Kaieteur News

Monday February 29, 2016

Kaieteur News

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That document should Some interesting facts not have been leaked on the Post Office

DEAR EDITOR, I am amazed that so far no government official or anyone from the PPP or WPA has questioned who leaked the COI Report on the death of Walter Rodney. However, top functionaries including President David Granger, his predecessor Donald Ramotar, and former Attorney General Anil Nandlall have commented on the findings of the report. It is totally wrong for a official document to find its way to the press before it is officially released by the authorities. What is baffling so far is that not a single person has publicly criticized the leak. According to the media, the lengthy report was handed to the Attorney General’s secretary on instructions since the President was unavailable to personally receive it from the Chairman of the Commission Sir Richard Cheltenham, QC. Despite the critical statements, the Report is not yet an official document, because it has not been laid

in Parliament or officially announced as having been presented. This is a sad state of affair since Rodney was assassinated on March 13, 1980 and there was no Inquest for several years. It was not until 1988 after the historian’s widow addressed a sorrowing letter to the then President Desmond Hoyte followed by a protest from a group called Woman in Guyana accompanied by a petition which was delivered by Rodney’s mother that a Inquest was held and the finding that the death was by misadventure was deemed as flawed by the International Court of Justice (ICJ). Shaka, son of the deceased, later held a fast and vigil which prompted murder charge to be laid against Gregory Smith who was residing in Cayenne French Guiana and the then Chief Magistrate K. KumanYassin ordered he be extradited to Guyana. There was a problem there because French government did not extradite to countries where

there is death penalty. When the PPP took over the government in 1992 Cheddi Jagan as President threw cold water on the issue stating what a conviction and imprisonment would do to the Rodneys. He then conferred the country’s highest award, Order of Excellence (OE) posthumously on him. Gregory Smith died in 2002 from stomach cancer in Cayenne. The Cheltenham Commission which was set up only two years ago, and 34 years after the death of Dr. Rodney, costs the taxpayers tens of millions, if not, hundreds of millions - a fantastic sum which according to President Granger could be used to build ten schools; Rodney’s widow is not pleased with the findings of the 1988 Inquest that the death was by misadventure and wants a closure to her husband’s death which brought enormous grief to her, her children, Dr.Rodney’s mother, his siblings, close relatives, and friends Oscar Ramjeet

THE JUSTICE SYSTEM IS ROTTEN IN GUYANA DEAR EDITOR, Everyday, there are countless administrative mistakes that are made or go unchecked which results in an unfair trial and innocent people going to jail. It is a justice system that has become one in which you simply cannot afford not to pay a bribe. It’s the only way to stand a fair chance. Corruption occurs at every single stage of our socalled justice system. It occurs in police stations, in lawyers offices, in the courts and in prisons. There are many cases where corruption is the sole reason why a person is detained in the first place. It also affects their ability to have fair access to the justice system and to access their most basic human rights whilst in detention, even affecting their ability to stay safe from harm.From the start, the police misuse and abuse their power to arrest people and frighten them into paying bribes. This illegal practice continues to be carried out throughout the rest of the justice system, with bribes needing to be paid at every single stage, as I have witnessed. This has resulted in many people being jailed innocently or are serving

longer sentences than fit their crime. This cannot be allowed to continue. This is breaking our society; our people know there is nowhere to turn to get justice. The very system that is in place to ensure fairness and equality is the system that ensures that poor, innocent people are being criminalised and victimised. There are no human rights in Guyana. The criminals know that they can commit their crimes and pay their way out of jail. A society that cannot ensure justice for its people is a society that offers no hope. And we wonder why our suicide rate is so high. There are minors being held in lock-up without the aid of social services. The looks on their faces says it all. It’s heartbreaking.President Granger, we urgently need to clean up the entire justice system from top to bottom. Only then will you be able to deliver on the changes you promised our people. Over the years, the PPP have stifled the citizens of Guyana of the knowledge of their basic human rights. We need to educate our people on their legal rights and obligations, and more importantly, we need to arm

them with the knowledge of their basic human rights. New leadership within the police force is a must. President Granger. I also feel it necessary that the poorer and more vulnerable people are provided with legal aid should they require it. We need a zero-tolerance approach with adequate consequences and/or punishments handed down to those within the justice system who are proven to be corrupted. These simple steps, I believe will be a good start towards rectifying our justice system, thus, providing equal rights for all citizens, not just the rich. Dale Shaka Kalamazad

DEAR EDITOR, I wish to respond to the reply from GPOC of Feb 23, and Lydia Persaud’s letter of Feb 21, in relation to Birth/ Death Certificates for applicants. When I saw the GPOC reply I went back and confirmed that Ms Persaud obviously knew the system and was very accurate in her complaint/analysis. Yes the GPOC is an integral part of the system. I may have briefly referred to this before but some persons may not know of all the facts, unfortunately, apparently including the GPOC. During the decade of the 80’s the General Register Office (GRO) was assisted by the then Guyana Management Institute (GMI) to develop the new Birth Certificate System. They came to the PMG, of George Doris to discuss our assistance. The GMI/GRO team was led by Ms Edwards and the GPOC team by me. After discussion, we agreed to what came to be called by the GPOC, “The GRO/Postcode System”. An internal GPOC circular was sent out to every Post Office setting out the SOP. Surely someone up there can find that circular? Or ask. That SOP included the GPOC placing one of their staff (paid by GRO) in the GRO office, at least three transmittal bags for each Postal Facility, a code for each Post Office and a, then , three week maximum time for Certificates. Applicants were to go to their district PO and hand in the application. The

PM then placed the applications in the GRO bag, sent it directly to the Postal Clerk in the GRO who ensured that it was properly coded and passed to the GRO staff for processing. The Certificate was handed by GRO staff to the GPOC clerk who sent it to the correct PO in a return bag for delivery to the original applicant. If for some reason the Certificate was not found/ processed, an appropriate note was enclosed in the bag for the PM to tell the applicant and perhaps get more information and return for another search. That system worked well up to when I retired and migrated in 1991. Persons familiar will know why the system was manipulated and possibly changed to suit other agendas. It includes the total removal of anything suggesting the use or involvement of ‘retired’ Postal Staff in developing the GPOC. I personally recommended, unsuccessfully, over a year ago, a Banks DIH type brunch for retired staff and interaction with senior staff at that brunch to pass on critical knowledge/mentoring. On another note, last

week, PMG Doris had a final sendoff. I saw many retired/ past Post Office employees from all levels and with hundreds of years total experience interacting and showing respect to one of their own. As the first Welfare Officer (retired) asked “You mean even the Welfare Officer didn’t show”? A previous PIRO chimed in that if she were to be there she will fire some of them! Of course this was consistent with the same behavior as when the GPTWU held a function in memory of Selwyn Felix and the GPOC management team was no show also. An interesting aside is that Postal and Telegraph Clerk, George Doris was among the first three Post Office Training School Instructors under Coordinator, JHV Craig in the sixties. Perhaps fittingly (with his family’s agreement, belatedly) The PO Training School can now be renamed “The George Doris Training School”. Finally as I told a senior management functionary, the Minister needs to take steps to help the GPOC get back to the basics to L.A. Camacho

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Kaieteur News

Monday February 29, 2016

CH&PA was never required Army Intelligence rank struck to implement IFMAS Two weeks later…

by bus still unconscious

Two weeks after he was struck by a speeding minibus on Church Street, Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Army Intelligence rank, Sergeant Selwyn Woodroffe is showing signs of improvement after being in a critical condition for more than a week. Woodroffe, 36, of Crane, West Coast Demerara was struck by the route 45 minibus driven by Leon Kyte, of Lot 222 Lamaha Street, Kitty on February 13. He was picked up and admitted to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPCH) in a critical state. The Sergeant’s wife, Gaynell Woodroffe confirmed with Kaieteur News yesterday that her husband is still in an unconscious state. She, however, said that he is no longer critical and is showing signs of improvement. The wife explained that he is making attempts to move his body. Sergeant Woodroffe has been removed from the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and placed in the recovery room. Mrs. Woodroffe extended gratitude to the nurses and doctors of the hospital and to everyone that extended

Bus Driver: Leon Kyte

GDF Sergeant Selwyn Woodroffe

support during this time of need. She is optimistic about her husband making a full recovery soon. Sergeant Woodroffe, a father of two, has over 12 years of service in the GDF. Sergeant Woodroffe was reportedly crossing Church Street, in the vicinity of Guyana Stores when tragedy struck. He is seconded to the Intelligence Unit’s Military Criminal Department and was on active duty at the time. The bus driver was detained briefly. Kaieteur News was unable to ascertain if he was charged. Last December 30, the life

of Army Intelligence rank, Sergeant Robert Pyle was lost following a vehicular collision on Carifesta Avenue. Pyle’s wife, Stacy and truck driver, Linden Eastman were also killed during a head-on collision with Pyle’s Toyota Premio and the truck Eastman was driving. It was reported that Sergeant Pyle, who was part of the Special Organized Crime Unit (SOCU) was pursuing another vehicle when he lost control and collided with the truck. The GDF later confirmed that Sergeant Pyle was deployed on a legitimate operation in support of SOCU when he crashed.

UG officials refute gang-rape story University of Guyana officials have refuted a report that a female student was gang-raped on campus, stating instead that the alleged victim was in fact intoxicated. The UG Public Relations Department was responding to a Guyana Chronicle article, published on February 27, last, which claimed that the student, after being raped, was escorted to the campus medic where she was treated for injuries she sustained from the assault. However, in a statement issued yesterday, the university said that on

- say female student was intoxicated February 26, last, a female student was taken to the medical centre on the Turkeyen campus and it was subsequently discovered that she was under the influence of alcohol. “Investigations by the University of Guyana Administration have not revealed any basis to conclude or suspect that she was sexually assaulted as alleged in the article,” the statement said. According to the statement, the University places a high priority on the safety and security of its

members and visitors to the campus. It is also pursuing several measures to enhance security on campus. Contacted yesterday, a source at the Turkeyen Police Station said that they too have not received any reports of anyone being raped at the institution. According to the article, a UG staffer said that he overheard the young men, who committed the act, joking and describing what they did vividly. Once they were finished with their victim, they escorted her to the medic to be treated. The staffer claimed that his recommendation, for having routine and unplanned checks in secluded areas at the campus, fell on deaf ears.

Former Housing Minister, Irfaan Ali is refuting claims that he allowed the accounts of the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) to be run on a manual system. He went on to categorically state that CH&PA was never required to implement the Integrated Finance Management and Accounting System (IFMAS). IFMAS was purchased some ten years ago by the former regime so that it could enhance the systems used to manage and properly account for billions of taxpayers’ moneys. IFMAS was intended to replace all manual systems of accounting by the State. It was felt that the “pencil and paper” system of accounting allowed for too many loopholes for corrupt practices. IFMAS was essentially intended to be a tool for checkmating various forms of financial corruption with taxpayers’ moneys. But after spending $132M to secure the Canadian system of accounting evidence seen by this newspaper shows that Ali was not making use of it. In fact, he allowed the accounts system of the Central Housing and Planning Authority to operate in a “pencil and paper” manner. This would appear to be rather suspicious to some persons given Ali’s respected background in finance. At one time, he even served in the Ministry of Finance and has on more than one occasion boasted of his knowledge in best practices in accounting. Ali’s comments totally contradict statements from reliable Government sources which tell another story. According to reliable sources, Board Members of the Central Housing and Planning Authority held recently, a meeting to address a number of matters, one of which includes the system of accounting at CH&PA. This entity operated as the main arm of what was formerly known as the Housing Ministry. Members of the Board were disappointed in the fact that the accounting system for the Housing Authority

– Irfaan Ali was manual and hoped for provision to be made for the implementation of a structured computerized software package. In response to this revelation, Ali told Kaieteur News yesterday that CH&PA is a semi-autonomous agency that operates its own independent accounting system. He said that CH&PA utilized Acc Pac which he said is a computerized accounting system to maintain records of all allottees. He explained that the Acc Pac system is integrated with the Land Management System that allows for greater efficiency and accountability. “The IFMAS accounting system was never intended to be an accounting solution for the CH&PA, as the Sunday article is falsely portraying.” He said that it is a known fact that the CH&PA is a semiautonomous agency that kept its own bank accounts, hence, its own accounting system. CH&PA’s former Director of Finance, Taslim Baksh, has disappeared since the May 11, 2015 General and Regional Elections and the CEO Myrna Pitt never explained his absence to the new board. Baksh was also charged with overseeing the operations of the Scrap Metal Unit, which was tasked with regulating the scrap metal trade. In 2014, this newspaper reported that Government was wasting assets and was not doing enough to prevent fraud in the national accounting system. This came about because the Ministry of Finance failed to implement two of the seven modules it had acquired for the Integrated Financial Management Accounting System. The two modules that are not being used are the Purchasing Module and the Assets Inventory Module. A senior officer of the Canadian company that designed the IFMAS said that he is unaware of any case where a government bought the system and did not use all of the modules. Doug Hadden, Vice President of Sales, said that while Governments are treated with a sense of privacy, he would advise that all the modules be used.

Former Housing Minister, Irfaan Ali Asked whether the system was designed for mature or small environments, he said it was designed for “the immature to the very mature”. “We have implemented this system in countries with a far less mature environment than Guyana has.” Hadden said that when it comes to the management of taxpayers’ dollars, accountability is of absolute importance. He said that it has been proven that manual systems which are in place to ensure accountability can be flawed and beaten. To help ensure transparency and liability, his company designed the computerized accounting system, IFMAS, which covers how taxpayers’ money is budgeted and spent by the government. He said that at this point the system is designed exclusively for governments and is implemented throughout the world. He said that the modules provide better control over what was spent, how it was spent, who is assigned to the asset acquired and what has become of its value. He stressed that all the modules are important and should be implemented. While the Government of Guyana has refused to implement the other two modules, Hadden says that it may very well be the case that the modules were implemented in a manner that suits the “priorities of the government.” Hadden reiterated, “The whole purpose of the IFMAS is to replace manual systems with automation for accountability and transparency.” The current administration is in the process of evaluating how it is going to proceed with the IFMAS programme.

Monday February 29, 2016

Kaieteur News

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India, U.S. closer to pact to share military logistics – officials Reuters - India and the United States are closing in on an agreement to share military logistics after 12 years of talks, officials said, a sign of strengthening defence ties between the countries as China becomes increasingly assertive. The United States has emerged as India’s top arms source after years of dominance by Russia, and holds more joint exercises with it than any other country. It is in talks with New Delhi to help build its largest aircraft carrier in the biggest military collaboration to date, a move that will bolster the Indian navy’s strength as China expands its reach in the Indian Ocean. After years of footdragging by previous governments over fears that the logistics agreement would draw India into a binding commitment to support the United States in war, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s administration has signalled a desire to move ahead with the Logistics Support Agreement (LSA). That would allow the two militaries to use each other’s land, air and naval bases for resupplies, repair and rest, officials said. Admiral Harry Harris,

Narendra Modi

Admiral Harry Harris

head of the U.S. Navy’s Pacific Command, said the two sides were working on the LSA, another agreement called the CISMOA for secure communications when the militaries operate together, and a third on exchange of topographical, nautical, and aeronautical data. “We have not gotten to the point of signing them with India, but I think we’re close,” Harris, due in India this week, told the U.S. House Armed Services Committee on Wednesday. The progress comes as the countries consider joint maritime patrols that a U.S. official said could include the

South China Sea, where China is locked in a territorial dispute with Vietnam, the Philippines and Taiwan among others. Both sides, though, said there were no immediate plans for such patrols, which drew strong condemnation from Beijing. An Indian government official said the main impediment to signing the LSA had been cleared, after Washington gave an assurance that New Delhi was not bound by it if the U.S. went to war with a friendly country or undertook any other unilateral action that New Delhi did not support.

“It has been clarified that it will be done on a case-tocase basis; it’s not automatic that either side will get access to facilities in the case of war,” the official familiar with the negotiations said. India’s previous centreleft government was worried the agreements would undermine India’s strategic autonomy and that it would draw it into an undeclared military alliance with the United States. Concerns linger over the proposed communications agreement, with some branches of the military including the air force fearing it would allow the United States to access their communications network. U.S. officials said they hoped that once the logistics agreement was signed, the others would follow. A U.S. defence industry source engaged in business in India said there were expectations the LSA could be sealed by the time U.S. Defense Secretary Ash Carter visited New Delhi in April. The source said Modi’s office was directly involved in the matter and actively considering the agreements as a key for enhanced cooperation. India has been alarmed by

Chinese naval forays into the Indian Ocean and its involvement in maritime infrastructure on island nations that it traditionally considered its back yard. It has moved to shore up naval forces and build defence ties with Japan and Vietnam, besides the United States. “There is growing

convergence between Obama’s Asia pivot and Modi’s Act East policy,” said Saroj Bishoyi, an expert on the proposed India-U.S. collaboration at the government-funded Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses in New Delhi. “The LSA currently appears to be a doable agreement.”

JLP’s Razor-Thin Majority could be a problem Political Analyst The Gleaner - Political analyst Richard Crawford says the Jamaica Labour Party’s (JLP) razor-thin majority is likely to have serious implications for governance of the country. Crawford was speaking to the Gleaner-Power 106 News Centre yesterday morning against the background of the official count which returned Dr Winston Green as MP for South East St Mary, further reducing the JLP’s majority to a one seat advantage over the People’s National Party (PNP). The JLP now has 32 seats and the PNP 31. According to Crawford, if the JLP’s extremely slim majority is maintained it could seriously hamper the passage of critical policies and legislation that are important to the administration of the country’s affairs. He adds that it will also impact on the country’s relationship with key foreign counterparts. Crawford says the recount could also result in court battles that would be equally bad for the fragile state of the economy at this time.

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Kaieteur News

Monday February 29, 2016

Bolivian prosecutor Syria rebels say attacks by army orders president’s and Russian planes threaten truce ex-girlfriend jailed La Paz (AFP) - A Bolivian prosecutor yesterday ordered President Evo Morales’s exgirlfriend to be held in a public jail, saying she was a flight risk as she faces a string of corruption charges. Gabriela Zapata, 28, is a senior manager at the local office of Chinese engineering group CAMC, which has won several contracts for large construction projects in Bolivia. Zapata faces charges of money laundering, embezzlement and abuse of influence, said prosecutor Edwin Blanco. Blanco said that jail was justified because there was evidence that Zapata was preparing to travel, and that unnamed government workers might “modify, hide and suppress documentation” relating to the case. Zapata used offices at the Ministry of the Presidency for personal meetings with foreign investors, in complicity with two unnamed employees. Blanco also said the

Gabriela Zapata probe showed that Zapata had income “that made it evident that there was suspicious economic activity.” Zapata was arrested Friday and initially held at a police station jail, the interior ministry said. She was formally charged on Saturday. Four government offices, including the Ministry of the Presidency and the Public Works Ministry, asked for Zapata’s arrest and warned that she was a flight risk.

Reuters - The Syrian opposition warned yesterday that attacks by the army, backed by Russian warplanes, threatened a U.S.Russian deal for a cessation of hostilities with collapse and endangered future peace talks. The agreement, which is in its second day and has drastically curbed violence but not stopped it entirely, is the first of its kind to be attempted in four years. In a letter to U.N. Secretary-General Ban Kimoon, the opposition said violations would undermine international efforts to guarantee the continuation of the truce and lead to the collapse of the UN-adopted political process. The Riyadh-based opposition body said Russian war planes yesterday staged 26 bombing raids on areas where rebel groups abiding by the truce were operating and accused Moscow of deploying cluster bombs on residential areas it alleged caused many civilian casualties. A Syrian military source on Saturday denied the army was violating the truce agreement. Russia’s defense

Residents work on fixing a damaged shop in the town of Darat Izza, province of Aleppo, Syria yesterday. REUTERS/Ammar Abdullah ministry declined to comment. Under the accord accepted by President Bashar al-Assad’s government and many of his foes, fighting should cease so that aid can reach civilians and talks can open to end a war that has killed more than 250,000 people and made 11 million homeless. The head of the Russian coordination center in Syria, Sergei Kuralenko, said the plan was holding “in general” but said there had been nine violations of the truce in the past 24 hours. Insurgents and the Britain-based Syrian

Observatory for Human Rights, which monitors the conflict, said war planes struck at least six towns and villages in west and north Aleppo and a village in the central Hama province. Warplanes believed to be Russian pounded the town of Teir Maalah, just north of the city of Homs, in the second round of bombing within a few hours of the strategic town that the army has tried to capture in the past to enter rebel held northern countryside of Homs province, insurgents said. Rebels said the attacks across Syria were more

intense than Saturday but still not as bad as those before the cessation of hostilities took effect. “We are awaiting the response of states to these violations, the situation is in the balance now and self restraint will not last long,” colonel Fares al Bayoush told Reuters. The Saudi-backed opposition group had earlier accused Russia of carrying out the strikes and said it would complain to the United Nations and countries backing the peace process but said it remained committed to the truce.

Monday February 29, 2016

Kaieteur News

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Walter Rodney was a victim of a malformed state The findings of the prematurely concluded Rodney Commission of Inquiry should not come as a surprise. Those findings are no different from what has long been known in Guyana: that Forbes Burnham and the then Guyana military were involved in the death of Dr. Walter Rodney. The premature end to the inquiry disallowed the Commissioners, all respected jurists, to probe deeper and to make rulings about who distributed guns to the enemies of the Working People’s Alliance, Rodney’s party. The fact that the Commission had to fold up its work so quickly precluded the continued cross- examination or recall of some witnesses. The Commission had deferred testimony from a former Crime Chief since they wanted to be able to question him on the totality of the evidence received rather than

calling him and then have to call him back to be questioned again on some evidence which would have been given subsequent to his first time on the stand. There have been, predictably, attempts to attack the credibility of the Commission. The Commission did explain, lengthily, the reasons for the adoption of flexibility in terms of the nature of evidence. Those explanations are now conveniently being ignored. The flexibility was necessary because of the lengthy duration between the death of Rodney and the convening of the Commission of Inquiry. But excuses have to be found and attempts made to discredit the report of the Commissioners and to impugn their integrity. Those are old political tricks that are practiced in Guyana. They fool no one. Laying the blame on state

violence is an attempt at whitewashing the findings of the Commission and reducing the effect of the impact of the findings of the COI on the reputation of Burnham and the PNC. It is an attempt to say that it is not the PNC or Burnham who were the problem but it was state violence. This is an attempt to exculpate the PNC and Burnham from blame for Rodney’s death. There will be more such attempts in the future. The problem is not simply state violence. Rodney’s death was caused by a state that was malformed. The state that killed Rodney was a specific type of state that has known no parallel either before or after – and this includes the socalled criminalized state that was said to have existed under the PPP. The state was a militarized state. There was no latent

Dem boys seh...

People talking and runnin When people realize that dem gun get ketch at something dem does run away. That is why Guyana got so much wanted men. All of dem do wha wickedness dem do and as soon as people start to zero in on dem, is sheer speed. Dem boys talk bout trawlers smuggling fuel to Guyana. De paper didn’t even come off de press when even fishing boats mek a run. By de time de authorities land fuh check, all dem fishing boat gone. Some of de people who been pun de shore tekking a drink see a sailor running to dem. Dem think something happen pun de boat. Is when de sailor tell dem wha happening people see men lef dem drink and run. Is a good thing de barman ask dem fuh pay in advance otherwise he woulda deh running behind dem too. And is not only dem running. De police closing in pun de people who kill Crum Ewing. Suddenly Donald people put out a statement that claim a policeman doing bad things. Dem call de policeman name and dem claim how dem got he pun tape. Dem boys want to know if dem got him on tape why dem ain’t send de tape to Seeall? That would be powerful evidence and dem ain’t got to put out a statement. And while all that going on Jagdeo quiet like if he tongue drop out. Then a drug man come out loud and clear and claim how he is a drug dealer. This was a

man who Uncle Sam did want but de law stop dem. Since then, de government change de law but de man come out and talking. He claim how CANU got people who big in de drug dealing. Dem boys always want to know how drugs does still pass through the airport and get ketch in Uncle Sam. De drugs does end up on de plane, according to this drug dealer but de man ain’t calling name. If he call name then he gun help bruck up de

gang. But all of that could be stopped if only de tax people visit all of dem who suddenly get rich. But Jagdeo mek nuff of dem tun dem face because he suddenly display some riches that he pay couldn’t give him. Rohee claim that he save every cent he wuk for from de day he start wuk but dem boys know that wid all he savings he couldn’t get so much money. Talk half and wait fuh more squealing.

external threat to the State. The Protocol of Port of Spain had neutralized any physical threat from Venezuela. Yet the military and paramilitary agencies of the State were being expanded. Why because force was needed to keep people in check. The state in Guyana was a subsidiary state. It was inferior to the ruling party. Public officials were required to swear loyalty to the ruling party. Party officials used to run roughshod over government ministries. The party card was more influential than academic qualifications in obtaining a job in the state sector. The party itself had declared itself superior and above the state. The state was an undemocratic state. Elections were blatantly and shamelessly rigged. The option for democratic change was therefore made nonexistent. Democratic expression was suppressed. Radio was exclusively controlled by the state. There were no private daily newspapers. Criticisms

of the government were muted and met with violent suppression. The state was an authoritarian state. There were similar states in Latin America. It was moving towards becoming a totalitarian state but this collapsed in 1985 when Burnham died. The state was in crisis. The PNC introduced two new industrial relations new concepts: redeployment and retrenchment. One meant that if you were an office worker you were transferred to do bluecollar work. The other was a nice way of telling you that you were dismissed. There was mass retrenchment and constructive dismissals through redeployment. The state had no food. Guyanese had long been accustomed to standing in lines for food items since the early 1970’s. But by the time Rodney returned to Guyana things had begun to get worse. The lines were longer and were for more items. Horse guards had to be deployed to control the

public. What is happening in Venezuela today is a joke to what Guyanese went through prior to and after Rodney’s death. The state was being emptied. Recently declassified documents by the United States point to the fact that the US embassy in Guyana was extremely concerned about the steep rise in non- immigrant visas in 1978, two years prior to the death of Walter Rodney. These documents suggested that the Canadians and British consulates were under similar pressure. There was a mass exodus of persons from Guyana in those days. Rodney’s death was not just about state violence. Violence was the means by which a deformed state propped itself up from threats. Rodney was a victim of malformed state, the PNC state of 1966.

Monday February 29, 2016

Kaieteur News

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AFTER ALMOST 50 YEARS…

Still a far way from true Independence By Kiana Wilburg Guyana has gained Independence from British rule for almost 50 years now. But upon reflection, is this all that Independence has come to signify? In fact, what has the country significantly gained since? What has it done with its freedom? What do Guyanese really have to celebrate for its 50th Independence Anniversary? These questions still haunt many of the country’s most knowledgeable minds. Kaieteur News interviewed a few of the nation’s leaders and this is their take on how things are.

Special Technical Advisor on Tertiary Education, Vincent Alexander Special Technical Advisor on Tertiary Education, Vincent Alexander: When one talks about Independence, one is talking about a nation becoming sovereign. This means that the nation is in a position to be the ultimate decision maker in relation to its affairs and that there should be no control by a third party over the decision making process or the decisions of that nation. That’s a classical definition of what Independence means. Now nothing is absolute and so independence is not absolute in its character. But the things that constrain or “circumscribe” your independence are things in which you can make a decision. Look at Cuba for example, which is highly independent but as a consequence of its high independence, it is under all sorts of pressures which impose hardships on the people of Cuba… Human beings are social, material and psychological and when one talks about independence we have to look at all of those things. The psychological element is that you are free and are to think for yourself. And through that psychological state, we have been able to do things for this country that have not been done before. Independence has brought us elements of

equality that we did not have. In the olden days, Britain determined who was going to be in the hierarchy of the civil service and you could not aspire to be there because that was there domain but it is no longer the case. Now there are more opportunities and there is an element of liberation. In the olden days our banking system was controlled by foreigners and we have gone through a process of independence and the banking system was transformed. Now you the GBTI, the Scotia Bank, the Republic Bank and this was unheard in those days. In that time it was Royal Bank and Barclays and in those banks there was a hierarchy that only certain people could have gotten into. And so that is not there anymore and I think there are certain benefits with our Independent status we have taken for granted. I believe that Independence is a continuum and there is still a struggle for all the characteristics of that ideal. I believe that people often judge where they are against the ideal and not where they came from and that prevents you sometimes from understanding how much you have achieved and have to celebrate. Former President Donald Ramotar: Independence was

was in office. Now we have a military government in civilian garb in power and every day they are undermining our democracy. Racial and political discrimination coupled with witch hunting are the main characteristics of this regime. Squandermania and wastage underpins their economic policies. It is all about jobs for the boys and self aggrandizement with all those salary increases for Ministers even though they claim that we left them with a Consolidated Fund in heavy overdraft….so there is essentially nothing to celebrate this year. We are once again going back to the undemocratic rule which obtained under the PNC. The meaning of Independence is degenerating under the APNU+AFC administration. University Professor, Dr. David Hinds: Political

University Professor, Dr. David Hinds

Former President, Donald Ramotar the dream of Guyanese. In modern history it is clear that the PPP played the leading role in that fight. Dr Jagan was probably the first to call for independence. In the process we came up against great resistance both from the colonialist and their local allies who resisted independence for our country. When Independence came, we still did not win the freedom we fought for. We got independence with a state of emergency in place and political prisoners. CV Nunes was the most prominent. The PPP continued the fight. The freest period in our history was the 23 years the PPP Civic

Independence in our context meant that at the political level we were now a sovereign country with our own constitution, our own national symbols and the formal power to determine our own political and socio-economic destiny. At the cultural level it meant a formalization of our own sense of nationhood and the freedom to define what that means. In the final analysis, Independence meant selfdetermination and freedom from domination. In a larger sense it was a formal severance of ties to plantation-hood, which had characterized our condition for centuries. Above all, it was the fulfillment of the promise of Emancipation and the creation of new promises of freedom. In a practical sense, no recent post-colonial country is fully independent. When Guyana became independent in 1966, we entered a worldorder that was not created for us and so did not cater to our particular condition. We had gained formal independence, but that independence was tempered by a global order that was hostile to the notion of Independence on the part

of ex-colonies. We have had political independence, but we found it and continue to find very difficult to translate that into economic independence. Socio-economic development has been dependent on forces outside of our control. We are still, after 50 years of independence, dependent on the narrow economic base we inherited in 1966. We still continue to produce mainly for the consumption of others. Our economy continues to respond not to the needs of our people, but to the wishes of the global market over which we have no control. That said, it must be pointed out that there were attempts at economic independence in the early years, but these were frustrated by anti-nationalist forces and by our own internal ethno-political problems. FAILINGS I wish to point to three areas in which we have failed our Independence. First, for a country like Guyana to survive and carve out some little space in the global order, it needs national consensus. And we have failed miserably in that regard. We have not been able to overcome the barriers inherent in plural societies like ours. Our biggest Independence failure has been our inability to surmount our ethnic difficulties. After fifty years we cannot point to any overriding set of political and cultural values which our ethnic groups mutually embrace. There is no National Ethos in that regard. We will go through the motions this year of celebrating “One People, One Nation, One Destiny”, but it would be lie. While there have been moments of national solidarity that cut across ethnicity, there has not been an inter-ethnic national community. And this is disappointing, because we do have the potential to do more in this regard. But we don’t seem to have the courage to strike the balance between ethno-political allegiance and national commitment. While the politicians are not the only culprits, they have been the primary ones. Our Independence has bred a flawed class of politicians. For the most part, they have little sense and knowledge of history, politics and their place in that continuum. This sickness cuts across ethnicity, sex and generation. The second Independence failing for me is in the area of political culture. We have developed a culture of spite and revenge that is intolerant of dissent

and deeply authoritarian. Our Independence State is a product of that culture—it has been a violent State. For a small society, there have been far too many victims of State Violence these 50 years. It is as if we have moved from being historical victims of State Violence to the purveyors of that very violence on one another. In this regard our retaining the Colonial State apparatus and in some instances upgrading of it are very instructive. The third Independence failure is the way we have treated the poor and the powerless in the society. Fifty years later, the majority of our people are still mired in poverty. Social inequality has worsened since independence. That for me is a major indictment. Women and children are still prime targets for institutional violence. The passage of legislation has not put a dent on this scourge. There is too much violence in the society, but the violence against the poor at all levels is nauseating. You can be Independent and simultaneous be a site of violence. Independence from Slavery, colonialism and Indentureship meant, in part, independence from the violence which characterized those systems. WHAT TO CELEBRATE? Despite our failings, there is still something to celebrate. We have to celebrate our survival as a people—a survival of the harshness I have pointed out. It is our people, the sufferers who have always showed us the way in this regard. We are a Survival People and we must always celebrate that. So for me, if we must celebrate Independence we must celebrate our people, especially our poorest—the least among us. Despite our failings we have still given ourselves and the world the gift of our collective imagination—our song, our dance, our written word, our intellectual products, our sport. Yes we have to celebrate our cultural

products and cultural workers. We have to celebrate our working people who till the soil, man the factories and the office, teach our children, look after our health, cook our food, bring us the news, cut the cane, harvest the rice. They have toiled for little to nothing, but they have persevered. Many of us have moved from the social bottom to positions of authority and high status in the society. Even if some of us misuse our new status, there is need to celebrate social mobility.

PPP Executive Member Irfaan Ali PPP Executive Member Irfaan Ali: I think we have fought hard for democracy and our independence came with tremendous struggle and sacrifices. We have our unique culture that we should be proud of. However the same questions that confronted us 50 years ago are even more relevant today. Many recent actions of this Government make us vulnerable. And the public outcry about ethnic and political discrimination continues to increase. The pronouncement by Government that rice is not their business when the entire regions depend on this is also damning along with the imminent closure of the Wales Estate. These are all issues that would dominate the agenda as we celebrate our 50 years as an independent state.

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Kaieteur News

Monday February 29, 2016

Green tells Whittaker…

Show me how $500M was spent to clean up Georgetown Georgetown Mayor Hamilton Greene yesterday challenged Local Government and Regional Minister Norman Whittaker to show him how the $500M was spent to clean the capital city under the PPP administration. Green was responding to Whittaker’s claims that efforts to clean the capital city under the PPP failed because the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) refused to co-operate with him. Whittaker had also claimed that Green and other Council officials did not support the cleanup project initiated under the PPP, opting not to avail any of its 200 plus underutilized workers for the project. But speaking to Kaieteur News yesterday, Mayor Green described Whittaker’s statements as an absurdity and called for evidence to be shown of the works executed in the initiative. “When Whittaker or his (associates) speak, let them point out to anyone what works were executed and where is the evidence of that work,” Green said. “It is patent that the former administration never wanted someone that was not a sycophant and someone (who would not) do things exactly as they wanted things done,” He noted that one of the past administration’s biggest allocations to local government and regional develop-

Mayor of Georgetown, Hamilton Green

Former Local Government Minister Norman Whittaker

ment was the billion dollar ‘Clean up my country’ drive in 2014, half of which went to cleaning up Georgetown. “We don’t know where the money has gone,” Green said. “I wrote the Minister

like if I was allowed since 1994 to put things right. The evidence is clear. (Former President Bharrat) Jagdeo said we are obsessed with cleaning. That is what the city is all about.”

“We don’t know where the money has gone. I wrote the Minister seven letters asking what works were done, so the council can continue the works and do the maintenance. I never got a reply….” Georgetown Mayor, Hamilton Green seven letters asking what works were done, so the council can continue the works and do the maintenance. I never got a reply.” “You can look at what has happened in a few months and you can imagine what Georgetown might have been

Green also recalled that it was former Minister of Health, Dr. Bheri Ramsarran, who had said he wished for a health crisis to strike Georgetown. According to Green, this reflected the former administration’s thinking when it came to cleaning the

Garbage piles like this one were a common sight in Georgetown just a few months ago city. Whittaker had alleged recently in Kaieteur News that the years of stymied clean up initiatives were due to the non co-operation of the Mayor and City Council (M&CC), because of political affiliations. According to Whittaker, he had held one on one discussions with Mayor Green during his tenure but these discussions did not produce the results he had wanted. “A lot of what was done was political,” Whittaker had said. “They did not support (this Minister from) the People’s Progressive Party. Look at the city cleanup. A lot of the containers (were acquired) under the PPP. The apathy was because of politi-

cal influence.” He had also spoken of the $1B ‘Clean up my country’ project, which was initiated in 2014 and has been the source of some contention. It was reported following an audit of the fund late last year that about a third of the $1B was spent on the acquisition of tools and equipment including tractors and trailers, mini excavators and skid steer loader. According to the records kept at the Ministry, the tools were issued to various community groups to clean their environs and should have been returned at the completion of the exercise. When the audit office made its checks however, it was found that both used and new tools were

stored in the same area with no means of distinguishing one from the other Whittaker noted that the program itself was conducted largely by the technical personnel and on the basis of a committee composed of different Ministries including his and the Ministry of Agriculture. According to Whittaker, the committee came up with recommendations and his Permanent Secretary directed the show in accordance with the Committee’s recommendations. Having said that, Whittaker had admitted that better work could have been done in the Georgetown leg of the cleanup program, towards which half of the ‘Clean up my country’ money went.

Monday February 29, 2016

Kaieteur News

Page 21

HERE THERE BE MONSTERS I thought my daughter asked me, “Dad, have you seen Monsters Ink?” But even if this was not exactly what she wanted to know, I behaved as though it was. “Yes, of course,” I replied. “It is invisible but…it is green.” “How can it be green and invisible?” she demanded with some irritation. “Well, we all know that a ghost is an invisible object usually seen at night. Now I couldn’t see it,” I explained, “but the monster ink told me it was green and since it was chewing on my fingers at the time I thought it would be wise to humour it.” “So what happened?” she asked. I smiled, “Well at least it was environmentally friendly so I got some recycled paper and wrote until I ran out of ink and then went straight to my computer to tell all my Facebook friends about the incident.” She was not amused and is generally not amused by my off-key jokes, a trait she shares with the late, great Queen Victoria who, although severely straight-laced (and you can see that in those pictures where she wore bodices) was the Empress of

India and always appointed an aptly-named “Viceroy”. This was the second highest position next to hers within the well-manned bureaucracy of the country where the Kama Sutra was written and followed with zeal and gusto (two Indian dishes that are no longer popular except in Bollywood). My daughter really wanted to know about Monsters Inc., a comic movie about the city of Monstropolis which is inhabited by monsters and powered by the screams of children in the human world. This was followed by Monsters University, a prequel. Now we have the sequel to Monsters Inc., but this one is set in the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago which, if the Prime Minister and the murder rate are to be believed, is fast developing into a Monstropolis powered by a mixture of blood and gunpowder. Media reports on February 23, 2016, just a few days ago, quoted the Prime Minister of the country, Tobago-born, Dr. the Honourable Keith Rowley, a geologist and former

secondary school teacher, as asking the audience at a National Consultation on Education in his home island, “And what about the rights of the teacher, and the responsibilities of the teacher to ensure that as we take on that responsibility to educate that you also take on the responsibility to share in the molding of our children? And what about the rights and responsibilities of parents who breed monsters at home and send these monsters to teachers?” The monster-breeding comment was immediately attacked by several different people as “monstrous” but I thought that in these recessionary times it might be a good business opportunity to explore. In Monsters Inc. the two main characters are Sullivan, a very large and intimidating monster with blue fur, large purple spots and horns, and his assistant who is short, green and oneeyed. This led me to wonder if these were the only options available or whether monsters came in other flavours, sizes and traits and which will best suit the

Trinidad and Tobago, as well as regional and international markets. I did a little research into the origin and early use of the term and read in Wikipedia, “A monster is any creature, usually found in legends or horror fiction that is often hideous and may produce fear or physical harm by its appearance and/or its actions. The word ‘monster’ derives from Latin ‘monstrum’, an aberrant occurrence, usually biological, that was taken as a sign that something was wrong within the natural order. The word usually connotes something wrong or evil; a monster is generally morally objectionable, physically or psychologically hideous, and/or a freak of nature. It can also be applied figuratively to a person with similar characteristics like a greedy person or a person who does horrible things.” An early use of the term was in mapmaking where “here there be monsters” refers to a variety of phrases used by early European mapmakers to warn of great and terrifying beasts which lurked in unexplored

Tears flow as family, colleagues bid... (From page 17) extraordinary and intense.” Ramjattan also noted that Persaud loved to celebrate life and was also an avid reader and philosophical thinker, who was always willing to impart this knowledge. Ramjattan decried the fact that the West Coast of Demerara (WCD) had taken the lives of so many senior police officers. It is a reference to the 2012 accident at Harlem, WCD which claimed the life of then Police Commissioner, Henry Greene. Additionally, in 2013 Assistant Commissioner Derrick Josiah succumbed to injuries from a car crash on the WCD. Childhood friends of the Commissioner Commissioner of Police, Seelall Persaud also paid tribute to his former Deputy, who exercised the functions of Commissioner of Police in times when the Top Cop was out of the jurisdiction. Persaud spoke of his connection with Balram Persaud, which went back to childhood. According to Persaud, they both went to the same school and would meet years later in the GPF. “He joined the force in 1984 and would have had his first promotion, having completed the standard officers’ course in 1986. He acquired great competence and knowledge in his work and has been a courageous officer which saw him promoted rank after

rank.” “Balram was very open to both members of the public and his subordinates, a feature for which he will be remembered,” Persaud related. “He was very approachable and dealt with concerns in a professional way. He will also be remembered for being a very jovial individual, for even in the midst of great stress, Balram will have something funny to say.” Persaud noted that Balram Persaud, throughout his career, would have had to make very difficult decisions, which would have put him in turbulent situations. He noted that Persaud weathered these crises, save for the last and tragic one. “He will be remembered for a long time and he will be missed, especially among his precincts. He was a good man and may his soul rest in peace.” Balram Persaud’s eldest

son, Andre, a police officer in the United States of America, also paid tribute to his father. He recalled hearing of the accident and believing that it was not life threatening until a conversation with a local surgeon on his father’s condition brought everything to a standstill. “My heart jumped in my chest,” he related. “I was on the highway and I pulled over. I broke down in tears and I called my station and told them I could not come in, I would be gone for some time. He had so much planned for us, but unfortunately this accident happened. I was by his side to the last and for that I am thankful.” Balram Persaud’s wife, Christine, was tearful as she also described the last days with her husband as some of the best days together. She noted that in the hospital, he maintained his independence. But at the last, he

was surrounded by those he loved. “He raised his head and he said to me come, Christine, come and stand by my side, please be by my side. My husband is with God and I know he is a wonderful person. He devoted his life to helping people.” At the end of the service, Persaud’s casket was passed through a full guard of honour and was accompanied out the sports club ground by a full ceremonial escort. His body was subsequently taken to the Ruimzeight Foreshore, WCD, for cremation. Assistant Commissioner Balram Persaud died on February 23, succumbing to injuries he sustained in a car crash over two weeks ago on the Schoonard Public Road, WCD. In that accident, he lost control of his car, which toppled several times before slamming into a utility pole.

locations on a map. Among these monsters were craqueuhhe, a vampire-like creature that feasted on both your blood and body, demons, jaracacas (a type of venomous snake or pit viper found in Latin and South America) and Zeitgeists or spirits. I did not think that West Indians would buy monsters like these so I did some further research and came upon the Addams Family and the Addams Family Values. This family was clearly what the Prime Minister was referring to as “parents who breed monsters at home and send these monsters to teachers.” One of the children in the movie, Wednesday, showed her teacher a picture of great aunt Calpurnia Addams who was burnt as a witch. According to Wednesday’s mother, Morticia, Calpurnia danced naked in the town square and enslaved the minister. “Really,” asked the teacher. “Oh yes,”Morticia answered. ”But don’t worry. We told Wednesday, college first!” Now this is the kind of family I believe the Prime

Minister meant and I started searching for others like them. First I found the Saddams Family- parents and young terrorists all of whom behave like they’re in ISIS and if you give them the opportunity and a machete they will have your head before you can say “John the Baptist”. Then there is the Baddams Family – their name is the sound of explosions and gunshots – Baddam, Baddam – that now resound through the hills of Trinidad and Tobago. So far in 2016 there have been more murders than days and the Baddams seem to be thriving in and out of school. There are also the Braddams – they come out to “mash” up the place and leave a trail of destruction wherever they go. But the family of families is the Gaddams. They are the majority and they just don’t give a Gaddam about anything. *Tony Deyal was last seen repeating a line by Morticia to her husband, “Don’t torture yourself Gomez. That’s my job.”

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Kaieteur News

SALON - Make-up Courses with Mac, Bare Minerals and Black Opal - Cosmetology Courses - Nail Technician Course Call: 647-1773/660-5257 SERVICES

WANTED

PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION,WEDDINGS, ANNIVERSARY, ETC. – CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620

1 Security Guard at Eccles Industrial Site, with a valid police clearance. Call: 2332473

Visa Application: U.S.A, Canada & UK; Guyana passport application. Graphics design, advertisement. Tel: 626-7040; 265-4535.

General worker/labourer (male) - Call: 265-3586 One salon assistant at Nalline’s Beauty Salon: Vreed-en-Hoop JunctionCall: 625-3899 or 264-0034

Building Construction: house plans & estimates, floor sanding, lacquering & painting, boat for Santa Mission –Call: 650-4362

Female domestic to work in Trinidad, must be educated and know to cook. Between 25-35 years. Call: 1868-683 1528

Repairs & spare, fridge, freezer, A/C, washers, stoves – Contact Nick: 6831312, 627-3206

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

Specialised in A/C installation, service, repair fridges, freezer & re-gas systems. Call: 656-6708, 648-3955 INNOVATIVEMARKETING & PUBLISHING INC –TEL: 600-4212: We create A/ works, logos, business cards, posters, etc, placements of ads included.

EDUCATIONAL Private Custom Brokerage Certificate: training course- 29th March 2016. Register now! Call: 2231506; 694-8322 Private teacher for home school, for CXC English, SSEE (all subjects). Call: 696-7467 Lessons! Nursery: Phonics, Reading, Numeracy & Primary: Reading, Revision in all subjects, Grade 7- all Subjects @ Alberttown. Call: 690-9378 PEN PAL Male seeking female (3552yrs) for relationship. Write: Mr. Other Heskey: Mount 92-96 Lord Street, Southport PR8 1JR England

Monique’s Nail Studio @ Bent Street Wortmanville: Acrylic-tips, airbrush, nail art, pedicure, hair, lashes, make-up. Call: 699-4889; 2316980

WANTED Female dispatcher @ 18 Henbury Avenue Nandy Park E.B.D- Call: 233-5227

Store clerk: must have CXC, Microsoft Excel, know QuickBooks, flexibility to work shift. Call: 231-6854

Female worker wanted sound secondary education, computer literate-Tel: 6225518 3 Experienced salesgirls needed in Bourda Market. Call: 227-3407 from 8am-4pm.

One live-in or live out maid/ assistant salesgirl- Call: 6035416; 644-9802

1 Receptionist, 1 driver, for private car. Call: 225-3234; 698-7807

1 Domestic cleaner, must know to prepare vegetarian food, apply @ Alabama Trading, Ferry Stelling.

Two general workers to work shift system. Call: 218-1400

Attractive live in waitressCall: 327-0252/674-4665

FOR RENT 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 Two bedrooms apartment, semi-furnished & self contained at 97 5th Street Industry E.C.D - Call: 6847853; 619-2388 Apartments for rent @ Nandy Park with free Wi-Fi, recently renovated- 1&2 bedrooms -$70,000-$80,000. Call: 641-3318 Vreed-en-Hoop: new 2 bedrooms with granite counter tops, toilet, bath, security, camera, grill fence. Call: 682-5230, 628-9596 Executive 2 bedrooms apartment in exclusive Residential Area close to the Ogle Airport. Call for appointment: 653-2920 One bedroom apartment for rent in Diamond E.B.D- Call: 683-4700 One lower flat at Herstelling – price $45,000- Call: 629-2912 Self contained rooms for rent. Call: 225-0305 Restaurant & Bar -$1250USD negotiable, space for rent suitable for supermarket $3,000USD negotiable. Call: 225-0305 One bottom flat to rent – Call: 220-3353

VACANCY

VEHICLE FOR SALE

Qualified persons- floor supervisor, experienced in retail business, tertiary education @ Survival Shopping Complex, 173 Sheriff St. Campbellville.

New model 4X4, RAV4, excellent condition- $2.2M. Call: 618-1395; 220-6380

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 1 Driver- apply @ Technical Service, 18-23Industrial Site Eccles. Hairdressers, nail technician, barbers, also hair & nail stations available for rental location: New Market StreetCall: 638-1106 One sales representative. Call: 225-8205 Cashier with 6 months experience & Grade 3 in English @ Survival Shopping Complex, 173 Sheriff St. Campbellville. Driver/purchaser to work with mining firm in Georgetown, ages 28-55. Call: 226-9768 General Managers to work in the interior on land dredges with popular mining firmCall: 226-9768 Accountant/clerk to work with mining firm, ages 2355yrs & TM truck drivers for interior. Call: 226-9768 Cashiers & pump attendants. Call or text: 670-6005; 6272550

Live in domestic must know to cook Indian dishes, salary $80,000 monthly. Call: 6105043 Live in waitress -$60,000$70,000 monthly, must have secondary education. Call: 610-5043 One female cook Should know to prepare nutritious diets. Hourse of work: 9:00am1:00pm. Wage $20,000 per week. Call: 697-5221

TAXI SERVICES GR TAXI SERVICE. CALL: 219-5000; 227-1982 & 225-7878 (24HRS)

Contract Cars for taxi service @ second location @ Norton Street- Call: 638-6045; 2260765 Drivers, paid salary & contract cars- Call: 231-0002; 231-0316

Experienced cashier at American Variety Store, 140 Regent & Light Street. Call: 225-1864 Experienced taxi driver must have proof of address and police clearance. Call: 6112414

LAND FOR SALE 1 House lot in gated community -$4.5M n e g o t i a b l e . C all: 6947817; 668-0306

One maid. Attractive Salary. Call: 697-5221

Experienced drivers and dispatchers. Call:622-6413; 231-3709

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Hairdressers, nail technician, barbers, also hair & nail stations available for rental location: New Market StreetCall: 638-1106

Monday February 29, 2016

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 Wing’s Car & 4WD Vigo pick up rental- Call: 690-6494 Aidan’s Car & 4WD Vigo pick up, cheapest rate, low security- Call: 698-7807

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FOR SALE/FOR RENT American pool table – Call: 277-0578 Continued on page 23

Monday February 29, 2016

Kaieteur News

Page 23

C’tyne ‘a sleeping giant’ that could lead... (From page 20) market place for its commodities. The Corentyne also possesses untapped potential for tourism; eco and heritage tourism,” President Granger said. COHESION IS KEY At the same time, the President noted that this region has been a victim of depopulation, dropping from approximately 150,000 persons in 1980 to about 110,000 in 2012. This, he opined, has had an adverse impact on its growth and development; however, he added, the East Berbice-Corentyne stands to be a force to be reckoned with if the necessary work and cooperation is received. This must start with the elimination of personal, political, racial and cultural biases and divisiveness, he said. “We need to get rid of the backward culture, which keeps us divided…and which has often manifested itself in division and strife and which has retarded this region’s development and I believe, is a contributory

factor to migration…We have social problems, but [they] can only be addressed when members of the regional government sit down with the Central government. We cannot run a country by promoting misunderstanding and conflict… [You] must reject the politics of division which tries to keep this region in little enclaves. This region does not belong to any political party,” President Granger said. Noting that “fortune favours the brave, but fortune for the economic revival will not drop from the sky”, the President said that an action plan is needed for the region if its true potential is to be realised. This strategy must be based on a shared vision and focused on three areas: education, empowerment and enterprise. An advocate of communitarianism, the President posited that the plan must begin at the community and grassroots levels before it reaches to the top. “Such a plan can be the basis of transformation for

this region into an economic powerhouse. Economic development is not a racial issue. The economy does not belong to a political party. It is a public good. If the Corentyne prospers, the country will progress. You are important to the whole country. This Corentyne action must begin from the bottom up; from our communities. Community life should be reinvigorated. Economic revival of villages will allow this region to become a magnet,” President Granger expressed. LOCAL GOVERNMENT ELECTIONS He also spoke of the importance of Local Government Elections in advancing the region, noting that it is one of the most critical ways in which citizens become empowered to develop their communities, villages, regions and country. “When people are disempowered, councils are removed and IMCs implemented, they don’t feel a sense of belonging. They don’t own their communities. Garbage piles up, pot-

Two more 50-seater school buses... (From page 15) the country are beginning to see the evidence of the good life promised by the APNU+AFC Coalition. She expressed the Government’s gratitude to donors, Mr. Peter Lewis who alone donated two buses, a boat and a number of bicycles to the programme; Mr Nazrudeen Mohammed and the Princess Hotel. Nazrudeen Mohamed Junior, in speaking at the ceremony at the Rose Hall Primary School, said that the family became inspired to help when they too realised that there are many children who cannot afford transportation to and from school. He indicated that his family will continue to support the administration in such efforts, which are aimed at developing the lives of Guyanese. Mr. Eray Kanmaz, General Manager of Ramada Princess Hotel, Providence, speaking

at Sisters Village stated that he sees the donation as part of the company’s corporate social responsibilities and gave the assurance of more support in the future. During the commissioning ceremonies, Fieona Mohammed of The Sheet Anchor Nursery School recited the poem the ‘Three Bs’, much to the delight of the attendees. The Government also came in for high praise from the residents who expressed the thought that a well-educated Region will significantly impact national development. “The children are happy because education is for everyone and now they have the means of getting to school free of cost. We needed this service and thanks to the President, for your foresight,” one resident said. So far, nine buses, six boats and over 300 bicycles have been given out under the President’s three B’s programme.

holes proliferate, no street lights, Zika is on its way. These are problems that can be solved in… communities and we want to remove all those IMCs and replace them with elected councils. If they don’t shape up and perform - as long as I am here, there will be Local Government Elections every three years, move them… We have a new opportunity to re-empower ourselves,” he told the gathering. SECURITY The President also said that he wants to see a safe, prospering country, to which persons would be encouraged to return and as such he has been holding regular meetings with Commissioner of Police to ensure that systems are being put in place to curb crime. He said that already, monthly aerial patrols are conducted from Charity to the Corentyne, to protect fishermen and clamp down on piracy. Meanwhile, in his address, the past president of the Club praised the President’s presentation. Mr. Sooknanan said he had a number of concerns about the economy and future of Guyana. H o w e v e r, h e i s n o w positive that once President Granger’s plan is put into action his region, and the country, will prosper. “I am sure that with the help of President Granger at the head that we will make it,” Mr. Sooknanan said. The Director of Club Service echoed these sentiments. Mr. Adjodhea said it is reassuring to know that the Administration has the good of the Guyanese people at heart and are helping them to help themselves. “Rotarians, it is time for us to wake up and move the Corentyne forward,” he charged. (Ministry of the Presidency)

From page 22

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Dr. David Hinds says...

A tsunami of corruption at City Hall DEAR EDITOR, City Hall is on the move, but on the move to where? The question must be asked. There seems to be an apprehension and fear amongst the administrators at City Hall that things will be very much different after the Local Government Elections and so they are preparing for those changes. First, there has been an explosion in employment, and not amongst the blue collar workers who could actually do something about improving the conditions within the city, but rather amongst the white collar and clerical staff. The worst part is that the bulk of these new employees

are ‘friends and family’ of the present Councillors and senior staff. This is wrong and should be reversed by the new Council. They should demand to see the listing of persons employed over the last year, and will discover that they are all the kith and kin of the p r e s e n t administrators. When these discoveries are made what will be done to the types such as the Town Clerk and the Personnel Officer? Second, there is blatant squandermania which will result in the Georgetown Municipality being completely broke by the time the new Councillors are sworn in. This is criminal and

has been facilitated by the Ministry of Communities as the current Council should have been dissolved as soon as the elections were announced, but was not done. With this being the last days for most of the Councillors to get what they can before getting out, they are making good on what opportunities are available. There was the questionable waiver of hundreds of millions of dollars in outstanding interest to big business interests; there was the sharing out of cleaning contracts to relatives and friends of Councillors and senior officers; the

undertaking of worthless projects such as the placement of old railway tracks on the pavements around the city; and the assigning of cheap and inferior luminous green plastic bins around the downtown area that have all but disappeared through theft and damage. One can only guess what the next move the senior officers of the Council will be on, but I can guess that their plans include escaping judgment by taking off on study programs to London, to the US and beyond. Riding off into the sunset with their saddlebags filled with their loot! Amber Valentine

From page 4 Grant and Courtney Crum-Ewing, our post-colonial governments have used violence against citizens in general and government critics in particular. This is what I would want the President and his cabinet to challenge. Although this letter deals with the president’s remarks, I would be remiss if I did not comment on the PPP’s response this week. As was expected, its leaders, including President Ramotar have sought to double-down on what they view as a victory for the PPP in its ongoing battle with the PNC. As a party, they have a right to their say. When President Ramotar was asked about violence perpetrated under the PPP’s watch, he challenged the government to investigate them. This is why Guyana is so messed up. The PPP’s record in government when it comes to state-directed political violence against known opponents and citizens mostly of one ethnic group stinks to high places. Yet it pretends that Walter Rodney’s assassination must be treated separately. This is an insult to the memory of the very Rodney they claim to defend. I maintain that Rodney’s assassination is linked to those carried out under the PPP’s watch. The circumstances may differ, but at the end of the day murder at the hands of the government and State is still murder. From Donna McKinnon who was killed by a bullet that allegedly came from Freedom House, the PPP’s headquarters, to the murder of Crum Ewing, the PPP has a lot to answer for. I hope that comes sooner rather than later. David Hinds

Monday February 29, 2016

Kaieteur News

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Granger blundered with partisan position on Walter Rodney COI report – WPA Member Executive member of the Working People’s Alliance (WPA), Dr. David Hinds is disappointed in the “partisan” stance recently taken by President David Granger on some of the leaked findings of the Walter Rodney Commission of Inquiry (COI) Report. The findings of the COI essentially say that the People’s National Congress (PNC) administration which was led by the late Forbes Burnham was responsible for the death of the Guyanese scholar. Granger was quoted in the media as saying that the report and its findings are “flawed”, based on “hearsay evidence” and that it would be challenged. Dr. Hinds said that the President and Leader of a coalition party –of which the WPA is part—blundered by making such comments as it comes across as being partisan. “I disagree with the President’s interpretation of the report, but that is not the source of my disappointment. Had the President told the reporters that he was speaking as leader of the PNC, I would not have been disappointed. The PNC has a right to be aggrieved by the findings of the Commission; after all the PNC government of that time and its leader is

“President and the government must be sensitive to the impact of any campaign to deny justice for Walter Rodney or to taint the evidence in that regard on the WPA, one of its constituent parties.”

President David Granger indicted by the report,” Hinds said in his recent writings on his website w w w. g u y a n a c a r i b b e a n politics.com . Dr. Hinds said that the matter of Walter Rodney’s assassination is partisan at one level, but it is of national importance at another level. The WPA Member said that Rodney’s assassination and the report of the COI, in the final analysis, raise the larger question of the nature and role of the government and state as it relates to violence against those who express dissent in particular and the citizenry in general. Dr. Hinds said that Granger, in his capacity of Head of State and

Pregnant mother remanded for strangling son to death A pregnant mother was on Friday charged with the murder of her eight-year-old son, Emmanuel King, when she appeared at the Leonora Magistrate’s Court. Sonia King, 28, of Lot 565 La Parfaite Harmonie, West Bank Demerara (EBD), appeared before Magistrate Rochelle Liverpool and was remanded to prison until March 21. It is alleged that on Sunday, February 21, last, while at their Parfaite Harmonie home, she killed her only child while he was asleep. Post-mortem revealed that little Emmanuel died as a result of suffocation. Last Monday, King, who is eight months pregnant, reportedly confessed to killing her son to her reputed husband, Robert Vieira, who informed the police the following day. She was arrested later that same day. At first, King told the police that her son succumbed after falling from a tree earlier that day. But on Wednesday, she

gave a formal statement to investigators where she confessed to strangling the child with a bed sheet. During a recent interview, Vieira said that when his step son was pronounced dead at the West Demerara Regional Hospital two Sundays ago, he thought that the child had died from injuries he sustained from the fall. However, the following day, his reputed wife not only confessed to strangling her son to death but also said that she had tried to kill him twice before. While it is not clear as to why the pregnant mother would kill her child, Vieira said that she told him that she and the little boy’s biological father were bad parents to him and she was worried about the person he would become. Kaieteur News was told that when the child was younger, King had thrown him out of a window but he was saved by his father. She had also disappeared for two years, leaving the child behind.

Government of Guyana, has taken a clear partisan stance on a matter of high national importance and one that has continually divided the country. “This is what bothers me. I knew the President fairly well long before he assumed high office and concluded that he is person of political integrity who has the rare quality of not allowing partisan differences to stand in the way of the larger good. His approach to the matter at hand, however, flies in the face of that praxis,” expressed the Buxtonian. Hinds said that Granger must know that when he speaks on behalf of the government he speaks for a coalition of parties. On the matter of Walter Rodney, Hinds said that it is no secret that two of the established parties in the Coalition, PNC and WPA, have had differing views. In this regard, he said that Granger, therefore, could not be speaking for both parties when he rubbished the findings of the COI. The WPA Member added, “The President said that the findings and the COI Report would be challenged but by whom? The Office of the President, the Government or the PNC? I believe the President, in his official state capacity, should refrain from pronouncing on such a highly charged matter; he

could have commented on the matter without taking a partisan stance.” Dr. Hinds contended that Granger is the President of all of Guyana and his stance on national matters should at all times strive to reflect cohesion and not division. The political activist said that he is sympathetic to the difficulty of balancing party leadership and national leadership, but as President “one has to try harder in that regard than the rest of us.” Dr. Hinds opined that partisan stands should be left to the parties. He said that the President and Government should not be caught up with the partisan interpretation of the report, but with the implications of the findings, flawed or not, for the country as a whole. He asserted that there are two ready implications, the first being the prospects for the healing of the nation. In this regard, he said that the formation of the APNU and the subsequent founding of the Coalition have gone a long way towards the healing of political wounds in some sections of the society; wounds that were the result of decades of political confrontation. Dr. Hinds said that critical to that healing was the political alliance of the PNC and the WPA and the later alliance with the Alliance For

WPA Executive Member, Dr. David Hinds

The late Walter Rodney

Change (AFC) which includes important sections of the Indian Guyanese community. The political activist said that that unity of the various forces has given the country some hope that it is possible to move beyond the political divide to work in the interest of all. With this in mind, Dr. Hinds said that the government has a responsibility to ensure that that the findings of the COI are not used to upset that unity. He said that the President and the government must be sensitive to the impact of any campaign to deny justice for Walter Rodney or to taint the evidence in that regard on the WPA, one of its constituent parties. The second implication of the COI report he noted is the issue of political and other violence by the State. “I would prefer the president and his Cabinet, after careful study of the report, address the issue of

political violence, in particular State and Para-State Violence. We did not need the Rodney COI report to alert us to the scourge of State Violence in Guyana. Our Independence experience is riddled with instances of the use by governments of the State apparatus to inflict violence against political opponents,” asserted Dr. Hinds. The WPA member said that this is a culture inherited from the colonial masters and tailored to the needs of postcolonial governance. From the attempted assassination of Joshua Ramsammy to the tear gassing of bauxite workers in jail cells to the gunning down of Shaquille Grant and Courtney Crum-Ewing, Dr. Hinds said that post-colonial governments have used violence against citizens in general and government critics in particular. “This is what I would want the president and his cabinet to challenge,” he added.

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Monday February 29, 2016

Brazil police probe payments to ex-president’s lover BBC News - Brazilian police are investigating allegations that ex-President Fernando Henrique Cardoso asked a private company to pay his former lover abroad. Former TV journalist Mirian Dutra says Mr Cardoso arranged the $3,000 monthly payments through the firm, Brasif. The transfers began in 2002 - a year before Mr Cardoso left office. Mr Cardoso denies the allegations. Brasif also says Ms Dutra was paid for work it did for them and the former leader had nothing to do with it. Ms Dutra worked as a reporter for Brazil’s Globo TV for 35 years, losing her job last December. “I don’t want to take this to my grave,” she said in an interview with Folha de Sao Paulo newspaper. Mr Cardoso has acknowledged the six-year-long affair with her, which came to an end before he became president of Brazil. Ms Dutra said their relationship ended when she refused Mr Cardoso’s suggestion that she should have an abortion, which is illegal in Brazil. After her son Tomas was born, she asked Globo TV to transfer her to Lisbon. After a few years, they moved to Spain. Mr Cardoso supported

Mirian Dutra

Fernando Henrique Cardoso

Ms Dutra and her son abroad, she said. But between December 2002 and December 2006 the money came from Brasif, a company that had a licence to operate duty-free shops at a number of Brazilian airports, she said. She said she signed a fictitious contract with the company but never worked for them. “He sent me money through this company. I have evidence,” she said. “It was all arranged by my sister’s husband, Fernando Lemos, who was the top lobbyist in Brasilia at the time,” added Ms Dutra. Mr Cardoso has admitted sending money to Ms Dutra and Tomas abroad, but

denies using Brasif or any other company for that purpose. Brasif said in a statement that it hired Ms Dutra to do research on dutyfree shops in European airports. It confirmed the payments but said the former president had no involvement in their decision to hire her. Mr Cardoso never transferred any money to the company, Brasif added. The former president recognised the paternity of Tomas and bought him a flat in Barcelona. He says a 2011 DNA tests proved that Tomas was not his son. Ms Dutra questions the validity and accuracy of the test.

Opposition warns of sanctions from international community CASTRIES, St. Lucia – CMC - Leader of St. Lucia’s parliamentary opposition – the United Labour Party (ULP), Dr. Gale Rigobert has warned that the country is set to face more sanctions from the international community Prime Minister Dr. Kenny Anthony does not deliver on promises to clean up his act. According Rigobert the country’s conduct and posture on the international stage is jeopardizing longstanding and mutually beneficial relations with international partners. Addressing a news conference here the Micoud North Member of Parliament has chastised the Prime Minister and his government for “the slothful response to many of the critical issues affecting St. Lucia, which has also caught the world’s attention.” She said over the past year and a half, the Prime Minister’s action has caused the country to receive certain unfortunate sanctions from the international community. “I would not be surprised if the PM continues to renege on the promises he has made to our friends in the

Dr. Gale Rigobert international community, that more sanctions may be forthcoming.” The Opposition Leader said the Prime Minister’s countless speeches and addresses suggests that perhaps he understands the importance of addressing matters that concerns the country’s democracy. However, this has not translated into action, because the government is yet to address several burning issues. “How much more can the citizens of this country take? And when will the Prime Minister and his Cabinet find

it fitting to account to the people of this country for some of the ill-advised action it has taken?” The former international relations lecturer said St Lucia’s conduct and posture on the international stage has changed dramatically, since the St. Lucia Labour Party (SLP) government has been elected to office. She said it is jeopardizing long-standing and mutually beneficial relations with international partners. St. Lucia has been experiencing fallout since the findings of the IMPACS report was made public. The report links the police to the alleged extra-judicial killing of several citizens. The United States was quick to implement sanctions due to the alleged police abuses, banning the sales of weapons and munitions to the police force and discontinuing the training of force members. Several other countries including France and Canada, have raised concerns about this same issue and urged the government to act expeditiously to resolve it and clean up the justice system.

Monday February 29, 2016

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Monday February 29, 2016

Twin suicide bombing kills 70 in Baghdad’s deadliest attack this year

People gather at the site of suicide blasts in Baghdad’s Sadr City yesterday. REUTERS/Wissm al-Okili BAGHDAD (Reuters) - A twin suicide bombing claimed by Islamic State killed 70 people in a Shi’ite district of Baghdad yesterday in the deadliest attack inside the capital this year, as militants launched an assault on its western outskirts. Police sources said the suicide bombers were riding motorcycles and blew themselves up in a crowded mobile phone market in Sadr City, wounding more than 100 people in addition to the dead. A Reuters witness saw pools of blood on the ground with slippers, shoes and mobile phones at the site of the blasts, which was sealed

off to prevent further attacks. In a statement circulated online, Islamic State said it was responsible for the blasts: “Our swords will not cease to cut off the heads of the rejectionist polytheists, wherever they are,” it said, using derogatory terms for Shi’ite Muslims. Iraqi forces backed by airstrikes from a U.S.-led coalition have driven Islamic State back in the western Anbar province recently and are preparing for an offensive to retake the northern city of Mosul. But the militants are still able to strike outside territory they control, often targeting members of Iraq’s Shi’ite

majority, most recently on Thursday when two Islamic State suicide bombers killed 15 people at a mosque in the capital. Prime Minister Haider alAbadi said the attacks were in response to Islamic State’s recent defeats: “This gang targeted civilians after it lost the initiative and its dregs fled the battlefield before our proud fighters,” he said on his official Facebook page. At dawn yesterday, suicide bombers and gunmen attacked Iraqi security forces in Abu Ghraib, seizing positions in a grain silo and a cemetery, and killing at least 17 members of the security forces, officials said.

Iran’s Rouhani welcomes poll wins that could mean faster reform Reuters - Iranian President Hassan Rouhani and reformist partners won a big vote of confidence in elections that could speed up Iran’s emergence from isolation, and a key ally told long dominant hardliners to accept that voters wanted them to step aside. The polls for parliament and a leadership body were seen by analysts as a potential turning point for Iran, where nearly 60 percent of its 80 million population is under 30 and eager to engage with the world following the lifting of most sanctions. While advances by moderates and independents in Friday’s polls were most evident in the capital, the scale of the gains in Tehran suggests a legislature more friendly to the pragmatist Rouhani is now a distinct possibility.

Hassan Rouhani Top Rouhani ally Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani, a shrewd political fixer and veteran proreform figure, urged hardliners not to stand in the way. “No one is able to resist against the will of the majority of the people and whoever the

people don’t want has to step aside,” he said in a message on Twitter, referring to the contest for the 290-seat parliament and 88-member Assembly of Experts. A loosening of control by the anti-Western hardliners who currently dominate both bodies could strengthen Rouhani’s hand to open Iran further to foreign trade and investment following last year’s breakthrough nuclear deal. In his first comments since the elections, Iran’s deeply anti-Western Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, praised the high turnout but made no direct comment on the results. However in a statement he appeared to set out the values he would like to see in the newly elected bodies, suggesting they should not be influenced by the West.

Monday February 29, 2016

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Conservatives call for truce in EU campaign Reuters - Senior ministers called yesterday for a truce in a heated debate on Britain’s membership of the European Union, saying the ruling Conservative Party must be civil if it wants to stay in power. The party is deeply split over whether Britain should vote to stay in the EU at a referendum on June 23, and several allies of Prime Minister David Cameron, who supports EU membership, are campaigning to leave the 28-member bloc. Some lawmakers have criticised Cameron for accusing London Mayor Boris Johnson, a leading Conservative, of putting his own ambition above his beliefs by backing the “Out” campaign. They said the thinly veiled attack last week on Johnson, the most prominent party member in the “Out” camp, violated an unwritten rule that both sides respect each others’ opinions. “There are different opinions in the party.

Britain’s Prime Minister David Cameron speaks as he launches the official Conservative campaign to stay in the European Union, in London, Britain. REUTERS/ALEX B. HUCKLE/POO Everyone has to go out of their way to make sure that the debate within the Conservative Party is a constructive one, an amicable

Egypt migrant departures stir new concern in Europe Reuters - The European Union fears Mediterranean migrant smuggling gangs are reviving a route from Egypt, officials told Reuters, putting thousands of people to sea in recent months as they face problems in Libya and Turkey. “It’s an increasing issue,” an EU official said of increased activity after a quiet year among smugglers around Alexandria that has raised particular concerns in Europe about Islamist militants from Sinai using the route to reach Greece or Italy. Departures from Egypt were a tiny part of the million people who arrived in Europe by sea last year; more than 80 percent came from Turkey to Greece and most others from Libya to Italy. Detailed figures on Egypt are not available. But as security in anarchic Libya has worsened, EU officials say, more smugglers are choosing to bring African and Middle East refugees and migrants to the Egyptian coast. Voygages from Egypt are long, but smugglers mainly count on people being rescued once in international shipping lanes. Brussels, engaged in

delicate bargaining with Turkey to try and stem the flow of migrants from there, is concerned that the Egyptian authorities are not stopping smugglers. But it is reluctant to use aid and trade ties to pressure Cairo to do more when Egypt remains an ally in an increasingly troubled region. “Our major concern is that among smugglers and migrants there may also be militants from the Sinai, affiliated to al Qaeda or Islamic State,” a second EU official said. “Controls in Egypt are strict, which limit the activities of smugglers ... But sometimes we suspect that they turn a blind eye to let migrants go somewhere else.” An Egyptian security official told Reuters that Cairo had more pressing concerns, limiting resources to control migrants. “Human smuggling is on the rise in Egypt,” he said. “The authorities are too busy with other issues to deal with this.” A spokeswoman for EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini declined comment.

Recreation does for you what it says literally. It creates you again. It refreshes the mind, renews the spirit, and motivates the body. Constant working towards some objective can do the opposite, unless we control it by rest and relaxation.

one and one that doesn’t involve attacks on each other,” said Christopher Grayling, leader of the House of Commons (the lower house

of parliament) who supports leaving the EU. “And then from a Conservative point of view after the event we’ve really

got to make sure that when the result comes in, we come together, we heal the party, we move beyond the discussions at the moment and we win in 2020,” he told Sky News, referring to the year when the next parliamentary election is expected. Cameron has allowed his party members to campaign according to their conscience, saying he cannot force lawmakers to back his campaign in support of EU membership at a referendum which will help shape the future of the bloc - Britain is the EU’s second-largest economy and one of its two main military powers. Many of Britain’s leading businesses have said they want to remain in the European Union and the opposition Labour Party has said it will campaign to stay in, overcoming the euroscepticism of its leader, veteran anti-war campaigner Jeremy Corbyn. Jonathan Ashworth, Labour’s shadow minister without portfolio, said: “The

squabbling amongst the Conservative Party says more about internal positioning ahead of a leadership contest than it does about what’s in the longterm interests of the country.” Cameron has said he will not resign if Britain votes to leave the EU. But the Sunday Times newspaper quoted sources as saying that Conservative lawmakers would mount a leadership challenge against Cameron if he failed to halt so-called ‘blue-on-blue’ attacks Conservatives attacking Conservatives. Former Conservative leader Iain Duncan-Smith, secretary of state for work and pensions, called on his fellow Conservatives to respect each other. “The general view at the time and I think it should remain now is that don’t play the person, play the ball,” he told The Andrew Marr Show on the BBC. “We should take a deep breath ... This is about Britain, it’s not about us.”

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PNP wins additional seat following official recount of ballots …JLP now has 32 seats to the PNP’s 31 KINGSTON, Jamaica CMC – The People’s National Party (PNP) has secured another seat in the aftermath of the just concluded general election. Late Saturday, Director of Elections, Orrette Fisher said the party’s candidate in the constituency of South Eastern St. Mary, Dr. Winston Green, was officially declared the winner of the seat in the eastern parish. During Thursday’s general election, Green was challenged by the Jamaica Labour Party’s (JLP) Dr Norman Dunn who was originally declared the winner in the preliminary counting of the ballots. In the final count, Green won the seat by nine votes, however Dunn has indicated that he will be seeking a magisterial recount. With this development, the JLP now has 32 seats to the PNP’s 31. Meanwhile Fisher said the official count has not resulted in any changes in any other seats.

Orrette Fisher So far, the official counting has been completed in 21 constituencies. The counting continued yesterday and according to the Director of Elections, could be completed by today. Last Thursday, the JLP headed by Andrew Holness won the majority of the seats in the 63-member Parliament with the remainder going to the People’s National Party PNP that had been seeking a second consecutive term in office.

Monday February 29, 2016

As Govt. ‘starves’ economy…

$32B IN FROZEN ACCOUNTS Trinidad Guardian - The Government has $31.9 billion in blocked accounts at the Central Bank, monies that were placed there in an attempt to sterilize excess liquidity, the bank disclosed on Friday. The Central Bank was responding to questions from the Guardian, following the publication of a newspaper notice last week that the Government intended to unblock some $1.84 billion that would then be available for use by the State. “The $1.84 billion that was unblocked represented the proceeds of two bonds that had been issued in 2003 and 2008 ($640 million and $1.2 billion respectively) under the Development Loans Act. The Government made a specific request for the unblocking of these particular funds,” the Central Bank said. The Government moved to unblock the $1.84 billion as a result of a sharp reduction in excess liquidity in the fourth quarter of 2015 that was

partly due to the sale of US$500 million by the Central Bank to authorised dealers of foreign exchange at the end of October. The sale of the US$500 million would have removed TT$3.2 billion from the authorised dealers, who are mostly commercial banks. T&T commercial banks had $3.36 billion in average excess reserves (excess liquidity) in December 2015, down from $7.19 billion at the start of the year. The money in the blocked accounts belongs to the Government and it “represents the proceeds of the sales of Government of T&T securities,” for liquidity absorption purposes, the Central Bank said. In piloting legislation in December to increase the government’s borrowing limit from $70 to $120 billion, Finance Minister Colm Imbert told Parliament that the previous administration had pledged funds of $12 billion in the Green Fund and the

Lula da Silva mulls running again for presidency in 2018 RIO DE JANEIRO (AP) — Former Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva says that he would be willing to seek another term in 2018. Silva told a convention of the ruling Workers’ party on Saturday that he’d put himself forward as a candidate “if necessary.” He’d be 72 by the time of the next election, but Silva said he would have “the desire of a 30-year old to be president of the republic”. Silva left office with high approval ratings at the end of his two-term limit in 2010 and he’s repeatedly expressed his willingness to run again. His latest declaration to party members comes at a time when both his own and the

Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva party’s poll ratings have slid sharply due to a massive corruption scandal and a severe economic downturn.

Colm Imbert Unemployment Fund against borrowings it undertook. He made no mention of funds in the blocked accounts in December. A Ministry of Finance official indicated Saturday, however, that T&T’s Exchequer Account had been overdrawn by more than $30 billion. The official said Saturday, “As far as I know, the Government does not have any access to the funds in the blocked accounts, except the $1.84 billion it just unfroze. “Additionally, you need to appreciate that the Government will have to replace that $1.84 billion when the principal payments become due in 2017 and 2018, either from revenue or from borrowings.” Imbert has blamed the issues surrounding the government’s overdrawn accounts as being responsible for its inability to settle up to $2 billion owed to contractors and suppliers and some $5 billion in backpay owed to employees of regional health authorities and members of the protective services. When it became clear in December that tight domestic liquidity was preventing the Government from borrowing money from the banks to pay those debts, the banks were reported to have suggested to the minister that the solution would be to lower the reserve requirement. The reserve requirement, which currently stands at 17 per cent, is the percentage of commercial banks’ deposit liabilities that they are

required to maintain in noninterest bearing accounts at the Central Bank. On Friday, responding to a question on the advantages of unblocking the $31.9 billion held in blocked accounts for liquidity absorption compared with lowering the reserve requirement, the Central Bank made it clear that unblocking the accounts gives the Government access to its funds at the Central Bank. According to the Central Bank, “Lowering the reserve requirement would mean that commercial banks are obliged to keep a smaller proportion of their eligible deposits at the Central Bank, thus directly increasing banking system liquidity. “On the other hand removing the proceeds from the blocked account increases the funds available to the Government for its fiscal operations; until these funds are withdrawn there is no impact on system liquidity. Over time, liquidity may increase as the funds are withdrawn. “Consequently, lowering the reserve requirement may have a more immediate impact on liquidity than unblocking the account. “Moreover, in the case of lowering the reserve requirement, it is the banks that have more access to their funds held at the Central Bank, while unblocking the government accounts provides the government with greater access to its funds at the Central Bank.” But an economist yesterday cautioned that even if the entire $31.9 billion were available to the Government, it would need to be very mindful of the damage to the country’s inflation rate and the demand for foreign exchange that releasing that money too quickly could have on the economy. “Unblocking the accounts is, in effect, creating money and the Government would need to be very cautious about the inflationary and foreign exchange impact of unleashing too much, too soon,” said the economist, who requested anonymity.

Monday February 29, 2016

Kaieteur News

Rajesh Singh elected as Everest CC President

Members of the newly elected executive with president Rajesh Singh (sitting 2nd from left). Everest Cricket Club’s (ECC) newest life member Rajesh Singh has been elected to the club’s top post for the year 2016-17 following its Annual General Meeting which was held on Friday night at the club’s pavilion. Johnny Azeez will serve as the senior Vice-President, Kalyan Tiwari Junior Vice President, Caramchand Rambarran Secretary, Reuel Sumair Assistant Secretary, Manichan Rai Treasurer, Anthony Rampersaud Assistant Treasurer and Shaheed Mohamed club captain. John Ramsingh is the Public Relations Officer, while the committee members are Bhesham Persaud, Mitchell

Ceasar, Dwayne Adams and Prakash Balgobin. Guyana Coast Guard Commander Orin Porter performed the duties as the returning officer. Outgoing President Mr. Stephen Lewis thanked the 2014/15 executives and members for their support in what was described as a challenging year for the club. He said that many projects including the “Century Kitchen” which is bearing the fruits of the club’s investment was established. Lewis congratulated the new executives and urged them to work together for the development of the club. Rajesh Singh, who previously served as President for the periods

2008-2010 and 2012/13 was earlier in the evening announced as the club’s newest life member. Speaking after the elections, Singh expressed gratitude to Lewis and the previous executive as well as other members. The new President urged young cricketers to remain committed and focus on their education. He stated that the installation of lights at the venue is one of the projects on the cards and charged the new members to support same. The year 2015 was deemed as a successful one for the club and the following players were rewarded for their sterling performances.

Some of the awardees with their accolades.

Batsman of the Year, 1st Division – Tagenarine Chanderpaul; bowler of the Year, 1st Division - Troy Gonsalves; batsman of the Year, 2nd Division – Khemraj Ramdeen; bowler of the Year, 2nd Division – Javeed Rasheed; Youth cricketer of the year – Akshaya Persaud; junior batsman of the year, Yeudistir Persaud, junior bowler of the year, Zechariah Mootoo; batsman of the Year, Masters - Sahadeo Hardaiow; bowler of the Year, Masters – Johnny Azeez; Cricketer of the year Rajendra Chandrika. For his elevation on becoming a West Indies test player, Rajendra Chandrika was announced as a life member.

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Golyn 10/10 cricket

Wins for Omesh XI, Maracs XI, Superstreet XI, Prem XI, Mighty Lions XI The Golyn 10/10 cricket organized by the Guyana Softball League and sponsored by Golyn and Sons and Trophy Stall continued last Sunday with several teams recording victories and gaining confidence as they marched towards making a claim towards a spot in the quarter finals even though it’s early days yet. The results are as follows: Mighty Lions defeated Superbet XI by 6 wickets: Superbet XI batted first and scored 80-5 in 10 overs with Jitendra Kishore scoring 17(1x6;1x4) . In reply Mighty Lions scored 81-4 in 7 overs with Dhaniram Samaroo top scoring with a wellconstructed 50 (6x6). Omesh XI defeated Unstoppable XI by 34 runs: Omesh XI made 108-5 in 10 overs with Travis Drakes scoring 27 (3x6; 1x4). In reply Unstoppable were limited to 74 all out in 9.1 overs With Rooplall Deonarine scoring 15 (1x6; 1x4). Vickram Kissoon took 3-5 from 2 overs.

Maracs XI defeated Exclusive XI by 6 wkts: Exclusive XI made 80 all out in 10 overs and Maracs replied with 81-4 in 7 overs. Prem XI defeated Ridem Star XI by 2 runs: Prem XI batted first and scored 64 all out in 9.1 overs with Rajendra Kumar 13. Ridem Star XI were on their way but a tight penultimate over left them under pressure having to make 10. The last over was also a good one with them only getting 8 runs thus leaving them to rue what would have been a first victory in their first match but they will now have to try again in their second outing. Superstreet XI defeated Power XI by 31 runs: Superstreet XI batted first and scored 113-8 in 10 overs with Seepersaud Persaud scoring 18 (2x6). Hanoman Sukhanan took 3-17 from 2 overs. In reply Power XI were bundled out for 82 in 9 overs with Ravi Laldeo scoring 16 (2x6) in 9.5 overs. Shameer Khan took 4-7 from 2 overs to destroy them.

RHTYSC Cricket teams, Scotia Bank hosts... From page 32 Suicide message via colour costumes and floats, Coloured T/Shirts with Slogans and placards. Members of the RHTYSC Cricket teams attired in a special “Say No to Suicide” T/Shirt and promoted the “Say Yes to Sports” message to youths. The Cricketers also displayed numerous trophies the club has won over the years. A specially decorated float was also constructed by the Cricketers to advise youths to stay away from a life of crime and to stay in school and obtain an educational background. Secretary/CEO of the RHTYSC, Hilbert Foster hailed the Say No to Suicide Parade as a complete success and noted that all of its objectives were achieved. He expressed gratitude to the Bank of Nova Scotia and its Marketing Executive, MS. Jennifer Cipriani for sponsoring the Parade. The long serving Secretary/CEO in brief remarks after the parade, advised the attentive school children that life is god’s gift to humanity and should be cherished as we have only one innings to bat. Suicide,

he stated was a permanent solution to a temporary problem and encouraged youths to seek advice from their parents, teachers, religious leaders or professional counsellors in moments of doubts. The RHTYSC, he stated would continue to work to make a positive difference in the lives of youths, the elderly and less fortunate. The large gathering was entertained by a cultural session after the Parade at the Area ‘H’ Ground. Lower Corentyne Secondary School was the best school on parade by a panel of judges headed by Veteran Television Editor Gregory Rambarran. New Amsterdam Secondary copped with 2nd prize, while Rose Hall Town Primary took 3rd place prize. The management of the RHTYSC would like to express their appreciation to the Guyana Beverage Company Inc, Spready’s Snackette, Ministry of Education Region 6 Department, the Guyana Police Force, Bobby and Sons Boutique, Crown Vibes Printery, LRTVS CH10 and DTV8 for the role they played in making the event a success.

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Kaieteur News

Monday February 29, 2016

RHTYSC Cricket teams, Scotia Bank host smashing Anti-Suicide Children’s Mash Parade Lower Corentyne Secondary School, the Mash Parade Champions 2016 receiving the trophy from organising secretary Keith Hicks.

The youngsters doing their thing during the parade. The cricket teams of the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club with the support of the Bank of Nova Scotia hosted a highly successful Say No to Suicide Children Mash Parade along the Corentyne Highway. The parade

attracted close to 700 participants drawn from ten schools and the membership of the RHTYSC Cricket teams and Over 35 Group. The Parade was organised by the Rose Hall Town Farfan and Mendes Under-15, Bakewell Under-17 and

Second Division, Pepsi Under-19 and Intimidate, Metro Female and Gismos and Gadgets First Division and under-23 cricket teams, while the schools that took part in the parade were Lower Corentyne Secondary, Corentyne Comprehensive

Secondary, New Amsterdam Multilateral, J.C. Chandisingh Secondary, Belvedere Primary, Rose Hall Town Primary, Port Mourant Primary, Tain Primary and Rose Hall Town Nursery. The colourful and quite lively

parade started in front of the Anamayah Law Firm office at Hampshire and revellers were accompanied by loud musical entertainment. The large band of revellers promoted the Say No to Continued on page 31

Sentinel Security, Peter Lewis Construction and Farfan & Mendes Ltd donate trophies

RHTYSC Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster receives trophies from Sentinel Berbice Manager Priya Rampersaud. The 2016 Educational, Sports and youth development programmes of Guyana’s leading youth and sports organisation, the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club MS, last Wednesday received a major boost when three companies handed a carton of 24 trophies each to the Club. Sentinel Security Ltd of Lamaha Street, Georgetown, Peter Levies Construction Firm of Hampshire Village and the Georgetown based

Farfan and Mendes Ltd were the donors to the dynamic organisation, which on Tuesday received a National Award, the Medal of Service from the Government of Guyana for its outstanding contribution to sports, education and community development. Long serving Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster hailed the contribution of the three companies and stated the RHTYSC is seeking to obtain a total of 500 trophies for

RHTYSC Member Mark Papaunah receives trophies from Kerrianna Sukhan of Lewis Construction.

its planned list of activities. The trophies would be used to organise sports events like cricket, football, volleyball, basketball and chess, while the RHTYSC in April would also be hosting its 26th Annual awards ceremony where over 40 Club members would be honoured. The organisation would also be organising numerous Say Yes to Education programmes as it strives to promote the importance of education to youths.

Foster disclosed that a total of 60 educational programmes like debates, essays, posters, spelling bees, public speaking and career choices competitions for students in the ancient county will be held. He expressed gratitude to Mrs. Noreen Gaskin of Sentinel Security, Mr. Peter Lewis of Lewis Construction and Mr. OnaiVasconcellos of Farfan and Mendes Ltd for their continued cooperation to the RHTYSC. Ms. Priya Rampersaud, Berbice

Sentinel Security Manager in handing over the trophies on behalf of her company, stated that her Chief Executive Officer is always willing to partner with the RHTYSC MS as it is an organisation which always upholds the meaning of the word “Excellence” and is a role model for other organisation’s in Guyana. Mr. Peter Lewis, a long time donor to the Club expressed delight at being able to contribute to the hosting of youth related activities.

Monday February 29, 2016

Kaieteur News

Page 33

GBBC ‘Hostile Territory’ Boxing Extravaganza

Amidst drizzles Dharry and Marques warm fans’ hearts with winning displays By Michael Benjamin Light showers and a damp atmosphere permeated the Giftland Shopping Mall, Liliendaal ECD but failed to quell the heat in the ring when the Guyana Boxing Board of Control (GBBC) ‘Hostile Territory’ card concluded at that venue last Saturday evening. IBF Inter-Continental bantamweight champion, Elton ‘The Bully’ Dharry then warmed the hearts of his fans when he unleashed a two fisted attack on former IBF World Super Flyweight champion, Venezuelan, Felix Machado, and forced him to quit on his stool at the end of the 4th, of their scheduled 8 rounds bantamweight fight. One fight earlier, Dexter ‘The Kid’ Marques was his usual classy self and out-boxed Freddy Beleno to register a lopsided majority verdict, while Revlon Lake turned back the challenge of Barbadian, Miguel Antoine, and avenged an earlier loss with a points win in their welterweight encounter. Quincy Gomes and Imran ‘Magic’ Khan fought a very entertaining fight and the former pugilist utilized his experience to eke out a close points victory one fight before Mandessa Moses pounded out a unanimous verdict over Ansilla Norville in an entertaining 6 rounds bantamweight duel. The opening bout of the night saw Anson Green turning in a late effort to upstage Kishawn Simon in their welterweight encounter. The rains had threatened since before the first fight but held up until just around the penultimate fight between Marques and Beleno. The latter fighter purposefully addressed the task at hand from the first bell when he surprised Beleno with a sharp left hook. The Venezuelan did well to shrug off the effects of the punch and advanced with flailing fists. However, a wily Marques utilized the ring to good advantage while scoring occasional flurries. Beleno retaliated early in the second stanza with a wicked body attack but Marques continued to apply the pressure as the round progressed, this time landing from long range. Beleno enjoyed sporadic moments early in the 3rd round, connecting with right crosses and looping straight rights but by then an

Dexter Marques (left) on attack against Freddy Beleno during their bout which Marques won comfortably at Giftland Mall Saturday night.

energized Marques had found his rhythm and unleashed several combinations that pushed the Venezuelan on the back foot. The action heated up in the 4th round and both boxers stood in center ring in a vicious exchange. Marques then lashed out and landed a grazing blow to Beleno’s temple and down he went. Beleno rose, more surprised than hurt and attempted to recover lost ground and was met by several right crosses but to his credit, he bravely advanced while scoring with a few punches of his own. The 6th round was a shutdown for the Guyanese whose fleet footed movements and quick combinations kept Beleno at bay. Marques enjoyed target practice for most of the 7th round, as by now, Beleno appeared defeated and was just content to last out the fight. This proved to be a deceptive move as Beleno entered the 8th round aggressively, landing several telling shots to Marques’ head and body. Marques bounced out of range but quickly regrouped and reasserted himself with several telling shots to his opponent’s body and head. A toe to toe battle ensued in the early stages of the 9th round but Marques quelled the Venezuelan’s pluck with timely right crosses and by the end of that round Beleno had convinced the spectators

that he could take a punch after he stood his ground despite being at the end of Marques’ flailing fists for most of the bout. Indeed, Beleno refused to give up and staunchly fought on to the final bell. The judges’ scorecard did not reflect such courage but the lopsidedness of the encounter. Andrew Thorne saw it 97-92, while Carlton Hopkinson and Trevor Arno saw the bout 9882 and 100-86, all in favour of Marques. Dharry entered the ring to a chilly breeze and light drizzles with the organizers anxious to beat the impending rains. Apparently cognizant of this, Dharry peppered his opponent with several jabs and then converted a perfect straight right that buckled Machado’s knees. Recognizing his man was hurt, Dharry hustled in but the bell beat him to it. Dharry resumed the onslaught at the start of the second round and staggered his man with a straight right and then rocked him with another but the Venezuelan managed to stem the tide to the end. The drizzles continued to cascade the venue and forced some of the spectators to retreat under the canopy of the building while others braved the weather to enjoy a close view of the fight. The pattern continued into the third stanza where Dharry kept his man blocking up but despite receiving some telling blows, the former world

champion refused to quit. Perseverance finally began to reap dividends for Dharry as Machado started to back- peddle from his vicious volleys in the 4th stanza. Dharry pursued his man and connected with a several wallops but though drifting backwards, Machado refused to go down even as Dharry urgently stepped up the pace. By now the sky was overcast and it appeared as though the rains would have

Revlon Lake (left)breaches the defence of Barbadian, Miguel Antoine to avenge an earlier loss Saturday in the GBBC card at Giftland Mall.

tumbled down any minute. As if on cue Dharry unleashed several unanswered punches but though obviously hurt, Machado refused to touch canvass. When the bell rung the two pugilists were in one of the neutral corners with Dharry pummeling away on Machado’s hapless body drifting him into the ropes. Machado managed to make it to the end of the round and fans were just lauding his courage when he decided that the torridness of the previous round was too much and refused to return to the fray when the bell for the 5th round sounded. Khan attacked Gomes from the first gong and had his man covering up to stem the onslaught. Gomes shuffled forward and threw fewer punches but with meaner intentions. It was Khan at his best as he punched and danced away before Gomes was able to get off his power punches. Gomes attempted to bully his man at the start of the 2nd round but Khan used lightening quick combinations to ward him off. The exchanges were even up until nearing the end of the 3rd round where Khan unleashed a 4 punch combination that forced Gomes to cover up. Shuffling forward Gomes, the shorter of the two, unleashed several hooks to Khan’s body and head forcing him to retreat. This

was clearly Gomes’ round and he entered the 5th round full of confidence. He attacked and while at close range, connected with a short right hand and Khan’s knees touched the canvass for a fraction of a second. The referee ruled it a knock down and instituted a mandatory 8 count. Khan, apparently in an effort to recoup the lost point, drove Gomes to one of the neutral corners with two ramrod shots but the bell halted his aggression. The final round was a gem as both fighters, realizing that the fight was close, purposefully went after each other. Khan unleashed several unanswered punches before Gomes decided to respond with a few of his own. The two gladiators held the crowd’s attention right down to the final bell which rang as they unleashed combinations on each other in a bid to influence the judges. In the end, Gomes prevailed after Thorne and Arno give him the bout 58-55 and 57-56 respectively while Dexter Torrington felt that Khan had done enough to win and scored in his favour 57-56. Indeed, the general consensus seems to suggest that the fans had enjoyed the fights. As one patron was heard saying as he left the venue, “Those Venezuelans were warned not to venture into hostile territory.”

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Kaieteur News

Monday February 29, 2016

East Coast Mash Challenge Cup GUYANA JUDO ASSOCIATION 10/10Better Hope win HOSTS MASH COMPETITION zone in exciting final

Beehive XI a crowd favourite, Wellwoman dominate Lady Jags

Guyana Judo Association President Raoul Archer (right) shares the moment with his outstanding charges at the competition last Sunday at MYO. The Guyana Judo Association (GJA) hosted a Mashramani competition at the Muslim Youth Organisation (MYO) ground last Sunday. Five clubs participated in the event which saw about 40 competitors in action in six divisions of juniors and four divisions of seniors. Competing in front of a vocal and appreciative crowd Kilbert Archer, who was eventually named Best overall fighter, was promoted on the sport for his impressive showing in the Senior 60kg department, advancing to Brown belt. Keron

Bourne was promoted to Orange belt in the 55kg Junior segment and one of the youngest competitors Usayd Barlow (24kg Junior) was also upgraded to Yellow belt. GJA President Raoul Archer expressed delight at the performances exhibited on the day. He also expressed thanks to Charles Ambrose, William Arthur, the executives of the association, sponsors and Maximum Sport for their support and assistance in making the event a success. Below is the official list of the outstanding performers:

The East Coast Mash 10/ 10 Challenge Cup was made for exciting cricket as the teams battled for supremacy with Better Hope XI being triumphant in front of a small but emotional crowd who were vocal in support of their team and so it was as they delivered and remain the dominant team on the East Coast. The day began with a mixed team playing an exhibition match which saw East Coast combined, which included players from all the teams against an over-40 Masters team from West Coast in Blazers. The East Coast team defeated the West Coast team by 7 wickets. West Coast Blazers batted first and scored 80 all out in 9 overs with Orville Black scoring 24 laced with one six and one four. Patrick Khan took 1-20 from his two overs with the majority of wickets going via the run out route. The Combined side replied with 81-3 in 7 overs. Shakeer Ali took 2-18 from his two overs. In the female match Wellwoman defeated Lady Divas by 15 runs. Wellwoman XI lost the toss and were inserted managing 96-8 in 10 overs and Lady Divas were bundled out for 81 in their 10 overs. In another exhibition match, Better Hope XI defeated Vipers XI by 8 wickets. Vipers XI batted and scored 113-5 in 10 overs with Premnarine Omadat scoring 29 (3x6; 1x4) and extras being the second top scorer with 21. Ajay Singh took 3-13 from 2 overs for the Better Hope

boys. In reply Better Hope XI rattled up 116-2 in 4.5 overs with Sachin Singh 37 (5x6; 1x4) off 11 balls and Navin Singh 35 (3x6;2x4) off 11 balls to steer them to victory. Arif Hussain took 1-18 from 2 overs bowling for Vipers. Beehive XI defeated HyTimes by 7 wkts: Hy-Times batted first and scored 94-9 in 10 overs with Keron Seunarine top scoring with 16. In reply Beehive raced to 95-3 in 7 overs with Ovid Seymour blasting his way to 43 not out (2x6; 5x4) off 19 balls supported by Lionel Alphonso with 36 (5x6) off 12 balls to propel them to victory.Andrew Williams took 3-20 in 2 overs. The final saw Beehive XI winning the toss and batting scoring 122-5 in 10 overs with Sheldon Adams scoring 52 (2x6; 2x4) off 26 balls. Andy Singh took 1-15 from 2 overs. In reply Better Hope XI were made to work hard even though they only lost one wicket and only achieved victory in the last over due to a misfield with Navin Singh batting through to score 63 (4x6;4x4) off 23 balls and Sachin Singh making 30 (1x6;3x4). Better Hope now go forward as the East Coast Representative in the Challenge series. Meanwhile, the One ball Manto attracted 10 pairs and were unable to be completed due to the v o l u m e o f matches but the spectators were very receptive of the format and information gathered was that a day of o n e b a l l m anto will be organized for the benefit of the people around the area.

Topp XX remain in lead after eking out 1-0 win - Ward Panthers edge Hi Stars 3-2

LINDSEY VONN EXTENDS LEAD DESPITE HAIRLINE FRACTURE BBC Sport – Lindsey Vonn raced with a hairline fracture of her knee but still managed to extend her World Cup lead in Andorra. The 31-year-old wore a brace on her left knee to protect an injury suffered in a crash on Saturday. Vonn set the fastest time in the super-G leg of the event on Sunday and finished 13th in the combined event. “No-one can ever call me a wimp,” tweeted the American, who is seeking her fifth overall World Cup title. Vonn had fluid

drained before deciding to start Sunday’s event. She had the 23rd best time in the slalom leg of the combined but her closest rival for the overall trophy, Swiss Lara Gut, failed to finish. Vonn’s advantage in the overall standings is now 28 points. “So the MRI shows a pretty substantial fracture in my tibial plateau,” wrote Vonn on Instagram. “MCL looks decent as well as the rest of my knee. “Now I will talk to my trainers and make a plan.”

Leaders Topp XX extended their advantage to four points as they scored a 1-0 win over previously unbeaten Silver Shattas when the Upper Demerara Football Association’s (UDFA) First division championship continued Friday night at the Mackenzie Sports Club ground. The leaders are on 16 points from that win which came with a single strike from Tyric McAllister in the 35th minute of the game and the Shattas now remain on 12 points to be in second position. In the other game, Amelia’s Ward Panthers were able to rebound from an early goal which came from Hi Stars’ Jermain McBean in the 4th minute. They were able to level the scores when Ray Bobbsemple netted in the 42nd minute and then took the lead in the first minute after play resumed (46th minute) for the final session. But the Hi Stars hit back when Marley Major found the back of the net in the 57th minute and knotted the scores 22 but Andel Norville was able to give his side the crucial winning goal when he netted in the 87th minute . The championship was due to continue last night.