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Maximise investment opportunities – NICIL CEO tells Linden Chamber of Commerce T
he Linden Chamber of Commerce and the National Industrial and Commercial Investment Limited [NICIL] have agreed to forge ahead with a tactical relationship to further propel Linden as an ultimate destination and major business hub. This collaboration was birthed after the Linden Chamber of Commerce held a recent meeting with its members to explore
investment opportunities. The meeting saw representation from NICIL, in the person of its Chief Executive Office [ag], Mr. Colvin Heath-London, who sought to explore a number of new and creative initiatives geared at enhancing economic development for the township. At the meeting, Heath-
London told the gathering of business personalities that NICIL stands ready to provide the required support and resources to aid the collaborative approach. He told the members that Linden should no longer be seen as a place to merely “pass through” but rather as a “destination” location. He said that numerous opportunities are available.
He urged the Chamber members to recognise that while Government has been making its own strides to develop and enhance the community through the implementation of a number of projects and programmes, it is imperative that they as members of the business community seek ways to boost and fuel economic development.
“I am aware that Government has made some commitment and has already been delivering on some of those commitments but let me state that it's important that you, the members of the b u s i n e s s c o m m u n i t y, recognise that you can play important roles in developing Linden,” Heath-London said. The NICIL CEO said that he is amazed by the many possibilities and opportunities that businesses in Linden can explore. Linden has the significant potential of bringing about major returns economically, he said. He told the members that they should not take their destination for granted, warning that failure to explore and take advantage of what is available may have negative consequences. “You are blessed with significant resources... among other things, so I urge you to take advantage of these things and not take them for granted as in another five years or so you would better understand what I am saying here today,” he told the Chamber members. Heath-London gave the commitment that NICIL and the Guyana Lands and Survey Commission will seek to play more meaningful roles as they recognise that they are part of the process. He moreover went on to urge the business community and those interested to come forward and invest even as he added that NICIL stands ready to assist those who are genuinely interested in investing in the community. “There are numerous i n v e s t m e n t opportunities...The economic viability and strength of this community would greatly increase and you the members of the chamber have the opportunity to capitalise on what is happening,” he said. He also assured that he will seek to create the requisite opportunities needed as NICIL is committed to creating the right atmosphere by putting adequate systems in place. The NICIL Head noted that while the focus is on the Oil and Gas industry which, he said, will explode with numerous opportunities and returns for the country. As such he urged businesses to devise ways that they too can benefit.
The NICIL CEO said that while Guyana and more so Linden has not sought to explore and exploit the commercial real estate market, he firmly believes that both residential and commercial property value and rates can skyrocket in Linden. This, he said, will create added opportunities for many. He cautioned persons against myths regarding the real estate industry. “You don't have to build mansions and big houses, but what many persons who would be coming here are seeking to have is decent but quality accommodation. People want to know that when they leave wherever they are coming from that they can be able to access the very resources and amenities that they were accessing. Having washing machine, dishwasher, decent bedrooms and bathrooms, among other things, is critically important. “Remember you don't have to go expensive or build things that would eventually be seen as being out of reach for many, but just to be consistent in terms of quality and providing the kind of facilities they need would certainly aid your growth and the revenues coming into the community,” he noted. Heath-London shared optimism that Guyana will see some 200,000 expats coming to Guyana within the next five years, stressing that the boom economically will be significant. He appealed to the Chamber to capitalise on the evident opportunities available even as he told the gathering that there is already an evident and expected impact on the economy from which several persons who have been putting systems in place are benefiting. He said that apartments, houses, a m o n g o t h e r accommodation style businesses, are in great demand. “In Georgetown and on the East Coast, houses that were being rented for approximately US$600 are now being rented for between US$4000 and US$5000 because this is a demand and supply matter. “I am therefore urging you to look at the apartment, rental markets here in Linden as you are presented with a significantly golden opportunity based on the many advantages that you have,” Heath-London urged.
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KAIETEUR NEWS Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana. Publisher: GLENN LALL Editor: ADAM HARRIS Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491 Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210
EDITORIAL
American preachers and local politicians
W
hat do some American parsons and most Guyanese politicians have in common? In a word: wealth. There was this article from the Washington Post dated June 3, written by Michael Brice Sadler and titled, “Wealthy televangelist explains his fleet of private jets: “it’s a biblical thing.” There is part of the answer. Foreign pastors and local politicians have another thing in common, the strangest of what could be labeled partners in crime. Their crime is this: ripping off the gullible, the vulnerable, the feeble. Those would include the poor, the barely literate, the troubled, the hopeful, and exploiting the faith of the believing for personal gain. The mass begging for relief from the agonies of circumstances and usually uncaring environments is pursued through the Holy Gospel and sacred scripture repackaged for cheap sale. Local men do the same thing through patriotic messages and nuanced tribal appeals to get one over for self. For power. For cash. In the mega churches, there are television stars pretending at being humble, barefooted messengers of the Galilean and being able to deliver miracles on their behalf. In Guyana, there is a parade of one self-serving political (tribal) star after another pretending to have foremost the interests of impoverished, left behind, and lost citizens. These lost citizens yearn for some blessing to lift them out from the bottom, where they have been stuck and from which they are unable to separate themselves. The trusting taken for yet another hard, unrewarding ride. Kenneth Copeland paid US$54 million for a jet (he was made an offer not worth refusing -very steep discount); so that he is not bothered on commercial flights by people “with unsolicited requests for prayers” and “agitating his spirit.” In the wrong calling. In this instance, God is reduced to a business bartered about just like any other cheap commodity, like pork bellies. So-called men of the people (self-identified) build mansions in exclusive areas squeezed from the state, and live like royalty: security, all expenses paid, all whims catered for, and still they reach for more not already in their pockets or banks or among their stashed away assets. As the mainly American preachers would say: divine prosperity. Like Diego Maradona of Argentina and world soccer fame, did say: the hand of God except that it wasn’t truly so, since there was some human cheating involved, as admitted years later. Cheating has occurred in Guyana. Check them out: prosperity, contentment, unanswered questions. It is a long parade: Jesse Duplantis with his state-ofthe-art Falcon 7X jet; Creflo Dollar and his remodeled $65m Gulfstream; and mega pastor Joe Osteen with his mansion and huge paycheck; Mike Murdock weaned his flock (well, not his really) to purchase two jets at the same time. Always good to have a spare plane in case of a flat. Christ the compassionate is now transformed into Christ the capitalist; at least according to those who use his name to justify their money changing and money-grubbing ways. Just as interesting, and no less ironic to observe the ardent followers and preachers of a different kind of religion (Marx et al): of egalitarianism and the power of the proletariat, have been ruthless in their elbowing aside of the lesser comrades for grabbing of the lion’s share of the political spoils of Guyana: house lots, asset accumulation, scholarships. The constitution is their bible. In spite of all the high-minded talk and noble-sounding pronunciamientos, these foreign preachers and local political figures (to an astonishing degree) are neither about flock nor ministry, nor about people nor country; are they about prosperity for themselves. A dirty plutocracy is perpetuated. What is a little sinning? A little misleading? Who knows? Who cares?
Friday July 12, 2019
CONSTITUTIONAL HERESY: The Judiciary being painted green DEAR EDITOR, The intervention by President David Granger, purportedly acting under Article 188 (1)(b) of the Constitution of Guyana, granting to the Minister of Finance, “Respite until all appeals and remedies available to the Minister of Finance and the State have been exhausted”, while the Minister is still before the Judiciary in pending legal proceedings, strikes at the heart of constitutional governance, the doctrine of separation of powers and the rule of law. In short, the President is shaking at the very foundation upon which the edifice of civil society in Guyana rests. Article 188 (1) (b) of the Constitution provides: 188. (1) The President may(b) grant to any person a respite, either indefinite, or for a specific period, of the execution of any punishment imposed on that person for such an offence. It therefore cannot be doubted that the President has a power to grant a respite
to any person, in respect of the execution of any penalty imposed on that person, for the commission of an offence. Neither is it disputed that contempt of court, for which the Minister is found guilty, is an “offence” contemplated by the constitutional provision. The quintessential question is: when and in what circumstances can the President invoke this Article of the Constitution and lawfully exercise the powers conferred therein? Answering this question, necessarily involves an examination of the history, nature and purport of the power that the President enjoys under Article 188. The Constitution itself offers initiating assistance. The marginal note to Article 188 reads, “Prerogative of Mercy”. This indicates that the power conferred upon the President therein is a relic of the Royal Prerogative, now codified in the Constitution. Like powers, similarly codified, find expression in constitutional provisions throughout the
Commonwealth, as well as in the United States of America. Therefore, Guyana’s Constitution is not unique, in this regard. Like all prerogative powers, this power, once properly exercised, is immunized from Judicial Review and cannot be questioned in a court of law. A rationale for the retention of this anachronistic power in contemporary Constitutions was elegantly enunciated by Pathak C.J., in dealing with a similar power conferred upon the President, under Article 72 of the Constitution of the Union of India: “To any civilized society, there can be no attributes more important than the life and personal liberty of its members that is evident from the paramount position given by the courts to Article 21 of the Constitution… the fallibility of human judgement being undeniable even in the most trained mind, a mind resourced by a harvest of experience, it has been considered appropriate that in the matter of life and personal liberty, the
protection should be extended by entrusting power further to some high authority to scrutinize the validity of the threatened denial of life or the threatened denial of personal liberty. The power so entrusted is a power belonging to the people and reposed in the highest dignitary of the state…” (Kehar Singh v Union of India (1998) 1 SCC 204). Undoubtedly, a power premised upon such high ideals must be exercised with great circumspection and care, as another jurist admonishes: “…But the fact remains that higher the power, the more cautious would be its exercise… It cannot be doubted as a proposition of law that where a power is vested in a very high authority, it must be presumed that the said authority would act properly carefully after an objective consideration of all the aspects of the matter” (Fazal Ali, J. in Maru Ram v Union (Continued on page 28)
Community and understanding required to counter the plague of ignorance in our society DEAR EDITOR, The coalition, ‘A Partnership for National Unity’ (APNU) and ‘Alliance for Change’, comprises multiple political parties, made up of people from various ethnicities and professions. However, many have expressed their frustration about the multiparty coalition government, just as many had expressed frustration with the former PPP/C government prior to 2015, the year they were ousted from public office by a majority vote. The current issue, for many, is to decide which of the two frustrations they prefer to endure for another term. On his blog, Dr. David Hinds recently wrote an article on July 7th titled ‘Despite its Shortcomings, the Coalition is the Better Choice’, declaring support for the coalition, which he is a prominent member of, as a representative of the Working People’s Alliance. He contends that they are the better choice of the two major parties. This is the politician-side of him talking. I suspect the academic figure he’s renowned as would encourage something more profound. But it should be noted that, contrary to Dr. Hinds’s position, the choice of determining who governs
for another term isn’t limited between the two leading political parties. So, there are alternative campaigns to choose from. The question should be whose interest do each of them represent? There are some of us who think that political parties will change the very soul of Guyanese politics to make it better and more democratic and inclusive than it is, and provide opportunities to the people unlike the generations of yesteryear who seem to be stuck in a time of ethnic rivalry. Others refer to the need for a third-party force that can help make this happen. The fact is that we did have a recent third-party force—the Alliance for Change—though it seems many have expressed disappointment by the actions and inactions of their tenure in the coalition government. But what’s interesting about the Alliance for Change during their run as an independent party is that they were able to gather about 10% of the total votes at the 2011 national elections. This indicates to me that 10% of the voting population is eager for genuine political change. The problem comes when it is time to define what sort of change is necessary. For example, is a multi-coalition government necessary for the
sort of change we wish to see? Or is it just part of something more comprehensive required? There are others who profess that a new generation should take the lead with a new party, but any aspiring young leader must be willing to endure an almost lifetime commitment to shaping the political landscape in their favour and be ready to face hostility and bitter backlash from the reigning groups. Consider the Alliance for Change: as an independent party it took them a decade to garner enough votes to have seats in Parliament to make an impact on political outcomes. Additionally, they must be dedicated to a lifelong education of politics in its original Greek sense— politikos—that is, simply put, arguing for state and people. To those of us who aspire for meaningful political change, we must acknowledge that change must be treated as an ongoing project. Obviously, political change that is desirable doesn’t come overnight, and it certainly won’t come within the next decade. There are sociopolitical and historical reasons for this which justifies why much of the same cyclical politics will continue for at least, I dare say, another decade or two. The key point I wish to
highlight here is one which Walter Rodney recognized. In the documentary ‘In the Sky’s Wild Noise’ Rodney articulated, I quote, “I say this, very deliberately, not even those who stand on this platform can tell you that ‘the remedy in Guyana is that a new set of people must take over from the old set of people and we will run the system better’—that is no solution to the problems of Guyana. The problem is much more fundamental than that. So long as we suffer with a warped context of politics... we are going to be in a lot of trouble.” I consider Rodney to mean that no political party can truly solve our problems. Ours is much deeper than that. Ours is one that requires community and understanding to counter the plague of ignorance that manifest itself at every tier of our society. More importantly, we must stop making enemies among ourselves. For a divided nation is no nation at all. What we don’t want to become is a skirmish people whose interest is solely to make ends meet. Lastly, we must envision what Rodney did in his young life as we look for a remedy to our social ills, that is, we must transcend our problems rather than ignore them. Yours faithfully, Ferlin F. Pedro
PPP’s leadership creating political hysteria to mobilise their support base DEAR EDITOR, I have followed the polemics resulting from statements made by Finance Minister, Winston Jordan and Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo at a government outreach in Bartica a few weeks ago. The apparent offending remarks, “ war break”, “no registration, no elections” and “trouble” if there is no House to House registration or be ready for protest, are not offensive in the context of the Guyanese political culture. This is contrary to the position that is being made out by the opposition PPP and their supporters. The decision of the opposition to take these matters to the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) is politicking – playing to its support base. It is also an abuse of these national institutions. By complaining
to these institutions, the political opposition is attempting to entrap them to assume partisan political positions. In the run-up to the 2011 General and Regional Elections speaking at ACDA’s public meeting in Beterverwagting (BV), I stated what should be the African Community’s position on shared governance after the elections. At that meeting, I said that we went to BV to read “the riot act”. This statement was seized on by the PPP and their propaganda letter writers to claim that I was calling on Africans to engage in riotous actions. One doesn’t have to be a scholar on Guyanese social/political-cultural history to appreciate that this usage has a history that is not offensive. In spite of this reality, the PPP elements reported me to the police and the ERC after creating much
hysteria over nothing. Here again, we are seeing the similar tactics being employed by the PPP and their propaganda agents in relation to the Prime Minister and Minister of Finance’s speeches in Bartica. My prediction is that nothing would come out of these reports to the ERC and the police, since the opposition has nothing of substance to stand on. I am sure that the PPP’s leadership is well aware of this outcome, but they are more concerned with creating political hysteria to mobilise their support base. But the national political consciousness makes this type of tactics ineffective and counterproductive. The PPP’s leadership will continue on this path, guided by its Machiavellian belief that some actions are better than no action in spite of the consequences. Tacuma Ogunseye
Can ANUG or LJP make a difference in elections? DEAR EDITOR, Because I recently conducted an opinion survey on political issues, I received several queries on which party or alliance has the advantage going into any election, and whether A New and United Guyana (ANUG), Liberty and Justice Party (LJP) or other Minor parties can make a difference in the elections. Attention is specifically focused on whether Mr. Ralph Ramkarran would make a difference to the outcome of an election, winning it for his party. The poll shows that Mr. Ramkarran commands a lot of respect among certain sections of the population and no party should dismiss his influence and importance in the coming elections. I was reminded that in polls conducted in 2011, I
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stated that the PPP would win a majority if Messrs. Ralph Ramkarran, Moses Nagamootoo, Robert Persaud, or Dr. Frank Anthony were to be its Presidential candidate. None of them were chosen as the nominee and the PPP ran short of a majority of seats in parliament. In 2015, I was further reminded that polls I conducted showed that if Mr. Ramkarran were to return to the PPP and become its Presidential nominee, it would win the elections. He did not return to the PPP, and the party was ousted from office in May 2015. Now I am being asked if Ramkarran could lead ANUG or an alliance to victory and whether Messrs. Frank Anthony and Anil Nandlall are assets to the PPP’s election campaign. Bharrat Jagdeo is
indisputably the most popular political figure in Guyana. Were he the PPP/C’s Presidential nominee, the party would easily win an election. But the constitution bars him from seeking a third term, providing serious challenges to the PPP to win an election. Ramkarran is the second most likeable political figure (behind Jagdeo) in the greater Georgetown area (Regions 1, 3, 4, 5). Ramkarran is not so well known in Regions 2 and 6 and is almost unknown in the hinterland regions. President David Granger retains (Continued on page 6)
The Prisoner’s Dilemma and a Call to Extend & Reform DEAR EDITOR, Guyana’s political establishment is faced with a version of the Prisoner’s Dilemma. The Prisoner’s Dilemma is a well-known concept in modern game theory. It is a paradox in decision analysis in which two players, each acting in her own self-interest, will fail to produce the optimal outcome. The classic prisoner’s dilemma is as follows: two bank robbers, Bernard and Bisram, have been arrested and are being interrogated in separate rooms. The authorities have no other witnesses and can only prove the case against them if they can convince at least one of them to betray the other and testify to the crime. Bernard and Bisram are faced with the choices: (i) cooperate with each other and remain silent; or (ii) defect and testify for the prosecution. If they both co-operate with each other and remain silent, then the authorities will only be able to convict them on a lesser charge of loitering, which will mean one year in jail each. If Bernard testifies and Bisram does not, Bernard will go free and Bisram will get three years and vice versa. If they both testify against each other, they will each get two years in jail for being partly responsible for the robbery. Observe, the game is configured in such a manner as to induce both parties choose to protect themselves at the expense of the other participant. As a result, both participants find themselves in a worse state than if they
had cooperated with each other in the decision-making process. We believe that the current Guyanese political environment is a game akin to the classic Prisoner’s Dilemma. It is a game, configured by our socioeconomic and political history, that induces either the PPP or the Coalition to choose to protect themselves at the expense of the other and as a result creating a less than optimal solution for Guyana as a whole. Playing this game with unchanged rules will guarantee the same political outcomes unless political players change their behaviour. Elections will be held; a party will be declared the winner; the loser will reject the outcome; (if we are lucky) there will be an elections petition; if there is a majority winner, budgets will be passed after debates; and there may even be another no-confidence vote. Alternatively, with a plurality winner and an elections petition by the loser, we’d have a “minority” government. With unchanged rules, we inevitably return to the CCJ. Add to this mix the infusion of large oil revenues and we will be well on our way to Dickens’ “worst of times, age of foolishness, [and] epoch of incredulity”. With more to spend than we did as the fastest growing economy in the region, fiscal profligacy is likely to follow from the current rules of engagement
that do little to limit borrowing and the size of budget deficits. This statement is aimed as highlighting that fact that, this moment, most fortuitously, provides an opportunity for the major political parties to change the rules of engagement. With the same two-thirds majority that is required to extend the time for government to remain in office and hold elections, the National Assembly can change the Articles listed in (b) of Article 164. To reiterate: The parties can go back to the National Assembly to extend the time for the government to “remain in office and hold elections” and with this same two-thirds majority the National Assembly can effect constitutional reform, i.e., change the Articles listed in (b) of Article 164 . [While we concede that the probability of the major political parties changing their behaviour and putting the national interest ahead of their partisan interests is small, we believe that this very (partisan) behaviour can be a powerful motivation that can be harnessed for the good of the nation if the rules of the game can be changed so as to align partisan interests with the national interest. Were this to happen, the same two political parties that cannot now agree on anything that matters significantly to Guyana, would be able to cooperate and work together for the (Continued on a page 6)
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I am thankful to have been able to play a part in the saving of lives DEAR EDITOR, On the fateful night of July 9, two years ago, I stood outside of the Camp Street Prison at around 9 p.m. By this time both the prison and the canteen and officers’ quarters on the Western side of the street: obliquely opposite the prison, had been destroyed by fire. Some of the prisoners had escaped. Many of those who escaped, ran through the alleyway that leads from in front of the prison, on Camp St., and ends at Leopold and Smyth Streets. The crowd that was gathered on that corner was allowing the escapees to pass through them, then closing ranks and blocking the police and prison officers from passing to recapture the prisoners. Other prisoners were shot while trying to escape. The prisoners were huddled on Camp St., just North of Bent St. Because I had my media badge, I was given access to venture beyond the police cordon. I walked up and down and all around that area that night, taking pictures, but praying mostly, as I witnessed the event. I could smell marijuana and cigarette smoke emanating from among the groups of prisoners. The men by this time were hungry and
agitated. Some were wet, some were injured. The trucks from the Ministry of Public Security - that were used to catch stray animals - were being used to transport the prisoners from Camp St. to the Lusignan prison. They were using about two or three trucks, but the process was slow and tedious. The trucks were being over crowded to reduce the amount of prisoners on the street. As I walked among the men I overheard them plotting to make a run for it. There were armed police and soldiers, but there were more prisoners than members of the joint forces. I anticipated a bloodbath that night if those prisoners had executed their plan. As I prayed, a thought came to me. I remembered that I was a substitute driver for the Knight Rider Bus Service and that Salem (the owner of the company) had those 52seater, coach buses. I immediately approached Director Gladwin Samuels and suggested that he call Salem and use those buses to faster transport the prisoners away from the area. I gave Director Samuels Salem’s number. He made the call. He told me that Salem was out of the country, but that he spoke with Salem’s wife. Soon after, I saw several of the big Knight Rider buses
rolling up and parking, just across from where the prisoners were gathered. The prisoners were loaded onto them and police outriders escorted the train of buses to the Lusignan prison. Whenever I remember that night, I thank God for allowing me to play a part in the saving of lives. Many more persons would have died that night, had those prisoners all decided to make a run to freedom. On another note. I am still convinced as ever before, that Guyana needs an Exoffender Rehabilitation Program. I have been suggesting it for 10 years now. The 17 men who died when the Camp Street prison first burned in 2016 and the almost complete destruction of the Camp St. Prison in 2017, most likely would not have happened if we had a formal Prisoner Rehabilitation Program; which would reduce the number of persons returning to prison. I hope that the political parties put this as an agenda item on their manifestos, and that they follow through with the implementation when they get into office. I am still available to help my Country. The crime situation in Guyana might be down but it is still at unacceptable levels. Blessings, Pastor Wendell Jeffrey
Can ANUG or LJP make a .... From page 5 popularity in his party’s base. But in the regions where he is known, Ramkarran is an asset to any party or alliance and his presence will make a difference to the outcome of an election. He is the star attraction of ANUG. However, ANUG will not win an election, though it could win crucial seats. If Ramkarran were the Presidential or Prime Ministerial nominee of an alliance (with APNU+AFC or with PPP/C), such an alliance would most definitely win a majority of seats. But he is not likely to lead any alliance. Thus, neither one is likely to win a majority of seats at this time. Ramkarran is viewed as a figure of integrity. He is
adored as an elder statesman. People trust him and have faith in his promises and commitments. The business community and professionals seem supportive of his proposal for power sharing among the parties and ethnic groups in a national unity government. Even supporters of APNU and AFC said they would vote for a PPP/C+ANUG alliance led by Ramkarran or an alliance of all opposition parties. An alliance of all opposition parties would win a landslide victory against the incumbent coalition. Like Ramkarran for ANUG, Lenox Shuman is a star attraction of LJP and could be a critical asset to any alliance with the major parties. As
leader, he has support among the Amerindian community, though not well known on the coastland where the LJP is struggling for support. With regard to Dr. Frank Anthony and Anil Nandlall, both have their supporters who are disappointed that they were not selected as the PPP Presidential nominee. A significant portion of the traditional PPP base said they will not vote because of the rejection of Frank and Anil as the Presidential candidate. It will take a lot of convincing by Frank and Anil and other PPP figures to bring out their disgruntled supporters to cast their ballot for the PPP. Some have indicated they will stay home or vote ANUG. Some AFC supporters also stated they will not vote. Because of the disaffection in the base of the PPP and disappointment among AFC supporters, the outcome of the coming elections between the coalition and PPP will be interesting. Ramkarran, Shuman, Anil and Frank may very well determine the outcome. Yours truly, Dr. Vishnu Bisram
Friday July 12, 2019
When will the government do the honourable thing and call elections? DEAR EDITOR, This unending drama of the valid No Confidence Motion (NCM) against the APNU-AFC Coalition Government is testing the limits of patience of the citizens of this country. One evil twist after another is coming from the government, all the time repeating the mantra “we will honour the Constitution of Guyana”, while refusing to do exactly what the Constitution dictates. When will the government do the honourable thing and call elections? I want to bet that they will use all tactics to delay the elections until their 5-year time in office is gone, and don’t put it past them to take it even further beyond the 5year stipulated for any government in power in this country, as the “House to house registration exercise’ will help to do. Now the APNU-AFC Government is trying to (or has already) put their foot into the doorway, with
government submitting names for GECOM Chairman, when the Constitution does not warrant this in any way. The Constitution clearly tries to prevent the unilateral appointment of the GECOM Chairman, and that is why it gives the Opposition the task to submit a list to the President. If the President or Government is going to submit names, we are back to square one, with the President choosing whom the government wants for Chairman. Editor, the APNU-AFC Coalition Government will hold on to power “by hook or by crook”, mostly by crook, as we are witnessing playing out in front of our very eyes. It is becoming rather evident that Mr. Granger is really not in charge here. Why then did he not do what he admitted to on December 22, 2018, when he made a public statement that the Government had been defeated by the NCM of the day before? Even the Prime Minister admitted publicly
that the government was defeated by the NCM. These are the two persons holding the highest offices in this country, and they have been over-ridden by those under them, who seem to be the directors of the political affairs in Guyana. It’s amazing that no one is highlighting this obvious kink in the political fabric of our nation. The excuse of the dire need for “House to House Registration” is a mantra that the President continues to sing from since the beginning of this year, and continued to do so despite the court rulings against his government, when it is clear that this is an excuse to delay the elections. I heard when the Attorney General was addressing the CCJ, saying that there must be “House to House Registration” for every election in Guyana. That is a huge farce. So many elections were done and accepted by both sides of Parliament without having to resort to (Continued on page 28)
From page 5 greater good of Guyana, and to use the final and the best opportunity for Guyana to instead to achieve “the best of times, the age of wisdom [and] the epoch of belief” in ourselves as a country that can free itself from the triumph of partisan interests over the national good. Elinor Ostrom, Economics Nobel Prize winning political scientist, explained how communities have, for centuries, invented collective agreements that solve “social dilemma” problems where individual interests frustrated the collective good. In such dilemmas, what is needed is for the parties to have a common commitment to rules of engagement that preserve and promote the collective good, even as they continue to pursue their partisan interests. Ostrom notes that “Trust and reciprocity are mutually reinforcing. A decrease in either can generate a downward cascade leading to little or no cooperation.” But while the citizens of this incredible country cannot hope that the two major political parties would trust each other, we can assure them that when they commit to the national interest they will see the benefits to their constituents, to all of us and even to themselves of working together particularly at this time, on the cusp of becoming an oil producing country. Then trust will grow and Guyana will have the
bright future that will otherwise elude us if each of the parties sought to go it alone, as they now seem bent on doing. While we might have ideas on the particular reforms to which the parties must commit - from changing the electoral system to make it a semi-proportional one or allowing the formation of post-elections coalitions, to changing the arrantly political composition of the Board of GECOM and even reducing Presidential immunities - we believe that a good outcome will result from the parties themselves putting on the negotiating table constitutional reforms they are willing to undertake in the national interest. In the negotiations about the content of the reforms that will be taken to the National Assembly however, involves a pledge that each party will only agree to a reform if the other party reciprocally pledges to vote for it in the National Assembly. Otherwise, they will simply agree to the “lowest common denominator” commitment to say allow dual citizens to be Members of Parliament. The reforms that are agreed upon will then be taken to the National Assembly along with a motion to extend the time for government to remain in office and hold elections, in an “extend and reform” motion. It is essential of course that there be only one
motion that is taken to the National Assembly. We believe that APNU and the PPP/C must use this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, which might in fact be the last opportunity we have, to undertake meaningful constitutional reforms in the greater national interest. The parties are reminded that their decisions in this regard also represent Guyana’s best opportunity to avoid the Resource Curse that inexorably and implacably awaits us if the rules governing their engagement remain unchanged. The overwhelming majority of Guyanese have placed their confidence in these two parties, taken together, to govern in their best interests. Their failure to work together in the national interest could lead to a very harsh judgement at the upcoming polls against any of them that separately chooses not to seize this opportunity, if the other is willing to put the prospects we have as a nation ahead of their partisan prospects at those polls. We urge the two major parties to adopt this “Extend and Reform” proposal. In so doing they will be effectively joining with all other Guyanese in singing our national song, “Let us cooperate for Guyana.” Terrence R. Blackman and Thomas B. Singh
The Prisoner’s Dilemma and...
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Kaieteur News
Friday July 12, 2019
Prison releases murder accused by mistake …wanted bulletin now issued for ‘Satan ,’
Robbery/murder of moneychanger, daughter...
Fifth suspect says “I give dem de wuk”
P
Murdered: Malika Hamilton Police are desperately seeking to recapture 35-yearold Alvin Reid, known as ‘Satan’, who was mistakenly freed from prison while awaiting trial for the murder of a 14-year-old girl.Director of Prisons, Gladwin Samuels, disclosed that an error by some prison ranks resulted in Reid being released. He said that the ranks are to be charged for negligence. The accused was committed to stand trial in September 2018, for the murder of 14year-old Malika Hamilton, whose body was fished out of the Hope Canal, East Coast Demerara, on August 12, 2016.The blunder apparently occurred because the accused was also on remand for
Alvin Reid, known as ‘Satan’
another offence. According to Prison Director Samuels, Reid was ordered freed on the lesser offence. When he was being interviewed pending release, the rank conducting the interview was not in possession of the information regarding the murder charge against Reid.By the time the officer received the information, the murder accused had already been released, Samuels said. The body of the victim, 14-year-old Malika Hamilton, was fished out of the Hope Canal, East Coast Demerara, on August 12, 2016. It was alleged that she was reported missing after going for a swim with the accused and another boy.
Police arrested Reid a few days later after finding him hiding in a barrel at a relative’s house.He was subsequently charged and remanded. The unrepresented accused had alleged that police ranks had beaten him to say things that he did not know about.A magistrate subsequently threw the matter out after ruling that police had not made out a case against Reid. The police filed an appeal, and in September 2018, Reid was rearrested. This time around, police provided further evidence against him. Magistrate Peter Hugh ruled that sufficient evidence was provided for him to stand trial.
olice have detained a fifth suspect who has allegedly told investigators that he gave his accomplices “the wuk”, which ended in the brutal killing of moneychanger Aaron Latchman, and his daughter two Thursdays ago. The 37-year-old man, who was previously freed of two murder charges, and is on a charge of possessing an illegal firearm, was arrested yesterday in North Ruimveldt. Kaieteur News understands that he has told detectives that he gave his accomplices “the wuk”. However, the suspect has denied being at the scene of the robbery and murder. Kaieteur News understands that the suspects are pointing fingers at each other, with one individual confiding that he “cocked the gun” at Mr, Latchman, while denying that he fired the fatal shots. Another alleged member of the gang has told the police that he waited in the getaway car and heard the gunshots. He claimed that his accomplices later ran to the car. Police are reportedly being told that while some of the bandits waited near the Latchmans home, an accomplice trailed the moneychanger from the city, and alerted those in wait that he was arriving. According to sources, some of the suspects took detectives to a house in Sophia where they allegedly split up the loot after killing the father and daughter.
-captured suspects take cops to house where they split up loot
Dead: Arianna Latchman
Dead: Aaron Latchman
They reportedly also took the cops to a house where they changed some of the stolen foreign currency. One suspect allegedly complained that he was ‘only’ given about $120,000. Another reportedly griped that he was given even less.Police sources indicated that there may be at least two other gang members at large. Investigators are painstakingly building a strong case against the suspects,
and charges are likely within days. According to reports, they are also examining some forensic evidence that was retrieved from the getaway car, which was abandoned at D’Urban Backlands. Aaron Latchman and Arianna Latchman were shot dead just over a week ago after bandits cornered them in their premises and stole a bag of money from Mr. Latchman. They were laid to rest on Wednesday.
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Kaieteur News
Friday July 12, 2019
Oil block application, companies... Private interests of
public officials should be scrutinized-AFC
The Alliance For Change (AFC) holds the view that if high level public officials have private business interests, then certainly, those interests ought to be declared and subsequently scrutinized by the Integrity Commission. Specifically making this comment yesterday at his party’s press conference was AFC Leader, Khemraj Ramjattan. His comments come on the heels of recent revelations by this newspaper that Special Assistant of the State Asset Recovery Agency (SARA), Eric Phillips, and Presidential Advisor on the Environment, Gary Best, are directors on several companies which were incorporated in the last two years. When this issue was raised with the AFC Leader, he said that in the evolution of democracy, these are mat-
Presidential Advisor on the Environment, Gary Best
SARA Special Assistant, Eric Phillips
AFC Leader, Khemraj Ramjattan
ters which have to be confronted as they will have political implications. With the press doing its homework and bringing these facts to the forefront, Ramjattan said that the next stage is for the society to debate the best prac-
tices that should be followed. In the meantime, the AFC said that the issue is definitely one to place before the Integrity Commission. The Thursday publication of Kaieteur News revealed that Phillips and Best
established several companies, one of which is specifically geared to serving the pharmaceuticals industry. According to the Certificate of Incorporation, Superior Pharmaceutical Company (Guyana) Inc. was incorporated on March 8, 2019. The following persons were appointed as directors: Gary Best, Eric Phillips, Shabakie Fernandes, Philip Springer and Shaun Allicock. According to the docu-
Man 39, jailed 20 years for rape of Granny
Another sentenced for rape of girl, 6 Thirty-nine-year-old, Delon Blake, was yesterday sentenced to 20 years’ imprisonment for the rape of an elderly woman. Blake appeared at the Georgetown High Court on Wednesday, where he admitted to a rape charge. According to the allegation, on June 20, last, Blake engaged in sexual penetration of a 77-year-old woman against her will. The man, who Justice Simone Morris-Ramlall, has since recommended that he undergo counselling while in prison, had used violence in the process of the rape. Prior to being sentenced, Blake apologized to the victim, who in turn, expressed shame in coming forward. The woman said that she was ashamed and afraid to come forward because she had never in her entire life been to a Court. In handing down the
Delon Blake judgment, Justice MorrisRamlall, started with 36 years but deducted 16 years for the early admission of guilt; the time he spent in prison on remand and a show of remorse. At his appearance, Blake was represented by Attorney Ravindra Mohabir, who asked the Court for leniency on his behalf.
The case was presented by State Prosecutor Sarah Martin, who said that based on reports, Blake was among the 13 inmates, who broke out of the Lusignan Prison in July 2017. He was subsequently recaptured. Meanwhile, in another matter before the same judge, Colin Thomas, 50, who pleaded guilty to two counts of sexual activity with a child, was sentenced to 23 years for the crime. Thomas also apologized to his victim, who was six and eight years old when the incidents occurred. According to the first charge, between August 1 and August 31, 2013, he engaged in sexual activity with a six-year-old girl. The other charge stated that between August 1 and August 31, 2014, he engaged in sexual activity with the same girl, this time around, when she was eight.
ment seen by Kaieteur News, it notes that no director has ceased to hold office. On March 8, 2019, as well, Best and Phillips formed another company called the Equity Centre (Guyana) Inc. The other director for this firm is Shaun Allicock. The purpose of this business is to carry out financial services or any other business which may profitably and usefully be connected to its purpose. The third company formed by Phillips and his associates is Entec Capital (Guyana) Inc. It was incorporated on December 6, 2018. The directors listed on the Certificate are Gary Best, Philip Springer, Edmond Grant and Phillips. Phillips appears to also have an interest in the fisheries business. On January 23, 2017, the SARA official and five other persons formed Coastal Fishermen and Marine Services Inc. The directors listed are Relrick Wilkinson, Godfrey Scott, Allison Butters-Grant (deceased), Lelon Saul, Robert Forrester and Phillips.
Since being appointed to the State Asset Recovery Agency (SARA) in 2017, Phillips has been in charge of a number of crucial projects, including being placed as the lead investigator into the award of two oil blocks offshore Guyana by former President, Donald Ramotar, just days before he lost the 2015 General and Regional elections. However, Phillips came under heavy criticism after it came to light that he is party to a pending application for an oil block that is in ultra deep waters. The offshore concession is referred to as Block C. According to documents from the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) Phillips, who also has no track record in oil exploration, is listed as one of the beneficial owners of a company called ABR Oil and Gas Exploration that has applied for a licence to explore the block that is adjoining the Kaieteur and Canje blocks. Phillips claims, however, that he left ABR last year.
Decades old rule abolished
No more three-month work before pay- Public Service Minister For decades now, policy of having to work for three months before getting your first salary has always affected persons who are new in the public sector in Guyana. Yesterday, Minister of Public Service, Tabitha Sarabo-Halley, said that such a policy will be no more. She added, “Someone came up with this policy and then people in the ministry just decided to go along with it. I do not understand it.” She described the policy as “unconscionable”. “Many Public Servants
have complained of having to work for three months before being paid. I have thus far found no rule or policy that substantiates this. I find this practice unconscionable and thus should no longer be a practice in any government agency after the month of July. “I am working with my staff to remove this bugbear from those who are desirous of joining the Public Service. So going forward, no one should have to wait beyond one month of being hired to receive their salary,” the minister related. “People have to find
money to go to work, purchase their meals, only to be told that they are not being paid until three months later. And so that is something that should stop immediately. “If you work out of town the matter is worse because sometimes you have to work for five or six months before being paid,” the minister expressed. She added that salaries will be increased for public servants all across the board. Only last week, the Public Service Commission announced that there were over 900 vacancies for qualified persons in the public sector.
Superbet takes GRA, Gaming... (From page 3) Spectrum Gaming Group, is in conjunction with Compliance Aid BSA Anti -Money Laundering (AML) Services LLC-a Miami-based Anti-Money Laundering & Counter-Terrorism Financing Education, and Resources & Advisory Services firm. The company was told that an AML/CFT audit was required for them to be issued a certificate of good standing. SuperBet had filed other actions to challenge the decision to refuse to issue them a licence to operate. Attorney at Law, Anil
Nandlall, who is representing the company, is adamant that no place in the law states that a certificate of good standing is a requirement for the granting of a gaming licence. “Th e hierarchical struggle has imposed that as an administrative requirement.” The application which listed Commissioner General of GRA and Chief Executive Officer of the Gaming Authority as respondents is set to come for hearing before Justice Jo Ann Barlow at the High Court on August 9 at 9:45 am.
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Kaieteur News
Friday July 12, 2019
Supreme Court insists on independence after PM’s criticisms
- Nagamootoo blames”distorted” Chronicle report The Supreme Court yesterday made it clear that it is independent and has integrity. The Court’s statement was prompted by a report in the state newspaper of comments allegedly made by Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo about a court matter involving the Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan, and DIPCON. The report in question stated, “The Prime Minister opined that the judge’s action “smacks of vendetta. For me, it is a kind of judicial wrath for us to talk about imprisoning a minister of the government, who was exercising his function officially.” In its response, the Supreme Court held that the report was of grave concern. The statement casts aspersions on the judiciary in relation to the matter before the court, the Supreme Court responded in a statement. It stressed that the judiciary and the rule of law must be maintained at all times. “The Judiciary would like to emphasize that anyone who is dissatisfied with a judgment or a decision of a court has a right of appeal, and this is the avenue by which a lawful challenge to any judgment or decision can be made.” It posited. Later that day, the Prime Minister sought to defend himself, in a statement, writing that he did not criticise a judge, but that he condemned the legal action to cite a Minister of Government, in his personal capacity, for contempt of court. Another section of the interview in which Nagamootoo made his remarks was quoted in the Prime Minister’s statement: “We believe that the action itself was frivolous, vexatious; it has no merit,” The PM rejected that he
made inappropriate remarks. “The Prime Minister regrets any disrespect towards a judge that the distorted reports would have conveyed.” By nightfall, the Department of Public Information – for which Nagamootoo is responsible – had retracted its report of the interview as well, and noted its “regret” for “misquoting” the Prime Minister. Nagamootoo’s comments were made after a judge ordered that Minister Jordan pay outstanding dues to DIPCON, or face imprisonment. The Finance Minister has since been exonerated by President David Granger. The Prime Minister ’s complete statement from that interview is as follows: “Cabinet has looked at the situation and found that the president has done the right thing by granting a reprieve to the Minister of Finance, Honourable Winston Jordan. We believe that the action itself was frivolous, was vexatious, it has no merit. “You do not go after a person in a matter where liability is against the State. You cannot enforce that position by going after that minister in person. It’s going to open all processes to abuse; it means anyone can go against a judge, you can ask for the imprisonment of a magistrate; you could ask the imprisonment of the President, the Leader of the Opposition. “The law presumes that the person who (commits) certain acts in his official functions is not liable in person and therefore, to seek the imprisonment of a minister for debt that had been accrued or a decision that had been made against the State, smacks of vendetta. “For me, it’s kind of a judicial wrath for us to talk about imprisoning a govern-
ment official - a minister of the government who was exercising his function officially, to penalise that person, in person, for liabilities that may not have been accrued to him personally. Cabinet, not only supported the decision to grant a reprieve until all judicial processes have been completed, but Cabinet reposed confidence, full confidence, in the Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan. We believe that the action against him had exposed him to contempt and ridicule. “We believe that it was
unfair and unjust and unprecedented that this should happen to a public servant – someone executing public policies and public functions. And, we believe that this attack on the integrity of the minister was unwarranted, it was unwelcomed, and we want to say very openly that all Members of the Cabinet, all his ministerial colleagues believe that he has done nothing wrong and that he is completely exonerated from any shadow of our doubt that he was anything other than honourable and he has received our full support.”
Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo
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Kaieteur News
Friday July 12, 2019
THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN
Dear Irfaan, please offer explanations for these nightmares
M
y dog is five years old. I walk her twice – morning and afternoon. If I have to be out from 8 AM, I would walk her from 6AM to ensure she gets her matutinal stroll. The only time I did not walk her in those five years was last Wednesday. My daughter is studying at an English university and she needed a “small piece” to tide her over. Upon her request my wife and I journeyed to the bank on Wednesday morning. Well you know how long transactions take at the banks. After the bank, I had several things to do. I took a nap and got up at 7 PM. My dog’s afternoon leisure stroll had passed. So I took her out for a drive. Strangely, I did not keep going west on the Railway Embankment but turned south on gas station road or mud dam road. I don’t know what is the name of that street or if it has a name at all. This is the second time in these columns, I am enquiring about the identity of this roadway. It begins from the Atlantic highway at the Rubis gas station, crosses over the Railway embankment
and ends at Bel Air village. Moses Nagamootoo, prior to 2015, lived just off that street. Halfway on the street is covered in complete darkness, I slowed down to negotiate a large hole. Right there next to the car, a lady in working clothes was walking. She turned and looked at the car and I saw the fright on her face. As I stared at her and she looked at me, I detected a sign of relief. Either she knew me or she judged by looking at me that this was not the type of personality that would harm her. As I drove further up the dark street, I saw a middle age man with a carpenter’s tool bag. It looked like he was going home from work. As I drove out of that unnamed street my mind was being bombarded with confusing thoughts that became uncontrollable. All I kept repeating in my mind is, “Why after 53 years of Independence?” I kept saying those words to myself as I drove. Why is a street where working women have to walk on to get to their home so dark after 53 years of Independence? What do foreign journalists say when they visit
Guyana and see that in the capital city only a few streets have lamps; now mind you not lights that do not work, but never had lamps at all. I may wonder why that road in Bel Air hasn’t got poles but right in the heart of the capital, many important roadways never carried street lamps since Independence in 1966. I was on Benschop Radio last Monday evening and he asked me if it was not reasonable to understand that after just four years in power, the APNU+AFC government could not have undone the mess the PPP left. It was a plausible question. The PPP was in power from October 1992 until May 2015, a total of just a few months short of 23 years. Now in 2019, the PPP wants to be reelected. But voters should not even for a fleeting moment reflect about voting for the PPP if its presidential candidate, Irfaan Ali cannot offer explanations for the backwardness that remains after 23 years of power. Why the streets in Georgetown were never clothed in bulbs during those 23 years? Surely, there has to be an explanation.
What did the PPP do in those 23 years while the country was enduring daily blackouts? What is Irfaan’s explanation? Why was money not allocated to GPL instead of building a Marriott Hotel? Why in 23 years, the alleyways in the capital remained as jungles in a country where heavy rains inevitably bring about flooding? Why in 23 years was the infrastructure of UG allowed to deteriorate so terribly? Why in those years, no effort was made to elevate UG which is indelibly associated
with the name of Cheddi Jagan? Why is it Irfaan that under your party’s time in government, it took a year before an application for a birth certificate came through? Why under your administration, Irfaan, a quantity of 30, 000 applications for lands up the Linden highway were allowed to fester? Why when you were Minister of Housing, applications for house lots since 1997 were still unattended on your desk? Why during the PPP rule of 23 years, there were four
Frederick Kissoon government- owned swimming pools and none were opened to the public in a walk-in process? Dear, Irfaan, what are your explanations?
‘Dem police deh pon stupidness’ – Man tells court “Dem police deh pon stupidness.” These were the words of a man who was remanded to prison for allegedly stealing a quantity of clothing which belonged to a Neighbourhood Police rank attached to the Ruimveldt Police Station. Kevin Ambrose appeared before Principal Magistrate Faith McGusty in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts where the charge was read to him and he was remanded to prison. The charge read that on July 2, 2019 at the Ruimveldt Police Station housing quarters, the defendant stole a quantity of clothing, property of Jermaine Yaw, a Neighbourhood Police. Ambrose told the court that he is a 23year-old resident of Albouystown. He said, “When the police talking they only talking for themselves. They want me do things. They always getting you running through cracks and when they catch you they ain’t find nutten pon you.” According to Ambrose the victim is in a relationship with his aunt. However, he does not like happiness for the rest of the family. “He always trying fo cause a problem.” The magistrate after a very nice conversation with the defendant ordered that he is to undergo a psychiatric evaluation to determine if he is fit to stand trial. The matter was then adjourned until July 31.
Kevin Ambrose
DEM BOYS SEH
Soulja Bai and Jagdeo mek a pappy show Guyana got some politicians that really messing up national life. Soulja Bai and Jagdeo decide to meet to find a chairman fuh de Guyana Elections Commission. Jagdeo submit 13 names and Soulja Bai give Jagdeo eight. That was a record because that was de first time a president giving names to de Opposition Leader to select one. Then dem two big men decide that dem gun waste li’l more time. Jagdeo select people fuh represent him and Soulja Bai select odda people to represent him. Now both Soulja Bai and Jagdeo is big men. Dem coulda sit down and mek dem decision. Instead, dem got to ask people to discuss de names. Yesterday, things meet de stage because nobody could
pick a name fuh Soulja Bai. And suddenly dem boys find out that nobody coulda pick a name fuh Jagdeo. It mean that de people who was meeting to represent Soulja Bai and Jagdeo was only wasting time. Now dem two big men got to sit down face to face and try to select de chairman. But to mek things look important dem gun walk wid de same people who couldn’t even pick one name. That is wha everybody does call pappy show. Walk wid people around you and following you and people gun think you important. That is wha Jagdeo and Soulja Bai doing—dem trying to be important. Then Jagdeo gun call a press conference to talk how Soulja Bai acting in bad faith.
He calling more press conference than anybody in de world. On de odda hand, Soulja Bai only had two in four years. He tell dem boys when he ain’t got nutten to seh he rather shut he mouth. Jagdeo run out of things to talk at de press conference. He even tell Soulja Bai he wrang to use a constitutional provision. De constitution seh de president can grant a respite; Jagdeo seh how de president interfere wid de judiciary. He was a man who use to do what he please. He give away de radio licence to whoever; he tek money and build de Marriott when people had odda important things. He do wha he want. Talk half and watch how Jagdeo keeping he eye pun right and wrong.
Friday July 12, 2019
Kaieteur News
PAGE 11
PAGE 12
Kaieteur News
Friday July 12, 2019
103 scholarships available at UG,
US$150M CJIA renovation...
…names of all recipients will be published
Completion date unknown – Minister Patterson
Minister Tabitha Sarabo-Halley, the minister of Public Service, yesterday announced at a press conference that there are 103 scholarships for Undergraduate and Master’s Degree level at the University of Guyana for the 2019/2020 academic year. At the undergraduate programme, there are 17 courses which are open for applications. The minister announced that all scholarships granted by the Scholarships Department of Public Service will be made public “as the scholarships are being funded by public monies and citizens have a right to know who received scholarships and for what programme.” Sarabo-Halley said that the decision to publish the names of the recipients of scholarships is because, “As the minister, I decided that transparency is key, and in terms of scholarships as it is the public’s money, it is public funding. There is no need to keep it a secret.” With regards to the overseas scholarships, those students will be granted on a needs assessment basis. The Scholarships Department will delve into the cost and monies attached to those overseas programmes based on the availability of funds within that department. The minister noted that depending on the funds that will tell if the scholarships would be paid in full or just partial. She further added that there are 73 students on overseas scholarships. “The process of who and how persons receive scholarships has constantly been in the headlines. There is a formal process for persons to be granted scholarships that have been advertised by this department. “As previously mentioned, the recognition that an all encompassing needs assessment survey has not been done, some of the needs of the public service and the country
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Minister of Public Service, Tabitha Sarabo-Halley are overlooked by the department. “Guyanese have thus on numerous occasions applied for various programmes then sought scholarships from the government to assist them,” Sarabo- Halley related. When questioned about repayment, the Minister answered, “Whether the students are studying abroad or locally they will have to repay the government through providing their services after the completion of their studies. Depending on the length of the programme they major in, they would have to work three or five years in the public service sector.” The key eligibility requirements for Undergraduate and Master ’s Degree programmes still remain the same. The minister added that the government will continue to grant scholarships in a number of areas. She is encouraging students to take advantage of the opportunity and process.
inister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson, has said that the completion date for the Cheddi Jagan International Airport was supposed to be June 30, 2019. That deadline has passed. During a press conference held by the Alliance for Change at its Kitty office, yesterday, Patterson responded to questions about the renovation of that port. It has been undergoing renovations for eight years, under three administrations. The completion date has been pushed back many times. Asked when it will end, Patterson said that he meant to have a meeting yesterday to sort out the completion of that project, since the date was supposed to be June 30. However, he noted that he would like a warranty to be provided for the HVAC [Heating, Ventilating, and Air Conditioning] system. “When you start an airport, it never closes down,” he stated, explaining the need for the warranty. “The supplier has a timeperiod that he runs it before he signs off and they obviously started the commissioning late so it should be
Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson handed over to us. It was supposed to be handed over to us next week, or at the end of this week.” He said, however, that Government will be accepting the HVAC system without the HVAC certificate because there’s a defect liability period. A defect liability period is a timeframe following practical completion during which a contractor remains liable under the building contract. Patterson stated that that period has been in force for
quite some time. “So if anything comes up, they’ll have to repair it… but it’s just to wait until we get the [warranty from the] manufacturers of the air conditioning system.”Patterson had said that when this government assumed office in 2015, it noticed striking issues to the original design of the airport, accepted by the Jagdeoled People’s Progressive Party (PPP) government. Hence, changes needed to be made, he had stated. Jagdeo has said he estimates that about $30M has been shaved off of the project, due to major modifications made to the original design. When Kaieteur News asked the Ministry of Public Infrastructure’s Public Relations Officer, Krest Cummings, to provide a copy of the design, she said that the release of that design would be subject to approval by officials within the Ministry. Over a week has passed. Minister Patterson sang a different tune when asked about the modified design for the airport yesterday. Patterson said, “I specifically made and handed it over in parliament to my opposite member, Shadow Minister (Continued on page 29)
ERC monitoring media outlets for racial incitement -appeals for all to be responsible
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edia outlets as well as social media posts are being closely monitored by the Ethnic Relations Commission [ERC] for any form of racial incitement. In a statement, the body made it pellucid that “it continues to monitor the outputs of the Guyanese media (television, radio, newspaper, online news entities) and comments posted by those accessing social media. This move, according to the ERC, is in keeping with its constitutional mandate as enshrined in Article 212(D) of the constitution and more particularly to discourage persons and institutions from heightening tensions through incitement and from indulging in, advocating or promoting discrimination or discriminatory practices on the ground of ethnicity. “Monitoring mechanisms, which have been intensified over the past few months in keeping with demands resulting from the ongoing political developments, have captured various instances, through publishing, facilitated and self-perpetuated, that are deemed counterproductive to the process of promoting harmony and good relations across Guyana,” the ERC said. It was further revealed that the Commission is in the process of engaging those responsible as it works assiduously to educate and discourage such practices. Even as it aims to complete such activities, the ERC has commended those entities which it said have “demonstrate[d] a profound sense of responsibility in reporting and the many Guyanese who, through social media,
[brought] attention and call upon their fellow countrymen and women to desist from posting inciting and disparaging comments.” To this end, the Commission has reminded that under, “139 D (1) of the Representation of the People’s Act that, any person who makes or publishes or causes to be made or published any statement; or takes any action, which results or can result in racial or ethnic violence or hatred among the people shall be liable on conviction on indictment to a fine of one hundred thousand dollars together with imprisonment for two years.” It also pointed to the fact that in, “139 D (2) Every person convicted of an offence under subsection (1) shall, in addition to any punishment under the said subsection, be incapable, during the period of five years from the date of the conviction, of being a member of the National Assembly or being a member of any local democratic organ or the holder of any constitutional or statutory office.” The ERC is therefore urging members of the public to become knowledgeable on the related ordinance which it believes would lead to restraint within the context noted. It was further revealed that shortly related public service announcements will be placed in the media as pertinent reminders. Meanwhile, the Commission has revealed that it is in the process of engaging the media and political parties, both Parliamentary and non-Parliamentary, with the intention of working for national consensus to educate and discourage acts that are not in keeping with the fostering of national harmony. In the interim, the ERC appeals for all “to be responsible in related endeavours.”
Friday July 12, 2019
Kaieteur News
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Medical community gets 20 Additional ORTs “Dont think youve arrived”- says GPHC CEO A simple graduation ceremony, yesterday, at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), Resource Centre saw the graduation of the seventh batch of Operating Room Technicians (ORT). GPHC Chief Executive Officer, Retired Brigadier George Lewis, told the graduates, “Dont think youve arrived”. This was said in regards to the fact that they would have completed the course and some tend to adopt the attitude as if they know everything. “You must also inculcate good and positive attitudes…Some of you believe that because of your success today you have arrived. That sort of attitude will not cause you to work to improve and to gain valuable experiences. Do not be knowalls,” the CEO said. The welcome and introduction of the Chairperson was done by the Clinics Instructor, Ms Gail Gill. Chairperson for the afternoons proceedings Ward Manager (Ag), Joy Knights, congratulated the graduands. Ms Gail Gill said, “This training commenced on July
9,2018, for a period of ten months.” She said that the group of trainees comprised one registered nurse, two medic soldiers from Belize, two nursing assistants and fifteen patient care assistants. Trainees were drawn from the force hospital in Belize, Mabaruma Hospital, three private students, St. Joseph Mercy Hospital (SJMH) and GPHC. One student withdrew because of health issues. The group received training in Orthopaedics, Paediatrics, Ophthalmology, General Surgery, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Ear, Nose and Throat Surgery, Nephrology, and Kidney Transplant. Training was done in both theory and practical to ensure that what was done in theory was correctly applies practically. There were 14 written tests and five practical tests. Theory scores ranged from 60.5%- 95% and practicals ranging from 87%-100% for the finals. They also underwent training for Code of Conduct in the Operating Room, Code of Dress, and Rules of the Operating Room Technician,
Preparation and Maintenance of a safe surgical environment, Infection Control in the Operating Room, Principles of Asepsis, Care and (Continued on page 26)
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Kaieteur News
Dipcon Engineering is indebted to the state for taxes due The Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) is responding to a recent Guyana Times article captioned ‘GRA hits Dipcon with $500M tax bill’. The article quoted Dipcon’s Legal Counsel, Timothy Jonas, saying that “a similar letter from the GRA, about six months ago, was challenged by Dipcon and thrown out by the court.” The Legal Counsel was making reference to a previous letter dispatched by the Commissioner-General of the GRA in May 2018, addressed to the requisite Authority that upon payment of the said judgment that taxes due by Dipcon, which has ceased to carry-on business in Guyana, be deducted from any such payment. The GRA disagrees with Jonas on his choice of language which could lead to a misunderstanding of the effect of the Court’s ruling. Contrary to what counsel’s statement has led the general public to believe, the power to garnish the said taxes from amounts due to Dipcon was merely deferred, since the learned Chief Justice in her considered judgment advised that the taxes could not be garnished at said time since the judgment had not been paid by the Government of Guyana, said GRA. The Chief Justice stated in her written decision that when the judgment is satisfied, it is then that the monies
paid pursuant to the judgment would be deemed income for the purposes of taxation, and provided that the judgment has been paid to Dipcon by the Government of Guyana then said judgment is deemed income for the purposes of taxation. An excerpt from the Learned Chief Justice states: “Since the amounts awarded in the Judgment are yet to be paid, and will be paid no earlier than in this year, 2018, corporation tax on that amount, if payable, can be charged no earlier than next year, 2019. “Given this conclusion, and the purpose of this Application, it is unnecessary for this Court to determine whether the judgment amounts are exempt from corporation tax. That issue only arises upon payment of the judgment amounts and subsequent assessment of taxes due and payable, at which time it may be more fully canvassed. “In view of the above, and pursuant to Section 102 of the Income Tax Act Chapter 81:01, when the Commissioner-General has knowledge or suspects that a person is or is about to become indebted or liable to make any payment to a person liable to make a payment of tax under this Act, he may, by registered letter or by letter served personally, require such first-mentioned person to pay the moneys otherwise payable to such
second-mentioned person in whole or in part to him on account of the liability of the second mentioned person under this Act.” As provided for by Section 102 (2) -the receipt of the Commissioner-General for moneys paid as required under this section shall to the extent of the payment be a good and sufficient discharge of the original liability(a) of the person who pays such moneys to the CommissionerGeneral to the person liable to make a payment of tax under this Act; (b) of the person liable to make a payment of tax under this Act to the Commissioner-General. The Financial Secretary was also advised that in accordance with section 102(4) of the Act, every person who has discharged any liability to a person liable to make payment of tax under this Act without complying with a requirement under this section shall be liable to pay to the Commissioner General as a debt due to the State an amount equal to the liability discharged or the amount which he was required under this section to pay to the Commissioner General whichever is less. On Monday, July, 8, 2019, having learnt that the said award was being paid by the Ministry of Finance, the GRA served notice to the Financial Secretary and copied to (Continued on page 30)
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Foreign offshore company opens local office
Chief Executive Officer of Harvey Gulf International Marine, Shane Guidry prepares to cut the ribbon to mark the official launch of the company’s local operations, Guyana Offshore Vessel Services Inc. Standing across from Mr. Guidry is President of the American Chamber of Commerce of Guyana, Mr. Zulfikar Ally. Marine transportation services corporation, Harvey Gulf International Marine Inc. officially launched its country office — Guyana Offshore Vessel Services Inc. —on Wednesday in Barrack and Fort Streets, Kingston. Speaking at the launching ceremony, President of the American Chamber of Commerce of Guyana, Zulfikar Ally, welcomed the company to Guyana. Its presence will greatly contribute to the development of the nation’s energy sector, he said. “Your presence in Guyana will do more than just create jobs; it will lift industry standards in the oil and marine sectors, improve safety standards and safety culture, and can
serve to streamline important aspects of health and safety at the national policy level through collaboration with the private sector and national authorities,” Mr. Ally told the gathering. Chief Executive Officer of Harvey Gulf International Marine Inc., Mr. Shane Guidry said that his company has found a permanent place in Guyana and he was proud to emphasise his company’s commitment to local content. “We are going to continue to grow in this region… We’d love to see the day when it’s 100% Guyanese, where we could possible reflag boats [with] a Guyanese flag, as (Continued on page 30)
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Dipcon Engineering is indebted to the state for taxes due
T
he Guyana R e v e n u e Authority (GRA) is responding to a recent G u y a n a Ti m e s a r t i c l e captioned 'GRA hits Dipcon with $500M tax bill'. The article quoted Dipcon's Legal Counsel, Timothy Jonas, saying that “a similar letter from the GRA, about six months ago, was challenged by Dipcon and thrown out by the court.” The Legal Counsel was making reference to a previous letter dispatched by the Commissioner-General of the GRA in May 2018, addressed to the requisite Authority that upon payment of the said judgment that taxes due by Dipcon, which has ceased to carry-on business in Guyana, be deducted from any such payment. The GRA disagrees with Jonas on his choice of language which could lead to a misunderstanding of the effect of the Court's ruling. Contrary to what counsel's statement has led the general public to believe, the power to garnish the said taxes from amounts due to Dipcon was merely deferred, since the learned Chief Justice in her considered judgment advised that the taxes could not be garnished at said time since the judgment had not been paid by the Government of Guyana, said GRA. The Chief Justice stated in her written decision that when the judgment is satisfied, it is then that the monies paid pursuant to the judgment would be deemed income for the purposes of taxation, and provided that the judgment has been paid to Dipcon by the Government of Guyana then said judgment is deemed income for the purposes of taxation. An excerpt from the Learned Chief Justice states: “Since the amounts awarded in the Judgment are yet to be paid, and will be paid no earlier than in this year, 2018, corporation tax on that amount, if payable, can be charged no earlier than next year, 2019. “Given this conclusion, and the purpose of this Application, it is unnecessary for this Court to determine whether the judgment amounts are exempt from corporation tax. That issue only arises upon payment of the judgment amounts and
subsequent assessment of taxes due and payable, at which time it may be more fully canvassed. “In view of the above, and pursuant to Section 102 of the Income Tax Act Chapter 81:01, when the Commissioner-General has knowledge or suspects that a person is or is about to become indebted or liable to make any payment to a person liable to make a payment of tax under this Act, he may, by registered letter or by letter served personally, require such first-mentioned person to pay the moneys otherwise payable to such secondmentioned person in whole or in part to him on account of the liability of the second mentioned person under this Act.” As provided for by Section 102 (2) -the receipt o f th e C o mmis s io n erGeneral for moneys paid as required under this section shall to the extent of the payment be a good and sufficient discharge of the original liability(a) of the person who pays such m o n e y s t o t h e Commissioner-General to the person liable to make a payment of tax under this Act; (b) of the person liable to make a payment of tax under this Act to the Commissioner-General. The Financial Secretary was also advised that in accordance with section 102(4) of the Act, every person who has discharged any liability to a person liable to make payment of tax under this Act without complying with a requirement under this section shall be liable to pay to the Commissioner General as a debt due to the State an amount equal to the liability discharged or the amount which he was required under this section to pay to the Commissioner General whichever is less. On Monday, July, 8, 2019, having learnt that the said award was being paid by the Ministry of Finance, the GRA served notice to the Financial Secretary and copied to Dipcon's legal counsel instructing that the taxes outstanding by the company be garnished and paid over to the Authority as satisfaction of the said taxes outstanding. Note should be taken that since Dipcon has ceased to carry on operations in (continued on page 30)
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Editoria T
he face can be burdened with various kinds of problems when you least expect it. Sometimes, it can be oily, it can be dry, and it can be susceptible to acne etc. A great way to combat these problems is through the use of facials. With a facial, the skin is initially cleansed in order to remove any oil, dirt or makeup. Then the skin is exfoliated, i.e. washed or rubbed with a granular substance to remove dead skin cells. After this the skin is steamed to open the pores and soften the blackheads to get them ready for the extraction. The extraction involves gently squeezing around the blackhead to take it out of the skin. After the blackheads have been extracted, you can massage your face to increase circulation then apply a mask. Different masks do different things for the skin. For example some masks help treat acne while others treat oily skin. The mask is then removed and the skin is moisturized for a healthy glow. Facials
Inexpensive
ways to do facials at home
done at home do not have to go through all of these steps. Cleansing, exfoliation, the mask and moisturizing of the skin are the necessary elements. Cleanse your skin with your bath soap and warm water. While the face is still damp, rub baking soda on the face and neck to exfoliate it. After this, apply the mask, leave it on the face for the recommended amount of time, then wash or wipe it off. When the mask is off completely, moisturize your skin with your usual moisturizer, cocoa butter, Shea butter or coconut oil/fat. You don’t have to go buy facial masks, when you can make your own homemade masks. Here are just a few masks you can make. Mask for oily skin: Get three teaspoons of banana, ½ teaspoon of honey, a few drops of lemon juice. Combine them into an even paste. Apply to face and neck avoiding eyes. Leave on for 20 minutes then wash off with cool water. The lemon
REVIEW:
By Sean Keane
T
he 1992 version of Aladdin is among Disney’s most beloved animated movies, so it’d be easy to dismiss Guy Ritchie’s live-action remake as utterly redundant. Luckily, Ritchie goes far beyond a straight copy and paste, opting to update the classic — based on a story from an Arabian folktale One Thousand and One Nights — with fancy CGI visuals, some very modern sensibilities and more depth added to the characters. The movie is in theaters worldwide now. The basic thrust of the story is pretty much as you remember it. Orphaned street urchin Aladdin (Mena Massoud) falls for Princess Jasmine of Agrabah (Naomi Scott) after a chance encounter and finds a magic lamp containing a wise-cracking, wish-granting Genie. This version, however, gives Jasmine a much bigger role, making her the emotional heart of the story as she struggles in
WINE DOWN
Wednesdays he 704 Sports Bar is proud to present its spanking new event called, “Wine Down Wednesdays.” According to management, there will be two options available to patrons. For Option one, you can have boneless wings, cheese, olives, crackers and one bottle of wine for $9000. On option two, there are steak bites, cheese, olives, crackers and one bottle of wine for only $9500. Be sure to take advantage of this promotion while it lasts.
helps to get rid of excess oil on the face, while the banana rehydrates the skin. Mask for dry skin: Get ½ of a very ripe, soft avocado (pear). Mash it and stir in ¼ cup of honey. Apply to the face and neck avoiding eyes. Leave on for 10 minutes then rinse face with a cool washcloth. Avocado is a superb alternative for making homemade face masks for dry skin, as it contains a lot of oils. Mask for acne-prone skin: In a blender, combine ½ cup of finely ground oatmeal, ½ of a ripe apple, a 2-inch slice of unpeeled cucumber and 2 tablespoons of skimmed milk. Consider slicing the apple and cucumber into tiny pieces for an easy blending process. Once at a uniform consistency, apply the concoction onto the face for approximately 20 minutes. Wash the mask off with warm water, followed by cold water to close your pores. This helps to reduce redness, oil and blackheads
associated with acne. Mask to reduce the appearance of blemishes: Mix together 2 tablespoons of honey and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice along with a pinch of turmeric. Apply to the face and neck avoiding the eyes. Wash away with cool water after 10 minutes. The citric acid in lemons attacks the pigments in your skin responsible for red or discolored blemishes, evening it out. Lemon juice will make blemishes less noticeable, but it can also lighten your skin tone and make you susceptible to sun damage, so always wear sunscreen when you go out.
Guy Ritchie’s live-action Disney remake dazzles, surprises
Agrabah’s male-dominated hierarchy. It’s a surprising turn that infuses the update with renewed relevance, aided by the addition of handmaiden Dalia (Nasim Pedrad). This delightfully glib new character gets some of the movie’s biggest laughs and a pretty heartwarming story of her own. We still spend most of the movie with Aladdin, a happy-go-lucky character without much depth — Massoud’s acting has a showy Broadway quality to it, but he can belt out the tunes and leap around stealing only what he can’t afford as well as his animated counterpart. Of course, the charismatic Genie is the reason we’re seeing this movie, and it’s impossible not to compare Will Smith’s version with the late Robin Williams’ incredible 1992 portrayal. Smith is at his best when he puts his own energetic magic in Genie’s corner, but he doesn’t exude the same warmth as Williams did, and his magical shtick can be a bit of a sensory overload in live action. Genie still gets two of the movie’s most fun
704 PRESENTS
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Friday July 12, 2019
songs; Friend Like Me and Prince Ali are amazing, noisy displays of pageantry. And a surprising romantic subplot proves rewarding as it explores a fresh aspect of his character. Unfortunately, his blue CGI look is a bit unsettling — get ready to breathe a sigh of relief whenever Smith adopts his natural skin tone to blend in. Unfortunately, Marwan Kenzari’s villainous vizier, Jafar, feels pretty flat and underwritten despite an attempt to reframe him as Aladdin gone down a dark path. He gets some cool outfits and creates some spectacular visuals toward the end, but it’s too little, too late. His parrot pal, Iago, is much more realistic than Gilbert Gottfried’s shrill portrayal in the original. Alan Tudyk opts for a subtle approach, giving the character a sinister edge and managing to display more personality than Jafar through squawked repetition of other characters’ lines — it’s astounding a CGI parrot is more memorable than the movie’s big bad. Each character’s choices feel more organic and logical than they did in the animated movie — it’s clear screenwriters Ritchie and John August
reverse-engineered their motivations and developed them. Jasmine’s expanded role is a complete success, to the point the movie feels shallow when she’s not the focus. She adds a strong message about equality that’s underscored by Speechless, a new song that fits seamlessly with the classic setlist. Scott and Massoud’s vocals carry the updated version of Whole New World as well, though the latter’s rendition of One Jump Ahead loses some of the original’s energy. There’s plenty of great choreography on display in the movie’s colorful action and dance scenes, framed by Jordan’s shining deserts, shimmering streets and splendid costuming. Ritche’s signature visual trickery generally serves the movie’s heightened Disney reality too, aside from the occasional use of a strobing effect that speeds things up and feels a little unnatural. A huge portion of the internet would wish away Disney’s live-action remakes of its beloved classics, but you shouldn’t waste one of your three wishes on such nonsense. Despite a weak villain and some questionable Genie CGI, Aladdin is an entertaining, rich magic carpet ride for fans old and new.
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Medical community gets 20... From page 13 Knowledge of Basic Instruments etc. Gill said that the overall performance and attendance of students was good but five students stood out in attend a n c e a n d p u n c t u a l i t y. They were Premkunarie George of SJMH, who was also the top graduating student; Bricenio Ack of the Belezian Defence Force who was also the Best Practical Student; Mahadai Narine of GPHC, Joleen Ramascindo of Mabaruma Hospital and Raywattie Singh of GPHC. Students a l s o u n d e r went a two-month preceptor ship from May 10 to July 9 during which the trainees worked under supervision to ensure that they were well on track. As they have gradu-
ated they will return to their respective hospitals to function in their capacity. CEO Retired Brigadier George Lewis said whatever he was about to say was directed at the graduands. “I know that you, the graduands, must be very happy that youre graduating and I believe that you have every reason to be.” He went on to say that the occasion marked the end of their studies but it also marked the beginning of the time where they would put into practice what they have learnt. “I know that these tasks might look simple on paper. However you must take them seriously, since your failure can cause the loss of life or serious injury to our patients.”
The presentation of certificates and prizes followed. The tutors were very surprised when the graduands also presented them with tokens as a way of saying thanks for their time and dedication. Assistant Nursing Director, Keith Alonzo, in his charge to the graduands expressed his heartfelt congratulations to them as well as their tutors and family. “I know it took a lot of hard work for you to achieve what you have achieved today. You have accomplished something worthwhile.” Alonzo added that some cases will be more challenging than others but the reward is great as they will have a beneficial and bright future. He also warned them to carry themselves with honour and discipline.
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Strong Institutions - One of the Main Pillars for the Sustainability of the ‘New’ role it is playing in enforcing society, to limit the behaviour had made statements which the Attorney-General to bring Assembly had approved the Guyana individuals and were believed to be in the long-delayed Judicial Judicial Review Bill since and upholding the Rule of of DEAR EDITOR, I believe that one of the greatest tests for Guyana and Guyanese, over the past two decades perhaps, was the passing of the No Confidence Motion (NCM) in Parliament on the 21st December, 2018. Two significant signs of growth in our society include; the maturity of the people and the strength of some institutions. The passing of the NCM has made these more evident. The day after the NCM was passed and ever since, it has been business as usual, well for the most part; people were still getting about their business. If one was to conduct a survey, I am sure that a number of factors would be attributed to this calm, but one factor is definitely that we have matured as a people. I also believe that social media played a major role by creating the space for citizens to vent, express themselves, laugh at themselves and essentially, transmit information. So many persons, instead of taking to the streets, took to social media to express themselves. The role and strength of some institutions was also major in ensuring that the country did not fall apart. The functioning of two Arms of Government are severely affected by the passing of the NCM. The ability of the Executive Arm to function is restricted and the Legislature for the most part was nonfunctional; it is not business as usual as it relates to the governance of the country. Here is where I would like to highlight the role of the Judiciary as the third Arm of Government and the critical
Law in an effort to ensure that there remains a sense of stability in the country. The response from the Judiciary is commendable. But let me revert to the Speaker of the National Assembly who upheld the NCM and effectively transferred the matter to the Judiciary for interpretation. This was no doubt a tough decision but nevertheless, one that showed the highest level of professionalism. The Executive Arm of the Government sought a Judicial review on the validity of the NCM in the High Court. The Chief Justice’s decision was essentially that the NCM was validly passed. The Executive Arm proceeded to the higher Court, the Court of Appeal, where two of the three Judges ruled that 34 votes constituted an absolute majority and was required to pass the NCM, instead of 33; one Judge dissented. The Opposition PPP/C appealed the decision to a highest court, the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) and the CCJ ruled in favour of the Opposition, noting that 33 votes constitutes a majority for the passing of the NCM in the 65-seat Parliament. We now await the CCJ’s decisions in the consequential orders today. The CCJ also ruled that President Granger’s unilateral appointment of a Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) was flawed. The Chairman of GECOM, Rev. Retired Justice Patterson has since resigned from that position. Since human behaviour is unpredictable, society created laws and rules as a part of the construct of the
institutions. I think the Judiciary stood tall and played a tremendous role in preventing the society from disintegrating, by upholding the Rule of Law which is the authority and influence of the law that serves to constrain the behaviour of individuals from the Executive and Opposition as well as other institutions and the people as a whole. Additionally, we have seen positive signs of an emerging Judiciary which augurs well for the growth and sustainability of Guyana, providing that it is allowed to assert its independence. On 24th June, Justice Priya Sewnarine-Beharry ruled that Finance Minister Winston Jordan was to be jailed for 21 days if he failed to comply with a previously issued court order to pay Trinidad construction company Dipcon the more than US$2 million owed to it by the government for road construction works. On 5th July, a Full Court comprising Justices Simone Morris-Ramlall and Diane Insanally refused to grant a stay of Justice SewnarineBeharry’s order to the Attorney General Basil Williams who was representing Minister Jordan. On 8th July, President David Granger granted respite to save the Minister of Finance from imprisonment. Four years ago, in April of 2015, Former President and Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo had been summoned to appear in an East Berbice court to answer a private criminal charge by then Magistrate Charlyn Artiga at the Whim Magistrates’ Court. It was alleged that Mr. Jagdeo
When will the government do the... From page 6 “House to House Registration”, when a list can be sanitized and updated by a “Claims and Objections” period, especially when the list of Voters was perfectly alright to APNU-AFC and all others and valid up to April 2019? The President says that there are as many as 200,000 errors in the list. When and how did that occur? That had to happen after April 2019, and if true, could only be done by GECOM? Who else has access to this list? Also, the cry that youths will be disenfranchised and not be able to vote is hogwash. All citizens from 14 years old and beyond are eligible to register in all the Continuous Registration Periods held by GECOM in the past. This means that those who will
become eligible to vote in 2019 have already been registered since 2015, if they so wanted, and their names will automatically be included in the current list. There will be some stragglers who can easily be included in a new Continuous Registration and Claims and Objections Periods. It’s as simple as that. President Granger needs to take control of his underlings and be the Ruler, and do the honourable thing and go ahead and take the names submitted from the Opposition and choose a GECOM Chairman as the Constitution stipulates, and don’t interfere with the decisions of GECOM once they are within the Constitutional mandate. The President can direct GECOM to call elections
within a few months, shelve the House to House delay, allow GECOM to do Continuous Registration and Claims and Objections period, and lead this nation into fresh elections, something which I am sure will earn him the respect from the majority of the electorate, and not only the few who are pandering to him for their own narrow political gains. Mr. President, enough is enough. Remember, almost half of the electorate did not vote you into power, and by not doing the honourable thing now, that percentage will shrink further, and will only reduce the chances of your government going back into power. The peace, tranquility and prosperity depends on your decisive actions right now. Concerned Citizen
violation of one of Guyana’s electoral laws, The Representation of the People Act In May 2018, Chief Justice Roxane George had ordered
Review Act into force no later than July 31st, while finding that his failure to do so thus far was unlawful and in violation of the will of the Parliament. The National
October 2010. Subsequently, in the Court of Appeal, Justice of Appeal Rafiq Khan dismissed a request for a stay of execution application by (Cotinued on page 29)
CONSTITUTIONAL HERESY... From page 4 of India (1981) 1 SCC 107). The prescription that such a power must be exercised with profound judiciousness, stems from the fact that the very Constitution that confers it, concomitantly, ascribes all forms of litigation to the exclusive functional domain of the Judiciary for their conclusive determination and, impenetrably insulates that very Judiciary from all forms of Executive interference. It is this separation of powers that Maddison C.J., of the United States, held as “so essential to the preservation of liberty”. It is inconceivable that the framers of the Constitution will so formidably endow the Judiciary and at the same time, reside the Executive with a power to so easily undermine it. Such a state of affairs would render the concept of judicial independence an oxymoron. It is against this constitutional mosaic that the President’s actions must be examined. It is imperative to reiterate that a monetary judgement was obtained against the State in October 2015 (while the Coalition Government was in Office). Attempts to challenge this judgement were exhausted by proceedings culminating at the nation’s apex court, the Caribbean Court of Justice. Legal proceedings then commenced in the High Court to enforce this judgement. An order was obtained under the State’s Liabilities and Proceedings Act, compelling the Minister of Finance to pay the judgement. This order was served on the Minister to no avail. Contempt of court proceedings were then launched, seeking to commit the Minister to prison, unless he pays the judgement, within a specified time. Again, the Minister refused to pay. Before the expiration of the time, delimited by this order, the Minister appeals this order to the Full Court and seeks a stay of its execution. The application for the stay of execution was dismissed by the Full Court. An application was then filed to the Court of Appeal seeking leave to appeal the Full Court’s decision. While this application is pending in the Court of
Appeal and before the time granted to the Minister to pay the monies expired and imprisonment kicks in, the Attorney General, who has been representing (or misrepresenting) the Minister of Finance in all these proceedings, then runs to the President and advises him to exercise the powers conferred by Article 188 (1)(b) of the Constitution. I respectfully submit, that the intervention of the President in this factual matrix can never amount to a proper and lawful exercise of the powers conferred by Article 188 (1)(b) of the Constitution. All the authorities uniformly say, that the exercise of this power is based upon mercy, hence the marginal note to Article 188 reads “Prerogative of Mercy”. In ex parte Grossman (1924) 267 US 87, the District Court of Illinois stated that the object of the pardoning power is to correct “possible judicial errors”, to relieve a convict from a sentence which is “mistaken, harsh or disproportionate” to the crime. It is not to protect a political compatriot, or defeat a just and lawful judgement obtained by the citizenry against the State. Indeed, none of the objective factors which would justify the exercise of this power is present in this case. Most significantly, by its very nature, a prerogative power can never be lawfully exercised, while the matter is actively before the Judiciary. To do so, will constitute a most colossal trespass by the Executive upon the province of the Judiciary and amount to a crude violation of the doctrine of separation of powers. A prerogative power is only exercisable after the judicial process is completely exhausted. As the Privy Council so frequently reminds us in the death penalty cases, “mercy begins where legal rights end” [See De Freitas v Benny (1976) Appeal cases 239 at 247]. In the current circumstances, so oblivious is the President and his legal adviser to the constitutional transgressions committed, that the edict issued by the President states, ex facie, that the respite granted is “until all appeals and remedies available to the Minister of Finance and the State, have
been exhausted.” So, the Executive invades the territorial enclave of the Judiciary in a pending legal process and grants to one of its officers, a litigant in the ongoing legal contest, the very remedies which the Judiciary has, thus far, denied this litigant. Under the doctrine of Separation of Powers, this is not only a trespass by the Executive upon the functional responsibilities of the Judiciary, but also a usurpation of it. That this is constitutional heresy of multitudinous dimensions, is an understatement. An essay of this type simply lacks the scope to fully expound the multiplicity of constitutional desecrations committed. Suffice it to say, that this will stand out as one of the most vulgar and egregious violations of the Constitution and the Separation of Powers committed in the Commonwealth in recent times. The uneducated verbiage from Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo, of and concerning the Judge, completes the unprecedented venomous attack upon the Judiciary by an unhinged Executive. Before I close, constitutionality aside, I invite you to consider the implications of the precedent set by the President, in relation to litigation involving the Government and those close to the President. What assurance do you have that the President will not parachute into the litigation, to assist his allies against whom you may have litigation when they appear to be on the losing end? Similarly, how can the President’s actions inspire confidence in those whom the State owes financial debts? What now, is the true collateral value, if any, of the “Government’s Guarantee” of the thirty billion dollars loaned by commercial banks to GuySuCo?I can go on, but let those few inquiries titillate your mind for the time. Unless restrained, the Judicial edifices will soon be painted in green and the PNC flag will be restored to the compound of the Guyana Court of Appeal. Mohabir Anil Nandlall, MP Attorney-at-Law
74,000 ounces of gold for Aurora in first half
The country’s largest producer, Aurora Gold Mine, has produced 74,000 ounces for the first half and is on track for its annual target. According to the Canadaowned parent company, Guyana Goldfields Inc, in its second quarter report released yesterday, it produced 37,300 ounces. This amounted to 74,000 ounces of gold produced in the first half of 2019. The company said it is on track to achieve the 2019 production guidance range of 145,000 to 160,000 ounces of gold. Mining rate averaged 57,710 tonnes per day, a 45% increase in the mining rate compared to the previous year. “Record quarterly mill performance of 7,815 tonnes per day and a 10% increase from the previous year were recorded. Underground exploration which declined
was resumed and advanced 164 metres during the second quarter.” The company said that exploration drilling at Mad Kiss Hole MKD 187 drilled into the central mineralized zone returned an average of 6.11 grams per tonne gold over a core interval of 301.4 metres starting from 14.1 metres downhole. The company said that the Aurora mill, in the Cuyuni, Region Seven, is back up to full capacity following the work stoppage from last week. “The company’s balance sheet remains strong with an unaudited cash balance of approximately US$38.9 million at June 30, 2019 and no outstanding debt. Management believes the company has sufficient cash flow to fund its working capital and underground capex requirements, however, the Company is reviewing
various debt facility alternatives to provide operational flexibility and mitigate risk of any potential cost overruns related to the underground development.” Work on the underground exploration decline resumed in the second quarter. “The contractor completed and reinforced the collar at the Mad Kiss portal and advanced the exploration decline approximately 164 metres. “In order to fulfill the scope of the early works phase, the decline will be extended to 200 metres.” Government would be paying a close eye to the Aurora mine performance as a huge chunk of the country’s foreign exchange comes from operations which have over 600 employees. However, internal troubles, now resolved, and industrial unrest which saw work halting last week, have troubled the company.
Strong Institutions - One of the Main... From page 28 the Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs. Judge Khan noted that the Minister was trying to frustrate and obstruct the operationalization of the Judicial Review Act. These are positive signs and the impact of strong institutions and upholding the Rule of Law for the stability of the country, even in difficult times of political uncertainties, and despite the authority of the parties involved in the matters. Another important group to maintaining stability in the public sector, and the country as a whole, is Permanent Secretaries. Permanent Secretaries are really the guardians of the principles of the public service; Ministers and politicians will come and go. Also, many ministers and
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politicians do not understand policy development, management, diplomacy, governance, and one of the key roles of the Permanent Secretaries is to uphold the principles; therefore it is critical for them to be strong. Other key institutions for the ‘New’ Guyana are the Police Force, Guyana Revenue Authority, Guyana Prison Service, Immigration Department, these are crucial for maintaining stability in the country; economic and otherwise, and it is important that they become strong. Another main group is the professional associations. Professionals associations should bring a depth to the dynamic of the country and if developed and conducted in a professional and impartial manner, could become one of the pillars upon which the
‘New’ Guyana – the Oil and Gas Guyana - can be built and developed. Key associations include the Guyana Bar Association, Guyana Women Lawyers’ Association, Private Sector Commission, Chambers of Commerce, Guyana Association of Professional Engineers, among others. Much more focus needs to be placed on strengthening these institutions in preparation for the oil and gas era. In the case of the Judiciary, we have seen the critical role of a strong institution to maintaining stability. To the Judges and Magistrates well done! Do not be intimidated, this strong posture is absolutely critical for the ‘Oil and Gas Guyana’. Yours faithfully, Citizen Audreyanna Thomas
TALKS ABORTED
Granger, Jagdeo to decide on GECOM chair
The Government and Opposition sides at Castellani House shortly after the meeting yesterday. The third day of talks between Government and Opposition representatives on the selection of a new chair for the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) came to an end yesterday after the two sides were unable to agree on the issues. They agreed that the matter be sent back for both President David Granger and Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo, to decide on the GECOM Chairman. The President’s side, which included Director General of the Ministry of the President, Joseph Harmon; Vice President, Khemraj Ramjattan; and Volda Lawrence, left what started as a joint impromptu press conference, in what was clear disagreement with the Opposition.The Opposition delegation comprised Gail Teixeira, Bishop Juan Edghill and former Attorney General Anil Nandlall. They had submitted eight names on behalf of President Granger. The Opposition submitted 11. The eight names were not discussed yesterday, the Opposition’s Chief Whip, Gail Teixeira said yesterday. The two sides were both looking to have an acceptable six names ahead of today’s sitting of the Caribbean Court of Justice which has been hearing cases relating to a historic December 21, 2018 noconfidence motion which toppled the government. One of the ruling by CCJ was that the 2017 appointment of a Justice (ret’d) James
Patterson, as GECOM chairman, was flawed. The President erred by not properly consulting, the court ruled. Patterson has since resigned leaving the post vacant.Speaking with reporters, Teixeira said that it was felt that they had reached a stage where it was not possible to go further. “We have five names shortlisted and we have eight names submitted by the President which we assumed are not unacceptable to him. At this time, we think it is the right time to indicate to the Leader of the Opposition and the President that they should meet each other to review those names- the five shortlisted and the eight the President submitted. “If they so wish they could add additional names until they reach consensus on the six names.” She said that they have accepted that six names were rejected and that five have now been shortlisted However, she said that the talks stalled as the Opposition had no idea the eight names the President submit-
ted are acceptable to him. “…And therefore we feel at this point we can’t move any further and it would be wise to hand over the process to the Leader of the Opposition and the President.” According to Member of Parliament Anil Nandlall, who was part of the Opposition team with Juan Edghill, it was decided to abort the process as it was not yielding what was expected- - six names that would enjoy the acceptability of both sides.He said that both sides “tried earnestly”. According to Edghill, it is difficult to understand how eight names proposed by the Government side on behalf of the President could not be assured of finding his favour. However, Ramjattan made it clear that the discussions were part of the process. Harmon told reporters that 11 names by the Opposition Leader were shortlisted to be submitted for further consideration.It was also disclosed by Harmon that the eight names submitted by the president would be sent to Jagdeo for a further shortlist for the final six names.
Completion date ... From page 12 Juan Edghill… They always claim they don’t have information so I gave it to him and gave a copy to the Speaker in the hope that whenever [Edghill] raises it,” the Speaker can attest that it has been handed over.Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman, who was also present, added, “It was done in a very public way.” And all this happened even before Jagdeo began to call for the release of the design, probably unaware that a member of his inner circle had the design.
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Foreign offshore...
SERVICES PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION, W E D D I N G S , ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 Visa Application: U.S.A, Canada & UK; Graphics design, advertisements, Wedding arch rentals. Tel: 626-7040; 265-4535. ICONIC MARKETING & PRINTING –TEL: 6006887: We create A/works, logos, business cards, posters, etc, placements of ads included. Installation, Repairs and parts for AC, Fridge, Washing Machine, Stove etc. Call Nick 630-1600, 627-3206
FOR SALE (1) Excavator CAT 315BL (1) Roller/Compactor CAT CB434C (1) Skid steer CAT 277B. Call for information, Rayman #615-2346/500-1600/ 628-0200/652-8505 Combines 7300 John Deere (2000hrs), Fiatagri L413 (2500hrs), Laverda 132 & Tractors: Massey 399, Fiat 110/90, Ford 6610, 290 Massey # 695-2220 Logs & Lumber directly from concession holder. Specialized in green heart, purple heart, mora, wamara, darina. Affordable prices. Tel#2234236/697-0966 Steel rod sale at Alabama Trading, 1/2 “ 12mm -$960, 5/ 8”- 16mm -$1680. Call: 2255800/231-3345/623-1615 30x48 Sash windows, black & white (Regular size) casement and awning windows. $12,000 each. Tel#679-3325
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Guyana within about a week my phone started ringing.” Petroleum Geologist at the Department of Energy, Marissa Foster, pointed out that the establishment of offices in Guyana by international companies demonstrates confidence in Guyana and in the growth of the energy sector. Foster added that the Department of Energy looks forward to collaboration between foreign and local companies, especially those that involve capacity building through the transfer of knowledge and skills sharing. Established in 1955, Harvey Gulf International Marine Inc. owns and operates a fleet of Fast Supply and Utility Vessels, Offshore Supply Vessels and Multipurpose Vessels that specialize in deepwater and ultradeepwater operations.
Dipcon Engineering... From page 15 Dipcon’s legal counsel instructing that the taxes outstanding by the company be garnished and paid over to the Authority as satisfaction of the said taxes outstanding. Note should be taken that since Dipcon has ceased to carry on operations in Guyana, should garnishment not be effected, the GRA would have had no jurisdic-
VACANCY
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From page 16 long as, that makes sense and the government supports that and has a support system for it. But we’re here to stay. We’re here to stay,” Mr. Guidry stated. “The people were so energetic, so vibrant, so thirsty to learn and thirsty to want to be part of something new, something that’s going to be big for Guyana. It really hit home to me because people are what made Harvey Gulf for the past 65 years and I couldn’t be prouder to be able to work with the people of Guyana,” Mr. Guidry said. “We came down here with the thought process of opening our office, which we did. We hired employees without knowing if or when we would ever get work. Because of the wonderful reporting of your news media, which I have to thank, after I left
VACANCY Vacancy exist for one Female to work @ Crystal Ics House in Blairmont, must have Maths & English #231-1408/ 618-3800 Immediate vacancy exists for male workers @ Del Ice Co. Tel#231-1408/642-9191 Experience Goldsmith needed at Jacob’s Jewellery and Pawnshop. Address 16 Pike St, Kitty Georgetown. Tel#227-8748/622-4970 1 General Domestic, must be able to prepare Vegetarian meals, Apply Alabama Trading, 65 Robb St 1 experienced driver, must have license for car/van/ minibus & motorbus, residing in G/town between ages 24-50 yrs old. #225-1429/ 641-5075 Industrial Sales Representative, 5 Subject CXC Age 25+ Experience in Sales, must own vehicle, email r e s u m e : vacancy@josarltd.com Security needed for the interior and Georgetown. Call: 223-7165
tion over the monies collected once transferred out of the Guyana jurisdiction. GRA Commissioner General Godfrey Statia said that assertions by the Leader of the Opposition that the decision by the GRA to garnish the taxes due “sends a bad signal to investors and damages an already struggling investment climate”, is therefore flawed. “The GRA was simply carrying out its mandate in accordance with the Revenue Authority Act. Contrary to such a claim, by ensuring the tax laws are administrated in a fair, transparent and consistent manner whereby all individuals and companies, whether foreign or otherwise pay their rightful share of duties and taxes, this would lead to increased investor confidence.”
Dipcon... From page 22 Guyana, should garnishment not be effected, the GRA would have had no jurisdiction over the monies collected once transferred out of the Guyana jurisdiction. GRA Commissioner General Godfrey Statia said that assertions by the Leader of the Opposition that the decision by the GRA to garnish the taxes due “sends a bad signal to investors and damages an already struggling investment climate”, is therefore flawed. “The GRA was simply carrying out its mandate in accordance with the Revenue Authority Act. Contrary to such a claim, by ensuring the tax laws are administrated in a fair, transparent and consistent manner whereby all individuals and companies, whether foreign or otherwise pay their rightful share of duties and taxes, this would lead to increased investor confidence.”
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Cops bust $1 million-a-month gift card scam in Queens New York (New York Daily News) - The gift that kept on giving is giving no more. A Queens grand jury indicted 13 people accused of running a sprawling gift-card scam that raked in approximately $24 million over a twoyear period. The 192-count indictment, announced Wednesday by the Queens DA’s Office, charges that brothers Christopher and Bryan Nathoo oversaw a sophisticated crime ring that stole credit card information, used it to buy gift cards and then exchanged the cards for cash. “The defendants are charged with a multi-milliondollar gift-card fraud scheme that victimized banks and retail stores and hurt the credit ratings of countless law-abiding citizens,” said New York State Financial Services Superintendent Linda Lacewell. The investigtion began with an NYPD Grand Larceny Division probe of a fence based out of a 150th St. address in Jamaica in 2015. The
fence, allegedly controlled by the Nathoo brothers, employed a variety of confederates, including “fence manager, swipers, shoppers, fence employees, money launderer and more,” according to the DA’s Office. Swipers allegedly ripped the credit card numbers from the dark web, transferred them onto blank credit cards and then bought gift cards from stores such as Macy’s, Target and Bloomingdale’s. They would then sell the cards to the fence, according to the indictment. To “wash” the illegally obtained gift cards, swipers or shoppers would allegedly go to the stores, buy stuff, then return the items for a “clean” gift card. According to the indictment, the Nathoo brothers’ wives, Hama and Annarrisa Nathoo, used the “clean” cards to renovate and remodel their homes. Bryan and Annarrisa Nathoo have not been apprehended. Christopher and Hama Nathoo were
Man used spent shells to make jewellery gets suspended sentence Thirty – one year-old Ivon Marquez, a Venezuelan national, was yesterday taken before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan in the Georgetown Magistrates Courts where he was made to answer a charge of possession of ammunition components. The defendant was read the charge and through a Spanish interpreter without delay he admitted to the offence. It was alleged that on July 6, 2019 at Black Water Landing, North West District, Marquez had in his possession two 9mm spent shells while he was not the holder of a firearm licence at the time. Police Prosecutor Gordon Mansfield told the court that on July 6, last, police ranks from the Mabaruma Police Station, acting on information, went to the location. Contact was made with the defendant and they identified themselves as police officers after which they carried out a searched. Nothing was found on the defendant however, further search was carried out on a haversack that was on his back. That search revealed
two 9mm spent shells. The defendant was told of the allegation against him, he then give a caution statement admitting to the offence. When asked if he was a licensed firearm holder the defendant replied in denial. Marquez was subsequently arrested and brought to Georgetown where he was charged. Checks of his status in Guyana turned up as illegal. Magistrate McLennan then asked the defendant if he would like to give an explanation to the court for his actions. According to Marquez, “I come to Guyana to find a better life. I am a jewellery maker and I use the spent shells to make the jewellery.” Marques was handed a two-year suspended sentence which means that if he is to be charged again in Guyana and the new charge attracts a jail sentence he will then be called upon to serve his time in prison. The magistrate further ordered that he is to pay a $50,000 fine then he will be escorted by the police to the nearest port of exit back to his country of origin at the shortest possible date.
arraigned Wednesday with Christopher ’s bail set at $50,000. The ring also allegedly sold gift cards to cardcash.com and laundered the money it obtained through shell companies controlled by the Nathoo brothers. The Nathoo family did not return calls. They and nine others named in the indictment are facing between one and 25 years in prison on charges ranging from enterprise corruption to criminal possession of stolen property.
Cash and gift cards that were seized from Christopher and Bryan Nathoo
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Sod turned for $96M Disaster Management Centre in Region Nine
M
inister of State, Mrs. Dawn Hastings-Williams, alongside Director General of the Ministry of the Presidency, Mr. Joseph Harmon, and Director General of the Civil Defence Commission (CDC), Lieutenant Colonel Kester Craig, turned the sod for the construction of a $96M Regional Disaster Management Centre in Lethem, Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo (Region Nine). Minister Hastings-Williams, who has responsibility for disaster risk management in Guyana and within whose purview the CDC falls, in her remarks said the Centre will be the first of its kind in Guyana but other such centres will be opened in BarimaWaini (Region One); CuyuniMazaruni (Region Seven) and Potaro-Siparuni (Region Eight). This multipurpose building would provide shelter for both men and women, include a warehouse, training facility, conference room and office space. She said that the sod turning ceremony marks the first day of construction of a building to house staff whose mandate is to strengthen regional capacities for disaster preparedness and response; to reduce disasters and their impact through enhanced regional capacity and cooperation, and to boost disaster management capability for sustainable regional development. “The Government is committed to building similar facilities to ensure these remote regions can effectively respond to emergencies and disasters on their own. “The Regional Centre will house a warehouse to preposition and stockpile relief supplies, a shelter to accommodate displaced persons, a training facility and offices for emergency personnel. The facility is expected to increase the efficiency of emergency response operations in the region by reducing the cost and time for shuttling relief supplies from Georgetown into the region. “The facility will allow for items to be sourced within the region for stocking the warehouse, which is anticipated to have a positive spill-over effect on the local economy. Additionally, the shelter facility will boost the region’s capacity to provide housing for residents displaced during flooding. The offices and training facilities will improve preparedness measures such as capacity building,” she said. The Minister of State noted that the Government is cognisant of the several hazards the region has faced in
the past, ranging from flooding to droughts and bush fires and has therefore, taken a proactive approach to the management of risks through the CDC. “This initiative is a part of a plan of continuous strengthening of the Region Nine Regional Disaster Risk Management System (RDRMS). Future plans include the establishment of a trained and equipped Damage Assessment and Needs Analysis (DANA) team, enhancement of Early Warning Systems (EWS) within Lethem and the development of municipal, neighbourhood and community-based Disaster Risk Management systems throughout the region,” Minister Hastings-Williams said. Director General Harmon, under whose stewardship the project originated and was included in the 2019 National Budget, said Guyana should be proud of the steps it is taking in disaster risk management. “Since we came into office in 2015, President [David Granger] has made disaster preparedness a priority. His instructions to me were that we should take disaster preparedness to the correct level. “When we got into office, [there was no] 24-hour monitoring capability or many of the things [that] should have [been in place]. Under his guidance, we were able to move the CDC from a small operation to what it is now. The decision to build this facility was not a hard one to make because every time there is rainy season and there is flooding it becomes difficult to move materials and machinery from the capital to here,” he said. The Director General noted that the facility was meant to be funded by an international agency but after months of back and forth, the government took a decision to budget for it thus lessening the adverse impacts upon persons affected by emergencies. “The development of all of Guyana is something that is crucial to us as a Government. It is a thrust of ours to ensure that development does not take place only in one region. Every region in our country is important and we will continue to do what we have to do to improve the lives of our people,” he said. The Director General of the CDC said that the $96M facility represents the largest direct disaster response capacity investment by the Government in the history of Guyana. He noted that the CDC continues to work assidu-
ously to enhance the National Disaster Risk Management system in Guyana through decentralisation and building institutional capacities and mechanisms at all levels. “A fully functional regional disaster management system would save lives and reduce losses and damage to properties, businesses, and infrastructure,” Lt Col Craig said. In 2016, Mr. Joseph Harmon, outlined his vision to the CDC to further strengthen Disaster Risk Management in Guyana. Lieutenant Colonel Craig assured that the Commission has a very stringent monitoring, control and evaluation system, which would see daily site monitoring and weekly status meeting with the contractor to ensure the residents receive the best value and benefits of that investment. Councillor of the Regional Democratic Council (RDC),
From left: Director General of the Civil Defence Commission, Lieutenant Colonel Kester Craig, Town Clerk of Lethem, Ms. Keisha VIncent, Minister of State, Mrs. Dawn Hastings- Williams, RDC Councillor, Mrs. Sandra Rafino and Director General of the Ministry of the Presidency, Mr. Joseph Harmon turning the sod for the construction of the facility. Mrs. Sandra Rafino, welcomed the initiative. The lives of the residents will truly be improved with the construction of the facility, she said. “This exemplifies the Administration’s commitment and it is truly people-ori-
ented. It is not only putting in place a building that will benefit the people but it will also enhance the multi-agencies in a collaborative manner, in this region. “With the availability of this facility and the resources
that would be available, this would be able to strategically plan and diffuse eventualities. We have long suffered a lack of vital items during the rainy season so surely this initiative is not only planning but actualising plans,” she said.
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After 11 years, Federer and Nadal renew Wimbledon rivalry London (Reuters) - It has been a long wait but the most captivating modern rivalry in men’s tennis returns to the scene of its most dramatic episode today when Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal meet for a place in the Wimbledon final. Much has changed since that epic Sunday night in 2008 when, as the last strands of daylight ebbed a w a y, Nadal dethroned the king of Centre Court in a rain-hit final that will forever be part of Wimbledon folklore. Centre Court now has a retractable roof as does Court One, for a start, and Federer has two sets of twins. Nadal’s knees are
creakier, his hair thinner and the sleeveless tops and pirate pants he wore as a 22-year-old tyro have been replaced by regular tennis attire. They have both had dips and comebacks and both have been written off at times. But form is temporary. Class endures. Federer is approaching his 38th birthday and Nadal is 33, yet they remain the two central pillars of men’s tennis with 20 and 18 Grand Slam titles respectively. They have met 22 times since that epic five-setter when Nadal became the first Spaniard since Manolo Santana in 1966 to win the men’s title, proving he was
not just a claycourt bully but had evolved his topspin game after losing consecutive Wimbledon finals to Federer in 2006 and 2007. There have been memorable clashes since — the 2009 Australian Open final after which a beaten Federer shed tears and the 2017 Australian final when the Swiss ended a five-year wait for his 18th Grand Slam title. They played last month in the French Open semis when Nadal blew Federer away in a gale on his way to claiming a recordextending 12th Roland G a r r o s t i t l e . To d a y ’s showdown will be the 40th meeting between the duo
Friday July 12, 2019 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) You might find that someone close to you needs a hand today, Aries. They could be too proud to ask for help. Don't let that stop you.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Libra, consider channeling your philosophical inspirations into creative writing, Libra. It's probably something you'll enjoy.
TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) When was the last time you used a pen and paper/ The keyboard has all but replaced these wonderful tools.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) You might need to be alone today, Scorpio. You're probably surrounded by people most of the time. It can be unhealthy if you can't occasionally be alone with your thoughts and feelings.
GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Today could bring a keen sense of empathy and understanding. Verbal communication is likely to be enhanced. Take advantage of this by talking through any problems or issues with important people in your life. CANCER (June 21–July 22) Don't be surprised if your mind goes a thousand miles a second today. Slowing down will be difficult, and you'll have to find a way to express what's in your head. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Welcome to another great day, Leo! The energy from the planetary aspects is positive and encouraging, especially when it comes to communicating and interacting with others. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) You might be really interested in getting out and doing something with the special people in your life, Virgo. You can thank the day's planetary aspects, which are conspiring to make this a perfect time to get together.
SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) Today you may want to go your own way regardless of what anyone else wants. CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) Today may find you in the mood for an adventure or a visit, Capricorn. When was the last time you took a day for something like this? It's probably been too long. Not only will you enjoy it but others will be thrilled to spend time with you, too. AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) Serious thinking and communication are enhanced today, Aquarius. They're already strong qualities in you, and with this added boost, you'll need an outlet for expression. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) You might feel cornered into doing something you don't want to do today, Pisces. Perhaps you made a promise to handle a project. Maybe someone decides it's the day to call in an I.O.U.
with Nadal leading 24-15 and 10-3 in Grand Slams. Federer is seeking a ninth Wimbledon singles title which would move him level on the all-time list with Martina Navratilova while Nadal is eyeing his third, and first since beating Tomas Berdych in 2010. Since then Wimbledon has often resembled a house of horrors for Nadal with shock losses to journeymen like Steve Darcis, Lukas Rosol and Dustin Brown. Irritated by being relegated to third s e e d b e h i n d F e d e r e r,
De Sinco Ltd. through its... From page 36 and sleep and really trying to dial in those little things out of the gym because in the gym we push our bodies to the limit. So I am trying to focus on the nutrition and recovery aspect.” It was further pointed out by Mahadeo that lost of the things he is now doing he is not accustomed to and is out of his comfort zone a lot: “A lot of running, swimming, biking, long endurance stuff while still trying to maintain my strength. So, everything is basically coming together right now, as I mentioned, the intensity has increased so I’m just trying to stay focused with my mental game as well and be prepared as possible.”
Guinness Georgetown... From page 39 for a prompt start at 19:00 hrs so as to facilitate the completion of games in good time. Also, fans and players are being asked to continue to exhibit the good behaviour that has been exemplary throughout the tournament’s history. Meanwhile, the fixtures for the two nights are as follows: National Cultural Centre Tarmac - Trap Squad versus LA Ballers, Upsetters vs. Albouystown A, North Ruimveldt vs. John Street, California Square vs. Alexander Village, North East La Penitence vs. Stabroek Ballers, Norton Street vs. Back Circle, Sparta Boss vs. Judgement Yard, Gold is Money vs. Globe Yard. Burnham Court - Rising Stars vs. Good over Evil, Ol Skool Ballers vs. Sophia, Albouystown B vs. Berlin, Kingston vs. Broad Street, Bent Street vs. Charlotte Street, Future Stars vs. Sophia United, Leopold Street vs. Pike Street, Queen Street (Tiger Bay) vs. Smyth Street.
despite being ranked two, he looks fired-up to reclaim the title and has dropped just one set so far, against Nick Kyrgios in a riveting second-round grudge match. “Playing against Roger always is a unique situation,” Nadal said after beating Sam Querrey in the quarter-finals. “Excited to be back on this court against him after 11 years. “Means a lot for me and probably for him, too. Always I say the same: of course, the opportunities to play against each other every time are less, but we are still here.” It is easy to forget there is no silverware at stake on Friday, with the winner likely to play defending champion Novak Djokovic, the Serb who could eventually surpass both of
them in the all-time Grand Slam title haul, in the final. But it has the feel of a final. With the clock ticking on their careers, today could be his last chance to set the record straight, although he says Nadal is a far superior player to the 2008 version. “Haven’t played each other in a long, long time on this surface,” Federer said. “It’s going to be tough. Rafa really can hurt anybody on any surface.” F e d e r e r, b i d d i n g t o reach his 12th Wimbledon final, has dropped two sets so far, and has looked in fine fettle. While much water has passed under the bridge since 2008, somewhere in the darker recesses of Federer’s mind will be the bitter imprint of one of his most crushing defeats.
Guyana withdraws from... From page 4 and Barbuda, Barbados, Cayman Islands, Cuba, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Grenada, Haiti, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, St Lucia,
St. Kitts and Nevis, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago and U.S. Virgin Islands. This tournament will enable representation at the 2020 Summer Olympics slated for Japan.
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Dream run continues for Archer as hosts reach Lord’s final Birmingham, England, CMC – Barbadian Jofra Archer’s dream of reaching a World Cup final materialised yesterday when he produced another excellent performance to help England trounce old foes Australia by eight wickets in the second semifinal at Edgbaston. Choosing to bat, the reigning world champions were limited to 223 all out off 49 overs with former captain Steve Smith top-scoring with 85 off 119 deliveries. Wicketkeeper Alex Carey supported with 46 off 70 balls
while Mitchell Starc chipped in with 29 and Glenn Maxwell, 22. In reply, Jason Roy slammed 85 from 65 balls in an opening stand of 124 with Jonny Bairstow who struck 34 from 43 deliveries. When both were dismissed within two overs of each other, captain Eoin Morgan stroked an unbeaten 45 in an unbroken third wicket stand of 79 with Test skipper Joe Root (49 not out) to steer England to victory in the 33rd over. England will face New Zealand in Sunday’s final at
Lord’s. However, it was the early pace of Archer which helped lay the foundation for the hosts’ win. The 23-yearold, who only qualified to represent his adopted country mere weeks before the start of the World Cup, got the breakthrough when he trapped the left-handed Aaron Finch lbw without scoring with a full length delivery. With just four runs on the board in the second over, the Aussies lost opener David Warner (9) and Peter Handscomb (4) cheaply –
Serena, Halep cruise into Wimbledon final Reuters - Serena Williams and Simona Halep dominated their semifinal matches at Wimbledon yesterday, setting up their 12th lifetime meeting tomorrow in the women’s final. Williams, a seven-time Wimbledon winner, will make her 11th appearance in the singles finals at the All England Club. Halep, a former World No. 1, has one Grand Slam championship to her credit, the French Open in 2018. A win by Williams would give her 24 Grand Slam tournament titles, tying Australian legend Margaret Court for the most all-time. It took Williams just 59 minutes to topple Barbora Strycova of the Czech Republic 6-1, 6-1 and advance to her second straight Wimbledon final and her 32nd final of a Grand Slam. Angelique Kerber defeated her in the 2018 final. “It definitely feels good to be back in the final,” Williams told ESPN after the match. “I love what I do. I wake up every morning. I get to be fit. I get to play a sport. ... I have a great job, and I’m still pretty good at what I do, I guess.” Halep, the seventh seed in the women’s draw, surged into the final with a 6-1, 6-3 win over Elina Svitolina of Ukraine in just 73 minutes. “It is one of the best
Simona Halep
moments of my life,” Halep said in her post-match interview. “I’m really excited but also nervous. I’m just trying to enjoy it as much as possible. It was not as easy as the score shows. I fought really hard. is an amazing player and it’s always tough to play against her.” Halep advanced to the Wimbledon semifinals in 2014. Williams is 9-2 all-time against the 27-year-old Halep, including their only meeting at Wimbledon (2011 in the round of 64). The past two meetings were also on the Grand Slam stage. Williams won in three sets in the 2019 Australian Open and took another three-setter at the 2016 US Open. In her post-match news
conference, Williams addressed the potential of tying Court’s record in Grand Slam tournaments. Williams has been stuck on 23 since she won the Australian Open in January 2017 before the birth of her daughter later that year. “It’s really not about 24 or 23 or 25, it’s really just about going out there and giving my best effort no matter what,” Williams, 37, said. “No matter what I do, I will always have a great career. I don’t know ... I just kind of let it go this morning. I feel really calm about it.” With Thursday’s win, Williams tied Martina Navratilova for the secondmost finals in tennis history with 32, trailing only Chris Evert’s 34.
Serena Williams has reached a Grand Slam final for the 13th consecutive year.
both to Man-of-the-Match seamer Chris Woakes (3-20) – to be in further trouble at 14 for three in the seventh over. Archer was pulled from the attack after only five overs which cost 11 runs and Australia fought back through a 103-run, fourth wicket stand between Smith and Carey. Recalled after 30
overs with the Aussies on 130 for five, Archer again bowled superbly to remove Maxwell with one that jumped off a length, the batsman jabbing a simple catch to Morgan at cover. Somewhat of a controversial selection, Archer has proven his critics wrong with 19 wickets at an
average of 22 to be England’s leading wicket-taker. Born and raised in Barbados, Archer represented West Indies Under-19s in a handful of matches in 2013 before turning his attention to representing England. He holds a United Kingdom passport through his father who is British.
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Concacaf Women’s U-20 Championship – Group A
Aqua Pur and Sleepy Sanitary Napkins support for ‘Lady Jags’ in their quest to win Sureia Manufacturing Inc., through their Aqua Pur (Water) and Sleepy Sanitary Napkins brands have thrown their support behind the ‘Lady Jaguars’ in their quest to win Group A of the Concacaf Women’s Under-20 Championship which kicks off in Guyana tomorrow at the Leonora Track and Field Facility, Leonora, West Coast Demerara. Yesterday, at their Lot 70 Industrial Site, Eccles, East Bank Demerara headquarters, Managing Director of Sureia Manufacturing Inc., Frank Sanichara met with the ‘Lady Jags’ and Management team to formalise their commitment. Sanichara, an avid supporter of sports expressed delight at being visited by the team whilst stating that his company which has always been supportive of sports in Guyana, especially youths, will continue in this vein. “I am very excited to see so many young people involved in sports, we are
very proud, we are very happy to support youths and I hope ventures like this would encourage, not only other private sector companies but also the government to keep youths active and away from drugs and crime.” Sanichara reminisced on his boyhood days growing up in Albion recalling that they were very active in sports including cricket noting that he would love to see a return to those days. “We always were busy, from the age of 9 until 17 you are always busy with sports and over the past years we’ve not seen that happening. I would love to see other private sector companies supporting teams like yours, it would make a huge difference for your health, mentally you’ll be better, and physically you’ll be better. I am very proud to see a young team like you representing my country, best wishes to you all to succeed and advance to the next
Sureia Manufacturing Inc., Frank Sanichara (standing 2nd left) during his remarks to the ‘Lady Jaguars’ Team and Technical Staff at his Company’s Eccles Industrial Site headquarters. stage.” He concluded by saying that the more support his company gets from customers means the more they can give back in return. Ms. Shirlean Alexander, Brand Manager of Sureia also
expressed her delight at being able to support the ‘Lady Jags’ in their quest to keep the Golden Arrowhead flying high. Head Coach of the team, Ivan Joseph, responding on behalf of the team said that
they were truly grateful to Sanichara and his company for their support citing the importance of sports in the lives of young people especially women. Guyana will oppose Bermuda in their opening
match on Saturday (tomorrow) evening from 21:30hrs, the first match of the group will feature Suriname and St. Lucia from 19:00hrs. The other nation in the group is Antigua and Barbuda.
Twenty-Person Squad Shortlisted; Team’s Ready - Head Coach, Dr. Ivan Joseph As Guyana prepares to host the Concacaf U20 Women’s Championship this Saturday at the National Track and Field Centre, Leonora, Head Coach of Guyana’s U20 Women’s team, Dr. Ivan Joseph, said the team is wellprepared and is “not just looking to be competitive but it is our hope and expectation that we will qualify amongst the top two teams and be ready to move on to the next round.” Guyana has named a 20person player squad to compete in the Championship including both Guyana and international-based players who have been part of the 2018 CFU Women’s
Challenge Series: two Goalkeepers, six Defenders, eight Midfielders and four Forwards. Dr. Joseph, in an invited comment following the team’s arrival on Wednesday evening, said among the players are “Brianne Desa and Jade Vyfhuis that are some solid players and contributors to our programme here at the U20 level as well as some up and coming newcomers that you’ll see.” The other players, he added, will also be looking to make a contribution. He said the coaching staff is happy to be back in Guyana and for
Guyana to be host to this tournament against the backdrop of the “excitement of the Gold Cup.” Among the nine (9)member coaching staff are two current players from the Senior Women’s National Team, commonly known as the “Lady Jaguars”, Kayla De Souza and Brittany Persaud. While encampment officially begins today, Dr. Joseph is hopeful that the team camaraderie will be established and “the team will be ready to compete.” The Concacaf Women’s Under-20 Qualifiers will be held from the 13th-21st July. Guyana has been placed in
Guyana withdraws from Preliminary Rounds of Concacaf Men’s Olympic Qualifiers After much deliberation, Guyana has withdrawn from the Concacaf Men’s Olympic Qualifiers scheduled for July 17 – 21, 2019 in Jamaica. According to GFF’s President, Wayne Forde, this decision was necessitated as “the GFF has taken a decision to direct its resources to the preparation of our players for the Concacaf Nations League, which kicks off in September.” He noted, however, that the players will continue their weekly training programme. Many of the Caribbean
Football Union (CFU) countries have been forced to evaluate their international participation given the demanding Concacaf annual tournament calendar. Other CFU countries, including Trinidad and Tobago and Suriname, have also opted out of the Olympic Qualifier. “The GFF has participated in every international tournament since my administration has taken office,” Forde said. “However, with six Nations League qualification games ahead of
us, we are forced to make difficult but necessary financial decisions.” According to Concacaf, the preliminary round of the tournament would have seen 16 participating teams placed in four groups: “After round robin play, the group winners will advance to a final play-in match (1A v 1D and 1B v 1C). The winner in each play-in match will qualify for the Concacaf Men’s Olympic Qualifying Championship.” The 15 remaining teams in the Caribbean are: Antigua (Continued on page 32)
Group A along with Bermuda, Antigua and Barbuda, Suriname and St. Lucia. The participating teams have begun arriving last evening with St. Lucia and Antigua and Barbuda arriving today. Admission to all matches will be free of charge. Two matches will be held
daily as follows: 13th July – Suriname vs St. Lucia @ 19:00hrs | Guyana vs Bermuda @ 21:30hrs 15th July – St. Lucia vs Bermuda @ 18:00hrs | Antigua and Barbuda vs Guyana @ 20:30hrs 17th July – Antigua and Barbuda vs St. Lucia @
U20 Women’s Squad # Name 1 Taylor White 2 Aneesa O’Brien 3 Lensey Adolph 4 Sydney Puddicombe 5 Rylee Traicoff 6 Jessica Myers 7 Hailey David 8 Jade Vyfhuis 9 Amanda McKenzie 10 Kiana Khedoo 11 Serena McDonald 12 Shontel Greene 13 Tori DeNobrega 14 Nailah Rowe 15 Jaida Brooks 16 Jenea Knight 17 Brianne Desa 18 Siacy Adams 19 Aubrey Narine 20 Tiandi Smith Technical Staff Position Head Coach Assistant Coach Goalkeeper Coach Physiotherapist Head of Sports Science Performance Analyst International Team Coordinator Team Operations Manager Equipment Manager
18:00hrs | Burmuda vs Suriname @ 20:30hrs 19th July – Suriname vs Antigua and Barbuda @ 18:00hrs | St. Lucia vs Guyana @ 20:30hrs 21st July – Guyana vs Suriname @ 16:00hrs | Antigua and Barbuda vs Bermuda @ 18:30hrs
Position Club Goalkeeper Oshawa Kicks OYSL Goalkeeper FC Durham Academy Defender Kwakwani FC Defender ANB Futbol Academy Defender FC Durham Academy Defender FC Durham Academy Defender Pickering SC Defender UMSC OPDC Midfielder Fruta Conquerors FC Midfielder North Miss League Midfielder AJAX FC Midfielder Foxy Ladies FC Midfielder Pickering SC Midfielder FC Durham Academy Midfielder FC Durham Academy Midfielder AJAX FC Forward FC Durham Academy Forward Foxy Ladies FC Forward Pickering SC Forward Fruta Conquerors FC Name Dr. Ivan Joseph Akilah Castello Kasy Kirash Angelica Holder Paul DeAbreu Brittany Persaud Paul Beresford Naseya Brewster Kayla DeSouza
Friday July 12, 2019
Bounty Paper Towel & Solo Drinks Hockey Leagues
Bad weather delays this weekend’s restart The Bounty Paper Towel -Quicker Picker Upper, Men’s and Women’s Outdoor, second division, Development Hockey league and the Solo Drinks Under-20 Men’s and Women’s Outdoor Leagues will have to wait until next week to recommence following their two month break to accommodate the wet season. Play was set to recommence this weekend but the rains have not rescinded so the organisers; the Guyana Hockey Board (GHB), has decided to push the restart back to next weekend. When the last match day of the second division league was played in May, Saints women defeated Bingo Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) Spartans 2-0 to maintain their 100% record after winning each of their three games played. On the men’s side, a hat-trick from Captain Hilton Chester spurred Saints Savages to a 43 win over Old Fort Rusty; a result that ultimately saw them going top in the men’s second division. Meanwhile, GCC The Sequel lost their grip at the top of the men’s second division after losing 2-1 to Hikers Cadets. In the Boys’ Under-20, YMCA Old Fort Hockey Club (OFHC) Ballers top the points
Bounty GCC’s Captain Kareem McKenzie is tracked by Robert Fernandes of SHC Savages during first round play in the 2nd Div. table with 10 points with a better goal difference than second place GCC Pitbulls. On the distaff side, Bingo GCC Spartans are top after winning each of their three games played.
Leo Romalho wins latest GuyanaNRA Record Shoot Leo Romalho with a n aggregate of 118 points and 6 Vbulls won the latest round of the Guyana National Rifle Association Record Shoot held on Sunday last at the Timehri Rifle Range, Yarrowkabra, Linden Soesdyke Highway. Romalho was one of two shooters who recorded possible on the day, both at the 600 yards range; he shot 35.3 with Peter Persaud who has been turning in good scores consistently topping Romalho by a single Vbull having also shot a possible. At 300 yards, Romalho had a score of 49.1 with his 34.2 at the 500 yards range propelling him to an Aggregate scorer for the day of 118.6 just two off a perfect score for the day. Persaud (2nd overall) won the 300 range with a score of 49.3 while Lennox Braithwaite (3rd overall) topped the 500 yards range with 34.3, one Vbull better than Roberto Tiwari. Dane Blair was the lone OClass shooter on the day and he recorded an aggregate score of 101.2.
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Dane Blair
Following are the full scores for the day: Name 300 500 600 Aggregate Leo Romalho 49.1 34.2 35.3 118.6 Peter Persaud 49.3 32.3 35.41 16.10 Lennox Braithwaite 48.2 34.3 33.4 115.9 Dylan Fields 45.3 32.3 32.3 109.9 Ransford Goodluck 46.2 30.1 32.2 108.5 Roberto Tewari 44.1 34.2 30 108.3 O Class Dane Blair 41.2 31 29 101.2
India A beat West Indies A by 65 runs – 1st one-day St John’s, Antigua, CMC – India A defeated West Indies A by 65 runs in the opening oneday fixture of the five-match series at Coolidge Cricket Ground here yesterday. Scores: India A 190 off 48.5 overs (Shreyas Iyer 77, Hanuma Vihari 34; Roston Chase 4-19, Akeem Jordan 3-43). West Indies A 125 off 35.5 overs (Jonathan Carter 41 not out, Rovman Powell 41; Khaleel Ahmed 3-16, Axar Patel 2-16, Rahul Chahar 2-32, Washington Sundar 2-37).
Multiple beneficiaries as RHTYSC Patron’s Fund donates trophies, medals Over $250 000.00 worth of trophies, medals, framed certificates, educational materials and special gifts have been donated over the last week by the ten cricket teams by the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, MS under its Patron’s Fund Programme. The Teams during the month of July would be donating over $2M worth of items including bicycles, schools bags, cricket balls, cricket bats, educational materials under the Patron’s Fund in honour of their Patron, His Excellency, President David Granger’s 74th Birth anniversary on July 15th, 2019. The programmes also include the distribution of food hampers and making a positive difference in the lives of Senior Citizens.The teams handed over a large quantity of trophies and medals to over twenty schools at their request. They would be used at graduation ceremonies following the announcements of the National Grade Six Examination. Fifteen of those schools also received special prizes such as RHTYSC school bags and educational materials. Among those benefitting were the Rose Hall Town, Cropper, Port Mourant, Belvedere and Tain Primary Schools. The Bohemia Nursery School and the Belvedere Children Play School also received trophies. The RHTYSC also donated a large quantity of trophies, medals, 200 exercise books and a financial prize to the parents of the late National School Cyclist
Assistant Secretary/CEO Simon Naidu hands over donation to the Yonette Clarke mother Beyonce Ross. Beyonce Ross, who died last year. The Ross family would be hosting a Day of Sports and Cycle Race in the late cyclist memory and had approached Club Secretary/ CEO Hilbert Foster, MS for his cooperation in making the events a success. The ten cricket Teams on the 2nd July, 2019 also hosted a special edition of their monthly Old Age Pensioners Programme as part of the Patron’s Fund. Over 200 Pensioners were treated to breakfast and refreshments by the ten teams as they waited to uplift their monthly pensions at the Rose Hall Town Post Office. The teams also arranged for the presence of a medical team from the Port Mourant Hospital to be present during the programme to offer free medical care to the pensioners. The teams since 2016 has been hosting the
breakfast event as part of their personal development programme. Foster, who also serves as the current President of the Berbice Cricket Board hailed the hard work of the Cricket teams under the dynamic leadership of Simon Naidu, Keith Hicks, Ravindranauth Kissoonlall and Tyrone Pottaya. The veteran Secretary/ CEO stated that the Patron’s Fund main objective is to make a positive difference in the lives of those less fortunate than the players while observing the Birthday Anniversary of the Club’s Patron. The RHTYSC is the only Cricket Club in Guyana to mandate its player to do self developmental programmes. The teams on the 19th July, 2019, would share out close to $1M worth of bicycles and school bags under the Patron’s Fund.
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Reebok CrossFit Games 2019
Jefford Track & Field Classic X
De Sinco Ltd. through its Degree brand De Sinco Ltd. confirms supports Guyana’s #1 Dillon Mahadeo support through Swiss Brand De Sinco Limited through Manager, Ms. Sarah Savory like Degree, won’t let us its distribution partnership with Unilever, giants in the cosmetics world made a conscious decision to enter into a sponsorship agreement with Guyana’s fittest male, Dillon Mahadeo. The first phase of the sponsorship is for Mahadeo’s debut appearance at the 2019 Reebok CrossFit Games will take place in Madison, Wisconsin, at the Alliant Energy Center, Aug. 1-4, next. At a simple presentation ceremony yesterday held at Fitness Express, John and Sheriff Streets, Campbellville, De Sinco Limited’s Marketing Director Ms. Abiola De Abreu along with Senior Brand
presented the ceremonial cheque worth $300,000 to Mahadeo, cementing the arrangement. In remarks, Ms. Savory indicated that the sponsorship would be done under the Degree antiperspirant brand which is very popular and also used by fit active sports persons. “Dillon has allowed us to go on a journey with him on his crossfit profession and the first stop is at 2019 Reebok Games in the US and we’re happy to be a part of it. It would be the first time Guyana would be a part of the event and so we decided to come on board with Dillon. We are confident that Dillon,
New Era Ent/ExxonMobil school futsal tourney
Wisburg and CWSS off to winning starts The first New Era Entertainment (NEE) organised Schools Futsal Tournament for teams in the Bauxite Mining Town of Linden continues today at the Mackenzie Sports Club (MSC) Basketball Court with two matches. In the first match of the tournament on Wednesday last, perennial football p o w e r h o u s e s , C h r i s t i a n b u rg / Wi s m a r Secondary School (CWSS) thrashed New Silver City 10-
4 before Wisburg Secondary got past Linden Technical Institute (LTI) 7-5. Today’s matches from 16:30hrs will see Linden Foundation matching skills with New Silvercity before Wisburg clashes with Mackenzie High School in the feature game. The semifinal round and the final are slated for tomorrow. All the prize monies will go towards the development of sports in the schools.
down.” Mahadeo, who along with Ms. Delise Adonis will be the duo hoping to make Guyana proud on debut at these championships which is expected to attract athletes from some 160 countries. The reigning Mr. Guyana Fittest said he was humbled by De Sinco’s and Degree partnership with him for next month’s activity pointing out that he has already been a faithful user of the Degree products and can attest to its quality. “I would like to express my appreciation to the company for helping me to compete at the highest level of our sport, the 2019 Reebok Crossfit Games and I look forward to working with them in the near and distant future. I’ll try my best to represent the Degree line of products on the local, regional and international stages as diligently as possible.” Mahadeo further informed that the sponsorship/ partnership is for the remainder of 2019 and would cater for any regional championships on his radar which includes Trinidad and Tobago and Barbados where he has competed before with great success. “I think it would be good for both our brands to build in the regional community.” With just about two weeks to competition day, Mahadeo has indicated that training has been intense with the volume of exercises also increasing. “So a lot more time and effort have been put into body composition, nutrition (Continued on page 32)
In its’ 10th year, the Jefford Track & Field Classic (formerly Boyce/Jefford) will remain in the mining town of Linden as was the case in the previous years and will run off on August 11th at the Mackenzie Sports Club (MSC) ground. Instead of the top club receiving the grand cash prize as was the case in the previous editions, over $2million will be up for grabs for the athletes instead. The winners, both male and female, of each race will pocket $40,000 at the event that will see the cream-of-thecrop of the local and overseas based athletes, competing. To this end, De Sinco Limited, located on Sheriff Street, through their Swiss Brand, has pounced on the opportunity to support the usually well subscribed Athletics Meet in an effort to
give back to the community. The import company will be sponsoring the men’s 5000m, women’s 3000m and the master’s male and female 60m dash. In addition, the respective winners in the boys’ and girls’ 150m dash will receive a hamper of Swiss Products including their new line of ‘Swiss Peanut Butter’ and pasta products. Desinco Limited has injected a total of $200,000 into the Jefford Track & Field Classic X. Promoter, Edison Jefford, thanked the company’s Director, Aisha D’Abreu for her company’s support. Meanwhile, D’Abreu posited that, “This is the first time Swiss has partnered with the event. We wish all the participants well and we will have some representatives up there to cheer them to the
finish line.” This athletics event has hosted several of the region’s most popular athletes in Guyana since 2010, including Aliann Pompey competing for the first time in Guyana at the Second Edition in 2011 and Marian Burnett a year later. Every notable Guyanese athlete has competed at the Classic with most holding meet records, including Brenessa Thompson and Winston George. The full list of sponsors reads: Ansa McAl under their Heineken, Magnum Tonic Wine, Rush Energy Drink, Lucozade and ICool Water brand, the National Sports Commission, De Sinco Limited under their Swiss Brand, Antarctic Maintenance and Repairs, YK Investments Pawn Shop, Jude Bike Shop and Power Producers Distributors Inc.
Edison Jefford (left) receives his sponsorship cheque from De Sinco Limited’s Swiss Brand Representative, Aisha D’ Abreu.
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Ketley, Winfer Gardens, Buxton Cricket Camp starts August 3, Enterprise, West R’ldt victorious sponsorship needed to cover cost of meals
Shane Haynes
Tyra Wilson
Ketley, Winfer Gardens, Enterprise and West Ruimveldt registered victories when the AL Sport and Tour Promotions / National Sports Commission 22nd End of School Year, Edward Cobenna Memorial Primary Schools five-over Windball Cricket Champions Trophy continued recently at the National Gymnasium. Ketley Primary defeated Enterprise by 31 runs in the Female category. Ketley Primary won the toss and batted first, scoring 81-0. Tattinna Gordon struck 11 fours in a top score of 50 while Ommanna Vanderhyden made 26. Enterprise Primary mustered 54-1, in reply. Tyra Wilson made 40. In the Male division, Winfer Gardens beat Ketley Primary by 51 runs. Winfer Gardens took first strike and managed 123-1. Shane Prince made 48 (6x6) while Dellon Wray scored 32 and Dorwin George 30. Ketley Primary responded with 72-0. Randy Collins and
Ezekiel Frank David made 38 and 14 respectively. Enterprise beat St. Pius by 81 runs. Enterprise scored 99-2, taking first strike. Moses Cordis stroked six sixes in a rapid 40 while Colin Gravesande got 29. Saint Pius replied with 81-4; Jeremiah Griffith scored 18 and Jaden Jero 12. Graham’s Hall went down to West Ruimveldt by 9 wickets. Graham’s Hall got to 50-1, batting first; Taj Paul Mangro made 16 and Romario Williams 15. West Ruimveldt responded with 51-1; Vikash Asran made 24 and Joshu Gomes 16. Enterprise overcame Ketley by 2 runs. Enterprise batted first and posted 112-1; Khy Atkinson made 58 (7x6) while Moses Cordis scored 48 (6x4). Ketley responded with 110-2; Christopher Nurse struck nine fours in a top score of 46 while Ezekeil Frank David made 37 and Randy Collins 16.
The Buxton ‘Carl Hooper’ Cricket Club will hold its 14th annual twoweek Cricket Camp from August 3 from 09:30hrs at the Club’s ground on the East Coast of Demerara, catering for young Children on the East Coast, but for the Camp to be a success sponsorship for the meals is urgently needed. President of the Club Esse Peters says this Cricket Camp, held during the school vacation, has been running for the last 13 years and the organisers are catering for 40 students, both male and females “We are going ahead with this because we feel it is a good thing for the youths to stay out of trouble by having something positive to do now school is closed,” said Peters. The Buxton Club is one of the strongest cricket teams on the East Coast and has produced former National U19 all-rounder Clive Andries who is one of the leading allrounders in East Coast cricket
although he is finding more success as a footballer. “This camp will teach the youths to play together, have discipline and respect and cricket skills and we are begging for help to make our Camp a success this year,” said Peters. The camp caters for children between ages 719 and Peters, explained that it will facilitate participants from Buxton and villages in close proximity. “The camp is not make money, but to instil good values to the youths and keep them away from doing the wrong things when they have so much free time now school is closed,” Peters explained. Peters added that registration is free, since asking for money from the parents of these children, many of whom comes from single parent homes, would be counter-productive to the intended purpose of the camp. He informed that sponsorship has covered most of the costs for holding the camp, which he
views as part of community service. Meals for camp for the camp will cost $144,000 and Peters hoping to acquire sponsorship to cover that cost. Peters informed that some parents have brought their off-springs to register the bulk of youngsters will come from the Buxton Secondary, Stratshey Primary and Paradise Primary. Sessions will include technical, practical, physical and off-the field activities from 09:30h to 15:00h daily. Facilitators will soon be identified for daily sessions. The club was founded in 1992 and played in tapeball competitions before being officially launched as the Buxton ‘Carl Hooper’ Club in 2002 when Hooper was appointed West Indies captain. (Sean Devers)
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Friday July 12, 2019
Kaieteur News
NSC Swim clinic underway at NAC and Colgrain In an effort to aid in the development of the sport, the National Sports Commission (NSC) in collaboration with the Ministry of the Presidency has commenced its annual swimming programme at the National Aquatic Centre and Colgrain Pools. The programme which will last for six weeks began on Monday with some 600 participants, both male and female between the ages of 6-16. According to Coach Paul Mahaica, students from 6-10 years old are being tutored at Colgrain while students from 11-16 are being taken through their paces at the National Aquatic Centre, daily. Participants are being tutored on the basics of swimming including streamline position, front crawl, glide, blow bubbles, head position and kicks. Mahaica added that he is pleased with the response and they are expecting more students to join the clinic shortly. He stated that this is the first year they have had so many students onboard and they are looking to expand the programme in other regions during the coming weeks.
“The students have shown the eagerness to learn and they have demonstrated the discipline needed to excel at higher levels.” Mahaica feels that this will help to develop the sport in a great way with some 600 students being exposed to the fundamentals. He pointed out that following the conclusion of the programme, students will be placed in clubs so that their skills can be further developed. “It is important that we impart the basic knowledge to swimmers at a young age because it is usually at a tender age they are being spotted and nurtured. There is a need for more such programmes in other regions so those in the outlying areas can also benefit and this will help to improve the standard of our national competitions such as the schools’ championships.” He expressed gratitude to the NSC and parents for their input. Among those conducting sessions are Quanicy Henry, Dewene Griffith, Shenice Mahaica, Jonathan Sookram and Denroy Throtman.
Participants at the National Aquatic Centre during one of the sessions.
Jamaica beat Guyana by six runs in CWI Regional U-17 tourney Jamaica defeated Guyana by six runs when the Cricket West Indies (CWI) Regional U17 50-over tournament continued yesterday. Skipper Sheldon Charles and Sarwan Chaitnarine shared seven wickets between them as Jamaica were bowled out for 104, batting first at Gilbert Park. Charles made early inroads, removing the top three batsmen to reduce the Jamaicans to 32-3. They never recovered from this position as Charles finished with 4-26 from nine overs while Chaitnarine claimed 3-11 from 4.4 overs. S. Walker top scored with 16 while B. English made 14 and S. Thompson 12. Guyana’s inept batting in the tournament continued as they were bowled out for 99 in 46 overs, in response. Zynul Ramsammy made 23 not out with two fours while Matthew Nandu and Niran Bissu made 13 each. O. Ennis took three wickets while S. Thompson had two for Jamaica who beat
Guyana for the first time at this level since 2014. No Guyana side has ever loss four straight games at this level and this is easily their worst performance in this tournament to date. However, most of blame should be laid on the selectors for their omission of a number of players who would have done well at the inter-county level to earn their spots on the team. Those include fast bowler Isai Thorne who has been selected to tour England with the West Indies U16 team next month, Jonathan Rampersaud, Daniel Mootoo who was outstanding in the U19 inter county competition with a man-of-thematch performance in the final, Shamar Yearwood, Abdul Ramsammy, Ricardo Ramdial and Trevon Charles. Defending champions Barbados moved one step closer to retaining their title by defeating Trinidad and Tobago at Couva. Guyana will now take on Leeward Islands in their final round game at Couva tomorrow.
Kaieteur News
Friday July 12, 2019
Guinness Georgetown leg kicks off this evening at NCC Tarmac - Champs ‘Gold is Money’ in action The change in zones scheduling has made the Georgetown leg of the Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ phenomenon the most eagerly anticipated event in street football. Following a decision by the Organisers to place the Georgetown leg at the back of the annual calendar has worked up both fans and teams to such frenzy that tonight’s commencement of seven nights of pulsating action should enjoy a massive turnout. Wi t h p r i z e m o n i e s topping the $1million mark, fans can expect to see teams battling hard for survival during the opening two nights play which has knockout implications. Losers over the two nights will have to wait until next yar to have a crack at the whopping first prize of $500,000, bragging rights and an automatic berth in the
national playoffs slated to start one week after this zone’s completion. The second place team will receive $300,000 and trophy, while third and fourth placed finishers will take home $200,000 and $100,000 respectively. Also up for grabs again will be $100,000 for winner of the Plate section which will be competed for involving the losing quarter-finalists. The tournament which is celebrating its 10th year of existence will additionally offer giveaways for fans so there are incentives to be present at the National Cultural Centre Tarmac for opening night action. Action in the competition resumes tomorrow evening with matches scheduled for the Burnham Basketball Court. The Organisers have implored teams to be on time (Continued on page 36)
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Concacaf Women’s U-20 Championship – Group A
Aqua Pur and Sleepy t r o Sp Sanitary Napkins support for ‘Lady Jags’ in their quest to win
Brand Manager of Sureia Manufacturing Inc., Ms. Shirlean Alexander pictured with members of the Under-20 ‘Lady Jaguars’ team set to play in the Concacaf Women’s U-20 Championship – Group A.
Twenty-Person Squad Shortlisted; Team’s Ready - Head Coach, Dr. Ivan Joseph Reebok CrossFit Games 2019
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Dillon Mahadeo is flanked by De Sinco Limited’s Marketing Director Ms. Abiola De Abreu (left) and Senior Brand Manager, Ms Sarah Savory at yesterday’s presentation.
Leo Romalho wins latest GuyanaNRA Record Shoot Leo Romalho
Guyana withdraws from Preliminary Rounds of Concacaf Men’s Olympic Qualifiers
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