Kaieteur News

Page 04

Kaieteur News

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

EDITORIAL

Fertile ground for propaganda Guyana suffers from a serious deficiency that has made its people unusually vulnerable to propaganda. This deficiency is a conspicuous absence of a comprehensive, incontestable record of Guyana’s history. For many years, unscrupulous persons and groups have relentlessly and callously exploited this weakness for divisive, partisan purposes. The net effect is that many (probably most) Guyanese have to make do with distorted and mistaken perceptions of public figures and events that have shaped the conditions under which they live today. Indeed, a great deal of what people accept as historical facts are myths, lies and propaganda. For example, this murky and deceptive wasteland has produced grossly disparate accounts of the lives and legacies of three late outstanding Guyanese leaders — Dr. Cheddi Jagan, Forbes Burnham and Dr. Walter Rodney. Thousands of Guyanese are still around who had intimate knowledge of these men and what they did. Yet, there is no definitive, irrefutable historical record of their contributions to Guyana and there is deep division about whether their historical roles were ultimately beneficial or detrimental. This is compounded by the fact that the division is usually along ethnic lines. It is tragic that Guyana’s recent history is so convoluted and so poorly and prejudicially recorded that distinctly different versions of so-called historical ‘facts’ are peddled by different sources and in different places. This has led to a ludicrous scenario in which half of the country tends to believe one version, while the other half tends to believe something else entirely. Last week, on the occasion of the birth anniversary of the late President Forbes Burnham, one set of Guyanese showered their memory of him with boundless adulation. They publicly relayed an impressive record of his dreams, schemes and accomplishments. Next month, another set of Guyanese will gather to commemorate the death anniversary of the late President Dr. Cheddi Jagan. They will celebrate their memory of him with ardent praises, crediting him with superlative vision and an exemplary record of achievements. These incidents showcase the inconsistencies prevalent in the Guyanese people’s perceptions of their nation’s history. In expressing their reverence for their respective ‘fathers’ of the nation, these two groups of Guyanese will give accounts of historical events that were so diametrically different that they were mutually exclusive. The Rodney Commission of Inquiry is a prime example of historical views and records going askew with the passage of time. When important historical events are remembered and recorded completely differently by different sets of people, what is the true history of Guyana and its political personalities and events? Incredibly, some of the most compelling information about Guyana’s recent history came from the archives of a foreign nation - declassified ‘cold war’ documents from the USA giving that nation’s perspective of British Guiana in the 1960s. The unwholesome practice of different sets of Guyanese giving vastly different accounts of historymaking personalities, issues and events in Guyana shows no signs of abating soon. Right now two huge factions are giving opposing versions of the nature and underlying causes of the escalating crime situation. Public accusations from these groups are flying across the divide regarding who are in bed with ‘corrupt elements’. Impartial Guyanese are having a monumentally difficult time trying to sift some truth from the propaganda. What would be the enduring historical record of these events unfolding today? One thing is clear. Unless far greater numbers of qualified and committed Guyanese take the time and trouble to record meticulously and truthfully material that is historically significant, our history would always be trapped in a mire of uncertainty and doubt and this nation would continue to be fertile ground for the most pernicious propaganda.

Friday February 27, 2015

Letters... Where your views make the news

A closed circle at the top monopolizes the nation’s resources DEAR EDITOR, The President of Guyana was caught again talking about 4.5 percent growth, yet close to 40 percent of the population lives in poverty, a marginal decline from 43 percent from a decade ago. Over the last decade of the Jagdeo/Ramotar cabal being in charge, Guyana lived through a period of policy paralysis that drove inequality of opportunities and jobless growth. What we continue to observe under this Jagdeo model is a closed circle at the top that monopolizes the nation’s resources by using custom made public policy to marginalize the majority. Guyana can never develop its human capacity until and unless this process is changed and there is a return of trust by the people in the governance structure. Can the people trust the Jagdeo/Ramotar cabal again to develop the infrastructure, electricity projects, education systems, and the other projects that can act as significant growth and jobs

stimulants? The Jagdeo model has fostered a collection of public policies that were designed to reward the politically connected and penalize those that are deemed to be against the political establishment; a kind of starve and feed mentality. One would find those connected with the ruling elite are well positioned to be offered all the “cushy” projects and jobs, whether they are experienced, qualified and technically competent enough or not. This policy of nepotism has resulted in many of the billion dollar projects like the ICT Cable Project being bungled to the financial loss of the people and continues to deny Guyana that opportunity to transform into a value added society. In the meantime, the Ramotar regime continues to underserve the real needs of the secondary school systems, the technical institutes and most importantly, the University

of Guyana, which continues to result in an army of university graduates, who are under-trained and underskilled and thus mostly un-fit to compete for the few good jobs available in Guyana. This has to change! But we cannot blame the rich if the process and public policies of the Jagdeo/ Ramotar decade of destruction encouraged “land grabs” and “Ponzi scheme deals” for a select few. All can remember when the Jagdeo regime retroactively legalized an illegality in the enforcement of the tax laws so that the Sanata Textiles complex can be transferred with a sizable tax holiday to a very close friend of the PPP. This model of investment has to be revisited by the new Government of Guyana. In Guyana right now under the PPP Government, according to a World Bank study, “the richest 20 percent of the population controls 50 percent of the income, while the poorest 20 percent only controls four percent”. The

Broad Based Alliance (BBA) has to be mindful of this fact, since the poor in Guyana seems to be stuck in uninterrupted poverty while a very insignificant few continue to do drastically better. This state of affairs is setting the foundation for a communal implosion, as more people observe that their Government is deliberately closing off opportunities to them. That is why the new BBA has to outline as a priority, a detailed Land Use Policy that outlines key agrarian reforms, with firm deliverables within a defined period. The bottom-line must be - “land for the landless”. The poor must secure greater access to land so that they can provide food for their families, build their own homes and use that land to leverage investment capital for themselves to incubate New Business ideas. This model will certainly allow for a greater share of the national pie being more fairly distributed (Continued on page 31)

Together, we will help to rebuild this land DEAR EDITOR, Led by Jagan, Burnham, D’Aguiar and others too many to mention, Guyana embarked on nationhood with purpose, talent and a firm belief that service to the people came before enrichment of self. Fellow Guyanese, this competent, selfless cadre of patriots has over the years given way to cabals of the corrupt, incompetent & visionless. Through all this negative change, Guyanese who benefitted from the efforts of our early patriots have mostly chosen to sit on the sidelines. Mostly appalled at the destruction of the Land of Many Waters, few have embraced the effort needed to create a better tomorrow for our children. After working in and out of Guyana on the edges of politics and social service, after my deeply tragic experience of the senseless brutality of the system, I have decided to stand up. As I have stood up, so have many compatriots, young, old; Amerindians, Africans, Indians, Chinese, Portuguese, mixed race and others; rich & poor.... .everywhere Guyanese are standing up, but more need to stand up!! But so as a country’s

degeneration was a process, so must its rebirth. And not being from a connected family, or made money in the recent bonanzas, the Independent Party must and will build. And the rebuilding of our nation does not depend only on who sits at the Office of the President. No. It depends on how many of us hold hands and march lockstep into a fairer, more transparent future. So, in

2015, the Independent Party will contest the upcoming elections: Not for the presidency, but rather to secure a few seats in Parliament.......and while I believe that I can and will provide the leadership Guyana needs, our party has many other talented members who will soon be revealed to the public. Together, we will rebuild Guyana. Building this great

nation that once boasted of clean, wide promenades, canals that kept the Atlantic at bay and schools that produced many proud and distinguished patriots: Lionel Luckhoo, Winifred Gaskin, Lakshmi Kalicharan, Walter Rodney, Rohan Kanhai, Clive Lloyd and numerous others to mention at the moment. ........ This is our time! Mark A. Benschop Independent Party

NCN reporters and editors need a crash course in journalistic ethics DEAR EDITOR, It is with some regret that I am forced to pen this letter. On Wednesday 25th February 2015, ‘NCN 6 O Clock News’ carried a story read by reporter Ms. Shunza Samuels titled “Joseph Harmon dodges questions about his non-appearance at the Walter Rodney Commission of Inquiry”. Firstly Mr. Editor, it is common courtesy and it also makes for good journalistic and media ethics to inform not just public officials, but anyone you’re interviewing, that they’re being recorded; a courtesy that the National Communications Network (NCN) is obviously neither aware of, nor familiar with. The reporter who sought comments from PNCR Executive Member and APNU General Secretary Mr. Joseph Harmon via telephone, committed a devious and deceitful act by not telling him he was being recorded. It should be noted too that Joseph Harmon is also an Attorney at Law, so one would have

thought that any reporter would be extremely cautious when interviewing and quoting same, to avoid legal ramifications. Adding insult to injury, when yours truly contacted NCN News Room about said report, NEWS EDITOR Paul Moore pretended he was unaware of what I was talking about and referred me to another Editor. Mr. Editor, these are the kinds of malicious, vindictive and twisted acts by members of the state media that could cause them to be sidelined when it comes to providing coverage for political opposition parties. I thank you for providing space in your column as I in this political season urge those seemingly untrained reporters at NCN to resist any further temptation to practice deceitful, devious and hostile reporting. Malika Natasha Ramsey PNCR and APNU Communications Officer

Friday February 27, 2015

Kaieteur News

Page 5

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

Why is the PPP supporting Kwame McCoy’s obnoxious behavior? DEAR EDITOR, While death in politics is not always a permanent state, the appointment of Mrs. Harper from the Civic Group, which is a sham, because that group does not exist, is being seen by many political onlookers as the final nail in the PPP’s coffin. Of course, this has happened a few times during the 1980s, but this latest imbroglio between the Old Guard and the Jagdeoites has certainly made the PPP politically and economically distinct from what Dr. Jagan had envision. Mr. Rohee’s handling of Mrs. Harper’s appointment

and Kwame McCoy behaving worse than a chimpanzee at press conferences and no one, not even Rohee or Luncheon has rebuked him, have left the party members and supporters bitter and more confused. Kwame McCoy’s behavior shows that the Office of the President has degenerated to its lowest level ever. How can Ms. Harper tolerate, or be around such horrible, obnoxious and low class PPPites like Kwame McCoy? Is the PPP supporting Kwame McCoy’s obnoxious behavior? As scandal mounted upon scandal, the leaders of the PPP had no choice but to

Stop the abuse Of tax payers money in Region 5 DEAR EDITOR, It is with deep concerns that I am penning this letter in highlighting what is taking place here in Region 5 since January 2015 in a more rapid pace for political gains. Since the date of elections has been announce by the President the region 5 administration seems to transfer all the vehicles into the PPP\C name. Why I say this? Every event that the PPP\C hosted in Region five and afar the RDC vehicles are being used to do the work and to fetch people esp. underage children to the events so as to get a crowd. I will like to remind the Chairman and REO of Region 5 that it is tax payers money that is being used to purchase, maintain and fuel

those vehicles and taxpayers comes from different races, religions, cultures, political affiliations, etc and therefore they must stop using the government vehicles and resources for the PPP\C election campaigning. Yes, I agree this was done in the past but let the past be the past I am living in present time and not past time, so put an end to this abuse now. Recently the RDC of region 5 have purchase a 32 seater bus for the main purpose of using it in transporting people to and from PPP\C meetings. Also it must be known that the sign on the doors of the vehicles was marked RDC Region 5 but yet for all the administration officials have decided to blank that sign out, (Continued on page 31)

select someone with an unblemished character to improve the shattered image of the party even though she has no political experience. The PPP claim to stand for principle, change and new politics sounded increasingly bogus and hollow. Indeed, the frequent wishy-washy statements from the un-schooled General Secretary are in distinct contrast to those of the President and Dr. Lunchoen. Neither Mr. Ramotar nor Dr. Luncheon sang the same tune as the General Secretary because they knew that Ms. Harper’s appointment was a surprise to almost everyone because she is virtually an unknown to the public and the Freedom gang, and she is definitely not from the Civic. Their desperate haste to select a Prime Ministerial candidate with morality and integrity and to gain political mileage out of their pretentious actions has disappointed an increasing number of PPP supporters who are disenchanted with decision. In a shocking but loaded and profound message, many of them have bluntly and defiantly told

their ill-advised leaders it is time for them to get real and emancipate themselves from the shackles of the evil racial bogey which has so viciously contaminated the landscape of their gifted and beloved nation. Obviously, their request must have fallen on deaf ears but subconsciously, they were appealing to the better instincts of those who thrive on the demonic and diabolical vagaries of the race card to exploit the innocent insecurities of the uninformed and the vulnerable for political gains. By their deeds they know themselves. The remarks have awakened a nagging concern regarding concerted efforts by the PPP to use the race card in this election to create strife, spread hatred and divide Indo and Afro Guyanese. It is a calculated and conscious effort by the Freedom House gang to misinform and mislead their supporters and to convey the impression that if the APNU/ AFC Pro-Democracy Alliance wins the election and David Granger becomes the president, East Indians would be deprived of their fair share of the national purse.

However, Indo and AfroGuyanese have taken justifiable pride in the tremendous strides they have made towards unity. They pity the fact that there still exists this stubborn, but small and racial minority who continue to manipulate the people who through their hard work have eminently brought honor, dignity and glory to Guyana. Guyanese are proud with the progress made in unifying the nation through education since the attainment of selfgovernance. Their greatest quantum of progress has been made under the astute policies of the Burnham regime that intelligently and methodically extricated Guyanese from living under some of the most primitive conditions of colonialism. From inception, the PNC main plank was that of education. Among other things, the late Forbes Burnham was a strong and unrepentant advocate of the philosophy that ‘To educate is to emancipate one self.’ So he wasted no time in introducing the program of universal free secondary education and initiated the

process of making tertiary education accessible to all, poor and rich alike. It was this overarching emphasis which was placed on free post-secondary education that set the stage for equal opportunity for all, regardless of color, class, creed or race. The time has come for the youths of Guyana to enrich their knowledge and cease to rely on narrow, parochial and selfish political ramblings which have sullied the two major races and focusing their attention on the scourge of racial hatred and divisiveness clinically being imposed on the nation by those in authority who continue to betray the efforts at building a strong, united and harmonious society. All Guyanese should join the clarion call throughout the land and say “No more racial politics in Guyana.” Dr. Asquith Rose, Chandra Deolall, Dr. Merle Spencer-Marks.

Page 6

Kaieteur News

Friday February 27, 2015

Guyanese is new T&T UG turmoil pushes back Guyana Prize deadline Guardian Editor-in-Chief - Entrants had difficulty in making submissions As the drama continues to unfold at the University of Guyana, the deadline for the Guyana Prize for Literature has been pushed back due to the ongoing industrial action. This is according to Al Creighton, the Secretary and Administrator to the board on the Guyana Prize for Literature Award. The news of the deadline comes exactly a month after Creighton defended the previous February 28 deadline for the Guyana Prize. Creighton yesterday confirmed to this newspaper that the deadline had been shifted from the last day of February to April 7. He explained that the deadline had initially been set in May, but this date was shifted due to the impending General and Regional elections. He said the date was then shifted to February 28. However, he said, “the problems at UG made it difficult for persons to actually go on the campus to take in their entries.” Creighton said the board had received a number of complaints from entrants indicating their difficulty in making submissions. “We decided to just clear all of that and move the date back,” he added. When questioned on why the board had decided to shift the date rather than the location for submissions, Creighton said that solution would have been more difficult. He opined that a location would have had to be selected then appropriately advertised. “It was easier to shift the date; the shifting of the location would have had too many logistical issues,” Creighton said. Furthermore, Creighton said a conflict with the judges’

schedules still existed but was being resolved. “We’ve taken into consideration the judges’ schedules, but at this point that can be negotiated,” Creighton said. He continued, “We also have to negotiate how and when the judges will meet.” He explained that the meeting dates had been previously “locked in” but with the shift in submission date these meeting dates would also have to be readjusted. He added that all planned events, such as the date of the ceremony, would also have to be shifted. “All of these things have been affected, but we were pushed to change the date because of the difficulties the entrants were experiencing,” Creighton said. Meanwhile, Creighton explained that though entries had already been made, he could not say exactly how many submissions had been made to date. He further said he had received indications from other persons of submissions. Workshops are also slated to continue beyond the date of submission, Creighton said. He explained that there had been three workshops so far and these would continue later in the year. “Even after the closing date we would have workshops; the idea was always that workshops would continue later in the year despite the closing date for entries,” he said. He further noted previous calls to have the deadline extended. He said writers should be continuously writing and not simply when the Guyana Prize had been advertised. “Our idea is not that we advertise the Guyana Prize then people would see the ad and start writing; the idea is

that there are writers who are basically writing all the time and, when the time comes for the prize, they will enter what they have,” Creighton said. Meanwhile, two-time winner of the Guyana Prize Ruel Johnson deemed Creighton’s explanation of the deadline’s extension as “ridiculous”. Nonetheless, Johnson said he welcomed the decision and emphasised that it was a necessary one. He further urged both the writers and the prize’s organisers to use the time to better the Guyana Prize. Johnson also pointed out some issues that needed fixing including the improvement of the workshops currently being offered. He said these workshops should be on a national scale and not just limited to Georgetown. He noted that the University of Guyana has a campus in Berbice and this, he said, should be used to the prize’s advantage. “These workshops need to be geographically equitable,” Johnson emphasised. He also said corporate partnerships should be sought to improve the prize. He further said the prize should be better promoted, particularly amongst university students in Guyana. According to the writer, neither he nor any other local winner of the prize had ever been invited to the university to speak or give lectures on what it takes to write for the Guyana Prize. Since the announcement of the Guyana Prize’s deadline, Johnson had been vociferous about the deadline and had called on numerous occasions for an extension. Johnson had opined that the time frame for preparation is simply too short. This preparation time, he said, is inadequate, especially for those who are unfamiliar with the actual workings of the prize, in order to submit work that can actually compete. Creighton’s explanation comes as the University of Guyana is in its fifth week of industrial action over wage negotiations between the UG administration and its staff.

Guyanese Orin Gordon has been appointed Editorin-Chief of T&T Guardian. Gordon, a former BBC journalist, has had more than 25 years in journalism across all media platforms, starting with the Guyana Broadcasting Corporation, where he became Editor-inChief in 1992, while in his midtwenties. As a journalist at the BBC World Service’s Caribbean Report, he went one-on-one with three T&T prime ministers, more than a dozen others throughout the Caribbean, as well as other key politicians and decision makers. He led the Caribbean team before moving on to global news as a presenter for The World Today. Gordon presented a range of global shows including World Briefing, Outlook,

Business Matters and Digital Planet (the technology show now called Click.) “I’m a techie, and though I’ve eased up a bit now, gadgets have been my only vice,” he said. He has written as a freelancer for newspapers including Stabroek News, Barbados Nation and the Trinidad Express, and wrote a regular column on cricket, “The Anglo Caribbean View”, for Wisden Online and The Guardian (UK). Gordon holds an MA in journalism from Cardiff University. After taking an MBA at Oxford, he started a business as a media trainer, while remaining a freelance reporter/analyst with BBC radio, TV and Online. Guardian Media Limited (GML) Managing Director Lisa Agard said, “I am

Orin Gordon delighted to have Orin join the Guardian Media team as we continue to transform the media landscape to embrace the new digital reality and to build upon the Guardian newspaper as the guardian of democracy in Trinidad and Tobago.”

Ecstasy possession lands miner before court A gold miner was released on $75,000 bail by Chief Magistrate Priya SewnarineBeharry after it was alleged that he had a quantity of ecstasy in his possession. Adonis Fletchman, 25, of 76 Garnett Street, Campbellville, denied that on February 25, he had in his possession 1.9 grams of the illicit drug in his possession. Prosecutor Michael Grant

told the court that the drug was found on a shelf in the defendant’s bedroom. He said that the accused told the police the tablets were medication for pressure. Grant further told the court that the tablets were tested at the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), where the results were proven to be ecstasy. Fletchman’s attorney Paul

Fung-a-Fat asked that his client be released on bail because he has no knowledge of the drug since it was found in a house he was renting. The prosecutor did not object to bail because the man was charged under section four of the narcotic act which states that the offence is bailable. Fletchman will return to court tomorrow.

A porter made an appearance yesterday at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court to answer to the charge of fraudulent conversion. Ken Hamlet, 47, of La Grange Village denied that on May 19, 2014 at Aranka Landing, Cuyuni River, he was entrusted with a quantity of clothes valued $1M, along with a quantity of cosmetics, sneakers and slippers to deliver same to Hannetha Rose, and fraudulently converted same to his own use and benefit. Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry presided over the proceedings.

Police Prosecutor Michael Grant did not relay any facts about what occurred on the day in question to the court, but asked that bail be set in a substantial amount for the defendant, taking into consideration the value of the items that were allegedly stolen. Hamlet, who was unrepresented by an attorney, told the court that

he has no pending or previous matters before a court of law. Magistrate SewnarineBeharry released the accused on $100,000 bond and ordered that he report to the subordinate officer of ‘F’ division headquarters. The matter was transferred to the Bartica Magistrate’s Court for March 13.

Porter granted $100,000 bail on $M fraud charge

Two months for rice thieves Two men who pleaded guilty to stealing five bags of rice were yesterda y s e n t e n c e d t o t w o m o n t h s imprisonment by Magistrate Annette Singh. Michael Gaynor, 43, and Mark Anode, 25, stole five bags of rice valued at $7,800 - property of Ramray, also known as Jerry, between February 22 and 23. The prosecution’s facts stated that on the day in question, Corporal Bristol, who was on duty, saw the two defendants and approached them in the presence of the persons who bought the rice. The facts further related that the defendants admitted to the police that they stole the items; hence they were cautioned and arrested.

Friday February 27, 2015

Neesa Gopaul murder trial… The long awaited testimony of the Prosecution’s star witness, Simone De Nobrega began yesterday, gripping the packed courtroom in the trial of Bibi Shareema Gopaul and her lover, Jarvis Barry Small, who are accused of murdering 16-year-old Queen’s College student, Neesa Gopaul. The State witness who is also known as “Simone King,” took the stand yesterday before Justice Navindra Singh and a mixed 12-member jury. De Nobrega, a former cellmate of Gopaul claimed that the woman had confided in her that she sat and watched as Small first strangled and then bashed her daughter’s skull before disposing of her body in a creek on the Linden/ Soesdyke Highway. The victim’s five-year-old sister, De Nobrega said, was sleeping in the car while Gopaul remained unmoved as her daughter begged for her life. De Nobrega said she met and befriended Bibi Gopaul during a period of incarceration at the East La Penitence Police Station lockups. As the witness gave her riveting testimony, the number two accused (Gopaul) fixed her eyes upon her. She sat upright in the prisoner’s dock while Small wore a blank expression on his face. De Nobrega said that one night while they were in the lockups, she heard the accused saying “No Barry, stop Barry.” She said the woman appeared to be having a nightmare. De Nobrega noted that after Gopaul awoke, she kept looking over her shoulder as if something would happen. The witness said that the woman expressed a desire to confide in her and she in turn

Kaieteur News

Mom was present as lover killed daughter

Page 7

- former cellmate tells court assured her that she wouldn’t tell anyone what she had to say. De Nobrega said that it was then that Gopaul began to relate her story. De Nobrega said that Gopaul then asked her if someone had died as a result of poisoning a year ago and the body was exhumed, whether an autopsy would reveal that the person died from poisoning. “I told her I have no idea,” De Nobrega stated, adding that Gopaul told her that she “seemed like the type of person who knew a lot of people.” She said that Gopaul told her that she wanted someone to dig up her husband, Javed Gopaul’s grave. De Nobrega told the court that Gopaul confided that she would pay any price to have the work carried out. The witness said that she became confused and Gopaul related that she wanted to tell her “something” that would make her understand her reason for making the request. At this point, De Nobrega said that Gopaul held her hand softly and said “it wasn’t me. Barry killed Neesa.” The witness went on to say that Gopaul told her that she met Barry Small, a gym instructor, after she started to attend the gym. They then began having an affair. According to the witness, Gopaul said that sometime later, she told her lover that she was not comfortable with her marriage and she wanted to be with him because he made her happy. De Nobrega said that the woman told her that she had moved out of her matrimonial home, but returned for the sake of her two daughters Neesa and Miriam, and was hopeful that the marriage would get better, but instead it got worse. She said that the victim’s

mother had related that Small told her that the only way they could be together was if her husband was out of the picture. According to the cellmate, Gopaul’s lover had encouraged her to poison her husband and he gave her rat poison to add to his meals over a period of time. Javed Gopaul was rushed to the hospital sometime after, where doctors diagnosed him with kidney failure.His wife was advised to take him home since there was nothing else the doctors could have done to save him. The next day Javed Gopaul died and was buried a matter of hours after. Gopaul reportedly related that two weeks after her husband’s death, she was feeling sad, lonely and very depressed, and Small moved into her home. This angered the woman’s parents. At this point, the witness related that Gopaul told her that her daughter Neesa had become very rude and disrespectful to her. She related that the teen started skipping school and staying out late. De Nobrega said that Gopaul claimed that after awhile Small and Neesa started getting along extremely well. The woman said the accused recalled that she would be in her room and overhear conversations between her daughter and her (Bibi Gopaul’s) lover. The

MURDERED: Neesa Gopaul

MURDER ACCUSED: Jarvis Barry Small

MURDER ACCUSED: Bibi Shareema Gopaul

conversations, she said, would change whenever she entered the room. Gopaul had related that Small had started to change; whenever Neesa was around he would be mean to her and whenever Neesa was not, he would treat her like a ‘total sweetheart’. At this point, DeNobrega related that the woman said that she became depressed and Small gave her tablets to calm her nerves; she said that he told her to take eight tablets per day. The witness said that the accused also revealed that Small had told her that Neesa had confided in him that she overheard a telephone conversation between her mother and another person; she overheard her mother telling the person on the other end of the line about how she had poisoned her father. He

said that Neesa told him that her father had left them a lot of money. The witness went on to say that on one occasion, Gopaul said when she tried to scold Neesa in relation to an issue, the teen got upset and told her that she knew that she had poisoned her father . De Nobrega said that Gopaul also related that Small told her that they needed to get rid of Neesa because she would cause trouble. According to the witness, Gopaul said that Small suggested selling the teenager to his friends in Venezuela for $2 million, but they didn’t go through with it since they believed that the girl would return home when she turned 18 and cause trouble. Gopaul said that Small also suggested that they take the teen along the Soesdkye/ Linden Highway to a place

where they would burn wood to make coals and throw her in, but she didn’t like the sound of that idea, because she felt they would come together and push her in instead. The witness said that a few days later Gopaul told her two daughters that she was taking them to buy chicken and that they would pick up “Uncle Barry” at the Vreeden-Hoop junction. She said Neesa was seated in the front seat of the car and Small got in the seat directly behind the teenager. Her youngest daughter Miriam was seated next to him. They went to Royal Castle and then to the seawall, and it was afterwards that they went for long drive along the Soesdyke/Linden Highway. The witness said that Gopaul related when they were in the vicinity of Splashmin’s Fun Park, Small, who was seated behind the front passenger seat, placed a rope around Neesa’s neck and pull it, choking her, and she began to scream “mommy mommy, don’t kill me,” According to the star (Continued on page 12)

Page 8

Kaieteur News

Friday February 27, 2015

China’s loans to Latin America ‘ROSE TO $22BN IN 2014’

China lent Brazil more than $8bn in 2014, according to new figures released Loans by China’s stateowned banks to Latin American countries rose by 71% to $22bn (£14bn) in 2014, according to estimates published by the China-Latin America Finance Database. The figure is the second largest on record for Chinese lending in Latin America, according to the report. The Chinese loans exceed the combined worth of those by the World Bank and the Inter-American Development Bank, the authors say. Brazil alone received $8.6bn, they say.

It was followed by Argentina with $7bn, Venezuela with $5.7bn and Ecuador with $821m, according to the report by US think-tank Inter-American Dialogue and Boston University’s Global Economic Government Initiative. Report authors Kevin P Gallagher and Margaret Myers say Chinese finance is particularly popular with Latin American governments because it “comes with few strings attached”. “China may tacitly require that Chinese companies have

a hand in some projects, but has avoided meddling in domestic policy,” they write. However, they warn that China’s mounting financial commitments to the region also carry considerable risk. “China is heavily invested in countries with poor credit ratings and a history of default,” they say. Since 2007, Chinese state banks have loaned Venezuela more than $50bn, which the Latin American nation has invested in mining, energy, infrastructure and housing projects. (BBC News)

Jamaica government denies taking decision to sell shares in Petrojam KINGSTON, Jamaica - CMC – The Jamaica government earlier this week said no decision has been taken with respect to the divestment of its shares in the state-owned oil refiners, Petrojam. Energy Minister Phillip Paulwell said that if and when an offer is received, the process would be subject to the oversight of the Contractor General and the Government’s Contracts Committee consistent with the divestment of public assets. In addition, Paulwell said that he is willing to facilitate requisite consultations on the company’s future with the Private Sector Organization of Jamaica (PSOJ), other interest groups and individuals in the interest of transparency. Paulwell said with respect to concerns that the pricing policy of Petrojam has been designed to influence the value of the state asset, the guiding principle of the state refinery has been longstanding and that the government would continue to ensure that the policy accords with international best practices, the viability of the company and the best interest of the Jamaican consumer. Last week, the PSOJ said it was concerned at the effective monitoring of energy were the Government to give up majority control of the Petrojam oil refinery. The PSOJ hinted that the company’s pricing structure may be deliberately couched to attract investors. Media reports here last week noted that a buyer for Venezuela‘s stake in Petrojam was likely a month away and that Jamaica was also willing to sell a portion of its holdings to the

Phillip Paulwell new investor. PSOJ called for more transparency on the proposed sale, saying “such an important entity to the Jamaican economy could place the entity in third-party hands without appropriate debate and consultation with other stakeholders and the Jamaican public generally, bearing in mind the impact Petrojam has on the economy and the cost of petroleum inputs.” Government has a 51 per cent control of Petrojam with the other 49 per cent shares owned by Petroleos de Venezuela SA.

Friday February 27, 2015

Kaieteur News

Page 9

Seizing the moral high ground at UG In any battle the safest ground is always the highest ground. In any struggle the safest ground is the moral high ground. This is advice that the unions involved in the present dispute with the University of Guyana should heed. These unions need to seize the moral high ground. They need to establish the justness of their cause through the reasonableness of their demands. But they must also ensure that the methods they pursue are lawful and do not impede on the rights of others, including the rights of their colleagues who may wish to work. The unions have called a strike. The strike weapon has long been regarded as a legitimate means through which trade unions press their demands on employers. No trade union can afford to abandon the right to strike. This strike weapon or the right to lawfully withdraw labour after giving due notice is the only security that unions have that collective bargaining agreements are going to be respected. Without the possibility of withdrawing one’s labour, workers can never be sure that their employers will negotiate

with the workers’ union or respect agreements. The right to strike, however, is neither guaranteed nor protected under Guyana’s Constitution. What is protected is the right to freedom of association. Article 40 of the Constitution of Guyana guarantees freedom of association. The right to belong to a trade union is long associated with this fundamental freedom. Indeed, without the right to association, trade unions would be at the mercy of both employers and public authorities, and could be arbitrarily outlawed and derecognized. The right to freedom of association is therefore protective of the right to belong to and to form trade unions. Article 147 of the Constitution of Guyana reaffirms this right to association, including the right to form and belong to trade unions. But it equally asserts that laws and restrictions can be made in the interest of public safety defence, morality, order and health. Restrictions can also be placed on public officers. These restrictions would not

amount to a violation of the constitutional guarantee of freedom of association. The strike weapon is not protected under this provision. The strike weapon is however deemed a right under international conventions, of which Guyana is a signatory. The right to strike only exists where it is in compliance with the law. Governments are obligated to ensure that this right is not violated. Such protections do not encompass illegal actions as part of a strike. In pursuing strike action, unions at the University of Guyana should first take the moral high ground by ensuring that their industrial action does not violate the rights of others. Entrances and exits to the University should not be blocked. This is unlawful and is not protected under the right to freedom of assembly or association. When supporters of a union have to resort to physically preventing others from working, this is unlawful action and not a protected right. During the long public service strike of 1999, supporters of the Guyana Public Service Union blocked entrances to government offices and physically

prevented workers from entering. This was not taking the moral high ground. This was seizing the law ground. The Guyana Public Service Union became a victim of its methods, and today has neither bark nor bite. Today, it is forced to watch on helplessly year after year while the government imposes salary increases on public servants. The methods of the union backfired on it and its strike ended ignominiously. The unions of the University of Guyana should avoid a similar fate. They should seek the moral high ground, and attempt to persuade those lecturers and workers who are still on the job to join them. They have to understand the realities of life in Guyana. Some people have bills to pay and families to maintain. They cannot afford to strike unless strike relief compensates them for the loss of income while off the job. The unions have to respect those workers who cannot afford to stay off the job. The unions should condemn and ostracize those who are pursuing unlawful methods in blocking persons from entering the university’s compound. Those who are

doing this are not winning adherents and supporters. They are behaving like bullies. Bullies stand on low moral ground. The unions also have to seize the moral high ground by being reasonable in their demands. If their demands are not reasonable, their cause cannot be just. The unions cannot be calling for a sixty per cent increase. This is clearly beyond the reach of the University administration, indeed any administration. There is no reasonableness in this demand by the unions. The fact that university lecturers in other countries of the Caribbean earn more cannot be the basis for justifying the demands by the unions. The per capita income of Guyana is way below its Caribbean

counterparts. Therefore we cannot expect to be paid on par with those lecturers unless Guyana is going to charge students fees commensurate with what is charged by those foreign universities. The unions need to step back and take the moral high ground. Make demands that are reasonable. Condemn the unlawful blockading of campus. Finally, do not expect to be paid for time off the job. Once you go on strike, you have to face the consequences, the most important of which is that you will not be paid for the time off the job. That too is a moral position.

Page 10

Kaieteur News

Friday February 27, 2015

=== The Freddie Kissoon column ===

Harper’s harpagophytum God forbid! They say never say never in life, but I am saying I will never be the type like Charles Ramson to use big words in every line that would make people think you are showing off (I suspect that was what Dr. Alissa Trotz wanted to say, but resorted to diplomatic language when she chastised Ramson). I looked hard to find a word to pleasantly rhythm with Harper as I did last Tuesday. In Tuesday’s column, “harpsichord” was perfect. It is a musical instrument. Mrs. Harper is supposed to bring sweet music to the ears of the electorate for the discredited PPP bandwagon. Today I wanted to continue in that vein, but finding a synonym for harpsichord was hard. I tried “harpoon” but its meaning would be a bit harsh on Mrs. Harper. It denotes that she is a shooter and I wanted to be more pleasant to the lady. I thought of “harpago” and “harpes” but didn’t use them, though they were appropriate. My fear would be that

women would object to the use of either one. Both denote the strength of butterflies, but it is a capacity found in male butterflies. I thought of “harpagoris.” That is the largest eagle in the world, found in New Zealand. Mrs. Harper would have to soar like an eagle to win large blocks of votes for the PPP. Still uncertain that the use of “harpagoris” would be a fair description of this unblemished diplomat, I looked harder and finally thought that “harpagophytum” (pronounced har-pag-o-fytum) fits the bill. “Harpagophytum” is a lovely genus of herbs from Southern African countries. This is the right word. First, Mrs. Harper has to maintain a lovely deportment during the campaign to win voters, because she is riding on the bandwagon of some very rude politicians who have alienated this nation, and will continue to alienate Guyanese as the campaign picks up. Just one example for Mrs. Harper to reflect on. The PPP has started its campaign, yet Vreed-en-Hoop vendors

had their stalls dismantled last week Friday. Here is what Robeson Benn was quoted in the newspaper as saying. “The work crew was instructed to remove three Canter trucks, but instead demolished the structures of the vendors.” I don’t believe a word in that explanation of the Minister. The second relevant use of the term “harpagophytum” is the ethnic dimension in the choice of the PPP. You have to be very foolish to think that political parties do not input the ethnic reality when they select their top candidates for national elections. You have to be foolish to think the APNUAFC coalition’s top two would have come from the same race group or that the PPP would have fronted two East Indians. Mrs. Harper’s ethnicity was a factor in her selection. That is the sociological reality that underlies politics in Guyana. We come now to the obvious question – will Mrs. Harper bring harpagophytum to the PPP’s campaign? My answer is no. Her presence comes too late. The only way Mrs. Harper could win a national election on a PPP ticket was if she is the lead candidate and her list is one of personalities of youth and both genders, and they have clean slates. As it stands, Mrs. Harper

has entered politics on a rather inelegant note, and this will bring a baptism of fire. This columnist is not going to spare Mrs. Harper, despite her known integrity, if she fails to properly analyze the questions put to her. First, it was amazing that at the press conference she said not a word when she should have been the one speaking. Secondly, it was alleged that NCN did an hour-long interview with Mrs. Harper, but this was not aired because of a technical error that resulted in audio loss. Can Mrs. Harper say in what

capacity was she interviewed, seeing that it came shortly after her adoption of a career in politics? My first question to Mrs. Harper is if there were discussions on the succession mode when she agreed to her candidacy? The PPP said she is from the Civic component. The PPP policy is that the Civic component cannot and will not have the presidency. Has she agreed to that? My second question is, how long was she a member of the Civic group and does she think that conflicted with her civil service status?

Frederick Kissoon These are inquiries that Mrs. Harper has to know will be asked and she must answer them. This is what politicians do. They face questions from the media. Finally, should the PPP lose, will she continue her civil service career?

Dem boys seh...

Pastor Gilbert ain’t able no more Everybody know that when people in trouble is then dem does run to dey place of worship. Some does go to church, some to Masjid, and some to de Temple and so on. Kwame and Sukhai in trouble. Kwame play big woman and put down a cuss out in Ohh Pee and de Duck cuss he up and tell him that if he continue like that de party gun lose de elections. Sukhai get cuss down from de Duck too. He seh that he never know that she use to eat nuff sugar cake when she did small and all she teeth rotten out. Is when he see de bill, whole $2 million fuh fix she mouth is then he realize that he had a calamity in he Cabinet. Dem boys hear that he tell she that he nah sure that gun keep she if he get back into power. When she hear that she decide to go to church de same night and end up sitting down next to Kwame. De sermon was Love Thy Neighbour. De pastor was Gilbert and he said, “Turn to your neighbour and seh that you are adorable and beautiful, created in de image

of de Creatah.” Sukhai look at Kwame fuh a long moment then buss out a laugh. She then loudly tell Gilbert, “Tell he yuhself. I don’t want to lie in church.” Is de same lying mek Jagdeo and Donald de Duck don’t go to church. Not a word that come out of dem mouth is true and if people think is lie, just go back and read all wha dem seh. De few thing wha he promise to do as president, he nah do none. De Duck seh that he gun fix de radio licence three weeks after he go in office. He also seh that he gun deal wid corruption and send nuff people to jail. He promise to release de Hen See Hen report; he was to review VAT fuh help poor people get a better life. Nutten nah happen. And Pastor Gilbert tun and tell he fuh look at Jagdeo and ask him why he didn’t allow you, Donald, to fix dem things? De Duck tell Gilbert, “You ask he. Me nah want he lie to me no more.” Talk half and watch out fuh more lies.

Friday February 27, 2015

Kaieteur News

Page 11

Political parties inclined to partake in electoral debates By Abena Rockcliffe Politicians are likely to confront and logically address the real issues affecting Guyana during the heat of the campaign season for General and Regional Elections slated for May, 11, 2015. If they all stick to their words, Guyanese will see representatives from each of the three main political forces in Guyana on a platform defending their records, policies and putting forward a logistical plan to move Guyana forward. Moses Nagamootoo of the Alliance for Change (AFC) — which recently joined forces with A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) — told Kaieteur News that his party is eagerly hoping to debate the incumbent People’s Progressive Party (PPP). He said that the AFC and APNU are hoping that the Guyana Elections C o m m i s s i o n (GECOM) would put out a schedule of debates “and once that happens, we are ready for them, any time any place.”

The longtime politician said that his favourite topic would be corruption. The PPP has also committed to public debates. At a recent press conference, Rohee said that the PPP is ready for any debate and would be willing to publicly defend the party’s record in administrative office. APNU Leader and APNUAFC presidential candidate, David Granger told Kaieteur News that he would not give up an opportunity to debate the PPP. He said, “I am fully prepared to go public to put forward the good plans this alliance has in store for Guyanese”. Granger added that he has always been prepared for debates and alluded to the 2011 elections campaign. He recalled that debates were organized and all three parties-PPP, AFC and APNUagreed to go through with it. “But by the second round President Ramotar disappeared and it was only me and (AFC Leader and 2011 Presidential Candidate) Mr. (Khemraj) Ramjattan,” said Granger. The politician told this publication that it’s now up

to President Ramotar to decide whether or not he is willing to face the music and “explain the damage he and his predecessor, (Former President Bharrat Jagdeo) inflicted on Guyana…Ramotar has to know if he is willing to appear publicly to defend the policies he implemented over his three-year tenure as President of Guyana.” APNU’s Carl Greenidge told this newspaper that his coalition really thinks that debates are essential for elections in Guyana. He said that it gives voters an opportunity to know more about the prospects. “TV debate gives insight. It is much more intricate than Radio. In TV it is more than just the message. Dressing too relaxed or too tense can cost a candidate. As simple as a crooked tie can be a distraction and candidates do not want to appear less than sincere, because that can be costly as well,” said Greenidge. He said that Guyanese deserve to be given such option when choosing a leader. Guyana has been

President Donald Ramotar

Prime Ministerial hopeful, Moses Nagamootoo changing quite a few things on the political scene to match-up with the policies of certain developed countries. For instance, there have been amendments to the constitution barring a President from holding office for more than two terms. That was patterned from the United States of America (USA). Debates are big as well in the USA whenever there are elections. During presidential elections in the United States, it has become customary for the main candidates (almost always the candidates of the two largest

Presidential hopeful, David Granger parties, currently the Democratic Party and the Republican Party) to engage in debates. The topics discussed are often the most

controversial issues of the time, and arguably elections have been nearly decided by these debates. Candidate debates are not constitutionally mandated, but it is now considered a de facto election process. The debates are targeted mainly at undecided voters; those who tend not to be partial to any political ideology or party.

Page 12

Kaieteur News

Friday February 27, 2015

Mom was present as.... ‘Jihadi John’ killer from Islamic From page 7 witness, the teen began “fighting up” (kicking at the dashboard and steering wheel). The other child had fallen asleep. The woman said that Gopaul told her that she drove for a mile down a trail and stopped at Emerald Towers Resort, “ Neesa’s favourite place”. The witness said that Gopaul related that she stopped the car and Small got out. He took Neesa out of the car as she was panting for breath. Gopaul stood outside to ensure nobody else was around. The woman said that Barry Small took Neesa around the car and she fell on her knees and began to call her little sister’s name “Miri, Miri wake up”. Small, she said, then took a piece of wood from the trunk of the vehicle and began hitting Neesa repeatedly at the back of her head. He hit her until she was laying face down on the ground. De Nobrega said Gopaul recalled that the last sounds she heard from her daughter sounded like groans. Shortly after, Neesa stopped making the noise. Small then picked up the teen’s lifeless body and placed it in the car trunk and they returned home. De Nobrega said that

Gopaul said the following morning she awoke and went to check to ensure Neesa was really dead. She didn’t want touch the body with her hands; she poked it with a stick. De Nobrega said that Gopaul recounted that she reported her daughter missing and Barry Small instructed her to wrap the body in a sheet and place it in a suitcase with the girl’s passport and early saver bank card to make it appear as if she had run away from home. He told her to take weightlifting dumbbells which she had at her house, and they would attach it to the suitcase. He told her that the weights would keep the suitcase under water. She said that they returned to the Emerald Tower Resort where they dumped the body in a creek. The witness said that Gopaul recounted that Small thereafter instructed her to pack their bags and that they were going to leave for Suriname in case the police started suspecting that they had anything to do with Neesa’s death, but as she was packing her bags the following day the police came to the house. The police told her that they had found Neesa’s body and she needed to go with them to identify it.

In response to questions by the Prosecutor, De Nobrega told the court that she spoke to the accused for five consecutive days. The witness said that she subsequently spoke with her lawyer and the police to whom she gave a statement. Asked what her reason was for telling her lawyer about the conversation she had with the accused, De Nobrega said “I am a mother and I love my two sons dearly and my job is to protect them …I couldn’t carry such a weight; I couldn’t live with myself. I believe Neesa deserved justice and no matter what, she didn’t deserve to die,” the witness said, staring in the direction of the prisoner’s dock. As she spoke her voice began to crack, she stopped and then continued “by the hands of someone she trusted; someone that was supposed to protect her, that’s why I told my lawyer.” The witness went on to say that she submitted a statement to the police on October 20. Asked why she had been in custody, De Nobrega said that she had been arrested for a number of obtaining credit by false pretence charges. The witness spoke slowly as she related this to the court. Asked whether she had been convicted, the witness replied in the affirmative. She told the court that she was sentenced to five years for the crimes, but she absconded because she received threats from persons who claimed they were linked to Neesa Gopaul. De Nobrega said that she feared for life and that of her children. The prosecutor then asked the witness to describe how Gopaul appeared as she related the accounts. De Nobrega responded “she didn’t seem remorseful one bit …not a single tear.”

State beheading videos unmasked as Londoner (Reuters) - The masked “Jihadi John” killer who fronted Islamic State beheading videos has been identified as Mohammed Emwazi, a British computer programming graduate from a well-to-do London family who was known to the security services. The black-clad militant brandishing a knife and speaking with an English accent was shown in videos released by Islamic State (IS) apparently decapitating hostages including Americans, Britons and Syrians. The 26-year-old militant used the videos to threaten the West, admonish its Arab allies and taunt President Barack Obama and British Prime Minister David Cameron before petrified hostages cowering in orange jump suits. Emwazi’s name was first disclosed by the Washington Post. Two U.S. government sources who spoke on condition of anonymity confirmed to Reuters that investigators believed Jihadi John was Emwazi. Dressed entirely in black, a balaclava covering all but his eyes and the bridge of his nose and a holster under his left arm, Jihadi John became a menacing symbol of Islamic State brutality and one of the world’s most wanted men. Hostages called him John as he and other Britons in Islamic State had been nicknamed the Beatles. He was unmasked publicly for the first time on Friday by British media which published a photograph showing Emwazi as a

A masked, black-clad militant, who has been identified by the Washington Post newspaper as a Briton named Mohammed Emwazi, brandishes a knife in this still image from a 2014 video obtained from SITE Intel Group schoolboy. The Daily Mail newspaper published a picture showing Emwazi smiling and sitting crosslegged on the grass at the front of the photograph from the St Mary Magdalene Church of England primary school in Maida Vale, West London. Emwazi was born in Kuwait but came to Britain aged 6 and graduated with a computer programming degree from the University of Westminster before coming to the attention of Britain’s main domestic intelligence service, MI5, according to an account given by Asim Qureshi, the research director of the Cage charity that campaigns for those detained on terrorism charges. Emwazi, a fluent Arabic speaker, said MI5 had tried to recruit him and then prevented him from traveling abroad, forcing him to flee abroad without telling his

family, Qureshi told a news conference in London. Emwazi traveled to Syria around 2012, Qureshi said. MI5 does not publicly comment on the identity of militants or their backgrounds while an investigation is still ongoing. The British government and police declined to confirm or deny Emwazi’s identity, citing an ongoing security investigation. AGENCIES HUNTING JIHAD JOHN “We don’t confirm or deny matters relating to intelligence,” said a spokeswoman for Cameron, who has ordered spy agencies and soldiers to track down the killer. “Jihadi John” rose to notoriety in August 2014 when a video appeared showing a masked man raging against the United States before apparently beheading U.S. citizen James Foley off camera.

Friday February 27, 2015

Kaieteur News

Page 13

Health Ministry keen on “saving babies” The state of infant mortality is currently being reviewed by the Ministry of Health. However, information coming out of the Ministry is that Guyana has essentially achieved the Millennium Development Goal (MDG) related to infant mortality. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), reaching the MDG on reducing child mortality will require universal coverage with key effective, affordable interventions: care for newborns and their mothers; infant and young child feeding; vaccines; prevention and case management of pneumonia, diarrhoea and sepsis; malaria control; and prevention and care of HIV/AIDS. In countries with high mortality, these interventions could reduce the number of deaths by more than half, said WHO. And so as part of its effort to maintain the gains made to tackle infant mortality, the Ministry of Health has been paying keen attention to “saving babies.” This is according to Minister of Health, Dr Bheri Ramsaran, who disclosed that “we are now having our

- Dr. Ramsaran

Minister of Health Dr. Bheri Ramsaran review because we are coming to the period of the end of when the Millennium Development Goals (MDG) were to be achieved and we are now heading towards the post 2015 (MDG) agenda or the Sustainable Development Goals.” Moreover, Minister Ramsaran said that particular focus is directed to babies who are deemed small and very vulnerable. “Even untrained persons can see these are difficult cases...previously we would be saving babies way above 500 grams, but now we are saving babies that can fit on

the palm of your hands like a little kitten,” said the Health Minister. The vulnerability of some of these babies, according to him, translate to them not even having properly developed lungs. These babies, according to him, should not be out of the protective environment of their mother’s womb, as some might even have cardiac problems and might not be fully developed or even diseased because they are not developed. “Babies like these should still be in the body developing,” said Dr Ramsaran as he theorised “it is like if you have a house and you are building it and suddenly there is a big storm and you haven’t been able to fix the roof or you haven’t been able to fix the windows, it will be damaged if it is thrust into that hostile environment.” For this reason, he said that “we are now, as a service, addressing the needs of neonates those born within the first hours of life to 28 days more and more of those

we are addressing.” According to the Minister, previously some of the babies that the public health sector is now able to save might have been classified as stillbirths, but are now being classified as a neonate who must be rushed to one of its Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). While these facilities (NICU) are predominantly within the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), Dr Ramsaran said, such capacities are also within the West Demerara Regional Hospital, Linden and the New Amsterdam hospitals too. “We have also provided transport incubators, that is, special incubators for these vulnerable neonates. These are not like the regular babies who are coming to use the regular incubators,” said the Minister. With the use of these incubators, the vulnerable babies can be transported from hospitals across the country to the GPHC’s NICU for better treatment. The Minister pointed out too that through overseas strategic partnership, such as the Baby Heart Foundation, the health sector has been

able to benefit from other equipment. Some of these pieces of equipment, he noted, are outfitted with monitors and ventilators which are specialised to cater to this subset of the population – the neonates. And there are many other issues such as feeding, said the Minister, of catering to the needs of neonates. Vulnerable babies often require special feeding products which Dr. Ramsaran says, is an exciting enterprise and “I think we have made great strides but it is also very expensive.” And sourcing these special feeds is important, as the Minister noted that their

digestive systems are not ready for the metabolism necessary to process regular foods. “Regular foods for premature babies would be dangerous to them. We have done lots for them in Guyana, especially with a neonatal intensive care unit which was pioneered by Dr Narendra Singh and other Guyanese in the Diaspora. We owe them a great debt.” But in order to ensure that the neonatal service remains efficient and effective in the quest to reduce infant mortality, Minister Ramsaran said that many medical personnel, particularly nurses, have been trained to aid the process.

Page 14

Kaieteur News

Friday February 27, 2015

WPA slams “arrogant” IDB’s US$32M loans to Guyana - says timing suspicious on eve of elections The Working People’s Alliance (WPA) has vowed to join with the other Opposition parties to review a recent loan granted by the InterAmerican Development Bank (IDB), yesterday questioning the entity’s commitment to transparency, accountability, ethics and the rule of law. WPA, one of the several political parties comprising A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), the country’s largest Opposition, also again called for IDB to disclose whether the monies have been disbursed to Government. “To date, the IDB has refused the Guyanese public and their parliamentary representatives the courtesy of a response,” the party said in a statement. “We wish to place on record our strongest condemnation over the egregious actions of the IDB in the face of repeated calls from the Opposition, Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA), and other Guyanese stakeholders, to tread carefully on making loans to the Guyana Government on the eve of national elections.” The party, in noting the Government delayed the dissolution of Parliament by over two weeks from the required date, said it views with suspicion, the approval

Suspicious loans? Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh with IDB’s President, Luis Alberto Moreno last week. of more loans. “The WPA further noted the “coincidence” of the approval of the loans by the IDB, the announcement by His Excellency President Donald Ramotar on February 24th, 2015 on the planned dissolution of Parliament, and the announcement of the Government’ plan to distribute 6,000 solar panels to Amerindian Communities out of the IDB funds. The

only thing not done so far is for the IDB to endorse the PPP/Civic,” the WPA stated. The party said it must now question the IDB’s commitment to transparency, accountability, ethics and the rule of law which the IDB so “self-righteously” claims for itself. The WPA says that it “hopes that the Bank will now accept this offer of selfredemption by openly

declaring if any, of the abovementioned loans were disbursed, and if either was, or both were, its timing and destination.” WPA warned the bank that it must be aware that constitutionally such funds must be placed in the Consolidated Fund of Guyana and can only be taken out by way of an Appropriation Act passed by the Parliament. “The bank’s collusion with the Government at this stage would leave the WPA, in consultation with the members of the joint opposition, no choice but to re-examine the validity of the loans, and by extension its repayment.” WPA said that it is appalled that the IDB could assume arrogantly that it could ignore the legitimate calls by the WPA and indeed the entire parliamentary Opposition, to show some restraint in its dealings with the PPP/C Government on the eve of general elections. It is entirely up to the IDB whether it wishes to further tarnish its developmental record by going into the political bed of the PPP/ Civic.” WPA said that Guyanese wait impatiently for answers. On Tuesday, Government announced that Minister of Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, signed loan agreements with President of the IDB, Luis Alberto Moreno. The Opposition has been warning that it will not honour

any new transactions, and has also expressed concerns over the unfair use of state resources –including moniesto do campaign work. The US$32.16M from the IDB comprises two loans, targeting police and prison initiatives as well as the environmental management sectors. According to the Finance Ministry, one of the two agreements signed is for US$15M. This will finance what is called the Citizen Security Strengthening Project. Under this project, a number of initiatives will be funded, that are aimed at contributing to a reduction in crime and violence such as homicides, burglaries and robberies, and domestic violence in Guyana. It included addressing issues related to repeat offenders. Under the Environment Sector Strengthening Project, some US$17.16M will be provided in support of policy reforms in the sector. The programme aims to support Guyana in the implementation of its Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) with emphasis on climate change initiatives and sustainable natural resources management, the Ministry said. Over the weekend, the Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA) objected to the loans being signed, saying it has written the IDB to hold the monies until after the May 11

elections. GHRA said that the letter was sent Friday to the Country Representative of IDB, in which it says the monies could be misused for electioneering purposes by the ruling People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/ C). In its letter to the bank, the watchdog body said that it is disturbed by the timing of the announcement that the IDB has approved a loan to be spent in furthering the country’s Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS). “While the GHRA is not suggesting impropriety in the approval process, or of the IDB as an institution, nor disagreeing with the substance of the loan, issues of perception with respect to timing cannot be overlooked.” The spending of monies was one of the major reasons why the combined Opposition, during the life of the 10th Parliament, moved to pass a no-confidence motion in November. It would have caused the current Government to resign and fresh elections to be called. However to stave off the no-confidence vote, President Donald Ramotar, in a controversial move, prorogued (suspended) Parliament for six months in November. In the face of mounting pressure from local and international bodies, the President announced elections day as May 11.

NIS files court action against former KFC franchise holder …alleges failure to pay $15.6M in contributions The Board of the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) has filed court action against the Friendship Hotel and Restaurant Holdings Limited, owned by popular businessman Deonarine Singh, allegedly for its failure to pay $15.6M in contributions on behalf of a number of employees. The entity formerly operated outlets under the Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) and Pizza Hut Franchises. The National Insurance Board, whose registered office is situated at Brickdam and Winter Place, Georgetown, will be taking the company before the courts on ten counts of failure to pay contributions at or within the time prescribed. The money is reportedly owed for a total of ten months in 2013 and 2014. The court action, filed in

the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court, names Singh, the company’s Director; Shareholder, Bibi Naseeb Khan and Company Secretary, Solange Pertab, as defendants in the matter. The court document specifies that the charges were in keeping with Section 41 (1) of the National Insurance and Social Security Act, Chapter 36:01 of the local laws. The insurance company is claiming that the Friendship Hotel and Restaurant Holdings Limited, with registered office situated at Lot 118 ‘S’ Cowan Street, Kingston, Georgetown, failed to pay contributions for and on behalf of several employees for the first six months of 2013 (January – June) and several months last year. The National Insurance

Board is claiming the business entity owed $9,742,398 for 2013, while it reportedly failed to make good in contributions totaling $5,830,924 for the months of February, May, June and July, last year. The court documents specify that for January 2013 the business entity owed $1,935,795; in February $1,626,949; March $1,427,118; April $1,565,953; May $1,705,690 and $1,480,893 in June that year. This amounted to $9,742,398. The board, in the documents, claimed that it was owed $1,484,912 for February 2014, $1,426,401 for May; $1,349,729 for June; and $1,569,882 for July of the same year. The sums for last year amounted to $5,830,924. According to the documents, Friendship Hotel and Restaurant Holdings (Continued on page 25)

Friday February 27, 2015

Kaieteur News

Page 15

Iwokrama not removing embattled Chairman Embattled UN climate scientist Dr. Rajendra Pachauri will remain in his current capacity as Chairman of the Iwokrama International Centre for Rainforest Conservation’s Board of Trustees until further notice, according to the local office . This is even after revelations recently came to light that Dr. Pachauri was named as the principal in a sex scandal involving one of his female employees, reminiscent of the sexual scandal that brought down the head of the International Monetary Fund, Dominique Strauss-Kahn four years ago. Pachauri has already resigned as head of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and has gone on leave “for the time being” from The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) in Delhi where the incidents allegedly occurred. Immediately after stepping down, the IPCC designated vice-chairman Ismail El Gizouli as their acting chair until elections slated for October determines a new chairman. However, when this publication contacted the local office and spoke to the Chief Executive Officer of the

- CEO

Dr. Rajendra Pachauri (left) with former President Bharrat Jagdeo in February 2012. Iwokrama International Centre for Rainforest Conservation, Dane Gobin, he stated that no decision has been taken as yet as to whether Dr. Pachuari will be removed from his position as Chairman of the Board. So far, the scientist has not communicated to them any intention of resigning from his position, in light of the scandal he is embroiled in. Pachauri, 74, is being

accused of sexually harassing a 29-year-old researcher over a two-year period. According to the woman, the harassment started shortly after she joined TERI and included sexual harassment, stalking and criminal intimidation. INVESTIGATION Pachauri has since denied the claims, and in response has claimed in court documents that his emails,

mobile phone and WhatsApp messages were hacked by criminals seeking to malign him by harassing the plaintiff. He nevertheless took precautions to approach the Delhi court, seeking bail in anticipation that during the inevitable investigation the police might have taken him into custody, after the research analyst filed a complaint with the local police alleging the harassment. Pachauri was subsequently granted a stay of arrest until February 23, when it was withdrawn. The victim has expressed fears that due to Dr. Pachauri’s international profile, he could possibly destroy the evidence and get away scot free. Dr. Pachauri had chaired the IPCC since 2002 and during his stint it has taken the lead in scientific assessment of the causes and risks of climate change. Its reports are written by thousands of scientists and approved by the IPCC’s 195 member nations. Pachauri was re-elected unopposed by the member nations of the IPCC in 2008,

but the upcoming election in October will see a number of scientists throwing their hats in the ring. Professor Jean-Pascal van Ypersele, from Belgium, Prof. Chris Field from the US and Prof. Thomas Stocker from Switzerland have all declared their candidacy. Iwokrama was established in 1996 and dedicated as a place for research “to develop, demonstrate and make available to Guyana and the international community systems, methods and techniques for the sustainable

management and utilization of multiple resources of the tropical forest and the conservation of biological diversity”. The Iwokrama rainforest is located in the geological heart of Guyana. It is made up of 371,000 hectares of forest (1.6% of Guyana’s landmass and 2% of Guyana forests). In February 2012, former President Bharrat Jagdeo received an honorary Doctorate of Philosophy from Dr. Pachauri, who acted in his capacity as chancellor of TERI University.

Page 16

Kaieteur News

Friday February 27, 2015

Controversial Amaila Falls Hydro Project…

Govt. stands behind Chinese contractor - says IDB has safeguards Government has dismissed concerns by a leading non-governmental watchdog body over the Chinese contractor involved in the US billion-dollar Amaila Falls hydro-electric project, saying that enough safeguards are in place to protect Guyana from corruption. The Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA) on Wednesday warned that a key ethics committee in Norway has blacklisted the parent company of China Railway First Group (CRFG) over corruption. The association called for Government to hold off on the 165-megawatt project until public consultations and investigations are carried out on the contractor. According to Government in a statement, GHRA drew “incorrect” and “misleading implications” of a recommendation made for Norway’s Government Pension Fund Global (GPFG), the largest investment fund of its kind in the world. The fund has monies invested in China Railway Group Ltd (CRG), the parent company of CRFG. CRFG is the company awarded the US$506M contract to build the hydro project. Norway would be concerned how monies are being spent, as that country has a US$250M agreement with Guyana for this country to maintain its forests in a sustainable manner. Some US$80M will be used from the Norway money as part of Guyana’s equity for the project. Government accused the GHRA of being an “opposition-aligned” organization and said the allegation is largely based on a corruption case in China that involves state-owned China Railway Engineering Corporation (CREC). “CREC is a parent company of China Railway Group that is in turn a parent company of China Railway First Group, which is the actual partner on the Amaila Falls Project. The main parent company, CREC, is one of the world’s largest firms and has hundreds of subsidiary firms

under its umbrella. Therefore, it’s very misleading and nonsensical to draw such a comparison with the partner company of the Amaila Falls Project.” Government insisted that the organisation failed to point out that the Amaila Falls project, by virtue of being developed under the governance of the InterAmerican Development Bank (IDB), adheres to the IDB’s strict and internationally recognised standards. “As a member of the IDB, the Government of Norway endorses IDB’s policies including its financial and fiduciary safeguards. The integrity concerns raised by the NGO are based on allegations made for projects taking place in China. The safeguard policies for these projects are very different from the strict IDB safeguard policies followed in the Amaila Falls Project.” Government said that it follows “high standards” and will continue to defend against baseless attacks that try to derail Guyana’s development. “The Amaila Falls Hydropower Project has best in class international partners and is being developed according to the highest standards, and it will deliver transformative social and economic benefits for the people and economy of Guyana. The Government of Guyana remains fully committed to realising these benefits for all Guyanese.” In a report released last year, Norway’s GPFG Council on Ethics (CE) recommended “the exclusion of China Railway Group Ltd. (CRG) from the investment universe of the GPFG due to the unacceptable risk of the company being responsible for gross corruption.” The hydro project has been seen as a crucial one for Guyana, with Government arguing it will bring down costs of power and improve reliability. However, the project stalled in 2013 after the Opposition-controlled National Assembly refused to pass key environment legislation required for IDB to approve the part of the required financing.

Friday February 27, 2015

Kaieteur News

Page 25

Rain puts damper on after Mash clean up

The cleanup activities have been hindered by inclement weather By Zena Henry Continuous, and in some cases heavy rainfall caused a slight delay in postMashramani clean-up efforts yesterday. The Mayor and City Council (M&CC) said that while operations commenced subsequent to Monday’s Republic Day celebration, the activity will take some time before the routes used are completely cleaned. Yesterday’s downpour prevented the efficient functioning of the systems put in place to clean the litter-

filled areas. Areas such as Merriam’s Mall are still to be cleaned completely. This and other popular vantage points had seen the largest accumulation of spectators. Kaieteur News was told that the country’s Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Prison Services, the Council’s staffers and Cevons Waste Management are involved in the clean-up efforts. It is expected that the littered locations would be cleared by the weekend. On the other hand, the Mashramani confusion

between the Mayor and Councillors and acting Town Clerk Carol Sooba seems still alive. The two sides could not agree on who would distribute Mash spots and they now cannot agree on clean-up arrangements. This was evident when the acting Town Clerk walked out of Council’s Statutory meeting on Monday. The Mayor had brought up the issue of Council allowing Mash spots to be free of cost. This prompted the Town Clerk’s interjection that the Mayor should himself go and clean the

Accused chain snatcher remanded A teenager was yesterday remanded to prison after he was charged with robbing a man of his gold chain and cell phone. Seventeen-year-old Nicholas Sookram, pleaded not guilty to the charge which stated that on February 23, at Vlissengen Road, Kitty, while in the company of others, he robbed Brandon Singh of a

gold chain valued $70,000 and a Samsung Galaxy S4 cellular phone valued at $85,000 – a total of $155,000 – property of the said Singh. The charge was read to him by Magistrate Judy Latchman. Singh, who resides at 280 Independence Boulevard, told the court that he works at a Fisheries outlet and has

no pending matter before the court. Police Inspector Shellon Grant objected to bail citing the penalty that such an offence attracts if the defendant is found guilty. She also pointed out the prevalence of the offence. Sookram will make his next court appearance on March 9.

NIS files court action against... (From page 14) Limited failed to fork up $15,573,322 in employees’ contributions. The charges laid specify that the business entity had until the fifteen day of the month which followed to clear its accounts with the insurance scheme, but it had failed to do so on the aforementioned occasions.

The insurance board requested that the defendants be summoned to answer the charges and the matter should be called up before a Magistrate at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court. This comes at a time when the National Insurance Scheme has garnered public interest for its modus operandi.

News surfaced last month that the state-owned Guyana Sugar Corporation GuySuCo owes over $1.5B to the NIS in contributions. Meanwhile, it was last November that the NIS came under scrutiny when it was revealed that thousands of contributors owed millions of dollars by the Scheme cannot be identified.

garbage along the Mash route, since the spots were given for free. The Mayor responded with an incomplete sentence that ‘the only garbage I wish to clean is...” This angered the Town Clerk who felt that the Mayor was calling her garbage and thus walked out of the meeting. The discussion of cleaning the Mash route was unfinished. A matter of discussion, also, was the sale of Mashramani spots, which according to the Council saw a few persons coming to the agency for a refund of cash paid. Public Relations Officer (PRO) Royston King told

Kaieteur News that at least four persons had visited the Council seeking refunds. The Executive and Administrative arms of the Council were in a bitter dispute over who had rights to allocate Mash spots. The Mayor and Councillors voted to offer Mash spots for free while the Town Clerk said vendors would pay. According to the PRO, it appears that most of the Mash spots occupied were done for free. It was opined that a few persons would have purchased spots and there were no major incidents where persons were arrested or ordered to remove from

spots. The Town Clerk had warned persons that they would be dealt with by City Constabulary officers and the police should they vend for free. Many of the persons Kaieteur News spoke to on Mash Day said they had not paid for spots because the Council was offering it for free. Those who paid and returned for a refund were reportedly unable to receive reimbursement. These persons were directed to the Town Clerk’s office, but “were given the royal runaround and eventually left the compound”, King said.

Page 30

Kaieteur News

SALON Make Up Courses with Mac, Bare Minerals, Black Opal and Sacha cosmetics. Call: 647-1773/660-5257

CAR RENTAL PROGRESSIVE AUTO RENTAL:CARS&SUV FOR RENTAL- $4,000 & UP PER DAY- CALL: 643-5122, 2193900, EMAIL: PRO_AUTO RENTAL@YAHOO.COM

FOR RENT PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 2-Bedroom upper flat @ 5 Wallers Delight, W.C.D – Tel:674-4929; 662-0187 Apartments for rental @ Nandy Park E.B.D – Tel:2275194; 624-5194 1 -8000 SQ Feet ware house, located 20 miles from City $5000USD monthly – Contact: 695-0333 Sharon’s Building, limited mall space from $65,000 $275,000- Call: 225-4413/ 614-0949 Container Bar 160 Vryheid Lust E.C.D, for bar or any other kind of business – Tel:220-4375 or 690-3129 Wash bay and snackette at Lot 15 Good Hope E.B.E – Tel: 663-2882

WANTED 1 Mechanic to work in the interior; must know about Cummings & Perkins Engine. Tel: 691-6260 1 Live in waitress, with Secondary Education – 1825yrs salary $60,000 monthly, must be honest and willing – Tel: 610-3974 1 Farm Manager to work @ Pomeroon River must have Vast Farming Experienced. Accommodation & Attractive Salary offered. Contact: 226-9768 Pastry maker, counter servers, roti cooks & handy boys @ Hacks Restaurant, 5 Commerce St Georgetown Carmen’s Funeral Home, wanted driver, porter, handyman – Call: 265-5010, 265-4099; 666-3637; 647-1776 General Kitchen Helper – Call Sabrina at 223-9725 (5pm8pm) One Poultry farm to rent preferably W.C.D – Tel: 6161422 LABOURERS & FORKLIFT OPERATORS/ HELPER MUST BE HARDWORKING AND ABLE TO WORK FLXIBLE HOURS. CALL: 231-8344 Two wash bay attendant to work in Georgetown – Contact: 227-5169 1 Male & female to work in the Interior to look after layer birds – Tel: 691-6260

1 Business place to rent opposite Stewartville, Primary & Secondary School W.C.D - Tel: 613-5261

One welder must know to do grilled work and able to work with limited supervision – Tel: 613-3879

House to rent at Mon Repos North - $55,000 monthly – Contact: 682-6016; 692-9295 Five bedrooms house @ 107 Lamaha Gardens & large parking, AC rooms, hot & cold, purified water system Call: 661-8908; 335-3590 Unfurnished 3 bedrooms & 1 bedroom apartments in Granville Park E.C.D. Free water & parking – Call: 6813660

Handyman, care for dogs and yard – Call: 227-2027

Two bedroom apartment in Timeheri – Tel:658-4754

One male (only) shop attendant & one stall for sale @ Stabroek Market, prime location – Tel:629-1151; 2257794 Experienced drivers with minibus and hire car licence – Call: 645-0025 Corner lots to buy in Schoonord, Leonora, Parfaite Harmonie, Eccles, Herstelling, Low & High Income - Tel: 6757292; 689-3339

DRESSMAKING LEARN TO DRIVE Soman Son & Outar Driving School at Maraj BuildingTel:644-5166; 622-2872; 6150964; 689-5997

Designing & Sewing classes, ladies wear, curtains etc. (CanadianTrained Tutor), Schoon-Ord, W.B.D- Tel:6262629, 676-6312

SERVICES PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY,ETC.–CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 2161043; 677-6620 Guyana Passport & Visa Forms Application, USA, Canada and England. Tel: 626-7040; 265-4535. Repairs & spare, fridge, freezer, A/C, washers, stoves. Contact Nick: 683-1312, 627-3206 Repairs to plasma, LED, LCD television etc – Call: Abdul Electronics: 225-0391 Permanent & Visitors Visa Applications, Professional Immigration Consultant Room D5 Maraj Building Call Sabita: 225-6496, 6626045 REPAIRS AT LOW COST: FRIDGES, AIRCONDITIONERS, WASHING MACHINES, TVS, MICROWAVES, FREEZERS- CALL:6294946 OR 225-4822 Repairs, sales & spares air conditioning, microwaves, washer,fridges & stoves. Ultra Cool, Call: 2259032,647-2943 Eagle’s fridge re-gas - $8,000 & washing machine repairs. Phone: 697-2969, 646-0966 Mahadeo Construction for all construction, carpentry, masonry, pluming, painting etc. Free estimates and plan Contact # 669-7376

Friday February 27, 2015

FOR SALE LARGE QUANTITIES OF HIGH PURITY MERCURY (QUICK SILVER) 99.99995% PURITY$19,000 PER POUND CALL: 592-227-4754. Sale! Sale! 2004 Toyota Premo: TV, CD, DVD, fully loaded, unregistered - $2.2M. Call: 642-7295 Pure bred pit bull pups – Tel: 661-1601 Brand New, Power fist, 6,500 watts gasoline generator (on wheels) 110/240 volts AC/DC – Contact: 617-2205; 681-1032 3 Engel moulding machine – Please Contact: 695-0333 Lady Driven Toyota Rav4 PRR – Call Selvin at 622-0137 Ducklings: French Mascouie - $600 each - Tel:671-2474 Sawmill: Timber Harvester, 30th 25th fully hydraulic, electric motor- Tel: 261-2553 Ryobi Tools, routers, sanders, circle saw, glue –Tel: 264-2126/ 683-0113 1.60 everude engine, caterpillar skidder spare parts, modulim truck spare parts, 75 Yamaha spare partsTel:672-9272; 261-6634 GE C-Arm X-ray machine with monitors fully reconditioned and certified. Sale/ lease. 626-6335; 2317065 Wheel chair mobile, new batteries, new chargers, wide with – Tel:231-7065/ 626-6335 Pure bred German shepherds Tel: 612-6672; 697-1141 1-XR-650L Motor Cycle, excellent condition- Tel:2271014; 678-5499 White & Brown eggs, ducklings also – Tel:6887291; 652-6425 One diesel generator 7500 (14 hours used) -$300,000, car deck $8,000 (new) prestige car alarm – Call: 6956461; 639-7758; 656-9990 Robbins Hatchery 28,000 eggs capacity equipped with all racks trays complete $1.2M – Tel: 621-4000

FOR SALE Green Heart Piles, Green Heart Logs, Wamara Logs, also rare old coins - Tel: 6393450 Large China Cabinets $80g, whirlpool heavy duty washing machine $120g 3pcs sofa set -$150g. Call: 681-3660 1 Music system, 80 mercury engine, 40 Tohatsu Engine, Hilux extra cab fiber glass cover - Tel:672-9272; 261-6634 Spare for washing machine, microwaves, fridges, stoves, timers, gearbox, pumps, etc Call: 225-9032, 647-2943

Guyana Variety Store, Massive close down sale: electronics, glass cases, motorcycles and more from $5,000 – Tel: 621-4000 Glass Case: 8FTX2FTX2FT 10pcs- $60,000 each, glass case 6FTX3FTX18" – 10pcs - $55,000 each – Tel: 621-4000 Forklifts 3pcs, 450,000, 28,000, Diesel generator 550,000, 15,000watts, generator: 475,000-5000 watts, generator -160,000 Tel: 621-4000 FOR SALE/RENTAL American pool table – Tel: 277-0578

VEHICLE FOR SALE

VACANCY

Nissan X-Trail 2006, low mileage, good condition $2.6M – Call: 695-9548

Work from home: Earn $5,000 to $20,000 daily, 9am to 5pm, Monday to Saturday - Call: 233-6517/ 638-0595 or www.jobfairworldwide.com

Nissan Titan 4X4; fully loaded; good condition; price negotiable - Call: 6201026 We buy & sell vehicles for cash, also parts available & 30 seater buses; Extra Cab pickups; 2006 Tacoma- Call: 680-3154 AT192, 212, Allion, unregistered Premio, Hilux Surf, BNN, RZ & Pit-bull, 7 seater super custom. Cash / terms- Call:680-3154 Toyota Prado, Price$5M Neg. Call: 643-2403

RA Soda Factory: Bond Clerk, Accountant, Drivers – Call:330-2399, 330-2772, 6235920 Administration officer CXC subjects or above experience would be priority – Contact number: 668-7104 Alice Zhang, attractive salary. Vacancy for cashier/CSR apply with written application & passport size picture to survival - 173 Sheriff Street - Tel: 227-5286/9

Unregistered vehicle: Toyota Sienta- $1,895,000, Honda Civic-$1,895,000, 318i BMW -$3,000,000 - Contact: 650-0402 One RZ minibus, good condition – Contact: 6785887 2003 unregistered Toyota IST Special Edition, TV/DVD Player, HID, after market suspension, rims & aero body kit – Tel: 609-2815 One 2004 NZE $1.750M, One 2001 Stick Shift, Carina 212 $1.9M – Call:616-5974 or 6188703 Canter: Short Based - $2.2M, Voxy $1.7M, Spacio $2.1M, (all never registered) – Call: 617-2891 Toyota Carina 212 real good condition -Tel: 691-5485 Toyota Vigo smart cab for sale - $3.3M negotiable; Spacio$1.550M – Call: 668-4553 1 Mitsubishi Canter GNN 722, good working condition Tel:228-5655; 628-1756 One Toyota 212 Carina PSS Series & one Toyota Premio, PPP, Immaculate Condition (Owner migrating country) – Tel:618-2576; 678-0109

VEHICLE FOR SALE One unregistered 2009 Toyota Tacoma, silver, crash bar, alarm, 17" rim, price $4.6M neg. Call: 6956461, 639-7758, 656-9990 One unregistered 2006 Toyota Tacoma, Silver, crash bar, alarm, alloy wheel, price -$3.9M negotiable – Call: 695-6461; 639-7758; 6569990 Toyota BB 2007 fully powered only, 40,0000KM, PPP series - $2.250M -Tel: 621-4000 Mitsubishi 3000 GT sports car, 3000cc in excellent condition, alarm, 18" rims $1.3M – Tel: 621-4000 Dodge strength 3000cc, automatic, fully powered and more - $1M – Tel:6214000 Mercedes Benz- 5300 fully amoured, fully powered 19" rims in excellent condition – Tel: 621-4000

Toyota Mark 11 GX90$1.1M, Ford F150 - $1.2M, good condition – Call: 6106066 HB yellow AT192; good condition - $850,000 negotiable – Call: 647-0271 2005 F350 Ford, door ½, fully loaded 4X4, diesel, automatic, leather interior, 35" tyres & rims; excellent condition – Tel: 610-5370 1 Toyota Vigo, manual transmission – Tel: 6005759 GPP Tacoma 5VZ engine, stick gear, 4WD price - $2.3M negotiable – Call: 617-7113 Toyota AT212, AT192, Raum, Premio,Tundra, AE100 Sprinter, Vitz, RZ Bus, EP71 & 825 Starlet, Honda 600RR . Tel:644-5096; 697-1453

ACCOMMODATION Inner Retreat Hotel Restaurant & Bar, Retreat Road Parika. Indoor / Outdoor bar in Picturesque setting – Phone: 260-4504; 685-6934 Saturdays & Sundays after lunch @ Inner Retreat Hotel Parik: Bar-B-Cue & games: pools, darts, table tennis etc – Phone: 260-4504. PROPERTY FOR SALE Corner lot with building foundation at Sec ‘A’ Block ‘X’ Diamond E.B.D- Tel: 2335106; 609-3701 Continued on page 31

Friday February 27, 2015

Kaieteur News

Page 31

Letters... Where your views make the news

AFC’S POLITICAL GAMBLE DEAR EDITOR, The Alliance for Change (AFC) has taken a big political gamble in entering a preelection coalition with the A Partnership for National Alliance (APNU). Some political analysts are of the view that it could very well be the end of the life of that political entity after, as seems more than likely, the PPP/C’s victory in the May 11 national and regional elections. The fact is that unlike the United States and several other western democracies there is not political space for swing voters. Any political blunder could prove costly if not fatal for parties on the periphery like the AFC. In our context, the two dominant political parties namely the PPP and the PNC have by and large managed over the decades to hold on to their respective support base with the PPP having the distinction of being the only political party in post independent Guyana that have been successful in winning a majority of the

votes in all but the November 2011 election which gave the combined opposition a small margin of votes over that of the PPP. I refer of course to free and fair elections which effectively disqualifies the PNC during the 1968-1992 period. In other words, no political party except the PPP have ever won a majority of the votes on their own strength. An analysis of voting behaviour would reveal that the PPP has always polled the highest number of votes since it entered electoral politics way back in the early 1950’s. Despite the antcommunist hysteria waged by local and foreign reactionary forces in the 1960’s the PPP emerged as the party that commanded the largest bloc of votes until the 1964 elections when the PPP lost power through constitutional fiddling. The PNC except for the elections of 2006 when it polled 35 per cent of votes never fell below 40 percent which in effect meant that roughly 90 percent of the total

votes are shared between the PPP and the PNC. Attempts by third parties to penetrate the electoral boundaries of the two dominant political parties have been met with great resistance if not hostility. This is why almost all of the smaller parties folded up after the elections are over some never to reappear on the electoral stage after having been badly bruised in the rough and tough of electoral politics. The AFC, to its credit, managed to pick up a few seats in the elections of 2006 and 2011 due in part to its promise of being a party that is independent of the centrifugal appeal of the major parties. Its pull in the elections of 2006 was largely Afrocentric and in the 2011 elections it lost that support but made up for the loss by making some inroads in some PPP strongholds. It is clear that the AFC does not have a stable political base and its political fortunes depended on which way the political pendulum is

swinging. Its support base is at best fluid and therefore unpredictable. Now that the AFC has merged with the APNU in a preelection alliance, it can no longer present itself as a counter force to either of the two dominant political forces. Put in a different way, it has lost it raison d’etre or its reason for being. Political pundits have already pronounced on what seems to be an act of political suicide on the part of the AFC leadership. Already there are several resignations at both the leadership and rank and file levels who interpreted the move as not only opportunistic but as a betrayal of principles. As to whether or not the AFC as a party would be able to recover from such a crippling self-inflicted wound remains to be seen. One thing is certain. The AFC lacks the moral right to claim that it is a party of principles or that it can be trusted when it comes to honouring its promises. Hydar Ally

May all efforts be geared towards preventing similar tragedies DEAR EDITOR, As the pathologist prepares to conduct the postmortem examinations of the latest road victims, kindly permit me to offer profound condolences to the grieving families and by extension the people of Guyana, for the teacher and six students who perished on the Burma Road. What an end to a previously joyous Mashramani celebration at Novar! In similar vein, to this end, I am calling on President Ramotar and his Government of Guyana to give unwavering consideration to the calling of a National Day of Mourning. The circumstances surrounding the tragic demise are somewhat unclear, the only known fact and established fact being that the partially submerged vehicle was found in the trench. The accident did not take place at night and any rumours of alcohol ingestion and driving under the influence was quickly dispelled as the teacher was no imbiber. Even the ranks

remain baffled as to what could have been the contributory factor(s) to a tragedy of this proportion, for as they reported they had travelled the said road the previous day. Although seemingly not the time to seek answers to questions of this genre, yet they should be afforded consideration. The teacher was driving a vehicle loaned by the father of Martina Persaud, one of the victims. Was there a misfit between driver and vehicle? Was she fully familiar with the workings of the vehicle, especially the brakes on roads that were far from easy navigate? Like an intractable cancer, road safety issues continue to plague an already beleaguered nation. To treat the cancer when the primary source is somewhat obscure requires the utilization of other means of remediation or total eradication. Not for one moment can we overlook the possibility of human error as being the cause of accidents,

but then again there are still safety measures that can be put in place to avert the repetition/ minimization of same or similar tragedies. The answer or panacea lies in the installation of guard/rails or handrails. Guardrails are structured to prevent errant vehicles from running off the road and going down a steep embankment or veering off the roadway. Properly designed and installed guard rails will reduce the overall impact of crashes that take place. In addition, they can also be constructed in such a way that they consist of reflectors which can be used to guide vehicles traversing the roads at night. Matters very little that this accident took place during the day, for vehicles use the road at any time, hence accidents can happen at any time. Residents have stated that the Burma Road is in a deplorable condition, and this aspect may need to be factored in as the vehicle has

already passed the test of road worthiness. Guard-rails are meant to deflect and if properly installed will reduce the overall impact of crashes. Better or plainly put, they will help to keep the load on the road. Incidentally, Mahaicony is gaining notoriety particularly among those displaying mental sobriety. In 2012, in Mahaicony , prominent lawyer Vic Puran and his car were found in a trench .The Toyota Tundra was spotted, partly submerged in a canal, by a farmer who was making his way to his farmlands. As a people, we cannot afford to lose our young, future leaders of tomorrow, in such large numbers, and more ironical losing at the same time and manner those who are expected to teach and guide them. May their souls rest in peace. May all efforts be geared towards improving the roads and ensuring a nonrecurrence by whatever means it takes. Yvonne Sam

Stop the abuse of tax payers money... From page 5 so the vehicles cannot be identified as the properties of the RDC. This is totally eye passed to the residents of region 5 and we are calling for this to stop now. Under a APNU-AFC Regional Administration we will ensure that all the assets

of the region is being accountable for and more over is being used for the main purposes of doing the work for the people and not for party gains. We will ensure that no one abuse their privileges by using the tax payers dollars for personal and political gains.

I can assure the residents of region five that under the new APNU-AFC government and regional administration we will investigate and prosecute the present regional administrators of this region for misusing tax payers dollars. Therefore, I am calling on all my brothers and

sisters of region five to make the Change come May 11th, 2015 as we head to the polls. Lets vote for real programs that will see all benefitting from various developments and the real choice must be APNU-AFC. Abel Seetaram AFC Executive

(From page 30)

PROPERTY FOR SALE Transported two storied concrete property $22M, Block “8” Mon Repos E.C.D Tel: 602-4418 Executive 4 bedroom house @ AA La Flora Gardens, Eccles, EBD, -$55M negotiable; serious enquiries: houseforsale.921@gmail.com Building for sale & removal dimensions 105ftX50ft – St Anne’s Anglican Church Agricola – Call: 233-0077 to arrange viewing. Public Road Grove corner property $25M Negotiable Call: 613-5645 6 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms house and land at Mon Repos (Martyrsville) $13M negotiable – Call: 629-5300 Flat concrete house for sale in Grove with land spaceCall: 679-3913 Alberttown 3 lots, 2 building, commercial property @ Cummings & Middle Sts. $110M – Tel: 621-4000 Commercial property @ Alberttown, Upper floor $800USD, Lower floor $1500USD, Yard - $800USD, Backhouse -$1200USD – Tel: 621-4000

CAR RENTAL DOLLY’S CAR RENTAL CALL: 225-7126/ 2263693 DOLLYSAUTO RENTAL@YAHOO.COM/ WWW.DOLLYSAUTO RENTAL.COM Aidan’s Car & Pickup rental, cheap rate, low security – Tel: 698-7807

LAND FOR SALE Land @ William Street Kitty; size: 38FT wide by 116FT length, reasonable price – Tel: 664-0829 One residential land at Herstellling Plot ‘B’ E.B.D $4.5M Tel: 661-0618; 6013469; 600-1062 Measuring 90’X165’ facing Atlantic Ocean, approximately half mile from Sheriff Street on High Way. Contact Shiv: 600-6681 Land @ William Street Kitty; Size: 79FT wide by 116FT length, price $60M Negotiable - Tel: 664-0829 Transported land, cultivation lots 29, 30 & 33 in Rosignol - Tel:327-5934; 625-5746 Guyana first 5 Star gated community, now opens, reserve your lot(s) & house. Call: 609-0783 or seroj_26 @yahoo.com Parfaite Harmonie - $1.4M, $1.5M, $1.8M, Eccles - $4.5, $5M, Herstelling - $45M, $5M, Leonora -$2.5M – Tel:675-7292; 689-3339

TO LET Fully Furnished vacation home with all amenities- Call during working hours - Call: 227-1218 Spacious 3 bedrooms upstairs with inside toilet and bath - $50,000 monthly. Call: 629-5300 1 Two bedroom apartment to rent at Lynn Street Charlestown - $50,000 per month, Tel: 652-6565

A closed circle at the... From page 4 to more people. Given the capacity constraints Guyana continues to face, and the high unemployment being experienced nationally compared to countries with similar growth rates, the message of the BBA should be that all 74 of the Amerindian villages will be fully demarcated, titles and handed over to the village captains within three years of the assumption of office. Further measures ought to be taken to ensure every single member of the “landless communities” are provided with lands based on set criteria of need. The AFC in

2011 has promised 10 Regional Entrepreneur Parks and 10 Regional Mechanical Workshops in every administrative region. This model can serve as a great platform for providing land for the landless. Further, no more should people be allowed to live in rural shanty-towns like Plastic City and Pigeon Island. This issue has to be urgently addressed. Land must be used as a stimulant for selfemployment and for the fostering of economic growth with new jobs with greater human development. It can be done, it must be done! Sase Singh

Page 32

Kaieteur News

Friday February 27, 2015

Friday February 27, 2015

Kaieteur News

Tissue paper-for-Venezuelan oil swap offered by Trinidad

Nicolas Maduro Venezuela, plagued with shortages of basic goods, was offered a reprieve by the Prime Minister of neighbouring Trinidad and Tobago: exchange oil for tissue paper. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar suggested an oil-for-tissue swap in a news conference Tuesday following a meeting in Port of Spain with Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. She said the deal would benefit both countries. “The concept of commodity sharing is simple -– the Government of Trinidad and Tobago will purchase goods identified by the Government of Venezuela from T&T’s manufacturers, such as tissue paper, gasoline,

Kamla Persad-Bissessar and parts for machinery,” Persad-Bissessar said. In Venezuela, which has the world’s largest oil reserves, citizens line up outside supermarkets for hours seeking a bag of clothing detergent, toilet paper or cooking oil. Price controls and a lack of dollars for importers have emptied stores of many basic goods, a situation Maduro blames on hoarders conducting an “economic war” against his socialist government. Officials at Venezuela’s Information Ministry declined to comment. According to the constitution, Maduro must call legislative elections by the end of the year. While in Trinidad, Latin

America’s biggest exporter of liquefied natural gas, Maduro and Persad-Bissessar discussed the commercialization of crossborder natural gas reserves. Persad-Bissessar presented the swap proposal as a win-win opportunity for the two nations, separated by an 11-kilometer (6.8-mile) strait off Venezuela’s northeast coast. Tissue paper and other goods “would then be traded for commodities that are needed for our industries - in particular bitumen and crude oil -– which can be supplied by Venezuela,” she said, adding that “this proposal is at an planning stages, and we recognize that a monitoring mechanism would be key to its success.” (Bloomberg)

Trinidad unions want all outstanding matters settled before general election PORT-OF-SPAIN - CMC – The Joint Trade Union Movement (JTUM) Wednesday warned the coalition People’s Partnership government to settle all outstanding labour disputes before the Trinidad and Tobago elects a new government later this year. The JTUM, which has consistently criticised the Persad Bissessar administration, said it would also be staging an antigovernment protest “in the coming weeks”. It said the protest will specifically target Labour Minister Errol McLeod, a former trade union leader “as the minister responsible for labour issues and the Prime Minister as leader of the government. “The JTUM took this decision on the backdrop of

Errol McLeod the government’s continued failure to implement the Workers’ Agenda. The JTUM is particularly outraged that after five years in office the People’s Partnership g o v e r n m e n t , notwithstanding the commitment it made in its manifesto, has made no

attempt to amend the Industrial Relations Act, to bring it in line with international labour standards,” said the JTUM that groups several unions including the Oilfield Workers Trade Union (OWTU) and the Banking Insurance and General Workers Union (BIGWU). “JTUM views this as a blatant disregard to the trade union movement and the national workforce as a whole,” the unions said, adding that they are also “very disturbed by the inaction of the government…to settle major outstanding negotiation”. The JTUM said that the protest action is also to force the “government settle all outstanding negotiations before they demit office this year”.

Page 33

Page 34

Kaieteur News

Friday February 27, 2015

Air strikes hit Islamic State in Syria after Christians abducted (Reuters) - A U.S.-led alliance launched air strikes against Islamic State on Thursday in an area of northeast Syria where the militants are now estimated to have abducted at least 220 Assyrian Christians this week, a group monitoring the war reported. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said the air strikes targeted Islamic State fighters near the town of Tel Tamr, where the militants, also known as ISIS, had captured 10 Assyrian villages. A prominent Syrian Christian, Bassam Ishak, told Reuters: “Some people have tried to call them by cellphone, the relatives that have been abducted, and they get an answer from a member of ISIS who tells that they will send the head of their relative. “They are trying to terrorize the parents, the relatives in the Christian

Assyrian community,” said Ishak, who is president of the Syriac National Council of Syria. Islamic State has staged mass killings of religious minorities, as well as fellow Sunni Muslims who refuse to swear allegiance to the ‘caliphate’ it has declared in parts of Syria, Iraq and other areas of the Arab world. Its fighters were shown beheading 21 Egyptian Coptic Christians in Libya last week. Last August, it killed or enslaved hundreds of Iraq’s Yazidis, whom it considers devil worshippers, just over the nearby frontier in Iraq. The militants have previously used kidnappings to trade captives for their own captured fighters. It was not clear if they planned to do the same this time. “What is happening is a threat to our existence,” said Ablahd Kourieh, an Assyrian Christian who is deputy head

Saudi man convicted of conspiracy in ’98 US embassy bombings NEW YORK (AP) — A man prosecutors portrayed as one of al-Qaida’s early leaders was convicted Thursday of conspiracy in the deadly 1998 bombings of two U.S. embassies in Africa following a trial that showcased the terror group’s early days. Khaled Al-Fawwaz stood expressionless, pursing his lips briefly, as the anonymous jury delivered its verdict after 2 1/2 days of deliberating. He could face life in prison, though his lawyers said he planned to appeal. Prosecutors said al-Fawwaz, a 52-year-old Saudi Arabian, was a close confidant of Osama bin Laden and made sure bin Laden’s death threats against Americans were heard and noticed worldwide in 1998. “From his onetime place at the top of al-Qaida’s membership list, Fawwaz now joins the long membership list of convicted, jailed terrorists,” U.S. Attorney Preet Bharara said in a statement. With al-Fawwaz’s conviction, 10 defendants tied to the embassy bombings have been convicted or pleaded guilty, Bharara said. Al-Fawwaz’ lawyers said he was a peaceful dissident who had no part in al-Qaida’s violent plans. They saw the case as skewed by the passage of time and the drumbeat of news and fear about terrorism since the Sept. 11 attacks. “Trying a pre-9/11 terror case in a post-9/11 world, blocks from the World Trade Center, ensured that Mr. alFawwaz could never receive a truly fair trial,” defense lawyer Bobbi Sternheim said after the verdict.

of a Kurdish-led defense council in northeastern Syria, speaking to Reuters from the region via Skype. He estimated the number of abducted Assyrians was even higher, at between 350 and 400. He called on the U.S.-led alliance to mount air strikes and to arm Kurdish-led forces which are battling Islamic State in the region. He estimated that 3,000 Assyrians had fled from the villages for the main cities of Qamishli and Hasaka. “We call for bombardment of the terrorists’ positions there, and the provision of quality weapons,” said Kourieh. He said there had been no contact with Islamic State, which has yet to claim the abductions. The United States and its allies have carried out hundreds of air strikes in both Iraq and Syria since launching a campaign to “degrade and destroy” Islamic State last year. Washington on Wednesday condemned the attacks against Christians, which it said included the burning of homes and churches and abduction of women, children and the elderly. ISLAMIC STATE “NEEDS MONEY” The attack on the Assyrians coincided with a big offensive by Kurdish YPG fighters against Islamic State in northeast Syria, a strategically vital region because it borders territory the militants control in Iraq. The Kurds say they have cut a main Islamic State supply line from Iraq. The Observatory says 132 Islamic State fighters have been killed in that battle, the latest of a recent string of setbacks for the group in Syria. Rami Abdulrahman, who runs the Observatory, reported new signs of financial strain for Islamic State: it had started salvaging and selling scrap metal from bombed factories and railway lines in the eastern province of Deir al-Zor. “They need money. Ever since the air strikes hit their oil facilities and the Turkish border has been harder to cross, they have increased taxes and looked for ways to make money,” he said. Abdulrahman said 35 Islamic State fighters had been killed in battles with the Kurdish YPG near Tel Tamr. The death toll in the YPG and allied Christian militia was 25, he said. The abducted Assyrians are believed to have been taken into Islamic Statecontrolled territory in Hasaka.

Friday February 27, 2015

Kaieteur News

Page 35

Page 36

Kaieteur News

Friday February 27, 2015

Matthews scores 31, Blazers beat slumping Spurs 111-95 Portland, Ore. (AP) Wesley Matthews and the Portland Trail Blazers hope they put their recent fourthquarter woes behind them Wednesday night. Matthews scored 31 points, LaMarcus Aldridge had 11 points and 13 rebounds, and Portland beat the slumping San Antonio Spurs 111-95 for its first victory since the All-Star break. The Trail Blazers are 25-4 when leading after three quarters, but all four losses have come in the past 10 games. The most glaring flop was Sunday, when Portland blew a 13-point lead as Memphis outscored the Blazers 34-15 during the fourth period. Portland had an 81-71 lead heading into the fourth quar-

ter against the Spurs, and the home crowd had reason to gasp when San Antonio opened the period with consecutive 3-pointers by Danny Green and Tony Parker that sliced the margin to four. But in a matter of 3 minutes, Portland ended the drama by blitzing San Antonio with a 14-2 run that made it 95-79. At the forefront of Portland’s decisive surge was Matthews, who went 4 for 4 from 3-point range in the fourth quarter. Portland coach Terry Stotts didn’t sound overly concerned about the recent fourth-quarter falloffs - not that he wanted his team to blow another one. Six players scored in double figures for Portland, which ended a two-

game skid. Lillard had 18 points and Nicolas Batum added 15. Tim Duncan shot 9 of 12 and scored 20 points to lead San Antonio, which lost its fourth consecutive game. Danny Green had 17 points for the defending NBA champions. Duncan said the reeling Spurs aren’t playing with any consistency. Portland shot 13 of 26 from 3-point range, the first time in 25 games the Blazers have shot at least 50 percent from behind the arc. The Blazers led 51-50 at halftime after the first two quarters were decidedly one-sided. Portland dominated the first quarter, hitting 13 of 22 shots to take a 32-16 lead. Robin Lopez scored four

points during a 10-0 run that helped the Blazers take control. Portland led by as many as 19 early in the second quarter when momentum completely shifted in San Antonio’s direction. The Spurs, who made 13 of 20 shots during the second quarter, put together a 16-2 run late in the period and pulled even at 48 on Aron Baynes’ layup. Portland re-established itself early in the third quarter, when Lillard scored six points during an 11-0 run that gave the Blazers a 67-54 lead. San Antonio responded with six quick points, but Portland quickly halted the Spurs’ momentum by scoring nine of the next 11 to take a 7662 lead.

Wesley Matthews #2 of the Portland Trail Blazers shoots against the San Antonio Spurs. Photo by Sam Forencich/NBAE via Getty Images

Canada celebrates 100... Friday February 27th ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Venturing into something new and different may be what you need, Aries. You have a very solid, practical side to your personality, but the need for excitement and adventure is likely to be just as strong.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Feed your mind today, Libra. While you no doubt enjoy being active and social, you get bored fairly quickly, too. You need a constant supply of intriguing, fresh material in order to feel your best.

TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) You may want to learn about something today, Taurus. At work and home there's a set schedule of what you must tend to and when.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) If you think you have to prove that you have something valuable to offer, Scorpio, consider this carefully. You're naturally friendly and can get along with almost anyone.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) If you happen to meet new people today, Gemini, be careful. Some folks appear interesting because they're bold or dangerous. Perhaps they do things you'd never dream of doing. CANCER (June 21–July 22) You might have to make a choice between telling the truth and lying today, Cancer. In some circumstances, this can be difficult, especially if you're afraid you will hurt someone's feelings. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) You're known to be kindhearted. However, being taken advantage of can happen as a result. It's important for you to trust your instincts to prevent this from happening. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Your nature is intense, Virgo. You probably feel things deeply and spend a lot of time lost in thought. Yet, too much intensity can take a toll on your health and well-being.

SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) Consider putting your problem-solving skills to work today, Sagittarius. You have a real flair for investigating situations and figuring out what happened. CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) Capricorn, don't be fooled by others who aren't straight with you. If you don't know the person well, trust your instincts. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18) It could be easy to get carried away today, Aquarius. You might get caught up in some excitement or base your decisions on another's word. You need to use your head on a day like this. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) The energy that you feel today may have you so jittery that others don't know what to do with you, Pisces. The day's influences can bring a boost. You'd be wise to plan things to do to expend it all.

(From page 34) place in Ottawa, with the local venue team meeting the Mayor and Councillors at City Hall. In Winnipeg, the event took place at Winnipeg Square with an interactive game of ‘pool ball’ for the onsite public. In Moncton, Shuéme made a special visit to local school, École L’Odyssée. To a Greater Goal™ scarf c a m p a i g n Across all six venues, a large To A Greater Goal™ scarf was unveiled in conjunction with the 100-day countdown. The oversized scarf drew attention to the launch of the To A Greater Goal™ scarf campaign that will be presented on the FIFA Women’s World Cup™ Twitter account (@fifawwc). The promotion encourages fans to reflect on their own “greater goal,” be it for football, family, friends or society.

National Basketball Championship... (From page 39) Smith and Ron Campbell. Guardians have also added forward, Mark Richards to its team to add some depth in the paint and support for Trenton Woolford. Pacesetters will throw their forwards, Randy Richardson, Jermaine Hamilton and Royston Siland at Richards and Woolford. The Super Eight Playoffs will commence The National Basketball Championship Weekend with the Final Four set for tomorrow night and Finals set for Sunday, March 1 in a pulsating weekend of basketball.

Canada glows red to mark 100 days To a Greater G o a l ™ As a bookmark to the day’s celebration, all six venues showcased a local building lit up in red, which is both an iconic Canadian colour as well as the predominant colour featured in FIFA Women’s World Cup Canada 2015™ Emblem and Official Look. In Vancouver, it was both BC

Place and the Vancouver International Airport Control Tower that were lit red; in Edmonton, it was both City Hall and the High Level Bridge. In Montréal, it was the roof of Olympic Stadium that glowed in red. In Winnipeg, Ottawa and Moncton, meanwhile, it was different city structures including City Hall that were lit in red. (FIFA)

Friday February 27, 2015

Kaieteur News

Scotiabank CONCACAF Champions League

Page 37

WBC CABOFE title fight

Peralta nets brace as Club GBBC enquiry shoots down Sakima Mullings’ ‘raw deal’ claims America top Saprissa San Jose, Costa Rica Club America scored three times within a six-minute span late in the match to post a stunning 3-0 away victory over Saprissa in the first leg of their Scotiabank CONCACAF Champions League (SCCL) quarterfinal series on Wednesday. Second-half substitutes tallied for the Mexican club. Oribe Peralta netted in the 81st and 85th minutes after Captain Pablo Aguilar broke the ice in the 79th minute at Estadio Ricardo Saprissa. Saprissa’s SCCL home unbeaten streak was snapped at seven games (6-1-0), while Club America has conceded one goal or fewer in each of its nine competition outings. The host failed to convert on several chances in the second half before the visitors took control during the stretch run. Aguilar opened the scor-

ing in the 79th minute, heading home from six-yards out off a Rubens Sambueza’s right-wing feed. Only two minutes later, Peralta went into action. The 2013 CONCACAF Player of the Year gave the Aguilas some breathing room as he knocked Carlos Darwin Quintero’s pass beyond goalkeeper Dany Carvajal from 12 yards. With five minutes left in normal time, Peralta put an exclamation point on the match as he latched onto a thorough ball from Captain Paul Aguilar and handily beat Carvajal from 12-yards out. The first half was defined by physical play. Referee Mark Geiger handed out three yellow cards within the opening 32 minutes. Paul Aguilar had Club America’s best chance in the opening half when his shot ricocheted off the right post in the 45th

minute. Saprissa came out on fire in the second half, but could not find the back of the net. Daniel Colindres went 1 v 1 with goalkeeper Moises Munoz in the first 15 seconds, only to place his close-range shot wide right. A little more than a minute later, Ariel Rodriguez – who has five SCCL goals — made some nifty moves to release a shot that crashed off the right post. Club America will host the second leg with a commanding lead on March 4 at the Estadio Azteca. NOTES: Peralta moved into a second-place tie with teammate (Carlos Darwin Quintero, who scored all of his SCCL goals while as a member of Mexico’s Santos) for the most goals in SCCL history at 17 each … Javier Orozco is the competition’s all-time leading scorer with 24 goals, all while with Cruz Azul.

Oribe Peralta (pictured) scored two goals in Club America’s 3-0 win over host Saprissa. (Photo: Mexsport)

CONCACAF and the Cuban FA in efforts to prepare an Int. transfer market Miami - The Confederation of North, Central American and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF), alongside the Cuban Football Association (CFA) and government officials, have taken a major step towards the opening of the international transfer market. The aim of this initiative is for local players to be able to properly transfer from Cuban clubs to clubs abroad. To assist in the process, CONCACAF held a two day seminar recently in Havana, with the intension of supporting the CFA in its efforts to achieve a major development in Cuba’s football history. “This significant occasion represents the first step to open new horizons for

football’s growth in Cuba,” said FIFA Vice President and C O N C A C A F PresidentJeffrey Webb. “We hope the international transfer market will provide Cuban players with unique opportunities to display their extraordinary talent in the international arena. Local players will be able to further develop their skill and inspire younger generations to follow their passion for football.” The seminar, attended by

representatives from the CFA and government officials, covered multiple subjects from contractual stability, underage player protection, player registration, and training and formation mechanisms, with the aim of explaining the steps necessary to assist in the opening of Cuba’s international transfer market. In addition, CONCACAF advised on how to create a registry and data base of Cuban players while obtaining guidance on training mechanisms. CONCACAF is fully committed to the continuous support of its Member Associations and its endeavor to significantly and positively impact the development of football.

Clive Atwell Merely one week after his defeat to Clive Atwell for the WBC Caribbean Boxing Federation (CABOFE) light/welterweight regional title, Jamaican Contender welterweight champion, Sakima Mullings, is crying foul and has petitioned President of the subject organization, Peter Abdool, for a review and/or to rescind the decision arrived at by the three judges at ringside. Mullings has listed several key points for his disgruntlement and shortly after the decision was announced, had instructed his management team to lodge the complaint. The Jamaican’s major contentions were (1) that throughout the duration of the bout Atwell continuously held onto him, contrary to the rules, without stern warning or points deducted. (2) Late in the bout, he (Mullings) felt that he had knocked Atwell down and that the knockdown was improperly ruled a slip by the referee thereby depriving him of one (1) point which would have been deducted from Atwell had the knockdown been properly called by the Referee. Mr. Abdool has since acquiesced to the Jamaican pugilist’s request and in a comprehensive report issued to Kaieteur News stated that there is no merit in the complaint that Mullings was cut by an accidental or deliberate head butt among other contentions. The committee also found that there is no merit in Mr. Mulling’s complaint that one (1) of the four instances in which Atwell touched the canvas may have been as a result of a legal blow by virtue of the referee having failed to issue a warning to Mullings which would have indicated it to have been an illegal blow. Consequently, a point has been deducted from Atwell on all scorecards consistent with a knockdown in round eleven. The investigating team also pointed out that of significant note, the point deducted from Atwell on each scorecard would not have materially changed the outcome of the fight. Officials further reasoned that the cut suffered to Mullings over his left eye in round six was occasioned by a head butt which may have been, in his opinion, either accidental or deliberate but in any case, not caused by a legal punch as indicated by the referee. ”The rules applicable to this type of injury are specified in the World Boxing Council (WBC) rules for Championship Fights clauses 13 and 14,” the release stated. Mr. Abdool said that the review has covered the gamut of rules applicable to Mullings’ contention and contended that consistent with

Sakima Mullings the boxer’s petition, the entire recording of the fight was closely scrutinized by the committee. ”It is noteworthy that point deductions or lack thereof for holding are not reversible as they are given or not, solely at the discretion of the referee,” the release further noted. The committee therefore determined that there is no merit in the complaint that Mullings was cut by an accidental or deliberate head butt. Further, there is merit in Mr. Mulling’s complaint that one (1) of the four (4) instances in which Mr. Atwell touched the canvas may have been as a result of a legal bow by virtue of the referee having failed to issue a warning to Mr. Mullings which would have indicated it to have been an illegal blow. Consequently, a point has been deducted from Atwell on all scorecards consistent with a knockdown in round eleven and that the point taken from Atwell on each scorecard does not materially change the outcome of the fight. Those scores would have been thus reflected; Judge Clifford Brown’s score of 113 Atwell / 115 Mullings now becomes 112 Atwell / 115 Mullings; Judge McKenzie Granger’s score of 117 Atwell / 113 Mullings now becomes116 Atwell / 113 Mullings and Judge Francis Abraham’s score of 117 Atwell / 111 Mullings now becomes116 Atwell / 111 Mullings. Consequently, the decision remains in favour of Atwell though by reduced scores. Meanwhile, Mr. Abdool said that in support of the committee’s findings, a copy of the unedited recording used in the review will also be sent to Jamaican broadcasters. Meanwhile, Mr. Abdool has congratulated both fighters for an exceptional fight while saying that each has made his country justifiably proud. “The fight was fought at the highest level of skill and competence and has demonstrated the continual efforts of both Jamaica and Guyana to produce world class professional boxers. We would also wish to reiterate the confidence vested in the referee as a competent and experienced official,” exhorted the CABOFE boss. Mr. Abdool further said that whilst a rematch would be of great interest to boxing fans across the Caribbean and indeed one to be encouraged, there exists, in the circumstances, no justification for the sanctioning body to so mandate. He further posited that a much desired, possible rematch remains in the hands of the boxers and their respective man-

Page 38

Kaieteur News

Friday February 27, 2015

Edward B. Beharry injects Sri Lanka thrash wasteful Bangladesh US$10,000 into Green Machine Dilshan and Sangakkara

Tillakaratne Dilshan and Kumar Sangakkara scored hundreds as Sri Lanka beat Bangladesh by 92 runs in their World Cup Pool A clash in Melbourne. Dilshan (161 not out) and Sangakkara (105 not out) shared a partnership of 210 as Sri Lanka made the most of some poor fielding to post 332-1. It was Dilshan’s 21st ODI ton and Sangakkara’s 22nd, in his 400th match. Bangladesh were dismissed for 240 in 47 overs, Sabbir Rahman top-scoring with 53 and Lasith Malinga taking 3-35. Sri Lanka have two wins and one defeat from three matches, while Bangladesh have one win, one defeat and one no result.

Bangladesh were dreadful in the field, reprieving Sri Lanka opening batsman Lahiru Thirimanne three times before he was finally dismissed for a charmed 52. The Tigers’ wicketkeeper Mushfiqur Rahim was particularly culpable, missing a stumping chance to dismiss Thirimanne and a run-out chance when Dilshan was well short of his ground in the 43rd over. Sangakkara was dropped twice on his way to his hundred, which came from only 73 balls. Dilshan’s 161, which came from 146 balls, was his highest score in ODIs. In reply, Bangladesh lost opener Tamim Iqbal from the second ball of the innings when he

was bowled by seamer Malinga. Shakib Al Hasan gave his team faint hope but after he was dismissed for an entertaining 46, Bangladesh’s challenge petered out. Sabbir’s maiden ODI fifty came from 60 balls but Malinga did for him and Taskin in successive balls to wrap up the Bangladesh innings. Bangladesh face Scotland in a must-win encounter in Nelson next Wednesday. World Cup, Pool A, Melbourne - Sri Lanka 3321 (50 overs): Dilshan 161 no, Sangakkara 105 no. Bangladesh 240 all out (47 overs): Sabbir 53, Malinga 3-35. Sri Lanka won by 92 runs.

GCA/NBS second division tourney

Wins for Police and St. Stanislaus Police and St. Stanislaus recorded victories when the Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA)/New Building Society second division 40-over tournament continued last weekend. At Everest, Police defeated the host by 30 runs. Batting first, Police scored 184-9 from their reduced quota of 26 overs. Chien Gittens stroked 78 (4x4, 6x6) and Troy Benn 54 (8x4). T. Persaud and Khemraj Ramdeen picked up two wickets each. Everest was restricted for 114-8 in 26 overs in reply. Persaud made 28 and Denesh Mangal 16. Eon Rodrigues and Vishal Jaigobin claimed two scalps apiece. At GYO, St. Stanislaus overcame the home team by three wickets.

Edward B. Beharry Company Ltd, one of a few members of the corporate community that has consistently pledged significant support to rugby in Guyana made another major contribution to the sport when Marketing Director Anjuli BeharryStrand handed over US$10,000 to President of the Guyana Rugby Football Union (GRFU) Peter Green, during a simple ceremony held in the Company’s Boardroom on Robb Street yesterday. The money represents sponsorship that is to go towards the Sevens team (Green Machine) preparation and participation in competitions leading up to 2016 Olympics qualification. “It really is an honour and a pleasure to sponsor the Rugby team again, their professionalism and dedication along with their passion for the sport is why we continue to support them” a beaming Beharry-Strand told the gathering of media operatives, Union officials and players. The considerable largesse was also biggest donation made by any member of the corporate community to the Union ever and according to Patron Christopher ‘Kit’ Nascimento it is the fervent wish of the Union that other members of the Private Sector see it fit to come forward and offer critical support to a team that has earned the right of support from every sphere across this country due to its unrivalled success. The goodwill according to Union Treasurer Roger Perreira is now responsible for 70% of the projected US$100,000 budgeted to send the team to the June 13 – 14 North American and Caribbean Rugby Association (NACRA) 7’s Championship in North Carolina, USA.

Additionally, Nascimento disclosed that the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) has been the leader in terms of the volume of support the Union has received so far and this assistance also includes the contractual agreement with recently appointed Technical Director (TD) of the national programme Angus Thomson, who arrived recently to spearhead the team’s preparations for overseas engagements. Beharry, who has taken the opportunity to visit the team’s practice sessions said, “I’ve personally watch them play, I’ve watch them practice and I’ve had the pleasure of sitting down and chatting with most of them individually and I must say that they’re really dedicated to what they do”. The Company’s Marketing Director also noted that “there’s not enough invested in Sports here in Guyana unfortunately because there is so much talent out there, it’s a shame, so to even be able to send these gentlemen out there to make a name for Guyana and do us proud, it’s such a pleasure as a company and we will continue to support the team and we wish them all of the best of luck”. Green in his remarks thanked the Company for its steadfast commitment to the team, adding that he is optimistic that they will do Guyana proud. The Union Head said because of the Company’s notable support, it has managed to prod other corporate entities into recognising the feats of the team and come forward and pledge support, especially since they’ve been able to see positive results. “They do not put their hands in their pockets for sentiments, but rather for positive results,” Green remarked. He added that he is hoping that the new TD could take the team out of the pond

that it is stuck in and take it into the ocean to swim with the sharks, referring to the team moving from regional champions to be able to consistently perform at the Elite level. Head Coach Theodore Henry also thanked the Company for what he said is a true display of sustained confidence in the team, adding that with their tangible support, he could guarantee that the heights that this team has reached in the past few years would not have been possible without their support. “In the same breath, I want to ask others to show the same faith in us so that we can surpass where we’re at right now and move on to even bigger things. One of my goal as a coach and I speak for all the players as well, is to be on the International scene on a consistent basis and in order for that to be accomplished, we need a whole lot of financial support to play more competitive games, rather than playing regional competition because when you play on the International scene it’s two different levels of play so consistent play equal results, but it requires consistent financial support as well” Henry said. Nascimento, who is the dynamo behind the side’s push to have maximum funding from both the private and public sectors, reminded that the National 7’s Rugby Team is the only sporting team in Guyana that can still qualify for the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro next year. He said no other team can do that and boasted that the team has earned the right to be at the tournament which could allow them to qualify for the Rio Olympics. According to him, that in its self is a huge accomplishment.

ALONSO ‘COMPLETELY FINE’ AFTER CRASH, SAYS DENNIS

Chien Gittens GYO were routed for 86 in 19 overs, taking first knock. Siddiq Mohamed cracked 27; Lindon Wilson bagged 5-23. St. Stanislaus responded with

Troy Benn 90-7 in 16 overs. R. Deonarine got 24 not out and S. Bacchus 15. Antonio De Freitas picked up 4-19 and Andre Foster 2-7.

Reuters - Fernando Alonso is “devoid of all injuries” from Sunday’s crash in testing and is expected to line up on the grid for the season-opening race in A u s t r a l i a n e xt month, McLaren boss Ron Dennis said yesterday. According to Dennis the 33-year-old Alonso was knocked unconscious “for a few seconds” after hitting a wall in pre-season testing in Barcelona.

Two-time world champion Alonso, who was released from hospital on Wednesday, is not taking part in this week’s final test with reserve driver Kevin Magnussen partnering Jenson Button. Dennis said Alonso is “completely fine” but added that a final decision on the Spaniard’s fitness would be taken by doctors. “He is devoid of all injuries,” Dennis was quoted as saying by the BBC. “We can

categorically say he has no injury. ”I’m not a doctor, but I can’t foresee any reason why (Alonso would not race in Australia) not. “There is a process of tests laid down by the FIA and I can’t see any reason why he won’t sail through it, but it’s not for me to determine. “All he wants to do at the moment is to race and test.” The Formula 1 season begins in Melbourne on March 15.

Friday February 27, 2015

Kaieteur News

Page 39

Afghanistan create history with first World Cup win

E-Networks CrossFit Games set to ignite National Park on Sunday

Samiullah Shenwari produced a brilliant rearguard action to guide Afghanistan to their first World Cup victory with a dramatic onewicket win over Scotland in their Pool A clash in Dunedin. Shenwari, who had been positively pedestrian for his first 40 runs, was dismissed for 96 after taking charge of his side’s chase to 211 runs for the victory at University Oval. The 28-year-old was dismissed with 19 runs still required from 19 balls but last pairing of Shapoor Zadran and Hamid Hassan managed to get their side to the target with three balls to spare. Richie Berrington and Josh Davey had ripped through the middle of Afghanistan’s order to reduce them from 85 for two in the 19th over to 97 for seven in the 24th. Collapse Mohammad Nabi’s side had been well placed to chase down Scotland’s 210 all out with Javed Ahmadi well set on 51 before Berrington and Davey struck with five wick-

Nine teams of four athletes inclusive of one woman will be tested to the hilt when the inaugural E-Networks CrossFit Games comes off on Sunday at the National Park. Strength and endurance are but some of the attributes that will be needed for the teams to outdo each other, only the fittest will survive. There are five (5) events planned, the organisers have made four known while the fifth will be a surprise for the teams come Sunday, one official stating that CrossFit is dealing with the unknown. The known events for Sunday are: 1. One mile run; 2. 21-15-9 Deadlift 225lb for Men: 135lb for Women, Burpees; 3. 50 Thrusters, 50 Box Jumps - 24' for Men, 20' for Women, 50 Toes to bar for Men, 50 Roman Chair Sit ups for women; 4. 3 Rounds of 200m Suicides, 21 Kettlebells Swings, 55lb for Men; 35lb for Women, 12 Pullups - Jumping pull-ups for Women. All events will be done in groups of 12 so there will be 3 rounds of each event. Athletes will have time to rest while the other 2 groups are doing their event. Spectators will not be left out as there will be events ongoing throughout the day. There will also be a Degree Fitness Zone where there will be games for the fans. There will be a tire flipping event, double unders, skipping, and kettlebell swings. Meanwhile, a preliminary event was held on Wednesday evening at the Transport Sports Club which consisted of 21-15-9 Kettle Bell Swings (55lbs/35lbs) and Burpee-Box Jumps done on a 24inch/ 20inch Box. Each movement was per-

Samiullah Shenwari nudges the ball to the leg side ©AFP ets for 12 runs between them. Shenwari, however, managed to farm most of the strike in a 35-run partnership with Dawlat Zadran and 60-run stand with Hamid Hassan and threatened to get his side home with a maiden century. He belted three sixes off Majid Haq in the 47th over to get to 96 runs before he was caught in the deep attempting his fourth. Shapoor and Hassan got their side home, however, Shapoor hitting the winning runs with a four to

spark delirious celebrations among the team and a small group of Afghanistan fans. Earlier, Afghanistan’s pace bowlers, ably supported by Nabi’s gentle off-spin, probably felt they had done enough when they dismissed Scotland for 210 on the final ball of the innings. Scorecard: Scotland 210 all out in 50 overs (Machan 31, Zadran 4-38). Afghanistan 211-9 in 49.3 overs (Shenwari 96, Berrington 4-40). (Reuters)

Canada celebrates 100 days To a Greater Goal™ Players who will be performing ball crew duties at the Women’s World Cup in Canada.

-Exciting prelims held at Transport

Nadina Taharally

formed for the set rep ranges before moving in each of the 3 rounds, e.g., 21 kettlebell swings then 21 burpee box jumps followed by the 15 Kettlebell swings then 15 burpee box jumps and then 9 of each. The 9th placed athlete and gym was eliminated. Following are the results from Wednesday night. 1st Place - Joseph Rivera (US Embassy) 5:48 2nd Place - Ian Rogers (Cross-fit Bel Air) 5:57 3rd Place - Anis Ade Thomas (Elite Systems Berbice) 6:18 4th Place - Neetzkiel Yisrael(Top End Gym) 6:59 5th Place - Dexter DeFlorimonte (BodyMaxx Gym) 7:34 6th Place - Osmond Mack (Life Gym) 8:17

7th Place - Nadina Taharally (Interline Gym) 8:18 8th Place - Paul Meusa (Fitness Paradise) 8:39 9th Place - Chatram Nauth (Team West Coast) 11:18 The CrossFit concept promotes the physical exercise philosophy and is also a competitive fitness sport incorporating workout elements such as high intensity interval training, Olympic weightlifting, aerobics, gymnastics among other exercises. Noshavyah King, who is a well known Zumba Instructor and Jamie McDonald, Certified Personal Trainer and Proprietor of Fitness Express are the two coordinators o the event. Entrance fee is $500 and children could participate free of cost.

Change of date but excitement guaranteed for KMTC Phagwah Race The world is celebrating 100 days until the FIFA Women’s World Cup Canada 2015, with the premier football event set to kick off this 6 June from coast to coast across Canada. To mark the milestone, host cities across Canada organised special events to showcase what will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for Canada, the 23 visiting nations, and a worldwide sporting audience. The February 26 events

also coincided with the official on-sale date for individual tickets (as of 12.00 ET / 09.00 PT). Tickets to the FIFA Women’s World Cup Canada 2015™ are available at FIFA.com/Canada2015, with prices starting as low as just $20.15. Coast-to-coast events In Vancouver, the countdown started at the Vancouver International Airport with Canada Soccer and National Organising Committee president Victor Montagliani at-

tending the celebration. Mascot Shuéme was on hand along with the To A Greater Goal™ Countdown Clock and a group of Japanese Taiko drummers. After the morning event, Shuéme then went “on tour” via the local transit system on the “Canada Line.” In both Edmonton and Montréal - where Canada will play its group matches in June - events were marked at City Hall. A similar meeting took (Continued on page 36)

Turfites are priming up as approximately two weeks of this date the Kennard Memorial Turf Club (KMTC) will be transformed into a hive of activity when the organizers stage the Phagwah Race meet at the Bushlot Farm Corentyne venue on Sunday March 15 next. Activities had to be shifted from the initial date (March 8) as the organizers worked assiduously to put the necessary modalities in place for a qualitative meet. Six races are carded for the day and the feature attraction will see horses in the A1 & Lower category battling for over one million

dollars in cash, over a distance of 7 furlongs. Additionally, turfites will be entertained with the G1 and Lower event over a distance of 7 furlongs. The winning jockey carts off $300,000 while the second and third place finishers receive $150,000 and $75,000 respectively. Then there is the K & Lower handicap event over 5 furlongs with the winning jockey winning $120.000 with half that amount going to the second place finisher. The third and 4th places will receive $30.000 and $15,000 respectively.

The other races are K1 and Lower over 5 furlongs, D3 Maiden and E & F Open over a similar distance and the J1 & Lower also over 5 furlongs. Entries close on March 1 and late entries will not be entertained. Enquiries could be directed to Justice Kennard (623 7609) or Roopnarine Matadial (326 3192). Meanwhile, the organizers have released the dates for race meets under their auspices for the remainder of the year. These include May 17, August 2, October 4 and December 26.

Page 40

Kaieteur News

Friday February 27, 2015

Guyana’s four consecutive overseas wins By Sean Devers The inaugural West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) Regional First-Class Franchise Cricket tournament has been a resounding success so far for six-time former champions and tournament leaders Guyana Jaguars who lead the points table after seven rounds with 107 points from six wins and a loss. Their first three games were all played at Providence and the team led by back-to-back centuries from Narsingh Deonarine recorded convincing wins against the Leewards and the Windwards before their only loss came as a shock to cricket fans. Guyana dominated the game except for the final session, when set 69 to win from the entire last day the Jaguars catapulted to their third lowest total. They were bowled out for 66 in the first session as only Rajendra Chandrika (30), Chris Barnwell (12) and Raymond Reifer (11) reached double figures. The Jaguars, led by 73 from Anthony Bramble and 47 from Shemron Hetmyer made 261 before Veerasammy Permaul (8-26) destroyed the Bajans, who produced a better second innings performance to reach 228 with Permaul and Devendra Bishoo picking up four wickets each and they seemed set to formalize their third consecutive win. However, the unthinkable happened as new skipper Vishaul Singh was forced to endure an inauspicious start to his Captaincy career even though he did little wrong as Captain. This was after Deonarine’s unbeaten 110 helped the Jaguars to 343 in their first innings to set up an

emphatic innings and 10 runs win inside three days against the Leewards in the first round. In their second game, Deonarine again batted brilliantly for his 139 and Shiv Chanderpaul made 62 to lead the Jaguars to 291 runs against the Windwards. Deonarine grabbed 5-24 to join CR Browne (1926) and Roger Harper, who achieved the feat thrice (1987, ’95 and ’96 including 202 and 5-98 against the Windwards at Bourda in 1996) as the only Guyanese to score a ton and take a 5-wicket haul in the same match. Guyana played their first match on the Road against the T&T Red Force in Port-ofSpain and handed the Trinis a sound innings and 60 runs trashing. Singh, in his second game as Captain, hit a fabulous maiden century to join Deonarine as the Guyanese centurions in the competition. His 141 was also the highest score in the tournament by a Guyanese and along with half-centuries from Chandrika, Reifer, Chris Barnwell and Permaul, spearheaded Guyana to 492-8 declared, the highest total so far this season. At the break for the Christmas holidays, the Jaguars maintained their lead on the points table while Deonarine (306) and Devon Smith were the only batsmen with over 300 runs. Guyanese spinners Permaul (32) and Bishoo (21) were the leading bowlers in the tournament. After the break for Christmas and the NAGICO Super50 Regional limited overs competition, the Four-Day fixture resumed on February 6 and

Narsingh Deonarine

Guyana did not lose a single game. The Jaguars continued to score heavily and secure bonus batting points which kept increasing their position on the top points table although they had lost the game to Barbados. With the return of their West Indies Test players Chanderpaul, Deonarine and Johnson, who was retained as Captain, the Jaguars continued to roar menacingly and by time they returned home on February 24 after completing a hard fought four-wicket win on a day Guyana celebrated its 45th Republic Anniversary, they had given their countrymen another reason to celebrate. The South American based Franchise was on roll and their confidence sky high. This was the first time ever since Regional FirstClass cricket was first played in 1865 between Guyana (then Demerara) and Barbados at the Garrison Savannah in Barbados that this country had won four consecutive matches away from home. When the Jaguars arrived in Kingston for their fifth round game against Jamaica, they had not beaten the home team in Jamaica since their 51run win at Chedwin Park in 2006 but they corrected that blot on their record with a convincing 105-run win with Permaul, who is becoming a genuine all-rounder, fashioned an entertaining 86 batting at number eight to lead his side to 314, their third 300plus total for the season as six other batsmen got starts. This was the first time in decades that Guyana employed a four-pronged pace attack with the spinners only getting their hands on the ball for the first time in the 35th over. 0n a Sabina Park track with good pace and bounce, Chanderpaul scored a responsible 77 in the second innings, his second fifty of the tournament. A late switch from St Kitts, the Jaguars moved to Antigua to play the Leewards and a classy 83 from Chandrika led the Guyanese Franchise to a crushing eight-wicket win inside three days to ensure the Leewards lost each one of their game in three days. The Jaguars arrived at the Kensington Oval, once a virtual fortress for West Indies teams of the past, with the aim of avenging the shocking defeat at Providence, but two centuries in the match by Bajan Skipper Kraigg Braithwaite, a five wicket haul from pacer Miguel Cummins and adverse weather threatened to spoil the Jaguars’ plans and although Bishoo

An unprecedented occurrence picked up his second successive six-wicket haul, the Bajans enjoyed the better of the exchanges. Needing to make 334 to win, Guyana were up against it when they started the final day in overcast condition and things got progressively worse when Singh was removed on their overnight score of 41-1. But a fine 60 from Chandrika, a 146-run fourth wicket stand between Deonarine (90) and Chanderpaul (64) and an unfinished 59-run partnership between Reifer (41) and Bramble (27) lifted Guyana the second highest successful run chase in Regional cricket and the highest in Barbados. It was fitting that Bajan Reifer hit a six to finish the contest to take his team to 25 points ahead of closest challengers Barbados. Although the standard of Regional cricket has dipped, the Jaguars bowling struggled to polish off the opposition’s tail and provided too many ‘four’ balls at times and all of their batsmen got starts but only two managed to convert them into three figures, Guyana’s performance was highly commendable. They played team cricket with someone always producing a match winning performance when it mattered most. The backroom staff (Coach Esuan Crandon, Manager Rayon Griffith and Physiotherapist Paul Gomes) all contributed to the team’s success and it is no coincidence that the first time a ‘physio’ was sent with the team this year, the Jaguars produced a historic four consecutive wins on the road. Braithwaite (516 from 7 innings) is the only batsman with 500 runs while Devon Smith (458), Deonarine (435), Tyrone Theophile (416) and Shane Dowrich (412) are the only batsmen with 400 runs. Permaul (46), Imran Khan (38) and Bishoo (36) are the bowlers with 30 wickets. Eleven batsmen, Includ-

Veersammy Permaul

ing Braithwaite (3) and Deonarine (2) scored centuries while 19 bowlers captured five-wicket hauls but the batting in the tournament was very inconsistent as were the pitches and the standard of Umpiring. These are areas that need to be urgently addressed if West Indies Test cricket is to improve. With four matches to go and two of them at home, the Jaguars are perfectly placed

to capture their seventh title at this level and first in 17 years. Barbados (82), Windwards (80), Jamaica (60), T&T (47) and the Leewards, the only team without a win, in the cellar position on 17 points complete the points table in that order. The tournament resumes after a 10-day break on March 6 with the Jaguars facing Jamaica at Providence in one of three eighth round matches.

Five schools contest as Guyana Draughts Association stages a two tiered tournament Five schools will vie for honours when the Guyana Draughts Association stages a two tiered tournament, the first among five schools while in the second tier, senior national players would compete among themselves. Activities are slated to get underway Sunday at the National Gymnasium, Mandela Avenue, and participating schools are St Joseph’s High, New Campbellville Secondary, Christ Church Secondary, Queenstown Secondary and North Ruimveldt Multilateral.

The games will be played on the 100 square boards and the top three players in the schools’ competition will receive prizes while all participants will receive certificates donated by Jiawanram’s Printery, Belair Park. The top five finishers in the senior category will also be tangibly rewarded with trophies and cash incentives. Registration begins at 09:30hrs while the first draught would be moved half an hour later.