interesting reading I am sure. Collis Smith Plantation Diamond, E.B.D.

DEAR EDITOR, The newly reported statistics on cold homicide cases in Guyana raise new concerns about the effectiveness of the strategies of the Minister of Home Affairs in the fight against crime and violence. It was startling to learn that more than 130 homicides were committed in Guyana last year and that more than a third of these cases have gone “cold” or have not been solved. By any analysis, the statistics are clearly troubling. They indicate that the Mr. Rohee has lost the fight against crime. The case, however, could also be made that the regime has also lost the fight against several other ills in the society, such as the 50 per cent unemployment among the youth population, a deteriorating health service, a sputtering education system, a screeching legal system and a failing university—so why we single out the fight against crime? We do because it is historically accepted that the primary purpose of any government is to prevent crime and any related dangers to its citizens. In other words, this government is irrelevant if it cannot protect its citizens

who are at the mercy of the criminals and gangs. If we accept that the protection of citizens is the prime purpose of government, then we must conclude that given our perilously high homicide rate over the last five years the Minister of Home Affairs has been a major let-down and a complete failure to the citizens. In business, when a company involved in several endeavors senses that it is failing at its core functions, it is generally expected to retreat from non-core activities in favour of defending its core business. While a country is not a company, commonsense

would suggest that Government adopt the same generic approach. That would mean that the Minister of Home Affairs should retreat from non-governmental activities and focus on solving crime and the protection of the citizens of Guyana. This raises the contentious and highly debated matter of what is the most pressing issue facing the Government at any point in time. Quite often the discussions are misguided, with the debaters confusing cause and effect issues. We then end up with recommendations for solutions that involve Continued on page 23

Nailing some lies that... From page 4 No one must ever underestimate the impact of my calling Edghill a tool of Jagdeo and the fallout that it precipitated. History has proved that I was right. As far as the Indian managers at Guysuco being incompetent are concerned, I am as mystified as any of you, since I cannot find anywhere that I had said so, I actually don’t care what colour they are, I am saying that the PPP, since it solely occupies the board, has not done one thing to date in the industry to impress me. Bisram can take his racial lies, misrepresentations and fictions and jump into the Hudson River with an anchor around his neck, since it is clear that his obvious love of fiction [as are his polls] has overtaken his capacity for the truth. Tony Vieira

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Kaieteur News

Wednesday February 26, 2014

PPP, PNCR in war of words over nation’s security By Dale Andrews Guyana’s two major political parties are once again trading verbal blows over their perception of the nation’s security. But this time around, instead of the Police Force being at the centre of the controversy, it is the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), with the ruling People’s Progressive Party (PPP) accusing the Leader of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR), Brigadier (ret’d) David Granger, of attempting to use a backdoor strategy to preempt and influence the budgetary allocations to the army. But minutes later, the PNCR responded with a statement accusing the PPP General Secretary Clement Rohee, who also holds political responsibility for the nation’s security as the Minister of Home Affairs, of making slanderous and libelous remarks. The verbal battle stems from the outcome of a recent meeting between a team from the PNCR, led by Granger, a retired Brigadier, and a contingent from the Guyana Defence Force headed by Chief of Staff, Brigadier Mark Phillips at army headquarters, Camp Ayanganna. Reading from a prepared statement during a media conference yesterday at the PPP headquarters, Freedom House on Robb Street, Rohee said that his party had noted with disgust the recent pronouncements of Opposition Leader David

- Recent meeting between main opposition, GDF top brass sparks controversy Granger. Rohee pointed out to the media that Granger, following a meeting with the GDF Chief of Staff and other senior military officials had “made statements that are in stark contrast with APNU’s refusal to engage Government on consultations on the 2014 Budget Estimates.” The PNC had announced its support for budgetary allocations to the army to help in the fight against the trade in illegal drugs. However, according to Rohee, “It boggles the mind that Mr. Granger would seek an audience with senior army personnel, ostensibly out of national security concerns, when the parliamentary opposition of which he is Leader is doing everything possible to undermine the efforts of the PPP/C administration to put measures in place, at the legislative and administrative levels, to protect the integrity of the country, more particularly the citizens of Guyana.” “One is left to wonder whether it is the same David Granger whose Party was highly critical of the GDF on a range of issues including the unwarranted and unsubstantiated attacks on the role of the army in the Lindo Creek Massacre and alleged links to criminal elements which resulted in the massacres at Lusignan and Bartica.”

Brig (Ret’d) David Granger

Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee

Brigadier Mark Phillips

Rohee said that Granger’s utterances are all the more intriguing, if not hollow, given APNU’s consistent attacks against the Joint Services. In response, the PNCR strongly condemned Rohee’s statements, describing as a total fabrication the suggestion that the coalition, A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), of which the PNCR is the major partner, has “constantly” attacked the Joint Services. “What is true is our criticism of and lack of confidence in Clement James Rohee and his total incompetence and willful neglect of the Security Sector of this nation,” the PNCR lashed back. The verbal battle did not end there, with the PPP delving into the past, accusing Granger of being part of the military which was responsible for the murder of two citizens, during attempts

to seize ballot boxes more than four decades ago. “It is also expected that in his conversation with the Chief of Staff he would have explained his own role along with that of his parliamentary colleague Joseph Harmon in providing intelligence to the PNC to oppress and suppress the political opposition during the dark days of the Burnham- Hoyte era,” the PPP General Secretary added. Rohee stated that it is to be noted that Granger had in his APNU delegation “a former Commissioner of Police, who is known to have undermined the country’s national security interest by his close relationship with a known drug trafficker and his attempts to conspire with a known Attorney at Law to place drugs in the suitcase of an out-going passenger at Cheddi Jagan International Airport”. These utterances

regarding Opposition Leader and PNCR Leader Brigadier David Granger’s involvement in highjacking ballot boxes and the death of two Guyanese during the 1973 General Elections, were brushed aside by the main opposition party as an outright lie. In November 2011, Brigadier Granger had categorically stated; “I was not the commander of the Guyana Defence Force (in 1973). I was not at the scene of any shooting. I never shot anyone.” The PNCR pointed to a Commission of Inquiry coordinated by the Honourable Justice Dhanessar Jhappan that looked into the shooting at Number 64 village during the 1973 General Elections. “The PNCR sees this type of gutter politics by the PPP as an attempt to divert the attention of the people of Guyana from the party’s incompetence and lack of

vision for this nation and the plight and struggles of the average working men and women of this nation. The PNCR calls attention to the fact that while Rohee peddles his disinformation and propaganda, the vital Security Sector which is his remit cries out for competent leadership,” the party stated. According to the PNCR, under Rohee’s watch, Guyana has digressed to a haven for narco-traffickers and gunrunners and all forms of criminality. “There is one armed robbery every twelve hours in Guyana. Under Rohee and the PPP administration the Italian and Mexican Mafia have transformed Guyana into a transshipment point for narcotics shipments to North America, Europe and Africa. There were 154 murders in 2013 an 11% increase; most of these murders remain unsolved; there was a 7% increase in serious crimes (armed robberies, rape, kidnapping, burglary etc.); guns and drugs freely cross our borders, yet Clement Rohee says that there is no Security Crisis in Guyana, and seemingly has enough time to conduct a campaign of lies and disinformation against the leadership of APNU.” The PNCR said that the party as well as the people of Guyana will not be fooled and distracted by the shenanigans of the PPP. “It is clear to all, and Rohee’s antics today prove beyond a doubt that there is a crisis of leadership in the Peoples Progressive Party.”

Wednesday February 26, 2014

Kaieteur News

Ukraine wants fugitive president to face Hague court (Reuters) - Ukraine’s parliament voted yesterday to send fugitive President Viktor Yanukovich to the International Criminal Court, while his acting successor expressed concern about “signs of separatism” in Russian-speaking Crimea. A resolution, overwhelmingly supported by parliament, linked Yanukovich, who was ousted by the legislature on Saturday and is now on the run, to police violence against protesters which it said had led to the deaths of more than 100 citizens of Ukraine and other states. The Hague-based court said it would need a request from the government of Ukraine giving it jurisdiction over the deaths. With an early presidential election set for May 25, one of Ukraine’s most prominent opposition figures, retired world boxing champion Vitaly Klitschko, confirmed he would run. Yanukovich was indicted by the new authorities for “mass murder” on Monday over the shooting of demonstrators in Kiev and is now on the wanted list, having last been seen at Balaclava in Crimea, near Russia’s Sevastopol naval base. The resolution said former interior minister Vitaly Zakharchenko and former prosecutor-general Viktor Pshonka, who are also being sought by the authorities,

Obama tells Pentagon to plan for Afghan pullout

Viktor Yanukovich

Hamid Karzai and Barack Obama

should also be sent for trial at the ICC. “Parliament asks the International Criminal Court to hold Viktor Yanukovich and other high-level people criminally responsible for issuing and carrying out openly criminal orders”, the resolution said. Ukraine never signed the treaty that created the ICC, which since its f o u n d i n g in 2002 has handled only cases from Africa. However, the court could intervene if Ukraine asked it to. “A government can make a declaration accepting the court’s jurisdiction for past events,” said court spokesman Fadi El Abdallah, adding that it would then be

up to the court’s prosecutor to decide whether or not to open an investigation. The tribunal has jurisdiction over only serious international crimes, and then only if local authorities are unable or unwilling to deal with those cases themselves. Ukraine would not have any say over who might be investigated. Acting interior minister Arsen Avakov said Yanukovich was wanted for the “mass murder of peaceful citizens”. Yanukovich left Kiev by helicopter on Friday, heading for his power base in the east, where he was prevented from flying out of the country and then diverted south to Crimea.

Turkish PM investigated for corruption ANKARA, Turkey (AP) — Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan is the subject of a corruption inquiry, state-run media said yesterday, as opposition parties demanded that his government resign. Ankara’s chief prosecutor initiated an investigation into audio recordings purportedly of Erdogan and his son arranging to dispose of vast amounts of cash amid a graft probe, the Anadolu agency reported. Erdogan met with Turkey’s intelligence chief shortly after the voice recordings circulated on the Internet on Monday. The voices were heard discussing means of getting rid of large amounts of money from an undisclosed residence. A statement issued by Erdogan’s office later said the tapes were fabricated and that legal action would be taken against those responsible. It

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Recep Tayyip Erdogan was not clear if the investigation was to determine the recordings’ authenticity or whether they represented a possible criminal act.

Yesterday, Devlet Bahceli, the leader of Turkey’s farright Nationalist Action Party, called the recordings “mindblowing” and urged prosecutors and other judicial bodies to intervene. The Republican People’s Party, Turkey’s main opposition, claimed to have verified the authenticity of the recordings through “three or four channels” and called on Erdogan to either resign or “flee (Turkey) by helicopter.” Erdogan lashed out at Turkish and foreign enemies he claimed were conspiring to bring his government down and again charged that the tapes were fabricated. “This is a treacherous act against the prime minister of Turkey,” he said. The Associated Press cannot authenticate the recordings, which reportedly took place on Dec. 17 when three Cabinet ministers’ sons were detained in a police corruption and bribery probe.

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama has ordered the Pentagon to plan for a full American withdrawal from Afghanistan by the end of this year should the Afghan government refuse to sign a security agreement with the U.S, the White House said yesterday. However, in a call with Afghan President Hamid Karzai, Obama also said the U.S. could still keep a limited

troop presence in Afghanistan after 2014 if the agreement is ultimately signed. He acknowledged that Karzai was unlikely to sign the bilateral security agreement himself, leaving the fate of the continued U.S. troop presence in Afghanistan to the winner of the country’s April elections. “We will leave open the possibility of concluding a BSA with Afghanistan later this year,” the White House

said in a summary of the call between the two leaders. However, the White House added that “the longer we go without a BSA, the more likely it will be that any post2014 U.S. mission will be smaller in scale and ambition.” Yesterday’s call was the first direct contact between Obama and Karzai since last June, underscoring the White House’s frustration with the Afghan leader’s refusal to sign the security agreement.

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Kaieteur News

Wednesday February 26, 2014

China to sell long range border patrol vessel to TT ...the vessel will arrive in shortest possible time, discloses Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar

Trinidad Minister of Trade, Industry and Investment, Vasant Bharath (right) signs an agreement with China Harbour Engineering Company vice president Yingtao Shi (left) while Trinidad Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar (back row, third right) and other government and CHEC officials look on. Trinidad Express - The Office of the Prime Minister disclosed yesterday that China has agreed to deliver a Long Range Vessel to the Trinidad and Tobago Coast Guard, to increase maritime border security and fights arms and drug smuggling. The vessel will arrive in the shortest possible time, and follows a request of China’s Premier Li Keqiang by Prime Minister Kamla PersadBissessar who is currently on an official State visit to China. The following is the statement of the Office of the

Prime Minister The Honourable Kamla Persad-Bissessar SC, Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, expressed delight yesterday after China promised to deliver a Long Range Vessel (LRV) to the Trinidad and Tobago Coast Guard in the shortest possible time. “This is really good news,” Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar said she convinced Chinese Premier, Li Keqiang, that the T&T Coast Guard needed two vessels to lock down this country’s

borders in light of the increase in arms and narco trafficking. Mrs Persad-Bissessar led a T&T delegation to bilateral talks with the Chinese Premier and top officials of the Chinese Government at the Great Hall of the People here in Beijing today. The T&T delegation also included Minister of Foreign Affairs, Winston Dookeran, Minister of Trade and Industry, Vasant Bharath, and Minister of Energy and Energy Affairs, Kevin Ramnarine. Mrs Persad-Bissessar

CUBAN LIGHT BULB TRIAL: Prosecutors close case against Kern Spencer Jamaica Gleaner - After 20 witnesses and 85 pieces of evidence prosecutors yesterday closed their case against former energy junior minister Kern Spencer. Defence attorneys will on Monday begin no-case submissions seeking to have Senior Resident Magistrate Judith Pusey dismiss the case. Meanwhile, the last prosecution witness to take the stand yesterday was Senior Superintendent Fitz Bailey. He testified in the corruption trial that he could not recall aspects of a 2008 meeting he attended with businessman Rodney Chin while he was still an accused in the Cuban light bulb case, but insisted that he was not covering for anyone. Bailey’s testimony came as defence attorneys sought

Kern Spencer information about the details of the November 2008 meeting at the offices of attorney-at-law Richard Small. Defence attorneys have asserted that they only

learnt of the meeting when Chin gave evidence in crossexamination by Spencer’s former attorney Patrick Atkinson. Bailey, who is the lead investigator in the case, told the court that at the meeting lead prosecutor, Director of Public Prosecutions Paula Llewellyn instructed him to have Chin record a witness statement, even though the businessman was still jointly charged with Spencer and Colleen Wright. However, when asked by defence attorney K D Knight, whether Llewellyn asked questions of Chin and what those questions were, Bailey said he could not recall. He also rejected suggestions by Knight that he was covering up for someone, insisting that he had no reason to.

Wednesday February 26, 2014

Kaieteur News

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The return of the police state In a most shocking development, the Alliance For Change (AFC) has indicated that it is willing to back a proposal from A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) for police and customs officers to be granted powers to search and detain currency in excess of US$10,000 once reasonable cause is given. Is the AFC serious? Is

APNU serious? What constitutes reasonable ca u se? The police and custom officers can give any reason for a search and say that reason constitutes reasonable cause. They can state they are suspicious or that the individual from whom the currency was seized was acting nervous and in their estimation this constitutes reasonable cause of criminal

enterprise. How will someone who is stopped on the roadway and has his currency and jewellery seized decide whether the explanation offered by the police constitutes reasonable suspicion? The complainant cannot debate the police and custom officers. He cannot argue back. If he refuses to hand

Dem boys seh

Florida doctor recommend sturdy plug fuh Jagdeo Jagdeo is a man who cause Guyana to spend an enormous amount of taxpayers dollars to satisfy he extravagance and his private life. He use to lef this country many times in secret and when he come back he never even got to tell de nation wheh he been and how he spend dem money. He carry Brazzy to China when he was to buy de coffee mill which dem seh is de Skeldon sugar factory. It never worth one-tenth of wha dem seh dem spend suh people know wheh de money gone. He carry Ash Knee, Bobby, Manny, Samtani and many others to trace he family roots in India. De people in Guyana pay and is de Times of India mek Guyanese know wha happen. He actually travel de world then he jump pun a plane fuh go to Kuwait. But de Kuwaiti boss man realize how Jagdeo spending poor people money and decide fuh tun he back when he, Jagdeo, meet halfway. De man tell he that he had meetings and couldn’t meet wid Jagdeo. De Kuwaiti boss man didn’t know who he

was dealing wid. Jagdeo insist that he gun continue the journey and that he don’t have to meet de head of state. Dem boys seh that when de head of state hear that he still coming, he tell Odeen Ishmael that de answer is no and no means no. Don’t come here. Jagdeo tun back and come in de country quiet and nah seh a word bout how he get rejected. Now he lef office and he gone back to he unreasonable, unconscionable habits. He get belly wuk and medivac got to come to carry he to doctor in de States. That trip cost de taxpayers more than $20 million. De doctors in de hospital was dumbfounded and shocked when dem hear that Jagdeo come wid medivac. Dem was led to believe that de man was in a dying stage. When dem examine de man dem had to ask he best friend Bobby if he, Bobby, is a doctor, if he couldn’t see that he coulda give de man two tablet, some neem leaf, some guava bush and a sturdy plug. Jagdeo coming home tomorrow. Talk half and keep far from Jagdeo.

over his money on the basis that he does not consider the grounds for the search as reasonable, he will be in big trouble. To do so would constitute resisting arrest. He can be thrown in the lockups and placed before the courts for resisting arrest. The only thing that he can do is to allow his currency to be taken away and then file action in the courts challenging his arrest. This will take time and in the meantime, he cannot access his jewellery or his cash. If APNU and the AFC have their way in empowering police and custom officers to detain and seize currency, they will end up creating a police state. Guyana will be thrown two decades backwards when having certain food items was considered contraband. Any powers granted to the police and customs officers to seize currency in excess of two million dollars constitutes deprivation of poverty and this is unconstitutional. It is the police and the custom officers who have to prove that the funds seized are illegal in order for them to legitimize the seizure of currency. You cannot grant powers for police and custom officers to seize the property of others without then first establishing that the property is illegal. It is for the police and customs officers to do this in order to avoid being guilty of arbitrarily depriving someone

else of poverty. It is not for the person who has two million in jewellery and cash to prove where he got his money. The powers that the AFC and APNU wish to place in the hands of the police and custom officers will encourage bribery. It will lead to a police state in Guyana and force capital flight causing extreme hardship and devaluing the Guyana dollar. If the purpose of legislation is money laundering, then the opposition parties have to ask themselves which person launders money in cash. It is not the money launderers that are going to be nabbed by the police and custom officers. It will be legitimate citizens who are forced to carry around large quantities. Imagine transporting the proceeds from your business to the bank and you are detained by a law enforcement officer who says that he has suspicions about the source of the funds. This poor businessman then has to go through the trouble of proving that this is his business proceeds or he is taking money to pay his workers in the interior where there are no banks. Or he has to buy stocks from a timber grant who does not accept cheques. Imagine the headaches what this law as approved by APNU and the AFC will create in this country. It will put citizens at the mercy of the law

enforcement officers, and all the while those who are laundering funds through land acquisitions and through importation of goods will be smiling all the way to the bank. If APNU and the AFC have their way, police and custom officers will be smiling more brightly than they did when there was the virtual ban of flour. It was this ban and the powers that were granted to the police that allowed corruption to fester within the police force and the Customs. Imagine if we return to the days when if you called the police to report a crime taking place, they would make an excuse about not having transportation. But call and tell them that your neighbour next door has contraband, and they will be in front of your neighbour ’s house faster than you can say “Flash Gordon!” Crime is going to increase because the law officers will be more concerned with stopping and searching persons to see how much cash and jewellery they are walking around with rather than going after the criminals. If this is the AFC and APNU’s idea of how to fight money laundering, then we have more problems than we thought.

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Kaieteur News

Wednesday February 26, 2014

THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN

It would be an ugly yet stupid act of self-destruction

There are actually a billion, not a million, ways to harm an animal. The experts on that art are the people who reside at the apex of the PPP. Who knows that fact? The whole country. How come they know that? One example will suffice. It is going on to two years since Linden exploded against central government domination. Out of the negotiations between central government and Region Ten to restore normality, there was agreement that Linden will get its own transmitting station, thus ending the monopoly of NCN in Region Ten. It has not happened.

Why? The government shifted the goalpost from the Office of the President that inked the deal to the broadcast authority. Then the goalpost was furthered moved deeper in the ocean to where ‘Jaws’ lives – the courts. Linden is now informed that there is a court case over broadcasting licences and it will have to wait. When you go to Linden these days all they play is Bob Marley’s famous hit, “Waiting in Vain.” Enter Machiavelli. The nation has been told that President Ramotar has agreed to set up a committee to reexamine the four Bills that

Parliament (not the opposition Parliament of which there is no such thing but the Guyana Parliament) approved but for which presidential assent is being withheld. Also, the President will give a commitment to implement the Procurement Commission; all this generosity because the President wants the AFC and APNU to vote for the antimoney laundering Bill before February 28. No other word describes President Ramotar’s initiative but comical. It may be exasperating, but it is comical. Should APNU and the AFC tell the Government to put the nuts where the monkey put them? Where is the TV station for Linden? Secondly, who knows when the reexamination will meet and will there be consensus on the composition of the committee? The fight over that may take us into late next year. But even if there is no fuss about the committee’s membership, life’s

uncertainties will prevent it from being convened. First, President Ramotar will be busy with the thought of a falling Venezuelan President and the prospects of losing oil on credit. I did point out to readers that the American Embassy should not negotiate the democracy project, because crucial governmental negotiators will not be available. Look now! Luncheon is sick and may fly out. Jagdeo is sick and has flown out. Ashni Singh was involved in a car accident. Secondly, there are a billion ways to harm a crapaud. One thing after the other will come up and by the time you look, the pepperpot and garlic pork season will be with us. 2014 would have come and gone and our reexamination committee will need someone to reexamine its raison d’être. How can any opposition anywhere in the world be so

idiotic to trust a government that never kept a part of a promise, muchless a whole one, and their promises were abandoned in the most vulgar of ways? What is irritating even though it is hilarious is that the little dictators of Robb Street aren’t saying, “Give us the anti-money laundering Act and we will give you your four Bills.” No! Remember Roger Luncheon’s infamous shout across the table to Opposition Leader, Desmond Hoyte; “Comrade, humble yuhself; yuh talking to de ruling paartay.” Well it is a repeat of history, only this time De Roger is sick and is not in the picture, but it is De Donald at the table; “Comrade Granger, humble yuhself, it is de president talking.” Equally obnoxious but also laughable is the promise to the AFC. Vote for the antimoney laundering Bill and the President commits himself to

Frederick Kissoon setting up the Procurement Commission. Once the President gives his commitment, the time factor comes in. Giving a commitment is one thing, putting it into reality is another matter. So the billion ways of harming the crapaud comes into play. One thing leads to another and when the AFC looks over its collective shoulder, the garlic pork season has arrived, but there is no garlic pork on the table because the AFC is still holding the pig in the bag. One has to sympathize with De Donald. He couldn’t find the time in November last year to birth the Procurement Commission. Then December came and Christmas got in the way. But what has happened since then?

Colwyn Harding assault trial commences…

Relatives, others stage protest outside court …demand officers be charged

The Colwyn Harding support group While an intense trial was nearing its conclusion yesterday at the Providence Magistrate’s Court, relatives accompanied by a strong support group for Colwyn Harding staged a protest outside of the court. The supporters and relatives insisted that the assault charge against Harding be dropped and that the police officers who allegedly tormented and sodomized him be charged forthwith. The summary trial for the alleged assault of a peace officer by Colwyn Harding commenced yesterday before Magistrate Leron Daly who presides at the said court. The trial was of course

not without the murmurings of Harding’s supporters who were also present in the courtroom. Inspector Khan, Corporal Lowe and Constable Devin Singh who relatives say are at the heart of the torture allegations made by Harding, were summoned to give evidence against him. Cross examining Inspector Khan was Defence Attorney, Nigel Hughes who stood beside Harding during that period. An attentive Harding was clad in a light blue denim jeans and a plaid shirt. He repeatedly exchanged stares with his mother who sat in a corner of the courtroom. During the crossexamination of Inspector

Khan, Harding tried to contain his emotions as the officer gave his submissions. In some cases, Harding and the Inspector stared at each other as he answered questions posed by Hughes. Further, during the trial the Inspector answered questions as to whether he had to date found any admissible evidence to show that Harding was connected to an alleged break and enter and larceny allegation. Harding and the officer exchanged stares and then he replied, “No I did not,” to members of the court. Harding at this point was seen nodding his head and clenching his fists as he (Continued on page 21)

Wednesday February 26, 2014

Kaieteur News

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Anti-Money Laundering legislation…

Don’t support unless outstanding workers’ agreements are implemented The Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC) through its General Secretary Lincoln Lewis is “telling” the opposition to withhold support from the passage of the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) Bill until previous agreements between government and workers are implemented. Lewis made reference to the Herdmanston Accord, St. Lucia Statement, in January 1998; Hoyte/Jagdeo Agreement, Corbin/Jagdeo Communiqué in May 2003; the administration’s June 2012 commitment given to the Supreme Court to re-issue letters to start arbitration proceedings into the Bauxite Company of Guyana Incorporated (BCGI) impasse and the August 2012 Agreement between Central Government and Region 10. “None of these agreements were implemented. Guarantee must now be based on implementation. This is the same implementation problem the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force has with Guyana.” Lewis stated that society has been held at ransom by a group who believes it is their right to impose on the people and determine for them. He said that the opposition must be “told” that any support to the AML/CFT Bill by way of “vote, abstaining or absent from the National Assembly by any of its members will be construed by Labour as a calculated act of nonrepresentation on the issues that affect the wider society.” He further cautioned against any act by the opposition to pass a bill without having the government respect “existing laws, implement outstanding agreements, and assent to outstanding bills would be seen by Labour as an act of treachery.”

- GTUC “tells” opposition

GTUC General Secretary Lincoln Lewis “We are not urging them (opposition), we are telling them not to support any bill until such time that all these agreements are put in place. We are not concerned about the deadline, we are concerned about all the agreements you have signed with labour. They went to the Court and said they were going to reissue letters to start the arbitration and that was in 2012, and to date it has not been done. What assurance will this society get when this bill is passed that it will be implemented? So don’t tell me about the one that is coming, tell me about the one that exists!” Lewis exclaimed. He said that the GTUC met with the opposition and they are aware of their demands, and in the event that they don’t support their claims “we will review how we deal with the opposition; the trade union has a permanent interest, we don’t have permanent friends, all our relationship with the opposition is based on issues. If the opposition takes a position and we feel the position is inimical to labour, we tell them that it’s inimical and we will not support it. What we are saying to the citizens of this country is that all the politicians of this country must be held

accountable”. Lewis said that the GTUC has not communicated to the government because “they don’t talk to us, neither do they talk with us”. The General Secretary expressed that the wanton transgressions of rights and non-implementation of laws are known by those who are calling for the passage of the AML/CFT Bill. “Some in the diplomatic community are from progressive societies and would admit what is happening in Guyana could not have happened in their countries and the citizenry remain silent. Persons cannot claim human rights as a core value in their countries but remain silent to Guyanese efforts to hold this government accountable, to ensure the same values thrive in our society.” Speaking on the awareness that the Private Sector Commission and international bodies are articulating for and supportive of the passage of this Bill, Lewis said he is not concerned about that. “Our responsibility is to workers not to the private sector or foreign bodies. The Private sector met with the GTUC since 2010 and agreed that they are going to sit down and talk with the government and the company BCGI on this issue and get back to us. We have raised this with them a number of times, and to date they have not returned… Workers’ rights are being transgressed and you are telling me I must turn a blind eye to it? Any modern and civilized society is built on rights and the rule of law, that’s where it is built. It’s not about party politics; parties come and parties go, but people’s rights will always be maintained,” Lewis asserted.

He said that the AML/ CFT Bill seeks to ensure that illegal business comes to an end and “that is the issue… so if we got to start now with the screws turned on us then the illegal business will feel it. It’s not Banks DIH and DDL that will be affected, it is the illegal business people. It’s only that the process may take longer, but traditional,

legitimate business will not be affected, it is the illegal business people who are afraid of this” Lewis said. “The Constitution and laws were not made for one set of people to honour and respect; it was made for everyone who lives and conducts business in this country.” He said that there are various interest groups who are calling for a number of things to be implemented.

“Are we saying that the Alliance For Change [AFC]’s call for the instituting of the Public Procurement Commission is not important? It’s a constitutional responsibility and the politicians swear to uphold that constitution. That commission is not a negotiated something, it is a requirement of the constitution and it must be put in place.” “As a trade unionist I am angry at the preponderance Continued on page 24

Canadian company lone bidder for road consultancy project Under the Ministry of Public Works, a Canadian company was the solitary bidder for the monitoring and evaluation consultancy of the fourth road project on the West Coast of Demerara. The bids were opened yesterday at the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB), Ministry of Finance, Main Street.

The Education Ministry received bids for the supply and delivery of cooked meals for the resident students at Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE). The bids were divided into three lots.

Tenders for the supply and delivery of motor vehicles for the Environmental Protection Agency were submitted under the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Environment.

Bids were also opened under the Ministry of Local Government for the provision of garbage collection and disposal services for Better Hope/LBI Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC).

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Kaieteur News

Bandits shoot porter on delivery truck, grab $15,000 Bandits shot a 31-yearold porter and escaped with $15,000 and a mobile phone during a brazen attack yesterday on a delivery truck in Independence Boulevard, Albouystown. Krishna Nanoo, of Grove Housing S c h e m e , E a s t Bank Demerara, was admitted to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) with a gunshot wound to the right side. He was still undergoing surgery up to late yesterday evening. Nanoo and a truck driver, both employees of Sunfood Enterprise, had just made a delivery of confectionery and beverages at an Albouystown shop when they came under attack. The driver told Kaieteur News that he was preparing to park in Independence Boulevard at around 16:00 hrs when he observed two men sitting on the roadside. He said that as he was parking the men stood and headed in the opposite direction. After Nanoo had made his delivery at a nearby shop,

the employees returned to the truck and were about to drive off, when one of the men that the driver had seen earlier “rolled up” to the vehicle. The driver said that the man then pointed a gun at him and ordered him to “pass the thing.” He recalled that the bandit was short, dark in complexion and was wearing a black t-shirt and a black cap with a red peak. “I say ‘brother man, I ain’t got nothing’ and he say ‘I doan want hear that, pass everything.’” The driver said that he then gave the robber his cell phone, while Nanoo gave the gunman $15,000 - the day’s sales to that point. He said that Nanoo then opened the cab door and tried to flee, and the robber shot him in the side before escaping on foot. The shopkeeper to whom they had made the delivery took the injured man to the GPHC. Kaieteur News understands that the injury does not appear to be lifethreatening.

Wednesday February 26, 2014

Cocaine in cream liqueur…

Mother with baby nabbed at airport, indicted for drug trafficking A 23-year-old mother who was allegedly nabbed with cocaine by Customs AntiNarcotics Unit (CANU) officers whilst preparing to board a Fly Jamaica flight on Republic Day with her twomonth-old daughter was yesterday brought to the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court to be indicted for drug trafficking. The substance was found concealed in bottles of cream liqueur. According to CANU, on February 23, Tishana Edwards of Lot 2 Victoria Road, Sparendaam, who was at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, had 2.092 kilograms of cocaine in her possession for the purpose of trafficking. When the charge was read to the woman she pleaded not guilty and submitted a bail application through her lawyer, but the court presided over by Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry ordered her held until Friday (February 28). The prosecution team was led by Special Prosecutor attached to the Customs

Tishana Edwards Anti-Narcotics Branch Oswald Massiah, who briefed the court that the drug was

unearthed as her suitcase was being scanned before she boarded the flight destined for the United States of America. Massiah claimed that Edwards had previously applied to be a member of CANU, but after the interview she was not considered for the post. He told the court that last Thursday (February 20), Edwards was approached by one “Bertha” (for whom no title or address has been given) and asked if she would be willing to make a trip to the US and transport three bottles of cream liqueur. According to the

Prosecutor, Edwards accepted the offer and the arrangements were made for the trip. He related that shortly after Bertha handed over the items, she fled the jurisdiction and the following day the accused packed her suitcase placing the bottles therein. However, as the suitcase was being passed through the scanner, a CANU officer reportedly noticed the two bottles and decided to check the luggage. Checks revealed that the seals were broken which arose the officer’s suspicion. The Prosecution claimed that further checks on the bottles revealed that the substance was concealed therein. As a result, she was then taken to CANU headquarters, where the substance was weighed and she was charged with the offence. According to her lawyer who held on behalf of George Thomas, Edwards was told that she would be locked up and the baby would be taken away if she did not confess to the crime. In making her bail application, the attorney told the court that her client is a self-employed cosmetologist who has a two and a half month old baby who needs to be nursed. She argued that Edwards is not a flight risk and has no priors. Notwithstanding her bail application, the Chief Magistrate refused bail and she was remanded to prison. The matter was transferred to the Providence Magistrate’s Court where it will engage the attention of Magistrate Leron Daly.

Wednesday February 26, 2014

Kaieteur News

Page 21

La Penitence woman, three men Relatives, others stage... charged for marijuana possession Three men and a woman were yesterday arraigned by Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry for having in their possessing different quantities of marijuana. The four appeared before her at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court and were prosecuted by Inspector Michael Grant for the crime. At the end of their separate court hearings, Sharmattie Rambarran and Steve Braithwaite were ordered to do community service and pay a fine while Junior Caesar and Sean Marshal, 35, are soon to face trial for the alleged crime.

Clarke, who is a vendor, was prosecuted for having 84 grams of cannabis for the purpose of trafficking on Republic Day (February 23) at Main Street, Georgetown. He pleaded not guilty and was later remanded to prison for the crime. According to Grant, Caesar was seen sitting in front of Tower Hotel when police ranks observed him acting in a suspicious manner. The vendor was searched and a plastic bag containing the substance was found in a black plastic bag on the ground next to him.

Grant objected to him being granted bail stating that Caesar raised no special reasons for bail. His matter was transferred to Magistrate Judy Latchman for report and fixture on March 5. Marshal, who resides at Lot 104 Meadowbrook Gardens, was charged and pleaded not guilty to having 7 grams of cannabis in his possession on the same day on Main Street, Georgetown. Grant indicated to the court that ranks on patrol on ‘Mash’ day noticed him on Main Street acting suspicious. During the search, he reportedly threw a

Dredge labourer remanded for burgling interior house An 18-year-old dredge labourer who hails from Mahdia was yesterday charged for allegedly burgling a house and making off with over three hundred thousand dollars worth in jewellery and electronic items, almost two weeks ago. Elton Calder is accused of breaking into the dwelling house of Omani Spencer and stealing a $180,000 laptop, one $35,000 Sony camera and two gold chains valued at $150,000. At the court hearing, he was prosecuted by Inspector Michael Grant and defended

by Attorney at Law Paul Fung-a-Fat. Fung-a-Fat claimed that the police’s case is that two men pursued his client to purchase the items and he did. According to the lawyer, the accused in turn called his neighbour to purchase the items and was later held by the police. He applied for bail stating that if refused a court bond his client who has no priors would be held “too long in prison” since the matter would be transferred to the Mahdia Magistrate’s Court and the

next sitting is scheduled for April. The Prosecution offered no objections, thus it was allowed in the sum of $200,000. The Chief Magistrate indicated that the condition attached to the bond is that Calder should report to the Subordinate Officer at the Mahdia Police Station every Friday at 15:00 hours. The matter was transferred to the Mahdia Magistrate’s Court where it will engage the attention of Magistrate Allan Wilson on April 4.

Another two weeks for defendants... (From page 15) not ready with its explanation. Attorney Keisha Chase, who is representing Carol Sooba, explained that she too made no submission following Smith’s address to the court. The Chief Justice expressed that he no longer wishes to prolong the case and will be sending notices to all parties for a date when he will rule on the matter. The 14-day extension was however granted and the CJ said that during this period, he will commence his summing up of the case. Lawyers for the defendants were supposed to make their submissions on the case yesterday. The defence would have presented arguments while the plaintiff said it would have responded. Sooba’s lawyer would have also been able to bring her (Town Clerk’s) concern to the fore. The case which was brought on by King stemmed from what he said was the “arbitrary” appointment of Sooba to Town Clerk of the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) of Georgetown. King, a British-trained Communications expert, is em-

ployed at the M&CC as the Public Relations Officer (PRO). He along with three other persons applied for the post of Town Clerk when the Local Government Ministry headed by Ganga Persaud at the time, had an opening for the post. The minister had set up an interview panel of high level officials to hire the most “suitably qualified” candidate. Sooba was said to be the least qualified person for the job, but was given the post by the Local Government Minister.

The chosen candidate for the post of Town Clerk was accused of withholding certain information from the interview panel and disqualified; but King, who ranked as the second most suitably qualified candidate was still not placed in the position. King expressed his disgust with the situation and decided to challenge the decision in court. Ganga Persaud has since resigned as Local Government Minister claiming personal reasons.

black parcel away. According to the Prosecution, the ranks then retrieved it and found a quantity of leaves, seeds and stems which the suspected to be cannabis. He was arrested and later charged for the offence. He was granted bail in the sum of $30,000 and the case was transferred to Magistrate Faith McGusty for trial. Meanwhile, Stereo Sonic’s truck driver Steve Braithwaite of Diamond Scheme confessed to having 1 gram of cannabis on February 22. He was fined $3000 and ordered to do community service at the Golden Grove Police Station every Wednesday for the next six months. Charged too for drug possession was 26-year-old Sharmattie Rambarran of Lot 58 Block ‘F’ East La Penitence. She pleaded guilty to having 3 grams of cannabis in her possession and was ordered to complete six months of community service at the Palms Geriatric Home. She will also pay a fine of $3000.

(From page 10) stood beside his lawyer. The Inspector in response to many of Mr. Hughes’s questions said, “It is hard for me to say yes or no. I have to explain how things happened.” However, the Attorney insisted that all he required was direct answers to his questions. But even this was difficult for the witness to adhere to as the Magistrate on several occasions had to stress the need for him to answer the Attorney accordingly. It was also noted that the officer did not make any formal note about the alleged break and enter allegation which led to the assault case. After several hours of submitting evidence, the matter was adjourned and is expected to continue on March 4. Between several laughs and sighs of disgust during the testimony being given by the officer, a stronger call was echoing outside of the courtroom. An elderly man, who is a father of a male just a little older than Harding, told this newspaper that his heart goes out to the youth as he is extremely troubled by the entire matter. “I am not a part of the support group, but I know of the case, and today I heard there was going to be a protest here and I just had to come and give my support. This young man has been through a lot. He has been violated and had to be out of the country to be given a proper medical examination. The records, according to the news contradicted what the local hospital said and proved that Harding is not telling some tale. I am so bothered by this situation. It is disheartening to know that Harding has to face an assault charge, considering all that he has been through. Why haven’t they charged the officers up to now? They are really ridiculous, and the way this matter is being dealt with just makes you lose hope in the system.” The protestors held placards which had inscriptions such as, “Rohee and Brumell are drinking the blood of our sons,” “Prison officers, Police, Doctors, Minister of Health—All are Guilty,” and “Charge Constable Singh for torture.” As the trial continued for some time, the protestors were heard shouting, “This is not only grossly disrespectful but proof that the process for the dispensation of justice is broken. We have no faith in this system and everyday that goes by and these officers are not facing charges is just justice being delayed. Harding should not be made to go through this.”

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Kaieteur News

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Wednesday February 26, 2014

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Wednesday February 26, 2014

Kaieteur News

Page 23

Letters... Where your views make the news

A call for Harmon to retract comments DEAR EDITOR, It is with sadness and deep concern that I respond to a statement allegedly made by Mr. Joseph Harmon in an exclusive interview with iNews which stated that the recently held town hall meetings were staged and that persons were ‘paid’ to attend or it was a ‘command performance’. As the Cabinet member who was tasked with this responsibility and from whose office invitations to

stakeholders originated, I take serious offence and umbrage at such an unfounded, unsubstantiated and ridiculous allegations. The APNU, and Mr Harmon in particular as their spokesperson, should be ashamed to utter such confounded nonsense or is it that they paid their supporter s t o a t t e n d t o carry out an unknown agenda but their supporters having listened t o p r e s e n t a t i o n s f rom

members of the Government’s side of the Parliamentary Special Select Committee on the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism Bill were convinced of the inappropriateness of the APNU’s position on this matter. The attendance at these events as far as the government is aware was as a result of stakeholders’ interest in this matter. We put out public notices and

BABYSITTER’S CASE: A cry for equal justice DEAR EDITOR, I am Guyanese, do office work in New York, and I read the Guyanese papers daily online. I have not read another story in a long time that has moved me the way babysitter Fatima Martin’s story has. The manner in which she says she was severely beaten, slapped, cuffed, hit on the head over two to three days, one of it took place in the courtyard, and all before witnessing police officers makes you go livid. Now these beatings, she says were inflicted on her by a sitting magistrate and her husband, both officers of the Court sworn to uphold the law. Of course these are allegations made by Ms. Martin and there are several police witnesses. My question is this: Why weren’t the alleged perpetrators of this crime arrested and charged? Let the judicial system decide on guilt or innocence based on the evidence. Or as one apologist argues, this babysitter’s case is just like that of a burglar got caught. You beat the burglar up and

then send him to jail. The Attorney-general should make a clear distinction between the babysitter’s crime and the commonly held but wrong view of the burglar’s. Ms. Martin pleaded guilty to an indictable charge of hitting a one-year-old child, and was sentenced to 60months jail, maximum allowed by law. Arrested on Wednesday, tried and sentenced on Friday, trial in camera and unrepresented by attorney. Does the manner of her trial and maximum sentence – isn’t something wrong with it? Does it not portray Guyana’s judicial system badly? Not at all, says Attorney Peter Hugh (SN blog Feb 20th). What was troubling about Attorney Peter Hugh’s blog on behalf of his well-heeled clients, was when he sought to compare Guyana’s judicial handling of this case with his implied suggestion of how Canada’s would have done. Let me say I have lived in both Canada and America for the last 30-years. And I have a good sense on how the system works here. My firm belief is that both

Magistrate Chandan and her husband, were they living in Canada, would have been arrested and charged with battery causing bodily harm on their babysitter. If we could only create some sort of a simulation of this case in North America, I would take a bet that the stand-ins for magistrate Chandan and her husband would be arrested. There is a clear sense in North America that officers of the law are dealt with more firmly, and often made an example of – and for good reason because they should know better. Just ask Roger Khan’s lawyer, Robert Simels. I would urge Guyana’s highest law enforcement official, the Attorney-General to see that equal justice is done in this matter – and not one kind of justice for a helpless, downtrodden babysitter, and another kind for well-heeled and powerful people in our society. And, also to make sure in the future that Guyana’s judicial system is not manipulated to suit the needs of the elite and powerful. Indranee Jagnandan

A weak govt. cannot fight crime From page 5 tackling the effects, but the causes are left unattended. This outcome is commonplace in Guyana and the Minister of Home Affairs is notorious for not thinking things through. There is enough evidence to posit here that the biggest problem facing Guyana is crime and violence and this has resulted from a weak and incompetent government. We have examined a real socio-economic issue that has bedeviled Guyana for many years — that of high unemployment. Local businesses seem neither willing nor able to invest at the level required to significantly impact this problem. It would appear, therefore, that investment capital must come

predominantly from abroad by way of foreign direct investment to achieve any meaningful improvement in unemployment. The question is, what is the likelihood of that inflow of capital to take place when the country is known to be crime-ridden? The simple answer is little to none. This means Guyana will not likely achieve economic growth and development under circumstances of high crime rates. The first step to tackle the crime problem in Guyana is a strong government. A weak government cannot fortify a justice system and solve crime. How comfortable would the people feel if their designated protector is weaker than the entity against

whom they are being protected? When we hear the Minister of Home Affairs repeatedly attributing responsibility to the citizens to fight crime it convinces us how inept he is. The citizens will be reluctant to discharge their civic duty in any fight against crime as long as they believe that the Government is weak, relative to the criminals. When there is evidence of a strategy by the Minister of Home Affairs to fight, prevent or minimize crime, criminals will be discouraged, the citizens will be assured, and they will go enthusiastically about their business to work hard, accumulate wealth and will willingly testify against the criminals. Dr. Asquith Rose and Harish S. Singh

contacted stakeholder organization and extended invitations by telephone. There was no “command performance”, no one was paid, no one was promised anything, people attended on their own volition. The town hall meetings were held in Linden, New Amsterdam, and Bartica, areas that cannot be easily identified as PPP/C strongholds, yet there were large turnouts and known PNC activists were in attendance. All were welcome, all were given a chance to speak. None supported APNU’s amendments. All asked that the Bill be passed and that we meet the February 28 deadline. It is clear that the APNU is not even willing to listen to their own supporters who voted for them. This is the truth. No spin doctoring by anyone can change this. I call on Mr. Harmon and the APNU to withdraw this ludicrous statement. Hon. Bishop Juan A. Edghill, MP

(From page 22)

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PPP wants opposition’s support for development initiatives The People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) through its General Secretary Clement Rohee has said that the opposition should be more supportive of the government in developing Guyana. According to Rohee, “while the country has achieved many successes, we believe that there is still much more to be done to realise the country’s true potential. It is in this context that our Party remains convinced that the opposition can endeavour to be more supportive not only by their actions but through the responsibilities they have to their constituencies.” Rohee at a press conference yesterday said he is urging the opposition to mobilise its members and supporters to support the various initiatives the Government is undertaking to continuously carve a “better and brighter Guyana”. Some of these initiatives, Rohee noted, include the anti-littering “Pick It Up” campaign and the Stray Catchers programme, which he says “not only have a positive impact on the aesthetics of our surroundings, but also for a healthier environment and safer roadways respectively. Similarly, support for the campaign to protect our mangroves, which help to

mitigate the harsh consequences of climate change, must be encouraged.” Additionally, Rohee also urged the opposition to support the government security initiatives which include fighting crime and drug trafficking; the efforts to prevent smuggling and contraband across the country’s borders; the efforts to combat human trafficking; the fight against lawlessness in an effort to maintain peace and good order; the prevention of squatting and the destruction of government reserves and public property. The General Secretary said that the Firearms Amendment Bill, the Special Weapons And Tactics (SWAT) Unit and the Antimoney Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism Bill (AML/CFT), are some of the more recent measures government moved to implement to combat crime and to aid in national security. “All Guyanese would be better served if these efforts are supported and not be used for divisive purposes. Given the current challenges faced, the need for all to give support, including the Opposition and its supporters, is crucial,” said Rohee.

According to Rohee, it is of utmost importance that the Opposition ensures that its members and followers support the government’s violent protection action plan. “A lack of support in this regard has the potential to create a negative influence for investors. Over the years the government has worked tirelessly to create an enabling environment so that investors can continue to enjoy stability which is critical to their investments” he said. Rohee stressed that for the country’s rapid development to be sustained, the support of all is needed, and he called for the opposition to mobilize its support behind Government’s programmes and policies. “We believe that the interests of Guyanese would be better served if the opposition were to re-direct their energies towards the national goals and continued prosperity of our people instead of the negative stance they have taken on budget cuts, key development projects and security. The PPP calls on the opposition to give genuine and tangible support to the developmental goals of the Government” the PPP/C General Secretary stressed.

Wednesday February 26, 2014

KFC safe containing $700,000 vanishes A security guard attached to the KFC (Kentucky Fried Chicken) outlet located in Bagotstown, East Bank Demerara is in police custody assisting with information as it relates to the disappearance of the company’s metal money safe with over $700,000. The discovery of the missing safe with Monday’s sales was made by the outlet’s manager around 07:00hrs yesterday. The police were then informed and the security guard was taken into custody. It is believed that the burglars gained entry into the building by climbing through the window of the drive-thru and then breaking into the office. The thieves carted off the fast food company’s surveillance system. According to the Operations Manager, Mahendra Persaud, after the safe was discovered missing, they called in the security guard who said that he had left the building around 04:00am yesterday to “run an errand”. He (security guard) suggested that the burglary might have occurred while he was gone. “When I came here there was no safe, but there was metallic residue of a torch

Persaud pointing to where the safe was located.

being used. So it seems as if they torched the safe and burned the anchor bolt that was used to attach the safe to the concrete wall,” Persaud opined. According to Persaud, it seems as if the men who took away the safe were very

organized. “They did not tumble anywhere. They just came and took the safe away,” Persaud said. On June 10, last, a security guard at the same outlet foiled an early morning attempt by bandits to gain access to the safe.

Counterfeit ‘Del Monte’ product... (From page 19) said to be a close friend of former President Bharrat Jagdeo. He shipped two containers of construction material to the then President Bharrat Jagdeo. Those containers were offloaded at State House at the time when Jagdeo was building his house at Pradoville2. The Analyst Department said that it is strongly advising unsuspecting wholesalers and distributors of the product to immediately remove it

from their shelves or distributing system and return it to Super Foods Inc. They may also surrender them to the Food and Drug Department or any Environmental Health Officer in the regions. “Consumers are advised not to use this or any other canned product with the above mentioned characteristic. The department has commenced an investigation to determine the exact location where the counterfeiting is being done. Containers/con-

signments are currently being detained for comprehensive examination before items are entered into the country and other products suspected to be counterfeited are also being investigated.” The department also called for the consumers to provide information of other canned products with similar characteristics, “while we conduct further investigation inclusive of analytical testing within our capability in the interest of consumer safety and protection.”

Don’t support unless... From page 11 of injustice and lawlessness in this society. The fact that the government knows the implementation of some these agreements would also benefit their main constituency does not matter,” said Lewis. Lewis cited the situation of the “run-down” Georgetown Hospital where he said that “former President Jagdeo and President Ramotar gave this nation the assurance that the hospital is in a good state, but a few days ago when Jagdeo suffered his illness he jumped on a chartered jet to Florida to seek medical attention. These expenses will be paid by the taxpayers who will

be subjected to go to the Georgetown Hospital where Brian Aaron from Bartica died… Some seem intent on living the good life while the ordinary man and woman are catching hell and dying through negligence,” Lewis said. The General Secretary of the GTUC expressed that he wants action. “We don’t want any guarantees, this government is known not to respect anything; they will go tomorrow make a guarantee and never implement it, that’s the government… that’s the men and women we have been dealing with over the years.” He further said that the

government is not operating in the interest of the masses, or desires a society of peaceful co-existence and equitable development. Lewis said if the government wants peaceful co-existence, equitable development and good governance, it will obey and implement laws and agreements. “The opposition needs to be told there is a public view that the PPP government is bad and needs to be out of office, the question that has not been answered is, who can replace the PPP. The opposition’s contribution in the National Assembly on Thursday will answer that question,” Lewis opined.

Wednesday February 26, 2014

Kaieteur News

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Ukraine’s Naftogaz slashes Russian gas imports in February MOSCOW (Reuters) Ukraine’s state oil and gas company, Naftogaz, has slashed gas imports from Russia’s Gazprom to 28 million cubic meters per day as of February 24 from 147 million, two Russian industry sources told Reuters yesterday. They said Naftogaz had gradually reduced its imports from 147 million cubic meters as of February 1, but did not offer a reason for the cuts. Upheaval in Ukraine which has seen the opposition take power and the country’s president, Viktor Yanukovich, flee over the weekend has stirred fears

that Moscow may use gas transit and prices to influence its neighbor. Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev hinted on Monday that gas prices, reduced as part of a Russian bailout in December, may revert to higher levels. Ukraine consumes about 55 billion cubic meters of gas each year, and more than half is imported from Russia. Gazprom exported 161.5 billion cubic meters of gas to Europe last year. A Gazprom official declined to comment on Naftogaz import volumes but said Russian gas transit to Europe was unaffected.

In December, Russia agreed to reduce the gas price for Kiev to $268.50 per 1,000 cubic meters, a cut of about one third from around $400 which Ukraine had paid since 2009. Under the deal, gas prices are revised quarterly. Eduard Stavytsky, Ukraine’s acting energy minister, was quoted as saying on Tuesday that Kiev had paid off $1.68 billion of its gas debts to Russia as of February 24 out of a total $3.3 billion in 2013 and 2014. The last dispute over gas pricing between Russia and Ukraine caused shortages in Europe over the winter of 2009.

Iran a threat not just to Israel, says Germany’s Merkel

German Chancellor Angela Merkel holds her crutches as Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (R) stands next to her after their joint news conference in Jerusalem yesterday. REUTERS/Ammar Awad JERUSALEM (Reuters) Germany views Iran as a potential threat not just to Israel, but also to European countries, Chancellor Angela Merkel said yesterday at a joint news conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. But she stopped short of endorsing her host’s demand that Tehran give up all sensitive nuclear projects under any negotiated deal with world powers, and reiterated Berlin’s opposition to Israeli settlements on occupied land where the Palestinians seek statehood. Germany is Israel’s most important ally in Europe, where the Netanyahu government frets it is losing support given troubled peace talks with the Palestinians. That makes Merkel’s views a bellwether of European sentiment on Middle East issues. The German chancellor visited Jerusalem with her cabinet to mark almost 50

years of bilateral ties with Israel, which was founded in part as a haven for survivors of the Holocaust. “We see the threat not just as a threat for the state of Israel but as a general threat for Europe as well,” she said of a potential Iranian bomb, adding that Germany would pursue international talks with Tehran on its nuclear activities. The diplomacy was kickstarted with an interim deal in November, which Netanyahu blasted as an “historic mistake” for easing sanctions on Iran while leaving its infrastructure for enriching uranium and potentially producing plutonium. Iran says its nuclear projects are for peaceful needs. Netanyahu, whose country is widely believed to have the Middle East’s only atomic arsenal, acknowledged that world powers had “talked about the possibility of some

enrichment” continuing in Iran as part of a final deal. “I think it’s a mistake,” he said. “Every single leader that I’ve talked to in the Middle East agrees with that position, whether they say so publicly or not. Why? Because if Iran really wants just civilian nuclear energy, then they don’t need any enrichment. They don’t need centrifuges.” Asked if she agreed, Merkel was circumspect. “It is clear that there is a difference of opinion here with regard to these negotiations and whether they ought to take place. We have set out on the path of low enrichment, but enrichment does take place and I believe that we can succeed,” she said. “The question is whether we will be able to achieve a result that is better than the present state of affairs. We have decided it is better to participate in the negotiations because we believe that to be better than the status quo.”

Wednesday February 26, 2014

Egypt’s new PM says to fight militancy, rebuild economy CAIRO (Reuters) Egypt’s new prime minister said yesterday he would seek to eradicate militant violence that has increased since the overthrow of Islamist President Mohamed Mursi, hoping improved security will lead to economic recovery. Speaking after his appointment by Adly Mansour, the army-appointed president who has been in office since Mursi’s removal in July, Ibrahim Mahlab said he hoped to form his government within three or four days, “We will work together to restore security and safety to Egypt and crush terrorism in all corners of the country,” said Mahlab, formerly the housing minister, expressing hope for a recovery in the crucial tourism sector. “Security and stability in the entire country and crushing terrorism will pave the way for investment.” Mahlab’s appointment followed the surprise resignation of Prime Minister Hazem el-Beblawi’s government on Monday. Bombings and shootings by militant Islamist groups have become commonplace since the army deposed Mursi after mass protests against his rule. While most of the attacks have targeted the security forces, two South Korean tourists were killed in a February 16 bomb attack on a tourist bus in the Sinai Peninsula. Mahlab is a civil engineer who was formerly head of one of Egypt’s biggest

Adly Mansour

construction firms. He was also an official in deposed President Hosni Mubarak’s National Democratic Party. He said his government would work to provide a secure climate for a presidential election that army chief Field Marshal Abdel Fattah al-Sisi - defence minister is the last cabinet - is widely expected to win, though he has yet to formally declare his candidacy. The choice of defence minister in the new government may hold clues as to when Sisi will announce his decision to run: he must vacate the post in order to contest the vote that could be held as soon as April. But Mahlab offered no clues as to the choice of defence minister, saying the decision was up to President Mansour. During former prime minister Beblawi’s tenure, the state cracked down hard on Mursi’s Muslim Brotherhood and rights groups criticised other moves to curb dissent,

including a law imposing tough penalties on people who protest illegally. Beblawi’s government received billions of dollars in aid from Gulf states hostile to the Muslim Brotherhood but was criticised for failing to take quick steps towards reforming an economy burdened by a massive state subsidy bill. Besides serving as chairman and CEO of Arab Contractors Company, Mahlab, who is married and speaks English and French, has also worked in Saudi Arabia, according to a curriculum vitae distributed by the housing ministry. “I think he will be a very practical prime minister, but of course it is a very difficult position given the economic problems and the very high expectations of the public,” said Angus Blair, chairman of business and economic forecasting think-tank Signet, who heard Mahlab speak at a recent seminar.

Cameron ready to rule out future coalition – report

(Reuters) - Prime Minister David Cameron is preparing to rule out forming a second successive coalition government if his party fails to win a clear majority at an election in 2015, The Daily Telegraph newspaper reported yesterday. Citing an unnamed source close to Cameron, the report said he did not want another coalition government and that a promise ruling one out could go into his next Conservative party manifesto to present voters with a clearer choice at the polls. Cameron’s Conservatives have been ruling in coalition with the centre-left Liberal Democrat party, led by Nick Clegg, since a 2010 election failed to produce a clear

David Cameron winner. “At the next election we are determined to deliver a Conservative government but in terms of the actual manifesto we will set that out

closer to the next election,” a Conservative spokesman said. Polls currently show the main opposition Labour party is set to win a majority in May next year. But a narrowing of the 5 percentage point polling gap between Labour and the Conservatives could open the door to another coalition government, with the Lib Dems as likely king-makers. While Cameron and Clegg have found common ground on plans to fix the country’s public finances, they have clashed on welfare reforms and Britain’s future role in the European Union. A poll in January found that the majority of Britons think a hung parliament is bad for the country.

Wednesday February 26, 2014

Kaieteur News

U.S. expels Venezuelan diplomats in tit-for-tat move over unrest CARACAS - Reuters The United States yesterday ordered three Venezuelan diplomats to leave in reprisal for President Nicolas Maduro’s expulsion of three American embassy staff accused of fomenting unrest that has killed at least 13 people. Disputes between the ideologically opposed governments were common during the 1999-2013 rule of late socialist leader Hugo Chavez and have continued under his successor Maduro. When it comes to oil, though, pragmatism trumps politics and the United States remains the OPEC member’s main export market. The U.S. State Department said in a statement that two first secretaries and a second secretary at the Venezuelan embassy in Washington had been declared personae non gratae in response to Caracas’ Feb. 17 move against the three Americans. “They have been allowed 48 hours to leave the United States,” it said. Venezuela and the United States have been without ambassadors since 2008, and Maduro expelled the three last week on accusations of

Nicolas Maduro recruiting students to protest against him. Washington has rejected the claims as baseless. Despite the latest bilateral spat, however, Maduro was planning to nominate a new ambassador to Washington yesterday to try to kick-start relations and combat what he sees as propaganda against him. “U.S. society needs to know the truth about Venezuela,” Maduro said in the latest of his daily speeches to the nation at a meeting with state governors late on Monday.

“They (Americans) think we’re killing each other. They think we can’t go out to the corner. They’re asking for U.S. military intervention in Venezuela. What madness! Should that happen, you and I will be out with a gun defending our territory.” The crisis, in which more than 500 people have been arrested and about 150 injured over two weeks, has brought remonstrations from the U.S. government and attracted wider attention. Sporadic protests continued on Tuesday, with students mounting roadblocks in the more affluent eastern districts of the capital Caracas. In a worrying sign of spreading violence, officials and residents in the provincial cities of San Cristobal, Maracaibo and Maracay all reported looting. Demonstrations began at the start of the month but mushroomed across Venezuela after the first deaths on Feb. 12. The students are demanding that Maduro resign over Venezuela’s high rates of crime and inflation and shortages of staples such as milk, flour and sugar. They also accuse him of brutal repression of protests.

Suriname’s President Besi Bouterse threatens to expel US ambassador PARAMARIBO Suriname’s President Desi Bouterse said yesterday that his government will send a letter to US ambassador Jay Anania requesting the diplomat to explain his alleged meddling in Suriname’s internal political affairs. If the ambassador fail to defend himself to the satisfaction of the government he may need to leave the country Bouterse said Tuesday at a ceremony to commemorate his successful military coup on February 25, 1980 in which he removed the than democratically elected Henck Arron-administration from office. While not naming the US ambassador explicitly Bouterse argued that the diplomat said or did several things in a bid to prevent the general elections scheduled for not later than May 25 next year. According to the president the alleged actions were taken “because the other president is not ready yet”, referring to former minister of Justice and Police Chandrikapersad Santokhi, his possible opponent in the next elections. On several

Desi Bouterse occasions Bouterse disclosed that Santokhi is being backed by several foreign countries in his bid to become Suriname’s next leader. Recently ambassador Anania met with minister of Home Affairs, Soewarto Moestadja, who has lead responsibility to organize the elections, to get informed over the government’s preparations regarding the next general elections. The

diplomat also paid a visit to the Independent Electoral Bureau (OKB). Jennifer van Dijk-Silos, president of the Independent Electoral Bureau, publicly voiced her surprise over the visit and the intentions of the US diplomat. At the commemoration near the ‘Monument of the Revolution’ Bouterse noticed that he is well aware of possible scenarios to influence the upcoming elections. When his son Dino Bouterse was arrested in Panama in august 2013 and extradited to the US on drug trafficking charges the president also suggested that the arrest and subsequent indictment was an act of “the enemy”. According to president Bouterse whether the elections are being held earlier or later than planned, the opposition stand no chance at winning and that the Surinamese electorate will choose whoever it wants to be its leader. “We are not pleased about the way they are conducting themselves in this country. There are conventions and they should abide by them.

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Wednesday February 26, 2014

Brazil, Europe plan undersea cable to skirt U.S. spying BRUSSELS (Reuters) Brazil and the European Union agreed on Monday to lay an undersea communications cable from Lisbon to Fortaleza to reduce Brazil’s reliance on the United States after Washington spied on Brasilia. At a summit in Brussels, Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff said the $185 million cable project was central to “guarantee the neutrality” of the Internet, signaling her d e s i r e t o s h i e l d B r a z i l ’s Internet traffic from U.S. surveillance. “ We h a v e t o r e s p e c t privacy, human rights and the sovereignty of nations. We don’t want businesses to be spied upon,” Rousseff told a joint news conference with the presidents of the European Commission and the European Council. “The Internet is one of the best things man has ever invented. So we agreed for the need to guarantee ... the neutrality of the network, a democratic area where we can protect freedom of expression,” Rousseff said. Rousseff postponed a

state visit to Washington last year in protest at the U.S. National Security Agency spying on her email and phone and is now seeking alternative routes to U.S. cables. Brazil relies on U.S. undersea cables to carry almost all of its communications to Europe. The existing cable between Europe and Brazil is outdated and only used for voice transmission. EU leaders are sympathetic to Brazil’s call following the revelations of fugitive former NSA contractor Edward Snowden that showed the agency also eavesdropped on German Chancellor Angela Merkel’s mobile phone and some EU institutions. U.S. President Barack Obama has since banned spying on the leaders of close allies, but trust has been damaged. B r u s s e l s i s threatening the suspension of EU-U.S. agreements for data transfers unless Washington increases guarantees for the protection of EU citizens’ data.

Dilma Rousseff

At the one-day summit, there was no public criticism of the United States, which remains t h e E u r o p e a n Union’s closest ally. But Rousseff clearly t o o k h e a r t f r o m M e r k e l ’s calls this month for a E u r opean Internet that is protected from U.S. surveillance, even if there are questions about the

practicalities of setting up alternative networks in Europe. Rousseff said Brazil and

the European Union have “similar concerns” about U.S. dominance of fiberoptic cables and hoped to have a cable running from the Portuguese capital Lisbon to the northeastern Brazilian of Fortaleza from next year. Under current plans, a joint venture between Brazilian telecoms provider Telebras and Spain’s IslaLink Submarine Cables would lay the communications link. Telebras would have a 35 percent stake, IslaLink would have a 45 percent interest and European and Brazilian pension funds could put up the remainder. One official said that because Brazil had more to gain from the project than the European Union, its overall stake in the project would have to be larger than 50 percent and so Brazilian funds would put up more.

The cable agreement marks rare progress for Rousseff in her ties with the European Union, the top foreign investor in Brazil, because negotiations to agree a long-promised free-trade deal have been delayed again, officials said at the summit. With talks between the EU and the South American trade bloc Mercosur dependent on Argentina’s willingness to come to the negotiating table, Rousseff initially cancelled her trip to Brussels because she e x p e c t e d t o h a v e l i t tle to discuss. Fifteen years after talks between the EU and Mercosur were first launched, both sides have missed self-imposed deadlines to swap offers for opening markets in a pact that would encompass 750 million people and $130 billion in annual trade.

Trinis in Venezuela in ‘no immediate danger’ NEWSDAY - Trinidad and Tobago Embassy staff in Caracas are “in no immediate danger”, but the embassy is on heightened alert given widespread protests TT Ambassador to the neighbouring country Anthony Edghill said Monday. “Our situ a t i on is one of more inconvenience than immediate danger,” Edghill

told Newsday Monday noting also that the embassy has a contingency plan in place and is in regular contact with the home-based Ministry of Foreign Affairs. While the level of protests is new to the Trini-staff and there is some concern, Edghill said “no one is feeling threatened.” The protests, however, he said was not new to him having

lived through the attempted coups of former President Hugo Chavez in 1989 and then again in 1992. Regular meetings are held with the staff as they remain in a state of heightened alert and to boost morale, he said. “We have a contingency plan that involves evacuation if the need arises,” he said adding that the evacuation may or may not involve logistical arrangements from TT and the use of national carrier Caribbean Airlines Limited.

Wednesday February 26, 2014

Kaieteur News

Milo / Petra Organisation... From page 35 especially after producing a top-class display against North Georgetown who they drubbed 6-0. Once again the likes of Jeremy Garrett and Jamal Europe are expected to lead the assault along with support from Matthew Harrison and Carl Griffith. Freeburg on the other hand will look to rebound following a loss to one of the tournament’s top teams, Tucville in their opening fixture. The third matchup of the day pits Cummings Lodge versus South Ruimveldt and

this game should produce an exciting brand of football. Picking a winner here is not easy as both teams won their opening encounters and looked in good form. Cummings Lodge seems the more technically efficient, but South Ruimveldt showed that they are a tenacious bunch and not easily intimidated so an absorbing battle is in the making. In the final game of the day, defending champions St. George’s takes on Charlestown and this clash too should provide entertainment for the fans. St. George’s

commenced their defence of the title with an efficient performance against New Campbellvile, winning 2-0, while Charlestown gained a walkover from St. Joseph’s. However, Charlestown, traditionally strong contenders at the junior level are anticipated to maintain that practice. It will be needed against a team that has undoubtedly performed the best among Georgetown teams in recent competitions. The tournament continues the following day with four more matches at the same venue.

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U.S. women to face China in Commerce City Chicago – The United States will meet China in a women’s international friendly on April 6 at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park in Commerce City, Colorado. The long-time rivals have met 50 previous times in a series that has seen the Americans post 30 wins against eight losses. “China seems to be getting to the stage where they’ve got some increased stability in coaching staff and their player pool, and the results of that stability and

planning are beginning to show on the field,” said U.S. head coach Tom Sermanni. “As always, the match will be a chance for our players to make claims for spots on the World Cup qualifying roster later in the fall, but it will also be just before the players head into the NWSL as friendly combatants, so we’ll want to put in quality performances for our home fans.” The National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) is slated to open its 2014 season on April 12. In their last

meeting at the 2013 Algarve Cup in Portugal, the U.S. defeated China, 5-0. Both sides will participate in the 2014 edition of the tournament, but are in different groups. The trip to suburban Denver will mark the USA’s third match at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park, home to the Colorado Rapids of Major League Soccer. The current Olympic champion played there in 2008 against Brazil and in 2012 against Australia, which was coached at that time by Sermanni.

Hadi’s World Inc. / City Mall... Wednesday February 26, 2014 ARIES (March 21 April 19): An argument with your partner could have you feeling very disheartened and somewhat depressed today, Aries. ******************* TAURUS (April 20 May 20): You might wake up this morning feeling a little less than your usual self, Taurus, and you might not be able to figure out why. ****************** GEMINI (May 21 - June 20): Today, Gemini, you might find yourself getting more irritated than you usually would at the quirks of friends, colleagues, partners, and children. Nerves could be frayed and tempers around you frazzled. ******************** CANCER (June 21 July 22): Temporary difficulties at home might cause you to want to stay and resolve them rather than go to work or anywhere else. ********************* LEO (July 23 - Aug. 22): Some rather unsettling communication s c o u l d c o m e your way today, perhaps from out of state. This isn't likely to be anything serious, Leo, but it could be enough to put your nose a little out of joint. Changes in your neighborhood might interfere with your daily routine. ******************* VIRGO (Aug. 23 - Sept. 22): Some minor money matters may need to be handled today, Virgo, and you might find this irritating as you probably have other things you'd rather do. The situation could cause some petty friction with family members, but that will pass.

LIBRA (Sept. 23 - Oct. 22): The healing of a temporary rift with your partner is likely to take place today, with a lot of honest communication and more apologies than are necessary. ********************* SCORPIO (Oct. 23 Nov. 21): The desire to go off by yourself and enjoy a little solitude is likely to be in conflict with the reality of your obligations today, Scorpio. You could find yourself spacing out at times and unable to concentrate on any tasks at hand, so try to stay focused. ******************** SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22 - Dec. 21): Don't expect any c r e a t i v e p r o je c t s t o g o s m o o t h l y t o d a y, S a g i t tarius. You could experience mental blocks that you find difficult to get beyond. .********************* CAPRICORN (Dec. 22 Jan. 19): Obligations to others could incline you toward staying home today, Capricorn, but important career issues could pull you in to work. ******************** AQUARIUS (Jan. 20 Feb. 18): Today you’re likely to feel torn in two different directions, Aquarius. A part of you could want to sequester yourself somewhere and read, while another part of you feels that you should get out, go somewhere, and do something. ********************* PISCES (Feb. 19 - March 20):Minor difficulties over money could put you in a state of frustration. The problems aren’t Earthshaking, but they still need to be handled and could take up a lot of time that you’d rather spend doi n g something else.

Inc. / City Mall has always been an ardent supporter of Guyana’s sports and its development. The entity and its sister company Mohammed’s Enterprise have been tangibly supporting sports throughout the length and breadth of Guyana. Ross in response complimented Ms. Johnson and her company for their support once again, promising that this year’s competition will be the best ever. Ross informed that International Federation of Bodybuilding & Fitness (IFBB) Pro athlete Jeff ‘Classic’ Beckham has already been confirmed as the Guest Poser and he would be in Guyana a few days before the show to interact with athletes and school children among other activities. On competition night, there would be three female categories – Female

GCUC congratulates Ramphal for topping the C’bean in WICUA exam The Guyana Cricket Umpires Council (GCUC) has congratulated Guyanese Moses Ramphal for topping the Caribbean in the 2013 West Indies Cricket Umpires Association (WICUA) Oral and Practical exams. Ramphal gained 96.5 %, while Edward Bowen with 89.5 and Anthony Ramsahai 89 were the other Guyanese that were successful at the exams. The council has also commended Bowen and Ramsahai for their efforts and wished the trio well in their careers.

Bodybuilding, Miss Figure and Miss Bikini. The male categories are, Bantamweight – up to 65kgs (143lbs), Lightweight – up to 70kgs (144-154lbs), Welterweight – up to 75kgs (155-

165lbs), Light Middleweight – up to 80kgs (166-176lbs), Heavyweight (176 and over). The respective category winners will then compete in the overall when the winner will be crowned Mr. HRC 2014.

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Kaieteur News

Letter to the Sports Editor

Congratulations are in order DEAR EDITOR, Allow me a chance to congratulate the Guyana Olympic Association and the Guyana Amateur Boxing Association for providing the Guyanese public with boxing that reminded me of the good old days. The just concluded International Goodwill Boxing Tournament has given hope

that all is not lost in Guyana regarding the fistic sport; I enjoyed almost every fight over the three-day duration and must applaud the efforts of the two associations. Kudos must also be extended to the Guyana National Team for restoring some pride in the boxing fraternity. Best Boxer Dennis

Wednesday February 26, 2014

FBI suspected Muhammad Ali’s legendary 1964 victory over Sonny Liston was FIXED - top secret documents reveal

Thomas and Imran Khan, who are both Policemen, gave heartwarming performances, while displaying true grit and determination. It is my hope that we can have another such tournament in the near future. Well done guys! Yours sincerely, R. Trim

Webb urges business leaders to invest in youth and sports - sports is a tool for growth and social change Georgetown, Cayman Islands - FIFA Vice President and CONCACAF President Jeffrey Webb urged business leaders to invest in youth and sports during a speech at the Cayman Economic Outlook conference yesterday. Webb spoke on the theme of ‘The Transformational Power of Sports’ during the event held at The Ritz-Carlton hotel and said investment in youth would provide greater opportunities for future generations. “Investment in sports has the power to improve a nation through social, economic and cultural growth,” said Webb addressing an audience of over 400 business men and women. “Sports can give Cayman and other Caribbean nations a unique advantage in the global race for economic success while helping steer young people away from the lure of crime and violence and towards more constructive ways to fulfill their potential.” The one-day conference, sponsored by Fidelity, is an annual event that brings together leading thinkers and doers to explore how global business, technology, science, finance, politics and culture shape the Cayman economy. This year’s program, titled ‘Think: New – Reinventing our Future’, targets leaders from tourism, economics, business and political sectors, invested in the development of the Cayman Islands. Webb employed statistical data to highlight the great opportunity for investment within the sports industry and, more specifically, within football. According to a Pricewaterhouse Coopers report, it is projected that global sports market revenues will rise at a compound annual growth rate of 3.7 per cent from US$121.4 billion in 2010 to US$145.3 billion dollars in

New documents have come to light which reveal that the FBI long suspected that the shock result in Clay v Liston was really a fix Jeffrey Webb

2015. Within football, the World Cup is the principal source of revenue. The 2010 edition in South Africa, generated total revenue of US$ 3.6 billion and it continues to be the most viewed sporting event in the world. In 2002, World Cup viewership reached an astounding total cumulative audience of 28.8 billion people, making it the most viewed event in television history. No other sport is as universal. The head of CONCACAF, though, emphasized that the value of sport extends well beyond the economy. It brings benefits to communities and individuals, such as improving health, education and safety, while also increasing skills, employment, growth and providing new opportunities for youth. “These are positive effects money cannot buy. But it takes greater participation from the community, and the right partnerships, for the sustainable development of sports. Investment in football is investment in human capital,” he added. Furthermore, sports tourism is the fastest growing sector of the global travel industry and equates to $600 billion a year. Investment in facilities, human capital and

infrastructure has contributed to various nations becoming international destinations of choice. “Football is here to enhance the Cayman Islands, and other Caribbean countries, as an exciting place to live, visit and do business. We can promote our cultural and social heritage while helping businesses and communities grow, by investing in our youth,” declared Webb. As an economic driver of prosperity, football unquestionably injects nations with a platform for exposure through participating in and hosting international tournaments. Since 2012, CONCACAF has doubled its investment in football development programs, spending 76 percent of its annual budget across 41 member nations. Webb encouraged business leaders to invest in Cayman’s youth, to provide greater opportunities for future generations recognizing that football should not only accompany the development of society, but also endorse messages that improve health, education and crime prevention. “We can learn. We can follow. Or, we can lead,” he concluded.

Daily Mail - Fifty years on from the legendary boxing match in which Muhammad Ali beat Sonny Liston to become heavyweight champion of the world for the first time, new documents have come to light which reveal that the FBI long suspected that the shock result was really a fix. The fight between reigning champion Liston and brash young upstart Ali - then known as Cassius Clay – took place on Feb. 25, 1964, at the Miami Beach Convention Center. Ali, just 22, entered the ring as a 7-1 underdog, but pulled off a shock victory which laid the foundations for his glittering career to follow. The memorable match, named the fourth-greatest sports moment of the 20th century by Sports Illustrated, ended when Liston quit after the seventh round and Ali started jumping and waving his hands, yelling ‘I’m king of the world! I’m king of the world!’ Now documents released to The Washington Times under the Freedom of Information Act reveal that the FBI suspected the fight may have been fixed by a Las Vegas figure tied to

organized crime and to Liston. The memos, so sensitive that they were addressed directly to Director J. Edgar Hoover, show the FBI suspected Ash Resnick, a Las Vegas gambler with organized crime connections, of fixing multiple boxing matches, including the first Clay-Liston fight. The key new evidence is an FBI memo dated May 24, 1966, that details an interview with a Houston gambler named Barnett Magids, who described to agents his discussions with Resnick before the first Clay-Liston fight. Magids told them that Resnick strongly advised him against betting on Liston winning. The reports also reveal that Resnick and Liston both reportedly made over $1 million betting against Liston in the fight. The documents show no evidence that Ali was in on the scheme or even knew about it, while nothing suggests the bureau ever fully corroborated the suspicions it investigated. Both fighters wer e controversial figures, Liston was an ex-con with ties to the mob, while Ali

Campbell-Brown named in Jamaica team for world indoors Reuters - Veronica Campbell-Brown was included in Jamaica’s 23-member team for the World Indoor Championships yesterday, a day after being cleared of a doping violation by the Court of Arbitration for Sport. Campbell-Brown, the two-time defending 60 meters champion, and Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce head Jamaica’s 12strong women’s squad. Nesta Carter, the 60 meters silver medalist from 2012, will lead the Jamaican men’s challenge in next month’s event in Poland.

had joined the Black Muslims weeks before the fight. Early in the fight Ali was in trouble early, losing his vision at one point, before he came back to convincingly beat Liston. The result was such a shock at the time that there was speculation that the outcome might have been manipulated. Liston said he quit because of a shoulder injury, while the Miami Beach Boxing Commission doctor reportedly diagnosed a torn tendon in Liston’s left shoulder. Florida State Attorney Richard Gerstein conducted a post-fight investigation, which concluded that Liston went into the fight with a bad shoulder. He determined there was no evidence that the fight was not ‘completely regular,’ according to The Palm Beach Post. Miami Beach Boxing Commission Chairman Morris Klein said commissioners were satisfied that there was ‘no wrongdoing’ and allowed Liston to collect his $370,000 purse. A U.S. Senate subcommittee conducted hearings three months later but found no evidence of a fixed fight. Liston was found dead by his wife in their Las Vegas home on Jan. 5, 1971. Police determined he died from a heroin overdose, but the cause of death remains controversial. Liston’s friends maintained it was a homicide covered up by police.off a shock victory which laid the foundations for his glittering career to follow. (Associated Press)

Wednesday February 26, 2014

Kaieteur News

Sport is demanding and complex TT Guardian - The world of sport is no longer what it was—simply administering competitions, rules and regulations, raising funds for trophies, uniforms and travel for national teams. Sport admintrators and volunteers no longer simply raise funds via cake sales and car wash. Those innocent fun filled and team bonding adventures seem long gone. The quantum of money needed to fund even the simplest of activities or purchases are no longer inexpensive. Sport finance and accounting has now developed into a discipline and skill in its own right. Just as sport law, sport marketing, sport sponsorship and sport advertising, sport medicine, sport science, sport psychology etc. You name it, the reality of the modern environment is that it’s a separate skill set and knowledge base. Finance related issues are an everyday occurrence. Financial numbers can tell many important facts about a sport and national sport organisation. It is an important area of a national sport organisations day to day activity. No national sport organisation can survive without money. You have to know where the money is going to come from and where it has to be spent. It is impossible to make informed decisions on a day to day basis without a basic knowledge of money management.

Financial projections and budgeting and what finance mechanism is best are daily considerations. More and more sport leaders are required to have an understanding of balance sheets, income statements, accounting and money saving strategies and how to invest for future growth. The importance of finance for a national sport organisation can’t be underestimated. The role of a treasurer is much more than that of a book keeper. Managing and advising on money matters is much more complex than mere book keeping. Financial planning is impossible without an understanding of accounting basics. To be able to answer questions and solve problems related to money matters is a critical success factor. In an ideal world, every national sport organisation would be financially selfsufficient and independent. But it’s not an ideal world. In order to pay bills, money must be found and it must be found on a sustainable basis. For many, money is their enemy rather than a friend. National sport organisations can’t adopt that approach- at least not if it wants to consider itself modern and fit for purpose. Attention to the bottom line is no longer just a business statement. Bills must be paid and expenses must be managed. Revenue must be generated and

maximised. National sport organisations have to raise, manage and track money flows – in and out. Failure to properly manage funds will cause a national sport organisation to fail. Successful financial management equals sustainable development and growth. A sport organisation can have the best sponsorship programme and the best image but if it is unable to properly plan its finances, all efforts will come to nought. Financial principles apply to sport. It’s no different from business. Avoiding financial scandals and impropriety is also critical. The sport world is not immune to the consequences of poor financial planning. Financial skills require some one trained in developing, analysing, projecting and interpreting financial information. The days of placing square pegs in round holes in respect of the role of treasurer are over. National sport organisations must be mindful that accounting and finance are not in a true sense one and the same and should not therefore be lumped together merely as a matter of convenience. It requires careful thought and consideration. To effectively and efficiently run sport is demanding and complex and a lack of knowledge and skill only makes the task harder. National sport organisations can’t afford to ignore the current reality. (Brain Lewis)

Putin says Sochi Games wrongfoot critics of Russia Reuters - The Sochi Olympics “opened Russia’s soul” to the world and wrongfooted critics of the host country, President Vladimir Putin said in remarks broadcast yesterday. Taking stock after Russia topped the medals table and avoided major security problems at its first postSoviet Games, Putin said constructive criticism from the International Olympic Committee had helped make Sochi 2014 a success. But there were other critics whose jabs were motivated by “the competitive struggle in international politics, maybe even geopolitics”. “They used the Olympic project to achieve their own aims in the area of anti-Russian propaganda,” he said. “Because when a strong competitor emerges - in this case Russia - some grow worried, some don’t like it, some fear it, not

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Five-star Malinga stuns Pakistan in Asia Cup opener Fatullah - Sling-arm fast bowler Lasith Malinga grabbed five wickets in a devastating final spell to lead Sri Lanka to a 12-run win over defending champions Pakistan in the opening match of the Asia Cup in Fatullah yesterday. Pakistan, chasing Sri Lanka’s competitive 296-6, seemed to be cruising at 2424 in the 43rd over following a fifth-wicket stand of 121 between skipper Misbah-ulHaq and Umar Akmal. But Malinga turned the tables, finishing with five for 52, as Pakistan lost their last six batsmen for 42 runs to be bowled out for 284 in the penultimate over of the daynight match. Akmal hit 74 off 72 balls with seven boundaries and three sixes, and Misbah made 73, but Pakistan were unable to apply the finishing touches as pressure mounted on the lower order batsmen. Sri Lanka’s innings revolved around opener Lahiru Thirimanne’s 102 off 110, his second one-day hundred, and useful contributions from Kumar Sangakkara (67) and skipper Angelo Mathews (55 not out off 50 balls). Sri Lanka were at 204-2 in the 36th over when Pakistan slowed the pace by grabbing four wickets in the space of nine overs. Thirimanne and Sangakkara compiled Sri Lanka’s highest secondwicket stand against Pakistan, adding 161 after Kusal Perera fell in the eighth over for 14. Thirimanne, promoted to open the innings in the absence of the injured Tillakaratne Dilshan, hit 11 fours and a six before he was

Lasith Maling

bowled by Saeed Ajmal in the 36th over. Sangakkara continued the awesome batting form he showed during the preceding bilateral tour of Bangladesh, where he scored 319 and 105 in the second Test in Chittagong, and 128 in the second onedayer in Dhaka. The left-hander hit eight boundaries for his 84th oneday half-century when he gifted away his wicket, pulling a short ball from Gul to Ahmed Shehzad at midwicket. Sharjeel Khan gave Pakistan a flying start, scoring 26 of the 28-run stand for the first wicket with Shehzad. Shehzad was bowled by debutant left-arm spinner

Chaturanga de Silva for 28, and Mohammad Hafeez was leg-before to Mathews for 18 as Pakistan slipped to 83-3 in the 14th over. It soon became 121-4 as Sohaib Maqsood (17) pulled a short ball from Sachithra Senanayake to de Silva on the mid-wicket fence. But Misbah and Akmal launched a brilliant fightback to raise Pakisan’s hopes, before Malinga stepped in to steer Sri Lanka to victory. India play hosts Bangladesh at the same venue on Wednesday. Afghanistan is the fifth team in the tournament which decides the regional champion in one-day cricket.

Bangladesh, NZ in plate final

Russian President Vladimir Putin (C) and Russian Olympic medal winning athletes pose for a picture in Sochi February 24, 2014. understanding how deeply Russian society has changed.” The buildup to the Olympics was overshadowed by threats of militant violence, an outcry over an “anti-gay propaganda” law, allegations of corruption, complaints about the high cost of

travelling to Sochi and tweets about slapdash hotels. Criticism abated as the Games progressed. “The Olympics were very important for us, because it seems to me ... that they not only opened Russia’s door but opened Russia’s soul,” Putin said.

Ken McClure’s second consecutive fifty helped New Zealand Under-19s to a fivewicket win against UAE Under-19s in the Plate SemiFinal in Abu Dhabi. McClure hit seven fours and a six during his unbeaten 62 to help New Zealand chase down 141 in 30.2 overs. UAE, put in to bat, were unable to gather any momentum as their progress was halted by wickets at regular intervals. Kyle Jamieson provided the first breakthrough for New Zealand in the ninth over, with the total on 26. Jeremy Benton and Josh Finnie shared two wickets each as UAE stumbled to 85 for 7 and only a 36-run stand for the eighth wicket gave the UAE score some respectability.

While most of their batsmen made starts, none could muster more than 21 as a result of which the team eventually folded for 140 in 49.2 overs. New Zealand lost Henry Collier early in the chase, but Raki Weerasundara chipped in with 30. The team lost five wickets by the 27th over, but UAE did not have enough runs to challenge the opposition. New Zealand will now play Bangladesh in the Plate Final. A quick halfcentury from Mosaddek Hossain paved the way for Bangladesh Under-19s’ 76run win against Zimbabwe Under-19s in the other Plate Semi-Final. Mosaddek whipped six fours and a six during his unbeaten 66-ball 83, and forged a 64-run

alliance for the fifth wicket with Yasir Ali to take the team to a competitive 265 for 6. The groundwork for Bangladesh’s innings had been laid by Joyraz Sheik (58) and Litton Das (47) who put up 77 for the second wicket to help the team towards the 150-run mark. The Bangladesh bowlers then ran through Zimbabwe’s top order to leave the team struggling at 65 for 5, but Luke Jongwe and the captain Malcolm Lake put up a brief resistance, with a 50-run partnership for the sixth wicket. However, two wickets in the 37th over from Mustafizur Rahman once again dented Zimbabwe’s hopes and despite a fighting 30 from Deven Bell at No. 9, the team were restricted to 193 for 9 from their 50 overs.

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Kaieteur News

Forde’s familiar foes for gruelling clash By Edison Jefford Cleveland Forde has an enviable record of winning every single road race he has entered locally in the last four years, but on Sunday he will face a new challenge in an unfamiliar format, the 20 Kilometres, with familiar foes challenging his record in a gruelling clash. Though akin to the 10Km race, which has brought him tremendous success over that period, the distance running ace will be the man to beat on Sunday when Wartsila hosts its 20th Anniversary 20km Road Race Classic beginning at 6am from Paradise on the East Coast. With titles such as the University of the West Indies (UWI) Half Marathon and the Trinidad and Tobago International Half Marathons under his belt, Forde cannot be underestimated in the road race that is twice the distance of his comfort zone. He told Kaieteur Sport yesterday that he knows that everybody will be looking to win the contest as a result of the impressive prize monies that are up for grabs. But more than that, the successful road runner has his eyes set on obliterating the field with a

fast time. “I am going to go out there and run a fast race. I know these guys, Lionel (D’Andrade), Kelvin (Johnson) and Cleveland (Thomas) are going to be prepared, and so I cannot mess around. I have to be smart in that race as well,” Forde said when contacted. D’Andrade and Johnson, who are both based in Trinidad, have already confirmed participation in the race. They have robust programmes in the Twin Island Republic that allow them to compete every weekend or every other weekend. D’Andrade especially is more used to the 20km event as is Johnson, who won the Trinidad International Half Marathon this year. Locally, Thomas has seen an emergence over the last two years to the top tier of distance runners with only Forde beating him recently. He will also be a genuine challenger for the whopping first place purse of $300,000, having proven his fine form last year. The foreign participation in the race will be confirmed later this week, but with Guyana’s leading distance

runners gunning for the top, the Wartsila 20k Classic promises to be a heated battle. The race will certainly be another humdinger to distance athletes. Forde said that he will be patient and tactical, admitting that if he finds himself under pressure on the course because of the pace, he will revert to his bottom-end speed, which has proven to be an incredible asset for him in races in Guyana and across the Caribbean. “I think it’s going to be a fast race,” Forde repeated, adding “I want it to be fast because I will be looking at competing in only road races” Forde won the 5000m metre race at the National Senior Championships at the Police Sports Club Ground last Monday. The overall winner in the Open Male category will pocket $300,000 while second through sixth will take home $240,000, $200,000, $140,000, $100,000 and $50,000 respectively. The same prizes will be awarded in the Open Female category of the race. The total prize money in six categories amounts to $3.3 Million, a historic sum for local road races.

Chess world champ Carlsen launches app and criticizes own game Reuters - Norway’s Magnus Carlsen, the world’s 23-year-old reigning chess champion, has launched an app based on his own past games to make chess more popular, but he’d prefer its players not get good enough to beat him. Carlsen, whose talent and boyish good looks have earned him lucrative sponsorships deals and front-page coverage in his native country, is king of the roost in the chess world since beating Viswanathan Anand of India in November. A grandmaster since he was 13, he already had the highest rating in the history of the game, ahead of chess great Garry Kasparov’s 1999 record, and was the world chess number one. Now he is the second youngest player to have become world champion - after Kasparov, by a few months, but he also can be his own toughest critic. “I make positional mistakes, I make evaluation mistakes, tactical mistakes,” he told Reuters in an interview on Tuesday. “I make mistakes in the opening, I make

Magnus Carlsen mistakes in the end games, I make mistakes in the middle games.” Anyone who wants to find out more about his playing style can do so with Carlsen’s new app that allows users to play him at the different levels he has achieved since the age of five. The app is built on hundreds of thousands of different positions from Carlsen’s games, be they classical, rapid or blitz, to determine what moves he would make at those ages. The aim is to promote chess among as many people as possible to make the sport

more popular and accessible. “The good thing is that you can play me at any age. At age five, anyone has a chance to beat me,” Carlsen said. So what is it like for Carlsen to play against his younger self? “He is really tricky,” the champion said. “Even Magnus at 11 years old was a very gifted tactician. A while ago I played as a test Magnus (aged) 14. I outplayed him at some point positionally. And just boom, boom, he tricked me tactically. “But he makes mistakes as well, so I just have to be patient.” Can the app help find his next opponent? “I am hoping it is going to create some competitors at some point. But I really hope it won’t create anyone who is better than me. Because I don’t want that,” he said with a laugh. His motivation, now that he is at the top, is to continue to improve his game. “As long as I feel there is much to learn, that there is much refinement to be made, that is really a powerful motivation for me,” he said. “And to continue to have fun.”

Wednesday February 26, 2014

NA Warriors hold nerve in nail biting win over Smythfield Rockers in Anamayah final

Members of the winning NA Warriors team take time out for a photo.

The final of the inaugural Anamayah Memorial Inter-Club Basketball competition for teams in Berbice lived up to all expectations when top teams, New Amsterdam Warriors and Smythfield Rockers, faced off for the coveted title last Sunday at the Port Mourant Training Centre Court. In the end it was the New Amsterdam Warriors which emerged the hungrier unit and held their nerves to eke out a nail biting 50-49 points win in the game that went all the way down to the wire. Wa r r i o r s , w h o h a d beaten Rockers when they met earlier in a group encounter, looked prepared for battle as they attacked and got on the scoreboard first. In fact, Warriors were piling on the pressure e a r l y, e s t a b l i s h i n g a healthy lead in the first half, 27-15, after the first quarter and 36-24 at half time. The Rockers, after a shaky start, took some time to settle and began to make inroads in the third quarter as they clawed their way back into the game to be behind by three points 3740. The last stanza was nerve-racking and with the score at 49-50, both teams missed chances as the final whistle blew to bring an end to the encounter and jubilation to the Warriors’ bench for the close triumph. To p scoring for Warriors were Jarrel Allen with 17 points, while Randy Richardson supported with 16 points. For Rockers, Jamal Felix with 10 and

NA Warriors captain Carlos Crandon (left) receives the winning trophy from GABF President Nigel Hinds. Jason Fraser 9 led their cause. Richardson was named the player of the final, while Hugh Arthur was named the best player of the tournament. They all received trophies. The win placed Warriors as the number one team in Berbice with Rockers number two, while the other placings were: Rose Hall Town Jammers third, Fyrish Black Shark fourth, East Canje Knights fifth and Rose Hall Town ending in the cellar in sixth position. The top five teams will represent Berbice in the Inaugural National Basketball competition dubbed Road to Mecca which is billed to begin on Saturday 1st March and the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall in Georgetown. The competition was

organised and coordinated by Sports enthusiast Vibert “Town man” Garrett and was sanctioned by the newly formed Berbice Basketball Association (BABA), with the final being attended by newly elected president of the Guyana Basketball Federation Mr. Nigel Hinds and BABA president Keith Myers and Vice President Amanda Henry. Mr. Hinds, a former national Basketball player, was on his third trip to Berbice since taking up the office. He spoke to the players before the game and congratulated both teams for reaching the final. He gave them the assurance that their efforts will eventually pay off as long as they have discipline and are prepared to work hard. (Samuel Whyte)

Kaieteur News

Wednesday February 26, 2014

‘Awo’ slams helmet-trick on Slingerz FC debut

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Digicel assists Kwakwani Basketball Team

Uitvlugt stops Stewartville to reach semis National striker Anthony ‘Awo’ Abrams, netted a helmet-trick (four goals), while Clive De Nobrega and Devon Millington scored a goal apiece, to help guide tournament host and defending champions Slingerz Football Club to a 6 – 1 victory over Bagotsville, when action in the second annual Stag Beer/West, Mashramani Champions Cup continued at the Uitvlugt Community Centre ground Monday. In the second clash of the night’s planned double header, Uitvlugt walked away 3 – 0 winners over their rival nighbouring village Stewartville. The win for the two teams mean that they will clash with each other in Saturday’s semi-finals at the same venue. Abrams was signed to Slingerz FC from Alpha ‘The Hammer ’ United during the last transfer window along with six other players to form a new look roster for the West Demerara Football Association (WDFA) number one club. Forming an alliance with Millington up front, it was obvious head coach Charles ‘Lilly Pollard wanted to see how the two will mesh and his experiment paid off in the 9th minute when Abrams and his new found partner teamed up to score the game’s opening goal. After receiving the assist from Abrams, Millington returned the favour eight minutes later as ‘Awo’ scored his first goal since signing to the ‘West Side’ club to put the score 2 – 0. The score line doesn’t tell a true story of how hard Bagotsville fought off relentless attacks from Slingerz FC and they were

Some members of the Digicel team hard at work!

Anthony ‘Awo’ Abrams able to counter in the 23rd minute and scored a beautiful goal through Delon Layne. Slingerz FC’s field setting fit that of a team who came out to press their opponents from the first whistle and with the Collin Nelson led defence all sitting well into the Bagotsville half, Layne ran on to a perfectly placed pass and caught goalkeeper Jason Cromwell off guard as the two sides ended the first half 2 – 1. Something must have been said by Pollard to his troops during the half time break. Slingerz came out looking hungrier than the first half and the combination of Millington and Abrams up front placed the Bagotsville team under extreme pressure. Abrams was able to score his second goal from the charity spot in the 52nd

Charles Stoby minute after Millington was brought down in the penalty area. His other two goals (62nd and 70th) both came from Millington assists. Meanwhile, the second game of the night lived up to all expectations, though it was Uitvlugt who booked a place in the semi-finals. An own goal in the 4th minute and a double from Charles Stoby in the 8th and 50th minutes ended a dominant performance from Uitvlugt as they now face the biggest challenge against the defending Champions. T h e S l i n g e r z FC/Uitvlugt game will be the second game on Saturday (March 1) with Den Amstel and Pouderoyen playing in the opening fixture from 18:30 hours. Apart from Stag Beer, Double Day rentals, Nicola’s Bar, R&K Gas station, First Choice Waters and Two Brothers Service Station are

Digicel Guyana Incorporated, as part of observing its seven years of being operational here, has undertaken the task of constructing a fence for the Kwakwani Basketball Court in Region 10. According to Vidya Sanichara, the company’s Communications Manager, a team of 15 Digicel employees journeyed to Kwakwani with a quantity of construction materials, where they assisted in the building of the much needed fence.As a major sponsor of youth basketball in Guyana, Digicel responded to a request from the Kwakwani Interest Team to build the structure. Head of the team and coach of the Junior Basketball Squad, Ann

Gordon said that she was extremely grateful for the unwavering support from Digicel. “ We a p p r e c i a t e everything that Digicel is doing for us here in Kwakwani, especially in the line of basketball. The fence was really needed and Digicel has always supported us and we are forever grateful. This will benefit the young people whose lives revolve around basketball.” Meanwhile, Sanichara indicated that, “This project is one of the many community outreach programmes that Digicel Guyana is involved in.” The Communications Manager added that, “As part of our commitment, Corporate Social Responsibility ranks high on

our agenda, and as a result we are encouraging individuals and groups who may seek assistance with their various charity events and activities to use our Grant Application form, which is now available on our website.” Sanichara added that Digicel will continue to support initiatives that benefit sports, as it can be seen as a positive step to fostering the development of youths in Guyana. Digicel Group Limited is one of the leading global communications providers with operations in 31 markets in the Caribbean, Central America, and Asia Pacific. After 12 years of operation, total investment to date stands at over US$4.5 billion worldwide.

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Kaieteur News

Wednesday February 26, 2014

Allen misses century Smell of burning tyres to fill air at National Park but Under-19s win Dubai, United Arab Emirates - The West Indies Under-19s overcame the odds to defeat Afghanistan Under-19s by nine runs in their Super League Play-off 2 match. After winning the toss and opting to bat first, the Windies Under-19 innings was rocked by the Afghan opening bowlers as the regional side were reduced to 2-1 with both opening batsmen gone without scoring. Triston Coleman then tried to stem the flow of wickets by batting patiently to restore the innings. He hit 37 runs from 77 balls in a knock that included three fours. However, the young Windies kept losing wickets. It was the effort of Fabian Allen, hitting 92 runs from just 94 balls that helped the Windies Under-19s get back into the game. Allen’s knock contained eight boundaries and four sixes. He had some good support from skipper Ramaal Lewis who struck 27 runs. The Windies Under-19s were bowled out for 215 inside their 50 overs. Fareed Ahmad and Mohammad Mujtaba both took three wickets each for Afghanistan Under-19. The Afghans got their chase going with a series of short partnerships but lost wickets along the way. It was a gutsy halfcentury from Shahidullah

Fabien Allen

Kamal that held the innings and the early part of their chase together. Kamal score 51 runs from 61 balls, stroking five fours and two sixes. Hashmatullah Shaidi also struck a halfcentury for his team and ended unbeaten but his effort wasn’t enough. Shaidi scored 52 runs from 92 balls, hitting four fours during his stay at the crease. But the Windies Under-19 bowlers managed to pull the match back through a series of tight overs and quick wickets. Ray Jordan ended with 344 while Ramaal Lewis took 2-38 as the Windies Under-

19s won by 9 runs. Summary Scores: West Indies Under-19 Innings: 215 All Out (49.2 Overs). Fabian Allen 92, Triston Coleman 37, Ramaal Lewis 27, Gudakesh MotieKanhai 17; Mohammad Mujtaba 10-0-46-3, Fareed Ahmad 10-1-47-3, Sharafuddin Ashraf 10-2-261, Nasir Jamal 6-0-24-1. Afghanistan Under-19 Innings: 206 All Out (48 Overs). Hashmatullah Shaidi 52*, Shahidullah Kamal 51, Nasir Jamal 30, Usman Ghani 23; Ray Jordan 10-044-3, Ramaal Lewis 9-1-382, Bryan Charles 10-1-20-1, Gudakesh Motie 8-1-40-1.

Come Saturday, the air that travels through the National Park Tarmac is expected to be filled with the smell of burning tyres as competitors try to outdo each other in a battle for supremacy when the Guyana Motor Racing & Sports Club (GMR&SC) stages its Dexterity Meet. This form of racing is returning after a prolonged absence and the organisers are anticipating a large turnout and a show of daredevilry among the competitors as they showcase their skills and stunts in front of fans. According to one official,” you don’t have to have a racecar to participate, so I’m encouraging drivers of normal vehicles to come out and be part of the day’s activities as we attempt to bring racing back to Georgetown.” The obstacle course is anticipated to be challenging and exciting and fans will be

A driver seen going through a set of obstacles at a Dexterity Meet. given the opportunity to register and participate in the competition which will see an elimination process used as the format to determine the finalists. “One car will be allowed at a time and you will be racing against the clock and your time will be taken to see who does it the fastest. The first 20 vehicles move on to the other round to another elimination where a new c o u r s e w i l l b e implemented,” he outlined. According to him, the

event will test maximum skill of acceleration, braking and turning and the driver and car should become one and be able to move through the course as quickly as possible.He added that to participate in the event, a driver doesn’t need a specially built race car just the requisite skills. The official added that the event is also aimed at providing entertainment for the family, while seeking to attract a new cadre of racers to the sport.

Malta Supreme Hugh Ross Classic Body Building Show

Hadi’s World Inc. / City Mall flex financial muscle

James expects to rejoin Heat lineup tomorrow Miami (AP) - LeBron James stood in the corner of the Miami Heat practice gym, cursing but grinning after missing another 3-point shot, then flopped to the hardwood and did a push-up as self-imposed punishment. Teammates watched and laughed as the sequence repeated several times, a sure sign their MVP is feeling better. James took part in noncontact drills yesterday and said he should be able to rejoin the lineup tomorrow against the New York Knicks. He missed Sunday’s victory over the Chicago Bulls after breaking his nose in the previous game. James dispensed with the bandage he wore late last week and said his headaches have subsided. But he’s not

yet ready for contact drills and still in a little pain while the nose heals. ‘’Every day is better,’’ he said. ‘’I haven’t been hit on it either. That definitely helps.’’ He did a lot of running and other c o n d i t i o n i n g Tu e s d a y, worked with his teammates on offensive sets and shot baskets. How did he look? ‘’The same,’’ Chris Bosh said. ‘’He can break anything, and he’ll still look the same. That’s why he’s LeBron.’’ Sunday’s game was only the second James has missed this season. The Heat improved to 2-0 without him, but he didn’t enjoy watching from the bench. ‘’It was terrible,’’ he said. ‘’I was happy we got the win, but I hate sitting out.’’

He’s not looking forward to wearing a mask, either. He has experience, because he broke his cheek while with the Cleveland Cavaliers 10 years ago and wore a mask then. Miami Heat’s LeBron James, right, high-fives Dwyane Wade (3) during a time out in the second hal … Despite hindered vision and the possibility of aggravating the injury by taking another blow to the face, James said he’ll still drive to the basket. James said his nose is most bothersome early in the morning and late at night, but feels better during the day. Does it hurt when he does the push-ups? ‘’Nah,’’ he said with a laugh. ‘’My arms hurt when I do push-ups.’’

Hadi’s World Inc. / City Mall Public Relations representative Ms. Dione Johnson hands over the cheque to Hugh Ross. With preparations at a heightened level among athletes competing in the fourth edition of the Malta Supreme Hugh Ross Classic body building and fitness show set for Saturday March 29 at the National Cultural Centre, Hadi’s World Inc. / City Mall has flexed its financial muscle to ensure another successful competition.

Yesterday at the entity’s Lombard Street premises, Public Relations representative Ms. Dione Johnson handed over a cheque to Chairman of the Hugh Ross Classic Committee Hugh Ross. Johnson, in making the presentation to the man in whose honour the show is held noted that the entity has always been a supporter of

the show and this year it would be no different. “We at Hadi’s World Inc. / City Mall are happy to once again be a part of this activity which showcases the best athletes both male and f e m a l e . We s e e t h i s contribution as our way of giving back to the persons who bring joy to us whilst competing.” Hadi’s World (Continued on page 29)

Kaieteur News

Wednesday February 26, 2014

Page 35

Guyanese and USA based Sudesh Fitzgerald/Rosetta Masters Runner making his mark Mashramani Darts Classic

Hiralall cart off top honours

Sudesh Fitzgerald (right) collects the champion trophy from Darts Association President Grantley Culbard. National Men and Women Singles Champions, Sudesh Fitzgerald and Rosetta Hiralall, distinguished themselves from among their peers when they both rebounded from losing positions to capture the top honours in their respective categories when the curtain came down on the Mashramani Darts Classic at the Malteenoes Sports Club, Saturday February 22 last. Fitzgerald defeated Anil Lachhman 3-2 and claimed the prize won by the latter player in 2013, thus inscribing his name on the lien trophy for the second time after performing the feat in 2012. Lachhman sped ahead after winning the first two games but Fitzgerald underlined his status as national champion by storming back to take the next three games. Ricardo Madhoo then defeated Anthony Bissoondyal 2-1 to seal off the final podium spot. The female matches

were just as enthralling after Shondell Hyles seemed set to upset the national champion Rosetta Hiralall even after the latter player had won the first game. Hyles rebounded with a win in the second game and surged ahead after winning the third. It was then that Hiralall called on her reserves to comfortably win the final two games to retain her dominance. The 3rd place w ent to veteran J ean DeSouza who defeated the other losing semi-finalist, Melissa Smart 2-1. The other results are: Mixed Doubles 501: Sudesh Fitzgerald/S Persaud (1st), Sherwyn Greene partnered by newcomer Shondell Hale (2nd) while 3rd place went to Colin France who partnered with Shondell Hyles to defeat Lallchand Rambharose and Rosetta Hiralall. Men’s Doubles 501: Sudesh Fitzgerald and Ricardo Madhoo defeated Colin France & Anil

Lachhman 3-1 to take that title while 3rd place went to Sherwyn Greene and Anthony Bissoondyal who defeated Andrew Balchand & Chris Fulton. Mixed Triples 701: Sherwyn Greene/Rosetta Hiralall/Lallchand Rambharose won from Andrew Balchand/Chris Fulton/Hemwattie Amyan, 2-1. The 3rd place went to Sudesh Fitzgerald/Mary Correia/Nicholas Seetaram who defeated the other losing semi-finalists, Adrian D a m o n / M e l i s s a Smart/Nicholas Murray, 2-1. Sudesh Fitzgerald and Anil Lachhman threw 16 darts and eventually won the award for the Shortest Game while Andrew Balchand scored the Highest Amount of Points to Finish a Game (128). Lallchand Rambharose scored three 180s, the most by any player and duly won that prize. Sudesh Fitzgerald won the Len’s Trophy while the other winners received cash prizes.

Milo / Petra Organisation Schools Football resumes Saturday

After a break for the Mashramani celebrations, the Milo / Petra Organisation Schools Football Competition will resume this Saturday with four more

matches at the Ministry of Education ground, Carifesta Avenue. In the first game of the day, Central High takes on St. Mary’s from 11:00hrs and this clash should see the latter start as favourites judging from their gutsy performance against Bishop’s High which ended in a 1-1 draw. Central High failed to

show up for their opening encounter against Lodge Secondary so attempting to pronounce on what could be expected from them will be nothing more than speculation. In the second game, Freeburg battles North Ruimveldt at 12:30 hrs. North Ruimveldt should start as favourites in this one, (Continued on page 29)

Ronville Gravesande (2nd left) along with his record breaking teammates. Ronville Gravesande, originally from Mahaica, East Coast Demerara, Guyana and now living in Union, New Jersey, United States of America, is a highly recognized Masters middle distance runner not only in the United States but in the world at large. On Sunday, February 16, 2014 at the United States Track and Field Indoor New Jersey State meet, Gravesande, running for his club (Shore Athletic Club) in the 4 x 800 meters relay, his team was able to break the long standing 12 year old world record of 9:58.0 for this event in the 60 plus age group.

Gravesande, who ran the 3rd leg of the relay, ran an impressive time of 2:55.98, which was the fastest in his team’s victory of 9:55.96 and a new world record was set. Besides this world record achievement, Gravesande’s o t h e r m a j o r accomplishments include: A gold medal in 2012 (1mile), and 2 silver medals (800M & 1 mile) at the United States Nationals Indoor Track and Field meet respectively. In addition, he has won the prestigious international New York City 5th Ave mile for 3 consecutive years, 2010-2012. Also, in a recent article “2013 Masters Long

Distance Runner of the Year” published on February 6, 2014 in Runner’s World, honorable mention was made of Gravesande in the age group 60-64.Gravesande’s future plans include having his own personal world record in 400 meters, 800 meters, or the 1 mile. On March 14, 2014, he will be competing in a high quality field of athletes in the 60-64 age Group at the United States Nationals Masters Indoor Track and Field Meet in Boston, Massachusetts. If invited, Gravesande would like to participate in May 2014 Guyana Half Marathon.

Football Coach, Peter Lashley to be interred today Just under two weeks following his horrific death, former National Football Coach, Peter Lashley, will be laid to rest this afternoon. Family, friends, footballers and other affiliates of the football fraternity, where Lashley had given yeoman service, will join with other mourners to pay their final respects when the former servant of the sport is eulogized before being interred at the Buxton Cemetery later this afternoon. Lashley died on February 14 last after being involved in an accident at the Mandela Avenue/Jamoon Drive junction; he was 54 years-old. Since his death, many of his colleagues around the world had

Peter Lashley telephoned to convey their sympathy while several organizations have held wakes in commemoration of his passing. Last evening,

his colleagues from the Georgetown Football Club, where Lashley had nurtured many young ball weavers, held a wake and solemnly remembered their departed colleague. Meanwhile, the body will be at the Merriman’s Funeral Home between 09:00 – 09:30hrs this morning before leaving for a pass by his former work place, John Fernandes. The body will then be taken to the GFC Ground until 12:30hrs then to the St. Sidwells Church at 13:00hrs for the service. The cortege then proceeds to the Buxton Cemetery where the body will be interred. Lashley is survived by his wife, Lorraine and three children, all boys, Kobie, Nicholas and Jamal.

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Forde’s familiar foes for gruelling clash

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Familiar Road Race Foes! Cleveland Forde trails Nathaniel Giddings and Cleveland Thomas on the Kitty Public Road during a Road Race last year. Lionel D’Andrade and Kelvin Johnson will most-likely join the trio in the final stages of the Wartsila 20k on Sunday.

FBI suspected Muhammad Ali’s legendary 1964 victory over Sonny Liston was FIXED P. 26

NA Warriors hold nerve in nail Sudesh Fitzgerald/Rosetta biting win over Smythfield Hiralall cart off top honours Rockers in Anamayah final Mashramani Darts Classic

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