Kaieteur News

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AIETEUR

High Court orders seizure of US$3.2M from GT&T bank account

NEWS

Guyana’s largest selling daily & New York’s most popular weekly

Sale of Gov’t 20% in GTT shares… Friday Edition January 31, 2020 - Vol. 22 No. 05

Online: www.kaieteurnews.com Price $80

Online readership yesterday 134,653

Are Exxon’s costs bloated?

Jagdeo says billion

dollar cost-reduction in Liza 1, alone, worrying The Members of the Diplomatic Corps were yesterday presented with I LOVE GUYANA bags, hats and jerseys from Impressions Inc. The presentation was done at a Kingston landmark erected outside Umana Yana. The Kingston landmark, since being built a few months ago, has become a popular photographed site in Guyana.

RUSAL sacks more workers Immigration, gun licence, vehicle Miner injured while fitness, should be outsourced from rescuing children Police Force - Granger proposes from burning home

Govt. engages Private Sector on access to financing in renewable energy sector

Kaieteur News

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Friday January 31, 2020

Immigration, vehicle fitness, gun licences should be outsourced from Police Force President David Granger addresses police officers at State House yesterday

- Granger proposes

T

he Coalition Government is contemplating outsourcing a number of key services being offered by the police. These include noncore functions including immigration, certification of vehicular fitness and issuance of gun licenses.

“These non-core functions must be outsourced so as ensure that more trained ranks are deployed to crime-fighting duties,” President David Granger said yesterday.

The President was addressing senior officials and officers of the Guyana Police Force at the Annual Police Officers' conference, held at State House.

The event is being convened with elections just a little less than five weeks away. Currently, Immigration has been placed under the Department of Citizenship with the police force handling vehicle fitness and applications for gun licences. In many countries, drivers' licences applications are handled by special entities. According to President Granger, it is clear that the force's personnel strength of about 4,600 is inadequate but it is the plan to raise the complement during the 'Decade of Development'.

“Our country's 215,000km² makes it larger in extent than England and Scotland combined and with 3,000 km of borders and 460 km of sea coast, the Force is challenged to enforce the law effectively everywhere.

“The Force has begun to (continued on page 18)

Kaieteur News

Friday January 31, 2020

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Sale of Govt. 20% shares in GTT...

High Court orders seizure of US$3.2M - says future dividends must from GTT bank account be handed over to NICIL accrued on its 4125 shares for the year ending December 31, 2019.

The court also ordered that any other dividends to be paid in the future by GTT to the Chinese subsidiary would also go to NICIL. The Order further noted that if there is a failure to comply with the terms of the order, the parties in breach may be liable to imprisonment or have their assets confiscated.

The order of the court was posted on NICIL's website. (See link for more d e t a i l s : https://nicil.gov.gy/wpcontent/uploads/56.-Orderof-Court-dated-January-132020.pdf).

By Kiana Wilburg

U

n d e r t h e guidance of the PPP regime, the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL) sold the State's 20 percent holdings in the Guyana Telephone and Telegraph (GTT) to Hong Kong Golden Telecom Limited (HKGT) in April 2012.

HKGT at that time was a one-year old subsidiary of Datang Telecom International Technology (Hong Kong) Company Limited.

HKGT was supposed to pay US$30M for the 20 percent stake in GTT but Guyana only received US$25M. When the APNU+AFC party took office in 2015, it had vowed to go after the outstanding sums. But efforts to get the Chinese company to pay up just proved futile.

In fact, the government faced much opposition from the Chinese firm which refused to pay the full sum. It had told the government that it would pay about US$3M or nothing at all.

But the government's fortunes on this matter would soon improve after the matter was taken over by Colvin Heath-London of the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited.

Armed with his lawyers, Heath-London who is the Head of NICIL's Special Privatization Unit (SPU), approached the courts to garnish the dividend payments GTT would have made to

Hong Kong Golden Telecom Limited (HKGT).

About two weeks ago, Justice Franklin Holder issued an order in favour of NICIL for the garnishment of US$3.2M from the account of the Guyana Telephone & Telegraph Co. Ltd. While this still leaves U S $ 1.8M outstanding,

NICIL has no worries for the court also ordered that future dividend payments be made to NICIL. The order as seen by this newspaper specifically states that upon reading the Notice of Application and hearing submissions made by Attorneys-at-law for the Applicant, Devindra

Kissoon and Natasha M. Vieira, Justice Holder issued a Garnishment Order in favour of NICIL. The order said that the US$3.2M represents the payment of all of the dividends due and owing to HKGT and which were

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Friday January 31, 2020

Kaieteur News

Kaieteur News Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana.

Publisher: GLENN LALL Editor: Adam Harris Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210

EDITORIAL

Making the punishment fit the crime Some actions of the judiciary continue to raise eyebrows, if not serious questions in the minds of observers. Truth be told, they do not add up; they lack consistency, and they leave a huge gap in those searching for some semblance of correlation in the judicial determinations handed down.

In the always thorny, never fully resolved, matters of crime and punishment, there is some shaking of the head in Guyana and wondering what next could be handed down.

This is the thinking of more than a few in this society, when the issue of sentencing comes up, since all manner of questions are raised: about correlation to the (mis)conduct, while making a balanced judgement relative to mitigation, rehabilitation and, ultimately, reconciliation with, or into, society.

All of this has relevance, but even when factored into the broadest of considerations, and given the widest of latitudes, some sentences do not relate well, and sit well, to the result of further recklessness and even more wanton disregard for the law.

One such instance that caught the eye and startled was the sentence of six months in jail imposed for the death of an 11-year old child struck down by a driver. It was not just any run-of-the-mill vehicular accident, but one where the child was hit on a pedestrian crossing.

This alone intensifies the severity of any sentence under consideration. Even if, for the sake of argument, this now lost young citizen met her end because of contributory negligence, as in rushing out into the pedestrian passageway at the very last minute, six months is still not enough, and by a wide margin.

This is postured because pedestrian crossings, anywhere, and none more so than those in the vicinity of schools, must be approached with a maximum of caution.

Rather regrettably, this is not what is observed of Guyanese drivers when they approach pedestrian crossings.

In fact, the opposite is more likely to occur and is known to be the norm, which is that local drivers do one of two things or both: they blow horns as if to chase those daring to impede their accelerated passing, or they maintain speeds-usually above the legal limit to begin with-when seeing the human obstacles in their paths.

Slowing down from a distance is not part of the retraining mindset as part of preparing to come to full stop. Often, the sense is that, if drivers could go around those on foot, they would readily do so. For all of these reasons, a sentence of six months is not found acceptable.

Then there was the other side of the sentencing coin, which was more humorous than serious. A man was sentenced to three years’ imprisonment for stealing women’s underwear. Six months for killing a child on a pedestrian crossing, but three years for pilfering one pair (only) of panties. There could be some understanding of three years for stealing a lorry load of lingerie, but one pair of panties makes people talk to themselves.

Moreover, there is now that standard of four years for one kilo of cocaine, and the same four for one ton of the same death-dealing, spirit-breaking, societal scourge.

Something is wrong there, which only adds to the questions about maximum sentences and judgements handed down, be they constrained, or erratic, or questionablein some many regards. And it was almost a similar story, where a man (admittedly suffering from alcoholic amnesia) was given a lighter than the usual sentence for kicking his domestic partner in a bar washroom of all places.

In a society that reels from continuing incidences of horrendous domestic violence, that irresponsible and abusive spouse should have been given ample penitentiary time to dry out and think things over.

Examining the larger landscape, there is much that needs fixing. The President himself recently called for lower jail times for some offenses.

Further, there are calls for tightening traffic laws, which is a needed step and fully endorsed by this paper. The bottom line is that the punishment must fit the crime.

Appalled at the level of deliberate misinterpretation and real incomprehension in this society DEAR EDITOR, I refer to the letter on Tuesday titled, “Neither festive nor a ‘lime’” from a Robin Singh (SN January 28).

I thank the taxi driver who brought this to my attention on Thursday.

If this is what passes for public expression of some (any) understanding, intellectual depth, and personal contributions relative to the political developments in this country, then we are in worse shape than I thought.

Here it is that an acknowledged coalition supporter (yours truly) calls out a senior minister of the government, a senior party leader, on her statement to party people to maintain a vigilant physical presence around polling stations on voting day, and the criticism and message are lost.

My disagreement and criticism of Ms. Volda Lawrence is something that does not happen in this country at elections time, or any other time or any other issue, by most other commentators and known supporters of both the PNC and PPP. In fact, on the PNC (now APNU) side, did emerge from their protective private places to question, to criticize, and to challenge.

I am on record as disagreeing with the President himself, and on

more than a couple of occasions. I have called on Mr. Granger to fire a couple of serving ministers, which were not well received by the objects of my disappointment. The point I am getting at is that, at no time (repeat, at no time), do the regular PPP contributors and supporters find anything that is done wrong, any misstep, or any weakness by any member of the mighty PPP: no policy, no pronouncement, no practice.

Look carefully, and there are haloed as a perfect blending of Moses, Jesus, Buddha, and Mohammed.

This is the level of deception and hypocrisy that prevails in this place.

I would have thought that the Robin Singh(s) of the world would possess the barest minimum of interpretation and appreciation for what I took Ms. Lawrence to the mat; yet that is transformed into “spin.”

To continue the illustration tendered, a fair delivery is sent down with the frankest of countenances, and it is greeted with rank dishonesty. I suspect there may be some limitations in reading, definitely much in lack of understanding. Surely, no one can be so blind, so biased, as to ignore (or pretend to) the thrust of what was embedded in my letter that deplored the position of

Ms. Lawrence.

Look again, and it should be seen very clearly that I am concerned that the Hon. Minister (and PNC senior)’s exhortation could lead to the “law of unintended consequences.” Meaning that, as corroborated by word from marketplace conversations, it would be opportunity for some business activity, such as offering bar-b-que chicken and the usual roadside Guyanese fare. And here is the kicker and key: there is nothing prohibiting what may start out innocently, and as an opportunistic business hustle, to deteriorate into the sneaky selling of alcoholic beverages, the imbibing of such, and the resulting intensifications from such that could lead to undesired places and issues. By the latter, I mean what has characterized the immediate post-elections intervals.

It is known, I do, that some of the people who sell food, also sell alcohol. Since, their plan is to respond to Ms. Lawrence’s urging for a polling place presence at that special time, then matters could get out of hand, with the usual denials and reciprocal finger-pointing following. They usually solve nothing. More damage is layered on the psyche of an already troubled populace.

I submit all of this

notwithstanding, the CEO of GECOM, Mr. Lowenfield, reminding all Guyanese of the “200 yard” prohibition around polling places. For if the words of Ms. Lawrence were to gain traction, then that space would be observed more in the breach; and, even if it were adhered to, then there is the distinct probability of mischief in the air from whatever distance people gather. Alcohol can undermine the best of intentions.

Thus, I do not see how what I wrote calling out Ms. Lawrence as camouflage or copout or possibly condoning anything that may have occurred before or that may become so now. It is one thing to stand in defiance of commonsense and without regard for what is helpful to this country; it is another thing, a most vulgar and dirty thing, to simply say something for the sake of selling self and proving how invaluable a contribution is made to the elections developments and discourses in this land.

To Robin Singh, I extend this encouragement: try identifying with some values, some truths, and those things that are never up for sale. One is character, from which comes ethical restraints and considerations.

Sincerely, GHK Lall

All of these events speak for themselves DEAR EDITOR, So now we have the News Editor of the National Communications Network (NCN) being sent on leave resulting from an altercation at NCN’s newsroom with the Director of the Department of Public Information. The Director, however, remains on the job.

We have no explanation

as to why the Director was present in NCN’s newsroom nor what caused him to confront the NCN News Editor, though it is reported that the NCN News Editor objected to an NCN employee who is a political candidate of a contesting political party continuing to present the news.

We also have, it is

reported, the NCN-managed community station at Mabaruma being used exclusively to afford political campaign broadcasting time to the governing party. Is this now the purpose of accelerating the establishment of these, otherwise, excellent stations providing a voice for the local communities?

All of these events speak for themselves while our Broadcasting Authority maintains a stony silence on its responsibility to ensure fair and balanced broadcast coverage during the election period, particularly with regard to the State owned and operated stations.

Yours sincerely, Kit Nascimento

Canada’s use of ministerial mandate letters is the Minister of Diversity and continue to build and and Youth must renovate housing through an idea we must copy Inclusion follow at minimum twenty- the National Housing DEAR EDITOR, Less than two months after winning the last general election in Canada, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau released what are referred to as “ministerial mandate letters” to each Cabinet minister.

The stated goals of the set of directives in the letters are to (i) outline the main policy objectives that each minister will work to accomplish, as well as the main pressing challenges they

will address in their role, (ii) outline the Prime Minister’s expectations for each minister, and give Canadians a clear idea of how the government will deliver its agenda, and (iii) help Canadians hold the government to account.

The level of comprehensiveness, specificity, and interministerial coordination expressed in the mandate letters is striking.

Examples: the mandate for

three directives, including working “with your colleagues to develop policies that tackle systemic discrimination and unconscious bias in our country”.

The letter for the Minister of Families, Children and Social Development identifies eighteen directives, including “Building on our historic investment of $13 billion, including the creation of 41,800 new units and the repair of another 229,600 units,

Strategy.”

I do not know how the ideas in the mandates are produced — whether, for example, they directly flow from the election manifesto of the party or are the products of a more thoughtful planning process.

Regardless, we in Guyana must strive to reach this level of national strategic thinking and performance management.

Yours faithfully, Sherwood Lowe

Friday January 31, 2020

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Preparing for General and Regional Elections 2020 DEAR EDITOR, “Elections are the base of our democracy and if we do not have truly a fair electoral process and one that can be managed well by a truly independent body, it really is an attack on our democracy and we should all be concerned about that.”Sheila Fraser As General and Regional Elections draw near, there is much excitement, speculation and apprehension by Guyanese as to the capacity of GECOM to deliver free, fair and transparent Elections.

While having a credible Official List of Electors (OLE) is of paramount importance, what transpires on Election Day and the various processes leading to the Final Declaration of Results by the ten (10) Returning Officers, the transmission of Statements of Poll to GECOM, the calculation and award of Regional, Constituency and National Top Up seats, are also critical to the advancement of Democracy in our Country.

Our Electoral Laws (Cap:1.03) and the various processes outlined in GECOM’s Training Manual are relatively simple and straightforward, but can be compromised unless extreme vigilance is exercised at all times. This effort is to ensure that there is strict adherence to legal electoral practices and procedures by GECOM’s officials.

Below, I have outlined some areas of concern and recommendations for preventative actions.

1. REPLACEMENT OF POLLING DAY STAFF GECOM should issue pictorial ID to all its Polling Day Staff to avoid their replacement by individuals who were not so appointed.

2. OMISSION OF THE OFFICIAL MARK It is common knowledge

that on E-Day, Ballot Papers which do not bear the Official Mark (a 6-digit number) may be rejected by the Presiding Officer, and as such, not counted for any party on the ballot paper. Therefore, the Elector, to which the ballot belongs, is disenfranchised.

Editor, this has occurred often in past Elections. It is a clear case of dereliction of duty by those involved and GECOM should impose heavy sanctions against anyone guilty of such callous practices. Let us hope that this practice will be a thing of the past.

I am aware that GECOM has been repeatedly emphasizing this point to its Polling Day Staff. For the edification of all electors at the upcoming polls, the following lines should be studied.

LIMITSOFTHE POLLINGSTATION This refers to the area of two hundred yards surrounding the Polling Station. It is unlawful to canvass, annoy, molest or interfere with a voter within this radius. Only authorised persons, including legitimate voters, are allowed within this area.

BALLOT PAPERS These are of two types:1) ORDINARY BALLOT PAPERS - These are issued to genuine voters who have not already voted. (a) Spoiled Ballot Paper.

‘A Ballot Paper could be deemed as spoiled if it bears any mark, such as a tear or ink stain, which could identify it with the voter or if the ballot is marked incorrectly through an inadvertent action by the voter.

Upon being informed of such, the Presiding Officer should retrieve the Ballot Paper, place it in a special envelope, issue another Ballot Paper and guide the elector to cast their ballot. Notably, Spoiled Ballots are not placed in the

Ballot Box and, as such, should not be counted for any List of Candidates. (b) Valid and Rejected Ballots.

These are determined by the Presiding Officer at time of the count, upon examination of the Ballots cast in the Ballot Box. (b1) Valid Ballots are counted, separated and awarded for Lists of Candidates, during which tallies are taken, after which Statements of Poll are prepared for General and Regional Elections. (b2) Rejected Ballots are not counted for any List of Candidates. Ballots may be rejected for various reasons:-Absence of the Official Mark. (6-digit stamp) -Unmarked for any List of Candidates.

-Marked for more than one List of Candidates.

-Marked so the voter can be identified.

2) TENDERED BALLOT PAPERS These are similar to the Ordinary Ballots but of a different colour and are only issued by the Presiding Officer to a voter whom he/she is convinced has already voted.

Such Ballots are not counted for any List of Candidates. They are only meant to pacify the voter.

Only a limited number of such Ballots are issued to the Presiding Officer who should NEVER issue them to legitimate voters.

Persons authorised to be present at the Polling Station.

-Members of the Elections Commission.

-Members of GECOM Secretariat.

-Polling Day Staff.

-Duly appointed Party Agents.

-Candidate to Poll.

-Polling Agents/Counting Agents.

-Observers approved by

GECOM. 3.

ELECTION OBSERVERS The presence of Election Observers has been a most welcome feature over the years. However, their pronouncements on the outcome and quality of the Elections should not be based on mere casual and sporadic visits to selected Polling Stations. It is recommended that they be allowed to monitor and observe every stage of the process up to the Final Declaration of the Results.

4. THE STATEMENT OF POLL It is generally known that the Statement of Poll (SOP) is prepared in adequate copies by the Presiding Officer, signed by him/her and Polling Agents, to whom one each is issued, one posted outside the Polling Station and the others transmitted thru’ the Deputy Returning Officer to the Returning Officer of the District.

This document represents the Official Results for the Polling Station.

The information on this document can only be changed subject to any discrepancies/ inaccuracy discovered by the Returning Officer or as a result of any request for recounts conducted by him and which vary from the results on the SOP. As such, the Presiding

Officer must exercise extreme care to ensure that the SOP is prepared correctly and accurately before signing it.

The Deputy Returning Officer should not prepare or sign this document under any circumstance.

5. REQUESTS FOR RECOUNT Requests for recount must be made to the Returning Officer by the relevant party representative prescribed by Law. There can be several types of recounts.

These requests must be made not later than noon of the day after the declaration by Returning Officer whose duty and responsibility it is to accept these requests and to conduct these recounts, the outcome of which should be made public. It would be in the interest of contesting parties and GECOM to facilitate this process by preparing a standardised administrative format to accommodate same.

6. FINAL DECLARATION OR RESULTS AND CALCULATION OF REGIONALAND PARLIAMENTARY SEATS The final declaration of the Elections Results by GECOM should be consistent with the summation of the final results declared by the ten (10) Returning Officers. The calculation of Regional Seats, Constituency and National TopUp seats should be done by

rigidly adhering to a specified formula, which should be placed in the public domain.

Finally, extreme vigilance should be exercised to ensure that the Statements of Poll that are transmitted to GECOM are indeed the ones which emanated from the Office of the ten (10) Returning Officers.

It should also be noted that, long before GECOM makes its final declaration, most, if not all, of the contesting Parties would have already computed the results since they would have already had the same information as furnished by the Returning Officers to GECOM. As Guyanese, with deep nationalistic pride, we should, at all times be vigilant and guard against forces with ulterior motives which may seek to create any form of rascality or crisis, in a desperate attempt to force GECOM to abort the Elections on or before the Elections Day. In conclusion, I wish to urge all Guyanese, especially those directly involved in the administration and conduct of the Election Process to demonstrate transparency, professionalism, patriotism and integrity in the performance of their duties and responsibilities. I join with my fellow Guyanese brothers and sisters in expectation of a free and fair election and one that is free from fear.

Yours sincerely, Bishop Juan A. Edghill

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I take full personal responsibility for what I said at that public meeting DEAR EDITOR, This missive is directed to Members of the Women and Gender Equality Commission (WGEC) as well as to those who have criticised and/or sought clarification on my remarks at a public meeting held at Little Diamond, EBD. In a letter sent to both Stabroek News and Kaieteur News on 27 January 2020, I offered my regrets and emphasized that no disrespect was intended, implicitly or otherwise, to women who felt hurt and offended by my remarks.

Stabroek News published my letter in their edition of January 28, 2020. Kaieteur News never did.

In the spirit of selfcriticism, I take the

opportunity to further elaborate.

I wish to make it pellucid that my remarks at that meeting, in no way whatsoever, reflect the position of the PPP/C with respect to women and gender equality. The PPP as a matter of policy has an unblemished record in this respect.

I take full personal responsibility for what I said at that public meeting.

Throughout my entire political life, I am known to be a defender of women’s rights and gender equality. There are no recorded instances, public or otherwise, where I expounded views to the contrary.

At elections campaign public meetings, it is not

unusual for some speakers to resort to political satire and/ or puns in song, poetry or speeches to denigrate their political opponents.

However, there are times when this form of comedic political commentary can be insulting to a wide audience.

I have to concede that, regrettably, this is precisely what occurred while addressing the audience at the said public meeting.

Further, it is to be regretted that the satirical commentary came across as offensive to women (and probably men).

I wish to again emphasize that no disrespect was meant, intentionally or otherwise, to women in general. My sincerest apologies to all.

Clement J. Rohee

I have deep and sincere concern over abuse of power and corruption in govt.

DEAR EDITOR, I write to share my deep and sincere concern over the issue of abuse of power and corruption in government.

Since our over five decades of independence, there has been outright and open corruption by both Governments who have been placed to manage the affairs and develop this country economically, educationally, politically and otherwise.

We have seen the privilege given to some individuals to manage the affairs of this country being misused, abused and dynasties created, some have enriched themselves and

Friday January 31, 2020

Kaieteur News

their cronies, and in turn, the very people who have elected them to serve have been neglected and the country is saddled with enormous debts which our children and grandchildren will have to repay.

In my opinion, it is a frustrating scenario on repeat, with nothing being done to alleviate the brashness and abuse of authority of some government officials.

We must agree that it is unfair for educated individuals with the right qualification, deserving jobs but not getting them due to nepotism being displayed.

With our healthcare under intense scrutiny and immigration scandals arising every now and again, we must anticipate more is yet to come.

I am not choosing sides of this or any political dynasty, but simply making it clear that no matter who we put into government, they almost always end up losing sight and focus on the primary job.

We as a unit of Guyana population, whether educated or not, must fight for the upliftment of our country in ways unheard of, and unprecedented. For the next five years, we must analyze all that is happening in our country, as we hold the key to our rise in glory or our fall in the pit of utter despair.

We must rapidly come up with solutions to our problems such as crime, unemployment, poverty, healthcare debt recovery, as they are all vital in the development of our beautiful country Guyana and our position in the international arena.

Furthermore, I want to see my country flourish and not diminish with corrupt politicians who like carrions are clutching at the souls of Guyanese. I want to see our debts reduce and continue to reduce until we are in good standing, I want to see our justice system be fair to all, but for this to happen we must first, without a doubt in our minds, put the right persons in place to run our (Continued on page 31)

There is no viable strategy for human resources development DEAR EDITOR, I was more than less engaged with the thrust of Stabroek News’ editorial of January 26, 2020. Indeed, it speaks to more than just ‘Administrative Deficit’, for governments of this day have to be substantively more proactive.

They are required to manage economies, and therefore people who function within the respective components of a disciplined creative organisational decision-making structure.

Having said the above, the fault lines identified in the respective governments’ performance over the past two decades are accurate.

They also confirm the very fundamental deficit of competencies relevant to decision-making at the highest levels, thus setting poor examples for those whom they supervise.

It has always been the troubling issue, particularly in a ‘village’ size population like Guyana’s, of the elected talking down to the very electors, who they tried so hard to attract.

There is the assumption of authority that intervenes in a communication structure which illogically treats the elector, however professional, as less than equal. In short, the communication process is hardly ever ‘with’, but mostly ‘to’ – in a counterproductive leadership environment.

Compounding this state of organisational constipation is the not unexpected humility proffered, particularly by the contracted professional who demurs from asserting his/her superior analytical capabilities in respect of policy formulation, and even at the level of operational

decision-making.

It is even possible that the recruit may feel compromised by the very nature of contract employment.

Whether so or not, there is no question that over recent years, there has been palpable evidence of the personalisation of decisionmaking in public sector organisations. In other words, it is a matter of who likes whom.

In the much discussed sugar industry, there was a time when there was a carefully structured decisionmaking system that allowed c o n s t r u c t i v e recommendations for policy, beginning at the estate worker level. The system was initially called ‘Worker Participation’.

It actually survived the vagaries of the respective political decision-making hierarchies.

However, following the change of ‘administration’ one found that there was a substantive depletion of confidence amongst the management cadre, resulting from peremptory disciplinary action, including termination, which several of their colleagues had experienced.

As a consequence, there was the patent reluctance to share information even with those whom they closely worked.

The background was that there was deep uncertainty about whom to trust – a legacy of their experience up to 2015.

It was an unacceptably sad situation to witness those who were more than just managers, but heads of families, whose humanity had been so blatantly undermined.

But the above scenario is

hardly limited to the sugar industry.

Substantial experience in consultancy projects across the public sector over the past two decades allows for easy identification of: i) the lack of trust; coupled with ii) the depletion of the employee’s self-respect as a human being So that there is still reference to the retarded assignment of ‘Personnel Officer’, (not even ‘Manager’) only in Guyana’s Public Service, while they are surrounded, however nominally, with the principle and practice of Human Resources Management locally, regionally and internationally.

The latter must be the substantive reason why there is no viable strategy for human resources development, beginning at the precarious level of Ministers, so many of whom, one colleague observed, do not know that they do not know.

And in the absence of any human resources development programme in the Public Service, it is hardly expected that there would be provision for succession by acceptably competent candidates. Just advert to the Ministries of Education, Health, Foreign Affairs, and Social Protection (with particular reference to Labour).

Unlike the USA, decisionmaking on legal issues should not be based on political considerations, which in any case come back to haunt us all. Out of Order!

All are definitely out of sync with regard to the management of oil and gas economies.

E.B. John

Surely arrangements can be made to permit these persons to cast their ballot DEAR EDITOR, I am advised that the category of electors entitled to vote by proxy in the upcoming General and Regional Elections is limited to those who are unable, or likely to be unable, to go to the polling station for any of the following reasons: · duties of employment on Election Day either as a member of a Disciplined Force, a Rural Constable, or those connected with the elections as assigned by a Returning Officer; · engaged in running a vessel for the Transport and

Harbours Department on Election Day; · a duly appointed candidate at the election, away from home on Election Day; and · blind/visually impaired or physically incapacitated (stroke, amputated limbs, etc.) persons.

I am also aware that there is a growing category of persons employed in the rapidly expanding petroleum sector, whose contribution and service are no less essential than some of those referenced above, who would not be able to vote because of

their four-week rotation offshore but within local jurisdiction.

Their numbers are not insignificant – there are currently, at least, four drillships and one FPSO in operation, as well as service vessels – and the designation of Election Day as a national holiday will not impact them and their location will not permit timeoff or individual capability to commute to the polling station.

Surely arrangements can be made to permit these persons to cast their ballot.

Sincerely Oscar Dolphin

Guyana to decriminalise defamation laws by year end – UNHR report Defamatory libel remains a criminal offence under Section 113 of the Criminal Offences Act laws of Guyana Cap 8:02.

According to the law, a defamatory libel is matter published without any legal justification or excuse designed to insult the person to whom it is published or calculated to injure the reputation of any person by exposing him to hatred, contempt or ridicule.

The defamation laws were designed to hold publishing media instruments and officials responsible for the information they put out.

Under the section, in given circumstances, anyone found liable of defamatory libel can face the penalty of a fine along with imprisonment.

The United Nations Human Rights Report (UNHR) has highlighted the fact that the nation has been working to remove defamation from criminal aspect of the laws.

According to the report, the Office of the Prime Minister has been working with the Attorney General Chambers towards the decriminalisation of defamation.

Those amendments will be before

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Friday January 31, 2020

parliament before the end of 2020.

The report comes ahead of Guyana’s human rights review slated for next at the UN’s office in Geneva.

In its national report submitted to the United Nations Human Rights Council ahead of its third Universal Periodic Review next week in Geneva, the Guyana Government said it will pushing for the decriminalisation of defamation and those amendments will be before parliament before the end of 2020.

The issue has been on Guyana‘s human rights reformation agenda for some time now.

Joined by the International Press Institute, (IPI) media organisations in Guyana and other parts of the Caribbean have supported a call to abolish criminal defamation.

The IPI’s review examined laws that punished “obscene libel” or “offending public morality”, which were found in nine of the 16 countries surveyed.

The IPI noted that in the English-speaking Caribbean, such provisions were usually phrased as banning the

publication of obscene content. In the Bahamas, Belize, Grenada, Guyana, and Trinidad and Tobago, for example, offenders risk up to two years in prison. St. Lucia elevates the punishment to five years.

To banish the law, IPI has argued that criminal libel law was born in an Elizabethan England courtroom as a means for silencing critique of the privileged class.

The body said a law of such antiquated ethos, has little place in modern society where the press plays a pivotal role in shaping public discourse.

At present, the law is vague and open to indiscriminate and inconsistent implementation, largely wielded to quell dissent and stifle government criticism, IPI had said.

In fact, the Vienna-based organisation also pointed to the direct threat on criminal defamation has on press freedom. The lobbying team stressed that journalists “should not go to jail for practising their craft.”

“Criminal libel is one of the most pernicious media constraints in contemporary society. Implemented at the (Continued on page 26)

Don’t fall prey to house lot promises during election season – CH&PA

The Central Housing and Planning Authority, (CH&PA) is warning the public to be mindful of persons who are capitalising on the election season to create public mischief and spread misinformation.

In an effort to better serve the people, the Head of CH&PA, Lelon Saul, noted that the agency is attempting to safeguard citizens from possible fraud by elements of society who are offering lands they do not own; the agency has taken several steps to eliminate the careless circulation of inaccurate information in the season.

In to curb the incidences of fraud, the CH&PA Head in a statement stressed that any public engagements, that is to say public meetings, outreach sessions, consultations meetings or land distribution exercises will be communicated through official channels.

“This information can take the form of adverts on radio stations, television stations, the agency’s official Facebook page and national newspapers,” Saul said.

He said that the CH&PA

Head of CH&PA Lelon Saul is the premier organisation tasked with providing cohesive, sustainable and empowered communities, that is to say; to provide safe living spaces, by means of the distribution of house lots, or housing solution would like to make an appeal to all Guyanese.

“First, we would like to remind you, that while we are working assiduously to meet the demands of housing our

nation’s people, this can only be done in a systematic way to ensure all are served.”

He urged all Guyanese not to fall prey to misinformation and possible scenarios of fraud by persons who are not employed by the agency or authorised to act of our behalf.

The CH&PA Head added that squatting is illegal and has the potential to impede future developments.

PAGE 8

Kaieteur News

Friday January 31, 2020

Jagdeo says billion dollar cost-reduction in Liza 1 , alone, worrying M

Are Exxon’s costs bloated? any concerns have been raised over the years about the mammoth development costs estimated

by ExxonMobil and its partners, Hess and CNOOC, for Stabroek Block projects. The initial costs for Liza Phases One and Two – both already approved – totaled about US$10B. Those concerns were premised on the fact that every single dollar claimed by ExxonMobil, Hess and CNOOC would have to be recovered from the oil revenues before Guyana could get some of the profit.

For the Liza-1, in particular, the cost was drastically revised by nearly US$1B, ac-

cording to Chief Executive Officer (CEO), of Hess Corporation, John Hess.

During his company’s fourth quarter earnings call for 2019 on Wednesday, Hess specifically stated, “…Liza

Phase One was budgeted at US$4.4 billion gross, including the purchase of the Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel (Liza Destiny).

“We now expect the gross

cost for the development to be approximately US$3.5 billion or 21% below the sanctioned estimate.”

The initial estimate was published by ExxonMobil in 2017, and revised a first time in 2018 by US$700M. Hess’ recent announcement is the second revision, taking the cost down by $200M more.

That’s a total reduction of US$900M. Speaking about this during a press conference at his Church Street office, yesterday, Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo said, “That, in itself should be worrying.”

He acknowledged that the news of such a significant re-

duction in development costs would strike many as good news.

“I’m glad it came down because that’s less money for us to pay.”

However, Jagdeo said, “If you could make such a [nearly] US$1B error, that is worrying, without oversight from the government.”

Presently, no firm has been hired to audit the billions of dollar in costs that Exxon intends to claim for the Stabroek Block projects. But Liza-1 is already on stream, with the Liza Destiny producing 75,000 barrels per day. The Liza-2 project is estimated to cost US$6.6B, and that will

Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo have to be audited too. It is slated to come on stream in 2022.

The only recoverable costs slated to be audited so far are the US$460M pre-contract costs that Exxon has foisted onto the backs of Guyanese taxpayers. Those costs will be audited by UK based firm, IHS Markit.

ExxonMobil is the lead operator on the Stabroek Block, with a 45 percent Stake.

Hess holds 30 percent, while CNOOC holds the remaining 25 percent.

PAGE 9

Kaieteur News

Friday January 31, 2020

‘Big Men’ disappear; small men remain

G

uyanese have to understand, clearly, a couple of facts. First when the oil companies speak about billions for the field development programmes, they are speaking about billions of US dollars.

Secondly, I hope Guyanese understand that the country has to pay back these billions and cost recovery since they directly relate to exploration of production.

Even before oil production began, Guyana had already owed what is estimated to me US$1B to the oil companies for pre-contract and other costs. So now we have to add on these field developmental costs for Liza 1 and Liza 1.

This column has raised the issue that the public was being kept in the dark over the actual production, which was taking place. The oil companies should have been sup-

plying information on a daily basis about the amount of oil being pumped.

Not long after this column raised the issue of the lack of production information, one of the partners of Exxon, came forward and announced the average production. That is good enough. There needs to be real monitoring of oil production.

The technology exists and is not costly relative to the benefits. Real time monitoring of production is being done in Saudi Arabia. It can be done here. The President can sit at his desk at the Ministry of the Presidency and monitor on a television screen just what is taking place on the Floating Production Storage and Offloading vessel (FPSO).

Guyana was said to have high quality petroleum and it was said to have a low cost to pump. What this means is that the costs of production

should not be high and the price, which the country’s oil will fetch should be premium.

In other words, we should be receiving above the world market price for the highgrade oil, which is being extracted from the Stabroek Block.

It has been more than one month since oil production began and up to now, we are not being told about the quality of the oil that was pumped.

Guyana had to pass up the first three shipments because at the time production began, it had not yet negotiated the marketing of its oil, a most serious omission and one for which somebody should have provided answers.

Guyana is going to obtain an average of US$300M this year. Imagine what would happen if development costs are inflated. High development costs will eat into the extras, which Guyana is entitled under the worst oil deal

WHO declares coronavirus a global health emergency The World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared the coronavirus a global health emergency as the number of infected persons continues to rise, particularly over the last few days.

The WHO said that the fast-spreading coronavirus has infected more than 8200 persons to date across the world.

This rare designation of a global health emergency will help the international agency mobilise financial and political support to contain the outbreak WHO member-states have been briefed and put on alert. They have intensified border control and screening while health systems are prepped to deal with any eventualities.

There have been no reports coming out of the Ministry of Public Health indicating that the coronavirus is here.

On January 28, officials from the Public Health Ministry and the PAHO/ WHO country office held a joint press conference where they informed local media operatives that Guyana has a low risk of having the virus introduced.

However, monitoring continues as local health authorities are on high alert and are prepared for any possible case of the new Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) entering these shores.

Public Health Minister, Volda Lawrence, said the ministry has adequate drugs in stock and if necessary, will utilise resources from its 2020

“more than 8200 persons infected worldwide funds allocation.

Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Shamdeo Persaud, said additional health officers and medics have been deployed in all health districts.

The Ministry will be briefing the nation through various channels on further updates about the control and prevention of this virus.

Meanwhile, persons are

asked to adopt and practice safe hygiene while exploring the option of seeing a doctor for any severe flu-like symptoms.

WHO defines a global health emergency, also known as a “public health emergency of international concern,” as an “extraordinary event” that is “serious, unusual or unexpected.

ever signed.

But who exactly is monitoring these field developments costs? Do not tell me GRA. GRA’s work is not to regulate the oil industry on behalf of the government.

GRA is not supposed to be a government auditor. It should not be involved at all in monitoring pre-contract costs for the government. It should only do any auditing of those costs if there are tax implications for the public.

GRA is a tax collection agency and profit oil is not taxes so its role is not to audit pre-contract costs. Exxon enjoys healthy tax concessions and therefore there is

not going to be much taxes to collect.

So just who is monitoring the field development costs which will saddle the country with billions in cost recovery which has to be deducted before profit oil becomes available? Who is minding the store?

The Peeper has been trying to view the documentary Big Men, which was supposed to be available on YouTube. No sooner had Kaieteur News advised every Guyanese to look at the movie, that it has suddenly become unavailable on YouTube.

So who or what was re-

sponsible for its removal?

And why would anyone want to deny people the right to watch that movie which we are told exposed some rather strange practices by top officials of oil multinationals?

(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper)

PAGE 10

Kaieteur News

Friday January 31, 2020

THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN

Khemraj Ramjattan is in big trouble if the APNU+AFC wins

T

he APNU+AFC has scheduled 16 rallies for the March elections. Six of those gatherings have been staged at the following places – D’Urban Park, Hopetown, Kitty, Golden Grove, New Amsterdam and last Wednesday at Anna Regina.

Of the six events completed, Moses Nagamootoo has spoken at two – the campaign launch at D’Urban Park and last Wednesday at Anna Regina.

Khemraj Ramjattan has spoken at one since the series of rallies began – the launching of the campaign.

Here now is the schedule for the remaining 10 bandwagons Fri Jan 31 – Leonora: President David Granger; Joseph Harmon;Thandi McAllister and Ganesh Mahipaul Sun Feb 2nd - Rose Hall: President David Granger; Carl Greenidge; Jennifer Wade and Coretta McDonald Wed Feb 5th – Diamond: President David Granger; Winston Felix; Joan Ann Ramascindo and one local speaker to be named Fri Feb 7th – Bartica: President David Granger; Nageshwari Lochanpersaud (Kamal Persaud); Mervyn Williams; and Estiva Lake Sun Feb 9th – Wismar: President David Granger; David Patterson; and two local speakers to be named

Wed Feb 12th – Mahdia; President David Granger; Ronald Bulkan; and two local speakers to be named Sat Feb 15th – Lethem: President David Granger; Sydney Allicock; Dawn Hastings-Williams and Vincent Henry Fri Feb 21st – Corriverton: President David Granger; Kads Khan; Fiyaz Mursaline and Shurla Scott Wed Feb 26th – Mabaruma: President David Granger; George Norton; Karen Cummings; and Mervyn Williams Sat Feb 29th – Georgetown: President David Granger; Khemraj Ramjattan; Volda Lawrence and one other speaker to be named If you examine the schedule above, you would notice that so far Nagamootoo was given two opportunities which he has completed.

Volda Lawrence was awarded two and has spoken at one so far –Kitty. Mervyn Williams will speak at two.

Ramjattan who is the unofficial PM candidate has been allotted two occasions just as Williams and Lawrence.

There has been no official announcement from any person or organisation including leaders from the PNC and AFC as to who the PM candidate is. Only David Granger at the Hopetown rally spoke of Ramjattan being the PM candidate.

It was not an official, legal documentary release to the nation. Such an approach still has to be done.

It remains a guessing game if there will be an official announcement to the world that Ramjattan is the PM candidate.

If Ramjattan is the PM candidate, it looks like an illshaped affair; of sixteen rallies he is given two allocations the same number as Nagamootoo, Williams and Lawrence.

Here is my analysis of the schedule and by extension, the state of play in the leadership of the coalition.

If you have the two leaders of the bandwagon trying to win an election, why would one leader speak at all sixteen rallies and the number two candidate in terms of ranking is only assigned two opportunities?

That does not make sense to me and I will opine that it does not make for logical strategising. Why two to Nagamootoo, Williams and Lawrence and the same two to your PM candidate?

But here is the thing and this thing is big, serious and intriguing.

The APNU+AFC is a coalition formation of two major, separate, independent entities - APNU and AFC-- which are supposed to draws constituencies from different sections of the Guyanese world and the combination are counted together to se-

cure victory. It appears this is what happened in 2015.

In November last year at the AFC headquarters on the Railway Embankment, Cathy Hughes, the AFC vice-chairman, reminded the PNC that it has never won an election on its own.

She openly implied that it was votes of citizens who supported the AFC that caused the 2015 victory.

I know of no political analyst and political observer in any part of the world who writes about Guyana that would deny the AFC votes made the 2015 victory possible.

How then if the AFC is

expected to bring in votes your PM candidate is given only two rallies out of sixteen to address the Guyanese people? I am no political strategist but this makes no sense.

The official strategist for the AFC is Alston Stewart from Jamaica who is currently in Guyana advising the AFC house.

I have done five columns (space would not allow for an enumeration) in which I argued that Ramjattan will not be the PM candidate. Let me be pellucid and unambiguous about my sources – they are impeccable PNC contacts.

I repeat – those persons told me the PNC does not

Frederick Kissoon want Ramjattan as the PM if it wins in March. If it wins, my bet is that he will not be the Prime Minister.

(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper)

Dem boys seh...

Exxon busy kakking all o’ we Everybody know when you starting a project, you got to watch de contractor you intend to hire. De first thing anybody got to do is get an estimate fuh de project.

If you building a house, you got to tell de contractor what size and he gon give you an estimate.

Dem boys she, you get a contractor who hand you a $15 million estimate to build de house. You tell him alright but let you get anodda estimate from somebody else.

As soon as de contractor hear you going to get a quote from anodda person, de man tell you, “Hold!

Hold! I think I could do it fuh $10 million.”

Again you tell him, you

still want a second opinion.

Then he tun and tell you, “Alright. But I can still do something better than dat $10million, man.”

Anybody wid li’l commonsense who see dat drop from $15 million to $10 million, and hear de man seh he can do better than dat $10 million, know dem dealing wid a kak man.

If he ketch you blind, stupid and dotish, you end up going home without pants and underwear.

Dat is de exact story wid Exxon and Guyana. Exxon started by telling how Lisa 1 gon cost US$4.4 Billion.

Dem hear all Guyana grumbling about dat figure.

When Guyana seh dem got to check around, dat is when Exxon seh, “Okay, Okay. Is not

US$4.4 billion; is US$3.5 billion.”

When dem hear dem boys still not satisfied and how dem gon want see de books, dem she, “Dat is not de final thing!”

Dem boys want de politicians to know, especially Carl, if dis is de first production well and dem doing dis, imagine wha gon happen with de oddas.

Already Exxon seh Lisa 2 gon cost US$6 billion. Lisa 3 gon cost anodda US$6 billion.

Dem boys know dat if Guyana don’t open dem eyes, all of we gon end up in open fields, naked.

De boys ain’t saying nutten more.

Talk half and leave de rest to Granger and Jagdeo.

Friday January 31, 2020

Kaieteur News

PAGE 11

PAGE 12

Kaieteur News

Friday January 31, 2020

Video conferencing to begin at Vigilance Magistrates Court

Chancellor of the Judiciary, Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards, Chief Justice Roxane George and UNICEF country representative to Guyana and Suriname, Sylvie Fouet at the handing over ceremony at the Vigilance Magistrates Court

With the receipt of an audio-visual recording system yesterday, the Vigilance Magistrate’s Court, East Coast Demerara will be introducing remote court participation [video conferencing] at the Diamond Hospital and one designated Prison or Police Station.

The presentation is the result of collaboration between the Supreme Court of Judicature, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), the Ministry of Public Security and the Region Four Regional Democratic Council (RDC).

Chancellor of the Judiciary, Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards, noted that the use of this technology will be very useful to the dispensation of justice.

“This system will help us to take evidence even if witnesses are abroad or if they might be in hospitals.

“The police might be in another location; they might be in the interior and you know that because Guyana is so huge, witnesses and investigators might be in different parts of the country dealing with another matter in another court.

“Sometimes the time it takes to get to that court may result in the matter being dismissed…and so, initiative like these will definitely help us,” she explained.

Justice CummingsEdwards pointed out that technology is changing the way law is practised and justice is dispensed.

Therefore, Guyana’s Judicial sector is aiming to have the means to make justice more efficient.

This new system, will aid

in that effort, she said.

Chief Justice Roxane George-Wiltshire acknowledged the partnership between the Supreme Court and UNICEF, which has realised many initiatives in the administration of justice by providing the Skype and video recording equipment and training of staff.

Similar initiatives were done in the Sexual Offences Court and the Children’s Court.

“We are trying to roll out the technology, court by court, district by district and so we are here on the East Coast today,” the Chief Justice remarked.

UNICEF country representative to Guyana and Suriname, Sylvie Fouet, assured that the organisation remains committed to providing support in facilitating more access to justice, in particular for women and children also they are partnering with different entities.

Fouet also recognised Guyana’s effort in decentralising courts, particularly in Berbice and Essequibo. This will allow more residents easier access to justice in those far-flung areas.

The move is intended to contribute to the wider plan of ensuring easier and faster access to justice by saving time and costs, improving efficiencies and security and improve efficiencies in the system.

There is also a commitment from the sectors, e.g. the hospital to review their procedures and to provide a safe space- to ensure access to justice for families and children.

PAGE 13

Kaieteur News

Friday January 31, 2020

Referendum on removal of death penalty still on Govt.’s agenda Several international organisations have been calling on Guyana to abolish the penalty of death by hanging. But the government is not in a haste to do so as it wants its citizens to have a say.

In fact, in its report to the United Nations Human Rights Council, Government indicated its willingness to have a referendum or other consultative processes to ascertain the will of its citizens on the issue.

This was reported to the United Nations Human Rights Council Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) 35th session, which commenced on January 20 and concludes today in Geneva, Switzerland.

Guyana is among several countries being reviewed for its human rights practices by the body.

Guyana’s first and second UPR reviews were done in May 2010 and in January 2015.

At the ongoing review session, many nations including the United Kingdom and Australia, called on Guyana to scrap the death penalty from its laws.

Ambassador John Deep Ford, Guyana’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Geneva, in

response said that among other things, Guyana is committed to honouring its international obligations, and has committed to engage in a participatory process.

By Resolution No. 23 of 2012, the National Assembly constituted a Parliamentary Select Committee tasked with engaging stakeholders

relative to the death penalty.

It was confirmed that this issue remains of particular concern for the majority of Guyanese. The death penalty is provided for under Section 100 of the Criminal Law (Offences) Act which reads: Everyone who commits murder shall be guilty of a

felony and liable to death as a felon.”

When interpreted, this section has limited scope, in that it eliminates the mandatory death penalty for murder, which existed prior to amendments to the Act in 2010.

In fact, in a judgment dated December 17, 2012, in the case of the State vs Dwayne Jordan, who was convicted of murder, High Court judge, Navindra Singh, held that the discretion regarding imposing the death sentence resides with the Judge. The Judge held that such a sentence should be reserved for murders that are of a seriously depraved and heinous character, which would, of course, be determined based on the evidence of the case and any sensible and realistic mitigation plea by the convicted person.

Section 100(1)(a) –(e) of the Criminal Law (Offences) Act, says a death sentence may only be imposed where a person is convicted for the murder of a member of the security forces, a prison officer, a judicial officer acting in execution of his duties, or where the murder is directly attributable to a person’s status either as a witness of party in a pending or

concluded criminal or civil case.

Guyana in its report to the United Nations said that the aforementioned Section confirms that the arbiter of law in relevant cases has the option to impose a sentence of imprisonment for life rather than impose a death sentence.

According to the report, “Notwithstanding the legality of the imposition of a death sentence in the limited circumstances above, in reality, the courts are loathed to impose such a sentence and the state is even less willing to carry out executions.The most telling (Continued on page 26)

Guyana’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Geneva, Switzerland

PAGE 14

Kaieteur News

Friday January 31, 2020

36 graduate from Carnegie’s Care for the Elderly and Child Care Management programmes Thirty-six students graduated, yesterday, from the Carnegie School of Home Economics (CSHE) after completing the Care for the Elderly Level One and Childcare Management Level One courses.

According to Principal of the CSHE, Mrs. Myrna Lee, 23 students completed the Childcare Management Level

One course while 13 students completed the Care for the Elderly Level One course.

Giving an overview of the course, the Principal said that the mode of delivery in the classroom varied from small group to large group lectures, group presentations, individual tests, quizzes, panel discussions, written and oral assignments and guest lec-

tures.

She said that following the completion of the course, the students were given the opportunity to evaluate the institution, facilities and facilitators as well as benefit from work attachment at various institutional partners such as the Palms Geriatric Institute and the Mahaica Children’s Home.

The graduating class after receiving their medals and certificates She said that one benefit of launching the two programmes was that the institution was able to attract new professional and institutional partners.

Mrs. Lee explained that the CSHE vision for the programmes is to collaborate with partners to provide new experiences, provide Caribbean Vocational Qualification (CVQ) certification, introduce Level Three of the programmes and to acquire equipment to improve learning and teaching at the CSHE. She said that the majority of the students have already registered for Level Two of the respective courses. To complete the courses, students completed 12 weeks of classroom time and 40 hours of work attachment.

Chairman of the CSHE Board of Governors, Mrs. Patricia David, said that the CSHE caters for the all-round development of the individual. She urged the graduates to remember what they were exposed to and never deviate from what was taught.

She encouraged the graduates to not forget that they are professionals and not just caregivers. Mrs. David advised them that they will not only interact with those in their care but the families

of those persons.

The Chairman also said that those graduates that will move on to care for children need to appreciate the importance of proper nutrition and hygiene practices for the growth and development of children.

Further, she said that when dealing with the elderly, ageing must be understood.

Speaking to the graduates, Mrs. David said that the graduates will be dealing with persons at two critical stages.

Delivering the feature address was Mr. Mitra Ramkumar, President of the Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG).

He said that it was a proud moment to see that there were no dropouts from the courses.

In his address, Mr. Ramkumar re-emphasized the point that the graduates will be caring for persons in two vulnerable stages of life. He reminded them that Tourism is a ‘people to people’ industry.

He said that the graduates can find opportunities in the tourism industry to utilise their skills and knowledge to connect with people and help persons to feel comfortable and safe.

He added, that based on the courses of study, the

graduates are important personnel since in most instances, they will be first responders to the persons under their care in the case of any emergency.

Mr. Floyd Scott, Director of the Council for Technical Vocational Education and Training (CTVET), said that the experiences and vocation that the graduates acquired will in some way impact on their lives. However, he said that they must know what makes them a good ‘caregiver’.

He advised the graduates that for them to stand out as the preferred specialist, they must possess certain traits or qualities not only for the job or workplace but for life. He implored them to inculcate qualities such as being respectful, empathetic, reliable and patient.

He said that embracing these qualities and others will help the graduates to be among the exceptional caregivers.

Also present at the graduation exercise was Chief Education Officer (ag), Mrs. Ingrid Trotman; Assistant Chief Education Officer (Technical), Mr. Patrick Onwuzirike; and Vice-Chairperson of the CSHE Board, Mrs. Elizabeth IsaacsWalcott.

Kaieteur News

Friday January 31, 2020

PAGE 15

Guyana Police Force remains Former murder accused slaps State with $100M lawsuit ready to ensure that country over “wrongful detention” remains safe - Top Cop A section of the audience

DEAD: Derrick Cox

C

A

n 18 percent drop in serious crimes, the increased use of CCTV cameras as an anti-crime tool, and the rehabilitation and construction of police stations were among some of the achievements Commissioner of Police Leslie James highlighted yesterday at the opening of the Annual Police Officers' Conference, yesterday.

Addressing the gathering, which included President David Granger, Commissioner James said that the Guyana Police Force has “a rich history of service and protection.”

“And we remain ready to ensure that our country remains safe, secure and strong.”

The Top Cop said the Force continues to implement strategies and systems from its three-year Strategic Management Plan,

which will conclude in 2021.

Reflecting on the past year, Commissioner James said that Force's collective efforts enabled it to improve its operation capacity.

This resulted in a drop in serious crimes by 16.9 percent, which was enabled by the implementation of sting operations, revamping of the 911 systems, and various community outreach programmes.

There was also a 20 percent decrease in road fatalities in 2019, through the Force's Operation Safe Roads Strategy.

He also noted that the Force, in collaboration with the IDB through the Citizens Security Strengthening Programme, rehabilitated and constructed buildings, “with common minimum standards and with specialist facilities in keeping with international best practices.”

“I am happy to report that

the new Mackenzie Police Station and several others have facilities that allow for better witness protection and the confidential handling of witness protection and other sensitive cases.”

The recently realigned police divisions have increased to 12. We have seen significant improvement with our service delivery in that regard.”

“The implementation of CCTV cameras in regional Police Divisions Four And Four B, and some parts of Four C aids our strategies in addressing public security and public safety,” he said.

“We will continue to remain resolute and focused on our ideals, as our mandate is clear. Public security will be maintained through strategies to suppress crime with enhanced protocols and systems pertaining to law and order.”

RUSAL sacks more workers …Union still unmoved

T

he RUSAL B a u x i t e Company has fired an additional 146 workers as tensions between the company and the Guyana Bauxite and General Workers Union (GB GWU) continues. This brings the total to 288 workers being fired in the last 8 days.

RUSAL had initially laid off of 142 workers due to claims of a shortage of fuel.

In retaliation, the Union blocked the Berbice River to hinder the flow of traffic to and from the Company's mining operations at Kurubuka Mines.

Despite efforts by the Labour Department within the Ministry of Social Protection to resolve the differences, the Union continued to stand its grounds; this led to the company's action to lay off these additional workers.

The company said the decision is based on the unfavourable circumstances of its operations including the blockage of the Berbice River.

The Union had demanded that the first 146 workers be recalled and that all outstanding issues between itself and the

Company are resolved or the River would remain blocked.

However, RUSAL insisted that the river is cleared before the initial reinstatement.

Wi t h b o t h p a r t i e s remaining firm in their positions, the additional 146 employees lost their jobs.

GB&GWU Branch President, Ephraim Velloza, informed Kaieteur News that operations on the Camp remain the same and that the workers will not budge from their position unless their demands are met, “even if RUSAL decides to employ new staff.”

laiming that he was wrongfully detained for almost seven years, 32-yearold Cloyde Harris is suing the State for in excess of $100M for breach of his rights guaranteed under Articles 139 and 144 of the Constitution.

His lawyer, Dexter Todd says that his client was held on remand for murder for six years, six months and six days without a trial.

Harris was on December 25, 2012 arrested for the December 22, 2012 murder of his cousin, 71-year-old Derrick Cox, who was shot and killed by bandits, in front of his shop.

Following a Preliminary Inquiry (PI), before Magistrate Alex Moore, Harris was committed to stand trial for the offence at the High Court.

Kaieteur News

Cloyde Harris understands that the case docket and deposition from the PI were not submitted to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), and instead were with the Clerk of Court of the East Coast Demerara Magisterial District up until 2016.

Some time later, the DPP ordered Magistrate Moore to reopen the PI to, among other things, admit additional evidence.

The PI got underway in December 2018, and the main witness testified that he did not see Harris at the scene of the murder.

As a result, Magistrate Moore discharged Harris due to insufficient evidence; he was released from prison.

In a Statement of Claim

filed at the High Court in Georgetown, Harris is asking the court to award him in excess of $100M in damages for his unlawful detention, loss of liberty and for delay of trial within a reasonable time.

Against this backdrop, the former murder accused is asking for a declaration that his unlawful arrest and or detention for almost seven years without a reasonable trial was unreasonable and in contravention of Articles 139 and 144 of the Constitution.

Harris is also asking the court to award him costs and any such order or further orders the court deems just in the circumstances.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 16

Friday January 31, 2020

Jagdeo criticises Govt. for delay in liberalisation of telecoms sector

L

eader of the p o l i t i c a l opposition, Mr. Bharrat Jagdeo, has denounced the Coalition Administration for what he deems as “dragging their feet” in regards to liberalising G u y a n a ' s telecommunications sector.

During his weekly Thursday press briefing, the PPP/C General Secretary highlighted Guyana Telephone & Telegraph's (GTT) internet service as operating “very slow”.

This, he said, is frustrating for not only him, but other customers.

“I don't know if you are getting a nightmare trying to [operate your] WhatsApp and your WhatsApp is dropping all of the time because I am getting that and I use GT&T. Even the Blaze is like, slow; very, very slow.”

However, the Opposition Leader noted that he was willing to overlook the company's “disservice”, to focus on bigger issues, such as when the A Partnership for

National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) Coalition promised to liberalise the sector long before the period of the 2015 General Elections.

“You recall we had the legislation ready; both parties had promised this in the period before the election.

They're supposed to, by now, have a liberalised sector; the order should have been issued,” Jagdeo said.

The Opposition Leader made reference to an article written in another

publication, which stated that GTT wanted a US$44 million tax debt settled before moving on with liberalization.

In the article, it was stated that in early last year, the current administration signed a “secret Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), committing both sides to settling all outstanding issues.”

“So we don't know what is there and has it not been state.

Now we hear about the secret MOU… We should all ask about this issue. Where this Memorandum of Understanding that is was signed secretly by the

government with the telecommunication company?” the Opposition Leader questioned.

Over 4,000 persons have signed a petition calling for Government to get serious and formally announce the liberalization of the Telecoms Sector. Since being announced that a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed last year, there has been little word on when the liberalisation would actually happen. Digicel, the main competitor to GTT, joined the growing calls.

“The people of Guyana are tired of poor, unreliable broadband services and

Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo remote communities not being able to realise the dream of modern communications in their homes and are fed up of limited choice and not having the benefits of true competition,” Digicel said earlier this week.

The Irish-owned (continued on page 20)

Construction worker charged for allegedly stealing ladder, cash

F

ifty-three-year-old Paul McAdams, a construction worker of 7 'D' Field Sophia, appeared before Principal Magistrate Faith McGusty in the Georgetown Magistrates' Courts, to answer to breaking and entering and a simple larceny charges.

McAdams pleaded not guilty to the charges after they were read to him. The first charge alleges that between August 5, 2019 and

August 23, 2019, at 3773 Iguana Street, North Ruimveldt, Georgetown, he broke into the dwelling house of Jennaiya Cummings and stole one metal ladder valued at $50,000.

The latter charge stated that between August 5, 2019 and August 23, 2019, at 3773 Iguana Street North Ruimveldt, Georgetown, he stole $53,000 in cash, property of Jennaiya Cummings.

Unrepresented McAdams told the court that he is a father of 13. He said that he never broke into Cummings's home. In fact, he was given consent to go in the house by Cummings herself.

Police prosecutor Delon Sullivan made no objection to bail being granted. The defendant was then placed on $80,000, bail and the matter was adjourned to February 12, 2020.

Friday January 31, 2020

Kaieteur News

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Friday January 31, 2020

Kaieteur News

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Kaieteur News

Friday January 31, 2020

Ambassador Lynch Visits Region Two

A

mbassador Sarah-Ann Lynch made a trip to Region Two over three days from January 27, last.

The visit was in keeping with her commitment to visit all of Guyana's regions in her first year. In Region Two, she met with the Regional Chairman, the Mayor of Anna Regina,

the local chamber of commerce, a local school, and Peace Corps volunteers who serve in the area.

“I thoroughly enjoyed my time in Region Two this week. From the Essequibo to the Pomeroon, the scenery was stunning, and the people were extraordinarily welcoming.

“It was a pleasure to meet local government officials and business leaders alike.

And, as always, it was so inspiring to see the U.S. Peace Corps volunteers contribute and thrive in their communities.

I hope to return to Region Two someday soon!” said Ambassador Lynch.

Jagdeo criticises Govt. for delay in...

The Ambassador with Regional Chair and Mayor

From page 16 company explained that those were the conclusions of a Change.org petition calling for the liberalization of the telecommunications sector in Guyana, which has been gaining a lot of attention online, boasting over 4,000 signatures to date.

The petition will be sent to all political parties contesting the elections by February 8.

Not only is the #LiberalisationNOW Change.org petition racking up new signatures daily, the accompanying campaign video on YouTube has gained over 52,000 views and the campaign Facebook page has 2086 followers with campaign posts having a reach of 654,990 since the start of campaign. “Likewise, there are 16,725 engagements

on the Facebook page with people actively commenting and sharing posts to show their support for breaking the monopoly and liberalising the telecom industry,” Digicel said.

However, cable television operator E-Networks on Wednesday landed its own submarine fibre optic cable. The cable will be used by the company to expand its array of services.

Friday January 31, 2020

Miner injured while rescuing children from burning home

F

orty-two-year old Seon Garraway, of Lot 168 Dandro Hill, Mahdia (Region Eight), is now a patient at the Mahdia Hospital after he sustained burns to his body while rescuing three children from a burning building.

The incident occurred on We d n e s d a y a r o u n d 19:30hrs. Kaieteur News understands that the children, ages three, seven and eight, were left unattended in a conjoined wooden apartment when the fire started in Garraway's dwelling.

According to sources, after the fire started in the dining room of Garraway's apartment, it quickly spread to the next apartment, where the unattended children were at the time watching television.

Garraway hastily entered the other burning residence and rescued the children.

During the effort, he sustained burns to his abdomen, hands and thighs.

Fortunately, the children were unhurt.

However, by the time the fire fighters arrived on the scene, the entire one-storey structure was completely destroyed.

According to a police source, the parents of the children and other siblings were at a shop at the time of the fire. Eight persons are now homeless due to the fiery catastrophe.

The landlord, Winsbort Evans, estimates his losses to be well into the millions.

Initial investigation has revealed that the fire was caused by a faulty electric appliance that was left plugged into the power outlet in Mr. Garraway's home.

Kaieteur News

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Kaieteur News

Friday January 31, 2020

Foreign Ministry monitoring Coronavirus outbreak Chief of Protocol, Ambassador Ivan Evelyn (center), Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Charlene Phoenix (right), and Director of Bilateral Affairs, Michael Brotherson (left) engage in the discussion

The Members of the Diplomatic Corps were yesterday presented with I LOVE GUYANA bags, hats and jerseys from Impressions Inc. The presentation was done at a Kingston landmark erected outside Umana Yana. The Kingston landmark, since being built a few months ago, has become a popular photographed site in Guyana.

M

inister of F o r e i g n Affairs, Dr. Karen Cummings, yesterday met with Minister of Citizenship, Winston Felix, and Permanent Secretary of the Department of Public Service, Soyinka Grogan, to discuss safety, security, and health concerns relative to the outbreak of the novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV).

“They agreed to continue to closely monitor the situation as it pertained to the health and wellbeing of the Guyanese population,” the ministry disclosed in a statement.

It would come as the World Health Organization (WHO) declared a “public health emergency of international concern”

following the spread of the coronavirus to several countries.

According to the WHO, the novel coronavirus is a new strain of coronaviruses that has not been previously identified in humans.

Coronaviruses are zoonotic and can be transmitted between animals and humans. Common signs of infection include respiratory symptoms, fever, cough, shortness of breath and breathing difficulties. In more severe cases, an infection can cause pneumonia, severe acute respiratory syndrome, kidney failure and even death.

The virus was first reported in Wuhan, China, on December 31, 2019.

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Karen Cummings holds a meeting to discuss concerns relative to the outbreak of the novel coronavirus

Kaieteur News

Friday January 31, 2020

PAGE 23

Govt. engages Private Sector on access to financing in renewable energy sector T

he Ministry of the P r e s i d e n c y, Department of Environment (DOE), in collaboration with the Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI), yesterday, held a stakeholder engagement forum for businesses interested in making investments in the renewable energy sector.

The open forum, which was held at the Pegasus Hotel, Kingston, G e o rg e t o w n , p r o v i d e d participants with detailed information about the ways in which they can access the Green Climate Fund (GCF), through the GGGI. Director, Department of Environment, Ms. Ndibi Schwiers, underscored the importance of Government's collaboration with the Private Sector in the country's transition towards the use of renewable energy.

“The Government is committed to working with the private sector in ensuring that Guyana transitions to a green economy, in keeping with the vision articulated in our Green State Development Strategy (GSDS): Vision 2040,” she said. The Director also said through the GSDS, Guyana is expected to transition to near 100% renewable

energy, amongst other important strategic actions, but “these actions are not possible without p a r t n e r s h i p . To d a y i s therefore, an excellent opportunity for you to partner with us as we move towards the transition of a low carbon resilient economy”.

Ms. Schwiers said, too, that the Government and the GGGI have collaborated on several initiatives that will significantly impact Guyana's development.

One of those projects is the technical and economic analysis of renewable energy solutions for Linden, Anna Regina, Bartica, Lethem, Wakenaam and Leguan.

Meanwhile, Director of Future Earth, Ms. Catherine Allinson, during her presentation to the business persons, said the GCF guarantees coverage of political and other risks involved and that the investment is a safe one.

“The GCF guarantees that if there is a regime change or a policy change, which means suddenly your project cannot go ahead, they will cover that…they also cover the risk of having climatic inconveniences.

F r a n k l y, I t h i n k t h a t renewable energy, these

Officials at the forum yesterday

days, is a safe bet.

“Renewable energy used to be a nice thing to have in your portfolio but now it's a must-have if you're a serious investor,” she said.

Also facilitating the session were Guyana's Programme Lead on Green Growth Planning and Implementation (GGP&I),

Mr. David Fernandez and Consultant to the GGGI, Ms. Sudha Gollapudi.

Among the participants were representatives of Banks DIH Limited,

Gafsons Industries Limited, Massy Group and the Giftland Mall.

PAGE 24

Kaieteur News

Friday January 31, 2020

THE

Entertainment POLICE

E P

Enetworks to air Super bowl on SUNDAY

Soca Construction Party set for Feb.1 at the National Racquet Centre

G

uyana’s most established Entertainment Entity, Hits & Jams will be celebrating 20 years of success this year. In consideration of the company’s thousands of supporters both locally and internationally, a number of themed - events in the form of mega concerts, cooler fetes and pool parties will be launched.

The one year of festivities kick-starts with an event themed ‘Soca Construction Party’

on February 1st at the National Racquet Centre.

Revellers can purchase early bird tickets for just $1000 and general tickets for $2000 at That Look Boutique. Be sure to take advantage of the exquisite décor for the best photo ops and enjoy music vibes from the most versatile boom deejays including Gully Ras and Diamond, DJ Akelo, DJ Energy, Selector Carl, Mix Master Tony and Shizzle. See you there.

SEARCH BEGINS FOR MISS GUYANA CULTURE QUEEN 2020

F

or the first time ever; Guyana will be hosting a national pageant to select Guyana’s representative to the Annual Caribbean Culture Queen Pageant slated for August 2020 in St. Kitts and Nevis. Under the directorship of Guyanese born international fashion designer and Pageant Guru Randy Madray; the Miss Guyana Culture Queens aims to promote, market and preserves the diverse culture and tourism of Guyana. This year Miss Guyana Culture Queen will be selected through a national pageant from a lineup of carefully selected quarter-finalists.

Applicants will complete a wellstructured application online after which a panel of the pageant, fashion and other related professionals will select which applicants will move on to the interview round. From the interviews; the quarterfinalists will be selected to begin the 2020 national pageant.

The pageant in itself will feature a preliminary interview and the coronation event. On the coronation night, delegates will compete in national costume, performing talent, swimwear, evening gown and interview. At the end of the production, Miss Guyana Culture Queen 2020 will be crowned and begin preparation for the regional competition.

Last year, Arian Dahlia Richmond was selected by a team of professionals within the

fashion and pageant industry as Miss Guyana Culture Queen 2019 and took on the task of representing Guyana at the Miss Culture Caribbean Queens 2019 Competition. With her grace, poise, and confidence, Arian competed with notable models in the Caribbean and secured the first-runner up position.

She also won several accolades such as Miss Photogenic, Miss Congeniality and Best Country Promotional Video produced by local videographer Anthony Indar.

The Miss Guyana Culture Team will comprise a brilliant team of creatives, professionals and local and international pageants, beauty and fashion experts.

Applications are currently opened and the pageant seeks young women between the ages of eighteen (18) and twenty-six (26) who are of great physical health and possess the passion, drive and determination to showcase Guyana’s rich culture and tourism.

Applicants can sign up via the “ Sign Up” button on the Miss Guyana Culture Queen Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/missGuyanacultur equeeen) or via the link provided on the @missguyanaculturequeen Instagram platform. The application deadline is 28th February 2020.

F

or the at-home entertainment lovers, and particularly the sports fanatics, the time you’ve been waiting for is almost here. That’s right; the Kaieteur Entertainment team is just as excited as you are about Super Bowl Sunday. Two of this season’s very best teams - the San Francisco 49ers and Kansas City Chiefs will soon do battle in football’s biggest game. And all the action will be aired live on Enetworks’ E2 channel.

Another traditional treat to look forward to is the half time show. It will be headlined by

The

Beauty COLUMN U

nless you’ve been chilling under a rock lately, you’ve probably heard of microblading, the newish, semi-permanent version of eyebrow tattoos. They’re not your grandma’s stamped-on brows; instead, the delicate, super-fine hair strokes look natural and realistic in a way that the first-gen versions never did. Microblading’s recent popularity has spawned microshading and microfeathering, two techniques that give you a different brow look depending on your preferences. Here’s how they differ—and what that’ll mean for you.

Microblading Best for: Anyone who wants a natural brow look that lasts.

What is microblading: Microblading is a technique using a super-fine pen (technically, a bundle of 12 to 15 needles) to deposit pigment into skin.

The tip is so fine, in fact, that it can create hair strokes that look legit. And the needles reach only into the superficial layers of the skin, which is what makes the method semi-permanent (versus permanent, like traditional cosmetic tattoos). Think of each stroke as a little paper-cut. (We know what you’re wondering: Yes, it hurts, but your brow artist can numb the area first.)

Compared to other techniques, “microblading gives a very natural look and better simulates hair,” says Betsy Shuki, makeup artist and brow expert who offers microblading services at the office of NYC plastic surgeon Scott Wells, MD.

Shakira and Jennifer Lopez who will be celebrating Latina women everywhere with a historic performance in the heart of Miami. They’ll be following a tradition of halftime super stars, with previous guests including Beyonce, Prince, Michael Jackson, Diana Ross, Stevie Wonder, Paul McCartney, The Rolling Stones and The Who. This is definitely the show to look forward to guys. Be sure to stock up on all the chips and dips you can eat. Enjoy and have a great weekend.

Microblading, and Microfeathering: What’s the Difference?

How long microblading lasts: You’ll need a touch-up in about a month (the cost of this is typically budgeted into the fee of the initial service). Then, microblading can last anywhere from 12 months to three years, depending on your lifestyle. A few ways to extend it: Stay out of the sun, since it can fade the pigment, and avoid putting exfoliants (like retinol and glycolic acid) near your brows, because they’ll lift the top layers of your skin with continued use—and the color with it.

Microfeathering Best for: Anyone who wants to lightly fill out the brows they already have.

What is microfeathering: Microfeathering is a form of microblading, and a technique created (and trademarked) by eyebrow artist-tothe-stars Kristie Streicher. She’s best known for her feathered brow, a noneedle shaping method that’s all about a natural, fluffy-looking brow. This is similar to that, but with pigment. Like microblading, she uses a fine blade to create tiny incisions. “Pigment is then deposited into the incisions, resulting in an incredible natural-looking ‘eyebrow hair,’” says Streicher. Unlike microblading, which typically creates most of the brow for you, Streicher uses your existing brow hairs as the “starting base” and simply fills it in as needed.

How long microfeathering lasts: It typically doesn’t have the staying power of microblading because “the pigmented stokes are much finer and natural looking,” says Streicher.

Kaieteur News

THE

Friday January 31, 2020

POP

CULT

THE REVIEWS ARE IN!!!

w: e i v e R e i v o M s’

PAGE 25

Editoria INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION !!!

s s o B A e k i ‘L

By Latoya “Lashes Boss” Zephyr

E

R

ose Byrne and Tiffany Haddish play business partners threatened by a cosmetics titan (Salma Hayek) in Miguel Arteta’s comedy.

Two besties who have always been able to mix business and friendship finally see their bond threatened in Miguel Arteta’s Like a Boss, a lightweight but often likeable comedy setting the unexpectedly wellmatched Rose Byrne and Tiffany Haddish up against a brassy Salma Hayek.

Having earned some praise for her performance in Arteta’s Beatriz at Dinner, Hayek is a letdown here, steered toward broad villainy and cartoonish physicality that exist in a world apart from the credible sharpness of her co-stars. Quite funny for much of its running time, the film feels like it simply runs out of steam in its third act, settling for a lazy, pandering resolution and seeming happy to have made it to the 83minute finish line. Those who have marveled at Haddish and Byrne in some of their previous supporting roles are left waiting for each to get a bona-fide starring vehicle, but this team-up gives each more room to shine than usual.

Mia (Haddish) and Mel (Byrne) have been inseparable since middle school, the latter being taken in by Mia’s family when her mother ran afoul of the law. Now housemates, they run a small but well-liked cosmetics shop that bears their names. They mix their own formulas, package them into gimmicky gift packs like a “One-Night Stand Kit” (a hit, we’re told) and employ two of the kind of colorful characters typically seen only in rom-coms: Haughty Barrett, played to the hilt by Emmywinning Pose star Billy Porter; and Jennifer Coolidge’s Sydney, whose dialogue strains for the kind of outrageous cluelessness Coolidge has specialized in for 20 years.

Mia’s the creative one; Mel keeps the books in order. Or tries to: She’s been protecting Mia from the knowledge that their business is nearly half a million dollars in debt, and something needs to change soon. Enter Josh (Karan Soni), the snippy yes-man to makeup magnate Claire Luna (Hayek). Josh summons the partners to a meeting, where Luna offers to pay all their debts in return for a 51 percent stake in the business. When Mia balks at selling what the two have built, they settle on a compromise: Luna will take 49 percent, only getting a majority in the unlikely event — how could such a thing ever happen?! — that Mia and Mel end their partnership. Before the women are even in the parking lot, the viperish Luna is

plotting ways to make them hate each other.

She does that by wowing Mel with her business acumen (Mia couldn’t be less impressed) and forcing the partners to doubt their values. When M&M come up with a new line whose marketing will revolve around supportive friendships and inner beauty, Luna insists they focus on what their industry is really about: “Inspire the ugly people to buy their way into gorgeousness.” By way of example, she introduces two men whose own line of products — named “Get Some” — are so baldly misogynistic they can hardly even be useful as satire.

Given her success in her field, Luna has an odd approach to her own appearance.

Especially in her first scene, the contrast between skin coloring, dyed hair and orange dress screams out for a makeover. (In one of Sydney’s good lines, she disses her as “the angry carrot.”) But she’s excellent at sowing discord, and soon the friends are on edge.

Unfortunately, everyone involved seems to understand that this movie only crackles when Haddish and Byrne are feeding off each other’s energy — even when that means that Mia is coolly trying to push the women past an obstacle that Mel, trying hard to please everyone, doesn’t yet see. So Boss truncates the conflict: We get one extended bit of physical comedy in which Mel sabotages Mia, followed by a scene in which they publicly blow up at each other.

Once they’ve called it quits on their relationship, the movie blazes through a trio of mini-scenes in which friends urge them to reconsider. Few rom-coms have ever been this eager to push their stars back together, and it happens here with no friction at all.

The less said about the sequence in which they publicly go up against Claire Luna, the better. It’s implausible in just about every respect, down to the new product they introduce at a gala Luna hosts. Their invention doesn’t seem like the stroke of genius the pic suggests it is, as it doesn’t look at all conducive to the way women actually use cosmetics. Not being a makeup consumer, I can’t say that with authority, and neither, I suspect, can screenwriters Adam Cole-Kelly and Sam Pitman. But Byrne and Haddish sell it like believers, and the movie immediately leaps forward to imagine a future for the characters in which “like a boss” means something other than “like an arrogant tool of the system, bending others to your will.”

ver since I was a little girl, I have had a passion for everything related to art and beauty. When I started my career as a beauty specialist after graduating Cosmetology school in 2007, I truly thought I had found what I was meant to do.

With the beauty industry being saturated with competitors, I slowly started to step out of my comfort zone, and shift my attention onto something completely different from all that I was taught in the Cosmology arena, and I tried my hand at Eyelash Extensions which I now consider one of the best decisions I have ever made!

Time passed by and I started becoming more and more intrigued by the fascinating world of lash extensions. I started spending all my free time searching the internet for every bit of information I could find on lash extensions. I made sure I purchased the best recommended product on the market.

Time passed and with some practice, my clientele flourished! And through word of mouth my clientele was expanding but I still felt the need for a deeper level of self- development.

I started taking myself and my business more serious and started researching the most recognized lash Academy in the Caribbean. It was there that I came across BABE CAVE which is the pioneer in the Caribbean eyelash extensions industry.

Completing the first part of training at BABE CAVE has been one the most fulfilling achievements I have received thus far in my career. Now, I was not just great to my clients and admirers of my

The talented Latoya Zephyr aka Lashes Boss work locally. I was now being judged and graded on an international level (which I excelled in).

My training started in 2018 and after completing the first part of training it motivated me to return for a more advanced level of training which I recently did, all in aid of becoming an even more competent and capable entrepreneur and Lash Stylist.

Knowing my name has now officially been added to BABE CAVE’S official list of stylist I am filled with gratitude.

This isn’t just an achievement for me but for all my clients and potential client’s knowing their Lash Stylist is not once but two times certified! I feel so honored to be able to be put in this position by the people who always trusted me from the beginning...Thank you for always believing in me guys.

I can safely say that being a lash stylist isn’t just about being paid to apply lashes to clients, it’s knowing your work... your craft...your passion as an artist is loved and respected!

And for me it is on an even bigger platform internationally. I will forever be grateful to God for all my achievements!

Sparkling

Wine of the

Week

The Cavicchioli 1928 Rosé

T

his bright and pale pink candy” coloured Rosé features white evanescent foam, fine and lingering perlage when poured and tasted. The wine has a fresh, fruity aroma, and a slightly spicy aromatic taste with red fruit notes and a lingering aftertaste.

Cavicchioli 1928 Rosé is excellent as an aperitif with sweet and sour pairings. You can also pair it with risotto, tortellini, seafood dishes, and fresh fruits.

It can be had at Ansa McAL’s Twee Gourmet Shoppe at the Giftland Mall. Do enjoy and remember to drink responsibly.

PAGE 26

Kaieteur News

Friday January 31, 2020

Referendum on removal...

SERVICES

FOR SALE

Visa Application: U.S.A, Canada & UK; Graphics design, advertisements, Wedding arch rentals. Tel: 626-7040

Lot 14 - 10,204 Sq ft Ph#264-2948/615-2270.

ICONIC MARKETING & PRINTING –TEL: 6006887: We create A/works, logos, business cards, posters, etc, placements of ads included.

PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, G R A D U AT I O N , W E D D I N G S , ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620

Freezer & Quality used restaurant equipment. Call: 618-5080 Prime piece of hand at La Grange Public Road 300ft X 100ft $100,000 US Dollar.Contact Annie 6950333.

Corrugated steel rods 1/2 ‘’ (12mm) $745 = + 14%vat, 5/8 (16mm) - $1,310+14%vat at Alabama Trading, 27 Lombard St or call #231-3345/227-4234 99 Mining permits- Cuyuni Mazaruni. Contact #683-9756

REPAIRS AT LOW COST: FRIDGES, AIR CONDITIONERS, WASHING MACHINE, FREEZER, SALE OF AC’S. TEL#629-4946,225-4822

Computer with webcam. CD/ DVD, Print adaptable. 9" x 12" screen size, Owner migrating $40,000 neg. Tel #592-6390436

LAND FOR SALE

8 week old pure pit bull pups.

Female only, Excellent guard dogs. Tel#612-2258

Transported land 11.6 acres, Lot 15 Public Road #2 Village W.C.B/ce 5 mins from B/ce bridge.Contact#686-4818/6487109.

CAR RENTAL DOLLYSAUTO RENTAL CALL: 225-7126 & 2263693 -DOLLYS AUTO RENTAL@ YAHOO.COM/ W W W . D O L L Y SAUTORENTAL.COM AIDAN’S CAR RENTAL & TOW TRUCK SERVICE:PICKUP,9-11 SEAT MINI BUS, GOOD FOR AIRPORT & FAMILY OUTINGS, CHEAPEST RATE#698-7807.

EDUCATION Care for elderly, care for children, First Aid & CPR. Call: 227-4881 ACCOMMODATION Aracari Hotel -WBD (Near Bridge)-Pool etc.Open 24 Hours.From $25 USD.Phone 264-2946/8

WANTED

One bedroom apartment, furnished, AC, washing machine, internet, light & water included. Parking. Call: 682-6238/617-2666

Barman, Waitress and cook.

Tel# 619-2877

PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, G R A D U AT I O N , W E D D I N G S , ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 Snackette for rent, Mobile snackettes, price $20,000 monthly. Tel# 697-6311 Ransom (Concrete mixers), Scaffolding, Power washer, compactors, hire truck service etc, free delivery. Telephone: 610-5360.

Email: dmdscaffolding@yahoo.com 2 bedroom concrete fully furnished apartment. Two story, family preferred, $800 US per month Peter’s Hall Public Road. Tel# 671-1441 PROPERTY FOR SALE Lot 89 Robb street Lacytown, Georgetown.

Next door to Mike’s Pharmacy.Land size-3431.25 Sq.ft.Phone:617-5323/6668052.

One 3 Story building at 97 Sugar Cane St.S/Rveldt Gdns $125,000,000.Tel#674-9905/ 695-1365/225-2971.

Parfaite Harmonie front $4M,$3M,$2.5M, Providence $5M, Herstelling $5M. Call: 666-2326 Transported land for sale in Rose Hall Town.Call#603-1441

FOR RENT

VEHICLE FOR SALE

3- Storey unfinished building, Lot 1486 Plot B Herstelling EBD. 2 storey unfinish building, Lot 1488 Onderneeming WBD. #6093777/697-4557/641-3893/6860522

1 Suzuki Escudo.Excellent condition, Low Mileage (50,000Km).$3.6M Neg.Call #649-0956.

House and land available at Massey Ferguson Tractor 283 Parfaite, Tuschen, Diamond Contact Pacific $2.5M(Foreign Used) MF 165 etc.

Development Inc. 223-6035/ $1.5M, MF 135 $1M,MF 165 Loader Tractor $2.1M.682- 604-4909 5230/615-4414.

PEN PAL Pick-up from Truck Canada Extra-Cab, 2005 Tacoma Indian Overseas male seeks $1.750M, Ford-F 150 Sport female 30/35, must have good $1.1 M, Ford Ranger Sport personality. Call: 602-9975 $1M.682-5230/615-4414.

WANTED TO LET Maid. Requirements: person Available from 1st Feb,2020- must be living on the East Decent working couples, One Bank. Contact# 600-6887 bedroom apartment in Georgetown, Parking, Porters to work in Grocery Stall, Attractive Salary at $50,000. Tel# 623-8759 Stabroek Market. Tel#226Self contain rooms for working 9800/683-9500. Experience an couple/single person $35,000 asset monthly, Light & water, One experienced welder to Lodge. Call: 623-0076, 2 work in the interior, must have months security experience. Contact Imran # 226-9416/502-8587 LEARN TO DRIVE Labourers to work on various N.Outar Driving School, location, Base Sheriff Street.

Learn to Drive the right way Contact #623-5255 Between @ Cuffy Square.Affordable 10am-3pm Package.Call#644-5166/691- Mason & Carpenter. Tel#6022561/681-2808.

9469/687-2506

Needed Labourers & Chainsaw operator to work on concession. Tel# 690-3535/ 651-1115 1 Office Clerk, Computer Literate. Tel# 233-2725/2332439 Wanted land to buy in Parfaite Harmonie on the West Coast and East Bank. Tel# 697-6311 1 Live-in male, multi-tasking & 1 live-in domestic female, experience in cooking creole foods. Tel# 675-2550/656-9313

From page 13 evidence in support of the former position is the absence of any executions pursuant to a sentence of death since 1997.”

Michael Archer and Peter Adams, who were both found guilty of murder, were the last people to be hanged in Guyana in August 1997.

MORATORIUM President David Granger, himself, has said that he has no intention of taking anyone’s life. The President has maintained that there is a strict moratorium on the application of the death penalty. There were 26 people known to be under the sentence of death at the end of 2018. During the year, two women were issued death sentences and two sentences

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were commuted.

The Death Penalty Project reported that as of November 2018, there were 17 people on death row. This number has increased by one. On December 18, 2019, Berbice resident, 29-year-old Imran Ramsaywack, was sentenced to death by hanging for the March 2015 murder of USbased Guyanese trader, Samantha Benjamin.

The woman’s dismembered body was found along the Buxton, East Coast Demerara foreshore.

Many prisoners who were on death row have had their death sentence commuted to life by the Court of Appeal.

Last year, murder convicts, Elmo Benedict and Dave Banwarie had their death sentence commuted to 25 years’ imprisonment by the Court of Appeal.

Also that year, Dwayne Jordan who was found guilty of the 2007 murder of his reputed wife had his death sentence commuted to 30 years’ imprisonment. In 2017, Mark Royden Williams called “Smallie” and Dennis Williams called “Anaconda” were both sentenced to be hanged by the neck until dead for their involvement in the 2008 Bartica massacre in which 12 persons were murdered in cold blood.

Then in January 2013, Chief Justice Ian Chang spared four death row inmates from hanging. The former Chief Justice granted an application for the commutation of the sentences of Ganga Deolall, Terrence Sahadeo, and brothers Kornel and Daniel Vaux, who had been on death row for two decades.

The murder convicts had their sentence commuted to life in light of the amount of time they had spent on death row in keeping with the provisions of Article 141(1) of Guyana’s Constitution, w h i c h s t a t e s t h a t , “ No person shall be subjected to torture or to inhumane or degrading punishment or other treatment.”

Guyana to...

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Kaieteur News

Friday January 31, 2020

Janitor changes tune, admits to smuggling 34 songbirds from Guyana The seized birds

New York (New York Daily News)- A Connecticut janitor who pleaded not guilty to smuggling nearly three dozen live songbirds into Kennedy Airport in June changed his tune Thursday, admitting that he stuffed them in his carryon luggage.

Francis Gurahoo, 40, hid the sweet-voiced birds inside colorful plastic hair rollers on a flight to JFK from Guyana on June 16, last.

“I’m nervous and scared,” Gurahoo told a federal judge Thursday before pleading guilty. “I was a passenger on a flight from Guyana to the United States. I had in my possession 34 finches. I knew these finches had to be declared to customs ... I know this was illegal.”

Gurahoo is the latest in a long line of finch smugglers from Guyana, according to law enforcement. The birds, while not illegal, need to be declared to customs and possibly quarantined to stop the spread of disease.

Smugglers bring finches into the U.S. from Guyana to have them compete in singing contests in parks, where they compete against each other and a judge selects the best crooner. Members of the audience put wagers on the birds.

Guyanese songbirds are considered to have better voices than other finches, according to the complaint.

“Although certain species of finch are available in the United States, species from Guyana are believed to sing better and are therefore more highly sought after. An individual willing to smuggle finches into the United States from Guyana can earn a large profit by selling these birds in the New York area,” the complaint reads.

Gurahoo planned on selling the birds for about US$3,000 each — a possible windfall of US$100,000.

“It’s a very technical crime;` the birds are not illegal,” said Gurahoo’s lawyer, Eric Pack, who is currently under indictment for possession of heroin with intent to sell in Nassau County.He faces a maximum of 20 years in prison.

Pleaded guilty: Francis Gurahoo

PAGE 27

Soldier dies after colliding with motorcar A serving member of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) reportedly met his demise after he lost control of his motorcycle and slammed into a motorcar.

The accident occurred Wednesday around 22:30hrs, on the Capoey Public Road, Essequibo Coast, Region Two (Pomeroon – Supenaam).

The victim has been identified as 20-year-old Misteno Thomas of Lot 51 Middle Road, Buxton, East Coast Demerara (ECD).

Kaieteur News understands that at the time of the incident, Thomas was riding motorcycle CK1172, south along the eastern side of the Capoey Public Road at a fast rate of speed when he reportedly lost control of the motorcycle and ended up in the path of motorcar HB 7499, which was proceeding north.

After colliding with the vehicle, Mr. Thomas was hurled into the air. He subsequently landed on the front of the motorcar windscreen and then fell onto the roadway.

The soldier sustained injuries to his head, left hand and stomach region.

The injured man was rushed to the Suddie Hospital in a police vehicle that was patrolling the area at the said time.

Misteno Thomas died while receiving treatment yesterday around 13:30hrs. The

Misteno Thomas

The motorcycle that the soldier was riding at the time of the accident driver of the motorcar has been identified as a 23-yearold resident of Side Line Dam, Queenstown, Essequibo.

In a media release, the Guyana Defence Force stated that prior to the accident, Misteno Thomas in the company of another soldier left the GDF base located at Lot 3 Infantry Battalion, Anna

Regina, Essequibo (Region 2) and failed to return.

When contacted, a police source told Kaieteur News that a breathalyzer was conducted on the driver of the motorcar but showed no trace of alcohol at the time of the accident. An investigation has been launched into the matter.

PAGE 28

Kaieteur News

Friday January 31, 2020

Friday January 31, 2020

Kaieteur News

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Kaieteur News

Friday January 31, 2020

Wife on the run after dousing husband with hot oil

On the run: Sandy Thomas Police in Berbice are on the hunt for a woman who doused her husband with hot oil after he refused to stay with her.

Injured and hospitalised at the New Amsterdam Hospital with serious burns about his face, torso and shoulder is Devon Thomas, a 38-year-old New Amsterdam

Injured: Devon Thomas

Technical Institute Lecturer.

His wife, the attacker, has been identified as Sandy Thomas, 35, both of Garrison Road, New Amsterdam.

Kaieteur News was informed by police sources that the incident took place just around 8:00 am yesterday (Thursday). The couple who has been married for four

years has had their fair share of arguments and good times during the marriage.

But recently, the Lecturer found out that his wife was having an extra-marital affair with his best friend.

While the news came as a shock to him, he decided that he could not stay in the relationship any longer since he felt embarrassed and betrayed. Thomas filed for a divorce from his cheating wife.

That did not end there, he subsequently asked the woman to leave their home since he no longer wanted her there given the circumstances.

She reportedly pleaded with him to forgive her and “take her back� but he had already made up his mind.

This did not sit well with her, so she allegedly waited for the opportunity to hurt him a second time.

This publication was told that the woman had heated a frying pan with oil yesterday morning while Thomas was taking a bath. She waited for him to exit the bathroom and capitalised on her moment to cause physical damage to the man.

The 35-year-old woman splashed the smoking hot oil on Thomas as he stepped out the bathroom, scorching several parts of his body. The woman then made her daring escape and has since gone into hiding.

Thomas was subsequently rushed to the New Amsterdam Hospital where he remains a patient.

It was just a few weeks ago, Latoya Angel was hauled before the court in Reliance and charged with attempted murder committed on her husband Danny Vanooten of Leopold Street, Georgetown.

The incident took place at her residence in Canje, Berbice where she doused him as well with hot oil while he was asleep.

PAGE 31

Kaieteur News

Friday January 31, 2020

Gold miner’s Lawyers fight over committal murder… process for their clients

Y

esterday, there was a major back and forth between the magistrate and the lawyers representing the accused persons charged, in relation to the murder of prominent gold miner Deon ‘Mow’ Stoll.

The matter is before Senior Magistrate Leron Daly in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts. She said that their committal process will be done in one only if advised otherwise by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

This brought an argument as all the lawyers did not agree on the committal process for their clients. Every accused council except Odessa St Hill’s lawyer, attorney-at-law Latchmie Rahamat, agreed for the process to be done by way of paper committal.

The lawyer is of the opinion that the case should proceed by way of a Preliminary Inquiry (PI). The PI involves witnesses coming into the witness box and relating their evidence to the court while the paper committal is by way in which the magistrate alone will go over the evidence in the case.

She will also go through any concerns from the defence to decide if there is sufficient evidence for the matter to go to trial.

Given the disagreement, the magistrate stated that if on the next occasion that the matter is called and the lawyers have not yet decided on the committal process she will decide.

The magistrate also indicated that she will not even entertain bail applications as all persons are charged in relation to a murder.

To this the lawyers all ar-

Dead Delon 'Mow' Stoll

Dr Alonso De Santos

Duncan Vanvield

Keith McKenzie

Roberto-Sankar

given assistance to the accused, they may have been unaware that he was involved in a murder.

The case was then adjourned to March 17, 2020 for the committal process to commence following a full disclosure of statements in the matter on March 10.

Keith McKenzie, who was captured at a roadblock while escorting Shane Morgan, was the only persons to be granted bail. He was granted

bail by the High Court in the sum of $500,000.

This was done under the condition that the accused lodge his passport and report to the police every week pending the outcome of the matter.

The other defendants remain on remand until that time.

Four of the defendants were charged with murder while the others, were charged with accessory to murder.

Charged with murder in the course or furtherance of a robbery committed on Deon Stoll, are Shane “Demon” Morgan called ‘Delon Morgan’, Roberto Sankar, Wayne St. Hill and Steve Rollox. The incident took place on October 14, last, at Da Silva Street, Newtown.

Odessa St. Hill, called ‘Baby’, Dr. Alanzo De Santos, Duncan Vanvield, called ‘Blackboy’ and Keith McKenzie, were charged with accessory after the fact.

The brazen attack on Stoll occurred on the morning of October 14, last, shortly after 10:00 hrs in front of El Dorado

Trading, a gold dealer.

Security videos showed a Toyota 212, later determined to be a vehicle in which Stoll was seated, pulled into the driveway of El Dorado. Another car following closely behind pulled up and two men, masked, ran out.

They converged on Stoll’s car; one to the passenger side where the businessman was seated and the other to the driver’s side. The driver was seen getting out the car and wrestling with one of the masked men.

On the other side, Stoll and the other bandit started to shoot at each other. The gunman was seen falling twice while retreating to the getaway car.

Both he and the other bandit abandoned their attempts.

The video showed the wounded Stoll clutching his side.

Police later impounded the alleged getaway car at Peter ’s Hall, East Bank Demerara. The alleged getaway driver, Steve Rollox, was reportedly arrested while gambling at the Princess Casino, Providence.

The police had issued wanted bulletins for Lennox Estwick, 23, from Linden and Morgan. Morgan was captured at a roadblock along with McKenzie at Cove and John, East Coast of Demerara.

He was believed to have been making a dash for neighbouring Suriname.

Odessa 'Baby' St Hill gued that despite knowing the fact that the magistrate does not have the jurisdiction to grant bail in a murder case, their clients are charged with accessory to murder and it should not be considered under the murder section of the Laws of Guyana.

According to attorney-atlaw George Thomas, the persons were charged because of rendering assistance to Shane Morgan. He added that when the individuals had

I have deep and sincere concern over abuse ...

From page 6 country and not running it down the gutter. I want to see individuals with the right mind set who are willing and able to get the job done exactly how it should be done.

I’ve seen well-mannered, educated, and humble individuals turn to quite the opposite as soon as they enter into politics or enter into government. This is what our country has become - normal individuals in suits and ties who seemingly are above the law and above the people of this country. We must open our eyes and stop being fooled, we must analyse the economy and heads of government and see if both these principles are moving in an upward mobility or downward mobility or if they are moving opposite of each other. The ideal outcome is that

the economy is lifted.

In conclusion, we must stop government officials in their quest to becoming rich through government. We need to carefully seek to place right individuals with the right mindset and qualifications to run this country in the direction that is beneficial to the greater population rather than focusing on personal gains. We need to focus on true development of our country and not be fooled by the lackadaisical work being done by the individuals we ourselves put in power. Power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely, and if we fail to plan then consequently we plan to fail.

Respectfully Rooplall Dudhnath

PAGE 32

Kaieteur News

Friday January 31, 2020

PAGE 33

Kaieteur News

Friday January 31, 2020

Tactical Services Unit to help police border communities against migrants The police Tactical Service Unit (TSU) may very well have an expanded responsibility.

According to President David Granger, that unit will be expected to boost security at the country’s borders where migrants are crossing.

Addressing the Annual Police Officers’ Conference at State House yesterday, President David Granger, said that the TSC will be expected to protect the country’s border ‘frontline’ communities in light of the migrations from regional and neighbouring countries.

“There are now more Venezuelan migrants in the country than there are police officers in the Force. The (police) continue to face criminal threats, particularly from contraband, human, gun and narcotics trafficking mainly in the hinterland.”

He said that the Internal Security Squad will continue to be based at Eve Leary and will be trained to perform its current functions, mainly on the coastland.

“So there will be two squads- a Hinterland Squad and the Coastland Squad.”

Acknowledging the vast terrain and the distribution of the country’s population which presents challenges to effective policing, Granger said that more than 80 percent of the country’s population resides on the coastland, with the remaining 20 percent is scattered in numerous small communities, which are often separated by great distances and often too small to justify a permanent police presence.

“Security threats are becoming complex and more formidable. Transnational threats such as contrabandsmuggling, gun-running, human trafficking and narcotics-trafficking present a serious threat to national security.

“Inter-personal violence has been the cause of many crimes and has inflicted a huge human cost on our population.”

According to the

President, police reform is vital to the efficiency and efficacy of law enforcement.

He said that the police high command is being strengthened with a full complement of Deputy Commissioners appointed.

“These appointments streamline the Force’s management. They were geared to ensure that the Force was managed more efficiently, to motivate officers and to rebuild public trust in the force’s work.”

The President also lauded the decentralisation of the Police Force. Divisional boundaries have now been aligned with regional administrative boundaries.

The force’s structure and staffing levels across all divisions were reviewed. In 2019, they were implemented to address the expansion from seven to 12 Police Divisions, which are aligned identically to those of the Regional Administrative boundaries.

It was reminded that divisional-based Management Information Units were established and preparations have been made for the introduction of a National Intelligence Model across all divisions.

“Forty-six police stations are now linked to the Integrated Crime Information System. The database of this system is being used to analyse crime-related information. The Forensic and Science Laboratory was upgraded to support the Force’s forensic investigations. It is now capable of conducting Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) testing, at last.”

The Force’s administration is also becoming more automated.

“Police stations, outposts and headquarters will be expected to fully transition to renewable energy sources by the end of the ‘Decade of Development’ in 2029. The Force will be expected to be self-sufficient in energy by the end of that year.”

According to Granger, the

President David Granger at the event held at State House yesterday.

Force is being recapitalised.

Since 2015, 338 new vehicles – motor cars, motor buses, motor cycles, motor pick-ups, mini-buses and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and other specialised utility vehicleswere added to the Force.

Thirty-four boats, engines and other riverine craft were added to the Marine Branch over the past five years to enhance its marine capability.

“The use of body cameras by ranks, piloted in Division 4 ‘A’, is now being extended to other Divisions. The nine eleven (911) system was revamped to improve timely responsiveness to reports of crime.”

Granger believed that the Force’s 74 police stations, 24 outposts and six checkpoints are inadequate for the territory, population and incidence of transnational crime. “There have to be changes so no part of the country remains unmanned and no crime remains undetected.”

It is the plan, also, to have the Aviation Unit reestablished during the ‘Decade’ to allow the Force to improve its coastal and border surveillance and to respond rapidly to threats in any part of the country

whether by day or night.

“The Mounted Branch will be increased to provide greater security for the hinterland communities and the back dams where some unpleasant things occur in

mining and coastland communities. Many of these communities are more effectively policed by horseback.”He said that the Communications Branch will link every police station

through a secure communications network.

This interconnectivity will allow for inter-divisional cooperation in intercepting and combatting criminal activities.

PAGE 34

Friday January 31, 2020

Kaieteur News

SLOC Inc. releases much needed assistance to Olympic hopefuls The Saint Lucia Olympic Committee Inc. (SLOC) has issued cheques totaling EC$ 60,834.63 to four athletes who are preparing to qualify for the Tokyo Olympic Games.

The recipients are Levern Spencer, Jeannelle Scheper, Albert Reynolds and Luc Chevrier.

Spencer who received EC$ 57,619.64 during the calendar year 2019 will receive EC$ 18,416.29. This amount represents assistance for the period January to April 2020 broken down as follows : monthly allowance of

Albert Reynolds

Jeannelle Scheper

Levern Spencer

EC$4,075.35 and EC$ 2,114.89 which was the cost associated with a training camp in Spain earlier this month.

Scheper in 2019 received EC$ 49,174.20 and the amount of EC$ 17,966.94 paid out in 2020 so far will be for a four month period as follows:

monthly allowance of EC$ 4,075.35 and EC$1,665.54 which is the cost of an airfare from the Netherland to South Africa to facilitate her participation in a training camp in March.

Albert Reynolds will received EC$ 8,150.70 which corresponds to a monthly allowance of EC$4,057.35 for February and March 2020.

Albert is expected to travel to Grenada shortly where he is expected to undergo training all in an attempt to qualify for Tokyo 2020. In 2019 he received EC$ 13,959.2. Luc Chevrier’ EC$ 16,301.40 will be for January to April 2020.

In 2019 he received EC$ 49,219.2.

Sandisha Antoine who is currently in Jamaica preparing to qualify for Tokyo was the recipient of EC$74,016.08 in 2019. Stephanie Lovell, who earlier this month attended the final Sailing qualifier in Miami was the recipient of EC$ 48,904.20 in 2019. Ms. Lovell failed to qualify for Tokyo.

The SLOC Inc. also wishes to announce that these are direct payments to athletes to assist them with preparation. We have also spent large amounts on these athletes along with others in their quest to qualify for earlier Games.

Shortly the SLOC Inc. will be making funding available to the Boxing and Karate Associations to assist their athletes in attending Olympic qualifiers in Argentina and France, respectively.

Friday January 31, 2020 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Today you could be hit with some exciting news, Aries. It could involve new people and new equipment coming onto the scene. It could involve an entirely new project or course of action that you never would have imagined.

TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) Information that you receive from others and from within your own heart could compel you to participate in some ambitious projects, Taurus.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Some exciting visitors could come to your door today, perhaps bringing Earthshaking information that could impact your life in a great way. You might start considering new lifestyle options.

CANCER (June 21–July 22) Group activities or social events in your neighborhood could put you in touch with new and exciting people who eventually become friends.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Have you been looking to branch out in a new direction, Leo? If so, this could be the day you get the lead of a lifetime. Or you might receive some unexpected information indicating possible new sources of income that you could pursue on your own.

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Unusual circumstances could arise that change the course of your creative orientation, Virgo. This could involve modern technology in some way, and it’s highly likely that it concerns the gathering, sharing, and use of information.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Today you could decide to attend a class, workshop, or social event involving people in a spiritual, metaphysical, or intellectual field.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) New information could be coming at you from all sides today, Scorpio. Books, magazines, TV, the Internet, and conversations with friends are likely to bring exciting knowledge your way that reinforces some of your own convictions.

SAGIT (Nov. 22–Dec. 21) Surprising news about your own finances and the world economy in general could cause you to feel confident and secure about your financial future, Sagittarius.

CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) Some fascinating new information, possibly about spiritual or metaphysical matters, could come your way today via books, magazines, TV, or the Internet, Capricorn. This could set you off on a new course of study.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18) Dreams and meditation could lead to insights regarding how best to handle your finances and make your money grow. You could receive some surprising ideas from newspapers, TV, or the Internet.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) A social event or group rally could put you in touch with some new and exciting people in interesting fields, Pisces. You might even run into an old friend you haven't seen for a long time.

Ten cities across four continents to host Gold...

From page 33 broadcasters have been appointed for each meeting and Infront, the tour ’s international TV rights holder, will sell the rights into markets around the world. (World Athletics) The full 10 meet schedule for the Continental Tour Gold is as follows: 2 May - Nairobi KEN (Africa) 10 May - Tokyo JPN (Asia) 13 May - Nanjing CHN (Asia) 22 May - Ostrava CZE (Europe) 1 June - Hengelo NED (Europe) 9 June - Turku FIN (Europe) 13 June - Kingston JAM (North America) 7 July- Szekesfehervar HUN (Europe) 6 September - Silesia POL (Europe) 15 September - Zagreb CRO (Europe) The current schedule of Continental Tour Silver level

meetings is as follows: 20 March - Queensland Track Classic, Brisbane AUS (Oceania) 4 April - Grenada International Invitational, St. George GRN (North America) 2 May - Jamaica International Invitational, Kingston JAM (North America) 17 May - Grande Premio Brasil Caixa de Atletismo, Sao Paolo BRA (South America) 24 May - Janusz Kusocinski Memorial, Chorzów POL (Europe) 6 June - Cayman Islands Invitational, George Town CAY (North America) 11 June - Samorin, Samorin SVK (Europe) 19 June - Meeting of Madrid, Madrid ESP (Europe) 1 July - Spitzen Leichtathletik Luzern, Luzern SUI (Europe) 8 September - 56th Palio Citta della Quercia, Rovereto ITA (Europe) 13 September - ISTAF Berlin, Berlin GER (Europe)

Friday January 31, 2020

PAGE 35

Kaieteur News

NBA roundup: Lillard’s first triple-double power Blazers Field Level Media Damian Lillard recorded 36 points, 11 assists and 10 rebounds for his first career triple-double to lead the Portland Trail Blazers to a 125112 victory over the visiting Houston Rockets on Wednesday night.

Lillard made six 3-pointers to tie the NBA record of 33 over a four-game stretch. The mark was originally set by Stephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors from Feb. 2227, 2016. CJ McCollum added 22 points and Trevor Ariza tallied 21 as Portland won for the third time in the past four games.

Carmelo Anthony collected a season-best 13 rebounds as the Trail Blazers held a 50-39 advantage on the boards. Houston’s Russell Westbrook scored 39 points, the eighth time in his past nine appearances he has recorded 30 or more points. James Harden had 18 points but shot just 5 of 18. He has made only 69 of 210 shots (32.9 percent) over his past 10 appearances.

Indiana Pacers 115 Chicago Bulls 106 - T.J. Warren scored 25 points, and Victor Oladipo drilled a clutch 3-pointer to force overtime in his long-anticipated return from injury as Indiana posted a victory over Chicago in Indianapolis.

Houston Rockets guard Russell Westbrook (0) dribbles past Portland Trail Blazers guard Damian Lillard (0) during the first quarter at the Moda Center. Craig Mitchelldyer-USA TODAY Sports In his first action in more than a year after recovering from a right knee injury, Oladipo scored nine points on 2-for-8 shooting in 21 minutes.

He delivered the biggest shot of regulation, tying the game at 100 with a deep 3pointer with 10.3 seconds left.

Domantas Sabonis amassed 15 points and 11

rebounds for Indiana.

Chicago’s Chandler Hutchison scored a careerhigh 21 points, and Zach LaVine added 20 as the Bulls saw their two-game winning streak snapped.

Memphis Grizzlies 127 New York Knicks 106 - Jae Crowder scored 10 points during a decisive run to open the second half, and visiting

Memphis climbed to .500 for the first time this season by beating New York.

Dillon Brooks scored a game-high 27 points to lead seven players in double figures for the Grizzlies, who have gone 11-3 this month to reach .500 (24-24) for the first time since Dec. 31, 2018.

Marcus Morris Sr. scored 17 points to lead the Knicks.

A brawl nearly broke out with 48.1 seconds left when Crowder stole an inbounds pass by Julius Randle intended for Elfrid Payton, the latter of whom shoved Crowder as he went up for a 3-pointer. Payton was charged with a flagrant-2 and was ejected along with Crowder and the Knicks’ Marcus Morris Sr. New York’s Damyean Dotson and Memphis’ Jonas Valanciunas were also issued technical fouls.

San Antonio Spurs 127 Utah Jazz 120 - DeMar DeRozan poured in 38 points and Patty Mills added 18 off the bench as short-handed San Antonio surprised visiting Utah. Murray added 16 points for the Spurs, who snapped a three-game losing streak. San Antonio played for the second straight game without LaMarcus Aldridge (thumb).

Donovan Mitchell led the Jazz with 31 points. Jordan Clarkson added 20, and Bojan Bogdanovic and Rudy Gobert scored 17 points each for Utah, which has dropped two games in a row. Gobert also grabbed 19 rebounds.

Oklahoma City Thunder 120 - Sacramento Kings 100 - Nerlens Noel converted lob passes from Dennis Schroder into dunks on consecutive

possessions during a second-quarter flurry, propelling Oklahoma City over host Sacramento.

Schroder finished with a game-high 24 points to go with nine assists, and rookie Luguentz Dort surprised the Kings with a career-best 23 points, helping the Thunder win for the sixth time in their last seven games. Bogdan Bogdanovic had a team-high 23 points for the Kings, who saw a two-game winning streak end.

Brooklyn Nets 125 Detroit Pistons 115 - Spencer Dinwiddie scored 10 of his 28 points in the fourth quarter as Brooklyn pulled away to beat Detroit. Dinwiddie helped the Nets end a four-game home losing streak and win for only the fourth time in their past 17 games.

After changing his number from No. 8 to No. 26, Dinwiddie shot 8 of 13 and scored his second-most points as a reserve this season.

Reggie Jackson scored 23 points for the Pistons, who lost their fourth straight and fell to the Nets for the second time in five nights. Derrick Rose added 22 points, marking his 13th straight game with at least 20 points, and Christian Wood contributed 20.

Ten cities across four continents to host Gold meetings in 2020 Continental Tour

The full ten-meeting schedule for the 2020 World Athletics Continental Tour (Gold level) has been finalised with the addition of Nairobi, which will be the first African host city. The pilot year of the $US2 million Gold meeting series will now visit four continents – Africa, Asia, Europe and North America with the first meeting at Nairobi’s Moi International Stadium on 2 May, followed

by Tokyo on May 10. The series will finish in Zagreb in September.

Both South America and Oceania will host Silver level meetings this year with a view to staging Go l d l e v e l meetings in 2021. With the completion of the Gold meeting schedule for 2020, World Athletics has also finalised the discipline breakdown for each meeting (download), with a broad events spread to maximise competition opportunities for athletes in all disciplines and all parts of the world.

Wo r l d Athletics president Sebastian Coe said the impetus for creating the Continental Tour was to provide more competition and earning opportunities for more

athletes. “Between the Wanda Diamond League and the Continental Tour all disciplines will be catered for and many more athletes will have access to top class competition,’’ he said.

F i t t i n g l y, g i v e n t h e tradition of African distance runners, Nairobi will stage the 3000m steeplechase, 5000m and 10,000m for men and women as part of its programme. This is expected to be the highest quality senior international m e e t i n g t o b e h e l d in Kenya’s history.

Continental Tour - The Continental Tour will be divided into three levels – Gold, Silver and Bronze – whose status will be determined by the quality of competition and prize money on offer.

World Athletics is investing in the Gold level meetings, which will each offer $US200,000 in prize money, to increase the number of high quality competitive opportunities available to showcase our sport’s best athletes.

Area associations will be responsible for managing the Silver ($US75,000 prize

Nairobi’s Kasarani Stadium filled with athletics fans (Getty Images) © Copyright money) and Bronze level competitions ($US25,000).

There will be ten Silver and up to 50 Bronze meetings.

Those disciplines that are not included in this year’s

Wanda Diamond League final – 200m, 3000m steeplechase, triple jump, discus - will be core events in the Continental Tour Gold meetings, as will the hammer throw. Each will

have guaranteed prize money of $US20,000 at each meeting.

Performances in those events will attract the same level of world ranking points as the core Diamond League

disciplines, and the overall tour winners will receive wildcard entry to the World Athletics Championships Oregon 2021. Host (Continued on page 32)

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First-Round 2021 Concacaf Gold Cup Qualifying matches schedule announced Miami – The Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (Concacaf) today announced the schedule and venues for the first-round matches of the 2021 Concacaf Gold Cup Qualifying. The four home-and-away matchups are set to take place during the FIFA Match Window of March 2020. The 2019-2020 Concacaf Nations League kicked off the road to 2021 Concacaf Gold Cup. After group stage play, the top two finishers in each of the League A groups and the top finisher in each of the League B groups secured their participation in the 16th edition of the Confederation’s premier tournament for men’s national teams.

The 12 nations that have already qualified to the 2021 Gold Cup are (in alphabetical order): Canada, Costa Rica, Curacao, El Salvador, Grenada, Honduras, Jamaica, Martinique, Mexico, Panama, Suriname and the United States.

The two-round 2021 Gold Cup qualifier will kick off with the matchups between the

Senior ‘Golden Jaguars’ going through the paces with their Under-20 counterparts at the GFF Training Center, Providence. second-place finishers of League B and the first-place finishers of League C. The eight matches will be played as follows (home team listed first and in eastern time): After home-and-away play, the four round one matchup winners will advance to the second round, where they will face the thirdplace finishers of League A. The second round will take place during the FIFA

Novak Djokovic beats...

Novak Djokovic

From page 35 raised about Federer’s fitness going into the match, having struggled with a groin problem in his epic quarterfinal against Tennys Sandgren.

And he needed an offcourt medical timeout, presumably for the same problem, at the end of the first set. Djokovic turned into his ruthless best in the second set after a tight opener, giving away little on his serve and applying serious pressure on his opponent’s.

After Federer survived break points in the second and sixth games, Djokovic took his first chance in the 10th, scampering to pick up a drop-shot and scoop away sharply cross-court. That silenced many in the 15,000 crowd on Rod Laver Arena who were supporting Federer.

But not the noisy bunch of Serbs sat behind his player box, to where he shot a steely sideglance as he clenched a fist in

celebration. From that point it was difficult to envisage a comeback for Federer, who somehow came through five-set matches against third-round opponent John Millman and then Sandgren.

Djokovic’s victory over Federer in last year’s historic Wimbledon final took him closer to the Swiss’ Grand Slam tally than he has ever been. Now the Serb, who has won six of the past nine tournaments in Melbourne, is aiming to further reduce the gap on Sunday.

Almost six years younger than Federer, Djokovic could add plenty more, barring a loss of form or fitness. His pursuit of Federer and Nadal is made more remarkable by the fact he won his first major in 2008 - when Federer had claimed 13 and Nadal five - and only added a second three years later. Nadal, however, is another major obstacle for Djokovic - and also a concern for Federer.

window of June 2020. The four round-two matchups were drawn as follows: Guadeloupe or Saint Vincent and the Grenadines vs Haiti; Barbados or Guyana vs Trinidad & Tobago; Bahamas or French Guiana vs Bermuda; Guatemala or Monserrat vs Cuba. After home-and-away play, the four matchup winners will qualify for the 2021 Concacaf Gold Cup.

First Leg Matches Thursday, March 26, 2020 Time Team 8:00 pm Guadeloupe 7:00 pm Barbados 8:00 pm Bahamas 10:00 pm Guatemala Second Leg Matches Tuesday, March 31, 2020 3:00 pm Saint Vincent 8:00 pm Guyana 8:00 pm French Guiana 7:00 pm Monserrat

Team Venue Saint Vincent Stade Rene Serge Nabajoth Guyana Astro Turf Wildey Stadium French Guiana Thomas Robinson Stadium Monserrat Doroteo Guamuch Flores Stadium Guadeloupe Arnos Vale Stadium Barbados Leonora NT&F Center Bahamas Stade Municipal Dr. Edmard Lama Guatemala Blake’s Football Complex

Australian Open: Garbine Muguruza beats Simona Halep to reach final BBCsport - Garbine Muguruza continued her recent revival by reaching the Australian Open final with a straight-set win over Romania’s Simona Halep.

The unseeded Spaniard, 26, battled past the fourth seed in a tense 7-6 (10-8) 7-5 semifinal victory.

The two-time Grand Slam champion fought off four set points in the opener and twice came back from a break down in the second. She will face American Sofia Kenin in tomorrow’s final.

It is Muguruza’s first appearance in a Grand Slam final since she won the Wimbledon title in 2017.

Muguruza clinched victory with her second match point when a six-shot rally ended with Halep hitting a return into the net.

The way the world number 32 gritted her teeth and tightly clenched her fist as she celebrated illustrated how difficult a battle it was against the 2018 runner-up. “I’m very excited to be in the final - it is a long way to get there,” said Muguruza, who also won the French Open in 2016.

“I wasn’t thinking I was down, I just thought keep going and knew I’d have an opportunity. “I was hanging in there and fighting with all the energy I had.”

Garbine Muguruza won the French Open in 2016 and Wimbledon in 2017.

Muguruza will bid to become only the third unseeded woman to win the Australian Open, after home player Chris O’Neil in 1978 and American great Serena Williams in 2007.

Muguruza slipped down to 36th in the world at the end of last year, a little over two years after she was ranked number one.

But she has looked close to her best in Melbourne, having reunited with former coach Conchita Martinez the 1994 Wimbledon champion - at the start of the

season. Victories over Ukrainian fifth seed Elina Svitolina and Dutch ninth seed Kiki Bertens earlier in the tournament marked her out as a potential champion at Melbourne Park. And she moved within one win of achieving that with a gutsy victory over Halep.

Muguruza did not allow her opponent to take her chances in the first set fighting off two set points at 6-5 and two more in the tiebreak - to earn a valuable lead.

Then, after losing serve for 21 and 3-2 deficits in the

second set, Muguruza piled the pressure back on Halep, finally taking two of six break points on her way to winning the final four games.

Former world number one Halep said that the sun and 40C temperatures in Melbourne “killed me”. The sun was strong, I didn’t like that much to play in this weather,” the 28-year-old said.

The level of energy went down a little bit, and I felt it in the legs. To lose like this hurts more, definitely. I’m in pain now, I have to admit.”

Friday January 31, 2020

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Kaieteur News

Rakibul Hasan five-for, Afghanistan, Pakistan set to renew intense rivalry at Under-19 World Cup Tanzid Hasan 80 propel ESPNcricinfo - One thing needs to be said upfront: so far at this Under-19 World Cup, no game has been as highly anticipated as the last quarter-final, between Afghanistan and Pakistan in Benoni.

There are plenty of reasons why the knockout fixture between the two teams is set to be a cracker. They are neighbouring countries, and geo-political relations between them have been strained for quite a while now.

As recently as at the 2019 50-over World Cup in England and Wales, the match between them at Headingley featured fans throwing punches at each other in the stands, rubbish, bottles, and even a rubbish bin being chucked around, and fans invading the pitch as soon as the match got over. There were unsavoury scenes outside the stadium too.

Cricket-wise, it’s a contest between two very evenlymatched teams. “The match is winning the World Cup for us; we are cool with [exiting in the] semi-final, as long as we win tomorrow (today).”

That isn’t an official quote but that sentiment, expressed by

a travelling Afghan fan, could be the prevailing feeling in the team camp.

One hopes that the stump mics are turned up for this contest, for a lot of passion and emotion will be on show.

Oh, and the winner faces another neighbour in the semifinal: India. And the political history there is, well, a bit iffy too.

Back to the tournament, and the two teams are facing off because Afghanistan finished top of Group D while Pakistan finished runners-up in Group C. But don’t let the standings fool you. While Afghanistan steamrolled all opposition, including hosts South Africa in the tournament opener, one can say Pakistan finished second - behind Bangladesh - in their group only because of a washout. Bangladesh were tottering at 106 for 9 when that game was called off, Pakistan falling second in the group on net runrate.Afghanistan, however, can take confidence from the fact that they have defeated Pakistan in each of their last four completed encounters going back to November 2017.

Generally, one would not read

too much into games that go that far back, but the two teams’ most senior players Rohail Nazir for Pakistan and Afghanistan’s Ibrahim Zadran - featured in that November 2017 game.

Then comes the manner in which the two sides won their two games in the group stage. Afghanistan had bowled South Africa out for 129 and beat a formidable United Arab Emirates by 160 runs. It was, perhaps, their misfortune that the game against Canada was washed out without a ball bowled.

While Pakistan did shoot Scotland out for 75 in their tournament opener, they were made to work hard in their 38run win against Zimbabwe, who made 256 chasing 295.

After 36 overs in that game, it seemed like Zimbabwe would win, but a late burst from Tahir Hussain, who took three lower-order wickets - flipped it around. And then there was the Bangladesh game.

So, where can the game be decided? One would think it’s in Pakistan’s batting innings, because of how ruthless Afghanistan spinners Shafiqullah Ghafari and Noor Ahmed, and left-arm seamer

Fazal Haque have been.

But Pakistan’s bowlers may have something to say about that, mostly because their effort has been one of teamwork: among their four bowlers with four or more wickets, none have an average of more than 15.50, and their pacers are significantly quicker than Afghanistan’s.

After the quarterfinal lineups were announced, Afghanistan coach Raees Ahmadzai had told Tolonews.com: “We will try not to be emotional and will play with a clear mind because when players are emotional, they tend to lose their control and are not able to focus on the match properly.” Sensible words, those.

It is certain that both sides will have plenty of support in Benoni, because of its proximity to South Africa’s most populated city Johannesburg. Quite a few Afghanistan fans want to win this game more than any other. In that case, will the team with better skills or the one with a greater grasp of their emotions win the contest? One way or other, this one will be worth tracking.

Coronavirus: F1 governing body will ‘take action’ on race calendar after outbreak BBCsport - Formula 1’s governing body says the Chinese Grand Prix is at risk in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak in the country. A statement from the FIA said it was “monitoring the evolving situation”.

It said it would “evaluate the calendar of its forthcoming races and take any action required to help protect the global motorsport community and the wider public.” The Chinese Grand Prix is scheduled to be held in Shanghai on 19-21 April.

Before that, the FIA is responsible for a race of the all-electric Formula E series in Sanya on 21 March. Shanghai is about 800km (500 miles) from the centre of the coronavirus outbreak in Wuhan, while Sanya is 500km away (300 miles).

Chinese health authorities have said there were 7,711 confirmed cases in the country as of 29 January.

Infections have also spread to at least 15 other countries.

The World Health Organization met yesterday to again consider whether the virus constitutes a global health emergency.

The death toll from the

coronavirus outbreak has risen to 170, and a confirmed case in Tibet means it has reached every region in mainland China.

On Wednesday, the UK Foreign Office adjusted its travel advice to warn against all non-essential travel to China and British Airways cancelled all flights to the mainland of the country.

The FIA’s statement comes a day after the F1 Groups said it was “monitoring the situation in China closely” in tandem with the race promoter and motorsport’s governing body the FIA and that the move came “in light of official advice from the British Foreign Office”.

On past evidence, the F1 authorities will wait as long as possible before making a decision to call off or postpone the race. They will be hoping that the virus outbreak is under control before they have to make a call on whether the race should be held as scheduled.

The last grand prix to be cancelled as a result of an emergency situation in the host country was the 2011 Bahrain Grand Prix, after

Bangladesh to U-19 World Cup semi-final

ESPNcricinfo - South Africa were caught napping by spin again in the quarterfinal, as left-arm spinner Rakibul Hasan took a fivewicket haul to knock the hosts out of the 2020 U-19 World Cup. Bangladesh will now face New Zealand in the semi-final, on February 6 in Potchefstroom.

Before Rakibul took 5 for 19 in 9.3 overs, it was opener Tanzid Hasan’s 84-ball 80 and No. 5 batsman Shahadat Hossain’s 76-ball 74 that set South Africa a challenging target of 262. Towhid Hridoy chipped in with 51.

South Africa’s No. 4 Luke Beaufort, who made 60 and was the ninth wicket to fall, was the only halfcenturion for the hosts. He looked to take the game as deep as possible but found little support from the other end. Opener Jonathan Bird’s 35 was the second-highest score from South Africa.

It was Bird’s dismissal, the second South Africa wicket, that got Rakibul on the wickets column in the 14th over. After that, he bowled the captain Bryce Parsons for 7.

In his second spell, Rakibul had Pheko Moletsane stumped in the 35th over, trapped Tiaan van Vuuren lbw four overs later and finally dismissed Beaufort in the 43rd over to end South Africa’s hopes.

Rakibul’s five wickets were

claimed at an economy of only 2.00.

After their win, the Bangladesh players walked around the ground thanking their supporters who had come from nearby cities to watch the game. Chants of “Bangladesh, Bangladesh” resonated through certain sections of the ground after the final wicket - a run-out closed South Africa’s innings out for 157.

The day had begun with a measured 60-run opening stand between opener Tanzid and Parvez Hossain Emon. Emon’s dismissal for 17 was soon followed by No. 3 Mahmudul Hasan Joy’s and they were 73 for 2 after 16.4 overs. However, a 57run partnership between Tanzid and Hridoy brought Bangladesh back on track. In that partnership, they found the boundaries often, with Tanzid being the aggressor.

Then came the 102-run stand between Hridoy and Shahadat that kept South Africa’s bowlers quiet in the middle overs, and a combined late charge from their captain Akbar Ali - who made an 11-ball 16 - and Shahadat helped them finish on 261 for 5.

Bangladesh Under-19s 261 for 5 (Tanzid 80, Shahadat 74, Hridoy 51, Moletsane 2-41) beat South Africa Under-19s 157 (Beaufort 60, Rakibul 5-19) by 104 runs.

Novak Djokovic beats Roger Federer to reach Australian Open final

Lewis Hamilton won last year’s Chinese Grand Prix.(Getty Images) protests erupted in the Middle Eastern state as part of the Arab spring.

Hundreds of British citizens are being flown back to the UK from Wuhan on Thursday and will be put in quarantine for up to two weeks following their arrival.

Australia, Japan, the US and European Union nations are

also repatriating citizens.

The Chinese Grand Prix is not the only sporting event under threat from the virus outbreak. On Wednesday, The World Indoor Athletics Championships, which had been due to be held in Nanjing, 500km from Wuhan, on 13-15 March, was postponed for a year.

BBCsport - Novak Djokovic moved a step closer to retaining the Australian Open title with a straight-set semi-final win over injury-hit rival Roger Federer. Serbia’s Djokovic was 4-1 and 40-0 down in the opening set before recovering to win the tie-break.

That laid the platform for the 32-year-old second seed to go on and win 7-6 (7-1) 6-4 6-3. Djokovic, aiming for a 17th Grand Slam title, will face Dominic Thiem or Alexander Zverev in Sunday’s final.

“The match could have definitely gone a different way if he had used those break points [in the sixth game],” Djokovic said. He started well - I was nervous. Respect to

Roger for coming out tonight.

He was obviously hurt and wasn’t close to his best in terms of movement.”

Victory would mean a record-extending eighth Australian Open triumph for Djokovic, who has lost just three matches at Melbourne Park in the past 10 tournaments. It would also move him within three of 38year-old’s Federer’s all-time record of 20 men’s Grand Slam singles titles and within two of Spain’s Rafael Nadal, who lost to Thiem in Wednesday’s quarter-final.

Djokovic was the heavy favourite to beat his long-time rival in what was their 50th meeting. Questions were (Continued on page 34)

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Friday January 31, 2020

Kaieteur News

Costa Rica out to continue fine form against Haiti Houston, Texas – The 2020 Concacaf Women’s Olympic Qualifying Championship continues with the second round of group stage matches, beginning with a Group A encounter between Costa Rica and Haiti today at BBVA Compass Stadium in Houston, Texas.

Costa Rica are coming off an impressive start to the tournament, as they downed Panama 6-1 to open the group.

Melissa Herrera set the tone with a brace as the Ticas scored four second half goals to collect three points and top spot in the group.

Today’s meeting with Haiti will be the second between the two teams in a CWOQ, the first a 2-0 Costa Rica win in 2012. Despite a 40 defeat to the United States in their opening match, Haiti impressed many across the region by staying within a one-goal margin of the

Melchie Dumornay, one of the brightest stars in Haitian women’s football. reigning FIFA Women’s World Cup champion for 67 minutes.

It could not have been done without the tireless work of Melchie Dumornay, who had three ball recoveries, while Nerilia Mondesir and Kethna Louis gave Haiti plenty of calm over the ball

with 20 and 19 completed passes, respectively.

Those three will look to lead Haiti to their first win of the tournament against the Central Americans.

Panama looking for bounce back against U.S. Panama will be looking to bounce back in grand style

World Athletics to postpone World Athletics Indoor C/Ships Nanjing 2020 It is with regret that we have agreed with the organisers of the World Athletics Indoor Championships in Nanjing (13-15 March 2020) to postpone the event to March 2021.

We know that China is doing all it can to contain the new Coronavirus and we support them in all their efforts but it is necessary to provide our athletes, Member Federations and partners with a clear way forward in what is a complex and fast-moving set of circumstances.

The advice from our medical team, who are in contact with the World

Health Organisation, is that the spread of the Coronavirus both within China and outside the country is still at a concerning level and no one should be going ahead with any major gathering that can be postponed.

We have considered the possibility of relocating the event to another country and would like to thank the cities that have volunteered to host the championships. However, given concerns still exist regarding the spread of the virus outside China, we have decided not to go with this option, as it may lead to further postponement at a later date.

Nanjing’s Cube, venue for the World Athletics Indoor Championships Nanjing 2020 (LOC) © Copyright

The indoor season for athletics falls within a narrow calendar window (up to the end of March) and we believe we will be able to find a suitable date in 2021 to host this event. We would like Nanjing to be the host given the extensive planning and preparation they have put into this event.

We have chosen not to cancel the championships as many of our athletes would like this event to take place so we will now work with our athletes, our partners and the Nanjing organising committee to secure a date in 2021 to stage this event.

(World Athletics)

from their opening defeat at the 2020 Concacaf Women’s Olympic Qualifying Championship when they face reigning FIFA Women’s World Cup champion United States in Group A today at BBVA Compass Stadium in Houston, Texas.

The Canaleras suffered a 6-1 defeat to Costa Rica in their opening match, but there were still positives to take

away from the affair. Katherine Castillo showed off her potent right foot with a superb strike for the lone Panama goal, while 2018 Concacaf Women’s Championship Golden Glove winner Yenith Bailey was her typical excellent self in goal with 10 saves.

Today’s clash marks the first CWOQ meeting between the two sides and Panama will be tasked with trying to limit a U.S. team that has never lost in the history of the CWOQ, including Wednesday’s 4-0 win against Haiti.

Some history could be in the making as well, as FW Carli Lloyd could become the all-time scoring leader for the U.S. in CWOQ with a brace.

Lloyd had a hat-trick when these two teams met in the 2018 CWC. Cuellar strike lifts Mexico over Jamaica - A first half strike from Renae Cuellar lifted Mexico to a 1-0 victory over Jamaica in Group B of the 2020 Concacaf Women’s Olympic Qualifying Championship on

Wednesday at HEB Park in Edinburg, Texas.

It was a tight back and forth between the two teams until Mexico was able to break the deadlock in the 35’.

Jamaica failed to clear a corner kick and a ball into the area was corralled by Kiana Palacios, who laid a pass off to Cuellar, who fired in a shot to make it a 1-0 Mexico lead.

Nevertheless, the Reggae Girlz posed a threat and came close on two occasions in the first half.

Jamaica continued their hunt for an equalizer into the second half, but the Mexico defense proved to be too strong, thanks in large part to the efforts of defensive midfielder Rebeca Bernal.

Stephany Mayor then had a late chance for an insurance goal for Mexico, but was unable to finish, setting up a dramatic finale.

In the end though, El Tricolor saw things out to register the clean sheet victory and secure a precious three points.

Canada FW Christine Sinclair sets international goal record Miami, Florida – Canada FW Christine Sinclair became the all-time leader in international goals by any man or woman with 185 after scoring twice for Canada in Wednesday’s match versus Saint Kitts and Nevis in Group B of the 2020 Concacaf Women’s Olympic Qualifying Championship.

Sinclair broke the mark of 184 set by former United States FW Mary Abigal “Abby” Wambach. The 36year-old native of Burnaby, Canada, achieved the feat in her 290th cap in an international career that has spanned two decades.

Sinclair made her Canada Senior Women’s National Team debut at the 2000 Algarve Cup, scoring her first international goal in just her second senior team appearance in a 2-1 defeat to Norway.

Since then, Sinclair has appeared and scored in five different FIFA Women’s World Cups (2003, 2007, 2011, 2015, 2019) and featured in three Olympics (2008, 2012, 2016), leading Canada to bronze medal finishes at the 2012 and 2016 Olympics.

Among S i n c l a i r ’s numerous accomplishments, she stands as the all-time scoring leader in the history of the Concacaf WOQ with 20 goals.

O n e o f S i n c l a i r ’s

Christine Sinclair broke the mark of 184 set by former United States FW Abby Wambach. notable achievements is that she has reached doubledigit scoring totals against five teams: Mexico (16), China (12), Jamaica (11), Costa Rica (11) and United States (11).

In Concacaf tournaments, 10 nations have conceded goals to Sinclair: Costa Rica (9), Haiti (8), Jamaica (7), Mexico (5), Guyana (4), Guatemala (3), Cuba (2), Panama (2), Trinidad and Tobago (2) and Saint Kitts and Nevis (2).

She also claimed the Golden Boot at the 2012 Olympics in London, with six goals scored, including a hat trick in a 4-3 semifinal defeat to the U.S. In addition to being named Canadian Player of the Year a record 14 times, Sinclair has been nominated for FIFA World Player of the Year seven times and in December 2019 was named as Canada’s Player of the Decade.

Friday January 31, 2020

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Kaieteur News

Black Pearl FC recognises contributions of Coach Peter Gulliver Founder of Black Pearl Football Club (BPFC- March 4, 1990), Peter Gulliver was on Sunday last recognised for his contributions to the club and sport at a special reception held at the GFC ground.

As part of the celebrations, three matches were played between Pele Football Club (PFC) - where Gulliver’s coaching career was launched (1972-started as a medical personnel) and blossomed before he formed BPFC - played the latter at the Under-15 and 20 levels and was triumphant in both matches.

The U15 match saw Pele winning 4-1 while the U20s won 3-1. The other encounter was a senior clash between BPFC and a Veteran line up with the former triumphing by the lone goal of that match.

Following the on field action, players, administrators and special invitees made gravitated to the upper flat of the pavilion where the reception was held and Gulliver was presented

with a plaque and monetary gift.

Many persons including past and present players of PFC and BPFC who were taught the game by Gulliver reminisced on his contributions to them and the club which has made them better players and members of society. Discipline and respect were two of the pillars that Coach Gulliver ensured formed part of his modus operandi.

Coach Gulliver expressed thanks to all for allowing him the opportunity of serving and being of service to them over the years at the PFC and BPFC noting that he was the architect of many players making it to the national grid at the junior and senior levels.

Current President of BPFC, Lomell Johnson who spearheaded the activity noted that persons remembered Gulliver for his unselfish and unwavering service he rendered to the club and sport and in many instances, without any form of recognition.

Coach Gulliver with the Black Pearl FC team.

Gulliver he noted commended BPFC for the initiative to recognise him.

“We need not wait until someone dies to acknowledge their

GTTA National Senior Table Tennis C/Ship

2011 Champion Bryan looking to reclaim glory

achievements and contributions, so as a club, we took the decision to say thank you to Coach Gulliver for his contributions to this entity

and to say so in our own small way. Black Pearl FC would also like to say thanks to all who supported, we want to express sincere gratitude,

especially to the Pele FC a n d U l t r a Wa t e r f o r ensuring that the players and officials were kept hydrated on and off the field of play.”

Kobe Bryant: NBA to honour basketball great in All-Star Game

Nigel Bryan

Former champion Nigel Bryan will be looking to regain national honours when the Senior National Table Tennis Championships gets underway this weekend at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH), Homestretch Avenue.

The event, hosted by the Guyana Table Tennis Association (GTTA) in collaboration with the National Sports Commission (NSC) is the premier domestic tournament and serves as a key component for establishing rankings and selection systems.

Bryan, who was the first junior athlete to win both the Junior and Senior championships in 2011, has made a battle cry sending out

a stern warning to the opposition as he aims to get his hands on the championship trophy once more.

Speaking with Kaieteur Sport, Bryan said that he has been training hard in preparation for this tournament while, “I have been putting special emphasis on keeping mentally strong because you can have all the skill in the world and not deliver if you are mentally weak.”

The 27-year-old shared that while he has much respect for the talented players he will have to face this weekend, he is prepared to go all out for victory. Nigel will come up against the likes of current National Champion and 2018

Caribbean Men’s Singles bronze medalist Christopher Franklin along with 2019 Caribbean Under-21 silver medalist Shemar Britton, Joel Alleyne, Elishaba Johnson, Miguel Wong, veteran Colin France, Orin Hickerson, Jonathan Sankar and Edinho Lewis, young and seasoned campaigners all staking their claim to the throne.

On the distaff side, current Women’s champion Natalie Cummings in the absence of Chelsea Edghill and Trenace Lowe will face stern challenges from JodyAnn Blake, Priscilla Greaves, Neveah Clarkston, Thuraia Thomas, Nhecki McCrae, Crystal Melville, Abigail Martin and Jasmine Billingy, among others.

Kobe Bryant spent his entire 20-year career with the LA Lakers. (GETTY IMAGES) BBCsport - The NBA will honour Kobe Bryant in next month’s All-Star Game in Chicago. Bryant, 41, and his daughter Gianna were among nine people killed in a helicopter crash on Sunday.

The NBA has announced a new format for the game that will “increase the level of competition, provide additional excitement and make the outcome of every quarter count for charity”.

A new fourth-quarter format will honour LA Lakers great and five-time NBA champion Bryant.

The new format:

- Both teams - captained

by LeBron James and Giannis Antetokounmpo - will play for Chicago-based community organisations.

- They will compete to win each of the first three quarters, each of which will start at 0-0 and last 12 minutes.

The community organisation selected by the winner of each quarter will receive $100,000 (£76,441.50).

- At the start of the fourth quarter, the game clock will be turned off and a Final Target Score will be set.

- This will be determined by the leading team’s total

cumulative score and adding 24 points - Kobe Bryant’s jersey number.

- For example, if the cumulative score at the end of the third quarter is 100-95, the Final Target Score would be 124.

- The fourth quarter will be untimed and the first team to reach the Final Target Score wins.

- The winning team will win $200,000 (£152,849) for its chosen community organisation.

The 69th NBA All-Star Game will take place at Chicago’s United Center on Sunday 16 February.

PAGE 40

Skerritt appointed to MCC committee St John’s, Antigua, CMC – Cricket West Indies President, Ricky Skerritt, has accepted an invitation to join the Marylebone Cricket Club’s (MCC) World Cricket Committee. Skerritt, a former Cabinet Minister in his native St Kitts and Nevis, was elected to the top post in CWI last March, replacing threeterm incumbent Dave Cameron.

“Serving world cricket on such an important MCC committee, among such legendary former cricketers, is both a privilege and an honour,” said Skerritt. I will do all I can to ensure that my West Indies based perspective will always add value to the work of the MCC.” Skerritt joins the

committee along with former England Test Captain Sir Alistair Cook, replacing West Indies fast bowler and wellknown television commentator Ian Bishop, and Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib-al-Hasan.

The MCC, which acts as an independent voice in cricket, meets twice a year to discuss significant matters relating to the game issues in the game. Sri Lanka will host the next meeting in March.

Committee Chairman, Mike Gatting, said the body was pleased to have Skerritt’s involvement.

“We have been keen for some time to appoint a new representative from the West Indies and I am delighted that Ricky will be joining us,” said

the former England captain.

“His knowledge of the game from a West Indian perspective will be invaluable, and his work outside of the sport will also be advantageous to the committee.”

Skerritt will join the likes of former Australia captain Ricky Ponting, spin legend Shane Warne and former India captain Sourav Ganguly, who is also president of the Indian Cricket Board (BCCI).

Ricky Sergent

Safraz Esau

An incisive spell from Ricky Sergent led Independence ‘A’ to a fivewicket victory over Sawpit Cricket Club when the West Demerara Cricket Association/Beacon Café 50 over tournament continued recently at Joe Vieira Park.

Sergent proved unplayable, grabbing six wickets for nine runs off seven overs as Sawpit Cricket Club were bowled out for 50 in 16 overs, batting first. Ram Ramnarine was the only batsman to reach double figures with 17 while Reaz Esau picked up two for 18 from

four overs to support Sergent.

Independence ‘A’ lost some early wickets in the chase but Safraz Esau batted with composure to see his team to 55-5 in nine overs.

Esau struck an unbeaten 42 while Imran Khan claimed 322 off four overs and Ramnarine 2-20.

The competition will continue on Sunday with Independence ‘B’ facing Wales at Joe Vieira Park (I. Eatwroo and Nandkumar Shivsankar) and Windsor Forest ‘A’ playing All Youths ‘B’ at Malvern ground (M. Ernest and A .Singh).

Henry Jr. XI overcome Atkinson XI in rain affected encounter Chris Gayle acknowledges the applause after bringing up his fifty Getty Images recent media interaction in Dhaka, the 40-year-old said that he will continue playing T20s for a while yet.

He was also not part of West Indies’ recently concluded home series against Ireland, but the team management and selection

panel had earlier said that the door was open to all players including seniors like Gayle to be part of the T20I side.

His West Indies teammate Dwayne Bravo recently made a comeback during the Ireland series, after coming out of international retirement

aged 36. Gayle last played for West Indies in what was expected to be his “farewell” game in the third ODI in Portof-Spain against India in August.

His last T20I was in March 2019 against England in Basseterre.

Abrams shatters national 60m Indoor record U.S. based sprint ace Jasmine Abrams is proving that the athletic blood runs rich in the family after she shattered Guyana’s national 60m Indoor record last weekend with a Personal Best (PB) time of 7.32 seconds at the Bob Pollock Invitational at Clemson’s Indoor Track in South Carolina.

The previous record of 7.41s was held by Brenessa Thompson who had set that time back in 2016 at the

Sergent grabs six to lead Independence ‘A’ to victory

Ricky Skerritt

Chris Gayle to play for Pokhara Rhinos in Everest Premier League ESPNcricinfo - Chris Gayle has announced that he will be part of the fourth edition of the Everest Premier League, Nepal’s domestic T20 tournament. The West Indies batsman said he would be playing for Pokhara Rhinos in the tournament, which is scheduled to begin on February 29.

“I will be visiting Nepal for the biggest sporting event, the Everest Premier League,” Gayle said in a video message on Twitter.

“Come and support my team Pokhara Rhinos and be part of a magnificent cricket fiesta.”

Gayle, who returned from a hamstring injury to play for the Chattogram Challengers in the second half of the Bangladesh Premier League, made 144 runs in four games.

He was also part of Jozi Stars’ disastrous Mzansi Premier League campaign last season, following which he took a “break” from cricket for the rest of 2019, even expressing his unavailability to the West Indies selectors for the ODI series in India. During a

Friday January 31, 2020

Kaieteur News

Reveille Invitational in Texas.

Abrams was two thousandths of a second away from qualifying for the 2020 World Indoor Championships in Nanjing, China, which has now been postponed due to the Coronavirus outbreak and sprinter posited that she was positive that she would have been able to make the 7.30s 60m women’s qualifying mark.

Jasmine’s sister; Aaliyah, has qualified for the Tokyo Games in the 400m and the 25-

year-old is optimistic about her chances of joining the younger sibling on the biggest stage for Track and Field this July-August in the 100m event.

Her PB in the 100m is 11.48s that was recorded during her final Meet last year but with her current form that will be complimented with some extra work from her father/coach Denzel, the rising star maintains that the 11.15s qualifying time is within her reach.

“Realistically speaking, I honestly do (think I can make the time). As long as I stay healthy, continue to train at the level that will propel me to such heights, and remain positive, I will make standard”, Jasmine declared.

Currently, Jasmine is looking to land a pro contract with one of the major Track and Field apparel brands (Nike, Adidas or Puma) to help with her further development in the sport.

(Calvin Chapman)

Devon Ramratan

Gladewin Henry Jr.

Gladewin Henry Jr. XI overcame Ryan Atkinson XI when the teams collided in a 30-over Undr-17 fixture played recently at the Wakenaam Community Centre ground. Batting first, Atkinson XI managed 184 all out in 30 overs. Ramesh Ramnarine scored 43 while Rickey Persaud made 33 and Devendra Hansraj contributed 30. | Fourteen- year old left arm chinaman bowler, Henry Jr. picked up four for 26 from six

overs, while left arm orthodox spinner Sa c h i n C h u l a i claimed 3-30 from five o v e r s a n d Te r r e n c e Softleigh 1-24.

Henry Jr. XI reached 1003 in 14.5 overs when rain prevented further play, to win by a superior run rate. Devon Ramratan made 40 while Kumeshwar Sundin scored 26; Rickey Persaud took 2-21 from four overs. The game was organised by the Wakenaam Cricket Committee.

Kaieteur News

Friday January 31, 2020

PAGE 41

Exciting weekend of golfing at LGC as it honors Life Members

T

omorrow and S u n d a y, t h e Lusignan Golf Club (LGC) will devote activities to honor both the lifetime achievements of some of its outstanding members along with the celebration of birthdays of Maurice Solomon and Hemraj Kissoon.

LGC President Aleem Hussain said “Giants aren’t a l w a y s b i g people...sometimes they’re captains of industries, unassuming heroes, or simple persons who rise to the occasion when called.

Such are the stories of the following people - those who have dedicated their lives to betterment of themselves, their communities, and the lives of those that they come into contact with on a daily basis. We are fortunate to have persons like these at the Lusignan Golf Club and to follow in their footsteps, learning from their examples.”

Doreen De Caires celebrated 50 years as a member of the LGC and has certainly earned her spot as a Life Member. For many years, De Caires served as Women’s Captain alongside her late husband David - the Club’s longest serving Captain.

During the ‘lean years’, it was Doreen who merged the women and men’s teams to ensure that there were sufficient players to host a

Maurice Solomon tournament. She remembers driving to pick up members in an effort to make sure they were on time and acknowledges that her game suffered as a result of her self-imposed drive in her organisational role as she sought to promote the game alongside her husband. To her credit, she represented herself and the country well, playing in Trinidad, Antigua and Barbados and she continues to win in the United Kingdom.

Doreen was Guyana’s honoree for the United States Secretary of State’s Award for International Women of Courage. She received amongst many other accolades, the GMSA Lifetime Achievement Award for her long and dedicated service, and for promoting the development of the private sector.

Joe Solomon, for many years now a member of the Lusignan Golf Club, and of course a batting icon who has his name etched forever in cricket history, was born in 1930 in Port Mourant,

Doreen De Caires

Hemraj Kissoon

Joe Solomon

Robert Hanoman

Berbice.

In the 1950s he represented the Port Mourant Cricket Club. Joe’s contribution to West Indian cricket was immortalized when he secured the first tie in the history of Test cricket by running out Ian Meckiff in the first Test against Australia at Brisbane in 1960.

These days Joe enjoys a new sporting activity- one that he has brought over his cricketing proficiency to use at – golfing, with his brother Maurice Solomon. Even at age 90, Joe still has uncanny ability to keep his eye on the ball and drive it straight.

Hemraj Kissoon, past President of the Lusignan Golf Club, has been a leader in several industries including banking and business. One of nine children, he took over Kissoons’ Furniture company after his brother passed away and built it into the now major company it has become.

Growing up in No. 60 Village, Corentyne, Berbice,

Hemraj demonstrates that a person is a product of imagination and hard work and not their environment, as today, the Kissoon Group of Companies is a distinct and prestigious conglomerate with a long history of successful operations in Guyana. Kissoon as President of the Golf Club, led it through a major transformation, the removal of the original Clubhouse from where it was and the establishment of the current clubhouse some 300 yards away, placing it central to the golf course. He continues to offer good counsel to recent Club administrations.

As he celebrates his b i r t h d a y i n F e b r u a r y, members of the Club are pleased to have his continued presence, support and cheerful disposition amongst them and do look forward to have his warm personality for many years to come.

Maurice Solomon has been a member of the Lusignan Golf Club for over 50 years and was recently

awarded life membership.

As the head of Maurice Solomon & Co., a firm founded in 1998 with Maurice Solomon as the sole Partner, he has demonstrated his astute ability to build a major business.

An avid golfer who plays at least three times per week, Maurice is a living example of how good genes, healthy lifestyle and a strong competitive spirit form the key to longevity. Maurice also sponsors the annual Maurice Solomon & Co. Golf tournament and has willingly contributed to the development of the club over the past years.

Robert Hanoman has been a longtime member of the Lusignan Golf Club and has played a key role in securing sponsorship from Muneshwers Travel, Maersk Shipping, and Guyana Shorebase Inc. over the years.

One of the leading legal minds in the country, Hanoman boasts the distinction of possibly being the only Guyanese lawyer to

be qualified in London, New York and California and often expresses that those bar exams were much easier than the game of golf.

In 2019, Hanoman was awarded life membership in recognition of his years of involvement and dedication to the growth of the club and sport. Robert will also celebrate another milestone in March and is pleased that currently his game is at its best level...having shot (63) his lowest net score in history last February.

This weekend’s activities will feature two tournaments, tomorrow teeing-off at 12:30hrs and on Sunday from 08:30hrs. As has become the norm, prizes will be awarded to the top two finishers in three categories but this weekend will feature a special fourth category – a Seniors Flight in honor of the awardees.

Members of the public are invited to join the activities and interact with these stalwarts of industry and golf, and learn from them on a personal basis.

50th CARIFTA Games

NACAC executives positive Guyana can be successful host as visit here wraps up

By Calvin Chapman President, Mike Sands and General Secretary, Keith Joseph of the North American, Central American and Caribbean Athletic Association (NACAC) concluded a three-day visit to these shores yesterday with a press briefing at the National Racquet Center.

The team was Guyana to assess the capability of the Athletics Association (AAG) to host the 50th Caribbean Free Trade Association (CARIFTA) Games in 2021. The duo evaluated the National Track & Field Center (NTFC) on the West Coast of Demerara and the select hotels that will be used to accommodate the almost 800 athletes and officials that will be involved

in the historic Track & Field event next year.

The feedback from Sands and Joseph was positive while noting that there is work to be done. “We visited the national stadium, it’s a lovely facility with a lot of potential and although there is some work to be done, when completed we anticipated a hiccup free event”, Sands shared.

In addition to the 800 athletes and officials, a projected amount of around 2000 fans are expected to touch down in Guyana for the event that will be hosted Easter weekend, 2021. As expected, Joseph highlighted that Sports tourism is projected to have a significant boost during the competition period.

Colonel Paul Arthur (left) of the AAG, Mike Sands, AAG’s Aubrey Hutson, Keith Joseph and Mayfield Taylor-Trim during yesterday’s Press Briefing.

“You can expect a huge influx of supporters because certain countries usually have fans that are always looking for a new adventure.

And since this is the first time that the games will be hosted in Guyana, a boost in tourism is expected”, Joseph

posited.

Following the a s s e s s m e n t o f accommodation, Joseph related that, “Guyana have a growing hotel industry and we believe with the proper negotiations, the AAG should be able to

successfully accommodate the 700-plus athletes and officials that will be coming to Guyana next year.

The NACAC visitors praised Guyana’s upward curve of developing athletes since the commissioning of the NTFC. While Joseph

highlighted that Guyana are yet to return to the glory days of James Gilkes, he mentioned that the AAG have been in the top five of the medal haul at the CARIFTA Games for the past few years and expects us to continue improving.

Afghanistan, Pakistan set to renew intense rivalry at Under-19 World Cup

t r o Sp Rakibul Hasan celebrates a wicket ICC via Getty

Fazal Haque is congratulated by his team-mates Matthew.

Lewis-ICC/ICC via Getty Images

Rakibul Hasan five-for, Tanzid Hasan 80 propel Bangladesh to U-19 World Cup semi-final

Abrams shatters national 60m Indoor record

Jasmine Abrams at training yesterday as preparation continues for Tokyo 2020 qualification.

Coach Gulliver receives plaque from BPFC President Lomell Johnson in the presence of former national players Norris Carter (left) and Rawle ‘Overseas’ Jones.

GTTA National Senior Table Tennis C/Ship

Black Pearl FC recognises 2011 contributions of Coach Peter Gulliver Champ Exciting weekend Kobe Bryant: Bryan of golfing at NBA to honour looking to basketball great LGC as it honors reclaim glory in All-Star Game Life Members Nigel Bryan

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