K
Container trucks NEWS should be confined - City to designated roads Mayor
Friday Edition
AIETEUR
February 28, 2020 - Vol. 22 No. 09
p. Online: www.kaieteurnews.com 9 Online
Guyana’s largest selling daily & New York’s most popular weekly
Price $80
readership yesterday 129,437
Contract for crude marketer...
Thorough background check will be carried Energy out on all bidders - Dept. p. 7
Jagdeo agrees with Woman shot dead, ex-cop decision to reduce 'Spoil Child' wounded in private polling places attack at Linden house p. 16
p. 25
Crane crashes into municipal abattoir p. 16
US$20M loan for oil sector...
Energy Dept open Rose Hall businessman'sp. to complaints p. bound, battered body 8 - safe stolen, 3 in custody, 11 on spending on farm gun found in home
chops 'Crime Chief targeting Wife …files protest with Police husband me'- Roger Khan Complaints Authority to death p. 16
p. 16
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Friday February 28, 2020
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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
That ExxonMobil contract Major political leaders have to stand by the divisive and inflaming ExxonMobil oil contract. The government must be on the tongue tied defensive, while the opposition is free to wage verbal war on this contract and its insulting provisions. The government has done so carefully, while Exxon, the object of derision and castigation, has rolled with the punches content in the knowledge that sticks and stones may break its bones but words will never hurt it. The local political newcomers can say anything they wish but everyone knows they lack the muscle of a sturdy numerical or vocal constituency. On the other hand, the Opposition PPP can, and has shredded the contract, especially on those occasions that enable wide domestic coverage during elections time. This is what any opposition worth its salt would do, especially with a most watched issue, and a sharply roiling one at that, too. But the main opposition, also, has been conspicuous in manifesting its considerable political acumen and appreciation of what the oil territory and the American territory is willing to absorb. To use the language of show business boxing, heated trash talk is accepted as part of the game that intensifies interest and increase gate receipts (votes), but there is great cautionary wisdom in observing the limits. In other words, do not proceed with any damaging-likely self-endangering-action--inclusive of actual blows. The understanding by all involved parties is speak as much as is desired, but don’t go beyond that, as it is all part of the circus. And if Guyana’s political amphitheater is not a full-blown circus, then nothing is. Thus, it comes as no surprise that the main opposition is on record (again) to state where it stands. This was cleanly captured and summarised in the article captioned, “Jagdeo repeatedly trashes Exxon contract but would leave it as it is” (KN February 21). It is the summit of sound political sense. Tell the natives what they want to hear, that is, repeatedly kick the thing like a useless dog, but then turn around and point out that that same damned dog has its positive attributes. As this publication observes and weighs these political positions, there is recognition of what is in play here. Any serious electoral party contender, any leader desirous of fulfilling personal ambitions, and any viable presence wishing to be considered to be of the right stuff is well versed in what it takes, what must be done. In the simplest terms, this amounts to Guyanese political people conditioning and presenting self, through volumes (both in bulk and in decibels) of soothing words designed to earn a spot in the good books of the watching American contingent-be it in the homeland or in Washington, D.C. Critics and newcomers have nothing to lose and are considered necessary nuisances that have to be tolerated, through that greatest of antidotes: deafening public silence on the part of Exxon and those vigilant relative to American interests. After all, it was once famously said that the business of America is business and, however looked at or derogated, ExxonMobil is the epitome of American business power and American business triumph. It is not to be trifled with or confronted beyond empty words. Exxon knows this, the main Guyanese opposition knows this, and the army of critics knows this, too. It does not hurt to humour them with the courtesy of polite listening, and behind the scenes via backchannel discussions that facilitate the sending of veiled messages. The opposition went to some pain in the KN article referenced, with its use of the word “nuanced.” In spite of all the trashing and condemning and what’s not, this is where the contract world ends: in that multipurpose word, “nuanced”. It is better than most for the task at hand, since it allows taking several contradictory positions simultaneously, inclusive of pretended hostility (for local consumption) and the shaded promissory (for the ears of the observing Yankees). It is the latest classic of having one’s cake, while selling it.
Editor’s Note; If your sent letter was not published and you felt its contents were valid and devoid of libel or personal attacks, please contact us by phone or email.
The abandonment of reason in Guyana DEAR EDITOR, I read Freddie Kissoon’s article of February 24, 2020 in Kaieteur News entitled “50 years of wishing and hoping and leaving” where he expresses the view that with cultural confusion in the Caribbean, none of the countries stands out more as a failure than Guyana. I agree with his pessimism about the current state and future of Guyana.
He states that we cannot go o n b l a m i n g t h e psychological effects of colonialism and the legacies of Burnham and Jagan. To a certain extent, I agree with him on this point too. But I am sure that deep down he knows that the problem is the divisiveness born of racism – it is a phenomenon that has led to the poison we have experienced in the past, are
experiencing at the moment, and will continue to experience for some time in the future. Until we solve the racial issue we will continue with the anti-intellectualism that permeates the society and which is seen in our culture. Racism is an enemy to rational thinking and a reasoned intellectual disposition. Any rightthinking person would not
hold racial views because they w ould know the consequences of racism in Guyana. The racists know this and they hate and condemn any intellectual who points to the racial underpinnings in the society and warn of the dire consequences to this country. Because racism blocks our thinking, our leaders and members of the society, seem (Continued on page 6)
Friday February 28, 2020
“Let the progress continue” – Empty slogan, shameful illusion DEAR EDITOR, E-day is now just a few days away. I am inclined to think that all the paraphernalia - the flags, the banners, the T-shirts, etc., meant or achieved very little in the form of voter persuasion. I think the people who would be voting on March 2 had already made up their minds about which party they would be voting for, a long time ago. But the show (campaign) had to go on in its traditional way. The performance or lack thereof of the Coalition after ascending to power since 2015 had inspired most of the rational, unbiased citizens who had voted for the Coalition in 2015 to wish for E-day a long time ago, to give them the marching orders as stipulated by our constitution. Truly! The Coalition had promised much in their 2015 campaign - reduction in taxes, better prices for rice farmers, a promise not to close GuySuCo, which had moved from being an asset to a liability a long time ago, land to small miners, constitutional reform, tackling corruption etc. Expectations were high! With newly discovered oil,
“the good life” banner seemed plausible. What was the result? They signed an unusual contract with Exxon that is conducive to causing us to lose 55 billion US dollars over the next 40 years, certainly not comparable to a normal contract in the oil and gas industry. They had broadened the tax base, vatting from diaper to medical supplies to agricultural and mining equipment, in a shrinking e c o n o m y, r a k i n g i n 9 0 billion more per year, and had the audacity to credit themselves for it, as if that sum were gleaned from thin air and not the pockets of the working class. One o s t e n s i b l y, needless statement from the president,” rice is a private sector business”, was enough to exacerbate an existing strained relationship between farmers and millers as it pertains to payment. Rice farmers were literally “cast into the Lion’s den” by the president. It heralded a decline in the rice industry. Eighty million was spent on a COI to decide what was best for GuySuCo. The Coalition closed the major estates, putting 7000 people out of
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jobs, contrary to the recommendations of the COI. The Coalition never “turned the sod” on constitutional reform which was promised to be initiated in their first 100 days plan. Instead, the president was cited for violating the Constitution on several occasions. The public’s purse was ravaged daily by acts of corruption. The auditor general has never been so busy tracking corruption. Despite the auditor general’s warning to the Coalition of the illegality of the issuing of contracts after December 2019, they still insisted by issuing contracts in January 2020. It shows that in their penchant for corruption, they have no regard for laws and regulations. Why should people want to return a government that has no regard for the rule of law? Having nothing of substance to remind the electorate of, they have no choice except to chant an empty slogan, “let the progress continue” and hope that the electorate will follow the illusion that they are trying to create. Rudolph Singh
What’s a good price? DEAR EDITOR, Many are concerned that Guyana is not positioning itself for the best price for its oil. Recent price fluctuations have not been leveraged via hedging and futures contracts in the oil market. The $69 to $74 price range has been missed and the opportunity to take advantage of future market prices above $60 should be placed under contract as soon as possible, especially given the economic slowdown due to the coronavirus that is being forecast. The beauty of the hedge is that we also have local consumption of oil that we can leverage in times of a soft market where low prices are present. Also, the market is liquid enough for us to trade contracts easily and not be completely exposed to spot price fluctuations. This approach not only holds true for our oil, but also holds true for our cane sugar. The market is up this year due to the shortage of beet, and the percentage increase easily covers the wage demands of GAWU. My experience at the graduate level helping others (Executives included), understanding managerial economics where the
complexity of pricing is explored, would serve Guyana well during the next administration. If interested in my assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me. I am always willing to help /
cooperate with others to ensure the success of our local economy. Best regards, Mr. Changlee Chairman The Cooperative Republicans of Guyana
Incomprehensible but not inconceivable DEAR EDITOR, It is incomprehensible but not inconceivable that a lifeguard was on duty and adults in the pool and still a three-year-old drowned (‘Pegasus owner says lifeguard was on duty at pool when child drowned’ SN Feb 27).
The high incidence of children dying while in the care, attention and supervision of adults is alarming. My condolences to the grieving parents, other family members, relatives and friends of little Anastacia Joseph. Shamshun Mohamed
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It would be wise for the Guyanese electorate to return President Granger and the Coalition to government DEAR EDITOR, On Monday March 2, the Guyanese people will vote in an election called as a result of a non-confidence motion that was successful because of the defection of MP Charrandass Persaud. The defeat of the Coalition government was not expected and should not have happened. The noconfidence motion was illadvised and essentially a betrayal. However, the Guyanese people well know the CCJ’s ruling on the matter and in a few days will give its verdict on that nonconfidence motion and, more importantly, the performance of the Coalition in its first term. The Coalition took over from the PPP/C after a 23-year run that started magnificently with the election of the highly respected Cheddi Jagan as president. Jagan was a principled socialist, strongly committed to democratic principles, and a very decent human being. The country made significant progress under his guidance as the economy grew and the standard of living improved partly as a result of debt forgiveness and a new sense of hope. However, the death of Cheddi Jagan towards the end of his term in office led to new leaders taking over the PPP and that party losing its ideological grounding.
Jagan’s widow took over the presidency that eventually went to Bharrat Jagdeo and then Donald Ramotar, whose government was defeated by the coalition in 2015. By that time, some of the PPP’s top leaders had left the party. Moses Nagamootoo became Prime Minister in the Coalition, Khemraj Ramjattan became a minister and Ralph Ramkarran is now contesting in a new party ANUG. The Jagans’ only child resident in Guyana is now a fierce critic of the PPP and is campaigning with the Coalition as it seeks reelection. The departure of these four former PPP stalwarts and others underline the decline of the party from a principled socialist movement to an opportunistic grouping lacking in principles and being heavy-handedly led by Bharrat Jagdeo. This culminated in the selection of Irfaan Ali as the presidential candidate for the March 2 election. That this was a retrograde move, in my opinion, would be an understatement. Many traditional PPP supporters will have difficulty voting for a ticket headed by Irfaan Ali. The PPP has been desperately trying to paint the Coalition as being incapable of running the country, but nothing could be further from the truth. The economy has
grown under the current government, unemployment has fallen slightly and corruption in the public sector has decreased. On the latter: in its 2019 ranking of countries, Transparency International singled out Guya n a a s having made significant strides in reducing corruption. And most significantly, the Coalition oversaw the rapid development of Guyana’s new oil and gas industry. This has the potential to contribute to a dramatic improvement in the standard of living of the Guyanese people, as several global agencies have projected Guyana to have the fastest growing economy in the world in 2020. Moreover, President Granger has been a good, courageous and dignified leader who, despite having to fight a bout with cancer and the no-confidence motion, has emerged as the person best positioned to manage the new revenues flowing from oil and gas. Additionally, the Coalition’s record in government has been well above average. Therefore, from this writer’s perspective, it would be wise for the Guyanese electorate to return President Granger and the Coalition to government. Sincerely, Jang B. Singh, Ph.D.
The abandonment of reason in... From page 4 to have lost the intellectual ability to reason. We see this consequence in the rejection of persons with sound intellectual capabilities and who appear to be honest, and the promotion and maintenance of persons who are intellectually weak and corrupt. It therefore means we will continue to struggle
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as a nation. We can see the effects of racism and division and the consequent lack of intellectualism currently playing out in the United States. We are seeing corruption, removal of restrictions to avoid the vagaries of climate change and protection of the environment, attempts to leave a swath of people with-
out health care, inhumane treatment of people at their southern border etc. And similar to Guyana, the basis of much of these problems is the abandonment of reason. For the betterment of everyone, we need to start thinking about how racism is destroying us and what can be done to counter it. But with the inherent destructive nature of the oil industry, I agree with Freddie that nothing is going to change for us in the near future. Yours faithfully Professor Kean Gibson
Once more I feel pride when I hear Guyana mentioned Dear Editor, When I heard in the US that the APNU/AFC Coalition had a chance of losing the election, I took some vacation from my job and decided to do whatever little I could to prevent the previous government from coming back into power. I did this, totally at my own expense, not with the expectation of any reward, but with the hope that whatever little I could do would help my beloved Guyana. I spoke with friends who had voted for the Coalition the last time, who were having second thoughts and read of the criticisms. I wondered what the discrepancy was. President Granger and the Coalition like any incumbent government have faced a barrage of criticisms from all quarters, but from the ground here in Region 1, I want to present an image of progress. When I came into Georgetown, I saw that in four years: - the city was being transformed from rubbish back to the Garden City, - men and boys were no longer being murdered in the streets, - stories of doors being kicked in are non-existent, - the once embarrassing
economy based on narcotrafficking is no more. And there’s so much more. In Region 1, from what I observed in two days, changes have been monumental. Mabaruma has been given the status of Town. It has its own radio station, Radio Mabaruma, that caters for all the citizens of the region. It will soon have power from a solar farm that’s about to be commissioned. There’s a new concrete bridge at Kumaka. There are paved roads from the airport to Kumaka. The road from Mabaruma to Morawhanna (Barima End) is being rebuilt. Food and transportation are being provided for the schoolchildren. Now, you may ask why the critics point out the disillusionment? Could it be their expectations were too high? Is it that the previous government did not receive their immediate comeuppance for their indiscretions or is it, in the words of Teddy Roosevelt: “it is not the critic who counts, not the man who points how the strong man stumbled ... because there is no effort without error...or is
it just a way to hold readers, a way to stay relevant, a way to grab the headline today? I will conclude by saying that once more I feel pride when I hear Guyana mentioned. I am optimistic and excited of the direction we are heading and of the good things that are happening. I am proud of our leader, President Granger, and his defining characteristics: educated, moral, a man of integrity and honest. So readers, please look at the situation for yourselves, look at what has been happening in your own region and, if you feel like I do, make an effort to vote on election day. Do not depend on the “learned critics”; vote for yourselves, your children, your country, your future. President Granger has given you four years, please give yourselves and your country one day. Do not think that your neighbour will vote for you. The last election was decided by less than 5000 votes. President Granger and the Coalition are the best option we have. David Correia Former resident of Region 1 now living in the USA.
The naivety on display by the Energy Dept. is alarming Dear Editor, This is a request for persons who know to market gold on the world markets. “I have gold; I am looking for someone (Contractor) to help me sell my gold, but I don’t know anything about gold, I just got lots of it, millions of ounces, so I will also pay the Contractor to teach me how to grade and sell gold while they have the contract to sell my gold”. Any Guyanese seeing this ad would be able to tell you what would happen to this fool and his gold; now replace ‘gold’ with ‘oil’ and examine the Department of Energy’s Request for expressions of interest to market Guyana’s oil. The naivety on display is alarming. The Department of Energy and its head, are proudly declaring they know nothing about how oil is graded and marketed, they want someone to come do it all and teach them. “The successful marketer is expected to also support the DoE in the first year of introduction of the grade in multiple geographies and refinery systems and must
work closely with the agency in understanding the behaviour and yields of the Liza Blend and how these affect pricing differentials.” This is much like watching a child with crayons and his inordinate pride at having defaced your living room wall - it is not art, and a firm hand is needed to administer discipline or there goes the rest of the house to Picasso junior. The Department already can’t level with us on their first ‘deal’ with Shell Western, studiously avoiding anything approaching a detail or a fact. One million and ninety-three thousand barrels seem to have been lost on that learning curve. Any gold miner can tell you the price of gold is based on the assay, a process to measure the purity of items containing gold. Oil is no different, essentially the Brent crude benchmark is 0.37% sulfur, lower impurities equals a higher price and conversely higher levels of impurity a lower price. The Department of Energy should have hired two dozen of our bright young people
and sent them to different parts of the world to gain experience and (importantly) contacts. I can assure you that the formulae and chemistry would be within their grasp almost immediately. These locals could be supplemented with some old hands in the business - retirees from the large companies that are in that phase of life where they want to impart knowledge and can utilise contacts and get the best deals for Guyana in house. Three teams competing within the DoE for the best deal on every lift would surely be more beneficial than the inviting of marketing companies to partake in a feast on the bounty and prey on the proud ignorance as advertised. The DoE undertook a great responsibility to oversee the sale of our profitoil; they cannot continue to dodge questions as to where the profit is now that the oil has been sold. The moon is running but the day is fast approaching. Respectfully Robin Singh
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Contract for Crude Marketer... Thorough background checks will be carried out on all oil bidders -Energy Dept.
I
n its pursuit of a Mar keter for Guyana’s share of the Stabroek Block oil, the Energy Department will be doing a thorough background check on all bidders. This was noted in the Expression of Interest that was published by the Energy Department this week via its Facebook page. In the document, the department said that all bidders should send their application to the Chairman of the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB), Berkley Wickham by 14:00hrs on March 12,
2020. It was noted that the applicant must demonstrate that it has at least five years of experience in Crude Oil marketing and trading and provide copies of its Certificate of Incorporation. It must also provide details of its capabilities and the volume of crude oil trading and marketing it did by geography, over the last five years. The Energy Department also wants to see details of previous experience in introducing a new grade into the market as well as the applicant’s Code of Conduct
Statement. Significantly, the bidder has to make provisions to allow the Department of Energy to verify all claims made in submission, and also, to verify that the bidder’s organisation is not in receivership, or the subject of any form of insolvency of bankruptcy proceedings or the subject of any form of winding up petition or proceedings. A written statement confirming that the bidder does not have any Director who has been convicted in any country for a criminal offence relating to fraud or any finan-
Elections Day declared National Holiday Monday, March 2, 2020 the day designated for National and Regional Elections, has been declared a public holiday. This was on February 25, officially gazetted under the Public Holidays Act (CAP 19:07) by Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan. Over the past weeks, there have been several calls to make Election Day a national holiday, since it would allow citizens to exercise their constitutional right to cast their votes. Among these were the Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG), which represents the voices of thousands of Guyana’s workers, and the Private Sector
Commission (PSC). “FITUG recalls that the last few elections were declared national holidays... Such a decision obviously took into account the inalienable right of Guyanese to exercise their franchise and to ensure maximum participation in this important democratic process in our country.” The Carter Center has noted that preparations are on track and adhering to the established timetable in all ten of the country’s Administrative Regions. The international observer will remain in Guyana in the weeks after polling to observe the resolution of any electoral disputes.
cial impropriety or criminal misrepresentation or falsification of facts relating to any matter also has to be provided. Accompanying that statement should be details of any pending litigation the bidder may or may not have. Kaieteur News understands that the successful candidate will be required to provide support to the Energy De partmen t i n a l l operating and back office responsibilities of managing crude sales and for each individual lift from the Liza D e s t i n y, G u y a n a ’s f i r s t
Floating Production Storage and Offloading vessel. The successful Crude Marketing Agent will also have to support the Energy Department in the first year
of introduction of the Liza grade in multiple geographies and refinery systems, and work closely with the Department in understanding the behaviour and yields of the Liza Blend and how these affect pricing differentials. Of note is the fact that it will have to conduct training sessions for personnel attached to the department in matters relating to Crude oil Supply and Trading fundamentals, and more specifically, those relevant to the Liza grade pricing. Kaieteur News understands that the Crude Marketing Agent would have to use all reasonable efforts to provide relevant information, documentation and/or training in a timely manner for Energy Department person-
Energy Dept. Head, Dr. Mark Bynoe nel. The contract is expected to last for 12 months.
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Friday February 28, 2020
Rose Hall businessman’s bound, battered body on farm The home and business place of Lomenzo “Sham” Johnny
-safe stolen, 3 in custody -unlicensed gun found in home Persons gathered to glimpse the businessman’s dead body in the fenced lot
It was just around 7:30 am yesterday when two construction workers made a grisly discovery on the Sha’veh farm property, which they were working on at Portuguese Quarter, Port Mourant. The body of popular Port Mourant businessman, Lomenzo “Sham” Johnny, was found bound by the feet, his face and head covered in blood and his workout attire left splattered with blood stains near his dead body. When Kaieteur News arrived at the scene situated some 300 meters from Johnny’s home and business place, Lot 11 East Side Line Dam, Rose Hall Town
(J.C.Chandisingh School Street), his body was seen clad in a burgundy workout pants and a vest. It was lying on its right side. Investigators were already inspecting the corpse. Scores of persons, including businessmen from Rose Hall Town and political personnel, converged near the fence snapping pictures and viewing the body in shock. Johnny, who was 49years-old, operated a grocery shop. He was spoken highly of by the persons looking at the corpse. Many said he would have his evening run through the street but little did he know, it
would have been his last Wednesday night. Sunil Sooklall, one of the construction workers who discovered the man, told this publication that he arrived for work just after 7:00 yesterday morning along with another to carry out construction works on a new building on the plot of land. It was while they were climbing the scaffold to begin works that they noticed what appeared to be a body lying in the swampy section of the lot near the St. Francis Community Developers painted zinc fence. He stated that he immediately contacted the owner of the property
(Sha’veh proprietor) who immediately contacted the police. Describing what he saw, Sooklall said “the man head buss up with plenty blood on he face. He had on one side boots; he hand tie in front he and he foot bin tie up too. He other clothes and so bin deh near he body.” Police have since disclosed that his body bore a puncture wound above the left eye and strangulation marks on the neck. He was tied up with the shoelace from his workout sneakers, which he was wearing at the time of his death. Back at Johnny’s home and business place, investigators discovered that the building and shop were ransacked and a safe, which may have contained an undisclosed amount of cash and other important documents was stolen. A relative revealed that he would lock up the premises and exercise through the said street with the keys on him. According to a police source, “it look like they killed him and took the keys for the building, which he probably had in his pants pockets and went to the place and search
Investigators at the crime scene
Clothing and footwear found near the body.
it and take what they could, but we are still investigating”. His relative detailed that Johnny has been running his grocery shop for over 15 years and was living alone since his three children and wife are living overseas. He said he received a call while he was making his way to work that “my cousin husband was found in the bush.”“This man does
exercise through the street in the night but many times we does tell him not to exercise so late but he has his own way you know.” Meanwhile, police sources have confirmed that three “known characters” are presently in police custody. Police also said that they found an unlicensed .25 pistol and 28 live rounds in the home.
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Guyana is not prepared for the coronavirus There is something much more serious than the threat of violence should the loser in next Monday’s general elections not accept defeat. The discovery of the first case of the coronavirus in the tropics, and right next door to Guyana in Brazil, is a most terrifying development. Health authorities in Sao Paulo have confirmed that a 61-year-old person who had traveled earlier to Italy was Brazil’s first confirmed case of the coronavirus. Sao Paulo is a very far away from Guyana but Brazil has a large population which can increase the spread of the virus inside and outside the country. If the coronavirus reaches Guyana, only God can help us. The health authorities will be overwhelmed by the infection. Guyana may have to seek urgent international help. And only one country is likely to help us: Cuba. I would like to know how many of our local personnel will actually be agreeable to treating persons with the virus. A few weeks ago, there was almost panic when fake news was spread about a con-
firmed case in Berbice. The coronavirus is diagnosed through a testing procedure which requires a coronavirus kit. In California, it is being reported that there were only about 200 testing kits for the virus. So, one has to ask what about Guyana and its preparedness for any outbreak of the virus. On 29th January this year, the daily newspapers reported Guyana’s health authorities as claiming that Guyana was prepared for the coronavirus. That perhaps is the exaggeration of the century. No country can ever really be prepared for a pandemic. And the coronavirus can become a pandemic unless its spread is dramatically halted. One local newspaper at that time quoted the authorities as saying that Cabinet had been informed that the Ministry of Health was utilising ‘stocks’ that were brought last year and in the first quarter of this year. The report did not explain what ‘stocks’ was being referred to. It could not have been ‘stocks’ for the testing of the
virus because last week, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) Guyana reported that it was only the previous day, February 19 that Guyana became in a position to test for the coronavirus. If Guyana only had the capability to test for the coronavirus on 19th February, how then could it, one month earlier, be said to be prepared for the virus? The coronavirus will not overwhelm the local health system; it will also place a serious strain on the economy. Guyana cannot afford the economic costs of dealing with the coronavirus. The virus is already creating havoc in global stock markets. Stock markets have fallen for the sixth straight day on account of fears of the rapid spread of the virus outside of China. Oil prices are also beginning to fall. US crude prices have fallen to a twelve-month low on account of the fears caused by the coronavirus. West Texas intermediate, which is used a benchmark for crude prices fell to US$46.46.
Container trucks should be confined to designated roads – City Mayor Mayor of Georgetown, Ubraj Narine, is in support of calls to have heavy-duty vehicles particularly container trucks confined to using designated roads in the city. In response to concerns about the damage caused to the roads by the heavy-duty vehicles, the Mayor told Kaieteur News that the Council has commenced talks with the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, the Private Sector Commission, (PSC) and the Shipping Association of Guyana on ways to curb the situation. According to the Mayor, it was discussed several times before, how much damage heavy-duty vehicles cause on the city roads. Narine noted that fees remitted to the Council by the trucking community to help maintain the roads, pales in comparison to the damage caused. He noted, nonetheless, that there are a number of matters to take into consideration. “For instance, the traffic hassle caused by heavy-duty trucks, the damage to roads and the expense imposed on the taxpaying citizenry to repeatedly fix.” Narine told Kaieteur News, “While the Council would like to address the problem head on, it cannot do so alone. “This issue calls for entire roundtable discussion by the various entities involved because the Council is not by
Mayor Ubraj Narine itself maintaining the roads. The Ministry of Public Infrastructure also has a considerable part to play,” Narine
said. He said, “At this point, the Council is open to recommendations on the way forward. “But we will have to wait until after the elections to move forward with any decision,” he added. The maintenance of city roads was addressed at the meeting of the Council held on Tuesday. At the meeting, councillors were updated on the various roadwork projects. Mayor Narine told members of the Council, that he is seeking advice from the Ministry of Public Infrastructure (Continued on page 13)
Brent crude, another benchmark was down at US$51.36 or by US$2.02. Projections are that the low prices may be sustained right through to April this year. This is not good news for Guyana. If the price of oil falls below US$45 per barrel, it makes no economic sense for production to continue in Guyana. Open oil has calculated the average total costs of production at around US$27.50 per barrel but with financing costs, this can be as high as US$30 per barrel. Since oil is non-renewable, the oil companies are not inclined usually to increase production when
prices are low. The coronavirus could therefore hurt local oil production. This will place in jeopardy all those fancy promises which our local politicians are making as Election Day gets closer, without considering what it will cost the treasury to fulfill those promises. The costs dealing with a local epidemic of the virus will mop up all the oil revenues, which Guyana will earn this year. Nothing will be left to do what the politicians say they will do. The authorities have to be careful about telling the public that Guyana is prepared for the virus. When one
factors in what it will require to stop the spread of this virus, to treat those sick, to monitor our ports and compensate for the economic fallout, the entire year’s oil revenues can end up having to be used to stop the corona threat. (The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper)
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Friday February 28, 2020
THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN
Justice Claudette Singh needs to safeguard her integrity ASAP I refer readers to my column titled, “Claudette Singh, Lennox Shuman, GECOM and tragic Guyana” of Saturday, February 1, 2020. In that piece I wrote the
following; “I have always had a good relation with GECOM Chair, Claudette Singh. Over the years, we would encounter each other in public places and we would chat.
“I recall a very fruitful conversation on Merriman’s Mall six years ago. Last month we encountered each other in DSL supermarket and we had a very meaningful exchange.”
Things are happening in GECOM and they are moving swiftly. In this vortex, I hope Ms. Singh does not suffer a credibility crisis. She has to move immediately to protect her credibility. I will cite three recent occurrences that have created an exigency to which Madame Singh has to respond. First, six commissioners constitute the policy-making body of GECOM. I may be wrong but I cannot see how certain changes fraught with controversy could be done by the Chief Elections Officer (CEO) without the bureaucratic procedure of contact with the GECOM high command either through formal contact or the round robin process, thus it becomes a formal GECOM decision. To remove voting stations from private residence situated in districts where, according to the PPP, they have majority support was bound to cause controversy. Even if it is a justified, logistical decision, it was destined to generate a huge quarrel because of the way it was done. The other aspect is, why make the changes so close to the elections? The second occurrence is a pellucid statement from the Private Sector Commission’s (PSC) Chairman, Mr. Gerry Gouveia related to the above. If Gouveia is wrong, then Ms. Singh has to respond to him to dissolve the fiction because what Gouveia has to say could lead to serious reactions that this country could do without. Mr. Gouveia provided a list of polling stations in private residence in south Georgetown. The list did not amount to the figure of 40 he listed. Among the areas where
he noted, they include Guyhoc Park, South Ruimveldt, North Ruimveldt and Albouystown. Only a dishonest mind would deny that since 1957 in elections competition between the PPP and PNC, the PPP does not lose consistently in south Georgetown. I only moved out of south Georgetown in 2007 and lived there all my life and voted there since I became 18. If this is true, how do you explain it? If not true, Justice Singh has to call out the PSC Chairman and warn him that such fictions are bound to have adverse repercussions. Since we are on the topic of repercussions, we come to the third occurrences – the statement on GECOM by the Guyana Press Association (GPA). Before I offer an extract from the GPA position, a little preface is important. I refused to be convinced that the leadership of the GPA has a political agenda or is close to any political party. But here is what I believe. If you check off the names of the GPA’s leadership, it is hard to find anyone who has electoral sympathy for the PPP. Here now is the part of that emanation from the GPA that I believe Guyanese must seriously reflect on; “The Chief Elections Officer, Keith Lowenfield, and the Chairman, Justice (Ret’d) Claudette Singh are for the most part inaccessible. Against this background, the GPA has come to the conclusion that GECOM is complicit in and must be held responsible for imbalanced coverage especially in instances where there are serious accusations and claims being made by
Frederick Kissoon the election commissioners, political parties and other stakeholders”.How does the average Guyanese react to this trenchant adumbration? We remind readers, the Gouveia claim is not coming from some obscure opposition worker who put it up on Facebook. It is emanating from a stakeholder that few would doubt is one of the most important players in this country – the umbrella body for the business community. The GPA is not known to have any connection with the opposition parties so we can discount any ulterior motive. So the question needs to be asked again – how does the average Guyanese feel about these developments? I cannot speak for the nation. My opinion is that any person who lived in this country would know that election time generates dangerous, ugly and violent vocabulary. It is not the time in the ongoing life of this country where you want to have election questions hanging that social media will feast on. The GPA is not only right, it is immensely accurate. If GECOM does not explain, sores will fester and grow into violent monsters. I appeal to Justice Singh – do not damage your credibility. (The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper)
Dem boys seh...
Lie, lie and more lie…politicians lie Politicians does lie like when horse trotting. Every step dem mek is a false step. When dem open dem mouth every word dem talk is a lie. Dem boys know dat Jagdeo is one man who does lie without thinking. If he was a Catholic and he had to go to confession, he woulda never lef de confession box because he lies woulda been so much. Now Badal was a good businessman till he decide to become a politician. When he form a political party, nuff people believe dat he didn’t know de ropes and dat he would fall by de wayside. Dem never realize dat de man is de ideal Presidential candidate. De man mek some statements about Soulja Bai and he government. He then tek de paint brush and paint himself till he look like a knight in shining armour. In fact, when de people read wha he had to seh, nuff people believe dat he had a halo round he head. De man mekking Pegasus bigger. He claim dat he don’t get no concession from Soulja Bai. He talk how everybody get things but he don’t get nutten from nobody or no gov-
ernment. De story buss out and is dat story mek people realize dat de man is de ideal Presidential candidate. He can lie. Dem boys check de records and wha dem find still got some of dem wid dem mouth lef open. De man get billions of dollars in concession and de tax people got de records to show it. When dem produce de facts, dem boys couldn’t believe. And de same tax people reveal some shocking information. De tax people show how de man buying something fuh $100 and claim how he pay $500 for it. De story gon buss out. And while dat happening John Fernandes trying to break down de abattoir. Just de odda day Uncle Freddie claim how de abattoir was a dangerous place. It killing animals in a backward manner. Dat is wha Uncle Freddie seh. Yesterday John Fernandes drop a crane pon de abattoir. Now he got to sit down wid de Mayor and wuk out de cost fuh repairs. Talk half and remember old grudge does bring new licks.
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Energy Director clarifies Gary Best to be slapped with aspects of oil and gas sector DUI, dangerous driving charges – DPP recommends
Director of the Department of Energy, Dr. Mark Bynoe is dispelling claims that the two percent royalty fee is all Guyana will receive for its oil. The Director appeared on the National Communication Network’s “Context” on Monday and reiterated that under the Production Sharing Agreement, Guyana was receiving more than just the royalties. “The contract provides for two percent royalties on gross production. So, all petroleum products that are produced, Guyana gets two percent. Additionally, we have something which is called profit oil.” Dr. Bynoe explained that profit oil was the remaining 25 percent of total production after the investment cost re-
Director of the Department of Energy, Dr. Mark Bynoe covery was deducted. That 25 percent was further divided in half with the operators – ExxonMobil, Hess and CNOOC – receiving 12.5 percent and Guyana receiving 12.5 percent.
He also noted that with Guyana’s first lift, which was executed last week, the country would start receiving revenues which would be deposited into the Sovereign Wealth Fund. Touching on the country’s Local Content Policy, Dr. Bynoe stated that it seeks to align closely with the Production Sharing Agreement. The Local Content Policy was completed and printed in early February. It promotes education, inclusion and advancement of Guyanese who demonstrate the expertise and experience required to participate in the petroleum industry. The document also seeks to ensure Guyanese participation in the industry.
The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has advised that former Chief-ofStaff and Ret’d Rear Admiral, Gary Best, be placed before the court for causing the February 8, 2020 death of cyclist Jude Bentley. Regional Commander, Assistant Commissioner Edgar Thomas, told Kaieteur News that the case file was returned yesterday morning. The DPP recommended that Best be slapped with two charges: driving under the influence of alcohol, and causing death by dangerous driving. According to Commander Thomas, “We are trying to get him to court as soon as possible.” Further, he stated efforts are being made to contact
Jude Bentley
Gary Best
Best who was released on $100,000 station bail. This news has put some ease on the minds of Bentley’s relatives who were questioning the progress of the case since Bentley was killed almost four weeks ago. Family members even took to the streets, protesting outside the Magistrates’ court; calling for Best to be charged. But the long waiting period, according to Thomas, was needed so that a strong case could be built. Best is expected to appear in court today. Before the file was sent to the DPP, it was subjected to reviews from the Crime Chief, Commander Thomas and the Traffic Chief. Bentley was struck down and killed on the Rupert Craig Highway in the vicinity of the Russian Embassy. Best was
driving the vehicle that struck the cyclist. Police had said that Best was over the legal alcohol limit at the time of the accident. Reports stated that both parties were headed east when the accident occurred. Best’s vehicle also struck a utility pole. Police reports stated that Best alleged he was proceeding east along the highway when the cyclist suddenly appeared in front of him. He told police that he applied brakes and the right side of his vehicle struck Bentley who fell on to the roadway. The former Chief-of-Staff was detained but later transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital’s cardiac ward after he complained of feeling unwell. He was discharged a day later.
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Guyana has capacity to teach other countries about forest monitoring -Norway report A mid-term report by Norway has lauded Guyana on its increased capacity to monitor its forests. The report by the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (NORAD), has been prepared by LTS International Limited (part of the NIRAS Group) under contract. In 2009, the Governments of Guyana and Norway agreed to cooperate on broader emission reduction goals. Guyana has received over US$200M out of the US$250M committed by Norway under the ground-breaking deal. The activity resulted in the development of a Measurement Reporting Verification (MRV) system for a comprehensive, consistent, transparent and verifiable assessment of forest area change. Currently, around 80 percent of Guyana is covered by forests. According to the report released by GFC yesterday, since the inception it has made steady incremental gains through the inclusion of new sources of satellite data and refinement of mapping and reporting processes. “That Guyana is a high forest low deforestation (HFLD) country has shaped the basic thinking behind the current Guyana-Norway partnership: to reward retaining deforestation at low levels. The Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC) has built tremendous skills over the years with capacity improving year on year. The GFC team had already attained a high level of competence over the first phase of the project (Years 1-5) and have consolidated their skills in the second phase (Years 6-9). The GFC has a very strong internal team and continues to evolve against the moving background of other
evolution inside Guyana.” One of the key objectives of the MRV’s second phase (2015 to 2020) was to improve the system to allow Guyana to continue to monitor forest
in Guyana to keeping forest standing.” While many of Guyana’s technical agencies have been making increasing use of MRVS data, the report was
ated the potential for links between Indigenous people and the national level. The training of local people so that they could be consulted about hotspots, trained to
change in the event of a “nonREDD+ payment” scenario. In 2018, the GFC facilitated consultations with several agencies to identify options for further use of MRVS data and outputs for forest monitoring and management. According to NORAD, the consultation process found considerable interest in the increased use of MRVS data across Government agencies and non-government organisations, for a broader range of potential applications linked to their areas of work. “It is encouraging that the GFC has begun to look beyond perfecting the engineering aspects of forest monitoring, towards outreach to other sectors and the application of the data collected. The MRVS has brought much more accuracy and specificity to the commitment
critical that GFC and these same agencies have been less good at explaining to politicians and to citizens in general the relevance of forest or the urgent need to be prepared for climate change. “Still less do these categories of people probably understand how REDD+ and the MRVS can help them. Ensuring that an appropriate communication strategy reaches these two categories of people will be essential if arguments that some part of the oil revenues should be committed to forest protection and forest monitoring are to be accepted.” The report made it clear that whatever happens at the national level, the forest will not lose its importance for local people. “One of the really important impacts of the MRVS, is the way in which it has cre-
use GPS, and to report their findings to the national level, has created a link between remote communities and the capital which they found important.” NORAD said that Guyana’s MRV System has over the past five years generated a wealth of data that can be utilised in improving management of the multiple uses of forests. There is a great deal to be
43 joint services ranks will vote on Monday …due to failure of aircraft to land Several members of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) are set to vote on Monday, March 2, 2020. Thirty-five police officers and eight soldiers will be flown to their respective polling places so they can vote. Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) public relations officer, Yolanda Ward, informed the press that the pilot who flew these ranks to Eteringbang informed GECOM that the plane could not land there. He decided to return to Georgetown. It was A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) who, in a statement, worried that Eteringbang joint services ranks may have been disenfranchised. Ward had not promptly notified the press of the irregularity, but confirmed it on Wednesday evening when asked.
GECOM PRO, Yolanda Ward
done in order for Guyana to be ready for an exit from Norway Guyana cooperation in 2030, the report pointed out. “At the same time, what needs to be done has been identified and some preliminary actions have already been undertaken in that direction. The need is firstly to improve the usability of the MRVS data and access to it. Especially during the early years of oil revenues, it would be very valuable for NORAD support to the MRVS to continue. “If Norad is prepared to continue – for an interim period – to support the MRVS, aspects of its broader applicability in other sectors and the creation of more experts with relevant technical skills, the forest will go on being high priority in Guyana.” The report said that international assistance should slowly but steadily phase out. A trajectory for doing this could be agreed early on and become an integral part of the
Guyana-Norway collaboration going forward. The report said that GFC has built tremendous skills over the years with capacity improving year after year. The NORAD report recommended that MRVS experts in Guyana keep a close watch on the progress of the Gabon case, learning both from colleagues in Gabon and from Norway itself. “Guyana is now in a position after nearly 10 years of development to teach others how to create an MRVS as effective as their own. “The country’s programme has already featured in the 2019 Global Sustainable Development Report, and the GFC team now needs to seek other opportunities to publicise Guyana’s progress, and to position itself and its forests to increase its international reputation.” The Guyana lesson would be critical as several countries across the globe have been flagged for deforestation.
Container trucks should... From page 9 towards reconstruction of the roads. The Mayor noted that several road projects are in progress but there has been contention over the use of heavy-duty vehicles in the areas under reconstruction. “There are a number of road works in progress but the one which is under contention is Sussex Street. “The trucks seem to be damaging the road as it is fixed. I will be seeking advice from the Ministry to place a bar there, to prevent those vehicles from traversing that road.”
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Lands and Surveys opens Windsor developer pays $36M Crane Village office $900M for 30-acre Ogle plot
The New GLSC’s sub-office and living quarters located at Nouvelle Flander (Crane Public Road), West Coast Demerara. The Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission commissioned a spanking new $36M sub-office and living quarters at Nouvelle Flanders (Crane Public Road), West Coast Demerara, yesterday. The opening occurred months after a similar facility was commissioned in New Amsterdam, Berbice, Region Six. The opening was at a time when the Commission is making momentous changes to provide 21st century Land Administration, mapping, surveying, and other services to the Guyanese people. The facility is specially designed to accommodate persons with disabilities. Delivering remarks at the opening of the office, Director General of the Ministry of the Presidency, Joseph Harmon, said that he is happy to note that the commission has been responding to the vision of the President by taking Government services to the people. “When I looked at this building, I recognised that the GLSC has taken the question of service to the people seriously. The GLSC did not provide a building where it is air-conditioned only for staff and the public is seated in the hot sun; the staff and public will enjoy the same level of
comfort,” he stated. Harmon said that the Lands Commission has been leading by example. As a result, clients are responding well to the improved services. “All over the country at the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission, there is almost a movement of trying to improve the quality and the standard of facilities for the staff and for clients.” M e a n w h i l e , Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer of the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission, Trevor Benn, said that the construction of this new building serves as a part of the Commission’s efforts to improve its infrastructure to efficiently rollout its improved operations. “When I arrived at the Commission, the buildings across the country were more or less in a dilapidated state. Our staff endured really substandard working conditions for a long time,” Benn said. According to Benn, the upgrading of the Commission’s office countrywide is just the beginning of what is to come for the Commission. “We are committed to ensuring that our services are deployed in an efficient and transparent manner. In addition to the new buildings
that we are constructing, we are working to ensure that our facilities, equipment, and materials which are to provide quality services to our people are also of high standards.” Commissioner Benn added that the Commission is working with the University of Twente in the Netherlands to help train the Commission’s staff to have a more comprehensive database so that the Commission can better manage their client base. “The system is to ensure that in the not too distant future, our clients do not need to come to our offices for service but these services can be accessed online,” Benn said. Board Member, Ms. Kim Stephens, who spoke on behalf of the Board of Directors, said that the Board continues to be impressed by the work of the Commission and will lend its support when called upon. “As a Board, we remain committed to working with the Commission to achieve its mandate in an efficient and effective manner. I encourage the staff who will be stationed here to provide quality service to the citizens of this region.” Ms. Stephens urged. Minister within the Ministry of Social Protection, Keith Scott, also addressed the opening.
An ambitious secondphase development at Ogle, East Coast Demerara, cost the developers of Windsor Estates $900M. According to Danny Sawh of Navigant Builders Inc., the development will see a mixed-use urban village, consisting of high-end residential condos and townhomes and Class A offices and business suites. Sawh’s representative, Mark Thomas, a member of the management team at Windsor, told the gathering at Ogle for the sod turning, that hopes had dwindled for the Navigant second phase project with lands unavailable. Navigant is credited with building its flagship project, Windsor Estate, East Bank Demerara, boasting a gated community true with Floridastyled home, palm-lined avenues and town houses. The 30-acre lands at Ogle were formerly under sugarcane. They were transferred to the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL). Almost 800 acres between Ogle and Lusignan have been
released for developments with at least three brand name hotels, including AC Marriott and Hilton, expected to be constructed in the area not far from the Ogle airport. Not far from where the project is the planned road link between the East Coast and East Bank of Demerara. Present at Ogle for the sod turning, yesterday, were Minister of Health, Volda Lawrence; head of NICIL, Colvin Heath-London; and Region Four Chair, Genevieve Allen.Thomas said that the project has been long in waiting with a few staffers of Navigant almost giving up. Navigant was one of several companies expressing interest in 2017 when NICIL asked for submissions. According to Sawh, he was unable to travel due to a minor medical procedure stemming from an old injury. He lauded NICIL and Attorney-at-law Devendra Kissoon of London House Chambers, in whom Windsor has developed great trust and confidence. “Not only was he extremely efficient and professional in turning around the contract, but he
insisted on very stringent terms to ensure that the development build to the standards NICIL expects from this investment.” Sawh, speaking to Kaieteur News from New York, vowed to bring an even better standard to the Windsor Estates project on the East Bank of Demerara. He clarified that he had told a state report that Navigant had experienced several challenges in completing the East Bank Demerara project. One of them being delays experienced with certain services (not officials seeking bribes as previously reported) due to Windsor’s no-bribe policy.He said that on the East Bank project, the Ministry of Housing was extremely professional and helpful in getting that project off the ground. He also clarified that sales at one time fell by 1200 percent when the economy faltered a few years back. Demand for turn-key homes has now risen sharply, in light of the oil and gas production to the point where a number of large-scale developments are underway.
Sod-turning: (From L-r) Minister Volda Lawrence; NICIL’s head, Colvin Heath-London; Navigant’s representative, Mark Thomas; and Region 4 Chair, Genevieve Allen.
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Jagdeo agrees with decision to ‘Crime Chief targeting reduce private polling places me’-Roger Khan
... as long as there are public buildings
An APNU/AFC delegation met with GECOM yesterday Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo agrees that private polling places should be reduced. He just wants to ensure that the reductions are not unfair, or done in places where there aren’t sufficient public residences to replace them. He made this comment during a press conference yesterday at his Church Street office. The private polling stations being used dropped from 166 in the 2015 elections to 92 for the 2020 elections. The People’s Progressive Party (PPP) had raised the concern that the reduction may have been applied disproportionately to PPP strongholds, making it so that the party’s supporters would have to travel longer distances to vote. There was also a concern that the polling places were congested. Subsequently, the former President made suggestions for an increase of at least 12 polling places in key areas purported to be PPP strongholds, namely Mon Repos and Foulis, East Coast Demerara, and Chesney, Corentyne. Subsequently, the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) decided to review the proposal made by Jagdeo,
Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo with a view to decongesting the areas mentioned. While the Opposition Leader has stated categorically that the Carter Center, whose direction GECOM followed, did not directly recommend a reduction in private polling places, Jagdeo acknowledged that it was fair for GECOM to interpret the recommendation to have voters exercise their right in a “neutral environment… free from intimidation” as meaning that a reduction of private polling places would be the right choice. He noted, however, that it is important to ensure the reduction is fair and proportionate. He said that there should
be enough public buildings to be used as replacements or in places where there aren’t, he suggested the use of places of worship. On the other side of the political divide, a delegation from the governing Coalition visited GECOM yesterday to give their take on the issue. Joseph Harmon told reporters after the meeting that the Coalition learnt of Chief Elections Officer (CEO) Keith Lowenfield visiting the purportedly congested areas with a PPP election agent, and an assistant. He stated that the Coalition would not be prepared to accept the moving of polling stations to other places if it is done in that manner, that manner being without the Coalition’s scrutiny and input. The Coalition election agent for East Coast Demerara (ECD), Basil Williams, will conduct a review of the purportedly congested areas to ensure that the PPP’s claims are checked out, according to Harmon, and relay the Coalition’s concerns to GECOM.Amna Ally, who also attended the meeting, made it clear that the Coalition is not prepared to accept a return to private residences, but rather they would accept the use of tents.
Crane crashes into Municipal Abattoir
A
crane owned by John Fernandes Ltd yesterday fell onto the Municipal Abattior located at Water Street, Georgetown. As a result, the kitchen area and sections of the roof of the building have been severely damaged. The incident occurred around 14:30hrs. Hence, the building has been closed until further notice. No one has been injured. Kaieteur News under-
stands that prior to the accident numerous letters of complaint were send to the company involved for them to remove the crane from the location since it was leaning over the building. However, no action was taken. When Kaieteur News arrived at the scene of the accident, City Mayor Ubraj Narine and the city engineer were inspecting the damage. Mr. Narine stated that he
will be meeting with John Fernandes to discuss ways to resolve the issue. Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the City Council, Debra Lewis, stated that due to the incident, workers have been relocated to another area. Food inspectors were at the abattoir inspecting the already slaughtered animals to see if they were still good for human consumption. (Anastacya Peters)
Shaheed ‘Roger’ Khan has filed a complaint against the police Crime Chief, Michael Kingston, claiming harassment. According to attorney-atlaw, Glenn Hanoman, the complaint results from what appeared to be a pattern of actions that would force a conclusion that his client was being targeted. Khan was arrested in Suriname in 2006 and later handed over to US authorities in Trinidad after being accused of running a drug empire in Guyana. He was sentenced to a US jail in 2009 and deported last September to Guyana where he was held by police investigating allegations that he played a role in a number of high-profile murders before his incarceration in the US. However, local police in Guyana released him within 72 hours and told him to report regularly to the Eve Leary headquarters. He has been doing that until this week when reports surfaced that he was arrested by police.Hanoman immediately wrote the Commissioner of Police, Leslie James, complaining of his client being unlawfully restrained from leaving on Tuesday, February 26 at the Eve Leary headquarters of the police force.He had gone there, as a weekly routine, to report to the police. Khan, the lawyer claimed, was wrongfully arrested there for robbery and escorted to the Brickdam Police Station. There, he was told about an allegation of an incident at Altitude Bar, Sandy Babb Street, Kitty, where someone was robbed and his firearm taken away. Khan was at the bar with his daughter at the time and
… files a protest with Police Complaints Authority
Facing a lawsuit: Michael Kingston
Being targeted: Shaheed ‘Roger’ Khan
there was no evidence that he was involved in the incident. “However, Senior Superintendent Michael Kingston, the Acting Crime Chief ordered police at Brickdam Police Station to continue to hold Shaheed Khan in spite of the advice from his own investigators that there existed no legal authority to continue to hold the man,” the lawyer said in his letter to the Commissioner. Hanoman disclosed that the robbery victim gave a statement that Khan was not involved in the incident and described three others. In fact, there was video evidence to suggest that Khan was nowhere near. Khan was released after 20:30 that evening. He was not given the opportunity to have lunch or dinner. According to Hanoman yesterday, he is preparing a suit that will name Kingston, the Commissioner of Police and the Police Complaints Authority for malicious arrest and wrongful detention, among other things. He said that his client has been reporting as required to
the police headquarters every week.There were a few occasions when he was told to skip a Monday. However, there was one time, on December 23, that Khan was specifically told by the police headquarters to come back three weeks later…on January 13. That day just happened to be Khan’s birthday. “Of course, it raised eyebrows. The fact is my client would report to the police headquarters and made to sit for hours on a bench before he is sent away and told to come back,” Hanoman explained. With regards to the complaint, Hanoman said that he and Khan went to the Police Complaints Authority on Wednesday to file a report against the Crime Chief. An investigation was launched by head of the Authority, Justice (Ret’d) William Ramlal. Hanoman made it clear that he and his client have information that a senior police officer has been “compromised” on the orders of a major city businessman.
Wife chops husband to death Police in Berbice are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of a 41-year-old man who was chopped by his 52year-old wife on February 24, last. Dead is Anthony “Banks” Permaul, a labourer of Clifton Settlement, Corentyne, Berbice. His wife Danmattie “Sato” Seenarine, a housewife is in police custody. Kaieteur News understands that on February 24, last, Seenarine and her husband were imbibing when an argument erupted over another woman with whom he shared a relationship in the past. According to the police, both individuals are alcoholics. On the day in question, Permaul reportedly assaulted Seenarine during the argu-
Dead: Anthony Permaul ment. To defend herself, the woman picked up a cutlass and dealt him a chop to his left arm causing it to bleed profusely. However, Permaul was only taken to the Port Mourant
Hospital the next day around 9:00 am. He was subsequently transferred to the New Amsterdam Hospital where he was admitted and later succumbed to his injury on February 26. The incident was reported by the brother of the deceased. When Seenarine was contacted, she was under the influence of alcohol, police said. She was subsequently taken into custody. Meanwhile, neighbours told this publication that the couple would often have arguments that turned physical but “most of the time, the man does beat she so she mussy defend herself this time”, one neighbour said. Investigations are in progress.
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Woman shot dead, ex-cop ‘Spoil Child’ wounded in attack at Linden house Ex-policeman Teon Allen, called ‘Spoil Child’, was once again at the receiving end of a brutal attack by gunmen, who shot his reputed wife dead and left Allen reportedly critical. The shooting occurred at the couple’s Central Amelia’s Ward home around 13:30 hrs yesterday. Collesa Hunte, 28, a mother of two, was found lying in the kitchen with a gunshot wound to the side. She succumbed shortly after being taken to the Linden Hospital Complex. Allen, who was shot in the back, is hospitalised at the same institution under police guard. There was heavy police presence at the couple’s home, which is situated in a remote and bushy area, aback of Central Amelia’s Ward. Residents in the area gave no indication of having seen or heard anything amiss. Police also said that they have no eyewitness accounts of the incident. They said that a lone security camera in the area was not working. However, spent shells in the building where the couple lived suggested that the gun-
The house where the attack took place
Dead: Collesa Hunte men used at least two firearm of different caliber. Police also recovered a pistol in the building. Bullet holes in the walls indicated that several shots were fired. According to a police official, ranks rushed to the house after receiving reports of gunshots in the area. On entering the premises, they found Collesa Hunte slumped on the kitchen floor.
She succumbed shortly after. Ranks were later informed that Allen was transported to the same hospital with a gunshot wound to the back. Collesa Hunt’s mother, Yolanda Johnson, was still in a state of shock when Kaieteur News visited her home. “I USED TO WARN HER” Mrs. Johnson said she had repeatedly expressed concern over her daughter’s
Guyana Rice Development Board commissions $109.7M seed cleaning facility
relationship with Allen. “I used to warn her, beg her; I even used to cuss, but this girl never listened.” Johnson said that her daughter moved out of her home late last year to live with Allen. The woman’s husband, Carl Hunte, said he was devastated; “but I got to be strong for the family.” There have been a series of gang-related incidents in Linden. A group known as the ‘Cayenne gang’, had reportedly been targeting Allen. Allen’s apartment in Fair’s Rust was burnt down a few months ago. His cousin, Eon Williams, and his girlfriend were later
shot execution-style. Williams reportedly bore close resemblance to Allen, and there was suspicion that he was a victim of mistaken identity. The ‘Cayenne gang’ was suspected to have carried out the execution, as a vehicle allegedly belonging to a gang member was left near the scene. In November 2019, Allen was shot at Rahaman’s turn, Houston, East Bank Demerara. While he was before the courts for having an illegal AK-47 in his possession, he was arrested and charged for harbouring wanted men, Uree Varswyck and Mark Royden Williams, who broke out of
Teon Allen called ‘Spoil Child’ the Camp Street Prison on July 9, during a fire and riot. Prior to this, he was charged with discharging a firearm with intent to commit murder and released on $50,000 bail. He was also wanted by police in Linden for the attempted murder of Denise Grant and Tiffany McDeth, in Amelia’s Ward, on September 2, 2019 In December 2019, he was charged for shooting at a policeman and being in possession of illegal arms and ammunition.
Victor Le wis of Brighton Lewis Cor entyne is 103 not out Corentyne
Guyana Rice Development Board commissions $109.7M seed cleaning facility at Burma Rice Research Station, in Region 5 The Government has opened a multimillion-dollar state-of-the-art seed cleaning facility. Over $109.7M through the auspices of the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) was invested into the new facility at the Burma Rice Research Station, in Region Five. The seed cleaner equipment costs $99.3M while renovation to the existing building was completed at a cost of $10.4M. The “Superbrix” 10-tonne seed cleaner facility was commissioned by Minister of Agriculture, Noel Holder. Speaking at the ceremony, Holder noted that the modernised facility will continue to provide good quality seed and better quality seeds thus increasing yields by some 15 percent. According to Holder, “The previous twotonne seed cleaner required that operations be done on a 24-hour basis when seeds were being cleaned. That equipment was procured
and installed over ten years ago”. With the new high-quality system, the Burma Rice Research Station will now be able to clean seeds that it produces at a faster rate, thus reducing extended working hours. The rice research station has over the years made remarkable strides. Nineteen rice varieties along with the production packages were developed. This contributed to the boom in the productivity of farm levels. The national average has moved to 5.9 hectares compared to about four hectares ten years ago.Minister Holder added that there is a cost attached for private seed growers who wish to utilise the services offered by the GRDB.Also present at the formal event was the GRDB General Manager, Nizam Hassan; Deputy General Manager Allison Peters; and Chief Technical Officer, Ministry of Agriculture, George Jervis.
Victor Lewis of Brighton Village, Corentyne, recently celebrated his 103 birthday and he is still going strong. The elderly gentleman reached the milestone last Tuesday. Lewis was born on February 25, 1917 at Eversham Village, but grew up at Brighton, Corentyne, Berbice. He attended the Eversham Scott School and is still a member of the Eversham Presbyterian Church. He was a lover of cricket in his youthful days. After finishing school, Lewis started working as a carpenter. He continued that trade for over 80 years. During the time, he built numerous buildings including Technical Institutes in Region Six and his own home. Lewis was in his late 20s when he met and got married to Monica Williams of Limlair Village, Corentyne, Berbice. Their union produced 12 children, 11 of whom are still alive. He currently has 23 grandchildren and 31 greatgrandchildren.
victor lewis and relatives Lewis is thankful to God for his longevity. He is happy that God has spared his life and has kept him so long on earth. Lewis, who is still bubbly and cheerful, said he is thankful for life. “As long as there is no sickness within the body, I am alright.” Victor Lewis received best wishes from family and friends who gathered at his residence at Brighton to help celebrate the auspicious occasion and participate in the celebrations held in his
honour. He added, “I can’t say what kept me so long but is God work. The Almighty is in it. People say yuh do good, yuh will live long boy.” According to the centenarian, he does not have a favourite meal. He eats anything that is provided to him. “Long ago, old people use to say special meal, now yuh a call it favourite meal. Now yuh ah eat anything. As long yuh feel a little hungry, yuh eat anything. Foo foo was it in those days.”
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Eleven witnesses will be called on to testify when the preliminary inquiry (PI) begins into the murder of Latoya Haywood, who was fatally stabbed on Christmas Day, last year. Twenty-three year-old Sheleza Ellis of Charlotte Street, Georgetown, who is charged for the capital offence murder yesterday made another court appearance before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts. The woman succumbed to her injuries on January 23, 2020, weeks after the stabbing that occurred on Christmas Day. When the charge was read to Ellis, she was not required to plead to the indictable offence which stated that on January 23, 2020, at Georgetown, she murdered Haywood, called ‘Toya’. Ellis is being represented by attorney-at-law Siand Dhurjon. However, the attorney was not present in court yesterday during the proceedings. Dhurjon had requested from the court to have the police return the vehicle that was impounded at the Brickdam Police Station, as part as their evidence in connection with the murder, to be returned to the owner, Alfie Garraway. The court was informed
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Remanded: Sheleza Ellis
Dead: Latoya Haywood
by Police Prosecutor Neville Jeffers that the vehicle has since been returned to the owner and that he will be calling 11 witnesses to testify. The matter was adjourned to March 6, 2020. Kaieteur News had reported that Haywood of 57 Leopold and Cross Streets, Georgetown, succumbed to her injuries at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) one month after be-
ing stabbed. The victim, a 29-year-old mother of two, was nursing injuries after receiving a stab wound in the region of the heart, last Christmas Day. Reports indicated that the incident took place around 07:30hrs on the day in question. The victim, who was in company of her family members, had attended a Christmas Eve party in Leopold Street.
CEO of ERC resigns Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC), Yvonne Langevine, has resigned from her post as the head of that constitutional agency. The Commission confirmed Langevine’s resignation, but refused to disclose further details. However, they were keen to note that she has handed in her resignation three months prior to her departure and it became effective on Tuesday. Chair of the ERC, Reverend John Smith, said that body would be meeting today, at which point an extensive discussion will be conducted regarding Langevine’s departure. He added that the general
Chair of the ERC, Reverend John Smith population will more than likely be provided with an update subsequent to that meeting.
Embassy of Guyana in Washington, DC celebrates Guyana’s 50th Republic Anniversary
On Saturday, February 22, 2020, Dr. Riyad Insanally, CCH, Ambassador of Guyana to the United States of America and Permanent Representative to the Organization of American States (OAS), and staff of the Embassy of Guyana in Washington, DC, welcomed members of the Diplomatic Corps, private sector bodies and scores of Guyanese nationals residing in the District of Columbia, Maryland and Virginia, to the Hall of the Americas, at OAS Headquarters in Washington, DC, to celebrate Guyana’s 50th Republic Anniversary.
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Ambassador Insanally, in his address, stated that the theme, Reflect, Celebrate, Transform, “could not be more appropriate given the juncture in our history at which we find ourselves. It was a time for reflecting on how far or how little we have travelled as an independent nation and as a republic. “There was need to reflect on our collective achievements and our collective failings; on the process of finding our way in a not always friendly neighbourhood and world; and on where we are about to go, now that we are officially a petroleum-produc-
ing state.” He reminded the gathering that even as Guyana celebrated 50 years as a republic and, with the country on the cusp of a massive economic and social transformation, it was a time for the “renewal of efforts to build a more prosperous and equitable country.”Ambassador Insanally also read a message from David Arthur Granger, President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana. Those attending the reception enjoyed true Guyanese hospitality, tasty Guyanese cuisine, world-famous El Dorado rum and a truly festive atmosphere.
Marcus Bisram case...
Magistrate to rule on site visit at next sitting As the Marcus Brian Bisram inquiry comes closer to the end, there were back and forth arguments in court yesterday between the state and defence. With several issues raised, Magistrate Renita Singh indicated that a ruling will be made on the next court date on whether a visit to the locus will be necessary. Representing the defence yesterday was Attorney-at-law Sanjeev Datadin and Glen Hanoman. Attorney Dexter Todd arrived later on in the proceedings. Attorney Stacy Goodings is representing the State. After submissions in court yesterday from the defence team, Magistrate Singh concurred that the statements submitted by the State of the five others accused in the Faiyaz Narinedatt murder were not accepted. Datadin had argued that the five whom he represents have not given the green light to give evidence and it was against that backdrop that they are contending that the statements should not be included and accepted. There were also arguments about the site visit with the defence reasoning that having a visit to the locus would only drag out the matter. Attorney Glen Hanoman argued that a site visit should only be made unless there is an issue with the locus when the witnesses are giving evidence in court. There were also arguments about the whereabouts of another witness who was expected to be called before the court and crossexamined. That individual is said to be residing overseas but Inspector Prem Narine who was present in court, informed the court he
Marcus Bisram has made contact with his “police counterparts” overseas in an effort to locate the witness. Datadin however had argued that his statement (the witness) should not be included but Magistrate Singh disagreed. The case is expected to be completed on March 5, 2020. Bisram who was extradited to Guyana late last year was charged with coercing, procuring and demanding Harri Paul Parsram, Radesh Motie, Niran Yacoob, Diodath Datt and Orlando Dickie to murder Faiyaz Narinedatt in 2016. He is being represented by Attorneys Sanjeev Datadin and Dexter Todd. The high court case for the five accused commences on March 3, 2020 at the Berbice High Court.
Driver implicated in teen’s death turns Fisherman, wife bedridden after LBI accident self in -vehicle was stashed in container Balram Nellie, who was implicated in the hit-and run death of 17-year-old Kwon Trotz, turned himself over to police yesterday, mere hours after police issued a wanted bulletin for him. Police said that the 21year-old from St. Lawrence, East Bank Essequibo was taken into custody around 18:00 hours. He was accompanied by an attorney. Nellie is believed to have been driving the vehicle, which struck and killed Trotz two Fridays ago at Farm Public Road, East Bank Essequibo. Police found Nellie’s damaged car, PYY 2003, in a container last Saturday at Da Silva Beach, East Bank Essequibo. They said that fragments at the scene appeared to have come from the vehicle. Police were reportedly tipped off to the presence of the vehicle by CANU ranks who were carrying out an operation in the area. Kwon allegedly sustained injuries during the crash and police questioned an individual suspected of treating him. According to reports, Kwon Trotz, a labourer was struck down and killed around 23:00 hrs last Friday
The damaged car
on Farm Public Road, East Bank Essequibo. The accident occurred a short distance from the young man’s home and the driver fled the scene. Trotz was pronounced dead on arrival at the Leonora Cottage Hospital.
The victims’ condition after the accident
Balram Nellie
Almost one month after they were struck down by an ex-policeman on the La Bonne Intention (LBI) public road, 23-year-old Naresh Chunilall and his 20-year-old wife, Priya Mangra, are now bedridden due the injuries they sustained. The accident occurred on January 29, 2020. Kaieteur News understands that at the time of the accident, the victims who both reside at Lot 135 Pigeon Island, Chateau Margot, East Coast Demerara (ECD) were crossing the public road on a bicycle when they were struck down by the ex-policeman who was, driving motorcar HC 257. He was reportedly speeding at the time. After the accident, the victims were transported to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC)
where they were admitted for one week and discharged. Chunilall sustained broken bones to three parts of his leg and arm, while his wife’s left leg was also broken in three places. According to sources, even though the couple was discharged from the medical facility, they are still crying out for severe pain especially in their legs since both of them have steel rods in their legs due to the injuries they sustained. In an interview, the victim’s mother, Arondhatee Lall, stated that since the accident, she has been the sole provider for the couple since they are unable to take care of themselves. “We find it hard. If neighbours and people don’t come, me alone can’t manage. My son does normally go out to the sea and bring back fish and that is how he does take
care of his family but since that accident, he can’t even bathe himself much less to go out a sea. It really hard on us.” Ms. Lall explained that the couple has to visit the hospital for checkups every month and to do that, a minibus has to be hired so they can each lie on a seat and by doing that, a lot more expense is created. When contacted Regional Commander, Assistant Commissioner Royston Andries-Junor, stated that the investigation into the accident has been on hold until the victims are able to revisit the scene so that markings and identifying of the spot can be done. Mr. Junor further stated that when the scene is revisited, the file will be completed and sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions for legal advice.
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Boodie spurs Parika... NBA roundup: Embiid injures shoulder in From page 34 Salem took first strike and posted 89 for 1. Quintin Sampson hammered five sixes in a top score of 48 while Kemol Savory struck two fours and three sixes in scoring 27; Rising Stars made 50 in reply. D. Lakhan scored 20; A. Khan snared 3-20. Parika Salem SC beat NOC XI in their encounter. Parika Salem posted 105, batting first. Kevin Boodie stroked six sixes in an unbeaten 51 while Keymol Savory made a brisk 49 not out (1x4 3x6). Akenie Adams had 1 for 21. NOC XI
responded with 77 for 5; Shurland Anthony hit 32 (5x4 1x6) while Reyaad Mohamed contributed 19; Hemchand Persaud captured 2-7. In another fixture, Rising Stars defeated Crown SC by 37 runs. Rising Stars scored 69 for 3, batting first. D. Lakan made 19. Crown SC responded with 32 for 6; O. Roberts had 2 for 6. On behalf of the Young Guns SC, Mr. Reyaad Mohamed thanked all those who supported the competition and the New Opportunity Corps for the use of their facilities, while praising Coach Forbes Daniels for leadership.
Sixers’ loss Field Level Media - Collin Sexton scored 28 points on Wednesday as the host Cleveland Cavaliers posted a 108-94 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers, who lost three-time All-Star center Joel Embiid to a shoulder injury. Larry Nance Jr. collected 13 points and a season-high 15 rebounds and Tristan Thompson had 14 and 13, respectively, as the Cavaliers posted their fourth win in five games. Embiid sustained a left shoulder sprain after a collision with Cleveland center Ante Zizic with 49
Friday February 28, 2020 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Today you might notice a change in yourself, Aries. Yo u c o u l d l o o k i n t h e mirror and see that you suddenly look as gorgeous as a movie star. TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) An unexpected conversation with a current or potential romantic partner could end with both of you revealing a lot of your deepest feelings. GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Some rather intense work, perhaps involving in-depth research, could take up much of your time today, Gemini. You could spend a lot of time in libraries. CANCER (June 21–July 22) Today, Cancer, you could direct an overwhelming amount of love and passion toward a current or potential romantic partner. Your friend might feel a little taken aback, but is likely to be flattered and therefore respond in a positive manner. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Information that you retrieve from deep within your psyche might lead to a revelation as to a great way to increase your income, Leo. This could be something you read and forgot, or it might be something you overheard in a restaurant. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Today, Virgo, you might attend a group event of some kind. While there, you could encounter an old friend who seems to have changed. As a result, you might find this person very attractive and direct a rush of physical passion their way.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) A new creative project of some kind, perhaps involving modern technology, could set your career in a new direction, Libra. This may be the break you've been hoping for, and you're apt to be very excited about it. SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) If you're taking a trip any time soon, Scorpio, you can expect to experience a powerful attraction for someone you meet along the way. This will definitely make your journey more interesting. SAGIT (Nov. 22–Dec. 21) You could soon receive news of an unexpected cash inflow, Sagittarius. This might be money earned on your own, but it's more likely to be investment income. CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) Today the energy is on partnerships, Capricorn, probably those begun on the spur of the moment. You and a colleague might have a conversation about the possibility of going into business together. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18) Have you been entertaining the idea of changing jobs, Aquarius? If so, put out some feelers today. You've been working hard and may have felt as if you've been barking up the wrong tree. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) A rebirth of romance in your life could take place today, Pisces. If you're currently involved with someone, a happy event could enrich the bond between you and bring you closer together.
seconds remaining in the first quarter. Embiid’s injury is the latest for the 76ers, who are without Ben Simmons (lower back). Shake Milton scored 20 points and Furkan Korkmaz added 14 for the 76ers, who have dropped seven in a row on the road to fall to 9-21 away from Philadelphia on the season. Dallas Mavericks 109 San Antonio Spurs 103 - Luka Doncic scored 26 points, distributed 14 assists and grabbed 10 rebounds as visiting Dallas made the plays needed in the final three minutes to hold off San Antonio. The Mavericks led by 10 points at the half and by 11 after three quarters before San Antonio rallied in the final period. The game was tied at 96 after a 3-pointer by the Spurs’ Lonnie Walker IV with 4:01 to play before Dallas got a three-point play and a 3pointer by Kristaps Porzingis and a 3-pointer from Seth Curry to move back in front for good at 105-96. Porzingis led Dallas with 28 points and 12 rebounds. Tim Hardaway Jr. added 17 points, and Dorian FinneySmith contributed 14 for the Mavericks, who won for the fourth time in five games. DeMar DeRozan had 27 points and nine assists for San Antonio, which lost for the seventh time in nine games. Minnesota Timberwolves 129 - Miami Heat 126 D’Angelo Russell scored 27 points, and Jordan McLaughlin made the goahead layup with 8.5 seconds
GBA secures funding... From page 36 costs for the team in Argentina. Airfare is now pegged at US$2,000 per person. Although Guyana has missed the deadline of February 24th to pay for their accommodation, the GBA President said that the GOA was up to yesterday working to pay the full amount. The boxers currently in Cuba for the three-month training are Guyana Defence Force’s pair of Colin Lewis (Captain) and Desmond Amsterdam, Policeman Dennis Thomas and Forgotten Youths Foundation’s (FYF) KeevinAllicock are expected back in Guyana on March 21stbefore departing for Argentina on March 23rd. They will be joined by Canada-based Taveena Kum and coaches Terrence Poole M.S., Sebert Blake and Francisco Roldan. (Calvin Chapman)
Cleveland Cavaliers guard Collin Sexton (2) drives to the basket against Philadelphia 76ers forward Glenn Robinson III (40). Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports. left, leading Minnesota to an upset win over host Miami. Entering Wednesday, the Timberwolves had lost 18 of their past 19 games, and the Heat were sporting a 23-3 home record. The Timberwolves used a 16-4 fourth-quarter spurt to get back into the game. Seldom-used reserve Jake Layman made two free throws with 17 seconds left to give Minnesota a 125-124 lead. After two free throws by Miami’s Jimmy Butler, the 5foot-11 McLaughlin drove the right side of the lane and somehow got his shot over 69 shot-blocker Bam Adebayo. Butler, a five-time All-Star who had missed the previous two games due to personal issues, posted 18 points and a game-high nine assists. Rookie guard Kendrick Nunn led Miami with 24 points. Charlotte Hornets 107 New York Knicks 101 - Terry Rozier scored 26 points and
Devonte’ Graham added 21 points as the backcourt for Charlotte made a huge difference in a victory against visiting New York. PJ Washington and Bismack Biyombo each added 12 points, and Miles Bridges had 10 points as the Hornets bounced back a night after one of their most miserable outings of the season, a 119-80 loss at Indiana. Julius Randle put up 18 points, Bobby Portis had 17 points and Allonzo Trier provided 15 points to pace the Knicks, who have lost five games in a row. Mitchell Robinson contributed 12 points and 16 rebounds. Scores elsewhere: Washington Wizards 110 Brooklyn Nets 106, Orlando Magic 130 - Atlanta Hawks 120, Los Angeles Clippers 102 - Phoenix Suns 92, Boston Celtics 114 - Utah Jazz 103, Houston Rockets 140 - Memphis Grizzlies 112.
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GCB/Dave West Indian Imports and Exports distribute exercise books to U-15 players The Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) and Dave West Indian Imports and Exports expanded their support reach for the Under-15 players who participated in this year’s edition of the GCB/Dave West Indian Imports and Exports Inter County Tournament, with the distribution of 700 exercise books to players. According to GCB Secretary, Anand Sanasie, the talented youth players who participated in the recently played tournament continue to enjoy the opportunities afforded them, by the GCB and partners to transform their lives by becoming future cricket stars. Sanasie, pointed out that a conceptualisation was realised during the recently held U15 Inter County tournament, when the GCB together with Dave West Indian Imports and Exports distributed over 700 exercise books to the student/players. He opined, that the GCB members have always believed in a good and fair blend of academic and sporting activities and while individual players may have varying strengths, it is essential that the GCB and its partners create the supportive structures for youths in our
cricket development pathway to growth in a holistic manner, so that in the end we have not just good players but individuals who are ready for the professional environment. Mr. Dave Narine of Dave West Indian Imports and Exports also believes that the youths must spend sufficient time in building their academic portfolios, so as to enable them to become marketable individuals in their adult lives. Mr. Narine believes that while cricket is a great and loving game to commit to, so too should education be embraced. He indicated, that based on the desire to see these youths balance their cricketing and schooling lives, the company, Dave West Indian Imports and Exports have decided to produce and distribute a dozen exercise books to each of the student/ players of the four participating teams. Narine, who has sponsored the GCB Inter County U 15 tournament for the past five years, has during this sponsorship period, expressed his delight and interest in providing a supportive environment for youth players. He suggested that with
The Berbice players proudly display their exercise books. the supportive mechanism in place, participating players in the tournament would usually experience a nurturing environment that could help to catapult the game to higher heights. He indicated that his company’s support to the GCB for the U 15 Inter County over the sponsorship period, was likely to result in talent development, learning team work, ethics, an understanding of the value of commitment and perseverance, and most
importantly an overall discipline – which are traits
Alabama Trading has donated a total of three benches worth approximately $350,000 to the popular football promotion group, Petra Organisation, to be used at the Ministry of Education (MOE) ground on Carifesta Avenue. Two of the three benches will be used for players while the third bench will be used for Referees. Director of Alabama Trading; Woeed
From left, Alabama’s Trading Woeed Phillips and Winner Phillips, Petra’s Troy Mendonca, Lawrence Griffith and Mark Alleyne take a photo-op during the presentation yesterday.
different areas and facets of their lives.
Women CWC
Windies facing “must-wins” against England, South Africa: Henry
Alabama Trading backs Petra Organisation
Phillips, during the simple but significant ceremony posited that he was happy to support the Petra Organisation that has been very proactive in the promotion of 11-a-side and grassroots football. Co-Director of Petra; Troy Mendonca, expressed gratitude to Phillips and Alabama Trading for the support he hopes can foster long term partnership between the entities. Currently, Petra is hosting the Milo Football tournament at the MOE ground which continues tomorrow with a triple header and on Sunday with two matches.
that are destined to help them enhance their capabilities in
A despondent West Indies celebrate a rare success against Pakistan on Wednesday. Canberra, Australia, CMC – Fast bowler Chinelle Henry has described West Indies’ last two games as “must-win” fixtures in the wake of Wednesday’s surprise defeat to Pakistan, and says the struggling side need to pull themselves together in order to hit their best stride. West Indies went down by eight wickets to Pakistan at Manuka Oval to suffer their first defeat of the tournament, after beating Thailand by seven wickets in their opener last Saturday. Sitting third in Group B, West Indies face powerhouses England on Sunday and South Africa on Tuesday, requiring victories in order to climb into the semi-final spots. “I just think that up top [in our batting], just for the opening two games, [we have] struggled a bit,” Henry told reporters. “But we have two more games to go, and we as individuals know that
these two games to go [are] must-win games. “So I’m pretty sure everybody is just going to go back to the drawing board now, and in the coming two days I’m pretty sure everybody is just going to turn up and do what they have to do.” West Indies were lacklustre with both bat and ball against Pakistan. Opting to bat first, only captain Stafanie Taylor and Shemaine Campbelle, with a joint top score of 43, passed 20 as the innings drifted to 124 for seven off their 20 overs. Defending a modest total, the Windies’ bowlers were indisciplined, the fielding was ragged and the intensity was lacking, allowing the Pakistanis to coast to their target with 10 balls to spare. Henry, playing in her second T20 World Cup, conceded that both the batting and bowling effort had been short of the standard expected. “First off, batting first,
obviously we didn’t start well, [opener Hayley Matthews going] for a first ball duck, and then we had a partnership between Staf and Shemaine which got us to a pretty decent total to defend,” she said. “But then again, going out on the field as a bowling unit, we just didn’t execute as we would want to tonight. “[Regarding] the fielding performance tonight, everybody was disappointed because we know we can do much better as a fielding unit. So basically it was just again, we just didn’t turn up tonight, and that’s something we definitely have to go back to the drawing board to figure out.” West Indies won the 2016 edition of the Women’s T20 World Cup staged in India but bowed out at the semifinal stage when the Caribbean played hosts to the tournament two years ago.
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2020 Concacaf Men’s U-20 Championship By Zaheer Mohamed Despite five of its players being denied entry into Nicaragua the Guyana male Under-20 team had a commendable outing in the 2020 Concacaf Men’s U-20 Qualifying championship, finishing second in Group A. The young Guyanese entered their final match tied with the host on nine points, and despite being reduced to 10 men for most of the contest; they matched their opponents in every department. It took a 49th minute strike from Pinoleros’ Ezequiel Ugalde to separate the teams at the Nicaragua National Football Stadium on Sunday night last. Guyana registered three wins from four games; in their opening match they defeated Montserrat 6-0 before beating St. Vincent and the Grenadines 3-0 and defeated US Virgin Islands 20. In recognition of the young Golden Jaguars feat, the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) held a reception for the players yesterday at their head office, Section ‘K’ Campbellville. Speaking at the ceremony, President of the GFF Wayne Forde said this is a historic milestone in the development of the game. “This has been the country’s best performance at an international U20 male competition,” he posited. Forde stated that this is certainly a proud moment for Guyana and a fitting tribute,
Guyana’s performance hailed as best ever
Players and technical staff of the Guyana U-20 football team with GFF President Wayne Forde, Technical Director Ian Greenwood and other stake holders at the ceremony. on the occasion of the country’s 50th Republic Anniversary. He congratulated the players and the management team. “These exemplary young men rose above the daunting challenges that began upon their arrival in Nicaragua, which persisted agonizingly throughout their campaign and only ended when the final whistle blew. This can best be described as a courageous display of the temperament and character of a true Golden Jaguar.”
“You all played with passion, confidence and pride and have conducted yourselves as true ambassadors on and off the field- we are extremely proud of you,” he posited. “It is clear that the GFF has been making steady progress in many of the key areas of football development, but there is quiet a distance yet to cover in order to impact the quality of the sport across Guyana.” Forde expressed gratitude to their youth development
Boodie spurs Parika Salem to YGSC Republic Day Cricket Title Kemol Savory
Kevon Boodie Parika Salem Sports Club were crowned champions of the Young Guns Sports Club (YGSC) Republic Day sevenover cricket competition following a 49-run win over Golden Fleece in the final which was contested on Monday last at New Opportunity Corps ground, Onderneeming, Essequibo Coast. Batting first, Parika Salem managed 89-4 with Kevon Boodie scoring 35 (5x4 2x6) sixes while Quintin Sampson
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Kaieteur News
made 20 (3x4 1x6) and Eknauth Persaud 20 (2x4). Tameshwar Sankar took 1-15. Golden Fleece were restricted for 405 in reply. Shivnarine Harrilall struck five fours in scoring 27 not out; Hemchand Persaud and Jimol Marks took one wicket each. Earlier, Golden Fleece SC got the better of Scheme Warriors. Batting first,
Scheme Warriors scored 73; Norman Fredericks made 32 (5x4) while Matthew Pellow scored 27. Bowling for Golden Fleece, C. Drickpaul claimed 2-8. Golden Fleece replied with 74; Ray Parbattie made 19 not out; Raul Latchman captured 2-7. Parika Salem SC overcame Rising Stars by 39 runs. Parika (Continued on page 32)
partners-National Milling Company, Pele Alumni, KFC Guyana, Ansa McAl and the Government of Guyana among others which included the media. Prince Johnson of Pele Alumni said they are proud of the team and are very much appreciative of the efforts and they have given to the GFF; he thanked Forde for giving them the opportunity to render assistance. Finance Controller of NAMILCO, Fitzroy McLeod congratulated the team and urged the players to make the most of the opportunities provided. “It’s better to be ready for an opportunity that never comes, than to have an opportunity that you are not yet prepared for.” “I have seen some faces that would have been here when we started this journey. It is important for you as the trailblazers to continue to do well and move from one level to the next. You have now set the bar for the group that is coming behind you. They now have a better view of what is attainable and will set high standards. However, it is not for you to sit on your laurels. We have seen good progress, but yet we want to see so much more, we want you to understand that this investment is because we believe in you and we want you to believe in yourselves, this is just a part of the journey, the best is yet to come,” he stated. Head Coach of the Guyana Senior Men’s National Team, the Golden Jaguars, Marcio Maximo commended the players. “I am proud of you. I was told that there is a lot of
talent in Guyana and when I came here I started to gamble with playing more local players; we didn’t know what answer you would give us, but you have shown that our gamble is correct with your commitment and discipline. It is very important for you to keep your dream.” He congratulated the management team and players adding that youth programme has paid off. “I am sure the next two to three years you will be part of the national senior team. You have opened the way for new players to come through and this shows that you are going in the right direction.” Coach of the U20 team, Wayne Dover said the performance of the team is evidence of the work done by the club coaches, ATC across the country, national U15 and U17 coaches all of which made his job easier. He thanked the Technical Director Ian Greenwood for his support and Coach Maximo who invited the team to integrate with the senior team prior to the competition. “Those sessions with the senior team helped us a lot during the championship, I am happy with the performance; the lads tried to execute to the best of their ability,” he said. He commended GFF President Wayne Forde and spoke highly of the discipline shown by the youths. Technical Director Ian Greenwood lauded Coach Dover and his staff. “The challenge was set for the players to earn the right to wear the badge on and off the field and they have done that. The players displayed solid
and positive performances throughout the tournament. You have followed the GFF philosophy which we can now see embedded in all our national teams, both male and female which started back with a lot of you coming through the ATC programme.” “It’s good to see the coaching staff and players have started to play the Guyanese way and that will help us moving forward. The players were very composed playing out from the back, you were dominant mid-field areas, clinical in the final third; what was very pleasing is that you were very discipline and organsied out of possession and you should be very proud of yourself for that.” “It has been an excellent journey as part of the learning process moving forward to develop on a 10,000 hours of practice to ensure that you can be the next group of elite players for Guyana. You now have a real understanding of what this level of international competition consists. You must continue to show character and take the opportunities with the senior team. There is a bright future, for you have represented this country with pride. The onus is now on you, we want to see how many of these players can push and play outside of Guyana so you have to do the work.” Guyana’s Captain Nicholas Mc Arthur ended the tournament as the joint highest goal scorer (five) along with Centeno Hernández Nicaragua.
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Kaieteur News
President’s 50th Anniversary Shield Rapid Chess
Taffin Khan and Sheriffa Ali emerge as male and female champions
Sheriffa Ali is all smiles as she receives her trophy from President David Granger. Earmarked as an activity to celebrate Guyana’s 50th Republic Anniversary, the President’s 50th Anniversary Shield Rapid Open Chess tournament concluded at the weekend with former national senior champion and Candidate Master Taffin Khan and Women’s Candidate Master Sheriffa Ali emerging champions of the respective categories. The FIDE-rated tournament, which attracted about 70 players, was held at State House, Main Street, Georgetown, with Khan winning the Open category
and Ali taking the Senior Female division. The tournament was the brainchild of His Excellency President David Granger, a former president of the Guyana Chess Federation, and was the first to be held at State House. Khan won the tie-breaker with Suriname’s Imaan Kalidjo after both players ended on 5½ points. Virgil Kartodikromo and Romario Sanches Casanova of Suriname and Glenford Corlette of Guyana took the next three positions in that order after finishing on five points each. Rounding off the top 10
The respective category winners and other top performers proudly display their silverware following the presentation the President’s 50th Anniversary Shield Rapid Chess Championship. were Guyana’s senior national champion Anthony Drayton (4½), Shatish Lautan of Suriname (4½), Shiv Nandalall of Guyana (4), John Ramdat Tewarie of Suriname (4) and John De Silva Justino Manuelo of Guyana (4). On the distaff side, Ali chalked up five points to beat off the challenge of compatriot Sherlyta Campayne, who managed four points. Only two players participated in the Senior Female category. Ethan Lee of Marian
Academy won the Junior Open, while the Junior Female category was claimed by Victoria Kaslan of Suriname. In the Junior Open, which was an all Guyana affair, Lee tallied 6½ points to finish ahead of Ricardo Narine (6), Jaden Taylor (5½), Akili Theophil (5), Joshua Gopaul (4½), Kishan Puran (4½), Mayas Khan (4½), Omar Shariff (4½), Demetrius Druper (4½) and Oluwadare Oyeyipo (4) in the top 10. In the Junior Female
division, Kalsan had seven points, one clear of compatriot and second place finisher Saday Elliot. Christina Sasha Shariff and Anasie Fredericks were leading Guyanese players in this category with 4½ points each. Mayas Khan was rewarded with a special prize for being the best Under-12 player at the event. The presentation of prizes was done by His Excellency President Granger, the sponsor of the tournament,
which was organised by the newly-formed Guyana Chess Academy. The Guyana Chess Academy would like to express appreciation to His Excellency President Granger, Minister Raphael Trotman, the executives of the Guyana Chess Federation, Suriname Chess Federation, The Red Cherry, parents of the participants, Chief Arbiter John Lee and Assistant Arbiter Marcia Lee for making the one-day event a success.
Bel Air Rubis Service Station U-17 Inter-County 50-over
MoM Renaldo Scouten leads Essequibo past U-15s; Demerara defeat Berbice in round two Demerara beat Berbice by eight wickets at Everest while Essequibo defeated the National U-15 Select at Bourda in the second round of the Bel Air Rubis Service Station U-17 InterCounty 50-over cricket in sunny conditions yesterday. The U-15s, led by an accomplished 78 (8x4 1x6) from 100 balls from Rampertab Ramnauth, reached 152-9 in 50 overs as extras (27), Ryan Latif (13) and Bruce Vincent (10*) also reached double figures. Jarred Allicock had 4-28 while Renaldo Scouten supported with 3-18 for Essequibo which replied with 153-8 in 48.1 overs with Man-of-the-Match, 15year-old Scouten making 49 (3x4 4x6) from 36 balls. Fifteen-year-old Skipper Aryan Persaud who had three chances, finished unbeaten on 51 from 143 balls with two fours after sharing in an unfinished eight-wicket stand with Terrence Softly
who was run out for 14 with two runs to win. Allen had 3-19 while Salim Khan took 3-21 in a losing cause. Earlier, the National U15 Select elected to bat on a slow track and fast outfield and were given a solid but slow start by their openers; Ryan Latif struggling to find the gaps or rotate the strike with We s t I n d i e s U - 1 5 l e f t hander Ramnauth. While Berbician Ramnauth struck the ball with good confidence, Latif played in ultra-defensive mode and after the 50 was posted in the 15th over the innings stalled as the Essequibo U-17s kept a tight leash on the U-15s. Latif who laboured for 103 minutes and 83 balls for his 13, patted a ball to Allicock in the 26th to leave the U-15s on 77-1. Ramnauth hit Allicock for the only six in the innings and soon reached his fifty from 75 balls decorated which four fours and a six. But with the score on 91 Renaldo Scouten removed
Nicholas Sheopersaud (1) and Sachin Balgobin for a duck as the U-15s slipped 91-3. Allicock had Hemraj Harriprashad caught and bowled for three at 104-4 before Terrence Softley got rid of Alex Datterdeen for no score at 109-5. When Allicock bowled the dangerous Ramnauth at 115-6, they looked likely not to reach 150 but 27 extras and nine from Rezekiel Renee, an unbeaten 10 from13-yearold Bruce Vincent from Moruka in Region one and six not out from last man Allen, rallied the U-15’s to a 150 plus total. When team from Guyana’s largest County began their chase they quickly lost two batsmen with just nine runs on the board as Allen struck twice, removing Devon Ramcharran for a duck at 11 and Alex Ali (1) at 9-2. Allicock and Persaud carried the score to 26 before Allen continued his impressive work by bowling Allicock for six.
Mavindra Dindyal plays a classy cover drive during his unbeaten 50 for Demerara. The powerfully built lefthanded Scouten from Tuschen on the East Bank of Essequibo, clobbered Alex Datterdeen for three sixes and a four in an over which cost 25 before he was caught behind off Khan at 96-4. Khan then
dismissed Quinten Sampson for a duck and Nicko Vincent for eight at 114-6. But left handed Persaud, who survived three chances, kept going and was there at the end while Softly was run out
with two runs before victory was achieved. At Everest, Demerara beat Berbice by eight wickets after Alvin Mohabir took 519 and Romel Datterdeen had 3-18 as Berbice were bowled out for 108 in 41.3 overs as only Hemindra Gurdyal with 34 and Leon Cecil 25 reached 20. Demerara replied with 111-2 in 21.5 overs with West Indies U-16 batsmen Mavindra Dindyal, who finished unbeaten on 50 from 52 balls with eight fours and a six and Jaden Campbell whose 58 lasted 48 balls with six fours and a six, shared in an unfinished 83-run third wicket stand to see their team to an emphatic win. The final will be played tomorrow when Berbice and the U-15s clash at Everest and Demerara face Essequibo at Bourda. (Sean Devers)
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Regional Four-Day Championship
2020 Concacaf Women’s Under-20 Championship
Permaul rips Guyana’s ‘Lady Jags’ go down to apart Scorpions to Mexico; focus now turn to round-of-16 give Jaguars edge
Veerasammy Permaul Florence Hall, Jamaica, CMC – Veerasammy Permaul’s 28th five-wicket haul in first class cricket helped cripple Jamaica Scorpions on the opening day of the sixth round encounter here yesterday. The 30-year-old left-arm spinner snared seven for 59 as the hosts, sent in at the Trelawny Multi-Purpose Stadium, were dismissed for a disappointing 216 in their first innings. Test batsman Jermaine Blackwood topscored with 59 – his third halfcentury in four innings – while wicketkeeper Denis Smith chipped in with 23 but no other Scorpions batsman passed 20. At the close, Guyana Jaguars were yet to get off the mark in the two overs available to them. With impressive victories in their last two outings, Scorpions started strongly when captain John Campbell (20) and Alwyn Williams (12) put on 40 for the first wicket. Left-arm pacer Raymon Reifer got the breakthrough when he squared up the lefthanded Campbell and had him caught at the wicket, a dismissal which sparked a slide that saw three wickets fall for 20 runs. Williams followed in the next over, losing his off-stump to Permaul after missing a
forward defensive prod and Paul Palmer was also bowled by the same bowler for four, driving at a good length delivery. Blackwood then came to his side’s rescue, posting 58 for the fourth wicket with Nkrumah Bonner (15) to take Scorpions to lunch at 80 for three. Afterwards, Blackwood paired with Smith to put on another 38 for the fifth wicket before becoming Permaul’s fourth wicket in the sixth over after tea, lbw pushing forward to a straightish delivery at 156 for five. There was no recovery for Scorpions, however, as they lost their last five wickets for just 44 runs. Elsewhere: At Kensington Oval: Pride batted all day after being sent in. Barbados Pride 357 for seven (Kyle Mayers 121 not out, Kevin Stoute 46, Kemar Roach 41, Justin Greaves 38, Shayne Moseley 36, Shamarh Brooks 33; Kavem Hodge 250) vs Windward Islands Volcanoes. At Warner Park: Red Force batted all day after being sent in. T&T Red Force 161 for seven (Isaiah Rajah 41, Joshua DaSilva 37, Jason Mohammed 30; Jeremiah LOuis 3-32) vs Leeward Islands Hurricanes.
The Under-20 Lady Jags in Nicaragua. Guyana’s ‘Lady Jaguars’ went down to group winners Mexico by a 0-3 margin last night at the Olimpico Felix Sanchez Stadium in the Dominican Republic, the final match of the group. The two nations along with Puerto Rico which needled Nicaragua in the penultimate match have all booked their places in the round-of-16 which will commence tomorrow. Guyana into the match behind Mexico on goal difference having defeated Puerto Rico and Nicaragua, the Guyanese ladies, on debut at this level, found the going tough against the
experienced Mexicans and played a very defensive game, sitting in their half of the field and allowing the opposition to come forward. The ploy worked for all but 78 minutes after which the Mexicans tucked in three goals to win the match and the group. A double from Joseline Montoya in the 78th minute and 86th from the penalty spot and
complimented by second half substitute’s Mariel Román 90+3 minute strike saw the Mexicans to victory as they dominated the match, enjoying 74% of possession. Head Coach Ivan Joseph and his Technical staff will now turn attention to the round-of-16 and would be hoping for another positive. Guyana’s starting X1: 20 Raven Edwards-Doedall, 11
Group D Final Points Standings Country G W D Mexico 3 3 0 Guyana 3 2 0 Puerto Rico 3 1 0 Nicaragua 3 0 0
L 0 1 2 3
Gf 9 5 3 1
Jenea Knight, 4 Brianne Desa (C), 3 Jessica Myers, 2 Anaya Johnson, 14 Hailey David, 7 Nailah Rowe, 5 Jade Vuyfhuis, 12 Tori DeNobrega, 15 Samantha Banfield, 16 Shamya Daniels. Subs: 1 Anessa O Brien, 10 Kiana Khedoo, 18 Sydney Puddicombe, 8 Serena McDonald, 6 Tiandi Smith, 19 Horicia Adams, 13 Shanice Alfred, 9 Aubrey Narine. Ga 1 5 4 8
+/8 0 -1 -7
Pts 9 6 3 0
GBA secures funding from NSC for Olympic qualifiers The National Sports Commission (NSC) yesterday supported the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) to the tune of $2.5M in order to have an eight-man team participate in the Olympic Qualifiers scheduled for Argentina next month. The NSC leapt into action after it was revealed that the GBA had missed a February 24th deadline to pay for accommodation and meals for the team. Initially, the request to Government for support received a negative response, while, according to GBA head Steve Ninvalle, the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) had pledged US$5,000 to assist in airfares. Director of the NSC, Chris Jones, during the handing over ceremony yesterday morning at the body’s secretariat, explained that a lack of budget forced the NSC to initially turn down the GBA’s request for support. However, after consultations with his board members, a decision was taken to ensure that the
young pugilists who will be representing the Golden Arrowhead will not be distracted with the difficulties and financial assistance would’ve been rendered. Jones said he was puzzled as to how other Caribbean National Olympic Associations (NOCs) were able to fully fund their boxing team but the GOA was unable to. According to Jones, this was another reason why the NSC board voted to render assistance. Ninvalle thanked the NSC and by extension the Government of Guyana for their contribution while calling for a structured approach towards funding of sport disciplines. “On behalf of the executive of the association I would like to thank the National Sports Commission for this donation even though it is at the eleventh hour. As the saying goes, it’s better late than never,” Ninvalle said. “There always seem to be an eleventh hour rescue mission and at times it may
Steve Ninvalle receives the cheque from NSC Director Christopher Jones (left) yesterday morning at the NSC Secretariat. lead one to assume that they are created emergencies. I think the time has come for a different approach towards funding of sports in Guyana. They are certain sports disciplines that have been constantly been doing well and it is my belief that those disciplines should be given priority. You should not put marbles or chink about on the same platform with hockey or football,” Ninvalle posited. The GBA president added that ‘eleventh hour’ rescue
missions have negative impact on athletes. Both the Guyana Olympic Association and the NSC combined to send four boxers for a threemonth preparation stint in Cuba. The four boxers will form the core of Team Guyana. Ninvalle disclosed that the GOA’s pledge of US$5000 has been increased to approximately US$$12,500 which will cover the accommodation and meal (Continued on page 32)
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2020 Concacaf Women’s Under-20 C/Ship t Spor
Guyana’s ‘Lady Jags’ go down to Mexico; focus now turn to round-of-16
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