Page 04
Kaieteur News
Thursday February 25, 2016
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
A RETURN OF NATIONAL PRIDE Republic Day 2016 has been described as a dress rehearsal for May 26, 2016, when Guyana will celebrate 50 years of Independence. Many things caught the attention of the nation on February 23 and on the days leading up to it. Decorated buildings are nothing new to Guyana. As far back as one can remember buildings were decorated in honour of some event or the other. Before Guyana became independent, public buildings and homes were decorated with the Union Jack, the flag of England. Perhaps this was most prevalent when Queen Elizabeth was crowned back in 1952. In 1966 when the country was about to become independent, again decorations were most abundant. Just about every bit of public infrastructure was decorated with the colours of what was to become known as the Golden Arrowhead. Ever since then, this was the norm. People tried to outdo each other when Guyana was becoming a Republic on February 23, 1970. Many made clothes from the national colours; lights around buildings were flashing the national colours. Such was the case for years. But this year, in some way made what happened back then pale in comparison. For the first time in history, Bank of Guyana sported a large Golden Arrowhead on its front walls. People have never seen such a decoration. The flag was put there by way of a hologram and it caught the eye of every Guyanese who happened to see it. But there was more. Guyana was to see hoisted into the skies, the largest flag in its history. There have been utterings that the government is using these public events to distract the people; that such events are a deliberate ploy to take the minds of the people from the hardships they are facing. It is indeed a sad day in the life of any country when a people could be so easily duped. The truth is that people always feel a sense of pride in their country. Not so long ago, Guyanese who left these shores were ashamed to identify themselves as Guyanese. They adopted the shadow of every possible Caribbean country. They tried to change their accent and to do everything to hide. Today, such things simply do not happen. The people of this country, regardless of where they live overseas, maintain their identity. It is this feeling of pride that galvanizes people to do things that defy logic, for their country. Soldiers would put their lives on the line; people would get into fisticuffs in defence of their national patrimony; some have been known to kill because they felt insulted. And so it was on February 23, 2016 that people filled their breasts with that national pride, something that had not been so evident for a long time. How else can one explain the trek by people from just about every part of the country to be a part of the February 23 activity? The National Stadium was once thought to be a large venue. This perception was quickly dashed on May 26, 2015, when President David Granger was inaugurated. There was just not enough space to accommodate people. The National Park was once considered large; D’Urban Park is perhaps the largest public space in the country at this time, but even that was inadequate for the people who wanted to be part of their country’s history. Overseas-based Guyanese who came home for the holidays will be leaving more impressed and more in love with the land of their birth. And why shouldn’t they be? Many are seeing a Georgetown that they never knew existed, a capital that is fast approaching its legendary status of Garden City. There have not been too many questions, but there will be about the cost of the flag. There will be people who attach a monetary figure to even things that cannot be priced. One of them is the feeling of national pride that flourishes in the heart of every Guyanese every time they see that giant Golden Arrowhead fluttering over the city.
Sooner or later the PPP will have to accept reality DEAR EDITOR, Some of the phrases that came out of the flag raising ceremony were; Burnham styled grandeur, the Indians did not show up, an APNU celebration, the flag is really nice to look at and Guyana is seeing a revival of its image. I personally love to see patriotic events like this, I believe it revive a sense of commitment to country and for “brotherhood/sisterhood”. And even though it may be the right thing to do, I am not fully sure it was done right. For instance, the location of the ceremony is not on mutual grounds in terms of political demographics and therefore it implies an exclusion of a large part of the PPP base. This is compounded by the fact we are just out of the most divisive elections in decades and wounds are still open. Therefore it would be clear that a large part of Guyana may not show up. Leading up to the ceremony there was a deliberate show of recoloring that
reflects the APNU party and many feels it is party propaganda using tax payer’s money. Some also believe that the upcoming one month long events are simply an early start on APNU future campaigns. In a nut shell, it seems to some that we are seeing a rebranding of Guyana in the image and likeness of APNU. On the other hand, it seems the Indians are deliberately not taking part in unity efforts, which makes the above points seem validated. In any unity efforts everyone has to play a role and I believe our Indian brothers and sister have to rise to the occasion and size this moment to secure our country’s future. The PPP have to understand sooner than later, that the political landscape has changed and they need to open their eyes and adjust to that environment. You cannot simply blame APNU for everything when we all know it takes two to tango, therefore the PPP must atone and restructure if they want to remain relevant.
It seems the air is filled with lip service for unity but the acts on the ground are telling a different story. It is telling a story of state control, a solidifying of party power and a doubling down on both sides towards the anger and resentment of their respective bases. However, the upcoming LGE and the after math thereafter will prove whether the Government is serious about unity. So far the government is showing great efficiency in celebrations, rebranding and party propaganda but there are not showing any signs of competency for economic recovery. Why are we not seeing economic stimulus that will help to revive the private sector? Why is there no consumer confidence on Regent Street and other shopping districts? Where is the sense of urgency for these things as opposed to the grand celebrations? Happy 46 Guyana! Malcolm Watkins.
For the sake of decency, Duncan should step down DEAR EDITOR, According to article 225 (2) “ An officer may be removed from Office only for inability to discharge the function of his Office ( Whether arising from infirmity of body or mind or any other cause whatsoever) or for misbehavior. It is in the above regard that Mr. Carvil Duncan should be made to proceed on Leave pending the outcome of the criminal charge against him before the court.
It is important to note that Mr. Duncan has presided on disciplinary action against several employees that resulted in the employees being dismissed suspended or sent on leave for claim of misconduct. Indeed some of their decision are questionable and may have been over ruled of the appellate Tribunal was functioning. The fact that Mr. Duncan remains in office indicates that certain Laws of this country are not properly enforced or these Laws are
lacking. Separate and distinct from the fact that Mr. Duncan should have done or should do the decent thing- step down pending the outcome of this matter, rather than continuing to embarrass himself and the entire nation. The Authority that appointed him to the several commissions should take necessary and relevant action, since it would appear as though he is above the Law, while others have to abide by same. Gregory Mentore
Thursday February 25, 2016
Kaieteur News
Page 5
From maryjane to The transformation of Pastor Jeffrey’s wife marijuana; a plea DEAR EDITOR, Apart from the scientific evidence that shows that marijuana actually helps the condition of the people with certain medical ailments, many people use cannabis as an appetite stimulant, a digestive stimulant, an anti depressant, a sexual stimulant, a stress buster and a sedative. It is no wonder that the large pharmaceutical multinational corporations also lobby to keep it illegal. If one examines the sleep aids, Ambien CR and Lunesta as two examples of drugs produced by large companies, these two drugs have many severe side effects including suicidal thoughts. Imagine that Governments sanctions the use of these dangerous drugs, while completely ignoring a much safer natural substance with little or no side effects that does the same job. Here is a plant that has the potential to help many sufferers but because of misinformation, propaganda and paranoia, persons are prevented from capitalizing on its medicinal potential. It is important to note that according to medical literature, drug use only becomes abuse when the use of the substance significantly interferes with the users’ daily life. But if even there is no abuse, there are still health concerns associated with cannabis use. It is important to know how marijuana became illegal in the U.S.A., as it affects CARICOM directly. Being predominantly Black, CARICOM citizens must understand that this law is shrouded in racism. Blacks and Hispanics in the U.S. were demonized and used at the time to persuade the U.S. Government to change the law. The parties involved used the Mexicans and Blacks as negative examples of who cannabis users were and the dangers they would present to the white citizens when intoxicated on cannabis, striking fear into the hearts of every white man. The truth is that the Mexicans and Black Americans did and still do use cannabis. Back in the times of the great depression in the U.S.A., many Blacks and Mexicans in the southern part of the country were using cannabis. It was nicknamed “maryjane” at the time and could be found growing wild. However, with the invention of petrochemicals, the emerging pharmaceutical and synthetic textile industry, lobbyists for the respective industries wanted the competition from industrial hemp elimi-
nated. Randolph Hearst the newspaper magnate, Alslinger the then drug czar, and Du Point the petrochemical pioneer conspired to make marijuana illegal, by creating a smear campaign using Blacks and Mexicans as the fall guys. They even changed the name of the plant from English to Spanish to create a darker picture, hence the name “marijuana” came into being. Their campaign was successful and within fifteen minutes of the Act being tabled in Congress, the law was passed making marijuana illegal in 1937. Now Blacks account for more than fifty percent of the inmates in American prisons even though they represent only ten percent of the population, with almost fifty percent in jail for simple possession charges. What is even more disturbing is that CARICOM member states promote the very drug that kept their ancestors in slavery for two hundred years, while denying Black people an ancient African tradition. With the stroke of a pen, CARICOM member Governments can effectively eliminate thousands of potential criminals that the police would be using their time and resources to apprehend. The criminal justice system would not have to deal with people that could potentially serve jail time in already overcrowded prison systems. The possession of flowers is a victimless non-violent crime and persons should not be given a sentence of jail time. Violent offenders must be taken off the streets. Jail cells should be reserved for people that are a threat to other citizens, and to have our jail cells filled with persons who are no threat to society, is a crime in itself. Therefore, the laws of CARICOM member states as exists today are actually helping to propagate criminals. A person with EC$5.00 worth of cannabis in his possession is no threat to anyone but himself. A person trying to grab the chain off another person’s neck, or break into one’s house or car is a potential murderer. These violent offenders are the kind of people that the jail cell is meant for. Andrea De Caires Robertson S. Henry
DEAR EDITOR, As my Bajan (citizen of Barbados) wife and I watched some clips of video footage I recorded from the 46th Republic anniversary celebrations, we talked of the nostalgic events of the day. Then after a brief silence she mused, “I wonder how the PPP feels looking at this”. To say that I did not consider that thought several times over the course of the last few weeks would be less than the truth, However, I would not have voiced it because my wife, though she has lived in Guyana for more than 6 years, is not interested in politics. I knew (or so I think) what happened in my wife’s head that caused her to verbalize her thoughts on the night of the 23rd of February, 2016. I first brought my wife to Guyana in 1988. We returned in 1989 to get married. In 2011 my wife returned to what she claims is a “different Guyana”. She says that when she first came to Guyana in late 90’s, Guyana was clean and the people were more happy and mannerly. She said the country she saw
when she returned in 2011 was nasty and the people were not as friendly and they drove violently. (She drove in Barbados and the USA but refuses to drive here). So when she voiced the other night that she wondered what the PPP must be feeling, I am sure it was because of the calumniation of the positive things that have been happening in Guyana over the last few months. I must admit that over the last 5 years it has been no small task trying to convince my wife that Guyana will get better. But even as I verbalized those words, a modicum of doubt tickled my conscience. My wife spoke often about the filthy condition of the country and the accompanying blame-game, the petty kind of politics, the void of proper customer service, etc. They had all amounted to too much drama for her. Living in Christ Church, Barbados, Maraca Valley, Trinidad, and then South Bend, Indiana, were contrasting realities when compared with Guyana. Those places were clean, the people drove with care and
the rule of law was in effect. So when I said, “Guyana will get better,” she would spontaneously reply, “Let’s leave and return when it gets better”. The truth is I always wanted my wife to want to live in Guyana, because after 24 years away from home, I want to live here. I have spent two decades away from Guyana education myself and working. Now I want to stay here and give back to my country. To, as it were, dedicate my energies towards the happiness and prosperity of Guyana. So when I sensed her reluctance of wanting to remain here because of the Guyanese’ reality, I was always perturbed. However, with her outspoken, incredulous, comment on the night of our 46th republic anniversary, I felt a sense of hope. I heard in her question a comparison of the two Guyanas that she had become accustomed to. And she seems to love this new one, like she loved the one in the late 90’s. I heard in her musings the realization that Guyana can become bet-
ter; maybe, it is getting better. So I am now somewhat hopeful. We have not yet spoken about what she thinks of all that is happening in Guyana these days. I am still afraid that she might not quite be satisfied and might want us to leave. What I know is that that huge flag, hoisted in that evening wind, coupled with the massive clean-up campaign, with the equally saturated burst of nationalistic pride (Bajans are very proud people), my wife is beginning to like Guyana, again. So pray with me as I muster the courage in the coming days to have this much needed conversation with her. For indeed, if she decides to stay in Guyana, I would be a much less uneasy young man. And more so, I will be able to unequivocally focus my attention and energies on working to help move Guyana forward, as we become, again, the envy and pride of the Caribbean. Wendell Jeffrey, Pastor Independent Candidate Wortmanville/Work-enRust District #8
This is a different medical doctor in Guyana DEAR SIR, I wish to recount my experience on the level of professionalism and medical attention provided by a doctor at Diamond Diagnostic Centre identified to me simply as Dr. Abdool. I have been an occasional patient since the Centre’s establishment however, the quality of services and level of professionalism over the years have drastically declined. I hardly visit there of recent but a few nights ago a relative fell ill and was taken to Diamond. We arrived at the centre with our relative to be greeted by a semi friendly nurse. Maybe she had a bad day or was generally unpleasant in personality. There was a bit of a crowd but not overly so. After about 10 minutes we
were directed to Room 17 where there were already about 3 persons ahead of me. A young man was bleeding and the young doctor gave him priority and asked the remainder of patients to please be understanding and excuse her for a few moments as she attended to him. She returned some 15 minutes later to attend to the rest of us and was interrupted by the nurse about what seemed to be some sort of emergency. She asked us yet again to excuse her for a moment. She returned some 10 minutes later or so and thanked us for our patience. She proceeded to attend to the waiting line of patients and it was my turn (my relative)to be attended to. Despite the known occasions witnessed by me that
the young doctor was up and down and back and forth, she appeared to be quite composed and NOT flustered or agitated. She greeted us with a smile, introduced herself simply as Dr. Abdool and proceeded to attend to my relative. She listened attentively, asked her necessary questions, did her medical procedures and made her diagnosis, explaining to my relative what was happening and reasons why. She also explained reversible methods and offered advice. This was apart from immediate treatment. My relative was wheeled into that hospital but left walking. For the first time in a long time, I have met a doctor who seemingly enjoys their job with genuine concern for their
patients’ well being. Congratulations and Thank You to Dr. Abdool for her service and kindness. Thank You for renewing my faith in doctors (Cuban trained at that) especially at Diamond. I hope the other medical providers can learn and emulate this very well put together doctor and young lady. Pooran Jailall
Page 6
Kaieteur News
Thursday February 25, 2016
82% of large timber concessions granted to foreigners - GFC figures show Ever since the disclosure that 100% of Guyana’s productive forest was given out to investors, information continues to lay bare the operations of the country’s forestry sector. Recent information from the Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC) indicates that 82 percent of the large concessions was given to foreigners. Of the 4.5 million hectares of production area allocated for Timber Sales Agreements (TSA) and Wood Cutting Leases (WCLs), some 3.7 million hectares (82%) were allocated to foreigners. The remainder 0.8 million hectares (18%) were granted to locals. (1 hectare = 2.5 acres) According to the GFC data, of the Timber Sales Agreements for the foreign companies, the majority are Chinese with the Malaysians and Indians, making up the remainder. BaiShanLin, a Chinese company under the radar for its activities in Guyana, controls over 615,000 hectares. It would rival what is being held by Vaitarna- 737,852 hectares. The largest concession held by Barama, a Malaysian company, holds 1.6M hectares-dating back to the early 90s. This foreign company has established a plywood factory and has sawmills and other processing facilities. Its arrangement with the Government is currently being reviewed. GFC, according to indications, is now allowing Vaitarna Holdings, an Indian company, to conduct valueadded activities using a portable sawmill. This is raising questions about what exactly the GFC considers value-adding. Significantly, except for Barama Company Limited, Amcar, a French-owned company, Demerara Timbers, now controlled by another Malaysian group, and a few local companies, there is little evidence that any significant value-added processing is being done in the TSAs. The information was recently released and published on the website of the GFC, http:/ /www.forestry.gov.gy. GFC is the regulatory body charged with overseeing the sector, but in recent years there have been criticisms that all is not well in the industry with little or no enforcement to ensure compliance to investment agreements by the companies. Some of the compliance includes the construction of value-added processing to create local jobs. Guyana has, in recent years, been pushing for less log exports and more processing, even introducing a dis-incentive scheme that saw the export taxes being hiked periodically. However, it appears that the
Allocation of State Forest to Concession Holders
GFC’s Commissioner James Singh export tax scheme did little to force operators to construct processing facilities. In recent weeks, there has been increased focus on the forestry sector after Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman, said that his Government, shortly after coming to office last year, discovered that millions of hectares of the area set aside for logging and other forestry activities are all gone. Despite ex-President Bharrat Jagdeo denying it, records and maps confirmed this was true. There are indications also that the previous administrations of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic, repossessed and reallocated thousands of hectares of forest lands under questionable circumstances. A number of them ended up in the hands of BaiShanLin and other foreign companies. These concessions are located in Regions One, Seven, Eight and Nine. In some cases, the lands were acquired, under questionable joint ventures (JV) and other arrangements. Some of the concessions that have been re-allocated included those belonging to Kwebanna Wood Products; Caribbean Resources, Unamco, Simon and Shock and Sherwood Forests. Most of the affected concession holders said that they were fearful of speaking out before. They said that they were also pressured by the GFC which used “all sorts of reasons” including noncompliance, to force them to sell off. Significant to note, also, is that the concessions given out did not see any processing taking place there. Minister Trotman recently told the National Assembly that land grabbing was done without any regard for future generations. He made it clear that in the context of the national patrimony, this can only be seen as a threat to the nation’s long term viability
The information posted by GFC on its website and security as a people. The administration is now moving to change the forestry laws. Stakeholders have been more vocal in recent times with pressure on the new
government to reform the forestry sector and GFC. Guyana also has a US$250M five-year incentive agreement with Norway to protect the forests. That agreement expired
last year and is currently being renegotiated. The agreement is seen as a lucrative one for Guyana as it allowed operators to continue work but in an environment where periodical
checks are made to ensure the country is complying with benchmarks established. Stakeholders have expressed worry about the current revelations regarding the management of the sector.
Thursday February 25, 2016
Kaieteur News
Sterling falls to sevenyear low over Brexit risks
A rates board is seen outside of a Forex outlet in central London, Britain, February 22, 2016. (Reuters/Toby Melville) (Reuters) - Sterling sank to a seven-year low yesterday as companies and investors rushed to insure themselves against the chances of a British exit from the European Union that HSBC said could knock a fifth off the value of pound. The aftermath of Prime Minister David Cameron’s announcement of a June 23 referendum on “Brexit” has driven the worst three days for the world’s fourth most traded currency since the depths of the financial crisis in 2009. Another wave of selling in London yesterday morning drove it to less than $1.39, within 4 cents of levels last seen when it sank to parity to the dollar in the mid-1980s. It had steadied to $1.3948, down half a percent on the day by 1650 GMT. “There are very few people willing to take the other side of the move lower,” said Josh O’Byrne, a strategist at Citi. “Knowing now that the vote will be in June, there is a greater incentive for those that haven’t hedged GBP exposure to do so.” The cost of currency derivatives, which allow companies, big institutional investors and hedge funds to protect future revenues or asset values held in sterling against sharp swings in the currency, jumped to their highest in more than four years. HSBC, Britain’s biggest bank, said the currency could lose up to 20 percent of its value and UK economic growth could be up to 1.5 percentage points lower next year if Britain votes to leave. The latest poll showed the “In” camp ahead at 51 percent, versus 39 percent for “Out”, with 10 percent undecided. Other polls have been
closer. Analysts said the 2009 low of $1.35 was now a real prospect. The pound also fell 0.6 percent to its weakest in 16 months against the euro. The Bank of England’s broader trade-weighted measure closed in London roughly 1 percent weaker at its lowest in two years. “A vote for Brexit would have potentially huge consequences for all asset classes,” HSBC said. “Following a vote to leave we think uncertainty could grip the UK economy, triggering a potential slowdown in growth and a collapse in sterling.” So far, however, the reaction on other UK markets has been far more muted. Government bond prices are steady on the week, any nervousness among investors holding UK assets offset by the prospect that the vote will further push back any rises in interest rates by the Bank of England. Governor Mark Carney said on Tuesday that the bank could still use rate cuts and a broadening of a bond-buying
programme to boost Britain’s economy if needed after the Brexit vote. Gilt yields have edged lower for four out of the last five trading sessions and have moved mostly in tandem with German Bund yields. The 10-year gilt yield is so far down around 5 basis points this week, at 1.364 percent. London’s stock exchange has also seen a far more mixed response. Some property companies have been targeted as potential losers from the vote, while others have benefited from the assumption that a weaker pound would help exports. “This is not the time to just exit into cash. We think there is a lot of potential upside to the UK equities market,” said Mouhammed Choukeir, chief investment officer at Kleinwort Benson in London. “A lot of the impact on the pound has already played out. Political events will tend to provide short-term volatility but longer term they are less important.”
Page 7
Page 8
Kaieteur News
Thursday February 25, 2016
Thursday February 25, 2016
Kaieteur News
Aussie gold company hits over 11,000 ounces for 2016 - reach commercial production level Australian-owned, Troy Resources Limited, yesterday announced that commercial production has been declared at its Karouni gold project following successful commissioning and operation of all key components of the processing plant. Commercial production is defined as the point when the mine is in the condition necessary for it to be capable of operating to the design specification set by management for long term sustainable production. “It marks the completion of project development,
commissioning and operational ramp-up of the mine and processing plant. The key design parameters considered include the mill reaching a pre-determined level of design capacity, recoveries, ability to produce a saleable product and maintaining ongoing production.” Troy also announced that less than two months since the first gold pour at Karouni, the operation is now selffunding. “The plant continues to perform in line with expectations and mill throughput of 80,000 dry
Sophia brothers shot in drive-by Two young B Field Sophia brothers narrowly escaped death when persons in a white car opened fire on them last night. Nineteen-year-old Paul Softleigh received a bullet to the left side of his face while his 13-year-old brother Joshua was grazed. It is not clear which one of the brothers was the prime target but it would seem as if the shooters were gunning for the elder brother. Kaieteur News understands that around 20:50 hours, the brothers were walking in ‘C’ Field when some men in a white car pulled up and opened fire. The two brothers managed to evade some of the bullets as the car sped away. After realizing that Paul was wounded in the face the two made their way to the Georgetown Public Hospital for medical attention. A Police rank at the hospital learnt about the shooting and subsequently informed colleagues who were on armed patrol. However since none of the brothers could properly identify the car, the police had no useful information to act on. Investigations are ongoing.
tonnes per month is forecast to be reached in March 2016.” Managing Director, Martin Purvis said: “Achieving commercial production is a significant milestone for the company. I want to thank all our employees and contractors for their dedication and hard work ensuring the successful transition from commissioning to commercial production.” Commercial production was achieved after the investment of approximately A$133 million in the project which includes all expenditure relating to infrastructure, mining fleet, pre-production mining costs and first-fill inventories. Troy is one of the major gold mining operations to start working last year. The other is Guyana Goldfields, a Canadian company. Since the departure of Omai Gold less than a decade ago, there had been no largescale gold operations in Guyana, though the country managed to reach record levels in light of high world prices. Troy declared over 2,500 ounces last year and has declared over 11,000 ounces for this year, Government officials said. Although, the price fell to over just over US$1050 per ounce last year, within the last few weeks, the price, reaching US$1,241 yesterday. This year, Government is banking on both Troy and Guyana Goldfields to bring in at least 150,000 ounces with the country expecting a 550,000 ounces target.
Dem boys seh ...
Soulja Bai tek Babbie bend pole Yesterday, dem boys learn another thing about that scamp, Jagdeo. Dem learn that de way Jagdeo tie up Guyana, dem wish he did tie up heself suh wid de lady he seh he married. He tie up all dem contracts till he tie up Soulja Bai govt. Yesterday de River Man seh that half of de money fuh de airport project already pay to de contractor. Dem boys lef giddy because de wuk ain’t deh no way close to half way. Is like building a house and de contractor tek half of de money as soon as he knock two nail and tie two steel. That is exactly wha that scamp Jagdeo do to many of de projects wha this new govt
can’t even reject, stop or throw out. And this nation still believe that Jagdeo is de best thing fuh Guyana. Wha Soulja Bai don’t know is de only reason you does pay a contractor half de money up front is to mek sure you get you kick back from de start. Dem boys know Jagdeo best friend, Babbie, give a lot of kickback till he get kick up. H e use to get de whole 100 per cent advance payment without any tender. Whatever price he call that is wha Jagdeo use to fork out. He bring everything under de sun suh till he forget some of dem pun de wharf. One of de things he forget,
dem boys hear, was a big long pole. Dem boys hear that he and Jagdeo did plan to fly dem own flag because of de assets and massive wealth dem accumulate. Dem done decide that Guyana belong to dem. Jagdeo dem lose de election and couldn’t get to use that pole. Soulja Bai hear bout de big, long pole and he like it. He tell Li’l Joe fuh tek de pole and put it pun Moses. Moses in turn put it fuh stand up in Durban Park wid de biggest Guyana flag. When dem stand up de thing it long and bend. But dem still use it. Talk half and watch wha bend Babbie pole.
Page 9
GUYANESE ARE LIKE SITTING DUCKS Money laundering is one of the hardest offences to prove. Money laundering also has one of the poorest rates of charges and success in the world. This is because its takes a long time to establish the offence of money laundering. It seems, however, as if in Guyana, the Special Organized Crime Unit (SOCU) is out to break a record. It seems as though they are out to show that they can make money laundering charges out of mere suspicion. Money laundering charges are not made by raiding the homes of businessmen in the wee hours of the mornings and carting off whatever cash and jewelry they have in their possession. Yet this seems to be the approach being adopted by SOCU This is a most dangerous practice because as we know Guyana is cash economy and most businessmen deal with large quantities of cash. Having $10M in cash may seem to be a lot of money to some people but two car sales would amount to more than that. There are businessmen who have to utilize more than $10M in cash for ration for their workers in the interior. There some construction companies who pay their workers in cash because those workers do not have bank accounts and bank cards. Some business people
prefer to keep large amounts of cash on them because they feel it safer to do so than to try to send it to the bank. The money can be snatched en route to the bank. The money can be intercepted as was the case with some gold recently. There are criminals riding around on motor cycles waiting to pounce on you. So some people feel safer with their monies near them than in trying to get it to the bank. Since when is holding large amounts of cash or jewelry a crime? Is this what the APNU+AFC is attempting to do? Is it attempting to criminalize the cash economy? Are these raids part of the normal modus operandi of SOCU? Is this their understanding of how organized crime is going to be beaten? Money laundering investigations normally begin by tracing suspicious transactions, not by going after suspicious persons. Money laundering investigations involve a paper trail. It is this trail that leads inevitably to the establishment of a case. The raids on homes by SOCU were they not tragic would have been akin to comedy serial. This is not the way to prosecute financial crimes. It is wrong start by SOCU. It shows that the unit is out of its depth and does not
have the necessary experience. SOCU is going about things the wrong way and it is going to be embarrassed. We read a few weeks ago about raids on homes where large amounts of cash and jewelry were seized. We have not heard whether the cash and jewelry were returned in full. Can the media update us as to what has happened to the early seizures made by SOCU? We have not heard whether anyone has been charged. We read about the home of a businessmen being invaded and money and computers seized. Those computers may have contained information of a commercial nature which ought not to find its way into the hands of the competitors of the importer. What is the purpose of seizing the computers? SOCU seems to be on a fishing expedition. This expedition must not trample on the rights of citizens. There has been no advisory informing the Guyanese people as to the value of cash and jewelry that they are allowed to have on their person. As such, Guyanese are like sitting ducks not knowing how much cash and one time one can have before attracting the attention of SOCU. Guyanese are like sitting ducks not knowing when SOCU will come knocking!
Page 10
Kaieteur News
Thursday February 25, 2016
=== The Freddie Kissoon column ===
A song from me to Donald Ramotar: Downpresser Man It had to be the biggest joke in Guyanese politics in decades. Interestingly, it came on the heels on the celebration of Republic Day. It was Donald Ramotar’s way of laughing at the Republic and its citizens. Ramotar told the press the PPP Government had nothing to do with the murders of Sash Sawh and Ronald Waddell and had no relation with Roger Khan. But what was funny, he stopped short of saying that the PPP never committed any violation once it was in power. Ramotar stopped short of saying that the PPP Government which he led as President for three years was as innocent as the baby sleeping in his/her cot. He didn’t say it but he meant it. If interviewed again, Ramotar will continue to deny any wrongdoing during the PPP’s long reign. Mr. Ramotar is seeking to oust Clement Rohee
to claim the title of leading clown of the PPP. Here are the graphic comments in Mr. Ramotar’s emanations. First, evidence shows that the spy equipment Roger Khan used was purchased by then Health Minister Leslie Ramsammy and was a sensitive machine only sold to governments. Secondly, Sash Sawh’s brother-in-law implicated the PPP Government in Sash’s murder and sought the assistance of the Canadian Government to get an inquiry going. Thirdly, Ramotar said the PPP had nothing to gain from Ronald Waddell’s murder. Waddell was an implacable opponent of the PPP. The PPP had more to gain than anyone else from his death. What is foolish about this explanation is that supporters of President Burnham can use Ramotar’s methodology and say the same thing – what did
Burnham have to gain from the death of Walter Rodney? It would be interesting to hear Ramotar’s views on that. I now put the question to Ramotar. What do you think Burnham had to gain from Rodney’s murder? Fourthly, during Ramotar’s presidency, a Rodney-type murder was committed in that Courtney Crum-Ewing was shot to death while he was directly engaged in non-violent election campaigning. Under the Burnham Government, Rodney was killed in circumstances far more complex in the ways PPP critics were gunned down. Waddell was shot in front of his gate. Crum Ewing was shot while he was campaigning for the 2015 elections. What does Ramotar have to say about this? I dedicate one of favourite
songs of all time and one of my favourite reggae songs to Donald Ramotar. It is sung by Peter Tosh and recently covered with additional lyrics by Irish singer, Sinead O’Conner. The title is Downpresser Man. I believe like Bharrat Jagdeo, Ramotar should be investigated for criminal abuse of power. Downpresser man Where you gonna run to Downpresser man Where you gonna run to Downpresser man Where you gonna run to All along that day You gonna run to the sea But the sea will be boiling When you run to the sea The sea will be boiling The sea will be boiling All along that day You gonna run to the rocks The rocks will be melting When you run to the rocks The rocks will be melting The rocks will be melting All that day So I said Downpresser man Where you gonna run to Downpresser man Where you gonna run to
Downpresser man Where you gonna run to All along that day You drink your big champagne and laugh You drink your big champagne and laugh You drink your big champagne and laugh All along that day I wouldn’t like to be a flea Under your collar man I wouldn’t like to be a flea Under your collar man I wouldn’t like to be a flea Under your collar man All along that day You can run but you can’t hide You can run but you can’t hide You can run but you can’t hide Telling you all along that day You gonna run to the Lord Beggin’ to hide you You gonna run to the Lord Beggin’ to hide you You gonna run to the Lord Beggin’ to hide you You gonna run to Jah Beggin’ to hide you
Frederick Kissoon All, all along that day And I said Downpresser Man Where you gonna run to Where you gonna run to Downpresser man Where you gonna run to I said all along All along, along that day Downpresser man You can’t run, you can’t bribe Jah-Jah Can’t call him in a bar Fe can drink some Devil soup Can’t bribe him around a corner Can’t test him faith Downpresser man Downpresser man Where you gonna run to Downpresser man You can’t bribe no one Them no want no money Them run’f money That money get funny
Thursday February 25, 2016
Kaieteur News
Page 11
$40M domestic violence Pregnant woman centre for Cornelia Ida strangles 7-yr-old
F i e l d i ng probing questions from the parliamentary opposition, Minister of Social Protection Volda Lawrence, has revealed plans to release a $40M contract to construct a domestic violence and homeless shelter for victims of abuse. It will have capacity for ten families at one time. It is understood that the shelter will be located at Cornelia Ida, West Coast of Demerara. Lawrence’s elaboration on the building came about during the examination of the budget estimates on Monday, when People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Member of Parliament, Dr. Vidhya Persaud, had enquired from the Minister about the listing of the building under agency 49, Ministry of Social Protection and what services it would offer. “I’m hoping that (after the members) vote this evening,” Lawrence had replied. “(We) will be able to put out this contract, $40M to have the construction for domestic violence (victims) and (the) homeless. (It is) a case where we would be able to provide shelter to persons who have suffered abuse.”
And pass it they did, with a total of $13.9B going to her Ministry by the time the budget was passed. Persaud, however, contended that more money is needed for this sector. She queried whether this was the complete cost for the building, as listed. Lawrence confirmed that this was not the complete cost and that the eventual cost will come up to approximately $60M. “Fortunately for us we had a very good person who left in her estate $12M so we will be adding it to this quarter which will take us quite somewhere,” she added. Lawrence also made it clear that this will be a new building and not an extension. Last month, Guyana’s Help and Shelter Crisis Service published information on its intake. There were 11 new inhabitants. This includes four women, and seven children including three of whom were boys. Opposition Member of Parliament, Gillian BurtonPersaud, enquired whether this shelter would only cater for the direct victims of abuse or whether it would also cater for indirect victims. She gave
as an example the shelter providing protection not only for a mother suffering abuse, but also her children. “The home that we are building will make accommodation for persons with their families,” Lawrence said. “With regards to the programme, this year’s budget has indicated that we will be setting up the domestic violence and sexual therapist department. As soon as that comes on stream, we will be able to sit down and work out a programme for this particular home.” The Minister had announced plans to revisit the Domestic Violence and Sexual Offences Acts. “We also have financial allocations to improve our response to human trafficking; finalize the national Gender Policy; delink the Probation and Social Services aspect from Social Security; create a Suicide Prevention Manual; and partner with several NGOs and the University of Guyana to train persons in vocational skills and business management; and conduct job placement for single mothers,” she also
announced. Homeless Minister Lawrence also said that there are plans to put the Hugo Chavez Home for Reintegration and Rehabilitation at Onverwagt, Region Five, to use. According to Lawrence, it is the intention to have the homeless screened and placed there, but that it is being addressed by the Georgetown Resuscitation Committee. “We will improve the (lives) of the homeless,” she had said. “This issue is being addressed largely by the Georgetown Resuscitation Committee and very shortly many of the homeless persons will be taken off the streets. Once these persons are screened, many will be sent to the Hugo Chavez Home for Reintegration and Rehabilitation.” “There, we will ensure that they are rehabilitated, receive life-skills training to foster reunion with their families and communities and use their newly-acquired skills to gain employment. This year we will create a sustainable poultry, fish and vegetable farm at the centre.”
son with bed sheet
Police have arrested an eight-month pregnant woman who reportedly admitted to strangling her seven-year- old son with a bed sheet on Sunday night. The 28-year-old woman was arrested at her La Parfaite Harmonie, West Bank Demerara home Tuesday night after police received a tip off that the child was murdered. The child, Emanuel King, was pronounced dead at the West Demerara Hospital on Monday after his mother belatedly took him there. His mother, Sonia King, had initially told police and other relatives that the child fell and injured himself, but no one really bought her story. Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum confirmed that the woman was arrested after she could no longer live with the guilt. She confided in her husband that she had strangled the child. Her husband subsequently informed the police. Kaieteur News was told
that while the child reportedly died on Sunday night, it was not until the following morning that his mother took his body in a taxi to the West Demerara Hospital where he was officially pronounced dead. But police will have to do additional investigations since there are reports that the child was beaten by other persons in the home the night before he died. A relative of the dead child had told this newspaper on Monday night that they were suspicious from the time they heard the woman’s explanation of her son’s death. The relative said that they had received a call around 09:30 hours on Monday telling them of the child’s death. The relative said that they went to the woman’s house to confirm the news and they even accompanied her to the La Grange Police Station where she reported that the child fell off an abandoned 20 (continued on page 12)
Page 12
Kaieteur News
Thursday February 25, 2016
GTU advocates for start of housing revolving fund for teachers - still peeved at operations of Teaching Service Commission The long proposed housing revolving fund for public school teachers is yet to materialise. The Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU) is however desperately advocating for it to become a reality. This was one of the issues brought to the attention of Minister of State, Joseph Harmon, when executive members of the Union met with him last week. GTU General Secretary, Coretta McDonald, yesterday said that the Union last week met with the Minister at the Ministry of the Presidency to discuss a number of issues on behalf of the teachers it represents. In addition to the revolving fund, the issues of
the payment of debunching monies and duty free concessions were discussed. These issues, which were incorporated in a multi-year agreement between the Union and the Ministry of Education under the previous regime, are of concern to the Union since they were not honoured. The agreement came to an end last December. Speaking of the duty free concession, McDonald said, “Within that agreement we would have had about 148 head teachers and deputy head teachers who had not received approval for their concessions. We had to get that sorted out with Mr. Harmon because he is the person responsible for
approving duty free concessions.” The outcome of the meeting was favourable, McDonald reported. She however said that Harmon noted that there isn’t much that Government can do to fast track the implementation of the revolving fund project. McDonald in explaining the project, yesterday, said that it is one that saw monies being collected each year from Government in order to disperse to 20 teachers, $2 million each, annually. This would have amounted to $40 million being dispersed per year and was intended to serve as a form of assistance to teachers to build their own homes.
The GTU President lamented yesterday that “this project is not yet off of the ground. We have not been able to get a financial agency, one of the commercial banks, to carry through with it for us.” This is due to the fact, McDonald said, that attempts were made to ask teachers to pay interest on the $2 million offered. “We are saying that we cannot accept that because rather than our teachers taking $2 million and having to pay interest as if they were taking $10 million we might as well send them to take a $10 million loan...” McDonald pointed out. “On that issue Minister Harmon said he couldn’t decide which agency we should use. He said what we should do is try to seek out other agencies to see if they are willing to take the project on,” said McDonald who disclosed that the Union was anticipating the support of the Ministry of Finance. But according to Harmon, McDonald said, “The Ministry of Finance is having its own issues so it couldn’t take on the project. As it is right now the money is in the bank and we are just waiting for an agency which will be willing to roll out this project.” The Union is however hopeful that it could eventually solicit the involvement of Coop Societies to help bring the project to fruition. Since assuming the presidency last year, the Union had met with President Granger to share some of its concerns including the aforementioned. But according to McDonald yesterday the Union is concerned that Government is not moving fast enough in the interest of public school teachers. Among the concerns of the Union, too, is that of the operations of the Teaching Service Commission (TSC). This publication reported earlier this week that the Union had called off its
A placard-bearing Coretta McDonald, in the company of other GTU members yesterday, has no confidence in the Teaching Service Commission. protest against the TSC but McDonald informed yesterday, “We have put a temporary hold on a threatened nationwide strike but the protest action against the Teaching Service Commission will continue.” McDonald yesterday led a protest action outside the office of the Brickdam, Georgetown Commission during which the integrity of the Commission was called into question. This will make the fifth protest exercise conducted outside of the TSC in recent weeks. The Union had last year secured an injunction to prevent the TSC from going ahead with its 2015 teachers’ promotion until a review of the process was done. The injunction also prevented the promotions by the Schools Board Secretariat. While the Schools Board Secretariat conceded to the review, the TSC didn’t, as such the matter has to be resolved in the high court. It is likely that a ruling on the matter could be handed down when the matter is heard later this month. Despite the injunction the
TSC had gone ahead and promoted a teacher which enraged the GTU and prompted the start of protest action which has seen GTU members calling for the replacement of the Leila Ramson-led Commission. Ms. Ramson had however noted that the promotion that bothered the Union was in fact an error which was eventually corrected and an apology was issued to the Union. But while the Union is hopeful that the court will rule in its favour, McDonald yesterday mused over the fact that the court matter could possibly continue for years thereby prolonging the already stalled promotion process. “If that matter takes two years to be completed then what happens? For two years no promotions will be done and we are saying to avoid all of that we are asking the President to revisit the concerns we shared with him to either dissolve the Commission or have the Commission straighten-up and do what is mandated of it,” asserted McDonald yesterday.
Pregnant woman strangles 7-yr-old ... From page 11 foot container. But later on Monday, they were contacted by the woman’s neighbour, who told them that he had some information on the child’s death but was reluctant to give it over the telephone. When they finally met with the neighbour they were told that another close male relative of the child, who lives at the house was seen beating him mercilessly on Sunday night.
The neighbour reportedly claimed that he had to call over to the child’s parents to tell them to stop the beating. The relative said that they later reported to the police what they had heard. “They tell we they had to wait on the post mortem,” the relative stated. Police had examined the body and found no marks of violence. “But even if she did not confess, the post mortem would have shown the cause
of death,” a source close to the investigation. According to a source close to the investigation, the woman confessed that she had beaten the child on many occasions before, since “He was mischievous and own away”. Police are preparing a file to send to the Director of Public Prosecutions before instituting a murder charge. “She will definitely be charged with murder,” the source said.
Thursday February 25, 2016
Kaieteur News
Page 21
Soldiers accused of raping teen… Union threatened sugar workers DPP demands further police to strike - GuySuCo claims The Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) has accused its main union of threatening workers to strike, claiming that the attempts have fizzled. According to the Corporation yesterday, on Tuesday as Guyana celebrated its 46th Republic Anniversary, Guyana Agricultural and General Workers’ Union (GAWU) representatives fanned out across the sugar industry to persuade workers to strike and to protest. “Workers at most of the estates did not answer this call which was masterminded by the union’s central leadership. The maturity of the workforce has prevailed over the union’s self-serving call that could have had a negative impact on the industry.” There was normalcy at all estates except Uitvlugt, where 400 harvesters came out, indicating their willingness to work. “However, the Field Officer and representatives of GAWU prevented the workers from taking up work, with the result that 70 persons defied them while 330 went home reluctantly.” GuySuCo said that the Field Officer who was installed there on Tuesday, after his predecessor was
dismissed on February 3, last, for not supporting calls by his superiors in the union, and representatives were at the order line encouraging workers to strike. GuySuCo said that it was alleged that workers were given strong warnings by the Union leadership. In the case of the Field Officer, GuySuCo alleged that he was told that if he failed to get the workers to protest he will be removed. “…and in relation to the representatives, if they don’t get their respective gang workers to strike they will be removed as reps.” Similarly, the workers were told if they don’t support the strike they would not be afforded representation by the union in the future. “Also with a production of 410 tonnes sugar this morning against a target of 969 tonnes sugar, their inability to work, which was incited by the representatives and Field Officer of the union, will result in all of Uitvlugt possibly losing a further day’s pay in the form of Weekly Production Incentive [WPI] for not achieving their target.” GuySuCo said that it is of the view that GAWU’s intention is to break Uitvlugt estate’s momentum. The
estate achieved its targets for the two previous weeks since the crop commenced, when all workers earned one day’s WPI each. “GuySuCo exhorts its workers to be more concerned with their future, with job security, and not the agenda of their union’s leadership which seems not to be in sync with the best interest of the workers and the industry,” the GuySuCo statement said yesterday. The state-owned company and its union have had a stormy relationship over the years. The industry, with 16,000 workers, is deeply troubled with production costs more than double what GuySuCo is selling sugar for. Despite reaching targets last year for the first time in a decade, the industry is facing decision time as Government moves to cut costs to reduce losses. Recently, Government announced that it was closing the oldest sugar factoryWales on the West Bank of Demerara—- because of high inefficiency and massive losses. This year again, the industry is set to receive another cash injection of $10B. Last year, although collecting over $17B from its sugar sales, GuySuCo’s wage and salary bill was over $21B.
Attack on Land Court Judge…
Defendant testifies in Voir Dire Damien Millington, one of the five men accused of carrying out a robbery at the home of Land Court Judge Nicola Pierre, last year, gave an unsworn testimony yesterday, when the court commenced a Voir Dire as the matter continued at the Better Hope Community Centre. The Sparendaam Magistrate’s Court is now temporarily housed there. The Voir Dire (trial within a trial) was ordered by Magistrate Zamilla Ally-Seepaul after Millington denied that he had confessed to the crime in evidence led by Special Prosecutor, Nigel Hughes. This trial is being done to ascertain whether the oral confession and written statement alleged to have been obtained from him were willingly or involuntarily given. It will also determine if they can be admitted as evidence in the trial. Magistrate Ally-Seepaul guided him as he related his story to the court because he had no Attorney. He declined to call witnesses to support his case. Thereafter, the matter was adjourned until Monday 29, when Prosecutor Hughes will present his arguments. When
Damien Millington this is completed the Magistrate will make her ruling on the admissibility of the alleged oral confession and caution statement. Millington had told police at the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) Eve Leary that he was wrongly identified on an identification (ID) parade. This was according to evidence led by Prosecution witness, Police Corporal Munilall Persaud. At a previous court hearing, he had claimed that he was forced to sign the caution statement.
Damien Millington, 22, of Lot 118 Caesar Street, Agricola Premnauth Samaroo; Nicholas Narine, 18, also of Caesar Street Agricola; Anthony David, 28 of 63 Hadfield Street, Stabroek and Warren Mc Kenzie, 22 of Lot 18 Brutus Street, Agricola are jointly facing three charges, two for the offence of robbery under-arms committed on Pierre and her husband and another for the offence of discharging a loaded firearm at security guard, Ron Peters. They have all pleaded not guilty to the charges and are currently on remand. The trial of the five men began on January 11. So far, the prosecution has concluded its case. Several police and civilian witnesses testified. Among those were the Land Court Judge and her husband Mohamed Chand. Also testifying was the couple’s security guard Ron Peters. They have so far, positively identified four of the defendants (Samaroo, Millington, Narine and McKenzie) as the ones who were part of the robbery/ home invasion that occurred on July 9, last in the gated community of Felicity, East Coast Demerara.
investigation - Crime Chief
Crime Chief, Wendell Blanhum, yesterday confirmed that the file in relation to the matter where three soldiers were accused of raping a teen at Lethem, Region Nine, has been returned to the Guyana Police Force for further investigations to be conducted. Blanhum said that the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) returned the file to the police yesterday and recommended that further investigations be done. Kaieteur News understands that once this is done, the file will be sent back to the DPP so that legal advice on the matter can be sought. As of now, the three Guyana Defence Force (GDF)
ranks are on bail as they await the advice from the DPP. Last Friday, the 16-year-old and her relatives turned up at the Lethem Police Station and made a report that she had been raped by three soldiers. Upon receiving this report, the men were immediately arrested. Statements were taken from the three GDF ranks and the alleged victim after which the file was sent to the Crime Chief and then forwarded to the DPP. This newspaper was informed that the 16-year-old was under the influence of alcohol when she claimed that she was sexually assaulted. In the statement, the teen claimed that the three soldiers picked her up from a popular drinking spot at Lethem and
took her at the back of the Army Camp where one of the ranks choked her. She then claimed that she was “blacked out” and when she regained consciousness, her pants and underwear were removed and the men had vanished from the location. She later identified the rank, who choked her along with his two colleagues who took her to the desolate area. GDF Public Relations Officer, Major George, when contacted would only say that he is aware that an allegation of rape has been made by a female against three soldiers and the matter is currently being investigated. Investigations are ongoing.
Page 22
Kaieteur News
SALON - Make-up Courses with Mac, Bare Minerals and Black Opal - Cosmetology Courses - Nail Technician Course Call: 647-1773/660-5257 SERVICES PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY, ETC. – CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 Visa Application: U.S.A, Canada & UK; Guyana passport application. Graphics design, advertisement. Tel: 626-7040; 265-4535. Building Construction: house plans & estimates, floor sanding, lacquering & painting, boat for Santa Mission –Call: 650-4362 Repairs & spare, fridge, freezer, A/C, washers, stoves – Contact Nick: 683-1312, 627-3206 Repairs at affordable prices: fridge, air conditioner, washing machines, dryers, TV, microwaves & freezerCall: 610-5846 or 661-8158 INNOVATIVE MARKETING & PUBLISHING INC –TEL: 600-4212: We create A/ works, logos, business cards, posters, etc, placements of ads included.
WANTED 1 Security Guard at Eccles Industrial Site, with a valid police clearance. Call: 2332473 General worker/labourer (male) - Call: 265-3586 Immediate cash for lands in Eccles, Herstelling, Farm, La Parfaite Harmonie, Uitvlugt, Zeelugt & East Coast – Call: 604-2207; 611-7223 Experienced pastry maker, cake decorator, counter servers, waiters, handy boy, pleasant personality, apply @ Hack’s Halaal, 5 Commerce St. One live in domestic maid – Call: 675-5256/ 666-4153 1 Female domestic/cook (3045yrs) preferably from E.C.D & male to assist in snackette. (Reference & Police Clearance)- Call: 692-7698, 687-3640 Sales assistant with Maths, English & Computer knowledge , multi- task worker, apply @ Key Food Trading Mc Doom Village. Female domestic to work in Trinidad, must be educated and know to cook. Between 25-35 years. Call: 1868-683 1528
LEARN TO DRIVE Soman Son & Outar Driving School at Maraj BuildingTel: 644-5166; 622-2872; 6150964; 689-5997
PEN PAL Male seeking female (3552yrs) for relationship. Write: Mr. Other Heskey: Mount 92-96 Lord Street, Southport PR8 1JR England Man age 42, looking for female age 35-40yrs, preferably from country side. Call: 691-8074; 695-3818
We are offering a brand new reconditioned Premio car for land in Eccles or Herstelling. Call: 604-2207; 611-7223 FAST GROWING FOOD IMPORTERS IS SEEKING E X P E R I E N C E D SALESPERSON WITH DRIVER’S LICENSE AND POLICE CLEARANCE. CALL: 231-8529
PROPERTY FOR SALE Transported property @ Tuschen Housing Scheme $7M negotiable. Call: 2641050; 683-7045/669-3553 Transport property located @ Rosignol W.B.B: 5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, fully furnished. Call: 679-3496; 602-6333; 330-2576; 699-4689 (motivated settler) 4 Bedrooms with washroom & bath @ 138 Uitvlugt, Ocean View, W.C.D -$7.5M – Call: 664-9998; 609-0514 Two bedrooms concrete house, fully furnished, recently built, in Werk-enRust -$35M negotiable. Call: 645-6498 Joint Venture- commercially developed City Park/ excellent facility with swimming pool, snackette. Call: 602-1473; 680-0405 Newly built 3 bedrooms flat concrete property 22ftX48ft, land 50X90ft @ Vision Garden Versailles, W.B.D -$11M. Call: 616-0111
TO LET Four storey business place located on Robb Street, next to Bourda Market- Call: 6237731; 629-0636
House to rent @ East La Penitence, Morocut Street: 2 bedrooms -$65,000. Call: 693-9179; 604-60898
PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 Vreed-en-Hope Junction: Lessons place, office, storage bond, church -$20,000$25,000-Call: 603-6400 Three Bedrooms house, semi-furnished in Summerset Court, E.B.D- $800USD monthly. Call: 645-6498
EDUCATIONAL Lessons! Nursery: Phonics, Reading, Numeracy & Primary: Reading, Revision in all subjects, Grade 7- all Subjects @ Alberttown. Call: 690-9378 Private Custom Brokerage Certificate: training course- 29th March 2016. Register now! Call: 2231506; 694-8322
VACANCY Local & International e m p l o y m e n t : www.jobfairworldwide.com. Call: 233-6517/622-1957/6380595 between the hours of 9am-5pm Mon –Sat. Skilled welder & machinist (limited supervision), apprentice, male & female cleaner. Apply @ Technical Services; 18-23 Eccles Industrial Site. Cook/baker for the Interior location, applicants must be experienced. Call: 618-2020 Male housekeeping Dept Supervisor, male security guard 30-45yrs, 233 South Road Lacytown. Call: 225-0198
Two bedrooms apartment$42,000 monthly. Call: 6873017
1 Driver- apply @ Technical Service, 18-23Industrial Site Eccles.
Renovated: PVC Ceiling & tile floor; one bedroom, semifurnished @ 25 Craig Street & Delph Ave, C/Ville- $50,000. Call: 223-1332
Hairdressers, nail technician, barbers, also hair & nail stations available for rental location: New Market StreetCall: 638-1106
2 Bedrooms apartment, upper flat, located at D5 Waller’s Delight W.C.D. Call: 662-0187
Security officers wanted by security company-Contact: 672-1920, between 8:00am5:00pm
One 2 bedrooms bottom flat, fully grilled, self contained, A/C, parking for 1 car. Call: 650-2708 House in Bel-Air Park: 3 bedrooms upstairs/downstairs, all modern conveniences $1600US monthly-Call: 231-7839 during working hours
One sales representative. Call: 225-8205
4 Bedrooms house in Bel-Air Gardens; all modern conveniences; no agents!-Call: 231-7839 during working hours Apartments for rent @ Nandy Park with free Wi-Fi, recently renovated- 1&2 bedrooms $70,000-$80,000. Call: 641-3318
LAND FOR SALE Parfaite Harmonie; deal land with foundation, light & water, sand filled, front part- $2.6M &1.6MCall: 604-2207; 611-7223
CAR RENTAL PROGRESSIVE CAR RENTAL: CARS& SUV FOR RENTAL- $4,000 & UP PER DAY- CALL: 643-5122, 6560087 , EMAIL: PRO_ AUTO RENTAL@YAHOO. COM DOLLY’S CAR RENTALCALL: 225-7126/226-3693 DOLLYSAUTORENTAL@ YA H O O . C O M / W W W. DOLLYSAUTORENTAL.COM Vehicles for rental: cars, SUV, pickups etc, long term only @ Ray’s Motor Spares and Auto Sales. Call: 231-7839 TOURS SURINAME EASTER WEEKEND TOUR TRIP: SHOPPING, FUN, TOURS & SIGHTSEEING DOLPHINS MARCH 23RD -28TH, 2016. CALL: 692-7270; 6655171; 639-2663; 223-0056
VEHICLE FOR SALE Oswin J’s Auto Imports; New arrivals: Allion 2006; Premio: 2004, 2006 & 2008, Fielder 2007 & Suzuki Escudo. Call: 592-609-2815 1AT 212 PRR, 1 Allion PRR Series, 1 Premio PPP, owner leaving country. Call: 642-2645 New model 4X4, RAV4, excellent condition- $2.2M –Call: 618-1395; 220-6380 1-RZ mini-bus BKK series, in excellent condition $750,000 negotiable- Call: 604-6016 Reduced prices on unregistered cars, Allion, Mazda, Fielder, BlueBird. Call City Motors:626-7478; 616-3413 Toyota Hilux Surf 2783 cc, mileage 74,000 km, year 2006- $8.5M negotiable. First owner d r i v e n , excellent condition. Call 626-1372; 656-9100 First Class Auto: Rush, IST, Runx, Sienta, Bluebird, 06 Premio, 06 Allion, Fielder, Spacio, Noah. Call: 627-8383; 638-3045 Toyota verossa year 2004, mileage 69,000 km- $2.2M negotiable. First Owner driven, excellent condition. Call 626-1372; 656-9100
1 House lot in gated community -$4.5M negotiable. Call: 694-7817; 668-0306 One house lot at Mon Repos (Martyrsville) E.C.D, price $3.9M negotiable. Call: 2200538; 645-2395( Joel) or 629-5300
Transported property @ 19 Good Hope Gardens, size: 24X61, concrete building- all convenience, price -$33M. Serious inquiries only- Call: 234-0046; 656-3525
Transported property @ Grove $16M negotiable. Call: 625-5461
Fully furnished 1 bedroom, air-condition $90,000 monthly, $6,000 daily. Call: 668-0306; 694-7817; 218-1400
FOR RENT
Two bedrooms apartment, semi-furnished in Queenstown -$600USD monthly. Call: 645-6498
Church and 2 storey building Lot 180 Charlotte Street BourdaCall: 227-6817; 624-7341
Modernized 2 bedroom apartments in safe and healthy environment- Call: 698-6496 TAXI SERVICES GR TAXI SERVICE. CALL: 219-5000; 227-1982 & 2257878 (24HRS)
Hairdressers, nail technician, barbers, also hair & nail stations available for rental location: New Market StreetCall: 638-1106
Thursday February 25, 2016
Providence Scheme (115ftX81ft) located on a Cul de Sac close to Bai Shan Lin -$8.2M negotiable. Call: 6014163 or 223-0719 Eccles New Scheme (prime land) 100ftX50ft -$5.5M, Dairy (fenced 100ftX50ft) $3M, Zeelugt (100ftX50ft) $2M. Call: 611-7223; 604-2207 FOR SALE Nissan Titan- Call: 696-5135 Brand new Samsung Smart 32" TV, wall painting, candle holder & baby clothes. Call: 669-0828 FOR SALE/FOR RENT American pool table – Call: 277-0578 Newly Built at Lenora 2 Storey 3 bedrooms, 2 toilet & Shower, double garage for sale or rent – Tel: 675-5998; 268-2277
AT192, 212, Allion, unregistered Premio, Hilux Surf, BNN, RZ & Pit-bull, 7 seater super custom. Cash / terms- Call: 680-3154 We buy & sell vehicles for cash, also parts available & 30 seater buses; Extra Cab pickups; 2006 TacomaCall: 680-3154 2005 Mazda RX8, Mileage, 72,000 KM -$1.9M negotiable, first owner driven, excellent condition. Call: 601-8612; 276-0006 Toyota Ipsum, fully loaded, music system – 5,800 watt, 7 seater, excellent condition. Call: 653-1003 One Toyota 2003 Fielder Wagon, AC, CD, 17" rims, PMM, never work heir, in excellent condition -$1.4M. Call: 619-1047 Carsmart Auto Sale: Premio (08) -$2,895,000; C-light Premio (05) -$2,450,000; Premio (02) -$2,295,000 & Spacio -$2,095,000. Call: 6394295; 650-0402 Carsmart Auto Sale: Fielder -$2,095,000; IST$2,095,000, Audi A4 $3,895,000; BMW 318i $2,795,000- Call: 615-3075; 639-4295; 650-0402 CAT Skid Steer 236B $4.5M; CAT 928F Loader $7.3M- Call: 650-0402; 2614121; 261-4018 Continued on page 23
Thursday February 25, 2016
Kaieteur News
Page 23
I cried when I heard these descriptions DEAR EDITOR, Permit me space to not only transmit laudatory remarks but at the selfsame time reciting silent orisons for permanency or continuation. I am referring to the present cleanup in Guyana in preparation for the imminent 50th anniversary celebrations. Am I naïve in asking why could some of this not be done before? As a Guyanese now domiciled on foreign shores, I was previously on myriad of occasions forced to
listen to the myriad of unabashed remarks about the once former Garden City. I was always (and still am) proud of the land of my birth, and often boasted to many of the sights and splendor of the place. However, when native after native returned from visiting their former homeland, reporting of the garbage strewn streets and alleyways, overgrown bushes, ill-maintained trenches and gutters, edifices that cried out for a paint ap-
plication or a new face look, I was forced to let the silent tear flow unchecked down my cheek, while trying to wrap my brain around likely causal factors. Seemingly the folks back home had become inured to the revolting sight, but could the Government, Mayor and other officials be included by extension? Now here we are putting a show on the go for the multiplicity of visitors, natives etc. some of whom would be
returning home for the first time after many years, although confessedly there is a lurking angst as to what would have been the state of affairs if the celebrations were not taking place this year? Better late than never I guess or is it better soon than ever? The past is the past, we are now on the road to the change that is somewhat tardy to say the least but nevertheless, it was what it was. So we prepare to celebrate our country’s independence
from Great Britain, let us as a nation resolve to not only show but maintain our greatness. I am calling on the Government, City officials, to put in place personnel, police, people, policies, procedures, protocols, penalties to ensure that the city as it would be seen during the Independence Celebrations would be the continuing norm. Punish all who display any proclivity to let the land lose its glitter on account of litter. Yvonne Sam.
ats in its sale agreements to ensure that the properties sold are used for specified purposes aimed at developing the economy of Guyana for the benefit of its people and not for the quick financial reward of speculative investors. Finally, the closure of WSE will have serious adverse effects on the lives of its workers. The offer of alternative employment at Uitvlugt Estate some 21 miles away for the redundant WSE workers without any compensation for their resettlement or
daily transportation will most likely be difficult for them to accept as at the end of the day they have to earn a living wage. Similarly, the small WBD farmers who have been supplying cane to WSE will find the additional transportation cost and time spent in traveling and waiting to make their deliveries to Uitvlugt Factory too costly and the thin profit they were making will be wiped out unless GuySuCo is willing to up the price paid to them. If not, they too will be heading for the sunset as cane cultivation will become too costly for them to make a profit. Charles Sohan
The debate on Wales continues
DEAR EDITOR, In a news media letter of Feb. 20, Vic Oditt, a former chairman of Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) and a businessman with varied investment interests stated that gross mismanagement by GuySuCo and specifically its agricultural operations of the Wales Sugar Estate (WSE) has been responsible for operating losses over the years and will result in closure of WSE at the end of Yr. 2016. He concurred with others that GuySuCo in its present form and structure cannot survive without annual subsidies from its sole owner, the APNU+AFC Govt. which apparently has made the decision to start shedding unprofitable GuySuCo assets. During Mr. Oditt’s tenure as Chairman of GuySuCo it operated at a loss and there is no evidence which would indicate that he had formulated and implemented strategies to arrest the annual losses which have continued to this day. He now claims to have several bright ideas to get WSE back on track to profitability. Firstly, he proposes that WSE be converted into a public company and its shares sold to Guyanese. A new, competent management team would then be appointed and skilled senior staff and other employees who were forced out of the system for political reasons will be re-hired on newer and fairer terms. The newly appointed management team will be able to increase sugar production from 9,000 to 30,000 tons per year, returning WSE to profitability in
three years. Power generation, sugar refining and packaging as value added products will be installed through participatory privatization. He gave no detail as to how these fantasy ideas will become reality and where funding will come from to resurrect a run-down sugar estate to its former glory but he noted that grants and soft loans were available for the take, probably from the clouds. Unfortunately, GuySuCo was unable to access money from these sources to upgrade its operations although it did receive generous EU sugar price support which it squandered. Turning around any loss operating corporation is difficult. Turning around a farm based one is unheard of. For the past several months the Govt. has been deliberating on GuySuCo’s blueprint Commission of Inquiry (CoI) report but has failed so far to present publicly a viable plan for the industry. Sugar production is costing GuySuCo about US$0.43 per lb. while world markets are paying about US$0.14 per lb. for sugar, FOB. It is inconceivable therefore that GuySuCo could narrow this gap in the foreseeable future to make its operations profitable without large capital investments into an industry with poor infrastructures and whose field operations
need to be mechanized if field layouts could be changed as labor availability has been getting scarcer, erratic and expensive. The TS/TC yield ratio would need to be increased significantly also. Manufacture of value added products from sugar such as ethanol is possible but GuySuCo does not have and would be unable to obtain the investment capital needed for plant installation since investors would find such projects unattractive at this time as the low cost of fossil fuel has made ethanol production uneconomical. Crop diversification for GuySuCo is not a viable proposition because it lacks capital, technical know-how and management skills to convert sugar cultivation to other profitable tropical crops such as bananas, plantains and citrus. Therefore, if the large subsidies paid to GuySuCo are to end, Govt. will have to think outside the box and dispose of GuySuCo’s assets in a planned way and invest the proceeds into other segments of the economy to create jobs which are so desperately needed not only for the displaced sugar workers but others as well. To prevent prime arable sugar lands and other valuable GuySuCo assets falling into the hands of unscrupulous speculators, the Govt. would have to include cave-
From page 22
FOR SALE LARGE QUANTITIES OF HIGH PURITY MERCURY (QUICK SILVER) 99.99995% PURITY$19,000 PER POUND CALL: 592-227-4754. Play station 4 system $90,000, XBOX one -$85,000, XBOX 360 -$40,000, PS 3$35,000. Call: 621-7497; 6038643; 649-3277 Single & Bunk Beds; freezers, commercial stove, deep fryer, microwave, excellent condition. To inspect Call: 602-1473; 680-0405 Great Deals on video games & all gaming consoles. PC, phone games & applications. Delivery also. Call: 672-2566; 265-3231 2006 Nissan Bluebird, imported, newly registered, in excellent condition $2.2M. Call: 613-1946
Page 24
Kaieteur News
Man, 62, gun-butted, wife tortured by armed bandits
Two armed bandits yesterday gunbutted an elderly man and tortured his wife for several minutes before escaping with more than $3M in cash, groceries and other valuables. This occurred around 03:30 hrs at the home of Takurgobin Katwaroo, 62, and his wife, 59-year-old Deowattie, at Lot 96 Little Diamond, East Bank Demerara (EBD). The couple operates a grocery store at their home and they are the only occupants of the property. The bandits, according to reports, escaped leaving a screw driver, cutlass, beer and Guinness bottles behind. There are reports that the armed men entered the two-storey house by jumping over a neighbour’s fence and walking on top a shed at the Katwaroo’s home to climb on to the verandah. They then cut the grill on the door and entered the house which has four rooms. At the time of the robbery, the husband and wife were sleeping in the last room. Ravi, the couple’s grandson, said that when the men entered the house, they ransacked the three rooms. Not satisfied with what they got, they
Takurgobin Katwaroo showing his injuries started a fire in front of the Katwaroo’s bedroom to get the couple to open their bedroom door. “When the smoke started to go in the room, my grandfather see and he open the door to go and see what it was but as soon as he opened the door, he get a lash in his head with the gun,” the
young Katwaroo said. The couple was tied and gagged. The bandits informed the 59-year-old woman that if she did not hand over all their valuables, they would shoot her husband dead. The men escaped only after they were convinced that they had got all of the valuables that were in the house. Just as they were leaving, they told the couple that it was their next door neighbour, who sent them to the house. However, Ravi Katwaroo said that the men were informed that his grandparents and their next door neighbours do not speak to each other and tried to set them up. “They also said that they were the ones who rob (his grandparents) last week.” According to the grandson, last week, thieves entered the grocery shop and escaped with milk, cigarettes, phone cards, money and other items. They entered the shop by cutting the grill work. No one saw when they entered. While there is no suspect as yet, the police visited the scene and took fingerprints. Investigations are ongoing.
Thursday February 25, 2016
Land dispute murder ... From page 14 prosecution and defence presented their closing arguments before Justice Holder summed up the case to the Jury. Attorney-at-Law Kim Kyte, stated that Bristol shot Lindo. But not every killing is murder and not every killing is unlawful, she said. She said that it was never the intention of the accused to kill or cause grievous bodily harm to Lindo and he was acting in self defence. A man has a right to protect and defend himself. Mr. Bristol is innocent and it’s the Prosecution’s responsibility to prove him guilty. The evidence of the Prosecution star witness whom she called Travis “Confucius” Crandon was a fallacy; because of the number of times he said he was confused. Crandon came to court to lie and when cornered, told the court that he was confused. She said, “Although he claimed to be the eyewitness, he by his evidence proved that he was not there.” She went over Crandon’s evidence in chief and the number of inconsistencies mentioned during his testimony. She said that Crandon was the prosecution’s only witness. Lindo was living on Bristol’s land without permission. There was bad blood between them because Bristol wanted to repossess his property. Bristol went to the premises on the advice of his lawyers and was acting on their advice. She said that what h a p p e n e d on the day was that Bristol was attacked with an axe by Lindo in his own yard. She mentioned that Cassandra Arthur’s evidence corroborated with the accused that he was talking on his phone, and that he shot a man. It was his lawyer he was speaking to. She saw him pick up the axe with a white cloth. He did that on the advice of his lawyer.
Prosecutor Attorney at Law Natasha Backer in her address stated that the Prosecution’s case was simple. The defence called four witnesses including two Attorneys, but the evidence of Attorneys Horatio Edmonson and Adrian Anamayah did not help their case. Martin O’Brian, she said, was not a truthful witness and changed his story. He claimed that he cannot see without his spectacles, but could see his signature and some photographs. How could you believe him? She also discredited the evidence of defence witness Rohit Sugrim. She mentioned that both O’Brian and Sugrim came with stories to match what Bristol said. Bristol was in the wrong that day. Justice Holder then took close to three hours to sum up the evidence to the mixed jury. After the verdict was announced Bristol stood and thanked God, the jurors and his lawyer and raised his hands to the heavens as the packed court room erupted. Bristol then quickly exited the court room being followed by the multitude of followers. The defence had called four witnesses Attorneys at Law Attorney Horatio Edmonson and Adrian Anamayah, Martin O’Brien and Rohit Sugrim. The prosecution called 11 witnesses including Pathologist Dr. Vivekanand Brijmohan. The others were Policemen Detective Sergeant Curtis Cort, Ballistics Expert Corporal Floyd Hosannah, Detective Corporal Darmendra Inderpaul, Corporals Brian Caesar and Phillip Walters, Travis Crandon, Rookmin Dindyal, Indranie Nandalall, Agnes Joseph and Cassandra Arthur. The cause of death was given as shock and haemorrhage due to gunshot injuries.
Sterling Products' ... From page 19 congratulated Sterling Products for taking the initiative to promote literacy in its work environment. Mark Forde, one of the six graduates, expressed a great desire to continue his studies. He said being a part of Sterling's Literacy Programme has positively impacted his life. “It has really motivated me to become a better person in life, because I never got the opportunity to get an education,” he stated. Colyn Sam posited that the literacy programme has replaced for him what he was robbed of as a child growing up in a single-parent home, and he is excited to continue learning. Sterling Products' Literacy Programme follows guidelines
as per the 'Grass-Track' initiative by the National Centre for Educational Resource Development (NCERD) and focuses on Reading and Math. Upon entry into the company, employees' levels of education are assessed based on information provided on their job applications. While SPL does not hire persons who have not completed Primary Education, recommendations are made for specific persons to undergo its literacy programme. After this initial stage, the recommended persons are screened, which helps the company to better determine a person's education level, and will ultimately allow company officials to make a final decision of referring persons to join its literacy class.
Thursday February 25, 2016
Kaieteur News
Page 25
Body found on mudflat...
Dozens injured in shooting and stampede at political rally in Jamaica KINGSTON, Jamaica – A shooting followed by a stampede at a mass rally of the ruling People’s National Party (PNP) Tuesday night has left more than 35 people injured, including two children. Lawmen have indicated that so far there is no evidence to suggest that the gunplay which sparked the panic was politically motivated. The incident occurred shortly after 9 p.m. as the PNP’s campaign director Dr Peter Phillips was introducing party president, Prime Minister Portia Simpson-Miller. When the gunshots went off, people ran for cover, some of them falling and sustaining injuries. Two people were shot. Dr. Phillips said police were “not too clear as to the reasons for the gun firing and it is not too clear as to who did the gun firing.” When the incident occurred, Simpson Miller refused to leave the stage as her security detail had advised, instead staying on the platform and calling for calm.
PM reveals man died of Cirrhosis The Post Mortem (PM) examination conducted on the body that was discovered on the Golden Grove mudflat last week showed that the man died as a result of Cirrhosis. Surajlall’s body was discovered adjacent to the shack he would usually occupy to “look over” the docked boats and supply camps nearby. He was 51.
The injured were taken to the hospital and the meeting resumed. Speaking about what had occurred, Simpson Miller said: “Whoever was the evil that was sent here to do what has happened earlier will recognize that members of the People’s National Party are
never afraid of anyone. I am going to find out who did it and it doesn’t matter what constituency they come from, neighbouring or otherwise. I am going to deal with it.” “Some others want our meeting to look like some other meetings, but what they do not understand about PNP
people – we are never afraid, we are not afraid of anyone. And I want to thank the police for the way they have handled the situation, but ask that it be investigated because we are not like the other party. This is a loving, peaceful party . . .” Simpson Miller added. (Caribbean360)
Surajlall He was laid to rest yesterday.
Page 26
Kaieteur News
Thursday February 25, 2016
Obama cautious on Syria plan as opposition yet to commit
(Reuters) - U.S. President Barack Obama expressed caution yesterday about a plan to stop fighting in Syria, while the main opposition group said it had yet to commit to the deal. Combatants are required to say whether they will agree to the “cessation of hostilities” by noon on Friday (1000 GMT), and to halt fighting at midnight Saturday. The United Nations hopes the planned halt in the fighting will provide a breathing space for Syrian peace talks to resume. The last round in Geneva broke up earlier this month without progress after the Syrian government launched a Russian-backed offensive on the city of Aleppo, where more fighting was reported on Wednesday. Obama told reporters in Washington that if some progress was made in Syria, that would lead to a political process to end the five-yearold war there. “We are very cautious about raising expectations on this,” he said. Although U.S officials have raised the question of a political transition in Damascus, President Bashar alAssad, backed by Russia, shows no sign of stepping aside. The Saudi-backed HNC, which groups political and armed opponents of Assad, said on Monday it had “given its acceptance of international efforts for a cessation of hostilities”. But HNC chief negotiator Mohamad Alloush said yesterday that the council had not yet decided whether to commit to the agreement, underlining rebel doubts over a deal they fear will not prevent Russian air strikes against them. The cessation of hostilities plan does not include Islamic State or the Nusra
Front, an al Qaeda affiliate which is widely deployed in opposition-held areas. “How can (Russia) offer guarantees while it is part of the problem?” said Alloush, who heads the political office of the Jaish al-Islam rebel group, in an interview with the pro-opposition Orient TV station. The Syrian government, its war effort buoyed since September by the Russian air force, has accepted the cessation of hostilities agreement announced on Monday. Assad told Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday that his government was ready to help implement the deal. Putin and Assad, who held a telephone conversation, stressed the importance of a continued “uncompromising” fight against Islamic State, the Nusra Front and other militant groups. U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry said he had spoken to Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and their teams would meet in the next day or so to discuss the planned ceasefire. “I am not here to vouch that it’s absolutely going to work,” Kerry said in Washington. While there had to be a diplomatic solution at some point, the question was whether the time is ripe, he added. He asked whether Russia and Iran would work “in good faith” to bring about a political transition in Damascus. TELEPHONE DIPLOMACY Putin has embarked upon a round of telephone diplomacy, speaking to Assad, the Saudi king, the Iranian president and the Israeli prime minister. The Kremlin described the calls as an effort to explain the substance of the U.S.Russia-brokered ceasefire.
The Russian Defence Ministry said it had significantly reduced the intensity of its air strikes in Syria in the past two days in areas where armed groups had expressed their readiness to join the ceasefire. Russian state media have presented the fact that Moscow helped broker the potential ceasefire as a sign that Russia matters again on the world stage and has shrugged off what it has cast as U.S.-led efforts to isolate it over the Ukraine crisis. Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said he feared the ceasefire plan would do little more than benefit Assad. Turkey has grown increasingly frustrated by the international response to the Syrian war, in particular U.S. support for a Kurdish militia it sees as a hostile insurgent force. The Syrian Kurdish YPG militia, which is fighting in northern and northeastern Syria, has yet to say if it will join the cessation of hostilities. Ankara is also incensed by a Russian intervention which has tipped the balance of power in favor of its archenemy Assad. “If this is a ceasefire that is up to the mercy of Russia, which has brutally attacked the moderate opposition and aligned with Assad under the pretext of fighting Islamic State, we fear that the fire pouring over innocent people will never stop,” Erdogan said in a televised speech. The United Nations said it was ready for a huge aid effort if the fighting stops. “We are now standing by ... waiting for the signal,” a U.N. spokesman said. The war has killed more than 250,000 people and left 4.5 million hard to reach with humanitarian aid, the U.N. says.
Thursday February 25, 2016
Kaieteur News
U.S. to boost freedom of navigation moves in South China Sea: admiral (Reuters) - The United States, which is worried by China’s military buildup to assert dominance in the South China Sea, will increase freedom-of-navigation operations there, a senior Pentagon official said yesterday. “We will be doing them more, and we’ll be doing them with greater complexity in the future and ... we’ll fly, sail and operate wherever international law allows,” Admiral Harry Harris, head of the U.S. Navy’s Pacific Command, told a House Armed Services Committee hearing. “We must continue to operate in the South China Sea to demonstrate that that water space and the air above it is international,” Harris said. On Tuesday, Harris said China was “changing the operational landscape” in the South China Sea by deploying missiles and radar as part of an effort to militarily dominate East Asia. China is “clearly militarizing the South China Sea ... You’d have to believe in a flat Earth to think otherwise,”
Harris said in comments that coincided with a visit to Washington by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. China says its military facilities in the South China Sea are “legal and appropriate” and on Tuesday, in an apparent reference to U.S. patrols, Wang said Beijing hoped not to see more close-up reconnaissance, or the dispatch of missile destroyers or strategic bombers. Harris, asked what more could be done to deter militarization, said the United States could deploy more naval assets, although there were significant “fiscal, diplomatic and political hurdles” in the way of stationing a second aircraft carrier group in the region. “We could consider putting another (attack) submarine out there, we could put additional destroyers forward ...there are a lot of things we could do, short of putting a full carrier strike group in the Western Pacific,” he said. China claims most of the South China Sea, through
which more than $5 trillion in global trade passes every year. Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, the Philippines and Taiwan have rival claims. Harris’s comments came a day after he said China had deployed surface-to-air missiles on Woody Island in the South China Sea’s Paracel chain and radars on Cuarteron Reef in the Spratly islands further to the south. On Tuesday, his command said China’s repeated deployment of advanced fighter aircraft to Woody Island was part of a disturbing trend that was inconsistent with Beijing’s commitment to avoid actions that could escalate disputes. Last month, a U.S. Navy destroyer carried out a patrol within 12 nautical miles of Triton Island in the Paracels, a move China called provocative. The United States has also conducted sea and air patrols near artificial islands China has built in the Spratlys, including by two B52 strategic bombers in November.
Page 27
Page 28
Kaieteur News
Thursday February 25, 2016
PNP, JLP prepare to battle for state power in today’s election Jamaica Observer - Both the People’s National Party (PNP) and the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP), after a bruising campaign across the island, wrapped up their political activities Tuesday night, as they prepared for today’s general election, which pundits believe will be a battle down to the wire. The law requires that all campaign activities, including newspaper, television and radio advertising, meeting and rallies cease a full day before
the poll. The release of opinion polls a day before the election is also not allowed. The governing PNP Tuesday night held a mass rally in Portia Simpson Miller Square — formerly Three Miles and named for the party’s president and prime minister — in her St Andrew South Western constituency. PNP spokesman Delano Frankyn told the Jamaica Observer Tuesday that Simpson Miller, prior to Tuesday night’s rally, toured sections
of St Elizabeth, St James, St Mary, and St Ann as she tried to shore up support for candidates in several constituencies. Franklyn said the rally was for the 15 constituencies in Region 3, but he expected party supporters from St Catherine and other nearby parishes would attend. He said yesterday used for indoor activities, where all candidates will make final preparations for today’s vote. JLP Leader Andrew Holness, in addition to meeting with
party workers, Tuesday night addressed a divisional rally in Windsor Castle in the Portland Western constituency, where high-profile party member Daryl Vaz is the incumbent. Holness, in a national address last night, again sold his tax plan to the electorate, insisting that the proposal to exempt Jamaicans earning up to $1.5 million annually from income tax will not be inflationary. “We’ve been working on this plan for two years. Today’s general election
Portia Simpson-Miller and Andrew Holness will be the 17th since Universal Adult Suffrage in which Jamaicans won the right to
vote in 1944 at a time when the country was still under colonial rule.
Cops detain HDC official, boyfriend on allegations of taking $$ for houses Trinidad Express - Police swooped down on the home of a Housing Development Corporation (HDC) official at 3 a.m. Tuesday and detained a woman and her boyfriend for questioning in relation to allegations of accepting money from people for HDC houses. The police action Tuesday follows an investiga-
tion stemming from an official complaint by HDC managing director Jearlean John since 2014. The Express understands that police went to the HDC official’s Curepe home Tuesday and detained the woman and her boyfriend. She was taken to the Fraud Squad offices in Port of Spain for questioning.
Govt. has no intention of lowering gas and electricity cost Daily Observer - Government will not bow to the demands of a “weak opposition,” to lower the cost of gasoline and electricity. Political leader of the United Progressive Party (UPP) is demanding the ABLP administration lower the price of gasoline from $12.50 to $10 per gallon and the fuel variation charge from 60 cents to 24 cents per kilowatt hour, or face protest action. But, Government Chief of Staff Lionel ‘Max’ Hurst said Lovell knows that this type of ultimatum does not work. “There is no way in the world that government is going to appear to be bending to the demands of a weak opposition. “We had an election 18 months ago, and Mr Lovell himself couldn’t win his seat. The Labour Party won 14 of the 17 seats and Mr Spencer barely won his by 30. “They are very weakened, and what’s more is that the economy is performing well. There is growth,” Max said. Hurst said Lovell’s com-
parison that Antigua & Barbuda’s energy ranks highest within the sub-region is misleading. He said Antiguans and Barbudans continue to enjoy the highest income amongst the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank countries. “Antigua has higher cost of living and higher standards of living, and people in Antigua earn far more than they earn in any of these countries that he has named. “Antigua & Barbuda brings in more than 25 per cent of the foreign currency earned by ECCB…we are the leaders and we have done exceptionally well,” Hurst added. Lovell said the government has until Sunday to reduce the fuel cost or deal with continued protest. Hurst said the ABLP administration is not shaken by this request. The cost of electricity will go down because we know manufacturing cannot succeed unless the cost of energy is exceedingly low,” he added.
Thursday February 25, 2016
Kaieteur News
Page 29
Jets gear for C/ship flight... First phase of World... From page 30 mean the first for a Lindenbased team, but it will also give them the honour of taking home the ultimate basketball prize in the year that the country is celebrating 50 years of Independence. Jets comes up against Linden’s top ranked, Half Mile Bulls in the first round in a game that will be nothing short of a blockbuster among two of Linden’s best teams with one place up for grabs in the next round, The Super Eight. The two teams are familiar foes, both competing in a LABA Mashramani competition that acted as good preparation for them. “All the players played at the Sports Hall before, there is not much difference from what we are exposed to, but we are putting
in some good work,” he said when he was asked about transitioning to the indoor venue. Joseph, who is a former national point guard and Assistant National Coach in 2014 when Guyana competed at the Caribbean Championships in Tortola, is counting on his team to get the job done during what is being dubbed Mega Mecca III. “I could go out there and put out all the works, but it is up to the players to make it
happen. They have to want it just as bad,” the Coach said. Asked if there should be any expectations from them and Joseph quickly retorts “people should look out for us”. He said that he has already assessed his team’s weakness and realised that most of their games in Linden were lost in the final minutes. According to Joseph, those situations often come down to who plays better basketball in crunch-time.
Thursday February 25, 2015 (MAR. 21- APRIL 20) Voice your opinions and contribute to the debate. Stress coupled with diet will add to stomach problems. Avoid arguments with relatives who might be conservative and outdated. TAURUS (APR. 21MAY 21) Your doubt could lead to insecurity. Disappointments are likely if your mate embarrasses you in front of friends. Purchases will be well worth it and they will last a long time. GEMINI (MAY 22-JUNE 21) You need to make changes that will raise your self esteem, such as a new hairstyle or a new image. Don't bend to the pressure. CANCER (JUNE 22JULY 22) Direct your energy into physical exertion. Residential moves will be favorable. Your uncanny insight will help you make the right choices. LEO (JULY 23-AUG 22) The advice you get today may be based on false information. You will feel so much better about yourself if you can control your addictions. You could experience unusual circumstances and meet eccentric individuals. VIRGO (AUG. 23 -SEPT. 23) Be careful when using machinery or electrical equipment. Don't be afraid to talk to close friends or relatives about pressing personal problems. Kick your shoes off and relax.
LIBRA (SEPT. 24 -OCT. 23) You might just as well let others do their own thing. You like to stay busy and now is your chance to do just that. Lovers may prove unworthy of your affection. SCORPIO (OCT. 24 NOV. 22) Think of starting a new business or emotional partnership. You are best not to nag or criticize. Use your charm, but don't be phony. SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 23 -DEC. 21) Travel for business or pleasure will be enlightening. Today will be hectic. Financial gains can be made through wise investments. CAPRICORN (DEC 22.- JAN. 20) Avoid friction with your mate. You can accomplish a lot if you put some effort into household duties or redecorating plans. Concentrate on your job. AQUARIUS (JAN. 21 FEB. 19) Romance is likely if you can bring yourself to go out with friends. Your dynamic, determined approach will win favors as well as a helping hand. You can pick up valuable information if you listen to those with more experience. PISCES (FEB. 20-MAR. 20) Your involvement in sports or entertainment will lead to new romances. Restrictions may be difficult for you to live with. Be diplomatic and honest, and that person will only be made to look bad. , 2016
From page 27 games a maximum of six tickets per person is allowed. The BCCI appointed bookmyshow.com as the ticketing agency for the event, and said the entire ticketing process was “monitored and audited by a reputed auditing agency.” A member of the organising committee told ESPNcricinfo that the schedule for the sale of tickets overthe-counter for all matches including India’s and the knockouts - would be announced by the respective hosting centres. He said the lottery system was to streamline the high demand for tickets. ”We had to do lottery system, otherwise when a traditional ticket counter opens up, some 20,000 people queue up,” the official said. “The first 10,000 get tickets and then there is a lathi charge. We have to move away from that culture. ”If you put tickets online on first-come-first-serve basis, there will be some 10,000 people who click at 12. After 12:05 pm, the entire system becomes redundant. The traffic for these high-priority games is huge, so everyone must get a fair opportunity.” When ESPNcricinfo accessed the website at 12:01 pm there was a queue of 5907 and it took our staffer 12 minutes to reach the top of the queue. After she selected her match of choice there was another queue of 931 where the waiting time was about two minutes. The whole transaction was completed in 15 minutes. While ticket sales for previous World T20s had commenced three to six months ahead of the event, the current edition has had a number of delays. The ICC had earlier refused to be drawn into any criticism of the ticketing process, stating it would be “inappropriate” to make comparisons. The organising committee member attributed the delay to a combination of factors, including the uncertainty over the status of Delhi as a venue. ”The schedule was launched only on December 19 (sic December 11), and only after that our work starts,” he said. “We have to start pricing separately for women’s games, men’s games, the semi-finals and final. Once the ticketing agency is finalised you will have to do backend mapping. Delhi has obviously been a contributing factor for the delay. Till 10 days ago I didn’t know if I had to push those games to some other venue.”
The official said other hosting nations in the past had been able to put tickets up for sale early because of the ICC announcing the fixtures “well in advance.” He also pointed to the logistical issues of hosting matches at eight venues - previous editions of the World T20 had only three venues. “As much as it looks like a T20 format, look at the complexity of the whole tournament. This is the first time we are doing women’s and men’s matches together, and we
have double-headers,” he said. However, the last three editions of the World T20 had men’s and women’s games together. While such delays hurt the travelling fan the most, the official said ticket sales were almost entirely driven by local public. “Look at this way, India as a destination … it has always been local sale which chews up into the entire volume than people coming from outside,” he said. “That’s not a reason [for the delay], but it’s a comfort in some way.” (ESPNcricinfo)
FIFA appeal panel... From page 27 by the Frenchman when he was a technical advisor for Blatter. The decision not to overturn the bans against the two highest-profile elected men in world soccer completes a shameful treble for the sport following the 12-year ban imposed on Jerome Valcke, who was sacked as FIFA’s secretary general last
month. Valcke, the man responsible for running FIFA’s day-to-day administration, was found guilty of misconduct over the sale of World Cup tickets, abuse of travel expenses, attempting to sell TV rights below their market value and destruction of evidence. The election to choose Blatter ’s successor takes place tomorrow. (Reuters)
Page 30
Kaieteur News
West Berbice Chamber of Commerce T20 extravaganza on this Sunday The West Berbice Chamber of Commerce (WBCC) in support of young cricketers and the development of Sports in Region 5 will be staging a one day T20 competition this Sunday at the C3 Recreational Park, Cotton Tree West Coast Berbice. An action packed day is anticipated featuring the four top teams from Berbice, Cotton Tree and D’Edward Combined, Blairmont and West Berbice Combined, Universal DVD Port Mourant and Young Warriors. Starting time is 09:00hrs, the winners of the two preliminary round matches will move on to the final. Admission to the venue is free while food and drinks will be on sale as the
organisers seek to raise much needed funds for the less fortunate. WBCC President, Imran Sacoor said he is delighted to be a part of this initiative since he believes that investment in youths represents investment for the future. The Chamber, he said welcomes the undertaking and urged residents to come out and support on Sunday. Sacoor noted that the WBCC will continue to support the development of communities within their purview. Interest partners and sponsors are being encouraged to support the initiative. For more information persons can call 592 328-7977, 687-9009 or email wbcic2015@gmail.com.
Thursday February 25, 2016
President: Franchises need to go further Dave Cameron
President of the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB), Dave Cameron is calling on the regional governments to assist the board in developing academies to ensure the future is good for West Indian cricket. While members of CARICOM have stated that they would like to see the current WICB dissolved, the president is saying that they have a plan for the development of West Indies cricket which is working but they need financial support from the regional governments to take things forward. Cameron said :”The WICB
has put in place a franchise system that will capture the best players. The next step is to build our academies within those franchises, but we need government support to make this a reality.” The WICB’s started the franchise system two years ago and according to Cameron it is already paying off. “Here we have a situation that instead of 15 players retained; we have another 90 at the territorial level who are coming through the franchise system. We are happy to see this development taking place at the franchise level but
we need to take it further.” The WICB has funded the franchise system for the past two years and will be doing it for another year. The money came from the new pay structure given to the senior players, as well as other cut backs. After the initial three years, the franchises will be on their own and they would have to find ways of attracting investors. Cameron said the franchise system has worked to improving the players and he thinks that 2017, the West Indies will have a Test team of which all can be proud. “I have said that 2017 is the year when we will have a Test Team to be proud of. I would like to see our best players play in our PCL, play CPL and those who can get a county contract in the United Kingdom so be it, and we have an ‘A’ team tour later this year. ”Our PCL season begins in November and we would be ready to determine those best fit to take us forward. We need to make sure that the players will last and that they are best suited when they are introduced. Think longer term.” The current PCL season enters its eight round this weekend with matches across the Caribbean. (Trinidad Guardian)
Second-half goals lift Queretaro past D.C. United Queretaro, Mexico - Substitute Yerson Candelo and Edgar Benitez scored in the final 20 minutes to give Queretaro a 2-0 victory over D.C. United in the first leg of their 2015-16 Scotiabank CONCACAF Champions League (SCCL) quarterfinal on Tuesday night. Tiago Volpi made eight saves for the host, which has yet to give up a goal in three all-time SCCL outings at the Estadio Corregidora. The 25year-old custodian was forced into three difficult interventions by United States international Steve Birnbaum. Queretaro won despite playing the final 59 minutes without the current tournament’s leading scorer Emmanuel Villa (6 goals), who departed with an apparent right leg injury. The Gallos Blancos can advance to the semifinals with a win, a draw or a one-goal loss in the second leg next week at Robert F. Kennedy Memorial Stadium. Candelo came on for Villa in the 31st minute. He scored 40 minutes later, reaching a
Queretaro’s Edgar Benitez (right) celebrates after scoring against visiting D.C. United. (PHOTO: MEXSPORT) partial clearance outside of the penalty area and ripping a swerving volley into the top right corner beyond Dykstra’s dive. The goal came after a steady run of D.C. chances. In the 60th minute, Taylor Kemp cut in from the left and curled a shot that sailed beyond Volpi’s dive, but struck the crossbar just above the right corner. Birnbaum was thwarted twice in quick succession during the 68th minute.
The first was on a downward header off Nick DeLeon’s long throw-in and then on a rebound effort that Volpi denied after springing speedily from the ground. Benitez made it 2-0 in the 83rd minute, when he raced onto Sinha’s through ball that looped over D.C. defender Sean Franklin to finish past a charging Dykstra. United’s SCCL scoring streak was snapped at 19 games. (CONCACAF)
Thursday February 25, 2016
Kaieteur News
Page 31
Dottin five-for derails FIFA appeal panel upholds but South Africa Women shortens Blatter, Platini bans Fifties from Hayley Matthews and Britney Cooper, followed by a five-wicket haul from fast bowler Deandra Dottin set up West Indies Women’s 16-run win against South Africa Women in East London. West Indies, opting to bat, lost their opener Shaquana Quintyne early, but a 56-run stand for the third wicket between Matthews and Dottin lifted the team past 100. Matthews topscored with 56, but both she and Dottin were trapped lbw by Sune Luus in quick succession, pegging the visitors back. Cooper, though, provided West Indies with much-needed impetus, stroking an unbeaten 55 off 66 balls, with six fours and a six. Cooper added 48 runs in the company of
Shemaine Campbelle, as West Indies ended with 214 for 7. South Africa’s opener Trisha Chetty made a steady start to the chase, scoring 47, but her dismissal in the 23rd over led to a slide, as quick blows from Dottin and Anisa Mohammed reduced the hosts to 120 for 7. Marizanne Kapp (69*) and Shabnim Ismail (34) put up a brief resistance, combining for a 70-run partnership, but Dottin and Quintyne eventually ran through the tail to bundle South Africa out for 198. Dottin was the pick of the bowlers with 5 for 34, her maiden five-wicket haul, while Quintyne and Anisa chipped in with two scalps apiece. (ESPNcricinfo)
First phase of World T20 ticket sales begins The ICC has begun the sale of tickets for the World T20 in India on its website, with less than two weeks for the event to begin. The first phase of the sale, which went live at 12 pm IST yesterday, made tickets available for matches in Bangalore, Chennai, Dharamsala, Kolkata and Mohali, but excluded those featuring India, the semi-finals and the final of the men’s and women’s events. According to a BCCI release, the second phase of the sale - for matches in Mumbai, Delhi and Nagpur - will be announced soon. Tickets for seven “highly sought after” matches - four India games, the semi-finals and the final will be sold online through a lottery system, where buyers need to indicate their preferred match after registering themselves. They will then be moved to a draw where the winners will be chosen through an automated process following which they will receive a payment link to complete the booking. The window to reg-
The tickets for India matches and the knockout games will be made available through a lottery system © Getty Images ister for the lottery will be open only for seven days from February 25. Only two tickets can be pur-
chased per person for India matches, the semi-finals and the final, while for other (Continued on page 25)
FIFA’s appeal committee has upheld bans on longtime President Sepp Blatter and European soccer head Michel Platini for ethics violations but reduced them to six years from eight, it said yesterday. ”The FIFA Appeal Committee, chaired by Larry Mussenden (Bermuda), has partially confirmed the decisions taken by the adjudicatory chamber of the independent Ethics Committee on 17 and 18 December 2015 regarding Joseph S. Blatter and Michel Platini respectively, whose bans have been reduced from eight to six years,” it said in a statement. The committee said that the contribution of both men to soccer over the years should have been taken into account as a mitigating factor, but applied them only in reducing the length of the
Sepp Blatter (left) and Michel Platini. Reuters/Ruben Sprich/Files ban. The only remaining route of appeal for Blatter, who is 80 next month, and Platini, 60, is with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in Lausanne. Blatter and Platini were banned over a payment of 2 million Swiss francs ($2.03
million) made to the Frenchman in 2011 by FIFA with Blatter’s approval for work done a decade earlier. Blatter and Platini claimed the payment honored a verbal or gentleman’s agreement made in 1998 for work carried out (Continued on page 29)
Page 32
Kaieteur News
Thursday February 25, 2016
FIFA urges members to approve term limits, other reforms to regain trust
FIFA Exco during their meeting
FIFA urged its members yesterday to vote through reforms this week including term limits for top officials and disclosure of their earnings, in a bid to rebuild trust in soccer’s governing body. The federation will hold a congress tomorrow and vote on a set of reforms it has drawn up to get its house in order after an unprecedented graft scandal that has engulfed its top officials and seen dozens indicted in the United States. ”The eyes of the world are on us this week after one of the most challenging times in our history,” acting FIFA president Issa Hayatou told its executive committee, according to a statement from the organization yesterday. ”The approval of the reforms will send a strong message that we have listened and that we are taking the action necessary to regain trust and improve our performance.” FIFA will choose a new president at an Extraor-
dinary Congress tomorrow to replace Swiss Sepp Blatter, who has been suspended for six years for ethics violations. Five candidates are standing in the election. The congress will also vote on reform proposals including 12-year term limits for senior officials and the replacement of the executive committee with a new FIFA Council. The proposals must be approved by 75 percent of voting members to be implemented and included in revised statutes. One clause in the draft statutes states that “the individual compensation of the FIFA President, the members of the Council and the FIFA Secretary General shall be made public.” The new FIFA Council, with 36 members instead of 27, would be larger than the current committee and would take a purely strategic role. There must be at least six women on the council, one for each continental confederation. Commercial decisions such as the awarding of broadcast rights would be made by a separate general secretariat. The new statutes would also place a great onus on member federations and the
six continental confederations to police themselves, which is considered a key element in cleaning up the game. ”Each of these measures is critical for the future of FIFA and global football,” said Hayatou. ”We urge each of the member associations to support the reforms in full, and then to implement them in their entirety at home. It is a collective responsibility we have for football,” The committee also recommended that tomorrow’s congress delay any decision on Kuwait and Indonesia, who are currently suspended and cannot vote. This means that 207 federations, rather than 209, would be able to vote. Acting FIFA secretary general Markus Kattner told the committee that the soccer world governing body’s current financial situation was “challenging” although the statement did not give further details. The agenda for the meeting also included an item on the creation of an advisory board to help with the reform process. However, this was not mentioned in the postmeeting statement and FIFA could not immediately be reached for comment. (Reuters)
Thursday February 25, 2016
Kaieteur News
Page 33
West Side Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Futsal...
Showstoppers go one step better this year, beat Gunners for title; Harmony Ballers finish third Urged on by a capacity crowd that completely overwhelmed visiting supporters, last year’s beaten finalist Pouderoyen. Showstoppers erased a 10 deficit to clinch the West Side Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Futsal Competition after beating Shattaville Gunners 4-1 in the final on Tuesday, at the Pouderoyen Tarmac. Finding themselves trailing following a long range missile from Marvin Henry after twenty-nine minutes in the opening period, the host first had to ensure that they did not fall further behind and went to the break, trailing the visitors by the lone goal. The start of the second period clearly signaled that the discussions during the break centered on a change in strategy as they attacked
with menace, but poor finishing kept the Gunners clinging to their marginal lead. However, that changed seven minutes into the period when Dexroy Adams, who was among the culprits that missed easy opportunities, made amends for his earlier lapses when he booted in from close range to level the scores. Vi s i b l y t h e m o r e organised of the two teams, Showstoppers continued their relentless attacking forays and the prolific Marvin Josiah, who just like Adams had muffed a few chances, was able to captilise on a defensive blunder to hit past the last stop in the 55 minute for a 2-1 lead, sending their supporters into wild celebrations. Adams and Josiah working beautifully in tandem continued to torment the
Part of the action in the final between eventual winners Pouderoyen Showstoppers and Shattaville Gunners on Tuesday.
th
Gunners backline that had begun to forge forward in search of the equaliser and that left them vulnerable for counter attacks which was skillfully exploited by
Showstoppers as Adams weaved past one defender on the break and he finished with aplomb in the 59 to complete a brace. With time running out, the th
Fitness Express/GAPF Novice C/ship for Berbice on Sunday
Gunners charged forward in numbers and again was penalised for that recklessness as Josiah returned to match his teammate after sliding in a pass from centre-field that provided the final nail in the Gunners coffin and secure the top prize that had eluded them last year. The victory was a good result for a team that was a model of consistency throughout the 2016 campaign to date and now places them in the national playoffs along with beaten finalist Shattaville Gunners. In the playoff for third place, Harmony Ballers led by a double from Kevin Richards, who netted in the 3 and 36 minute and a single strike from Vernon Munroe in the 7 coasted to a comfortable 3-0 triumph over Brothers United. rd
th
th
The winning team carted off $300,000 and trophy, while 2 , 3 and 4 placed finishers took away $200,000, $100,000 and $50,000 respectively along with trophies. Among the other sponsors on board were Trophy Stall and Colours Boutique. Meanwhile, two lucky fans were able to win a Guinness Cooler each compliments of the main sponsor Banks DIH. The night’s full results: Final - Shattaville Gunners-1 vs Showstoppers-4. Showstoppers Scorers, Dexroy Adams-37 and 59 , Marvin Josiah-55 and 60 . Shattaville Gunners Scorers, Marvin Henry-29 . Third Place Playoff Brothers United-0 vs Harmony Ballers-3: Kevin Richards-3 and 36 , Vernon Munroe-7 . nd
rd
th
th
th
th
th
t h
rd
th
th
Stag/GFA Premier League...
Fitness Express Manager/Owner Jamie Mc Donald (right) hands over sponsorship cheque to GAPF PRO Roger Callender. Longtime corporate supporter of powerlifting, Fitness Express of Sheriff and John Streets, Campbellville has maintained their partnership with the Guyana Amateur Powerlifting Federation (GAPF) which is now being led by Ed Caesar who has taken over from Peter Green. In a press release, the federation informed that Fitness Express is one of the main sponsors of the Clash of Novice which is set for the Rosignol Primary School on Sunday lifting off at 11:00hrs.
Male and female athletes from the Ancient County and the City are expected to exhibit their strength with the aim of outmuscling each other. Manager/Owner of Fitness Express Jamie McDonald expressed gratitude at being able to continue sponsorship of this important event in the powerlifting calendar. He noted that his company has been supportive of the sport which has continuously done Guyana proud over the years. Mc Donald pledged Fitness Express’ continued support for the
sport. GAPF PRO Roger Callender who accepted the cheque expressed thanks to McDonald for his entity’s continued commitment to powerlifting. Weigh-in time on Sunday is 09:00hrs while admission is $200.00. The new GAPF Executive: President – Ed Caesar, Vice President Abdul Farouk, General Secretary Shellon Nicholas, Public Relations Officer / Organising Secretary - Roger Callender, Treasurer - Delton Gillis. Committee Members: Martin Webster, Andrea Smith, Erwyn Smith.
Double header on today at GFC; Western Tigers & Santos win Play in the Stag sponsored Georgetown Football Association (GFA) Premier League is set to continue this evening at the GFC ground with a double header. Riddim Squad will match skills with Police in opening play at 18:30hrs while Camptown will square off against Beacon in the night capper. Meanwhile, in latest play, Western Tigers on the back of a hat-trick from
Randolph Wagner in the 45 , 75 and 90 minute defeated Flamingo 3-0 while Santos needled Northern Rangers c o m p l i m e n t s o f Ry a n Hackett’s 2 minute effort. th
th
th
nd
Page 34
Kaieteur News
Sans Souci Jaguars claim Banks DIH/Virgin Promotion T10 title
Thursday February 25, 2016
Jets gear for C/ship flight at Mecca III
FILE PHOTO: Sans Souci Jaguars after they won a tournament in December 2015. Sans Souci Jaguars defeated G Square Cavaliers of Belle Plaine by four runs to win the final of the Banks D I H / Vi r g i n P r o m o t i o n s T 1 0 tournament on Sunday in Wakenaam. Sans Souci Jaguars posted 115-3, batting first in front of a large crowd at the Wakenaam Community Centre ground in Good Success. Nokta Moses struck 63 while Siddiq Mohamed made 37. G Square Cavaliers responded with 111-5. Kamal
Khan got 37 and Jaggernauth Manbodh 27; Beesham Moses claimed 2-15. Jaguars beat Sans Souci by five runs in their semi final encounter. Nokta Moses slammed 50; Wayne Osbourne had 1-15. Sans Souci replied with 97-1. Osbourne cracekd 45 and Roopnarine Persaud 38; Beesham Moses had 1-20. G Square Cavaliers got the better of Maria’s Pleasure by seven wickets in their match up. Maria’s Pleasure
managed 83-4, taking first strike. Marsh Singh got 22; Lokram Narine took 2-15. Cavaliers scored 84-3 in nine overs in response. Kamal Khan made 37 and D. Scott 23. Leorayan Ramlakhan had 1-12. In the opening fixtures, Good Success lost to Jaguars while Cavaliers beat Zeelandia. Jaguars collected a trophy and $100,000 and Cavaliers a trophy and $30,000. Nokta Moses was named the most valuable player and man-of-the-match in the final.
Albert guides Zone C to EBSC T20 title Vivian Albert turned in a commendable performance to guide Zone C to 46-run victory over Zone B when the final of the Enterprise Busta Sports Club T20 competition was contested on Sunday at the East Coast Demerara venue. Skipper Albert struck an unbeaten 62 to lead Zone C to a respectable 144-5, batting first. He then
returned with the ball to capture 2-24 to help bowl out Zone B for 98 in 18.2 overs. Pacer Rameez Khan uprooted the stumps of Mankad Balkishun (00) while Dave Persaud sent back Ravindra Beepat (06) and Pradesh Balkishun (07) to reduce Zone C to 26-3. However, Albert anchored the innings with levelheaded batting, sharing in
useful partnerships of 26 for the fourth-wicket with Leon Prescott (14) and 47 for the fifth wicket with Lakeram Dindyal (16). Davenanand Persaud provided some support down the order scoring a run-a-ball 15 not out. Albert slammed three fours and four sixes as Persaud finished with 2-20 while there was one each for
The victorious Zone C team with their hardware.
Khan and Bishram Samaroo. Persaud and B. Khemraj added 19 for the opening stand before Amar Kishore removed Persaud for eight while Khemraj was taken off Lakeram Dindyal for 12 to leave Zone B at 34-2. Rohan Mangal provided some resistance, hitting three fours in scoring 29, but when he was removed by Albert, the rest of the batting crumbled against some tidy bowling. No other batsman managed to reach double figures; Pradesh Balkishun was the pick of the bowlers with 3-16 while Kishore and Dave Persaud claimed two each. Albert was named man-of-the-match and best batsman while Balkishun took the best bowler prize. Earlier, Zone C and D Combined overcame Zone A and B in a female 10-over affair. Zone C and D batted first and posted 105-5. Bibi Shaneeza Ulla got 31 and Cynthia Rampersaud 27. Amanda Persaud took 2-17. Zone C and D responded with 106-1 in seven overs. Fanta Lakeram struck 44, Vidya Persaud 28 not out and Shivanie Singh 17. (Zaheer Mohamed)
Kevin Joseph
Parish Cadogan
By Edison Jefford Amelia’s Ward Jets is gearing for a Championship take off at the upcoming National Basketball Championships: The Road to Mecca III, hoping that the journey will help them reclaim the aura and status of being labelled one of the leading clubs in Guyana. Currently ranked fourth according to the Linden Amateur Basketball Association (LABA) within that sub-association, Jets is putting together a roster that it hopes will give them a shot at the title, which no Linden team has won since the 2014 inception of the National Club Championship. “Basically, I think we got a better chance this time around because we have a better team,” Jets’ Coach, Kevin ‘Two Feet’ Joseph told Kaieteur Sport yesterday, adding that he will not give the names of some of the players he has added to the team. Notwithstanding, experienced pilots for Jets include the tough Webster brothers: Alister, Adrian and Joel in the front court; Parish Cadogan, Neil Simon and Orin Rose in the back court. Joseph informed that he has others he does not wish to name now. “I have two good
Orin Rose
Neil Simon guards,” was all he was prepared to divulge. However, Joseph indicated that he is not only looking at getting past the first round, which begins on March 4, but he is looking at a long flight to the national title, which would be duly historic. The reality of Jets’ goal to win the title will not only (Continued on page 29)
Thursday February 25, 2016
Kaieteur News
Page 35
CALVIN MING PUTTING GUYANA ON THE MAP IN FORMULA CAR RACING Calvin Ming continues to keep Guyana’s flag flying winning his first two Formula 1600 races in succession to begin his 2016 season driving for the K-Hill Motorsport team in the Sebring Florida Atlantic Championship series. The young Ming is rapidly putting Guyana’s motor racing on the map in North America pioneering his entry into Formula 1600 and Formula 4 to build a single seater racing career; having raced as Guyana’s Go-Kart Champion virtually unbeaten for a number of years and winning on the Go-Kart circuit in the US before graduating last year to Formula Racing. In December, last year, Ming, in his first Formula 4 Championship Race in the Norteamerica, Centroamerica, Caribe y Norte de Sudamerica (NACAM series) in Mexico, won the best Rookie driver award, placing 9th and then 7th in the qualifying round of the competition and going on to finish 4th in his first Formula 4 Championship Race. Last month, Ming, took on and conquered the cream
Calvin Ming beside his Formula 4 machine. of Caribbean motorsport at the Bushy Park, Barbados, international race circuit’s introduction of the single seater Suzuki Radical Championship series where he demolished his competition whilst breaking the lap record previously held by Barbadian Champion Driver, Sean Maloney, in a practice session. Ming is currently in Mexico with his manager
and dad Stanley, preparing for the 3rd of the Formula 4 NACAM Race Series and then on to compete in a GoKart Championship in North Carolina. He will return to Barbados to compete again over the May 7 -8 weekend in the Suzuki Challenge Series Swift Cup which will feature in the Barbados Festival of Speed in celebrating the Island’s th
th
50 Anniversary of Independence. The Barbados Festival of Speed will attract international attention with World Champion Formula 1 driver, Lewis Hamilton t h
participating at the wheel of his Formula 1 Grand Prix car. It is expected that a large contingent of Guyanese motor racing fans will travel to Barbados for the event and that arrangements are in train
for a charter flight to make this possible. Meantime, speculation is rife that Hamilton may decide himself to race in the Suzuki Challenge Series Swift Cup.
t r o Sp Deandra Dottin celebrates ©ICC
Dottin five-for derails South Africa Women
FILE PHOTO: Hayley Matthews scored 56 off 68 balls, with eight fours © Cricket Australia.
West Side Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Futsal...
Showstoppers go one step better this year, beat Gunners for title; Harmony Ballers finish third
Banks DIH representative Tony Ramcharran (3rd left) hands over the first prize money and trophy to Showstoppers Captain Marvin Josiah in the presence of Guinness Brand Manager Lee Baptiste (left), Outdoor Events Manager Mortimer Stewart (right) and teammates.
Printed and published by National Media & Publishing Company Limited, 24 Saffon St.Charlestown, Georgetown.Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491 or Fax: 225-8473/ 226-8210